Weekly Inspiration

Hello my lovelies,

Today I started a new medical rotation and as with all new beginnings there are goals that we set and new achievements that we aim for. Therefore my inspiration for this week revolves around making goals. Goals represent guidelines to what we ultimately want to achieve. But it's not enough to just write down wishes what we truly need are executionable goals that we can truly feel accomplished about once achieved. Aim for success and follow these guiding principles when it comes to goal setting.

Much Love,

Nella

LHC- Follower of your dreams

There's something to say about follow your dreams. The things that you think about when you go to sleep and wake up thinking about in the mornings. Those great ideas and passions that get you so excited that you can't contain yourself. There's something to be said about our truest and happiest dreams. They make us feel enchanted and alive and complete. 

Yet, so many of us don't follow our dreams. So many of us fail to live out what we truly want. To live a life that we truly love, and to admire all those in it. Follow your dreams little ducks because when things feel rough, they may be the only light in the darkness acting as your guide and shaping your life. Living in a place like Jamaica where we're very traditional with our careers and everyone is expected to acquire certain traditional careers it may be hard to see your options but remember their all there if you just look. And this isn't just limited to Jamaica but to anyone who doubts that their dreams will become a reality. Anyone who faces setbacks and thinks they can't get it right. Be faithful in your dreams. Believe in yourself and take a few risks. You'll never know what you just may discover. 

This may seem like I'm just preaching the cliches but I'm serious. I've had so many mishaps and setbacks in my life that I've had to work hard to keep the faith. When I entered university, it was much different from the fun and wonder of high school I was in a newly challenging program, a new environment, I'd just broken up with someone that summer and then to add to it all a series of deaths just seem to plague my life. Every semester a new relative, friend, school mate, teacher or someone I admired seem to die and leave me. I lost some people I truly loved and appreciated. The transition into university was hard. Yeah, I was social and friendly and so on (well sometimes) but at the same time I felt flustered. The work was getting to me and I wasn't sure how to manage my time. I didn't have homework, classwork or tests to act as a guide to where I should be and what I should work on. All I had was a series of lectures and high expectations on my shoulders. This is it. I finally made it into medical school after all the years of saying I wanted to be a doctor. And you know what hit me the devil's evil advocate............ DOUBT!!!!

I felt like I didn't deserve to be there. Like I was just expecting to be someone that I shouldn't. That being a doctor was merely a childhood ideal rather than something that could actually be a reality. I felt like I was wasting the money of all those investing in me. And as a result my grades weren't hot. Not to the standards that I was used to and you what came next. I used that as a marker to say I didn't belong there. See I knew it all along. There was the devil's advocate talking again. DOUBT encapsulated my mind and eroded my thoughts. I kept on slipping deeper and deeper into my sadness and self-doubt. Becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy rather than working to overcome obstacles. Set back after set back became a campaign for my continued disappointment and distrust in myself. This lasted for 2 years.

I spent TWO whole years in this dark place. And to make matters worse because of my martyrs heart I felt guilty for feeling this way. I felt like I had everything so good. I could afford to get a good education and I spent all this time feeling sorry for myself. This was the cycle I kept in for a long time. I didn't want to eat so I looked decrepit and basically had no appetite. And I wanted to just take a break from life. Pack up my bags, use my savings and just by a plane ticket to somewhere, anywhere really to get away from it all. It wasn't until one day an ex of mine who I don't talk to now said to me "Why are you taking things so hard? It's your burden to bear. It may not be as much as everyone else but it's yours" Now this was the best piece of advice he'd ever give but it wasn't enough at the time because I still felt so lost and dark in my life. I had to sit myself down and say look the Lord brought you here for a reason. He's allowed you to make it this far. How can you not trust him? How can you doubt that you're meant to make it? And it was after that talk with myself and consoling myself that I started to learn how to cope better.

I spent that summer rebuilding myself and attempting to reset my mind. Not saying I don't get negative bouts now and again but I dust myself off and start again whenever I see the devil's advocates creeping in. I'm still a work in progress but I'm better off than I was before and now I continue on the path to my dreams. I write this to just tell you that when it comes to dreams you will have doubts, fears, naysayers and your biggest critic may be yourself. But take a step back and see how far you've come rather than look at how far you have to go. Then continue on your journey. If you see something isn't working don't adjust the dream or the goal but rather adjust the mindset, the focus and the plan. Everything works out for the best once you change your perspective a little. 

Always follow your dreams.

Have something you dream of doing but afraid to? Leave a comment and let's see how best we can accomplish those dreams. Let your head and your heart connect and navigate you through life.

Thanks for reading. 

Much Love,

Nella 

Carla Moore with Wait for it

Hello dolls and dudes,

Carla Moore is one of my favourite bloggers and vloggers. A yahdie who shares her thoughts and experiences as she travels between her home country and her abroad life. She gives her views on anything from 'Wifey Matey saga' to some of her favourite tv shows 'Scandal' and so on. And the thing I like about her most is that she keeps it as real and down to earth as it gets.

