Category: Inspiration

My Ultimate Bucket List

9/6/2016

I am super excited about today's post, because setting goals, and along with that, bucket lists, are something that are very important to me! If you have been a long-time reader of this blog, you have no doubt heard me go on and on (and on!) about the importance of goal setting. So today I'm not going to do that, I'm just going to leave you with the below quote, then we'll take a peek at my ultimate bucket list!

So with that little bit of inspiration telling you why I set goals, and why I have an ultimate bucket list, let's get looking at my ultimate bucket list!
There are eighty items total on my list, with more being added whenever I think of one (I had 79 on here yesterday when I posted this, and I though of another one, so I just added it!)! All of the goals that are underlined, are ones that I have already done, and crossed off the list! Here we go!

1. Go white water rafting
2. Learn Mandarin Chinese
3. Pet a Tiger
4. Go snorkeling
5. Spend the night at Wal-Mart
6. Eat squid
7. Learn to play the guitar
8. Go on a cruise
9. Crowd surf
10. Go to the Caribbean
11. See Cat Stevens in concert
12. Get married
13. Be on t.v

14. Ride a motorcycle
15. Give a homeless person food
16. Touch a stingray
17. Be able to do a split
18. Go skinnydipping in the ocean
19. Karaoke
20. Go clubbing
21. Be able to drive manual
22. Go to a costume party
23. Go to China
24. Be a waitress
25. Get a tattoo
26. Adopt a child
27. Write a book
28. See the Beach Boys
29. Go to 10 different countries
30. Kiss in the rain
31. Take my whole family to China
32. Run a mile in under 10 minutes
33. Fall in love

34. Go to a Drive-in Movie
35. Hitchhike
36. Invest $1,000
37. Ride an elephant
38. Go to 20 countries
39. Get my ears gauged
40. Model
41. Go dumpster diving
42. Be in a band
43. Be on t.v in China
44. Have $5,000 in my savings

45. Sing a song I wrote, onstage with my band
46. Teach English
47. Take and pass the S.O.P.I Test
48. Go on an African Safari
49.Go to New York City
50. Work at a Haunted house
51. See Def Leppard in concert
52. Go to India
53. Ride a mechanical bull
54. Write my own blog
55. Get 1,000 pageviews in one month
56. Get 10,000 pageviews in one month
57. Become famous
58. Make $10,000 in a year, working part-time
59. Retire from waitressing
60. Get 100,000 pageviews in one month
61. Make $100,000 in one year
62. See the pyramids of Egypt
63. See Steve Miller Band in concert
64. See Panic! At the Disco in concert
65. Have my wedding featured on Rock n Roll Bride
66. See the Taj Mahal
67. Travel solo
68. Visit Santorini, Greece
69. Go zip lining
70. Stay in an overwater bungalow

71. Visit Tom's Restaurant
72. Party like a rockstar in Vegas
73. Fly first class
74. Ride a camel
75. Drink tequila and eat tacos in mexico
76. Go to Oktoberfest in Munich
77. Live in a foreign country
78. Do volunteer work
79. Speak to foreign locals in their own language
80. Backpack through Southern Asia

And there it is; my Ultimate Bucket List! I hope you enjoyed it, and maybe got some inspiration for your own list! If you don't have one yet, never fear, I wrote a great article about how to write your own bucket list, as well as how I came up with the idea for writing my own!
I absolutely love my list. I love looking at all the goals I've got to cross off over the years, and I love looking at all the goals that I will eventually get to cross off! And yes, all the pictures on this post are actual pictures of me, crossing off the items on my ultimate bucket list! Take a look at the "Before I Die" tab at the top of the blog, and you can see the rest of my pictures of me crossing off bucket list items! They're super fun to look at!

*How about you? What are some things that are on your ultimate bucket list? What are some items you've crossed off your list that have made you super proud of yourself?! Let me know in the comments below!*

Peace Love and My Ultimate Bucket List
Jess <3

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The 2008 China Earthquake

8/8/2016

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As you all know, I love to write about fun things like travel, fashion, weddings, and so on. But I also sometimes like to share with you from my soul. Today I want to share a personal story with you. A true story that happened to me, and something that I feel called to share right now. This is my firsthand story of the 2008 China earthquake...

I had only been living in China for about four months, when the 2008 China earthquake happened on May 12. I was living in Xi'an, a city about 460 miles from Chengdu, which was the epicenter of the quake. I had decided that I wanted to go out for a walk, maybe stop at some of the adorable roadside stores, and do some shipping. My first stop was a little underwear store, with small cardboard signs, exclaiming in Chinese characters all about their sales, hanging from wires from the ceiling, and a waist high bin in the middle of the store, holding hundreds of pairs of half priced underwear. It was in this bin, that I was digging, hoping to find a pair of cute, cheap underwear, that would actually fit me, when it happened. I suddenly felt very dizzy, so I made a mental note that I needed to drink more water. I then glanced up, and saw the signs on the ceiling swaying back and forth as if some strong breeze had swept quickly through the store. Suddenly, the giant metal bin in front of me was being tossed from side to side. This was about the time when me, the cashier, and the three or four other girls in the store, realized that the ground beneath us was moving. We ran outside onto the street. I looked around, and saw, in all directions, hundreds of people, flooding out of buildings, like a tsunami wave out into the street.

