AliceBenton.com

This is not a blog good bye. You'll be able to read my blog at AliceBenton.com. So, this is simply...I'll see you there! xoxo

It's Our Last Day At This Location!

Soon, Alice Benton's Blog will turn one year old and we're excited! The celebration of an entire year will manifest in a cyber birthday party at our new address at AliceBenton.com. You're invited to join us there for week long celebration with great posts, discussions and giveaways!

I have to say thank you for being with me. You have helped to make this blog fantastic whether you were here from day one or just today. It's been a blast! Please know that I appreciate you and have loved sharing my posts with you.

Well, the show must go on and it will! We will begin sharing posts from AliceBenton.com, starting tomorrow, January 1, 2012. This blog will turn one on Friday, January 6th, at our new location. There will be changes, but I'm ready for them. It is my prayer that we improvement every year.

Stop by and let me know you were there! I'll be looking for you...see you soon!


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Post you may enjoy:

A Prayer For My Readers
AliceBenton.com

It's New Years Eve!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very happy New Years Eve! Have the time of your life! Please stay safe and pick a designated driver if necessary, but public transportation is the best way to go this evening. Remember, even if you and yours aren't drinking, many other people will be so caution is still wise. When the ball finally drops, know that I am praying that 2012 is your best year so far. Also, that each year following is better.

God bless you & Enjoy!


Link: AliceBenton.com

Ukazoo Books Book Signing in Towson, MD - AliceBenton.com

Join me on Saturday, 1/14/12 from 1 to 4 pm. Ukazoo Books Book Signing in Towson, MD - AliceBenton.com

We're Moving!

It's true! Alice Benton's Blog will continue, but we are moving to another address. Our new year kicks off with a relocation from here at blog spot to AliceBenton.com. We want you to come visit us there. So, remember to return to us in 2012 on my website. You're invited of course and we want you tell your friends too.

We are starting next year with a week long birthday party! We will be turning one year old on Friday, January 6th and want to celebrate with you. So meet us at our new address on the 1st!


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Posts you may enjoy:

Blog Intentions
January 2012
What's Next?

Who is Autumn?

Autumn is the main character in my upcoming novel, Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men. She is a young woman with a lot to learn. She's complicated in her own way, yet easy to understand. While it's easy to relate to her, don't confuse that with agreeing with her choices. You might, but she's a naive young lady with lessons to learn. One reader saw Autumn as a classy woman with a smutty edge. While another one described her as a little maddening.

Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men is filled with Autumn's relationships. It shows how she has dealt with some things that have happened to her within them. She's basically trying to keep herself together and figure out her next steps while struggling through messes along the way. Will love find her as she moves through these men and their situations?

Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men is absolutely riveting. You'll become engrossed in the characters from section to section and be surprised by all the twists and turns. This novel will leave you excited about what you read and ecstatic that it's part of a trilogy. Look for it because it's coming soon!


Link: AliceBenton.com

*Posts you may enjoy:

An Introduction To Upcoming Novel, Autumn's Five Seasons
Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men
The Black Love Book Discussion

Day Three

Day One: It was Christmas Eve and I woke up out of my sleep in a cold sweat. I was startled awake because of a nightmare. I won't bore you with the details, but it was the worst kind. You know, the realistic kind that you could actually picture happening and thanks to my personal inner night theater, I saw it too. My youngest heard me scream as I awakened.

She yelled, "Are you alright?"

I responded, "Fine! Yes, nothing!" I was coming back into reality as I yelled, "Nothing's wrong! I just had a nightmare!"

"On Christmas Eve? Who does that?" She questioned.

I have to admit I found it strange too. I had been feeling nothing, but overjoyed and simply wonderful.

Day Two: It was Christmas day. I shuttered and yelled as I left this nightmare. This time my youngest didn't check on me. I guess she was over it, but I was still terrified. It was virtually the same dream, except the people were different. And yes, it was the worst kind again. This time it also left me with a sinking feeling in my stomach. It seemed so real. I thought what's going on? Where's my Bible?


