DREAMBIG - MY OPRAH MOMENT

I've been home from California for 2 weeks, and ready to share with you my experiences from the OYOU conference in California and my Oprah moment. I had a hard time processing and articulating the magnitude of it. There was so much joy throughout the whole week, everyday was great. The smiles were big, and the laughter was loud. Have you ever experience so much joy you didn't know what to do with yourself? When we arrived in California Wednesday Oct 17th, the excitement was off the charts, but as we got closer to Saturday Oct 20th, the emotions were indescribable.

Although I was tired after having a late night with the OWN Ambassadors, I didn't let that get in the way, I was going on pure excitement, and adrenaline! While I was getting ready I was thinking today is THEE day. So much anticipation, excitement, and joy, today was going to be a great day!  Bionca, Justin, Jan, Misty, Eliza and myself all gathered in the lobby at our hotel and then headed to the car. Off we go, we were giddy like school kids. When we arrived at the convention center we parked the car and walked towards one of the biggest lines I have ever seen. I was like wow where is the end of the line, we eventually found it and took our spot. We were in the line up for maybe half an hour and then we were plucked out of the line and told to come with Nada where we ended up getting the VIP treatment.

We were guided past everyone and right through the doors to an area that was waiting for us. As I looked around there was Media allowed in, a few others, and the OWN Ambassadors. We were guided up an escalator and told to meet with Maya and Jai, Oprah's Marketing team. When we arrived at the area we were given an OWN Ambassador bracelet and given the schedule for the day. Everything was organized to a "Tee". One of our instructions was to meet at a certain area at 1:30 sharp for our private lunch with Oprah. Once everyone was signed in and registered we were escorted to the front row inside the conference area.

When we arrived to our seats, there were little OYOU keepsakes on our chairs and feel good music playing as people walked in. While the music was playing there were several of us that were dancing, and singing away. It felt so good to be there, we were treated so wonderfully. It was soon time for everyone to take their seats and welcome the guest speakers. Each speaker made such an impact on me. Over to my right I could see all the star players, celebrities and fellow guest speakers.

Suze Ormon talked about needs vs wants. She also talked about giving back, it is like a cycle of life, when you give back it comes back to you two fold. I really enjoyed Suze words, they really resonated with me. When Dr. Phil spoke, he was to the point and talked about the importance of women taking care of themselves. When Mama ain't good, ain't no one else good. Whenever I hear Iyanla speak, I am just mesmerized by her sheer honesty and straightforwardness. She talked about keeping it real, and calling a thing a thing. She also touched base on the importance of taking care of "YOU".  Listening to Peter Walsh was hilarious. I had no idea he was so funny, he is a great speaker, and just knows his audience. When he spoke, he talked about organization and the memories of stuff. There are different type of people who save stuff. I forget his terminology, but I am like a memory keeper, I tend to keep stuff because of memories. His message was clear, you can achieve happiness through organization. There were a few other speakers but due to our lunch we were not able to attend the others.

The OWN Ambassadors all made their way to the gathering spot for 1:30 pm. Our hearts were beating out of our chest and the excitement was palpable. This is the moment we have all been waiting for. Meeting Oprah has been on my bucket list forever, I can't believe this is about to happen. Once everyone arrived we were escorted up the stairs to a small intimate conference room. As I walked in I noticed pink and lightly coloured flowers on each table and the buffet was beautifully arranged. Before we were directed to our tables we signed in and given a name tags.

Once everyone was seated we were given instructions from Maya and Jai about what to expect. No cameras or videos,  we were not allowed to take any pictures. I did take a few of the tables and buffet table prior to them telling us. Oprah's photographer provided a personal photo opportunity for each of us with Oprah. While I was looking around I noticed there were alot of security, apparently the whole area on the floor was secured off. There were approximately 35 OWN Ambassadors, and a few of Oprah's people that were gathered for the lunch. As we sat there, Iyanla Vanzant popped in to say hello. What an honour, she is amazing, she talked to each of us and is so personable. Once she got to our table, we shouted that we are the Canadian OWN Ambassadors, she gave us mad props. She loves us Canadians. While she was there with us, Paolo (A fellow Ambassador) invited her to his after party for the evening with us, and she showed up. I totally couldn't believe it. That will be in my next blog.

