Day 396 ~ I Am Second Challenge Day 16 of 22

This is Day 16 of my challenge... {and} my sixteenth video... [finally!]

... Stephen Baldwin... It's hard to believe that his popularity soared when Bio-Dome and Half Baked came out in the 90s... and let's not forget his stint as Barney in The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas ...  my boys loved watching these movies back in the day... and yes, I admit sitting right alongside.  lol!


Fast forward twelve years... he has appeared on shows like Larry King, 20/20, being interviewed by Barbara Walters professing his love for God and his Christianity.

Stephen Baldwin: I am Second

I am not about to tell you that this is my plan... not at all.  


However, I should take a moment to say to some of my friends {who have known me forever}... 


I realize that all this (my talking about my seeking for a relationship with God) may seem weird coming from me.. Only because I never have expressed too much interest.  


Now I did go to a Christian school through second grade and then fourth, fifth and sixth (I think) I attended a Catholic school... even so, I never had a real, sincere relationship with God.  Everything {religion} was forced on me and not really explained (Catholic service back in the day was Latin... exactly!  I had no clue what was being said.)


Just as Stephen did, I have also been searching for my own true self... for a sincere relationship with God... for God to use me for his work.  I want to be a better person... I want to feel better... I want to do good...  I want to help others...  


Isn't is said, "it is better to give than to receive"?

We are Second when we put Jesus First. Seconds are bold to lift up Jesus and tell others. Are you ready to become a stronger Second?

I challenge YOU to take the I Am Second [22] Day Challenge... Can you spare maybe fifteen minutes in a day?

In every way I showed you that by working hard like this we can help those who are weak. We must remember what the Lord Jesus said, ‘We are more happy when we give than when we receive.’ ~Acts 20:35 (NIV)

I AM SECOND.

[here's to you finding your... ]

Peace...

... for a, l & c.  You are my sunshine(s).  


Happy Birthday Addison!!  I love you son.  You mean the world to me.

Images are courtesy of google or Bing images.  Some images maybe labeled property of Carla Barila Karam and of this blog, Took It... Making It... Living It... My Life .  © 2012  U.S Copyright Laws apply.

Day 384 ~ I Am Second Challenge Day 7 of 22

This is Day 7 of my challenge... {and} my seventh video...

... Wayne Huizenga Jr., heir to Waste Management, Blockbuster Video, Auto Nation, Professional Sports teams, hotels, a resort and not to mention yachts, planes and automobiles...  

Wayne Huizenga: I am Second

Before watching this video, I thought to myself... "what on earth does he have trouble with?  He has everything!"  How could I conjure up sentiments for someone that I could not feel sorry for?  What could he possibly need?  After all he has everything!

Everything that is, but a relationship with God.

Not having God in his life, made Jr. feel empty even with all his accomplishments and treasures.

As I mentioned earlier, I am really having a hard time relating... after all we are even not in the same tax bracket!  However... the emptiness that Jr. (as he is called by all who know him) talks about feeling, well I can relate.

I've been working hard for a very long time, years that is, to get ahead.  Coming up with ideas after ideas that fizz out before ever hitting the drawing board due to discouragement, and basically not believing in myself.  

It hasn't been all that long that I have given myself to God, as a matter of fact I was baptized nearly three years ago.  Even though I have had Christ in my life for most of it, I have not led a Christian life.  I was more or less going through the motions.

Since moving to Texas I have attended more church (willingly) than I had all of my life.  I say willingly because I went to a Catholic school growing up and had to go to Church seven days a week... and honestly never got anything out of it.  Kind of hard when the service was in Latin!

About three months ago, I decided that I really wanted to be closer to God.  I decided that up until now I was not getting out of life what I wanted.  Was it because I did not truly have Jesus in my heart?  As I thought about it more I came to the conclusion that I needed to have Him in my life.

Making the decision to really go to church was very easy.  Actually my daughter (5 y/o) made it very easy for me.  She loves church and was always disappointed when we would not go.  I saw how much love she had for Jesus and I decided to help her grow her relationship with Christ by leading by example.  I would show her the love I have for Him myself, and live by His word.

Since then, I have become a "formal" member of our church, and attend classes {through our Church} to do more.

Today I do not have all the answers, or the riches that Jr. has... however with Jesus by my side I am growing stronger each day... and you never know... maybe I too one day will enjoy the fruits of my labor.

He is First... I am Second. 