Night Two: It was Christmas Night. I was preparing for bed and I placed my Bible under my pillow. I wanted it as close as possible.

Day Three: It was the day after Christmas. I woke up feeling light and peaceful. There was a lovely song playing in my head and I sprung out bed. I felt rejuvenated and ready for the world.

All I'm saying is this, the word of God even unspoken worked a miracle for me. It can for you too, although I suggest finding a verse that speaks to you and speaking it. So goodnight and sweet dreams from me...and my Bible.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Evening Thoughts
Pillow Talk
Prayer

Forgive Yourself

Forgiveness is a topic we tend to mull over. Whether to forgive or not is always a hot topic that's up for discussion. While I'm a huge fan of forgiving someone that has slighted you, that's not what this post is about.

Honestly, no matter how you weigh in on the issue, forgiving other people is easy. The problem usually begins when dealing with yourself. It's rough or down right impossible when it comes to yourself and forgiveness. But I'm here to tell you, you not only deserve forgiveness, you need it to move forward properly.

Make a vow, right now, to forgive yourself for past wrongs. Sure, the little things matter, but I'm talking about the "whoppers." The wrongs that threatened your way of life. The ones that went against your beliefs or were potentially life shattering. Say this out loud in front of a mirror, I forgive myself for ..., then fill in the blanks. Look yourself in the eyes and mean what you say wholeheartedly.

We are supposed to hold ourselves to certain standards, but that shouldn't include harsh judgement. Tweak your perception. You can take the issue seriously and use it to learn without distroying your self image. The inability to forgive yourself for previous indiscretions can turn into self loathing, which of course causes further mayhem.

Pray about it. Thank God for this precious moment and start the next one anew. Everyday presents a chance to become better.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Distractions
God Is In Control
Lovin' The Skin You're In
Loving Life
Reach For Him

Happy Kwanzaa!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a happy Kwanzaa! May your days be filled with joy as you celebrate the principles! God bless.

Kwanzaa

You're in the holiday mood and you don't want the festivities to end. Well, they shouldn't because today is the first day of Kwanzaa! It was founded by Dr. Karenga in 1966 and is an amazing way to jump into a wealth of wonderful knowledge. Kwanzaa's official days of celebration are from December 26th to January 1st.

Kwanzaa is an African American holiday that shares information, as well as strengthens self-image. According to kwanzaa.com, gifts may be exchanged to reinforce personal growth and achievement which benefits the collective community. The seven principles of Kwanzaa are: Umoja (unity), Kujicahgulia (self determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity) and Imani (faith).

You should learn about Kwanzaa. Join in on some festivities that are taking place. Make this cultural holiday a part of your holiday traditions. Below is a video from the Natural Museum of History. Enjoy and celebrate!

Links: about.com
           amnh.org
           officialkwanzzawebsite.org 

*Posts you may enjoy:

Buying The Perfect Gift
I AM
January 2012

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Happy birthday, Jesus! And, let me say Merry Christmas to all of you! Let's all take time to remember what God has done for us. It's truly a joyous day filled with ultimate love for everyone.

Join me today in not only celebrating family and presents, but the love of Christ. I'll be praying and giving thanks before anything is unwrapped. I will also be mindful of what today is really about because the reason for Christmas is so important.

How you choose to honor the Lord can manifest in many ways. The how doesn't really matter just as long as you do it. Pause and be gracious. Fill your mind with holy facts and carry them with you throughout your day.

Merry Christmas!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Holiday Focus
Raise Up
The Gift Of People
When Christmas Came Early

Merry Christmas!

Alice Benton's Blog wishes you a very merry Christmas! While I sincerely hope that you received everything you wanted, know that you have everything you need. Remember the Christ in Christmas and enjoy your holy holiday!

God bless & enjoy!

