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How serious is nappy rash?
We all know that looking after your baby’s skin is important. I mean, you don’t need a rocket scientist to tell you that the skin in the nappy area is the most vulnerable. Sadly, a nappy rash gone out of control can turn deadly, due to hostile bacteria that can affect baby’s health. Scary, right? I mean, it’s just a nappy rash! But pioneer, Doctor Carol Hlela, who is a pediatric dermatologist and a leader in providing quality skin care, for babies in South Africa, shared some interesting tips and information at the JOHNSON’S® Baby Health wet wipes masterclass last week. JOHNSON’S Baby invited myself and a few others to Johannesburg to learn more about baby skin health and I need to let you guys in on it!
The masterclass was hosted by stunning Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp, who facilitated a great discussion regarding baby skin health, alongside the very impressive Professor Carol Hlela and JOHNSON’S® Baby Portfolio Manager, Jacquelyn Paterson.
Dr Hlela shared testimony of babies who have suffered trauma and have lost their lives due to poorly managed skin health. In all honesty, a story like this may not happen to a baby in your circle or my circle, but the truth is, it IS happening! The poor socio-economic conditions, in certain parts of South Africa, make it more difficult for mother’s to properly look after their baby’s skin. And a seemingly annoying nappy rash can get out of control, letting in bacteria that can impact negatively on the child’s health.Why is healthy skin important?
Well Dr Hlela says that the skin serves as a protective barrier that prevents infections, water loss and the penetration of irritants and allergens. Besides for baby skin being up to 3 times thinner than an adult’s, it also loses moisture 5 times faster. The first few month’s of a baby’s life is crucial – so you want to make sure that they are protected from germs and bacteria. Cracked skin allows germs to pass through more easily.How can I keep baby’s nappy area healthy?
Dr Hlela introduced us to the ABCDE steps to protecting the delicate skin barrier of a baby:A – Air: Exposing the area to fresh air frequently and for as long as possible
B – Barrier: Using a barrier cream that provides lipid film to protect against irritants such as urine and stool
C – Cleansing: Making sure to cleanse the area with a baby wipe at each nappy change
D – Diaper: Using super absorbent diapers, changing baby frequently
E – Educate: Educating other moms and care givers to follow the proper nappy hygiene skin care practices
Okay, so what’s the big deal about wet wipes?
You guys, have you ever visited the baby aisle and felt overwhelmed at the vast array of wet wipes available? How do you even know which one to choose?! Well here are a bunch of factors to consider when choosing baby wipes and skin care products:- Make sure the type of fabric used for the wipes is 100% cotton. This will ensure that it is soft for the skin and reduces friction.
- Check if it has gentle emollients to protect skin from damage caused by frequent cleansing.
- Even water has a higher pH level than that of baby skin, sometimes causing dryness. Look for a wipe that is as close as possible to baby’s natural pH level which is around 5.5.
- Mildly fragranced wipes are okay, fragrance-free is better. Not all fragrance is skin appropriate.
- Educate yourself! Read the ingredients! Avoid strong chemicals such as alcohol, soap, triclosan and even essential oils (which can be an irritant),
Why JOHNSON’S®?
I love that JOHNSON’S®Baby takes baby’s skin seriously. All the JOHNSON’S®Baby products are hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested and paraben-free. They’ve even launched a JOHNSON’S®Baby Healthy Skin Project, in partnership with Unjani Clinics, in a bid to provide thousands of mothers and babies in impoverished areas with access to treatment.Unjani is a sustainable initiative that aims to strengthen health systems in low-income communities throughout South Africa. Dr Carol Hlela helps to educate Health Care Professionals in these communities about baby and skin health. Because of this amazing initiative, more mother’s are now made aware of ways to protect and care for their baby’s skin and JOHNSON’S® Baby even gifts them with product to help them do so.
Dr Hlela agrees that the JOHNSON’S® Two-Step Routine, to keep the skin barrier in the nappy area healthy, is the most effective way to keep your baby’s skin happy. The routine consists of:- Cleansing at nappy change time, using the JOHNSON’S® Baby Wipes. These wipes are made with 100% cotton and 97% pure water and is free of alcohol, soap and essential oils.
- Protecting baby’s skin in the nappy area using an emollient such as the JOHNSON’S® Baby Jelly which spreads easily and contains nourishing oils to soften the skin. Dr Hlela says that because baby has no hair follicles, the petroleum jelly does not “smother” the skin, but rather acts as a barrier.
