Making healthy eating choices is the story of my life! I struggle so hard to eat right even though I know everything there is to it. I know what has proven to help me lose… More
The Trying of Your Faith
Written By Donna Marie Leonard May 2, 2023
The other day, I was reading Jesus Calling. This book is a daily devotional, so there is a page of encouragement with supporting scriptures for each day of the year. Even though I don’t read this book all the time, the days that I do read from Jesus Calling, it’s always on point with where I am. And I know that’s God.
The scripture that went with the text was James 1:2. I had never read all of James 1 before; however, I am familiar with James 1:5 which tells us that we can ask God for wisdom. So, that day I decided to start at the first verse of the chapter and read to verse 5. I did this so that I could understand the entire context of what was being said in this part of the chapter. But, I did not stop at James 1:5. It was all coming together, so I read through to verse 8.
This all made me decide to meditate on James 1:2-8 for this week. Please read it for yourself (see the scriptures below). It will bless you! In these six verses, God is telling us that we are to “Count it all JOY” (verse 2) when we are being tested. Why is this joyous you ask? Because in verses 3 and 4, it tells us that through these trying times our patience is tested and therefore made perfect and want for nothing. Now, we could just stop there for those scriptures are great on their own. Yet, if you read verse 5 which tells us that if you don’t have wisdom it’s because you have not asked for it; thus, if you ask God for wisdom he will give it to you.
Then, verses 6-8 are a testament of your faith. “But let him ask in faith, not wavering…”(verse 6 KJV). As believers, we have already experienced that magnitude of God when we became saved; however, sometimes we don’t exercise our faith. Hence, think of this as a call to action of your faith. Verse 7 says it so plainly, “…let not that man think he shall receive anything of the Lord” (KJV). And verse 8 wraps it all up with “…a double minded man is unstable in all his ways” (KJV).
In summary, don’t fret because you are in a storm or your faith is being tested. Your breakthrough is on the way! In James, he tells us to count it all JOY when our faith is tested because the testing of our faith worketh patience. And if you have faith that you’ll get through it, you will.
It is not a comfortable feeling when you are being tried or tested, but know that you will always find comfort in the word of God.
Stay encouraged. You’ll make it with God on your side! I hope this blessed you, the way it blessed me.
Be Blessed, Jewels!
James 1: 1-8 KJV
1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.
2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
James 1:1-8 NIV
1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.
References
Jesus Calling by Sarah Young
Photos.Burst.Shopify.com
Written By Donna Marie Leonard
Donna Marie Leonard has been blogging for ten years. She is the published author of children’s book That’s Me. Additionally, Donna Marie is a magazine columnist and freelance writer. She is a script writer, actor, and producer in the Houston film community, as well.
Top 5 Makeup Must-Haves
Written By Donna Marie Leonard April 30, 2023
I’ve reached a point where having a ton of lipsticks, blushes, bronzers, highlighters, concealers, foundations, primers, and all that jazz just becomes clutter and another item for me to store and keep organized. Plus, if you aren’t consuming that much makeup in so many months, the makeup may no longer be any good.
I don’t know about you, but I despise items that are just present in my home just to take up space. If it does not serve a purpose, it must GO. This includes makeup. I was that girl in college and even as a teacher that had many different eye shadow palettes, pretty much every color MAC lipstick, every shade of blush, just so much of everything. And back then, I did use all of those things. But now, I need simple. My makeup routine is pretty much the same day-to-day except special occasions where I may add eye shadow and lashes.
Here is a list of my top 5 makeup must-haves:
ONE- Foundation
This is essential to having that flawless, airbrushed look. With so many options to choose from, do your research before going out to buy. Not all foundations are created equal. It helps to know your skin type as well when selecting foundation.
TWO- EYEBROW ENHANCERS
Unless you are blessed with gorgeous brows, you may need the help of a brow pencil, gel, and things as such. Eyebrows really do make or break your face. You cannot consider your makeup done without brow makeup.
