Friendship Revisited

Have you been reexamining your life lately? While there are a vast amount of things to revisit as you mature, unfortunately friendships are to be included among them. People don’t like to admit it, but as we get older your standard friendships don’t always continue to fit in your life. You may have had running partners for mischief in the past, but now you need rock stars for charity. Or, maybe not, but the point is that people change and not always in the same direction.

Yes, it can feel bad when separating from a companion, but it can be better for you both in the long run. Don’t accept misery in the name of friendship. Friends are supposed to make each other happy in one way or another; enrich each others lives. Chances are that if someone no longer floats your boat, you’re probably not keeping them adrift either. The specifics are different in each person’s story, but the truth remains the same.


Dare to find and keep friends that you can be your present self with, instead of being pigeon holed into old dealings. Your true self is special and should be celebrated not only by the company you keep. With that said, if you’re blessed enough to have wonderful friends that have stood the test of time, that’s fantastic. Honor them by treasuring the relationship daily.


*Posts you many enjoy:

Bad Situations
Change Can Be Good
Good Company
Misery
Roads Travelled

Happy Halloween

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you all a very happy happy Halloween! I pray that you enjoy your day, especially all the little trick or treaters and God bless! Please remember to have fun and be safe!


*A post you may enjoy:

Halloween Safety

An Introduction To Upcoming Novel - Autumn's Five Seasons

I would like to introduce my second novel, Autumn's Five Seasons, to you. It is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2011. This book is an exciting read for both men and women! You won't believe some of the many twist and turns it takes. You'll be shocked! I suggest you read both my previous books before this one because you'll have an extra appreciation for this novel, but it's not necessary. My intro is a letter to you. Happy reading and blessings always!


Readers,

I started writing this particular story in 2007. I think two pages were completed…maybe, disappointed to say the least. This story kept getting interrupted because I was trying to make sense of a personal tragedy.

I quickly came to realize that it isn’t that easy to write a novel. I asked myself, what am I doing? Could I come up with that type of story? I also worried that I didn’t have that kind of imagination. And last, I questioned, would I be able to create not one, but five interesting men that correlate to perfection with Guys 1 through 5, in Black Love: A Book of Poetry & Love; my first book which inspired this novel. As I worked on the character, Lem, from my first novel, Beauty in Pain, I realized the answer was certain; it was an unequivocal yes! 

Without my book of poems there would not have been a follow-up idea. Without Beauty in Pain, specifically, chapter 13, this book truly would not exist. I have noticed that my entire life keeps coming together in support of itself.  God has been so good to me and always has been, even when I was too naive to know it.

I can’t wait for you to read Autumn’s Five Seasons! You can enjoy it, knowing two things about this particular novel. First, I was raised to this occasion and second, the men have come to life for you.

Male Characters From Women Writers: Writing For The Opposite Sex

Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain

The Black Love Book Discussion

Your Old Fashion Ways

Have you gone out only to be confused by today's version of mingling? Have you been asking yourself what's going on? Well, you're right. The dating world has change significantly since your last tour and then there's you with your old fashion ways.

Sparking someones attention is always flattering, but some types of focus are inappropriate. The dating game isn't what it used to be. Many things seem to be socially acceptable that just aren't right. Do you have to take it? Of course not.

Fine...you might be old fashioned, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. It's not your fault that you  don't want to dance like your in bed. Nor should they think a drink entitles them to sex. Let your expectations rule you.

We as adults should be able to refrain and act respectable, but that's challenging for some. Instant gratification isn't all that it's cracked up to be. Sometimes there are huge consequences for that behavior. 

The bottom line is that it's your life. You should of course do what you want to do, but think about it first. Make sure you know exactly what it is that you're getting yourself into. As you know, things aren't always what they seem. Make your choices carefully and always go with God.

*Posts you may enjoy:

Choices

Expectations

Settle For Love?

What's Your Demon?

