To Bling-Up
Pronunciation: “bliŋ əp”
Function: Verb
1. to rise to the occasion
2. to possess a physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual level of intensity similar to any member of team BLING (otherwise known as Ashley, Kristen, Blair, Shannon, Liz, or Kara).

Above is the definition you would find in Webster’s Dictionary if Bling-Up were apart of the everyday English language. This two-part verb originated when members of team Bling would challenge each other to do things already expected of a Bling member to be able to do. Nevertheless, on any given day or occasion, since we are only human, we may need that extra push to get the job done. This is when a sweet coaxing of the words “Bling –Up” are in order. Depending on the situation, a stern look accompanied by a soft whisper, “Bling-Up” is enough to instill a feeling of pure inspiration to do what is needed. Other times, a more forceful manner is required.

After a month of ministry in Botswana, Di Dinnis of Team Spectacle challenged my team member Kara to a wrestling match. Excited for a night of entertainment all members of team Spectacle and team Bling took our mattresses off our beds and lined them up in the living room. Kara, a kind-hearted girl, (who honestly couldn’t hurt a fly) was worried she couldn’t take the match seriously. Di, on the other hand, was ready for a throw down. As the wrestling match started, team Bling cheered excitedly for Kara. As minutes ticked away, the match was going well, and each woman gave an equal showing. Yet it came to a point a lil coaxing was in order. “Bling-Up Kara!” rose loudly from the throats of a few Bling members watching enthusiastically on the sidelines. After hearing such inspiring words, Kara sprung into action and pinned Di down in three seconds flat. Now, did any of us doubt that Kara would prevail? No….not really, because that’s just how Bling rolls. 🙂

Bling- Up can be applied to any occasion in life when you need that extra push or drive to get ‘er done. I will be honest, it feels good to know that I can tell someone to Bling-Up, and they know exactly what is expected of them. To Bling-Up is not a pride issue but simply recognizing the God given talent and ability within yourself. Plus, did I tell you we have Jesus on our side? So truly all things are possible for team Bling if the Lord so wills it. So with that said, for those of you who rise to the occasion, I salute you, and say with confidence, Bling-Up baby, Bling-Up all the way J

 
****P.S. Last month, team Bling truly encompassed the word Bling-Up when we went sky diving in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was an awesome experience that I plan on doing again in the near future. I’m actually contemplating becoming a sky diving instructor that’s how much I loved it! Here are a few pics Shannon took on that day. If you are in the DC or Richmond area in December I’d love to show you the video of my sky diving adventure (since I can’t upload to my blog). Bling- Up baby!
 
Me putting on my suit
 
 
Lizette stuffing our shoots
 
 
Fixing my straps
 
 
Blair and I posing
 
 
Us and my crazy instructor Dave
 
 
Walking to the plane
 
 
Danger sign on my back!
 
Awesome view of free falling!
 
 
Liz jumping out of the plane
 
 
Action Shot of Liz free falling
 
 
Me in the air
 
 
Landed!
 
 
 
Sky Diving Crew
 
 
Bling’n-Up in all it’s glory 🙂