Thinking back, the large shocks couldn't have lasted more than a minute or two, but as I was clinging to a complete stranger (one of the random girls from the underwear store!), the once solid ground, throwing me violently down, never letting me stand fully to my feet before tossing me to the other side, I had no realization of time, or any other person, place, event, or thought, besides the girl who was clinging to me and I to her, and the thought, "I am going to die." The entire time of the quake, there was a dead, eerie silence. You could hear the ground moving, and the buildings shifting, but there were none of the comforting sounds of normal life. No car engines, beeping horns, laughing children, no birds in the sky. It was like nothing I had ever experienced before. When the ground stood still once again, there was a moment of complete stillness, quiet, and calm, then it was as if the entire city suddenly at the same time, snapped out of some daze, and started rushing around. I slowly made my way back to my apartment, scared and confused, and trying to comprehend what had just happened. It was mass chaos; all cell services were jammed, you couldn't reach anyone on your phone. Once I reached my apartment, I saw that the entire sidewalk in front of it was full of people. I finally found my friends, and my roommate. No one was allowed back in the building until it was cleared. I later learned that my building had earned the nickname "dofu lou" (tofu building), for it was shifting to and fro like a piece of jiggly tofu during the earthquake.

That night most of the city slept outside on the ground, for being inside a tall building with aftershocks happening, was not the safest thing you could do (especially in the dofu lou!).
Luckily we had a friend that lived in a nice apartment complex, that had grass we could sleep on. I did walk around the city though, and take pictures of the local park, of all the people sleeping on the ground.

This was us the morning after. Yes that's me in the glasses.

I later found out that the earthquake that hit had a magnitude of 7.9, killing about 70,000 people, and leaving over 18,000 missing. It was the 3rd most deadly earthquake in China since 1990. It was a tragedy, through and through.
The above picture is in the days following the earthquake, people donating money to the victims.
It has been eight years, and I have not forgotten, nor will I ever.

Peace Love and Earthquake
Jess <3

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29 Reasons Why...I'm 29 and don't have a Baby!

3/12/2016

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Happy Birthday to me!!!!
Today I am 29 years old (Holy Moly!), and instead of reminiscing on birthdays past (ok I might do that a little bit), or reviewing my life's adventures and/or purpose (after all, I do that almost constantly!), I decided to write a piece about why I do not have children! Because, let's face it, once you get married, and/or start creeping towards that thirty year mark, people start to wonder! Whether out loud or to themselves, "When are you going to have a baby?!"

*Caution! If you do have babies, do not get offended! This is for me, and for all those ladies (and men) out there who feel baby pressure coming at them!*

My 21st Birthday!

Ok so let's get right into it! Yes, I am 29 years old. Yes, I am married. Yes, I do plan on having a baby or two eventually. But not now. Whyyyyyyy you might ask (as do so many others!)?

I have heard people say that having kids was the best thing they every did/the only thing they ever did right/the best thing that ever happened to them/the only thing they're proud of/their only reason for living. That's fine and dandy for them, but I personally would like to have a life I'm proud of that does not include children. Once I have them, of course I would like to be good at it, and be proud of it, but resting your entire life's purpose/reason for living on the head of a baby is a dangerous thing.
So here I have for you, my 29 reasons why I'm 29 and don't have a baby!

#1. I wanted to wait until I was married to have a baby. I just got married last year at the age of 28, and #2. I did not want to rush into baby making right after tying the knot! Getting married and moving in together was a huge enough change, throw in a living breathing dependent, and that would be just too much to handle! And #3. I wanted me and the brand new husband to have time together, just us, to enjoy each other, soak in the wedded bliss, and get comfortable with each other! Think about it, if you have a baby right after you get married, then you have at least 18 years until you can be completely alone with your significant other again! Crazy!

My 22nd Birthday!

#4. I enjoy sleeping, #5. taking baths, #6. drinking wine, #7. blogging, #8. reading, #9. watching Netflix for long periods of time, #10. listening to loud music, #11. doing yoga, #12. having money, #13. going out with friends, #14. going on dates with my man, and #15. being on my own time schedule waaaaaaaaaay too much to give all that up for a baby! Is that selfish of me? Absolutely not! Why give up making myself happy (which is a very important thing!) to do something that is not a necessity? Yes, if I were to accidentally have a baby right now, I would do the responsible and un-selfish thing of giving up a lot of things to take care of it! But! Since I have the option, why not enjoy my life a little first?!

My 23rd Birthday!

#16. I like to always have my hair done, #17. do my makeup, #18. and put together my ridiculously crazy outfits! #19. I am a neat freak and want my house clean at all times! Enough said! #20. I am not worried about being too old, thank you very much to all of you rude people out there who so uncouthly stare at me with mouths agape, astonished at my plans to have children after I'm 30! "But! You'll be too old!" They shout! Well, if you must know, my mom had me when she was 31, followed by two boys, and then the last healthy baby at 38 years of age! Plus, #21. I have no desire or urge to pop out a whole herd of children, a couple will do! So that eliminates a lot of the time factor. Plus plus! #22. Me and Nick plan to adopt. We know that there are millions of children worldwide who are already born (so how selfish is it to only want a child that you have to make from scratch, when there are already ones born that need families!), and who need someone to come along and save them, give them a chance to feel loved, safe, and happy. We want to be prepared for that responsibility.

My 24th Birthday!

#23. I like my body too much! Ok, this one isn't as selfish as it sounds, I promise! You see, I just signed with a modeling agency, and it would be quite the bummer to have that dream dashed by a baby bump! #24. And I also just am not ready for stretch marks, gaining weight, veins, and all the other unsightly things that happen to the female body when she has a child. #25. My husband and I have great ambitions for ourselves. We want to be successful, wealthy, and have a handful of businesses that we can call ours. In order to achieve these ambitions, we need time, money, and focus. All things that, I would imagine, are in short supply when a baby is involved. I had a well meaning person tell me not too long ago, "You can't wait until everything's perfect to have a baby, or else it will never happen!" Well, as a matter of fact, I can! I'm not saying I want to wait until everything's perfect, but maybe close to perfect! I am very ambitious, smart, and determined! I have no doubt in myself, my abilities, or my dreams! So don't tell me to give all that up for something that you in your own mind perceive as necessity.

