www.womenelevationmagazine.com

Monique House

Be, Eat, and Live Well Coach

www. about.me/moniquehouse

Tanya Angelique

Owner of RelationScripts

www.tanyaangelique.com

Shannon Baylor-Henderson

WE Magazine Contributing Writer

www.ImShannon.com

ShaChena Gibbs

Owner of Real Sisters Rising

www.realsistersrising.com

Michelle Hill-Smith

Graphic Designer, Branding Specialist & Business

Launch and Virtual Productivity Coach

www.OnTaskAssistants.com

www.MichelleHillSmith.com

message from the founder

down to business

delisha’s top 10 favs

sweat the details

fashion: the maxi skirt

weight loss fail

entrepreneur spotlight: nik caldwell

life events meets business transformation

fashion spotlight: beyonce

stacking the odds in your favor

entrepreneur spotlight

cover feature: michelle hill-smith

savory recipes from the heart

sponsorship spotlight: monique bolton

spiritual corner

Are you living your dreams or are

you still dreaming? With have of the

year gone and the second half well

underway it is time to stop living in the

woulda, coulda, shoulda, and build for

the now! This issue is about seeing that it

is possible to have it all with a little work

and a little balance. With us celebrating

our 1st anniversary in a few days we

really wanted to inspire you to take hold

of your aspirations, and push yourself to

get it done. With that being said thank

you for supporting WE Magazine for the

past year, and as always…

Happy Reading!

~ "A mother who is wondering when change will come."

4 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

In light of the recent verdict in the Trayvon

Martin case I felt the need to write something.

Anything. When I first sat down to write this note my heart was full of anger. So I stopped. Wait

a few days and came back to it. I wondered would anyone still care about this topic by the

time this article came out on August 1st. I wondered if people would have already started

moving on, and all of the angry Facebook post and tweets would just be a sad memory.

Trayvon Martin's life was valuable. Was he an angel? No, but who is? Did he deserve to die?

Not at all, at least not that situation. They say God has a plan for us all, and maybe his death

should be used as a lesson. But my heart is heavy, as a mother I realize that could have been

any number of people that I know. I guess I just needed a vehicle to express myself, but I

wonder what next?

All this fuss, all of these rally's, all of the Facebook post, and even this letter what do they

mean? Will it cause us to come together? Will we stop pushing each other way and realize if

we continue have internal fighting amongst our community it changes nothing?

I'm not perfect, not sure how I can make a change. But I do know we have to live in this

world. We have to bring children up in this world. So can we stop teaching our children hate?

Can we teach them to if not love each other just respect each other’s existence? I surely

hope so or we are in for a continuance of problems.

SIGNED,

~ "A mother who is wondering when change will come."

Do you ever wonder why your enthusiasm dies

out during your business ventures’ journey?

The only answer I have for you is that you don’t celebrate yourself. Your accomplishments, no

matter how large or small, must always hold some type of high regard. Starting and operating

a business while running a family, going to school or whatever other life activities you take

part in is a major overhaul. For some, taking part in that much at one time causes a breaking

point. My advice, from experience, is to set short term goals, accomplish them and then

celebrate them...EACH AND EVERY TIME. Not only will you create a system that becomes a

habit, you will feel really good in the process and learn to not take your process for granted.

DOWN TO BUSINESS with Michelle Hill-Smith

6 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

DOWN TO BUSINESS with Michelle Hill-Smith

BU

SIN

ESS

ID

EA

S

FASHION SENSE

NETWORKING

WE Magazine can help you find your way!

www.WomensElevationMagazine.com

Join the Conversation Today!

To celebrate our 10th issue and the fact that we are

celebrating our anniversary, I wanted to share with you my

Top 10 Favorite Things that I use on a daily basis. These are

things that help me in both my business and personal life

alike! I hope that you can use and benefit from them as well!

On the go program: DropBox – WE Magazine uses this

program to transfer files back and forth between our graphic

designer, as well as keep documents that are important to the

business. This is definitely a must have for any business owner, and

you can start off using it for free or upgrade for more space.

Email Marketing Program: MadMimi – Email Marketing

Tool: MadMimi – This program is also free starting out and allows

more freedom for design. It is easy to use and quickly sends

newsletters to your following without issue!

Beauty: Beautie Brownie – Right now I am in love with so

many different lines, however Beautie Brownie is one of my most

favorites. Do yourself a favor and check it out!

Fashion: Pinterest – WE Magazine is known for posting some

incredible pictures of different fashions. The main question I get is

“Where can I find them? Pinterest! We use Pinterest as a muse for

a lot of our post.

Hair: Carol’s Daughter – I am

new to the natural hair club, but I am

enjoying my search for natural products.

Recently I have fallen in love with

Carol’s Daughter. I’m still working my

way through my natural hair process.

App: Instagram – Instagram is really becoming popular for

the WE Magazine brand. We are able to reach new followers just

by using pictures and instamessages! Great business tool.

Networking Circle: WEPP – WEPP (Women

Entrepreneurs Partnering for Profit) has been very

influential in bringing dynamic women into my circle.

As a business owner you have to remember that you

are not an island, and WEPP is an awesome

reminder of that. tool.

Fresh Faces – I love what the ladies of my generation

are doing. One example is ForBrownGirls owned by Karyn

Washington. I love to see these ladies shine and bring their

creativity to the world.

Unwind: When I unwind I like to forget that I own a business so

the first thing I do is relax with family. If I want to be in an alone I

prefer reading or zoning out to one of my favorite computer

games!

This is and will always remain my

number favorite thing to do!

Listening to and being able to

share the stories of other women who are

fighting for their voice in this world is a

motivating factor to why this magazine is

in existence.

I can’t wait to share with you again next month! Be sure to

stop by our facebook page: www.Facebook.com/

WomenElevationMagazine and let us know about your Top

10 Favs!

14 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

Take a moment to let your clients and

customers now that you appreciate them

choosing you. Send them a note with a free

gift or discount. Give them a call and deliver

the message personally. Send them a

hand-written thank you card in the mail.

They will find it very tasteful and appreciated.

15 July 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

By Tanya Angelique

Have you ever sought out to achieve something you thought

you'd planned well but things fell through because you'd lost

focus somewhere along the way? As a life and business coach, I see this

often. Many have programmed themselves to not sweat the small stuff and ended up

realizing the answers were in the details. Details matter, and we must recognize when

the details can make or break the goal.

