Yes We. Were There.

We enjoyed our free ride on the new MTA Expo line on Saturday.

We rode the train to/from KJLHs 12th Annual Women's Health Forum.

We saw sweet and pretty air personality Adai Lamar!

So Many. Hearts Touched.

By her LOVE. Resting peacefully with JESUS sweet Angel Destoney. One of GODs gifts.

I'm Quoting. A Scripture.

The HOLY BIBLE says:

"This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." -Psalm 118:24

Power Puffs. Princess Play.

Three little princesses. 

GODs Greatness. No Charge.

I'm amazed at just how quickly the little caterpillar (found by my GODnephew last week) has morphed into a beautiful butterfly. My GODsister posted a picture of "it" on Facebook yesterday. I went to see the miraculous little "thing" this morning.

They've named the butterfly "Butterfree." We all are so honored being able to witness one of GODs creatures transform from a garden bug into an insect with flying wings. The last time I remember seeing "something" like "this" was during my grade school years for a classroom project.

At an old job I did have a coworker who ordered caterpillars from a website online. She was very into nature and found it so fascinating, that she would simply purchase (readily available) access to some seemingly natural experiences. We all have our quirks...

Today, I'm thinking about how society and different organizations charge money for some experiences that we can all have access to for free. A couple of years ago, I took my daughters to the Natural History Museum to see various types of butterflies inside their seasonal butterfly exhibit. Our visit for my little family of three costed nearly $20.

The pricing at the museum was fair for the experience. It's quite unlikely that many of us will be in an environment where there are so many different butterfly species around at one given time. I just think many of us forget that we too, can create renditions of a natural atmosphere...

See (above) how my GODnephew created a natural-like environment for the caterpillar.

See (above) how my GODsister created a natural-like atmosphere for "Butterfree."

We Love. The Park.

Mom

  
                                       Big Girl                                                      Baby Girl

Family. Food. Fun. 

A Full. Week.

I am eating the right food. Not only what's edible. I am feeding my spiritual appetite with proper nutrition.

Purr. Perfection!

Made in HEAVEN!!!

Such. A LOVELY Day!!!

THANK YOU JESUS!!! 

Tied. Tuesday.

My GODnephew found a caterpillar at his high school a few days ago and brought "it" home. Isn't "this" amazing? Incredible!

Let's Define: A.S.S.

A.S.S. 

A simple acronym for ANGERED SAD SOULS. We live amongst many. Pray that, they find wisdom and spiritual guidance.

To My: Dear Blog.

Hey buddy! My new digital friend. I apologize for being so preoccupied lately, that I've been forgetting about you.

"This" makes week No. 2. The second time consecutively where I've forgotten to touch down here. "I can" say, that I don't know what's going on, but that'd be dishonest. I do know what's happening.

"Something" else is about to take place in my life. I suppose in my mind consciously and not, I'm preparing accordingly. I am not thinking of my blog as I used to.

Although, I will not abandon "it." There's simply more that I need "to do" just not here. Positive change is calling for a more effective action on my part. I'll be.

Working on it!!!

GOD Bless US!!! 

Something For: Alisa Thompson

Dear Lisa,

GOD Bless you my LOVEly funshine!!! If you can peek through the stress clouds for just a moment I hope to help you to think about some comforting "things."

What a fortune to have birthed such a shining example of a true leader. Especially, in a time like now when so many little girls are lacking hope, positive examples and not having the direction or trying hard enough on their own to pursue their dreams.

I've been thinking... More so, about all the good, that everyone will remember about your daughter Destoney. In a short time she's positively affected not only the lives of her immediate family and those dearest to her heart, but also so many of her peers.

"It" is so very soon. Too soon to be sane and/or as others might expect you to be presently. Don't you worry about "anything." Everything, that has the potential to fill those clouds of stress will be rebuked and taken care of in JESUS' name. Your FAITH will ease "this" pain.

We're the same age and I feel strongly, that we (you and I) have experienced some similar feelings about life and our individual purpose in "it." Hers was served Lisa. I say confidently: In the BEST way possible.

Remember how I used to tell you, that I wanted to be as pretty as you? I really thought you had "it" going on living with your grandmother, father and brother during the time I knew you best. I was always so hungry, remember? You would take me in the backyard into the shed after we had worn ourselves out playing dress-up, performing and singing like the little divas we were. I'd eat cookie after cookie not really wanting to go home away from my princess friend who lived the "Happy-so-Joyful" little life that was so appealing to me.