What If...

What if you woke up tomorrow and there were no presents? You didn't receive any gifts and couldn't afford to buy anyone anything? What if that Christmas tree you treasure was destroyed? And, your favorite holiday music that put you in a jolly mood was unavailable?


I asked my niece these questions and she said, "That would upsetting, but we should still have a celebration."

I asked, "Why?"

My niece answered, "Christmas is about Jesus' birth. The other stuff is extra."


The point is simple. If you were blessed enough to wake up and have "extra" thank God. And, praise His holy name. Regardless of your particular situation show thanks for the birth of Christ. Remember He is the reason for this season.

Happy holidays and have a merry Christmas!


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is In Control
My Lord
'Tis His Season

Holiday Focus

As the year comes to a close, friends have told me their thoughts are all over the place. They're trying to deal with holiday tasks, but instead, Christmas is handling them. Some are lost in a sugary candy cane heaven, while others have mentioned end of the year woes. They try to move on, but haven't been able to really focus on what's next.

I admit, it is extremely easy to get lost among the trees and mistletoe along with long lines at the store. Sure, you can embrace it to a point, but too much focus on presents and parties can leave anyone troubled.

Have fun, but don't forget the holy part. Remember not to submerge yourself into the splendor of it all this time of year. Yes, the children can still dream of sugar plums. And, mom can lock lips with Santa, but it shouldn't end on that note. Share Jesus, encourage giving and spread joy. Also, make sure you spend time with those you love.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men
Christmas Spirit
January 2012
Under A Week To Go!

Time For Wine?

This is for my wine wine connoisseur friends! While I would love to count myself among you, I'm no wine expert, yet, but I'm hopeful to join the ranks. For now, I'm just a person that loves a good glass of wine. I'm taking in great information and learning all about it.

While it isn't time to celebrate the The New York Wine Expo's return by clanking our glasses. It is time to jump on great savings for it! So, when the time is right and the expo has come back in 2012 we can happily taste for less.

If you attended last year's expo, next year's New York Wine Expo at the Javits Convention Center is being offered at a fantastic price. If you are willing and able to purchase your tickets between now and December 31, 2011, you're in luck! Entrance can be gained for a fraction of the cost.

Regardless, it is a great event to attend. The Wine Expo includes seminars, 800 sample wines from all over the world, as well as Food and Lifestyle companies. And remember, a seminar is a good place to start. I went to one and it was amazing. It had lots of knowledge and wine!


*Posts you may enjoy:

New York Wine Expo Seminar Review
The New York Wine Expo 2011
Wine Pairing

Raise Up

I had been sitting up late, as I often do, with the television watching me as I wrote. An inspiration commercial came on that was playing You Raise Me Up. As Josh Groban's voice filled the air I began to feel up lifted. I've always loved that song. It has a heavenly sound. The commercial was a success because I was inspired.

Usually, when I'm up late at night the television isn't on, but tonight I'm thankful it was. Believe me when I say, I needed to hear that song. I was having one of those moments we all have. I was experiencing a "low." And, yes that was an understatement and in the next second I was being raised up. God is good that way.

We miss the mark sometime. Other times we are simply too hard on ourselves. Whatever your story know that it's okay. We're alright! Continue to find ways to pick yourself up! While God's light is too bright to stand in, always trying to move closer to it. There will be times when we stand still or fall backwards, but we cannot let that stop us...Let Him Raise us up.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Believe
Reach For Him
Roads Travelled
Why I Failed

Under A Week To Go!

With less then a week left before Christmas, your schedule has probably become worse than usual. You have all of your usual things to do, plus various trips to the mall. How will you get all of this done?

Being slightly overwhelmed can be typical at this time of year. Be determined not to get stressed. Focus on the real reason for the season and remember to pray. Don't be plagued by holiday blues, instead, embrace all that is beautiful and holy about it.