My 25th Birthday!

#26. I donate a lot of my time to the organizations P.A.T.H.S, and Eden, both dedicated to helping the victims of human trafficking. The position I filled at P.A.T.H.S was vacant because it's pretty time consuming, and the person running it had to step down because she needed to take care of her children. I enjoy, and wish to continue working with these world-changing organizations (Added bonus! If people are bugging you saying that you need to have babies to make you feel useful, or to give you purpose, then instead, join a non-profit, or volunteer somewhere!)! #27. Honestly, I feel like having a baby will age me! I still feel incredibly young, being on the cuff of 30 and all, but I think that having a baby will make me feel my age! And I'm just not quite ready for that! #28. Anyone can procreate! It's not like it's this huge feat that's never been done before! I was put on this earth to do great things! So I will do them! and lastly, #29. I was born to travel. It is my destiny, and my love. I am meant to throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in my sails. Explore. Dream. And Discover [Mark Twain]. Having a baby would seriously affect that.

My 26th Birthday!

So for now, me and Nick will continue our lives of dreaming, wandering, loving each other, helping others, and being ridiculously happy!

*So next time someone tries to make you feel like the odd man out for your non child-bearing decision, show them this list, or better yet, make your own!*

Peace Love and 29 with no Babies
Jess <3

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Do More by Doing Less in 2016

1/18/2016

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The last week of 2015, me and the husband went to a coffee shop for a goal setting date. It was a magnificent time!
I absolutely adore setting goals, and preparing for the new year, so I had a complete blast!

My wonderful husband focusing on his goals <3

I have to admit, that when setting goals I tend to get so consumed by my goals, and wanting to get stuff done, that I lose focus of myself, other people, and just little things that aren't in my realm of goals that I have set!
All this changed a couple of weeks ago, when I heard a preacher talking about setting goals for the new year. I of course got super excited! "Yes! I love setting goals!" I thought to myself. Well, to my surprise, he went a different direction and started talking about doing less this year! "Less?!! What about doing more?!! What about setting more goals, and doing more things?!!" I was internally shrieking. The preacher goes on to blow my mind, and set me straight. He explained that if we are constantly in such a whirlwind of doing things, rushing places, and accomplishing a trillion goals, then we can't be doing those things with our whole heart. Our relationships suffer, we get weary and exhausted, and our life enjoyment and fulfillment plummets, while rushing us by!

The preacher further challenges; "What are the most important aspects of your life. What people, goals, and projects do you need to clear from your life, in order to be able to give 100%? What people, goals and projects do you want to give 100% of your efforts to?"
He called this "Clarity of Purpose".
I was smitten. Clarity of purpose. Of course!
Being clear, and knowing, your purpose on this earth! And then committing your time, energy, money, and efforts to that! Doing more, by doing less!
Of course, we still have to pay bills that we would rather not pay, do chores and other things that we would rather not do. But there are always things that fill your calendar that are not necessities, and that aren't a part of your "clarity of purpose". So figure out your clarity of purpose, and start to focus your time and efforts on them!

What to Do:
Figure out, and write down the most important things in your life, and why they are important to you. Here is my list. You can add or subtract to this list, but it should look a little something like this:

- Myself
I love me. I want me to be happy. I want me to be healthy, well-balanced, and successful.
I know that I get tired, depressed, and sick very easily. I know that if I don't take good care of myself regularly, then I am very susceptible to colds, depression, and lethargy. So making time for myself is non-negotiable. I think this one should be high on everyone's list.

- My marriage
I have heard that the first year of marriage is the hardest, and that marriage, in all stages of itself, is hard work. Boy were they right.
I am committed to my marriage, and to our relationship. So I am going to work at it! Even if things are going good, I still want to work at it, being the best wife I can be, and making my man, and us, happy.

- My career
I am wildly ambitious. I have lofty expectations in all arenas of my professional life; My blog, my crafts, and my modeling. Not being successful is not an option for me.

- My family
My family has always been a top priority for me, and always will be.

- Making a difference in this world
This is what my life is all about.

After you have your priorities written down, the next step is to figure out what things in your life are not priorities. Write those down, and write down ways that you will cut back on them, or get them out of your life. Like this:

Pretty much my only non priority that I have in my life right now, is
- Work.
I not only absolutely despise my job, but it is holding me back from having the time to work on my career and other areas of focus.
After writing this list out, I cut back drastically at work. Super drastically! I now only work 2 days a week! I work Friday and Saturday nights, because they are the busiest (I'm a waitress), and I make the most money then. I was originally working every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday morning, but during the week, and in the mornings, I don't make nearly as much money as weekend nights. So after switching my schedule around a little, I now have 5 days a week free, and am making more money than I was originally, working 4 days a week!

After you figure out what needs cutting, and have effectively snipped it out of your life (or almost out!), you can now focus on the good stuff! Your true loves, wants, and purpose!
Now write down how you are going to put more of your time and efforts into your purposes!

- Myself
I have been a reading fiend since making these lists! I have also been taking regular at least once a week baths! I feel absolutely wonderful, and have a clearer head, and a happier heart.

