The True Meaning of Christmas....

I know you have heard this phrase before....maybe in church, maybe a commercial, maybe even by a family member or by friends but this time maybe the meaning will be a little different.  We all know that Christ was born on this day....well, I am proposing that we all get reborn on this day.  I think we should renew ourselves.  Revive our Christian walk and talk.  We should commit to have a rebirth on this day.  Pledge that from that day forward we will be a new person...a new creation.  Pledge on that day that when people see us or hear us, they will ask...What has gotten into you? What happened? You use to be like this or that and now you have changed.  Those are the words we should look for after Christmas.  Whose all in with me? Post a comment if this is something that you are willing to do.  May God Bless you and YOU BLESS SOMEBODY ON THIS DAY.  YOUR NEW BIRTH DAY!!

Christmas Is Almost HERE!!!

I am so excited about this Christmas Season.  I know that my gift has already been delivered early....IM HERE! God has given me the gift of life.  I am so grateful and thankful for that! He has blessed me with a healthy and funny family all in one bundle. God your GRACE and your MERCY is enough for me.  I praise you and I thank you for THIS DAY! I pray that I continue to spread your word, your love, and your joy to everyone that I come in contact with. Lord, I know when I pray the words of USE ME, you will do just that, in a way that I wouldn't even imagine.  Lord, I pray that F.A.C.E.S becomes all what you want it to be in 2011. Your word says that you will give me everything I need to do everything YOU want me to do....that means strength, gifts, and talents will support my vision and mission for you.  I know that GOD is my vindicator as long as I don't try to do it myself.  Praise Your name!!

The Famous Countdown Begins!!!

Well, I am now in the month of December.  Praise God I made it another year!! I am thinking about going to visit my dad.  I really feel that I should see him before the year is out.  Don't know why..just a feeling.  I am keeping a close eye on the finances so I can make the trip happen.  I miss my boys but I know I will see them in 2011 (if God willing).  I look forward to each day as a gift from GOD.  I hope to be a blessing to everyone I come in contact with and I hope to change at least one person's life each day.  I want to impact this world day by day inspiring people and encouraging people to seek Christ.  I am wanting a few things to make life a little simpler but my wait is in God and I know his timing is better than mine.  So Lord you lead...I will follow. 

Thanksgiving Everyday!!!

We should be thankful everyday and not just one day.  I have came to that conclusion after going through the sands of time for my life.  If it wasn't for Jesus..where would I be? God spared my life and he has left me here to make a difference and I am so grateful.  I want to be grateful and thankful everyday of my life.  I want him to know that he didn't make a mistake. God doesn't make mistakes, so think about that one for a minute. God has given me so much and has protected me from so much....I could just go on and on. Thank you GOD for who you are to ME in my life and Thank you for all who you are to my FAMILY.  Here is the strongest women I know.  I love her and she is the rock of the family.  Praise God for my mother.  Love you much Mama!!

Sitting At The Dock Of The Bay...

....watching the time roll away.....wasting time.  That is my dad's favorite song.  I love to hear it too.  When I was younger I would sing the song really not listening to the lyrics. But now since I'm older, I understand why he likes it. Nothing remains the same.  You cant do what everybody tells you to do.  You cant do what everybody wants you to do.  You have to be true to yourself.  At the end of the day, did you work on your purpose? Did you bless someone today? Did you share God's word in some form or fashion.  These are the questions that I now ask myself at the end of the day.  So, I'm just sitting at the dock of the bay...watching the time roll away....but I refuse to waste time.  Sorry Otis Redding, I have to change a little bit of the song.  Be true to yourself and bless others.

Dont Get Distracted!!!

Okay bloggers, let me be honest and real with you...like I always do. Being in Dallas is wonderful and great but it can be something else too...DISTRACTING! You really can get caught up if you dont watch it. I have a great time with friends and family but I have to remember why I am here.  I am here to lead people to Christ. I am here to spread the news of the Gospel.  I am here to Worship and Praise GOD! Okay, Im back now. I have to visit with the girls and see family in moderation.  I must do everything in moderation.  Just as long as I keep Christ first in my life, I will be alright.  No diss to my girls, friends, or family; just a conversation with myself about remembering my mission and purpose here on earth.  Praise God for his faithfulness, kindness, grace, and mercy.  What would I do without it?  So, now that I have all this back in perspective.....LET'S GET BACK TO WORK!!!

Getting Back In The Swing Of Things...

