What Are You Settling For?

As the new year approaches, I can't help but look back over this past year and the year before. In two years, my world changed quite a bit. Some things were under my control and others were not. Some were physically and emotionally painful and some were job related and financially scary. Things changed. And you know what? I'm forever grateful for change. Two years ago, I would not have said that. I didn't like change, but now I welcome it. Change is good. Change moves us from a place of complacency into opportunity. One tiny step outside of my comfort zone was all that I needed to explore more. What else waited right outside those imaginary boundaries that I built for myself? The answer: A Lot. A whole lot of good and wonderful things. Things that initially made my armpits sweat and my voice shake. Things that I didn't think I was capable of doing, but I did them anyway. Growth, lots and lots of personal growth. 

I challenge you over these last few days of the year to think about what you're settling for in your life. Think about your job, your finances, your health, your happiness, your family. What are you settling for? Because what you settle for will be what others that you influence settle for. Are you stepping outside of your comfort zone, dreaming, setting big goals for your life? If not, how can you expect your kids or your friends/family to do the same? What you settle for, they will settle for. Think about it. Are you setting the bar low so that it's reachable without much growth, or are you setting the bar high and stretching yourself all while teaching others to do the same? 

If you're not sure where to start, then over the next few days, consider ending every sentence, spoken or said in your head, with these seven words, "and that's the way I like it!" 

For example,

• My job stinks ... and that's the way I like it!
• My healthy is declining ... and that's the way I like it!
• I'm always angry ... and that's the way I like it!

Pretty eye opening isn't it? Change is good. You have the power to change anything and everything about your current situation. After all, ...

I challenge you to set the bar high next year and watch your world turn upside down in amazing ways. As my favorite verse in my favorite book says in Isaiah 40:31, may you "soar on wings like eagles." Don't settle for less, soar my friends. It's your time.

In closing, I leave you with a quote that has shown up in my life a lot over the past two years and it's become a favorite. 

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” 

-Marianna Williamson

Go change the world! Shine your light! Set the bar high! Be blessed!

Rest? Be Still? I Don't Understand.

Salmos 46:10 - "Estad quietos, y conoced que yo soy Dios" (Spanish)

Psaume 46:10 - "Arretez, et saschez que je suis Dieu" (French)

Salmos 46:10 - "Qquietai-vos, e sabei que eu sou Deus" (Portuguese)

Psalm 46:10 - "Be still, and know that I am God." (English)

Finally. Plain English. My language. The message came through loud and clear. Do you ever feel this way? Like God is trying to tell you something, but you don't understand the message? Or you're too busy to hear Him above the noise of life? Or, maybe you hear Him, but you're too busy to slow down long enough to obey? No? Well, me either. So, I have this friend...

Lets recap the last two months of my friends life.

After three flat tires since May, which is excessive, my friend gets a flat tire the week of Aug 30th. She has a long list of errands to run that day, but the flat has to be fixed. While waiting at the repair shop, my friend realizes that her day will have to be re-planned since the repair takes about an hour and with a little one that still naps, the window of opportunity for morning errands is quickly closing. Frustrating.

Week of Sept 6th - Flat tire #2. Repeat week ones scenario and perfectly timed plans are changed again. Mind you this is week three of a reoccurring cough that she's finally trying to deal with by getting a much needed inhaler.

Week of Sept 13th - Flat tire #3 (this is actually flat #6 since May, two of which resulted in needing brand new tires). How is this possible?! She's wracking her brain to think of where she's been driving to keep getting screws/nails in her tires. All while vowing to never drive through another construction zone again.

Also, the week of Sept 13th - Said friend gets injured playing coed soccer and it's deemed a Bone Bruise, which is a small hidden fracture on a bone close to the surface. This injury is very painful and takes approx four weeks to heal. She's now trying to make a connection between her physical body (leg injury) and the flat tire ... is this a sign to slow down? To rest?

Week of Sept 27th - My friend has an old back injury from playing sports in college and it flares up a couple of times a year. When she feels her back starting to get weak, she goes in for a chiropractic adjustment and all is well. However, this time, it flares up right before leaving for an eight day cruise. She forgoes cramming an adjustment in the day before leaving town since she's busy packing her family for said trip. So, she takes Ibuprofen the week of vacation to deal with the disk bulging in her back, which is pushing on her sciatic nerve causing pain to shoot down her left leg. Delightful.

Week of Oct 11th - My friend returned home from her cruise, bad back and all, just in time to play her weekly coed soccer game the following day ... all while knowing that she will have to make time for a back adjustment that week to relieve her back pain. During the game, she pulls her back multiple times and is in worse pain than before. Not wise. She has two chiropractic adjustments that week that don't give much relief.

Week of Oct 18th (this week) - Having not learned her lesson, she played coed soccer again, and whatever improvement was done to her back last week is reversed and she's right back where she was a week ago pain wise. My friend is stub-born! Two adjustments this week and she's starting to feel some relief. Her doctor tells her not to play soccer for one to two weeks.

