Chelsea DeVries's Blog, page 38
December 8, 2015
#WriterWednesday: The Importance of Focus in a Reverse-Lens World
I finally got a smartphone. I got a Samsung Galaxy S6. This all happened because I work at Best Buy. I was stocking near the mobile department before the store opened to customers and had free range to look at the mobile phones. That's when I saw it. The offer of a lifetime.
Since I have AT&T, my payment for the phone would be about $19.50 a month but I would pay $0 down, and in reward for my purchase of that particular phone at Best Buy, I get a $250 Best Buy to buy the things I've spotted while working in the store, and made a secret wishlist inside my head and heart for.
I mean, you can't get any better than that. This promotion is called #WinTheHolidays and I would have to say this is winning if I ever could define it.
I'm not really a materialistic person nor do I consider myself to be someone who takes loads of selfies. I mostly got a smartphone because I know that with my industry goals in public relations, it looks more professional that I have one. Plus, now I'm connected in a whole new way to the world. I mean, my phone is constantly buzzing with activity much the same way a baby continues to cry when it needs something: food, sleep, a diaper change, etc.
The first day I set up my phone I spent the entire day familiarizing myself with it. The entire day. My problem now that I'm more familiar with this phone becomes how each day is another that is less and less productive in some regard.
For example, I really, really wanted to write a blog for you guys last week but instead of writing it, I had to work on my internship assignments, and that was the same day, I purchased my new cell phone.
This was why I'm glad I never owned a smartphone in college because I don't know how anyone gets anything done. It's like the best distraction I've ever owned. Granted, no one would begrudge me if I didn't automatically reply to their snap, their instagram comment, their tweet, or God forbid, all those Tinder messages and notifications but call it first-smartphone blinded bliss, but boy, do I have trouble leaving my new phone in another room.
Another goal I've yet to achieve is to start writing for leisure again. My personal goal for myself was to write 1000 words a day, every day. Yet, like I said, this hasn't manifested outside of my thoughts yet.
And in all this madness of having a smartphone for the first time ever got me thinking about focus and how easy it is to lose sight of what you want out of life, and also how to stay focused on working toward your goals. The only way we really achieve anything is through the act of discipline. Discipline is the tool that God gives us to help us be who we say we want to be and do what we say we want to do. -Joyce Meyer, from The Mind Connection. -Tweet This
The reality is despite all the fun buzzing, the likes, the snaps, the retweets, the mentions, I need to focus on what's important.
For me, the most important thing is to enjoy my new job, my new phone, but also remember that I want to make a career out of being a writer and being a publicist.
Speaking of being a publicist, I'm raising money for an upcoming trip to California. I've never been and have wanted to go for a good 5 years. If you would like to share or support me in this goal, please .Click here.
Before I leave you with a final thought, make sure to follow me at the following sites:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/165746.Chelsea_DeVries
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wittywriterpoet26/
Snapchat:
Until next time, remember: ...that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best...]-Philippians 1:10
Since I have AT&T, my payment for the phone would be about $19.50 a month but I would pay $0 down, and in reward for my purchase of that particular phone at Best Buy, I get a $250 Best Buy to buy the things I've spotted while working in the store, and made a secret wishlist inside my head and heart for.
I mean, you can't get any better than that. This promotion is called #WinTheHolidays and I would have to say this is winning if I ever could define it.
I'm not really a materialistic person nor do I consider myself to be someone who takes loads of selfies. I mostly got a smartphone because I know that with my industry goals in public relations, it looks more professional that I have one. Plus, now I'm connected in a whole new way to the world. I mean, my phone is constantly buzzing with activity much the same way a baby continues to cry when it needs something: food, sleep, a diaper change, etc.
The first day I set up my phone I spent the entire day familiarizing myself with it. The entire day. My problem now that I'm more familiar with this phone becomes how each day is another that is less and less productive in some regard.
For example, I really, really wanted to write a blog for you guys last week but instead of writing it, I had to work on my internship assignments, and that was the same day, I purchased my new cell phone.
This was why I'm glad I never owned a smartphone in college because I don't know how anyone gets anything done. It's like the best distraction I've ever owned. Granted, no one would begrudge me if I didn't automatically reply to their snap, their instagram comment, their tweet, or God forbid, all those Tinder messages and notifications but call it first-smartphone blinded bliss, but boy, do I have trouble leaving my new phone in another room.
Another goal I've yet to achieve is to start writing for leisure again. My personal goal for myself was to write 1000 words a day, every day. Yet, like I said, this hasn't manifested outside of my thoughts yet.
And in all this madness of having a smartphone for the first time ever got me thinking about focus and how easy it is to lose sight of what you want out of life, and also how to stay focused on working toward your goals. The only way we really achieve anything is through the act of discipline. Discipline is the tool that God gives us to help us be who we say we want to be and do what we say we want to do. -Joyce Meyer, from The Mind Connection. -Tweet This
The reality is despite all the fun buzzing, the likes, the snaps, the retweets, the mentions, I need to focus on what's important.
For me, the most important thing is to enjoy my new job, my new phone, but also remember that I want to make a career out of being a writer and being a publicist.
