No good deed goes unpunished

I find myself caught up in a mess and I know better. I accepted a position for a project with my coaching organization in the middle of the project. Actually, it was not in the middle it is more like the last five weeks of a five month planned project.

I wanted so badly to tell the president to find someone else but I didn't because the conference is next Friday. That is just not how I work.

After next Friday, I will be finished with this and that will take care of me volunteering in the middle of a project. It's kinda like sewing a garment someone else cut and they took the pattern instruction sheet with them! I think I said volunteering is a rewarding experience...well, sometimes it is and sometimes, it isn't.

No tags given or received today. Only barbs received and given. Tomorrow will be a better day because I will make it a better day.

Thankful for my family

Having a loving family is a blessing. Today, I spoke with with my niece. We only spoke for about 15 minutes, but we did some catching up. She is in school studying avionics. I told her she will not have a problem getting a job. How many female avionic mechanics do you know?

I mentioned to her that I wanted to travel to Montana. She had a good laugh on that one then she asked "what's in Montana that you want to see?" I had to admit that I want to go to Montana just because I have never been there. She asked me if I had been to Portland. I think she might have been trying to bring me back to reality or forget about going to Montana. She convinced me that Portland is a better choice.

Double tagged today

Not one but two "tags" today.

The day started off a little rocky for me. I had to deal with a technician who was trying to sell me a deal he thought I could not refuse when all I wanted was to install Norton anti virus on my laptop. Proved him wrong.

After interacting with him, I called Norton again for help and was blessed to get a wonderful technician. She was not only efficient but very friendly. She asked about my family, how I spend my weekends and shared with me that she would like to attend the University of Mississippi to continue her studies in microbiology.

A short time after taking remote access of my computer, she had Norton installed. She said "I have a surprise for you." Of course, she really had my interest then...a surprise for ME. She "tagged" me by extending my Norton coverage for an additional 60days and did not once try to sell me a "tune up package " for my laptop.

My second "tag" came when Alex, Brandi's husband patiently worked with me this evening to record a CD of my recent Teleseminars on the 5 Stages of a Relationship. He downloaded the recordings of the Teleseminars on to his computer and started editing. He is making my product look and sound so professional. This "tag" is special because I had no idea how I was going to get my CD completed. Thanks Alex and Brandi for extending yourselves for my cause...helping couples develop lasting relationships.

Double "tags" today maybe triple tomorrow.

My nephew tagged me today

Today, I called my sister-in-law to say hello; however, to my surprise, my nephew answered the phone. (He sounds just like his dad, my brother -- he even laughs like him.)

I have not seen him in a l-o-n-g time. He is in the Air Force and is just returning from a remote tour.

When I realized it was my nephew, I screamed his name. I was soooooo happy to hear his voice and just chat with him.

I immediately had a flashback or two about him as a young boy. He was charming, loving, animated and quite humorous. Actually, I was putty in his hands and he knew it. I let him play jokes on me, listened to him recant his famous baseball plays, beat me playing games, posed for him to draw a picture of me when in reality he was drawing his thumb! He had me preparing french toast at his beck and call because "I made the best french toast in the world." (I could not resist those loving eyes and that smile of his!)

He told me he is being transferred to Hawaii and my comment to that was -- I am coming to visit you...for real. He reminded me that I have told him that before and he is going to hold me to it this time.

I know he is an adult but he is still MY little nephew and I am very proud of him. He is a wonderful husband, a great father, son, brother, and nephew.

I am thankful for his service to our country.

If I could get to where he is, his breakfast menu would include my french toast. However, since I can not, I will just have to show up in Hawaii to prepare him and his family a batch of the best french toast in the world.

This was the best relationship "tag" an aunt could ask for.

Love you J.

Comforting my friend

My friend's son was killed in an automobile accident four or five weeks ago. I think of her often and when I do, I pray for her. I also text her to let her know she is not alone nor forgotten.

Generally, a week or so after a tragedy everyone heads home and you are left alone to deal with your grief. I know that from experience and knowing that has helped me remember to comfort my friend. As I mentioned earlier, I text her when I think of her and pray for her often.

Today, I spoke with her and she was sobbing. That made my heart ache. As a mother I ached and as a mother who has lost a child, I ached more. We chatted and I asked if she journaled and she said she use to and knows the value of journaling. She said, you know, I don't know what to write. That was my opportunity to comfort her. I suggested that she writes whatever she is feeling... like today, I hurt.

I believe that resonated with her because she said "I can do that."

To bed, to bed sleepy head

Sunday, April 25
After taking my darling grandson home, I came home, ate dinner, chatted with my husband and decided to lie down for a few minutes. Well, a few minutes turned into hours. I woke up at 4:03 a.m. Monday morning. My point? I did not blog yesterday and that is my excuse or reason.