Also, this week, her husband started news hours at work that will allow him to work longer days Mon-Thurs, but be home on Friday's. This is awesome news for her family, but my friend knows this means that she can't attend Bootcamp in the early morning twice a week, which she's done for the past three years.

During this season of flat tires, leg/back injuries, and life changes, her thoughts change. Her mind starts to shift. Friends speak life into her and Rest is the underlying theme of their conversations. Rest is hard. It shouldn't be, but it is. Her friends pray over her and they speak Rest over her without even knowing all of the details of her life. Psalm 46:10 is spoken over her more than once. Be. Still. How do they know the message that shes been struggling to hear? Each conversation, each prayer, draws her closer to the message and she begins to receive it. Rest. Be still.

I'm sure you've figured out by now that the "friend" is me. I SO struggle with rest. It's not in my nature to be at ease, to be still, and to ultimately realize that what is not done today can be done tomorrow. We live in a world of haste and I'm right there in the mix ... with my foot on the gas ... setting the pace ... faster.

It was laid upon my heart weeks ago to get up early to do a daily devotional, but my schedule didn't allow it. Don't get me wrong, I love devotionals, but not now. Not with Bootcamp two mornings a week and running three mornings a week. Evenings? Out of the question. I'm busy coaching my daughters soccer team, taking another daughter to dance, teaching the Pre-School kids at church for the Christmas program, and building a business. All things that I love to do. No time.

No time for God?
What message am I sending the One who loves me so deeply that He gave His life for me?
No time for the one who listens intently at every word that comes from my mouth?
No time for the one who makes time for me every. single. day. whether I thank Him or not?
Why am I so stubborn?
Why must God physically slow me down to get my attention?

God is clearly calling me to a season of Rest. It's time. I'm striving to be obedient and to embrace this season. To be intentional about Rest. I spent a day this week shifting events on my calendar next week to the following week (baby steps) so that I can Rest. Sure, there are things that can't be changed, but I am changing the others. I also started my morning devotionals this week and I'm already reaping the benefits. I'm reading through The 40 Day Prayer Journal for the third time this year because it's that good. Or, is it that I'm that much in need of Him, again?

When God BLOWS Your Mind!!!

Last night, my husband and I went to the Outcry Tour at the BOK Center with my best friend and her family. It was amazing! So many great artists in one place and my spirit was lifted. I definitely need a few of these concerts each year to fill my cup. 

My favorite song to hear live was Oceans by Hillsong United. This song is very inspirational and has a lot of meaning for my best friend and I. While I was going through my cancer prevention surgeries last year and she was beating thyroid cancer, this song was the uplifting message that we both needed to stay strong. I would fall asleep to this song many times with tears in my eyes and a hand raised toward Heaven. It was great to stand beside my long time friend (our husbands on either side of us being the rocks that they are) with uplifted hands, to thank God for his faithfulness and for bringing us both through hard times. God is good. All the time. Even in the dark valley, He is there, and He is good!

Between songs, there was a speaker from Compassion International (click here to learn more). Our first sponsor child was through Compassion and he graduated the program a few years ago after we had supported him for 10 years. Our second child is currently with World Vision and we've supported him the past 12 years. Last night, God was tugging on our hearts to get a third child to support on a monthly basis. Not eating out just one time each month with our family of five will supply this child with food, education, clothing, medical attention, mentorship, and God's love. We can easily skip one dinner out a month to significantly change a life. 

Compassion volunteers were going up and down the aisles of the BOK Center which seats almost 20,000 people. Selfishly, I wanted to look at a group of kids to find one with some kind of significant so that we could feel an instant connection and share that with our three girls. We would have looked for a birth date that is a match to someone in our family, etc. Isn't is just like God to blow your mind when you think that you have to be in control?! As a volunteer passed with a stack of cards in his hand of kids waiting to be sponsored, he reached into his pocket (not the stack in his hand) and randomly gave my husband, among the 20,000 people at the concert, this card...

Did you catch that? Look at this name. We were blown away and tears flooded our eyes. My expectations were on a matching birthday, but God matched our NAME. How great is our God! I love when He reaches down among so many people, and with over 550 kids being sponsored that night, and He gives us Ruben MORRISON Mensah. Sometimes God has to literally spell it out for us to see his Love. Spell. It. Out. 

Well done God, well done. 

We can't wait to send our first letter to Ruben. Our oldest (she's 7) has been telling us for a few weeks that we need to adopt a boy. I'd say that Ruben is a perfect match to our family. Not to mention, he's 2 years and 5 days younger than our oldest daughter and 25 is our favorite number. Coincidence? Never, not when God is in control!

Matthew 25:40 - "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.' "

Rhea Lana: Fall/Winter Kids Consignment Sale COMING SOON!!!

