Who will your journey inspire?

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Have you ever found yourself lost while driving somewhere? One wrong left and all of a sudden you're turned around for hours.

The worst is being in a city your unfamiliar with all together; having just moved there or simply visiting. It can be so frustrating not to mention time consuming, driving around in circles trying to find your way. In that time you may have found some new restaurants, taken in some gorgeous scenery, or simply have had your patience tested.

But isn't that how life is?

"Don't let your past paralyze your future."

Taken from http://blog.thefoundationstone.org

We all have a past that has defined who we are today. It may have been a single life changing incident, or a series of incidents that has made up what we define as our "past." Some of us choose to run from it, pretending it never happened until it creeps from beneath the surface; affecting our everyday lives and relationships.

Others, I'll call them the brave ones, look their past dead in the face; using it to motivate and catapult them into greatness.

And then there's the last group . . .

I'll call us the semi-paralyzed. Yes, I said us because I'm included in this group. We semi-paralyzed are stuck with on foot in the future and the other in our past. We wish we could change the past, erase history, change our name, or simply delete Google, but the reality is, the past is still there. It's etched into our minds, our memories, and sometimes textbooks and printed articles.

Find your staple store(s)

It's Styling Saturday and time to have fun!

Since we now have our core essentials, the next step in building a fantastic wardrobe it to find your staple store and/or line.

What is a Style Staple Store? A triple "S" is a store that the key pieces in your wardrobe come from. It's the store you depend on to define your style and create your overall look. It's the first place you shop and love with all your heart. I mean why shop somewhere you don't love? You may think you don't need a "SSS" but having one or a few will save you a lot of time, heartache, and shopping burn out.

Besides, celebrities have their own "Staple Designers," why shouldn't you?

I myself have three staple stores and without a doubt most of the items found in my wardrobe are from them. I won't tell you what they are just yet, I'm saving them for the future "Style Staple Store" of the Month, so stay tuned.

To kick off our first "SSS of the Month," I took a little adventure to Marshalls.

Now I must admit that previously I wasn't a fan of these types of stores. For me, I love tiny, color-coordinated, boutique style stores but Marshalls proves its worth. A tiny treasure trove, if you have the time to look, you'll be surprised at what you can find at many price points.

Are you ready for styling Saturdays?

We're gearing up for styling Saturdays; It's hands down our favorite day of the week! Come check out our "styling tip" of the week and our "style finds" all for under $55! Our goal is to build you a marvelous wardrobe without spending a fortune. 

Who says looking pretty has to cost?

See you tomorrow!

You can't change him. If he loves you enough, he'll change himself.

Taken from http://www.menspsychology.com/

I love nothing more than being inspired by my surroundings, conversations, and most of all, posts on Facebook. While my husband considers FB to be the devil and the ultimate end of the world (lol) I find it to be quite informative. It's like a cork-board filled with bright colored sticky notes; some standing out more than others.

Or one of those little slam-books middle-school aged girls write. (Come on, I know you had one).

Anywho, back to my point. So the other day as I browsed my FB news feed, I came across this:

Stolen from my cousin's page : )

When I saw this, I almost fell out of my chair. It was exactly what had been banging around in my mind and immediately gave me that extra push to "go there." Now the first time I saw this, I didn't know the couple was of different races which makes it even all the more interesting, but I wont "go there" today. Maybe some other time.

Does praying actually work? Doesn't God have better things to do?

Taken from http://kristianwidjaja.com/blog/

 Growing up I always wondered how on Earth God could hear my prayers when so many other people were praying too. Sometimes I wondered (and still do) if God has better things to do other than listen to my rant, ravings, and complaints. I mean, I'm sure there's prayers out there that are more dire than mine right?

As I pondered this very thing over the years, God started to reveal to me that no prayer is miniscule. He showed me that I could pray about anything (even the small things) and He would care.

In short, those things that concerned me also concerned Him.

You maybe wondering what classifies a "small" thing? Well for me, getting dressed has become a chore because of my burgeoning baby bump. The other day I actually found myself in tears because nothing fit and I was running extremely late.

So what did I do?

I asked God to please help me find an outfit and He did! (It was actually quite stylish. : ))

Some of the other small things I pray about are help with finding my keys, new writing ideas, and most importantly, what on Earth to cook for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I've found that He's the greatest stylist and cookbook.

This may go against what you've learned, believe me I know. There are many great pastors, teachers and theologians who would disagree that God cares about the small things but I say to each is own. We all have our own personal relationships with God. It's up to us how much or little we choose to involve God on a daily basis.