I am really and truly blessed by God.  He has given me Favor beyond my own understanding.  Sometimes I wonder why people want to help me and they barely know me.....that aint nothing but the favor of God.  I have been in Dallas only two months and I have not needed anything. Now dont get me wrong, I want a lot of things...but needs I have.  God seems to send people my way with the biggest hearts and the biggest smiles.  There are honestly people out here that are truly good people. I am just so pleased with the outcome of things right now....I just cant complain. Do me a favor and let me know what to say or do when you have everything you need at your disposal at all times...Just Ask God and he will deliver.  Trust God and he will come through for you.  He may not come exactly when you want him but HE IS ALWAYS ON TIME!!!!

Cant Argue With GOD..

I cant really be upset or mad when God shows me what I ask for.  He is only answering my prayers.  Isn't that what I want him to do? Or is it good when he only answers the good ones?  God answers all prayers.  Even when you ask for strength...watch it because you don't know how he is going to help you with strength.  Even if you ask for patience....oh boy that's a big one.  Watch or should I say listen for what you pray for.  Sometimes we think that it is going to come in OUR WAY of thinking but know this....GOD has His own way of thinking.  He knows every hair on your head.  He knows the plans that he has for you.  You can always put in your request but just know that He is going to first perform his word and then do what is best for you.....regardless on how that may make you feel.  Overall I must say this....GOD is GOOD ALL THE TIME.....you know the rest. ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD.

Bug in the House!!!

Yep you guessed it...the weather is changing and the bug was TRYING to get me and the little one down but no way Jose!  The little one couldn't keep anything down for a whole day.  It had me sort of worried until I just had to stop and think a moment.  MonaLisa you know what to do.  You have been here at least 3 times before.  Handling colds is what you do.  So, I stopped and thought to myself, what did I use to do to make the kids and the hubby feel better when they were sick.  I made some vegetable soup and hot tea.  Yep, folks that did it! It knocked the bug right out of here.  Now, for the icing on the cake...Yep, you guessed it again....JESUS! I said a prayer for me and the little one and went to sleep.  When we woke up, we were as good as new.  Thank God for the best medicine ever.....JESUS!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

PRAISE GOD!!! I got to see another day and on top of that...I got to see my birthday.  What a year so far. I have been on the top of the mountain and I have been in the valley but overall all....I AM BLESSED!! God has granted me with favor that is beyond my understanding.  He has blessed my with a purpose that beyond my imagination.  He is truly amazing.  I am so grateful and humble all at the same time.  I am 39 years old and I feel great! After all what I have been through...God continues to give me energy, strength and wisdom to complete my everyday tasks.  I love him so much.  GOD thank you for placing people in my life that has helped me and hurt me because at the time I didn't understand it but now I know that really and truly all things.....and I do mean ALL THINGS works out for those who love YOU and I KNOW I LOVE YOU.  BE Blessed readers or bloggers and continue to stay encouraged.

Class Reunion Time!!!

I cant believe it has been 20 years since I've been in High School.  Man, I had fun with my friends.  People looked different and some people looked the same.  It was just great seeing everyone. I was determined to see a close friend of mine named Brandi Shelton. She was one of my best friends in high school. We were both cheerleaders and we were partners in crime....literally. But needless to say, I saw her the second day of the reunion and it was a blessing from GOD.  You see Brandi has breast cancer and it has now spread to her brain. Brandi has always been a fighter so, I was determined to give her a little encouragement before I came back home.  I told her that she will be fine.  I know what you are thinking.... but hear me out.....She Will Be Fine.  Regardless on the circumstances....GOD is still good and He is still sovereign.  His Mercy endures forever. He has the master plan for all our lives so the best thing we can do is love our neighbor and give back. That is what Christ did for the 32 years he was on earth.  We cant ever ask for anything else.  God has given us all we NEED.  Thank you GOD! Bless Brandi and her family and take care of them like only you know how.

Back on TRACK....

Okay my fellow blogger and followers.  Yes, I have to admit, I got off track.  I was getting caught up in what I didn't have instead of what I have.  I know that sounds a little ridiculous and I have to agree.  After all of what God has blessed me with and through, I honestly was trippin on what I couldn't do and what I have yet to accomplish. God reminded me last night that...He Is Not Through With Me Yet....a matter of fact....HE JUST GOT STARTED!!  Everything and everybody who seems to be disappearing and appearing in my life is in his divine order. I cant do anything but appreciate the way HE does things because if it was up to me I wouldn't ever grow.  I like what I like and I don't like what I don't like and all the while God is saying Hate what I Hate and Love what I Love and it gets easier every time.  His yoke is easy and His burdens are light.  I know we read it and say it but do we really mean it.  Man, alright Lord....I am with you.  I get it.  What you have FOR me is FOR me and IT is the BEST FOR ME.  Gotta LOVE IT!! Father continue to bless the event coming up to honor your women that have conquered the storm called cancer.  Bless them and continue to use me to let them know that they are still the APPLE OF YOUR EYE!!! Thanks Lord for Reminding me of my purpose. AMEN!

