Hi All,

My Wandaful Life has moved. Come with me to my new home as I continue to share my stories and experiences. I look forward to seeing you at https://www.mywandafullife.com. 

Dream Weaver

Wanda Wade

Have you ever awakened from a night’s sleep with the realization that you had a dream? Do you seldom remember what you dreamt about? If so, you’re not alone. We all dream, though we may not recall the details or even remember. How many times have you tried to put the pieces of a dream together to no avail? Or, when you did remember your recollection wasn’t as clear as you wanted it to be. This happened to me, though I did remember a specific detail from that night.

My husband and I had fallen asleep watching a comedy special on the Showtime channel. It was a much-needed relief from the happenings earlier in the day which had been quite stressful. Though I had no idea the emotions from the day would spill over into my sleep. Our minds are amazing and the beauty of what the subconscious can uncover while we dream is equally so.

In the dream I was holding this beautiful baby girl. I’m not pregnant so I knew it wasn’t manifesting that. Years ago, my sister and I learned to interpret dreams, but I don’t remember all aspects of it. 

However, from that experience I know dreams about people are usually an indication of something internal. I’ll reveal the meaning of my dream a little bit later but first I want to share more of what I discovered about dreams.

We all know that dreams occur during REM sleep, but do you know why we dream? There have been many theories to explain it, yet there isn’t one clear cut answer. One theory I like, is during sleep our brain slows down and begins to sort out our emotions during the dream cycle. I’m partial to this theory since it explained my dream.

During the waking hours of that day I was extremely stressed. It turned out to be hectic and very emotional like I had been on a roller-coaster ride. My husband and I had an important discussion and we couldn’t seem to come to a resolution. By the day’s end comedic relief turned out to be what we both needed, and the discussion was tabled for a later time.

Fast forward to morning after my dream and the realization that the previous day’s events were tied to the explanation. Apparently, as my emotional state sorted itself out while I slept the dream revealed that I was experiencing a need to self-nature, as well as needing to release a certain responsibility. As bizarre as it may sound, the discussion with my husband the day before correlates to my dream.

If you want to find out more about your dreams and the meaning behind them there are a couple of websites I found to be quite helpful, http://www.dreamforth.com/  and http://www.dreammoods.com/. There are a lot of others out there but I chose these two  because  the sites were easy to use and the information was helpful.

Reach for the stars and I'm sure you're bound to catch one!

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful

Questions, Questions & More Questions

Wanda Wade

I enjoy talking to children because of their natural curiosity to want to know about everything around them. Begin a conversation with a child and it will soon go far beyond where you thought it would. They have such a propensity to ask questions, usually one after the other. Why, becomes a part of their everyday vocabulary. I remember when my niece was about four years old and the wide eye curiosity that formed with every new thing she encountered. She’d rattle the questions off one by one until she was satisfied that she had gotten the answer she was looking for. As adults we should feel the same way. Question a situation until you’re fully satisfied with the answers given.

I don’t recall f I was like that as a kid, but I know as an adult there was a point in my life where asking a lot of questions wasn’t something I was comfortable with, usually taking the situation or thing for what it was. I believe my hesitancy came from a lack of not knowing how to formulate the question correctly. Overtime I’ve trained myself to ask questions so that I’ll get the answer I’m looking for.  Questions are important and should not be avoided for fear of not asking them in the right way.

Though people around us may have good intentions, it should be common practice to question anything you’re uncertain about. If you’re like me, I looked at questioning someone as an indication of not believing what was being said. Only to realize, asking questions is a natural part of our curiosity to want to know the answer to a certain thing. After all the bottom line is to get an intended result. Let’s face it asking questions lead to answers which help to increase learning as well as communication.

my quest to become better at asking questions I’ve come up with some tips that have been beneficial to me and I’d like to share those with you.

• Be clear on why your specific question is important. For example, will it help with a specific need or goal?
• Make sure there’s an open dialogue so that you’re more likely to get the question answered.
• Probing questions will lead to a more detailed answer.
• Don’t feel the need to fill the space when it gets quiet. Dead-air is ok and helps to enhance your ability to listen.
• When the question is being answered, don’t interrupt, you may miss something important.

Remember, it’s ok not to know the answer, just make sure to ask the question. It’ll not only build your confidence in asking questions, but it will increase your knowledge in those unfamiliar areas.

