Last week we had a blog post about our new Mom-Daughter True Love Waits guide and audio. We had a great response to the giveaway and the winner has been chosen. The lucky mom is Rebecca who graciously tweeted about the giveaway and that entry is the one chosen by Random.org. There will be more giveaways around the blog-o-sphere one other mom blogs.  Be on the lookout for those.  You can follow me on Twitter to see my tweet about those.  This week’s giveaway is over at Really! I’m a Mom.com

Last week I launched a new guide here at Beauty by Design, the Mom-Daughter True Love Waits Guide, just in time for Valentine’s Day.  Though, this topic is NOT at all limited to this month, this week or this holiday.  Teaching our daughters that sex should wait until marriage is an important topic that should be dealt with often, especially if they are in their teenage years where temptation is ever present.

I feel so strongly about this topic that I am going to be giving away 6 of these guides over the next few weeks, starting here this week on our blog.

To learn more about the guide you can go here.  Then come back and enter this giveaway in the following ways, 1 entry per thing.  You must comment separately letting me know you did each thing.

1.  1 entry for commenting on this posting letting us know the age of your daughter(s) and if you have talked with her about abstinence.

2.  1 entry for subscribing to our blog.  You can do so by clicking on Subscribe to my RSS feed at the end of this post.

3.  1 entry for following me (@AlyssaAvant) on Twitter.

4.  1 entry for tweeting about this giveaway.

BONUS:

2 bonus entries for blogging about this giveaway (please post a link below to your blog post so we can come check it out)

Entries will be taken through Sunday, Feb. 21. Winner will be announced here on the blog on Monday, February 22.

Likely, if you have a teenage daughter, then you’ve experienced talking with them about “love”.

Are they in “love”?

Do they want to fall in love?

Are they experiencing what some of us might call “puppy love”?

One or all of these things “might” be the case, but none the less it is an important time for them and as moms we must be prepared to deal with and talk about the subject that we know is more than fuzzy feelings and butterflies in the stomach – L-O-V-E.

Love for us as humans is difficult to define.  We know that God is love and that his gift of his only Son Jesus on the cross was the greatest sacrifice of love we will ever know, but we may often wonder, how we can understand this on a human level and how it relates to what we know and feel as “romantic” love or even “friendship” love.  The truth is there are many different kinds of and levels of love, all of which we must learn to feel and understand as we grow older.  And to be honest, the older you get the more you understand it,  wouldn’t you agree?

So, how do you help your daughter to differentiate between what they know and understand as the love you have for them, or the love God has for them and the love they have for their friends or that they “think” they have for a member of the opposite sex?

As we celebrate Valentine’s this weekend, and this month is all about “love”, it is important to remember that when we talk to our daughters about love and what “true” love is, that we point out, if she is of the appropriate age that love does NOT equal sex.

In our society unfortunately teens are being led to believe more and more each day that if someone loves you, you have sex with them.  This is leading to not only broken hearts, but broken futures.  We must educate our daughters about the true meaning of love and instill confidence in them that will help them to stand for their own convictions about the Biblical meaning of love and what it can mean in their lives.

Check out our Mom-Daughter True Love Waits Guide to start the conversation on this important topic with your daughter today.

The Pro-Tech the Kids Workshop is now coming online.  The workshop will be held this Thursday, December 10 at 7 pm CST / 8 pm EST.  To reserve your spot in the webinar room you must go sign up now.  Sign up here.

Winona Parents Invited to Free Presentation

November 23, 2009, Winona, MS – The computers, cell phones and gaming systems that top children and teen’s gift lists this holiday season can present a genuine threat to their health, safety and, in some cases, their lives. Between predators lurking on social networks, sexting scandals and suicide stories, the headlines are full of tales of technology turning to tragedy. Area parents will have the opportunity to learn how to protect their children from these threats that didn’t exist when they were young and be given the tools they need to guide their children through digital world safely, at the free presentation Pro-Tech the Kids with speaker Alyssa Dees Avant on Thursday, December 3rd . The North Winona Baptist Church, located at 602 Alberta Drive, will host the information session starting at 7pm.

“Chances are if your child has access to technology, they are taking risks,” says Avant, professional speaker and founder of Beauty by Design Ministries, “It’s important that parents make themselves aware of the risks and learn how to protect their families to prevent their children from becoming a statistic, or worse yet, a headline.”

Advance registration is requested through the Pro-Tech the kids website, http://pro-techthekids.com.
“Parents will walk away from this presentation aware and empowered,” says Avant, “and that really is what our kids need to be safe.”

Avant’s unique background which combines positions in children and youth ministries, a professional speaking career and the building of a thriving internet business will give parents a thorough overview of the situations their kids are facing on a daily basis and key information on maintaining the safety and privacy of their children.

For more information on Pro-Tech the kids and the risks children face with technology or to arrange an interview contact Alyssa at alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com or call 662.614.0406.

-30-

Say a prayer for me? I’m headed to Kilmicheal Baptist Church’s Full Plate group on Thursday night to give my testimony and I’m headed to Mt. Juliet, TN on Friday to do a girl’s event with the girls of Victory Baptist Church.

Please pray for the girls as well as for my safe travel to and from there! Thanks!

My father is an “entrepreneur” and  I consider myself one as well. Whether you’re born with it in your blood or God just puts you on that path in life I believe it is an opportunity among the many God given one out there. Maybe your child will become an entrepreneur.

This week’s guest, Sarah Cook has an awesome new business she is building called Raising Biz Kids. This next week however she is putting on a live telesummit for kids who want to be biz kids and parents of those biz kids called “Biz Kids Success Summit” . Listen to my interview with Sarah to learn more.

Focusing on Joy this week. I have always loved this song. Watch this cute video of some kids that get it too!

I was telling a friend about my latest project the other night and he said, “the song that comes to mind immediately is Slow Fade by Casting Crowns.” I agree. He’s right. Our kids are slowly fading, allowing themselves to become entrapped by Satan’s lies and involved in worldly activities that slowly are pulling them away.

My favorite part of this song is the old childhood song I used to sing,

O be careful little eyes what you see
O be careful little eyes what you see
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little eyes what you see

O be careful little ears what you hear
O be careful little ears what you hear
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little ears what you hear

O be careful little hands what you do
O be careful little hands what you do
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little hands what you do

O be careful little feet where you go
O be careful little feet where you go
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little feet where you go

O be careful little mouth what you say
O be careful little mouth what you say
There’s a Father up above
And He’s looking down in love
So, be careful little mouth what you say

Our kids are in danger of slow fading, crumbling, our society has such influence and technology is just a tool that the devil can use to lead them astray. I love technology as much as anybody, but I believe that we must PROTECT our kids. We must be PROACTIVE about their security.

We must teach them to “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:22 (NIV)

If you want to join me in being PROACTIVE about your kid’s security visit my new site http://Pro-TechtheKids.com and sign up for more info. This Workshop will be LIVE in Winona, Mississippi in December, but will later be available online via video. You can benefit either way.

For today’s show I interviewed a young lady in ministry, Michelle Myers, who several years ago struggled with a big temptation and sin in her life. Her sin was unlike some that teens struggle with, but all the same it was the area where Satan attacked her life.

She shares her story of dealing with anorexia, bringing her close to death, but ultimately closer to Christ. She now shares her story as a way to share Christ with others. It is an awesome testimony all young girls need to hear.

I want to thank Michelle for being on the show and tell you that you must keep an eye out, as Michelle is writing a book that is a must have. She’ll be back on the show once it is available and we’ll be sure to help you know where to get your copy. Thanks Michelle! Visit Michelle on her blog here.

At the end of today’s show I made a big announcement about my latest project. God has lead me out of my comfort zone, to speak to parents. You all know I am passionate about tweens and teens and I love to stand in front of them and speak, sit with them and chat, or just hang out with them, but it isn’t as natural for me to speak to their parents. However, God is leading me to do so and I am being obedient.

The result is the workshop I will be doing LIVE in my hometown, Pro-Tech the Kids Workshop, on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009 at 7 pm at North Winona Baptist Church in Winona, Mississippi. Find out more info on the website. This event will be available online via video recording after the event.

I have started up my Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast up again and I am looking for guests. If you have a message for the audience of Christian moms of tween girls then please contact me. I would love to have you on the show.

To listen to the archives of the show click here.

Tonight is week 3 of the Back to the Basics of Life Seminar Series. This week, my good friend Sarah Cook will be speaking. The topic is Healthy Skin & Radiant Beauty. Sarah will share simple ways to help your daughter care for her skin and care for her inner beauty, so that she can shine, not only on the outside, but the inside as well.

Here’s a little more information about Sarah:

Sarah Cook has worked on a volunteer basis for over 18 years in the children’s, youth, and women’s ministries at her church. For the last 15 years, Sarah has enjoyed being a mentor and coach to hundreds of women in and out of her direct sales skin care and cosmetics organization.