Speaking of being a publicist, I'm raising money for an upcoming trip to California. I've never been and have wanted to go for a good 5 years. If you would like to share or support me in this goal, please .Click here.
Before I leave you with a final thought, make sure to follow me at the following sites:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/165746.Chelsea_DeVries
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wittywriterpoet26/
Snapchat:
Until next time, remember: ...that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best...]-Philippians 1:10
December 1, 2015
#CraftsWithChelly: Inspired by @BethanyMota
I really wanted to post a blog with a really inspiring message for #WriterWednesday but I will have to postpone that until next week.
Until then, enjoy this video I did of me doing a Bethany Mota inspired craft.
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
November 25, 2015
#WriterWednesday: GRATEFULNESS OPENS THE DOOR TO GOD’S GREATNESS by @ChelseaDeVries
Before I get to what I'm thankful for this year, I just wanted to let you guys know you can read my newest guest blog on Nick J Roy's site here. In it I talk all about my new job and how my first week went and what I learned from it.
Without further ado, I'm thankful for:
1. My family (even though they can be pains in my rear at times. God knows I can be too).
2. My new job
3. That I made an honest effort toward #NaNoWriMo and started a project I wasn't confident would get off the ground
4. the few friends who always check in with me to make sure that I'm both alive...and well.
5. My dogs (OMG, my dogs are two of the greatest people to ever live...I love them so, so much!)
6. Graduating college and realizing what adulthood really means:
7. Finding a way to get paid to write aka my freelance work8. Finding a way to keep on living without my best friend and still honor her life and her person9. Finishing my memoir, and feeling confident with it10. For God's grace, faithfulness, mercy, and love because I don't know where I would be without Jesus
Until next time, remember:
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
Without further ado, I'm thankful for:
1. My family (even though they can be pains in my rear at times. God knows I can be too).
2. My new job
3. That I made an honest effort toward #NaNoWriMo and started a project I wasn't confident would get off the ground
4. the few friends who always check in with me to make sure that I'm both alive...and well.
5. My dogs (OMG, my dogs are two of the greatest people to ever live...I love them so, so much!)
6. Graduating college and realizing what adulthood really means:
7. Finding a way to get paid to write aka my freelance work8. Finding a way to keep on living without my best friend and still honor her life and her person9. Finishing my memoir, and feeling confident with it10. For God's grace, faithfulness, mercy, and love because I don't know where I would be without Jesus
Until next time, remember:
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
November 18, 2015
#BookReview: #NeverHaveIEver by @KTHeaney #WriterWednesday
So I was intrigued to read this book for two reasons: one being that I also was writing a memoir, and in order to find the niche for my memoir, I've spent the past three years reading a lot of memoirs.For all the memoirs I have read, please see my goodreads page.
The other gaping reason I decided to pick up this book is because like Katie, I have spent (24 years) without one single date. No boyfriend whatsoever. And I can see the expression you are giving the computer screen: either one of pure (possibly faned) shock or one of pity.
And I'm about to smack that look right off your face if you don't stop right there.
This is why I related to Katie's book so much. And her very honest lack of a love life/ almost love life story gripped me from the first to the last word.
My favorite parts of the book were when she starts out talking about her first celebrity crush on JTT and how she wrote in her Lisa Frank diary to commemorate all her new grade school crushes.
Or maybe my favorite parts of the book were when she talks about how when she got to college, and couldn't pursue a social life right away because, ""My hyper-sensitive need to be a functional human being during the day always got in the way of my nights."
The following are some of my favorite quotes from the book and stood out to me as profound truths when I read Katie's memoir:
Honestly if slut shaming is not okay, why is virgin shaming okay?Then when she talked about a guy she almost dated but nothing ever really became official so she got over him the way most girls do: moped around, watched Sex and the City, and slept it off. Until one day her best friend Rylee suggested they get high and play Dream Phone aka one of my favorite games as a kid growing up:
Her prose about this game and how strange of a concept it really is had me laughing so hysterically. Most of the book had me laughing hysterically so much so that my family thought I officially cracked mentally. Oh well, as if the pistachio doesn't fall far from the nut family tree.
Anyway, let me tell you this: I highly recommend this book because not only is it relatable in its awkward first person prose and voice about a young girl trying and failing at finding love throughout her first 25 years of life. I also want to let you know that if (like me) you have yet to find love. Don't even sweat it. What I loved most about Katie's memoir was that she made it a point to point out how the sad fact that we are still single is only because others around us feel the need to compete about it, and pressure us, and point out how sad that is. Not yet finding love is not sad. I believe it just means that no one has met your standards yet and in today's fast and loose society having standards makes you like a shiny new never used Iphone 6. No gunk, no glitches, and all yours for the experiencing. Tweet This And ask anyone who's ever held a brand new Iphone what that moment (thought fleeting) is like. The heavenly choirs sing and the lights get brighter.
I believe that thought I have yet to find love, God can make a way when there appears to be none. He's done that in other areas of my life so I know for a fact it isn't just words but manifested faith in God's faithfulness and goodness can cause it to happen to any of us. Do you believe it?