Each table had an empty seat, the empty seat was beside myself and Nada. We were told Oprah is going to come around and talk to each of us. Nada and I were making sure the spot was clean, and welcoming for Oprah LOL. I was like holy wow, she is going to sit right beside me. In the meantime, Eric Logan, the president of OWN came and made his way to each table. I could not get over how approachable and real he was. It was like I was talking to a friend. We had some concerns we addressed with him regarding OWN Canada
(Re- Programming), and he gave us a name of the person that we need to talk to here in Canada. He really made us feel our concerns were being heard. He was also going to address it with the individual at OWN Canada as well. I was pleasantly surprised, he is just an all around super guy.

Now for the big moment, throughout lunch I kept looking at the door in anticipation for Oprah's arrival. Things got quiet, security was on high alert, the doors open and in walks Oprah. Wow, she is beautiful, and she is here, in the same room as me. Some people were shaky, and nervous. I was not nervous, I was totally okay, I just wanted to absorb every moment of every second. Oprah made her way to the front of the conference room where the pictures would be taken. We were all instructed at certain times to make our way to the line. Table number 4, can you please take your spot and prepare for your picture with Oprah. I was the second individual from our table to take a picture. I walked over to Oprah, and I told her it was an honour to meet her, thanked her for lunch and and gave her a big hug, then we both looked at the camera and George (Her photographer) snapped away.

Once everyone was done taking their pictures, Oprah spoke to all of us. She thanked us for all of our hard work, and said "You are all CARRIERS OF LIGHT, this group is a phenomenal testimony to that". She spoke about the Network and what her dreams would be, she dreams Super Soul Sunday will be a number 1 show one day. The OWN Ambassadors will do everything in our power to make that happen. I was in awe of Oprah, her energy was so gracious, and her words were so kind. When she finished speaking to us in a group, she went around to each table and spoke to us individually.

She started on the other side of the room, and while she was over there, Gayle walked in. She said hello to everyone and then asked Oprah if she minded if Entertainment Tonight could come in and do an interview. Oprah told her staff, someone go get me my shoes lol, they brought in these gold sparkly shoes, with at least a 5 inch heel, maybe more. Oprah wanted to be as tall as Nancy O'Dell, she is so tall. The interview was quick and once they finished ET left. Oprah resumed back to the tables. Eventually she made her way to our table, she came over, spoke to us, she was so excited that her Canadian Ambassadors were all sitting together. She told us about a speaking engagement in Calgary in January, and we all looked at each other and thought...ROADTRIP, or should I say Plane Ride LOL. She left us with her graciousness and her amazing energy, she truly is everything you see on TV. Her heart is big and her vision is huge. Together we will help grow OWN!

She finished up with us, and said goodbye. I sat in my chair and thought wow, did this really just happen. This is the start of something very huge. We are going to take this higher then we ever thought possible. I am so excited and proud to be an OWN Ambassador. This group lifts you up, and inspires you to do more, and be better. We arrived at 1:30 pm, and we left at 3:45 pm, this was the best couple of hours I ever had in my life. Feeling truly blessed!

I will leave you with this...If you want something bad enough, think about it, live it, dream it, envision it. It will manifest, that is how dreams come true. DREAM BIG, I did and great things are happening!

Thanks for stopping by...

Much Love,
Shelley

The Sargent was there and spoke about his charity to Oprah

Living The Dream - Day 2 California, Santa Monica

Today we had a slow start to the day, but once we got up and on the go, we went downstairs to pick up the car we had rented. With the car we ended up renting a GPS, we named her Nora. There is Bionca, Misty, Jan, Eliza and myself traveling in the rental car, I will refer to ourselves as the Road Dogs (Bionca named us). Once we familiarized ourselves with the car, and set up the GPS, we were off.

The drive to Santa Monica was only about 15 mins, but it was such a pretty drive, I just took in all the palm trees, ocean, and people. It was so beautiful. When we arrived, Jan parked the car, and then we all turned around to walk toward the beach. I couldn't wait to put my feet in the sand. The sun was warm, bright, and the beach was spectacular. There were trails in the middle of the beach for people to walk, roller blade or ride their bikes.

We slowly started making our way to the pier, but we stopped several times along the way. When I looked out to the ocean you could see the Life Guard Stations all along the beach. Baywatch was filmed there, so of course I had to re-enact a Pamela Anderson scene by running on the beach. Okay I know I probably didn't look like her, but in my head I did LOL. As we walked along we came upon a bunch of swings, so of course I ran for the swing to have some fun. It was great acting like a kid, I tend to do that alot. I think not having much of a childhood, allows me to make up for it as an adult. We all took turns on the swings, and just had fun, it was good times.