Approach each task as if it were the only one. Space things out and tackle them separately. Simply do things to the best of your ability in order to optimize success. Also, do yourself a favor and remember you're alone. Utilize trusted friends and family that are willing!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Kindness Of Family
No Disappointments
The Gift of People

Christmas Spirit

As Christmas celebrations pop up all over town, we begin to think about family and the importance of the holidays. Traditions are both shared and made. Relatives are remembered while friends are included in loving rituals.

This season brings forth a familiar joy. It strengthens bonds and recaps old fashion ways. It is during this time that we remind ourselves that it is important to give. The holiday spirit is also infamous for spreading a great message--peace on earth.

Make this Christmas more special than ever. Remember what it's about and give of yourself. Also, enjoy what the holiday has to offer because you're important too. Spread love!

Happy holidays!

*Posts you may enjoy:

Gift Suggestions
Christmas' Reason
'Tis His Season

A Year For Children

In ways, next year will be "the year of the children." I have several projects that I will be working on aimed right towards the little ones. As such, I pray to be more aware and attentive because children are precious and deserve more attention. It is my wish to bless them and their loved ones.

It will be interesting to jump into the world of a child. And, I hope you'll come along with me too. Personally, I love being read to by my nieces or reading to my grandson. It will be nice to be on the creative side of the books through books.

While I will be working on other things in 2012, much of my heart will be in the realm of the child. You can look forward to a variety of enjoyable tales, as well as niche topics too.


*Posts you may enjoy:

A Month Before Christmas
Evening Thoughts
One Mother's Letter To Her Children

Intentions

Today, when I completed a telephone conversation I was left thinking that was not my intention. I intended to be gracious and loving. I intended to bless and strengthen another that had blessed and strengthened me. While I wasn't made to feel negative, I did leave the discussion questioning myself. "What have I done?" I asked. I walked away from this talk wanting to reevaluate my approach.

My joy and excitement in the situation had overshadowed what I wanted to convey. The message was getting lost in translation because I assumed my position was clear. I inadvertently began to push away the one person that continuously tried to help me.

"Why did I bring this up?" You asked. Well, I mentioned this scenario because it's important. Often when we are close to someone we feel they know our heart. Sometimes that's true, but it may not be  as well. Be clear about your intentions because you know what they say about assumptions. Do your best and remain mindful!


*Posts you may enjoy:

A Prayer For My Readers
Communication
Distractions

Emotional Roller Coaster

As the end of the year swiftly approaches, many of us are involuntarily held hostage on an "emotional  roller coaster." This ride would clearly be an awesome thriller if it didn't yank you back and forth through life. There are times when we throw up our hands and willing thrust ourselves onto what feels like the ride from hell. And, yes...I've been there. But I say no more!

Emotion can be a beautiful thing. It shouldn't be wasted on a ride that you probably wouldn't go on, if it were in your favorite amusement park. Let's face it, everyone doesn't like a heart racing roller coaster! So, save your feelings for something that's worth it. Be productive and don't accept negativity to come.

Tell yourself this year will be different. You may have sad moments, because you're human, but that's it; limit them to minutes. Refuse to dive into the "pool of sorrow" head first. I say avoid that pool completely, but you can't see your way out of it change your perception. Perhaps, a happy cannan ball that disrupts the bad flow, instead a dive. Seek happiness and bless others with it when you find it.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Christmas' Reason
No Disappointments
Prayer

The Charity: Ball Gala 2011

The Charity: Water Ball was a huge success! The 69th Regiment Armory was packed with fun-loving, donation-giving, party goers from all over. It was truly a great crowd, which translated into a party to remember.

There were wonderful speeches given by Scott Harrison, the Charity: Water founder and Jessica Biel, the evenings host. Tyler Perry also graced the stage as famed special guest auctioneer for the live auction.

There were a variety of unique activities this ball. There were sponsored water walks in the middle of the gala floor. There were also varied stations set up around the room to encourage charitable moments. Also included was an eclectic deejay and awesome eats.

