Celebrating International Day of the Girl with Teza Technologies

Molly Bukowski, Director of Special Projects at Teza Technologies, contacted me a few months ago and asked me to post something in honor of International Day of the Girl. While International Day of the Girl was October 1st, Teza Technologies and I believe women should be celebrated more than one day of the year!

International Day of the Girl is a holiday committed to celebrating the successes and opportunities available to girls all over the world. Teza Technologies CEO Misha Malyshev believes that everyday should be the Day of the Girl in order to celebrate their successes in life. These opportunities pertain to everything in life, but Teza Technologies wants to celebrate the women in science, technology, engineering, and math(STEM).

There are many reasons women should be celebrated. A woman's strength is unmatched. Just her presence alone changes the atmosphere around her. This is especially true in science, technology, engineering and math because women are not often in these industries. I believe a woman's perspective is needed in every field of the workforce.

Women should be celebrated because they know what it means to be selfless. They often put others needs before their own. Working in science, as part of a team to find a cure for cancer, is one of those instances that you need to be selfless. When working as part of team, you have to give up the need to be right so even greater things can be accomplished.

Women who work in any STEM occupation are fearless. They aren't afraid to challenge societal norms. They see no limits, only opportunities.

I am thankful that my high school now has STEM classes that feature women in film production and technology, health occupations, and a math club.

Women, you are helping to change the world! I salute you!

MyMemories Software Giveaway!

A few months ago, Liz Gardner contacted me about reviewing My Memories digital scrapbook software.  Since I'm all about making and sharing memories, I jumped at the chance!  This software comes pre-loaded with TONS of papers and embellishments!  It is very easy to use! 

I created a calendar for my Granny for Christmas, and it was a breeze to drag and drop the photos into place.  I added frames and shadows around some of the pictures to make them pop.  My grandmother is a simple lady, so I didn't add too many extras.  For my next project, though, I will add lots of things!  The possibilities are endless (recipe albums, photobooks, etc).  You can also add music and narration to your pages for a complete package.  I'm going to experiment with creating a DVD next.  All you have to do is download a simple plugin.

If you don't have the My Memories Software, you can still use their awesome designs! Just select general files when downloading your papers and embellishments then play with them in Photoshop or whatever software you use.  Here are a few of the pages I created for the calendar:

This is the front of the calendar created using paper, tags, and embellishments in the My Memories software.

Liz has been generous enough to offer one of you a chance to win a copy of My Memories digital scrapbooking software!!

To enter:

"Like" MyMemories on Facebook (Required)

For additional entries: (leave a separate comment for each entry)

Follow my blog

• Like Making my Mark on Facebook
• Post about this giveway on your blog, making sure to link back to this blog post.  Leave the link of the blog post in your comment

Winner will be announced on Friday, January 27th!

As a special for all of my readers, they have given me a  code that provides a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value!)

Special Code:
STMMMS39106

Disclosure statement: I was provided one copy of the MyMemories digital software to review and one to give away.

Cozy Christmas

My Christmas was wonderful.  While the presents were nice, I loved spending time with my family the most.  I've spent my days lounging around reading books on my new Kindle Fire.  If any of you have any good book suggestions, please let me know.  I love a good book!  I also helped put together my first Christmas drama for my church with some very talented friends of mine.  It was quite an undertaking, but so worth it.

Our family tree this year

Me and Mason hanging out on Christmas Eve

My break is coming to a close, but I have so enjoyed not having any homework or assignments!  I have several blog posts planned, I just haven't felt well. I love to write, though, so I am making myself do a blog post. :)



Christmas is Near

I thought I would share our tree for this year.








In the midst of presents and parties, don't forget the real reason for celebrating. God gave His best so that we could have a life filled with hope for the future. Even though we deserved a much harsher punishment, He took our place.

Hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a wonderful new year!

Independence

Today is July 4th. Most people have a cookout then go back to their mundane lives. I see things from a different perspective, so I thought I would share my thoughts.

My new wheelchair gives me independence. For 5 years, I tolerated a chair that was mediocre at best and certainly not made to sit in for long periods of time. With independence comes responsibility.