Recently, I made a Tinder which is somewhat not my style but my sister offered to help me and so I said why not? Even though I have yet to message all my matches back since I made the profile due to the fact that I have no smartphone of my own nor tablet, it was thrilling to see how quickly guys messaged me. They probably wonder what happened to me. (Or not). But hey, you can't say I don't try or put myself out there.
The main reason I know that I haven't found love yet is because I'm not looking or worried about it right now. My career is my boyfriend, and Jesus is my husband. And I know you just side-eyed the computer right there (I will SMACK you) but I'm serious. If I'm not worried about it, why should you?
Until next time, remember:
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~November 11, 2015
#WriterWednesday: The Book Courtship Book Tag
One of my writer friends did this on her blog and although she didn't tag me, I wanted to do it because there is nothing I love more than books. Scratch that, I love dogs and God almost equally as books but basically books are high on my favorite things list.
Phase One: Initial Attraction: A book that you bought because of the cover?
This book was given to me as a Christmas gift but as far as the cover, I automatically fell in love with it because of the cover and wanted to read it because there was both a cup of coffee on the cover, and a heart shape in the coffee. These were visual signs that wooed me as a reader and made me fall in love with this book. As far as the book goes, it's one of the most compelling YA books I've read by someone other than my three favorite YA authors: Janette Rallison, Susane Colasanti, and Kieran Scott. It's perfectly about a skatergirl who works at a coffee shop. Writing this now makes me want to re-read this book.
Phase 2 – First Impressions: A book that you got because of the summary?
Just when Kelsey is finally fitting into her new California life, C. J. Logan comes along. He's hot, popular, and revered as the best skateboarder around. Girls want to be with him, and boys want to be him. And Kelsey is lucky enough to be his girlfriend. But when she decides that their relationship is over, she could not have imagined what would happen next. With rumors flying, she is forced to figure out who her true friends are and, more importantly, who her true self really is.This book courted me both by its title and its summary because I found it around the time I realized my obsessive crush on professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler although full of good intentions was not going to benefit me in the long-term so I stopped writing him fan letters on a monthly basis because I realized I should crush on someone in my local area. Therefore, I related to the gist of the story because skater boys are irresistible but not always good for your overall emotional well-being.
Phase 3 – Sweet Talk: A book with great writing?
I don't typically read books just because everyone else has read them because I don't really follow the crowd at all in any aspect of life but I can say with this one, everyone I knew was reading it because the movie was about to come out so I said, "why not?" And I did not regret it one bit. The book kept me hooked from page one and the writing just tore me up in the best way. It's John Green's best work. I've read his other books Paper Towns and Looking For Alaska and I didn't enjoy them as much I enjoyed this book. Can I please find my own Augustus Waters? He's like the perfectly imperfect dream guy. I mean, Zac Efron actually has some tough competition there for my heart....
Phase 4 – First Date: A first book of a series which made you want to pick up the rest of the series?
I have yet to read Susane Colasanti's City Love series but for this, I would have to say this is what happened when I read the 50 shades of grey series. Again, everyone was making a fuss and I was like, do I take a swig out of this elixir or do I not? And once again, I tried it. And once I started reading them, I realized they weren't sex books like everyone was calling them. They were romance novels hidden underneath very explicit sexual prose here and there. Basically, they appeal to everyone's interests.
Phase 5 – Late Night Phone Calls: A book that kept you up all night?
With this book, I actually stayed up late to read the last 100 pages because I just had to know what was going to happen. It's still my favorite book in the series because of the plot line when Bella had to choose between Edward and Jacob.
Phase 6 – Always On My Mind: A book you could not stop thinking about?
This book after I read it changed my whole view of life as I knew it. It reminded me what truly mattered by cleverly telling a love story about how you can chase the guy who appears perfect but really isn't perfect for you or you can allow yourself to fall for the guy right in front of you. This is still my favorite book I've ever read.
Phase 7 – Getting Physical: A book which you love the way it feels?This is pretty broad and a hard one for me because I don't really remember owning any of those books with the special sensory pages so I would say any book I've ever read because I've never read any book that wasn't physically in front of me. I actually prefer regular books in print to electronic books because I struggle to read books from a computer or tablet screen but that's just me.
Phase 8 – Meeting the Parents: A book which you would recommend to your family and friends?For this, I would recommend anything by Susane Colasanti, Janette Rallison, or Kieran Scott. They are my favorite YA authors and everything they write is just great and I imitate their style of writing when I write my own fiction.
Phase 9 – Thinking About the Future: A book or series you know you will reread many times in the future?I've already re-read Waiting For You multiple times and Janette Rallison's books as well. And I'm planning on re-reading Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty now because why not? Isn't that why books are written so that they can be read and re-read over and over. I would hope when I write a novel worth reading that my readers read it over and over and share it with their friends, blog about it, and tweet about it that it becomes as big a phenomenon as Harry Potter or Twilight.
Phase 10- What are you reading right now?
For this step, you are really supposed to tag other people to do this blog as well but since that went so well for the 777 challenge, I'm not going there again.
Instead I'll share the books I'm currently reading:
So far, this book is extremely relatable and scary true that I'm wondering if Katie actually used my love life as her muse for this book. For all of my other #foreversingle friends, this one is a must read! Check it out.