Once we finished with our fun at the swings we made our way to the pier. We noticed there was a Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant, we were all hungry so we decided to eat at Bubba Gump's. As we arrived we put our name on the waiting list and ventured into the store until our name was called. Most of us purchased an item or two. It was a great little spot with the most delicious food. If I ever go to Santa Monica's again, I will be sure to eat at Bubba Gump's. A great atmosphere with great food! We finished up and then Jan and I spoke to our wonderful waitress Kelly for a few minutes about her art of poetry. What a great waitress, if your ever in Bubba Gump's in Santa Monica, ask to sit in Kelly's section, she was wonderful.

After lunch we decided to head down to the beach, to play in the sand and the ocean. We stopped and listen to a few traveling kid musicians (who were homeless) play music on the beach. Initially I felt so sad for them, and wanted to play my Motherly role and "save" them, but after talking to them I realized they are right where they want to be. They are free spirited, riding around from state to state on freight cars with their guitars, and their 2 dogs. I really enjoyed talking with these young adults, and I could really feel their passion for their music. Like everyone, they have a story, and I was compelled to listen to theirs. I appreciate their strength and courage to follow their dreams, to them the cost of their dream is irrelevant. I get that!

After listening and talking to the traveling musicans, we all rolled up our pants and frolicked along the ocean. I walked off on my own and went and checked under the pier at Santa Monica's. I broke out and started singing "Under the Boardwalk" it just seemed so appropriate. People may have thought I was crazy, but I didn't care LOL, it's not everyday I get to walk under Santa Monica Pier. We all ended up gathering on the beach to wait for another Canadian OWN Ambassador. Within a few minutes Helen showed up and we just hung around talked, and took pictures. After taking it all in, we headed up on the pier to check out the different shops. and find a spot where we could watch the sunset.

We all headed in different directions to see different things, at one point Misty and I were together and then I was stopped by a crew from Walmart Communities and asked if they could interview me. I said certainly. It was a great interview, they asked me what my opinion would be about bringing Walmart to Santa Monica. I did let them know I wasn't from there but they still wanted to continue with the interview.  Towards the end of the interview the host and I were dancing and having a great time. I just wish I could have remembered his name.

I eventually made my way to the end of Santa Monica Pier, on the walk down I picked up a couple of souvenirs, and stopped to listen to more entertainers. It was fun. All the ladies were there and ready to watch the sunset. The wait was worth it, the sunset was absolutely spectacular, the colours were vibrant and the ocean was calm. I just stood there and absorb the beauty of it all. Here I am in California living the dream, and watching one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. Life is good!

Overall the day was amazing, good friends, good food, and great weather. Today was just perfect.

Thanks for stopping by...

Shelley

Under The Boardwalk - Santa Monica Pier

The Road Dogs

The Travellin' Musicians

Interview for Walmart Communities

Living The Dream - Day 1 California, Manhattan Beach

Wednesday October 17th, 2012 couldn't come fast enough, I know your not suppose to rush a good thing, but it's California, the excitement was palpable. For months the OWN Ambassadors talked, planned, dreamt, anticipated one of the most biggest moments of our lives...Meeting Oprah Winfrey. On Tuesday October 16th, my dear friend and fellow OWN Ambassadors Jan and Misty made way to my house to sleep over. I am close to the Toronto airport, so it was ideal for the ladies to stay here. It was great my husband offered to wake up and take us to the airport at 5 am. We barely slept the night before, we were like little kids the night before Christmas, this was huge. 

We loaded up the car with all of our bags, and off we went. Closer and closer to the airport the excitement was crazy, we were like little school girls lol. It was a good thing we got there 2+ hours early. It was frustrating at the beginning, Jan and I were getting bounced around from line to line because our names were different between our passport and airline ticket. I have not flown to the U.S. for years, so going through security and customs was a long process. Everything changed since 9/11, but it was absolutely understandable. It is in the security line where we met up with Eliza, it was great, we were all on the same plane headed for L.A.