I found a new friend at Wal-mart

Most of us go to Wal-mart to find bargains. I generally do; however, tonight, I found a new friend.

Our conversation started over a tri-fold poster board then on to discussing relationships. This gave me the opportunity to share my business card with her and refer her to my website to get the title of a book.

She got teary, we hugged and she told me she and her husband were separated and it hurts sometimes when she thinks about it.

This was a wonderful opportunity to "tag" a new friend to let her know she is not alone and to stand on the Word. I know she will be fine because she knows the Lord and is a strong black woman.

Sister, I am praying for you and your family. God is still in control.

D.

About 1 p.m. this afternoon, I noticed I missed a call and there was a voice mail. I dialed my voice mail and heard: "GiGi I know it's a short notice but can you come pick me up today after school?"

I immediately called back to confirm that I would pick D. up after school -- on short notice.

Me, miss an opportunity to "tag" my grandson, NO WAY. I got dressed and took off. The 80 mile drive seemed like 10 miles because of the anticipation of seeing D. and the kids. I even got to see the cat who was taking in the warmth of the sun. He was sprawled on the living room window seal like he owned the place! Everyone knows how much I must have enjoyed that. Not!!!

In spite of seeing the cat first after driving 80 miles one way, my day was complete as D. and I drove back to Houston with the top down seeing who could spot the most Slug Bugs. I know I won but he said he beat me because I pushed him instead of tagging him when I spotted a Slug Bug. He counted that as his sighting.

Well, for the joy I get from being with him this weekend, it is OKAY for him to have won the Slug Bug sighting contest. I count the trip in my win column because I got to "tag" him with lots of hugs, kisses and laughs.

We always have a fun time when we are together.

D., Love you dude.

p.s. I let you win!

Relationship Tag for the day

I met several people yesterday at the Constant Contact workshop. We exchanged business cards and I sent almost everyone I met an e-mail last evening telling them it was great meeting them.

Today, I received a "tag" from Christopher Passmore, A1 Shredding, Inc. He connected with me...and I just want to let him know I appreciate him staying in touch. When someone mentions they need documents shredded, you bet I'll be referring them to Christopher.

Did I mention my favorite son is named Christopher? So, this Christopher has to be A-OK.

Aren't all Christophers A-OK? In my book they are.

No Tags Today

Not having received or given a "tag" today does not make me feel like I accomplished very much.

Not sure what happened early today but stuff happened before I left going to a workshop.

On the up side, I had my second teleseminar on 5 Stages of a Relationship. It was OK. Now, I have to get both sessions recorded on one CD and get a CD cover made. I also have a completed draft of the book 5 Stages of a Relationship and it needs a cover as well.

That's about all I have to talk about.

Nite! Nite! Tomorrow will be better because I will make it a better day.

PJs are wonderful

Working from home is totally awesome. I had a productive day in spite of being in my PJs until late morning.

I have to go out tomorrow, so I'll have to dress up!

Working on my book, Five Stages of a Relationship to complement my Teleseminar of the same title. I am on roll. It had to be the PJs that inspired me!

Happy Birthday Buddy

After a long week, I use Monday as my administrative day and I sleep in. I did not do that today because today is my husband's birthday and I needed every minute to prepare the dinner he requested.

Today, he got the biggest "tag" I have given him in a long time. I threw down in the kitchen. I prepared steamed ribs (my special), mustard and collard greens (they were not healthy), rice, my famous virgin potato salad (my friend in Dayton, OH gave it that name), sweet potatoes, cornbread muffins and sweet tea. A meal fit for...my buddy.

Happy Birthday Buddy - we do what we can!

How to be Happy

It ain't about someone else making me happy, it's about me being happy from the inside out!

The message today at church drove the point home -- My happiness is not determined by what's happening around me, but by what's happening in me.

Happiness is a choice. I think myself happy... Acts 26:2

Oh Happy Day!

Forgiveness is powerful

Have you ever found yourself in the position of having to tell your mate something that you did that was not exactly favorable?

Well, remember that Jesus died on the cross for our sins. He has paid the price and all we have to repent -- repent and ask for forgiveness. He is faithful and just to forgive us.

Others may be hurt by our actions; however, once we repent and ask for forgiveness, the healing process starts. We then have to walk the talk. We must do what we said we will do and not waiver. Be strong in the Lord and courageous. Do NOT go back to your old behavior. Remember, you repented and asked for forgiveness. Everyday, ask God for strength.

Forgiveness is powerful. Sincere repentance brings about forgiveness. You must display behavior that demonstrates you are truly remorseful for your actions and do every thing to walk uprightly before the Lord and man.

Time brings about a change and so will your actions.

Tagged by his mother-in-law

In building and sustaining relationships with each other, it is amazing how easy it is to "tag" someone with small things that bring them much joy.