I enjoy watching the trials to see who makes the U.S. Olympic team. The look of joy on

the face of an athlete realizing they’ve made the team is priceless. On the contrary, the

pain and disappointment of veterans who realize their time has come and gone is pretty

sad to watch. Either way, the Olympic trials reinforces the importance of not just focusing

on winning, but defining an individual definition of winning and a plan of action to make

the cut.

Take swimming for instance. The goal is to win the race, right? Not necessarily. For the

seasoned swimmers, winning might mean making the Olympic team. Once on the

team, the goal is to win an Olympic medal. But until they earn that coveted spot, they

devote every ounce of energy to doing what it takes to get there. For the up-and-

coming swimmer, winning may simply mean swimming their best time and gaining

valuable experience for the next Olympic trials four years down the road.

15 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

16 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

In business, the details matter too and the smallest details separate business by miles. Not only

do we need to be attentive to our own details; we need to watch what our competitors do,

especially those who excel at bringing innovation to the marketplace. The ultimate focus,

however, should remain on what we do best. When what we do best no longer fits the

marketplace, then we need to adjust by developing new strengths. Market leaders invariably

focus on “swimming their own race” rather than obsessing over what the competition is doing.

While you must be aware of them you do not need to be inundated with it.

I often find that we work hard but don’t stay focused on what will really make a difference in

winning (hint: it’s not by checking our email constantly). Your win resides in getting clear on the

goal, laying the plan in detail, and remaining focused on your race according to your definition

of winning.

All businesses were not designed to be a major corporation. When your business is successful in

revenue and growth year over year, I consider that a win.

There is a purpose and need for small businesses; if this is your

race, run it. No matter what your goal is, if you follow those

principles I can assure a victory.

Celebrate each small milestone along the way as you press

towards your finish-line.

To learn more about Coach Tanya Angelique

visit www.relationscriptsinc.com

Not only do we need to be attentive to our own details; we need to watch what our competitors

do, especially those who excel at bringing innovation to the marketplace.

17 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

From the bloggers

of Cobi & Capri

The sister to the maxi dress, maxi skirts are making a statement. They appeal to all walks of fash-

ion, from the preppy to the uber chic. They’re appropriate for many business settings, and can

take you in to happy hour, date night or girls day out. It’s easy to accessorize a maxi skirt with belts

and jewelry. You have many options for tops to pair them with, from graphic tees, to blouses with

a drape effect. When buying a maxi skirt, be sure to try it on, or make a note of the posted length

of the skirt if buying online. Measure yourself to see how it would fit you. Choose your shoes based

on how long you want the skirt to fit on you, from at or below your ankles, to floor-length.

Your Body Type What to Look for in a Maxi Skirt

Try heels or platforms to give you some height. Ruffles are ok, but

choose maxi skirts that don’t include lots of fabric that overpowers your

frame.

Ruched Maxi Skirt, $24.99

from DailyLook.com

Tahari Navy Sapphire Jersey 'Melinda'

Maxi Skirt, $89.00 from Bluefly.com

You’ll love how colorblock skirts direct the eye in a way that complements

your shape. Avoid too many patterns and colors.

Morning Tide Curvy Plus Maxi Skirt

$35 - shopruche.com Pleated Colorblock Maxi

Skirt $109 from Bebe.com

Your Body Type What to Look for in a Maxi Skirt

You’ll want to opt for longer skirts, and pair them with flats or lower heels. Try

solid colors, fun prints or simple textures like lace accents.

MAJE Candinsky crepe maxi skirt

$280 from Net-a-porter.com

Skinny-stripe fold over maxi skirt

$54.95 www.gap.com

Feel free to experiment with prints and patterns. Make a

note of the length of the skirt, as no two maxi skirts are the

same. Base your shoe choice on the length of the skirt.

Monsoon Minerva Printed Maxi Skirt

$68 - monsoon.co.uk

Skinny-stripe fold over maxi skirt

$54.95- www.gap.com

19 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

We love connecting with our followers live!

Connect with us to join the conversation

everyday on Facebook and Twitter!

Monday – WE JumpStart Monday’s

Tuesday – WE Inspire Tuesday’s

Wednesday – WE Elevate Wednesday’s

Thursday – WE Promote Thursday’s

Friday – WE Recap Friday’s

FACEBOOK.COM/WOMENSELEVATIONMAGAZINE

TWITTER.COM/WELEVATIONMAG

Meetups are currently based

out of SW Atlanta.

22 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

By Monique S. House, MS, CHES

Deciding to maintain a

healthy weight is one of the

best choices you could’ve

made in your life. Not only will

you improve your routine of exercise

and healthy eating, you decrease

your overall mental health. Your decision

alone, however, will not automatically equal

results. Transforming your body will require you to

transform other areas of your life also. If you’re dieting and exercising and not getting any

results, here’s why you've failed at losing weight, and what to do about it.

Image co

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Marc

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reeDigita

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You know you want to lose weight, but you’re not sure how much. Here’s a brief psychology lesson—goals are never truly attainable if they can’t be

measured. The human mind requires objectives to be specific, something that

you can see, smell, hear, taste, feel…you get the picture. Achievement is hard to

visualize (or materialize) if it’s designed in the abstract.

Set a weight loss goal by pounds, inches off your waist, even dress size. It’ll help your

mind to understand what you’re looking to accomplish and produce measurable results.

23 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

Image co

urtesy

of -

Marc

us- / F

reeDigita

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s.net

You have a chronic illness that you are coping with, not managing. As life expectancy increases across the globe, so does the rate of

chronic illnesses. Young people are diagnosed with various forms of

cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases at earlier ages. There

are also more instances of symptomatic issues earlier on (think

migraines, fatigue, joint pain, anxiety, and depression). While losing

weight and living healthier can improve and prevent these

conditions, don’t expect to make great strides until you identify the

underlying cause of your ailment. Maybe an attitude change, counseling or medication will

manage your condition, but make sure to identify and include these as a major part of your

weight loss plan. Otherwise, your suffering may prevent you from keeping up with your exercise

plan and staying focused on your goal.

You are trying to lose too much weight too soon.