One of the things I think we need to do more as Jamaican bloggers is to not only follow and support each other's blogs, but all promote each other's work and achievements. As such I hope to introduce a weekly link love on this page which I will update about what other Jamaican bloggers have been up to for the past week. And I've decided to start with Carla :D So watch this video, follow her blog, subscribe to her channel and keep the love going. 

Thanks for stopping by. Leave a comment.

Much Love,

Nella

Weekly Inspiration

Hey guys,

I hope everyone is having a wonderful evening. As I mentioned earlier this week it's been a pretty busy week. I just had my end of rotation exams and now I'm freeeeeeeeee............ at least for the weekend. In my busy study mode, I've neglected to do my weekly inspiration post on Monday. But never fear, because I'm here to do it today. This week it's going to be under the theme of Motivation, Persistence and Determination. These have been the principles which have governed my week and as a result I wanted to share a few quotes of wisdom with you. Enjoy!!!

These little nuggets of motivation just reminds me to keep moving forward and to not let my fears and doubts misguide me and lead me to give up. I can and I will do this. And I thank God for everyday and every success that I've had thus far. I will keep moving on because action creates momentum which creates unexpected opportunities. Faith is what keeps me on this path because in the end I know I will achieve all that I wish to achieve.

Much Love,

Nella

Face the music and fix it

They say first impressions tend to last a lifetime and we should always make it count. Added to this is the fact that we often don’t get a chance to make a second one or a third one or how many numerous choices we need in order to make a positive and memorable impression. Therefore it is up to us to always present our best selves at every introduction, meeting and chance encounter. We always want to look our best. 

What’s the first thing that you see when you meet someone? Is it their eyes? Their teeth? Their hair? Their smile? What is it? Chances are it’s all of the above.  The largest and most widespread organ of our bodies, the skin, is often overlooked and undernourished. It’s the first thing that most people tend to see but the last thing we all think about. Particularly the face, which may tell the most about our skin’s health and history. Are you taking care of it properly? Do you neglect your skin health?

Here are a few tips to keep your face looking healthy, nourished and clear, and finally get rid of those pesky pimples, blackheads, acne scars, and discolorations that seemingly plague our beautiful faces.

1.      Clean your face daily. Yes this is the most basic of instructions when it comes on to skin care but it is also very important. You need to cleanse your face approximately 2-3 times daily with warm water and your desired skin product. Gently massage your face with circular motions then rinse with the warm water.  And don’t forget to moisturize your face daily.

2.      There are many things that collect dirt and can help irritate your skin and prolong acne. These include your hair, fingers, glasses, sunglasses, headbands, scarves and caps. These all collect dirt and oil that clog the pores and cause pimples to pop up. Keep your hair clean and out of your face in order to prevent additional dirt and oil from clogging your pores.  Clean glasses and sunglasses frequently to keep oil from clogging the pores around the eyes and nose. Avoid touching your face with your fingers. Touching your face can spread the bacteria that cause pores to become inflamed and irritated. This can be combated and limited by washing your hands before touching or applying anything to your face, such as acne medication or treatment creams.

3.      Clean your cellphone often. Leaning your face on objects that collect sebum and skin residue like your phone causes outbreaks and irritation. Avoid this by ensuring that you clean and disinfect your cellphone often. Use alcohol and a slightly dampened cotton pad or some hand sanitizer to clean your phone and the case.

 

4.      Nourish and hydrate. Nutrition plays an important role in the care of your skin and face. Taking in the right nutrients in the right proportions and drinking lots of water can help reduce the oils that clog the pores. Not to mention some nutrients provide that natural glow that makes your skin look amazing.

5.      Protect your skin from the sun. While sunlight is helpful in some cases, such as helping our bodies to create Vitamin D, the sun also emits some harmful rays that damage and age the skin leaving it looking discoloured and very dry. Wear sunscreen or sunblock with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 and that blocks both UVA and UVB rays

6.      If all else fails…. seek help. There may be some cases of acne that may be beyond basic skin care measures. When you notice that you’ve been actively taking care of your face and nothing seems to work for you, then it’s time for you to consult a dermatologist and see how best they can help. A dermatologist can help you find the treatment method that's best for you and can also give you lots of useful tips for dealing with acne and caring for your skin type.

I hope you found this article useful. Leave a comment. Ask questions. 

Thanks for reading. 

Much Love, 

Nella

Sources: http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/take_care/skin_tips.html#

Another fix of Nella

Hey guys,

I know I've been neglecting you a bit but it's been a rough week. Well it still is a rough week and won't be calmed down until Friday. But if you're craving some more from me well then head over and check out my guest post at Introverted Mind. Read as I examine this whole 'browning thing' from a different point of view.

