Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®

What legacy are you leaving?

2011-09-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

Nichole Nordeman, a Christian American singer-songwriter and an eight-time Dove Award winner, sings a song entitled “Legacy,” which is about doing something eternally significant with our lives that points people to Christ.

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

Soul Search: What legacy are you leaving that unapologetically blesses the Lord’s name? How will your understanding that you were born with a God-given lifetime dream impact your day-to-day living?

My Sweet Yahweh, I want to leave a legacy, an offering, that blesses your name unapologetically. Help me to do so, starting immediately.

Do ya think God may be trying to build my character?!

2011-04-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

ANYTHING SIMILAR EVER HAPPEN TO YOU?! HOW DID YOU FARE CHARACTER-WISE?

How God Rocked My World in March!

On March 1st, I was preparing to leave California for the Simply Youth Ministry worldwide conference in Chicago to launch The Way I'm Wired series on the topic of life purpose. (That's a DVD curriculum for youth workers and Life Purpose Coach® professionals, a companion book for parents-teens, and a devotional for all ages.) All of a sudden, I got three phone calls back-to-back-to-back.

The first was from my 90-year-old father, a God-adoring man, asking me to rent out my place and to move in with him to care for him, because his kidneys are operating at only 14%. He said, "I need you, Kateness." He also wanted me to help him downsize his possessions in his 2,700 sq. ft. home and to fix up his house a little bit for his final years. (He had cared for my mom in their home during her eight-year illness before she died in 1996, and he had never regained his strength after several bouts with colon cancer himself a few years later.) Moving in with him was a huge decision for me that had lots of ramifications, so I began praying about it immediately, until the phone rang again and interrupted my thoughts.

The next call was from my literary agent, Nancy, telling me that Tyndale Publishers was offering me a firm, extremely handsome contract to write a 400-page book entitled The One Year Recovery Prayer Devotional--which was to be flavored with a life purpose theme for each of the 365 days. I would have sixteen months to get it turned in, unlike the three-product Wired series above for which I had only had nine months.

(You may recall that I had fled to Maui in 2010 to write that Wired series, while my newly married daughter and her husband rented my home before buying their own townhouse. Going Hawaiian and "silent" had removed so many distractions during that impossible assignment for Group Publishing. BTW, with the Holy Spirit fast at work in the Islands, I turned in the DVD one week early, was on time for the parent-teen book, and with my publisher's permission-was one week late for the devotional.)

Back to the main story: As I hung up the phone from Nancy's phone call, my dad called again to see if I had made my decision yet. Instantaneously and undeniably, I knew that God wanted my answer to be YES, of course, I'd be honored. So, on March 7th when I returned from my trip, I drove straight to my dad's house from the airport and moved into one the three vacant upstairs' rooms of his house with no television or landline Internet. (FYI: He lives downstairs. Now, I have a thumb drive for the Internet, but...alas, TV has gone by the wayside.)

So far, with the behemoth help of my seven awesome brothers and sisters serving at fun and exhausting "Work Parties," we've deep-cleaned nearly the entire house and garage, have sent seventy large boxes to Salvation Army, and have had numerous driveways full for Bulky Item Pickup, E-Waste and Hazardous Waste Disposal, and Recycling Trucks! We've met some nice painters, a plumber, an electrician, carpet and linoleum layers, vertical blind installers-and many employees at Home Depot and Lowes-not to mention my dad's doctors, nurses, lab techs, and pharmacists.

I just wanted to keep it real with you, since one of my main life messages is Do today what matters today, and God will take care of the bigger picture of your life and ministry. And, he certainly has done so for me once again. For example, he sent a renter for my home early last week--a Christian woman I've known for years who "just happened" to mention to my daughter that she was looking for a place to live. In addition, already my father has been a tremendous inspiration to me of holy living and God-stories that I predict will be the content for at least sixty-five of the daily devotionals I need to write. What a treat it has been to accept this seasonal assignment to serve my father, while beginning to write another book.

In the meantime, I ask for continual prayers for my father (Charles); for my physical strength (I've lost 19 lbs since the three phone calls); for my character formation during intense times; for my private students, clients, and our LPCCI Affiliates who've been patient with me during this wild, 30-day transition; for focus to begin writing the recovery devotional in earnest; for the Wired series to reach hungry readers worldwide; for clarity regarding all the details of my August trip to South Africa to meet with our five coaches and their churches; and for Pastor Jeff Jernigan (our Men's Division President) and I to develop a strong message about Christian Coaching for the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) global conference in September in TN.

My encouragement to you is that...if God drops something in your lap as an out-of-the-blue assignment--thank him for allowing you to serve in that unexpected way, and then grab all the joy moments that will come chasing after you! This truly has been one of the happiest, most tender, and most precious times of my life. My dad, siblings, and I are making memories that will last forever in my heart.

In-between Time

2011-02-26T18:33:00.000-08:00

Are you good at taking a break? At being in-between projects? At allowing yourself to enjoy the time of refreshment and rejuvenation that God has provided after a hard season and before the next difficult task? As I catch myself in-between writing the three books for Group Publishing in Maui (2010), I wonder if I've thoroughly enjoyed the downtime in Jan/Feb 2011 prior to the full-on launching of those books in March. Yes, I've visited my sister in WA for 9 days, my grandsons in CO for 2 weeks, my daughter/dad/bros/sisters in CA for a month -- and yes, I seem to be sitting more in God's presence, but have I truly laughed, smiled, and played more -- or am I still the same "serious-minded" soul that forgets to exhale when the pressure is off for a moment? Here's to exhaling, singing, dancing, laughing, smiling, playing more -- when God provides those golden opportunities. WHAT ABOUT YOU? HOW ARE YOU AT BEING IN-BETWEEN THE HEAVY-DUTY STUFF OF LIFE?! Just curious.

What has helped you recover/heal?

2010-11-30T11:56:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

I'm doing a research assignment for a publisher and need your help. Here's my question for you: What has helped you recover/heal from an addiction, obsession, compulsion, issue, regret, shame, fear, or trauma of ANY kind?!

Feel free to include things a therapist, author, support group, friend, or family member taught you--whether the method is spiritual, relational, financial, educational, health-related, physical, psychological, or other type. It can be something simple or something long-term that has changed your life.

Mahalo Nui,
Katieb

What do teenagers want to be when they grow up?

2010-08-07T16:49:00.000-07:00

I'D LOVE YOUR INPUT -- FOR MY BOOK FOR TEEN'S ABOUT LIFE PURPOSE (to be released in spring 2011) -- due soon! [The last of the 3 questions is, by far, the most important to me!]

What do teenagers want to be when they grow up?
Think back to your teenage years—what did you want to be when you grew up? Let me take a guess:

Helping professions:
• Police officer or fire/rescue personnel
• Doctor, nurse, veterinarian, or speech/physical therapist
• Teacher, counselor, or social worker
• Priest, nun, pastor, pastor’s spouse, or choir director
• Missionary in Africa (or other impoverished country)
• President of the United States or of your country (or a politician)
• Soldier or military officer
• Scientist who cures a disease or inventor who meets a need
• Lawyer or judge who takes down the bad guys
• World-class chef
• Best-selling author and/or motivational speaker
• Architect, contractor, builder
• Musician, artist, graphic designer
• Wealthy company president

Exciting professions:
• Triple threat movie star: actor/actress, singer, dancer
• Top-ranked athlete
• Somebody famous, like a fashion model, radio broadcaster, or talk show host
• Hobbyist, like a professional surfer, skateboarder (or ski instructor!)