Once through security we headed to our gate until we were called to board. As we were sitting there we made conversation with a nice looking young man. Turns out he was from the L.A. Kings. We asked his thoughts about L.A and he said you are going to love it. So I could feel myself getting even more excited. Time to board, so up we got, and headed towards the attendants. I showed my passport, headed down the mobile corridor and to the plane. Jan and I found our seats, Misty & Eliza sat somewhere else. The plane was all boarded and the stewardess did their check. Jan and I looked at each other and said yeehaaw there is no one sitting with us. So we loaded up the middle seat and got real comfy. 

It was a great flight, definitely better then the one I had in the summer to Newfoundland. Now it's time to descend and land in L.A, it was only 10 am, so we still had the whole day. Woohoo, super excited. Plane stops, I grabbed my carry on, and off we got. The minute I stepped off the plane, I could feel the warm air. Leaving Toronto where it was cold, to getting off and feeling the heat was awesome. We made our way to baggage claim, and then grabbed the shuttle and headed to our hotel. I was taking in the short drive, I loved the palm trees and the warm air. As we got to the hotel we checked in and made way to our rooms. Jan & Misty shared a room, and Eliza and I shared a room, our rooms were side by side.

We got settled in our room, and then Eliza and I talked and talked for hours. It was 94 degrees so we decided to go to the pool for a swim. It was so nice and relaxing, I enjoyed every moment. Later on we touched based with Misty and Jan, and we decided to take a trolly ride to Manhattan Beach to  look at the little shops and watch the sunset. When we arrived I was in awe with the beauty of the beach, the palm trees and the pier. We walked around and and had dinner at a Mexican restaurant. It was yummy. Once we finished dinner, we headed over to the pier so we could watch the sunset. I stood there snapped away at some pictures and then got totally lost in the water and the sun going down. I went off on my own, and just reflected on being there, my family and the appreciation of me being able to come to L.A.

Once the sunset went down, we grabbed the trolly and headed back to La Quinta Hotel. Once I arrived back to the hotel, I curled up in my bed and started my journal for  California.

Because there is just so much, I will be blogging about each day in California separately, I want to be able to share the magnitude of my wonderful trip.

Attached a few pics :)

Thanks for stopping by...

Much Love,
Shelley

Swimming outside, temperature 94 degrees

Where we ate supper

The Beach as the sun goes down

 

 

The Trolley Ride to Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach Pier

Doing a little reflection

Doing The Right Thing

I just came back from California, and my plan was to sit down and try to articulate the magnitude of this past week. I still plan on doing it, but right now I feel the importance to talk about the last couple of days. I am frustrated and I need to just S P E L L it out. How can I go from feeling the most joy I have ever felt in my life to what has transpired the past couple of days.

This past Thursday my son texted me and said he wanted to come home for the weekend, and if I could help him arrange the train and bus, so I said sure no problem. So Friday he made his way to the train station, and traveled the afternoon to get here from Welland to Brampton. Friday we were at our friends Halloween/Birthday party, and we were having a great time. Ryan, Brianna and Kayla went with me, it was so nice to spend time with my 3 kids together. It's not very often I have all 3 kids hanging out with me. After a great evening with some awesome friends we left around 12:30, Kayla was extremely tired so I said we will head out, so I can get her home to bed.

Saturday I spent the day hanging out with my son, running around to second hand stores to pick up pieces to create his costume for a Halloween party at his friends place in Guelph. It was fun! He got what he needed, and later on that evening we picked up his friend and headed to another friends house so they could all drive together to the party. I told Ryan make sure you are home early enough on Sunday because we have plans later in the day, and if you are here in the morning I can drive you back to Welland.

So after trying to get a hold of Ryan, he finally texted me to say he got stuck out in Guelph and had no way back, his friend left in the middle of the night. I said you need to try to find someone to get you here. Shortly after he found someone coming back to Brampton so he was able to hitch a ride with them. When he got back he chilled and got ready to head back home with his step-mother who luckily was going towards Welland to drop off her daughter. He texted me that he got home okay.

Next morning (Monday), is when it all started. Ryan texted me in a panic for me to look around for his Mac Laptop, I said Ryan you never brought it here. Soon he realized his Mac Laptop (Brand New), professional camera, and XBOX wireless controllers were stolen. I had a gut feeling of who was involved but I never said anything. After Ryan pressured his room-mates, he discovered one of the girl roomates had some sketchy guy over. The girl roomate had been asked to leave, because all the kids were complaining about her, so Danielle told this guy George, lets stick it to Ryan, they broke into my sons room and ran sacked his room. The locks were a joke, you can get in with a credit card.