Weight loss is a slow and gradual process that cannot be rushed. If

you’ve set a high weight loss goal and a short amount of time to

attain it, you are setting yourself up for failure. Aim to lose only a

couple of pounds on a weekly basis.

It’s time to assess your eating plan, especially if you’re on some fad diet

like juice cleanses, gluten free (when you aren't gluten sensitive or

intolerant) or fasting. You must have a well-rounded diet that includes

fruits, vegetables, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Of course, if your diet is limited due to a medical condition, make sure you follow you doctor’s

directions. However, if you eat well for the most part, stop punishing yourself for the occasional

dessert. Find your own balance. Myplate.gov is a great resource for learning about food groups

and serving sizes.

You slipped up on your diet and discouraged yourself.

24 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

You haven’t communicated your goals with your loved ones. You’ll need support when making the lifestyle changes necessary for losing weight. Don’t expect

to achieve much if you’re still stocking your pantry full of junk food for your husband and the

kids. Going out for your weekly happy hour with the girls might not help your waistline if

everyone’s on their second order of beer and hot wings. Let family and friends know what you’re

trying to achieve so that they can support you. Show your kids how to cook and eat better with

you. Meet up with the girls for an exercise class instead. Make plans that fit your healthier lifestyle

and include your social circle.

You hate exercise. You’ll need support when making the lifestyle changes

necessary for losing weight. Don’t expect to achieve

much if you’re still stocking your pantry full of junk food for your

husband and the kids. Going out for your weekly happy hour

with the girls might not help your waistline if everyone’s on

their second order of beer and hot wings.

Let family and friends know what you’re trying

to achieve so that they can support you. Show

your kids how to cook and eat better with you.

Meet up with the girls for an exercise class

instead. Make plans that fit your healthier lifestyle

and include your social circle.

Monique is a writer who’s passionate about health

and fashion.

Connect with her at www. about.me/moniquehouse

23 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

WE Magazine: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your company.

N. Caldwell: I believe that women from all walks of life should look beautiful without breaking their

budget. And that’s what my business, Just Glam, offers to them. Something that started out as just

wanting to start a business and wanting to give women affordable options to look and feel good

transitioned into other opportunities. Just Glam is comprised of a ministry aspect, there is a

non-profit aspect where I actually go into the juvenile system for women and teens, and I teach

on self-esteem, beauty and image awareness. I also travel the country and do motivational

speaking, but these additions are not my doing. I started off with one vision; and from there, other

elements began to form. God has definitely deposited something extra into this business. When I

coined Just Glam, I added the tagline “It’s not just a look it’s an attitude.” I knew what that meant

personally. I knew that what I was doing wasn’t just about the outside. It was about the inside as

well. It has been such an amazing journey, and definitely something I couldn’t even dream of.

WE Magazine: You mentioned that you were involved in other aspects outside of cosmetics. I saw

on your website that you collaborate with Michelle Hargrove regarding the “Restoring the Glam”

project. Can you share a little bit about what that entails?

N. Caldwell: I actually met Michelle Hargrove through a dear friend of mine, Dee Marshall, who

was speaking on the UNCF empowerment tour. Hargrove asked me to speak at her Restoration

Weekend: an exclusive weekend where women in businesses come together and restore our

mind, bodies, and spirit on a holistic level. That event evolved into us creating the Restoring Glam

Project, which teaches women how to represent themselves, how to match one’s self-perception

with reality. GLAM, in that aspect, represents Godly Living Above Mediocrity.

As women, we put up this facade of what want to present to the world. And that may not be

who we are. That is why our main focus is teaching women to restore who they are from the

inside out. We teach them to live a lifestyle that is pleasing to God first, and matches who you are

as a person.

WE Magazine: I think that is a great way to inspire women. We just did our health & wellness issue

in July and we spoke about beauty and perception of how we think of ourselves as women. One

of the things that we need to do as women is change our views because they are not realistic

and that starts with the images that we see and internalize. How you have changed your views of

being an entrepreneur based on your experiences thus far in building your business?

26 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

N. Caldwell: I think one of the biggest things that have changed for me is being consistent.

People see me as an entrepreneur or a motivational speaker, but they forget that my brand

stands for more than just an online store. My goal is just to be able to be a part of the elite in this

industry. . I make sure that I stay consistent by making sure that I keep up with what is going on

with my brand. On the business side I make sure that I am not recklessly spending my capital. I

don’t have any investors in my business. Everything that needed to be purchased I paid for.

WE Magazine: Congrats to you because that is a difficult feat.

N. Caldwell: Thank you. What I realized is that I don’t necessarily need to be fabulous and

glamorous all that time. I don’t feed into all of the stereotypes that go along with this industry. I’m

just my best me at all times.

WE Magazine: Let’s touch on some of the stereotypes that go along with your industry. Can you

describe some of the stereotypes that you want to crush for those that are looking to get into

your business?

N. Caldwell: I think one of the main ones is that everything is red carpet ready. People don’t see

the preparation, hard work, and the adversity that goes on behind the scenes. You don’t always

wake up, pack a bag, and travel across the country to do a celebrity’s face. People see you on

TV and in the spotlight, but they don’t realize that when you’re working, you’re working; and you

have to be responsible with the money that you make at that time because at any given

moment that could change. You have down periods, so you have to manage your finances well

because you could be working for six months straight, and then not work at all. And that can be

mentally taxing. You have to have thick skin in this industry. You have to create opportunities for

yourself because things don’t just fall into your lap. Make sure you do your research. I started this

as a hobby because I have two parents in the styling field. I never saw it becoming what it has

become. I knew I wanted to be a business owner, but I never saw myself as a celebrity makeup

artist. At the end of the day my goal is to be the one behind the scenes supporting other

makeup artist to push them forward. So I would say if it’s not something you’re passionate about,

this is not the industry for you.

WE Magazine: I think people get so blinded by the glitz and glam because of what they see in

the media, but they don’t realize that there are so many makeup artist out there. You can be

very successful, but the competition is deep.

N. Caldwell: The competition is so deep here

(LA), and New York, but my goal was never to be a

celebrity makeup artist; it was just icing on the

cake. I think it was God’s vehicle to help get my

brand off the ground. It’s some thing I can do in

my sleep. I know that it’s a God-given

talent because I’m creative in

many ways, but I can’t even create

a stick figure (laughs). So I know this

is something that I was meant to

do.