THREE- MASCARA
Mascara or lashes, whichever you prefer, one of them is a must. Your makeup will be great without it, but when you add lashes or mascara, it raises the bar. Definitely have this in your kit.
FOUR- LIPCOLOR
This is icing on the cake. Lipstick, lip gloss, lip stain, satin, or matte this must be in your makeup bag. Now, when it comes to lipstick you may want to have a few different colors. Unless you’re a red lipstick lady, like my mom, then you only need one color. But for those of us that like to switch it up depending on what you are wearing and the occasion, it is nice to have options.
FIVE- PRIMER
Now, you cannot start applying all this makeup without this right here. Primer is everything. It serves as not only a makeup enhancer, but it is a barrier between your skin and the makeup. I can tell the difference when I forget to put on primer. And you use the right primer, your makeup will last through hours of Texas heat. See my previous blog about my go to primer.
Those are my five makeup must haves. However, I would like to add three more that will make your makeup, pop!
CONCEALER
Concealer is great to cover up what we don’t want exposed. It is also our friend those mornings we may not have had enough beauty rest the night before, for the bags under our eyes.
HIGHLIGHTER
I LOVE highlighter! It couldn’t be in the top 5, because it is not a makeup essential, but if you can add it in your makeup bag, grab one! I love to sparkle, so a little highlighter is all I need for extra glam!
COMPACT POWDER
Liquid foundation is great. It does a great job on it’s own. Yet, compact powder seals the deal. Compact powder provides a smooth texture on your face and helps to diminish the appearance of pores.
Well Jewels, there you have it! These are my top five, well eight, makeup must haves. Share in the comments which one of these you can’t live without either.
References
Photos.Burst.Shopify.com
Written By Donna Marie Leonard
Donna Marie Leonard has been blogging for ten years. She is the published author of children’s book That’s Me. Additionally, Donna Marie is a magazine columnist and freelance writer. She is a script writer, actor, and producer in the Houston film community, as well.
What Did You Read Last Month?
Written By Donna Marie Leonard Feb. 1, 2023
Reading. It’s something about reading a book that is so whimsical. Books provide adventure, information about life, breath taking moments, laughable moments, and melancholy ones, too. They are the theme park ride that you questioned getting on but hate to get off when it is over.
I have always been of a fan of reading, it provided the necessary escape that I needed from my own world. There are just as many diverse book subjects as there are people. It really used to bother me when my students would say they didn’t like to read, but quickly did I learn that many people don’t read. Ask pretty much anyone, what’s the last book you read? Too often I have heard the Bible or a book by Dr. Seuss.
This is not because reading is SO BORING as many children say, rather it has to do with interest. When I started introducing my young readers to mysterious, comedic, tears rolling down your cheek, passion driven books, they were buying more books than me to read during DEAR (drop everything and read) time in class. I was so touched. This applies to adults too. We must find books that interest us. I know ELA teachers that will not read the books that we assign to our students, but they enjoy romance books during their down time. You have to find what peaks your interest, and that is what you read.
Now someone like me, I am all over the place. I will pretty much give any book a chance if it has great reviews or referred by friends. I’m not a fan of romance though. Give me a thriller anytime. However, one romance book stole my heart, I read it in 2 days. It is quite the page turner. I picked it up because everyone said it was a great movie. I’m like, well let me read the book first, then decide if the movie is worth watching. We all know the book is always better. And it still holds true. The book was so good! I didn’t even look for the movie right away, I just needed another book to read because I was devastated this book was over. It is this book that lead to me buy more books by this author which brings me to this months book, Turtles All the Way Down by John Green.
The book he wrote that I still adore to this day is The Fault in Our Stars. Oh my goodness, for my Shakespeare fans, isn’t the title alone captivating? So, with many fans giving this book praise, and the title reminded me of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, I had to give it a shot. And I am so happy I did. The movie doesn’t disappoint either.
It wasn’t until years later, headed into Half Price Book Store for a book I can’t even remember now, that I saw the release of John Green’s new book, Turtles All the Way Down. The sales associate saw me starring at it and suggested if I am a fan, it’s a must buy, for the first several books are signed copies. I was like ok, I’ll get it.
