The One Who...

In light of Valentine's Day, I do have to share some sentimental thoughts since I have basically "killed" off Cupid on my personal Facebook page. You know the scary naked baby that flies around that's armed and very dangerous???

I guess this a sequel to the "Be That Person" I blogged about in September of 2013. You know, the life changing impact a person has on your life.

Some people don't believe in fairy tales and finding the perfect person to spend the rest of their lives with. There are those of us who still do..

When you have that one person that completely changes your life...

* One who gives you hope beyond all your doubts.

* One who gives a sense of security beyond all your fears.

* One who makes you smile again when you once thought it was not possible.

* One who when just the thought of them makes you happy in your heart.

* One who you don't have to be looking at them or hear their voice, but just thinking about them makes the whole day better.

* One who makes your face completely light up in a huge smile when an unexpected text or phone call comes thru and you see it is that person. One of those lip biting grins because you are standing in the middle of the cleaning aisle in Dollar General.

* One who makes you find the purpose in your life again. When you have given up on yourself and what you have a passion for, this person comes along to give you the encouragement you need to get you back on track again to accomplish your dream.

* One who makes you believe in you again.

* One who impacts you on such a level you see your own self through their eyes. You begin to see the "you" that you are all because of them. You finally lose sight of the flaws and the imperfections you tend to hide behind.

* One who makes you think about the future and all the possibilities of what could go right instead of what could go wrong.

* One who makes you open your eyes again to believing in hope and there are still good ones out there.

* One who makes you like the person you are when you are with them. The person you become just by being with them. Whether you are walking down an old dirt road, riding around the countryside, headed to your favorite restaurant for dinner, or just sitting at home watching TV.

* One who makes you want to take down the walls around your heart you built so high so you would not get hurt again. You open yourself up to taking risk and finally take a chance on the "what ifs" in life.

* One who when you are around them, there is no way to describe the feeling you get just by being in their presence or looking into their eyes.

* One who comes along and completely wipes out all of the negative and the pain of the past. Helps you to heal completely inspite of all the desolation and weariness you have experienced in the past.

When you find a person who does all these things, or just a few of them... You have no choice but to believe in fairy tales....

Sometimes it is a seasonal person that walks into our life that turns our world upside down. That is all they are meant to be. But sometimes you are blessed and you find a forever person you spend the rest of your future with.

A Prince Charming or a Cinderella is out there. Some of us have just been a little delayed in crossing paths with them. But when you find that kind of person, you realize how much they have changed you. You finally understand "what" you are looking for and it is then you realize just how hard it is to let them go!!

"It's Not A Career, It Is Your Calling"

A few years back, I was going through a very questionable time in my life. I was wondering and asking God what was I supposed to be doing in and with my life... Did I miss what He put me on this earth to accomplish??? Was I living out my purpose??? Was I supposed to be working at Windi's Bridal Boutique??? ( Nope, I am not closing the shop or leaving... So I'll go ahead and stop a rumor before it starts. I am still going to be there in the morning with bells on!!)

The year was 2010. I was at a point in my life where I was a very broken person. I was discouraged with every changes happening all around me. I had all these questions and there were no answers in sight. I was just before breaking off my engagement to the man I was going to marry. I was at an all time low area I had not been in many years. I questioned God a lot about everything (PS.. God wants us to go to Him when we have questions and seek Him for direction.. That's called trusting Him..)

We were in revival at the church I attended. I had been in the mully grubs all day. It seemed as if my prayers had only been hitting the clouds and were bouncing right back at me unanswered. I needed to know if I was "doing it right" or was I way out "in a league of my own" and missing God completely. I was tired of questioning my life, my occupation, and my purpose. I was being fed by "someone" I just needed to close up shop. Cash in my chips. Walk away and never look back. He did not understand this is what I love to do.

As I was sitting in the church service on the third row, right hand side by the wall, the evangelist was used by God and gave me an on time word. It was the confirmation I needed to hear. Evangelist Marvin Booth stopped in the middle of his sermon, looked at me and pointed his finger at me and said...

"Sister Windi I just looked at you and the Lord told me to tell you 'you don't just have an occupation, you have a ministry.' Hallelujah. It's more than a career, it's a calling. Hallelujah. And that made sense to you when I said that. You don't forget that statement. It's not just a career, it's a call. NOT JUST CAREER, BUT A CALL."

My mind had drifted back to Stephen in the Bible. He had a market place ministry. Some people will try to say the only place a ministry can happen is in the pulpit. They are wrong. Anytime you have a chance to shine the love of Jesus, where ever you are, that is your pulpit.

Then a couple of weeks ago, I began questioning myself and God again. Had I missed it after all this time?

Last week, on Wednesday I had a customer who came back to purchase her prom dress she had picked out on Saturday. See Saturday at the shop during prom season means wide open. You don't have a chance for lots of one-on-one time. Wednesday was perfect for that!!! Her mom went to the back of the shop to talk to my mom. She stayed at the counter and we talked about life. She brought up a family member who was going thru the same type of unhealthy relationship I had gotten out of. The family member was the very same age I was when I started dating the guy many years . My customer could not understand why the family member was blind and allowing all this to go on. I got to share my side of the story of what I went through and explain how the person is blinded and really doesn't see it. How her family member thinks she can't find anyone else if she were to break the relationship off. It's a mind game.

Then last Friday I had another friend come by the shop. She and I began to share about what God has done in our lives since the last time we had seen each other. Last time I spoke to her, we were both engaged and planning weddings!! Both of us thought the other one had already gotten married. We sat there an hour talking about our situations and how God had allowed things to happen so we would see what we were putting ourselves through.

All of this happened this week to remind me I am right in the dead center of God's will in my life for such a time as this. 

Chosen For A Purpose

Sometimes you sit and you question a lot of things and situations as you look back and reflect on the journey life has brought you through since you breathed your first breath. Tonight was one of those nights for me. Truth be told, I have a those nights often. Not so I can sit here and beat myself up with regret of choices I made. There are no regrets this far. But to realize how each life changing decision has lead me to where I am today. To see where I was at then and how life would have been so much different today had I chosen the other option laid out before me in my past. No, life is not always perfect. If it was, it would become a monotonous cycle. You have to go thru good and bad times to appreciate life as a whole.

I'm less than 6 weeks away from my 38th birthday. God has blessed me to be here this long. So far, 2014 is starting to be a great looking year. New things have begun unfolding. And all I can say is "thank you" because without God opening doors and directing my path thus far, none of this would be possible. Things I never thought possible for a little old country girl like me. One who would rather be in jeans and a T-shirt with flip flops as my wardrobe playing in the dirt. Don't know where how all this will play out in the end. You can rest assured there was a reason for it!

One lesson I have learned is to always stay humble and never forget where you came from. Especially never forget "who" made all things possible according to His purpose and plan... When you are "chosen" there is nothing but favor coming your way. Time to walk thru #Isaiah61 and prove my #Jeremiah29:11. Chosen for a purpose...

