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The Best Way to Keep Calm

April 11, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway 4 Comments

Lots of things go on in our immediate and extended circles. Many of these things serve as distractions to keep us off-center and unfocused.

Sometimes we immediately see and recognize these things for what they are. Other times we don’t realize that something (or someone) has slipped us the okey-doke until we’ve fallen for it: We’ve invested a lot of time and energy in something that is not serving us.

The good news is that when we come to ourselves, there’s always something we can do – be it a ritual or an activity – that gets us back on track.

So, what do I to “Keep Calm?”

I “Keep Calm and Read a Book,” or “Keep Calm and Drink Coffee” (or better yet, “Keep Calm and Buy Jewelry!”).

And of course, the best thing I can do is “Keep Calm and Pray.”

Join in the Fray: What’s the best way for you to “Keep Calm?”

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!

Drop It Like It’s Squat!

April 8, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway 2 Comments

I’ve met few challenges I didn’t like, and this one is no exception. The fit folks over at Inspired Fitness posted this photo on their Facebook page.

The challenge started on April 4, so I’m a few days late. No worries; I can start today and work it into May.

Who’s in with me???

Join in the Fray: How do you “Drop it like it’s hot?”

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!

Do You Know Where You’re Going To?

April 7, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway 2 Comments

Do you know where you’re going to?

Do you like the things that life is showing you?

Where are you going to?

Do you know?

~From The Theme from Mahogany, written by Michael Masser & Gerald Goffin

We’re bombarded with a multitude of things in any given day, you and I. World news, state and local news, job-related interactions with coworkers, the needs of friends and family. There’s the constant deluge from social media; Facebook and Twitter updates, blog posts; information received via radio, television, and the telephone.

Yes, all of that is a lot. An awful lot. We have to sift through it, use some and discard the rest. If you’re like me, you try to take the good and leave the bad alone. I don’t like clogging up my mind or my spirit with a lot of negativity or otherwise soul crushing things. Quite enough of that coming from life itself, without me deliberately ingesting it.

My plan is to become much more diligent about what I allow my eyes to see, and what I bother to read. I have a natural curiosity, and I love reading and learning new things, yet it’s time to become much more discriminating. Time is precious, and I want to spend it soaking up the good stuff – those things that will encourage, uplift and inspire me ~~not tick me off~~.

As I move into this next week, I’m determined to focus on where I’m going and what I’m doing. I like what life is showing me – those things that I’m able to accomplish with the help of God and by His grace. I know where I’m going, yet I’m open to the surprises that I know will pop up along the way.

I know where I’m going to – and I’m enjoying the trip.

http://youtu.be/Uf4P6rGMxWs

Join in the Fray: Do you know where you’re going to?

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!

15 Things to Give Up

April 6, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway Leave a Comment

I saw this list and was inspired. I’ve given up many of these things, and still working on others. How about you?

Doubting yourself
Negative thinking
Fear of failure
Destructive relationships
Gossiping
Criticizing yourself and others
Excessive anger
Comfort eating
Laziness
Negative talk
Procrastination
Fear of success
Anything excessive
People pleasing
Putting others’ needs before your own

Join in the Fray: Which ones have you given up? Which ones do you still need to work on?

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!

The Reason Why I’m Wearing ONE Catcher’s Mitt

April 5, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway Leave a Comment

“I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.”

~Dr. Maya Angelou

Join in the Fray: Do you have a free hand that is open to GIVE?

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!

Announcement: This is a No Censorship Zone

April 3, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway 7 Comments

With that being said, please know that a rant is coming tomorrow.

You have been warned.

Join in the Fray: What pushes your buttons?

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!

I’m Every Woman (Whelp, Most of the Time!)

April 2, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway 4 Comments

Do you have a “Theme Song?” You know, the song you believe personifies your philosophy of life, contains your mantra, and gives you an immediate lift every time you sing it?

Since the day I heard it, the song “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Kahn has given me life. I can do it all, be it all, have it all, _______________ it all – you name it, I’m it.

