I'm not good at resting. I don't know many moms that are. Seems like there's always something pressing to be done. Laundry, homework, dinner and housework are constantly calling our name. But, it just so happens that I have a Friday off school and the house is halfway decent and I'm sick with a cold, so I'm ordering myself a day off.
Here's the recipe:
1. Sleep in...or at least stay in the bed past 6am.
2. Pajamas...all day
3. No running appliances....dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, hair dryer. Exception: Keurig
4. Pinterest...I've seen it very little in the last month. There's bound to be something new I need to discover.
5. At least one sappy movie.
6. Some snuggle time with the kids
7. Reading
8. A Nap
9. Comfort food....possibly chili and rice since a mild cold front has moved in
10. Pillow and blanket and me on the couch
The way I see it...I better take advantage of the day while I have it! Gotta go....I have things to do...sorta!
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Friday, September 14, 2012
Monday, May 7, 2012
When You're Consumed
I've been worrying about it for a week. It's consumed nearly every spare minute of my life. The anticipation...the verdict...the waiting. It was overtaking my life.
Isn't that what fear does to us? It overtakes us...the unknown scares us, the waiting turns our stomachs into a gymnasium for somersaults and back flips. We worry, we lose sleep, we cry, we question, we think the worst....and then it happens.
For me it was (wait for it)....going to the dentist. It is probably my least favorite thing in all the world to do. But last week, when I chipped a tooth while eating my favorite snack I knew the time had come to face the dentist. The dreaded call was made but they couldn't get me in for a week. So...not only was I terrified...but I also had to wait 7 days before my irrational fear was to be faced.
So today....at 3:15pm I sat, waiting again in the "waiting room" of the dentist office. Of course things were running behind. My heart was beating a little faster than normal, I had checked my email, facebook, pinned things on pinterest and was just about ready to back out when they called my name. And the sweetest lady ever called my name. I took the deepest breath I could.
I explained my anxiety to the nurse...probably verifying that I was certifiably crazy...and she was sympathetic and kind and compassionate. All the while I am thinking how incredibly stupid I must sound. The dentist came in. Verified I had chipped my tooth and took an Xray. And then told me all I needed was a filling. He couldn't believe I had never had a cavity before and praised me for my good teeth...and then he asked me did I want one shot or two of the numbing agent....and I opted for two...because sometimes more is better :). And 20 minutes later...I was good to go. (on a side note I ran into a friend at walmart and she was pretty sure I was a little tipsy from the extra shot).
My fears were totally crazy. But in the midst of fear you don't really see how crazy you are. That's why we have to trust what we know. What I know now is that the dentist staff was super nice and extra sensitive to my insecurities. What I know now is that an extra shot is totally worth it. What I know now is that the waiting room can be excruciating. And even though these are all very real and very true, it's no reason to act like a fear filled woman.
In my real life (the one that even includes the dentist office) I know God is bigger than all my fears and insecurities. He's in the business of walking through ever second of life with me. He doesn't skip out because it's uncomfortable or because things aren't going the way we thought they should. He's there. Everyday. His presence is what should consume me...and nothing else. And when that happens...there's really nothing to be afraid of.
What about you....love or hate the dentist? What about your unrealistic fears...what are they? What do you do to cope or work through your anxiety?
Isn't that what fear does to us? It overtakes us...the unknown scares us, the waiting turns our stomachs into a gymnasium for somersaults and back flips. We worry, we lose sleep, we cry, we question, we think the worst....and then it happens.
For me it was (wait for it)....going to the dentist. It is probably my least favorite thing in all the world to do. But last week, when I chipped a tooth while eating my favorite snack I knew the time had come to face the dentist. The dreaded call was made but they couldn't get me in for a week. So...not only was I terrified...but I also had to wait 7 days before my irrational fear was to be faced.
So today....at 3:15pm I sat, waiting again in the "waiting room" of the dentist office. Of course things were running behind. My heart was beating a little faster than normal, I had checked my email, facebook, pinned things on pinterest and was just about ready to back out when they called my name. And the sweetest lady ever called my name. I took the deepest breath I could.
I explained my anxiety to the nurse...probably verifying that I was certifiably crazy...and she was sympathetic and kind and compassionate. All the while I am thinking how incredibly stupid I must sound. The dentist came in. Verified I had chipped my tooth and took an Xray. And then told me all I needed was a filling. He couldn't believe I had never had a cavity before and praised me for my good teeth...and then he asked me did I want one shot or two of the numbing agent....and I opted for two...because sometimes more is better :). And 20 minutes later...I was good to go. (on a side note I ran into a friend at walmart and she was pretty sure I was a little tipsy from the extra shot).
My fears were totally crazy. But in the midst of fear you don't really see how crazy you are. That's why we have to trust what we know. What I know now is that the dentist staff was super nice and extra sensitive to my insecurities. What I know now is that an extra shot is totally worth it. What I know now is that the waiting room can be excruciating. And even though these are all very real and very true, it's no reason to act like a fear filled woman.
In my real life (the one that even includes the dentist office) I know God is bigger than all my fears and insecurities. He's in the business of walking through ever second of life with me. He doesn't skip out because it's uncomfortable or because things aren't going the way we thought they should. He's there. Everyday. His presence is what should consume me...and nothing else. And when that happens...there's really nothing to be afraid of.
