Cold Season

It's that time of the year again for me. Mother Nature can not decide if she wants to hang on to winter for a few more months or usher in the freshness of spring. In the meantime, my sinuses are going haywire!
I normally don't get any kind of winter illnesses, but once the warmth of spring starts to creep in, I get the worst of all colds. I can't sleep, I can't breathe, I can't function like a human being.

So, here's the question of the hour... what do YOU do when you have a cold? Is there a home remedy you use, that works like a charm? Is there an over the counter medication that alleviates the sinus pain and makes it easy for you to breathe again? Tell me how you deal with colds - maybe I'll be able to avoid getting one next time around.

Until we meet again....                                            

Baggage

Wow! It's been a while since I've blogged. I'm having blog withdrawal!

Baggage; family baggage, emotional baggage, generational baggage, relational baggage... the list goes on.
My Bible study with Beth Moore this season is "Breaking Free." The premise of the study is to totally release yourself of the baggage that is holding you captive. The types listed above and many others, for that matter, are what keeps us from developing that deeper more intimate relationship with our Lord and Savior. How can we let go of the weight we've put upon ourselves.

Have you ever heard someone mention how children will pay for the sins of the parents? Did you realize that was part of the 10 Commandments? Exodus 20:5 says, "You shall not bow down to them (referring to any kind or type of idol) or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments." Generational baggage or bondage! Let me make some sense of this for you....

The Commandments represent an ancient boundary stone we are not free to move to fit our lifestyles. Once we move beyond that boundary, making up our own rules, we begin to see evidence of bondage, which in turn will develop into a well-trodden path for our children and their children to follow in. Life beyond this stone leads to bondage. Bondage leads to sin. Sin leads to more bondage. The cycle doesn't stop until someone has enough courage to move back to the ancient boundary stone God ordained.

Let's go back to the verse for a moment and camp out on the whole idol part. An idol (or god - notice the small "g"), is anything or anyone we worship or use as a replacement for God. Only Christ can set us free from this worship. All other gods can only enslave; therefore, enslaved parents teach their children how to live in bondage even with the best of intentions to do otherwise.
Take alcoholism for example, if a census were to be taken of the number of alcoholics in three generations of an alcoholic father's family, the head count would very likely be high. Why? Because alcoholism had been deposited in the family line. Alcoholism reared it's nasty head and an unfortunate number of children and grandchildren fell into the same type of bondage as the father. Sins of the parents and grandparents add up in the next generations.

So, how do we escape this generational bondage? COURAGE! Courage to believe we can be different. Some will try to excuse themselves by saying they can't help the way they are. After all, their mother or their father or their brother was that way. We need to take a stand and tell ourselves - WE ARE GOING TO CHANGE THE WAYS OF MY FAMILY!

We have to have the courage to be misunderstood by those we're closest to. Our family members who are still in bondage are going to think of us maybe as traitors or fanatics. They won't be able to understand our desire to return to that boundary stone, to change our ways, because they can't see beyond their own bondage. I totally understand being loyal to your family, but that loyalty will not save your family members! They have to see and understand our freedom (freedom is as contagious as bondage!) when we've stopped jumping down into the pit with them! All we've done, is create a family bubble and it needs to be popped!

We have to have the courage to deal a new way with old memories. Hang on to the good memories and extract those that hold us back from developing that intimacy with Christ.
In Beth's study, she quoted Eugene H. Peterson, Answering God, "Memory... is vigorously present tense, selecting out of the storehouse of the past, retrieving and arranging images and insights, and then hammering them together for use in the present moment."
You don't have to be held captive by your memories. Select the precious from the worthless and apply the precious to the present. Every time you draw something painful from your storehouse, draw something priceless from God's.

If you do your part for one generation, He'll do His for a thousand. Sounds like a pretty awesome deal to me! Is it worth being in the pit, being held captive and not being free, to continue down that well trodden path of your family? Break free! Your life has the capacity to affect every generation in your family line until Christ comes to take us home. Time is short. The blood's been shed. Isn't knowing that worth the sweat and tears of changing the path of future generations?

If you have questions about your walk with Christ or would like to experience the salvation God has freely given to each and every one of us, please email me. I'd love to walk you through the plan of salvation and have you spend eternity with me in heaven!!

My First Giveaway! Enter to win something FREE!

I have always been a huge fan of giveaways. I mean, who doesn't like FREE stuff? So, I thought I'd do one myself and give YOU the free stuff! 

I am going to give a FREE Zipper Pouch from Thirty-One gifts to one very lucky person. The pouch is pictured below and underneath the picture are the ways in which you can enter to win:

1. Subscribe to this blog via email (fill in the box on the left) and leave me a comment below to let me know you've subscribed. 