The sad part is, my son's whole life was on the laptop, his portfolio, everything, he can't attend classes without his laptop (He is in Graphic Design). He didn't have an external hard drive big enough, so he hadn't backed up anything. They were going to take the T.V. and his surround sound system. But I guess they couldn't get it off the wall. My son worked his ass off for over 2 years to buy the things he wanted. We teach our kids to work hard for what they want, and when this happens, for a moment I thought the lessons were meaningless. I am a firm believer that there is a lesson in everything. My son after 5 years has finally found something he likes and is doing excellent and now this. We are so frustrated, we just want his stuff back. I knew the guys name, number, and where he lives, but holy wow, talk about feeling helpless.

So for the past 2 days I have been living on the phone getting bounced around from two different police departments in two different cities. The sketchy guy lives in Hamilton, and my son lives in Welland (Just outside of Niagara). I was thinking about going to the Media, but now they have given the case to the Street Crimes division. They weren't even going to touch my sons case until next week. I called back and told them, that was not okay. The stuff will be long gone. There is almost $5000.00 worth of items that were stolen, and my son cannot go to class without his laptop.

The latest is, George was suppose to turn himself in tonight (Tuesday) with the items he stole. He never showed, up, and then ended up making arrangements to come to police station on Thursday. So I am not feeling victorious yet. When my son has the items back, and everything is okay, then I will be happy. Also Danielle, the roomate/accomplice has been evicted.

To Be Continued....

The lesson;  To teach & show my kids how to act in certain situations, this is just one of those situations...Everything will be okay.

Much Love,
Shelley

Update: Nov 1/2012 - George the thief returned my sons laptop, but not the camera or XBOX controllers. I am very happy about the laptop, that was the main thing, he can resume classes. However we are pressing charges against George and Danielle. Hopefully over time we will either get the other items back or the dollar value. The court will order him to pay back what he has not returned.

My daughters in matching Minnie Mouse Costumes

My son was dressed up as a Team Rocket Thug from Pokemon

Kayla - The Meteorologist

There is something about Kayla, she has got the "It" Factor. She dances, sings and loves to look at herself in the mirror ALOT lol. My older kids were not like that, Kayla wants to be a superstar, she wants to stand out, and loves being the center of attention. There are alot of musician's in my husbands family so I am thinking she is going to have an ear for music. If you come to my home, or drive in the car with us, she will show you just how much she likes to sing. If you take your eyes off her, or she feels you are not listening, she will give you heck and then start over. She is so funny!

One of the things Kayla loves to do, is to pretend she is a Meteorologist. Each day when the weather comes on with Natasha from City News in Toronto, Kayla will go to the T.V. and act out her version of the weather. So I thought one day I am going to record her and send it in. Once I recorded it I sent it via Twitter,  and shortly after that I received a Tweet that they would like to use it on the news. I was all for it, turns out they invited Kayla to come in and do it live. Once I told Kayla she was so excited she couldn't wait. On Tuesday October 16th we traveled downtown Toronto so Kayla could do the weather live with Natasha.

When we arrived at City News, it was neat, to see where all the different broadcasts were filmed. The receptionist called to let Natasha know we were there. Shortly after, Natasha came down with her camera crew ready to go outside and shoot some weather outside. At this point we just stood back and watched. Afterwards Natasha directed us to her department where all the weather magic happens. We were introduced to Adam Stiles, and the Graphic Designers who were also stationed in the room with her. They made us feel so welcomed. Natasha put the mic pack on Kayla and had her get ready for her debut lol.

When it was time for Kayla to go on with Natasha, she did but she was shy, which I figured she would be at first. In between the segments Natasha took us downstairs to show us Gord Martineau in action live. We looked around, met Roger, Hugh, Avery Haines (Who was so wonderful), Kayla really wanted to see Gord but obviously he was busy. So we went upstairs again to prepare for the closing weather news, and Natasha briefed Kayla on her lines. Once we got to the rooftop garden, Kayla went out with Natasha. When they went live again, Natasha asked Kayla the prepared questions and Kayla was so much more comfortable, she answered her questions no problem. Kayla then looked at me and did a thumbs up and tried to wink, it was so funny.