We are Second when we put Jesus First. Seconds are bold to lift up Jesus and tell others. Are you ready to become a stronger Second?

I challenge YOU to take the I Am Second [22] Day Challenge... Can you spare maybe fifteen minutes in a day?

If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.~Romans 10:9 (NIV)

I AM SECOND.

[here's to you finding your... ]

Peace...

... for a, l & c.  You are my sunshine(s).  

Images are courtesy of google or Bing images.  Some images maybe labeled property of Carla Barila Karam and of this blog, Took It... Making It... Living It... My Life .  © 2012  U.S Copyright laws apply.   

Day 378 ~ I Am Second Challenge Day 1 of 22

I received my first email today with instructions to watch my first video...

The first video was much to my surprise... Brian Welch, lead guitarist for the band Korn.  

Funny, back in the late 90s I couldn't get enough of Korn!  Today, watching Brian's video, his testimony... well I would have never thought that I would be crying to Brian Welch.

There was a verse that Brian's real estate agent shared with him, as well as inviting Brian to his Church... this verse changed Brian's life.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  ~Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Besides watching Brian's video, I also had to share it with someone who comes to mind... besides sharing the video with a few friends, I would love to share it with you.

http://www.iamsecond.com/seconds/brian-welch/ 

I see that I am sharing with you something I did not even expect on sharing, and that is my walk to grow closer with Jesus. 

I have lived most my life for me, my children and family... but never have I lived it for Jesus.

You know how they say if it's not broken, why fix it? OR Insanity... doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results...  Well... if I have not been able to do it all right by myself, why not try it with Jesus?

Let me tell you... throughout my life when I have really seeked Christ [in dark moments], prayed to him, he has answered my prayers.  Maybe not when I wanted him to, but he answered them when he knew I would be ready for His answers.  There has to be something said for this. 

We are Second when we put Jesus First. Seconds are bold to lift up Jesus and tell others. Are you ready to become a stronger Second?

I challenge YOU to take the I Am Second [22] Day Challenge... Can you spare maybe fifteen minutes in a day?

I AM SECOND.

[here's to you finding your... ]

Peace...

... for a, l & c.  You are my sunshine(s).  

Images are courtesy of google or Bing images.  Some images maybe labeled property of Carla Barila Karam and of this blog, Taking Back My Life ~ Making It My Own.  © 2012 U.S Copyright laws apply.   

Day 354 ~ "Jesus" {Take The Wheel}

What I Learned About Me... from A to Z

What have I learned about myself this past year {blogging}..?  hmmmm... First off... I would like to make sure you know up front... I never had blogged before until I started this blog 349 days ago.  Secondly... I never intended on learning anything.  HAHA! LOL!  No but seriously... It wasn't my intention...   Check out what my intention(s) were/are here.

So here goes... What I Learned About Me... from A to Z

"J" is for...  Jesus {take the wheel}.     

I have been saving this post for a while now and feel that there isn't a more appropriate time for me to post it.

Once more ... I can not reiterate enough what blogging has done for me.  I think it is more about the new found strength I have gained... within myself that is... about myself... and about life.  

Somehow within this new rebirth of mine, I have also gained more love and respect for my Lord, Jesus.

Not too long ago I heard this song...

Jesus Take The Wheel 

Songwriters: James, Brett; Lindsey, Hillary; Sampson, Gordie;

She was driving last Friday on her way to Cincinnati

On a snow white Christmas Eve

Going home to see her Mama and her Daddy

With the baby in the backseat

Fifty miles to go and she was running low

On faith and gasoline

It'd been a long hard year

She had a lot on her mind and she didn't pay attention

She was going way too fast

Before she knew it she was spinning

On a thin black sheet of glass

She saw both their lives flash before her eyes

She didn't even have time to cry

She was so scared

She threw her hands up in the air

Jesus, take the wheel

Take it from my hands

?Cause I can't do this on my own

I'm letting go

So give me one more chance

To save me from this road I'm on

Jesus, take the wheel

It was still getting colder when she made it to the shoulder

And the car came to a stop

She cried when she saw that baby in the backseat

Sleeping like a rock

And for the first time in a long time

She bowed her head to pray

She said I'm sorry for the way

I've been living my life

I know I've got to change

So from now on tonight

Jesus, take the wheel

Take it from my hands

Cause I can't do this on my own

I'm letting go

So give me one more chance

To save me from this road I'm on

Oh Jesus, take the wheel

Oh, I'm letting go

So give me one more chance

Save me from this road I'm on

From this road I'm on

Jesus, take the wheel

Oh, take it, take it from me

Oh, why, ooh

Needless to say... "Jesus" took the wheel in my life long ago... just to me a while to realize it. 