And I am thankful for the family and friends I have that are an amazing support team :) I am blessed beyond more that I deserve!! All the notes and messages you send me mean more to me than you will ever understand :)

Even My Worst Day Was Wonderful

Why I love the country life!!! With views like this going to work, makes you realize how blessed we are!!! A friend told me Saturday night and today "Even my worst day was wonderful"... He and I had been catching up on the past 20 years since high school... Then today it really hit me.. No matter how bad things may seem at different times in life, I'm still alive. I'm healthy. I'm breathing. Even though I had a dilemma with the plumbing for a week and was ready to cry, I have a place I call home. There is a roof over my head to keep me out of the weather. I have a warm bed with a pillow and blankets instead of concrete sidewalk, a park bench, cardboard box, or insulation wrapped in plastic ( as Jimmy Wayne did as a homeless teenager ). There's lights and electricity so I don't have to sleep in the darkness of night (yes I have a night light, don't laugh). I have the means to store and prepare my meals. A washer and dryer to keep my clothes clean. And a warm shower instead of a freezing river to bathe in.. It is the simple things we take for granted in life!!!! We are all one thing away in our life that could pull the rug out from under us...

NEW FACEBOOK PAGE

Over the past few weeks, I decided it was time to start a Facebook page in addition to my blog... For those inspirations I get on a whim!!! Things that may never make it to the blogger world!!

Here is the link... Give me a "Like"!!

https://www.facebook.com/faithjewelsbbywindiraper

Thank you and God Bless You!!!

The Paper Angel Tree

The Paper Angel Tree
The Salvation Army Angel Tree

It is early Christmas morning. There is excitement throughout the bedrooms of the children as they are waking up from a night of restless sleep. An anticipated morning which only comes once a year. As they eagerly wake their sleeping brothers and sisters to rush them to the living room, they begin to wonder what kind of presents are awaiting them under the Christmas tree. As soon as everyone is up, the halls are filled with pidder-paddering footsteps and laughter as they round the corner into the living room... only to find that there are not any boxes with big red bows and all the colorful paper symbolizing what this season is famous for. The season of giving and receiving. There are no presents under the tree. In some cases, there is not even a brightly lit tree with the shiny star on top.

At this point, they are not aware of the financial difficulties and stress their parents, single parent, grandparent, legal guardian, or foster parent has faced the days and months leading up to this holiday season. The children also are not aware of how hard it hurt the adults to not be able to provide Christmas gifts for them. One of the parents may have lost their job. One of the parents may have gotten terminally sick. In some cases, they only have one parent who is doing every thing they can to strive to float just above water. The struggle to keep the lights on month to month. The ability to keep food on the table. The medicines some are required to have just to live everyday without pain or suffering took the place of a new doll or train this year.

The dreams the children had of what was awaiting them under the tree is washed away by tears and a broken heart. The house is now quiet as the kids slowly turn to go back to the rooms where the morning began on a different note. Parents or caregivers are left with a burden that they failed the child. There is no going back to school and talking about what they got for Christmas. Only the devastation and embarrassment when other kids ask them questions.

Since 1979, there are many children who were going to be faced with a Christmas story as described above. However, many children have been provided with a happier ending thanks to the dream and the vision two people had to make a difference in the lives of children. Majors Charles and Shirley White were living in Lynchburg, Virginia, and were working at a local shopping mall collecting toys and clothing for children during the Christmas season. There the idea of the “Angel Tree” program was born.

The Salvation Army website says this “The program got its name because the Whites identified the wishes of local children by writing their gift needs on Hallmark greeting cards featuring pictures of angels and placing them on a Christmas tree at the mall. Thanks to the Whites, more than 700 children had a brighter Christmas that first year. Three years later, when the Whites were transferred to Nashville, Tennessee, Angel Tree was launched in Music City during the 1982 Christmas season.”

Children who are recipients of the Angel Tree gifts are from families who have applied for Christmas assistance through the Social Services program of The Salvation Army. During the application and qualification process, the sizes of the children and special needs and wants of the children are written on the application. Once the application is approved  the personal information is kept confidential. The other information is then written on the paper “angels”.

If you have ever had the chance to decorate an angel tree as I have, you realize the Paper Angel you are holding represents a child in your community who may not have anything for Christmas. Seeing the names makes it more personal. You see the first name only of the child. If it is a boy or a girl. The age of the child. The sizes of clothing and shoes the child wears. Then you see what the child is wishing for.

The “angels” contain a code number which corresponds to the application number as it was accepted. All children in a family have the same code number, followed by “1” for the first child, “2” second child, etc. The “angels” are then placed on Christmas trees in shopping malls or local businesses where they are selected by shoppers who then go purchase either the partial or full list as noted on the “angel”. After items are purchased, the gifts are taken to The Salvation Army.

Getting involved in “adopting” an angel off of the tree is simple. You choose if you want a boy or a girl and the age of the child you would like to buy for. You do not have to purchase all of the items on the wish list, just what you can afford. You see something is better than nothing. You and your co-workers or group at church can adopt a child together.

This will be the sixth year I will be hosting a Paper Angel Tree at Windi's Bridal Boutique in Douglas, Georgia. You see, I was faced with a challenge in November 2011 by Country music singer Jimmy Wayne “to partner with my local Salvation Army to help with the Paper Angel Tree Program.” See, as a child, Jimmy was a Paper Angel himself so he knows how important this program is to children. I wrote a blog about my first experience with sponsoring a tree in my shop. Each child on the tree has a story to tell. None of the stories are the same. I was so touched by this, I felt impressed to write a blog about it. Here is the link http://windiraper-faithjewels.blogspot.com/2011/11/one-from-heart.html

There is one question I leave you with... Are you willing to make a difference on Christmas morning in the life a child who is faced with possibly not having anything under the Christmas Tree? We are all blessed to be a blessing!

Our first year, there were about 25 children who were adopted. In our second year (2012) there were over 50 children adopted from my shop... I want to also thank those who have been adopters in the past who make this possible every year!!

 
To find out more about Jimmy Wayne and his story, you may go to his website www.jimmywayne.com

To find out more about Jimmy's Foundation, you may visit Project Meet Me Halfway's website at www.projectmmh.org.

To find a local Salvation Army to participate in the Paper Angel Tree Program, you may search their locations at www.salvationarmyusa.org

*** UPDATE ***

As of 2016, I have continued every year hosting an angel tree in my shop. It is amazing to see the families bringing their children in to choose a child that are excited about making a difference in the life of another child.

Here is the #PaperAngels song & video by Jimmy Wayne!!! It will get you all in the Christmas giving spirit by doing the most good!!!

Be That Person..

Friday, September 13

If you are a friend of mine on Facebook, you pretty much know where I am coming from on this post. You have seen me share a little about this subject over the course of the past month...

To get everyone else up to speed, back in May of 2007, my Daddy was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in liver, lungs, and bronchial tubes. He beat the cancer in three months. Then on March 19, 2008, he was diagnosed with brain tumors. He was beating the brakes of that too until pneumonia set in. I lost my Daddy August 19, 2008.

This year is the 5th year anniversary of his passing. For some reason, it has bothered me a lot more than in years past. I sometimes still expect to see him walk in the front door on the porch after he has been at work....

There are a lot of other things that have been going on in my life. So I am sure this concoction of emotions are the things I have been trying to battle over the past few weeks. This is one of the peak seasons at the shop with homecoming in full swing. I am not complaining by any means. In a total of nine days, not including two Sundays at church twice on those days and one Wednesday night, I worked a total of 122 hours. We were excited to launch the brand new www.windisbridalboutique.com website just in time for homecoming. The companies were dragging to get images available for us to use on the website.  Once they were sent, crunch time started. There has been a lot of extra hours at the shop to meet all the deadlines.

The first week of August, I was decorating in Atlanta with Speedway Children's Charities Luncheon with guest speaker 1st Lady of Georgia, Sandra Deal. This was an awesome event and Mrs. Deal was such a sweet person. I am an Associate Board Member with Speedway Children's Charities at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This luncheon is one of the many fundraisers we do to raise money for the organization so we can give it away to other organizations at Christmas!!!