So let's talk more in depth about prayer!

Prayer is not:

1. An elaborate, educated, over thought conversation using big words. God doesn't care about the thee's, thou's, and any other type of old English language. Just speak normally.

2. A wishing well

3. A long drawn out process. In fact, it can be a few seconds. Just speak what's on your heart.

4. Work

5.  A public spectacle (Totally not referring to praying for your food in public. That's completely fine)

Prayer is:

1. A simple conversation with God.

2. A chance to bring our requests and needs to God. (He tells us that he will provide our daily bread. So ask!)

3. An ongoing relationship

4.  A way to ask God for direction in our lives

5. Private

How do we pray and what can we pray for?


In Luke 11, Jesus gives suggestions on how we should pray. 

The first is to pray continually. This means that praying for something once is not enough. We are told to knock and keep knocking until the door is opened for us; to seek and we will find. If we only reach out once, can we truly say we prayed continually?

He also says to pray and if it's His will, it will be given to you. That's the one part most of us forget. God will never give us something that is not apart of His will for our lives. (Unless He's trying to show us something deeper) Besides his plan is so much better than our own. If he says no, you'd better believe He has something so much greater in store for your life.

What do I mean? Well a few years back my husband and I wanted to buy this home. It was truly my dream home. It was a brick Tudor style mini mansion equipped with an Olympic style pool, a two-story balcony, french doors all around, fire place, a double stair-case and so much more. The best part was that it was a half a million dollar home on the market for a steal! We wanted that house so bad. We offered asking price along with about ten other people but for some reason they took our offer. They actually took our offer! We were ecstatic! As we proceeded with the buying process our hearts became heavy and we started doubting if God really wanted us to have that house. Of course we loved it and it was perfect, but as God showed us the bigger picture, it was clear it wasn't the wisest idea. If we would have followed through with that home, we wouldn't had the wedding we wanted, the cars we drive, and I would've been stuck in my teaching profession which means this website would never have existed. : ) Thank God His plans are better than our own.

In the same chapter of Luke, He also gives us an outline on what we should pray for:

1. That His good and perfect will for our lives would be shown to us.

2. That we would be able to know Him.

3. That He would do what's best for us.

4. That He would provide our daily bread. (Food, clothing, and things we need to survive).

5. That He would forgive us and teach us how to forgive others.

6. That He would keep us from sin and

7. That He would protect us.

Isn't it nice to know that God really does care about our prayers? In fact, he wants us to come to him whenever with whatever. Even if you're not a believer, you can talk to God. He's waiting to hear from all of us.

If you have more questions, I'd love to talk! Leave a comment below or drop me a note. Have a wonderful day! : )

BBQ Chicken Pizza! Just for fun!

Yesterday when my sister-in-law called to ask for my BBQ chicken pizza recipe, I was delighted to give it to her. I was on my way out the door to have lunch with my husband, but as I thought about the ingredients, I found myself craving one myself.

So a full day later, I made one and boy was it yummy! Now I'm not a very domestic or DIY person (currently working on that) so this may be the only food post I do but it's so yummy I had to share. So without further Ado, here's what you'll need:

Are you a supporting friend or an enabler?

We all desire to be a supportive friend.

Our goal is to be there for the phone calls, the tears, the struggles, and the fun times; I mean isn't that what friendship is all about? But what happens when it all becomes overwhelming; choking the life out of us and our friendship. We go from supportive friend to bitter companion who is stuck listening to every possible complaint. If you're like me, I sometimes find myself avoiding the person all together because they seem to always have something to gripe about.

While we all love to listen and give advice, if we're honest, sometimes being supportive can be draining.

Styling Saturdays: Core Essentials for every wardrobe.

As promised we're back for another installment of Styling Saturdays!

Don't you just love talking about fashion and getting the chance to shop?

I know I do.

Today were going to dive into the core essentials needed for every wardrobe. These are the pieces that you should have in your closet. Think of them as your anchor; the perfect go to items to create and recreate a new look. The worse thing you can do for your wardrobe is constantly go out and buy something new every time you have somewhere to go.

One, it's a waste of money
and
two, you'll probably just wear it once and then it'll disappear into closet oblivion.