She has earned national recognition in her company placing in the National Queen’s Court of Sharing as well as ranking two times in the Queen’s Court of Personal Sales. She has received numerous awards, but where Sarah finds the most joy is in working with women one-on-one or in small groups to discover and embrace their God-given beauty both inside and out. Her training with international make-up artists such as Robert Jones, John Maxwell, and Danton Thompson brings added value to her clients as well as the team of consultants she mentors.

Sarah can be best described as upbeat, passionate, and engaging. She graduated with a BA in Family Studies from Utah State University and has been married to her husband Jerry for 16 years. Together they have 3 children, Jacob, Clarissa and Jonathan. Sarah enjoys home-schooling their oldest two children and spending time with her family.

I am excited about tonight’s topic and that Sarah is sharing with you.  Hope to see you there.  You must sign up at Back to the Basics of Life to be contacted with the webinar info.

So, as you probably already know our Back to the Basics of Life Seminar Series is underway. We have had two amazing weeks in the seminar and 2 more weeks to go in this series. It is going super well. We are excited though to up the fabulousness of this event and we’re offering bonuses.

So, if you haven’t signed up for the seminar series you need to now, by clicking here. Then at the bottom of the Thank you page that will appear as soon as you sign up, you will see the bonuses that we are offering. So, don’t miss out…go, sign up! CLICK HERE.

This week’s newsletter, via audio…on the subject of gossip. Have a listen.

The basics of life, what do you think of when you hear that phrase? The answers may be different for everyone, but for me there are some basic “life lessons” that we need to teach to our daughters. There are a few things that I hope my daughter will embrace and learn during her “growing up years” that will help her to thrive as a person and that she will be able to share with others, and pass on to her own children.

Some of these are lessons of manners, friendship, character and inner beauty. These are the “life lessons” we want to share with you at an upcoming Seminar Series I have put together with some amazing Christian ladies who share my heart for ministry and for our daughters.

We will be presenting this Back to the Basics of Life Seminar Series, every Tuesday evening in October at 6 pm PST / 8 pm CST / 9 pm EST. It begins Tuesday, October 6. We would love for you to join us. You can find more information about the seminar series and sign up for login info here.

Won’t you join us?

The power of the Internet allows us to do amazing things these days. More and more I am getting excited about the ways that it allows me to be involved in ministry that I would never have been able to do without it. This includes the ability to speak to women and girls all over the country from the comfort of my living room using my computer.

I have recently spoken at two online conferences, A Woman Inspired and The Ultimate Homeschool Expo. The creators of A Woman Inspired have now created a teen version for girls called God’s Girls Online Conference which is absolutely FREE for the girls to attend. All they need is their computer and some speakers to listen in.

I’ll be speaking on the topic of prayer journaling. The conference will be Friday, August 21st in the evening and Saturday, August 22nd. I don’t know my exact speaking time yet, will let you know as soon as I hear! I hope you will share this with the teen girls in your life and encourage them to attend.

Over a year ago I wrote the Christian Charm School Workbook.  It was written as a “student workbook” and I had every intention of writing a leader guide as a companion to it.  However,  time, life, and more slipped away from me and it just did not get done.

I put it on my 2009 List of Goals and I was determined to do it.  Finish it.  Launch it.  Sell it.  So, now I have done it, finished it and now I am officially “launching” it.  So, it’s now your turn.  It is my hope that you will Go, buy it!

The leader guide is the long awaited companion to the student workbook and will give you all the information that you need to share Christian Charm School with your own daughter as a part of homeschool curriculum, with your small group at church as a part of a study, with a group of girls in your community or homeschool coop, wherever you choose.  The best part is we at Beauty by Design Ministries give you all the tools that you need to make it happen.

If you go to the official Christian Charm School website you can sign up in the yellow box midway down the page to receive more info as a “group leader”.  This will give you access to a vault of information that only those on the group leader list receive.

This vault includes:

• a flyer – to promote  your Christian Charm School Workshop
• a information pack – to give out to possible attendees
• a special audio – for you as a group leader to listen to for more information
• a sneek peek of the Christian Charm School Workbook (the student version)

The Christian Charm School official website just launched and has all the information that you need, it is a “VAULT” of additional information.    So, head over to the website, sign up in the yellow box for more information and receive access to the vault.

You can then decide which of our multiple purchase options is right for you!  You’re sure to find something that fits both your budget and your needs.

I can’t wrap up this post without mentioning to you that if you love Christian Charm School Workshop materials that you could earn extra income for promoting them.  Simply sign up for our affiliate program.

I have wondered and wondered how to get press coverage for my ministry. Sure, I’ve written or had written a press release or two, but I have not had much come from them.  But tonight I was checking my website stats and found some great coverage and results from my Press releases as well as my Article Marketing.

Find my press coverage here and here and an article of mine here.

By the way, I am gearing up for Vacation Bible School here, I’m directing it at my church this next week, June 15-19.  I’m also beginning a Live TV show over at MomTV.com.  Watch the big announcement here.  Then, it’ll be time to put all my thoughts towards my next event, Christian Charm School Workshop to be held Friday, June 26 – Saturday, June 27 in Kosciusko, MS.

If you haven’t heard me speak or teach before then you’re in for a treat. I have been given the opportunity to teach or speak online twice. Once I did live today at 1 pm and secondly will be held on Monday, June 8, at 2pm CST / 3 pm EST as a part of the A Woman Inspired online conference.

Today, I taught with Cindy Rushton as a part of the Ultimate Homeschool Expo. The topic was0″ Godly Girl Time: Instilling Spiritual Disciplines.” I had an awesome time sharing with the ladies on the call and you can listen to the archives over at Blog Talk Radio.

At the upcoming A Woman Inspired Conference, I will be speaking on the topic of “Finding Your Passion”. You can find more information here.

Here’s a bit more info from the site and some pertinant dates and deadlines:

We are offering a free starter guide to beginning your own ministry online. Everyone who purchases a ticket between now and May 29th will receive the free e-book. Get your ticket for only $12.95! Don’t let time slip away… register now!

Through my blog you get to know me pretty well, but it is my turn to get to know you, “my readers”. Please pretty please take the time to take my reader survey. One lucky reader will receive a $20 Amazon Gift card or if you prefer $20 in Paypal cash as a THANK YOU!

Click here to take the survey. You’re the best!

I really appreciate it. Survey will be open through Thursday, May 21.

Leave me a quick comment to let me know you did it!

Dear Readers:

I am looking to guest blog on the blogs of other Christian women whether your blog is a mom blog, a business blog or a ministry blog I’d love to come and make a guest post for you.

I would like to volunteer to blog about the following topics:

Faith
Family
Ministry
Mom-Daughter Relationships

If there is something you’d like to see me blog about on your blog that isn’t listed just suggest it and I’ll see what can do. To have me guest post on your blog simply leave a comment with your information below or contact me by email at alyssa @ beautybydesignonline.com (no spaces). I look forward to hearing from you.

Christian Charm School is a top search phrase here on Beauty by Design Ministries and I have had numerous requests for the workbooks that I composed for this in “print” form.  You ask and you shall receive!  These long awaited books are now available through Lulu.com.

The workbook is full color printed, coil bond 8.5 X 11 sheets. There are 48 pages in the book.  It is NOT hard bound like the picture to your left. 

This long awaited guide takes you back to a time when social etiquette and grace was common. Teach this to your daughter or a group of girls in your local club, church or other organization with this workbook.

Purchase Workbooks Now!

Good news the more you buy you get a discount!

Two years ago this month I took a giant “leap of faith”.  I was already in “ministry” but part time church ministry, feeling called by God to step out on faith and do my “part-time speaking ministry to girls and their moms full time”.  With fear and trembling I took that leap.  I am so glad I did, but I sure wish there had been someone there to mentor me, guide me and encourage me.  That is what I hope to be for others who are needing to take a “leap of faith” with my all new FaithLeaps Training Membership: Training for taking a leap of faith into speaking, writing or ministry.

This Thursday, we’re officially opening the program for membership with an official Tweet Up, in association with the Christian Women Tweet Up hosted monthly by Noelle over at Take Root and Write.  I am so excited to also be having this hosted by Amy of Resourceful Mom.com and Sitwarming Parties.com  She will be asking me questions which will provide you tons of info about the program and give you a sneak peek of the first lesson.

Faith Leaps is a three month membership training program for Christians who are looking to “take a leap of faith into speaking, writing or ministry.” This is an important site for you if you are feeling called to:

• Start a Bible study in your local church
• Start a club or organization in your community
• Organize a community project
• Write a column for your local newspaper
• Start a blog to minister to a specific group of people
• Chase your dream…

Whatever it may be, this program will help give the tools and the confidence to take the leap of faith.

So, join us for a Tweet Up on Thursday, March 12 on Twitter at 9:00 pm EST / 8:00 pm CST.

During the event, We will be giving away three prizes!

1. A one month “sneak peek” of the program
2. A two month membership
3. A three month membership – worth $150!

If you have any specific questions for me please go ahead and feel free to post them in the comments section of this post and I’ll do my best to answer them on Thursday!