The fights. You know: I was just jealous. I'm sure you've experienced a whole lot more of that well after elementary school. Where were the "stop bullying" campaign's back then, right? GOD Bless you: Mother to an Angel.

As we matured into adolescence I heard (through the grapevine), that you had gotten pregnant. Honestly, I thought you had lied. I'm sorry. It wasn't until we crossed paths again during our high school years and I learned that your beautiful babygirl, Destoney was attending the childcare across the street from your high school.

I had no idea Lisa. Much of what I felt then, was how lucky I thought you were. Here I was (back then) running away from home chasing after my first LOVE yearning to become pregnant and once again; sweet-pretty little Lisa always getting what she wants does "it" again. Yes, I was ignorant. Kids know nothing until they've gone through some "things," wouldn't you agree? I know. ;)

Thank you for your all your LOVE!!! For having and keeping such a forgiving heart for others. GOD has you. HE IS going to continue to keep you.

Your purpose IS still being fulfilled. I know with all that you've gone through and with your continuous and shameless acknowledgment of GOD being the head of your life: HE has revealed some "things" to you. "I can" only speak to you in "this" manner because I know you know HIM Lisa.

I will go out on a limb and say, that I believe part of your purpose has been for others to see. For people to truly understand what beauty is. Those of us who really know the essence of your being; holds the honor and privilege of knowing you and your children. You were a beautiful little girl and you're even more beautiful as a woman and mother.

You are now a living example Lisa. For other women who will cross the roads you have seeking direction. You have become the role model your children need you to be. You still have work "to do" because you have a compelling testimony and a real-life story that will help young girls (like we used to be) have "something" positive to follow by. Doesn't life feel pleasing when we think more about LOVE and fulfilling a purpose? HIS purpose. Her life's journey will be a compass in high demand. 

Destoney had "it" made already. There's no need for her to suffer any pains of "this" world. Whatever she has gone through "it" was enough. Not our say. What GOD says. Your job well done funshine. We praise HIM for sharing and delivering her to us. You were worthy to be gifted as her mother. Gifts for each other first, then blessed abundantly to spread with others. Her garden IS planted!!! We'll nurture it together.

I'm finding so much comfort in knowing her needs were fulfilled. She was always a "mommy's girl" and residing with her mommy may have been one of her biggest dreams to come true. We know how challenging this world is today Lisa and you will eventually find peace with the example your precious Angel left. Be very proud of yourself no matter what. You are a rooted factor in her legacy.

Her siblings are so fortunate being witnesses to what beauty and LOVE can do together. How LOVE honestly and amazingly defines beauty. Because of GODs LOVE in you Lisa, you were a chosen vessel. I'm so sorry for your grief my dear friend.

Do you know the profound affect babygirl is about to have not only directly on your family/friends, but on so many of her peers? So many of whom, which don't have any type of understanding of what LOVE looks, feels and speaks, like. You know; that kind of LOVE you have for life, for people, for Destoney, all of your children, the LOVE she had for you, her life, her siblings, but above all: The functional/operative LOVE knowing GOD and that, HE will see each of us through!!! Just as HE has thus far.

Ride the emotions. Allow yourself to release the sorrow. You must continue to develop according to GODs plan for your life. You have an army of righteousness, that will stand together and fight with/for you. You are very much in your season (exactly where GOD wants you) and you are still leading by example. GOD has given you a break so that you can learn what HE needs you to in order to press forward.

The LOVE GOD delivered here through you when you gave birth to Destoney has been given back to you. I believe GOD is wrapping her up to be delivered in a GREATER way. By way of a desire, "something" promised to you because of your FAITH. You may not stop crying when you want to, but I promise "I can" feel the tears of JOY that'll soon be swimming in your soul. Keep pressing Lisa. Stand "20-feet tall (live video)." Pray. Just wait and see how much more she's going to encourage/inspire you. I LOVE you.

P.S. This got long... I wont question why. I suppose I'm being true to the "big-mouth Andrea with so much to say." The one, that only my true friends (like you) know. Now when I see you "I can" simply be with you. If I say nothing during "that" moment "this" is my stated peace/piece.

In Prayer,

Andrea Lampkin :)

Nothing. No Words.

Simply counting blessings quietly today. Thank HIM. GOD BLESS YOU!!!

We Just. Never Know.