WE Magazine: You are an active participant of the

National Associate of Black Female Executives in

Music and Entertainment (NABFEME). I wanted to

know how organizations like this and UNCF have

helped you become a better business owner? Many

people think that when they start their own business

they can just do everything on their own, but honestly

it does take a village to raise a business.

N. Caldwell: It gives me a competitive edge because

I am around like minded people that are going or who

have already surpassed where I want to be. It keeps me

striving for more, and I always get to pick their brains about

different ideas. I love being able to network on a different level with

people in different fields.

WE Magazine: Where do you see your business going in the next five years?

N. Caldwell: Five years is such a short time. I see my business in Sephora and Ulta, as well as

Macy’s everywhere. I also see myself opening a flagship store in the San Francisco area. I would

love to expand my brand beyond just cosmetics. I do have a five year plan to do that, and

lastly to grow and launch the non-profit section of Just Glam.

WE Magazine: I love those goals! Thank you so much for allowing me interview you I have one

last question what do you want people to remember about your business?

N. Caldwell: I want Just Glam to be remembered for redefining the standard of beauty. I want

the brand to be remembered for showing women what it is to live beauty from the inside out.

WE Magazine: Well thank you so much I look forward to seeing your brand continue to flourish!

For more information on Nicole Caldwell and Just Glam Cosmetics:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsjustglam

Website: www.justglam.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsJustGlam

29 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

By ShaChena Gibbs

Every one of us entrepreneurs/business owners goes through some

[potentially] life-altering event that conflicts with our business.

It could be a health issue, financial issues, family issues, or even life events such as graduations, marriage,

new baby, etc. As pressing as these issues, the key is not allowing these things to steer you away from

conducting business as usual.

When we are faced with these different events personally, our businesses are affected. There was a few

times when I was personally dealing with health issues. I was weak and bedridden. At this time, I didn’t

have any systems in place or anyone who knew how to operate my business. With major corporations,

when the boss or CEO is sick, a team is there to pick up the slack so customers and clients won’t know the

difference. If I would have had a team in place and some solid systems to have my business on

auto-pilot, I would not have lost some clients and I would not have had to explain to others why I was not

in operation for so long.

Another example: Your children are having performances at their schools and you have an event to

attend that will help you boost your clientele. What do you do if you do not have any systems? Begin

building a team. Hire an assistant; train them to know the company lingo and more. This way, you can

schedule your assistant to attend the event in your honor while you attend and enjoy the show that your

child[ren] worked so hard on.

When starting a business you may not have any systems

in place. It’s okay and it’s not too late either. If you

do not have any, you can start right now by looking at

your daily operations and brainstorm some small tasks

for each department. How would you want your

receptionist to answer the phone? What script

would you use to approach a new client? How do

you close a deal? How do you practice retention?

It’s time for a business transformation because life events

will happen and you need to be ready so you do not have

to get ready.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY WOMEN’S ELEVATION

MAGAZINE FROM REAL SISTERS RISING!

Website: www.thebusinessshero.com

Network: www.realsistersrising.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/shachenagibbs

Twitter: www.twitter.com/realsisterising

30 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

Voting Closes August 15th

Courtesy of Cobi & Capri

32 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

Take several notes from Queen Bey on this outfit! She embraces the black and white, minimalist

look with chic sophistication. Don’t you love the hat and blazer? Beyoncé also shines effortlessly

in black leather shorts – sleek and at just the right length. And let’s not forget the pop of color!

Aqua is a warm-weather favorite.

Copy the look or buy your favorite pieces to complement your own style.

Bench Vest Top $11.00

houseoffraser.co.uk

French Connection One Button Jacket $218.00

bloomingdales.com

AllSaints Leather Short Shorts $181.00 allsaints.com

Jean-Michel Cazabat Lace Up Pumps $200.00

farfetch.com

AX Armani Exchange Chain Shoulder Bag $98.00

armaniexchange.com

Lauren Ralph Lauren Chain Hoop Earrings $35.00

zappos.com

Topshop Wool Fedora $50.00

topshop.com

Cat Eye Sunglasses $40.00

nastygal.com

Discover more fashion trends at www.cobiandcapri.com

AS WOMEN we are compelled to nurture. We nurture our loved ones. We nurture

people who need assistance. We nurture ourselves with occasional splurges, trying to

practice healthy habits and trying to center ourselves with our faith and beliefs. When it

comes to nurturing our talent and passion for success, however, we drop the ball and

kick it to the side.

We allow distractions to take residence in our behavior. And then, we lose focus and

sometimes we even lose hope.

Most of the times, the odds are stacked against us. We have too much to do, too

many responsibilities and not enough time for this or that. We don’t have the right

connections, the right amount of money, enough education or the right opportunities.

We get distracted and eventually become discouraged because the odds suggest we

aren’t ready to go after what we want.

BUT, the odds serve a purpose and should be used as a reminder of the choices we

have when facing them. We can choose to let everything tell us we aren’t supposed

to go after our dreams OR we can pack “the odds” in our backpack and take them

with us on our journey to success.

Here’s how you can take your odds and turn them into stepping stones towards your

dreams:

By Shannon Baylor-Henderson

34 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

Acknowledge Your Challenges: A funny thing happens when you own up to your

challenges and setbacks; they miraculously begin to become resolved. People step in to help

out, you create alternatives or you make a plan to tackle them. Identify what your issues are

and begin to seek resolutions.

Perform a SWOT Analysis: When outlining a business plan), you have to create a SWOT

analysis. SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analyses let you know where

you can expect to succeed and where you may face difficulty. List what makes you awesome,

what you could improve, where you can leverage your assets and what could potentially knock

you off course. In doing so, you are preparing yourself for your journey to success as well as a

plan to deal with potential setbacks.

Try, Monitor, Adjust, and Repeat: It feels amazing to be empowered. You feel you can

do and handle anything, but you can’t manage it all. You should always aim to accomplish as

much as you can. Try things that will help you achieve your goals (perhaps a strict schedule,

assistance from others, cutting back on certain activities or expenses). Monitor how it impacts

your progress (does it move things along or create bigger obstacles).