It's. The. Most. Wonderful. Time. Of. The. Year ... It's time for the Fall/Winter Rhea Lana of Broken Arrow Sale! But, if you were expecting me to say Christmas, I will let you in on a little secret. This is a GREAT place to do some early Christmas shopping & Back to School shopping for the amazing kids in your life!

THE VOTES ARE IN ... Rhea Lana won the TulsaKids Magazine 2015 Family Favorite in the consignment sale category! This is the second year the local, family owned business has been awarded this category and the first year they received the FAMILY FAVORITE AWARD! They are proud to offer a wide variety of high-quality items to the local community at affordable prices!


What is Rhea Lana you ask?

• "Rhea Lana's of Broken Arrow is a community event that benefits families all over Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas! We LOVE what we do! Our mission is to add value to the lives of families by providing the highest quality consignment experience possible. We hold two consignment sale events each year. This upcoming event will feature HIGH QUALITY Fall and Winter children's clothing (infant - junior), maternity clothing, shoes, toys, books, DVDs, children's electronics and gaming systems, children's furniture, baby gear and equipment, household furniture, and much more!  Some of our favorite brands are A Pea In the Pod, Baby Nay, Childrens Place, Gap, Gymboree, Hollister, Janie & Jack, Justice, Matilda Jane, Mini Boden, Motherhood, Old Navy, Pottery Barn Kids, Ralph Lauren, Under Armour and many others. Brands are not required but sell well because moms know and trust their quality and style. We accept all children's clothing in excellent condition so you know your items will be high quality. * One of the most rewarding moments comes for us after the event when we get to donate thousands of high quality items to the Margaret Hudson Program and Broken Arrow Neighbors to benefit those in need! Consignors can opt to donate their unsold items to these families in the Tulsa area, and we will take care of the rest!"
• "We are accepting shorts! This sale we are accepting all fall and winter clothing, as well as shorts, short sleeved shirts and capri pants! We will not accept spaghetti strap type shirts, tank tops or sleeveless shirts, swimwear, sandals, or flip flops… save these items for the Spring & Summer event. Don’t forget about… Halloween costumes, Holiday & Christmas outfits, snow suits, winter jackets and accessories!" 

Where is Rhea Lana located & When is it held?

• The Sale dates are Aug 15th - 19th at the Rhema Ninowski Rec Center in BA
• There are Full Price days, 25% off days, and Half Price days
• See the full event schedule HERE

How do you consign your items with Rhea Lana?

• First time consignors click HERE
• Returning consignors click HERE

Want to volunteer to help out this amazing organization and get in on some early shopping?

• Learn more by clicking HERE

Want to be the first to know about all of the Rhea Lana events? 

• Like their Facebook page HERE

Are you a Mom to Be? 

• If so, click HERE for an Early Shopping Pass!

Are you wanting to Consign, but you're not sure how to price your items? 

• First, let me tell you that the average consignor in the Spring/Summer 2015 sale made $342! Wow! I was one of those consignors!
• Second, a pricing guideline is right HERE
• Third, HERE is some handy prepping information

Consignors: You have until Wednesday, Aug 12th, at 11:59 pm to enter your items so there's PLENTY of time left to clean out those closets and make some money!@ Entering items is super easy...especially with the new VOICE ENTRY option via your Smartphone! And, you get to watch your sales update LIVE throughout the day!

Shoppers: Please consider volunteering to get yourself an early shopper pass. Trust me, there are some great items that you will want to get first dibs on!

My Super Secret Veteran Tips: 

• Halloween costumes always sell. I've never had one return home!
• Super shiny things sell!
• Outfits sell better than individual items! Put pieces together to make sets.
• I've bought and sold brand new items with the tags still on them at super discounted prices!
• If you happen to have three girls, you WILL buy almost every cute outfit that you come across. After all, these items can be passed down to younger sisters!

Feel free to contact me with questions, or you can contact the owners of the BA event, Debbie (debbiew@rhealana.com) or Kristin (kristin@rhealana.com). I've been blessed to get to know these amazing ladies over the years and they will treat you like family! 

BRCA: One Year Post Double Mastectomy

On this day, one year ago, my husband and I were sitting at the hospital waiting for me to be taken back for my prophylactic double mastectomy. Because I'm BRCA2 positive, my percentage for getting breast cancer was an alarming 87% along with a 55% chance of ovarian cancer. It wasn't a matter of 'If' I would get it, but 'When' so we chose to be proactive. Last April, I had a full hysterectomy, in July a double mastectomy with breast expanders for the reconstruction process that took three months, and in November was my final surgery to trade the expanders for implants. What a year it was! You can read more about my journey that started in Jan 2014, by clicking Here and scrolling to the first post at the bottom.

I love watching HGTV's House Hunters. Occasionally, they do a "Where Are They Now" episode where they revisit families to see the changes they made to improve their houses. So, here's my own little "Where Are They Now" update. And no, I'm not referring to my boobs. They're gone for good!