You guys, have you heard about JOHNSON’S® Baby’s baby barrier cream? The AVEENO® Baby Daily Care Baby Barrier Cream is unscented and suitable for newborns. It’s formulated with colloidal oatmeal to actively soothe and reduce the redness of dry, delicate baby skin.
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Mother’s Day: gifting with intention {Giveaway}
With Mother’s Day nearing, I’m keeping a keen eye out for extra special gifts for my moms. I mean, macaroni necklaces and paint bedecked cards are cute and all, but when the kid is in her thirties (me, I’m the kid), I’m pretty sure the mom expects a little something more. And I get. I totally do. Mom’s have the hardest and most important jobs in the world! And they deserve to be treated like the queens that they are. That’s why my motto this year, while gift shopping, is: Mothers Day gifting with intention!
If your mother is a super woman (I bet ya she is) or if you have any other super women in your life that you’d like to spoil, I highly recommend you pop on over to CUM Books to check out their latest best sellers. I mean, besides for their really amazing Mother’s Day related paraphernalia and gift ideas, they also stock inspirational reads. I love that Christian Art Media has a large foray of books that are both interesting and intentional – leaving the reader with a lot more than just an entertaining story. Here are some of my top picks, that would make really great Mother’s Day gifts. (Oh and I’m giving some of them away too!)
Adamant – Lisa Bevere
Lisa Bevere is a popular international speaker and New York Times bestselling author. This lady is amazing! She has spent nearly three decades on her mission to empower women of all ages, with a mandate to help women find their identity and purpose. I love this so much. You may recall her previous best sellers, Fight Like a Girl, Lioness Arising and Girls with Swords. Well, her latest book, Adamant, is definitely one to get your hands on. The book is described as “theologically deep yet intimately accessible”. In it, she provides you with the tools you need to navigate through a sea of untruths, as we push to find our own truths. A truth that is immovable, invincible, unshakable and the cornerstone of all we are and ever dream to be.
Unexpected – Christine Caine
Australian born Christine Caine is an activist and international speaker. If you know her name, you’ll know that she founded The A21 Campaign – an anti-human trafficking organization. In her latest book, Unexpected, Caine speaks about having peace in an uncertain world. She deals with issues of control (I mean, hands up if you have control issues) and shares about her own journey, giving us real-life strategies and biblical inspiration to help us move from fear and worry to hope and trust in God. Learn how to manage dissapointment, strengthen your heart and build your faith with this glorious read.
Mother Tongue – Leonard Sweet
Leonard Sweet is a professor, teacher and an author of more than sixty books! How is that for impressive? In his most personal book yet, Mother Tongue, he shares a story about an ordained minister and missionary, Mabel Boggs Sweet. This book is full of truths and teachings, and you’ll probably find yourself taking a moment, after each chapter, to let the wisdom sink in. Mabel’s story is one that will have you considering the call of God on your own life. With its focus on heritage and legacy, it will make for a really poignant Mother’s Day gift.
The Way of Abundance – Ann Voskamp
If you guys recall, I’ve reviewed the amazing Ann Voskamp’s previous novels on the blog a while ago. Her new York Times bestsellers One Thousand Gifts and The Broken Way are both amazing reads and I’m so chuffed to introduce her new book to you. In The Way of Abundance Ann tackles topics of grief and brokenness, talks about healing and how to allow it to be a part of your victory. She shares so much wisdom in these sixty vulnerable, soulful stories, and takes the reader through a journey of intimate soul searching and restoration. “Discover how surrendering in unexpected ways is the first step toward receiving what you long for. Discover the good news that your beauty is not in your strength but in your fragility.”
Giveaway!
Are you a mommy or are you looking to spoil a special mommy in your life? You’re in the right place, sister! Thanks to Christian Art Media, I get to give away a couple of these reads to some well deserved mamas, for Mother’s Day! To enter, simply rack up the points the following ways:
1 point – Comment below, letting me know which of these you’re most interested in
1 point – Visit this post on my Facebook account and tag a mommy friend
1 point – Visit this post on my Instagram and tag a mommy friend
1 point per share – Share this tweet:
“Eek, I’m so excited about the #myspreadsheetbrain Mother’s Day #giveaway over on @luchae’s blog! @cartmedia #bloggiveaway #bookgiveaway”Winner’s announced on Friday, May 11th.