Once the news was over, Natasha took us back downstairs so Kayla could meet Gord, she knew how much Kayla loves him. Once we got off the elevator, Kayla went running right into Gord's arms, and Gord sung out oh Honey Boo Boo, I am not sure if that is good or bad lol, I've never watched the show. He was so great with Kayla, while everyone was standing there, Kayla broke out into a dance, doing the "sprinkler" in one dance. The producers came out, and everyone laughed and cheered on Kayla, it was such an awesome moment. Kevin and I were certainly proud. They invited her to come again, so exciting!

ME, MYSELF AND GOD

As I sit and write, a few things come to mind, do I share or go through the process privately. I've decided to share with you because I am very excited to be in this place. What is this place you maybe wondering, it's a beautiful place that is peaceful, serene, and full of love, the place is my heart. With reflection, love, peace, and gratitude I've gotten to a great place in my life.

But it wasn't always like that, for 25 years I've been working in an industry that hurt my soul. Piece by piece, day by day I was deteriorating. Although I met some incredible people, it wasn't where I was suppose to be. Through it all I still woke up each day, put on my happy face and went to work. After work I would come home, take care of my family and so on. I was always sad, mad, angry, or just plain tired. Growing up with hardships created so much sadness, and disappointment in my life. 

However, things started to change....Back in May I went off work to have surgery. While I was off my work closed, and I was permanently laid off. Most people would be devastated, but I was absolutely thrilled. Thankfully my co-workers were able to re-locate and keep their jobs, but I was given an option. I prayed so hard for that outcome. It was risky but I knew God was clearing my path. Since being home the past several months great things are happening. I don't mean material or monetarily but within myself. 

I heard about people being Christian's or being spiritual and I never knew what it meant. I wanted to get in touch with myself so I started reading, and asking questions. What really helped me through my process was reading "Produced By Faith" by Devon Franklin, and I have to say if you are ever at a crossroads in your life, this book will help you sort it out. It did me! One of the biggest take away's from Devon's book was to listen to the signs God was/is giving me. By listening to the signs, I know I'm on the right path because he has guided me here.

Almost 2 years ago my husband became a Christian I was confused. I was like, what does that mean for us? I wasn't sure if he would become someone I didn't know. We were on two totally different pages, and I couldn't understand what was happening to him. But over the past couple of years I've seen how it affected his life in such a positive way. He has always been such a great person, now, he is that much better. One of the things I admire about Kevin is not comprising his Christian principals, and stands firm with his beliefs.

Listening to Kevin's family, I would often hear them talk about their faith, and I could never truly understand. I respect their faith but wanted to know more. Over the past year I would ask my husband, what does being a Christian mean and what does it feel like to be a Christian. I was not being ignorant, I was trying to open my heart and embrace the lord, I just didn't know how. After my husband described how he felt, and what it all meant, I wanted to feel it to, but knew I had to go at my own pace. I didn't think I could even go there, but opening my heart has allowed so many opportunities.

I started praying everyday for the last couple of months, and good things started happening. Over the past several months, I have gotten to such a great place. I am at peace with myself, I am happier then I've ever been, and I am content in my life. I've been having moments of joy, and unexplainable happiness. I now know that all of the hardships I endured were lessons from God. You have to go through all these things in life to build your wisdom, without your wisdom who are you? I look back and completely understand it all now. My calling is to be of service to people, and if I didn't go through everything, what could I offer. With my wisdom and knowledge I can help so many people. I look at it all as a gift.

My dream has always been to create a "Safe House". I envisioned it since I was a child, it was always a safe place for families to go to for support, refuge, crisis, sports, wellness, resources etc...In my vision I always seen the facility surrounded by alot of greenery, fresh smelling air, pretty flowers, and lots of trees. To know this vision is happening is crazy. Not only will my vision be a reality, it will be exactly where I dreamt it to be...Newfoundland. Within the next year or two, I will be transitioning to Newfoundland and help build a recreational center. How crazy exciting is that! 

So in closing, people have asked, well how does being a Christian change you...My answer is simple, I am still Shelley, I am still funny, but now I believe in God, and love what the Lord has done for me. I have a happy heart, I am at peace, and in touch with myself. Having the lord in my life makes me a better person. This is all new to me, and I embrace all of my future learnings.

