exploring

5 Lessons Through Nature

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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Nature is something I enjoy spending time it. Spending time in nature helps me to continue and sharpen my observation and exploration abilities. Thoughts and reflections often come during those times that may not come at other times. The natural beauty of nature is catching to the eyes and therapy to the mind and soul.

Below are some highlighted lessons through nature.

 

1) Nature has natural art and creative tools all for free. When an artist and creative explores their outdoor surroundings, the scenery can become a toolbox. Leaves, rocks, flowers, other plants and almost anything you can find outside can be used for nature projects.

 

2) New discoveries can be found outdoors everyday. Those that have interests in nature and adventure often find and see what they have never seen before.

 

3) Nature is given to God’s creation to enjoy. Once this belief is embraced it can be experienced.

 

4) Outdoor creatures take full advantage of their environment. The creatures can often be seen gathering and hunting for what they need.

 

5) Nature isn’t always a pleasant sight or smell, but it’s real. Life is like this in the sense of not always having it all glamorous,  but you can experience the realness(if that’s a word lol) of it.

 

What lessons have you learned through nature? 

 

5 Lessons Through Publishing

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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The publishing and writing industry has great creative times and it also has challenges that comes with being a part of it. As a published author and writer, I’ve experienced both sides and have learned and am learning through the process of writing and publishing. Below are some highlighted lessons to consider on publishing.

 

1) Always have a detailed plan that includes a marketing strategy. Whether you write books, articles or blog posts – the message and information can reach its audience when its targeted to readers effectively.

 

2) Give yourself extra time for the planning and preparation stages. Sometimes delays happen beyond a person’s control and things go wrong. Having extra time allows enough time to make changes and be organized.

 

3) Don’t look for major results in the beginning of something new. The little results eventually build up over time. Give it time.

 

4) Don’t place the value of yourself and your work based on sales and approval of people. Money and popularity doesn’t determine the quality, it may just show how well liked and well received a person is. Even ones that are well  liked and well received have people who don’t approve of them and what they are doing.

 

5) There’s always something new to learn and try in the publishing and writing industry. Always be open to learn and try new ways to grow as a writer and/or author.

 

What are some lessons have you learned through/about publishing?

5 Lessons Through Intergenerational Friendships

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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As a younger adult I now have a few older adult friends with a large age gap difference. These relationships came at the right time when we both needed a human friend and fellowship. The friendships just happened without my seeking and took place in a situational type of way.

I’m more open to them now than I was a few years ago when I found them to be a little odd. Who says age matters in friendship? It really doesn’t, we just all have to learn that not everything always has to be in the exact same way when it comes to certain situations. That’s where newness and freshness gives its savor. Below are some highlighted lessons to consider on these unique friendships.

 

1) The quality of friendship is what’s more important. Age difference doesn’t necessarily mean good or bad. It’s what the persons bring in the friendship and how they operate in relationships.

2) There are special qualities that my intergenerational friendships have than those of my peer group and age category . While I’m appreciative of friends of all ages, I do recognize the distinctiveness between the different kinds. These friends have been around much longer and have had more experiences. They bring qualities including double wise advice and sometimes greater perspective.

3) Having a variety of kinds in friendships bring a fun mix and flavor. A positive mix gives a person a chance to evolve in their own way.

4) Sometimes the intergenerational friends have shared experiences and relate in some connecting way. As I talk and spend time with friends of these kinds, I’ve learned that we relate more than I think and can have a wonderful time with our connection. It’s great to have someone who understands and is there for you. Somehow the connection helps both in the friendship.

5) Give the connection a chance, its healthy to have the balance. With certain things we really don’t know if it’s meant to be or can work well unless we give it a chance.

 

  What lessons have you learned through/about intergenerational friendships?

 

 

5 Lessons Through Literacy

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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Literacy has an important position and role in our communities and world. When I think of literacy I think of books and reading. Growing up reading was one of my favorite activities to do, especially reading creative stories. I still enjoy reading even up to this present time. There are many ways in which literature functions in life. Whether it’s in a classroom, library, house, workplace or any other location, it still remains information and knowledge. Below are some highlighted lessons to consider on literacy.

 

1) Communication and the comprehension of it can be developed through many kinds of reading and  different kinds of writing. We communicate in various ways including talking, listening and the way we act. Language is a strong part in how we communicate. What we say, how we listen and what we write all has a part in the process.

 

2) Writing promotes literacy. Every time a writer writes and shares their writing they encourage others to read, communicate and connect in some form.

 

3) Literacy is for everyone. Whether a person likes/dislikes to read and write and/or is strong/not strong in reading and writing, we all need it for everyday life and while it doesn’t have to be everyone’s favorite thing to do we can make it interesting in creative ways.