Jammin TO GOD'S TEMPO!!!

Well, we had our event called S.A.S. Saturday in Austin Texas and it was a blast.  The rain scared away some people but it didn't stop others.  F.A.C.E.S was in the house and received love from everyone that was there.  God is truly a man of his word.  He told me that this would bring HIM glory and honor and it does...he also told me that I would bless people in the process and it does.  But what he didnt tell me is how much joy it would bring me while doing all the above.  You are AWESOME GOD!!!  Please stay tuned for the next event.  It is going to be a blast...maybe the biggest event yet by F.A.C.E.S.  For those of you who are maybe thinking or wondering how my health is doing....well, lets put it like this...check out the picture and go from there.  God has blessed me with a full recovery and now I am due another bone biopsy and get the port taken out. I will schedule those for this month hopefully to be complete by my birthday....OCTOBER 16th!!!  God Bless!

F.A.C.E.S.....If you dont know...Now you know!!!

Its about that time to buckle down and make F.A.C.E.S a nonprofit organization.  There is such a great need for what God has placed in my spirit to do for women who are surviving and conquering cancer.  I have a great journey ahead of me and I can see it being very fulfilling as well.  So, right now, all who read this post, I am praying that you send up a sincere one to the Father in heaven about increasing F.A.C.E.S staff and territory and that it be a blessing to all who reach out for help. And the F.A.C.E.S is able to help their families also. I also pray that I stay focused on the task before me and don't be distracted by the tricks of the enemy and that God surrounds me with people that love him and can help with their gifts, skills, and talents with joy.  This is going to be as big or bigger than any support group I know because it is focusing on the inner self and most importantly on what YOU believe what GOD has said in his word about you and WHO YOU ARE.  God Bless and Be joyful unto the Lord!!

IM HERE!!!!

Sorry, its been too long since I've talked to you and told you about what has been happening in my life.  Well, first I had to sell all the stuff in my old apartment and I did that...except an entertainment center and my comfortable green couch.  So, I packed everything and looked around and needed help moving. So, I then started trying to get everything together in a day and a half.  Needless to say, I over did it a little.  I ended up in the hospital getting a blood transfusion because of losing too much blood.  I was doing too much moving and lifting on my own. So, when I got back from the hospital I started calling some friends to help me move.  A few showed up and did the job for me.  So I climbed in the Uhaul and headed to Dallas.  Got to Dallas and needed some people to help me unload.  My close family and dear friends in Dallas helped me unload and move in.  I couldn't stand looking at boxes and bags everywhere, so I set up my loft in a day and a half.  I know what your thinking...when is she gonna learn? Well, let me assure you once I finished, I think I slept for 2 days. So, since Sept 1st I have been mainly just adjusting to my new spot and getting some loose strings tied up.  Viva Dallas!!!

Time to Get to Work..

God has brought me a mighty long way and now its time to say thank you in the way he has made me to say it.  F.A.C.E.S the support group for women of color surviving cancer is now in FULL EFFECT!!! Today, I am on my way to making it a full blown non-profit organization and get the paper work lined up.  I am planning some big things to happen for the ladies out there that are waiting for this group to touch their lives in a magnificent way.  I am so excited to get started, I am up everyday thinking of new things to do.  When God gives you a purpose it is a burning desire and passion in you that aches to get out.  Its wonderful to finally have purpose..to have a cause.  All these years it was about MonaLisa and now its about HIM!! That is a wonderful feeling.  I will keep you up-to-date on the progress of this FANTASTIC GROUP.  Keep us in your prayers and WATCH GOD MOVE!!!

I Told The Storm....

If I walk alone, Im not on my own.  That is what I have been living by this year. I am embarking on my new life with MY GOD by my side.  I am so excited!! I will be closer to my little one and doing what I do best being Mommy. I look forward to what God has for me in Dallas.  I will miss A LOT of people but I know that they want the best for me.  Okay Dallas here I come.  I will not say that I will not be back because my niece and my sister are still in Austin and my wonderful church family, so we will just say, I will see you guys at least once a month.  But for right now.....Onward and Upward!!!

Being Busy and God has Been Busy TOO....

I know the last time you heard from me I was going through the last of the kool-aid treatment, I was having a benefit concert for F.A.C.E.S, and having a garage sale.  Well, all of that has happened. I finished my kool-aid treatment yesterday and all is well.  I had the benefit party for F.A.C.E.S and that was a blast!  Got some connections and some wigs...I even got a few donations to help the support group build.  Lastly, I am almost done selling all my stuff in my apartment.  One person almost bought me out.  PRAISE GOD!! So, now I am finishing up some last minute transfers and paperwork for my move to the Big D!  I am so blessed and I am so grateful.  God showed me his vision for my life last night and I have some work to do.  I know he will never leave me nor forsake me so if I have any questions or concerns, he's got my back...better yet MY FRONT!! 