Our goal is to take you from impulse buying to building a wardrobe you can love, maintain, and cycle through for many years to come. In order to start building a solid wardrobe, start with these items:

1. The LBD (Little black dress). Every women should have a little black dress. It can go from work, dinner, church, and just a stroll out for ice cream. (Not to mention black helps us all look thinner). I tend to have more LBDs than what's common, but I like to purchase them in different materials. If your budget allows, think of purchasing one in cotton, chiffon, and or polyester. Here's what we found:

Casual

Shop the look at Forever21

 

Just for fun

Shop the look at Macy's by MM Couture

 

Work & Meetings

Shop look at H&M

Shop look at H&M

2. The next essential is the classic white shirt. We recommend both a relaxed version for times of comfort and a classic white button up. Think:

Comfy:

Shop look at Francesca's Collections

  Classic:

Shop look at H&M

 3. Durable/Classic denim. The key to picking staple jeans is to think long-term. Jeans that have certain washes, rips, or distressed areas won't transcend time. While it's perfectly fine to have those types of jeans in your closet, be sure that your staple jeans are classics. Think dark boot-cut jeans, skinny jeans, and or straight leg pants and then go from there.

4. Cardigans. Every closet needs to include cardigans. They are an easy way to go from work to play. Start with the basic colors like white, cream, and black. Once you have these staples have at it and splurge on fun colors.

5. A classic blazer. We love the fact that blazers have become a huge part of women's fashion. They have the power to instantly add a pop to an outfit (think a chic red blazer) or provide an element of sophistication. H&M has a mass section dedicated to them. Pure joy!

6. Nice slacks. Yes we said it! Every closet needs a nice pair of black pants. If you're not into the whole business style pant, try a skinny leg style. 

7. A pair of white jeans or two. : )

8. A classic black heel. There's nothing more exciting than buying the shoes that make you drool. Believe me those must have "unique" pumps get me every time, but make sure your closet includes a classic black heel. I try to keep a rounded toe (in both Patent and regular leather), pointed toe, and a peep toed pair in my closet. 

Once your closet is filled with these core essentials, you can feel free to add wonderfully, stylish, and chic blouses, dresses, shoes and most important of all . . . Accessories!

Did we forget anything? Share your closet must haves below!

Happy Saturday! Navigating the site.

I just wanted to pop in and welcome all our new visitors to the site. We are all so happy you're here and hope you'll choose to stay a while. Feel free to follow our site or simply like the Facebook page to receive daily article updates and other fun things.


I know the site can be a little confusing so I wanted to take the time to help you navigate your way to inspiration. The break down goes like this:


Life and The Extras: New articles posted every Monday and any other day we're inspired
Faith: New Articles posted every Wednesday
Love and Relationships: We talk about love every Friday : )
Style: Join us every Saturday for "Styling Saturdays!"

Hope this helps,
Enjoy!

Your significant other should be your bestfriend. Not your only friend.

 It's an absolute pleasure to find someone to share your life with. From the first glances, quickening of your heart, and anticipation of the first kiss, date, and anniversary, being in a relationship can be a great ride. Hands down, there's nothing better than finding your other half; the one that compliments you. For some, the search is easy but for others, it can be a truly daunting task.

The problem is, sometimes we're looking in all the wrong places or for all the wrong reasons. Sure it's perfectly fine to want the dark, tall, and handsome man, but from experience I've found their not always the best choice. In general, women need to stop looking for the Ryan Goslings of the world and start looking for the qualities that truly make a man worth sharing your life with. He's the man who can be your best friend.

This was a simple principle that took me all of my first nineteen years of life to learn. I had boyfriend after boyfriend. My parents would joke that I changed boyfriends as much as I changed my underwear. At first I thought this was a great thing.

And then I grew up . . .

I was searching everywhere, trying to fill a void that I now know only God could fill but the problem was I was looking for all the wrong things. The funny part is, I always had a best "guy" friend that I did everything with. In fact, when I think back to all my early memories, he was in every single one. Back in high school people would always ask, "Are you guys together?" and I would laugh and say, "uh no."

But they knew what I didn't know.

They knew that he complimented me perfectly. Like I said, it took me 19 years to stop looking for all the wrong qualities and notice that what I was looking for had been standing next to me the entire time.

And now . . .

That best friend is my husband.

You may be wondering what on Earth changed your mind and I'd be delighted to share with you. Here are some qualities to look for:

1. You should be able to talk to one another. 

(This is a huge thing I appreciate my husband for. I can talk his head off and know he's actually listening. He takes the time to hear my heart and then provide his opinion on the matter. The best part is, he talks to me too! Crazy right? Sometimes we find ourselves talking from when he gets off work all the way until he arrives home. Those days we laugh and jokingly ask one another, "Why are you still on my phone?")

