word with the wise wednesday: my youngest brother

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Always be nice to people-- no matter what.  What goes around really does come around and you never know who you will need or what will happen on down the road.  So be nice and do not retaliate.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?

The main thing I've noticed is TV programs.  When I was younger, cartoons were just for kids, but now half of the cartoons are for adults.  I've also noticed an increase in violence and profanity.  

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?
Money management.  I've had to train myself to save more and spend less... not to go out and buy something just because I want it.  

4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
That I was always willing to help others.  

And help others he did.  If you haven't already, you can read my previous post to see my dedication to Josh aka Joscwar.  The spelling of his nickname has always been hilarious to me.  My other brother, Greg came up with the spelling.  Originally, I wanted to spell it Joswar, but Greg insisted on adding the letter C then clarified that "the C is silent."  This still makes me laugh to this day!!!  I interviewed both of my brothers for Word with the Wise Wednesday right around the same time yet it never felt right to publish Josh's ...until now.  Josh died at age 24 but he really was a wise, old soul.  I love him.  I miss him and yet I can still feel his presence in a very deep and spiritual sense.  Right now I'm in my hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee, where there is an abundance of love and support from family and friends.  For that, I am truly grateful.  I am learning to flow like water with the current of life.  I will keep choosing to move forward with a smile on my face and faith in my heart.  I hope you are blessed by the wisdom of Joscwar. 

Be sweet!

word with the wise wednesday: uncle john

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?

The importance of having a spouse who understands you, communicates with you, encourages you, supports you and helps you avoid making major mistakes.  A life partner who totally supports you is a beautiful thing.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?

What worked 30 years ago-- honesty, truth, raising your kids right-- still works today.  Faith, family unity, character, home training, hard work and sacrifice... those things are still just as solid as they were when I was a child because those values don't fade.  The things that were really good then are still really good now.  Same with the bad.  Keeping up with the latest fashion and any other time/money wasting activities is BS, and BS is BS... yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever.  

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?
Refusing to follow the crowd.  When everybody is running here, you better go look the other way. Trust nothing more than the word of God.  Read it (the Bible).  Understand it.  Believe it.  Man will make things up and change his mind often (at work, at home and even at church); however, the word of God will stand forever.  Everything I have learned from it (ie. refusing to follow the crowd) has taken me to the next level and it will do the same for you-- if you live it.  

4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
That I sincerely cared about other people and showed them that I cared.  






You know how everybody has that special someone who is fun to be around, makes you laugh, knows how to have a good time, teaches you something in the process and actually lives what he teaches?  Yeah, that is my Uncle John.  He is one of my all-time favorite top 5 people to be around and it has been this way for as long as I can remember.  I always looked forward to his visits as a young girl.  He would take me and my cousins off on some grand adventure and encourage us to think huge thoughts and dream big dreams.  He is STILL this way and I love love love it.  Uncle John is also one of the smartest people I know.  He gives excellent advice and he lives out the advice he gives, which is rare and remarkable in my book.  He used to make me and my cousins laugh hysterically by pretending to be "The Old Man" during his visits.  The Old Man would tell great stories, say the most ridiculous things and chase us "whippersnappers" as we taunted him.  It was good old-fashioned fun times.  When my Dad was unable to walk me down the aisle (one day I'll blog about that... maybe), my Uncle John did.  And it felt right because he has always been my idea of the perfect Dad.  You're probably not supposed to say you have a favorite uncle, but I don't give a rats!  Uncle John is my favorite and he is the best uncle anyone could have in the whole wide world!  I hope something he said speaks life and encouragement to you today.  




Hugs & Love!!!

Word with the Wise Wednesday: Laura Francis

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Think before you speak.  You do not have to say everything you think.  Everything you think doesn't have to pop out of your mouth.  Think before you speak. 


2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
As a child, I had an experience where I knew that I was different.  My mother would give me my lunch and lock me out for most of the day.  I can remember sitting on a salt lick in the corral in my little white dress with no shoes on... I was eating a bologna sandwich and drinking koolaid when all of a sudden, I had this epiphany.  I felt so much peace, joy and LOVE.  I knew that I was loved and that I was beautifully, wonderfully made.  I felt like God was saying, "It's you and me, kid."  That moment changed my world in a very positive way and the revelation has deepened over time.  In my heart, I am still that lil' girl who receives His love.  As I keep growing and seeking, I continue to have full circle moments where I am reminded that I am different and that it's not so much how the world has changed (or stayed the same), but how I have changed.  