This book I picked up when looking for writing books at my local library. It's basically telling me a lot of what I already know but after each subject's chapter it recommends other books to read. It's like a writer's bible of sorts.
What I plan to read:
The other three books pictured here are other books I picked up at my local library in order to help me find ways to help me get my fiction writing love back. After working on a memoir for three years, I'm struggling with both a YA project I started prior to November and my #NaNoWriMo novel but I'm hoping these books will help me get my overall passion for the craft of fiction writing back.
Speaking of #NaNoWriMo, I started my novel and have written a total of 472 words so far out of the goal of 50,000. I'm not too sure I will make the goal (especially with having two freelance jobs, one part-time job, and two internships) but I'm going to make progress when I can. Here is the book cover I created to sign up on NaNoWriMo.org...if you want to join the crazy crusade, please go there to sign up and for a bunch of other fun clickable links to writing goodies and swag for writers:
Until next time, remember: "I'm not happy when I'm writing but I'm more unhappy when I'm not. -Fannie Hurst
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming!~
Phase One: Initial Attraction: A book that you bought because of the cover?
This book was given to me as a Christmas gift but as far as the cover, I automatically fell in love with it because of the cover and wanted to read it because there was both a cup of coffee on the cover, and a heart shape in the coffee. These were visual signs that wooed me as a reader and made me fall in love with this book. As far as the book goes, it's one of the most compelling YA books I've read by someone other than my three favorite YA authors: Janette Rallison, Susane Colasanti, and Kieran Scott. It's perfectly about a skatergirl who works at a coffee shop. Writing this now makes me want to re-read this book.
Phase 2 – First Impressions: A book that you got because of the summary?
Just when Kelsey is finally fitting into her new California life, C. J. Logan comes along. He's hot, popular, and revered as the best skateboarder around. Girls want to be with him, and boys want to be him. And Kelsey is lucky enough to be his girlfriend. But when she decides that their relationship is over, she could not have imagined what would happen next. With rumors flying, she is forced to figure out who her true friends are and, more importantly, who her true self really is.This book courted me both by its title and its summary because I found it around the time I realized my obsessive crush on professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler although full of good intentions was not going to benefit me in the long-term so I stopped writing him fan letters on a monthly basis because I realized I should crush on someone in my local area. Therefore, I related to the gist of the story because skater boys are irresistible but not always good for your overall emotional well-being.
Phase 3 – Sweet Talk: A book with great writing?
I don't typically read books just because everyone else has read them because I don't really follow the crowd at all in any aspect of life but I can say with this one, everyone I knew was reading it because the movie was about to come out so I said, "why not?" And I did not regret it one bit. The book kept me hooked from page one and the writing just tore me up in the best way. It's John Green's best work. I've read his other books Paper Towns and Looking For Alaska and I didn't enjoy them as much I enjoyed this book. Can I please find my own Augustus Waters? He's like the perfectly imperfect dream guy. I mean, Zac Efron actually has some tough competition there for my heart....
Phase 4 – First Date: A first book of a series which made you want to pick up the rest of the series?
I have yet to read Susane Colasanti's City Love series but for this, I would have to say this is what happened when I read the 50 shades of grey series. Again, everyone was making a fuss and I was like, do I take a swig out of this elixir or do I not? And once again, I tried it. And once I started reading them, I realized they weren't sex books like everyone was calling them. They were romance novels hidden underneath very explicit sexual prose here and there. Basically, they appeal to everyone's interests.
Phase 5 – Late Night Phone Calls: A book that kept you up all night?
With this book, I actually stayed up late to read the last 100 pages because I just had to know what was going to happen. It's still my favorite book in the series because of the plot line when Bella had to choose between Edward and Jacob.
Phase 6 – Always On My Mind: A book you could not stop thinking about?
This book after I read it changed my whole view of life as I knew it. It reminded me what truly mattered by cleverly telling a love story about how you can chase the guy who appears perfect but really isn't perfect for you or you can allow yourself to fall for the guy right in front of you. This is still my favorite book I've ever read.
Phase 7 – Getting Physical: A book which you love the way it feels?This is pretty broad and a hard one for me because I don't really remember owning any of those books with the special sensory pages so I would say any book I've ever read because I've never read any book that wasn't physically in front of me. I actually prefer regular books in print to electronic books because I struggle to read books from a computer or tablet screen but that's just me.
Phase 8 – Meeting the Parents: A book which you would recommend to your family and friends?For this, I would recommend anything by Susane Colasanti, Janette Rallison, or Kieran Scott. They are my favorite YA authors and everything they write is just great and I imitate their style of writing when I write my own fiction.
Phase 9 – Thinking About the Future: A book or series you know you will reread many times in the future?I've already re-read Waiting For You multiple times and Janette Rallison's books as well. And I'm planning on re-reading Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty now because why not? Isn't that why books are written so that they can be read and re-read over and over. I would hope when I write a novel worth reading that my readers read it over and over and share it with their friends, blog about it, and tweet about it that it becomes as big a phenomenon as Harry Potter or Twilight.
Phase 10- What are you reading right now?