 

4) Literacy can be in the form of pictures and music. Images and music communicates a message, sound or information when we view and listen closely and thoroughly.

 

5) Literacy affects every area of living on earth and  the quality of life. The attention we give literacy in whatever form can bring the change and increase we need in earthly living.

 

    What lessons have you learned through/about literacy?

 

 

 

 

5 Skin Care Reminders

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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Ever felt like there’s something missing from your skin health? Skin care is just as important as any other part of our health. All skin shades are beautiful and deserve the attention it needs. I’m no expert but here are some tip reminders on improving on taking care of our skin.

 

 

  • Drink More Water: I’m guilty! I don’t drink the amount of water as I should. There’s something about having a sweet tooth. Water is essential for healthy skin care. It leaves the skin looking clearer.

 

  • Keep it moisturized: Natural skin products like olive oil and more are available at various pharmacies and stores. When skin is moisturized it definitely looks and feels healthier.
  • Wear Sun Screen: During the summer and warmer months it gets hotter and our skin needs to be protected. A great way to protect the skin is by using a suitable sunscreen.
  • Include Vitamin D in Diet: Vitamin D is known to help the skin to be healthy.
  • Consuming Healthy Foods: Eating healthy foods is good for every part of our health including our skin. Fruits and vegetables are an important factor in consuming healthy foods.

What are some skin care products that work for you? How do you maintain the care of your skin?

Summer Story ’15: Create Your Own Enjoyment

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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Life offers golden solitude moments. Moments of discovery and exploration. To be intentional in finding the joyous gifts of the present. This summer for me has been an interesting and a needed learning experience of many things. We have to always be ready for the unplanned and interruptions that flutter near. Below are a few highlights to consider.

 

   Solitude is a gift to be alive in. This is an opportunity to listen, feel, see and taste the lively and lovely splendor.

Silence reveals many wonders. When we stop to be silent and allow the beauty to soak outwardly and inwardly we can experience the amazement and grandeur of simplicity.

Envision and evoke your venture. Where do you want to head to?  What do you want to do? What is meaningful and full of life to you?

Risks are sometimes worth exploring. Not every risk we should take, but not every chance should we ignore. What possible goodness or greatness can come out  of this? What is holding me back from at least trying or finding out more about it?

  How is your summer going? What is your summer story saying? What are you doing this summer?

Identity: Embracing Who We Are

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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Identity… the world displays so many distorted views its easier for many to be confused, in conflict or in crisis with whom God created them to be. Labels are everywhere. Books, folders, food items and sometimes are even put on people. Outward appearances, education, background, personality are sometimes the fuel that we are tempted in using to figure out who we are. Until the ideas begin to shatter and even at some point let us down. Looks are deceiving!! What looks a certain way outwardly may not be the same way inwardly. It is good to know that in spite of the labels and how we and others may  see us, the God that knows the ending from the beginning knows us deeply and even more better than we can know ourselves. Yet in spite of the things that might be less appealing or glamorous, He loves us and is willing to help us through anything.

“For the Lord seeth not as man seeth. For man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.”(1Samuel 16: 7)

This tells me that it is where your heart is that matters most. Sometimes we put negative labels on ourselves and find it hard to shake it off. Perhaps we experienced a disappointment or failure and are finding it hard to let it go or to forgive ourselves. We must let go of the deceptive and untrue labels and embrace the true gem and treasure that God has created us with. God wants us to be free and not being bound by false identities.

We all have flaws, have made mistakes and have sinned. The hardest thing for a believer to do sometimes is to separate the mistake or sin from who we are in Christ. We must remember as believers that our identity is in Christ and we don’t have to hold on to the past. Sometimes it may be present stuff that we are dealing with. God can handle and fix that too.

“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” (Psalms 139: 14)

That is who we are – fearfully and wonderfully made!!! There’s so much more for us to discover about ourselves and that only comes through spending time with God and trying new things that will keep us encouraged, inspired, challenged, growing and on a positive path.

Does Every Story Have A Happy Ending?

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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In life there are both acts and experiences of good and bad, righteousness and wickedness and happiness and sadness. Sometimes things may seem very uncertain and dull. We wonder, how will this all end? In Christ we have the promise that no matter what we face on earth, the better and greater part is yet to come.

Life is surely not a fairy-tale with everything perfectly in place. It has its messy and tragic events all around the world. Thank God that earth is not our destination and Heaven is a glorious home for every believer in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. So I ask the question: Does every story have a happy ending? The movies and television shows often picture it that way in most cases. There’s a difference between navigating through a show or set and navigating through real life. Maybe it all depends on how we view things or the choice that we make.