What about you....love or hate the dentist? What about your unrealistic fears...what are they? What do you do to cope or work through your anxiety?
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Muffled
I've had a cold for about a week. There were moments that I wondered if I was going to make it...but don't panic- I'm still here. I'm miserable. I've taken a box of cold and sinus medicine, used a box of kleenex at home and at school, haven't slept good in a couple of nights and I'm tired of coughing. But probably what is most irritating is that my ears are a little stopped up so everything sounds muffled.
Now...before you think this is a post about complaining...don't go. Because you know there's going to be some sort of point...or at least I hope.
This cold has been distracting. I kinda feel like I've just been existing throughout the day. I'm functioning at the bare minimum...you know...the house is a wreck, laundry is starting to look like Mt. St. Helens, meal planning was at an all time low this week, I THINK I bathed the kids sometime this week (ok..seriously, I did), I've laid around more than I've moved and to prove I'm not making rational decisions, there's a blow up mattress in the living room that is being treated as a trampoline by the kids. It's out of control.
The real tragedy is that while this is a very physical example, the same thing has been going on in my spiritual life lately. I've been distracted, unable to focus and the Lord's voice has been a bit muffled in my ear. It's weird because I know why and I've known how to fix it, but for a full two days I didn't. It's kind of like being sick and knowing that you need medicine but refusing to take it. I'm so proud. I was full of myself thinking I could fix this muffled sound myself.
You see Christ is the Great Physician. Matt. 14:14 gives us one of many examples of Him physically healing the sick. But more than any kind of physical healing I need, I need Jesus to heal all these broken and sickening parts of my flesh that cry out for attention. I found the medicine I needed for healing..it's the same thing He's prescribed anytime I was spiritually sick...Psalms 107:20 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. Isn't that beautiful? He has given us the healing we need through HIS Word. And that's exactly when I started feeling better spiritually, when I took the time to get into His Word and see what He had to say about things.
I feel foolish for being lazy and avoiding the spiritual meds that Christ has given me at my disposal. So don't be like me...don't be stubborn or fleshly or lazy or self absorbed or . If you're struggling....go get the healing you need from His Word. Don't pretend you can handle it on your own. Don't waste two days of your life feeling sorry for yourself, feeling down or even feeling like no one understands. Don't believe your friends or alcohol or food or anything else can make it better. It can't. Those things weren't created to heal. Only Jesus.
Now...to get rid of this pesky cold.
Now...before you think this is a post about complaining...don't go. Because you know there's going to be some sort of point...or at least I hope.
This cold has been distracting. I kinda feel like I've just been existing throughout the day. I'm functioning at the bare minimum...you know...the house is a wreck, laundry is starting to look like Mt. St. Helens, meal planning was at an all time low this week, I THINK I bathed the kids sometime this week (ok..seriously, I did), I've laid around more than I've moved and to prove I'm not making rational decisions, there's a blow up mattress in the living room that is being treated as a trampoline by the kids. It's out of control.
The real tragedy is that while this is a very physical example, the same thing has been going on in my spiritual life lately. I've been distracted, unable to focus and the Lord's voice has been a bit muffled in my ear. It's weird because I know why and I've known how to fix it, but for a full two days I didn't. It's kind of like being sick and knowing that you need medicine but refusing to take it. I'm so proud. I was full of myself thinking I could fix this muffled sound myself.
You see Christ is the Great Physician. Matt. 14:14 gives us one of many examples of Him physically healing the sick. But more than any kind of physical healing I need, I need Jesus to heal all these broken and sickening parts of my flesh that cry out for attention. I found the medicine I needed for healing..it's the same thing He's prescribed anytime I was spiritually sick...Psalms 107:20 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. Isn't that beautiful? He has given us the healing we need through HIS Word. And that's exactly when I started feeling better spiritually, when I took the time to get into His Word and see what He had to say about things.
I feel foolish for being lazy and avoiding the spiritual meds that Christ has given me at my disposal. So don't be like me...don't be stubborn or fleshly or lazy or self absorbed or . If you're struggling....go get the healing you need from His Word. Don't pretend you can handle it on your own. Don't waste two days of your life feeling sorry for yourself, feeling down or even feeling like no one understands. Don't believe your friends or alcohol or food or anything else can make it better. It can't. Those things weren't created to heal. Only Jesus.
Now...to get rid of this pesky cold.
Monday, September 5, 2011
What's for Dinner?
I made this recipe for dinner tonight...and everyone liked it! According to the website I got it from it is only 5 WW points if you use beef. I used turkey instead so it was probably even fewer points.
Read more: http://www.laaloosh.com/2010/06/25/baked-ziti-pasta-recipe/#ixzz1X8o8Qgf9
Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta (I used the penne noodles)
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup reduced fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup yellow onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 lb extra lean ground beef (96/4)
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta (I used the penne noodles)
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup reduced fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 4 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup yellow onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 lb extra lean ground beef (96/4)
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat; add onions and garlic and sauté 2 minutes. Add beef and cook until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks, about 3 to 5 minutes; drain off any fat and set pan back over medium heat.