For this step, you are really supposed to tag other people to do this blog as well but since that went so well for the 777 challenge, I'm not going there again.
Instead I'll share the books I'm currently reading:
So far, this book is extremely relatable and scary true that I'm wondering if Katie actually used my love life as her muse for this book. For all of my other #foreversingle friends, this one is a must read! Check it out.
This book I picked up when looking for writing books at my local library. It's basically telling me a lot of what I already know but after each subject's chapter it recommends other books to read. It's like a writer's bible of sorts.What I plan to read:
The other three books pictured here are other books I picked up at my local library in order to help me find ways to help me get my fiction writing love back. After working on a memoir for three years, I'm struggling with both a YA project I started prior to November and my #NaNoWriMo novel but I'm hoping these books will help me get my overall passion for the craft of fiction writing back. Speaking of #NaNoWriMo, I started my novel and have written a total of 472 words so far out of the goal of 50,000. I'm not too sure I will make the goal (especially with having two freelance jobs, one part-time job, and two internships) but I'm going to make progress when I can. Here is the book cover I created to sign up on NaNoWriMo.org...if you want to join the crazy crusade, please go there to sign up and for a bunch of other fun clickable links to writing goodies and swag for writers:
Until next time, remember: "I'm not happy when I'm writing but I'm more unhappy when I'm not. -Fannie Hurst
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming!~
November 4, 2015
#WriterWednesday: How Life without Sugar can Still Be Sweet
At the end of September, I saw myself in a new way. I felt that I had hit rock bottom and decided I needed to do something about it. What I decided was that as of October 1 until Oct. 30, I would give up sugary treats (all candy, cookies, cakes, and ice cream), alcohol, and fast food. I would just substitute said sugary treats with healthy options such as yogurt or pudding. And I would workout (five to six days a week). And for the first seven days I did amazing and I felt amazing! I wasn't doing this experiment to lose weight but if I did happen to lose weight, awesome. Yet, I just wanted to see what it felt like to go without those three major and wasteful food groups.
The funny thing was I felt great without sugar. I slept better (mostly because I didn't have to get up to pee four and five times a night). I was happier. My mood was better possibly because my brain was actually getting the nutrients it needed to stay happy and sane. I had more energy even without three cups of coffee. Plus, it was actually easier to reach for a yogurt or a pudding when I wanted something sweet knowing that I wouldn't regret the calories the next day.
Then, on October 7, my dad bought my mom and I a mini cannoli at the grocery store. And he practically forced it down my throat. It was only 140 calories but still, I felt like I should have been stronger in my refusal to eat it. Then, on October 9, my sister bought a box of Dunkin Donuts Munchkins. She said I could have a couple but I ended up eating a family of munchkins, an extended family. And when I wrote down my calories for the day, I saw how I had wasted 300 calories on munchkins and regretted it well, because despite the taste being heavenly, they left me hungrier than I was before I ate them.
From this day forward until October 22, I stuck to my no sugar, no alcohol, no fast food plan. Yet, once I came off of it, I realized that I started once again to struggle with sleep, to struggle with anger that I believe was produced by my failed sense of accomplishment, anxiety and symptoms of depression. I'm not saying these medical issues all have to do with what you eat but they say you are what you eat, right?
Thankfully, this sugar cleanse taught me a lot about the uselessness of sugar (even in my coffee) and a lot about myself.
Yet, life has turned around for me, since I last wrote a #WriterWednesday post. I got another freelance job, and as of yesterday (11/03/15), I got hired as a merchandising specialist at Best Buy. Plus, over the weekend, I visited the new Tampa Premium Outlets and got to meet TV personality, Skinny Girl Founder, and NYT Best-selling author, Bethenny Frankel. Needless to say, my Halloween was more fabulous than spooky:
All in all, the greatest thing I learned that life without sugar can still be sweet when you learn to just let go and trust God. I am definitely going to commit to a sugar and junk free lifestyle after the Holidays are over. And for all my writer friends who are bravely blazing the long month long trail that is National Novel Writing Month, I salute you and hope next year, I can fully commit to the treacherous but fulfilling task of writing 50,000 words in a month. (This year, it just didn't work out for me.)
Until next time, remember: For the vision is yet for an appointed time and it hastens to the end [fulfillment]; it will not deceive or disappoint. Though it tarry, wait [earnestly] for it, because it will surely come; it will not be behindhand on its appointed day. -Habakkuk 2:3
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
The funny thing was I felt great without sugar. I slept better (mostly because I didn't have to get up to pee four and five times a night). I was happier. My mood was better possibly because my brain was actually getting the nutrients it needed to stay happy and sane. I had more energy even without three cups of coffee. Plus, it was actually easier to reach for a yogurt or a pudding when I wanted something sweet knowing that I wouldn't regret the calories the next day.
Then, on October 7, my dad bought my mom and I a mini cannoli at the grocery store. And he practically forced it down my throat. It was only 140 calories but still, I felt like I should have been stronger in my refusal to eat it. Then, on October 9, my sister bought a box of Dunkin Donuts Munchkins. She said I could have a couple but I ended up eating a family of munchkins, an extended family. And when I wrote down my calories for the day, I saw how I had wasted 300 calories on munchkins and regretted it well, because despite the taste being heavenly, they left me hungrier than I was before I ate them.