Physically:

• I feel really healthy! I followed my own Clean Eating advice and I believe that making good food choices last year helped keep me from gaining extra weight during all of those months that I couldn't exercise. It also helped me to heal quicker and to feel better emotionally, as well as physically.
• I've been playing soccer and attending boot camp weekly for about 6 months. I know that I have a way to go to be physically where I once was, but I also feel light years ahead of where I thought I would be at this point. I've heard it takes about one year from the final surgery (mine was in November) to feel "normal" again. Good thing, because I'll be running my second half marathon (unless I get crazy and up it to a full marathon) in November so I'll need all the normal that I can get!
• I still "feel" my implants daily. Well, I can't physically feel them because most of my breasts are still numb, but I can feel the weight of them. If that makes sense. Let's just say, I know that they're there and I think about them everyday. I'm ready to not think about them daily, but I don't know if that will ever change.
• I'm happy with how the twins turned out! Originally, I was terrified of coming out looking like Dolly Parton. No offense to her, but that's not my style. I must have told my doctor a million times that I wanted to look "normal" and a million times he assured me that there's no such thing as "normal." Ha! He did a great job though because I feel like, and my friends agree, that if you didn't know my journey then you wouldn't know that anything changed. Meaning, they fit my frame and I look "normal." Mission accomplished!
• Apparently I did the reverse menopause, if there is such a thing, because instead of getting hot flashes after my hysterectomy, I get freezing flashes. When I get too cold, my hands and feet turn ice cold, and my jaw and chest shiver. It's the weirdest thing especially coming from someone who was always hot before, but now I'm reaching for blankets and sweaters in the Summertime if I'm in an air conditioned building. Odd, but I'll take it!

Emotionally:

• I feel really good in this area as well! I had a lot of moments that I could have lost it last year, and I did a few times, but overall, I think that I held it together pretty well. Looking back, I realize the magnitude of what I went through and I can honestly say that I'm proud of myself. 
• I'm blessed to have had full support from my husband, family, and friends. Each of you lifting me up in prayer, bringing us meals, taking care of our kids, calling to check on us, etc was invaluable. Thank you!
• I still have small moments here and there where I wish things were like they were before. You know, when I had all of my body parts. However, I remind myself that the positives far outweigh the negatives so I quickly turn those thoughts around.

Spiritually:

• God is good! All the time!
• As anyone would, I've had moments where my mind wonders to the place of "why did God let me have this gene and have to go through these surgeries" and I capture those thoughts and remind myself that we pray over our families health daily. I've specifically prayed for years for cancer to stop in my family, and for us to live healthy lives that will honor God. Just because the journey didn't look the way that I thought it would (meaning none of us would ever get cancer again and we would all be magically healthy) doesn't mean that God didn't answer our prayers and is still answering them. In fact, He did answer. In His way, and I'm eternally grateful for that. Which leads me to Giving Back.

Giving Back:

• Since walking this cancer journey, a lot has changed. I was blessed to be introduced to two friends before my surgeries who had walked a similar journey and they were there to pass on their wisdom and to mentor me through the hard times. Since last July, I've been able to share my story with seven other women through various stages of double mastectomy prevention and/or cancer surgeries. I wouldn't trade these friendships for anything!
• I'm volunteering with two non-profit organizations in the Tulsa area: Joy in the Cause and Random Acts of Purpose. The women who lead these groups have become friends and our lives will forever be connected. They see the good in others and they're working hard to bring Joy and Thankfulness to the patients and doctors/nurses who deal with cancer and other illnesses on a daily basis. 
• I'm one of the leaders to a new Cancer Support Group at my church. We gather together on the third Thursday of the month to show support to anyone fighting cancer and/or the caregivers. We're also in the process of adopting a chemo treatment room to visit once a week to get to know the patients and to show them that they are loved.
• I wouldn't trade these friendships/groups for anything, and I never would have met most of these amazing people had I not heard "you're BRCA2 positive." So, I'll proudly wear that label and the journey that goes along with it if it means that I get to take a small part in changing this world for the better. Genesis 50:20 says, "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result."

Speaking of our Cancer Support Group: We are meeting this Thursday (July 9th) in Broken Arrow, OK, at 6:30pm at Heritage UMC and anyone fighting cancer or a caregiver to someone fighting is welcome to come be loved on. Please help up spread the word. You can learn more on our Facebook page: BA Cancer Support Group.

Fabulous Family Fun Day

Today was one of those extremely rare days with no set plans. What?! Unheard of, I know! We took full advantage of this opportunity and set out for a Day O'Family Fun! We had a blast! Just so you don't go thinking we're saints, we did hear more than once that "we never do anything fun." Ah, good times!