Then Labor Day weekend, due to circumstances beyond my control I had to cancel the trip to the Atlanta Motor Speedway to help my Speedway Children's Charities family work all weekend during the NASCAR Race. I was supposed to be up there decorating with the balloons for various events. This is the major weekend where they raise all the money for the charity to help organizations help kids. Since I was unable to do, I was very bummed out to say the least. I had only been counting down this weekend for a year!! When you own a business, you have to make sacrifices. Its in the job description!!

On September the 10th, I got a major achievement delivered by UPS from Eden Bridals. Eden Bridals is the main line of bridal and bridesmaids line I carry in the shop. I received a laser engraved crystal Silver Award. This award was a nation wide program. We were one of the top sellers and most improved in sales in the previous 12 month period. This was also based on our customer service. I am a firm believer the award is not only mine, but also the customers who entrusted me to be part of their special day and memories!!! Without them and the Windi's Bridal Team, I am nothing!!!

The biggest part in the mix is the fact September 13 is a countdown until my birthday... Only six months away from the next big number. So this Friday, September 13, marks the last six months of me being the ripe old age of 37. I don't see it as me turning 38 next... I just see 2.5 years and I will be the big 4-0!! Wooooo...hooooo...nooooottttt!!! There are lots of things I have accomplished in the years I have been blessed to be here. Down deep inside there are still many more things I want to do!! I refuse to grow up!!

Then to put all this in life's blender and mix it up, was an indescribable feeling. From up one minute, to down, to back up, then down. It seemed as if the roller coaster was going way too fast for me to keep up with the events.

On my way to work Friday the 13th morning, I had a conversation with God. I would not really call it a prayer. Just some things I had questions about. I also reminded Him of His words as well. I quoted some Scripture and to me it was like I was debating certain situations I was going through. I wanted answers. When I had gotten done "venting" to Him about my concerns, it was like I heard a voice say "I got this". Okay Lord, it is all yours and I will kindly move out of Your way!! (Depending on how the "venting" gets answered, I will surely have to share that in a Part 2 blog. Maybe one day!!)

Friday was a busy day as the week before homecoming always is. I was stressing a little bit since I always tend to worry about making sure every dress is here and every dress is ordered and will be back to me in time for big days.

That afternoon, I got an unexpected text from a good friend of mine I cherish deeply and had not heard from in a few weeks. One of those on time type. Basically a simple "Hey......hope you are doing good." You never know how much a text message, a visit, a phone call, or as social media channels to Facebook posts, Facebook inbox, email, Twitter, Instagram... Ok, I will stop there... The point I am trying to make is, you never know what a person is going through and when God puts them on your mind, how hard is it to just say a simple "hello". You never know how much you can change a person's day with just a gesture, and it is free!!!

Friday night, I was headed home about 10:30. I had done some late night projects at the shop. As I was riding and thinking about the past few weeks, I was in deep concentration. I was not paying much attention to the grassy sides of 441. Here I am, almost in Pridgen. As a matter of fact, I was at the 21 mile marker going into Pridgen. All of a sudden, a deer jumped out in front of me and broke my concentration. I immediately slammed on brakes and laid down on the horn. After I recomposed myself by catching my breath and bringing my adrenaline back down, I was ready to get on home thankful I did not hit the crazy animal. Then my mind went to the thoughts I don't open up about much.

Waitttt... Before everyone thinks and passes judgement, I am perfectly fine. I know I have a lot of living left to do and this was just one of those wake up moments. Should you have any doubt, I can gladly get you into contact with my bestie. She can verify I am good :)

As I looked at that deer, I thought to myself... What if I would have hit it and gotten into a wreck? Who and how many of my friends would actually care or be concerned about me? Who would make an effort to check on me post wreck? Out of all of those I think who care about me, how many would really be there to prove they do? I do know I have an AMAZING group of family and friends that does care about me. I am not knocking them by any means because I know who would be there for me even if I stumped my toe again and had to wear the neon green bandage! I love my circle!!!

I kept driving and got home within a few minutes.. I sat my purse and a few things I had brought out of the truck on the couch. Got me a Coke out of the refrigerator and made my way to the big blue recliner I love to unwind in... Daddy's recliner... Turned the television on and reclined back. Within a few minutes of flopping down in the recliner, I got an unexpected text message. The text was from one of the sweetest gentlemen I think I have ever crossed paths with in my life. One of those people who always seems to have a positive and encouraging word just at the right time. Sometimes God uses the right people at the right time to say the right thing and the person has no clue they are even being used to brighten someone else's day. They don't know they are an instrument being used by Him. He is one person I am proud to call my friend. He will never understand the inspiration and the encuragement he gave me in just a few words of conversation.

You see, no matter how "perfect" someones life seems to be, you never know what is going on on the inside.. The exterior shell can really put on a great show behind the mask. You can't see what a person is dealing with on a daily basis. You don't know the battles they are facing within themselves. After a while, a person can really fool you and you think they are okay. If someone crosses your mind and you feel like you need to call them or make contact with them, remember a text message in today's times means just as much!!!

This whole situation reminds me of the Country Music Song "The Call" by Matt Kennon. I am not one to give up on much of anything in my life. Life is one thing I will never give up on without a fight!!! But to know a person can get to that point and give up and see how easily their day can be changed because of something which only takes a few seconds to be the light in their darkness... Be someone else's reason to get back up again!! Most of the time, they will thank you even if you never hear it!!!

The lyrics I love in "The Call" are

"If someone you know is weighing on your mind

And needs a friend on the end of that other line

Don't hesitate what you say may seem so small

But who knows

They might be glad you called

So make the call"

Like I have said before, it is the simplest things in life that mean the most!!!

Be that person...

Here is the video by Matt Kennon...

www.youtube.com/watch?v=YK3zs7EV6Tk&feature=youtu.be

Skydiving.. The Only Way To Fly

Soooo…. Here it is… The blog a few have been waiting for… Over a year and a half over due..

The day I attempted skydiving and I lived to tell the story. The day I rose to a challenge and proved to myself, if I can do this one thing I thought I would never have the guts to do, what should I be scared of here on earth??? I already have God on my side and I am fully aware He tells us not to tempt Him… But, this was something I had to do for myself. If I can stand at a door of a Twin Otter Airplane and look at the earth below… Willingly fall forward on the count of three and dive out of the plane from 14,000 feet. If I can fly thru the air at a speed of 120 miles… Totally free fall from 14,000 to 5,000 ft in about a minute… What in this world is left to be afraid of??? Ok, don’t really answer that and there are some things I really don’t want to find out if I am or not because I am assured there is something out there!

You see, I may have the curls and the dressing to a T when needed down pat, but deep down inside there really is this Southern- Tomboy- Farm Raised Country Girl who loves to just be who she is and not be in all the hoopla…  don’t let my job / career fool you!!! I love to dress up and rise to the occasion when I can. But I love to run around on my days off with no make up, hair twigged up on top of my head, and if I am lucky I get to stay in pajamas all day long!

I am the first to admit I have a lot of both of my parents in me. I am a thinker and I do overly analyze things like Daddy did. I think things thru, some times excessively. Okay, if I do this like Plan A then this will happen. If I do it like Plan B then this will be the resulting consequence. But I also have a lot of Mama too… Both my parents loved life and the great outdoors. Mama is the one who will do something on a whim then think later! They both love a challenge and to try things out of the ordinary. So, I got it honestly!

