Determination, Aspiration, Perspiration

Each of these words make me sweat as I think of them. I am able to give each of them a personal definition at this time because I am living each word literally each day as I navigate my way through this new life I have created for myself.

Currently, I am rebuilding my life since I decided to separate from my husband and the road has not been smooth. I know that I want to live a life that is pleasing to my Creator, pleasing to myself, and acceptable in the eyes of my children who inevitably look up to me. I am determined to live a life that is drama-free and a life that is uplifting, prosperous, and happy.

My determination was instilled in me from my mother who would never accept "no" for an answer when she was trying to get something we needed or wanted. She said that to be determined is part of never giving up and I have always remembered that. I won't give up on the possibility of getting exactly what I want.

Aspiration to me means constantly wanting to reach new heights and be better than I was last year, last week, and even better than I was yesterday. I aspire to outdo myself and be pleased with the results.

Perspiration is the sweat and tears that are shed each day as I evaluate what has and has not worked up to this point. I am exhausted some days and I really don't want to continue but I have no other choice. My children are depending on me and I know that I can't let myself down.

I appreciate the encouragement from all of my friends at this point and I look forward to brighter days! I can't wait to pay it forward and show my sincere gratitude to those who are making my new journey a little easier.

As with every post, I hope that any and everyone reading this is
Better, Brighter, and Blessed!

Chowan Moore Aforo

Mantra

I desire to be an active participant in my life!
No more sitting down waiting for things to get right!
Through it ALL- I will stand tall
and know that GOD is by my side.

Connected By Hope Week Schedule

It’s time again for Connected by Hope week.  In honor of the life and memory of our mother Wanda “To” Felton and others who we have lost or are still fighting cancer. We have listed daily activities that give a little insight on how to fight and prevent this deadly disease.  Since our mothers birthday falls on a Sunday we are going to do a Sunday through Saturday Week.  Feel free to share pictures, quotes, and other inspirational thoughts or memories on Instagram using #connectedbyhope. Like us on FB at www.facebook.com/connectedbyhope.

Sunday, Mar. 3
Family Day!  In dedication to everyone we have lost to this disease and everyone who is still in the fight, we would like to make this day a family day.  Spend some time with the ones you love and care about. Thank you all in advance for taking part in our “Connected by Hope Week.”

Monday, Mar. 4
Educate yourself today! Knowledge is power, if you don’t understand the disease how can you properly fight it or educate yourself enough in order to prevent it. There are many places to go to get more information on the disease you can go to your local library, area doctor, or either the Internet. Log on to CureToday.com they break down the different stages of cancer and what the different forms actually mean.
http://curetoday.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/article.show/id/2/article_id/1006

Tuesday, Mar. 5
Toxin-free Tuesday! What are toxins you ask?  According to Dictionary.com toxins are poisonous substances, especially a protein that is produced by living cells or organisms and is capable of causing disease when introduced into the body tissues. Our modern day lifestyle has meant that we tend to go for convenience and processed foods. However, these foods are generally harmful and toxic to our body. Toxins could also include people and/or events.  So today take the time to identify and avoid toxins.  We have enclosed a recipe for you to try and a list of common toxins to try to avoid.  Checkout this article on StanduptoCancer.org:
http://www.standup2cancer.org/node/3950

Wednesday, Mar. 6
Work It Out Wednesday! Studies show that people who are physically active have a lower risk of certain cancers than those who are not.  So today let’s get active.  Whether it’s playing the Wii, Xbox Kinect, or taking a walk.  Find something to do to get you moving and your blood pumping.

Thursday, Mar. 7
Touch yourself Thursday!  Do a self-check exam.  Early detection is the key.  There's a few ways that this can be accomplished. You can do a self-breast exam. Keep in mind that both men and women can become diagnosed with the disease. If you are not sure how to do a self-exam, you can log onto http://breastcancer.about.com/od/risk/tp/bse_illustrated.htm or go to your local library or health department to get informed.  You can also give yourself an oral exam. Studies have shown that some forms of cancer have signs that arise in the mouth. So while doing your daily tooth-brushing just look around your face and inside your mouth for any abnormalities. If you have time schedule a routine doctors visit.

Friday, Mar. 8
STOP STRESSING! Although it has not been scientifically proven, stress does affect the immune system.  The immune system is the body’s way of fighting off diseases such as; cancer.  So today take a moment and just relax.  Try reading a book, or taking a long hot bath or shower.  Prayer and/or meditation are also some good options. Spread the love today!

Saturday, Mar. 9
Spread The Love Today! Take some time out of your busy day to show and tell your family and friends that you love them.  Whether it is sending a text or making a call.  Let them know that they are on your mind.