Halloween Safety

Halloween is quickly approaching and we must always consider safety. So I have put together a few dos and don'ts to enforce. Hopefully, this will make life a little more simple for you.

Dos

1. Do take your child(ren) trick or treating - It's one of the few times they get to dress up and play outwardly.
2. Do trick or treat in a group - There is safety in numbers.
3. Do pick out age appropriate costumes - Your teen doesn't have to walk around looking like a baby, but they shouldn't look on display due to lack of clothing either.
4. Do hand out candy - Let's face it, we need more people with good intentions participating. 
5. Do dress up yourself - Adults deserve happiness too.
6. Do check all candy collected before children eat anything - Throw away all open candy, as well as anything that gives you cause to pause with or without a reason.
7. Do ration the left over candy - Consider filling a candy jar with an acceptable amount for the day. Then refill accordingly.

Don'ts

1. Don't pick out costumes that you'll be cold wearing - This is especially important for young children. 
2. Don't buy costumes that obstruct vision  - We want to avoid accidents from happening. Also, if you'll be in a highly populated area with a young child skip your own headdress. It should be obvious who mom and dad are, and I don't mean the matching costumes that someone else might have bought too.
3. Don't trick or treat at a stranger house - Take your child(ren) to malls or other trusted sources.
4. Don't dress inappropriately - Be a role model.
5. Don't feel guilty about throwing out some suspicious looking candy - You have to because it is for the safety of you and your child(ren).
6. Don't allow your child(ren) eat all of their candy in one or two sittings - Protect their health always.

Please read Halloween Health and Safety Tips provided by the CDC. Also, Halloween Is Here also provides safety tips as well. No matter what, have fun and be safe! 

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Friends & Followers

Seasonal Storage

Talk To Your Children

Beauty in Pain Book Signing - VA

Once again, I am going back on the road! I am happy to announce that my next stop on the Beauty in Pain Book Tour is in Norfolk, VA. and I'm elated! Virginia has always been near and dear to my heart.

My book signing will be held at Prince Books. It is located in downtown Norfolk on the corner of Main Street and Martin's Lane in the Towne Bank Building.  The signing will be on Saturday, November 19, 2011 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

If you will be in or around the area stop by and pick up your copy of my novel, Beauty in Pain. Come out and join me. I'm looking forward to a successful book signing and I hope to see you there!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Books & Breakfast in NYC
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain
Where Can I Get Beauty In Pain?

Desperation

Desperation can be a challenging emotion that seeps into varied areas of life. Much of society has felt the weight of desperation due to financial woes. It's never good to be in a place of hopelessness. Desperate feelings can only lead you into trouble because they are usually followed by irrational decisions.

If you recognize that you're overwhelmed by despair take a moment. Do mental exercises that will fortify your state of mind, like meditation and prayer. Learn to always operate from a place of strength so that you will only enter positive situations that will bless you.


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A Positive Way of Life
Positivity
This I Know About Life
Trust God

I'm Being Carried

Where there are a great deal of things before me I don't rush towards feeling overwhelmed. Sometimes there are quick wins, as well as situations I'd rather not venture toward. Then there are also those circumstances that look like a definite losing battle.

There are times when I want to give up, but I'm not a quitter. I have a job to do and it's not done yet. The urge to throw in the towel seems to always come right before I've done my best. Why is that? No matter the reason, I remain steady. I have vowed to do my best.I will not be deterred when things appear bleak. I'm being carried by God in Jesus' name...I have nothing to fear!


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Are You Doing Your Best?
Positivity
Victory Is Yours!

Trust God

Practice exercising your faith more often. You might believe, but when it comes down to moving in perfect sync with a vision it's probably more imperfect. That's okay because we're human, but it also means there is room for improvement. Pray and let the Lord teach you how to live inside of a heavenly dream.