What got this whole crazy ridiculous idea of jumping out of a perfectly good airplane started??? Hmmmm… Easy… FACEBOOK!!! Facebook, the beginning place of a lot of things… Some things are great and some things are not so great. This event just happens to fall into the really amazingly great things!!

My bestest friend, Mandy Shrouder Harper, who I had worked with at the bank years ago, posted a comment about “I wanna go skydiving… Who is with me?” That may not be the exact quote, but it was along the lines of a challenge. Oh, yes, I had to comment “I am with you Mandy. Let’s go.”

Then I think it was Kevin Fussell who works in Fitzgerald at CSX mentioned he had seen something about some type of skydiving event in Fitzgerald. Well, you all know how I am. I am also a very inquisitive person. I love to do research… After a Google search of “Skydiving in Fitzgerald” there is was… “St. Patrick’s Day Boogie”… There was also a contact number to Chris Spence out of Macon, Georgia (if you are ever in need of a person to get in contact with about skydiving, he is the man).  So, I contacted Chris a couple of times… Then boom, we are ready to get to flying! We literally counted down the days… Mandy did too… I just posted about my excitement I think about pretty much every day on Facebook!

My birthday is March 13. So this was my happy, happy birthday present to me! The week of the jump, I will admit I was beginning to feel VERY apprehensive. I was not going to back out by any means, just was really beginning to understand what could happen if things went wrong. For my birthday my cousin Denise took me to Flyin’ Cowboys. As we were leaving, we bumped into Rex (Mandy’s hubby) who asked if I was “going to back out on her.” Ohhhhhhh noooooo, I was not backing out by any means with a sudden strike of nausea hitting me in my stomach! This was something I had to do for myself. I was not going to back down on this. I had a made up mind and once I am in with both feet, no chance on me changing my mind!

Well, finally, March 17, 2012, at 2:30 pm had arrived. I got ready at the shop. Mama and I had a word of prayer.  Then a text to Mandy and I was leaving Douglas on the way to her house. Got there and told Rex and the boys bye.  We were officially Fitzgerald bound.

We arrived at the field and we waited on our support team who would be awaiting us on the ground. Tracy Purvis Heath and JD Heath for lots of moral support came to watch us.  Our awesome photographer Dea Merritt of Photos of Merritt from Fitzgerald! Then it was off to the point of no return!

Mandy and I went to the registration office. We met some of the fellow divers. Went to the table. Signed in. Handed over our money. In return, we were handed this stack of papers to literally sign our life and all our rights away. After seeing the excessively giant print “Warning, you may either die or be seriously injured should you choose to skydive.” You see this on about 10 sheets. You initial and sign about 60 times, but after reading thru page one and signing, your adrenaline is already pumping. Your blood pressure is climbing. My skin color has changed to a flushed red. Your nerves are calm because your body is going into overdrive and you can only seem to laugh your way thru all the other pages. How many times can you read “you may die” “you could get seriously injured” “you won’t sue” “you assume full responsibility” and not go into some type of “what did I just read” mode??? So, you only laugh your way thru as you are signing. I really mean you are laughing so you don’t change your mind. The fact I pretty much didn’t have much to eat or drink that day for obvious reasons probably didn’t help much with my mental state!

Okay. Paperwork is signed. Here comes Chuckie… The one who I will be entrusting my whole life with and hope he knows what he is really doing as we jump from that plane! He comes over and we talk a bit. Then we get me all suited up in the harness. He explains everything about the harness in detail. Like why it is three ply instead of single ply… Yes, that is a very important factoid! About the jump in detail what to expect and not to expect. All I can do is nod and let him know he will be repeating this couple of times because right now I do not comprehend a thing! I was forewarned by Bob Garrett (my stepdad and former paratrooper) and Jim Graham (WBYZ 94.5 and former paratrooper) to really listen to my instructions given to me… Sorry guys, I totally failed you. I will not lie. It went in one ear and out of the other… I tried really hard, but it just was not happening!

Then I met my other side kick who would be capturing every move I made… The one who would be allll in my face as I was sailing thru the air… Jesse!!! I don’t like random questions and I don’t like being put on the spot with a video camera in my face!!! But, like it or not… here was Jesse with the camera interviewing away! As you can see from the video, I am so high/drunk of adrenaline I can barely talk and I got the giggles! I look like a three year old on Christmas morning! Or a kid who was turned loose in the candy store with an unlimited amount of credit!!!

Just as Chucky and I were standing around the table talking, this older gentleman at the table looked at me and said “Are you jumping? Is this your first skydive? Are you scared?” Let me see…. I answered all those questions in this order “Yes. Yes. Ummm, no. A little nervous, yes, but NOT scared!”  And I guess he was more in shock because I mean a woman is NOT supposed to want to really do these type things… Well, I admit it. I am not the ordinary woman and most of y’all already know this for a fact! So I felt I had to explain it to him. “You see, I am a Christian and I believe what the Word says. Back on July 27th, 2011,  I was going thru some old papers and came across an old pocket calendar. You know the ones that have the Scriptures on them. I decided to look one more time at the pages. Well, I turned it to the one that had this verse on it and I am a firm believer of this now… PSALM 139:9-10 ‘If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans,  even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.’ I know I have a work and a calling on this earth and God is not thru with me just yet.”  Chuckie immediately said “If we need to have a word of prayer we will. Believe me, since I began jumping I found God. I am a praying man for sure.” The older man replied “It is great to be in the company of another Christian.” YES, I STAND FIRM IN MY FAITH IN GOD AND JESUS CHRIST!!!

Then it is time to go outside and meet up with our support team and people watch! Dea starts taking pictures of us. And as I look back at the pictures, I promise I will be thinner before my next jump!!! With the harness on, I look like a pot belly pig in the making!  Then we are off to the launch field! We have cameras and video cameras every where documenting just way tooooo much information!!! Only Mandy will understand this comment. If you really looked through the video, most of you would love to know why I had that “What did you just say Willis?” look on my face as I walk up to the ladder at 46 seconds into the video... Yup, it is top secret!  Watch it VERY slowly… I am all laughing and talking as I am going towards the plane. But, you can tell by the look on my face, something made me mad!!!

So it is loading up time. Jerald is first on the plane. Then Mandy makes her famous climb. Then my favorite person of the day, Chuckie, loads up. Then it is my turn to climb into that point of no return. Most of you all know I went to Chicago last year for a business trip. I mean, I know I wasn’t about to jump out of a Delta or Air Force 1 Jet, but I had to fly under these conditions??? Okay, you look and there are two metal benches in this aircraft, no plush seats at all! There is NO air or ventilation until you get to a certain height in the flight and they open the door. There was no stewardess or steward to bring my peanuts and water. What kind of airline is this???? Oh wait, now I remember… Non luxury and non First Class!!! So, I find my place on the bench.

Everyone is loaded. Check! Door is shut. Check! Time to start our ascension to 14,000 feet above Ben Hill County…  You are packed like sardines on the plane. The person ahead of you parachute is all in your face and lap. There is no room for moving around…. Don’t dare think of getting sick, cause there is NO where to put it!!! As I found out later from a Canadian jumper (Rick Nelson) who watched my video, he told me “you were on the plane with ‘royalty’”. He then went to explain the guy sitting in front of me with his parachute I am propped up on while I am talking to every one is only the President of the Canadian Skydiving Association. No wonder he gave me those looks as Mandy and I were talking like a bunch of elementary girls!

