Ready, Set, Go! Now what?

2012 is gone and 2013 is here, and it's already mid January! So many people where posting and talking about plans, goals, vision boards, etc. I on the other hand was thinking "yes, I'm going to do this, plan that, reach that"... yet I still sat in the same spot, pen in hand with a blank page in front of me. I got caught up in the motivational speeches and videos but still had no idea where to start.

It became so obvious to me as I laid in bed one morning with the sun shining on me that I needed to start with ME. I thought about the past 2 years of my life, I have a tendancy to ignore my problems in the hopes that they'll go away (Wrong!). On the surface, I was having a ball with friends, going on dates, and just being free. I thought about a relationship that I was in, it was one where I truly could be me; silly, thoughtful, intelligent and sensual. There were no expectations, just us. I fell in love... not with him but the feeling of having no worries and no cares. I didn't want to let that feeling go until I realized I was running from taking care of the chaos that I allowed to develop over the past few years.

We all have issues that we are dealing with, NO ONE is problem free. But its all in how we handle adversity, some deal with it head on, others don't. I somewhere along the way, lost the fight I had in me. Somehow used up all the strength I had. I became tired, I gave up and gave in. Trying to be independent and all, I felt I couldn't ask for help. (God forbid Ms. Independent stepped down off her pedestal to ask for help!)  I ALLOWED things to come tumbling down around me and ran for cover. I hid and thought by the grace of God things would get cleaned up on their own. Umm yeah, thats that "ignore the obvious" issue that I mentioned earlier.
So now I understand, in order to plan for the future, I must clean up the chaos I've created first in order to "see" clearly. I must admit I'm not perfect and yes sh*t happens. I am learning to master catching the bricks being thrown at me. I'm learning to use them to build a foundation for a better and prosperous future.
Goal #1: Admit I must start with me ~ DONE
As always Be Candy Coated
Love,
Stephanie

Free Handbag Giveaway!!!

Hey Everyone! I'm on a mission to get to 1000 likes before 1/1/13. I'm 120 likes away so I need your help! If you haven't already please like my page on facebook (just click on facebook) Candy Coated Bags. Tell your friends too, please and thanks in advance!!

Merry Christmas!

This season has really come quickly for me. So busy with family, work, my business and life itself that I was truly unprepared this year. This is also the first year that my daughter is away for Christmas so its quite an adjustment for my son and I. She's in Virginia with my sister so at least she is not totally alone. It wasn't until last night when I finally had a chance to sit and absorb everything, that the spirit of Christmas finally hit me. I am truly thankful that although we are spread apart, we still have our memories of past holidays in our hearts to make us smile. Even if I didn't have time to get all I needed or do my normal traditions, I am still thankful to see another holiday!

I say all that to say, enjoy your family and dear friends all year long and when this day comes, you will treasure them even more.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Domestic Violence Awareness - How you can help!

Monday Oct. 1st marked the first day of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. As a part of an ongoing " Going Global" effort in support of victims and survivors Women in The Spotlight Goinglobal wants to invite you ALL to to support this one particular effort. 

On Wednesday, October 17th many work sites, organizations and individuals throughout NYS are asked to wear purple and post information about the impact of domestic v

iolence on the workplace. This small action by workplaces helps to increase awareness of the issues of domestic violence and create a safe space for victims to reach out for help if they are in need. By “Shining a Light” on the subject we are helping to bring it out of the darkness! “Shine the Light on Domestic Violence” is a campaign that connects communities across New York by turning the state purple during October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

This is the fifth year of the campaign. From skyscrapers to bridges, storefronts to shopping centers, purple lights illuminate the nights of October. People wear purple clothing while police cars and municipal vehicles display purple magnetic ribbons. This campaign has grown from several dozen participants in 2008 to more than 425 in 2011.

Although many of us are spread out across the country this is something we can all share in together no matter where you live. For anyone in NYS who may need materials for your workplace, church or community center let me know and I will make arrangements to get them to you. So Ladies get out your purple and wear it on October 17th!!