Add the oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper. Cook about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and mushrooms and bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Spoon a small amount of beef-tomato mixture into bottom of a 4-quart casserole dish (just enough to cover surface); top with half of cooked pasta. Next, layer with half of remaining beef-tomato sauce and half of mozzarella cheese. Layer with remaining pasta and then top with remaining beef-tomato sauce; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake until cheese is golden and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Cut into 6 pieces.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat; add onions and garlic and sauté 2 minutes. Add beef and cook until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks, about 3 to 5 minutes; drain off any fat and set pan back over medium heat.
Add the oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper. Cook about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and mushrooms and bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Spoon a small amount of beef-tomato mixture into bottom of a 4-quart casserole dish (just enough to cover surface); top with half of cooked pasta. Next, layer with half of remaining beef-tomato sauce and half of mozzarella cheese. Layer with remaining pasta and then top with remaining beef-tomato sauce; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake until cheese is golden and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Cut into 6 pieces.
Entire recipe makes 6 servings
Serving size is 1 piece
Each serving = 5 Point Total
Serving size is 1 piece
Each serving = 5 Point Total
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Understanding More
Part of this whole weight loss journey is about understanding yourself more. I have had a couple of off days....meaning I turned my internal good decision maker off when it comes to food. I have eaten just about every type of bad food you can think of...chips, processed, sweets.....and while none of these done in moderation would have hurt me "too" bad, I am not one who does very many things half-heartedly...so sometimes moderation gets tossed to the side.
Here's what I learned:
1. When I have a busy week, if I am not organized from the get go...no matter what's in my pantry, I will opt for ease. Sometimes that means fast food, a handful of gold fish or 7 twizzlers. I don't give a hill of beans that I could have used the same energy to have made a salad or made a turkey sandwich...it took too much energy. So in essence when it comes to food....I'm lazy.
2. When my house is disorderly, I cannot function. Period.
These two things are VERY important to me in the scheme of understanding why I eat the way I have and in understanding the things that need to happen so that I don't fall into these same traps again. So over the next 48 hours I will be making a plan for the next week that will hopefully set me up for better eating. One thing I've already learned is that for me, I need to focus more on order...I'm not talking about the over the top OCD focus...goodness knows that won't be me...ever. But, since I know that I begin to sweat when things get out of control around my home, I need to set myself up for a better success rate....which means the reinstatement of the chore charts, weekly goals and laundry schedule (can you hear my family groaning already?)
So...there it is....my first major setback for the year. I'm surprised it took this long honestly...and glad that I am not giving up just because it happened. That's what I've done in the past. This time..I am identifying, thanking God for showing me and setting up a plan to not fall in this trap again. If you know me at all then you know this is progress. God is changing me.
Here's what I learned:
1. When I have a busy week, if I am not organized from the get go...no matter what's in my pantry, I will opt for ease. Sometimes that means fast food, a handful of gold fish or 7 twizzlers. I don't give a hill of beans that I could have used the same energy to have made a salad or made a turkey sandwich...it took too much energy. So in essence when it comes to food....I'm lazy.
2. When my house is disorderly, I cannot function. Period.
These two things are VERY important to me in the scheme of understanding why I eat the way I have and in understanding the things that need to happen so that I don't fall into these same traps again. So over the next 48 hours I will be making a plan for the next week that will hopefully set me up for better eating. One thing I've already learned is that for me, I need to focus more on order...I'm not talking about the over the top OCD focus...goodness knows that won't be me...ever. But, since I know that I begin to sweat when things get out of control around my home, I need to set myself up for a better success rate....which means the reinstatement of the chore charts, weekly goals and laundry schedule (can you hear my family groaning already?)
So...there it is....my first major setback for the year. I'm surprised it took this long honestly...and glad that I am not giving up just because it happened. That's what I've done in the past. This time..I am identifying, thanking God for showing me and setting up a plan to not fall in this trap again. If you know me at all then you know this is progress. God is changing me.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Staying on Mission
Tonight basically starts an 8 day fest of feasting with missionaries during our missions conference. There will be eating out, potlucks, and large quantity cooking, which usually means pastas or potatoes, right? I'm looking forward to the fellowship....but the food has me a little nervous.
So, I need to make a plan....and stick to it. Here goes...
1. Drink only water....and drink a large glass before the meals.
2. Exercise daily for one hour. This will burn approximately 500 calories...which is the equivalent of my breakfast and most of my lunch on a normal day. So, if I watch portions and bulk up on the salad and veggies I should be OK...meaning I won't gain. (I am taking my own Salad Dressing!)
3. 1 spoonful of dessert. I know....I could tell you I am NOT going to eat dessert...but who am I kiddin'. Instead....I am just going to eat one small serving one time a day. I'm talking tablespoon size.
4. Stop eating when I am full. And....yes, that might even mean before dessert!!!
5. Read my Bible every day.
6. If I feel like this isn't working after day one, then I will bring my own meal and eat it there.
So there's the plan to staying on mission. I'm excited for this challenge because this is the real world and I need to face these food challenges head on. In the real world it's me who has to monitor portion control and caloric intake. It's not all measured out for me with the calorie count on a nutritional information label right next to the pan of lasagna. I've got to be the one to have lots of self-control....or maybe, I should say GOD control.