Nowadays, we can add these popular professions:
• Technological genius
• Environmentalist
• Animal rights’ activist
• Reality show star
• Rachel Ray –type brand icon

[BLOGGERS...what have I missed in any of these categories—and can you think of any other major categories I might add?]

What do all these careers have in common? They help someone or they fill a personal need for passion.

[BLOGGERS...what have I missed as far as what they have in common?]

How does this relate to life purpose?
When it comes to God’s plan for your teenager’s life, we use these dreams to get clues, and then we flip the focus onto how the dream could benefit the kingdom!
Here are some real-life examples of people I’ve known, starting with myself and my two kids first:

• Katie dreamed of being a missionary in Africa and writing a book that gave people hope. I adored Sherlock Holmes mysteries and complicated jigsaw puzzles. Today, I am the founder of a missionary-sending agency—and a published author who helps people put together the puzzle of God’s plan for their life. I teach them that God never intended for their life purpose to be a big mystery.

• Stephanie (my daughter) dreamed of being a professional dancer and singer—and also of expanding the Peer Mentoring program at her high school to reach more teenagers. Today, she has completed her master’s degree and is finishing her clinical hours to become a marriage and family therapist. She volunteers at church in the liturgical dance ministry. She daydreams, nearly daily, about opening a Christian camp for young people who need counseling and who would also benefit from dance, music, and art therapy.

• Andy (my son) was greatly affected by the mentoring that a group of godly youth workers poured into him as a teenager, after his father’s death. Also, he was coached in small business, entrepreneurial, and marketing skills by one particular youth pastor who unofficially adopted him. Andy thought he was going to be a youth pastor, but he found his niche as an E-Commerce director of a major Christian youth ministry.
• Other example
• Other example
• Other example

[BLOGGERS...can you add your story here? Maximum word count = 85 words or four sentences. You can use a fake name, if you’d like. Nobody will be identified anyway. MAHALO/THNX/GRACIAS!]

This is a brief gist of the concept that God does work in our lives and our teenager’s lives to unveil the best possible plan—at the best possible moment. Part II will walk you through how to hear God’s best!

Greetings from Maui

2010-06-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

I've come to the conclusion that to LIVE BIG (which is the name of my most recent book that purports to have some answers in it on this topic)...you really have to live small. I know that may not make sense at first blush, but here's the gist of what I have discovered in the past six months that I wish had made it into the book before it was published:

I'm living in a 650 sq. ft. condo in Maui. My daughter and her husband (newly married) are renting my CA place from me. I have left my car on the mainland with a young couple from church who only had one car, so I ride a $129 blue Lady's Beach Cruiser bike (love it!!) and take a bus wherever I want to go. I only buy what I can carry in my bike basket or backpack. My church is a little 1850's Hawaiian chapel that seats 70 people and sings/prays sometimes in Hawaiian. My entertainment is a movie at the theater every 3 months or a rental for $3.99 from ITunes --and a daily swim in the ocean. I only eat out once or twice a month for a delicious burger, unless I have family visiting! I have 3-4 casual outfits in the closet and wear flip flops most days...unless I'm in tennis shoes out for a walk. I brought over 100 lbs of "my stuff" (lots of that was for our September training event here), and the rest fits in a CA storage unit that is a 5' x 10'. I gave tons away to family, friends, and Goodwill -- before I moved.

Ok...you get the idea. I live a very simple life, and frankly, I CAN'T REMEMBER when I have been this happy or productive! (Am on an Oct 31st deadline writing a DVD Curriculum for Youth, a parent trade book, and a student devotional trade book.) True, I'm looking at the ocean when I type -- and I understand that is a huge part of my joy. But, my conclusion is this:

LESS IS BETTER. SIMPLE IS GREAT. SMALL MAKES ROOM FOR LIVING BIG IN AREAS THAT MATTER!

Tell me what you think? Does this sound right to you, or am I just awestruck at the beauty of the Islands? Trust me, I thank God a zillion times a day for the location, but with that out of the equation, is my conclusion correct? (Sure don't want God to test my simplicity theory by moving me; would rather have you help me sort out my thoughts!)

Mahalo for sharing your thoughts,
Katieb

ALL DONE!!!! Your Research Help Was Awesome!

2010-03-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

ALL DONE!!! THANK YOU-MAHALO-GRACIAS!!

With all the off-line entries received in addition to the Comments below, we are completely done!! Many thanks.

ORIGINAL REQUEST:

I am doing research for two new books that I am writing. Do you have a favorite Scripture verse/passage (or 2-3-4 verses/passages!) about…

PURPOSE-IN-LIFE
GOD’S PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE
GOD’S PLAN FOR A BIBLE CHARACTER’S LIFE

…in one of these books of the Bible noted below? If so, please reply here and tell why you like it! Thank you very much for your assistance. I’m racing the clock to complete these books.

Instructions that will help save time on this end:
1. Please do not post on any of the books of the Bible that are NOT mentioned here – even if you have some all-time favorites. Much appreciated, since I already have more than enough verses/passages from the other books – and need to stay focused on what is still missing.

2. If you use www.BibleGateway.com, that site will allow you to use the NLT (New Living Translation) and you can simply cut/paste it into its own box – and hit “Reply/Post.” [You may put one verse or many verses in a given post – your choice of how you like to operate. Feel free to simply give the reference, and not the text, if that is easier on you.]

3. If you notice that someone else has already mentioned one of your favorite verses, thanks for not listing that verse again!

4. You may post as many verses or as many times as you like! I need all the help I can get. [If you are serious about checking many verses/passages, you may want to cut/paste the list below and work offline – to avoid cyberspace catastrophes. If you do come up with MANY verses or passages, feel free to email them to me at Info@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com. [Tell me in advance of your quest…and I will hold you and your efforts up to the Lord, by name, for his blessing of your Bible search.]

5. These two books I’m working on won’t allow for “contributors” to be thanked, but I want to thank you in advance right now! THANK YOU SO MUCH! You know that I prayerfully appreciate it, as I hope these manuscripts will be life-changing for the readers.

ONLY 12 BOOKS I NEED YOUR HELP ON:
2 Samuel
1 Kings
2 Kings
2 Chronicles
Ezra
Ecclesiastes
Song of Songs
Isaiah
Lamentations
Ezekiel
Daniel
Hosea

Are you living big? Describe what a large, passionate life looks like for you.

2010-01-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

My new book, "Live Big! 10 Life Coaching Tips for Living a Large, Passionate Life" is now out -- I'm so excited. I'd love to hear your thoughts about how you would live (or are living) a large, passionate life! Here is an excerpt from the end of Chapter 8. How would you respond?