2. "Like" my Facebook Fan Page and leave me a comment on the page to let me know you've become a fan.

3. On my Facebook Fan Page, sign up to receive my Thirty-One eletter by clicking on the "Get In Touch" tab.

4. Follow me on Twitter and retweet this tweet (@kristieboyd is giving away a FREE Zipper Pouch from Thirty-One Gifts http://bit.ly/fos1pT #giveaway) then leave me a comment below to let me know you've followed and tweeted. You can tweet once a day for additional entries (leave me a comment here each time you tweet).

5. Visit my YouTube Channel and leave me a comment under the "Join My Team" video.

There are 5 ways in which you can enter to win (plus more when you tweet each day!)

Winner will be drawn February 10th, 2011.

Good luck!

Owning a Home-Based Business

As some of you already know, I am very passionate about home-based businesses; Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simply, Inspiranza, Thirty-One, etc., etc. Being in charge of when you work and when you don't, is such a luxury. Unfortunately, I'm not sure most people fully understand the advantages of working from home.
Some stay-at-home moms and dads are looking for a way to make some extra cash without having to apply and accept a full-time job. Some folks who are currently working full-time, would like to do something on the side as a fun hobby and earn a commission at the same time.

I thought I would do a FAQ blog about some of my favorite home-based businesses. If you're reading this and you would like me to highlight YOUR business, I'd be happy to do so.

This particular blog will be answering some questions you might have about signing up with Thirty-One Gifts. Their mission:

Thirty-One is more than just a company. We are people who believe in encouraging, recognizing and rewarding others for who they are. Through God's strength, we've built a family of individuals who feel women deserve to treat themselves to something special. Our commitment is to provide women with a fulfilling, enjoyable and rewarding experience.


FAQ's:


Q: How much does it cost to join?


A: Just $99 plus shipping and tax. You will receive your kit in about a week.


Q: What comes in the Thirty-One starter kit?


A: Currently you'll receive the following items: Large Utility Tote, Zipper Pouch, Picnic Thermal Tote, All-in-One Organizer, Little's Carry-All Caddy, Thermal Tote, Wristlet Wallet, About Town Blanket, Square Utility Tote, Scarf, Key Fob, Icon Coin Purse, Stationery Sample Set, Wristlet Key Fob, Fabric Swatches and the catalogs, order forms and other paperwork you need to get started - that's a $300+ value!   


(Kit contents are subject to change without notice.)


Q: What commission do you earn?


A: All consultants earn a 25% commission/discount from day 1 of joining. You have the potential to earn more (up to 34%) if you choose to build a team.


Q: Is there a bonus program for new consultants?


A: YES! Thirty-One Gifts has a 45-day Start Swell program for all new consultants, which gives you the opportunity to earn seven free products (valued at $300) and business credits in your first 45 days. 


Q: What commission do you earn on your downline if you build a team?


A: Thirty-One generously rewards those who choose to share this opportunity with others. In addition to your increased commission and overrides, you can also earn $1000-$7500 cash bonuses!


Q: Does the company provide a website for the consultants? If so, how much does it cost?


A: Yes. The website and e-newsletter are FREE your first 90 days of business. After your first 90 days, the website is $9.95/month and the e-newsletter is $2.95/month. These are both optional. If you do not want to continue with either, you simply contact Home Office to let them know.


Q: Do you keep your earnings upfront?


A: No. You submit all monies from shows, parties or sales to Thirty-One. The company issues commission checks twice a month, and offers free direct deposit.


Q: Are there any monthly quotas?


A: There are no monthly minimum quotas. There are quarterly quotas. An "active" consultant is a consultant who submits commissionable product sales of at least $200 in three (3) consecutive months. The $200 can be from a combination of personal purchases, retail orders, party orders, fundraiser orders, etc., and does not have to be from one individual $200 order.


Q: Does the company pay for the host program/specials?


A: Yes, Thirty-One pays for all of the host rewards and the customer and host specials each month. Host items are not commissionable.


Q: Is there any kind of training for consultants?


A: Yes! Thirty-One provides all consultants with a consultant-one website where you will find special announcements, updates, etc., as well as many tools and training documents. You will also find recorded calls and video trainings.


Q: How many Thirty-One consultants are there? Are there TOO many?


A: Thirty-One is a young company and they need more consultants! Thirty-One started in 2003 and has just recently been experiencing rapid growth (400% last year!). It's a great time to sign up and ride the wave of momentum.


Q: How much do business supplies cost?


A: Business supply costs are low, because Thirty-One wants you to keep your money in your pocket! Catalogs are 50 cents, order forms 8 cents, host and recruiting flyers are 20 cents and show invitations are $1.50 for a pack of 40. All in all, I spend less than $5 per show on paperwork and that includes freely giving my catalogs away!