Adjust your efforts to meet your needs (change schedules, enhance your skills, etc.). And repeat

it until you experience a breakthrough. You may not get it right the first time; but with a little

practice and a lot of perseverance, it’ll happen.

Believe in What You’re Trying to Accomplish: You want to be a business owner. You

want that mutli-million dollar contract. You want clients in every state. You want cover stories,

awards and recognition. Or maybe you just want a quiet home office doing what you love.

Whatever it is, when you believe in it, you fight for it.

Find strength, time, money, connections and opportunities in places you would’ve otherwise

overlooked, and fight for it like you have never fought for anything in your life.

35 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

Even though I’ve had the honor

of personally developing a

business relationship with this

phenomenal woman, there are

many out there that are still

trying to make it into her chat

box! She’s changing the face of

online businesses across the

world...one entrepreneur and

one brand at a time.

She is the highly sought-after, graphic. web and creative marketing designer, business support

specialist, business launch, development & virtual productivity coach, fitness enthusiast and

personal trainer and just for the heck of it...artisan soap maker. Since meeting Michelle a year

ago, I’m still trying to figure out how she’s doing it all...SUCCESSFULLY.

In this issue, she shares with us how she pulls off being a Mom, Wife, Sister, Daughter and Business

Owner as well as primary operator of 4 successful businesses.

WE Magazine: With the theme for this issue I’d like to go over “How To Do It All Successfully” and

knowing you for how long now? It feels like eight years.

M. Hill-Smith: I know right! (laughs)

WE Magazine: It’s only been one year for both of my businesses and you’ve definitely been a

tremendous help in getting them together, helping me figure that the first one business wasn’t

truly my calling, and helping me to see that the magazine is where it’s at for me. So, being able

to talk to you and include you in this issue, especially since it’s our anniversary issue. It’s brings

everything full circle for the two of us.

M. Hill-Smith: Yea I feel like everything came together really well.

WE Magazine: Don’t you just love when that happens. I mean, it makes sense to bring the person

that is “behind the scenes.” I swear you’re more popular than me because…

M. Hill-Smith: (laughs)

WE Magazine: Whenever an issue comes out I always get messages that ask, “Who is your

designer? I have to know,” I’m like, let me just shout you out from the get-go so they know that

Michelle Hill-Smith of OnTask Assistants has designed this issue. Here’s the website, Facebook,

Instagram; and all of that. I’m just teasing, but I swear you are more popular than me and I like it

that way so I can stay in the background.

M. Hill-Smith: No, we’re going to have to change that soon!

WE Magazine: You keep saying that but no (laughs). I feel like I know your whole life story, but I

know that I, nor my readers know exactly who Michelle Hill-Smith is. Where do you start because

you are involved in so many businesses? Where did you first get your entrepreneurial start?

M. Hill-Smith: Well, my background is in the performing arts through dance, and I always knew

that I didn’t want to work for anybody. I was always the one in elementary school or at home,

when playing with others, I would be the lead of anything we did. Whether it was a dance

group, singing group, or playing teacher, I was always the leader, not the follower. It was second

nature from around the age of 8. Then, when I went away to college for dance, I discovered

that dance was my first love; all I knew was dance. I loved performing. I loved being in control of

my body and emotions through dance. So, even just starting there, I think, through that control I

began to love the feeling of pretty much being able to dictate how the crowd was going to feel

from watching and experiencing my movement.

I loved the fact that dance tells a story through movement and music. I loved that, and from

there it allowed me to create and direct my own company. I started Artist for Artist Dance

Theater, auditioned dancers, and booked engagements for us to perform. That was my first real

business. I always had this need to bring everyone together in unity for one purpose. Whether

you were a musician, dancer, visual artist or vocalist, the premise of unification through the arts

was what I wanted people to experience.

I knew nothing about business; I just when into it doing something I loved. A good friend of mine

took my passion and helped me to develop it into something that helped bring people together

through the arts. I believe that if I hadn’t allowed my passion and strict requirement for class and

excellence to be my foundation, I wouldn’t have made it from where I started and where I am

today. I allowed it to lead the way.

WE Magazine: I want touch on something you mentioned, which was that you look to “bring

people together.” You were able to bring together people with similar interest, and you are still

doing so. Even though it’s not through the arts, you are definitely doing it through everything else

that you are a part of. You are building bridges for other women to connect, and I would say that

teaching every day because I am sure that you receive a lot of emails and messages from

various women.

M. Hill-Smith: Every morning as soon as I log on, it’s like people know that I am there and take the

opportunity immediately to message me and be the first to say “Good Morning”. They know that

I’m going to eventually ask how they’re doing or how things are going on the business side and it

just goes on from there. (laughs) I love checking in on my small coaching group and making sure

everyone’s connecting the way they’ve been asked to for creating, building and supporting. I

love the feeling of accountability. When you have someone there that you can connect with,

that understands your passions and strengths as well as weaknesses, it’s an awesome thing. I

guess because I’m so passionate about giving and supporting, every business that I create and

operate is based off of those principles.

WE Magazine: That’s a good thing; it means that you’re important, and people are looking to you

for advice. I want to transition from your artistic background to something that is artistic for you,

which is your design business. I know you from OnTask Assistants; I mean that’s where we know

each other, and where a lot of people know you. What brought you into that realm because

being a part of dance and then being able to transition into this superwoman-graphic designer

that can make anything that your clients want even if they can’t necessarily explain it to you.

How did that happen?

M. Hill-Smith: OnTask Assistants first and foremost started with the understanding that I just did not

like working for others in a full-time environment. When I would go into a job, after working for a

week or two, I’d realize that I could do a lot of things better than the owner, or the system that

they had in place needed to be changed. It was like something was inside of me was causing

me to think this way. I’d give my two scents and suggest different ways to handle things. Of

course, my suggestions or ideas wouldn’t always make the conference room and later disaster

would strike on their end. But, the design part comes from me having to create and direct for my

own company. I would always have to design something. It didn’t matter if it were flyers, business

cards, a website, documents etc.; I always had a need to make it look good and that was very

important to me. I’m naturally a perfectionist and believe in not beating around the bush and

getting right to the point. I find it beneficial to use design to persuade. I happen to be a bit good

at it, hence, my business took off!