Reflection
Think about the following question as you read the rest of the book. We’ll use your daydreaming about it in Step 10: Capture Your Live Big! Dream.

Basic premises
• If you had assurance from God that He was thrilled with your plans to follow your dream and that He would not let you fail . . .
• If you had all the time and energy you needed . . .
• If the entire world were eager to support your vision with money and resources . . .
• If this were the ideal season of your life . . .

Specific premises in these eight chapters
• If you were free of all your fears . . .
• If you truly had discovered the benefits and joy of exhaling . . .
• If you honored your deepest longings . . .
• If you knew for sure that you would persevere to the end of the race . . .
• If you were healed of the wounds in your past and determined to let God use them . . .
• If you were in the habit of always expecting miracles . . .
• If you had lovingly forgiven yourself and everyone who ever hurt you—and you knew that you had been forgiven unconditionally by God and others . . .
• If you were in the habit of eating dessert first, of enjoying life to the fullest . . .

. . . what passionate, Live Big! dream would you pursue?

I say no holds barred on your answer to this last reflection question!

Purpose Angst?!

2009-08-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

I'm looking for metaphors and similes about what your search for purpose has felt like.

I'm writing a new book that talks about people's "Purpose Angst." Some have a mild case and some, like me, have had a severe case. Pastor Rick Warren (at the purpose driven Saddleback Church) once said that I needed a daily purpose transfusion to keep me alive.. so yes, I had an extreme case.

Whatever comparison you can think of would be awesome! [And, feel free to provide some additional background information, if you want.]

Example: I felt like my heart was tied up in a big knot.
Example: It felt as if I were a little kid in a candy store who was not allowed to buy any candy.

Can't wait to hear from you,
Katieb

The Graduation Season Has Started!

2009-06-04T10:08:00.001-07:00

With graduation in the June air, I'd like to ask you to share your most important or memorable Spiritual Graduation Moment -- something that was hard to do, but you did it out of obedience to God!!

NOT INCLUDING: Your salvation.

I'm looking more for surrender and spiritual growth stories -- that will bless other Christians who may be struggling, while reading this BLOG.

Think discipleship, not evangelism!

Can't wait to hear about Your Moment of Truth! - but remember not to include confidential details,
Katieb

WHERE R U...on the Road From Success to Significance?

2009-04-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

E-Coaching Tips
May 09

WHERE R U ON...

The 8 Stages on the Road From Success to Significance

1. Disengage to think.

2. Do a self-assessment to understand what "build on your strength" means to you.

3. Find your spiritual core.

4. Envision your mission-in-life.

5. Clear your plate to create capacity.

6. Build a "Second-Half Team" to support your mission.

7. Test your concepts in low cost probes, as well as with seismic testing!

8. Re-paradigm your life. Develop an entirely new way of thinking about your life.

Adapted from Game Plan

by Bob Buford

WE JUST GOT ICF-PROVIDER APPROVAL!!! YAHOO!

2009-02-17T15:02:00.000-08:00

NEWS FLASH:
Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® was ICF-approved TODAY as a provider of "Continuing Coaching Education" units by the International Coach Federation for our Courses #101, 201, 301, and 401a/b!!! (We only have 401c left to submit, and we will make sure that is done prior to presenting at the American Association of Christian Counselors' World Conference in Sept 09 in TN.)

This is HUGE for Christian Coaches - to be recognized by a secular entity that, in many respects, governs coach training! Please pray that we will be good stewards of this privilege, even exceeding the standards which are already quite high! A special thanks to Judy Thompson for all her due diligence. It would not have happened without her dedication and determination!

Please tell your friends -- and/or let us know today of any coaches who need to earn CCE units from ICF, and we will shoot them an email with the good news!

You may recall that we were also awarded Provider training status by IACET, the International Association of Continuing Education Training, in May 2008. Together with the ICF accreditation, that makes us the place for Christian Coach Training!

For more info, contact info@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com.

Thanking Jesus,
Katie Brazelton

What are your favorite sayings?!

2009-01-26T15:02:00.001-08:00

I find myself saying these things all the time...

It's not my business.

Never, never, never give up! (Winston Churchill)

Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Read chapter

What if?

Why not?

What are some of your favorite sayings? Post your answer here and/or on my Twitter page (http://twitter.com) or my Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com.) -- both under Katie Brazelton.

Hugs on this cold day in SO CA,
kb

Happy New Year - Welcome 2009 in style!

2008-12-22T12:24:00.000-08:00

The last part of 2008 has been a rocky road for me -- with crazy things like credit card fraud while the card was still in my wallet, lost luggage for 36 hours with my laptop battery in it, a flat tire on one of the busiest days of my life, numb hands that don't work without electrodes
zapping them, crashed computer (that one was totally my fault for plugging in a wrong cable! GGRR!), virus on a loaner-computer, leaky water heater which left me with no hot water for 5 days and showering at the community pool, book deadline in the next 50 days -- and trying to teach for Rockbridge Seminary and sit on a 2-day Jury Selection process while physically and emotionally helping my son's family move to Colorado and my daughter move to a neighboring county in CA.

But...what I learned during this odd season is that as I was tempted to throw a pity party, all I had to do was to ask others how they were doing to have my eyes really opened! I was so often
humbled by really tough situations in other's lives. For example, two friends lost their houses this week; another friend's husband is today having tests for possible colon cancer; and another friend's husband lost his job.

May I urge you during this New Year to be like Christ who cared deeply about the trials of others. Take the time to ask the all-important question: Do you have any prayer requests!? You will be forever blessed by asking the question and then praying for others. BTW, I often ask a waitress/waiter serving a meal: "We are about to offer thanks for this meal you have served us. Is there any prayer request we can include for you?"

But, if you try that, I must warn you to brace yourself. The last time I asked a waitress that question, she said to us: "Yes, please pray for my twin infant boys who were just born a few days ago and have to stay in the hospital for three more weeks. I'm really worried about them."

People are hurting. OFFER TO PRAY FOR THEM! You will make the birth, life, and death of Jesus more tangible for them and for yourself. May 2009 bring God's best for you and your family! And, may the prayers you offer on behalf of others change your life forever.

Hugs,

Katie Brazelton

Founder

Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®

LPCCI CHRISTMAS SALE EXTRAVAGANZA!

2008-11-10T08:56:00.000-08:00

SMALL GROUP CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Autographed Copies of Books!!

With 1 Dozen Books (minimum order), get...

All books autographed
Personalized email from author, Dr. Katie Brazelton, for your Small Group, other friends, family members, or clients.
1 free book of your choice!

All orders paid by Monday, Nov 17th, take 10% off total cost!

Mix and Match Your Order from the Following Book/Audio End-of-Year Inventory On-Hand at LPCCI:

Pathway to Purpose for Women Personal Journal - Only 2 copies available!