When the papers were signed and the ink was drying, the chair was mine. I could do with it what I wished. Opportunities to move around my house with ease awaited me, but I had to push the button first. Likewise, the Declaration of Independence was signed 234 years ago, but its words shouldn't be taken lightly. The freedom and liberty that Jefferson spoke of came with a price. Most of us want to say, "It's the soldiers responsibility to protect us!" You are only partially right. As Americans, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture. Do we want to be remembered for our iPhOnes and fast paced life? Do we want others to say that we have money, but yet our country is one of the unhappiest?

The moment we cheapen freedom to a picture of a flag with fireworks, we're in trouble. Our founding fathers paved the way for our nation to be one that fosters creativity and growth, but it's up to us to keep it that way.

We get the choice each day as to what kind of mark we leave on this world. Preserving our independence starts with me; it starts with you.

My Take on Mother's Day

Mother's Day comes and goes once every year. People bombard the florist and emerge with something that half resembles a blooming flower. We all go back to our homes and settle into our everyday routine.

I'm all for celebrating mothers and all that she does for us, but I believe it should be done everyday. Thank her for breakfast. Clean the counter so she won't have to. You don't have to think of elaborate ways to show your love, simple is often best.

We are all guilty of becoming engulfed in our own thoughts and plans. Sometimes it helps me to imagine my life without my mother for a moment. Who would support me in all that I do? Who would still love me when I'm finding something to argue about at every turn? Who would be my example of selflessness?

Listen, you won't wake up tomorrow spouting thankfulness from your lips. Having a thankful heart and not just a few thankful words takes practice. You have to reprogram your human nature's desire to be negative and critical.

I'm well aware this is a different kind of Mother's Day post. That's OK! Last year's post is more "traditional". I've said all I need to say about how amazing my mother (and all mothers are) for the work she does. I love that we have a day to celebrate mothers, but I think we have to be careful not to get sucked into the commercial part of it.

What have you done for your mother recently that would be considered creative or out of the box? I love hearing about creative things that I would've never thought of!

He Will Be Raised

This is a song I recorded when thinking about Easter. I wasn't even going to post it, but I thought it might encourage someone. Ideally, I wanted this to be posted yesterday, but I was having problems getting the video in the format that I needed. This is the raw version, so I apologize for the short pause in the video. I couldn't edit it out. Enjoy, and be thankful for what God has already done for us!

*You may want to turn the volume up. I can only bend so far without hurting my back, so it's not as loud as I wanted.*

Sidenote: Only one person voted for the Memories Rewind link party, so I'll wait awhile before doing that.

A Different Kind of Christmas

I just finished Christmas Eve with my Dad's side of the family. I went to my Granny and Papa's Christmas Eve breakfast and rested in between.

Christmas is different when you get older. No more Santa to anticipate. I guess I'm having a hard time adjusting. Opening gifts becomes somewhat familiar. Don't get me wrong, Christmas is still special, it's just special in a different way. It's a time with family instead of a mound of gifts. It's the smiles of cousins when their faces light up instead of a toy making a noise. Toddlers laughing and running around is replaced by jokes and countless pictures.


Grandmothers getting out the video camera is replaced by a favorite TV show. Change isn't a bad thing, it just takes a little getting used to. Mama said that this feeling is normal. She said things would change when I have my own kids. I'm laughing to myself just thinking about that one. Oh, the fun times ahead.


I got lots of fun gifts. I may post pictures soon. I'm incredibly blessed. I guess I'm just mourning what Christmas used to mean. But, instead of that, I should be embracing the new Christmas. I have to say I was elated watching my cousins find pleasure in opening their gifts from me. I love to give things to others. I love picking out just the right gift for my cousins and family.


I know one thing that will never ever change. God's love and sacrifice will be forever etched in my memory. He gave the ultimate gift, not some $20 cookie cutter gift from Wal-M@rt. He, too, took great care and thought in his gift. He didn't make a hasty decision or expect anything in return. As today's society rushes around standing in long lines to find a gift, phones constantly buzzing. That buzz can overshadow Christmas if we let it. That buzz symbolizes a barrier between the meaningful things and the things that couldn't matter less if we really stop and think about it. That business call that could wait until Saturday. That pesky telemarketer...

So, how has Christmas changed for you over the years?

Christmas Answers

Thanks for all of the questions everyone!


Jillian said: What is your favorite thing about Christmas?

My favorite thing would have to be spending time with family. The atmosphere is quite magical, too. Kids are full of hope and in awe of everything.

Meg said: What's the favorite gift you've ever given?