So, I need to make a plan....and stick to it. Here goes...
1. Drink only water....and drink a large glass before the meals.
2. Exercise daily for one hour. This will burn approximately 500 calories...which is the equivalent of my breakfast and most of my lunch on a normal day. So, if I watch portions and bulk up on the salad and veggies I should be OK...meaning I won't gain. (I am taking my own Salad Dressing!)
3. 1 spoonful of dessert. I know....I could tell you I am NOT going to eat dessert...but who am I kiddin'. Instead....I am just going to eat one small serving one time a day. I'm talking tablespoon size.
4. Stop eating when I am full. And....yes, that might even mean before dessert!!!
5. Read my Bible every day.
6. If I feel like this isn't working after day one, then I will bring my own meal and eat it there.
So there's the plan to staying on mission. I'm excited for this challenge because this is the real world and I need to face these food challenges head on. In the real world it's me who has to monitor portion control and caloric intake. It's not all measured out for me with the calorie count on a nutritional information label right next to the pan of lasagna. I've got to be the one to have lots of self-control....or maybe, I should say GOD control.
Friday, February 25, 2011
Well hello....
Do you see it? Yep that's it....my chin.
It's been years since I saw it...well at least by itself....usually there were at least 2 of them.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Get Off the Treadmills
Dear Gym Enthusiasts,
Last night I had plans to walk 3 miles on the treadmill at the gym. However, even after waiting until later than usual to walk, all the treadmills were full. Skinny people, fat people, runners, joggers, woggers, walkers, men, women, elderly and young....hogging the treadmills!!! My word....after 20 minutes of waiting don't you think someone would have tired??? Do you all have Jillian Michaels screaming in your ear buds??? This girl needs to walk!!!
So, needless to say, my friend and I drove away...without one mile under our belts. Tomorrow night when I return, I hope you'll be more generous. If not, it's gonna be ugly. Consider yourself warned.
Last night I had plans to walk 3 miles on the treadmill at the gym. However, even after waiting until later than usual to walk, all the treadmills were full. Skinny people, fat people, runners, joggers, woggers, walkers, men, women, elderly and young....hogging the treadmills!!! My word....after 20 minutes of waiting don't you think someone would have tired??? Do you all have Jillian Michaels screaming in your ear buds??? This girl needs to walk!!!
So, needless to say, my friend and I drove away...without one mile under our belts. Tomorrow night when I return, I hope you'll be more generous. If not, it's gonna be ugly. Consider yourself warned.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Unlikely Worship Part 2
I loaded the Pandora App to my iphone yesterday. My world is a better place for it. I added a few channels to my already established account and was anticipating enjoying them the next time I went to the gym.
So at 6:40 this morning...when the alarm went off (yes...it is SATURDAY!) I got ready and hit the treadmill at the gym. The treadmills are right in front of the tinted glass window at the fitness center and since I've never been at the gym at 6:40 I wasn't prepared for what I saw.
I had just put the ear buds in and cranked the Matt Papa channel (if you haven't discovered Matt Papa...you must...he has a free download every month on his site....go now!) when I happened to glance outside and witness what I do believe to be one of the most beautiful sunrises ever! Maybe it's the fact that it's been blistering cold and cloudy here for a while but it was by far a moment to be remembered. As I worked out for the next few minutes I got to watch God show His handiwork off. The slow rise of glorious yellow light illuminated the sky and as God's painting filled the sky I was overwhelmed with the thought.... if God can place this earth in His Hand and the sun and moon and stars and planets in place....then I really do believe He can transform this physical body to be what it needs to be to glorify Him. His creation ought to bring Him glory....the sun was doing its part this morning...and in a small way...as I worked out...I think I might have been doing mine.
After a few bad days of no workout and less than perfect eating, I needed to be nudged in this direction.
So at 6:40 this morning...when the alarm went off (yes...it is SATURDAY!) I got ready and hit the treadmill at the gym. The treadmills are right in front of the tinted glass window at the fitness center and since I've never been at the gym at 6:40 I wasn't prepared for what I saw.
I had just put the ear buds in and cranked the Matt Papa channel (if you haven't discovered Matt Papa...you must...he has a free download every month on his site....go now!) when I happened to glance outside and witness what I do believe to be one of the most beautiful sunrises ever! Maybe it's the fact that it's been blistering cold and cloudy here for a while but it was by far a moment to be remembered. As I worked out for the next few minutes I got to watch God show His handiwork off. The slow rise of glorious yellow light illuminated the sky and as God's painting filled the sky I was overwhelmed with the thought.... if God can place this earth in His Hand and the sun and moon and stars and planets in place....then I really do believe He can transform this physical body to be what it needs to be to glorify Him. His creation ought to bring Him glory....the sun was doing its part this morning...and in a small way...as I worked out...I think I might have been doing mine.
After a few bad days of no workout and less than perfect eating, I needed to be nudged in this direction.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Thankful Thursday
This week I am thankful for:
1. Health...Tucker has battled something for weeks now and finally I think we might be on the mend. His color is getting better, he's acting more like his old self and he hasn't had a fever in 48 hours.