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful - #Be3P

Love is Love: A Valentine’s Day Tale

Wanda Wade

Since Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to ask, what do you think about love? Weird question? Or do you already have an answer? For me, love is love. Does that sound confusing? As we all know, sometimes love can be just that. It’s up, it’s down, you’re in-love, you’re out of love, it can be an emotional roller coaster with all its complexities. Therefore, I see love for what it is at that moment and allow my emotions to flow organically.

Valentine’s Day seems to offer a reprieve from the complexity. After all, it’s the one day that’s specifically dedicated to love. Go into any store and you’ll see bouquets of flowers being purchased and heart shaped candy boxes just within reach, all to aid in gift giving.

Pretty cards can help to express the feelings of your heart. While jewelry speaks a language of its own, conveying that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Although the day can come across as commercial and overly extravagant, it doesn’t have to be. You can make it special by celebrating it your way. Giving a meaningful gift far outweigh any cost. The true intention is to express and show love.

Try doing something creative, by going outside of the box. Believe me, as cliché’ as it sounds, it really is the thought that counts. Creativity can be anything from a hand-written love letter, a sweet WCE post on social media, a candlelit picnic in the backyard or even an intimate conversation over a favorite bottle of wine.

Reservations to a favorite restaurant, an outdoor concert or even a night of Netflix and chill aren’t bad ideas either. Embrace the moment, enjoy the romance and allow the feeling of love to linger in the air. It’s fleeting and soon enough the night will come to end, leaving only the memories behind.

Although Valentine’s Day is one day, I believe we should express love everyday by words of kindness and good deeds shown to those around us.

As always, reach for the stars and I’m sure you’re bound to catch one.

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful – BeP3

How To Create Your Own Super Bowl Life

Wanda Wade

What is it about the Super Bowl that garners worldwide attention? For starters, it’s recognized as the highest rank of achievement in the National Football League and only the best of the best is given the opportunity to play in this game. With that in mind I thought about all the hard work and determination it takes for the players to get there.  Skill and ability alone aren’t the only deciding factors. Countless practices, going over plays and the tough competitors that are defeated in route to that coveted spot are goals that need to be accomplished as well.

Some players will even play through injuries just to have the chance to play in the big game. Talk to any player and you’ll hear a resounding testament to the discipline required to be among the ranks. It’s the reward for their hard work throughout the season.

Now, think about your life and what you consider to be your super bowl. How much time and preparation do you put into it? Do you have a strategy to get you to the big game? Like football it takes preparation and a plan of action.

When I’ve decided on a goal that I’d like to accomplish I follow a few steps that are sure to guide me in getting there. First, I evaluate the goal to determine the necessary actions required. Secondly, in the vain of being organized I make a schedule and write it down. This helps to keep me on task, especially on those days when I’m not feeling up to par. Not wanting to go back on my commitment I’m more likely to push through if I see it on paper. Further, it doesn’t disrupt the timeline I’ve set for myself. Lastly, keep in mind that your goal is more than just something to do. It’s a part of the plan you have for your life. As long as you’re realistic about the intention, make a plan, set a timeline and stick to it, you’ll be one step closer to your big game. 

Until next time, reach for the stars and I’m sure you’re bound to catch one.

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful – #Be3P

Great Quotes Can Give You Life

Wanda Wade

In those moments when life throws a curve ball and leave you feeling down, finding positivity can be the light that’s needed to keep going. I too, have experienced times like this and when it happens I look for things that can provide inspiration. I don’t have to go far since a good source of my inspiration comes from quotes I’ve written or read by someone else.

There’s power in words and the right quote can help to change your outlook. How often have you been influenced by something you’ve heard or read? Well, you’re not alone. Here are a few quotes that mean a lot to me and have been quite impactful on my life.

1.   Don’t be afraid to lose anything, to gain everything! – Wanda Wade

2.   I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it – Maya Angelou

3.   Love all, trust a few, do wrong to no one – William Shakespeare

4.   With all of life’s intricacies the choice to be happy is up to you – Wanda Wade

5.   We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit – Aristotle

6.    Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself – George Bernard Shaw

7.    If you believe it can be done, then the impossible has been accomplished – Wanda Wade

8.    Big dreams allow you to create even bigger realities – Wanda Wade

9.   Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall – Confucius

10. Seeing beauty in others, creates beauty within you – Wanda Wade

11. Don’t allow someone else’s gloom to cloud your day – Wanda Wade

12. Our prayers should be for blessings in general, for God knows best what is good for us – Socrates

Pick out your favorite ones and make them apart of your daily routine so that you form a habit of being positive. First in your thoughts, then through your spirit and lastly spoken from your tongue.