3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?
Embracing silence.  I continue to deal with that because when you're telling, you're selling.  Ask a question and be silent.  If they're saying it (the answer), they're learning it as truth.  


4. What do you want people to remember about you?
That I was a possibilitarian.  One of my greatest joys in life is helping others become better people.  Empowering others to know this: You can manifest your dreams.  God made this world and we have creative power as well.  Everything in your heart is do-able.  




Isn't she AMAZING?!?! 


For reals, Laura Francis is one of the wisest, kindest, most knowledgeable, compassionate and encouraging people I know.  She is a true possibilitarian, which means if there is a way, she will have it figured out.  I have observed her in action many times and she is flat out awesome.  With Laura there is no box to think outside of because quite simply, there is no box.  She sees a world full of endless options and possibilities and she truly loves to help others discover and fulfill their purpose and passion.  She has helped me many, many times!  I like to call her a catalyst because she definitely creates and/or accelerates the pace of the process, opportunity or event.  I love learning from her and just being around her.  She is positively radiant like that.  Holler if you'd like to swap howdy's with her!  




Happy Wednesday to yall!  :D

Word with the Wise Wednesday: Brenda Puckett

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Seek first to understand and not to be understood.  Living by this principle makes life an exciting and inspirational journey.  Also, I have learned the importance of focusing my energy into the aspects of life that I am responsible for... I don't waste time worrying about things I cannot control.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?

I wish video cameras were as prevalent then as they are now.  It would be really nice to view video footage of myself as a child.  Also, I notice the dynamic of some parents today who refuse to allow children to experience life's consequences and fail forward. I see that and my heart goes out to the children because they are missing out on learning valuable life lessons when the cost per lesson is relatively low.  Regarding my hometown, Tulsa, things and people are pretty similar to what they were when I was a child.  

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?
That you cannot make someone love you.  I learned this at an early age--early 20's-- and this revelation was and has been very enlightening: "It is ok, this person cannot be made to love me... and I can let them go."

4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
That I stay optimistic, evolve with the times and inspire others to do better, be their best self.




As you can tell, Brenda is a rockstar!!! We met back in the day when I was teaching and coaching in the public school system.  She is a go-getter who is dynamic, fabulous and fun!  Whenever we're together, we laugh hysterically and have authentic conversation.  Brenda is the type of person who makes a positive impact in whatever space she occupies.  Whenever I leave her presence, I feel encouraged, inspired and invigorated.  Brenda has many talents... I appreciate her love for and knowledge of dance.  She is a dance coach extraordinaire who has nurtured MANY accomplished collegiate and professional dancers.  She is also a dynamic, savvy and trustworthy Realtor who has assisted close friends (and me too!) with buying/selling a home.  If you or anyone you know needs help with house huntin' or sellin',  send em her way.  She's the bomb.com...  Pinky Promise!                 

http://www.brendapuckett.com 

Word with the Wise Wednesday: Vanessa Clark

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
I would say the most important thing has been that everything comes forth from your purpose in life.  Every decision, relationship and connection is tied to the plan for your life...  It is important to flow with and embrace the stages and seasons of change that come with life.  Once I was operating in my purpose as an individual and now I am in a season of purpose that includes my family.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
The major change is not so much in the world as it is in me.  I have a different awareness.  There is an awakening that has occurred as I've matured and my outlook filters the way I see the world.  For me, it is all about my eyes being opened to God's plan and the depth of purpose in my life.  I was not aware of this as a child as much as I am now.  Regarding the world, what has been has always been.  There were bad things then and bad things now... good things and good things now.

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?

To let go of things.  In order to attain serenity and peace, I have to give whatever "it" is up and trust that all will be taken care of.

4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
I was an example of light in the world.




Vanessa, affectionately called Vanes, is my home slice.  She's sweet like sugar...  Seriously, one of the sweetest and most genuine people I know.  We cheered together in college, traveled and worked together doing coaching and choreography and never got on each other's nerves.  (Call me on it if I'm lying, Vanes!) :)  Working with her was ideal because we balanced each other out so well.  We have many laughs and fun memories together.  She is one of the amigas who inspired my how to be a fab friend post.  We have laughed, cried and prayed together... still do!  We share our hopes, dreams, fears and encourage each other to overcome, let go, have faith, and keep moving forward.  She is a very loving and dedicated wife and mother.  You met her hubby last week in word with the wise wednesday.  Now you get to meet the awesomeness that is Vanes!  If you can't tell already, I think she's pretty darn fantastic.   






Let your light shine today and always.