Want to get a sneak peek of the Lessons in FaithLeaps?  You can sign up for the Early Bird List and receive a sneak peek of Lesson 1 instantly.

To participate in the Tweet Up you must have an active Twitter account.  Twitter is fast and easy to sign up and begin using.  Find me at http://twitter.com/alyssaavant.  Noelle is http://twitter.com/takeroot and Amy is http://twitter.com/resourcefulmom.

If you plan to participate head over here and sign Mr.Linky, thanks!

See you at the Tweet Up!

This Tuesday at 10 AM CST I will be interviewed by CWAHM (Christian Work at Home Mom)’s Jill Hart on her radio show.  Tune in at Blog Talk Radio or listen to the archives there later.  I am looking forward to the interview.

Every once in a while I forget to update my readers about news and happenings going on in the ministry. This is the case at the moment so I decided to do an “update” post. Here are a few of the things going on with us at Beauty by Design Ministries.

I will be traveling to Hartselle, Alabama next weekend, March 6-7 to do a girl’s retreat for the girls of West Hartselle Baptist Church. I am looking forward to it.

I am also actively working on a new training program “Faith Leaps: Training for Taking the Leap of Faith into Speaking, Writing or Ministry”. If you think this might interest you go to FaithLeaps.com and read more about the program.

I also have plans to release in the VERY near future, (by April 1st) a complete package for the Christian Charm School Workshop. Currently the workshop only includes a workbook itself, I have had many requests for a separate Leader Guide, which I plan to release as well as the workbook and leader guide in hard copy. You will actually be able to purchase a “hard copy” book form of these to be mailed to you, rather than just the ebook form.

There will be package deals available so that you are able to purchase enough for your whole group to have their own workbook. I’m looking forward to its release. Want to be put on the waiting list for this great Christian Charm School Workshop Pack to be the first to receive info when the product is released? Sign up here.

To purchase the Christian Charm School Ebook go here.

Former Model Reveals Secrets of Charm & Poise to New Generation
Soon to be Released Book to Charm Parents and Teens

September 26, 2008 (Carrollton, MS) -  Parents and Youth Group Leaders concerned about the cultural influences of television, music and the Internet on their teens will soon have a new tool to combat social pressure.  On September 30th, Christian Charm School will be released by Beauty by Design Ministries. The latest e-book from author and speaker Alyssa Avant, covers four workshop sessions to help teen and pre-teen girls through appropriate development in all areas of their life, not just beauty and etiquette but also in building confidence, spiritual growth and communication skills.

“Parents I’ve talked to through my ministry are rightly concerned about the world their children are growing up in,” says Avant, “but by helping their children develop politeness, poise and confidence can help the whole family stand strong against peer pressure.”

As a former teen model, Avant has been sharing her experience and message as a public speaker and writer through her Beauty By Design Ministry since 2005. The book is best utilized as part of a group program, though all the lessons can be read and applied individually.

“Teens have a habit of tuning out their parents,” says Avant, “they are at an age where peer influence can have much more sway, so hearing the message from someone who has been there and has maintained their faith can help bridge the generation gap.”

For more information or to arrange an interview, email Alyssa Avant at alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com or visit http://www.beautybydesignonline.com/charmschool.htm

###

Alyssa Avant
BeautyByDesignOnline.com
Address: 295 CR 331, Carrollton, MS 38917
Phone: 662-237-4169

Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast is going on hiatus.  Host Alyssa Avant is currently due any day with baby #3 and will be unable to produce another show until the baby has made his arrival and things are settled around her home.

Please check back later for the birth announcement.  Blessings to you our listeners!

I am so excited I could barely wait till today to post this week’s podcast and share the big news with everyone. Today marks the launch of a new branch of Beauty by Design Ministries. This podcast announces it’s official launch and will give you more of an idea of what to expect from our new site and branch of ministry. I hope you’ll take the time to listen to this short less than 10 minute show and that you will tell your friends about us too.

We are adding a testimonials page to our website here at Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast. I  realized today this is overdue has I have had many people to make positive comments about the show and share their thoughts.  So, why not create a place to put these thoughts and give you our listener’s a chance to see what others are saying and if you are here for the first time you’ll be able to know what to expect from the thoughts of others.

Another plus is that it will also provide you with some link love, so if you want to submit a testimonial to our site and in turn get a link to your site here on ours, all you have to do is post your testimonial in the comment section of this post.  That’s it!  Thanks!

We are adding a testimonials page to our Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast website. I realized today this is overdue has I have had many people to make positive comments about the show and share their thoughts. So, why not create a place to put these thoughts and give you our listener’s a chance to see what others are saying and if you are here for the first time you’ll be able to know what to expect from the thoughts of others.

Another plus is that it will also provide you with some link love, so if you want to submit a testimonial to our site and in turn get a link to your site here on ours, all you have to do is post your testimonial in the comment section of this post. That’s it! Thanks!

Wow, I am certainly staying busy. It’s hard to imagine that last year at this time, when I took the step of faith to do my ministry full time, and worried that I would be successful. But, now as I look back I know without a shadow of a doubt God was calling me to take that step and he is now blessing the fact that I obeyed. PRAISE HIM!

Here is what’s next…..

Saturday, April 5 – (Private) Make Me Over Birthday Party – 2 pm – Carrollton, MS

Friday, May 9 – Fellowship Church of the Nazarene Ladies’ Event – 6:30 pm – Houston, MS ( I am still praying about the theme and message)

I just returned last night from the GLAM event in Tupelo, MS. I must say the ladies of First Baptist Church Tupelo, MS worked extremely hard on this girl’s event and it was awesome. I loved the theme they chose, Godly Ladies Are (His) Masterpiece. It paired so well with the Christian Charm School Workshops I had put together months ago. I used their contents and then formulated the messages through prayer and asking God what He wanted the girls to hear.

I think it was fabulous. I was so impressed with the ladies, their love for the girls and the Lord. They treated me like a queen and I thoroughly enjoyed ministering with them. My hubby and I got to spend some quality time together as we drove down on Friday, and had a nice dinner, and stayed in a hotel room. This was our first night alone since Lily was born and she just turned a year old.

I noticed that the girls had written GLAM School on their charm school workbooks I had created and I thought, “Hey I love that name.” going to talk to Lisa, the event coordinator, about it but I’d love to “steal” that name and rename my workshops. I feel that God spoke and I hope that the messages will be used in the lives of the girls for days, weeks and months to come.

I love how God brings all things together for His good. I told the girls and Lisa this story, but I thought I’d share it with you, it’s just another story of God’s tiny miracles as I shared in yesterday’s post about God’s Hand at Work. Lisa and I had been corresponding about this event for months. A couple of weeks before the event she was hoping to have a good head count for me to get the workbooks printed and my supplies together, but that just did not happen. She called and told me that there were 16 girls who had bought tickets to the event but she was still hoping to have more.

I had begun thinking about how I would have the workbooks printed and put together and since I was still hoping to get a firmer number from her before I left for the event I had waited until last Tuesday to make a decision on how to have them printed and how many to get. It was Tuesday afternoon and I was debating printing them myself since I had not heard from her and was thinking it would only be 16 or so. However, I needed printer paper and would most likely need extra ink as each workbook consisted of 25 pages. I dreaded having to buy that. Then, I checked my email, and I had a note from a good friend of mine wanting to know if I would ride out of town with her to Jackson on Wednesday. She had an errand to run for work and asked if I would ride along and she’d buy my lunch. I happily agreed, inquiring “Can you run me by an Office Depot?” (I live in a tiny town with no grocery store, much less an Office Max within 70-100 miles). She said, “Sure” so I agreed to go.

The next day, she and I went to not one but two Office Depot’s trying to get the copies made for the workbooks. It was quite a task to get them done, but we finally were able to get them and I asked my friend, “How many should I get?” We decided on 25 copies and that’s what I got. On the way home, Lisa called my cell phone to confirm some last minute things for the event. She was excited to reveal to me that more girls had signed up and she now knew of 25 girls that were coming. I said, “You’ll never believe this but I just finished getting the copies for the workbooks and there are 25 in our back seat.” We both said, “Now that’s a God thing.” and felt so encouraged that God’s hand was at work in the event.

From there, I know that God only stuck around. I never got nervous as I spoke, the girls were all smiles and positive attitudes (which hasn’t been the case everytime I’ve spoken to a group), and I felt truly where God wanted me to be this weekend. It is my prayer that the girls felt God’s presence in their lives during the event and could take away some truths to apply to their lives.

I’m hoping to get a testimonial from Lisa about her view of how the event went and I will post that here later. I want to say thank you to her and all the ladies who made the event such an enjoyable one for me and were willing to be a part of God’s work.

We are running a Happy Easter special on our 30 Day Journaling Guide. Now through March 31, 2008 we will be selling the guide for less than $5, or $4.99 , a $9.97 value. Grab yours up today here.

The winner of the Sweet Tea Contest is Mirriam. Congratulations Mirriam. Look for more fun contests to come in the future! Thanks to all who participated and a very special THANKS to Cara Mirabella of Cara’s Cafe.