(Paperwork prices are subject to change.)


Q: What are the shipping costs?


A: When a customer orders, and has their order shipped to the host, the shipping is 8% of the total order. If the customer chooses to have the order directly shipped to them, the shipping 8% of the total order, plus $4. The host can receive free shipping when her show total is $500 or more, otherwise, it is 8% of her total order. For all consultant supply orders and personal orders, the shipping is 8% of the total order plus $4.


Q: Does the company allow consultants to sell cash and carry items?


A: Yes this is allowed, but not required. And, to help with the cost of fairs, booths and trade shows, Thirty-One consultants can submit a form to the company to receive free catalogs. If the cost of the trade show is under $150, the consultant will receive a $25 gift certificate toward catalogs; if the cost of the show is over $150, the consultant will receive a $50 gift certificate toward catalogs. 


Q: Do consultants ever get to purchase products at a bigger discount than 25%?


A:  Consultants are given a 40% discount during special times of the year on specific products. The 25% discount can be taken in addition to monthly sale prices and specials.


Q: Does Thirty-One offer other incentives such as trips, cash bonus, cars, etc.?


A: YES! Thirty-One has a fantastic Dream Rewards program that allows consultants to earn trips, computers, cash, etc. In addition to the Dream Rewards program, throughout the year, consultants are given the ability to earn extra free products (including the new products each season), electronics and other merchandise. Plus, when you promote to Director, you can earn $1000-$7500 cash bonus as well!


Q: Do I have to carry a lot of inventory?


A: No. There is no requirement for inventory. You may decide that you want to have items on hand, but that's entirely up to you.


Q:  Can I only sell Thirty-One products at home shows?


A: No. In addition to home shows, you can have catalog shows, a Show-On-The-Go, online shows, fairs, trade shows, bazaars, fundraisers...the list is endless!


Q: What types of payments can I accept from customers?


A: Personal or business checks made payable to you or your hostess, cash or major credit cards. Thirty-One takes care of the credit card processing fees.


If you have further questions, please feel free to email me at: beautyandfaith@yahoo.com
Or visit my website: www.mythirtyone.com/kristieboyd

New Year; New Routine

Happy 2011! 2010, all in all, was a pretty good year for me. I joined Thirty-One Gifts and the business has taken off like a rocket! If you're not familiar with Thirty-One, click the box to the left and browse the online catalog. I think you'll be impressed by the looks and quality of the products.

As for Mary Kay, as you begin a new year, why not adopt a new skin care routine? Clean out those drawers that contain products you never use. Check the expiration dates and throw out anything that is over a year old! Here are a few tips to begin a whole new you in 2011:

Throw Away Old Skin Care Products
Skin care products come with an expiration date and if you continue to use them well past that date, it will show on your face. You shouldn’t use skin careproducts that are past their shelf lives. This is because once the product is opened and exposed to air; your fingers and germs contaminate it and promote bacterial infestation (sounds a little gross, doesn't it?). Though skin care products contain added preservatives, it is not possible to preserve them beyond their expiration date. That’s why they are there.

Therefore, at the beginning of this year check the expiration dates of your skin care products and if they've expired Throw them away. Begin the New Year with a new stack of products! Shop Mary Kay and then email me your order. I'd be happy to provide you with FREE SHIPPING!

Wash Your Face At Least Twice a Day
During the course of the day, your skin accumulates dirt and debris from the environment and also excess oil residues find their place on the skin. This is especially true at night. Therefore, it is important to keep your skin.

This new year, resolve to wash your face with a good cleanser, such as TimeWise Cleanser from Mary Kay, twice a day-once in the morning and once at night. The morning wash will rid you of all the excess oil particles accumulated at night and the night wash will make sure that all the dirt particles and make-up residues are removed before you go to bed.

Adopt A Good Skin Care Regimen
If you are serious about your skin care, then you should have a skin care regimen. And the New Year might be the best time to adopt a new skin care regimen that caters to the specific needs and requirements of your skin. If you have no clue where to begin, email me and ask for a free, over-the-phone, consultation. You can start with a regular cleanser-toner-moisturizer regimen and move on to anti-aging skin care or acne skin care to match your needs.

Use Sunscreen Daily, Year-Round
Contrary to popular belief, sunscreens are supposed to be used throughout the year including even in winter and on cloudy days. This is because even though the sun may not be as harsh as in summer, your skin is still susceptible to the harmful UV radiations of the sun. Sunscreens shield the skin against these radiations and protect it from sun damage.

So, if you have been saving your sunscreen only for the sunny days, its time you made amends in the New Year. Make sure you wear it daily before your venture outdside.

Don’t Pop Your Pimples
You pop your pimples to get out the pus. But what you actually end up doing is pushing the bacteria deeper inside and thus aggravating the infection. This explains the subsequent inflammation that can leave behind scars.