Word with the Wise Wednesday: Clay Clark

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Only engage in mutually beneficial relationships.  Partnering with people who don't have the same value system, character and beliefs as  you can be detrimental.  
Over deliver because when you go above and beyond for others, the world will conspire to help you reach your destination.  
Know where you are going.  Be able to articulate your mission/focus in 30 seconds or less.  
Be intentional about the people you associate with because the people you spend time with and the books you read greatly influence your future.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
I would say my phases of thinking about the world changed.  As a child I would think anything is possible.   Then I got a little older and I thought anything is possible if you're lucky.  Now I realize anything is possible if you do more than you're supposed to, know where you're going and over deliver.  Growing up we are taught to study for the test so you know all the answers and pass the test; however, life doesn't work that way.  Life is all about finding your niche, failing the test and then taking it again.  

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?

How important it is to partner with people who value and share your moral code and belief system.  

4.  What do you want people to remember about you?
That I was an optimist who nurtured the potential of other people, believed for the best and was willing to do the work.  




Clay is a dynamic, intelligent and highly successful Entrepreneurship Expert and Motivational Speaker who lives life with contagious joy.  He is equal parts proactive, knowledgeable, passionate and hilarious.  I have known him and his beautiful wife, Vanessa, for well over ten years now. They are lovely peeps.  Their family is my family.  As long as I have known Clay, he has had a knack for dreaming big and swiftly executing the dream in the most efficient, effective and beneficial manner.  His newest venture: ManUp Entrepreneurship Bootcamps (for both men and women) will be hosted at the Tulsa Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center on September 10, 2011.  Click the link above for more info and you can check out his personal webpage here.



Be awesome today.

Word with the Wise Wednesday: Holly Tumpkin

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Every choice you make (good or bad) affects a lot of people.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?

As children we could run around town for hours with no concern for our safety.  

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?

The most satisfying life comes because of sacrifice... putting aside my own will for a greater purpose.  

4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
I lived what I believed.




Holly Tumpkin is the bomb.com.  She is a fab friend, kindred spirit and all around spectacular person.  When it comes to raising girls, Holly is a passionate, committed and seasoned expert who writes, blogs and hosts events for moms and teen girls.  Check out her brand new blog over at http://www.5things.us/.  Click here to connect with Holly on Facebook and here to connect with her on Twitter.  




Be awesome today.

Word with the Wise Wednesday: Tanjie Brewer

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
That everyone carries a vibration so be aware of the energy that you send out.  Be ready to uplift.  Be positive.  My Mom would always say, "Think it not strange... when trials and obstacles come your way, they are meant to build and strengthen your character... to shift you to the next level."  It is important to shift your thinking and attention from the negative to the positive.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
It is very different.  As a child, I was very green and innocent and I saw the world that way.  All I saw was community support, warmth and unity in neighborhoods.  Today I notice how the world seems cold and indifferent at times; however, I do my best to cultivate the nostalgia of yesterday in a way that is relevant for today.  

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?

Embracing the moments and not rushing through the details.  
Now I live in the awareness of fully savoring what is...

4.  What do you want people to remember about you?
That I exemplified the character and integrity of Christ.  That I was an on purpose worshiper (at home and outside of my home) who inspired others to discover their beauty, gifting and creativity.  

I have know Tanjie for over a decade.  She brings excellence and positive intention to all her endeavors.  She is a beautiful, positive and sincere person... inside and out!  If you need help with your fitness goals, wardrobe, inner motivation or nutritional information, connect with Tanjie! She promotes optimal fitness and esteem for life through her L.O.V (Lifestyle of Vitality) Challenge.  You can see some of the L.O.V. Challenge participants in action here:

Stylish and Fit, LLC presents The L.O.V Challenge  

Connect with Tanjie! 

stylishandfit@gmail.com

918.688.0048

http://www.facebook.com/stylishandfit

Founder and CEO of Stylish and Fit, LLC, Tanjie Brewer is a certified personal trainer, a licensed Zumba & Yoga instructor as well as a Wardrobe Stylist & Fashion Designer.  Stylish and Fit, LLC styles the body & the wardrobe.  When you feel good, you look even better! Be stylish. Be fit.  

Word with the Wise Wednesday: My Brother

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Living a truthful life is a better life.  The best life, actually.  And a positive outlook goes a long way.  It is very magnetic and attractive.  


2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
When I was a child, life revolved around important milestones and memories that were behind me.  Now as an adult, it's about the milestones and moments that are in front of me.  


3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?
That consequences are universal and nothing can change a consequence. 


4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
I would want people to remember two things actually: That I exercised wisdom and got results.  I don't just want wisdom without results or vice versa.  

