December Classyandchic Gems Magazine

Classyandchic Gems Magazine

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2ND ISSUE EDITOR: ANITA ANN FORD

DECEMBER 2020

FAITH HOPE LOVE

A note from our editor:

ANITA ANN FORD Classyandchic Gems magazine offers an authentic look at life through believers who are perfectly imperfect and believe in the power of the Gospel. God’s gifts are all around us, but it’s up to us to recognize them.

Classyandchic Gems

What is

your most treasured gift?

our

Content Creators for December Mental Health Gems-Anita Ford Military Gems-Carolyn Ford Faith Gems-Anita Ford Family Gems-Anita Ford Fashion Gems-Betsy Brown Craft Gems-Kayla Colburn photographY Gems- Aerospace Engineer, Professional photographer-Alvin Ford,Jr.

THE GIFT OF A HEALTHY YOU By: Anita Ford

Uncertain times build courageous warriors.

Meet people where they are in this life.

As a Mental Health Professional, I know firsthand that we are walking through difficult times, but my best advice for growing through challenging times is to be someone that is there for people without judging their journey. You will see that everyone has a different way they live their lives. Some people are taking precautions and others are living as if we are not in dangerous times. But. at the end of the day. we must do our best to educate and understand each other.

Social distancing and isolating can be difficult for those are extroverts. Going from being able to visit with family and friends to spending time with a small amount of people changes your mental health. So, I encourage to you to take the time to do things that make you happy.

1) Explore the great outdoors. God has given us so much peace and tranquility and a lot of it is found outside in nature. .

2) Don't neglect your physical health. If you were someone who exercised regularly at a gym, try to gather equipment or programs that help you put together socially distanced workouts.

3) Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who don't judge your way of living right now. You dont need to worry about being shamed for taking care of your own health.

4) Do not neglect your own mental health. Know your limitations.

5) If you feel as if you are in a state of mind that you may endanger others or yourself, seek the help of a mental health professional.

Disclaimer: Advice given in this article reflects my own personal views as a therapist and does not substitute therapy or psychological interventions in which you are currently engaged in.

MENTAL HEALTH GEMS

CRAFT GEMS

CRAFTY GIFTS

Creator: Kayla Colburn JOY to the world, the lord is come.� Amidst everything and this pandemic I wanted to share all the joy of christmas crafting I have been working on, that would make great christmas gifts.

Where are all my christmas shopping and gift giving people at?? I am one of these people too and I love to give and make gifts for others. I guess you could say my love language is giving. This month I want to share with you all, a really good gift idea for the ladies in your life, or even if you want to buy some for yourself.

They are faux leather earrings, super lightweight and you wont even be able to tell you are wearing them. I spoke about these in my last article post and I am so excited to share them with you all.

This fall and winter I have been working on several styles, anywhere from animal print, plaid, animal cut outs, state cut outs and personalized faux leather earrings. I have to tell you, what a difference one piece of this jewerly adds to the staple to most peoples collection. Also, looks so great with a cute outfit and every time I wear them, I get so many compliments.

Just last week, I wore a pair of my plaid earrings to shop and even with my mask on in the store, I had several compliments. There is so much inspiration you can get and you can feel so beautiful in just one pair of these earrings. I love making them and hope you enjoy them as much as I love making them. Check me out by searching ColburnCrafty on the Etsy app!.

ICLASSYANDCHIC GEMS

Splurges What is your favorite brand of clothing? Do you select clothes based on comfort or their style?

Connect with Betsy via social media on Facebook and Instagram at @afewgoodygumdrops.

Creator: Betsy Brown Who doesn’t love a great pair of designer sneakers, a pair of faux patent leather leggings, a teddy bear coat and a matching beanie.

Great gifts for the fashionista!

When asked about my style I would say subtle luxury is my look. I mix and match edgy and chic at different price points. I never scream labels.

People are always asking me, do you ever look for a deal? Of course, I do! Many designers are still out of reach for me even on sale. I welcome deals that work into my wardrobe. I never sacrifice comfort for a pricier look. Okay, sometimes I do!

While the expensive cashmere sweater works for me, it’s not for everyone. If we’re going out I’ll throw on a cashmere sweater and faux leather leggings.