No matter how hard it is, resist the temptation of popping your pimples. Instead use your fingers to apply a good anti-acne product there.

Taking good care of your skin is very important. It won't matter how you dress up your look with blush, shadow, mascara and/or lipstick, if your skin isn't in tip-top shape.  Your skin is the largest organ in your body - treat it with the utmost care!

Happy New Year!

Dealing with the Christmas Season

Although we sometimes get so caught up in the worldly aspect of Christmas, remember that no matter what your political ideals are, the holiday is still and always will be Christmas. We don't celebrate "holiday," we celebrate Christmas. Just my two cents worth...

On another note, here are some tips in helping deal with issues some of us will endure during the course of the holiday season:

Sweet Treats: It seems sugary treats are unavoidable, especially this time of the year. When sugar breaks down and enters the bloodstream, it bonds with protein molecules, including those found in collagen and elastin (the fibers that support the skin), through a process called glycation. This process leads to sagging and wrinkles, both of which none of us want!
Try choosing a small square of dark chocolate instead, which contains antioxidants to protect  you from free radicals. Increase your consumption of vitamin C. It'll help generate collagen.

Untamed Tension: When we're under intense or chronic stress, our bodies increase production of the hormone cortisol, which can damage collagen and elastin and decrease the skin's ability to repair itself. Stress can also make us frown, which in turn can leave marks in the form of permanent lines.
Exercise daily; yoga, Tai Chi or brisk walking. The deep breathing of Yoga helps promote healthy circulation. Download a yoga app (Yoga RELAX) and do a couple of poses prior to calling it a day.

Weight Fluctuations: Packing on pounds  an make your skin look plumper on the surface, but carrying excess weight can cause your body's levels of insulin and cortisol to rise, which breaks down collagen. The repetition of gaining and losing weight can take its toll on the skin's elasticity, leaving behind stretch marks and jowls.
Aim to keep your weight in the normal range, with a  body mass index between 18.5 and 24.9.

Lack of Sleep: Our skin needs a change to rejuvenate and the lack of sleep deters that. Without enough deep sleep, the skin can't properly undo daily damage and puts the body into stress mode.
Shoot for 7-8 hours of sleep a night. It takes discipline, but start by shutting off all electronic devices a half hour before bed so the stimulation doesn't keep you up.

Take time to relish in what this season means. There is a God and He did send His Son to die for you and for me. What kind of Father sends His only Son to die a horrific death to save ME from my sins? The least I can do is praise Him with my words and my actions. Show love this Christmas season just as He has chosen to show love to us.

Tips to Lose Weight

Sometimes losing weight has as much to do with what we eat as it does in how active we are. Here are a few food tips to keep in mind as we all struggle to keep those extra Christmas pounds off:

1. Add hot spices to your food, as they can stimulate your metabolism and help you burn more calories.

2. EAT BREAKFAST! Research shows that people who skip breakfast are more likely to be overweight.

3. Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories; substituting them for high-calorie foods can be a calorie-reducing strategy.

4. When eating out, add little or no butter to your food.

5. Don't eat just because you're bored or because 'tis the season. Eat only when you are hungry. Begin to listen better to your body and to the signs it gives when you are truly hungry or when it's simply boredom.

6. Stop eating when you're full. When you feel full, it's time to stop eating. If you're at a restaurant, you can take home leftovers. 

7. Skip or limit the breading on meat, poultry or fish. Breading adds fat and calories and causes the food to soak up more fat during frying.

8. Take your lunch to work instead of going out to a restaurant - on a side note Thirty-One Gifts have Thermal Totes on sale during the month of January! www.mythirtyone.com/kristieboyd.

9. Eat 4-5 small meals a day instead of 2-3 big meals. Dinner should be your last meal of the day.

10. Be able to enjoy your favorite foods, but make sure to do so in moderation only.

11. Eat more whole grains and fiber. Eat less sugar and fatty foods.

12. Never skip meals! You will end up bingeing later on when you feel extremely hungry.

13. Don't turn to food for comfort. When you feel stressed, go for a walk, listen to your favorite music or call a friend.

14. Stock your kitchen with fresh fruits and other healty snacks and avoid buying unhealthy snacks.

15. Brush your teach right after dinner so you can be reminded not to eat after that.

16. Portion control, portion control, portion control!!

17. Choose fish more often for lunch or dinner. Look for fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, trout and herring.

18. Limit juice, soda and sugar-sweetened beverages. They can add excess sugar and "empty calories."

19. Eat slowly and allow your stomach time to signal to your brain that you are getting full.

20. Don't stand near the food at parties. You will be tempted to eat more than you need to.

"For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince Of Peace."

Isaiah 9:6