Until next time, reach for the stars and I’m sure you’re bound to catch one!

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful - #Be3P

What Gets You Up in The Morning?

Wanda Wade

What makes you want to get out of bed every morning? Your career, your family, you? How do you approach the day? Are you filled with anticipation of what may lie ahead? Or, are you reluctant to come out from under the covers, afraid to face the day and its uncertainty? Be afraid no more, for as long as you make the decision to move, you’re sure to accomplish something. Even if it’s not what you set out to do, there’s always an opportunity to try again.

After a night’s sleep I awakened feeling refreshed and ready to begin the day.  I can feel the light of the new day on my face and I’m thankful to have another opportunity to experience life and the plans I’ve set in place. Like in the movie Frozen, little Anna says, the sky’s awake so I’m awake. That’s my sentiment too; get up, get moving and play out the day.

For most of us the day moves quickly, barely giving much time to think things through. For me, preparation the night before is key. It helps to keep me on task and allow room for those things that may come up unexpectedly. Although my day can be hectic I look forward to every aspect of it because it’s a reminder that I’m living in my purpose.

Having a greater purpose or vision can give you the needed motivation to get out of bed. My family is a big part of this equation. They’re my constant source of support and encouragement. As I move throughout the day I’m reminded that my plan serves more than just my needs, thus making it my reason for moving forward.

A great tip in preparing for the day, begins the night before. In the evening as I’m settling down I recap my day by going over ideas and notes I’ve jotted down so that I’m ready to begin the next day with a plan. Starting with the things I consider to be a priority and working my way down.  Sometimes moving and rearranging my list. I only take a few minutes to do this because I don’t want to become too caught up with my list that I lose sight of what my intentions are, which is to prepare for the next day.

Remember, whether you decide to move or not, the day is going to go on, so why not be a part of it? Get out of bed, discover your purpose and put a plan into action. It can be such a rewarding feeling. I look forward to putting my plans into action and seeing the outcome at the end of the day.

Until next time, reach for the stars and I’m sure you’re bound to catch one!

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful – #Be3P

LEMONS INTO LEMONADE
Wanda Wade

(this is a re-post of one of my favorites)

What do you think about the old saying, when life hands you lemons, make lemonade?  Do you think it's something you could live by?  What point in your life does this apply? I thought about that as I sat across from my supervisor and manager as I was being handed my pink slip.  Surprisingly, at that moment I thought, here it is, my day to turn lemons into lemonade.  

Though I had never been laid-off from a job I always imagined I would feel frantic and uncertain about my future.  Not true, the exact opposite happened to me.  As I sat there being told they were "letting me go” it was the most clarity I’d had in a long time.  I had been asking myself for months what was it that I wanted to do with my life other than what I was already doing.  I didn't have to think long or hard about this, that part had always been clear to me.  My confusion was surrounded by how to make it happen and what series of steps would need to be taken.

Do understand, I had worked hard to get to where I was in my career.  I had even taken the leap of going back to school, had earned my degree and landed what I thought was the perfect job. Now there I was with an unsettling situation, yet I felt a sense of relief.

As my thoughts were whirling around in my head I could hear the faint voice of my supervisor in the background as he spoke words that sounded like they had been well rehearsed, "you're a good employee but...."  At some point I stopped listening and it all sounded like the distorted voice of the adult from the old Charlie Brown cartoons; wah, wah, wah, wah.  I'm not making light of the situation or mocking my supervisor for doing his job, but I felt like a burden had been lifted off my shoulders.  I would now be free to do what it was that I wanted to do.  He hadn't realized that he had done something for me that I don't think I would have done for myself, especially not at that juncture in my life.  

Yes, I'd had several thoughts about leaving but being a single parent, paying a mortgage, putting one kid through college while another was starting high school, far outweighed any ideas I had of a writing career. It was poetry in motion the way it had all been laid out and shifted in my favor.

Often throughout our lives we may find ourselves faced with situations that we believe to be happening at the wrong time and thus, leaving us unprepared.  Through my experience I realized that instead of trying to figure it all out and secure a full proof plan of my own sometimes it may be best to allow life to take its course and have faith in knowing that it will all work out as it should.