This season I’m wearing a lot of camel, honey, and caramel hues. I adore these colors as seen in my photo. I’m wearing my Max Mara teddy bear coat, my Janessa Leone beanie, my Fendi sneakers and my Spanx leggings!

FASHION GEMS

Classyandchic Gems Magazine

The The Gift Gift of of Memories Memories

Written by: Anita Ford Photography by: Alvin Ford Photography

Life is a beautiful culmination of events that shake us to the core and point us to the cross. God never promised us lives that we wouldn't feel broken or hurt.Life looks so different this year because many people have dealt with losing a loved one, a friend or someone who meant a lot to them. And, while we know to be to absent from the body, is present with the Lord. God knew we would have times in which we weep and miss someone that was close to us.

There is nothing anyone can say to you to make you feel better about losing someone. Grief is something that comes in stages. Often times, random memories or familiar places bring back memories and pain begins to play a resounding melody in our hearts. And, the truth is, no matter how many times people tell you it's going to get better, grief is often what reminds us that life is a gift.

So, I encourage you if you're walking through a painful time in your life, allow yourself to feel emotions. Take time for yourself and don't be ashamed to think of the person you lost. In time, you will be able to move forward. Sometimes the smallest steps forward in a different direction often bring about the most healing. Rely on God and He will always see you through.

FAITH GEMS

ClassyandChic Gems Magazine

THE GIFT OF FAMILY

THE GIFT OF FAMILY WRITTEN BY: ANITA FORD I wanted to feature two very special people again this month. My grandmother and grandfather, Mr and Mrs Herbert Boyd were the epitome of class, style and Grace.

In my life, I had the privilege of knowing a woman who not only loved the Lord with all of her heart, but she also inspired the life I live today.I was fourteen years old when my grandmother went home to be with the Lord. Although she's isn't on this earth anymore, her legacy lives on in my heart. When I think of a courageous woman, I'm reminded of the woman my grandmother was. After facing two leg amputations, multiple surgeries, extended times of sickness, and discouraging reports from doctors, my grandmother never gave up. She had a spirit that wouldn't quit. She didn't succumb to the hand she was being dealt. Instead, she drew strength from the Lord and used every ounce of strength she was given to carry out her mission on this earth. We’re surrounded by beautiful spirits, but it is up to us to recognize them. In all things, God has a plan. What may seem like it will knock us down doesn't always disqualify us from the race. The Lord hasn't left us and He never will. I am thankful I had the opportunity to live life with an angel. I'm reminded daily of my grandmother's sweet spirit. I remember her gorgeous face and beautiful smile. I remember the life she lived out in front of me, her encouraging words, her grace, inspiring attitude and her strength. It warms my heart to know The Lord had a plan in it all. Strength is best defined in our weakest moments. There’s not a day that passes by that I don’t think about my grandmother. My grandmother's legacy continues to live in me. Every time that I feel as if life has dealt me a difficult circumstance, I think about her determination.

So, if my and tribulations into our greatest blessings. The beautiful thing about faith is no matter the difficulty we face, God says we will never be defeated nor destroyed. Hebrews 11: 1- “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” We may not always know the direction God is leading us in life, but what a blessing it is knowing we are always on the right

We serve a God whose sovereign will outweighs every situation we face in this life. No matter how difficult the circumstance, God always turns trials.

Every champion was once a contender that refused to give up. “Rocky Balboa.When I think about the word, faith- I think about trusting God in all circumstances.

ICLASSYANDCHICGEMS

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TEEN TALK: THE GIFT OF HEALTHY SELF ESTEEM.

. To the 17 Year Old version of me....

WordsI’ve always been a deep thinker. Even at a young age, I loved spend time writing in my diary. I’m more of an observer than a talker unless I’m comfortable with the person/situation. But, God has shown me that He is stretching me out of my comfort zone and while it looks scary, I have been so blessed to walk in the calling He has on my life.

But, I want to speak to the teens right now. Your teenage years are very impressionable years. You will have people speak many things over you, but it’s up to you to differentiate between the information that needs to stay and the information that needs to go.