2. You should be able to laugh together. 

(Nothing is more healthier in a relationship than being able to laugh and enjoy each others company.)

3. You can just sit and enjoy alone/down time with them.

(Spending quality alone time is very important. This can be time spent simply sitting on the couch or walking on the beach. The point is, you can do nothing and feel completely satisfied by just their presence).

4. You should be able to communicate effectively without arguing.

(Chances are if you disagree on everything or if there's no compromise, you should probably not be in that relationship. See our back article on Compromise).

5. They should fully understand what you like and what you don't. 

(If someone truly cares about you, they will take the time to get to know you. It's them saying "I love you enough to remember.")
 

6. They pay attention to the little details.

(This is so so important. While it may seem trivial to some, the minute details is what makes a relationship tick. What made me really look at my best friend in a new light was how well he knew me. How he took the time to know how to make my favorite Starbucks drinks or to know that I love tulips, not roses and that I'm highly allergic to lilies).
 

7. Finally, they know you better than you know yourself.

(As much as I hate to admit it, my husband knows me way better than I know myself. He knows what I'm thinking, what I'm going to say, and how I'm going to respond. In fact, he planned our entire proposal around my possible reactions and he got it down to the "T.")

With that said . . .

Now that you know what to look for in a significant other, I must warn you that while they are supposed to be your best friend, they cannot be your only friend.

Many women get so caught up in their relationships that they lose their girlfriends. While there are some friendships that will naturally dissolve because of many different reasons, don't let it be because you abandoned them. When approaching a serious relationship, be sure to carve out time for it and for your friends. Not only does it give you time to foster your friendships, it also gives you time to miss one another. You can't be attached to him every second. Believe me, he will truly appreciate you for giving him some space to hang out with his friends as well. The breathing room will give you time to talk about and do those girly things you wouldn't be able to do with your guy. Repeat after me . . .

My significant other should be my best friend, but not my only friend.

Great, I'm happy we got that out of the way! See you tomorrow for Styling Saturdays!

Like our Facebook page to get daily article updates, join in on the conversation, and to receive our daily "Virtue Check (coming soon)." 

Happy Valentine's Day!

From http://www.5abiportal.com/2012/02/valentine-day-2012-special-wallpapers-images-photos-gifts.html

 Happy V-day virtue community! 

Today we want you to take the time to do something for that special someone or even yourself. (I mean you are special aren't you?) We're taking the day off to spread some love. 

In the mean time, we hope you'll get caught up on this week's articles:  
 

http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/02/styling-saturdays.html

 

http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/02/starbucks-killing-your-budget-create.html

 

http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/02/set-date-for-yourself-importance-of.html

See you back here tomorrow!

Set a date for yourself: The importance of alone time.

It's no secret Valentine's Day is just around the corner. The web is a buzz with Valentine's ideas about this and that. What you should buy your significant other, great date ideas and the like, but I want to challenge you to something.

After all the Valentine's Day hoopla has died down, make it a point to set a date for yourself. 

Sounds weird? I know.

This is a practice I started for myself back in my college days. While I enjoy the occasional social event and hanging out with my friends, family, and husband, there's one thing I enjoy most of all. Having a date with myself.

There's something about setting one day a week aside to relax, think, rejuvenate and create. On this day, you have no one to compromise with, get ready for, or meet in a timely manner. It's all about you. You probably think I'm crazy but humor me for a little.

If you're like my husband, he can go, go, and go some more all the way until he passes out at bed time. While this lifestyle may seem appealing, when you take a deeper look, there's never any time for quietness and introspection which we all need in order to better ourselves.

Take last night for example, I turned in early so that I would be able to get a good chunk of reading done before bed. As my husband slid under the sheets, he was intrigued that

1. I was still awake (I try to be asleep by 11:00pm most nights).
and
2. That I was awake reading. 

As he peered over my shoulder trying to glance at my current chapter (which happened to be about following your husbands lead. Coincidence? I think not) I wiggled and playfully suggested that he get his own book to read. His response?

"I don't have time to read or to do anything else for that matter."

Hmm, I wonder why that is. It's because he's an extrovert who never spends anytime alone.

Sound familiar?

To be fair, I'm an introvert to the core (which makes my family think I'm a total freak : )) and while this can be an interesting dynamic with my relationships, I find that it helps me balance my priorities. Instead of dashing from one event to another, I've taken a step back and learned to enjoy life and myself.