That ride was one of the most surreal times of my life! It really brought back a lot of things and made life come back into perspective. You think about a lot of things… That moment of “your life flashing before your very eyes” effect happened in a matter of minutes. You have a time to think of things you would rather not think about. Family. Life. Work. Why this and why that. What if this and what if that. What would Daddy tell me right now if I could really hear him speak to me? In those ten minutes so many things cross your mind. Too many things. You just stare out of the window and think about things. See, only a few months prior, I called off the relationship I was in as well as the engagement and forth coming wedding I was planning. I went from engaged to solo and needed to prove to myself how strong I was. This was my stress relief. This was my one outlet I needed to do for myself!

After what seems like hours of ascending up into the sky, you finally reach a point where the side door opens… Earth seems so far away. Seems like all your problems are down there waiting on you to land. When you are airborne, it seems as if you have left all of your worries behind you! You can see for miles and miles and miles from the airplane window. It still seems impossible that you are on the plane, are about to jump out of a perfectly good airplane, and depend on that parachute opening properly!

Then you have reached the 14,000 feet mark. Every one is going from their seats towards the door or the “front” of the plane. Then they all start jumping out. Mandy and Jerald are the next to the last ones.  Then my camera man Jesse climbs out and holds on to the side of the plane so he can capture me coming to the door. Chuckie and I are the last to jump from this load.

So, we do our funny walk since we are strapped to each other and we don’t have a choice at this point.  And here we are. My feet are now at the airplane door. I am staring down at one more amazing view. There is so much to take in and see at this view. There is one last chance to back out at this point. But, I won’t back out at this point. When the wind is hitting your face, it makes you realize how awesome God is. Look at what He created for us to look at. Look at the genius minds He created to invent something as great as a plane to let us experience this.

You are looking down at the clouds. You are seeing the view from the other side. You can see bodies of water. You can tell where the farm lands are planted because of the rows. Everything looks a lot different from that side.

Reality check… Now, it is time to go… One to the count of three… On one, we sit in our same position. On two, we lean back. On three, we fall out of the plane face first and start our free fall. So, one, two, three… And we are now flying thru the air. Over the next 60 seconds, we will be traveling at a speed of 120 miles per hour. The closest thing to compare that to is a NASCAR Race car. We were descending at a speed of about half of the average car travels during a race. Most tracks are about 210 miles per hour. We fall from 14,000 ft to 5,000 ft in approximately 60 seconds.

So, what is it like to free fall like that??? It is like your head is being placed in a vise and it feels like it is smashed as flat as a pancake! Your head is under so much pressure it feels like everything inside your head is about to explode. Your head feels kinda boxy. Your eardrums are pounding like crazy. Yes, there are butterflies in your stomach and you feel woozy. But not a nauseated woozy feeling! It’s just a feeling in the pit of your stomach which thanks you that you did not eat all day prior to your jump. You look like you have had a face lift that went very, very bad! You have to make sure you can breathe properly once you start falling. With the wind coming at you at such a force, some people are not able to breathe like they need to. But woohoo, I could breathe plum fine! I actually think it helped me in some ways, because I was able to hit some higher notes and able to sing a lot differently Sunday morning on the praise team! (The second time I jumped, I found out the leg strap pressure was basically too tight and I was getting the circulation in my leg cut off a little because of how the strap turned once we jumped out. Nothing to do with my partner. The second year, I was fine. This feeling did not happen the second time.)

The view is totally indescribable. It is just breath taking. I thought the view from the first plane ride I took last July to Chicago was awesome because you are above the clouds looking out… Well, jumping from a plane and looking down at the clouds totally outweighs being trapped behind a window and looking out any day! Nothing beats that view! It is priceless. Actually taking pictures with the clouds under you makes nice screen savers!

Just as you are beginning to soak all of this in, you are now at 5,000 feet. It is time to back away from Jesse the camera man and pull the chute open. The back lash from the chute basically stopping you in mid air literally feels like your knees are going to hit your chin! You go from 120 to almost stopping. Try to compare it to hitting a brick wall! All I can say! It gives you great big tug and feels like you are being pulled back up into the plane. Jesse got great step by step action shots of the resistance of the chute pulling open and my feet swooping down.

Once the chute is open, Chuckie allowed me to hold onto the guide cords to control our float. My thoughts were “Really Chuckie, I don’t want YOU to take your hands off of anything.”  At this point, I don’t know if I can hold on to it!!! I glide it for a little while and then he decides to take over. He asked me “do you like riding roller coasters?” Well, yeah… That is nothing compared to this is it?? Well, he does a pull on the right cord control and we flip one way. Then he flips us back the other way… Then he asked “do you really, really like a roller coaster?” Well, yeah again… So at this point he does a really hard pull on the cord and we flip really fast and before I knew what was going on we had already spun one way and were now flipping the other way… Gaaaaaeeze Louise, I had no clue that could be so much fun. No wonder I only at Cheetos all day! Boy oh boy, was my head and equilibrium way off now! I will ride pretty much any ride at Six Flags. I even rode on the Star Gazer in Orlando. It is on the TV Show World’s Most Extreme Rides. Oh, the Star Gazer has got nothing on the skydive!!!

Now we are at 2,000 feet. We look around at the view. He points us in the direction of my house. We spot Wal-Mart and look out in the direction of Coffee County. We are too close to the ground to try any more tricks or flips… (ps Thank You Lord…)

And now it is time to land. That is a struggle. The ground is wet because it had just rained the night before. The same rain storm that caused the crash of Ed the balloonist and ultimately took his life. But, picture this. I am a little taller than Chuckie. I could almost bet I am at least 70 lbs more in weight than he is. I mean, I look twice his size… And we gotta land. We have to slide in because of the tandem part of the jump. So he tells me to put my legs straight out which is like the 6” leg exercises in mid air. Okay, with this extra spare tire I have around my waist, it made it just a tad harder. God bless those football players who have to do this as their drills and exercise!

I see the Georgia red clay getting a little bit closer… And now I can see Mandy and Jerald and Will, there is my Jesse waiting, and I see the tent where Tracy, JD, and Dea are waiting and snapping pics! Okay, here we go, time to slide in… And woohoo.. We did it… I made it.. I am alive... I am really alive! I did it! I really did it.  Thank You Lord for helping me survive this!!!

There is Jesse all in my face with a camera and a video camera! Please let it sink in that I have landed!!!

Now it is time to regroup with my skydiving partner and discuss the entire thing. We were both so excited and amazed. We are currently dreaming of our trip to get certified to jump SOLO!!!! Yes, it is that much fun. Yes it is that addictive! Yes, once you try it, you will have to do it again!

One bit of advice to remember and look up before you jump… ALTITUDE SICKNESS… IT DOES EXIST! Afterwards, you will feel your energy level crash and you are ready for a nap. Over the course of the next two weeks, you will look at food and go “bleh”. You have no desire for food. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altitude_sickness)

In case you are wanting to go jumping with us, look for the event in March of 2014!! Fitzgerald St. Patrick’s Day Boogie!!!

Here's my video link
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=311208325615438&set=vb.100001788188795&type=3&theater

A Second Chance To Complete A Missed Blessing

Two years ago, at this very moment, I was sitting exactly where I am now typing away so I could share my story with my Facebook family and friends. I was sharing my heart about an experience I had encountered early that Saturday morning. Many of you are aware of my blog posting titled "A Trip To Remind Me of My Blessings". If not, here is the link.... (it is also located under the November 2011 posts to the left of this page)....

http://windiraper-faithjewels.blogspot.com/2011/11/my-tifton-trip-062511.html

Otherwise, the rest of this rambling of mine is not going to make as much sense as it should.