- My marriage
Now that I only work twelve hours a week, I have plenty of time to keep the house clean, cook dinner, and spend time with my husband. This truly is wedded bliss.

- My career
Now that I am only working on Friday and Saturday, I have Monday through Thursday to work on my career (Sundays I rest)! It is such an incredible change! I get to blog and craft as much as I need to, and it is making a huge difference!

- My family
Every Wednesday I see my family. Every single Wednesday! See, this is important to me, so I make it happen! I most of the time go to my parents' house, and I get to hang out with my family, and all our pets, all day long! If I can't make it there for some reason, my mom and sister will come to my apartment to hang out!

- Making a difference in this world
I have been a member of Partners Against the Trafficking of Humans Stark for a couple months now. After making these lists I decided that I wanted to become more involved, and so I accepted the position of Social Media Manager for P.A.T.H.S. I am so super excited about this, and all the other things I now get to do with this great organization, because of having more free time!

How about you, lovely reader? Would you like to do more this year, by doing less? What are your plans? Comment below!

Peace Love and Doing Less
Jess <3

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January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month

1/11/2016

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Did you know, that human trafficking is the Globe's fastest growing crime?
That there are approximately 30 Million slaves in the world today?
That this is not just some faraway thing going on only in other countries, but a huge problem that is in our own backyard?
It's true. Read this report from the Ohio Attorney General regarding trafficking in Ohio. "Human trafficking is an estimated multi-billion a year international enterprise that forces the most vulnerable among us into the horrors of modern-day slavery. Criminals who are involved in trafficking other human beings prey upon those already at risk in our society, often our children. In fact, a preliminary report on the scope of the problem in Ohio cited 13 years old as the most common age in Ohio for youth to become victims of child sex trafficking. From the study's sample of 207 individuals, 49 percent were under 18 when they were first trafficked. Nationally, over 100,000 children are thought to be involved in the sex trade."

Since January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and January 11th is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, I wanted to write a blog post to help bring awareness. Because if we aren't aware of a problem, then how are we supposed to fix it?

Remember when I wrote an article about finding out what your passion is? Well, ending human trafficking is one of my passions. And so, I am a proud member of P.A.T.H.S, that is, Partners Against the Trafficking of Humans Stark (Stark County, Ohio). This is a group of people, from all walks of life, that care, and that want to help right a tremendous wrong. If you would like to learn more, you can come to our next meeting!Email us! Visit our facebook page! Get involved.
Sometimes when fighting such a huge giant, it can be almost too overwhelming! "Where do I start? What can I even do, I'm just one person!" You might be thinking to yourself. Well don't let that thought stop you, there are so many things you can do in this fight against modern slavery! Here are some other organizations, and some ways that you can help.

RAHAB Ministries

RAHAB Ministries is a great organization that I got to learn about through P.A.T.H.S.
Here is a little bit about RAHAB Ministries, in their own words.
"Over the past fourteen years, thousands of individuals have come together to share the hope found in Jesus Christ with broken women in our city. RAHAB Ministries isn't a group of employees. It's not a church and it's not a denomination. RAHAB Ministries is the belief that every woman stuck in sexual exploitation has value and deserves freedom.
In 2002, armed with nothing but homemade business cards and prayers, Becky Moreland headed out to the streets of some of the roughest areas of Akron, Ohio to share the love of Jesus with the women she'd meet. Since then, RAHAB Ministries has served tens of thousands of female victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. Whether it's through providing basic necessities, mentoring, or safe housing, RAHAB is a constant example of the Gospel to the women we serve."

Here are some of the ways you can join with RAHAB, and help make a difference, right here in Ohio!

Penpal
Develop a mentoring/discipling relationship by consistently writing to women in jail

RAHAB Drop-In Center
Prepare and serve meals at weekly programming. Supporting/facilitating Bible studies and prayer times.

Correctional Facility
Bring the light of Jesus into local correctional facilities through mentoring, fellowship and Bible studies. (Requires background check and federal clearance.)

Mentoring
Commit to spending time every week with a minor or adult victim of human trafficking to build a relationship that points them toward Christ.

Safe House
Serving in various ways at our residential program for victims of human trafficking. (Requires background check and alternate application.)

or, you can

Donate:
Personal Care items (new or unused full sized items only)
Shampoo/Conditioner
Deodorant
Body Wash
Toothbrushes
Plain Crest or Colgate Toothpaste
Disposable razors
Lotions
Tampons/Pads
Hair Brushes/Combs
Hair bands
Hair styling products
Lip gloss/Chapstick
Makeup
Clothing
Clean, gently used, and in style womens clothig only; all sizes appreciated
Bibles
Journals
Reading Glasses
Coffee/Creamer/Sugar

The donations may be dropped off Monday-Friday, 9-5 at their office, 3480 W. Market Street, Suite 203 B Fairlawn
For questions please call 3308193326
Monetary Donations
Make checks payable to Rahab Ministries and mail to Rahab Ministries PO Box 13866
Akron, Ohio 44334

www.rahab-ministries.org

Eden Ministry

I have written about Eden Ministry several times before.
Eden is an incredible organization that I got to see close up when I was living in Asia. Eden serves to restore freedom for the captives of Asia’s red light districts through holistic programs- transforming body, mind and spirit. Using their international jewelry business as a platform, they provide career and skill training- empowering women for a new life and future. They continually innovate prevention and outreach programs- transforming entire communities. Eden is a voice to the oppressed, a light to the darkness.
I am now selling the jewelry that these girls make, enabling them to live better lives!