So why is alone time important? It helps you:

1. Relax

2. Rejuvenate

3. Create

4. Dream

5. Sleep

6. Enjoy your surroundings and life

7. Appreciate the small things and

8. Notice things you never have before

The important thing to keep in mind is that spending time alone doesn't have to be boring or awkward. Here are some easy ways to date yourself weekly:

1. Take a trip to your local bookstore. (This is one of my favorite things to do. I just love being among the smell of fresh, crisp novels. My place of choice is Barnes and Noble. No you don't have to actually read a book on your date. Instead order a great drink or pastry and flip through your favorite magazines. The inspiration to start this website came from doing just that on one of my dates).

2. Go out to lunch or dinner and treat yourself. (One of my favorite restaurants is Pei Wei. I like to eat it so often that my husband has developed utter disdain towards it, so when I'm due for a date, I treat myself to a meal there. They have great outside seating so I'll usually find a nice table nestled in a corner and read a book, magazine, or write in my journal).

3. Head out to the beach. (I know this is not possible for everyone at the moment, but if you have weather like mine where it's summer all the time, this is a great way to relax).

4. Watch your favorite show without any interruptions. (I religiously watch Gossip Girl every Monday night, even if I have to record it. My husband and all his friends know not to talk to or try to interact with me during my favorite shows).

5. Go for a walk and listen to music. (I love to walk around my lake as I listen to Adele and take in the beauty of nature. So serene and peaceful).

6. Go for a walk and just reflect. (Sometimes I find silence is necessary. It's how we can listen to our thoughts, God, and just dream our biggest dreams. If we never have any silence, how can we create?)

7. Take a trip to your favorite tea house. (This is something I love to do. It's no wonder Europeans swear by tea time. It's something about slipping into your favorite tea dress and enjoying a nice cup of afternoon tea).

Finding it hard to commit to time alone? Check out one of our back articles "I am not Superwoman!" It may give you a little better perspective.

Happy Monday!

Starbucks killing your budget? Create a coffee bar!

Happy Monday! I hope you had a great weekend and were able to pick up a cup of hot java before heading into work this morning. There's nothing like a smooth cup of coffee to melt away the Monday blues. But just how much are you willing to keep spending on them?

If you're like me, or millions of other Starbucks lovers, you find yourself at Starbucks more often than you'd like to admit. Some days I find myself feining for a caramel frappuccino even though I know it's a fifteen minute drive to the nearest location. I know I'm not the only one. In fact, this past September I had the privilege of going to a women's conference in St. Louis, Missouri where it seemed like all the Starbucks feins had landed. Each morning all of eight surrounding Starbucks stores had lines that looped around in the store, out the door, and in some instances around the block.

What are they putting in their coffee that makes us so crazy about it?

It may not seem like a big deal as you hand over your debit card to the polite barista, but in the long run it truly is a fortune. Believe me, I didn't see it like that until my husband crunched the numbers for me one day. I would say I have about three caramel frappuccinos a week. That's roughly $12 a week, $48 a month, and hold the phone . . . $576 a year! Wait what? I spend $576 a year on a frozen coffee drink? Wow.

So this weekend I decided to take back my budget and create my own little Starbucks coffee shop in my kitchen. In order to satisfy my cravings, I would need only the best products and exactly what I would get from a routine coffee run. I loaded up on the smoothest blend of Starbucks ground coffee, their hazelnut and caramel syrup mixes (I splurged on the actually pumps), whipped cream, caramel, disposable straws, and reusable portable cups. All this cost me around $45 but hey it'll last me about two and a half months. Not to mention my coffee budget has probably doubled because my husband is a coffee lover as well.

You can create your own coffee bar too, here's how:

1. Purchase a timed coffee machine. (Set it every night before you go to bed, that way your coffee has already brewed and all you have to do is pour and go).

2. Google the recipe for your favorite coffee drink. (You'll be surprised at what you find).

3. Create a shopping list and head to your favorite coffee shop to purchase the ingredients. (I shop at the Starbucks inside local Target stores because you can receive an additional savings if you have a Target card).

4. Get the best stuff! (Don't skimp when it comes to the ingredients and price. Think of it as an investment. If you buy an ingredient that's not the same, chances are you're not going to like it and BAM you're right back in the coffee shop line).

What are you waiting for! Go make a scrumptious cup of coffee. Cheers to a great start to Monday!

Styling Saturdays: Edit your closet!

Taken from: http://hookedonhouses.net

Happy Saturday all my stylish virtue readers!