At one of my recent events I was blessed to have the event coordinator record the event on video and send me a DVD of it. I used it to create the video you can see here . It was fun to create this video and I think that it will be a wonderful addition to my website and allow you all to see me in action. I want to thank Mala Burns, event coordinator from my recent Beauty by Design Fashion Show held Saturday, March 1, 2008 at West Carthage Baptist Church. Here is what Mala had to say about the day’s event:

“Thank you so much for all the planning and preparation. After talking with several girls on Sunday, I know you made an impact in different areas of their lives.”
Mala R. Burns
West Carthage Baptist Church

Sorry for the delay, but we will be announcing our Sweet Tea winner later today.  I am a little behind on getting the podcast out.  Be looking for Show #16 to be posted later today.

Because there is nothing better than sweet tea on the back porch with friends, Cara’s Cafe is sponsoring the Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show Sweet Tea Contest. All you have to to do is leave your comments below on Show #15 and you will be entered to win 2 of Cara’s Cafe Teas in the flavors of your choice. It’s that simple. You know you want some sweet tea.

Contest winner will be announced on Show #16 on March 9 so be sure to listen in to see if you have won!

Because there is nothing better than sweet tea on the back porch with friends, Cara's Cafe is sponsoring the Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show Sweet Tea Contest. All you have to to do is leave your comments below on Show #15 and you will be entered to win 2 of Cara's Cafe Teas in the flavors of your choice. It's that simple. You know you want some sweet tea.

I don’t normally do memes here on my ministry blog, which by the way, I guess I need to explain what a meme is, well, click here to find out more.

But for the purpose of this post I am joining my friend Marie Ynami of MommyCommunity.com’s meme, Tuesday Toot, where we get to toot our own horn about ourselves, for a couple of reasons:

1) I must be honest, she is giving away a $10 McDonald’s gift card to one participant and my son loves McD’s (shhhh! so do I).
2) I have some fun things to share with you!

I really am doing this to share some good news, even if it does mean I’m “tooting my own horn”. We all have to now and again right?

So, here’s what I have to share. First, I failed to share with you that I was recently interviewed on Marie’s podcast for Mommy Community about journaling. You can listen to our interview here.

Secondly, I am proud to announce that I have been invited by Christian Ladies Talk Radio owner, Demetria Zinga to be a resident expert on her radio show. I am officially Christian Ladies Talk Radio’s Teen Coach and will as result record a monthly segment for her podcast specifically for teens. The first one will be in February and will be on the topic this time of “true love waits”.

So, there you have it my first Tuesday Toot and a bit of good news from me. I hope you’ll go over and check out both ladies’ podcasts and enjoy hearing from me as well.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carrollton, MS—February 1, 2008—For a while it seemed like having good manners and proper etiquette was a lost and underappreciated art. Local entrepreneur, Alyssa Avant, is bringing it back with Christian grace and inspiration.

“I had the opportunity to learn about the fine details of social etiquette and grace while attending an out-of-state modeling school as a teen. Ever since that time I have wanted to share and present this information in a Christian way for young girls in this region,” explains Christian Charm School founder, Alyssa Avant.

The target group for Avant’s Christian Charm School workshops is girls in 5th to 12th grades. Workshop topics are designed to boost self-esteem and support the spiritual and social development of this very impressionable teen/tween age group.

Girls will learn everything from public speaking to social manners. Christian Charm School workshops are focused not only on teaching proper social etiquette to young girls, but also on highlighting the important role God plays in their lives and the ways in which they reflect the image of Christ through their daily thoughts and actions.

Carrollton resident, wife and mother of two Alyssa Avant is a Christian author, speaker and former model. A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Alyssa spent 9 years in the modeling industry. She also served as the youth and children’s minister at Carrollton Baptist Church for several years.

In 2005, she created Beauty by Design Ministries (www.beautybydesignonline.com) to empower young girls and to help them turn to God for guidance and inspiration. Her opinions on faith, beauty and the uniqueness of the mother and daughter relationship has garnered significant attention in communities around the country. Her articles and interviews are published in magazines and newsletters and she has been interviewed by leading Christian and business media across the country.

The next Christian Charm School Workshop will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Tupelo. For more information about hosting or attending upcoming workshops, please contact Alyssa Avant at 662-237-4169 or email her at alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com .

Purchase Christian Charm School Workbooks here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carrollton, MS—February 1, 2008—Beauty is not only in the eyes of the beholder it is driven by divine design. That’s the message of a unique local event for young girls called “The Beauty by Design Fashion Show and Conference.” This event is open to all girls aged 12-18. Mothers are also encouraged to attend. The event will take place on Saturday, March 1st from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the West Carthage Baptist Church located at 810 Highway 16 W, Carthage, MS. Registration begins at 9 a.m.

“Fashion and the whole notion of what is “true beauty” are so important to young girls and can have a dramatic impact on their confidence level, self esteem and faith development. Through an exploration of our own distinctive beauty, inspired by Christ, and an exciting array of fashion choices, we’ll discover the beauty of modesty and the fun of a fully choreographed fashion show,” explained Alyssa Avant, key note speaker for this event and founder of Beauty by Design Ministries.

Alyssa is a Christian author, speaker and former model. A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Alyssa spent 9 years in the modeling industry. She also served as the youth and children’s minister at Carrollton Baptist Church for several years.

In 2005, she created Beauty by Design Ministries (www.beautybydesignonline.com) to empower young girls and to help them turn to God for guidance and inspiration. Her opinions on faith, beauty and the uniqueness of the mother and daughter relationship has garnered significant attention in communities around the country. Her articles and interviews are published in magazines and newsletters and she has been interviewed by leading Christian and business media across the country.

All media are invited to attend the Fashion Show segment of the event, which will begin at 3:00 p.m.

You can get FREE advertising here on Mom-Daughter Connection Radio show just by linking to our site from your website or blog.  Each week, I will check my stats to see who sent the most visitors to our website and in turn post your button or link under our Radio Partners section of our website and mention you on our next episode.  This is a WIN-WIN situation for the both of us.  Click here to join our partner program and get your shot at free advertising.

Many months ago I wrote a blog entry about Why I Journal. It received quite a few comments and many of them expressed an interest in journaling just didn’t know where to start. So, I began the process of creating a tool that would help others to begin the hobby I so much enjoy, journaling.

As a result, I am happy to announce the official launch of Beauty by Design Ministries’ 7 Day Journaling Ecourse. The 7 Day Journaling e Course will send you 7 days of emails that will teach you the simple steps to journaling success. At the end of the 7 days you will also be given the opportunity to purchase a 30 Day Journaling Guide to help you to continue on with your journaling journey.

While we would love to be able to offer Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show without ads, it’s just not possible to carry the burden alone, so rather than charge listeners for the episodes, we are seeking sponsorship for the show. We’d like to hear what you are in the market to buy – and what advertisers you would like to hear special offers from. Your information is valuable to me. I will use it to make the show self sustainable. Please take the time to complete this short survey. I will be doing a drawing to give away one of Beauty By Design Ministries’ 30 Day Journaling Guides worth $9.97 from the pool of those who take the time to complete the survey. The drawing will be held February 1, 2008.
Click Here to take survey

Praise the Lord, the Mom-Daughter Connection Podcast hiatus is over. We didn’t even have to miss a show! God is soo good that He has created a way to allow the show to go on. A very good online friend of mine Latara Ham-Ying has chosen to bless me with access to her Audio Acrobat account, which for those of you who don’t know is an account that holds audio files that are too large to be held on my web server.

Then, another online friend, Patrysha Korchinski and I are bartering some work so that other things for the show can be paid for as well. I am feeling truly blessed this afternoon and excited that the show can go on. Praising God!!! Stay tuned as tomorrow will bring a new show!

The hiatus if already over and I’m praising God. Read more about it over at Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show.

Wanted to inform everyone that the Mom-Daughter Connection Shows 1-11 are now active in the archives.  For several days they were not available as I was switching them over to another account.  I apologize if you were unable to get to them to listen to any of them.  They are up again and you should be able to download or listen to them on the site with no problems.  Thanks for your patience.

I wanted let everyone know that I am making some changes in my ministry. I have to do this in order to be most faithful to the Lord in the area of finances. Financially, I have to cut back on expenses. Therefore, I am not going to continue doing the bi-weekly radio show and podcast, Mom-Daughter Connection. I am foregoing this show for the time being. It will be on hiatus until such time I feel that I am financially able to support the show or until I have a supporter who can fund the venture. The shows up until this point are being archived and I will make them available to you all at a later date with some upcoming projects I have in the works.

Be on the lookout for more guides and recommended resources here that I will recommend as well as the same articles and devotions that you are used to reading. I enjoy writing and will continue to do so as a part of my ministry. Thank you for your understanding on this matter.