Whelp, sometimes I have to sing that song to myself when I feel down, or tired, or not-quite-as-invincible as I’d like. Tonight is one of those times – not because life sucks right now, but more so because I’m extremely sleep deprived. 🙂

I’m going to let the imitable Chaka Kahn speak for me tonight, and I’ll hit you guys up tomorrow.

http://youtu.be/Q8xuUdI1an0

(Whitney’s version is pretty sweet, too!)

http://youtu.be/jpGmuhBhR7w

Join in the Fray: What’s your Theme Song?

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to comment!

Don’t Say I Didn’t Tell You . . . .

April 1, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway 4 Comments

. . . . to buckle up!

March was so phenomenal that I’m still working on my March reflection post. In the meantime, stay tuned for a jam-packed month of blog posts filled with all things diversity, positivity, and empowerment.

Several guest posters have reached out to me, along with some lovely Swirl couples who are willing to share their stories of life and love with us.

One of our readers is going to give us a blow-by-blow account of a “first” Swirl date (hilarious!).

I also have a very special announcement coming up at the end of the month. You don’t want to miss out, so if you haven’t already subscribed, I invite you to do it now.

Let’s ease on down the road! Woot Woot!

Join in the Fray: What’s the month of April looking like for you?

I’m blogging every day in the month of April in Blogher’s NaBloPoMo Challenge. Thanks for reading, and feel free to subscribe and comment!

How to Have a Quiet Moment

March 30, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway Leave a Comment

When we were little kids, my Mother developed a little practice that she still uses to this day. Whenever she felt the need to have some space (in hindsight, I kinda think she’d do this whenever she just wanted a nap), she would go to her bedroom and close the door. Just before she closed the door, she’d tell us: “Ok; I’m having my quiet moment.”

My two brothers and I knew and understood exactly what “I’m having my quiet moment” meant. Unless the house was burning down or one of us was bleeding, Mother was not to be disturbed. It also meant that we needed to keep our voices down – or better yet, go find a book to read.

March has been a very eventful month – in a good way – so today, I’m having a quiet moment. I’m sitting outside soaking up the sunshine, enjoying the Spring breeze, and relishing the stillness. My mind is clear; my body and spirit are refreshed.

So, you wanna know how to have a Quiet Moment?

Retreat to your “peaceful place.” That place can be your bedroom, front porch, deck – any place where you can enjoy some uninterrupted time.
Take some deep breaths, refocus, and re-center. Shut down any clamorous thoughts, and shut out any “duty oriented” thoughts that try to creep in. The goal is to clear your mind – the same way you would take a broom and sweep away leaves.
If you’re outside, enjoy the elements: The feel of the warm sun against your skin, the delightfulness of the cool air, the sounds of nature. Remember, you’re having a Quiet Moment – so luxuriate and enjoy those things you normally wouldn’t even notice.
If you’re inside, turn off the television or radio. Refuse to allow yourself to be distracted. Get in tune with you, and release everything else.

Today I’m fortunate enough to have the time off and on all day to enjoy some quiet moments, and I’m taking full advantage of them.

On April 1, I’m planning to post a recap of the events that made March such an awesome month. Rosetta Thurman, blog mistress over at Happy Black Woman, inspired me with her advocacy and example of engaging in a reflection of each month of a year. At the end of the year, you’re able to look back and reflect on the entire year

Even though January and February were a bit of a blur, I captured January because I blogged every day. I blogged every week in February (and made sure to keep up with my journal) so I have that month as well. March is going to mark my “official” start of reflecting on my months, so stay tuned for that post on Monday morning.

I believe I’m going to take BlogHer’s April NaBloPoMo challenge for April, which means I’ll be blogging every day (obviously I’m a glutton for punishment).

I’m so excited and grateful for the things happening in my life – I can’t wait to see what April holds!

Join in the Fray: How do you have a Quiet Moment?

Another Way to “Put a Ring On It!”