I know I've left you all high and dry when it comes to the styling aspect of virtue but I promise to do better.

If you haven't read our previous articles on style, we suggest you check them out.

http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/01/test_2955.html

http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/01/clothing-collector-is-that-new-i.html

http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/01/style-smothering.html

Since we've already discovered what style is, what it's not, and accepting our own, it's time to get down to business. 

Editing our closets. 

If you have an open afternoon (I mean it is Saturday) then you'll have a great, clean, crisp closet in no time.

I always find it amusing when women brag about how huge their closets are but complain that they have nothing to wear. Sure you can have a wardrobe that's packed to the max, but if it's filled with pieces that are worn, outdated, or a part of a long dead or dying trend, what's the use in keeping it? A closet with atrocious patterns, clothing that doesn't fit, and things you just never should have purchased, needs to be overhauled. 

The key:

Don't hold unto things you aren't wearing on a rotating basis unless they can transcend the test of time.

So how can you get started on that closet of yours? Here are a few tips:

1. Start by removing things you haven't worn or aren't excited about ever wearing. You know, those things that are too small, too big, or too ugly. Get rid of it! If you haven't worn it yet, chances are you never will.

2. Organize your clothing by re-arranging pieces by style. (i.e. dresses, slacks, jeans, skirts, blouses, etc). This creates cohesion and a nice level closet. There's nothing more unattractive than seeing a dress mixed in with shirts, or jeans mixed in with black pants. (Yuck!) As you do this, be sure to color coordinate your pieces. It creates a nice rainbow of clothing Nirvana. (This takes a little time but you'll no doubt be happy with the results!)

3. Remove seasonal clothing and store it away. (There's no need to keep your winter coats and sweaters hanging in your closet year round. Seriously, why would you want to even look at them in ninety degree weather?)

4. Create a place for your shoes and organize them. (Shoe cubbies, containers, or built in shelving). A fun way to store your collection is to purchase the little plastic shoe boxes for around $1 each and place a picture of the shoe with a description on the face of the box. It saves space, preserves your shoes, and creates a great aesthetic for your closet.

5.  Take an inventory of what you have left. What are you missing? Every closet needs to possess the core essentials. (That's an entire different topic. Maybe next time. : )) Make a list and research new boutique styled store lines. (Never ever go shopping aimlessly. That's how you end up with a big wardrobe with nothing to wear!)

6. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your new, organized closet!

Stay Stylish!

"Compromise Does a Relationship Good."

Compromise . . .

What a dirty little word. That one word can cause fights, utter disdain, and overall relationship melt down. It's not the word that's the problem, it's the action that accompanies it. Sometimes I feel like compromise will be the death of me.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not a selfish person. In fact, I try to be flexible with my husband as often as I can but it can be really hard.

Prior to getting hitched I was a one woman show. I ate what I wanted, studied where I wanted, moved as often as the wind enticed me. I was a woman of change, culture, excitement but then came the compromise.

All of a sudden, I couldn't just make a decision and move forward full throttle. I had to suggest, wait, talk about it, weigh the options, and then wait some more. Has this happened to you? While I may seem a little hostile toward the topic of compromise, I must give credit where credits due; the art of compromise can go a long way in a relationship so if you're not a big fan of it, here are some reasons why it's important:

1. It makes your partner feel appreciated. 

(Every man wants to feel like their opinion counts in a relationship so give him a voice. You don't always have to agree but just by hearing his side of things may teach you a little about yourself and/or situation).

2. It will make him feel like you're willing to give. 

(The killer to most relationships is the taker. All this person does is take take and it's all about them. Be willing to bend a little and give. Every so often, let him pick the restaurant you go to. Even if it means eating a certain type of cuisine you hate. It will make him feel like you value him and are willing to try new things. Even if you order a burger at a Mexican restaurant. : ))

&

3. It creates an opportunity for good communication.

On the flip-side, while compromising in relationships can be healthy, not all types of compromise is good. You're probably like what?! But you just said. I know, I know.

Let me explain . . .

Any compromise that has a negative effect on your emotions and overall quality of life is not good. Here's what I mean.

I know a woman very close to my heart who spent her entire marriage compromising. Thirty years to be exact. What she thought was helping her family turned out only to make her children angry, frustrated, and an wanting to stay far away from her. Compromise lead to nights without electricity, months without water in her home, and foreclosure after foreclosure. She wanted to be a flexible woman, but her flexibility was having a negative effect on her health, relationship with her children, and her overall emotions. The last straw came when she was asked to move out of her home by her husband and into a warehouse with her young teenage daughter. You see, the husband owned a mechanic shop and had in his mind that it would be better for his family to live in the shop where he worked so he didn't have to pay for a house. After so many compromises, it was enough. It was no longer just hindering her emotions, and relationships, it would effect the safety of herself and her daughter. You see, compromise should never make you feel like you're going to lose everything but in this case, she could.

