Sharing with Others - Blessing Bag Giveaway!

Happy Monday!

Today, I am teaming up with Shane plus a few lovely bloggers to host a group giveaway of some lovely items! This is all for a great cause, called "blessing bags." 

What are blessing bags? 

Shane came up with a great idea to giveaway small bags full of necessities/items for the homeless and less fortunate last year. If you were around Shane's corner of the internet during the holidays last year, you may recall her Blessings Bags for the homeless giveaway and how readers helped her touch 150 lives? She has decided to make this an annual tradition!  

Now is your chance to help by giving a donation; as well as getting a chance to win some really cool prizes!

No longer will you need to ask yourself: Do I hand him money? But then what will he spend it on? Do I drive through that McDonald's and buy him some lunch instead? Are they even homeless?  It always seems to leave you feeling guilty whether you give in to their pleadings or not.

Shane's first thoughts were in asking friends to donate trial size toiletries. But, unfortunately, with all the blogging pals living across the country (& world), this would be difficult and costly to coordinate. So instead, this giveaway will help to build awareness for the cause as well as gain donations to purchase items that go in the bags this year. In addition, Shane is pledging to match every donation - dollar for dollar in what she spends on the items!

Insert these fabulous contributors for the giveaway:

Kelly / Lisa / Nicholl / Chelsea / Erica / Jena / Shirley

Miss Angie / Cody / Shane / Allison / Kim / Color by Amber

Breanna / Sarah / Chelsea /  Rachael /  Kristina / Paige / Anna 

It is great to be apart of this, and to work with each and every one of these ladies! 
Shane's contribution to the giveaway will be a fun prize pack  full of Vera Bradley, Essie Summer Collection, Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette, braided bracelets from her shop. Below are the physical items up for grabs.

In addition, there will be gift cards to all of our favorite places in the giveaway as well: Target // Starbucks // ASOS // Bath & Body Works // Etsy // Sephora // Paypal // Amazon
This entire loot will go to ONE lucky reader!
This year, to take it a step further, Shane will include notes of encouragement in each and every bag.You can gain 3 entries by leaving a comment on ideas for these, be it motivational quote, poem, or just warm thoughts.

<a href="http://www.whisperingsweetly.com/2013/11/blessings-bags-giveaway-for-cause.html"><img border="0" src="http://i825.photobucket.com/albums/zz180/x3shanerx3/blessings_zpsc98e5ef6.jpg" height="200" width="300"/></a> We would be honored to have you help in this venture! The more the merrier! Even if you don't feel you have the ability to donate this holiday season, We would be flattered if you helped share the cause by way of a simple tweet or sharing the button. Let's change lives together!

I do hope some of you will follow suit and set up a similar gig in your own community. Trust me, the faces of these people you restore hope in are simply priceless. You haven't truly lived until you've done something for someone who can never repay you, and are perfectly content with that.

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The Cheese Stands Alone.

Happy Monday!

This weekend was so cold out! So me and A decided to do a few errands, and cozied up in the house. Again another weekend where Redbox won as the the activity of the night - Iron Man 3, and I cooked up some good food. 

In fact, I decided to make some homemade baked macaroni and cheese. Any one that knows me, knows that is my absolute favorite thing to eat. I LOVE cheese. LOVE it. I'm the type that goes to the fridge for a snack and grabs a stick of cheese. 

Yum, so good. 

So when my mom would make mac & cheese as a side to go with dinner growing up, I would help her make it just so I could eat bits of cheese that didn't make it in the pan :) Haha! And I was so spoiled with baked macaroni and cheese, I didn't even know you could make mac & cheese from a box until middle school. I lived off easy mac containers in college, the first year away from home; but alas I have returned to the real stuff. The homemade, 4+ cheeses and oven baked, gooey goodness. 

The good stuff. 

For those of you who do not share in my love for mac&cheese, I apologize. 

Actually, I do NOT apologize. How can you not love cheese? Who are you?

Anywho,

hope this brought a smile to your face to start the week out right! 

P.S. What's your favorite type of cheese!?

-J

Weekend Recap + Win $25 to H&M - Fall Must Haves Giveaway {Enter Now!}

Happy Monday!

I apologize. You are probably sick of me telling you how much I love fall. And the changing colors of the leaves. Or the smell of hot cocoa (with marshmallows of course). Or how about my obsession with boots and fall scarves.. Or the sugary sweet treats... And candy! 

Over the weekend I enjoyed grabbing some halloween themed sugar cookies to pop in the oven, root beer (no caffeine, yay!), adding some festive decor to the house, and getting A involved in helping me make puppy chow. yuuuuummmm.