2. Health...Mine...the meds that the dr. put me on are working and so nothing serious (meaning surgery or worse) has to be done at this time. This is a relief and also buys me a little time to research and figure out the best options for me.
3. Motivation....sometimes you need a good kick in the pants to get things going. I've had that recently and although painful, on the other side it's a real blessing.
4. Two special friends who have birthdays this week...I'm thrilled to be a part of their lives and so blessed to have their friendship, wisdom and love in my life.
5. The youth group at church. They've stolen my heart...and as God has seen fit, just about the time I realized how much I loved them....our church hired a new youth pastor. I'm happy that our youth will have someone solely devoted to them, but sad that we won't share that closeness with them like we have the last 6 months or so. They are a special group...God's got big things in store for them...watch out world!
1. Health...Tucker has battled something for weeks now and finally I think we might be on the mend. His color is getting better, he's acting more like his old self and he hasn't had a fever in 48 hours.
2. Health...Mine...the meds that the dr. put me on are working and so nothing serious (meaning surgery or worse) has to be done at this time. This is a relief and also buys me a little time to research and figure out the best options for me.
3. Motivation....sometimes you need a good kick in the pants to get things going. I've had that recently and although painful, on the other side it's a real blessing.
4. Two special friends who have birthdays this week...I'm thrilled to be a part of their lives and so blessed to have their friendship, wisdom and love in my life.
5. The youth group at church. They've stolen my heart...and as God has seen fit, just about the time I realized how much I loved them....our church hired a new youth pastor. I'm happy that our youth will have someone solely devoted to them, but sad that we won't share that closeness with them like we have the last 6 months or so. They are a special group...God's got big things in store for them...watch out world!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Monday Meal Plan
Here's what's for dinner at our home this week?
Monday: Steaks...Bruce is grilling. I will have a salad with mine.
Tuesday: Soup and Sandwiches, with fruit.
Wednesday: Subway
Thursday: Pizza Bake with Salad
Friday: Fajitas
I will be doing major portion control this week. I'm trying to cook from what I have on hand...so this will be a bit of a challenge for my self control.
Tell me, what's cooking at your house?
Monday: Steaks...Bruce is grilling. I will have a salad with mine.
Tuesday: Soup and Sandwiches, with fruit.
Wednesday: Subway
Thursday: Pizza Bake with Salad
Friday: Fajitas
I will be doing major portion control this week. I'm trying to cook from what I have on hand...so this will be a bit of a challenge for my self control.
Tell me, what's cooking at your house?
Friday, February 4, 2011
February Goals
Goal setting...it's Biblical. Run the race...press toward the goal....press on.... Proverbs 13:16 says,"A wise man thinks ahead; a fool doesn't and even brags about it!" So with that in mind, here are a few goals I have for the month of February.
Spiritual:
So now that this is all neatly typed out, I guess I should get busy and start on something.
I'd love to hear what you're working on for the month. Leave a comment below!
Spiritual:
- Read the book of Proverbs and journal the things the Lord points out to me.
- Read The Me Project by Kathi Lipp
- Walk 50 Miles
- Eat Healthy
- Lose 5 pounds (at least)
- Pray with kids more...not just at bedtime or meals. More when disciplining and teaching and correcting.
- Edify and pray for Bruce more.
- Teach Savannah to scramble eggs.
- Get new tires for Tucker's bike and help him learn to ride without training wheels.
- Continue Meal Plans
- Organize laundry room.
- Get back porch ready for spring.
- Buy Easter decorations for year round tree and decorated by end of month.
- Change Air-Heat Filters Out
- Save money for missions conference.
- Coupon more.
- Get the kids Savings Accounts transferred to SS
So now that this is all neatly typed out, I guess I should get busy and start on something.
I'd love to hear what you're working on for the month. Leave a comment below!
Monday, January 31, 2011
January Wrap-Up
Well, well, well..... January is done. Possibly the longest month of my entire life. Yes, I am sure it has been.
I started 2011 off with some serious inner-examination and realized that there were some things that needed to change, so I jotted down those things, prayed about them, and then asked God to do His thing...because there is no way in my own flesh that I could accomplish not even one of the goals I had. All I heard him say was: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34. In other words....take it day by day. One step at a time. And so, I've sort of just embraced that Biblical standard this month.
Here are a few things that happened:
1. Went to the Dr. for checkup and got some less than good news. Have been taking meds and should know if they are working within the week. Taking care of myself has never been high on the priority list so I am extremely thankful that God gave me the courage, time, money and a wonderful Dr. God's also has given me tremendous peace regarding whatever may come of this and although there are brief moments of fear and doubt, I know He's got this.
2. Started meal planning every week. This not only helps me at the grocery store, it helps me to ensure that my family is eating healthier more balanced meals. I feel better for feeding them better foods.
3. I started working out...well, walking at the local gym. I logged 38 miles for the month. Who did? Yes....that was me!!! (When I think about that distance...the equivalent of my house to Paris, TX...I am just about speechless!!!!)
4. I limited myself to 1 diet coke a day. This took some getting used to, in fact for the first week I had the non-stop headache that most caffeine addicts have, but I'm good now....and probably in time, will get rid of them altogether.