These are some of the beautiful pieces of jewelry that the girls rescued from prostitution make with their own hands! They are not only making a living, but are proving to themselves that they have worth, and value.
If you would like to get involved with Eden Ministries, all you need to do is buy jewelry! Beautiful jewelry that is restoring and saving lives! I am now an Eden advocate and sell their jewelry here in the United States. If you live in the Canton Ohio area we can meet up!
And last but not least, visit Eden's website. Read their mission. Watch their powerful video. Read the true stories of how they have changed the lives of trafficking victims. Host a jewelry party. Like them on facebook. Then share with others.

Ensure that you, and the women and girls around you know their worth!
When any woman or little girl knows their worth, it is much easier to keep away from the dangers of human trafficking. My friend Kayleigh Hanlin's J.O.Y (Just Own You) Journal is designed for girls to discover their unique self through engaging and guided activities. In this creative journal, through kid-friendly illustrations and innovative activities, you will discover self-acceptance and self-love at your own pace. Purchase a copy for yourself and any woman or girl you know!

With more knowledge of what trafficking actually is, there have been great strides in the arena of prosecuting traffickers. But! In order to prosecute those who are preying upon the vulnerable populations, we need to keep our eyes open, and report any information that we might have about human trafficking! Call 1-888-373-7888 with any suspicions you might have. You could save a life!
Here are some warning signs of human trafficking to watch for!

If you are going into a nail salon, for example, look for sleeping bags that indicate employees are living in the same place where they work and that backrooms appear to be living space. You might notice workers at this salon are driven to the store in groups all at once.
When a worker answers casual questions, those answers seem scripted or rehearsed.
Workers may appear exceptionally young or fearful or particularly submissive.
If you are staying in a hotel or if you work at a hotel, you might see an older male checking in with a young female or females. You might see a young girl refer to that older man as her boyfriend or as "daddy," sometimes street slang for pimp. Look for a tattoo of a man's name, a slang name, or "daddy" on the girl's neck, leg, or shoulder. Does the guest have multiple cell phones, laptops, etc.?
Are the guests at the hotel frequent customers on weekends, but have a local address and identification?
Small children serving in a family restaurant.
Security measures that appear to keep people inside an establishment - barbed wire inside of a fence, bars covering the insides of windows.
Not allowing people to go into public alone, or speak for themselves.

To end today's post, here are a couple stories about human trafficking. Trafficking, whether labor trafficking or sex trafficking, is happening everywhere. The stories, and the victims are endless. Use this knowledge today as power. Power to keep yourself, your little sisters, brothers, cousins, nieces, or the strangers you might see on the street, safe!

"Old Mark of Slavery is being Used on Sex Trafficking Victims" on CNN.

"Sex Slavery in Tracy" in the Tracy Papers.

"Bronx Couple Busted for Running Sex Ring out of Apartment, Pimping out Underage Girl" on NY Daily News.

Peace Love and Awareness
Jess <3

Don't forget to share this post around to help bring awareness!

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Morning Meditation

6/29/2015

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This morning I woke up at 9, did a half hour of yoga in my living room (I use Wai Lana's Yoga Dvd's), then went to the pond by our allotment.

I spread out a blanket on a picnic table, and sat there.
I was ushered back inside over an hour later when it started raining, but the hour I spent was perfect.

I sat outside this morning, because I needed clarity.
I needed to think.
I needed to meditate, search my soul, pray, and re-connect with myself, nature, and God.

I feel so strongly that if all people were to take time even once a month to sit down and meditate, pray, and connect with themselves and nature, that this world would be without a lot of its problems.
We as people would be happier, more centered, and fulfilling our dreams! We would treat nature and our fellow humans with more respect and kindness!
I strongly encourage each and every one of you to take an hour out of your day sometime this week!

What to do:

*Go somewhere quiet, calming, serene, and deserted.
*Bring with you notebooks, pens, and water (I brought along water and a healthy smoothie).
*Take deep calming breaths. Close your eyes. Stare at the water or another calming object. Do whatever it is you need to, to relax.
*Pray. Meditate. Look deep within yourself. Answer the questions that are always knocking at your heart, but you don't allow yourself to think about.
*Write down your feelings.
*Write down the answers to your questions (and you will get answers. If you ask, you shall receive. If you sit and meditate, they will come to you).
*Just Be!

And that's it! It might be difficult at first to be quiet without any tv, cell phone, music or friends to distract yourself with. But once you get settled, you'll find that you are quite great company! You just need to allow yourself to be quiet and not distracted long enough to get in touch with your inner self. Once you do that, the ideas, sense of self, and peace, will come.

Try it! Let me know what you think!

Peace Love and Meditation
Jess <3

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World Changing Wednesdays; Eden

3/17/2015

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On today's World Changing Wednesday post, I want to share about an organization that I hold very dear to my heart, as it is located in Asia, which owns a piece of my heart, and I got to visit this organization when I lived in Asia; Eden Ministries.

Eden began in a very simple way: two housewives with only one evening a week to spare had a desire to do something about human trafficking in their city. They began to prayer-walk around the red light areas and build relationships with all those involved in the sex industry. The vision was to bring God’s love to everyone involved in the sex industry and to see them set free. Twelve years later, they have created multiple shelters in major trafficking hubs in Asia, established an international jewelry business and witnessed thousands of people from the sex industry be impacted with God’s love.

Watch this video. I promise you will cry.

When I was living in China, I actually got to meet one of the founders of this beautiful organization! I was able to go to one of their offices, and meet some of the girls while they were making the jewelry! I also got to purchase some of their lovely jewelry.