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Husband, do you still think I’m pretty?
This morning en route to work, I asked my dear ol’ Hubstopher: “babe, do you still think I’m pretty?” How needy of me, right? But the thing is, it’s almost a year since I gave birth to Jo and I pretty much feel as if I’m still pregnant. Maybe it’s the constant need to shove food in my face, or the fact that I want to live in gym pants. Maybe it’s the excessive tiredness or that my waist band has expanded and it clearly has no desire to return to it’s former state. I mean, we can mull over the details some other time guys. But for now, I just wanted to come here to let you guys know that I feel like a fat slob and I often wonder if my husband thinks it too.
He obviously gave me the standard “I think you’re the most beautiful girl in the world” response, which I guess is a better option than “get out of the car, fatso”. And I obviously wasn’t happy with his reply. I was all “yeah, you HAVE to say that, because I’m your wife”.
And he sighed.
The sigh said a lot. The sigh said things he probably didn’t have the time or energy to get into. His sigh reminded me that to him my loveliness isn’t dependent on what I’m wearing or whether I brushed my hair. To him my beauty has nothing to do with the size of my clothing or whether my eyebrows are on fleek. He doesn’t base his opinion of my worth on whether I can successfully wear a pair of hot shorts in public. Heck, my hubstopher isn’t even concerned about whether my shoes and handbag matches. And that’s because when he looks at me, he sees his bride. And he sighs because he doesn’t feel as if he needs to justify why he thinks I am the most beautiful girl in the world.
It got me thinking: “what the heck is your problem, woman?!” No, seriously, I asked myself that question in a candid one-girl conversation. What the heck is your problem?! Why do you base your beauty on superficial things like weight and appearance? Moms, why do we put so much pressure on ourselves to look like a super model, post-kids? It’s almost as if we want our appearance to be UNCHANGED by motherhood. But the truth is that being someone’s Mama changes you in every single way!I don’t know about you guys, but my children have completely rearranged me! Their little hearts have reshaped and molded me into a woman I never thought I had the capacity to become. And when my daughter looks at me, the last thing I worry about is whether she thinks I’m beautiful. When my boys talk to me, I’m not standing there wondering if they are impressed by my carefully applied face beat.
When my kids think about me, I want them to remember a kind and compassionate heart and a willingness to serve others. I want them to remember a strength to stand up for what is right and a humble soul, not driven by ego. When they think about their mom, and associate me with beauty, I want them to find the glory in how I helped to draw them closer to God… and NOT in a perfect, size 6 appearance.
All of this from a simple sigh, this morning, when I asked my hubstopher “babe, do you still think I’m pretty?”
Oh and disclaimer, guys: I do believe that we should look after ourselves… caring about your health and how you present yourself, is important. But set healthy expectations for yourself. Your face is not the most important thing about you! The size of your legs and flatness (or lack thereof) of your belly does not determine how valuable you are. And you, my dear, are far more beautiful than you realize.
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#ECMeetUp – A trip to the races!
Bloggers based in the Eastern Cape are in for a treat on June 2nd, when we celebrate another year of blogging at the annual ECMeetUp. It’s ECMeetUp time you guys, and this time around we’d like to invite you to go and see a man about a horse. That’s right, we’re hosting the meet up at the very classy Fairview Race Course! Aaack! A trip to the races, anyone?
Why the race course, I hear you ask in shock and amazement. Well, for starters, since we will be partnering with Travelstart (yes, the actual real life Travelstart… more on that next week) we thought that “going places” is a pretty apt theme for the meet up this time around. And while I’m sure you’d much rather travel on a jet, than on a horse, we figured that having meet up on a jet would be a bit far fetched even for us. Anyways, we had a chat with the lovely Karin of Fairview Race Course and they are super-duper thrilled to host us.
I mean, we are so blessed to live in the best city in South Africa (seriously though… right?) and there are a ton of amazing venues and attractions that some of us (me, I’m talking about me) may not know about. The meet up is a great way to get us bloggers to explore and learn more about the city AND to show others just how “kwaai” we are. (Because we are very, very kwaai in my totally biased opinion)
Fairview Racecourse
For those who don’t know, yes there is an actual race course in our beloved city. And yes, it’s like, the real thing. Ella and I oohed and aahed while visiting the other day… the facilities are really posh, you guys! The horseracing track is legit and racing takes place every Friday and occasionally on week days (no entry fee… so cool). The venue also doubles as a wedding/function facility and can accommodate 300 people, with full bar and restaurant. (More about the posh ECMeetUp food over on Ella’s blog today).The Fairview Racecourse is managed and maintained by Phumelela Gaming and Leisure Limited. The race course is more than 40 years old, but the beautifully renovated facilities and new stabling complex hides its age well. I mean, I’m not saying come to meet up wearing wide brimmed hats and fancy pants, but you might just wish you did, once you’ve stepped inside the venue and allowed the tranquility of the magnificent greenery and large glass windows to sweep you in. Photographers – get your cameras ready!