I was stationed at the small donations wall where, the founder himself got the ball rolling by purchasing the first light bulb. The idea was to light up a village with clean water and by the end most of it was. This particular station represented a water project in Cambodia.

The ball was terrific! Great work Charity: Water!


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is In Control
January 2012
Serve Humanity Through Charity Water
'Tis His Season

Push

This weekend, I have been pushing myself. There was a great deal that I needed to accomplish and I did, thank you, Jesus. I tested my limits. I was tempted to drop a thing or two, but couldn't. What responsibility should be ditched? None, of course. When I'm committed to a cause I have to see it to the end.

I juggled as many things possible. Unfortunately, there was no time to play. I had deadlines to meet and obligations to fulfill. Thankfully, God gave me the strength I needed to prevail. I constantly prayed and simply kept moving on faith.

I know the price for not handling my business, all too well. I know what and who suffers when I'm not doing what I came to do. So, I push forward and hope that you will too. It isn't always easy to do what's right, but it is necessary.

There will be time to relax and celebrate. And when it's finally time to play, I'm doing it big! But for now, I'm prioritizing and it helps that I'm never alone. God is with me and thank you for being here too.


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is Love
My Books
Victory Is Yours!

No Disappointments

Today, I attempted to handle many things. As I checked one item off my list, I quickly moved to the next. Then it changed. There were several things that I just couldn't get done. It wasn't my fault, but I still missed the mark.

I could see disappointment lingering in the air. I began to feed into the disappointed feeling that kept coming for me. Generally, I don't give in to it.

If I give something my all and it evades me, it wasn't mine. That doesn't mean give up. It simply means that today was not the day. I'll try again tomorrow because it might be.

There are no disappointments...it's all beauty!

*Posts you may enjoy:

Believe
God Is In Control
Reach For Him

January 2012

Next month will bring in feelings of new possibilities and I love it! I will not only be thrilled about the new year, but January itself. I'm looking forward to the continued holiday season, which in my family goes until the 6th, as well as wonderfully positive surprises that we haven't found out about yet. 

The first week of January kicks off a one year old birthday celebration for Alice Benton's Blog! In honor of that accomplishment there will be a cyber bash at AliceBenton.com. My blog's official address will change. It's leaving blogspot, but you will be able to continue accessing it at AliceBenton.com We'll have lots of happiness and joy to spread along with some giveaways for members. The blog's official birthday is January 6, but the party will begin before that date. Make sure you check in with us! 

The following weekend, on Saturday, January 14, 2012, there will be a Beauty in Pain book signing in Towson, Maryland. Yippee! The signing will be at Ukazoo Books from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Make sure you stop by and say hello. Get your autographed copy of Beauty in Pain!

As far as the rest of the month, it's a little uncertain. Don't worry because I still expect great things! I'll have some news about my soon to be released novel, Autumns Five Seasons: The Men. It's the first book in a series of three! Plus, there will be many more announcements as we continue along. Regardless, I look forward to spending more time with you. Stay blessed.

*Posts you may enjoy:

An Introduction To Upcoming Novel - Autumn's Five Seasons

My Books - Beauty in Pain & Black Love

December

Surprise!

Improving Your Craft

So, you finally found something you're passionate about. It's more than you imagined and makes you happy. You're not only doing it for yourself, you've put it out into the world. Things are better then you expected.

Now what? Advancement of your craft is the answer. When you love something you want to enhance it. If it is part of a business and not just a hobby, honing your skill is crucial to survival.

The more you improve the better your passion is received. Your following will strengthen too. You'll also gain more appreciation for what you love. Think about improving your craft today!

*Posts you may enjoy:

Distractions
God Is In Control
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain

'Tis His Season

As I was cleaning out my never-ending closet, I placed some items into a box that I was considering selling. Every now and then, I attempt to come up with ways to get better at spending, saving, etc.. And, while there is nothing wrong with doing that, I thought it's the season of Christ. I should be thinking of ways to help His children, after all, that's the type of gift Jesus would want.