If you have been trusted with a mission it is alright to get assistance, but make sure it is help your receiving. Do not rely on others that cannot envision what needs to be done. It's possible that only you can see the fullness of the situation. Trust God and let Him lead you.


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Books & Breakfast
God Is In Control
God Is Love
Greatness

Where Can I Get Beauty in Pain?

As I make my rounds throughout New York City or even in the social media realm, many people have asked me one question. Where can I get your novel, Beauty in Pain? I am always eager to supply an answer and this post is an attempt to further do so.

Beauty in Pain, is mostly available online. That means you can pick which ever online source you're most comfortable with, like Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble, among many others and order it there. You may also get your copy from AliceBenton.com or by using the Amazon Search Sidebar Gadget on this blog.

If you're in New York City too, the Barnes & Noble bookstore located inside of the Fordham University Lincoln Center Campus (Corner of 60th Street and Columbus Avenue) has copies of Beauty in Pain in the Campus Author section. Those of you in Maryland can stop by Greetings & Readings in Hunt Valley to pick up a copy.

Get your copy today...happy reading!


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Posts you may enjoy:

AliceBenton.com
Beauty in Pain - Available Now
Books & Breakfast in NYC
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain
The Black Love Book Discussion

Expect the Unexpected

As you all know, life is filled many twist and turns. They tend to show there disruptive presence at the moments you’re least ready to receive them. It’s because of that reason you should decide to expect the unexpected.

This concept is really simple to get behind if you’re interested. It means be prepared to adjust when necessary. It sort of has a Who Moved My Cheese feel. You can live as fabulously as usual, but as things alter the intended path don’t let it floor you. Be ready to quickly adapt so you can still achieve success.

The unexpected may have the potential to slow you up, but it might also be a good thing. So be willing to use your Plan B and know the unexpected doesn’t have to be all bad.

*Posts you may enjoy:

Carefully Measure Your Success

Change Can Be Good

Roads Travelled

Have It All

Can we have it all? My immediate answer is yes, but is it true? Some of us are plagued with the answer to that question because we have almost everything. Generally, the missing item is what we want most in the world.

Others don't have much of anything, which gave birth to a new midlife question. How did this happen? Many are just slowing down to realize the serious relationship they've been putting off is no longer an option. Also, good friends seem impossible to find, eggs are thinning and the dead end job they never wanted is now a career.

Are these our options? Lack something or possess nothing? I scream, No! Refuse to settle for less than your worth. Never give up on a dream, just exercise a responsible behavior while attempting to obtain it. If you're unhappy with the way things have developed, you should make a new plan. Change things! Time will not wait for you, but your hearts desire may be around the corner.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Books & Breakfast
Change Can Be Good
Expectations

A Positive Way of Life

Recently, I was reminded of what the title to my novel, Beauty in Pain, really means. Thankfully, I can say it wasn't the kind of heart wrenching, self-annihilating situation I have previously known, but any kind of hurt is still painful.

I was faced with a situation that caused me a great deal of heartache. As I experienced this unexpected circumstance I realized things weren't as bad as they felt momentarily. When I took a moment to step away from the problem I noticed things were not that bad. Truthfully, I have to acknowledge I received information I had been wanting, although it arrived in an undesirable package.

As negative things rear their ugly heads in your life, look for the beauty that can be found in or around the situation. Focus on being well and attempt to step back from what's happening. Really examine what is taking place, regardless of how it might look at first glance. Choosing to actively seek the beauty in your pain is a positive way of life.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Books & Breakfast in NYC
Choices
God Is Love
Positivity
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain

Happy Birthday Alfred!

Happy birthday Alfred P! Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very happy birthday! I hope today is wonderful for you and that you enjoy all that it brings! God bless.

Books & Breakfast in NYC

November will be ushering in a Beauty in Pain Event in NYC entitled, Books & Breakfast! It will be held at The Archives Restaurant & Bar located inside the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge. Breakfast includes a complete selection of hot buffet items.