This is kind of a hard one. If I had to pick a favorite gift that I've given, I would have to say the bag full of my Papa's favorite candies because I love helping my mom pick out things that I know he will love. A close second would be when I went in with my mom to get my brother one of those things that detects when the law is close. He really wanted that and I wanted to be a part of that. He wasn't expecting that at all.

The Blonde Duck said: What's your favorite thing to eat?

Without a doubt, it is my Memaw's fudge. So yummy!

Q, La, and Gooner said: What is your favorite Christmas Carol?

I can't pick just one on this one because there's too many good ones. Silent Night is so beautiful. It's not a song that is overpowered by loud drums or clanging bells, it's just a simple melody. I guess that's one reason that I like it. On the other end of the spectrum would be Winter Wonderland because it's associated with fun. I imagine kids frockling in the snow, bundled up in coats and mittens going to sing carols.

Edit: My Grown Up Christmas List is another one.

I wasn't sure anyone would participate in this, so I came up with some questions. LOL. I didn't want to disappoint ya'll.

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What's my favorite Christmas memory?

I can't pick just one. I loved decorating the tree. I also loved riding around looking at Christmas lights.


What's something that my family does to make Christmas unique?

My grandparents host a Christmas breakfast every year on Christmas Eve morning. Lots of people come and it's a good time to catch up with old friends. Be prepared to laugh a lot....and maybe sing a carol or two!


What was my favorite Christmas gift?

One year I remember vividly asking Santa to bring me a toy cash register with a buggy and food of course. You can't be a cashier without something to ring up, right? There will be a Memories Rewind post to come on that story. Stay tuned!

If you have any more Christmas questions, ask away! I had a blast answering them!

A Christmas Twist

My pick for Friday's Writer's Alcove has had some computer trouble. I promise to post it as soon as I have her answers in my possession.

In the meantime, I'm going to do an About me Christmas Style. Fun, huh? I don't want to do a standard Christmas survery that dictates what questions should be answered. So get your questions related about all things Christmas, and I will answer them on Monday! You can also email me your questions if you want.

I'm looking forward to seeing what you all come up with! Yes, even you who never comment. :)

Halloween: Then and Now

I had planned to do a cool post with pictures about how Halloween has changed over the years. We were in W@l Mart looking at the Halloween stuff, which ranged from baby and toddler costumes, sexy children's costumes, and adult costumes.

Side by side were a pair of Dorothy costumes. The only problem is that one of the choices was the sexy version complete with low cut corset like top sexy tights and sky high stilettos. No wonder kids today are growing up too fast. Where are the role models? The ones that inspire kids to be different, to be themselves and not care what others think?

When I was growing up, Halloween was all about fun and candy. I wasn't trying to get some guy's attention. I was trying to fill my basket up. :) Some of my friends posted several different costume options on their MySp@ce to see which one was the favorite of the crowd. Now they have sExy firefighters, cave women, sailors, race car drivers, and boxing champions. What really surprised me was this:



A sexy butterfly costume (that most preteens think is perfectly fine because that's what the media says). What is up with that?!

I was a princess one year. What did you dress up as a kid for Halloween?

--Don't forget to cast your vote in the poll on my left sidebar. You have until Monday. I want to have your input.

Fall Favorites

It's official. Fall is in the air. I decided it would be fun to put together a collection of some fabulous fall finds that I would love to own. Not that I need anything, I just love to put together outfits in my mind.

Cardigans. They go with everything and can add a fun pop of color to any outfit while keeping you warm. I might do a video post of my favorite fall items that I already own. I'll show you how you can mix and match things for a completely different look.



No longer available. (It comes in red too).


Like this one (no longer available). It's a little more dressy, but I liked it because it had a unique detail on the front and an interesting color. It's ok to change it up for fall. You'll be able to wear this again and again.

Jewelry. I like to have a few fun pieces mixed with things that can be worn with other things.

This multi colored bracelet from Target fits the bill perfectly.




This bracelet set is classic enough that it can be worn with anything but also unique.
Trouser jean. I love this type of jean because they can be dressed up very easily. I have a few different washes-medium and very dark. I wouldn't care if they were "in" or not because I like them. Enough said.
What are some things in your wardrobe that you find yourself reaching for again and again in when it gets chilly outside? How do you inject a dose of personality into it?