I Gave Birth To A Vision Last Night.....

Last night was the first Benefit Party for the support group called F.A.C.E.S. This support group F.A.C.E.S stands for FAITH AND ACCEPTANCE in CHRIST EXPERIENCING SURVIVOR-SHIP. This blog and support group started my story of triumph over a disease. God was able to use me as his vessel to get his word out to a people who just doesn't want to talk about it or are misinformed.  Either way I am sent to shed light on a disease that we as a people are affected by whether we talk about it or not.  It doesn't make it go away.  A matter of fact, the sooner you talk about it the faster you can conquer it.  Ignorance is not bliss...its dangerous!  What you don't know...WILL and CAN hurt you, if you don't do something about it in time.  So lets take the blinders and the fears of cancer OFF!!!  Whatever strives and manifests in the dark masters YOU!!  Lets take the power from this disease and give knowledge to our people dying from it.  Without A Vision People Parish!!!

Okay Breath in .....Breath OUT!!!

Is it just me or does it seem like this month is flying by.  Maybe its me.  I know that this is the last month I will be in Austin....well, living in Austin that is.  I am planning two big events here before I go.  I am planning a Benefit Party for the support group I started for cancer survivors for women of color.  This support group is to celebrate life after diagnosis. Cancer survivors need encouragement. Sometimes we are up and then sometimes we allow things to get us down...oh wait a minute that is everyone's struggle.  Praise God for like minds in this rat race called life.  We are all trying to do right by God and we all want to please HIM(at least we should). So hats off to F.A.C.E.S!!! What does that stand for you ask? It stands for Faith and Acceptance in Christ Experiencing Survivor-Ship. Oh yea, the other major event is a garage sale. LOL!! I have to get rid of my stuff. I am selling EVERYTHING!! I want to start fresh and new in Dallas.  Is Dallas ready??  I think not!! SMILE its contagious!!

Had to Stop.....Think.....and Remember.....

Oh boy, I had to check myself yesterday.  I am so glad that this is a new day.  I feel like I have to share with you what happened.  This might be a little gross to the guys that are reading but just bear with me. This month has been a little different for me for some reason.  I have been a little more tired than usual, but I really didnt think anything of it.  I would just sleep a little longer for a nap. What WAS alarming me was the fact that I am bleeding.  Now remember how I use to be with the sight of blood, well now we are on the same page.  So I look at the calendar and it is just time for my cycle, so I am thinking okay MonaLisa don't trip your body is getting back to its normal state....having a menstrual period.  I am thinking that the enemy is trying to scare me because he knows my fears and he is here to steal....kill...and destroy whether that be your body, your dreams, whatever.  So, I just had to stop and think of the goodness of God and what he has done for me and what he has brought me from.  MonaLisa stop trippin.  You know what God can do and what he has done in your life.  Praise God for the moment I snapped back to the Goodness of God.  BUT GOD....is what Paul said.  THANK GOD FOR the DELIVERANCE.

I FEEL GOOD....(music)..LIKE I KNEW I WOULD!!

Done with the red drug for right now. One more three day session coming on August 16-18.  I am so excited to be doing the move and doing MONA LISA all at the same time. I am praying for this continuing charge of energy each day I wake up in the morning. I am in love and it feels so good. He not only loves me but he is the lover of my soul.  You cant get any better than that!!! He wants the BEST for me and He is willing and able to give my ANYTHING I want.  He makes me feel good all over.  I want to be with him all day long.  I know his schedule is busy but he seems to always be able to give me my quality time.  Just me and him. He makes me feel like I am the only woman on earth. He laid down his life for me. Man, let me stop because I am starting to miss him already.  So, let me cut this one short....I am going to spend some time with him right now.  Talk to you soon!!!

How did Hughy Lewis and the News Sing It???

I got a NEW DRUG!! Today I started a new chemotherapy drug.  Dont even ask me to pronounce it or spell it.  Well, come to think about it, it really isnt new to me.  I tried this particular drug in the very beginning of my first stage on accident.  The doctors prescribed it too early.  So, I know for a fact how my body will respond to it....FANTASTICALLY!!  Yep, I said it and therefore I believe it so that makes it true.  This will be my reality for 3 days.  That is how long I will be on this drug. This chemo drug is red so I call it the RED KOOL-AID. It helps my mind except it better and that helps my mind digest it smoothly.  Trust me it works.  So Mona Lisa, keep on trucking along and doing what God told you to do and everything will be alrite.  God Said It and I Believe IT!!!

On My Way To A New Begining!!!