Remember just click the link and comment at Introvert Mind

Much Love,

Nella

Jamaica Blog Awards and LHC Confession

Hey everyone,

I hope you are having an absolutely amazing day. As many of you know As Told By Nella was nominated in the Jamaica Blog Awards in the Categories of Best Personal Blog, Best Lifestyle Blog and Best Writing on a Blog and you know what?............... I didn't win. Wa Wa Waaaaaaaaaaaaaa! I came 7th in the Best Personal and Best Lifestyle Categories and 14th in the Best Writing on a Blog category. I must say I was a little disappointed with the results I mean I did do better last year but as my boyfriend and cheerleader (a man of many coats lol) said as he saw I was a little disappointed, I should be proud of myself. I man how many medical students do you know who constantly update a blog and especially one that has nothing to do with my fields of study nor any special skill that I seem to possess. Whereas most of my competitors have backgrounds in the arts or IT or there blogs has basically something to do with what they are pursuing as career, I simply write. Now I'm not saying anything is wrong with any of that nor am I putting any other blogger down, all I'm saying is that I'm different that's all. I just have this passion for blogging and that's why I continue to do it. I tread the line of the expected and chose to inch away towards doing what I love in all aspects of my life. I decided not to be defined by my career but to live multiple dreams at once and that's exactly what makes me truly amazing. Sometimes we need little nudges and reminders that no matter what happens in your life, when you chose to be yourself and shine forth into the world, then you have truly lived a life worth living.

Yes I am a huge goofball! Oh yeah!!!

I am truly proud of all my accomplishments, all the friends that I've made and all that I continue to make. And most of all I give thanks to my family and all those who choose to support me constantly. Because let's face it the people who remain in our lives have made a choice to be there. No one is required to stay no matter what we think and who we believe will be there forever. If they so choose, they can always exit. So for those who have remained and have been there for extended periods of time we need to remember to show them that we care, say a little thanks and be faithful in our  love. I am AMAZING, I AM STRONG, I AM WORTHY OF LIVING A LIFE OF MY DREAMS, and I  AM A WINNER. These words I hope to always remember despite all the roller coaster adventures in this thing we call life. That's my little confession for the week. I know it's a bit short and not on Sunday but this is a busy week and I will hopefully prepare a more thought out confession and post it on the weekend or maybe 2 on Sunday. We'll just have to see.

My Jamaipanese himself, Kirk. Awarded the Personal Achievement Award.

Now on to the awards. It was a good likkle vibes that they had there. As usual and as expected the event had began late so when I arrived after 8 to the 7 pm event (yes I was late), I was actually not too late and only 2 awards were presented before with some performances in the interlude. My biggest problem with the event was the lack of seating and the lack of warning that there would be no seating. No imagine I arrive in my sexy ass heels and cya show dem off because me couldn't even sit and rest then walk 'round and greet people as I choose. No star dem really cudda warn wi man. When I get my hotness on I want it all on and not have to cool down and pull out my car flip flops because I was not warned. *Sighs* It really limited my mingling as I'm someone who likes to be social in a comfortable environment. Towards the end of the event though, I forced myself to suck it up and meet many of the bloggers who I'd been dying to meet all year. I missed the opportunity with many but I did mange to mangle a few. Oh and congrats to all the winners. ^_^

Myself and a few bloggers. Kimroy from Kimroy Bailey (the big winner of the night nabbing the Jamaica blogger of the Year Award), April from Absolute Travel Addict, Myself and my friend and my co-blogger Keyva over at Kingstonian Heartbeat (Our lifestyle blog)

My Date for the Evening! Cute huh?

Thanks for reading. Until next time mes amis.

Much Love, 

Nella

About that side income goal

Hey all,

Hope you're having a wonderful night tonight. So today I want to talk to you all about making supplementary income. If you remember reading my 2013 goals, you may have noticed that one of my goals is to make at least J$10, 000 in side income in the year 2013. Yes I know it may not seem like a lot to some of you but to someone who's only source of income is her lunch money making that goal would be a lot for me at least. The whole point of making that goal for me is to let my creative juices flow and to allow myself to think of new and flexible ways that I can earn an income while being a full time medical student, a full time blogger and I don't make any money from my blog but I love blogging (oh if you want to give me some money I mean I won't refuse though. :D This is a dark time my loves in Jamaica economics fi real!!!) and my volunteer work with different organizations mainly JAMSA SCORP, My Youth Group and Circle K International ( I also plan to join Bloom Foundation or at least I hope to). 

I've currently been research a lot of options available for me in terms of earning a side income. In such I have taken an interest in reading personal finance blogs, financial articles from the Jamaica Observer, Victoria Mutual and any little tidbits that I may pick up along the way or find on the internet. One of the things I came across was this whole idea of being a freelancer. I mean that would be brilliant for me. It's flexible. I can do it from the comfort of my home. I think this just might help me a bit. 

So here's what I want you to do. If any of you have your financial brain muscles working and would like to give some legit ideas on ways to earn additional income then send me an email. Serious ideas only guys. And if any of you have freelance jobs or know of anyone with freelance jobs who are looking to hire an efficient university student. Then send me an email. Seriously guys only serious information is wanted. I know this isn't along the lines of my usual writing but it mainly falls under the realm of goal setting and helping me to achieve my goals. As I said before 2013 is the year of dreams coming true. And I believe if you don't set your intnentions and let it be known then you won't ever get where you truly can.