5. We paid off the last of our debt besides our home. I can't tell you how fabulous that feels!
6. I lost 15 pounds during this month. Attributed to claiming God's promises and sheer God-size self control (more like Spirit Control) and working out.
I have a very long way to go....too long to even think about....but taking it day by day sure makes the way seem less intimidating!
Thank you Lord for your new mercies every morning and for your daily agenda for my life. You are good to me.
I started 2011 off with some serious inner-examination and realized that there were some things that needed to change, so I jotted down those things, prayed about them, and then asked God to do His thing...because there is no way in my own flesh that I could accomplish not even one of the goals I had. All I heard him say was: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34. In other words....take it day by day. One step at a time. And so, I've sort of just embraced that Biblical standard this month.
Here are a few things that happened:
1. Went to the Dr. for checkup and got some less than good news. Have been taking meds and should know if they are working within the week. Taking care of myself has never been high on the priority list so I am extremely thankful that God gave me the courage, time, money and a wonderful Dr. God's also has given me tremendous peace regarding whatever may come of this and although there are brief moments of fear and doubt, I know He's got this.
2. Started meal planning every week. This not only helps me at the grocery store, it helps me to ensure that my family is eating healthier more balanced meals. I feel better for feeding them better foods.
3. I started working out...well, walking at the local gym. I logged 38 miles for the month. Who did? Yes....that was me!!! (When I think about that distance...the equivalent of my house to Paris, TX...I am just about speechless!!!!)
4. I limited myself to 1 diet coke a day. This took some getting used to, in fact for the first week I had the non-stop headache that most caffeine addicts have, but I'm good now....and probably in time, will get rid of them altogether.
5. We paid off the last of our debt besides our home. I can't tell you how fabulous that feels!
6. I lost 15 pounds during this month. Attributed to claiming God's promises and sheer God-size self control (more like Spirit Control) and working out.
I have a very long way to go....too long to even think about....but taking it day by day sure makes the way seem less intimidating!
Thank you Lord for your new mercies every morning and for your daily agenda for my life. You are good to me.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Unlikely Worship
Worship has been defined as reverent love and homage rendered to God or a god. And pretty much the last place on earth that I would have thought about worshipping God would be the gym where I exercise. However, what happened at the gym....can't stay at the gym this time.
My friend Felicia and I have been going to the gym together for three weeks now. We don't really visit while we are at the gym...because we are working out...and I am out of breath 5 minutes into the workout, but we do chit chat in the car on the way there and back. We take our headphones (when we remember) and when we don't we watch the closed captioned TV. A few workouts ago, I saw that Flea had found the Christian Music Channel on the satalite TV right there on the treadmill, so I motioned to her (carefully so I didn't fall off the treadmill....because that wouldn't be pretty) to give me the channel number so I could listen to some good music while I walked. But, as fate would have it...my TV wouldn't pick up the channel....so I ended up watching Everyone Loves Raymond (a play by play of my own marriage).
BUT.....today was my day. After two attempts, I finally got the channel to come in. Within minutes I was walking the pounds away to Amy Grant, Sonic Flood, Chris Tomlin, The Museum and more. What an encouragement the songs were to me. As I walked I was motivated to continue, to keep working hard, to not give up and to even lift my eyes to the hills. Since I was striving to fulfill a new goal in distance these songs meant a little more to me. I would have to say I think the play list was handpicked by God for me. And then I realized that through the sweat...there was a little tear of thanksgiving. I'm so thankful that God blesses us with the exact kind of encouragement that we need. When we are defeated, feeling vulnerable, discourage, confused, fearful....He's there with a song, or a friend, or a scripture.
In the unlikeliest places...He's there. Offering grace for the moment. And today...with sweat dripping off me, my heart racing from excersize, right there on my treadmill....I offered a little worship of my own....a little...Somewhere Down the Road, Save Me, I Will Follow You, My Help Comes from the Lord....and a few other songs....and yes...the guy next to me might have thought "what kind of crazy lady is that over there mouthing the words to all these songs"....but in that unlikely place my heart was overwhelmed by God's care and love for me. It's in these moments that I am more aware and more in awe of who He is...and I've only experienced a glimpse!
My friend Felicia and I have been going to the gym together for three weeks now. We don't really visit while we are at the gym...because we are working out...and I am out of breath 5 minutes into the workout, but we do chit chat in the car on the way there and back. We take our headphones (when we remember) and when we don't we watch the closed captioned TV. A few workouts ago, I saw that Flea had found the Christian Music Channel on the satalite TV right there on the treadmill, so I motioned to her (carefully so I didn't fall off the treadmill....because that wouldn't be pretty) to give me the channel number so I could listen to some good music while I walked. But, as fate would have it...my TV wouldn't pick up the channel....so I ended up watching Everyone Loves Raymond (a play by play of my own marriage).