(Retail $9.99; Today: $7)

Pathway to Purpose for Women Audio CD - Only 5 copies available!
(Retail $19.99; Today: $15)

Character Makeover: 40 Days with a Life Coach to Create the Best You - Only 4 copies!
(Retail $12.99; Today: $10)

Conversations on Purpose for Women - 24 copies available
(Retail $14.99; Today: $9)
Also available: EZ-Forms for Coaches and Clients to do long-distance with electronic templates

Also available: 2 copies Korean

Praying for Purpose for Women - 28 copies available
(Retail $14.99; Today: $9)
Also available: 2 copies Chinese; 3 copies Portuguese

Pathway to Purpose for Women - 36 copies available
(Retail $19.99; Today: $12)
Also available: 1 copy Chinese

Daily Seeds for Women Who Walk in Faith (Moody Radio) - 1 Devotional by Katie Brazelton
(Retail $14.99; only offered as one of the free options while supply lasts - for those ordering at least 2 dozen books! This item is brand new -- only a few weeks old!)

Minimum Order = 1 Dozen Assorted Books

Tax applies to CA residents only
Shipping Costs = You may choose Media Mail or Priority

HOW TO PLACE AN ORDER: Send an email to confirm that we still have the books you want in stock. WomensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com or MensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com or CouplesInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCentes.com.
Then, request a PayPal Invoice or confirm total amount for the check you are mailing.

____________________________

ALSO OFFERING A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEA FOR MEN!

Conversations on Purpose: For Men

10 Appointments that Will Help You Discover God's Plan for Your Life

EMAIL TO PURCHASE AN ELECTRONIC COPY
OF THIS E-BOOK AND EZ-FORMS TODAY!

____________________________

My second grandson has been born!

2008-08-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

My grandson was born. Everybody is healthy and napping -- and I mean EVERYBODY!

Born 12:46am Sunday in the middle of night

Easy delivery (Julie says!)

7 lbs + 21 inches

Alert and happy baby.

Thanks for your prayers and wishes of health.

I wanted to share my joy with you. I’m so excited,

Katie (Grammie)

Would you like to comment: on "Effective Coaching" and/or pray with us?

2008-08-02T16:43:00.000-07:00

E-Coaching Tips
August 08

This Month's Coaching Focus:
Key Behaviors and Skills for Effective Coaching

Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® teaches its Life Purpose Coach® students to operate from the following guidelines of key behaviors and skills that define today's coaching environment and create a solid foundation for effective coaching. We believe in and urge you to adopt similar practices when coaching, mentoring, and/or discipling others:

Meeting ethical guidelines and professional standards
Establishing a Coaching Agreement
Establishing trust and intimacy with the client
Being fully present for the client
Listening actively
Asking powerful questions
Communicating directly
Creating awareness
Designing action steps
Planning and goal-setting
Managing progress and accountability

These 11 principles are in agreement with the standards of the International Coach Federation.

----------------------------------
Friends, my heart is heavy with prayer requests that some of our Coaches have shared with me in telephone conversations and via emails during the past two months. I want to generically mention these to you, so you can know how to pray for us - as you better understand that Life Purpose Coaching Centers International® is more than an organization. We are family!

Our Coach's Prayer Requests:

Quadriplegic daughter
Double Mastectomy (2 Coaches)
Mortgage just increased $1000
Laid off from day job
Parents with terminal illness (3 Coaches)
Grief over having to turn off her sister's Life Support
Spouse's affair
Pregnant teen
Numbness in extremities
Thunderstorm destroyed computers/printer
Longing to be in full-time ministry with spouse
Teen suspended from a Christian College for drug use
Fear of giving a speech
Fear of taking the next step in ministry
Recession impact on family business
Alcoholic sister
West Nile Virus scare
Africa Visa approval to attend Laguna training
Indonesia travel arrangements to attend the training

My Personal Prayer Requests this Month:

Healing from two back surgeries (Jan and June 08)
My dad's two cancer surgeries this summer
Hard Drive crash last week
New book deadline on January 1, 2009
New website development (with bells and whistles)
Radio Show or at least a Radio Blog
International Coach Federation (ICF) Application
Thanks for supporting us in prayer this month,

Katie Brazelton
Founder, Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®

Do you agree with Dr. Gary Collins about "How to Evaluate Your Vision"?!

2008-07-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

Let me know what you think of this list?!

EVAULATING YOUR VISION

Each vision is unique, but clear, God-given visions will have these similar characteristics:

Consistent with Scripture. No vision from God will violate any biblical teaching. Every vision for an individual or organization is consistent with God's plans as recorded in God's Word.

Consistent with your spiritual gifts, values, and passion.

Worthwhile. God-given visions are worth living for, sacrificing for, committing to, and maybe even worth dying for.

Clear and concise. They are easy to understand, remember, and communicate.

Characterized by high ideals. Every good vision must include commitment to excellence, integrity, respect for people, and similar values.

Ambitious. The best visions will guide, often amaze, and move people forward toward something much better than the status quo.

Scary. God-given visions can be life-changing, pulling us out of our comfort zones, instilling awe, stretching us beyond what we may see as our limits.

Unique. Does your vision really reflect who you are? If people who know you well are surprised by your vision, you probably don't have the right vision. And if your vision is the same as everyone else's vision, something is wrong.

Compelling. Visions feel right. They excite, motivate, and generate enthusiasm. The more you reflect on the vision the more you are convinced that this is what you have to do. If your vision brings a "ho-hum" response from others, something is wrong. If it doesn't inspire you, forget it. Visions that don't inspire aren't God-given visions.

Gary Collins, Helping Others Turn Potential into Reality: Christian Coaching. (NavPress, 2001): 126. [Dr. Collins is a licensed clinical psychologist and author of more than 50 books.]

LPCCI has incredible news to share this summer!

2008-06-08T19:17:00.001-07:00

Thank you so much to those of you who prayed us through the enormous 9-month (5-dozen reams of paper!) project to become an authorized provider of Continuing Education Units for the International Association of Continuing Education Training.

These words below were sweet to our ears in late-May: "Congratulations, your application to become an IACET Authorized Provider has been approved by the Commission."

We want to pause and thank God for this enormous blessing - that we will be able to reach nurses, social workers, counselors, therapists, teachers, ministers, etc., as they help people discover and fulfill God's plan for their lives. What a humbling honor to impact lives in this way. It is a very historic moment for our ministry to open our IACET Division with the addition of our Dean of Acadmic Affairs, Kathryn McColskey, Ph.D., and our Registrar, Susan Singleton, JD. In addition, we are thrilled to announce that our first applicant was a female Methodist Minister!

If you know of any groups who typically need CEU's related to our curriculum, please email us about how we might be able to spread the word with them.

Hope you enjoy the June '08 E-Coaching Tips below.

Join us Sept 08 in Laguna Beach, CA for our Life Purpose Facilitator Training!

May God's abundance be evident to you this summer!

Katie Brazelton
Founder, Life Purpose Coaching Centers Intl®

Check out our Character Makeover BLOG on the left Nav Bar of our homepage.

ASK US TO CONNECT YOU TO AN ONLINE CHARACTER MAKEOVER BOOK STUDY WITH ONE OF OUR COACHES!
_______________________________________
E-COACHING TIPS - JUNE O8

Ask your client or friend these leading questions and see where the conversation goes! We guarantee it will go deep and rich fast, so make sure you pray before you begin. And, remember to listen carefully.