This situation may not apply to you but what about:

1. Sleeping with a man you know isn't good for you simply so he'll stay?

2. Having to choose your relationship over your children, friends, or extended family.

3. Giving up your dreams permanently so he can pursue his. (A good man will let you have your dreams and your relationship).

I hope you find yourself on the good side of compromise and not the latter. My hope for you is that you'll take this article to heart and really make the change you want to see in your relationship. We'd love to hear from you; good or bad.

Leave us a note or simply comment below. : )

Finally a movie written for the ladies!

From http://www.rottentomatoes.com

This will be short and sweet.

I can't wait for the opening of "The Vow."

The overall movie market has been saturated with male driven movies that all carry the "R" rating. It's safe to say Hollywood is loosing it's luster and ability to create movies that can draw a female crowd. I'm pretty sure the last good chick flick I can remember watching was "Something Borrowed." Pitiful right?

What can be better than a love story right before Valentine's Day to make our hearts a flutter? I'll tell you. A cast featuring the ever so handsome Channing Tatum and the charming Rachel McAdams. I just adore his voice.

If you haven't heard of the movie yet, it's about a married couple that faces a great challenge. After a serious accident, the wife looses her memory and has no recollection of her husband or their relationship. Channing Tatum, her husband then makes it his mission to make her fall in love with him again. If only every man was that dedicated and determined.

It seems like a great story that will help viewers believe in the power of love again.

Thank you Hollywood or more specifically Michael Sucsy.

What are some movies you're excited to see?

Grow in your relationship with God

The longer I've walked with God, the more I realize the rotating cycle I get into. At one point I'm at the height of my faith, praying, attending Bible studies, and seeking to be everything he's called me to be and then life happens. After a while, things are going so well I start settling into a comfort zone and then smack; I feel like God has abandoned me.

Has this ever happened to you?

The reality is, God doesn't abandon us, we loose sight of Him. He's constantly at our side leading and nurturing us; being our ever present help. In fact, he wishes to commune with us throughout our entire day; Not just in the mornings when we say a quick little prayer right before checking Facebook or at night as we dose off to sleep. In order for us to grow in our relationship with God and to stay close to him, we must make a daily effort to spend time with him.

Think about it this way . . .

You purchase a beautiful orchid plant that you proudly display on your living room shelf. It's a beauty to look at and you receive many compliments. The first two weeks you care for it daily, taking the time to water it, give it plant food, and place it by the window when you leave for work. A few weeks pass and the attraction to the plant starts to wane. Other things take your priority until one day you notice the stems have become bare. The once beautiful plant is now nothing more than a dried out resemblance of what it once was.

Isn't that just how our relationships with God can be?

Instead of allowing our relationships to grow cold and distant, we should seek daily to grow in our faith. I know it's easier said then done, but here are some practical ways we can get started:

1. Find a book on daily devotionals or an online resource. One of my favorite online sites is www.JoyceMeyer.org. She has a great bank of articles and a place where you can read daily devotionals.

2. Get plugged into a Bible Study or start one of your own. This hands down was a major growing point in my relationship with God. Through meeting with other women my age, I was able to dive into God's word while having a support system that became great friends. Some great Bible study teachers include Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore, and Kay Arthur.

3. Purchase an inspirational non-fiction book. I'm currently reading "A Woman After God's Own Heart." It's an amazing book with concrete principles aimed at helping us grow through knowing God's desire for us to fellowship Him.

4. Read the Bible. This is one of those DUH things but I want to challenge you to read it differently. Instead of rushing through a chapter just to say you read it, read just a section of that chapter. (From bold heading to the next bold heading). Ask God to help you understand the section you just read and meditate on it. You'll be surprised how much more you'll get from that one section versus the entire chapter.

These are just a few ways we can grow deeper in our relationship with our heavenly father daily. Please don't let the only time you seek Him be Sunday mornings. I promise your life will be that much more fulfilling when you make it a daily priority.

Things I loved this Week!