Another week Passed...Another year Remembered

Whew! What a week. I finally have a moment to sit down and gather my thoughts. I've had lots of tests, quizzes, and preparing for presentations.

I love it when I turn in an assignment because it means that I've completed one more task. Even if that means gritting my teeth until the clock says 10:50, so be it. I'm not giving up. It's just not who I am.

I also want to take a minute to talk about September 11th. It's the day that we vecame more aware of the the safety of our country, of life as we know it. I stumbled across this great video that I think sums up my thoughts and sentiments perfectly.

Click here to view video.(Link has been removed because video isn't available anymore).  In the video, the kids start making something to represent their feelings. This reminded me of getting my feelings out in the open whether I'm happy, sad, or angry.

I remember exactly where I was on September 11, 2001. I woke up with a very painful tooth. My grandmother thought it was nothing, but I persisted. I told her that I was really hurting and I needed to go to the dentist. So, off we went. When we pulled into the parking lot the abcess burst. I was so thankful. We were called back shortly to see the dentist. We were cordial, then he examined my mouth. A nurse interrupted to say that one of the twin towers had been hit. We were all in a state of disbelief. The look on my dentist's face was worth a thousand words at that moment. His face conveyed feelings of hopelesses, despair, and confusion. He asked the nurse to repeat what she'd said. It was hard for us to carry on that day. We couldn't act like nothing had changed because everything had changed.

Please take a moment to remember the victims and their families. While we lost a lot of great men and women, we became more unified as a country.



September 11th Graphics


Bruised but not Broken by Joss Stone

Been a lot that I been through
I cried a tear a time or two
Baby, you know I cried some over you, yeah
Had my heart kicked to the ground
Love ripped me up and torn me down, baby

But that ain't enough to break me
Cuz I'll rise above it
And I'll pick myself up
And I'll dust the pain off my heart
CHORUS

And I'll be alright
And I'll love again
And the wounds will mend
I'm bruised but not broken
And the pain will fade
I'll get back on my feet
It's not the end of me
My heart is still open
I'm bruised but not broken

Been a lot of tear stained nights
I thought the tears were here for life, baby
The hurt came on and held on tight, yeah
Took a chance, I took a fall
Love broke my heart and shattered all my dreams
But I won't be down on my knees
Cuz I'll rise above it
And I'll pick myself up
And I'll dust the pain off my heartAnd I'll shake the rain out of my heart

CHORUS

And I'll be alright
And I'll love again
And the wounds will mend
I'm bruised but not broken
And the pain will fade
I'll get back on my feet
It's not the end of me
My heart is still open
I'm bruised but not broken

Gonna pick my heart up
Take my life back
Shake the hurt away
Pull myself together, out the pieces back in the place
I learned love's so hard,
Love left my soul scarred
I was shattered inside

CHORUS

And I'll be alright
And I'll love again
And the wounds will mend
I'm bruised but not broken
And the pain will fade
I'll get back on my feet
It's not the end of me
My heart is still open
I'm bruised but not broken

Fourth of July

Fireworks and laughter fill the air

Family and friends gather around the table that covered in delicious food and scrumptious desserts
The grandparents reminisce about times gone by, with the familiar chirping of crickets nearby

Kids wait in anticipation, their breathing barely above a whisper, for the firework to make a beautiful display in the sky

The older kids are allowed to stay up past their bedtime to join in the fun that happens at dusk

As the first firework makes a loud "Boom, Crack, Pop", the people across the street let out a piercing scream

All of these sounds come together, a chorus of different sounds that come together to make one beautiful sound

What sound is it you ask? The sound of freedom

As you celebrate with your families, remember our troops that risk their lives daily for our freedom

Whether you're celebrating with a barbecue or a picnic, we've all come together for a common cause

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Black, White, Hispanic--it doesn't matter We're blessed to live in America.

Each time you take your little baby to the grocery store, you're not thinking about someone bombing the store--don't take that for granted

American soldiers would give anything to accompany their wife and child to the grocery store


Each time your teenager goes bowling with his friends--don't take that for granted

Soldiers don't get much down time, they have a 24/7 job


Each time you get in your car to go somewhere--don't take that for granted

The American soldiers have to watch every step they make for fear of a roadside bomb


Each time you get to go to school--don't take that for granted

The Iraqi children would love to have the opportunity to dread homework

Happy 4th!