What's right with your life?

What's wrong?

What's missing?

What are you afraid of?

Where's your leverage?
(i.e., time, money, passion, energy, ability, credentials, network, platform, spiritual giftedness, self-discipline, proven track record, support system, Hebrews 11 faith, etc.)

What's confusing?

What are you passionate about?

This Month's Coaching Focus: When to Say Yes to a Ministry

2008-05-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

This Month's Coaching Focus:
When to Say Yes to a Ministry

Because each one of us is already over-committed, it is very important that we set healthy boundaries for ourselves in ministry. Of course, we say yes to short-term ministry obligations when there is a great need, but these tips are targeted at long-term ministry commitments. These are the types of tips a Life Purpose Coach® would use with you:

Say yes when...

1. You have done an honest appraisal of the time commitment.
2. Your skills/talents/abilities match the task.
3. You will be operating in your spiritual giftedness.
4. You know that it is the correct season of your life to serve in this capacity.
5. You have pure motives for serving in this area.
6. You have been affirmed by other mature Christians.
7. You will have a support system.
8. You have some semblance of balance in your life.
9. You believe there will be noticeable fruit of changed lives.
10. You know that the ministry's methodogy works or can be tweaked.
11. You can surrender it all to God.
12. You sense that you "can't not" do it.
13. You have prayerfully sought God's will and have a green light to proceed.

vs. Opportunity knocks and you walk through the door out of guilt, duty, or an impure motive!

BLOG with me on this topic! TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK!

God bless,
Katieb

International Association of Continuing Education Training

2008-04-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

Please join us at LPCCI in praying continuously for our Site Visit from IACET (International Association of Continuing Education Training) on May 15, 2008. This would allow us to offer Continuing Education Units to counselors, social workers, probation officers, nurses, teachers, etc., who will often (not always, but often) be able to use the Life Purpose Coach curriculum with their clients, patients, and students. Our initial (3"!) application was accepted with minor queries, so this would be the last step we would need to take in this 6-7 month process. PLEASE STORM THE HEAVENS FOR US! This could be life-changing for so many.

If you have any experience with any type of accreditation board and have any advice for us (or just want to bless us with prayer!), I'd love to hear from you in this BLOG.

So, I'm reading this new book that I can't put down!

2008-02-25T16:37:00.000-08:00

Was still trying to figure out why I am such a terrible BLOGGER, when my son gives me this incredible book, BLOG: Understanding the Information Reformation That's Changing Your World (Nelson Books) by a great Christian author, Hugh Hewitt, who is a New York Times Best-selling author. It's fascinating! Has anybody read it? I'd love to hear from you. If you have a ministry, I'd highly recommend it. HAPPY LEAP YEAR DAY ON FEB 29TH!
Katieb

SPECIAL NEWSLETTER: Katie is Celebrating 20 Years in Ministry!

2008-02-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

ASK US TO EMAIL A COMPLIMENTARY COLOR COPY OF THIS 20TH ANNIVERSARY NEWSLETTER TO YOU! Write to WomensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com today!

February 2008
Special 20th Anniversary Edition

Celebrating 20 Years
in Ministry!

Dear BLOGGER,

"Oh taste and see that the Lord, our God, is good!"
- Psalm 34:8

Welcome to this special anniversary edition of our newsletter. My heart resounds with the psalmist's words! It has been 20 years now that I have followed my own life purpose, dedicated to helping others discover their life purpose. I have learned from the giants on whose shoulders we stand, have linked arms with my contemporaries, and have mentored countless clients, students, and friends, as they too, help others discover their life purpose.

To give you a little glimpse of the some of those years, I dug up some old photos. I got a good chuckle that some of them are a few hairstyles ago -- but hope you enjoy them!

Well, that was the past, and this is now. And, because this is National Coaching Week (Feb 3-9), this newsletter will fill you in on what I am doing right now; my coaching services, on-line book studies, the facilitation of 2-day life plans in my home, Life Purpose Coach tele-training classes...and more! I'm looking forward to serving you in 2008!

This past week, my son Andy told me I needed to "lighten up" my blog. Imagine! Here's my problem...I'm not quite sure how to do it...and I need your help! Will you meet me at my blog this week...I am looking forward to chatting with you there!

Thank you for taking a few moments to celebrate the past 20 years with me. God IS good!

God bless you,
Katie Brazelton
Founder, Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®
BLOG with Katie

Rare Coaching Opps with Katie
I am really excited to let you know that I am offering (for the first time in a long time due to previous scheduling conflicts!) both group and individual coaching on a first-come, first-served basis.

Group Coaching: 5-Month Program!
(April-August '08)

Includes homework assignments for:
• Monthly tele-conference group call with me
• Monthly private call with me
• Monthly call with peer-coaching group partner
• Optional 1-day group retreat (9am-7pm. Materials provided. Hotel/food not included) in SO CA (or 2 extra private calls with me)

Private, Individual Coaching
Your choice of topic to discuss:
Life Purpose, Character Makeover, or "Getting Published."

Each month includes three, 45 minute telephone sessions with me

Email today: womensinfo@lifepurposecoachingcenters.com
for more your registration form and/or complete details!

20 YEARS IN MINISTRY: 1988-2008

1988 - Took spiritual pilgrimage to Calcutta, India
- Talked with Mother Teresa about joy and purpose
- Began writing Pathway to Purpose series

1989 - Visited Nobel Peace Laureate in Belfast, Ireland

1995 - Founded Mentors, Inc
- Was 1st woman in the world to become a Cerfied Life Plan Faciltator

1997 - Invited to work for Pastor Rick Warren on Saddleback Church Staff

2001 - Invited to become a Licensed Minister at Saddleback

2002 - Preached in Kenya on the topic of Life Purpose

2005 - Published 4 books & audio CD in Pathway series
- Founded Life Purpose Coaching Centers International®
Bestseller

2007 - Published Character Makeover. Check out audio chapters on website!

2008 - Writing 6th book, "A Plan of a Lifetime"
- Have ministry expansion plans to grow from 7 countries to 14 this year. PRAY WITH US!

Character Makeover
Group Book Study

Is your Small Group looking to "switch things up" a bit? Well, here's an idea for you. Why not join me for an 8-week Character Makeover Group Book Study via tele-chat?

And if you don't belong to a Small Group, then grab a few of your girlfriends to go on this 8-week adventure with you. Each tele-session with me is 35-minutes, and once you are off the conference call, you can continue your discussion with your Small Group.

For registration forms and /or complete details,
just email: WomensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com
and be sure to put "Character Makeover Group Book Study" in the subject line!

And don't forget...there are some great Character Makeover tools on my website. Check them out here...
http://www.lifepurposecoachingcenters.com/NEWBOOKCharacterMakeover/tabid/264/Default.aspx

Spring/Summer Tele-Class Training Dates

Level One and Two
• NEW! April 08 - Coed Level One: Basic Life Purpose Coach®
• NEW! May 08 - Coed Level Two: Advanced Coaching and Business/Marketing

Level Three
• Repeat: March 08 - Coed Level Three: Basic Life Purpose Facilitator
• Repeat: June 08 - Coed Level Three: Basic Life Purpose Facilitator

Level Four
• NEW! July 08 - Coed Level Four: Advanced Life Purpose Facilitator

Level Five
• NEW! August 08 - Women's Level Five: Instructor Certification for Levels 1 & 2 only. By Founder invitation for a limited number.