BUT.....today was my day. After two attempts, I finally got the channel to come in. Within minutes I was walking the pounds away to Amy Grant, Sonic Flood, Chris Tomlin, The Museum and more. What an encouragement the songs were to me. As I walked I was motivated to continue, to keep working hard, to not give up and to even lift my eyes to the hills. Since I was striving to fulfill a new goal in distance these songs meant a little more to me. I would have to say I think the play list was handpicked by God for me. And then I realized that through the sweat...there was a little tear of thanksgiving. I'm so thankful that God blesses us with the exact kind of encouragement that we need. When we are defeated, feeling vulnerable, discourage, confused, fearful....He's there with a song, or a friend, or a scripture.
In the unlikeliest places...He's there. Offering grace for the moment. And today...with sweat dripping off me, my heart racing from excersize, right there on my treadmill....I offered a little worship of my own....a little...Somewhere Down the Road, Save Me, I Will Follow You, My Help Comes from the Lord....and a few other songs....and yes...the guy next to me might have thought "what kind of crazy lady is that over there mouthing the words to all these songs"....but in that unlikely place my heart was overwhelmed by God's care and love for me. It's in these moments that I am more aware and more in awe of who He is...and I've only experienced a glimpse!
Friday, January 21, 2011
Cooking Lesson 101
Savannah and Tucker were recently talking about how they wanted to help cook dinner. So, last night, with apron donned, my hair pulled back, a few aspirins (only kidding) and the spray in wash within reach, I attempted to teach Savannah how to make spaghetti (the easy way). We used Barrelli's whole grain pasta and a jar of Ragu Low Sodium Sauce, rinsed low fat ground beef and a chopped onion and bell pepper. She also popped some Reduced Fat Crescent Rolls (which were surprisingly good) into the over. It was a delicious meal....and she did more than 90% of the prep and cooking! That made the meal extra yummy!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Filling the Void
Void- Empty space, hollowness
It happened to me the other day. The kids went to the grandparents after school. I was home alone. I had cleaned for most of the afternoon, finally finished, and sat down to watch a show on TV that I had DVR'd. I got all comfy and settled in, and then this thought flitted through my head:
"You should get a snack".
I started thinking about it....food. I starting thinking about how good a bowl of chips would be. At one point I might have even taken my feet off the footstool to actually proceed into the kitchen. And then it hit me....I wasn't hungry. I had just eaten lunch 2 hours before. I didn't need anything....I was full, satisfied.
I was trying to fill a VOID. I was alone, which doesn't bother me....except that I don't know what to do with my time. It's such a rare moment these days for me to be completely alone with nothing to do. I was trying to make the food be the "something" I was going to do during that time. This particular "void" wasn't because I was unhappy, angry, lonely or depressed....it was because...given a few spare minutes of time....I'm not sure what to do with them.
It was like a break through. Funny term for me....but it's like since then, I can identify when I am starting to feel bored....or empty. I've even made a little list of things that I can do when that happens:
1. Read my Bible
2. Pray for myself (since generally I think people have a hard time doing this)
3. Write a thank you note
4. Meditate on scripture
5. Call it what it is
6. Read a book
7. Go for a walk
8. Journal
9. Be in the moment....I don't want to miss even this part of the journey...I want to feel even this!
10. Listen to music.
God's all over this change in thinking....it's so reverse from what I used to think. I remember when I would think "I deserve this snack. I've worked hard all day, watched the kids, cleaned house ....insert chore here, I deserve to sit on the couch and eat this yummy snack and just relax." And those weekly (ahem...daily) snack stops have been part of the reason I am where I am today. So, just the thought changing process that is going on in my mind is evidence that God cares about what is happening to me...He's filling that void in my life.
This is my prayer: Psalm 107:9: "For He has satisfied the thirsty soul, and the hungry soul He has filled with what is good."
Monday, January 17, 2011
Meal Plan Monday
Daily: Cereal/Skim Milk (for me it will be Special K with Berries)
Lunch: Pepperidge Farms Deli Flat Bread with Turkey, mustard, pickles, spinach and tomatoes, and Sunchips or pretzels or three bean salad
Snacks: Apples, Oranges, Canned Pinnaple in it's own juice, whole grain pretzels, popcorn
Dinners:
Monday Night: Fam is eating Honey BBQ chicken, I am going out and will be eating a grilled chicken salad
Tuesday Night: Speghetti (whole grain pasta with lean ground beef, rinsed), Salad
Wednesday Night: Subway (veggie sub for me)
Thursday Night: Grilled chicken, green beans, cauliflower, baked sweet potatoes
Friday Night: I will be at a marriage conference and already know there will be Chicken Express there. I am planning on eating there, but will monitor portions.
Saturday: Pork Chops with Pinnapple, brown rice, broccoli and carrots
Sunday: Eat out....monitor portions and selections. Drink plenty of water!
What's for dinner at your house this week?
Successes
To give account for one of my goals for the year, I'm reporting in with a few successes for this past week:
1. I made an appointment for a checkup. Since I pretty much hate going to the dr. for any reason...this was an amazing success. Now I just have to show up (sure hope I don't stub my toe or need to wash my hair or something else really important that might cause me cancel....JK :)
2. I ate chicken instead of beef three times this week.
3. I purchased Shred and did the workout on Saturday....and lived to tell about it on Sunday.
4. I turned down donuts, pound cake and extra pizza.
5. Knowing it was a pizza dinner on Saturday night, I made myself a good size salad and filled up on that before the pizza was served. Ended up eating only 2 very small pieces of pizza.