Speaking of goals I really want to more guest blog posts. It was one of the blogger goals that I have said for 2013. My aim is to do at least 2 per month in order to challenge myself and help better my writing. So if you're a blog owner and would love for me to do a guest post then feel free to email me as well. 

I anxiously await all your responses my loves.

My email address is verdenella@gmail.com

Thanks for reading.

Much Love,

Nella

Merci Beaucoup

Hey guys,

I just wanted to use this as an opportunity to thank everyone who supported my blog and voted in the Jamaica Blog Awards. Your votes were truly appreciated and I look forward to your continued support. I will tell you guys how it goes on Saturday when the reveal show happens.

Thanks my NellaLovers!!!!

Much Love,

Nella

My article got printed!!!!

Hey guys,

Another one of my articles got printed in this week's Jamaica Observer Teenage. Yaaaaay!!!! It's really amazing how I still get excited after every article is printed. Interested in seeing it? Well go check it out for yourself:

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/teenage/Put-your-best-FINANCIAL-foot-forward_13389034

Don't Forget To Vote As Told By Nella in the Jamaica Blog Awards. The links are as follows: 

Best Personal Blog

Best Lifestyle Blog

Best Writing On a Blog


Much Love,

Nella

Weekly Inspiration

Why hello there gentle people,

A pleasant good night to you all. So I just half an hour on the treadmill and man am I tired. But if I wanna be sexy for 2013 or should I say sexier I gots to get moving. This is all part of my Body Beautiful 2013 Challenge. The vision I have for this is a year where I eat clean, train mean and get lean. I want to nourish my body with all the right foods, exercise my mind and my physical prowess and help to shape the empowered woman that I aspire to be and project into the world. It isn't a diet but rather a lifestyle change. To get healthy, tone all my saddle bags (booo!!!!) and be in the best shape of my life. This will help pave the path for my future self. I want to do some updates and vlogs of my progress but I can't too promise how frequent those will be yet so we'll just have to wait and see how that go.

In spirit of my health and fitness aspirations, I've decided that this week's inspiration board will depict some much need FITSPIRATION. To motivate those of us who need to get off our asses and finally get that goal of losing that holiday weight or semi-permanent weight on track. I've started to make some minor diet changes you know to start small. I've been drinking purely water and almost completely cut out juices (I really haven't been drinking any juice at all but there may be a day when the urge hits me and I want to cover myself less one of you see me and loud me up lol!). I want to start grilling my food and recreate the image that I project into the world. I think part of the reason why I have reached this place is because I honestly didn't care what people think and you know what I realize I should care a bit. Not in the sense that their words dictate how I live my life but when we project that idea of not caring that we stop caring for ourselves effectively. I don't care how crushed my clothes look or how disheveled my hair looks and the thing about it is as much as we don't want to admit it........... impressions and images matter. That's exactly why there are image consultants and popular celebrities whose styles we emulate. So my body beautiful challenge to re-ignite that feeling of caring while shaping my body to the perfect specimen for me that is. All I'm saying is aim to be the best you that you can be everyday.

Thanks for reading.

Much Love,

Nella

Don't Forget To Vote As Told By Nella in the Jamaica Blog Awards. The links are as follows: 

Best Personal Blog

Best Lifestyle Blog

Best Writing On a Blog

Lonely Heart Confessions- Restarting Your Life

Good night ladies and gents,

I must say that I honestly thought about missing this week's confession but I know within myself that that's when it all starts. Putting things off until the uncertain tomorrow. Making promises that you don't you will be able to keep. Until you wake up a few months later and you're knee deep in broken promises, missed opportunities, procrastination and worst of all regret. Even though this post might be a bit short as I hadn't given as much thought to it and pre-written and proof read it and then emailed it to myself just to see if receiving it at a later date would identify any shortcomings and spur any new angle (yes I do that with my confessions mainly when I'm bored in a lecture or just have a bit of free time I type it up on my Tablet that I call Tabetha- Tabby for short), but I digress. I thought it important to not forgo this post because it's important to make this a continuous habit and not just a short flame soon extinguished. And seen as though this post is entitled 'Restarting Your Life' what better time to kick myself in the butt and get what I need to do done that at this very instance. Who knows this very post can incite such a wonderful storm of inspiration that I do something great I never thought of doing before. Well dare I dream.

It is said that it takes 21 days to form a new habit and the best way to have a lasting habit is to tackle one thing at a time, But what about wanting to reshape your life and re-establishing your lifestyle. By now many of us have probably made our goals for the year, month or even the week. Things we hope to accomplish and dreams we hope to achieve. We envision 2013 to be a stepping stone in the world adventure of our lives. But what happens when our fuel burns dim like is the case of me and me confessions? My answer is simple..... Do what you must. You must do the things that you least want to do first because these are sometimes the most important things. In my quest to be a more well-rounded, inspiring and superb woman I have started on many life quests to kind of 'Sort out my life'. I will be honest with you all I AM ONE OF THE BIGGEST PROCRASTINATORS EVER!!!! If there is something I know I should do I will put it off until thy kingdom come and then do it at the last minute and not produce the standard which I know I can produce. My best work comes after many reviews, research for any claims and repeated efforts to master my linguistic architecture and my understanding of the topic at hand. Whether it be in my academic prowess or my blog or even everyday life. But still I procrastinate.