My husband's birthday is Monday; however, he was "tagged" today by his mother-in-law with a homemade lemon meringue pie. The "tag" is special for him because this is his absolute favorite dessert. Happy Birthday from your mother-in-law

Thanks Mom for being so thoughtful. I was happy to drive 50 miles (one way) to your house to pick up your "tag" for my husband.

We both made him happy today.

A tag for Mrs. G.

Beautiful Azaleas on what is another very nice day in the city.

Mrs. G. is a wonderful lady on our meals on wheels route. She always tells me I smell good as she gives me a hug. She loves good smelling perfume so today, I "tagged" her with some Bath and Body Works shower gel. She was so happy --she gave me another hug. I love my relationship with Mrs. G. She is very appreciative for everything done for her and she always flashes a big smile when she opens her door and sees me.

I feel good after my three minute visit with her. That's right, we only share about three minutes together and those three minutes are valuable to both of us.

You know, I believe Mrs. G would love these beautiful azaleas!

Volunteering - a rewarding experience

Volunteering is such a rewarding experience. I had the pleasure of volunteering today at Carl Wunsche Senior High School as a Judge for the Senior Capstone project.

The students were all from the pre-law program and gave some thought provoking presentations on subjects like: immigration, abortion, DNA, sexual harassment, ultra sounds, sports agents, voting as it related to the 2000 presidential election, teen court proceedings and many more subjects.

These students were technologically sound. They incorporated clips from movies, you tube and videos into their PowerPoint presentations. Their presentation skills were excellent and they were well versed in their particular subjects.

Spending the day with these young people was a blessing and a learning experience. I think I will sign up to volunteer again next year.

Kudos to all the Seniors who presented their Capstone program today. Fantastic job!

A BIG accomplishment for Me

Today was another beautiful day...a perfect 10.

I am so excited with my accomplishment today. You will not guess so I will tell you what I accomplished.

I successfully completed my first Teleseminar all by myself. It was scheduled for 90 minutes; however, I finished 15 minutes early because there was only one question. Next time I conduct a Teleseminar, I will schedule it for 75 minutes and closely manage my time.

The Teleseminar was recorded and it will be put on a CD. The next step is to work with a graphic artist to design a cover and I will have another product to place on my website shopping cart page.

My darling friend, Sandy Lawrence, Perceptive Marketing, just "tagged" us on FB with a powerful passage from the Bible. She is such an angel.

Time to close everything down. I have an early appointment so off to bed I go.

Thank you Lord for all that you allow me to do. I am grateful.

Tagged when I least expected it

Today is Monday and that means I work on administrative duties. Today was different because I had a meeting to attend. I am glad I had the opportunity to be a part of the group, Houston Coaches, Inc., planning committee for Leadercast 2010.

I met the project manager, Amber, wow, what an inspiration. She is smart, young, energetic, friendly and doesn't mind sharing with others. She offered to help me with linking my blog, website, facebook and linkedin together and I didn't have to twist her arm. Normally when I ask someone questions about technology stuff, I get vague shallow responses. Not today, Amber and I will meet next Tuesday and I know I will be a social media hotshot when she finishes with me.

I wasn't expecting to be "tagged" at that meeting; however, I must remember, anywhere anytime I can get "tagged."

Amber, thank you for the "tag."

Grandfather tags Grandson

Today, the BIG "tag" was from Grandfather to Grandson. Our Grandson asked my husband if we had the ingredients to make shrimp fried rice. After giving it some thought, my husband said no we don't.

Our thoughtful Grandson said, "can you make some the next time I come?" Sure was the reply.

Well, to my surprise and of course to our Grandson's surprise, my husband had shrimp fried rice prepared when we came home from church. Grandfather "tagged" Grandson with something he really wanted and wasn't expecting until the next time he visited.

That's what relationship "tags" are all about. Giving to others something that makes their day.

Grandfather, you made Grandson's day -- and the truth be told, you made Grandmother's day as well.

Thanks Buddy. That was a totally awesome "tag."

Toastmasters to jewelry

I was up at the crack of dawn (on a Saturday, that would be 7:00 a.m.) because I planned to attend another Toastmasters Division contest. I heard some excellent speeches and got to visit with some Toastmasters friends I have not seen in a long time. Michael Williams won first place. Congratulations Michael -- on to District in a couple of weeks.

I got home just in time to answer a call from my niece in Maryland. Although the call was not for me, we spoke for about 45 minutes. She was enjoying some chips and salsa as we touched on a number of subjects: her adult children, webpages, facebook, her new job, to her jewelry line. I hope I remember to tell her uncle, my husband, to return her call.

Tagged by my grandson

Another beautiful day and it is special for my husband and me because our favorite grandson (we only have one) is spending the weekend with us.