March 22, 2013 By Michelle Matthews-Calloway 7 Comments

Regular readers of the blog know how much I LOVE me some jewelry! Just this week I checked out 77diamonds.com and I feel good about introducing them to you. That’s a win-win for a jewelry-aholic like me and should prove win-win for you if you decide to give them a look-see. One of the items I examined and even did some research on was eternity rings. Most married couples consider the engagement ring and wedding band to be the symbols of their marriage, and of the bond between them that hopefully will never end. Even so, the eternity ring is another type of ring that can be just as meaningful and symbolic.

I really like the concept of eternity rings, because they’re usually given on a special occasions like an anniversary or other milestone. (I have a tradition of purchasing a nice piece of jewelry to commemorate every special occasion in my life – but that’s another post)!

A Unique Way to Put a Ring on It

Seems that eternity rings are now gaining popularity with both married couples and brides. Research indicates that the ancient Egyptians created eternity rings and gave them to their betrothed as a representation of the endless love between the giver and the receiver. What’s interesting is the fact that today, thousands of years later, these rings still carry the same meaning – but now they’re being used in engagements and as markers of significant milestones in a couple’s relationship.

Similar to engagement rings, eternity rings are available in a variety of designs, cuts, and stones. Modern eternity ring trends incorporate several small diamonds or gemstones like rubies, sapphires, and emeralds mounted on a metal band. Traditional eternity rings bearing a snake swallowing its tail haven’t gone out of style as modern brides are sporting altered versions of this classic design. Because of their distinction and versatility, eternity rings as engagement rings or wedding bands are becoming just as popular as the common wedding ring set, and diamond eternity rings from 77diamonds.com can be the perfect ring used to propose.

Cast the Bland Wedding Band Aside

If you’re a trendsetter and don’t feel the need to “go traditional,” a unique way to display your marital bond is to select an eternity ring instead of a common, plain wedding band. Turns out that this trend is nothing new – Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis all wore eternity rings. Monroe and Hepburn even went so far as to wear their eternity rings instead of the usual engagement ring!

Contemporary eternity rings come in a few different styles, whether it be a half eternity ring or full eternity ring, claw set or channel set. They don’t have to feature diamonds alone; they can incorporate diamonds and/or gemstones. In addition to different styles and cuts, beautiful eternity rings are currently available in many different metals. They can also be worn as a wedding band with an engagement ring or stacked in a set with other eternity rings.

Stand Out From the Crowd

This ring, Ladies and Gentlemen, is what I’m considering for purchase to commemorate the conferring of my Ph.D.! This style of ring also presents another option for trendsetting couples who want to use the traditional serpent eternity ring style to show off their never-ending love and true devotion to each other.

Traditionally, the classic serpent eternity ring was made of a single snake either wrapped around itself or of the serpent swallowing its tail. In addition, gemstones like rubies and emeralds were embedded in the eyes of the snake. This vintage style has been updated to include an array of stones and diamonds intertwined with multiple snakes. New features, such as the use of white gold and platinum (my choice!) in place of the traditional yellow gold, are also a hit with couples who are into the eternity ring trend.

Unlike other types of eternity rings, the serpent eternity ring is more often used to celebrate a notable event like a considerable anniversary or the birth of a child. Many spouses, such as actor Ben Affleck, present their significant others with eternity rings after the births of their children. No matter the occasion or magnitude of the event, eternity rings are a timeless expression of endless love and devotion.

*Featured Post*

Join in the Fray: When it comes to rings, are you a traditionalist – or a trendsetter?

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The Best Way to Keep Calm

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Drop It Like It’s Squat!

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Do You Know Where You’re Going To?

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15 Things to Give Up

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The Reason Why I’m Wearing ONE Catcher’s Mitt

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Announcement: This is a No Censorship Zone

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I’m Every Woman (Whelp, Most of the Time!)

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Don’t Say I Didn’t Tell You . . . .

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How to Have a Quiet Moment

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Another Way to “Put a Ring On It!”

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