I wanted let everyone know that I am making some changes in my ministry.  I have to do this in order to be most faithful to the Lord  in the area of finances.  Financially, I have to cut back on expenses.  Therefore, I am not going to continue doing the bi-weekly radio show and podcast, Mom-Daughter Connection.  I am foregoing this show for the time being.  It will be on hiatus until such time I feel that I am financially able to support the show or until I have a supporter who can fund the venture.  The shows up until this point are being archived and I will make them available to you all at a later date with some upcoming projects I have in the works.

Be on the lookout for more guides and recommended resources here that I will recommend as well as the same articles and devotions that you are used to reading.  I enjoy writing and will continue to do so as a part of my ministry.  Thank you for your understanding on this matter.

It has been a few weeks, and you can hear in this week’s show why I have been behind. Go take a listen to this week’s show Show #11 ~ Being Set Apart.

My most recent speaking engagement was this week in French Camp, MS. I spoke to the high school students of French Camp Academy. The school has a late start day every month where the students are allowed to start school later than normal and instead attend a breakfast and a time where a speaker comes in to talk with them for the first couple hours of their school day. I was their guest speaker this month. I enjoyed my time on campus and down at their camp, Camp of the Rising Son where I was on the camp staff back in 1999.

As I sit and look at my son’s huge loot of candy from the Trunk or Treat at church last night and his class party at school I’m thinking we might have enough, but maybe you don’t. If you’d like to win some chocolate then you’re at the right place. Mom’s Talk Radio Network, which our show, Mom Daughter Connection is a part of is giving away a loot of chocolate. So, if you’d like to enter it is simple. Here is the prize list and the rules:

The package includes:

• Two delicious packages of Supreme Chocolate Hot Cocoa
• A Luscious 18 Piece Package of Lindt Lindor Truffles
• A Creamy Lindt Classic Recipe Milk Chocolate Bar
• Intense Dark Mint Bliss Chocolate Treats
• Pepperidge Farm Soft Baked Chocolate Chunk Dark Chocolate Brownie Cookies
• Special Edition Mint Chip Malted Milk Balls

Estimated Value $29.97
Want to know how to enter? It’s fun and easy!

1. Pick a Mom’s Radio Network host to do a blog interview with.

2. You will conduct the short interview of at least five questions with the host either by email or by phone and post the text or recording on your blog.

3. Link to the host’s show site and the Mom’s Talk Radio website.

4. Email us (support@momstalknetwork.com) to let us know where to find your blog interview!

And bam – you’re entered! (And you have some fun content on your blog!)

You can begin anytime. The contest deadline is midnight on November 29th and we’ll reveal our winner on Friday the 30th. (And blast your chocolate goodies out the same day!)

Of course I’m hoping you’ll pick me to do the interview with… so shoot me an email and comment below so I’ll be expecting it! Thanks Ladies and Good Luck!

I’d really appreciate your opinion on whether or not we should offer an e-course on how to journal. For those of you who may not be familiar with the term e-course, it would be a series of emails sent to your inbox that were “lessons” on how to journal. Thanks!

Show #8 “Teen Rebellion” is up at Mom-Daughter Connection. This week I am doing a “confessional” about my time of teen rebellion. I hope it will help you moms as your daughter is in a time or rebellion or will be in the future and you teens and tweens because, I know, I’ve been there.

Based on my love of scrapbooking I have decided to add a new theme to the mix for the parties and events for girls of all ages, “Scrappily Ever After”. The girls will get a chance to make their own small scrapbook that will be theirs to keep, as well as receive instruction and fun techniques and ideas from me. A devotional on how your past effects your future will be given and the other common items such as custom invitations and favors will be included. Check out the Custom Events and Party Planning page for more info.

Just today I have noticed or gotten notice that some of you out there might not even be sure how to listen to my podcasts.  Last week’s show, “An Interview with Vicki Courtney” highlighted our tech savvy teens and tweens and the fact that some of us adults are not so tech savvy.  Therefore, I want to fix at least one of these issues, and that is “listening to the podcasts” here.

I want to also point out that my podcasts, at least the ones shown here on the Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast website are absolutely free.  I do have some podcasts/audios available at Beauty by Design Ministries that are for sale, however these here are free.  You don’ t have to pay a dime to listen.

Now, here is “How to Listen”  :

The Listen Online Option

Well, this is pretty self explanatory. Mom Daughter Connection Radio  and most other programs offer a
simple way to listen to each new show right on the website. This is called ‘streaming the audio’. When you listen this way, no files are being downloaded onto your computer at all – you just listen and when you’re finished you have nothing to delete or clean off of your computer.

In my case, you can visit the post and click on the play button and the audio starts to play or click play in pop-up window and a pop-up window will open and you can click the play button. This option will
allow you to navigate away from the homepage and still listen to the show.

The Manual Download Option

A podcast is simply an mp3 file that has been setup to be delivered via an RSS subscription.  I always offer the mp3 file as a manual download for those who don’t want to mess around with the RSS feed. Just
click on the ‘Listen Now’ button on my site and right click on the ‘Mp3 File’ link to save it to your computer.

After it downloads, you can do whatever you likewith it. Burn it to a CD, send it to your Mp3 player or listen right on your computer without being connected to the internet.  After you’ve listened you can
delete it.

The iTunes Option

iTunes is the Media Player offered by Apple.com. iTunes is an easy option and used by more podcast listeners than anything else.

You don’t have to have a Mac computer in order to use iTunes as they do offer iTunes for the PC.  And you don’t have to own an iPod in order to make use of iTunes.

To download iTunes visit:
http://www.apple.com/itunes/download/

Once you have iTunes on your computer you can just click on this button to subscribe to our show.

If the button doesn’t work, open iTunes and…

You can search for other great topics that interest you or you can simply browse the directory by category.  
 

Find other great Mom related podcasts:
http://www.momsradionetwork.com

iTunes acts as your little Podcasting Assistant.  Once you have subscribed to some shows, you can tell it how often you want it to check for new episodes and whether you want it to download the episodes automatically or manually.  (Click on Podcasts and then Edit, Preferences.)  If you choose manually, it will only tell you that a new show is available – then it will download it when you click to ‘get it’.

 I personally like to open my iTunes before I go to bed and tell it to automatically download any new episodes that it detects on my list.  This way it is gobbling up my internet
connection speed while I sleep and I have fresh audio to listen to in the morning. 

You can listen to episodes right in iTunes – either through your speakers or through a headset.

You can easily send the audio files over to your iPod.

You can burn audio files to a CD using iTunes.  Information about this can be found by clicking on the Help link in iTunes. 

You can also click and drag your podcast files out of iTunes to transfer them to non-Apple portable mp3 player..

If you already have a different Podcast Receiver installed you can add our feed by adding this address to your receiver: http://feeds.feedburner.com/momdaughterconnection

Carrollton, MS – Being a tween or teenager in today’s society can be challenging. Images of what the majority considers to be ideal beauty saturate print, television, online and radio media. Young women gravitate to the flashy and glamorous lifestyles of celebrities and adopt them as standard codes of conduct. Mom and business owner Alyssa Avant wants young girls to know their identity does not have to be defined by society’s standards, but by the morals and ideals in their hearts.

Avant is the founder of Beauty By Design Ministries, a vocation created to empower young girls and help them turn to God for guidance and inspiration. As part of her mission to uplift tween and teenage girls, she believes learning how to present oneself and have good manners is crucial. To aid tween girls in learning these things, Avant created the Christian Charm School Workshop, a 4-week program that covers important topics relevant to today’s young Christian girl.

“We’re extremely excited to begin this new program,” says Avant. “This has been a plan of mine for quite some time; I have wanted to present this material in a Christian way since personally learning most of it as a teen attending a modeling school out of state. Girls shouldn’t have to travel hundreds of miles to learn proper etiquette, beauty and self-esteem.”

On Saturday, November 3, Avant will welcome tween girls, ages 7-12 and their parents to an open seminar about the new program. The seminar will be held at Miss Sippy’s Coffee Shop in Carrollton, beginning at 3:00 pm. Refreshments will be served.

For Those of you who would like more information and to reserve your seat go to http://beautybydesignonline.com/christiancharmschool.html or contact Alyssa by email at alyssa@beautybydesignonline or by phone at 662-237-4169.

Download a flier here.

###

Ok, so I know it hasn’t officially “launched”, but I’m impatient I admit sooo I”m going to give you a Sneak Peek”. My blog especially for girls, tween and teen is up and I have posted my first couple of articles. So, go take a look, tell your teens and tweens, have them tell their friends, encourage them to join my group. All that fabulous stuff. Oh and you can get there by clicking here, or by clicking on the banner at the bottom of each of my posts here on the blog. Check it out, the ALL new, still to be filled with content, Teen Connection.

Carrollton, MS – Being a tween or teenager in today’s society can be challenging. Images of what the majority considers to be ideal beauty saturate print, television, online and radio media. Young women gravitate to the flashy and glamorous lifestyles of celebrities and adopt them as standard codes of conduct. Mom and business owner Alyssa Avant wants young girls to know their identity does not have to be defined by society’s standards, but by the morals and ideals in their hearts.