From this day forward until October 22, I stuck to my no sugar, no alcohol, no fast food plan. Yet, once I came off of it, I realized that I started once again to struggle with sleep, to struggle with anger that I believe was produced by my failed sense of accomplishment, anxiety and symptoms of depression. I'm not saying these medical issues all have to do with what you eat but they say you are what you eat, right?
Thankfully, this sugar cleanse taught me a lot about the uselessness of sugar (even in my coffee) and a lot about myself.
Yet, life has turned around for me, since I last wrote a #WriterWednesday post. I got another freelance job, and as of yesterday (11/03/15), I got hired as a merchandising specialist at Best Buy. Plus, over the weekend, I visited the new Tampa Premium Outlets and got to meet TV personality, Skinny Girl Founder, and NYT Best-selling author, Bethenny Frankel. Needless to say, my Halloween was more fabulous than spooky:
All in all, the greatest thing I learned that life without sugar can still be sweet when you learn to just let go and trust God. I am definitely going to commit to a sugar and junk free lifestyle after the Holidays are over. And for all my writer friends who are bravely blazing the long month long trail that is National Novel Writing Month, I salute you and hope next year, I can fully commit to the treacherous but fulfilling task of writing 50,000 words in a month. (This year, it just didn't work out for me.)
Until next time, remember: For the vision is yet for an appointed time and it hastens to the end [fulfillment]; it will not deceive or disappoint. Though it tarry, wait [earnestly] for it, because it will surely come; it will not be behindhand on its appointed day. -Habakkuk 2:3
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
October 26, 2015
#MusicMonday: Building 429's new album Unashamed will leave you encouraged, built up, and faith-filled
Today's artist is Building 429 and their new album Unashamed. Building 429 gets it's band name from Ephesians 4:29 which reads, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."
The bands members are from Snyder Baptist Church, originally from areas of North Carolina and Texas. The band consists of Jason Roy (lead vocalist), Michael Anderson (drummer), Jesse Garcia (Keyboardist and guitarist), and Aaron Branch (bass guitarist). The Christian Rock group released their 9th studio album, Unashamed on September 25, 2015. The group won the GMA Dove Award for New Artist of the year in 2005.
Song By Song Review "Eyes Up": Sometimes life is hard but when you keep your eyes up, focusing on the author of creation, hope builds and you realize you will be alright. "Impossible": The lead track off the album, it's based off Matthew 19:26 that says that with God all things are possible. "Ocean Deep": Based on Romans 8:38-39, this song talks about how nothing can separate us from God's love despite when we think we've messed up enough that God won't love us anymore. "Unashamed": A song for anyone who follows the Christian faith, not religion. Anyone who will stand with God no matter how the rest of the world decides to compromise their faith. The title track off the album inspires greatly with the musicality of Simple Minds "Don't Forget About Me" despite the heavily Christian message. "Go": Following the Holy Spirit's direction, this song talks about the spirit-led life. "Earth Shaker": Similar in sound to their song, "Listen to the Sound," it's about having faith despite trying circumstances, almost the sequel to "Unashamed." "Hold Them Close": A song about realizing all God has done for you in this life; a song of worship to the One True King. "Be With Us Now (Emmanuel)": An acoustic ballad about the times we live in now; a song that is a cry in faith to God. "Hearts Collide": Musically, my favorite off the album because it definitely showcases a lot of alternative rock, echoes the sound of Switchfoot hits. A sequel song to "Earth Shaker." "Stronger": The last song on the album finishes the album on a high note. It's about seeing someone who mistreats you the way God sees them through the eyes of mercy and grace. Whether you are struggling to find hope or just want some new Jesus music to listen to, Unashamed is everything you need in a Christian music album. The album debuted at #2 on Christian music charts, and #11 on Billboard's Top Rock Chart.
Need more encouragement? Is Life Truly Worth Living?
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
The bands members are from Snyder Baptist Church, originally from areas of North Carolina and Texas. The band consists of Jason Roy (lead vocalist), Michael Anderson (drummer), Jesse Garcia (Keyboardist and guitarist), and Aaron Branch (bass guitarist). The Christian Rock group released their 9th studio album, Unashamed on September 25, 2015. The group won the GMA Dove Award for New Artist of the year in 2005.
Song By Song Review "Eyes Up": Sometimes life is hard but when you keep your eyes up, focusing on the author of creation, hope builds and you realize you will be alright. "Impossible": The lead track off the album, it's based off Matthew 19:26 that says that with God all things are possible. "Ocean Deep": Based on Romans 8:38-39, this song talks about how nothing can separate us from God's love despite when we think we've messed up enough that God won't love us anymore. "Unashamed": A song for anyone who follows the Christian faith, not religion. Anyone who will stand with God no matter how the rest of the world decides to compromise their faith. The title track off the album inspires greatly with the musicality of Simple Minds "Don't Forget About Me" despite the heavily Christian message. "Go": Following the Holy Spirit's direction, this song talks about the spirit-led life. "Earth Shaker": Similar in sound to their song, "Listen to the Sound," it's about having faith despite trying circumstances, almost the sequel to "Unashamed." "Hold Them Close": A song about realizing all God has done for you in this life; a song of worship to the One True King. "Be With Us Now (Emmanuel)": An acoustic ballad about the times we live in now; a song that is a cry in faith to God. "Hearts Collide": Musically, my favorite off the album because it definitely showcases a lot of alternative rock, echoes the sound of Switchfoot hits. A sequel song to "Earth Shaker." "Stronger": The last song on the album finishes the album on a high note. It's about seeing someone who mistreats you the way God sees them through the eyes of mercy and grace. Whether you are struggling to find hope or just want some new Jesus music to listen to, Unashamed is everything you need in a Christian music album. The album debuted at #2 on Christian music charts, and #11 on Billboard's Top Rock Chart.