It was around the time when I lost my job that people began to see my designs and started to

ask me to do things for them. Three weeks after I had my son, I went through post-partum

depression, and I decided to go back to work because I needed to do something. I didn’t know

what to do with myself, so I found a job, and felt the same as before in terms of how the

company was run: I felt that systems could have been in better shape. Sometimes they would

listen to my thoughts, but most times they wouldn’t. I began to feel like I was done. I wasn’t

being heard, so I let them go through the motions until they would fail. It got to the point where I

was tired of the back-and-forth and I began building my own business while working on the job.

It had gotten so bad that I was doing more work for my own business than doing the work my job

required. Lo and behold, I ended up getting laid off from that job, and I said this is it. I already

planned everything, I had all of my documentation, had a business plan; the only thing I didn’t

have was the name. Though I didn’t have the name, I knew that I wanted to work from home

and I knew that I wanted to be an assistant to someone. I didn’t know anything about being an

administrative assistant but I knew that I would be an assistant virtually; a term that I never liked. I

took it a step further coined the title “Business Support Specialist”,” but I didn’t take on that title

until I knew how to be that. I found that I was doing more consulting people for their business

instead of helping them administratively.

WE Magazine: I would say that you do more consulting for my business on a regular basis

(laughs). When you said you were going through a bout of post-partum depression after just

having the baby, you knew you didn’t want to work for anyone else. I think a lot of women who

have started their own businesses have gone through a trauma or a life change, whether it was

losing their job or having a child. It is life changes like this that compel us to start fresh. It’s funny

how little babies can scare and make you want to do a left turn in a right turn only lane (laughs).

M. Hill-Smith: Exactly!

WE Magazine: It is important to mention that you were able to overcome that because some

people ignore that it is really something that you have to watch out for.

M. Hill-Smith: A lot of people don’t think that it will happen to them, but it can. It may be subtle,

but it can happen.

35 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

WE Magazine: OnTask Assistants has really

catapulted. I joined your circle in the past

year, but it’s really moved into something

that’s huge. I think that you can tell a

Michelle Hill-Smith design when you see them

because you see the quality behind the

work. As your client, I would say you are able

to create someone’s vision with minimal

information. What is your process for design?

M. Hill-Smith: I really don’t know. I just take

what it is that my clients explain they want,

and I try my hardest to remember it. A lot of

times my designs come from what I think

something should be. A lot of people are

under the misconception that a design or

brand is what their thinking it should be. A

design or brand, if it’s something that is going to represent your company it should match. You

really have to design everything to attract the audience in which you are trying to reach. I try to

take what your business is, and sometimes I have to go back to people and say this isn’t going to

work.

WE Magazine: I know that sometimes you get bombarded with request from people that just say

“I don’t know what I want just design something” and as a business owner I know that it is really

hard to describe what you want if you don’t have a clear vision of what your business is truly

about.

M. Hill-Smith: I think a lot of the confusion stems from comparisons. Many are looking at what

other people have, but you have to remember that what someone else has does not go with

your brand or your vision. So, the design that was made for them goes specifically for their vision,

brand, audience, call to action, etc..

WE Magazine: We had a conversation regarding

staying in your lane. As entrepreneurs, we get

bombarded with comparing ourselves to others. There

are many designers out there who are doing the same

thing you are doing in terms of just design, but how do

you stay in your own lane as a designer?

M. Hill-Smith: Starting out in business especially as a designer, I called myself an amateur for a

very long time. Partly because I wanted to remain humble and also because I did not want

someone to come to me and say “Hey can you do this,” and I say yes just for the money. A lot

of times were chasing the money and that’s what will get you in trouble. You can’t be

everything to everyone.

Staying in your lane is going to be the biggest moneymaker ever because you’re going start

doing things that you are comfortable with. You will excel in those things. You can provide

quality work a lot better. Back then, I talked a good game, but then when it came time to do

the work that’s where I knew I couldn’t do it naturally. I had to research a lot of things which

caused me to do it less effectively and quickly. That was my struggle. Staying in my lane

allowed my business to flourish because I started to focus on things that I do well and things that

I could give back in good quality.

WE Magazine: I think a lot of people fake it until they make it. Especially in the beginning; even

in the magazine realm I wasn’t born knowing how to run a magazine. But I want to switch topics

because you have about 50 million businesses (laughs) there is always something new with you,

and I love it. My first question is: when do you sleep?

M. Hill-Smith: (laughs) somewhere between 1-3 am.

WE Magazine: Can’t be! You’ve definitely responded to me around 4. All jokes aside, you are

truly a business support specialist. And you’ve started another business, “Smarter Business from

Home”. I’ve sat in for a webinar before. Through this program you do coaching and speaking to

business owners. When did you start this business?

M. Hill-Smith: Smarter Business from Home came about a year and half ago through the

different people that I would come in contact with through OnTask Assistants. It’s the coaching

program that I developed under my MichelleHillSmith.com brand. I just noticed how each

person I encountered was, in some ways, like me. They were in different stages of their business,

but I noticed they had the same exact questions

that I had; the only difference is that I didn’t have

anybody to ask back then. A lot of these aspiring

entrepreneurs or full-fledge business owners were

stuck and I wanted to take it a step further to do

something more about it. So, Smarter Business

from Home began as an answer to the cry of

startup entrepreneurs.

So, the entire concept behind Smarter Business from home is that it teaches you how to ignite,

launch, develop, and grow a smarter business from home. I took everything that I needed to

know from when I first started my business, along with the developed experience from my trials

and tribulations. I took those elements and set up a training module. This program is designed to

dig so deep into the business idea and structure as well as personal side of things. In this pro-

gram, we review six elements that every business owner needs to know in the beginning: the

“Who, Why, What, How, Where and When (in that exact order)” of business. The second part of

the training is hands on; especially for people in the virtual service industry.

Business is business no matter where it starts, so this will not just target people who run a home

business, but those that run a business in general. With this training, I get my students in the

business of thinking for themselves without limits. I help them to dig deep into themselves and by

teaching them how to identify, dissect, acknowledge, execute and embrace the passion that’s

within them. From there, I show them how to build a multi-figure organization that either

supplement or replace their current income. For

developing entrepreneurs and business owners I

work with them on structure and where they

can improve and build their income in a smart,

yet consistent way.