I decided to examine the contents of my ever-growing box and realized that I could bless someone quite easily with it. There were clothes that I hadn't worn even once with the tags on them. There were also shoes that had never touched the ground, among other things. Yes, for now, we'll avoid talking about my obvious wastefulness and get to the point. My things were in perfect shape to donate. And why shouldn't I? 'Tis His season, right? Part of how I will honor God this season is by giving my flawlessly fit fashions to a church or another appropriate organization.

Remember to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. Think of ways that work for you to bless God's children because 'tis His Season!


*Posts you may enjoy:

A Month Before Christmas
A Positive Way Of Life
Shoes And Bags In Your Closet

Gift Suggestions

Choosing a gift can be a pain for many during the holidays. It's often difficult to pick out what is best regardless of the person. Don't get lost in the gift-giving realm without any helpful hints from Santa. I always suggest listening to the person you want to be thrilled, but if that isn't you don't panic. Below I have listed a few affordable suggestions that would make most happy.

For women, take a look at this gift guide for women by realsimple.com. They have many suggestions, but my favorite is the long pair of gloves from gap. They're a must have accessory and extremely adorable. Every lady needs gloves like these.

This year keep it simple with your men ladies. Give him a planner. I must admit, I saw a version of this idea on abc's, General Hospital. They type varies with the man from a pocket planner to an engraved business padfolio, but it's great when done right. Once you've matched the right kind to your man, fill it with sentimental dates to remember. I'd also throw in a few promised dates as well.

When it comes to children the individual will greatly affect what you're willing to give them. So generally speaking, I like to think of the child both individually and age wise. If they are infants or toddlers consider how the item feels. You can also ask the parents what they would like for their child.

I like things like rag dolls, stuffed animals and blankets for toddlers. Older children might want to play around in a Color Me Castle or Dollhouse. Give the teen in your life a gift card from American Express, Visa, etc. for a denomination that your comfortable with, not them. They can use it like money and they get to pick out what they want.

Well, that's all I have. I hope it works out...let me know.


*Posts you may enjoy:

Christmas' Reason
Buying The Perfect Gift
Kindness Of Family
Where Can I Get Beauty in Pain?

Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men

Autumn's Five Seasons is an exciting three book series! The first soon to be released book in the series is called The Men. This novel was inspired by my first book, Black Love: A Book of Poetry & Love and I'm so happy that it's almost time to share it with you.

My book of poems, Black Love, was used as an outline, but it did not control the story. And, I think that's good because poems are wonderful, but they only represent how you feel during one moment. A novel on the other hand is continuously revisited throughout the course of time. Generally, statements and/or feelings simply deepen or become more clear.

I found the male characters surprising! That's funny to me because I created them, but it's true. They all contribute a unique view on relationships and leave you wanting much more. In fact, that's how Autumn's Five Seasons became a three book series. The story was over, but I wanted more and I know you will too.

I'll keep you posted on its progress. Watch for it because my novel, Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men, will be coming soon!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Beauty in Pain - Now Available
The Black Love The Book Discussion
An Introduction To Upcoming Novel - Autumn's Five Seasons

What's Next?

I love talking about the things I have created. Currently, I am discussing my novel, Beauty in Pain the most. As my second novel, Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men, gets closer, I am talking about that and Black Love more as well. FYI, Autumn's Five Seasons is a three book series!

The best topic about my creations always stems from a reader that ask, "What's next?" There are many great things coming. In fact, that knowledge is one of the many reasons I'm so excited about 2012. Next year, I'll be wrapping up my Beauty in Pain Book Tour and beginning another tour for Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men. It will also be a year for the children because I'll finally be working on books for the little ones.