Ready....Set.....GO!!! Okay, August is right around the corner and I am gearing up for my new life in Dallas Texas.  This takes me back to the first time I moved to Austin.  I knew a few people but hit the ground running on finding a job and learning my way around.  Well, here we go again.  I know a few people, ready to hit the ground running finding my way in Dallas and meeting new people. I am excited and nervous all at the same time.  I do have a few last things to take care of here in Austin though.  I have two more Doctor Appointments to attend to receive a different type of chemo and then after that he is talking about giving me a chemo oral pill to take for I dont know how long.  Matters not...my God is able and he said that all what I go through is to help someone else so I praise him for that.  Continue to keep the prayers coming people. God definitely hears them and he is having them FLOW my way.  My promise land awaits me!!!

Thinking Back....

I had a moment....or should I say some time to think back and look at what all GOD has brought me through thus far.  The first half of the year, I was going through my own roller coaster.  A diagnosis in January, Recovery in February, Living a totally different life in March and April, Started walking in the plan that God has for me in May and June, and now I am here in July getting ready to move to a new place to meet new people.  What a year so far!!  Before I climb out of my bed.... I say a prayer that God leads me and that I submit and do whatever he has me to do.  I don't have many pictures of all the things that I have went through but this is one I will never forget.  It humbles me and I don't ever want to forget how far God has brought me.  This is the infusion center where I was receiving chemotherapy everyday for 10 weeks.  What a memory....What a BREAKTHROUGH!!!

Hurray....Hurray...ITS MY LAST DAY!!!

Okay, I am so excited, I cant even contain myself!!!  Today is the LAST DAY OF IV CHEMO Treatments.  OMG!!! I am free from the IV!!! I still have two more sessions left but it is only a one day procedure.  I get to take the port out in September maybe even August.  Oh Man!!  I just want to take time out to Thank all the people who prayed and helped me through this situation.  I want to thank everyone who read and commented on the blog.  This blog was a release for me in many ways.  I am so Grateful.  For all of you who are still in the fight and maybe need a pick me up every now and then, I can only tell you what I did.... and it works......STAY THANKFUL, GRATEFUL, AND FULL OF JOY.  This helps in the rough times and its a real pick me up... when you are already on the mountain top.  Don't stop PRAISING GOD regardless...no matter what is going on in your life.  Keep GOD first in all things and even when you fall short and you will.....dust yourself off and pick yourself up.  Repent and GOD will forgive you and wash you white as snow.  Believe that with everything you got.  I Love and Thank everyone.  This is not the end.....THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING!!!

Home Stretch...

Alright...we are on the home stretch of this thing now!!  I am so happy!! I know that God is a good God not just because of what he has done for me but because of who HE is.  I have gone through 2 sessions of chemo.  This means 5 weeks every day except weekends receiving chemo.  All this without getting sick, nausea, headaches, and the list goes on.  My hair is growing back and everything.  I am starting to like it short though...LOL!  God knows the plan he has for us.  If the plan means going through the valley, he always gives you strength to endure.  He will never leave you nor forsake you.  When you think...."This is the worst thing that could happen to me"...just stop and say to yourself...."He chose ME to go through it and on top of that, he is holding my hand and sometimes even carrying me.  Sweet as Honey!!

Two More Weeks....

I have two more weeks to go and I am taking it one day at a time.  God has been so good to me.  I talk to people around me in the infusion center where the chemo is given and they tell me about the side affects they have and I sometimes feel a little bad to share my recovery with them because I have not had any of the side affects that chemo usually tries to give people except hair loss and even that is growing back now.  I shouldn't feel bad...I should be shouting it from the roof tops.  God is Good and when you put him first as the leader of your soul, you cant go wrong.  His spirit wont let you.  God continue to bless me, I am not ashamed of the blessings you have bestowed on me. God you are so sweet.  His word says, "Test me and see."  He will not let you down.

I Am Not Alone.....

Just the thought of it makes me wanna cry.  I know that he has always been there and will be here for the rest of my life. God is my everything!  I have to admit something though.....I have been wanting a mate, a partner in life a lot lately but God keeps reminding me that those special times and moments of loneliness are for him.  Flesh wants someone to touch, to cry with, to hold me but God always whispers in my ear...That space in your heart is for me to fill, no one else.  So, my prayer now is SHOW ME YOUR FACE LORD....WRAP YOUR ARMS AROUND ME LORD!  I love him so much.  Every time I pray that prayer he shows up.  RIGHT ON TIME!  I am not alone.....EVER!!!!

Keeping My Eye On the Prize....