Day O'Family Fun Agenda: Zoo, Pei Wei, home for naps, Marble Slab, Bass Pro

We started off the day at the Tulsa Zoo with train & carousel rides, a walk through the "caves" with glowing shoes, a cave slide, a camel ride (a first!), a dino "ride," and a Sea Lion comparison pic from Oct 2013 and June 2015. The girls have changed so much!

We left the zoo and headed to Pei Wei to meet Pops and Weasey for lunch. Well, kind of. We went to the same restaurant, but at two different locations. Minor detail. We had a great lunch none the less! The girls ate the chicken lo mein and Bailey said "this is the best spaghetti I've ever had" and Lou said "this is the best chicken I've ever had!" Let's not tell them it's an Asian diner. What they don't know won't hurt them. Ha!

After lunch we headed home for a quick nap and then to Marble Slab for a surprise sweet treat. 

After ice cream, we went to Bass Pro to walk around (the girls love it there), and to "shoot" the targets. On the bottom pic, I asked the girls to smile while looking into the sun. They gave it their best try. Oops!

You know it's a good day when you have to carry a sweaty headed kid in for the night. The Morrison Day O'Family Fun was a success!

Show Me the Money

We want our girls to have a good, balanced relationship with money so we believe that those lessons start with us. A few nights ago the girls helped me empty their piggy banks into zip lock bags. Each bag was labeled with the girls name, and each girl was allowed to pull out a $20 bill to spend at Target. They were pumped!

Money Lesson - Stop #1: Target. The girls were in heaven getting to pick out (almost) anything they wanted that could be paid for with their own $20 bill! Before getting out of the car, I explained to them that if they spent all of their money around the $1/$3 bins by the front door, then they wouldn't have anything left to spend in the toy/swim section. I had to remind them of this a few times as they were putting things in their baskets, but they were catching on pretty quickly. Our oldest (7) was actually counting her total as she was putting things in her basket, our middle (5) was asking prices on everything, and our youngest (3) wasn't putting much of anything in her basket. She was holding out for the toy/swim aisle. 

All three of the girls did great! This wasn't a lesson in taxes so I let them pick out stuff as close to $20 as they could get and then I covered the rest. Their totals were $20.58, $21.25, and $21.35. I was so proud of them!

Money Lesson - Stop #2: Credit Union. After Target we headed to the bank for suckers ... I mean, to deposit their money into their savings accounts. At first they thought we were giving their money to the bank so I had to explain that we opened savings accounts for each of them when they were born and that they'll have access to these when they get older. They enjoyed watching the coin counter machine, watching themselves on the security monitor, and the suckers. I'm pretty sure that the whole money being deposited into an account was lost on them, but they still had a good time!

Afterwards, we celebrated by playing with some of their new swim toys in Pops & Weasey's pool. Good times!

Sailing Away

This will be our home away from home in October. We're super excited to be going on a one week cruise! Well, I'm excited, my husband isn't a big fan of boats, swimming, or the ocean, but we'll have a blast none the less. Ha! 

Because I know nothing about cruise ships, here is the website description: 

• This is the one — the ship that started it all. Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world. This 16-deck marvel has numerous amenities. Its groundbreaking design single- handedly revolutionized cruising, with its seven distinct neighborhoods at sea include tranquil Central Park combining nature with nautical, and the nostalgic Boardwalk with the first carousel at sea each packed with amazing first-at-sea experiences. 
• Zip line nine decks above the Boardwalk, and then take a spin on the carousel below. Or head over to the Sports Zone and tackle a 43- foot rock climbing wall. Later, “hang 10” on the FlowRider surf simulator, or watch acrobats splash down in the Aqua Theater, the first aquatic amphitheater at sea. There’s ice skating, mini golf, full- court basketball plus a nightlife of casino action, live comedy and Broadway hit musical CATS.

Just reading that gets me excited! So, how did we choose this cruise? We didn't. Arbonne has an incentive trip once a year that we are awarded by simply doing our job. I was blessed to win this all expense paid cruise for myself and my husband just for doing my job. This gift seems surreal, and I probably won't believe it until I step foot on the ship. Honestly, I didn't get into Arbonne for the trips, but I'll gladly accept them. I mean, my corporate job never offered me a free trip!

But, if free trips are your thing, or more free time, or monthly bonuses, or amazing team mentorship, or spiritual growth, or physical health, or personal development, then contact me (morrison25@cox.net). I would love to share this amazing opportunity with you! In the beginning, I was very hesitant to join Arbonne, but I've learned that if I step outside of my comfort zone, trust God, and believe that there's more to life than the everyday 9-5, then there is no stopping the vision that He has placed on my heart. This is a vision of being debt free, of financial security, of building others up, and of serving many. The verse that I chose for my business is Malachi 3:10:

• "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it."
• To me, this translates to: If I bring all of the talents that I have to my Arbonne business, and if I trust God, then He will open up unexpected opportunities that will allow me to bless others in abundant ways. Now, that's exciting!