On another note... today I reached 29,000+ views on my blog.  WOW!  What an awesome thing it would be if I made 30,000+ within 11 days or less.

Tomorrow...  What I Learned About Me... from A to Z ... the letter(s) "K" & "L". 

[here's to you finding your... ]

Peace...

11 days to go... {tears are forming in my eyes...}

read about this count down in my "About my Blog" page

... for a, l & c.  you are my sunshine(s).

Images are courtesy of either google or Bing images.  Some images maybe labeled property of Carla Barilá Karam and of this blog- Taking Back My Life ~ Making it My Own.  US Copyright law apply  ©

Day 192 ~ Life's Curveballs

SO many thoughts going through my mind right now, that it is not even funny!  My thoughts are bouncing off of each other... it's crazy.  The moment I try to process one thought, another one is right behind it taking me in the other direction.

We have Christmas right around the corner, and as I shared last night, I have barely done any shopping.  The big reason is that money is really tight and it might be that Dean has limited work between now and the first week of January.  Ugh!!  

Just as we were getting ahead, BAM!  Little by little, whatever I had saved up... G-O-N-E!  But I have faith that something good is up ahead for us.  I have decided to think that way rather than to focus on the present situation.  I just handle whatever comes our way, and continue to look forward.  SO tired of dwelling on the negative.

Then I have my "special" house guest, my sister.  The jury is still out on this one.  Although, I could say that it's been okay.  It is very difficult to open up and be 100% trusting and loving.  I understand that in order to truly forgive, one must basically let go of the past, in order to move forward and past it all... especially if you want to have a healthy relationship.  However, when there has been as much kaos and havoc as there has been in our lives and relationship with one another... well once you've been burned, you are really careful when you get close to the stove the next time.

Don't get me wrong, I have been giving our relationship a big effort... after all my sister is staying in my home.  And I am trying to teach her about nutrition, exercise and a healthy lifestyle.  I am trying to help my sister.  I feel bad for her... yet, one must keep in mind that whatever she has or does not have is because of decisions she has made.  I am prepared, and will help her... I will however not enable her.

Originally she was to stay until February, operative words being, "originally" and "was".  She found out this evening that she has an appointment just before New Year's that she may not be able to change... she will not find out for sure until tomorrow.  Although by sounds of it all, looks like a definite go.

How do I feel about this?  I really do not know.  Initially, I was very upset in thinking that she is was giving up and reneging on all our plans.  On one hand I don't blame her that she may want to return, yet on the other this is a much healthier environment for her.  Honestly, I can't help it but to think that she wants to go back and this is a perfect out for her.  Well only "time" will honestly dictate if I am right or not, or even if it matters. 

I really thought we would have this time to heal our relationship, and then WHAM-O! she is not here but for four days and something comes up... so much for starting a business or preparing for the future.

I know I am disappointed about the possibilities of things not changing for her or for me.  However, I also have to remember that even though help is offered, that does not mean that it will be welcomed, or taken for that matter.  The "person" in need must want to be helped, and/or want to change things in their life.  We can't force a person to take advise, or to take our help.

One thing is for sure... I tried to help.  I sincerely cared.  That's all I will say right now.  Trying not to get upset.  Just when her self- esteem and self-worth were beginning to show signs of growth.  She was even starting to believe in herself.  (big happy face.)

So as disappointed as I may be to the possible change of plans, I must place my faith in God by leaving my worries in his hands.  I praise you Jesus!

Anything God asks us to do he supplies us with the energy and grace to do.    ~ author unknown   

If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.  ~ 1 Peter 4:11  (NIV) 

On the forth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, 

...   four loving dogs

...   three cook books

...   two ceiling fans, 

...   our little girl we call Calley

Blessings to all!!

173 days weeks to go...

PS... I love and miss you boys.  To the moon and stars above and back.  You are my sunshines.

All contents herein are protected under Copyright laws and can not be used, altered or copied.  All accounts herein are written by Carla B Karam and are true accounts of her life.  Some names may be changed to protect the innocent.

Picture credits... images courtesy of Bing images.

Day 112 ~ Through This Journey...