And because I have been annoying all you that love every other season but fall, I have something for you! 

In fact, today I have something fun for everyone! 

 I am linking up with a blogger friend of mine,

Aisha at Soul & Spirit to bring you our..

...Drumroll please...

Fall Must Haves Giveaway!

What's in it for you?

3 fall faves..

+$25 H&M Giftcard

+ Fall Paisley Scarf ($20 value)

+ Yummy Fall Scented Candle ($15 value)

How to Enter:

Mandatory
Follow me OR Soul & Spirit on Google Friend Connect
(If you already follow just leave a comment saying so!)

That's it!!

Get Bonus Entries:

+1 Like I'm Perfectly Human on Facebook
+1 Like True Soul & Spirit on Facebook
+1 Follow Lovelyladyjb on Twitter
+1 Follow Soul & Spirit on Twitter

+1 Leave a comment telling me what you would love to get from H&M!

**Make sure to leave a comment telling me about any bonus entries you earned**

Have a good day and Good Luck!
-J
We are accepting entries tonight through October 14th! The giveaway ends at 11:59pm CT on the 14th.

I am linking up:

Steamy Weather + OOTD + Our True Work

Happy Monday!

Hope you all had a great weekend! 

It has been ridiculously hot here in Minnesota. I mean 95 degrees plus, which is not normal for us this time of the year. So on Sunday for church, I opted out of my favorite maxi skirt and decided this cute number from H&M would do the trick. 

Dress H&M. Necklace Thrifted. Black Sandals Heartbreaker. Smile Priceless ;).

On top of beating the heat, I met up with some girlfriends from work as my friend was giving away bags of clothes she no longer wears! SCORE! I found so many cute tops and dresses I can wear as my belly grows, so I'm very greatful and super pumped to share some of them with you. 

Also a hot weekend, doesn't end without some type of ice cream in the mix! Yum.

Over the weekend, I also learned some very important keys to life during the sermon yesterday. It involves our true work on this earth. 

Our work and purpose is not about making nice, going to church on the weekends, getting in a routine and serving Christ so that we "feel better" about ourselves. 

Our work and purpose is not about working a good job, having a close family, creating good memories with great people. Sounds good, but that's not what it is about. 

Our true work on this earth is about sharing Jesus with the world. Although, everyone is not going to accept Him (as the bible even states this); our work is to show others how great our lives can be with Him. Showing them how He is the great I am. He is the one true living God, and I am a living testament to his greatness. 

In fact, we all are. 

I have never lived better, and more accomplished life until I had Jesus on my side; and through out it all I have no worries. If any of you knew how I was, I was always a worry wart - couldn't sleep at night at one point I was so depressed from the worries and thoughts that consumed my mind. Now when I began to worry, I give it to Jesus and it always works out. 

 He is my peace in the time of a storm, He is my rock when no one is there, When I have no one to talk to - He is there and He understands exactly how I feel. I don't know where I would be without Him. I am so grateful that He chose little old me to share His word and to live for Him. 

I am excited and filled with true joy!

You all have the right to live a great, wonderful, mysterious, ever changing, beautiful life with Christ. He is the way, the truth, and the life. He is everlasting, he is a living God. AND He has a special plan for each and everyone of you if you seek Him. 

Happy Monday! 

Quite Amazing

Happy Monday!

*Taking time to remember those who served this country and are no longer with us*

It's funny, lately I've been feeling a sense of peace. 

My nights went from - busy nights working late and jumping into school work; to rushing home from work to get dinner started and appreciating the moments I have to put my feet up on the table and watch Dancing With The Stars. (Old news - but so glad Kelly won, BTW!) 

I made a promise to Jesus that with my extra free time, now that I've graduated, I'd give Him more of my time. My nights are often spent diving into the book of John and picking up on things I missed the last time I read it. It's quite amazing to me that there could be so much within each scripture. In fact the more understanding Jesus gives me, it's like a part of my spirit is awakened and I am becoming more alive. 

For the first time in my life, I am living. 

It's all quite amazing actually...

The peace I have when my house is clean, laundry is done, and I have a plan for taking care of my finances.

The confidence I feel in the choices I make; that I am in full authority and control of my life. 

The understanding that when things do not go as planned or chaos is around me, I can focus on Jesus and  escape my worries. In fact, I can always do this and He will keep me. 

The appreciation I have for those around me; family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and even those I do not know. The beauty of everyone in their own being, 

The fascination I have for being swift to hear but slow to speak. Oh, how much more do I grasp!

The gratitude I have for God's plan for me. 