This affair will be held on Sunday, November 6, 2011. It begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 12:30 p.m. There will be a brief welcome and introduction at 10:30 a.m., which leaves plenty of time to eat and mingle. Guests are encouraged to bring their previously purchased Beauty in Pain novels, although, books will also be available for purchase. Towards the end of the event there will be a book signing.

Come out & meet the author, but hurry and secure your ticket because space is limited. Send an email if you are interesting in attending to avbenton@gmail.com or visit AliceBenton.com


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Posts you may enjoy:

AliceBenton.com
My Beauty in Pain Review Part I
My Beauty in Pain Review Part II
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain

Settle For Love?

When it comes to love, people often ask themselves questions. Am I open to it? Am I ready and willing to give and receive love? These queries are sometimes difficult to answer. Another question should be added that is seldom considered. What aren't I open to when it comes to a relationship?

Settling is something that people are typically prepared to do, but they shouldn’t. Remember that there is a big difference between settling and compromising. There are times when each of us is introduced to someone with undesirable traits that we find unacceptable. We know upfront that the possibility of this relationship working is…well, impossible. Yet, the mental picture of being left alone allows us to overlook impending disaster.

Being alone is not the worst thing in life, but snuggling up to the wrong person could be. Take your time to find the one that makes your spirit soar. You want the real deal when it comes to love because you’re worth it!

*Posts you may enjoy:

Choices

Expectations

God Is Love

Friends Again

Old friends can show up when you least expect them. Regardless of where you ran into them, plans to meet again can leave you feeling anxious. How will it be? Have the two of you have changed too much? Or too little?

Unfortunately, there is no way to tell how you'll get along, but you might already have a clue. How did the relationship end? Were there many unresolved issues? Or did one misunderstanding ruin everything? Maybe this is the friend you were always supposed to have in your life that somehow got away.

Some friends are so close to your heart that it feels like no time was lost when they resurface. Honestly, the only thing you need to have is an open mind and an expectation of fun. This may be a one time thing or lives reconnected, but it is definitively a second chance.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Betrayal
Expectations
True Priorities

Mind Games

The brain is astounding! I have always been perplexed about the many wonders it possesses. Did you know that your mind can have knowledge or memory  of things that your conscious does not? Well, I did. This is a lesson I learned the hard way.

Previously, at a particular time every year, some of my actions would begin to mirror a depressive state I once knew. Year after year, I didn't know what was wrong, but my physical and mental self was identifying with past events.

Once I realized what was going on, I also was finally able to put things into perspective. I thought, I have dealt with this issue! Or so I thought. This reoccurring feeling forced me to slow down. I looked at what was really going on and remembered the fullness of my past. Acknowledging the entire event gave me the ability to own the truth, pray on it and be happy with the space I'm in today.


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Distractions
God Is In Control
Loved One Gone

DJ Jimmy Love & The News Room

Throughout the years, I have mellowed to say the least. While one or two spots exist that I consider pretty good, that's all. Recently, I went to The News Room, which is located at 141 East 149th in the Bronx, NY and it was great. It's what I would call a neighborhood bar. Generally, I don't frequent them, but this night out was special.

I went on a Thursday night and the place was jumpin! DJ Jimmy Love, who is featured on both Wednesday and Thursday nights weekly from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m., kept the News Room packed. Their dance floor was filled from the time I arrived until closing. DJ Jimmy Love played it all, there was a little of everything, both new and old, but in my opinion, he was a master of the old jams; not to be mistaken for the oldies. That along with an 'about the dance' crowd and some drinks was fantastic.

I had a blast!


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B-Hive Lounge
Cafe Lou's
Who Is Gwyneth Paltrow?

Sensitivity

Generally speaking, things happen, both good and bad that we must learn to accept. Then there are those other times when people need to show tact in their dealings with you. Those moments are usually obvious too; like when death occurs, an emergency with a child, etc..