Keeping my eye on the prize is sometimes hard to do or should I say easy to forget.  I just had a moment this week that made my freak out.  My little one ended up getting a bad cough and a fever from playing in the pool last weekend. Now, that sounds simple enough right? Well, I went into panic mode.  I thought about my health and what I couldn't let happen to me and I started buying all kinds of medicine for him.  I started making phone calls to family and friends to try and keep him for me.  Then suddenly I just said to myself, I have to take him to the hospital.  So, here we both are in the hospital with our masks on and sitting in the waiting room.  The doctor finally called us to the back.  He checked my son and then he looked at me and asked why was I wearing a mask?  I told him my situation and he said...Oh, that is nothing you need to worry about.  He is fine.  Just give him this medicine twice a day for the cough and these antibiotics if you like for any infections.  Then he told me in a quiet Doctor voice.....a fever isn't serious enough for what you have been through....if your son had chicken pox then I would worry.  After he said that, I said to myself, God did not carry me this far to let me go....I KNOW SO!!!  KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE MONALISA!

Trucking right a long....

Hello all!  I am updating you on the second week of the five week chemo session I am going through.  I decided to allow each day to take its on course.  Sort of like I did the first five weeks.  It seems to go better and faster that way.  I went to Dallas this weekend and basically confirmed in my spirit that that is where I need to be.  My little one was with us and he had so much fun.  I just have to continue to take my time and don't get to excited and anxious.  God's timing is the BEST timing.  Some folks that know me can pretty much guess how this is going to be a situation that will be won by Me allowing God to do what he does best....EVERYTHING!!!

Grateful....

I am so grateful for all what I have and all what I have been through.  That takes growth to admit that part of it.  I have 3 handsome boys and I don't have any Daddy Drama!!!  Can I get an AMEN??  I saw my middle one graduate and I hear from my oldest on a regular basis.  My little one, well he is with me now and I hear from him ALL THE TIME!! LOL!  Today was my first day being back on the chemo trail.  I have 5 weeks every day to go.  I am not rushing this process.  I am going to treat the second session just like the first.  Wake up in the morning with a voice of praise and eat a huge breakfast.  After that, I lay up for about 2 hours and then I am done.  Piece of Cake...when allow GOD to drive the car, fly the plane, ignite the engine.....Speak to your HEART!  Peace BE STILL!! 

Finally...Two down, One More TO GO!!

Friday, my middle son Elijah graduated with Honors!!  Elijah you are going to be a God fearing Man and I am so proud to be your MOM.  Man, I am so blessed to have 3 great children.  I have one more to go.  The little one is going to do great things too!!  I am not just saying that because he is my baby but I see the sparkle in his eyes when he learns something new.  What a blessing!  Great job Elijah and I love you so much for who you are and what God is going to do in your life.  Keep him first and the rest will come with ease.  GOD is SO GOOD! 

I Aint Running Nothing....

Got back from the doctor and he told me some things that I am so grateful for.  He told me that it would be best if I waited to move after the Chemo treatments.  That would be around September.  The fleshly part of me was like....NO!....the spiritual side of me was like YES!!  I would benefit from being totally clear of the IV chemo sessions if I waited.  No worries!!  Thank GOD for being the master of my plans and not me.  I don't want to put myself in any kind of danger.  Thank GOD that everything goes by him first and then trickles down to me. I Ain't Running Nothing and I am glad because I AM NOTHING without him!!

Here We Go.....

Okay, today I have a Dr. Appointment and I am too excited.  I know you are thinking....why is she so excited? Well, today I get to ask my doctor about the next chemo session.  I get to know how long and what days.  I also get to ask him for referrals.  Yep, you guessed it...referrals for doctors in Dallas.  I am setting up to make the move.  I am going to spend the month of June setting up shop and trying to get everything together.  I have the little one too this summer, so I am juggling all this at once.  Don't be alarmed...its all going to be in God's timing. When and if, he tells me to rest... I will, but when he tells me to pick up my mat and walk....I WILL!!!

Summer Time Here We Come!!!

My son is here and I am pumped and motivated to give him the summer of his life.  So, I am praying for strength early every morning because I am going to need it.  We have some things scheduled on the calendar so that should keep us busy for at least the first two months.  I love to spend time with the little one because he gives me my daily exercise.  I love to cook for him because he always cleans his plate....like mother, like son. LOL!  Summer time and GOT NOTHING ON US!!

Long Time...No Post...

OMG!!  I have been basking in God's Greatness this week.  I have decided to believe GOD!!  He said that we can do all things through him and sometimes I don't really understand it until I truly step out on faith.  I have made some decisions in my life that has already altered my destiny in a way that is leaning and depending totally on him.  Listen....I have no job, but yet he feeds me, clothes me, and pays my bills.  I have no husband but yet he sends the male persuasion my way just to let me know I can have a pure friendship without anything else.  I have wonderful children that love me.  I am really and truly blessed.  I have one more week to go with the break from chemo and then I start over.  GOD is doing a great thing and I am glad I am here to see it.  DO YOUR THANG GOD!!