How can we know what we should do and yet sit in this area of stagnation for so long? We dwell in limbo or purgatory not really living on a plane but waiting in life for the day greatness is thrust upon us. We do this repeatedly until we realize we've lived an unfulfilled life and reduced dreams. What can we do to change our lives and jumpstart our amazing adventures? Well first things first is to start somewhere. Make an executable plan and track our progress as we make new steps on our journey. Reward ourselves with each advancement and be thankful for ever movement in the affirmative direction. But let's face it the start is sometimes the hardest part when doing nothing is so much easier. I know I most DEFINITELY know. As I said before I am a great procrastinator and man do I waste time. Tsk tsk tsk. But I am willing with everyday to restart my life and make it a new step in the right direction. See the secret isn't to not fail but to rather accept it as it occurs (not saying it has to but if it does accept it), examine where you went wrong and then proceed with this lesson as another weapon in your arsenal. Use your past as your map, your present as your vehicle and the future as one of  your many destinations. Don't expect to reach everywhere all at once. I mean that's what happens when we travel from to place to place isn't it? We make a stop, experience the destination, have it as a guide in our memories and then move on to a new place. 

"The biggest adventure you can take is to live the live of your dreams" -Oprah Winfrey

Whenever I feel like I'm stuck in a rut or get off track and lose sight of my desired future I don't look for a non-existent restart button. I rather change my method because only the insane does the same thing over and over again and expects the same results (well the insane and many doctors at least :D). I let go of the old, shed my molten past and re-emerge as a beautiful butterfly ready to begin the world again. I revamp, revive and refocus. I seek the advice of those who have successful done what I desire to do. I look to motivational sites for words of wisdom, quotes, read inspiring books and look for inspirational images wherever they may arrive. I go to sleep just to take a break from it all because maybe I'm not really being lazy but just feeling a little burnt out. I watch a movie, eat some ice cream and try to find my mojo amongst the small and insignificant that have powerful potential. I read my bible or go for a run. I talk to a family member or meditate (yes I do meditate ohm and all). I BLOG!!! And it is after all this that I strengthen my resolve.

Once I've re-established my vision and cleared my focus. Then I look at my goals. Were they the right set of goals? Did they make sense? Are they achievable? Did I break them up into smaller measurable steps? Am I making more progress than I thought I was? I tend to try and move away from the socially constructed goals and identify more clear cut goals that refer to my life. Then I make a plan and go again. That's all I do. I know I'm not perfect and I may falter but I will never stop trying to be the best I can be and you shouldn't either.

"Let us not be trapped by what is. We've got to keep pushing for what ought to be." - President Barack Obama speaking at the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial dedication

Then there's the other aspect of restarting your life. The whole life changing event ordeal. Loss of a job, drop out of school, loss of a loved one, break up, accident and all that sad stuff :(. To restart life from these kind of ordeals requires more than just simple goals and plans. It requires strength, support and spiritual belief. Believe that everything happens for reason even though you may not understand it and that it will all work out in the end. There's a saying that I picked up. "It will all work out in the end. If it hasn't worked out then it's not the end". This is what has been my motivational tool for many of the adverse events in my life from deaths to heartaches to failures and disappointments. Just the knowledge of the possibility of a better day helps to heal me day by day and move mm by mm forward. I'm not saying that any of it will be easy nor am I saying it's as simple as reading a few articles or a blog post and allakazam shazam badda bing badda boom an all your problems will be solved. Not in the least bit. What I am saying is that you are not alone in this fight. Seek out support from friends and family. Check out online groups, pray and go to church. Be thankful for all that you do have and keep giving glory. Seek spiritual guidance and meditate. Force yourself to make the steps to move on with life. Use everyday as a chance to restart and be amazing because honey it ain't over until the fat lady sings at your funeral. Small steps can make a difference and lead you to a great future. Just take it day by day.

"The things turn out best for those who make the best of the way things turn out"- Jack Buck

Sorry for all my ramblings but I hope withing this you all found something useful that can truly help to restart your life. And if you need someone to help and give advice, well remember that I'm always here to help and I sincerely mean it. I know that things aren't always easy and I thank God everyday for the people in my life who have continued to be there through all the sour points. Identify those people and keep them close to you always.  Below are some articles on the same topic that I found to be useful in addressing restarting your life:

Zen Habits

http://www.restartyourlife.info/


Whoa it's actually longer than usual............

Oh and remember yo Vote As Told By Nella in the Jamaica Blog Awards. The links are as follows: 

Best Personal Blog

Best Lifestyle Blog

Best Writing On a Blog

Thanks for reading.