Eden is not a charity; taking donations from people then handing them out to the girls. No, Eden uses their international jewelry business as a platform. They provide career and skill training- empowering women for a new life and future. They continually innovate prevention and outreach programs- transforming entire communities. Eden is a voice to the oppressed, a light to the darkness. They restore freedom for the captives of Asia’s red light districts through holistic programs- transforming body, mind and spirit. There's no hand-outs or donations! Every time you shop at Eden, you are helping pay these girls' wages, as jewelry makers!

Most of these girls have been either forced, or tricked into it prostitution. Some even sold into slavery by their own family! With every purchase you make, you get a card with one of these girls' real-life stories on it. Eden's website also has some of their stories that you can read here.

After learning about this company and all they do, you might now be asking yourself, "How can I help? What can I do?!!"

1. Shop!
I loooove buying products from Eden! Not only is every piece absolutely gorgeous, but I know that my money is changing lives! Shopping at Eden is a true win-win!
I buy from Eden every chance I get; Birthdays, Christmas, even my bridesmaids gifts for my wedding are from Eden!
Next time you need a gift for any occasion, go to Eden!
Shop here.

2. Host a Party
Hosting an Eden Party is kind of like a Mary Kay, or Tupperware Party!
When you host an Eden Evening in your home or church, your efforts truly make a difference in the lives of the women at Eden. Proceeds from your jewelry sales go directly back to pay for safe shelter, fair wages, counseling, and vocational training for the rescued women employed in Eden's workshop.
Eden will send you everything you need to host a fun and meaningful event, including:

Eden Brochures
Eden Jewelry Catalogs & Order Forms
5-minute Eden DVD
Eden Jewelry!

All you need to do is gather some friends & have a great time!
Me and my mom are planning on doing this sometime after I'm married.
Go here and fill out the form at the bottom to get started!

Thank you so much for reading this! I hope it has offered a little inspiration, and a little something to think about on your Wednesday.

3. Be an Advocate
I am hopefully going to be starting doing this soon!
Eden says this about becoming an advocate;
"Would you like to become more involved and speak up on behalf of the women that Eden Ministry serves in Asia?
Become an Eden Advocate. Share stories on behalf of the ministry and the women we minister to, sell the jewelry that has been made by the women who left prostitution, and earn 20% commission on all your sales as a thank-you for partnering with us to rescue and empower exploited women.
Find venues and events in your community to share about Eden, select the jewelry that will sell well in your community we will send it to you. We help set you up with the jewelry and promotion materials."

If this sounds like something you might like, go here and fill out the form at the bottom of the page to get more information on becoming an advocate!

Peace Love and Eden
Jess <3

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How to Jump Start Your New Year!

1/3/2015

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Happy New Year Everybody (and yes, that is me on the skateboard in the picture!)!!!
I hope that 2015 is treating you all very good!

I absolutely adore the beginning of a New Year, but for most people, it's a time that they feel obligated to set some resolutions that they know will be abandoned by the end of February.

But I think, that the beginning of a New Year is special. Yes, technically it is just another day in the many running consecutive days of your life! But! I really feel that it is symbolic. It's a fresh start! Put the past year, and your past troubles and worries behind you, and focus on this exciting, new adventure awaiting you! A brand new year that no one has ever experienced before!

So! Because of this exciting new opportunity that we all have surrounding us, I have in this post lots of inspiration to help you jump start this New Year, and your Life!

So carve out a bit of time that you can devote to relaxing, reading, thinking, and planning! Good luck!!!

My Fiance! Hehe. He's so smart!

In order to take control of your year, and ensure it goes where you want it to, you need to start with a list of goals for the year! No, these are not "resolutions". These are a specific set of goals that you want to accomplish by the end of 2015! Read my article here about the best way to go about it, and get your very own template!

A huge way that you can change and impact your year, is by taking control of your finances! You can find my entire Money Management Course here! There's no better time than now to start saving money!

Check out my book! My "Creating Your Dream Life" Workbook is a wonderful way to kick start your New Year. It is an instant download, so you can start right away! In it you can get all sorts of goal setting templates that you can print out, fill out, and hang on your wall! That's what I do and it's awesome! It also has everything you need to know about setting goals, breaking down your goals, and achieving your goals! I think it is a very important investment to make in yourself, and right now for the New Year, it's on sale for only $9.99! Make the investment in yourself today, I guarantee it will be worth it.

Make (or update) a Bucket List! Check out my post on how to make your very own Bucket List! This is a really fun and positive way to start the New Year!

Clean out at least one room in your house!
Nothin' kick starts good flow and positive vibrations like cleaning out and de-cluttering a room! When you clean a room, it creates a clean mind, and a fresh start!
I've been on a month long purging binge in my room, and it feels fantastic! That is everything I'm getting rid of in the above picture!