WE Magazine: You have a few books and as I sit

here and looking through them I’m wondering

where do you find the time to do it all?

M. Hill-Smith: I have to give kudos to my team

[of women] that supported me as best they

can. I delegate to people that can effectively

get things done, but I am guilty of sometimes

not delegating well. It’s really hard for me to

step back and delegate and then let it go, but

my team has been with me for a while now so

has become easier. With everything that I have

going on in my life, it was very critical for me to

find a balance. If I didn’t learn that early on I

wouldn’t be here. I think that, as women, we

see ourselves as superheroes in a dress. We

carry the big purses because we have to have

something for everyone. So, I think the thing I

take away from it is that a woman carries

enough for everybody. We have enough love

for everyone, we have enough care for

everybody, and I think God put us in this position to be able to accumulate so that we can take

of people. In terms of balance I had to learn how to do all of this stuff carefully because I am a

mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter etc., so there are many that require my time outside of my

business endeavors.

On a typical day I get up at about 5:30-6:00 am and I clean up my household so that I can have

peace of mind. I walk the dog, look over the house, pray and then I get to work. Between 8:30-

9:30 Noa (my son) usually gets up and he comes right to me and sits on my lap while I work while I

am working and answering emails, designing etc. and I try to be done by 6:30 pm. I have a little

more know-how now than I did back then. Now, I’ve incorporated scheduling appointments to

speak with me, I set cut off times etc.

WE Magazine: Scheduling is definitely essential to any business because it is important to be able

to track where your day is going and what you have planned.

M. Hill-Smith: You have to have a cut-off because people will call you all times of the day ex-

pecting you to do things for them. I used to answer at all times but that’s because I was chasing

the money. You have to stop chasing the money. That is one of the important lessons I had to

learn. I love doing being a support specialist and love doing design work. But, some days it does

get hectic, but I am doing what I love to do. Even with the soap it is something I love.

WE Magazine: I was going to mention that next. “Kissed by Koco” is taking off by storm. When I

first found out about “Kissed by Koco” I thought to myself that Michelle and I must be kindred

spirits because we get involved in businesses that are necessarily related to each other! And yet

they work because “Kissed by Koco” came out and I literally thought “Ok Michelle’s going to

do this, and it will more than likely work, but I have to see the product” As I started seeing the

soaps I was literally thrown off, but they were amazing. I at first thought it was chocolate, but

where did this project come about?

M. Hill-Smith: I’ve always been passionate about creating things. I am in love with the history or

tradition behind things. So, my mom came home one day with a bag of books and in that bag

there was a book about how to make natural soap. I love soap! You mean, I can make it

myself? Long story short. I read that book from front to back probably about five times and that

was about five to six years ago. I brought many books since then as well as some supplies and

just began to try it. When I made my first batch, I had some fears about trying it; but I did and it

was so amazing. My skin felt much better after using it and I was so shocked. I built up the

courage to share it with my mother who tried it and then she shared it with somebody else and

it’s just grown from there. I did a ton of research, but it’s been a journey since then. I’ve made

some awesome products as well as some bad ones too. I also love “Kissed by Koco” because I

get to educate people on the harsh chemicals that are murdering our skin. When you make

soap from scratch, glycerin is a by-product of the soap making process, and it moisturizes your

skin. But what the commercial companies do is take out the glycerin and replaces it with other

things that supposedly moisturize our skin. But everybody can’t take everything on their skin. It

causes eczema, severe

dryness, psoriasis etc. and

people just think they are

born with these conditions

and that may not be the

case. Many people are

afraid to use products that

are naturally made

because we have been so

brainwashed to use what

we know. Kissed by Koco is

really an educational

resource and movement to

support the use of natural

products.

42 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

WE Magazine: All in all you’ve really been able to touch different markets in your own way, and

through that you’ve been able to expand your network base. You are the woman that is known

for OnTask Assistants, and then you come out with Kissed by Koco and it’s great. So your

audience begins to expect something new and bold, and it will succeed because you have the

correct business module. How do you do all of these things? Because we haven’t even talked

about Losing 2 Win which is your health initiative.

M. Hill Smith: I try to plan and my team really helps as much as they can. It’s about planning and

structuring everything to make it run by itself. It’s all about

time management [you have to first and foremost, if you

really want to be happy, manage your time. You have to

structure yourself; you have to say every day at this time

“I’m done.” Losing 2 Win is actually my release. It’s apart of

my structured system. That’s the ONLY way I’ll be able to

really hold myself accountable to get my physical activity

and fitness in. Losing 2 Win serves as a fitness and healthy

lifestyle community that provides support and resources in the form of meetups and online

communities for those that are more interested in finding practical and natural ways to lose

weight and maintain great health. There’s a Facebook Community and Facebook Group where

we get to connect virtually and share our journey with others. I love it. I’ve met some really

interesting people so far.

WE Magazine: I really appreciate you being a part of this issue. I am so happy that you share your

knowledge, and I get to tease you a little bit about all that you do. Thank you for all that you do.

A lot of people come to me and say I love the way the magazine looks or the way the website

looks. And I can’t take credit for the design; I tell them I have a wonderful graphic designer that is

able to produce my vision for the masses to see. With this issue being the anniversary issue, and all

the things you do behind the scenes; I commend you on how you are able to do it all and every

day you inspire someone to start something that they have been putting on the back burner.

Because whether you know it or not you do inspire people.

M. Hill-Smith: Well thank you very much.

WE Magazine: Do you have any closing remarks before I let you go?

M. Hill-Smith: I just want to encourage others to be their best selves and stop looking at what

everyone else is doing. Just go after what is in your heart, and what God has placed there.

Develop your idea and allow it to make sense to you, and make sure its catering to your

consumer because once you’re able to do that that’s it.