Avant is the founder of Beauty By Design Ministries, a vocation created to empower young girls and help them turn to God for guidance and inspiration. As part of her mission to uplift tween and teenage girls, she believes solid and open relationships between mother and daughter is crucial. To nurture that bond, Avant created The Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show, a bi-weekly segment that covers important topics relevant to today’s young Christian woman. On September 25 Avant will welcome Christian author and speaker Vicki Courtney to the show to discuss her new book, “Logged On and Tuned Out”, a non-techie’s guide to parenting a tech-savvy generation.

“We’re extremely excited to have Vicki as a guest on Mom-Daughter Connection,” says Avant. “She is a recognized authority in the Christian community and we are honored to have her share about her new book with our listeners.”

The interview will be pre-recorded and airs on Tuesday, September 25. Through 17th day, September, 2007, listeners can email their questions to be answered during the interview to: alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com. In the interview Courtney will address the importance of parents staying tuned in to what their kids are doing with all of their technological gadgets (internet, cell phones, iPods, text messaging, etc.), and how to gently guide them away from danger while remaining “hip” yet responsible teens.

Those who send in their questions will be entered into a random drawing to win a copy of Courtney’s new book. The winner(s) will be announced during the interview.

About BeautyByDesignOnline.com:
BeautyByDesignOnline.com is a full-service ministry created to uplift and empower young girls in today’s society. The company offers products, speaking engagements and interactive events all designed to help turn young girls’ hearts to God. To learn more, please visit http://www.BeautyByDesignOnline.com .

###

Carrollton, MS – Being a tween or teenager in today’s society can be challenging. Images of what the majority considers to be ideal beauty saturate print, television, online and radio media. Young women gravitate to the flashy and glamorous lifestyles of celebrities and adopt them as standard codes of conduct. Mom and business owner Alyssa Avant wants young girls to know their identity does not have to be defined by society’s standards, but by the morals and ideals in their hearts.

Avant is the founder of Beauty By Design Ministries, a vocation created to empower young girls and help them turn to God for guidance and inspiration. As part of her mission to uplift tween and teenage girls, she believes solid and open relationships between mother and daughter is crucial. To nurture that bond, Avant created The Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show, a bi-weekly segment that covers important topics relevant to today’s young Christian woman. On September 25 Avant will welcome Christian author and speaker Vicki Courtney to the show to discuss her new book, “Logged On and Tuned Out”, a non-techie’s guide to parenting a tech-savvy generation.

“We’re extremely excited to have Vicki as a guest on Mom-Daughter Connection,” says Avant. “She is a recognized authority in the Christian community and we are honored to have her share about her new book with our listeners.”

The interview will be pre-recorded and airs on Tuesday, September 25. Through 17th day, September, 2007, listeners can email their questions to be answered during the interview to: alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com. In the interview Courtney will address the importance of parents staying tuned in to what their kids are doing with all of their technological gadgets (internet, cell phones, iPods, text messaging, etc.), and how to gently guide them away from danger while remaining “hip” yet responsible teens.

Those who send in their questions will be entered into a random drawing to win a copy of Courtney’s new book. The winner(s) will be announced during the interview.

About BeautyByDesignOnline.com:
BeautyByDesignOnline.com is a full-service ministry created to uplift and empower young girls in today’s society. The company offers products, speaking engagements and interactive events all designed to help turn young girls’ hearts to God. To learn more, please visit http://www.BeautyByDesignOnline.com .

###

Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show #6 “Finding God’s Will for Your Life” is now available here.

I am excited beyond words right now everyone, because in just a few weeks I’m going to be interviewing Vicki Courtney for an upcoming episode of Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast. The show will air on Tuesday, September 25.

In case you’re not familiar with Vicki here is some information I copied from her website:

“Vicki Courtney is the founder of Virtuous Reality Ministries® which reaches over 150,000 girls and mothers a year. A mother herself of three teens, she seeks to provide both teens and their parents with the tools necessary to navigate today’s promiscuous culture. She has done hundreds of radio and newspaper interviews and appeared on CNN, Fox News, and CNN Headline News to discuss issues impacting teens. She is the creator of VirtuousReality.com, an online magazine for teen girls, which has attracted visitors from all 50 states and over 30 countries. She is a national speaker to women of all ages and the best-selling author of numerous books including, “Your Girl: Raising a Godly Daughter in an Ungodly World” and its counterpart, “Your Boy: Raising a Godly Son in an Ungodly World,” and “The Virtuous Woman…Shattering the Superwoman Myth.” She is also the author of the best-selling magabook, “TeenVirtue: Real Issues, Real Life…A Teen Girl¹s Survival Guide,” which won the 2006 ECPA Christian Book Award; “TeenVirtue 2: A Teen Girl’s Guide to Relationships” and “Between,” a magabook for girls 8-12. Vicki’s latest release is the third magabook in the TeenVirtue series, “TeenVirtue Confidential.” Her much anticipated book for parents “Logged On and Tuned Out: a non-techie’s guide to parenting a tech savvy generation” is slated for a September 1st release. Vicki has also written several popular Bible studies for women including “The Virtuous Woman” and “Get A Life!” Her newest DVD studies are “His Girl” for teen girls and “Your Girl” for moms, which is based on her best-selling book by the same title.”

I am looking so forward to my interview with her, someone I look to as a role model in girl’s ministry. The interview will be about her newest release “Logged On and Tuned Out”. I hope you will look forwarding to tuning in to hear more about this latest book of hers.

I am excited beyond words right now everyone, because in just a few weeks I’m going to be interviewing Vicki Courtney for an upcoming episode of Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast. The show will air on Tuesday, September 25.

In case you’re not familiar with Vicki here is some information I copied from her website:

“Vicki Courtney is the founder of Virtuous Reality Ministries® which reaches over 150,000 girls and mothers a year. A mother herself of three teens, she seeks to provide both teens and their parents with the tools necessary to navigate today’s promiscuous culture. She has done hundreds of radio and newspaper interviews and appeared on CNN, Fox News, and CNN Headline News to discuss issues impacting teens. She is the creator of VirtuousReality.com, an online magazine for teen girls, which has attracted visitors from all 50 states and over 30 countries. She is a national speaker to women of all ages and the best-selling author of numerous books including, “Your Girl: Raising a Godly Daughter in an Ungodly World” and its counterpart, “Your Boy: Raising a Godly Son in an Ungodly World,” and “The Virtuous Woman…Shattering the Superwoman Myth.” She is also the author of the best-selling magabook, “TeenVirtue: Real Issues, Real Life…A Teen Girl¹s Survival Guide,” which won the 2006 ECPA Christian Book Award; “TeenVirtue 2: A Teen Girl’s Guide to Relationships” and “Between,” a magabook for girls 8-12. Vicki’s latest release is the third magabook in the TeenVirtue series, “TeenVirtue Confidential.” Her much anticipated book for parents “Logged On and Tuned Out: a non-techie’s guide to parenting a tech savvy generation” is slated for a September 1st release. Vicki has also written several popular Bible studies for women including “The Virtuous Woman” and “Get A Life!” Her newest DVD studies are “His Girl” for teen girls and “Your Girl” for moms, which is based on her best-selling book by the same title.”

I am looking so forward to my interview with her, someone I look to as a role model in girl’s ministry. The interview will be about her newest release “Logged On and Tuned Out”. I hope you will look forwarding to tuning in to hear more about this latest book of hers.

**Duplicate Post at Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast

I thought it would be neat to share my notes with you that I use when speaking to girls. Recently I spoke to the girls at Holcomb Baptist Church in Holcomb, MS on self-confidence. I then did my Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show #5 on that same topic. I thought I’d share my notes with you from this. Here they are:

What makes you feel really good about yourself? A new outfit, a new haircut, a compliment from a friend, knowing you got A on that paper, making a goal in soccer? Whatever it is, is it lasting? Do you still feel good about yourself a week later? On the other hand, are you like me and your confidence fades and then you feel down in the dumps and can’t figure out what’s wrong with yourself?

I experienced this feeling just this week. I had a big success last Friday that made me feel most accomplished and on cloud 9. Then, Monday hit and I was finding myself down in the dumps. I couldn’t really explain it and it wasn’t until this Friday that I realized my problem. Maybe my problem with confidence is yours too.

Let me explain to you what my problem was. I was looking for my confidence in the wrong place. You see earthly rewards and recognition will never truly satisfy us if we are Christians.

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. Matthew 6:18-20

God did not create us to be satisfied with earthly rewards. There is a God-shaped hole in our lives that only God can fill. First, if you do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ, meaning you have admitted your sins, repented, confessed that you believe that Jesus died on the cross to save you from your sins and asked Jesus to be Lord of your life. Then, you have yet to fill that God shaped hole. If you have accepted Jesus, then that isn’t all that is required. In order to keep that God shaped hole filled you must nurture your relationship with God.

What does it mean to nurture? Well as women we are created by God to be nurtures we take care of people right, your mom takes care of you, your dad, your family, and your home right? Well to nurture something is to take care of it so that it will grow. Farmers nurture their crops, animals nurture their young, parents nurture their children and we can nurture our relationship with God.