Finally....

Its Friday and this was my last week of chemo.  I have a two week break that I have been looking forward too.  But the thing is.... whatever you think your body will follow.  I had a different time with chemo this week.  My body didn't respond as usual.  I knew it was because of me being so ready for it to end.  I have learned this week to allow God to set the pace not me.  By me rushing and being anxious my body was responding to that energy instead of the medicine being given.  So next time around which is after the two week break, I am going to make sure I don't allow myself to rush.  I have to let go and let God.  So to God be the PRAISE and GLORY!!!  I am taking my time for these two week. No RUSH....NO FUSS!!!

The Last Week....for right now...

This is the last week of chemo for me.  After this week I have a 2 week break.  I am so excited!!  I finally get to sleep in late.  I would get up early to try and get the chemo early so I can have the rest of the day to do whatever I wanted to do.  So, this week I plan on going to Dallas and set up shop.  My plan is to move by August.  The little one will be in the First Grade.  I cant miss any of that.  I remember each child going to the first grade for the first time.  Its like they feel so grown up and independent. The month of June is going to be a busy one but a blessed one all at the same time.

One More Week.....

Okay folks..I have one more week of chemo and then I finally get a break.  I have been doing chemo everyday for 5 weeks.  It was all in all a great experience.  I met some great people and of course I get to learn more and more about my body.  I know that chemo in the morning is a good thing...chemo after 12:00 is a not so good thing.  I would like to thank great nurses that take care of my every need, even when I come in starving.  They seem to see it on my face.  Mona Lisa would you like a lunch??  Yes, thank you I say.  They are great!  I will miss them.  Oh yea, I no longer take the steroids that was blowing me up like a balloon.  Praise God!!

PS Just two of my closest friends....Thanks for everything guys!!

Three Blessings From God!!

Last night I attended a Banquet for Elijah, my middle son, and it was phenomenal.  I was sitting there skinning and grinning like a chess cat when it was time for him to receive his award.  He was honored in the National Football and College Hall of Fame.  Wow, what an honor and just to think that my oldest son Kirk was honored with that same award when he was a senior in high school.  My boys are the highlights of my life.  I love them so dearly.  I never had any major problems out of them...because I think they know that their mother was CRAZY!!  No, just kidding.  Kirk set the pace and Elijah is carrying the torch and Khafre will bring it home.  I have faith in God first and I know he will bless the rest.  Promote your children.  Let them know that they are all that and a bag of chips.  This world is cruel so let them know...if no one else believes in them .... Momma Does!!  Word from your Mother!

Happy Mother's Day!

Wow!  What a weekend.  I talked to my oldest Kirk on the phone, I spent time with the middle son Elijah all day on Sunday, and spent time with the baby boy Khafre on Saturday.  I feel so complete right now.  I love my kids from the bottom of my heart and sometimes I just have to stop and pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming.  I have great boys.  I never had any trouble out of them.  PRAISE GOD for that!!  So boys this post is actually for you....Thank you for helping me be the best mom I could be.  I love YOU!!

Distractions....Again??

Okay, so the weekend was over and I knew I had to get to the hospital early to get chemo because Mondays are very busy.  So, I wake up with a praise spirit that wouldn't let me leave my apartment until after 9am.  So, by the time I got to the hospital it was about 10am.  Well, they need blood work done on Mondays....did I think about that...NO.  The blood work had a waiting room full of people.  So needless to say I didn't finish with blood work until about 12pm.  Then I go to the infusion center for the chemo and they tell me that they are still waiting on the blood work results.  Finally at around 3pm they tell me my WHITE BLOOD CELL COUNT is LOW!!  No wonder I spent an extra 2 hours at the house praising God. This wasn't what I expected.....

Gaining Weight because of STEROIDS???

Okay, I was noticing some swelling around the ankles and fingers but didn't really think anything.  Then I started to notice the thighs and my over sized head.  Yes, I said my head.  I was swelling.  It looked like I was gaining water weight everywhere.  I suddenly couldn't put on my jeans and the shoes and rings were too tight.  I said to myself what is going on?? Is it the chemo or what??  So at the next chemo session I asked to speak with my doctor.  He told me "Oh yes Mona Lisa, we have been giving you 10 mil. of steroids everyday before the chemo so you wouldn't get nausea.  I told my doctor I never suffered from nausea from chemo injections.  He said really??  Well then, lets take you off of it then.  Thank Goodness!!  So yes, now I am off the steroids and looking like Serena Williams with a bald head.  Praise God for the Body he made for me.  Cause I am still FINE!!  LOL!!

Focus...Focus....Focus!!!!