Of corse, there will be food, goodie bags, giveaways and a chance to mingle and learn (more on the guest speakers next week). We have also invited a few PR reps to join us for a while, so there is enough time to rub elbows (don’t forget the Campher cream) and swop business cards. But more than that, we’re just so flippen excited to see you guys man!
Got your ticket?
To secure your ECMeetUp ticket, use the bank details below to purchase. If you’re unable to purchase right now, you can RSVP to Luchae (that’s me, by the way) to hold one for you. Tickets cost R150 and all monies must be paid by May 25th. There are only 70 goodie bags available you guys, so I’d say put this as a priority on your to do list, for sure!Purchase by making payment to FNB 62712255365, and using your name and surname as reference
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Be the light – got the tshirt? {Giveaway}
Be the light… please? Yep, that’s kinda the mantra around these here parts. I mean, I liked it so much, I put it on a tshirt. How’s that for dedication? But okay, I know what you’re thinking… “What on earth does it even mean, girl?” Well, I’m here to answer questions and give things away… two things I do often as a mother.
When I started this blog in 2011 it was more of an online diary of sorts because I felt as if I had a lot to say and nowhere to put all of it. A couple of years later, Ella convinced me to “go live” and share my stories with the world. She’s quite good at selling things to ya (It’s the main reason why I keep her around) so I couldn’t say no. But, when I started legit blogging, I suddenly felt like… what the heck do I say?!
I mean, sure there are tons of products to review and tips to share. But, come on guys, there are only so many smiley-kid-faced, soppy-family stories that I can share with you before you want to gourge your eyes out. And so I decided to get real – down and dirty – with you guys. BUT, I wanted to leave a trail of hope… the faith that God’s plan for every situation is for our GOOD and not to harm us.
A scripture then came to mind. It’s actually one of my faves. You can find it in Matthew 5:16 and it says: “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” In a nutshell, this means: When we shine our light (by showing compassion, kindness, love, hope) we reveal God to others.And suddenly it all made sense… BE THE LIGHT! So, more than being a source of entertainment and information, I wanted my stories to help you shine your light a little bit brighter. Because, the truth is that life often throws us curve balls (and I don’t do sports, so thanks life) but YOU control your response to it. I don’t know how it all ends but I do know that we’ve been given the promise that every single aspect of our lives are in the hands of a power that is greater than us, and He kinda knows what He’s doing. So it’s our job to live as if we trust in Him. It’s our job to shine our light, so that those who are living in darkness and despair can learn about His love and kindness, through our lives.
Anyways, so when That Girls Store asked me if I’d like to have limited edition tshirts made for my blog readers, I had to say yes! I mean, I have a message… WE have a mission statement! And I would love to see it on a tshirt – loud and proud – “been there, doing that, got the tshirt!”
Looking to buy your very own “Be The Light” tshirt? Well, here are some more deets:
Who is That Girls Store? It’s a local company that creates and designs custom pieces.
What’s My Spreadsheet Brain’s involvement in all of this? I literally just sent through my design. That Girls Store creates the tshirts and ships them off to you.
How many will be available? It’s super duper limited edition, so only 20 are available for purchase.
What’s the fit like? Think: Woolies comfort fit. My JustEllaBella tshirt (see left) is a Large. The oversized tshirt is all the rage I’ve been told. By my teen. Because I’m old. If you’re not sure you can email the store directly at thatgirl@thatstore.co.za and they’ll guide you. (4xl can be accommodated)
Whats the cost? Only R200.
How does shipping work? Postage costs are R65 to all major cities in South Africa.
Where can I buy one? thatstore.co.za
When can I buy? The tshirt should be available on the online store as of today until stock runs out!
How long does delivery take? 5 to 7 working days.GIVEAWAY!