Need more encouragement? Is Life Truly Worth Living?
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
October 19, 2015
#CelebrateConfident Confident by Demi Lovato Music Album Review
I really wanted to post a new #MusicMonday review for you guys but instead it looks like my workload has gotten the best of me...yet again, so enjoy this video reviewing Demi Lovato's #Confident
Please view it and also get your copy of Confident today!
Love Times Infinity,Chelsea xoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming!~
October 5, 2015
#MusicMonday: Colton Dixon's EP will show you the way to true Calm and godly peace
Welcome to my next #MusicMonday post. Today, I am going to review Colton Dixon's newest EP Calm. In the rare case you are unfamiliar with Colton Dixon, he was a contestant on the 11th season of the hit reality singing television competition, American Idol. He's from Murfreesboro, Tennessee. He ended up being cast off the show and placing seventh that season. It appeared all hope was lost because the show wasn't a fan of the fact that he wanted to become a Christian singer instead of just a secular pop rocker. Ryan Seacrest during one episode actually interrupted Colton when he was sharing some of his faith story. When he was voted off, I bawled my eyes out (He was both equal parts handsome and talented, and he loved Jesus. Excuse me for fangirling). Yet, a few years after leaving American Idol because he was so musically talented and could write his own songs, plus he stuck with Jesus despite the pressures of popular society and opinion, he was signed to Sparrow Records. I was so excited for him. Recently, during the weekend of Night of Joy 2015, on September 11, 2015, he got engaged to his longtime girlfriend, Annie Coggeshall. Simultaneously, The Calm Before The Storm was released on the same day, dual EPs where Calm contains acoustics of songs from his previous albums Anchor and Messenger, and Storm contains remixes of tracks from both albums.
Song By Song Review
"Limitless": A song about how nothing is impossible with God, I personally wake up with this song in my head lately. The song was co-written by Christian music legend, Matthew West. My favorite verse from the song: Doubt sees a mountain, no way around itFaith sees a victory, no doubt about itFear sees a ceiling, hope sees the starsLove be the light inside of our hearts
"Never Gone": My favorite part of the acoustic version of this song is the bells that are played alongside the piano track. One of my favorite Colton Dixon songs about how God never leaves us or forsakes us, Colton's vocals slay on the acoustic version of the track.
"You Are": This track off the Messenger album originally helped me through one of the toughest seasons of my life. The acoustic version features vocals from Colton's younger sister, who also originally auditioned for the eleventh season of American Idol, Schyler Dixon. It's a beautiful song just praising God for who He is.
"Through All of It": This song recently helped me through my grief over Geniveve's passing. It's a song about how God helps us through the trials in our lives:And this is who You areMore constant than the stars up in the skyAll these years of our livesI, I look back and I see YouRight now I still doAnd I'm always going to
"Where I End": An original track written by Colton for this EP, it's a beautiful song about how God takes our weaknesses and makes them strengths. Based on 2 Cor. 12:9.
Obviously, I recommend the album to anyone young or old who needs to find some calm in the midst of whatever storm they may be facing.
Until next time, remember: At first, I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me, "My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness." -2 Cor. 12:9, MSG.♥
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
Song By Song Review
"Limitless": A song about how nothing is impossible with God, I personally wake up with this song in my head lately. The song was co-written by Christian music legend, Matthew West. My favorite verse from the song: Doubt sees a mountain, no way around itFaith sees a victory, no doubt about itFear sees a ceiling, hope sees the starsLove be the light inside of our hearts
"Never Gone": My favorite part of the acoustic version of this song is the bells that are played alongside the piano track. One of my favorite Colton Dixon songs about how God never leaves us or forsakes us, Colton's vocals slay on the acoustic version of the track.
"You Are": This track off the Messenger album originally helped me through one of the toughest seasons of my life. The acoustic version features vocals from Colton's younger sister, who also originally auditioned for the eleventh season of American Idol, Schyler Dixon. It's a beautiful song just praising God for who He is.
"Through All of It": This song recently helped me through my grief over Geniveve's passing. It's a song about how God helps us through the trials in our lives:And this is who You areMore constant than the stars up in the skyAll these years of our livesI, I look back and I see YouRight now I still doAnd I'm always going to
"Where I End": An original track written by Colton for this EP, it's a beautiful song about how God takes our weaknesses and makes them strengths. Based on 2 Cor. 12:9.