Don't let selfish needs supersede comforting a good friend or relative in their time of need. Listen to them and do your best to be sensitive. Remember that some things are more important than others and people are far more meaningful than things. Being insensitive can destroy a relationship.

Pray for your friend and give them time if they need it. Wait patiently for whatever it was that you needed or find someone else to assist you. Eventually, things will return to normal and no harm will have been done.


*Posts you may enjoy are:

Difficult Relationships
God Is In Control
I'm Blessed

Search & You Shall Find

All day today, I felt plagued with an issue. I wanted help with the problem before me. Normally, I'd rush to God, but not today. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't rebelling. At this point in my life, God is always my first thought, but something was telling me there was no need to give this to Him. I think my spirit was very much aware that the Lord had already dealt with my needs.

This lesson is hard to take in if you're not reading with prayerful eyes. So, adjust your sight if necessary and bare with me. While speaking with a friend, I realized miracles had been taking place and going unnoticed. I also became aware that a miraculous flow was still in affect and that it is not necessary to worry. It was unbelievable how clear my situation had become when I took the time to articulate it. Initially, I thought I was simply sharing an update, but I was actually soothing my being.

I had gone through so much recently that I was just functioning. This was a place I never intended on revisiting, although, I did recognize vast improvement that I won't get into. I was doing well within my daily routine of keeping my feet on the ground and doing what had to be done. My eyes had been virtually closed to the effortless motion of things that moved around me. I had been missing in my steps.

I was whole again by the end of this friendly conversation. Truthfully, I had never been scattered, although, I had been persuaded otherwise. The reminder of truth and absolute love was as usual, right on time.


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is Love
Persuasion & Permission
Reach For Him

You Wanna Write...Read

Lately, I have been fortunate enough to learn many things from various people on writing. Much of the information I have been able to gather has been a Godsend. While I must admit that I have been actively attempting to hone my craft, the best advice I can give an aspiring author is to read.

It is extremely important to peruse all types of literature including newspapers and magazines, but don't stop there. If you're writing a novel, you should spend as much time as possible reading novels. One reason to be well read in your field is to know what's out there. If your story is supposed to be innovative, you might want to make sure it hasn't been done a thousand times. Another reason to pour yourself into the task at hand is to simply see how things are done. Remarkably, many small questions you might have can be answered when reading a book. Just be careful to limit obtaining answers this way to trusted and well-seasoned authors.

I, for the record am a fan of doing whatever works for you. Keep in mind that your needs may change as you develop your skill. Seek help whenever possible. There are paid courses available everywhere! There are also some experts willing to give you information for free. Submerge yourself in the world of writing today!


Link:

Write to Publish

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NYU Free Writing Classes
Panel Discussion on Social & Online Media Monetizing

Stop Bullying & Become Aware

What does it mean to be bullied? Many of you know the answer to that question all to well. It is an issue that seems to never really go away. Recently, it also appears to be getting worse. 

In the past, many adults have often wondered if their child's experience with bullying was just a matter of kids being kids. Now, parents don't have the luxury of guessing whether to intervene or not. We have to find a way to stop bullying because children are killing themselves and each other.

A great resource on this topic is stopbullying.gov. It addresses a wide variety of things including Cyberbullying, LGBT Bullying and how to get hep. Look around the website and make yourself more aware by reading recognizing the warning signs. 

*Posts you may enjoy:

A Prayer For My Readers

National Child Abuse Prevention Month 2011

Reach For Him 

Columbus Day

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a happy Columbus Day! This holiday celebrates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the new world. It has been celebrated as early as the 18th century, but became a national holiday in the United States in 1937.

Increasingly through the years it has been a controversial holiday. It is for that reason that alternatives to the celebration have gained some popularity. Sites like History.com list both historical accounts, as well as controversy.

Have a blessed day!