Knowing that He is in control and because I understand that, I too am in control. It's funny. I would have never thought these would be my thoughts, but I am so thankful that He has changed my mind. I am being continually transformed and I love every moment of it. 

I have also been quite transformed in the kitchen as well. 

Haha! Adrian sure appreciates it. 

Tonight I'm making sausage and onion flat-bread pizzas. 

Yum. 

Have a great week! :)

Monday Blues... You Choose #1

Happy Monday! :) 

(Yippee ... Shoot out the streamers, sound the horns..)

Do you ever buy a super cute top or dress, and struggle with what you should wear it with? We all do. I know I have things in my closet that still have the tags on them because every time I go to try it on, I can't figure out the right combo or I can't decide on how I want to wear it. 

I had this struggle with a cute new blue top/dress I found at Heartbreaker in my town. 

I LOVE it. 

But, I like to switch it up from time to time, and sometimes I need the help of others to inspire me. I want to get feedback from you guys and what you think, as well as how you would rock it.

Which brings me to a new feature on the blog:

You Choose Your Fave Look.

#1: Sweet and Sexy. 

Showing a bit of leg, with minimal accessories.

#2: Dazzling Diva

Armed with neck bling, I would rock this to work, or out for drinks...

#3 Sultry

Dolled up, but reserved. This braided belt adds a fun touch. This look could be rocked in all social situations. 

Sheer Blue Blouse/Dress - Heartbreaker

Black Jeggings - Heartbreaker

Accessories - Forever 21, Heartbreaker

Black Platform Sandals - Shopreflection.com

Vote and Choose your fave!

My Personal Favorite has to be Look #2. 

What's yours?

I hope this post reaches you in good spirits today. I am officially back to the blog business and must I say its quite refreshing! I adore all of your comments, welcoming me back and the patience you guys have had in my absence.

Enjoy your day! 

-Jena

Nautical Notes

Happy Monday!

I hope you are all doing well, I have taken a short hiatus over the past few weeks, as I am sure you were all aware of. It doesn't look like it will get any easier to write within the next two weeks. I have a couple of things coming up!! 

First, It's my grandma's birthday today! Happy Birthday Grandma! So many years, so much wisdom!

Second, I have FINALS... my second to last set of these, finally. I will have one semester after this and super excited to be done with school... 

Third, It's my birthday next Monday! AND in perfect birthday girl fashion, I will be enjoying turning a quarter of a century! OMG, I am getting old guys!!

On to other things...

Black Blazer - H&M

Striped top - H&M

Denim jeans - Gap

Black Boots - Heartbreakers

Necklace - H&M

I know you haven't seen an outfit post in forever... Two weeks is a long time!! 

And I absolutely love this striped shirt I got from H&M, it was like $10! Which is definitely a steal! I have been on the search for very transformable items, that can double in the workplace, and are still appropriate. That's my challenge. The weather hasn't been working with us here, we have definitely been getting all of the showers April has to offer us. Which is good for our environment, so that's okay. 

I can't wait til my outfit posts can be summery again, with spring dresses, florals and bright prints... 

Until then, I will continue to keep dry the best way I know how...  wearing my rain-boots and jacket. :(

Enjoy your Monday!

Having Faith: I am Real, I am Human.

Most days I feel like I am a very strong person. I can do anything and my head is held high,

with all doubts and fears beneath me. 

Other days I feel overwhelmed and like I am unable to continue to be strong. 

This morning was a test of my strength. 

Not the first, and certainly not the last. 

Ever since my struggle began with Lupus, six years back, each day has been a testimony in every way shape and form. 

I woke up with this morning, exhausted, 

like I had run a 15 mile marathon a few hours before. 

Unable to pick up my cellphone and turn off the alarm, due to the pains of arthritis in my hands, the fears and doubts flooded me. This is a familiar morning to me, as most of my days begin like this. 

But, today was different.

 As I rose to my feet I noticed pain and inflammation in my right knee and ankle. 

Oh, Great. 

This week was already going to be trying, as spring break is over, and any of you that work full time and go to school full time know the stress of balancing school, work, and life. 

Now unable to walk myself to the bathroom to take on the day, 

I felt defeated. 

As Adrian lifted me off the bed, and helped me dress myself, 

I let out a tear and told him,

"I am feeling discouraged." 

He looked into my eyes, and said,

 "Don't feel discouraged baby, you're body just needs to warm up. Everything will be fine." 

Unable to get into my doc, I know Adrian is right. 

I prayed to God. 

Sometimes, I needed to find the faith in me to take on the day. There were so many things that I needed to do, but my body was just not cooperating with me. 

click image for source

Faith can move mountains.