You will hear opinions from many people. Some of those opinions will be well meaning and others are meant to rob you of your joy. How do I know this? Because teenage Anita had an authority figure speak words over me that could’ve potentially damaged my self esteem had I listened to them. So, how did I respond after their negativity? I talked to my parents. I was a teenager who talked to my family about everything. Through tears and many long talks, my family reminded me that I needed to pray for this person. Many of you have families that are the same way. I believe you should never be afraid to go to your parents when you feel bullied by an adult.

There will be a lot of people who hate you for no reason and in my case, I experienced hate for being the light hearted teen that I was.

But, at the end of the day, I learned something from this person.

Instead of being hateful, I chose to pray for the individual who didn’t realize what they were saying at the time. This person’s words are clear to me now as they were when I was a teenager, but the difference is... Their words remind me of how NOT to treat other people.

You have a choice in this life. You either become a victim to the things that have happened to you or you chose to rise above them. In the grand scheme of things, opinions can’t harm me and they also won’t shake me. But, opinions continuously remind me that I am called to be a voice that reminds people how loved they are by a God who makes no mistakes. You are beautiful... Just the way you are. You are loved if you have one friend or twenty friends. You are here for such a time asSelf thisEsteem and never let anyone steal your joy. -Inspirational Speaker Gems Anita Ford

Classyandchic Gems Magazine

The The Gift Gift of of Uniqueness Uniqueness

Written by: Anita Ford Photography by: Alvin Ford Photography

I Never let anyone change who you are. Many years ago, God placed a passion in my heart that began with writing poetry. I don't write for fame or popularity. In fact, I've never been popular. My personality is often misunderstood as being stuck up and standoffish, but I am neither one of those. I'm actually an introvert with a huge heart for others. So, I write for all the introverts like myself who want to have a voice. I am not bothered by the voices of people who misunderstand me because my calling is mine not theirs. I am not distracted by those who want to dim my light so they can shine brighter. I am not ashamed to express my love for God. I want to give people hope and remind them of their God given purpose. God could've used anyone, but he chose me. I want to live my life out in such a way that I've exhausted every single talent God has given me. I find it beautiful God chose someone like me who is painfully shy. God has made me bold to speak His word. God has a calling on each of your lives. It doesn't matter whether you feel equipped or not, He will equip you according to His purpose on your life. Step out and be bold in your life. Be fearlessly authentic.

Those who are meant to be in your life will stay and those who aren't will leave. But, always remember to be true to yourself. Never allow people to cause you to be a watered down version of yourself because you are His precious prize! You are strong! You are capable! You are loved!

FAITH GEMS

ClassyandChic Gems Magazine

A Mama’s Heart

Army wife, educator, .sister, best friend, Christ follower and mother, Carolyn enjoys encouraging and speaking life into mothers.

Growing up in a family with 5 siblings, my parents made it a point to show us the value in having family time, fellowshipping with others and being thankful for what we had in life.

Writer: Carolyn Ford

Nothing will ever compare to the joy of being a mom.

As a military wife and mother, my joy has always been found in Christ, family, friends and service. The more you understand that your worth isn’t based on the unrealistic expectations the world places on mothers you will soon begin to realize that you are valuable.

When you look in the mirror you should realize that you’re a mom who is not only engaging with family, friends and social responsibilities... You’re also raising precious humans who look up to you. So, what does this mean? You’re children do not care if the house is spotless every day. Your children do not care if you miss a night or two of cooking healthy meals. Your children do not mind if your hair is a mess and you haven’t showered since the day. In their eyes, you are perfect.

When you begin to look at your life through the eyes of Christ, you become aware of the very important fact he has designed you to be His masterpiece. You were never designed to feel inadequate. You were designed to feel empowered, loved and set apart.

Surround yourself with likeminded ladies who lift you up when you feel as if you’ve failed. Develop a group o friends who pray for each other,. Set aside 30 minutes every day that is dedicated To you,. Continue the great work, mama! You’ve got this!

Called, Empowered, Loved and Set Apart, MILITARY FAMILY GEMS

Classyandchic Gems

LIFE IS FILLED WITH EVENTS THAT MAKE US ACHE AND MAKE US WAIT, BUT WHILE WE ARE WAITING ITS AMAZING TO KNOW, WE ARE IN THE BEST HANDS. INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKER ANITA FORD