*A post you may enjoy:

The 67th Annual Columbus Day Parade NYC 2011

2012 On My Mind

Yes, I know it's October, but this is the time to start thinking about the year ahead. I have 2012 on my mind and you should too! I know it's a little early, but I'm only asking that you think about it. There's no need for action unless you want to be proactive. Make a mental plan. Simply give some serious thought as to what you want to see materialize in your life next year.

Once you're certain about your vision for 2012, then you can move on to the next step. Keep in mind that you should take your time with these thoughts to optimize your chance for success. Next month, you can move into action.

Use the month of November to put your plans on paper or a spreadsheet. Edit and revise as much as you need. Then use the rest of the 2011 to finalize your decisions, including a schedule and any assistance you deem necessary.

Start the new year right. Focus on your life!


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Expectations
Ideas Should Materialize
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The 67th Annual Columbus Day Parade NYC 2011

According to about.com, the Columbus Day Parade will be held on Monday, October 10th from 11:30 to 3:00 p.m. It begins on 5th Avenue at 44th Street and continues along 5th Avenue to 79th Street. This parade is one of the largest celebrations of Italian-American culture.

The Columbus Day Mass at Saint Patrick's Cathedral, which is at 50th Street and 5th Avenue starts at 9:30 a.m. Make sure you join in on the fun and festivities! Be sure to arrive early because many are expected to crowd the streets. If you're not into large crowds, please remember you can also view this wonderful parade live online at abc7.


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Big Dreamer
Saint Michael - Saint Malachy Roman Catholic Church in Brooklyn
Spa Week NYC 2011

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2011

Did you know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Probably! It's hard to miss all the things that have suddenly turned pink. Some of us have been planning for this month well in advance, while the rest of us need a little push.

It's not to late to participate! Susan G Komen for the Cure has listed many ways for you to get involved. The organization has created a schedule of ways to help the cause this month. You only have to be willing. So take a look and find something that's right for you.

Please remember that breast cancer doesn't only affect women. Men are also diagnosed with it. Get the breast facts for men.  Also check out the American Cancer Society website. They are the official sponsor of More Birthdays, as well as a great resource for learning about cancer in general and how to stay healthy.


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Inspiration
Serve Humanity Through Charity Water
Victory Is Yours!

Expectations

People are always expecting something. They are looking for an opportunity whether it’s from each other or a situation. The potential prospect isn’t always business related. It can be a desired outcome for fun too.

There are those who don’t like to risk a hopeful outlook. The rationale behind that type of thinking is if you expect nothing you won’t be disappointed when that’s what you get. Also, you may get an abundance of happiness or work related connections and you’ll simply be overjoyed. Don’t be a fan of this behavior and if you are, let it go now.

The mind is powerful! It has the ability to assist in the manifestation of your dreams. So, why not let it? We are quick, as a society, to say mind of matter, but not swift about applying purpose to those words. Do you act as if that is your belief? 

Go out on a limb, metaphorically of course, and taking a leap of faith. Put out into the universe a you have high standards vibe. It is not enough to aim for greatness. You must expect it too!

*Posts you may enjoy:

Believe 

Ideas Should Materialize

You're The Designer!

Betrayal

There are people who go their entire lives without ever experiencing betrayal. If you’re one them, lucky you! Be extra nice to your friends and family. You have been truly blessed.

Unfortunately, most of us have gone through a thing or two with regards to disloyalty. Maybe you had a scandalous best friend or a cousin that stole your boyfriend. Perhaps, the betrayal you encountered was in the form of infidelity or continuous insensitivity. Regardless of its appearance, it still leaves us feeling abused, misled and hurt.

Learn to be thankful for clarity of the situation. Be careful not to take in the negativity you are being shown. Remain strong because God didn’t bring you this far to let someone disturb the peace His presence allows.

*Posts you may enjoy:

Difficult Relationships

God Is In Control

Reach For Him

Alice Benton's Blog: NYU Free Writing Classes

Alice Benton's Blog: NYU Free Writing Classes: New York University (NYU) School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS) has done it again! This fall they are offering free writing...