Much Love,

Nella

One Love: Jamaican Blogger Tag

The Jamaica Blog Awards is hot on the tongues of everyone and a fellow Jamaican blogger over at Jabajanas decided to start a Jamaican Blogger Tag. I'm pretty excited about this too. I'll admit that I wasn't too sure what the tag was about because I've never done it before and only had ever seen video tags on youtube but when she explained in her blog post Here (click the link :D) my interest was peaked and I decided to keep the tradition going on. 

So let me start off with an explanation of what is a blogger tag and how it's done. So a blogger tag is a kind of game that involves bloggers of all niches who aim to form links and possibly discover new information and new bloggers while having a little fun. It begins when one blogger chooses the topic of the Tag and then gives a list of questions or one general question which is wide enough to have its answer broken down into list form. After the first blogger answers said question(s), he or she will “tag” other (untagged) bloggers to continue the tag. Now for the rules:

The rules for this tag:

·         Title your post “One Love: Jamaican Blogger Tag”

·         Link back to the blogger who tagged you ( you may add a brief definition of what a tag is if you for the benefit of your readers)

·          Copy and paste the rules at the beginning of your tag.

·         Copy and paste the questions as well so readers know what’s going on.

·         Answer the questions (No duh! J)

·         Tag seven other Jamaican bloggers to continue the trend. Kinda forces you to make friends, no?

The questions are as follows:

1.  Why did you give your blog its name? (If it is named directly after you, try and make your answer interesting. eg: Did you feel nervous at all about putting your name out there? Did you just lack creativity at the time?)
2. Why did you start blogging and why do you blog now?
3. Do you think being Jamaican influences your blogging style?
4. What do you think about the increase in bloggers in Jamaica?
5. What is your favourite thing about being Jamaican?
6. Ackee and saltfish or “ (mackerel) run down”?
7. Stew peas or stew chicken?
8. Tastee Patties, Juici Beef Patties or Mother’s?
9. Pantucky or KFC?
10. What do you hope to be the future of blogging in Jamaica?

   My Answers:

     1. Well I'm a writer. I love to write and tell stories. I love to write poetry that just seems as fluent as a conversation and I love to make people feel inspired by something I said. Plus I chat nuff and I just always have something to say even if it's a random fact that I'll say 'sidetrack': *random comment here* and then' back on track' and continue what I said. My brain is an organized mess really. So that's where the As Told part comes from. Then my name is Ornella but just about everyone shortens it and says Nella and on nickelodeon there was this cartoon I absolutely loved called "As Told By Ginger" so I decided to do a little spin off and call my blog 'As Told By Nella'. It just seemed to have an effortless ring to it. 

     2. I started blogging to share my stories, poems and articles that weren't being seen by the world. Seeing that I've convinced myself that I'm a great unrequited writer of my time (more like I hope to be) I decided a blog could be the perfect little spot to do this. I continue to blog because it has become apart of me. Whenever my muse 'Lola' (yes I named my muse Lola) talks to me I just have to answer. My blog is my journal. It serves as my therapeutic release. Helps me to recharge and refocus and it's one of the few things that I actively make time for during school time. I like to think of it as my second job with my first being a student. Both of which pays zilch but I love them both.

     3. It definitely does. Most of what I write about and my experiences is a direct influence of my life in Jamaica. What I think rocks and what I think could use some improvement. It reflects my culture, my food, my travels across the island, my school life, relationships and every aspect of my life which is unique to my living here. 

      4. I think it's pretty great actually. It spices things up and gives me a chance to meet brilliant minds that I couldn't possible meet otherwise. It may seem like a new fad for many people who only start blogging to get on the hype but for someone who's been watching others on the blogging scene for a while I know it can create unbelievable bonds and friendships. It's a great way to grow and learn about the life and experiences of others. I like reading about new ventures and interesting things so for my new bloggers are a hoot. Every year I go through the bloggers list and check out every blog in the JBA's. If I come across a new blog I stop by and see what they are about. I even follow a few of the bloggers. My only regret is not interact with more bloggers even though I follow their blogs religiously but I hope to change that this year and start making some new friends.

      5. Haha I think Jamaicans are absolutely hilarious, funny, colourful and friendly. No we are not tellietubbies or wiggles. From the way that we clap as the pilots land the plane safely. To going to the movie theatres and just having people talk and curse at the screen. I absolutely love the atmosphere that we create. I love the colourful language we use to cuss and I don't just mean the claats I mean the random phrases and references that we make that just seem to make sense. Like telling someone dem head placka placka. Who even knows what that means but it just makes sense. Boy we can come up with some things. We inventive too. We are the only people I know who can make a dance out of anything on God's green earth and we even make inventions out of things we just find around the hous. I think we are very practical in how we name things from 'han miggle' to 'neck back' to 'foot bottom'. I mean that's just what they are. Jamaica has a great visual scene, amazing people, great food and an awesome way of life. I just think we are absolutely, most definitely, the best people in the world. *Sorry world* but we are.