There are countless projects in store for next year. My plans include much more than listed above. I made a literary timeline to keeps things moving. There are no hard deadlines for most works of art, but there is a clear order of things. Look out because there will be loads of surprises!

I love how a simple question can inspire a world of possibilities. Tell me, what's next for you?


*Posts you may enjoy:

Determination
Ideas Should Materialize
New Year Joy
Surprise!

Back To Basics

Lately, I have had some recurring themes play in my life. At first, I barely noticed. Then I thought huh. Next, I said to friend, "I keep seeing this..." Later, I questioned, "What does it mean?"

The meaning was clear. There was an issue in my life that I needed to look at closely. It would continuously resurface in varied ways only for me to find out fundamentally, it was the same. I examined what was happening and realized I needed to go back to the basics.

That's something we all need to do from time to time. We're told not to sweat the small stuff, but it's the little things that get built upon and made into something bigger. If it's positive...great, but what about when it isn't?

If you're aware of an issue you have deal with it! It doesn't matter how big or small it is because problems love to replay themselves and spread out whenever possible. Do your best to stay on top basic truths in your life and remember you are not alone.


*Posts you may enjoy:

God Is Love
Positivity
We Are Not Alone

Extra

I've always been a holiday girl, but this year seems more special. As the holidays approach, I'm feeling their much anticipated arrival in an extra personal way. Their year long debut has greeted me in a fantastic manner and I'm loving it.

I'm long pass making a Christmas list and I've never really been picky about what I get. There are two things that I love about receiving gifts. The first is simply being thought of...yes, I am corny enough to cherish the sentiment and you probably should be too. I don't always get the second treasure, but it's recognizing the mental process found in the present. If you make the connection appreciate that special moment!

This year, I will of course be happy for any pleasant surprises that come my way, but I know what I want. Ironically, these precious gems cannot be purchased. I want to strengthen family bonds and move closer to God. Everything else is extra!


*Posts you may enjoy:

Buying The Perfect Gift
Christmas' Reason
Surprise!
Where Can I Get Beauty in Pain?

Blog Intentions

Alice Benton's Blog has in various ways been a blessing to me. I sincerely hope that it has blessed you too. It hasn't even been a full year and so much has changed. We have come a long way! Its been a journey.

This blog will turn one year old on Friday, January 6th, 2012! I'm excited about our birthday! Being older and wiser there is an expectation of improvement. I intend to do just that. Here are a few changes that will occur when our birthday arrives listed below:

1. Alice Benton's Blog is moving! The birthday party begins in our new home at AliceBenton.com. 
2. Posts will be more regulated.
3. There will be more photos used.

It is my intention to enhance the reader experience. In order to find Alice Benton's Blog, you'll simply have to go to AliceBenton.com and click the blog link. If you read it on my Facebook Page or through following @alicebenton on twitter, you'll still be able to find it there. 

My 2012 blog intentions are simple...do way better than last year!

*Posts you may enjoy:

A Month Before Christmas

Change Can Be Good

Expectations

December

As the month of December begins, I have been reflecting on this year. It's been a good one. It has certainly had some challenges, but I can't complain. I have accomplished a great deal within 2011. I started this blog and my website, AliceBenton.com. I also published my first novel, Beauty in Pain and wrote a second soon to be released novel, Autumn's Five Seasons: The Men; to name a few.

For you, December holds the last NYU Free Writing Class in the series that started in September. So, mark your calendar. It's also time for the Charity: Water Charity: Ball here in New York City. I can't wait and you won't want to miss it. And, the holiday season is already in full swing. Happy holidays to you all!

This month will add closure to some things. It is also ushering in a new day year. I'm looking forward to venturing into new areas in 2012. The anticipation alone has an overwhelming feel to it. I'm going to embrace December and all it has to offer because soon it will be gone.


*Posts you may enjoy:

NYU Free Writing Classes
Reasons To Love Beauty in Pain
Serve Humanity Through Charity Water