Image credit: Google

Father's Day

I don't have a sentimental Father's Day post. Unfortunately, he hasn't been too involved in my life. I would love him to be, but he isn't.

Without going into too many personal details, I don't fit in when I go over there. He has a temper. Enough said. He overreacted at Thanksgiving, so we haven't spoken because he always has something negative to say.

Sometimes in life you have to be the bigger person. I sent him a card for Father's day. Even though our relationship isn't the best, I thought I could at least acknowledge him. It wasn't one of those sappy cards that say, "Thank you for teaching me the value of a dollar...." because he didn't. I picked out a simple card and sent it.

Since he can't talk to me without bringing up something childish, I haven't had the chance to tell him that he's welcome to see me anytime. You know what? There's only so much I can do. At the end of the day, I can only change myself. Maybe he'll eventually come around. I know deep down he has some good in him.

To all of you that have a father that spends time with you, cherish it. A father that guides you through life, dusts you off after you scrape your elbow is invaluable. I could be sad, but I know that I have a Heavenly Father that loves me more than life itself, has saw every tear I've cried when my dad wasn't there. My Heavenly Father has been there for every important event in my life. Every doctor's appointment, awards ceremony, and physical therapy appointment. Man, I've got a busy life! :)

Just Another Day

Not much to report lately, unless you want to read about what I've watched on TV. That's why I haven't posted.

I had PT as usual on Thursday. It was harder than the others. I came home and rested, but no relief. I don't want this blog to be a sad place, so I won't go into details.

My mom and I were supposed to go to a Memorial Day celebration (I think) that our town was supposedly having, but it was nothing major. So, after reading my favorite blogs and playing computer game, I'm resting. I feel a little better now that I've had a shower. Somehow that always gives me a much need pick me up.

I forgot about one thing. My brother is gone to Myrtle Beach with my grandparents and a few others for a couple of days. At least he has something to look forward too. He needs this vacation because he's been working hard for my dad.

What about you? Any plans for the weekend?

Full of Happiness

Easter morning has finally arrived. Amidst the chocolate bunnies, egg hunts, and family dinners lies the real reason for the celebration.

Jesus has risen! Even though my morning started off less than stellar, I've got a reason to rejoice this morning. My Lord and Savior endured agony just so I could be saved. I'm sure you've all heard the Easter story at some point in your life, so I won't go into all the details.

He proved everyone wrong when He rose from the grave. Those guards thought they were successful in killing Jesus Christ. WRONG. The tomb is a symbol of God leaving this world and going to Heaven to reign.

What so you like most about Easter? What's one thing that you're thankful for? I know you can think of at least one.


Photo credit: Pimp My Space (link no longer works)

Finally Finished...

this first semester! Woo hoo! Sorry I haven't posted in awhile. During the semester, I was required to keep another blog for one of my classes among other things, so that kept me away from this one for awhile. Thankfully, I have a nice long break.

I go back to the pain doctor on Tuesday. That appointment is so long, but I have to go. On a lighter note, I'm excited for Christmas. I'm going to share something that I wrote last year about Christmas when I was going through a very difficult time.

We all know that Christmas is a time to reflect on all the things we have, right? Well, I discovered something new this Christmas.


We all hear that it's not about the gifts, it's about the birth of Jesus. My question to you is : "Do you really believe that?" Think about it, If all the gifts were taken away, no Christmas tree in the living room, no family get-togethers, would you STILL enjoy Christmas?? You know what, we're supposed to still enjoy it. The media has commercialized Christmas so much that it's become one big money-making scheme for all the stores.


I realized more than ever this year that it's not about how many presents you have under the tree with your name on it or how much money you get, it's about the memories that you create during the holiday season by spending time with your family. It's about the stupid jokes that someone in your family tells that will make you laugh until you cry, it's about your little cousin, niece, or nephew getting up in front of the family and singing their favorite Christmas song (even if it's not in tune or they don't have all the words "just right." Life isn't about perfection, it's about enjoyment! Going back to what I said earlier, I already knew that Jesus' birth was the REAL reason to celebrate Christmas, but I didn't value or appreciate the "little things", if you will, that go along with Christmas. Sometimes everybody gets so caught up in buying gifts for people they love and getting the house decked out for Christmas that we all take for granted the memories that are created anytime we do anything with our family! This blog isn't just about "Christmas Memories", it's about the everyday memories that we create with our families.