Book Your Private, Individual, Life Plan with Katie Today!
Without a doubt, one of the favorite parts of my ministry has been facilitating women's Life Plans. To walk through such a Holy Spirit-guided process with women from all over the world has truly been a privilege since 1995.

To book your 2-day private, individual Life Plan with me in my home, or to get more details, email me at: WomensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenter.com

February's Group Chat with Katie!
Do you wonder what the group chat is all about? Well, it's an opportunity to gather on a tele-conference call and ask me questions about Life Purpose Coaching, about the training, about becoming a Life Plan Facilitator, or any other question you may have about LPCCI or me personally.

If you are interested in joining me on February's Group Chat, email Linda for the dates and for a tele-conference call-in number and password. Talk to you then.
Linda@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com

Through the Years! ASK US TO EMAIL YOU THE NEWSLETTER, SO YOU CAN SEE THE PHOTOS!!!!

FREE
COUPON:
Character
Makeover
Coaching
Session with Katie
For the month of February, I would be honored to do a FREE 15-minute, individual, Character Makeover Laser Coaching Session for five (5!) women who respond with the best answer to this offer.

All you have to do is send an email to WomensInfo@LifePurposeCoachingCenters.com with "FREE Character Makeover Laser Coaching with Katie as She Celebrates 20 Years in Ministry" in the Subject Line. Then, in the body of the email, note your city/state/country, your age, your current/future ministry dream, and answer this question:

"Why do you think you should receive a free coaching session at this time?"

I pray that this character-rejuvenating experience will inspire you to live out
God's unique purpose for your life.

Offer Expires: February 29, 2008
Katie Brazelton | P.O.Box 80550 | Rancho Santa Margarita | CA | 92688

My son Andy keeps telling me to lighten up this BLOG!

2008-01-29T18:13:00.000-08:00

Okay, then...so what am I supposed to ask to lighten it up: DID YOU SHAVE YOUR LEGS TODAY?

Well, I just can't do it!!!! Somebody jump in here and help me with a great question that women will want to answer -- before I make a fool of myself.

Andy has a fabulous BLOG -- check it out to get ideas for a more happy/joyful tone: http://www.outsideallday.com/

I'll take all the help I can get in this cyberspace world.

Thanks in advance!
Katie

Every person has a story

2007-12-23T16:25:00.000-08:00

The longer I am on earth, the more convinced I am that every person has an incredible story to tell. Just today, I saw my friend's 3-ft scar (not kidding) where a football-size malignant tumor was removed a few days ago. My other friend was sick her entire 2007 pregnancy and had to quit work; now that the baby is one-month old, she and her husband are facing foreclosure on their CA home, because they haven't been able to sell it in this bad market. Another friend did the eulogy at her beloved grandmother's funeral a few days ago, and another watched her dad be hospitalized unexpectantly two weeks ago. One friend just revealed that she is $100k in debt by a sudden turn of the marketplace. Another is bitter and broken over a horrid argument that went downhill fast with relatives. And, most know that our dear author friend, Ken Blanchard, lost his home in our recent fires.

So...with this rendition of sorrowful situations am I trying to say that my 2008 New Year's message to you is that LIFE IS HARD? No! You are already well aware of that fact. You could curl my hair with your own stories and those of your friends, I'm sure!

My message to myself and to each one of us is to take good care of those who need encouragement and/or a helping hand in 2008. My message is BE KIND to one another. And, to do that, we must strive daily to be holy -- because Christ is holy and he calls us to be like him. My message is to remind people that God holds our story (his-story; history) in HIS HANDS!

I would love for you to BLOG a response to me of 3-4 sentences that is a PRAYER OF ENCOURAGEMENT to anyone who may be reading or for anyone with whom God plans to have you cross paths this month. What would you (hypothetically and literally) say to someone who doesn't understand that God cares deeply about his/her story? Does a favorite Scripture come to mind? (Hands down, mine has got to be Matthew 14:27 - "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.")

May God blessings be evident to you and all whose lives you touch this New Year, dear BLOGGER-FRIENDS!
Katieb

What is something unique that you have been grateful for in 2007?!

2007-11-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

As we are in the month of celebrating our American Thanksgiving and 2007 comes to a screeching halt very soon, I would be blessed to hear from you about what unique thing you are grateful for today. Many could say that they are grateful for a personal relationship with Christ, good health, family, grandchildren, a good job, a reliable car, a roof over our head, friends, etc in the general category, but I'm hoping to hear something more unique and specific to your life!

My gratitude is huge this year for the growing part-time staff/consultants we have brought aboard in 2007: CEO/CMO Bill, President of our Men's Division Jeff, Executive Director Linda, Assistant Webmaster Jeremy, Trademark Attorney Mike, 501(c)3 Attorney Tim, Brand Consultant Ty, Web Designer Pat, Newsletter Editor Kathy, and Personal Assistant Julie! Combining this with our Webmaster Andy, Graphic Designer Mary, and Accountant Mike -- who joined us in 2005, I am one happy camper -- and oh, so grateful to God for each of these bright, creative, dedicated Christian workers!

I'm also very grateful that the fire season is nearly over!

What about you? I'd love to hear from you.
Katieb

Dangerous Surrender

2007-10-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

I'm writing to brag about my girlfriend, Kay Warren. She has a brand new book out called Dangerous Surrender -- which is a must-read for anyone serious about following God's plan for their lives. I urge you to get it for yourself and others as a Christmas gift!

If you visit her website, www.kaywarren.com, and BLOG with her...let her know I sent you! She's excited about the impact this book can have for Christ!

Hugs -- as I head out on the road for 5 weeks to speak. Today, I head to El Salvador -- so your prayers are most welcome.
katieb

Home from Kauai and needing prayer

2007-10-05T19:36:00.000-07:00

Hi Fellow Bloggers,

I just want to check in with you to tell you that teaching Levels 3-4-5 in Kauai was a humbling treat of a lifetime. Nearly 80 coed students from around the world gathered to become better Life Purpose Facilitators for Christ. I was privileged to be surrounded by these holy people for 11 days in a paradise-type environment. (We hope to have a photo posted soon, and our newsletter is nearly ready for October!)

Here's where the prayer comes in. Prior to, during, and since returning from the Conference, our people have been hit with fire darts that come from living in a fallen world. Here is a small sampling of what the attendees faced before, during, or after: computer server nightmares galore, complete computer crash/fried, best friend committed suicide, husband had an affair, canceled flights with overnight delays, lost luggage, upcoming hysterectomy, mother got cancer, lost job x 3 people, ill child, congestive heart failure, exhaustion of leadership/teaching team, MRI showing degenerative back disease, foot surgery twice, etc.