I want to give a special thanks to everyone that has trusted me enough to join my team and start building a business for yourself. I love to talk to you about your goals/dreams and to map out a way to make those happen. This opportunity doesn't discriminate. It doesn't care if you have a degree, if you're married, if you have kids, where you live, where you came from, or your current social status. It's a level playing field for all to accept, you just have to say Yes!

I also want to thank everyone that has purchase Arbonne products from me. The skincare, nutrition, baby line, cosmetics, etc are amazing! They're made of the purest products, and with the environment in mind. Your purchases, whether one time or monthly, are allowing my family to build a vision and to give back. In the beginning, I thought that I had to reach a certain financial amount to give back in a way that I thought would be beneficial, but I've learned that I can give back at any moment and that God will use that time, money, or products to bless others in multitude. If you just give a little of yourself, He will do the rest!

A Call to Action

I'm reading through Draw the Circle: The 40 Day Prayer Challenge by Mark Batterson for the second time this year. This book is a follow-up to his New York Times Bestselling book The Circle Maker. Both books are life changing! This morning during my devotion, I read a chapter titled Quit Praying. Those two words can send your thoughts in many directions, but the moral of the chapter is to quit praying and take action. Here are some exerts that better describe this command...

• "There comes a moment when praying become a form of spiritual procrastination. It's time to stop praying and start acting. Quit praying about the program and fill out the application. Quit praying for the friend you hurt and make the phone call. Don't just complain to God about your coworker; circle them in prayer. Don't just pray for the missionaries; write a check." -Pg 156
• "Please don't misinterpret what I'm saying. Pray about everything. Then pray some more. But at some point, we have to quit praying and start acting. One of the great mistakes we make is asking God to do for us what God wants us to do for ourselves ... We are called to pray about everything, but there comes a time when praying can be a form of disobedience, laziness, or negligence. We can't just pray like it depends on God; we also must work like it depends on us." -Pg 157
• "When Christianity turns into a noun, it becomes a turnoff. Christianity was always intended to be a verb - more specifically, an action verb. The title of the book of Acts says it all, doesn't it? It's not the book of Ideas or Words. It's the book of Acts. And if we said less and did more, I believe we would have the same kid of impact the first-century church had." -Pg 157
• "Prayer that doesn't lead to action isn't true prayer; it's self-talk. When we talk to God, God will talk back to us. He will provoke us, rouse us, stir us, goad us, and prompt us, When we say 'amen,' inaction is no longer an option." -Pg 157-158
• "When everything is said and done, God won't say, 'Well said, good and faithful servant.' He won't say, 'Well thought,' 'well planned,' or even 'well prayed.' There is only one commendation He will give: 'Well done, good and faithful servant.'" -Pg 159

If these passages stirred something in you, then maybe it's time to act. I encourage you to act upon the thoughts that God has placed on your mind. One great God-Idea can change the world. You, alone, can change the world. You, one person. Don't forget about Moses, Mother Teresa, and my all time favorite, Jesus. It only took one person to start a revolution. Maybe, just maybe, that one person is You!

In Jan of this year, I had an amazing God-Idea placed in my thoughts during my first time through this 40 Day prayer challenge. I've already called this idea to action, because I believe that God will use me to see it through. Click HERE to read more about my God-Idea, and please share with me your own Call to Action. I would love to encourage you to change the world!

Sharing My Vision

This may not look like a lot of protein to you and me, but this is enough to feed 360 malnourished children. Wow! I'm excited to be sending my first shipment of protein to Jinja Town, Uganda, East Africa in May. Let me explain how this all came about...

After reconnecting on Facebook with a club volleyball teammate from high school, I noticed that she and her family were moving to Africa in January 2015 so I began to pray for them. For months, without them knowing, I was covering their family in prayer for God to use them in a mighty way in Africa. All the while, not knowing that God was working on my heart as well.

On Jan 19th, I started reading Draw the Circle: The 40 Day Prayer Challenge from Mark Batterson. This is a follow-up book to The Circle Maker, which I highly recommend. On Jan 28th, two days before my friend and her family left for Africa, God gave me an amazing idea. I call it a God-Idea because it was way beyond anything that I could have come up with on my own, and the logistics of it were only something that He could orchestrate. 

My God-Idea was to get Arbonne's protein to the children in orphanages in Africa. So, there I sat with this crazy, awesome idea from God and only two days to talk to my friend about it. Well, do you ever notice that when you have an awesome idea that's on a major deadline, the Devil likes to mess it up?! My friend and I tried to connect by phone multiple times those last two day, but kept missing each other. I was afraid that the idea was a lost cause, but I knew that God placed it on my heart for a reason so I kept attempting to connect with her even after they had left the country, and without knowing if they would have Internet or phone access once they arrived in Africa. Praise the Lord, we connected by email, I shared my idea, and we both prayed over it for two weeks.

In those two weeks, Mugavi of Vision was born! Here is the info on the back of the flier.