If you are part of my Facebook family, you will remember yesterday morning I was working on another blog post and my mind went back to the above post. I shared it again after reading it at 8:48 am and I quote myself as I posted "Sitting here drinking my coffee and working on another blog posting, and I thought about this one. My first blog post. This weekend makes two years ago I wrote this as a note and shared with FB world.. I still think of this man often. I wonder where he is now. To those who encouraged me and posted on this two years ago thank you... you never know how much it means to me!"

It was the post on Facebook that got me inspired enough with humbling comments made by those who took the time to read it to encourage me to brave creating a blog! So it is an extra special event for me.

Last night, I was working late trying to get caught up for today since my Mama was not going to be at work today. She left work last night around 6:30ish. After she left, she called me back within 5 minutes to tell me about this man that was sitting on the bench at the corner she had seen. I went to the door and was unable to see the man from the shop at that moment. I proceeded to come back inside and do a little more paper work.

Around 8:00 - 8:30, I called it a day and was heading home. I was parked in the area beside the water fountain, so when I left walking on the side walk I didn't look to my left to see if he was there or not. I got into the truck, pulled out on West Ward Street, took a left at the red light onto South Peterson Avenue, and was stopped at the red light at the intersection of South Peterson Avenue and Ashley Street. I glanced over and saw the man Mama was telling me about.

There was the older man sitting alone on the wooden park bench, under the pink blooming crepe myrtle trees, facing the Martin Civic Center. He was wearing an orange shirt and jeans. Just as the gentleman before in the Tifton story, he had his hair in dreads. And again, you could tell this man was homeless. He didn't have a bicycle. He only had a brown bag. When I saw this man, I knew what I had to do. This was my second chance to complete the missed blessing I had that morning in Tifton in 2011.

I know it is probably completely crazy for me to put it into this perspective, but it is just one of those things I did because my heart told me I had to do it! I know this is not the same man I saw in Tifton two years ago. I mean, it is probably not possible at all for it to be him again. I realize that fact. But, with the same similarities, I knew it was time to be a blessing for someone else that God had placed in my path!

I rounded the block as fast as I could and pulled in front of Jin Jin's. There was a couple of cars outside and I didn't want to draw attention to the man to make him feel awkward in any way. I sat in my truck and waited a few minutes before I went in. The whole time I am praying that he doesn't get up and leave before I get a chance to get the food.

I finally get out and go inside and the lady greets me like she always does. It is thanks to them and my Coca Cola habit I can't seem to lose the extra pounds I have been finding! She was getting orders together and I told her to go ahead because I was in no hurry, still hoping the people's orders ahead of me would be completed if I procrastinated a little longer. I finally made up my mind what I thought he would like that would be good in protein and in vegetables. I placed the order along with the two Coca Cola's and I took a seat to wait.

I was trying my best to figure out how I was going to give him the food as discreetly as possible. I had all kinds of ideas racing through my mind. I didn't even notice a friend of mines Daddy and sister were also in Jin Jin's too waiting on food. When she called their order up, I realized who they were and began talking to them. I brought up the guy outside and shared some of my story about the guy from Tifton.

After a few minutes, she called out my name for the food because it was ready. Here I am again, stuck with this question, how am I going to get the food to him. I didn't want to make him feel uneasy about the situation. I didn't want to put him on the spot. So I said a little prayer for God to help me figure this out. I had taken the bag, placed the Coke on top, walked over to the counter to put the fork, napkins, soy sauce, and duck sauce in the bag for him. I had just tied the back up when the door opened up and there he was coming inside. My heart skipped a couple of beats because God had just the perfect timing to let it all fall into place!

As he came in, the lady at Jin Jin's asked him if he was okay. He said yes and went to use their rest room. This was just the answer to the prayer I needed!!! As he shut the door, I walked back up to the counter and told her that I had not ordered the food for me. I had ordered the food to give it to him outside. I didn't want him to know where it came from, just that someone bought his food for him. Just please give it to him when he comes out. And with that, I walked out of Jin Jin's as fast as I could before I started to tear up a little.

I got to my truck and just sat there for a minute or two. I had to take the time to thank God for putting another person in my path I knew needed help. One of my favorite quotes I have read on Facebook is...

"You have never really lived until you have done something for someone who can never repay you." (Author unknown)

Once I finally got it all together with tears welling up and my heart about to explode out of my chest, he came out of Jin Jin's with his white bag. He went back to the bench he had been sitting on in the same spot. It was time for me to go home. I backed out and by the time I got to the red light to turn, he was already eating his supper. At that point I will admit I did lose it.

I went and asked the lady about him this morning to see what she had to say. She speaks broken English. She said he had been in earlier and gotten a bottle of water. He was still there last night after they closed at 11:00 p.m.

Maybe it is just coincidence the man showed up yesterday and it coincides with the same date of the Tifton trip so closely. He could have chosen any bench in down town Douglas to sit on. For some reason he chose my block to come and rest for a while.

Matthew 25:31-46 reminds me of what we are supposed to do for others... When you leave this life, you can not take it with you. The part of the Scripture that stands out to me is verses 34 - 40 (NIV version)

³⁴ “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. ³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, ³⁶ I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
³⁷ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? ³⁸ When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? ³⁹ When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
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.’


Those who know me on a personal level know the last few weeks have not been my favorite ones. They are a few of my least favorites every year. Dates I wish I could erase of the calendar permanently. 

* Memorial Day Weekend 2007 - My Daddy was diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer after going to doctors for over seven months with the same symptoms

* June - Father's Day - Seemingly gets harder and harder every year to have to face the reality

* June 19, 2010 - Well, I was set to have a wedding on that date but we cancelled the wedding due to other circumstances. Yes, I was engaged at one time. Different story for a different time.


Sometimes we just need a reminder of how blessed we really are to be able to bless someone else. Something as simple as a meal to someone else who has a very empty stomach. I do remember a time when I could not afford to even buy myself a $7 meal. Days like yesterday really open me up to seeing the bigger picture. It is like a little elbow nudge that says I can do and go through all things because of Christ that is in me! Being able to help someone else is my hearts greatest desire. Being able to bless someone else at their point of need, knowing I am able to do that is the only thanks I need!!

My "The Vow" Experience

So here is my "The Vow" story I witnessed in my shop today...

First I need to back up just a bit... The other day after hours, I was passing through town and saw this couple window shopping at the wedding dresses in front of my shop. I had to be some where and was unable to stop. I just figured they were looking around outside while they waited on food from Jin Jin's like a lot of people do...

Then, this afternoon, they were back and came in... I greeted them as they were walking in the doors. The gentleman was first and held the door for the lady who was with him. Like I said, "Gentleman"... The soon-to-be-husband did all of the talking with me at first. As he and I discussed dresses, colors, styles, etc., the bride-to-be stood by listening. Then he would ask her questions and lean in to hear what her response was. He would tell me what she thought about each dress and which ones she wanted to try on. I thought she was either really shy or she had this nasty cold that is going around which had made her lose her voice.

As they began looking at the dresses, he was taking them off the rack for her. It is then I noticed she had no use of her arms and hands. They just hung there by her sides dangling. He and I both were looking for a "yes" or "no" as we pulled the dresses down for her to voice her opinion. After a little while, she began to get over her “shyness” or “cold.” She loosened up a little and began trying to speak. Her speech was very, very slurred. It was to the point I could not understand her as she was speaking. It was to the point as if she were merely mumbling. But, he knew her voice and could make every thing out she was speaking. He would even put the dresses over her head, still on the hanger, to see if she liked them. When it came time for her to try on, he went into the dressing room and helped her try all of the dresses she had liked. He never got impatient. He never raised his voice trying to hurry her up. He was taking his time with her.