Likewise, one of our women found $1900 in an old dress pocket and another one was given $50,000!

So...life keeps plowing forward -- with the good and the bad. Keep us in your prayers and let me know how I can pray for you too. Yes, I'm even willing to pray for a windfall for you to use for God's glory!

Hugs,
Katieb

Any summer birthdays out there?!

2007-08-15T20:32:00.000-07:00

We just celebrated Brazelton Weekend for Grandpa B (82), my son Andy (turning 28), and my sister-in-law, now 37 -- and I've known her since she was 5! We had all the festivities and finest dining on pizza. And, it would not have been complete without at least one screaming 3-yr-old who didn't want to cooperate with the professional photographer for 2 hours of family photos! Ah, yes, family get-togethers. I think I'm still hearing the screams 3 days later!

Carter, my grandson, hit the BIG ONE this summer -- back in late June. There must have been 100 people gathered in a local park for his birthday bash and baby dedication. Once again, there was pizza...but this time -- the boxes filled an entire picnic table. My job was to "secure the tables at 6am" -- so we would be assured of shade at noon. So, I sipped on Starbucks and had a fantastic Quiet Time out in the fresh summer air -- while I gave an evil eye to anybody who ventured too close to my staked-out and claimed TABLE TERRITORY.

And...I had a blast for my 57th birthday in June. I have absolutely no memory of what we did to celebrate (comes with the aging process, ladies!) -- but the kids say we enjoyed a lovely meal and a movie. I should ask them if I enjoyed the movie, ya?

What about you? Any bday fun going on this summer -- for the young or old in your life? For yourself? For the good, the bad, and the ugly?

Hugs,
Katie

How is summer treating you?

2007-07-31T07:08:00.000-07:00

Are you having fun yet? Tell me what you are up to - so I can live vicariously through your grand adventures! My daughter and I did get away for a few days to Palm Springs -- and even got to spend one of those days with my son, daughter-in-law, and grandbaby in the pool. Man, that was fun. And...I've got to go watch my son compete in a few mini-triathlons and a marathon, helping Julie with the baby. Those are forever-memories. TELL ME ABOUT ONE OF YOUR FOREVER-MEMORIES. I hope life is good for you this summer 2007.
Cyberspace hugs,
Katieb

I appreciate your prayers!

2007-05-21T11:48:00.000-07:00

Thank you for your prayers as I enter a tough season this summer of vision-casting for the ministry, which will result in the finalization of our new curriculum development. And...please let me know how I can pray for you.
Hugs,
katieb

New Book will be released by Zondervan on Dec 7, 2007!!!

2007-05-12T21:56:00.000-07:00

Character Makeover: 40 Days with a Life Coach to Create the Best You

BY: Katie Brazelton and Shelley Leith

CHARACTER MAKEOVER

[Brief summary]

Embark on a 40-day journey with a personal life coach to develop Christlike character. A continuation of Katie Brazelton’s bestselling Pathway to Purpose for Women, this book was created for women of all ages who want a character-rejuvenating experience that will inspire them to live out God’s unique purpose for their life.

[Descriptive/catalog copy]

Bestselling author and life coach Katie Brazelton takes readers on a deeply personal, 40-day journey of developing their character. Through her earlier books, some of which have been translated into as many as ten languages, Katie has helped countless women around the world find their specific life mission. Yet, she discovered that many women experience a gap between understanding their purpose and carrying it out. They sabotage God’s best for their lives by succumbing to well-worn patterns of defeat, woundedness, insecurity, unworthiness, or self-centeredness.

To address this gap, Katie teamed up with co-author, Shelley Leith, who spearheaded the writing of the 40 Days of Purpose Campaign for Saddleback Church, in order to focus on eight character traits essential to living a purpose-filled life: humility, confidence, courage, self-control, patience, contentment, generosity, and perseverance.

Character Makeover offers eye-opening stories from eight of Brazelton’s Life Purpose Coach® students—women who “fess up” about how they have messed up in the area of character and how it slowed down the completion of their God-ordained destiny. This interactive, practical, and spirited exploration also offers daily prayers and journaling questions which will inspire and encourage women to take incremental steps toward the critical character traits that equip them to leave an impacting legacy and become the women God created them to be.

Like Katie’s other popular books, Pathway to Purpose, Praying for Purpose, and Conversations on Purpose, this book can be used in a small group setting, in a women’s ministry at a church, as well as a one-on-one study.

Character Makeover: 40 Days with a Life Coach to Create the Best You

BY: Katie Brazelton and Shelley Leith

[Back ad]

Get the kind of makeover that will transform your life!

Have you ever wanted a hairstyle makeover or a house makeover? Go beyond the externals and get the kind of do-over that will transform your entire life – get a character makeover.

Bestselling author and life coach Katie Brazelton takes you on a deeply personal, 40-day journey of developing your character. Through her earlier books, Katie has helped countless women around the world find their specific life mission. Yet, she discovered that many women experience a gap between understanding their purpose and carrying it out. They sabotage God’s best for their lives by succumbing to well-worn patterns of defeat, woundedness, insecurity, unworthiness, or self-centeredness.

To address this gap, Katie has teamed up with co-author, Shelley Leith, who spearheaded the writing of the 40 Days of Purpose Campaign for Saddleback Church, in order to focus on eight character traits essential to living a purpose-filled life: humility, confidence, courage, self-control, patience, contentment, generosity, and perseverance.

Using inspiring stories of everyday women who “fess up” about how they have messed up in the area of character, insightful coaching questions, interactive journaling, powerful prayers, and practical action steps, your life coach Katie Brazelton walks step-by-step with you to encourage you to become the best you that God intended you to be.

This book can be used in a small group setting, in a women’s ministry at a church, as well as a one-on-one study.

KATIE BRAZELTON, PhD, MDiv, MA, is the author of bestselling Pathway to Purpose for Women, along with its popular companion books: Praying for Purpose and Conversations on Purpose. She is the founder of Life Purpose Coaching Centers, International™, which trains Christian men and women internationally (online and in conferences) to become Life Purpose Coaches® and Life Plan Facilitators. For years, Katie was a licensed minister at the purpose-driven Saddleback Church. Now, she is fulfilling her God-given dream of opening 200 Life Purpose Coaching Centers around the world, and she invites you to join her on that adventure. Katie is thrilled to be a first-time grandmother, who also regularly gets to enjoy her daughter, son, and daughter-in-law who all live nearby.

SHELLEY LEITH serves on staff at Saddleback Church as the lead developer of worldwide resources. Her previous writing projects include spearheading the highly regarded 40 Days of Purpose Campaign and 40 Days of Community Campaign. Shelley is a nationally-recognized speaker at FamilyLife Canada's marriage conferences with her husband Greg. They have enjoyed raising their five teenagers in southern California.

US $12.99/UK £7.99/CAN $16.49

RELIGION / Christian Life / Women

ISBN 0-310-25653-4

Amazing Grace

2007-04-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

I just saw Amazing Grace tonight as part of my Sabbath rest. I don't know if I cried like a baby at the end of it because of the incredible impact the movie had on me, or if because I was deeply grieving the loss of Jan Drury, one of our Australian Life Purpose Facilitators, who died of cancer this week. IT HAD TO BE BOTH.