Yes, I am a cleaning freak, and I have, at times, been compared to Monica from Friends! So if you're not like me (and Mrs. Bing), and hate cleaning, give it a try! Here's what to do!
1. First, pick a room. Pick a room, any room!
2. Then, get three boxes. Label one "Keep", "Recycle", and "Donate". In the Recycle box, put things that can be recycled such as papers and bottles. Try to keep as much stuff out of landfills as you can! In the Donate box put everything else you don't want. Clothes, books, cds, knick knacks, etc.
3. Go through everything in that room! Top to bottom! Under beds, in drawers, on shelves, and every last book, dvd, and article of clothing!
4. Every item you come across, toss it in one of the three boxes.
5. If you can't make up your mind about something, look at it and think, "When was the last time I wore this/watched this/used this?" If the answer is not in a loooong time, then you probably won't use it again, and it's not worth taking up your precious space!
6. Don't get discouraged if this takes a long time, especially if you're new to this! Getting rid of items can be very scary and emotional for people! So carve out a couple days to do this.
7. Once you have put every item in a box, take the "Recycle" Box, and take it to your local Recycling Area. With the "Donate" Box, there's a couple things you can do with it. I personally, first let my mom and sister go through it and take whatever they want. Then if there's nice clothing left, I take it to Plato's Closet, a local consignment store, and make some money off it! Then all the leftover items I have, I donate to the Thrift Store in my town, where all the proceeds go to charity (Note. Goodwill does not donate to charity). You can donate your items to any thrift store, the Salvation Army, or a homeless shelter! Get creative with it!
8. And now with the "Keep" Box. Take the stuff out, and either put them in another room in your house, or back in the original room. Re-arrange the furniture, and organize everything so that it is easily accessible, and pleasing to look at!
9. See? Don't you feel good?!!

I thought you guys could use a little cuteness, courtesy of my fiance and some puppies we know!

So what are you waiting for?! Jump start your New Year today! You are the only one in charge of your life, only you can make a change, and make yourself happy! Take control today!!!

Peace Love and The New Year
Jess <3

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Support Small Businesses; Triumph Free Running

9/4/2014

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I am always very excited whenever I get to share about a small business that I think is just the tops, but today, I am EXTRA excited about this business that I get to share with you!
I have never actually had the pleasure of meeting this man in person, but we have gotten to know each other very well through facebook and texting over the past couple months.
This guy has such a huge heart, it is ridiculous! He is so very passionate about helping others less fortunate than himself, lifting people's spirits, supporting small businesses, and just in general, making this world a better place!

So now I will allow Mr. Jeremy Carr himself, co-founder of Triumph Freerunning, to tell you a little about himself and his business.

"My name is Jeremy Carr :) I'm 27 and from Sullivan, MO.
I love to see people smile and enjoy themselves. Which is why I, and along side with Ryan Gregory founded Triumph Freerunning to see people smile and come together as a community and make opportunities happen.

I carry a strong heart with a lot of values on life. Happiness is a must. It's OK to be get down every now and then but there are more things to happy about.

Parkour and freerunning has become my life. I love it, it brings my passion out like nothing else ever has. It keeps me healthy, active, peace keeper, and inspiration to others and myself. It has given me so many opportunities to travel the world as well, so I must say I love to travel and see everything, anyone and anything while I can. :)

Who Are we? What We Do? Why Us?

We are a group of close friends who are a sponsored and affiliated team through W.F.P.F. (World Freerunning Parkour Federation). We host classes, workshops, jams, charities, demonstrations, and many other events. We strive to build and inspire the parkour community as well as to promote knowledge, discipline and a healthy lifestyle to the people around us. We don't do this as a job or a career, we do this because this is our passion.

There are two catagories with our team. 1. Triumph Freerunning Productions- A non-profit page where all production type services go, could be photography, videos, commercials we film or in, music, and much more. 2. Triumph Freerunning is the team it's self and along where you can find us doing what we love, parkour and freerunning. Where you can find our services to you, blog, and so much more, like clothes! We have a t-shirt for $18.00 so go get one so you can get a free Triumph Silicone Band of Power.

The Team

Michael

Jeremy

Ryan

The team started with three people; Micheal Marino, Ryan Gregory, and myself, Jeremy Carr, in Sullivan, MO where we decided to make a team of just us three making videos. After a few months it was growing, and now today, we have grown so much, and had no idea it would get this big, we are now the biggest team in the St. Louis community and surrounding areas. If you ask about us, people will know.

We are changing the world by welcoming anyone to train with us or possibly become part of the team. Our target is youth but anyone can do this. We feel if children, ages 6+ get involved with this hobby it will keep them off the streets, or at least doing something rather than theft or another form of crime. Once they have the heart of parkour, it will brighten their future and take on amazing and intelligent career choices."

So that's what Triumph Free Running Productions is all about! If you think their pictures, purpose, and products are awesome, wait till you see their videos! Below is the latest video from them! Be sure to check it out (it's AWESOME!), like it, and share it!

Didn't I tell you?!! So cool!

And here's a really cool commercial they did for their local Starbucks!

They also just recently partnered with Eden Ministries, the ministry that I wrote about here a couple weeks ago. Read all about their partnership with this amazing ministry here!
I am SO stoked about these guys, and what they're doing. It is people and groups like this, that are helping change the world! Thank you so much for reading this, and be sure to check out their blog so you can keep up to date on what they're doing. Also their Products Page, so you can help support them (and get some really cool stuff!). Find them on facebook, and visit their youtube channel for tons more incredible videos!!!

www.triumphfreerunning.com

https://www.facebook.com/Triumphfreerunningproductions

573/259/2555

Peace Love and Parkour
Jess <3

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World Changing Wednesday; Are You a Superhero?

8/20/2014

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A couple of weeks ago, my church had a theme day. It was about Superheroes! Everyone was wearing various Superhero shirts, and they even had a display and props set up that you could take pictures with (see below)! It was pretty cool, but the coolest part was actually what the preacher talked about.

The preacher's sermon was all about us being superheroes. Superheroes that rush in to save the day; whether that's by saying a kind word to someone who really needs it, buying groceries for someone who can't afford it, or flying to Africa to help orphans! No matter how small, or big that deed seems, you made a difference in a living creature's life!!! How awesome is that?!!
To me it is SO cool to think that you don't have to be able to defy the laws of gravity, have lots of cool expensive gadgets, or wear a cape (but you can if you want to!) to be a real-life Superhero!!!

