My Blog

My friend recently gave me a gift, a gift that really does keep on giving and I decided I would share this idea on my blog. I have always been a big advocate for ‘charity’ gifts so this one really made an impact on me. I had never heard of Kiva before; it is a non-profit organization which allows people to lend funds through micro loans to help alleviate poverty. By way of a worldwide network of these micro-lending institutions, Kiva lets individuals donate funds to endless causes creating opportunities around the world.

100% of every dollar you lend on Kiva goes directly towards funding loans; Kiva does not take a cut. Kiva also does not charge interest to the Field Partners, who administer the loans. Once the loans are paid back you can even re-lend the money! So the gift really DOES keep on giving!

So, my friend stayed with me for about 2 weeks in between new housing and I always try to be the best hostess when it comes to my house guests. We had a great time doing dinners, talking, hanging out watching the favorite shows… (Playing Dexter catch up!) And here is how he repaid me:

I redeemed my gift by lending to a woman named Mary from Kenya, here is her story…

Mary is 37 years old, married and has two children in school. To earn a living, she sells natural medicine and health products. She has been in the business for four years and has employed one person. Even though she runs her business in a very competitive environment, she has retained her business because of her good customer care. Mary hopes to expand her business into wholesale in five years. She needs a loan of 80, 000 Kenya shillings to add stock of medicine. (Mary’s Story)

In a few short days, the loan had been fully funded, I was so happy for this woman! And I really felt I made a small difference for someone who needed a little help. The causes are endless so if you choose to give, you can direct the funds to causes that mean the most to you.

I think next year I may do some X-mas shopping on Kiva, so I want to thank my friend for opening my eyes to this awesome opportunity and I encourage all to try it out! Feel free to use this link to get started: KIVA INVITATION

If anyone has needed dating advice it has been me. So in efforts to share some great tips (from others), take my own advice, and actually blog, (I’ve been laaaaameo about it) here are a few words from the wise. Ladies enjoy!

Think your Mr. Next has the potential to be Mr. Right? Before you leap without looking, take an honest inventory. See how many of the following five essential traits he possesses.

Dating Trait #1: He listens to you

The best way to know if Mr. Next is interested in (and worthyof) being a candidate for Mr. Right? He listens to you. You’ll know he’s listening when he shows genuine concern, consistently remembers things you’ve told him (your birthday, favorite food, best friend’s name, etc.), and offers emotional support in honest and thoughtful ways.

Dating Trait #2: He connects with you easily

We’ve all been in those relationships that take W-O-R-K (and suck the life force out of us in the process). When a relationship works on its own, it feels effortless, easy, and fluid. You don’t have to force anything, forgive anyone, or turn a blind eye to red flags or gut-twisters. Instead, you communicate and collaborate with comfort, compatibility, and undeniable chemistry. If and when you experience this kind of interaction, you are on to something really special.

Dating Trait #3: He wants the real you

So often, women feel the need to sacrifice some part of themselves to make a relationship work. In the right relationship, there’s no need. You don’t have to hide, tone down, or apologize for any aspect of you or your fabulous life. With the right partner, you’re not only able to be yourself, but you’re better able to be the best version of your most authentic self — no compromises needed.

Dating Trait #4: He’s trustworthy

A relationship without trust is doomed from the start. A relationship without trust is doomed from the start. But a relationship with abundant trust? A fabulous foundation for real and lasting love! Built over time, trust is based on the simple belief system that your partner has your best interests at heart and will never intentionally hurt you (and vice versa). If and when you discover that Mr. Next is 100 percent trustworthy, you’ll have no trouble giving your heart to him. In return, he’ll most likely give you his heart and pave the way for a lasting, loving relationship to unfold.

Dating Trait #5: He enriches your life

In the wrong relationship, your partner tears you to emotional shreds, brings you down, and in general drains your energy. In the right relationship, he enriches your life, inspires you to be your best self, and brings a sense of peace and possibility to you. You’ll know Mr. Next is enriching your life if and when he encourages and supports you professionally, personally, and spiritually. And when he does, he may just be Mr. Right!

Does your Mr. Next possess all five qualities? If so, congratulations! You have done your homework, chosen wisely, and are now well positioned for relationship success. If not, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and get back into the dating pool with a clearer understanding of who you want to date. Remember, finding your life partner isn’t always easy, but by being clear, honoring yourself, and acting accordingly, you’ll cut down on wasted time with Mr. Wrong and Mr. Next, and ultimately make room for Mr. Right.

Now time to put it into action! Wish me LUCK…

I’ve done it! I’ve created my own blog. This has been a long time coming so I just had to leave my first note. Rest assured, there will be many more interesting additions to come, but I am excited to say I will finally have my own BLOG!

I kind of think there is no more appropriate song than this good old Rolling Stones jam to “Start Me Up”! So here I go… Gotta love a Mick Jagger dance party.