The next time you're faced with a lemon take a deep breath, collect your thoughts and be comforted in knowing that through your journey there's a far greater plan at work than you can imagine.

Until next time, reach for the stars and I’m sure you’re bound to catch one.

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful – Be3P

What Does Your Personality Say About You?

Wanda Wade

If someone asked you about yourself what would you say? How would you describe you? Outgoing, strong willed or laid back? Even more, do you believe your personality affects the way you handle certain situations or the way you interact with people around you? Think about it, it may be a lot to consider but I want to get you thinking as we move along in this blog.

Our personalities begin to develop from the moment we’re born, however the certainty of them being inherited from our parents is questionable, though scientists believe there may be a slight correlation. Overall, several different genetic combinations would have to come into play for this to be considered concrete. Not even identical twins have the same personality. One may be the nice twin while the other is called the mean one. Or one may be outgoing while the other is shy.

Individual personality make-up is comprised of many traits in helping each of us become who we are and understanding this is helpful in determining your characteristics. For instance, think about your approach when interacting with people or even the way in which you deal with life’s circumstances. Are you emotional? Compassionate? Quick to anger?

Though there are many personality types, there’s a parameter called the Big Five or Five Factor Model that outline the major traits we all fall into:

Openness to Experience

If you’re this kind for person, you’re highly active, very creative and tend to listen to your heart. People who possess this trait are open to learning new things and have a broad outlook on life. If you’re low in this trait you dislike change and resist new ideas. Also, your approach to life is more traditional.

Conscientiousness

These individuals are thought provoking and extremely self-disciplined. They move with caution and can be a perfectionist. This trait’s behavior is very goal focused; goal oriented, detail oriented and they thrive on having a set schedule. Anyone low in this area dislikes structure and adhering to schedules. This individual also procrastinates on important tasks.

Extraversion

Highly excitable, very social, talkative and assertive. These individuals are very outgoing and love being in social circles. They enjoy being the life of the party. If you’re low in this area you’d be considered an introvert and the opposite of extraversion. Introverts are more reserved and prefer solitude.

Agreeable

Being agreeable makes it easy to adjust to most situations and if you possess this trait you tend to be happier. Agreeable people also value loyalty and they look for the best in other people. While being low in this trait you’ll be very suspicious of others and may even be sneaky because of this.

Neuroticism

Strong negative emotions and tend to upset easily. These individuals are generally sad and are very moody; experiencing moods of depression, worry and anxiety. If you fall low in this trait you’re emotionally sound and tend to have more stability.

If you’d like to learn more about your personality, there’s an in-depth (300 question) quiz on Truity.com., https://www.truity.com/view/tests/big-five-personality. There’s also one I’ve taken myself on Personality Perfect.com, https://www.personalityperfect.com/test/free-personality-test/1ezco2e11ad4f5363dc3a9661efc3161d6538/.  

Hope you enjoyed this blog post and until next time reach for the stars and I’m sure you’re bound to catch one.

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful – #Be3P

Scrolling Through Life

Wanda Wade

How many times throughout the day do you find yourself picking up your phone to find out the latest news or gossip? Admit it, your phone has become your own personal informational hub. It even gives you access into the lives of those around you. Everyone from family, friends, celebrities and even the President of the United States, no one is off limits. What is it about the lives of other people that intrigue us? Mainly, we seem to like the idea of being up close and personal. We can even participate by commenting on their post, offering our opinion about their lives.

Since the emergent of social media, we’re even more informed of everyday happenings around the world. No longer do we need to wait on the news, it’s now portable and in our hands. With a couple of clicks and scrolling we have access to a front row seat of what’s going on daily. Even people we thought to once be untouchable are now allowing us access into their day, their adventures and even into their homes.  We’re now privy to some of their most private moments. My thought is, do they realize once they’ve put themselves out there for millions to see, it’s hard to get their private lives back?  It can be a gift and a curse because their audience isn’t only captivated, but invested as well.

Everyone’s social media page is now their own personal calling card. It’s a one-stop shop, with everything from Facebook and Twitter to Instagram and Snapchat, where a picture is worth a thousand words. We share our stories, our views and even our opinions as a way of releasing and sharing.