I do know that the movie hit me like a ton of bricks -- a lot like the Mother Teresa film I mentioned a few months ago on this BLOG. I won't give away the story line, except to say, it is related to the age-old Christian hymn we sing. It is a Schindler's List type of story -- a must-see. It was riveting to watch a story of such vision for a cause.

Honestly, I think what got me the most was that the heroes of the movie (like Jan, even when she was so sick), lived a life of passion and dreams and goals. They challenged themselves beyond their own strength. And yet...the other day, as I challenged our new Instructors to "get out of their boxes and dream bigger and more passionately," I felt a strong sense that the message I was preaching was for me -- that I am afraid to dream any bigger. Then, as I read/prayed in my Quiet Time tonight in Psalm 24:7-10...I understood what God was trying to say to me: "Start dreaming bigger and more passionate dreams, so the King of Glory may come in!"

So, tonight, dear Jan, at nearly midnight -- I think of you and promise that I will start dreaming bigger and more passionate dreams, so the King of Glory may come in!" Thanks for the reminder.

Meandering Thoughts

2007-02-10T08:27:00.000-08:00

Hi Ladies,

As I sit here with wet hair, hunger pangs, and still a little jet lagged from our Ministry launch in France, I realize that is how we all live most of our lives, ya? We are worn-out wonder women, just trying to make it through.

Yet today...I get to sit with one of my best friend's whose brother died and I get to honor my longest-standing, grammar school friend of nearly 50 years (ya, I'm old!) at an alumni celebration in her honor for a few hours this evening. In the meantime, I am desperate for your prayers -- as I have only 2 weeks to turn in a final manuscript to my publisher.

So...the conclusion of the matter for me is this: Through wet hair, hunger, tiredness, and deadlines -- it's still the relationships that win out regardless. And...yes, I will share a meal with my adult daughter after church on Sunday -- because that is what our hearts need to make it through the tough times.

How's your week going? Are you building in relationship time! My prayer is that you & I do just that -- passionately.

Hugs,
Wet Hair Katieb -- just figuring out life one day at a time

A CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR YOURSELF

2006-12-05T10:04:00.000-08:00

A GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEA:

I highly recommend that you consider renting or purchasing the Mother Teresa video that is out. Mother Teresa is played by Olivia Hussey -- and it is extremely well done.

I have to tell you that I am now completely UNDONE by it! I feel like I did in 1987 when I watched a documentary about her work that changed my life. Hang onto your hats -- God is up to something in my heart and in our ministry. I'm not sure what it is, but I feel God re-visiting my soul with his broader vision for our work. My prayer is that, if enough of us watch the video, we will all be filled with the same vision that he wants us to see clearly!

Write back if you've seen it or have any other comments about the vision he is instilling in your heart. I would love to hear how the video affected you.
Hugs,
katieb

I think the Audio portion of this BLOG has been suspended

2006-11-28T20:17:00.000-08:00

Hi there,

Just checking in to say HI. I just tested the Audio Blog -- and it looks like this company has abandoned that feature. We'll have to move elsewhere in 2007. But...for now, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving. I still have to find me some pecan pie somewhere during the holidays. Somehow, I missed it at the two dinners I had. Oh, well. Pumpkin pie certainly ushers in the season too!

Life is good. I got to babysit my grandson the other day and loved every second of it...well, except for the last ten minutes when it was nearing nap time (his, not mine!) and nothing I did consoled him.

I just finished a speech for a church group for this Saturday, Dec 2. Please pray for me around noon. They are expecting 1,000 women at the Marriott -- so I need God to show up powerfully.
Our new Online Training for Level 3 is launching with women from the USA and one from Africa and one from Manila. That will be a great experience for me. I'm thrilled that we can increase our reach online with tele-instructors and Field Practicum Mentors.

Some quick announcements: The 100 Huntley Street television interview I did for Crossroads in Canada is live now; the newest Purpose Driven Life co-authored articles and Today's Christian Woman article will be live soon. The March Level 3 Co-ed Facilitator training in Laguna, the Advanced Level 4 training in Kauai, and especially the new REGIONAL Instructor's Level 5 trainings are causing a lot of excitment. Can't wait to see where God is leading us, as I do more and more succession training.

For those who have been asking: The "Girls' Getaway" cruise I was invited to speak on is Nov 15-19, 2007. We leave out of Mobile, Alabama -- and I think we cruise to Cozumel. More info to come, especially for small groups who want to cruise together.

Talk to you soon -- write when you get a chance,
Katie

Vote to tell me which article to write for Today's Christian Woman!

2006-10-26T20:14:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
Got my office somewhat cleaned and equipment packed for the Laguna Beach Conference, which starts on Nov 5th. Pray for all the women attending from around the US, Canada, and Australia!

VOTE TODAY: I need help deciding which article to write -- it's due before I leave for Laguna. You can hear my description of the choices on the Audio BLOG. HELP!

BTW, apparently this free blogging service is discontinuing soon, so we may be forced off-line for a bit. Don't know when. Do you know of any other providers?

I am boldly asking for you to pray also for a Web Optimizer to donate his/her time to help position us higher up in GOOGLE/YAHOO searches and for funding for a 2007 full-time secretary.

More to clean...always more to clean!
Yikes,
Katie

Hitting the Road from CA to MO to Canada - Pls Pray!

2006-09-07T23:21:00.000-07:00

Hi!
Gonna pack; sleep a few hours; and then hit the road for seven weeks. I cherish your prayers.
Hugs,
katieb

What does your "alone time" with the Lord look like?!

2006-08-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

Laguna Beach Report! -- July Fun and November Dates

2006-07-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

I'm humbled and honored that the Lord allowed me to be part of the Level Three training in Laguna Beach! What a blessing of incredible new Facilitators.

The next Laguna class: Nov 6-9.

Have a great Sabbath,
katieb

James Carter Brazelton was born today, Tues, 6/27/06!

2006-06-11T22:13:00.000-07:00

James Carter Brazelton
7 lbs. 6 oz.
19 inches
6/27/06 at 3:30pm

Mom, Baby, and Dad are doing very well! Carter is healthy and gorgeous.

Thank you so much for all your prayers,
Grammie Katie

My Grandson is due sooner, rather than later!

2006-06-01T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
It looks like James Carter may be born in the next week or so, rather than on June 20th! I'm so excited. Pray for a healthy delivery for all.

Hey, Blog with me you guys! It's no fun out here in cyberspace all alone.

Hugs,
katieb

A Prayer to Bless You This Week

2006-05-14T17:23:00.000-07:00

Thought you might like to hear an email testimony that just came in a few hours ago about one of our Life Plan Facilitators!
Katie

Hi, this is Katie just trying out the system!

2006-05-11T22:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, this is Katie just trying out the system! This is an incredible tool that I highly recommend to all PTPM Life Purpose Coaches and Facilitators. Next, I'll be posting an Audio Blog. I think that will be more my style long-term. Write back!