I was not home when they got home because I was out "tagging" and hugging members of my Toastmasters family at a Division contest.

When I did get home, I let my grandson know I was home by switching the light on and off several times. He came out of his room, stood at the top of the stairs with a gigantic smile on his face, ran down the stairs and gave me a TEXAS size hug.

Now, that's a "tag" for a grandmother who has not seen her favorite grandson in two weeks.

Love that Dude.

Tagged or Bribed

Today was another beautiful day, a perfect 10. When I got up, my husband informed me that he was going to take me to lunch at a new seafood restaurant not to far from hour home. I was elated. He was going to "tag" me with lunch.

We ordered gumbo, fried shrimp and catfish and it was delicious. When we finished, we headed home and my husband asked me if I would help him put his new grill together.

My first thought was: did I get bribed instead of "tagged."

At any rate, I helped him put the grill together and considered it a "tag" from me to him with intentions of asking him to smoke me some baby back ribs and Down Home Sausage--tomorrow.

The question of the day is who got "tagged" and who got bribed? It really doesn't matter as long as I get "tagged" tomorrow with smoked ribs and sausage.

Tagged by my favorite daughter

Talking about getting "tagged" - Today, my favorite daughter (I only have one) "tagged" me with a beautiful dress. I was beaming about the dress, but the BIG deal about this "tag" is that the dress arrived via the Postal Service.

No big deal you say? Well, let me share with you how BIG a deal it is. My darling daughter purchased the dress on Monday...like two days ago Monday and I received it today. That means she purchased the dress and immediately went to the Post Office and mailed it! That's the BIG deal.

I really am excited about my new dress and surprised that she mailed it along with some other stuff she has been riding around in her vehicle for, oh, say the past three weeks!

Thanks daughter for being so kind to your Mother. You are a blessing to me and I love you more than the "world can contain."

You are my favorite.

Relationship Tag for the Day

Today the weather was beautiful as we delivered Meals on Wheels. I was able to "tag" everyone on our route with a smile and kind words.

Mrs. G., one of the clients, always tells me I smell good and that she loves my fragrance. Well, today, I "tagged" her with the fragrance I was wearing: Chloe. Yes, Chloe. She smiled and "tagged" me a BIG hug.

I have been wearing Chloe for almost 35 years and it still enjoy wearing it. My husband "tagged" me with a HUGH bottle of Chloe last Christmas. Oh, I guess that was a gift.

Relationship Tag for the Day

Today was a very busy and productive day for me. Got lots of administrative stuff completed, listened to a teleseminar then headed into town to attend a meeting this evening. I almost forgot to post an entry.

I did not give a relationship "tag" today. How in the world did I manage to not give a "tag?"

Reflecting on my day, I know exactly how I forgot to give a "tag." I was so caught up in being productive that I did not give one single "tag." Thank God other people in my life were not to busy to "tag" me.

My niece Mary and my friend Melanie sent me a FB message. They were not to busy to "tag" me nor was my daughter who took time out of her very busy schedule to "tag" me with a call.

I am going to do better tomorrow --

Promise.

Relationship Tag for the Day

Today was a great day. Off to church where I heard a wonderful sermon that made me appreciate my relationship with Jesus more than you can imagine.

My nephew Larry, his wife Jenna, my niece Alicia and their little ones "tagged" me today. They drove across town to worship with me. After church, we all came back to my house for a delicious dinner (their words, not mine!).

I am grateful for my relationship with Jesus as well as with my family. I hope everyone was "tagged" today and their day was special. My family sure made my day special.

Thanks guys.

Relationship Tag for the Day

Today was a wonderful day. The weather was a 10 in my book - mild temperatures and low humidity. My husband "tagged" me by preparing breakfast for me and my Mom...well, I had to cook the eggs. (I still count that as a "tag.")

My Mom and I went to DSW and found some great bargains then we visited my sister after shopping. One of the topics of discussion was Tiger Woods. All three of us agreed that Tiger should get back to playing golf and continue working on repairing his relationship with Elin. Now that is what Tiger should do. What we (the public) should do is "tag" Tiger and Elin by giving them the same level of privacy we would like to have IF we found ourselves in a similar situation.

Relationships are important to me. Marriages are important to me. Tiger and Elin I am praying for you and your family.

www.info@connectingheartscoaching.com

Relationship Tag for the Day

Since I am all about relationships, my "tag" for today is for my Mother. I tagged her by taking her to the Texas Repertory Theater to see Barefoot in the Park. It was a wonderful comedy and my Mother laughed a lot and often. She thoroughly enjoyed herself and that made me happy.

Tag for the day

My husband has already received two "tags" today... a two arm 20 second hug AND I also put lotion on his feet. He really loves that "tag." Two "tags" so far and it is still morning!