Sixteen weeks ago tonight I decided to finally put pen to paper, sort of speak.  

If I've said it once, I will say it a million more...  This has been an amazing journey for me thus far.  I personally feel that I have grown so much as a person, including my faith in God... all knowing that I have barely scratched the surface and all in the same, I am so excited to be where I am.

Through this journey, I have learned that the amazing group of people I happen care about also happen to have my back.   

Through this journey I have met some amazing new friends...  This is where God comes in... I have crossed paths with people, and have since become a part of my life in one way or another... It was all about being at the right place at the right time... Thank you God for everything... my every day... my every breath.

Through this journey, not only have I been blessed with having shoulders available to cry on, but my shoulders also have been blessed with a few tear stains on them too.

Through this journey I have realized that all of 'this" is not in vain... including those experiences behind my words... especially since I know in my heart that I am reaching out to people by sharing a part of myself.    

Through this journey I have found that my friends too have their situations to deal with... life happens to everyone.  Always know my friends and family, that my "shoulders" are always available.

Through this journey I have learned that I have so much more to explore and learn from.  Including all the bumps and curves in the road, as well as the straight ways!

Through this journey I have become more appreciative of my family and friends.  I could not be more thankful!  Well... maybe just a little...  (wink, wink)

I sincerely hope that if you are not able to go on this journey with me, that I in some way have been able to connect with you on some level.


Thank you God for everything... my every day... my every breath.

There is great meaning in life for those who are willing to journey.
~  Jim England

Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is often more important than the outcome.~  Arthur Ashe

The feeling remains that God is on the journey, too.~  Teresa of Avila 

Blessings to all!!

253 days / 36 weeks to go...

All contents herein are protected under Copyright laws and can not be used, altered or copied. All accounts herein are written by Cali-Gal/Carla B Karam and are true accounts of her life. Some names may be changed to protect the innocent.  

Day 83 ~ Nana's Better Now

Our last Easter with Nana.
Nana, Gene (mom) and Calley.

The last couple of days have been a whirlwind of sorts.  It is mind blowing when you start putting together everything that needs to be taken care of when a family member passes away.

One of the things needed to be done on my list, which with all honesty, Dean and I had not really talked about was telling Calley.  You think that with all three of Dean's grandmothers being in ailing health, two of them living here in town, we would have touched the subject.  

The last time we had seen Nana was for our family Father's day outing in June... and since then, she's been in and out of the hospital.  Finally arrangements were once again being made for her return to her home... she was happy to know that once again she could be with her animals, especially Pixie, her dog.  Nana had decided a while back that she did not want to pass away in the hospital.

Nana had been back home just a few days by the time that Dean, Calley and I were able to visit.  However, as great as all that was, we were being told that her body was beginning to shut down.  With all that going on, she may have not said anything, but Nana acknowledged that we were  all there.  I am so happy that we were able to tell her we loved her, and say good bye. 

My wish on Saturday was to fill the house with joy and laughter so that mom's last memories of Nana's home, with Nana there would not be somber ones.

Throughout it all Calley knew Nana was not doing well and that we were there for mom (grandma).  We did ask her that there was no yelling, screaming or running around.  

There were a few times that mom and I were deep in conversation and I lost track of Calley... when she appeared she told us she had been in Nana 's room.  "Calley!", we both exclaimed!  Calley immediately replied, "I was just giving Nana kisses and hugs.."   Calley truly touched my heart.

When Sunday rolled around, once again we were going to head over to Nana's.   While on our way, mom called me... "Calley can't come. Nana is worse, and we don't think she's going to make it .."  As I hung up with mom and my heart sank.

Needless to say I had to bribe Calley with all sort of things after I finished telling her that she and daddy had to stay at grandma and grandpa's house while I went to help with Nana.

At the end of the day and after being so worried about how Calley would react... after we told  her that Nana has gone to be with Jesus... she said "I understand mommy... Nana's better now."   I left it alone and walked away scratching my head.

Our death is not an end if we can live on in our children and the younger generation.  For they are us, our bodies are only wilted leaves on the tree of life.  ~Albert Einstein

As a well-spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well used brings happy death.  ~Leonardo da Vinci

Blessings to all!

282 days to go

All contents herein are protected under Copyright laws and can not be used, altered or copied. All accounts herein are written by Cali-Gal/Carla B Karam and are true accounts of her life. Some names may be changed to protect the innocent.