While scrolling through our phones may be entertaining or even informational don’t get caught up and forget about your own life. Limit your time scrolling by focusing more on your goals and upcoming plans. Social media is a great platform to promote a business or venture. It can be an avenue for branding your product or service. Use it as your electronic business card; with it there’s a potential to reach thousands of consumers, which can turn into followers and generate business.

Further, it allows us the ability to reach those that we wouldn’t have been able to otherwise or without tremendous effort. The key is to use it effectively and to consider how it can best suit your needs. For me, it’s my way of reaching out and sharing stories that I hope will add value.

Until next time, reach for the stars and I’m sure you’re bound to catch one.

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful - #Be3P

I’m A Blogger

Wanda Wade

Writing has always come naturally to me but thinking about it now, I’m not sure I gave much thought to becoming a writer, however I did know I was good at story telling. From the moment I began creating and writing stories something inside me knew I had found my passion, even if outwardly I wasn’t yet convinced.  As I continued to write and develop my gift I began having a feeling of completeness. It had awakened something in me spiritually and it became my salvation, and unknowingly my desire to share it led me to my purpose.

My first try at blogging began about seven years ago and it lasted all a year. After deciding that writing wasn't for me, I threw myself into my career and put the notion of writing on the back burning.  Although moving up the ladder career wise became my focus the desire to write was always there it was like a nagging tap on the shoulder.  I'd write occasionally to get my fix but like any addiction I fought the urge to give in completely.  Of course, I was only fooling myself until I realized this writing thing was bigger than me. Any true writer will tell you it's always there, nagging at you until you finally give in.  

 Now, here I am again, four years later living in my purpose and ready to share my blog with women like me who also want to live in their purpose.  My goal is to inspire you to become the best version of yourself by incorporating what I've found works for me.  As we venture into this journey together, I’ll reveal little treasures and stories that have helped me along the way.  For now, I'll leave you with knowing that your best life is just around the corner and achieving it is completely in your hands.

Be Pretty, Powerful, Prayerful - #Be3P Wanda Wade

The Uncertainty of An Empty Nest

Wanda Wade

I’ve heard stories about the empty nest syndrome but have never really given it much thought until now. My youngest son has begun his final year of high school and I’m plagued with the thought of how much our lives will change when he graduates. For him, he’ll be leaving home, adjusting to college life, making his own decisions without me looking over his shoulder, and having the freedom to do things the way he wants to.

For me, I’ll be among the ranks of empty nesters. He’s the youngest of four and soon the house will be free of any children. It’s a surreal thought and not one I relish, instead I find myself pondering, how I’ll navigate my life after raising children. Aside from working and pursuing my degree, mothering has consumed the bulk of my adult life. The quiet demand of my time and space will come to an end. Forgotten laundry in the dryer, loud teenage boys sprawled on the couch and a home free of Kendrick Lamar blaring behind the closed door of my son’s bedroom, sounds like a welcomed change, right?

Now that the time is near, I thought I’d be more excited with the idea of being carefree. In those rare moments when my children were younger and depended on me every waking moment I had fleeting thoughts of what my life was like before motherhood. It didn’t diminish the immense joy I felt from being a mom, rather, it was a true indication that my choices and decisions had an impact on more than just my life. Some days it was overwhelming and challenging, especially when it was coupled with juggling schedules, activities, moods and the needs of everyone involved.

As time moved on the memory of a carefree life moved farther away, and I no longer wanted to think about my life before them. Now as the empty nest draws near those memories bombard my mind again but ironically, they no longer apply to my life. I was a much younger version of myself and the things I wanted to do then don’t appeal to me now.

Motherhood changed my life and my priorities, which is my reluctance with the empty nest. The inevitable shift in my life and priorities again. I’ve grown accustomed to this purposeful life and don’t want it to change.

An empty nest is all about change and trying to figure out how to navigate my life after raising children. It’ll be a time to rediscover myself and move toward a new purpose. Though my future is uncertain, I’ll look toward it with hope.

For my son, it’ll be his time to grow into the man that I can see him becoming with each passing day. His opportunity to learn more about who he is and what he wants educationally as well as for his life overall. For me, it’ll be a new beginning. A life with no boundaries or schedules, except my own. A chance for me to fulfill those dreams or ideas that were put on hold while I basked in motherhood. The opportunities are bountiful, and both of our futures are bright. The only requirement is that we both embrace what lies ahead and welcome what the future may hold.

The uncertainty of anything, can open the door to everything - wanda wade