 I've seen people in my life believe in God, when there was nothing left for them. 

Believe that things would get better, that they would find the strength to carry on. 

I know I can do it. 

I am a strong, independent woman. I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.

I am grateful for the amazing people God has placed in my life, Adrian has seen me at my lowest of lows, he has stood by my side through it all. 

I know God has placed him in my life.

My parents and my siblings are always there whenever I need anything. 

They try to understand what is going on with me, even when I don't. They have been there to lift me up when things aren't going as planned.

I have good friends that are able to offer support. 

I try not to ever ask anyone for anything. I think I get that from my mom. She has always been strong, and figured things out for herself. I have found out that although I never want to depend on them or anyone for that matter, all of these people will let me depend on them. They will help me when I don't ask for it.

click image for source

I am thankful for another day, I am thankful through it all. I know that my hard work and dedication in my life is not in vain. 

I will make it! 

Happy Monday! 

Monday's Aztec Inspiration

Instead of taking the hippie route...

I decided to have some fun and dress it up, for something that could transform to the workplace. 

If your job lets you wear jeans (everyday) like mine...

 Then, you can easily take this Aztec trend and strut your stuff on the runway job!

Aztec print blouse - Heartbreakers

Black Blazer - TJ Maxx

Distressed denim skinny jeans - Levi's

Pale Bow flats - H&M

More 'PIN'spiration:

(images via pinterest, click for source)

H a p p y    M o n d a y.

Neutral Monday

Hey guys...

Sorry that I neglected you last week, I have been super busy but I am back! 

First off, don't forget to enter my Victoria's Secret $50 Gift card Giveaway! 

(It ends in a couple days)

I'm so ready for spring...

 I bought shorts for this outfit, but it's way too cold for all of that..

Pale pink button up - H&M

Pink tank - H&M

Tan capris - TJ Maxx (?)

Brown Sandal shoes - shopreflection.com

Hand bag by Kathy Van Zeeland - Stole this from my mom

White watch - Guess? 

This weekend went by way too quick! Friday night I spent inside doing homework and taking a Finance Test! -__- So, Saturday was the only day me and my hunny could actually hang out, we went to the Mall of America and Dinner at Axel's bonfire near our place, I am starting to love that restaurant! :)

While at the mall, I found so many cute things at H&M! 

'They were having a sale, and it was packed -___- 

My hunny also gave me this white Guess watch as a gift this weekend. He is so sweet! I'll get some up close pics of it soon. It has little gold butterflies in the face!

 I love it! :)

How was your weekend??

Have a great day! :)

Muah,

The Calm.

For NYE 2012, I decided to have a little shindig at my house. It was fun and glad I got to bring in the New Year with my family and friends. 

DIY photobooth. aftermath.

Sunday Funday we all woke and had breakfast and watched football. Just laying around with my girlfriends in PJ's and talking about everything we could possibly think about was relaxing.

After everyone left yesterday afternoon, me and the Mr. were able to get back to the calm that we are used to. We enjoyed the last few hours we could just hanging with each other before work.

Today, I'm lounging. 

Happy Monday Loves! 

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Monday Inspiration.

Today is a gloomy, depressing, rainy day. Funny how the weather helps to depict our moods. Looking at pretty photos should always gets me in the right spirits. Let's try Rihanna, she's purrty. Here she is featured in the latest Glamour Magazine for September. She's Hot.

Sweater, skirt, Givenchy by Riccardo Tisci; diamond earrings, Amrapali; ring, Rihanna’s own.

Dress, Marc Jacobs; crystal and pearl bracelet, Stephen Russell; bangles, Rihanna’s own; shoes, Christian Louboutin

Coat, jumpsuit, Yves Saint Laurent; clutch, Tom Ford; crystal and diamond bracelet, Stephen Russell; belt, Gucci.

Images via Glamour

Happy Monday! 

GAAHHH: Case of the Mondays.

Hey there!

Quick post before I head to our last kickball game of the season. Should be a grand time..This week I'm working full time at this Marketing Research company (I've been working pt), to do some training for an upcoming study. It was probably one of the most boring days of my life. I'm not joking. You should see the size of the binder I have to learn by the end of the week. Pretty much a waste of time interesting. We are going to be administering hearing, vision, taste, vocab, etc. tests to clients for a University (can't disclose exacts per confidentiality). A lot of the learning was mundane and repetitive. Then we proceeded to walk through scripting of the things we went through twice already. And I have homework. I feel like I am back in school and I didn't sign up to be there! LOL. Atleast I'm getting paid. Sorry to rant. But I feel better.

image via cosmo

Hope your day was better than mine! :)