How many of you have a “relationship” with someone? A friend, a boyfriend, a parent, a grandparent? We all have a relationship of some kind. How do you maintain that relationship? You spend time with that person right? Well in order to maintain and grow your relationship with Christ you have to spend time with him.

Growing your relationship with God requires spending that time with Him. Just as if we want to grow up physically, we need to grow up spiritually. One of the main differences in growing physically and in growing spiritually is that it takes much more effort on your part to grow spiritually.
You must make it a priority to spend time in prayer and Bible study, spend time praising God, thanking God and waiting to hear from God.

After all, what’s wrong with us when we get down in the dumps and woe is me is that it isn’t really and shouldn’t really be ALL about us.

You see, God didn’t create us for us to be self-centered and all about me. Because the truth is, it’s all about God. You were born for a purpose. Yes, God has a significant, meaningful, purpose for your life. We typically don’t understand this because like you’ve heard so many people in today’s society say, you are asking the wrong question… most of us and most of the people in the world today are asking this question:

What do I want to be? What should I do with my life?

When we should be asking- what did God create me to be?

People are out there trying to “find themselves” when they should be focusing on God and his will for their lives.

As Rick Warren, author of the Purpose Driven Life states, “You were made by God and for God – until you understand that, life will never make sense.” “Focusing on ourselves will never our life’s purpose.”

I know what it’s like; I know what you are probably thinking. You want to know what that purpose is right?

If you’re like I was at your age then you do. I was curious, I still am. I wanted to know it all. I couldn’t wait to find out what was next. I wanted to know the “big picture”. I still do. I wanted to know who I was going to marry. How many kids I would have? Where I would live? On and On.

God will reveal those purposes to you and he has big plans for your life. “I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

God knows you better than anyone else. After all, he created you right? “He knit you together in your mother’s womb.” You are “fearfully and wonderfully made”. You are not an accident. Way before your mom or dad even thought about having you. God was making plans for your birth. He chose your race, the color of your skin, you hair and every other feature. He also gave you talents and abilities.

The Bible also tells us God made you for a specific reason. “ You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
before a single day had passed.” Psalm 139:16

God knows what that plan is know don’t you want to know. Trust God with your life, every single part of it, put it in his hands. Allow him to mold it, shape it, form it, and set you on the path he has for you. It will be the greatest ride of your life.

You know I told you when I was a teenager I wanted to know God’s plan, the big picture, I could have never dreamed it up. What God has given me. God did it, I could try to take credit for it myself, the blessings I have experienced, but I can’t. It’s all God. If you remember that it’s all about HIM and not about YOU, but that he has many blessings and plans in store for you, then your confidence will soar. You will not only be happy, but you will have JOY. Joy comes from God. Joy is spiritual peace, peace that passes all understanding.

Do not worry. Learn to pray about everything. Give thanks to God as you ask Him for what you need. 7 The peace of God is much greater than the human mind can understand. This peace will keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

This week’s show is a topic that almost all teens and tweens struggle with as well as some of us adults, self-confidence. Find out where our confidence should really come from, as well as how to boost yours and your daughters. I hope you enjoy the show.

The winner of the Yada Yada Prayer Group Book giveaway is Kerri Hopkins. Congratulations! You will love this book! Send me your address so I can get it out to you!

I have created a new email list especially for those out there who are interested in receiving monthly updates from Beauty By Design Ministries regarding my speaking schedule, new topics and themes available for my events, upcoming events, such teleseminars, workshops and conferences hosted by us and special offers for audio and information products to you, the event planners and or ministers in churches and other organizations out there who are interested in my ministry. If you are interested in being on this list visit our opt-in page.

The Back to School Special on Fashion Trends was so popular I have decided to have a special Q & A Teleseminar for the subscribers of the Mom-Daughter Connection Ezine. The 1 hour Q&A session will be held on Tuesday, August 21 at 7:30 pm EST/ 6:30 pm CST all subscribers to the Mom-Daughter Connection Ezine may call in with their questions or comments about teen and tween girl’s Back to School Fashion. If you are not currently a subscriber to the ezine you may subscribe here. You will then receive an email with the call-in information to the teleseminar.

The Back to School Special – Fashion Trends Podcast at the Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast is up and ready to be heard by all of you. Click here to listen now.

I am giving away a copy of The Yada Yada Prayer Group.An awesome book by Neta Jackson.

The Yada Yada Prayer Group members meet each other at a weekend women’s conference when they all have the same number on their packets. They come very different walks of life but they are thrown together to pray together that weekend. This forms friendships that continue even after they leave the conference.

It is a heartwarming tale of these women, their lives, their struggles and their new found friendships. I was inspired by their bond and by many of the character’s faith. This is one of the first fiction books to speak to me in such a way that God was using it to speak to my life. I especially liked how the characters used Scripture as they prayed. Something I have never done very often or very well. I felt convicted to learn to do so better in my own prayer times. I believe that God sent this book into my life at just the perfect time.

To win this book you must post a comment below with a valid email address telling me your favorite thing about the Mom-Daughter Connection Ezine if you are a part of it. If you’re not a part you should be so sign up at the top right hand corner of the website and let me know here that you’re a new subscriber. You must be a subscriber to win! The drawing will be held next Monday, August 20. Good Luck!

Over at Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast we are having a “Back to School Special” on Fashion Trends for tween and teen girls. The show will be available on Tuesday, August 14. You don’t want to miss it. Also if you have comments or questions for the show please email them to me at alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com

I recently served at two events. On July 8-9 I spoke at Durant Missionary Baptist Church in Durant, MS on Stewardship. I enjoyed my time with the girls there so much. I want to thank Pastor Nathaniel Christian for the invitation.

Then on Saturday, July 28 I did a “Make Me Over” event with the girls of Malmaison Baptist Church. This was a wonderful time spent with the girls there, who are truly beautiful inside and out. Thanks to Children’s Leader, Glynnis Taylor for the invitation.

Announcing the next Radio Show and Podcast which will air Tuesday, August 14th will be a “Back to School Special” Fashion Forecast. Find out what the teens and tweens are wearing this fall as well as if you really want your daughter to be “in style”. Learn some still very fashionable alternatives as well as how to deal with difficult fashion situations you might face with your daughter. Have a comment or question for me for the show? Contact me at alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com and I’ll do my best to address your comment or question on the show.

Show #3 of Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast is up and ready to listen to… check it out today!

I am so excited about our first online seminar by Beauty by Design Ministries and Mom Daughter Connection, “Teach Your Daughter to Give of Herself, Her Time and Her Talents”. Visit http://www.beautybydesignonline.com/seminar_salespage.html to find out more about this online audio/video conference and to sign up!

I am so excited about our first online seminar by Beauty by Design Ministries and Mom Daughter Connection, “Teach Your Daughter to Give of Herself, Her Time and Her Talents”. Visit http://www.beautybydesignonline.com/seminar_salespage.html to find out more about this online audio/video conference and to sign up!

I want to celebrate the launch of my first show with you! Therefore, if you are here to listen to my show, as soon as you listen to it, post a comment here on this post and I will award you just for listening! That’s Right, I will send you a FREE download of my first book, My Heart To His: Prayer Journal Devotional Guide. So, don’t hesitate, listen and comment now! You will need to leave your email address so I can email you the download link. However you might want to leave it like this: alyssa @ beautybydesignonline.com with a space between so you won’t get a bunch of spam. Thanks so much!

Today’s the day my show has finally launched. I can’t even tell you how excited I am. But I am going to express my excitement with a FREEBIE. So head on over to Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show, listen to the show and post your comments and you’ll receive a free gift just for listening. That’s right! I’m giving away a free E-version of my My Heart to His: Prayer Journal Devotional Guide. All you have to do is listen & comment. Get yours NOW!

Yes, I’m throwing a party, a BLOG PARTY! Want to join in on the fun! Well, you can, and it’s easy, simply post a blog on your blog about the launch of my show, Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast. The first show airs tomorrow, July 3, so let’s get this party started! Then come back here and mention your blog and blog url in the comments section. I’d really appreciate your participation! Thanks everyone!

Yes, I’m having a party, over at Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast’s Blog to promote the launch of our first show, this Tuesday, July 3. I’d love for you to join the BLOG Party and it’s really easy to do so, simply compose a post on your blog about the launch of Mom Daughter Connection Radio Show & Podcast and come back to Mom-Daughter Connection’s Blog and comment that you have joined the party. Be sure to include your URL to your blog in the comment. I appreciate your participation and hope you’ll be listening to the show on Tuesday! Thanks everyone!

I will be speaking at a 2 night Stewardship Clinic at Durant Baptist Church in Durant, MS to the 10-17 year old girls. Topics will be how to give of yourself, your time, your talents and your money to the Lord. Thank you Pastor Nathaniel Christian for this opportunity. I am looking forward to it.