It was just a really great reminder to me, and I wanted to share it with you guys as a reminder too!

Here are some very real ways that you can be a superhero to someone! Do one of them, or do them all! But just know, that by doing this, you are a Real-Life Superhero; Move over Batman, we're gonna save the world!

1. Never never never underestimate the power of kind words.
2. Rescue a pet from your local animal shelter.
3. Read my article called "How to Fund Your World Changing".
4. Find a cause you love, then fight for it! If we spread ourselves too thin, it's hard to get
things done; pick one cause, then go after it with all you have!
5. Adopt a child, specifically from China or Africa. There is such great need there for loving,
caring people to forever change the life of a child, and be a real-life Superhero to them!
6. Not ready to adopt a child? Sponsor one (or two!). Compassion International is a
very reputable company that helps connect superheroes to children in need around the
world! Your monthly gift of $36 gives a child food, clothing, shelter, education, healthcare,
and security. It also lets them know that someone out there cares about them! I'm
sponsoring two children through them, and I have been sponsoring, and writing letters to
Mathias, who lives in Tanzania, for almost 9 years! It is sooo incredible to have had the
chance to watch him grow up, and be there for him along the way!
7. Start supporting small businesses, instead of large chain corporations. I write about the
importance of supporting small businesses here. By helping a small business owner grow their business, and flourish their life, you are a superhero to them!
8. Purchase Fair Trade Products. Read about it, and how much good they're doing!
9. Read about and participate in my Changing the World Challenge.
10. Listen to people. And when I say listen, I mean LISTEN! Don't listen just so you can
throw your opinion in, then start in on talking about you and your problems! This is one
reason why it's so hard for me to find good friends, because most people do not know
how to listen!!! Listening is essential in making and keeping good friends, and helping
people! So next time someone is telling you their problems, genuinely listen to them, and
care about what they're saying!
11. Donate your gently used clothes and other house hold items that you no longer use, or need, to homeless shelters. You can always donate your time as well!
12. Get involved with Eden Ministries. Eden Ministries is an organization who's mission is to
"restore freedom for the captives of Asia's red light districts through holistic programs-
transforming body, mind and spirit. Using their international jewelry business as a
platform, they provide career and skill training- empowering women for a new life and
future. They continually innovate prevention and outreach programs- transforming entire
communities. Eden is a voice to the oppressed, a light to the darkness." So basically,
they take in women who want to get out of prostitution, who wouldn't have anywhere
else to go, and give them a job making jewelry. Eden then sells the jewelry and all the
money goes to the women. Jewelry making is pretty much the only way that the women
can make almost as much as they did prostituting. That's a big reason why a lot of
women don't leave prostitution, because in China, working wage is VERY low,
especially compared to what they are used to making in prostitution. When I was in
China I got to see this program first-hand. I got to meet the founder of the organization,
and go to the apartment where the women were actually making the jewelry. This is an
INCREDIBLE organization, that is changing women's lives (and just in case you're
thinking to yourself, "Well these women chose this life, so I really can't feel sorry for
them"); Most of the women in the sex slave industry in China were either abducted from
their villages and forced into this business, tricked into it, or forced into it!
I have seen this program in action! I have seen the actual women whose
lives have been drastically changed! And all you have to do is buy beautiful hand made
jewelry! Each piece of Eden Jewelry is handcrafted by the women being restored to life
in their shelters. Income from the sale of the jewelry goes directly to pay the
women's salaries so you can be assured that your purchase is definitely making a
difference. Each piece comes packaged with a story of a life that has been changed by
Eden’s intervention. I got to buy several pieces of jewelry when I was at their offices, but
I've bought pieces from their website since. The jewelry is BEAUTIFUL, hand crafted,
and makes a great gift! Visit their website, read stories of lives they've changed, and
buy their jewelry.
13. Recycle!!! No, this may not be helping someone at this exact moment per-say. But, It
helps save our world and the air we breath every single day. As well as helps free up
space which helps give animals places to live and have safe homes. Crush your cans
and put them in a box, then cash them in for some money back. Put all your bags or
plastic into a box and re-use them, or take them to a local plastic recycled bin or center.
Same applies with paper! This is a HUGE one! One that we are all capable of doing and
it will make a huge difference! Read more about recycling here.
14. Watch my video on how to free yourself, by letting go of fear, and the past! Once you
are free, you will not be as focused on yourself, so you will be able to focus your thoughts
and time more on others.
15. Think of your own things to do to be a superhero!!! Now, it's your turn to figure out what
you're passionate about! Think about what injustice turns your stomach! What country,
state, specific group of people, or injustice gets you super fired up?!! You got it? Now
you know what your purpose in life is!!!
Your purpose in life is to right, what to you, is the worst wrong out there, To fight for the
people or cause that makes you tear up every time you think about it, to change what
needs to be changed!!! And now that you know what your purpose is, instead of just
sitting there talking about it with your friends, or sharing about it on facebook, go out
there and do something! Think outside the box, and do whatever it is that needs
done! Watch the movie, "Machine Gun Preacher", to see a true story about a person
who is a real life superhero, and someone that I look up to greatly, just because he
figured out what his passion was, and what wrongs he had to right!

Batman

Now go on out there and be a superhero. Be a force for good in this dark world!
It is in times like these that we need heroes more now than ever!

*This post is super important. Please like it, tweet it, and pin it! Let's get this out into the world for everyone to see! Thank you so much!!!*

Peace Love and Superheroes
Jess <3

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