That was a few years ago. I had never really picked the book up to read until now. This is the book I chose to read for the month of January. The plot shares a story of a young lady, Aza, in high school struggling with matters of life. The way John Green characterized her was unlike any other character I have read in a book, and while at first it may seem strange, I was able to make a connection with Aza. That is what makes reading books inviting. The connection you’re able to make with the characters you are reading about. You experience the journey with them, you’re cheering for them, you cry with them, and sometimes it even means wanting revenge for them. While The Fault in Our Stars will always be my favorite John Green book, this one is a great runner up. His writing is impeccable. He paints a vivid picture for you of what the characters are going through, and you truly feel for them and their experiences (good and bad).
I will not give the story away, but it is a great read. Turtles All the Way Down is a fantastic reminder that you can’t always judge people from the outside and that life will always go on.
Reading is all about finding your lane and moving at a pace you’re comfortable with, kind of like at the gym. I’m not into heavy weight lifting, but I enjoy the cardio machines and kettle bells. But one day, I may have the courage to lift the heavy weights. That’s how it is with reading. You don’t have to start with a six-hundred page book like Echo. You can start where you feel comfortable and confident you’ll complete. Then, work towards reading longer books if you like.
This year, I hope you find a genre that suits your taste. I promise, reading is not boring, in fact it is very social because books are meant to be read and discussed. I can recall being at the airport terminal, waiting for the plane to arrive and a lady approached me about the book I was reading and wanted to know what I thought of it. We ended up chatting the entire time as we waited for our flight. It wasn’t all about the book, but the topics and themes that derived from the book became our conversation. Reading is social. It sparks conversation, and it attracts new friends.
Happy Reading, Jewels!
Share what books you are currently reading or have already wrapped up within this first month of the year, in the comments. Also, let me know if you are a fan of the work of John Green and have read The Fault in Our Stars, Turtles All the Way Down, or both.
References
Photos.Burst.Shopify.com
Written By Donna Marie Leonard
Donna Marie Leonard has been blogging for ten years. She is the published author of children’s book That’s Me. Additionally, Donna Marie is a magazine columnist and freelance writer. She is a script writer, actor, and producer in the Houston film community, as well.
Review of Maybelline’s Master Prime by Face Studio
Written By Donna Marie Leonard Jan. 4, 2023
Are you looking to glam up your look this year or maintain your makeup stash, but want to do so on a budget? I have a product that you can switch out and save money. My everyday go to primer is my Maybelline Master Prime by Face Studio. Maybelline has several different primers, the one I am referring to is for blur and redness control. And it’s not just great for day wear, it will last you through the night with the right setting spray. We’ll discuss that another time.
I’ve been using this product for years. Prior to, I would buy all the name brand and expensive ones. Thinking that because it’s Too Faced or Becca or Benefit it would work wonders. As you continue to purchase makeup over the years, you learn that each brand is really good at making certain products; therefore, spending your money with a brand for the sake of the cost is not going to always give you quality. Some brands are better off with their signature products, they aren’t necessarily a one-stop-shop. I started using Maybelline because everyone was raving the FIT Me liquid foundation. Again, I’m the type if I buy your foundation I might as well try your primer, concealer, and powders. This is how I began using Maybelline’s primer, and I have never went back to another one. I get so many complements on my makeup and people sometimes even go as far to ask what primer are you using. Only a real makeup gal would know to go that deep, most just stop at the foundation.
Anyway, this primer works well with my Mac Studio Fix Fluid and Nars Soft Matte foundation. This is not to say the primer will not go well with any other makeup brands’ foundation, because it will. I just choose to use these, for the most part. Moreover, my makeup last flawlessly all day with this primer. This primer helps my makeup to look smooth like I airbrushed my makeup on.
And the true beauty of using such a primer is that it is relatively inexpensive. It’s roughly $12. The big name brand primers run about $32. These prices go for both products being sold at 1 fluid oz. Now, there are mini versions of the more expensive primers for about $14, but you can get a standard size of Maybelline for twelve bucks.