Rebecca White of Heal Yourself Talk Radio recently interviewed me about prayer journaling. Here’s the interview: HYTR interview.
Thanks for the opportunity.

Only 1 more week until the launch of our Mom-Daughter Connection Radio Show. It will premier next Tuesday, July 3, on our website at http://www.mom-daughterconnection.com

Some of you may have been wondering why I started Beauty By Design Ministries, or how I was called to ministry, how I got started, well you will get to find out on this first show as I will be sharing my testimony with you of my call to ministry and my call to start Beauty By Design Ministries. I hope you will come on over to the website next Tuesday and either listen to the show there or download it to your MP3 player or IPOD to take on the go with you!

You also don’t want to miss this episode because I will be announcing our contest winner. That’s right one of my lucky subscribers who have referred someone to our ezine in the last two weeks or who joined as a result of a referral in the last couple of weeks will be winning our Mini Spa Party in a Box. This box includes:
* mini eye pads
* warming facial masque
* foot crème
* luxurious hand crème
* lip treatment
* relaxing music CD
* spa candles
* step-by-step instructions
* food and decorating ides
* enough for up to 8 participants

This fabulous SPA PARTY IN A BOX is valued at $35 retail. Check it out at http://www.beautybydesignonline.com/spa-party-in-a-box

I am sooo looking forward to sharing with you all via the podcast airwaves! By the way, I’d also like to hear from you. You can send your feedback, ideas for the show, questions, or comments to me one of two ways, by dropping me an email to alyssa@beautybydesignonline.com or by calling our listener line at (214) 615-6505 ext 3978. I really appreciate your feedback. Thank you!

Dear INSERT YOUR FRIENDS NAME HERE,
I’m sending you this email because there is a great contest going on at http://www.beautybydesignonline.com right now. She’s got a Christian site for Teens and Tweens and their moms and I thought of you. Join her mailing list now and together we could win http://www.beautybydesignonline.com/opt_in.html . It’s free to join and she’ll be giving away the prize on her podcast just for us moms on July 3rd. See you there!

Alyssa was recently interviewed by Cindy Rushton of Mom-to-Mom Radio Show. Check it out!

Let’s Talk about Quiet Times for Us (and Our Children)!
A Talk-a-Latte Chat with Alyssa Avant and Cindy Rushton

Get to know Cindy at her “home” on the web here:

http://www.cindyrushton.com

We had a FUN Talk-a-Latte Chat Tuesday afternoon. Want to tune in? You can!

Join us for our newest Talk-a-Latte Chat! Just download here! On this show, we will “chat” with my new friend, Alyssa Avant all about quiet times. If you have ever found it hard to make your quiet times work, much less to help your children with their quiet times, this is DEFINITELY your show! Talk about a FUN chat!

Alyssa will share some great ideas for making your quiet times “do-able,” plus she will share some keys to quiet times.. She will also share some tips for the mom who has NO idea where to begin with helping their children get started with their own quiet times. If you are needing some fresh ideas…or…you really want to make your quiet times the best ever, tune in to our show today! You will be filled to overflowing with great ideas, encouragement, and a whole “LATTE” fun!

Download by Mp3

Chat Transcripts

This is Alyssa doing what she does best, speaking at Promised Quartet’s Memorial Day Sing in Coila, MS.

Beauty By Design Ministries presents “True Love Waits” Audio MP3 ready to download now! True Love Waits is a nationwide campaign to encourage students to remain sexually pure until the time that they enter into a marriage relationship. This is so important. This Audio MP3 covers True Love Waits from a Biblical perspective and will help arm your teen with solid reasons why true love waits and heartbreaks don’t. Download your copy for your teen to load to their IPOD or MP3 player and gain insight today! Only $4.95. Click Here to purchase your copy today!

Alyssa’s Calender is filling up with speaking engagements.
Here is what her schedule looks like over the next few months.

We are having a FUN Talk-a-Latte Chat on Tuesday afternoon, May 29, 2007. Plan now to join us for Talk-a-Latte Chat!
Here are the chat details:

This is a FREE download and will not take up alot of space on your computer.

Alyssa will be speaking at the Memorial Day sing for Promised Quartet at Coila Baptist Church in Coila, MS. She will be speaking at 1:30pm about her ministry.

My weekly ezine, Mom – Daughter Connection now has a new home. I am no longer using Yahoo Groups to send out my weekly ezine. I have moved up and I am now using WAHMCart. You can subscribe on any page of our site in the top right hand corner or by sending a blank email to 487@wahmcart.com It is that simple. The ezine will still include the same great articles, recommended readings, tips and more! Subscribe today and receive a Free Special Report, Seven Easy Tips: Encouraging Your Daughter to Pray.

Join the WAH Expo Blog Tour!

Business and Learning’s Work at Home Expo is a virtual event providing a venue for home based business opportunity presentations during the day and high powered business learning opportunities each evening. The creators and volunteers of the Work at Home Expo will be visiting the blog’s of fellow work at home entrepreneurs the week prior to the famous Work At Home Expo coming May 7- 12th.

Starting Monday April 30th, we will be visiting blogs that belong to Work at Home Entrepreneurs to answer some of their business related questions, leaving comments and feedback.

Here are just a few areas of expertise that are covered:

Wendy Cooper is a graphic designer, virtual assistant, and wordpress guru that enjoys using her talents and skills to help make work easier for you.

Tammy Munson is a new media & technology specialist who is eager to answer your questions about how to integrate new media(blogging, podcasting and video) into your existing business.

Amanda Hamm is a Business Coach to Work at Home Moms, wordpress fanatic, and advertising and promotions adviser who would also like to help you to strengthen your skills to create a positive cash flow.

I am taking part in their Blog Tour. I am asking Wendy the following question “Where can I find the stats for my block on my Wordpress dashboard?”

Thanks for the assistance. Glad to be apart of the tour.

Alyssa will be speaking at the Girls in Action Sleepover for First Baptist Church, Indianola, MS on Friday, May 11, 2007.

Alyssa will be speaking at the Women’s Tea at First United Methodist Church in Bellefontine, Mississippi on Saturday, May 12 at 2:00 pm.

Alyssa will be speaking at the True Love Waits Rally, this Thursday, Feb. 22, at 6:00 pm at the First Baptist Church in Winona, MS. The Rally is being organized by the Devotional Club of Winona Public Schools. All teenagers in and around the Winona area are invited to attend.

True Love Waits (TLW) is an international Christian group that promotes sexual abstinence for teenagers. TLW was created in April, 1993, and is sponsored by LifeWay Christian Resources. It is based on the Biblical command to remain faithful to one’s husband or wife, even before marriage.

As posted earlier I had the opportunity yesterday to be interviewed by Rebecca Simmons on Power in the Word via Blog Talk Radio. This was an awesome opportunity for me. Please go on over to the following link and listen to the interview from the archives.

BLOG TALK RADIO

Thank you for your interest in my ministry.

I am so excited about the opportunity to be interviewed on radio. Here’s the scoop. The program “Power In The Word” will air live at 2:30 p.m. EST at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/power. It is a 30 minute show and will be recorded. Calls will be taken during the show. If you would like to call in the call in number is 646-652-4832. I will be interviewed over the phone. I am being interviewed by Rebecca Simmons, moderator of the Christian Women of Power networking group on Ryze Networking here online. Thank you Rebecca for the opportunity!

I am excited to announce that I am now offering a monthly ezine to anyone who would like to subscribe. The following is a description of what the ezine will offer.

This ezine will offer Biblically based devotions for moms as well as other tips and suggestions to help grow and strengthen their relationship with their daughters.

It will include inspiring articles, recommended products and readings, Alyssa’s View of the News and what is affecting girls today. It will also include product specials and announcements for Beauty By Design Ministries.

I hope that you will subscribe and recommend it to your friends. You may do so by visiting the following link.

Just join the group to begin receiving the monthly ezine. The first edition will be sent to you on Monday, February 5.

Please post a comment here to let me know you joined! Thanks!

I am excited to announce the launch of the Prayer Journal Gift Boxes. It is amazing to see your ideas come to fruition and actually become a real product on your very own website. I am excited to see how God has worked through the prayers of my own life. I myself, can look into my own prayer journal and see God has answered those prayers I have prayed over the last year or two about doing something just like this with the knowledge and passion that he has given me to serve him and to tell others about him and how they too can have a meaningful relationship with him.

The Prayer Journal Gift Boxes include a spiral bound prayer journal, designer pen, and scripture book mark as well as a booklet written by me on the importance of prayer journaling, how to begin, and a week’s worth of devotions to get you started. This prayer journal devotional guide is targeted to teen and preteen girls. This gift box is perfect for girls in all walks and stages of preteen and teen life, but makes a great gift for a girl at one of those precious milestones such as turning 13, Sweet 16, graduating high school, going away to college, or even getting married. It is never too soon or too late to begin using a prayer journal.

Check them out at http://www.beautybydesignonline.com/giftbox.php Also keep checking back often as I will have various colors and styles of journals available soon as well as our first party in a box kit as well.