You guys, I appreciate every single one of you so much. For reals, yo. And I know that forking out 200 bucks on this tshirt will probably be done out of love and sincerity… because you love me back (I see you, friend) or because you love the idea behind the slogan. To honor that, I am going to give one of the 20 tshirt buyers a very special My Spreadsheet Brain hamper filled with a few cool things just to say thank you! Yep, this means if you buy the tshirt you have a one in twenty chance of winning! Woohoo!
The hamper includes:
A beautiful gilt-edged Helen Steiner Rice One Minute Devotions titled ‘From The Heart’ (makes for a great gift, wink wink)
A My Spreadsheet Brain custom mug – yep, I made it myself, with my bare hands… so to speak
A KNC Beauty collagen infused lip mask… because pouty lips are life
A Laqa & Co Cloud Lips lipstick in a poppin’ color!To enter, all you have to do is: Buy a tshirt! That’s it. Once you’ve made your purchase drop me a message to let me know that you’ve done so! Hope to see selfies of all you gorgeous mama’s wearing your “Be the light” tshirts soon! Winner of the giveaway will be announced on May 31st.
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What my kids are playing with: Enchantimals
I always feel like I’m winning at life when I find a toy that keeps my precocious 3 year old busy for long periods of time. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love the little bugger, but she constantly needs to be entertained! And I don’t always wake up feeling like Beyonce, if you know what I mean. So when I received a special Enchantimals blog drop from Mattel the other day, I gave myself a metaphorical high5!
Well, for starters the cute Enchantimal characters are really pretty and their unique features and outfits are simply fabulous, dahhling which means Kari will be instantly hooked. But (and this is the winning part) they also each come with an animal bestie! That’s right, each of these rather whimsical half-animal, half-girl characters has a quirky animal best friend. I love this so much!
The Enchantimals story lines encourage friendship, compassion and harmony, and its “Caring is our everything” slogan sums it up rather nicely. Each doll shares a ritual with her animal friend that celebrates their unique traits and personalities. Together they work to create balance, peace and harmony among all living things.Some of the Enchantimals characters include:
Felicity Fox and Flick – Felicity is a nifty, curious little character, who loves exploring with Flick
Danessa Deer and Sprint – These two love racing through the forest to see who is fastest
Sage Skunk and Caper – A great problem solver, Sage loves music and she and Caper are always working on new songs together or planning a clever prank
Bree Bunny and Twist – This DIY duo has a penchant for creating things and are like twin fountains of bubbling creativity
Patter Peacock and Flap – Patter is a fashionista extraordinaire, and she and Flap enjoys singing together
The Enchantimals are available at selected retailers nationwide. Product princes range from R129.99 to R719.99. The play sets are super cute and your little one will enjoy collecting the various dolls and their matching accessories. You can following along on the Enchantimals journey on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook. -
Living my best mom life with Frusli Cereal Bars {GIVEAWAY!}
I love food. There, I said it. Snacking is like, one of my favorite hobbies of all time. But the thing about snacking is that it can get kind of difficult to snack healthily. I mean, in all honesty, the thought of chewing on a celery stick doesn’t exactly thrill me. Which is why I was so excited when I received a special drop from Frusli – a deliciously crunchy, chewy cereal bar packed with flavor and goodness!
There are many reasons why a worthy cereal bar would excite me more than the latest episode of Grey’s Anatomy. For starters, these Frusli bars are individually wrapped, so it’s easy to pop one into your handbag or into your kid’s lunch box. They are also great for ‘on the go’ snacks or if your child is acting the fool in the mall and you need to keep her occupied. (Whaaaat) I also love that it serves as a healthy treat alternative.
These bars are not baked, do not contain added salts, artificial colors or preservatives and the Frusli team (over at Jordans) are committed to using only natural ingredients where possible. They strive to reduce sugar and fat levels without comprising on the taste. These bars are Non-GM and is suitable for vegetarians too!The flavors – oh the flavors – simply delicious! Well, firstly the bars are made with wholegrain cereals (keeping processing to a minimum) and are power packed with healthy stuff such as crunchy hazelnuts and juicy raisins, cranberries and blueberries. The texture is rather chewy and juicy and quite zingy. I love that 25% of it is fruit and that you can actually taste the fruit pieces!
WIN with Frusli!