      6. Ackee and saltfish without a doubt. Yum!!! It isn't our National Dish for nothing. It tastes absolutely great.If you've never tried it well I pity you and run to the nearest Jamaican restaurant or cook or family member and try it now. I mean it tastes good with boil dumpling, roast breadfruit, fried dumpling, bread, crackers, just about anything. Ahhh...........just amazing.

         7. Stew Chicken!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Duh!!!! It can serve for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Need I really say more? Yummmmmmy!!!!

      8. Tastee Patties hands down. It's the original and the best Patty Company in Jamaica. Hands down. No contest.

       9. Pantucky! I love jerk chicken so much. I just can't get enough. Big up the pan chicken men in Portland and on Red Hills Road. Unno large!!!! Lol! But it's just so amazing. Give me Pantucky any day of the week and you have a happy girl right there.

      10. I hope we can an active blogging community going. That we becoming voices in Jamaica that people truly identify with and look to. That blogging could be someone's official job and not a side job or a hobby that they picked up. That bloggers will support each other and build up our respective brands to all we meet. That blogging in Jamaica is noticeable both locally and internationally.

  My tag came from: Jabajanas and I tag:

  Sheree of Sheree a la mode  

Jomarie of Lace and Zippers and Say Yes to Success

  Ashleigh of The Pink Socialite

  Carey- Lee of Eat Explore Live and For Women to Women

  Kimroy of Kimroy Bailey

  Kim-Issa of In between a million thoughts

  Shelley of Sweet & Sour Ramblings

Relationship Manifesto pt 3- The Couples Edition

Hello Hello,

I hope you've all been enjoying the year 2013 so far. Last night, I fell asleep early and got some much needed rest because my weeks are truly becoming hectic or maybe I'm just a bit unprepared and it seems hectic. Anyways I'm still working on my organizational skills and trying my hardest to keep productive in the year 2013. Afterall, it will be my best year yet.

We're 12 days in and I hope some of us are still motivated in keeping our resolutions. I just wanted to use this as the conclusion of my relationship manifesto and resolutions series. My aim here is to inspire others to work on building the relationships in all aspects of their lives. Today, I've shifted my focus away from the Singletons and moved on to the Couples Nations. I decided to this because as couples we tend to get complacent and take the other for granted. Especially after all the dopamine in our brain that has been activated is subdued and we are no longer on a new relationship high or buzz. Yes yes this is what happens once the honeymoon phase is over and all the annoying habits come to life and you just want to shake the bajeebies out of your partner. That being said, I think it's important that we make a conscious effort to keep the romance alive. If you ask any successful couples out there and coming in the future I hope to do a few interviews with some I know or who are recommneded to me. They will tell you it is never easy; there will be good times, bad times and times when you just want to have some me time. Either way it's just good to know that after everyday, you have that person to talk to, run to, love you and just everything else you need. And I'm here to assist you with how :) I'm such a martyr. Here's the list:

1. Listen

Oh how anti-climatic right? I build up this awesome anticipation and the first thing I say is listen. Well contrary to popular belief this is one on the biggest complaints that many couples have, it tends to go along the line of communications. With this modern technological world, we spend so much time on the phone, internet, computer, watching tv or whatever seems to catch our eyes and forget to listen. Not to mention, it's human nature to be so self absorbed that all we want to hear is topics on ourselves. No this won't do at all. Listen and share. Be an active listener to your partner. Share your day and listen to theirs. Hear about each other's perspective. It won't always be what we want to hear but as the saying goes we have one mouth and two ears so we should listen more than we talk. Set aside a few minutes to talk everyday and see how much things improve. Trust me I know I'm guilty of being an uber chatterbox so it's something we can work on together. :)

2. Spend more quality time

The older we get, the more life comes in our way. Someone once told me that we make time for the things we care about the most and while I agree, I think sometimes we get very distracted. Especially when it comes on to people. As children we think our parents and family members will never leave us so as teenagers we spend more time with friends than our families. Then the unthinkable happens and one of our family members dies and it dawns on us that people can live willingly or unwillingly. That's what happens in our relationships. We are so comfortable by their presence that we forget that they can leave if they feel unappreciated or if life takes them away from us. So my suggestion is to set aside a special day or time to spend with the people you care about the most. It could be a simple 10 minute conversation daily or dinnertime chatter or a phone call to say hey what's up. And this isn't just with your significant other but with your family and friends as well who tend to get neglected when we have relationships. Call grandma and ask how she is or message that friend who studies abroad or spend some alone time with the lover. Things which we all need to do and master. Time waits for no man.

