So Close Yet So Far Away

finishline

For the past few years I have been working on my dissertation in my counseling psychology.  There have been times along this journey where I have been discouraged, uninspired, tired, unmotivated and honestly depressed.  However, through each and every twist and turn along the journey, I have always found the motivation to restart, refocus and move forward.  With the prayers and help of family, friends and sometimes strangers, I have found the drive and the fortitude to move forward.

As I move toward this next phase in my life, I wait in prayerful anticipation the magnitude of what this moment and those beyond it means.  I have been working hard and burning the midnight oil with a boat load of goals in mind, and each and every day I find myself closer to my goals, while at times they also seem so far away.  No matter what I am trusting the journey and most importantly I am trusting the process.  There is so much in store and so much ahead that I can hardly wait to see what God has in store for me.

allthingsarepossible

I want to encourage everyone to keep moving forward toward your goals and don’t give up no matter how hard or how daunting the task may seem.  Quitting and giving up is not an option.  Don’t let anything or anyone stand in your way or become a distraction from your goals.  Keep pushing to achieve what you are trying to accomplish and never let anything or anyone stand in your way or stop you.  Know that no matter what the sky is the limit and with God all things are possible!  Good luck and see you at the top of the ladder.

Stay Blessed and Stay Fabulous!

pink-lips

 

Renaissance Atlanta Midtown

Renatlmid
RENAISSANCE ATLANTA MIDTOWN

 

Last month I was in Atlanta on business.  It was particularly busy in Atlanta that weekend due to the Bronner Brothers conference.  I always try to travel a few days before and  maybe have a day after business to prevent rushing.  For the five days I spent in Atlanta, I choose the Renaissance in Midtown to be my home away from home as well as my home office.  I have to say that my stay was great!

Renlobby
LOBBY LOUNGE AREA

 

From the moment I checked in I knew this hotel stay would be great.  Unfortunately when I got there I was under the weather with a cold, but work waits for no one.  The young lady at the registration desk (Shatara) was beyond helpful and offered me the opportunity to upgrade my room, which was great to have the option upon check-in, without asking.  She was courteous and friendly and extremely attentive.

The housekeeper on my floor (the 8th floor) was an angel.  Her name is Kita. On the first day I mentioned to her that I had a cold and from that moment forward she made sure there was plenty of Kleenex and peppermint tea in my room.  She kept the room impeccable, and it was refreshing to come in each day and everything was in order and a box of Kleenex by the bed.  This and my nightly Peppermint tea helped easy the frustration of my cold.  I have stayed in many hotels and I can count the number of times I received such great housekeeping service.  She was also great at directing me to the best places to eat in the neighborhood surrounding the hotel.

Breakfast Community Smith Atlanta
Community Smith

There was also a young man named Michael who worked the front desk in the evenings.  He too was the personification of great service and a great representation of the Renaissance Brand.  He was extremely helpful and courteous each and every time I saw him.  There were other highlights with the staff, the Jamaican Bartender, the waiters in the onsite restaurant and the valet guys.  They all made me feel welcome and almost like I were coming home to my high rise condominium rather than a hotel.

Happy Hour Drink Renaissance Atlanta Midtown
Happy Hour Drink Renaissance Atlanta Midtown

The amenities at the hotel were excellent.  One night there was a performer in the lobby singing.  What a great way to wind down with a drink (from Happy Hour) and the live entertainment.  The food at the restaurant was delicious.  The décor from the lobby to the guest rooms was beautiful as well as comfortable.  Located in Midtown not far from shops, restaurants and nightlife, the hotel was a highlight of my stay.  The staff was also very engaging on social media and I look forward to visiting again in the near future.  If you are headed to the Atlanta area, be sure to check out the Renaissance in Midtown.  You will not be disappointed.

Stay Blessed, Stay Fabulous

pink-lips