So what do you think moms? Would you give this a go? Well, Frusli is giving FIVE My Spreadsheet Brain readers the chance to try out their amazing cereal bar. Want in on this giveaway? Okey dokey. Follow the rafflecopter below and keep your eyes peeled to my Facebook page on April 30th to see if you’re a winner! -
He must be cheating on me
He must be cheating on me. My husband, that is. I’m convinced that he is seeing someone else. And I know who it is too.
It’s probably the pretty, curly-haired girl at the office. It has to be. I mean, she’s so pretty and she wears high heels to work every day. Who does that?! It’s not even a special occasion. He probably notices things like that. He probably wonders why I don’t wear stilettos every day.
And I think he’s also cheating with the neighbor across the road… the one without kids who goes on hikes every weekend and smiles cheerily when she greets us in the morning. He probably thinks she’s fun and adventurous. He probably hates my boring routines. He probably wishes his life was fun and adventurous too.
No wait, he’s cheating with his ex-girlfriend. That’s a definite. I saw her at the mall the other day. She looked so put together and happy. We locked eyes and I tried hard to show her how amazing my life has been since I “won” the title of being Mrs-So-and-So. But the truth is I can’t remember when last I felt as if I won. All I feel is tired and disgusting. I wonder if he ever texts her to tell her what a huge mistake he’s made. He probably wishes he could turn back time. He probably sees me in my yoga pants and stained t-shirt and wonders how he ended up here.
He’s cheating on me. I’m sure of it. And I get it too – he wants to be saved from this life of schedules and potty training; play dates and the mundane. Evidence? I don’t need evidence. The evidence is in the way he looks at me – as if I’m exactly who he needs me to be. It’s such a lie. I know he’s not telling the truth when he calls me beautiful or sexy or the only one he wants to be with. What a joke, I can’t be that wonderful. I mean, I smell like porridge and wet wipes. My fashion sense has no sense at all and the last time I wore anything tight fitting was when I could barely fit into my maternity jeans. The last time I did anything worth noting was when I managed to get the baby to fall asleep before 7pm.
Or maybe he’s not the one cheating. Maybe it’s me. I’m cheating on myself.
I cheat myself of praise, everyday, when I compare my beauty to someone else’s convincing myself that my body is too flabby and my lips are not full enough. I rob myself of satisfaction when I deny my talent and creativity, by believing self taught lies that say I’m not as brilliant as I’d like to think. I steal my own joy when I entertain thoughts that I am not strong enough, not clever or bold enough, not fun or daring enough. And I rob my marriage of its passion and contentment when I go to bed angry at night, irrationally convincing myself that I am unworthy of all of my husbands love and affection.I don’t know it but I cheat myself of fulfillment when I believe the lie that I can’t be a hands on mother, a fun and exciting friend, a lady on a mission, and a beautiful and desirable wife all at the same time. I am more than enough, just as I am. And on days where I don’t see my worth and my substance, he does.
And that’s how I know he’s cheating on me. My husband, that is. Because he sees someone else when he looks at me.
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How to deal with someone who doesn’t like you
We’ve all been there. We know what it feels like when someone thinks we suck. And, unless you have the emotional aptness of a spoon, it kinda stings sometimes. But how do you do it, friends? How do you handle the sting of rejection? Most times I’m just over here wondering how someone could have overlooked my sheer awesomeness (and obvious humble heart). The truth is that we’re all different. And hey, that’s okay. If God wanted us all to be the same, the world would be a very boring place. But if you are wondering how to deal with someone who doesn’t like you, maybe these tips could help:
Talk to the man in the mirror
No, not Michael Jackson. What I mean is: start with YOU. The truth is that you’re never really “finished” or “evolved” enough to be done with growing. Every opportunity is a moment to be better! Look, let’s keep it real, if Sally doesn’t like you just because, the chances are the just because is actually a very real reason. Maybe you unknowingly gave her a funny look when she was having a bad day. Or maybe (keeping it realer than real now) something you’ve done or said was insensitive or offensive. Come on Jack, we are not perfect. We all have our moments (surprise-surprise not everyone will laugh at your Jacob Zuma jokes). Chat with someone you trust and ask their opinion. And, this is a biggie, be willing to CHANGE. You can’t control how Sally feels, but you CAN control yourself.Smile and wave
No, seriously, smile. Remember that their opinion is NOT your problem. In fact, if you did not know their opinion of you, how would you respond to them? Offense is GIVEN. It’s your choice whether you want to TAKE IT. I’m not saying make them your new BFF – you don’t have to prove your worth. But being courteous and kind is for free, yo! (“I’m sorry that you feel that way about me, but Imma love you anyways!”) Look, I know, if someone doesn’t like you it’s easy to want to initiate payback mode and not like them right back! The mantra goes: hurt people hurt people. But, I ask you with tears in my navy blue eyes: what’s the point? Revenge is a dish best not served at all. If it’s not adding value to your life (or theirs) rather avoid that negative situation, smile and wave girl, smile and wave.