When I asked in conversation what type of event they were attending, he said that she was wearing it to their wedding next week!!! That is a testament of true love... Loving unconditionally... For better or worse... Knowing he is marrying the love of his life despite all the circumstances around her... You know if he did all those things for her here, he has to go above and beyond that at home as well... From cooking, feeding her, helping with showers, brushing her teeth, washing clothes, washing her hair, drying her hair, cleaning, vacuuming, sweeping, dusting, mopping, loading the dishwasher, taking out the trash.... Everything... Knowing that despite all of the difficulties they face, he will be there to help her no matter what.

I know this is a little different than the actual events in the movie “The Vow”. But to see someone as unselfish as he is, it makes you want to do more to be a better person. Even with her what seemed to be stroke symptoms, he was still standing by to support and love her through her limitations. Like I said, I my heart was heavy today and made me want to go grab a box of Kleenex and go hide in my own little corner for a while. On the other hand, it made my heart smile that she had someone like him who loved her through it all despite her disabilities. It kinda reminds me of God, no matter what we have done or may do thru, despite it all He is going to love us and never leave us alone to face our own problems. He is always with us and loves us unconditionally no matter how good, bad, or ugly we are!!

Days like today make you appreciate that even on your "worst" days.... Life can still be worse than what you are going through!!!

Carried Away Creations... The Story Behind The Name

This was shared on my Facebook page on August 13, 2012 at 11:57pm

I have been asked this question a few times lately.... So, I thought I would share how my balloon decor business got its name!!! But, let me give you a little personal and business history first...

Back when I was 8 or 9 years old, I remember walking through my front yard to my Granny's house. As you enter the house through the front porch, she has (I have) a sitting room or den area. Before we remodeled the home in 1995, there used to be a window right beside the door. I used to love to just go and sit on her brown fabric sofa with nothing to do and look out the window. I would always go to the back porch before I settled in, because there were always some type of treat in the freezer!!!

This particular day, I had went in after my little brother did. He was in the kitchen with a new shiny balloon. I was mad!!! I wanted one... Well, Granny dug around til she found and old one. Kinda almost to the dry rotted stage... I was unaware what was going to happen when I was going to attempt to blow up the balloon, but I had a balloon!!!

I walked from the kitchen through the dining room and land on that sofa in the den. Got a pillow. Laid down and proceeded to blow up my balloon. Two or three good puffs into this process and POP right in my face!!! I was traumatized, really I was... From that point on, I was as scared of a balloon as I was a rattle snake. Yes, I am telling the truth! I relived the rattle snake fear / hate relationship about a month ago. I have been well reminded!!! (For those not on my Facebook page, I met up with a rattler in my front yard that was over 5 ft long and had 11 rattlers and a button.) I would run from a balloon if there was one close by.

Then fast forward to 1994. I was a senior at Coffee High School and I came across this picture of some balloon decorations and thought "wow, that is cool. Would love to do that!! Oh wait, it involves balloons." I tried to blow one up to see if I could handle being around a balloon... It took several tries I will admit and lots of prayers!

Well, I finally got myself together and conquered the balloon-phobia. As the years progressed, I would create some kind of balloon decor every now and then. When I was attending Harvest Renewal Church in Nicholls, Georgia, in my twenties while Pastor Bo Turner was the Pastor, I started using the talent more. I would decorate for Christmas, Pastor Appreciation, Mother's Day, Father's Day, and pretty much whenever I could.

God blessed me with a creative mind. He has blessed me with many gifts and talents. It is only thru Him I am able to do the things I love to do!!! He first and foremost gets the credit for all I do!!! Without Him, I would be nothing! I remember on Mother's Day 2010 or 2009, I had carried some flower arrangements and balloon bouquets to decorate for the service at New Life that morning. I had sat them down in front of the alters. As I was standing there during Praise and Worship, the being "thankful" hit me hard. I stared that one particular arrangement down til it had holes in it!!! Then the tears started flowing and I remember just thanking God over and over and over again for everything He had blessed me with. He did not have to give me those talents and gifts, He could have given them to someone else. But He chose me!!!

Back to one night during a Sunday night service, Pastor Bo was preaching where I used to attend church at Harvest Renewal. The church seating was broken up into three sections. I was sitting on the left hand side of the stage, 3rd or 4th row from the back, and about half way down the row. I was sitting alone that night. As Pastor Bo was preaching, I was writing notes from the sermon as fast as I could. Then just as I would be carrying on a conversation with some one, I heard the still small voice say "Carried Away Creations." So, I kinda just laughed at the thought, but I wrote it down on paper. I knew what it was meant to be for. No sooner as I had jotted this down, Pastor Bo stopped in the middle of his sermon and said "God just spoke to me and told me to tell some one in here He just gave you the name of a business. I am confirming it." He said a little more, then he went right back to his sermon.

Did I tell anyone?? NO!!! I didn't want to say it was me and have missed it completely!!! I thought I heard God, but what if if was NOT meant for me... So, I kinda kept it to myself!!!

Who would have thought that the balloon decor I do would have opened up so many doors to do some amazing things for some amazing people??? It has taken me to those places I never thought I could go!!!

I am just in awe at how all of these things have just fallen into place. They all could have told me "no, sorry, don't need any balloons." They didn't!!!

In 16 days I will be headed out to one of the biggest events have done as of yet... I will be decorating at the Atlanta Motor Speedway for NASCAR's Speedway Children's Charities. On Thursday morning, I will be setting up decor and attending the Reed Sorenson Charity Golf Tournament. On Friday morning, I will be decorating for breakfast with Governor Deal along with the drivers and their teams. Two hours later I will have already decorated for the Clay Shoot Charity Event. On Saturday there will be a private event. Sunday is the charity walk around the track. I will also have decor at the main entrance on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for the tents for the SCC...

I also have other organizations that have contacted me about possible doing decor for them in various states!

Now that I am 36, I have been decorating now for literally half my life. I never dreamed God would allow it to carry me this far. I am thankful and I am surely humbled HE blessed me!! I have made some great connections and gained a lot of amazing new friends through this journey...

Am I bragging, NO!!! I am proving how you take a chance at something and go with that dream!!! Don't hold back!!! You have to have the FAITH it takes to believe YOU CAN DO ALL THINGS THRU CHRIST and GOD OPENS DOORS NO MAN CAN SHUT!!! Put all of your trust in HIM.... He will direct your paths... Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something... Write your vision and make it plain!!! No matter how many times you fail, pick yourself up and try one more time... No matter how insignificant you may seem to feel with your ideas, you never know until you try!!!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Carried-Away-Creations-Balloon-Decor-by-Windis-Bridal-Boutique/312273665496118

Just A Little Note

It was brought to my attention recently that it has been over a year since I have published anything on my blog... To this I will say I am sorry!!

I have been going non-stop with work, Church, and many other projects that I will be sharing with you very soon!!!

Lots of great things are happening in my life. God has opened so many doors and to Him I am very thankful! I have lots of stories to share!!

Just a Dream, Or A Desire?

Posted January 2012

As some of you are my Facebook and Twitter Friends and Family... You are aware of my recent trip to Nashville, Tennessee, the weekend of New Year's. It was such an amazing trip and I had a wonderful time. If you have never been to Nashville, I suggest you go!