My Story

In 2004, my husband and I adopted our first sponsor child, and in 2006, we adopted our second sponsor child. Both boys live in Africa. The decision to help these children planted a seed in my heart that would start to bloom in 2015 when a friend announced that she and her family would be moving to Jinja Town, Uganda, East Africa to serve as missionaries. I had not seen this friend since high school, but I started praying for her family, and at the same time, God started watering the seed placed in my heart over 10 years ago.

In 2013, I became and Arbonne consultant. I love that this job pushes me out of my comfort zone and it allows me to help others transform their lives with our Pure, Safe, and Beneficial Nutrition and Skincare products. Our most popular nutrition item is our Vegan based Protein that is free of gluten, dairy, soy, whey, artificial colors, sweeteners, and dyes. It’s easily digestible and the most absorbable form of protein on the market. 

So, combine Arbonne’s protein with my friend in Africa and Mugavi of Vision was born. This ministry is not affiliated with Arbonne. We are simply two friends who realize that we can make a difference in the world one meal at a time. Currently, the protein is being bought by Americans who want to help the children of Africa and is being delivered through Luket Ministries. Recipients are taught to boil their water, and add this protein to it for a full day's meal. With your help, we will send bags of Arbonne protein to the Perryman family in Africa. They will deliver the protein to one of the following organizations: Amani Baby Cottages, Serving His Children, Redeemer House, or Arise and Shine so that the children can be fed a meal packed with nutrients. Our Arbonne team motto is “Bigger Than Me” and I’m grateful that God placed a vision on my heart that was bigger than me, but not bigger than Him. This vision is 10 years in the making, and I truly believe that God has perfect timing; never early, never late.

How YOU Can Help!

• You can purchase a bag(s) of protein to be sent to Africa. This can be a purchase made one-time, quarterly, or even monthly. Each bag is $55. All purchases will be placed under the Perryman's Arbonne ID which will not only help to feed the children, but it will also help support their missions in Africa.
• You can make a monetary donation for a bag(s) of protein and/or for the shipping of these items to Africa. All shipments will be taken by hand from friends/family going to visit the Perryman's so the shipping cost will be to transport the 50# bag(s) that will be filled with protein. Donations can be made via Paypal to morrison25@cox.net, or mailed to me (please contact me via email for my address).

So, thanks to God's amazing provision, my vision is coming true! There are many obstacles in the way of this vision, but God is in charge and when that's the case, nothing is impossible. If you would like to help, please contact me at morrison25@cox.net. Thank you!

Matthew 19:26 - "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

A Beautiful Beginning

Last night, I was honored to read a dear friends testimony to a large group of people. My friend lives in California and the meeting was in Oklahoma so I asked her if I could share her amazing 30 day journey with those seeking a change. I thought I would simply read the words on the page, like I've done many times, but this was different. I got choked up and I had to pause and fight back the tears twice because this is such an amazing story of change. I've known this friend for 15-20 years and I've always known her as a strong woman of God, very confident, and always willing to serve others. Here is her story and her before and after photo...

"Before I started the 30 Days to Healthy Living, I suffered with severe redness and swelling in my face. When I think back on that time, I guess you could call me the lady with the red mask. It was painful and also caused a lot of negative attention from people. People would say things to me like, "What's wrong with your face? Did you know your face is really red? Did you forget your sunscreen?" Over time I began to try to limit the amount of time I spent out of my house for fear that another person would comment on my face. I became recluse and shut the world out. I felt unattractive and ugly.

I thought that I was eating healthy. I stayed away from as many processed foods as I could....we drank Almond milk, I read labels. But nothing seemed to change with my face. Then I began to really examine my food intake and evaluated my relationship with food. I saw that food was a big issue. I would eat well for a period of time, but then in a matter of 5 minutes a whole sleeve of Girl Scout cookies disappeared. The shame and pain of my condition drove me to habits that were really out of control. I realized that something had to change.

I had tried the Arbonne protein in the past and Kristy really encouraged me to give the challenge a try. I really feel that God brought her back to me again because He wanted something better for me. He wanted me to know the value that I had in this world. He wanted me to be healthy, happy, and whole and the only way I could do that was to change my eating. So, I said ok. This was also my last resort before heading to a Dermatologist to get help, and with the fear that I would be put on pills for the rest of my life.

I began the challenge in March with the focus that 'with God, this IS possible!' I decided that I would have my son do this as well as he suffers from Sensory Processing Issues. Within the first 3 days I saw a change in him. He was more focused at (home)school, more obedient, less antsy when we sat down to dinner.....he was doing amazing. This encouraged me to keep going, because, I had not seen a change in myself yet.....but I wasn't going to give up. I promised God I would work the program. At about day 7 I was feeling a bit more energized, less foggy headed, and more focused. The naps that we normally took every day, were no longer needed because we weren't tired. My son began asking for healthy snacks instead of the processed foods we would normally eat. 

