Giving Thanks

It's not just an activity for Thanksgiving Day. It's more important than a lot of other things we take the time to dwell on or speak about. So why not make a list?

Today, I am thankful for:

(in no specific order/listed at random)

1. being released from work 50 mins earlier than scheduled (What a pleasant surprise, especially on Friday!)

2. family- that I have them, that I know them, that they love me, and are so lovable!!! (both immediate and extended...I chatted with a wonderful Aunt today over text message)

3. text message ;)

4. espresso

5. foreign languages and accents...I love meeting people who are different than me and all that I know as an American

6. freedom- as an American, in Christ, spiritually-unbound

7. Holy Spirit and His personal guidance and ways of communication to people!

8. the radio

9. joyful people

10. good health

11. motivation

12. new beginnings...fresh starts- tomorrow is October 1st.

In Ephesians 5: 3-4 it says this:
(NIV) But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people.

Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.

Many times the focus is on that which does not build up. It's effortless to listen to the dirty joke, or shoot out the harsh sarcasm back at one who's embarrassed or belittled or put you down. But I believe thanksgiving takes slight effort. It takes a moment of thought. And I believe it is healing to our soul. I encourage you to share a list of what you're thankful for TODAY. Don't wait till the last Thursday of November to bring recognition to the good stuff.

Be blessed today and filled with overflowing like lavaaaa thanksgiving. ;)
It helps make life enjoyable!

Yours truly,
Grace

Happy Thursday!

It's almost a brand new month!!!... 

Did I mention I LOVE "1st" (days) of the month?!

I'm not "linking" much this week other than Bex...A Style Diary -

where you can find lots more gals and their weekly loves being shared.

woo!

Thx for tuning in.

Till next time,

Grace

Love

Please take just a small amt. of your time to watch this video. 

It's worth it!

Thank you.

Although, I have posted a few song favorites before, I have yet to blog about the passion this heart pumps for music.

Since I was a very young girl, music has been a valued part of my life. 

I can remember just loving to listen. 

I would listen to songs over and over and over again, studying and memorizing the artists' voices. 

After listening, I'd put my ear close to the speaker and start to sing along...

till I was ready for a living room performance!

I've loved to sing since I was 5. I remember believing "I was born to entertain."

Now that's a pretty passionate statement right there!

Passion fuels. And for me, it fueled lots of years of singing, performing at any chance, striving, studying, and training...

(btw: I'm not claiming expertise what-so-ever!-just pure love!)

This past year, I've done less with music than ever before... it was kind of a season filled with new experiences and musical activity was sort of "shelved" (compared to previous years). 

...I guess I can best explain like this: because music was such a priority in my life, I put it aside in order to focus on some other things I really needed to learn/live/know. I think it was a good thing.

But lately, when I pick up a mic, or sit at the keys, I want more...

Although, I've been less active in the art as of late, during this "stand still," it seems that a breakaway allowed for passion to simmer in my soul. Music is very much alive within (even if she's been napping a while). ;) When the right song plays, it'll set her off! And it's love all over again.

I am moved by this song. It has been a favorite for years.

First is a performance by Maxwell who covered the original Kate Bush song, "This Woman's Work."

Personally, I love his best.

This next video perfectly depicts art and message found in the song. It's an emotional and powerful number from a few years ago on the tv show-So You Think You Can Dance. 

Hope you enjoy.

Don't let go of passion. It's beautiful. Let it fuel the fight to move ahead, never looking back again.

<3 Grace

Go Green

'

What's that, ^ you ask?...

It's what you should order (or) self-serve yourself next time you hit up a fro-yo shop. 

A favorite of mine: Green tea "matcha" frozen yogurt :) 

Hope it makes you as happy as it made me. 

This isn't a food blog 

(but sometimes I want it to be!)

;)

And with that...I also had a wonderful Japanese dish for dinner. 

Thank you Asia... big shout out for all you provide to this hotdog eatin' nation.

Love it

<3 Grace

Time Traveling

So, today was a Sunday-Funday for me! About two weeks ago I heard from a co-worker about an event that was a must-attend in my book. What's that you ask?...

1905 Day @ The Columbia Restaurant

It's the restaurant's anniversary! And I suppose since its been around for over 100 years now, they celebrate with the   ol' 'go big or go home' mentality. (one of my personal favorite mentalities lol) ;)

So here's what they do:

They turn back time to 1905... prices!!! Yup-talk about a steal.

Did I mention this restaurant is amazing Spanish food with a great atmosphere, which is a huge thumbs up to me. It's fun and upbeat and so delicious!!!

We arrived two hours prior to opening time to find a line of nearly 400 people, I'd say! But the location is amongst a shopping area, so we got a #, kept ourselves entertained, and were seated just as our tummies began to grumble!

(And we went all out like it was 19...05!)
<--- [5 cents for my coffee]

Mom and I loved dessert the best I think. Mmm, flan is a for-sure favorite.

So if you find yourself in Florida anytime soon, check out our oldest restaurant. I think you'll enjoy! :)

Adios amigos,

<3Gracia

Thankful

 Today we remember this day and we honor heroes who risked it all for the people.

In the midst of a tragedy, so many took a strong stand for our country and left a legacy of selfless sacrifice through true acts love, courage, and heroism.

We remember.

I pray for the individuals and families who suffered loss of loved ones during 9/11. At this time of memorial, it is personal, and hits home in a real real way. May their be comfort and peace upon the brokenhearted and mourning. May there be an intense healing and revival in the spirit of this nation,
The United States of America. 

I can not put into words the gratitude of my heart to have a family. I can not think of an amount of money, possession, or time that would or could ever replace their value.

"Priceless" is an understatement. 

The worth of a sisters bond, a mother's comfort, a big brothers protection, a daddy's hand...these can not be calculated in my mind.

Today  I spent time on the beach with my cousins; family, that up until this month, I haven't seen or spent time with in nearly 4 years. All we did was eat, sit, talk, joke, laugh, walk, swim; but we did all this together. And time spent together can not be taken for granted; because we never know for certain if the one by our side will be there again.

I thank you, God, for my family, for the laughter, and the enjoyment we have and spend together.


Thank you for the real peace that lives in my heart and mind... and for the promise of life, to the full and everlasting.

May you be blessed with the company of love today,

Grace

Thursday Latelies-birthday edition

What a wonderful week. What more can I say? :)

Enjoy! And catch more Thursday joy at Bex...a style diary.

xo
Grace

ps sorry for weird cuts and chops on this weeks vid! just some little techy-difficulties!!!