Not only do I use this product on myself, when I do makeup on the actresses and extras on set, this is the primer that I use. The ladies’ makeup last the entire shoot. So, if you’re looking to cut back in your makeup expenses, perhaps give this product a try. If you have tried this product, or have any primer suggestions please share in the comments.
Stay Fabulous, Jewels!
References
Facestudio® master prime® primer makeup. Maybelline. (n.d.). Retrieved January 4, 2023, from https://www.maybelline. com/face-makeup/primer/facestudio-master-prime-primer/blur-redness-control
Photos. Burst.shopify.com
Written By Donna Marie Leonard
Donna Marie Leonard has been blogging for ten years. She is the published author of children’s book That’s Me. Additionally, Donna Marie is a magazine columnist and freelance writer. She is a script writer, actor, and producer in the Houston film community, as well.
You Matter
By Donna Marie Leonard Jan. 2, 2023
After I became a mom, it seems like little by little I began to stop doing the things that made me feel good about myself. It’s like the time we have in a day is never enough. It’s not even just enough to get by. I don’t know about you, but everything quickly became rush rush for me. Rushing in the morning to get dressed and ready for work, rushing after work to pick up my little, rushing home to make dinner, rushing to do a few house chores, take care of the little one, and then bed.
So let’s just say, nail and hair appointments, massages those all became a thing of the past. But I am here to say that this year, I am here to claim it all back and then some. It’s a lot being a parent. And if you’re anything like I am, you want the absolute best for your child. But it is all at the expense of ourselves. I’m not complaining about giving my child the world, because she deserves it. However, it takes a toll on you. It’s like my economic professor taught us, opportunity cost. You can’t have it all. Well, maybe. But for majority of us, the energy you put into one thing, is going to cost losing time with whatever else you would like to do. Yet, there is hope. You just have to squeeze it in your time.
And this is not to say that only parents get caught up and never have downtime. This applies to just about anybody who is trying to build their best life.
This is all to say two words. Self. Care. Yes, self-care. You forgot about it, too. I know I have for a long time. I have been daydreaming of a pedicure for two months now. It’s never enough time. We have to know how to slow down and take care of ourselves.
In 2023, I am ensuring self-care is a part of my weekly plans. I will fit her in my schedule some magical way. We need it. We’re only human. And all this rushing and going about each day draining ourselves until our heads hit the pillow is not ok. A part of self-care is time management. Time is truly a gift, and it matters what we do with each second of our day.
I dare you this year, each week, all 52 of them to find time for yourself. Maybe spend 10 extra minutes doing a facial mask, or go for a mani and pedi, or my favorite sit alone at the local coffee shop and read or write for 20-30 minutes. Do whatever it is that makes you happy, that you see fit as quality “me time” just to fuel yourself back up. You are totally worth it. I know for one of my friends, it doesn’t even have to be as long as the ones I listed above. One of my friends finds so much joy in having an ice cold can of coca cola. It’s that simple. She refuses to have them everyday, but there are moments she has that, and she claims she’s brand new.
Share with me in the comments Jewels, how you are going to spend time with you this year. I’ll go first, tonight I am going to spend ten minutes reading a book before bed.
Below is a list of ideas for self-care:
Take Care!
References
Photos. Burst.shopify.com
Written By Donna Marie Leonard
Donna Marie Leonard has written blogs for thecurvychateau.com since 2013. She is the published author of children’s book That’s Me. Additionally, Donna Marie is a magazine columnist and freelance writer. She is a script writer, actor, and producer in the Houston film community, as well.
No Longer Holding Yourself Back
By Donna Marie Leonard Jan. 2, 2023
Purpose has been the theme for years. Year after year, we hear people talk about the key to life is knowing your purpose. This is not a lie. In fact, it is far from it. However, what happens when you know your purpose, but you lack a sense of fulfillment? Well, that’s where executing comes in.