I got a phone call this morning that brought sorrow to my heart. One of my childhood friends lost her eldest daughter today. I'm in shock, but I also accept the news with some understanding.

We hear people say "it" and I truly believe we're all are aware, that tomorrow is not promised to any of us. When we lose a loved one "this" reality settles in and we all react to it differently. I am touched deeply because I am a mother of two beautiful girls and I'm saddened at the thought of being in my friends shoes on a day like today.

GOD has the final say. Period. Even through life's most difficult times, knowing that GOD is always in control helps us to make it through some of our toughest seasons.

It is HE who created each one of us. It is HE that we can always find solace in. HE is the beginning and the end.

We are not to question HIS actions. We are not to wallow in grief, but to pray for strength and acceptance of a new reality. HE built families to stand together through EVERYTHING. HE gave us friends to help support us through life's journeys.

We cannot toy with why. We can only deal with what now is and encourage one another to hold onto the precious memories of what was. Time does heal pain and some losses take longer to live with than others.

PRAYER and FAITH is the best medicine against any anguish or ailment. We all belong to GOD. When HE says it's time... "It" is out of our hands.

GOD BLESS everyone grieving for beautiful Destony De'Janay today.

My dear friend Alisa,

I don't have the words nor can I say, that I understand. You know GOD. I know you do. Only HE knows how long you'll be sad, but I hope to encourage you to remember, that you are NOT alone. Please don't beat yourself up about ANYTHING. HE chose you to be her mother and he specially created her in his likeness to share time here on this earth with you.

Before you were born HE knew what you needed. As you learned about life and discovered motherhood, HIS plan was already in place. Know that GOD knew you when HE made you and everything you've experienced (even today) is all part of HIS plan and purpose for you.

Stand my friend. Easy for me to say to you I know, but that's all I can say as my heart is very heavy at this moment. We (your family and friends) are wrapping you in prayer and no matter your emotional state right now: YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!

I love you with the LOVE of GOD, as someone who knew you as a little girl when we used to talk about having kids, and as your peer who can only imagine what you're feeling. I'm standing and praying for you, your other children, and the family as a whole.

GOD BLESS in JESUS name. Amen.

Monday: Field Trip.

My cousin sent me a text message this morning inquiring about "something" inexpensive "to do." I went to visit with her and suggested going to the beach. Her boyfriend mentioned going to a museum and, that on certain days admission into the art museum is free.

So I researched. Yes, I googled "it." He was correct. At LACMA Los Angeles County residents can get in for free after 5 p.m. on some days; today being one. The disadvantage to "this" deal is that some exhibits close at 5 p.m. My children grew bored fairly quickly and I was disappointed that the children's art room closed at 5 p.m. too.

We made the best of our visit anyhow. The whole visit was free including the curbside parking across the street from the museum. Observing where tar is bubbling up through the lawn in some open areas was quite interesting. Being out in the breeze watching my cousin holding hands with her man was warming.

I could've done without my daughters whining about how hungry and bored they were though. Shaking my head (parents can no longer rely upon schools to open our children's eyes to new experiences). I'll just keep in mind, that I know my daughters will remember "something" from today's outing other than what they were complaining about...

Wonder what and where we'll explore next...?

I Can. Believe.

I simply forgot! To blog yesterday. Wow. It's highly unusual for me to forget all day.

I didn't even think about "it." Yesterday was a very busy day with a round trip to the valley and all. We got home around 9:30 p.m. My eldest daugher and I were having a conversation that didn't end until almost midnight. So maybe that's why I didn't remember at the time that I usually do when I don't blog early in the day.

Whatever, right? Laughing out loud. I actually just remembered to blog for today!

I think "this" week has just gotten ahead of me. Today felt like a Saturday. So glad I remembered that it's not in the knick of time! Or else... Two missed days of touching down with my blog? No way.

Tonight we celebrated JESUS' 7 LAST SAYINGS!!! All I've been thinking about is church this week. The closer the days were to Friday I became more excited about "it."

The fact, that my family stands for CHRIST is "something" I truly cherish. My eldest daughter sang for HIM tonight and I spoke. My GOD!!!

A Lovely Wednesday!

Wednesday's are always great!!! I am doing well. Indeed.

I Must. Exercise Discipline.

Oh my, I'm fighting temptation at "this" present moment. I will defeat "it" because "I can." It's Holy Week and I'm consecrating...

PRAY FOR ME!!! 

Making Necessary. Moves.