Be the light
Kindness always wins. Yes, I know, I sound like a Disney movie. But it’s the truth, yo! As I’ve said before, we are all different. And thank God for that! Sometimes the best way to deal with a tense relationship is to simply accept your differences. You don’t have to try to win them over. And you most certainly don’t have the time to play that “clap back” game to see who can hurt who the most. How lame. Instead, accept that not everyone will think you’re the best thing since sliced bread (hmmm carbs) and move on. You are called to be a light! What does that mean? Well, it means that you should always respond and react in love and kindness (even when people don’t like you). Does it mean that you are a walkover? No Sir. I’m not saying be gullible or weak. But I am saying: Don’t let other people’s opinions of you determine who you are and how you respond. -
Be the light – Be the hands and feet {Giveaway}
The thing about living a life of excuses is that it kinda gives you no options. You literally put yourself into a mental hole and then wonder on how earth you got there. The truth is that starting each sentence off with an ‘I can’t’ leaves no room for the ‘can’s’. It’s easy to allow your lack to hinder your journey. I know all about basing your next move on what you don’t have right now, and feeling pretty stuck. Mole hills are suddenly the size of Mount Kilimanjaro and all I want to do is throw a million pity parties for myself. Are you like me? Well, I think that both you and I need a double dose of Nick Vujicic’s book titled ‘Be The Hands And Feet’.
Nick is a well known Australian motivational speaker who was born with a rare disorder called tetra-amelia syndrome. This condition rendered him limbless… yes, he has no arms and no legs. Nick explains how he’s never allowed his disability to affect his ability. Even though he’s unable to do certain things that an able-bodied person could do, he still went on to become a successful business man, popular speaker, radio talk show host, husband and a father!
In ‘Be The Hands and Feet’, Nick shares tips on how to become an agent of inspiration and hope. You guys, the first part of the book is actually called “Letting Your Light Shine”! Uhm, yes please! You guys that that’s been my motto since like, birth. (Yes, I am being slightly dramatic). Anyways, in the first part he shares his testimony and how he believes that he was called to share the Gospel and make a change in the world – and having no arms or legs helped him to do just that!
In the second part, called “Build The Team”, he talks about how to become a mentor and gives solid advice on how to plan for success, against all odds. The third part, “Finish Well”, is a beautiful memoir to his father. He shares about how his father was a role model to him and shares personal stories and victory’s about his dad’s battle with cancer.
The theme through out the book is one of encouragement and hope. It is impossible to put this book down, in between chapters (and you’ll want to do just that, to soak as much of it in as possible), without feeling challenged and ready to live a life open to endless possibilities! Nick reminds us that God’s purpose for our lives is to be a success… no matter what it looks like in the natural! He so famously said: “If God can use a man without arms and legs to be His hands and feet, then He will certainly use any willing heart!”
Win a copy of Be The Hands and Feet!
Are you in need of some encouragement, or just a good ol’ kick on the butt, today? Well, my friends at Christian Art Media has sent me a copy of Be The Hands and Feet by Nick Vujicic to give to one of my fabulous My Spreadsheet Brain readers! To enter this sweet giveaway, simply:1. Compulsory: Make sure you’re following the blog – it’s how I get your email address, to let you know that you’ve won – and drop me a comment below to let me know that you’ve entered! You can subscribe via the little subscription box on the top right hand corner of this page.
2. Bonus: Grab an extra entry by tagging your friend in the Facebook post.
3. Bonus: Grab another entry by tweeting: Guys, I’m so excited to enter @luchaewilliams of #myspreadsheetbrain @CArtMedia #giveaway, to win a Be The Hands And Feet book, written by the amazing Nick Vujicic!
The winners of all my April ‘Be The Light’ giveaways will be announced on my Facebook page on April 30th! Aaack!
Update: Congratulations Caronessa Moss!
Images of Nick and his family taken from social media. You can learn more about his ministry by visiting his website, Life Without Limbs