Obviously, I recommend the album to anyone young or old who needs to find some calm in the midst of whatever storm they may be facing.
Until next time, remember: At first, I didn't think of it as a gift, and begged God to remove it. Three times I did that, and then he told me, "My grace is enough; it's all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness." -2 Cor. 12:9, MSG.♥
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
September 28, 2015
#MusicMonday: Andy Mineo's new album Uncomfortable will have you feeling anything but
I'm a music lover. And I always give a song two listens before I decide if I consider it music worth listening to. I feel I'm a little biased when it comes to Christian music simply because I tend to gravitate toward it most often only because it gives me hope, encourages me, speaks truth, and doesn't give me a headache. Christian hip hop is the same way for me.
On September 18, 2015 Reach Records released Andy Mineo's second studio album, Uncomfortable. If you aren't familiar with Andy he's a New-York based rapper known for his spiritual yet progressive lyrics. It hit the #10 spot on the U.S. Hot 200 Billboard chart.
Song By Song Review
"Uncomfortable": Talks about how racism isn't dead despite our President being black and how Christians need to stop condemning the LGBQT community, Jesus wouldn't act like that. Hard hitting musically and lyrically, it's a great opening track to the album.
"Uptown": It's an ode to Andy's Washington Heights roots. My favorite lyrics in this song:
"Now I Know": Mineo discusses all the lies he's realized throughout his life.
"Desperados": Favorite lines off the track:
"Hear My Heart": A track Andy wrote in honor of his deaf sister
"David's Roof": A track that introduces the one that follows it it is scripturally based off of 2 Samuel 11 when David is looking at Bethsheba from his roof. The song's only verse in English is translated: Prepare me for the war because comfort is the fall of kings, is the fall of kings.
"Rat Race": A track about running your own race and how people hate when they start envy someone else's race when they should be running their own:
"Know That's Right": A song that thanks the fans who voted for his song, "You Can't Stop Me," as the Best Walk Up song for MLB and he received a Whammy from ESPN.
"Vendetta": Andy gives a shoutout to 2Pac and said he did more for him than Barack because politicians are out of touch with "the struggle" of society unlike the artist who understand being outcasted for their perspective of "the struggle.":
This is one of my faves simply because I'm just glad someone had the guts to talk about this issue.
"Ghost": Addresses the people Andy's lost connection with in his life.
"Love": In this song Andy talks to love as a person and talks about what he’s learned about love over the years. It’s not a ballad to his wife as expected, but expressing his love for love.
"Strange Motions": A song about a relationship that has you second guessing your relationship with God.
"Make Me A Believer": A song based on David's repentance in Psalm 51 about how God's love increases one's faith:
If it isn't obvious, I highly recommend Uncomfortable for any Christian or non-Christian alike.
Until next time, remember: The only way that you get acceptance is when you know you don't need it, yeah. Freedom is a mindset, and I ain't in my prime yet. -Andy Mineo♥
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
On September 18, 2015 Reach Records released Andy Mineo's second studio album, Uncomfortable. If you aren't familiar with Andy he's a New-York based rapper known for his spiritual yet progressive lyrics. It hit the #10 spot on the U.S. Hot 200 Billboard chart.
Song By Song Review
"Uncomfortable": Talks about how racism isn't dead despite our President being black and how Christians need to stop condemning the LGBQT community, Jesus wouldn't act like that. Hard hitting musically and lyrically, it's a great opening track to the album.
"Uptown": It's an ode to Andy's Washington Heights roots. My favorite lyrics in this song:
"Now I Know": Mineo discusses all the lies he's realized throughout his life.
"Desperados": Favorite lines off the track:
"Hear My Heart": A track Andy wrote in honor of his deaf sister
"David's Roof": A track that introduces the one that follows it it is scripturally based off of 2 Samuel 11 when David is looking at Bethsheba from his roof. The song's only verse in English is translated: Prepare me for the war because comfort is the fall of kings, is the fall of kings.
"Rat Race": A track about running your own race and how people hate when they start envy someone else's race when they should be running their own:
"Know That's Right": A song that thanks the fans who voted for his song, "You Can't Stop Me," as the Best Walk Up song for MLB and he received a Whammy from ESPN.
"Vendetta": Andy gives a shoutout to 2Pac and said he did more for him than Barack because politicians are out of touch with "the struggle" of society unlike the artist who understand being outcasted for their perspective of "the struggle.":
This is one of my faves simply because I'm just glad someone had the guts to talk about this issue."Ghost": Addresses the people Andy's lost connection with in his life.
"Love": In this song Andy talks to love as a person and talks about what he’s learned about love over the years. It’s not a ballad to his wife as expected, but expressing his love for love.
"Strange Motions": A song about a relationship that has you second guessing your relationship with God.
"Make Me A Believer": A song based on David's repentance in Psalm 51 about how God's love increases one's faith:
If it isn't obvious, I highly recommend Uncomfortable for any Christian or non-Christian alike.
Until next time, remember: The only way that you get acceptance is when you know you don't need it, yeah. Freedom is a mindset, and I ain't in my prime yet. -Andy Mineo♥
Love Times Infinity,ChelseaxoxoGod Bless!~Just Keep Swimming~