Things took a turn when I REALLY looked in the mirror at day 14. Prior to the challenge, the mirror and I were enemies. I would look in it and I would hear those people saying things, and I began to believe them. I began to tell myself horrible and ugly things. It affected my relationship with my husband, son, friends, but more importantly, God. He didn't want me to be this way. He loved me and thought that I was his beautiful daughter. Day 14, I actually saw with God's eyes what he had been telling me for so long. I noticed a significant change in the redness on my face. It was almost gone. I felt those voices, my voice included, fading into a memory. It encouraged me and I continued with the challenge and I had to share it with everyone.

By day 24, I was a new woman! I was able to look in the mirror and truly believe there was beauty. I began to love myself again. I have realized there are better food choices out there for me. It hasn't been easy and people question my decisions, but I KNOW this is best for me. I know that I can enjoy food and have a healthier life by using the Arbonne supplements. I still have a long way to go. It took 40 years for me to get where I am today....it's not going to change overnight. This is a life-style change, NOT A DIET. I begin my 2nd round of the 30 day challenge and anxiously await the results. 

I praise God for my friend Kristy who loved me so much she wanted to share this with me. I too have decided that I want to share this with others because it works. I praise God that He loves me so much that He helped get me out of the way. I look forward to being able to reach my full God-given potential through my Arbonne business. If you're considering this challenge....do it. I guarantee you will be blessed. Don't walk away from this....the only thing you will have is regret if you never try. May God bless you as you begin your journey to a healthier and happier you!!!"

This is why I said Yes to Arbonne, and why Christy has joined my team. When we say that this opportunity is "Bigger Than Me" this is what we mean. Had I not stepped out of my comfort zone and started my business, then I could not have shared in this life changing journey. Had God not prompted me to reach out to Christy then I wouldn't be able to share in her journey. This business is a gift, and it's available to everyone. If you know of someone dealing with skin irritation, then please give them my info. Myself or Christy would love to talk with them about the 30 Day Healthy Living Challenge to see if it's a fit for them. 

Rhea Lana of BA - Name Brand Baby/Kid/Teen Items for Less!

This event is for YOU, if:

• You like to find HIGH quality items at LOW prices
• You're pregnant
• You know someone who is pregnant
• You have kids/grandkids (up to the teen years)
• You know someone who has kids/grandkids
• Did I cover everyone?!

The Broken Arrow Spring/Summer Rhea Lana's Children's Consignment sale is coming April 18th-22nd! I seriously LOVE this event both as a Buyer and as a Seller! This will be my seventh time to consign with RL of BA and I can't stress enough how simple the process is. If you're new to RL and you would like to consign with them, then please click Here to learn more. If you've consigned in the past, then you probably already know that the database is open, but just in case you missed the news, you can click Here to start entering your items. 

What sets RL apart from other Consignment Sales?

• Consignors make a minimum of 70% (up to 80% with Referrals)!
• When you refer three new consignors, who each consign at least 25 items, you will receive 75% of your total sales!
• When you refer five or more new consignors, who each consign at least 25 items, you will receive 80% of your total sales!
• Your items are guaranteed! Meaning, if you show up on Pick-Up day and they don't have an item that they should have, then you get paid as if the item sold!
• The average consignor makes around $280 per event!
• Personally, I made in the $300-$400 range last Fall!
• You can watch your sales LIVE throughout the day online or on your Smart phone App
• The consignor fee is only $9.00
• Admission to the sale is always FREE, so tons of shoppers come through the door 
• Consignors/Volunteers are invited to the Pre-Sale on April 17th (before the doors open to the public)
• Your check is ready on Pick-Up Day, April 23rd

What items can you Buy/Sell at this event?

• Easter dresses, sundresses, tank tops, shorts, capris, pajamas, swimwear, sandals, flip-flops, indoor/outdoor toys, baby equipment, furniture, DVD's, books, shoes, nursing items, teen clothing, maternity clothing, and much more. They will also accept lightweight jackets (no coats), lightweight pants, khaki pants, jeans, and long-sleeved shirts that are "spring like" in fabric and look.

*NEW LOCATION*:

• This event has changed BA locations multiple times over the years, and that's a GOOD thing because they move every time that they outgrow a location! I'm excited to say that the new location for the Spring/Summer event is at 1025 W. Kenosha St. in the Rhema Ninowski Rec Center (Gym Area), which is on 71st (Kenosha), East of Aspen (145th) on the Southside -- The place with the Amazing Christmas lights!
• This location has a TON of parking and every item will be located in the same building. 

This blog is just a small bit of information about the sale, so please click Here to learn more about volunteering, marketing, donations, etc. 

Also, feel free to contact me with questions, or you can contact the owners of the BA event, Debbie (debbiew@rhealana.com) or Kristin (kristin@rhealana.com). Debbie and Kristin are amazing and they treat everyone like family! So, why not join the family and consign today?! 

I'll see you there!