It was a last minute trip. I met up with some friends who had gotten there ahead of me due to my schedule not allowing me to leave as early as they did. We toured the sights, learned about Nashville's history, ate at some great places, and I enjoyed my time spent with them. But you see, when I get alone, I think about things way too much. When all is quiet and I can really think about things I go into overboard mode.

We, as the group of seven, walked around Broadway Street on Friday the 30th of December. This happened to be the Wake Forrest and Mississippi Bowl Game. We learned to check our timing for the next trip. A true lesson learned. The streets were so packed with the football fans, the whistles, the horns, and other game hoopla. The majority of the people were lost in a sea of maroon hats, hoodies, sweatshirts, and other fan supporting attire who were walking blocks if not miles to go watch the pig skin fly! AND I do like football to some degree, so that is just a comment! No need to say I am a sports hater! We even got to see the skydivers parachute in before the game and disappear in the buildings.

Every where you turned, the streets were so crowded you really didn't get to notice the "real" people of Nashville. The game attendees were just temporary visitors just passing through, while the others were permanent residents with no place to go back to for most of them. Even though they did stick out in the crowd in their own way, you didn't think about why they were here. What was their purpose for being in Nashville? They were not the temporary invaders of the streets of Nashville. These were the people who called Nashville's streets home. We had an encounter with a couple of them. One walked around with us for a while talking to us. He was very nice. Didn't ask for anything. He just enjoyed the company and the fact us southern Georgians would acknowledge him. 

Saturday, New Years Eve, we had a very exciting day planned! We took the tour of homes for the celebrities around Nashville and Brentwood area. We got to see the fancy houses and estates of Little Jimmy Dickens, Dolly Parton, Alan Jackson, Taylor Swift, as well as others. Some were moderate while some were huge properties. They said Little Jimmy Dickens would come out sometimes and stop the tours to say hello to everyone.

After that was over, we rushed back to our rooms to get dressed as we were headed to The Ryman Auditorium to see Jimmy Wayne on the line up that night. The Ryman is home to The Grand Ole Opry during the winter months. Of course, you know us southerners have got to eat first! We met up with Jimmy Wayne at Puckett's Restaurant for supper before heading to the show. And what an amazing show that was!!! Especially when Jimmy Wayne gives his "friends from Baxley, Georgia" a shout out... It was kinda quiet at the moment and well, I am the voice you hear echoing throughout The Ryman. The "whoohoo" that was heard around the world.... Yep, that would be me.... All of my Twitter and Facebook friends who were listening to the show started posting and tweeting and wondering if that was me and my big mouth. Afterwards it was funny because several people were watching us as they were leaving. One guy stopped with a big ole grin and says "You wouldn't happen to be part of the friends from Georgia would you?" Welllll, "What would ever make you think that?!" as I want to crawl under my seat!!!  Why yes, guilty as charged!!!

On Sunday, the others in my group traveled on to North Carolina to chase the snow as a blizzard was... I stayed behind in Nashville to do a little sight seeing of a different kind. I love, love, love to take pictures and nothing has more meaning to me than places with history. An old building that has had several construction add-ons as you can tell because of the style of the bricks and the different patters used to lay the bricks. An old Church with all of the intricate details on the pillars and the exterior wall design that was famous for that era of time. A picture you can look at and just go back into another time period. A place so rich of so many different characteristics and possessions, the pictures can actually talk to you.

This is a building just behind Puckett's Restaurant on Church Street I noticed as I was talking on the phone. You can see the construction work from the different times it was added onto because of the different style of bricks. 

I was in the vehicle just looking at the old places as I was on the phone talking about my trip thus far with a very dear friend. Plus, the temperature outside was only 19 degrees and I was almost dreading getting out. As I sat there in this pay to park parking lot, I was able to see all of the passers-by on the side walk in my rear-view mirror. Yes, most were the homeless men of Nashville. There were several that passed by, but only one of them really hit me a little differently...

He was walking alone. A kind of taller fellow. He had on the appropriate clothing to keep him warm in those chilling temperatures. But, what made him different than the others, strapped across his back was a black guitar case. So, I am in Nashville, Tennessee, home to Country Music USA... Just around the block is the home to CMT... What would make this seem on the odd side to me? Well, I guess I figured there would be more like him there.

I continued on with my phone conversation for a few more minutes before I got out to fight the cold and walk the streets where hundreds upon thousands have walked before me. There were some who were just like me, seeing all the sights that I could see so I could come home to tell about it. There were others who had made it to being a household name who had walked the same streets I was walking. I am sure, some spent their time remembering where they came from and what got them here. Even I reminisced on my life's events as I strolled through the streets and local shops fighting the bitter cold.

I toured the Ryman Auditorium. Strolled down all the main sights on 5th Street, 4th Street, 3rd Street, and lastly 2nd Street. I had left this one souvenir shop on the corner of 2nd Street and Broadway. I headed back towards 5th Street to call it a day. As I passed through at a slower pace than before, I really wanted to soak it all in. This would be my last day here and I wanted to make sure I saw everything there was to see. I was able to hear all the bands and singers performing in the various bars and restaurants. As I was walking by one of the venues, lost in another world, the drummer tapped on the window trying to get me to come in and listen to the house band. All these different bands were there to live out their dream. You see they had graduated from playing on the streets trying to get the one big break to take them some where else. They loved playing music and that was their passion. It was not a job to them because they could not think of themselves doing anything different with their lives than what they were doing now.

As I got closer towards the ending of my walk, there was this older gentleman who you could tell had lived a hard life. It was shown by the wrinkles on his face. He was leaning with his back against the wall. One leg perched out to hold his guitar as he played.  There he stood on the corner, picking and singing his heart out.. In front of him was the black guitar case he had passed by me with just hours before as I watched from the rear view. It was laying there on the ground waiting for someone to drop some tips in. And of course I did! How many others had really started out like this?

But yet he seemed to be the poorest of the people I had seen. I guess because he was older than most I had made eye contact with. I was fully aware and I  knew he was homeless. As I walked away, he left me with a deep thought...

I wondered how long he had been standing on the streets of Nashville waiting, hoping, and dreaming of that one big break to come walking along the side walk in front of him. He had enough faith and belief in himself to be unmovable in his dream he was going to be singing on the stage of the sacred Opry Stage no matter how long it took. He stood firm on his street corner  just singing, picking, smiling, and nodding as to say "hello and thank you" as folks left him a tip. He could have only been there just that one day... But yet, he could have been there for twenty years. Every day making the same journey to the place on the corner with the one possession he had never left behind strapped to his back as he walked. The one thing that was going to help him get where he thought he was going. He left everything and everyone to pursue what he had enough of a passion for to live his dream... He walked away from a life as he had known for years, to try and try and try on a daily basis to make it a reality.

But he is living his dream.. This is his desire and his passion... Playing and singing in Music City USA!!! It is not a dream he can live for someone else. This belongs to him way down deep in his heart and his soul. 

I could almost say he is richer than some of us... We sit back and never take the time to take the chance to achieve our dream. We are too afraid of taking the first step. Just goes to show you, if you have a true desire and a true passion for something, what people say and think about you will never make you change your course. 

How far will you go to go after that dream????

Here are some other pictures taken from that day..... Too bad I didn't get him in any of the photos...

You will notice there is a homeless guy sitting on the steps of this building. I had no idea there was a photo showing a gentleman. This is not the one I wrote about, but just represents a story himself.

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