At times when we think we are going down the right street, the signs seem to be saying all the right things, and the wind is blowing through your hair or less of it in my case.  You are really thinking you are doing the right thing...well this weekend was one of those moments when all my right intentions ended up being something that took me back a few steps. People it doesn't pay to get off track.  Whether that be emotionally, physically, or spiritually. And the great thing about it is...you will know because your strength is gone, you are tired, and you are worn out.  That means you weren't working in God's Strength ...you were working in your own strength.  So, Lord thank you for putting me back on track.  I Love You for that.  Okay now....Focus!!

Readjustments....

Adjustments happen all the time.  You have to be flexible, you have to go with the flow, you have to change according to the "End Times"...well sometimes you have to adjust the adjustments.  This last week I was going through the Chemo sessions like a champ and all of the sudden this weekend hit me like a tone of bricks.  I had a heartburn or gas sent from Satan himself from the pits of HELL.  I couldn't go to sleep but in 2 hour increments.  I was so tired and sore it didn't make any sense.  Elijah my 17 year old's prom was Saturday night so I went by his house to take pictures of him and his date.  I was feeling good at that time then out of the blue....I ate a sandwich that had almost everything on it but the kitchen sink....... hit the floor of my stomach and left me moaning and groaning all night Saturday and almost all day Sunday.  This weekend I had to seriously pray my way through.  Thank God his mercy and grace is renewed everyday.

Enlightened..

It has been a while since I have been able to write on the computer.  The computer ended up getting a virus and I have been locked out for about a week.  You know it is so funny how life happens.  You can get a virus or some type of struggle in your life that just might derail you for a minute but you always have to get back on the saddle.  This week I have been going through my consolidation stage of this stage of the process.  I have been blessed and highly favored by God to be not even weak and tired afterward. God makes sure you have everything you need for you to do what you have to do.  Thank God for that!!

More Tests....

Today I had to go to the hospital to take some tests.  The tests were for Blood, Heart, and Lungs.  They were called....lab work, MUGA SCAN, and EKG.  It tired me out a little.  Maybe because I didnt have a chance to eat or maybe because it was early in the morning.  Whatever it was it got me a little tired.  I decided a long time ago to trust GOD no matter what tests I take.  I love and trust God for who he is... not just for what he does.  God has delivered me out of too many situations, this being one of them.  I am just following orders to confirm the MIRACLE!!!.

Sometimes you just have to wait....

Sometimes you just have to wait on God.  You make plans for the future hoping that you will be able to complete them but the plans have to match up with God.  God says in his word that HE knows the plans for your life.  He is the author of your fate.  The minister of your soul.  My plans are to do what God has me to do. I set out to do some things last year on my own and now since I am surrendering to him its just becoming lighter for me.  I dont have to stress about whether its going to work because it is...God said it.  I will be completely successful in him.  My final word is not man's..... it's God's.

Always Stay On Your Toes..

Always stay on your toes.  You never know when someone is going to need you.  Someone might need to be uplifted.  Someone might need to be encouraged.  Someone might just need a shoulder to cry on.  Always be ready.  The enemy stays ready.  He loves to catch us slippin.  God tells us to be ready in season and out of season.  We are made to praise and serve.  Dont forget what you are put on this earth to do.  God did...so we should!  You Fill In THE BLANKS!!

A Day of Fun and Play..

This was a day of sun and fun.  Me and my LiL one went to at least 3 different parks today.  We were riding in the wind.  Where ever the tide flowed, we were there.  We looked to the left saw a park and pulled in. We left there and rode a little bit.  Looked to the right and saw a park and pulled in.  Boy, did we have fun.  Today was a good day.  God is everywhere and in everything.  The wind in the trees, the sun in the sky, the chuckle in your laugh.  Try and spend some time just admiring what is around you.  It is a beautiful feeling.

A NEW DAY..

Today was a day of healing and rebirth.  Today was my son's birthday.  Menes Osiris Daniels.  He was killed crossing a street in Round Rock Tx.  He was 6 years old. Menes was the type of child that was very inquisitive and smart.  He loved to play outside with his friends and family.  This particular day he wanted to impress his cousins and show them where a special friend lived.  A friend that use to play with him and his older brother Elijah.  The friend wasnt home so Menes and his cousins started to come back home.  The street was usually not busy at all.  The street was crossed many times before. But this particular time the cousins crossed and left Menes on the other side.  Menes tried to catch up by crossing and didnt see a truck that was coming up.  The truck struck Menes and he was knocked unconscious.  He later died in the helicopter on the way to the hospital.  I dont doubt God or Question him about the decisions he makes in my life.  I just praise God for the time I spent with my son.  God knows all and He is Wonderful.  Inspite of what we think or feel.  God Loves Us and that is good enough for me. I love you Menes Osiris Daniels....and mommy will see you when I get to Heaven.