Word with the Wise Wednesday: My Hubster

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Be content with what you have.
Let love be your motivating force.  
Base actions and decisions on the word (scripture) and what God is leading you to do.


2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
Today the world moves at a faster pace.  There is an overwhelming amount of communication in the form of calls, emails and texts.  It is also much easier to access information, which is a good thing.  If you need something (from a store), you can get it almost immediately.  Stores used to be closed on Sundays and late at night, but now you can shop anytime online or at stores that are open 24 hours.


3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?
Standing firm in my convictions and not taking on guilt or shame (from others).  


4. What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
That I was a passionate believer and follower of Christ who operated in truth and love.

Word with the Wise Wednesday: My Dad

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Take care of yourself mentally, spiritually and physically. 
Live life one moment at a time.  Resist the danger of living in the past.  
Keep moving forward and don't hold anything against anyone.  
No sense in worrying about something that you can't do anything about... worry is a waste of time.  


2. How is the world different/similar to what it was like when you were a child?
It's a big time difference regarding the economy.  When I was little, we had 5 and 10 cent stores.  Now we've got $1 stores.


3.  What has been your hardest lesson to date?  
It takes time to learn ...especially if you're into learning the hard way.

4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
That I helped others. 

Word with the Wise Wednesday: My Granny

1.  What important life lessons have you learned so far?
Worrying is a waste of time.  Pray and trust God.  He will take care of you.  Worrying will just ruin your health.  If I can do something, I do it.  If I can't do anything, I pray and leave it in God's hands.  I have never been forsaken and He has always made a way.  Some people think they have to rob and kill, but there is no need for that.  God will take care of you if you let Him.


2.  How is the world different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
When I was growing up, everything was segregated, but I didn't let that bother me. At that time, it was just the way things were and although I didn't particularly like it, I never thought about it much.  Today there are a lot more freedoms and so many opportunities for young people especially... yet I see so many young people getting into trouble and going astray.  Not all young people are getting into trouble; however, it seems like there are too many that are...  In my day, maybe one or two kids out of the whole community would get into trouble. Now this is happening with too many of our young people and it's really sad.  Many families will not admit that they are at fault, but character development, life training and discipline happens first and foremost in the home.  


3. What advice would you give parents today?

Teach your children about God's way.  You will never regret it.  Also, teach them to respect you.  Don't give them everything they want.  Only give them what matters (your time, love, character and discipline).  Don't let them have their way with everything.  When you discipline your children for doing wrong, it must come from a place of love.  If you do not discipline your children, you are indirectly saying that you do not love them...  Every child is different, but you must love them all equally...  No playing favorites and never praise one child above the other. Also teach them to eat healthy foods because their food choices now will matter later on in life.  


4. What has been one of the hardest lessons you have learned?
That some people are full of envy and jealousy... If they see you doing something positive and making progress, they try to make you stop.  When people like this gave me a hard time, I didn't fight with them.  I just spoke the truth and moved on... Some people are nice and some people are always trying to bring you down.  I never let the negative people bring me down.  I would smile and go right on about my business... I paid them no mind.  


5.  What are your earliest memories?
Let's see... my earliest memories involve cooking.  I can remember cooking my first skillet of cornbread when I was 8 years old.  At age 12, I baked my first cake.  I made it for my birthday and everyone in the community came to get a piece.  I was so happy that other people wanted some of the cake I made.  I was glad to share it and I barely got a piece!

6. What do you want people to remember about you?

That I had patience with my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren... that I helped take care of them, cooked for them and always helped in any way that I could.  

7.  What celebrities did you admire and emulate?

I never did want to be like anyone else.  I just wanted to be myself... I didn't want to cook or sew like anyone else. I wanted to cook and sew just like myself.  I always wanted to be me.  

Here is one of my fav pics of my Granny.  She is second from the left.

Word with the Wise Wednesday: My Mom

1.  What important life lessons have you learned so far?
The importance of being true to who I am and what's really in my heart.  Making sure that my words and the intentions of my heart match. Life is not about saying the "right thing" to people while thinking a "different thing" in my heart.  It's about living an honest life with a heart that is pure, focused and sincere.

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?    
When I was a child, things were very simple.  We had fun and there was an innocence throughout society and every day life.  Respect for each other, family values and strong character were extremely important... almost revered.  There was not such an open display of disrespect and dishonesty like I see now.  Today wrongdoing seems glorified and nothing is taboo anymore.  The morals and values of our culture as a whole have gotten weaker.  People seem much more self centered now and we live in a feel good society where there is little to no accountability.  


3.  What has been your hardest lesson to date?