For more information on Michelle Hill-Smith check out:

www.OnTaskAssistants.com

www.MichelleHillSmith.com

www.KissedbyKoco.com

www.Losing2WinNow.com

Blue Cheese Stuffed Turkey

Meatballs with Raspberry

Balsamic Glaze Sausage Bites

Ingredients

3 oz creamy gorgonzola cheese

1 lb turkey Italian sausage (schmicas) with fennel seed

½ cup Italian style bread crumbs

½ onion grated

1 egg white

Salt to taste

Dipping Sauce:

½ cup raspberry preserves

⅛ cup balsamic vinegar

3 teaspoons Dijon mustard

Pinch of red pepper

Pinch of Salt

Instructions

For the meatballs: Roll the blue cheese in small balls about

the diameter of a dime. Freeze for 30 minutes. Preheat

oven to 375 degrees. Mix the remaining ingredients

together, until just combined. Roll sausage mixture into small

balls. Place the blue cheese in the middle, enclosing with

meat. Bake on a silt pad until golden brown and cooked

through, about 25 min, turning halfway through to ensure

even browning.

For the Dipping Sauce:

Combine all ingredients together in small sauce pan over

medium high heat. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat

and simmer about five minutes. Coat meatballs in sauce.

Serve.

Peach Lemonade

Source: Cooking Light June 2012

Serves 8 if using 2/3 cup lemonade per serving

Ingredients:

4 cups water

2 cups coarsely chopped peaches (3 to 4 peaches)

3/4 cup sugar

1 cup fresh lemon juice (juice of approx. 6 to 8 lemons)

1/4 to 1/2 cup additional water

4 cups ice

1 peach cut into 8 wedges, for garnish

Directions:

In a medium saucepan, add the peaches, water & sugar.

Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Once boiling,

reduce heat to medium low and simmer for 3 minutes.

Very carefully pour mixture into a blender or food processor

and let stand for approximately 20 minutes.

If using a blender, take the center out of the lid and place

lid tightly on blender, covering the top with a kitchen towel.

(I used my Ninja and it has a little lid at the top you can

open as well). Blend or process until smooth. Pour into a

large container and refrigerate peach puree for approxi-

mately 3 hours (or overnight if preparing a day ahead).

After peach puree has chilled, press the mixture through a

sieve into a large container, reserving the liquid and dis-

carding the solids. Pour peach juice into a pitcher and add

lemon juice. Stir until combined. Taste and add 1/4 to 1/2

cup water to dilute if too concentrated.

Serve by pouring approximately 2/3 cup of peach lemonade in a

small glass over approximately 1/2 cup of ice. Garnish with a

peach wedge if desired.

Italian Chicken Skillet Dinner

Ingredients

1 lb. chicken breasts (cut in half) or tenderloins

2 squares Italian Herb Sauté Express® Sauté Starter

2 teaspoons olive oil

½ yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

12 ounces mushrooms, sliced

2 zucchini, cut in bite-size chunks

2/3 cup sundried tomatoes

2 15-ounce cans fire roasted diced tomatoes

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Directions:

In a large sauté pan or cast iron skillet, melt the Sauté

Express® Sauté Starter over medium heat until it begins to

bubble. Pat the chicken dry on both sides. Add the chicken

and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned. Turn and cook

the other side until browned and the chicken is cooked

through. While cooking, brush some of the Sauté Express®

Sauté Starter on the side of the chicken facing up.

Remove chicken and set aside on a plate. Add the olive oil

to the pan. Over medium heat, sauté the onion for 3

minutes. Add the mushrooms and continue to sauté for 5

minutes. Add garlic, zucchini and sundried tomatoes. Sauté

for 2 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning,

and salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in the balsamic

vinegar.

Transfer the chicken back to the pan and spoon some of

the sauce and vegetables over top of the chicken. Cook,

covered, over the stovetop or in the oven at 350 degrees F

until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is

bubbling.

48 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

Monique came to WE Magazine

because she was searching for a

way to give back and support a

positive outlet for women.

A mother, a wife, and a full time worker she serves as an

inspiration to women who believe in supporting other

women.

Since becoming a sponsor of WE Magazine she has not

only been involved with promoting our brand, but also

reaching out to other business to support our efforts to

promote, inspire, and elevate women everywhere.

We would like to take moment to thank her for her

efforts and continued involvement. For more

information on sponsoring WE Magazine visit

www.womenselevationmagazine.com/sponsors.htm.

49 August 2013 Issue Women’s Elevation Magazine

“I heard a voice that told me I’m essential. How all my fears are limiting my potential. Said it’s time to step into the light and use every bit of the power I have inside . . . ” -Just Do You by India.Arie

Is this you? Believe it or not, we all have been created by God for a specific purpose! However, many people never fully realize their potential. Maybe we don’t believe in our abilities; maybe we don’t believe in ourselves. Maybe the possibility of success intimidates us. Whatever it is, we need to overcome it. In order to conquer an opponent, we must first identify it. Let’s call the underlying issue what it is: fear.

Whether you’re thinking about moving to a new area, beginning your own business or tackling a huge project; whatever you dream of doing, I want to encourage you to replace fear with faith! And I challenge you to start today. You can do it, and here are some tips to get started:

1. Remember that you were created with a purpose! You may already have ideas of what you’d like to accomplish and what you feel God has placed on your heart. If you’re not sure, seek Him though prayer. Ask Him to reveal your purpose to you.

2. Identify your goals and develop a plan of action. Write your plans out on paper. Having them in front of you to manipulate and change will give your goals a new dimension for your analysis.

3. Find someone you trust and ask them to become your mentor. Whether they are in a similar field or career path as you (or where you’d like to be), just having someone in your corner to offer encouragement and guidance is a blessing.

4. Surround yourself with DREAM BUILDERS, not dream killers. Hans F. Hansen once said, “People inspire you, or they drain you; pick them wisely.”

5. Establish a system of accountability. Have check-ins with your friends and/or mentor. Receive their constructive criticism and use it to grow!

6. JUST DO YOU! My mother once told me, “Face your fears and they’ll disappear!” It’s true! Fear is not from God so if He’s placed a desire or idea within you, step out on faith and trust Him to manifest His Will in your life.

Remember that God is with you! Believe that He will equip you with the necessary tools, especially if your dreams and goals promote love and truth. Trust Him to make ways for you and to open doors. Remember that nothing’s impossible with God! Go after your dreams!

Kara Frison is a 2010 graduate of Hood College who strives to inspire others through her writing. You can read more of her thoughts at www.softwordsbrighteyes.blogspot.com and learn about her organization- Ladies of Virtue. . . Empowered! (for women- 14 & older) by visiting www.facebook.com/LadiesOfVirtueEmpowered.

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