You're The Designer!

By now, we all know that we can get sidetracked by whatever’s going on during the day. Many things go undone this way. Maybe a friend came over, even though you told them you had something to do. Perhaps, that visit you should said no to will not allow you to scroll through the classifieds. So some people will never start typing that story they always wanted to write. Others won’t stumble upon that great new company that they do indeed match perfectly. The unknown loss is different for everyone.

I’m not saying don’t have fun. It has been my experience that balance is often the key to success. Leaning too much to the left or right tends to make a mess of everything. Honestly, it is just as important to play as it is to be hard-working.

Do your best to know what you want. Lay out your needs and do what is better for your life. Also, never let someone else’s agenda change your plans. You are the designer of your life! The only one allowed to through off the designer is the architect.

*Posts you may enjoy:


Are You Doing Your Best?
Carefully Measure Your Success
Tears
True Priorities
Road Travelled
What's On Your Agenda?

The Wise One

I was talking to my mother, also known as the wise one, as I often do. Sometime I am simply enjoying her time, while other times I’m being lectured (in love of course) or asking for advice. The best of all of our conversations seem to be when all the three types of discourse cross paths. Today, the wise one and I were just talking and she gave me counsel which led to a short, but wonderful sermon.

She encouraged me to ask God for assistance in all things. She reminded me that my Father is present for good and bad. She urged me to not only speak to Him, but to ask for His help when needed. There was also a warning about how people will often get what they think they wanted.

The wisdom I took away from this talk was that I should stay in constant communication with my Father. I should pray with the knowledge that only God knows what is truly best. Also, if I have a question or need I should ask Him, after all, that is what the wise one told me to do and I honor my mother and father. Maybe you should ask Him too!

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Holding My Grandson

Miracles

Pillow Talk

Happy Birthday Harriet!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes Harriet P. a very special birthday! Turning 21+tax is exciting! I hope you get everything you want because you deserve the best. God bless you and enjoy!

True Priorities

There are things in life that we must all do. They tend to be placed high on our to-do lists. Some personal desires will take top billing from time-to-time as well. It has been my experience that most things need to be balanced. Many of those things are done for the best of your family, but that isn’t always obvious.

True Priorities show when something happens. When a situation occurs what do you do? Did you rise to the occasion? Or rationalize why you couldn’t be helpful? In times of despair your chosen road is apparent, especially when it involves a child. Remind the people you love that they are your true priority. Don’t assume they know.

Believe

Road Travelled

Choices

Are You Doing Your Best?

Happy Birthday Jackie!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes Jackie PH a very happy birthday! I hope you enjoy your special day! May God bless and keep you all the rest of your days in Jesus' name, amen.

Southern Hospitality in NYC

I have wanted to go to the restaurant Southern Hospitality for a little while now.  I read the menu online and it looked good. I was anxious to taste the food.

This week my niece and I finally went to the Hell’s Kitchen location. We were happy walking through the doors. Unfortunately, we weren’t very hungry having just left an event. So we decided to start small and come back another time for more. We both had simple orders. 

It took our waiter approximately ten minutes to approach our table. I ordered a Cabernet. I received my wine over fifteen minutes later. Then we ordered the Banana Pudding with Nilla Wafers. My niece ordered a milk shake and a Stuffed Cupcake, which arrived about thirty minutes later, once we asked the host for a receipt for the wine. We felt that was entirely too long to wait for those particular items. How long would real food have taken?

We ate our desserts because at this point we were pretty sure that we would not return. I will say this, my pudding was absolutely fantastic. The portion was small, but perfect. The caramelized bananas came together in scrumptious harmony with the Nilla Wafers and whipped cream. While eating, mouth was in a sweetened place in heaven. Had our service been better, we might not have been so disappointed.

What’s your opinion about our visit? Do you think we should try it again?

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Village Natural