There’s something beautifully everlasting that is awaiting those whose faith is in Christ alone. No ending to this will ever take place. On and on it shall last eternally.

Revelation 21: 3 – 7 “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, behold the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, it is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”

The Effectiveness of Reading: How Reading Can Bring Growth In Your Life

/ Crystal Holdipp / 2 Comments

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I enjoy reading. Not just because I love writing. Reading has a lot of valuable nuggets and tokens that can stir up exploration in many forms. Words are very effective and can have either a positive or negative impact on a person. Below are 5 ways reading can affect us in a positive light.

1) Knowledge

We can learn a lot just by reading. There are things that we never saw or known of that can educate us to try something different or understand another point of view. It’s good to expand our reading on various topics where we can get knowledge from. Perhaps we can discover uncommon findings in our adventure of reading. There are things we can learn about people, places, health, morals, relationships and more.

2) Vocabulary Builder

Not only English enthusiasts can benefit from building up their vocabulary, but everyday English speakers can build on the kinds of words they communicate with others as well. Reading is a great source for vocabulary building. As a writer and person I find reading helpful when it comes to learning new words. When I see a new word in a book or article, most times I would look it up in the dictionary for its meaning if need be. There are sometimes I would see or hear a word that I’m not sure of and it would be bothering me to find out about it. And when I do I often would already be familiar with the meaning of the word.

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3) Inspiration

I have been inspired just by reading books, articles, blogs, devotionals and more. A sign on the street can be a spark of inspiration. Reading is not limited to long texts, but even one word or phrase can be enough to digest and think on. There are some things that I’ve read that has encouraged and helped me on my journey. What book(s) have made a difference in your life? How can you use it to help others in return?

4) Relaxation 

Stressed? Tired? Grab a book! There are many books, articles, comics and magazines that offer entertainment and fun. Clean, fun and positive reading can be a great source to chew on. Why not relax, read and refresh all in one?

5) Ideas

I have gotten writing ideas and other forms of activity ideas just by reading. You can create, remake and cultivate through those conceptions. Look for ideas when reading and you never know what may come out of them when you carefully try them.

What effects has reading had on you lately? How will you use them for a great cause?

   A Few Books To Discover 

A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God's Promises
5 of 5 stars
A Confident Heart: How to Stop Doubting Yourself & Live in the Security of God’s Promises
by Renee Swope
This book spoke to my heart and I enjoyed the words on the pages. It challenged me in some ways and it encouraged and inspired me deeply.
Fifteen Minutes
5 of 5 stars
Fifteen Minutes
by Karen Kingsbury
Love this book and the message it brings!!! Fame is definitely not worth the cost!!! It’s a reminder that nothing is worth losing our faith in God.
Revolution in World Missions
4 of 5 stars
Revolution in World Missions
by K.P. Yohannan
Great points!
The Pain Stops Today: 10 Steps to Discovering Your Purpose
5 of 5 stars
The Pain Stops Today: 10 Steps to Discovering Your Purpose
by Veronda Bellamy

Great steps!!!

Leaving
5 of 5 stars
Leaving
by Karen Kingsbury
This book was definitely a great read! I can relate to Bailey in this book. It’s a similar journey I’m on. I’m in a place of transition and sense that God is about to do something new and is about to take me to a place where I have never been.

Embrace Your Artistry

/ Crystal Holdipp / Leave a comment

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I was walking home from town and as I was enjoying the walk, this lady that saw me grow up came in passing. She asked me, ‘Where are you working now?’ I told her that I’m just doing freelance writing part-time. Every time someone asks me are you working or something close to it, I have that dread feeling of discontent. The lady stopped me in my tracks and poured lots of encouragement and wisdom on me. Little did I know my walk home would lead me on a message concerning the art and beauty within me. This messenger encouraged me to dig deeper with my writing and to explore art more. She built me up with words that there is a lot within me and that I need to not focus on what’s going on around me. As she continued in her words, she told me not to think lowly of myself because I’m not doing the traditional living of where people expect us to be and how we should do things. Once again I was encouraged to create my own establishment of art.

Some may not know, but I’ve been interested in and explored various kinds of art. Art such as performing arts, fine arts and writing. Being creative is beautiful! We should never be ashamed of our artistry and we must learn to embrace it. Regardless of our circumstances.  Art is beauty within that sparkles outwardly in many forms. What art do have in you? Are you embracing the artistry within? Sometimes we wait to see what happens or we may have a lack of courage or motivation because of what we think we don’t have. With God we have everything that we could have never imagined. Taking small steps and then bigger ones will lead us on a brighter path. There is no limit to our art! Embrace your artistry!