I also wanted to share with you, I had two vivid dreams/visions this past week. It was dreams of Jesus welcoming me with a prayer, his hands were stretched out, and offered his presence in my life. I looked up Dream Definitions because nothing like this has happened before, and it was interesting what I read. It all resonated so much: 

Jesus:

To see Jesus in your dream, foretells that your greatest desires and goals will be realized. This dream serves to console and strengthen you in your times of adversity, hardship and struggle. You will rise above any situation and circumstance and become victorious.

To dream that Jesus speaks to you or that you are praying with Him, signifies that you will be blessed with true peace of mind, joy and contentment.

Thanks for stopping by and taking time to read Me, Myself, and God...

Much Love,
Shelley

READY...SET...PAUSE

So often decisions are made with not much thought going into them, sometimes those decisions are hasty decisions, sometimes you spend to much time over thinking, and over analyzing your decisions.  Then possibly you regret the decisions you made. I am guilty at times for making quick decisions, and then regretting them later. We probably all have done that from time to time. Recently I learned a valuable lesson about pausing, my head was spinning and I could not come up with a decision. I've been going to Newfoundland for the past 8 years and have wanted to live there ever since, it's where my heart is. But I always said I will wait until my older kids are in college and then we will move. My son is 18 yrs old and in his first year of college, and my daughter is 16 yrs old and in grade 11.

With recent circumstances happening, we have the opportunity to move to Newfoundland in November. My husband's work location is closing down, and all of the work is being moved to the U.S. His company has a location in Vaughan Ontario, and has offered him a position there, not sure what he will be doing, but the transfer is there if he wants.

When my husband called me a couple of weeks ago to tell me this news, at first I was so excited, I could hardly contain myself, I was like yes I want to go. I said to my husband don't say anything as yet, we will talk about it tonight, but yes I want to go. I started a mental checklist, and said okay let me talk to Ryan and Brianna and get their feel on it. When I talked to my kids about the possibility of me moving there, my son said if it makes you happy, and my daughter was very upset. Neither one would move there with me. They were born and raised in Ontario, and this is where they want to stay. 

When my husband posed the question to me, I thought I have to talk to a few people that are helping me with my business. My best and longest friend Jody, my school friend Connie, and my friend/mentor/colleague Jan are all helping me get to the next level with my business. I owe it to them. I instantly sent an email off to Jody and explained that I was going to move, emailed Connie, and phoned Jan.

So as the day went on, it started shifting a little bit for me, and then all of a sudden I was like Whoaaa slow down Shelley, you can't just pick up and move well over 2000 km's without a plan. I then turned to the OWN Ambassadors for some insight, and advice, which they gave so lovingly. The biggest take away was to PAUSE. Then I started thinking, well wait my husbands work wasn't looking for an answer right away, so why do I feel the need to decide so quickly. 

With a move to Newfoundland I will be affecting alot of people and plans, so I have to be patient until it feels right. Each day my husband would ask, and I said I am not prepared to answer, when I do, you will be the first to know (Obviously). He was leaving the decision up to me, one I am not comfortable with. If it was up to him, he would be gone, but he respects my decisions. I began the homework a couple of weeks ago, I weighed the pro's vs con's, and did some self perspective coaching. I also spoke with a few individuals who helped me walk through the decision without passing judgement.

My dream has always been to have a "Safe House" for families to go to as a place of refuge, resource, support and wellness. I have the abilities in the near future in Newfoundland, very excited about it, but it is at the very beginning stages, and they are not quite ready for me as yet. Here in Ontario, there are alot of exciting things happening with the ladies I mentioned above. If I left now, it would be such a disservice to them because they have been so accommodating, helpful, resourceful and spent alot of their time helping me get to the next level with my business. 

Since May, I've been home, and one of the areas in my life I wanted to work on is the ability to connect with my soul. Over this latest decision, I dug deep and really searched my heart and soul. What kept coming up for me was, it's not quite the right time. If you ever have a feeling, whisper, or a sixth sense, you need to listen to it, do not ignore it. You are born with that gift, listen to it when you feel it, it will not steer you wrong.

If great things happen in Ontario, and my business takes off, I will have to make another decision that will be made with a long PAUSE in between. Do I stay or do I go? To Be Continued....

Think about this question.....Do you make your decisions quickly? Or do you take time to think about your decisions?

This was a great lesson learned. Pausing really is a beautiful thing!

Much Love,
Shelley