To execute is everything. The only thing stopping any of us from reaching our goals and living out our dreams is executing them. The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines execute as “To carry out fully: put completely into effect” and my favorite “…to perform what is required to give validity to.” Now, this raises volume to exactly what many individuals are lacking. They fail to “perform” that which is “required” to bring their dreams, their goals to pass. At the end of the day, you must put in the work. Without the effort, there is no effect.
And if mediocrity has taught us anything, it is that doing the bare minimum will continue to give you bare minimum results. The time has arrived to get out our comfort zones and execute our missions. Focusing on how you are going to execute those big, beautiful, brave ideas you have. You don’t have them by coincidence. Stop letting fear stop you. No more procrastination. No more excuses. In fact, I challenge you to write out every excuse you have that is limiting you to executing your goals, and little by little remove those excuses from your daily habits and begin to hone in on executing your dreams.
These past couple of years, we have watched so many people on social media fulfill their dreams. These are people just like you and I. The only difference is they decided to stop dreaming and start executing. Really think about it, what is truly holding any of us back from being just like them?
If you have new year resolutions, write execute next to them. Let that be your reminder to daily work towards fulfilling your goals. Like Mama used to say, “There’s nothing you can’t do.” And that’s the truth. Again, challenge yourself to write down those things that are holding you back from executing your goals, and begin to monitor yourself to ensure you aren’t falling back into those habits.
You got this! Remember, there’s nothing you can’t do. You are counting on YOU!
Happy New Year, Jewels!
I’m working on not disappointing myself this year, how about you? Let me know in the comments.
References
Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Execute definition & meaning. Merriam-Webster. Retrieved January 2, 2023, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/execute
Photos. Burst.shopify.com
Written By Donna Marie Leonard
Donna Marie Leonard has written blogs for thecurvychateau.com since 2013. She is the published author of children’s book That’s Me. Additionally, Donna Marie is a magazine columnist and freelance writer. She is a script writer, actor, and producer in the Houston film community, as well.
The Lash Depot Store Review
From the first glance, you knew they were meant to be. It is something about them that makes everyone rave over them. Yes, lashes! They are the beauty enhancer you want in your everyday look. When your lashes are on point, you really do not need anymore makeup. Well, a little lip color and you are poppin!
Lash extensions are one of the biggest things in makeup right now. Everyone is wearing them.
Without lashes 
With lashes
I must say that the few times I have worn lashes, I felt beautified. I know many women can agree, and that is why so many ladies wear lashes on the every day basis or even have individual lashes put on that last a few weeks. My eyes look dreamy with the lashes. The lashes are definitely an appealing piece to have on. So, if you have not tried lash extensions or you are looking for the latest in lashes read on.
The Lash Depot sent me a few sets of their Boss Lady lashes to try out. I was really excited to receive them and could not wait to try them. Of course, I did not wear them until I wanted to have that extra glitz of glamour. I did my makeup as usual, very basic day-to-day wear, then I added the lashes. There was a major difference between my mascara and the lashes. I truly took on the look of a boss.
The Boss Lady lashes by The Lash Depot are mink lashes. They are well packaged, and they are of great quality. The lashes are packed with an eyelash wand. I have worn the same set twice with no problems. I use the duo lash glue as an adhesive. The lashes do not come off until I pull them off. And for someone that does not wear lashes consistently, the Boss Lady lashes were very comfortable, hardly remembered I had them on.
I truly recommend this product. I am a beauty lover, and I believe in buying quality beauty products. These lashes are surely one I will add to my stash of makeup. Even for the ladies that are like myself, you may not wear lashes except for special occasions, the lashes carried at The Lash Depot are great to have on hand for those moments.
A great feature about The Lash Depot is that they are wholesalers. So, for those of you that are looking to rack up or add something new to your lash inventory, try THE LASH DEPOT! And if you just want lashes for yourself, check out their monthly subscriptions. There is something for everyone at The Lash Depot!
Thank you Lash Depot for sending me your lashes! When I want to have my ultra bossed-up look, I will wear my Boss Lady lashes.
Check out the Lash Depot at http://thelashdepot.com/ and Instagram, @thelashdepotstore, for all of their offers. Plus, receive 15% off your first order. Use the code NEWLASH!