Things I loved this week

I haven't done my list in a while so I decided I'd better get back to it. So here it is:

Music:

Set Fire to the Rain - Adele

  God is Able - Hillsong United

My Hope is in You - Aaron Shust

Leaving Eden - Brandon Heath

Where I Belong - Building 429

Down - Matt Kearney  

Food:

The White Gummy: Jamba Juice

Pei Wei Chicken Pad Thai

Random internet fashion finds:

12 Ways to tie a scarf

Blogs:

The House Lady

http://www.houseofhemingway.blogspot.com/

What are some things you loved this week? Leave me note! Have a wonderful weekend!

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Does God Still Perform Miracles? Part 3 of 3

So let's pick up where we ended last time . . .

When I arrived home from work that night, I found myself still praying and asking God to spare her mother's life; in short, to perform a miracle. She had been on the waiting list for a liver transplant for over a year and it wasn't looking any better.

I went to be feeling defeated; hoping that by some lucky chance God had finally started to listen to my prayers.

The next morning, I entered my classroom, not expecting much of anything but another day of just getting by when the young lady ran in. She was jumping up and down screaming before throwing her arms around me in a tight embrace. Looking down at her, I asked what was going on and she proudly informed me that they'd found her mother a liver and would be operating that night.

I was shocked to say the least.

God hadn't answered my prayers in what seemed like forever but in a few short hours, he had found a dying mother of four a new liver. I think it's safe to say that I wasn't praying for the right things before.

Now I could go on and on all day telling you about how God still does miracles but I wouldn't be doing him justice if I didn't tell you about one that was precious to my heart.

Last November I married the love of my life. I single-handedly planned my wedding in three months with the occasional assistance from my now husband. We decided that we wanted to pay for the wedding ourselves and not depend on any financial help from our parents. For as long as I can remember, I've always wanted two bridal gowns; one with a beautiful train for the ceremony and another for the reception. Being so engulfed in the wedding preparations, I totally forgot to budget for even one wedding dress.

Stupid right? I know, I don't know what I was thinking.

With the wedding looming closer, I honestly thought I would end up in a paper bag walking down the aisle but God had other plans. One day after a visit to the gym with my hunny, we stopped by a bridal boutique to look at their options. (Yes, I know. I took my fiance with me to look at dresses. Second mistake!) We found one perfect dress that was totally me. I fell in love with it instantly. The problem was it had a hefty price tag and I was low on money. We left the shop and  my hope faded as the hours passed. Seeing my doom and gloom mood, my fiance offered to pay for half the dress so I would have the one that I wanted. I was ecstatic! I went back the next day and bought the dress of my dreams.

You may be thinking, that's not really a miracle, and you're right! The miracle happens next.

As the days drew closer for the wedding I started getting a disappointing pit in my stomach. I loved my dress, but I didn't love the fact that my future husband had already seen it. It sort of took the element of surprise and suspense of seeing my walk down the aisle completely away from the day. I decided to be grateful and not make a fuss about any of it. (Only privately to my journal and God).

So about a month before the wedding, I had to take a trip to the church to do the walk through. As the coordinator and I entered the bridal suite, there was a large dress bag hanging on the wall. She apologized for the room being a mess and casually mentioned that the previous bride left her dress there, simply stating, "she had nothing to do with it."

Really? How can you not have anything to do with your wedding dress? That's just weird. I occasionally try mine on and dance around in them. (I even watch tv while eating Oreos in them. I can show her what to do with her dresses. : ))

I guess the shock played across on my face because she laughed, obviously agreeing and then pointed out how she thought the dress would fit me perfectly because the previous bride and I looked to be the same size. At first I was hesistant, not knowing if I wanted to take the dress or if I would even like it. I decided that I would and stuffed it into the passenger seat of my car.

Totally looked like I was transporting a dead body.

When I arrived home, I was so shocked to find that it fit my like it had been especially tailored for me. I turned around in the mirror to find a brilliantly crafted train that I could have only imagined. It was in that moment that I knew my God still performed miracles and cared about every single detail of my life. He wanted His little girl to look like a princess on her big day, and so he provided.

Well those are my happenings of miracles. I hope the past three posts have inspired you to pray for your own. Rest assured that sometimes they happen instantly and other times it feels like God doesn't care, but let me remind you, He does!

If you missed the first two articles on miracles, you can read them here:
http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/01/does-god-still-perform-miracles-part-ii.html
http://pieceofvirtue.blogspot.com/2012/01/does-god-still-perform-miracles.html

I would love to hear about some miracles that have happened in your life. Feel free to leave a comment or email me at vonae@myvirtueplace.com. I look forward to hearing from you!