3. Rekindle the romance

This goes right along with neglect and spending more quality time. Remember the reasons you got together with the other in the first place. Snuggle more, hold hands, and kiss randomly in the street. Have adventures together. Stop being boring and head out to do something new. Go to a dance class, learn a new language, take a random day trip or even exercise together. Plan a candle light dinner, have a picnic date, go stargazing, give a relaxing massage, cook dinner or even do some volunteering. Just go out and do something together and rekindle the romantic fire you rode on in the beginning. Just set a side a special 'couple' time. It can be day, night, afternoon or evening. Give random small gifts year-round that keep those intimate feelings going and strengthen the bond. It acknowledges and establishes that your romantic life is important to you. But don't make it routine. Spice it up a little ever so often. Just remember to never stop having fun with each other and never stop caring. People change and their interests may differ so the more time you spend with your partner, the more you learn about them and this can only enhance your relationship. A way to make it stick is you can take turns choosing something special and surprise the other, make it a game even.

4. Exercise forgiveness and say you're sorry

It's easy to be right but it's not so easy to share forgiveness. First of all in arguments we should always fight fair. Don't bring up the past mistakes as a sure proof that the other is wrong and you are right. Don't use words like 'You never' or 'You always'. It doesn't work. All it leads to more contempt and anger from the other side. I know it's hard to have your wits about you when you're heated and upset but try your best to be polite and avoid negatives like name calling and other forms of verbal abuse. Forget being right and try keeping the peace. We are on the same team and trying to force your hand won't help. It only makes matters worse and leaves you all miserable in the end.

5. Accept all flaws and faults

No one is perfect. Not you. Not I. No one of this planet is perfect. We all have something that we do that annoys the other. Is it really worth the silly argument that ensues? I mean chances are they had the same flaws and faults when you met them and nothing much has really change. When you enter into a relationship, you've made the conscious decision to accept all of the other person. Both the good and the bad and even more the in between. A gentle word turneth away wrath so a soft nudge is a more powerful reminder than an uproar. Just remember you choose who you wanted to be with so you need to accept the complete person and not the rose-coloured idea of the person. This is NOT THE STEPFORD WIVES.

6. Spend some 'ME' time and some 'Other People' time

When we're in a relationship we tend to neglect the other important people in our lives. Our families and friends and other persons who have played important parts in our lives. We can also lose sight of our own identities as we take on the identity of the couple rather than the identity of a single person. It's great to have someone to lean on through all the bad stuff but co-dependence is not cute in the least bit. Be confident to be a couple and exist within our own lives. Make time for family and friends. Have a monthly date with our friends to work on our "Frientimacy" or have a family game night and just hang with our family. Take up a hobby or craft even that is just exclusive to you and enjoy it as your special thing. We are much more appealing when we have our own lives and don't depend on our partners for everything.

7. Share the love

Did your partner do something amazing yesterday? Did they do something small that wasn't required? How about take up the slack when you couldn't? Now when's the last time you said thank you for anything that they have done for you? It's easy to point out when someone has done something wrong but do you tell them about what they did right? Do you compliment them? Tell them that you like a new outfit or haircut or a little change they made? How often do you take the time to say thank you for a job well done? If you haven't been doing any of these things you should start now. Experts are even claiming there is research that shows that the biggest difference between happy and unhappy couples is that the happy pairs express gratitude for each other. They claim that expressing thanks creates a feedback loop within your relationship; your partner feels good, therefore you feel good, and so the cycle continues. I'm not sure about how true any of that is but I know one thing is certain everyone loves a compliment. It brightens their moods, improves their days and inspires them to want to be better always. Just try it. Every once in a while randomly tell your partner thanks for something small they did or compliment them about something you like about them and it doesn't have to be anything physical. It could be something as simple as they always remember your favourite drink and order it for you or that they stopped in the middle of their day just to call and find out how you were. It's time we re-introduce the intimate and simple moments into our lives.

8. Revel in the moment

Time has this way of creeping on us and passing us by all too quickly. I mean as I write this I have a whole heap of neglected work that I need to catch up on but I love you guys so I thought I'd stop by and share a little that's on my mind. I mean I did promise that I would deliver this soon. Anyways back to the matter at hand. We need to cherish the little moments and live free. Let go of all the doubt and stop obsessing over every detail or who is more successful than you are and just relax. Breathe. We just can't let life pass us by. What's the point in working forever and not enjoying life's little nuggets and pleasures. That makes us no different than modern day slaves. Take a random day trip together and see where it takes you. Appreciate everything that you have now and seek out more new adventures in life. It may not turn out as planned but hey you'll always have a new story and no one can ever call you boring or at least I hope not. All I'm saying is Live A Life That You Love, You Can Laugh About And You Can Pass On For Generations To Come.

We make personal resolutions every year and those are important but let's try this new type of resolution this year and spend a little time cultivating all our relationships. Strengthen our links to our family, friends and significant other. Enrich our lives and multiply all our blessings. We all deserve to be happy and have amazing relationships. I know I do. 

It's time for 'La Dolce Vita 2013'

What are your relationship resolutions this year? Mine are to show more gratitude to all in my life, to seek out more adventure with all those I love and on my own, to listen more and to cherish each moment with the ones I love. 

Thanks for reading. Leaving a comment below and tell me what you think.


Much Love,

Nella

Resources: Link  Link