Happy lash wearing, Jewels!
Build Yourself This 2019
“I am the sparkle in the gold.
I AM AMAZING!”
Donna Marie
The newness it brings, along with cheerfulness we sing, it’s a delightful thing. That’s the optimism that comes with the New Year. We excitedly bring it in, with hopes of achieving what last year did not win. But, this is not the time for any more excuses. This is the time for us all to embrace the hope the New Year has given us.
For this reason, you have to accept the challenge that has been granted you, life. And you were only given one. So this year marks the start of completing those New Year resolutions. While failed attempts may spring about, you cannot give up. This is your year to achieve the unbelievable. Will it require hard work, and take you out of your comfort zone? Yes, but it will be worth it. Those nights you go down with the moon and wake with the rising sun, will all be for the good of accomplishing the life you have always wanted.
This 2019, embark on creating the life you have seen yourself having. No more dreaming, time for your dreams to come to life. Walk in the path you have always known was meant for you. This is your year. There isn’t a more prominent time than now, to be in love with yourself enough that you give your dreams a chance to come alive.
There is nothing like waking up knowing that you are going to strive toward your greatness that day. Because too often, we drag ourselves out of bed to fulfill the dreams of someone else. But, it never has to be that way again.
You have the power within you to make greatness occur in your life. There are two simple steps to make this happen: believe in yourself and getting started. Once, you believe that you can possibly do it, you’re ready to take the first step. And then, you are on your way!
Last year, I learned just what it meant to step out of my own way and work towards my goals. And that was just one tiny step towards the big picture I envision of myself.
Jewels, if you do not have any goals this year other than surviving, I encourage you to build on the gift you have and elevate yourself. You deserve it.
Happy New Year, Jewels! Be You!
Taking Care of Ourselves: Breast Cancer Awarenes
Unfortunately, many have experienced the loss of someone dear to them due to this cruel disease. And while we are all aware that breast cancer exist, we must make sure that we are taking the steps to ensure our health. I have been left heart broken a few times in my lifetime learning that someone I cared about passed to this disease. It is so important that women educate themselves on understanding the signs of cancer as well as monitoring themselves at home.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides a great deal of information on how to perform an exam at home, early detection, the stages, treatment, support and much more. And there are several other sites out there that are credible in providing similar details.
As women, we are so engulfed into being mom, wife, our careers, basically taking care of others that sometimes we do not take the time to check in on ourselves. We matter so much to our families. They are depending on us; for this reason, we have to take care of ourselves. So if you have reached that plateau in your life for annual mammograms, get it done. Even if you haven’t reached that age, it doesn’t hurt to monitor at home. We have to strive for great health, our families are counting on us.
Jewels, let’s always do what we can to stay healthy for ourselves and our loved ones. Your health truly matters. Without good health, we are good for nothing.
Raise awareness for breast cancer, Jewels.
My Upcoming Book “That’s Me”
What I thought would be a simple project, turned into my new baby that became a long adventure. And honestly, as things get checked off of the to do list, I still feel as though I am embarking the beginning of this journey.
This new baby is my children’s book That’s Me. The illustrator, Sian Paulin, and I have spent several months perfecting this book, along with the support of a few others. It brings so much excitement to see how the words I wrote have unfolded into pictures and now an actual book.
While I have written many other works of literature, this one was important to me that I publish first. The inspiration that ties into the underlining purpose of writing this book is so dear to me. I will gladly share those details later. But of course, it apparently has to do with girls.
That’s Me while I hope it reaches the hearts of young girls, I also hope that it will touch the little girl that is inside of us women, too. And for those that have had the opportunity to read and give feedback on the book, they agree that it inspires them as an adult.
At this point, the world it literally a few weeks away from reading That’s Me, a lyrical book that inspires girls and women around the world to be true to who they are and follow their hearts’ desires.
You may visit my author page DonnaMarieLeonard.com to gather more details on the book and events. Can’t wait to share the excitement with all of you, Jewels!
The Curvy Chateau 