How are you doing on your goals for the year? It's crunch time for sure....that time when those who are serious have to buckle down and those who aren't drop out. It's hard work...no matter what your goals are, but completely possible when your heart is set on God's goal for you!
1. I made an appointment for a checkup. Since I pretty much hate going to the dr. for any reason...this was an amazing success. Now I just have to show up (sure hope I don't stub my toe or need to wash my hair or something else really important that might cause me cancel....JK :)
2. I ate chicken instead of beef three times this week.
3. I purchased Shred and did the workout on Saturday....and lived to tell about it on Sunday.
4. I turned down donuts, pound cake and extra pizza.
5. Knowing it was a pizza dinner on Saturday night, I made myself a good size salad and filled up on that before the pizza was served. Ended up eating only 2 very small pieces of pizza.
How are you doing on your goals for the year? It's crunch time for sure....that time when those who are serious have to buckle down and those who aren't drop out. It's hard work...no matter what your goals are, but completely possible when your heart is set on God's goal for you!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Out with the Old
Happy New Year!
I love the turn of one month to the next and even more so, one year to the next. There's just something about that clean slate feeling. God even knew how much we would relish do-overs...He tells us His mercies are NEW every MORNING. Thank you Lord!
I'm giving this year to the Lord in a way I haven't before. I really do want each day to amount to something good....but in the quietness of this particular moment, I know that in order for that to happen I have to throw out some old habits and even "good" things and set my eyes on eternity, Jesus and the things that are valued in HIS eyes.
So here are a few things I am hoping to throw out this year:
1. Negative self-talk - you know....the kind that talks back at you in the mirror or when you think about a bad experience...yes, that one. I am going to embrace the scriptures and God's thoughts about me.
2. Busyness - I'm not promoting laziness - I am promoting a lifestyle of doing things that will matter down the road....like being more intentional with my kids, writing more, being more hospitable, encouraging more. But I'm throwing off wasting time and the life sucking activities that are the culprits for stress and fatigue.
3. Disorganization- I'd like to become that super clean freakishly crazy obsessive cleaning machine...but it's not gonna happen. It's not me. What I would like to throw out is all the "stuff" that is making my life way more cluttered than I like. I do this every year and would really like to stay organized for more than 2 weeks this year! Let the kitchen cabinet cleaning begin!
4. Lazy parenting- now I will talk about laziness. I am throwing it out....Bruce and I told the kids (maybe warned is a better word) today at the family table that there were going to be some changes coming beginning Monday. They include a detailed chore chart, menu planning, financial planning and more. I know that some of those things might not scream PARENTING, but, I think if we can be more diligent about teaching our kids how to work hard, live healthy, manage their money then we will have done a good job in raising responsible adults. Spiritually we will be spending a great deal of time focusing on Kindness and Obedience with Tucker (and ...if you've hung with Tucker recently then you probably know why these are our primary focuses). For Savannah we are hoping to help her overcome her fear of bad weather by recognizing God is in control of all our days....what an accomplishment if we can help her learn this lesson this early in her life!
5. Self-abuse- Now before you dial 911, let me assure you that I am not doing anything drastic to myself. BUT.....I am throwing out NOT TAKING CARE OF MYSELF. First, I want to take better care of myself spiritually. Reading and memorizing God's Word, reading books that will assist me in my walk and journaling more about the work God is doing. Physically, I have never taken care of myself. I rarely go to the doctor, it's been at least 4 years since I got new glasses, I buy cheap shampoo, rarely use lotion (is this becoming TMI?) and will skip breakfast or eat something totally gross and unhealthy if I need to. I don't get regular hair cuts, I forget to moisturize, I don't get pedicures unless my mom is in town, I will suffer when I don't need to....and this is all STUPID and very UNWISE!....and doesn't earn me any points in the MOMgame. This physical body isn't going to last forever and even though cheap shampoo isn't going to kill me...taking better care of myself is definitely something God is CONVICTING me that I need to do. So eating better foods, taking better care of myself and setting a better example are things I am going to work hard at in 2011. Hopefully by doing a few things for myself I will be better equipped to serve others.
So....there you have it. The old stuff. The garbage. The gunk that's gettin' thrown away. Goodbye old....hello new year. What are you going to work on in 2011?
I love the turn of one month to the next and even more so, one year to the next. There's just something about that clean slate feeling. God even knew how much we would relish do-overs...He tells us His mercies are NEW every MORNING. Thank you Lord!
I'm giving this year to the Lord in a way I haven't before. I really do want each day to amount to something good....but in the quietness of this particular moment, I know that in order for that to happen I have to throw out some old habits and even "good" things and set my eyes on eternity, Jesus and the things that are valued in HIS eyes.
So here are a few things I am hoping to throw out this year:
1. Negative self-talk - you know....the kind that talks back at you in the mirror or when you think about a bad experience...yes, that one. I am going to embrace the scriptures and God's thoughts about me.
2. Busyness - I'm not promoting laziness - I am promoting a lifestyle of doing things that will matter down the road....like being more intentional with my kids, writing more, being more hospitable, encouraging more. But I'm throwing off wasting time and the life sucking activities that are the culprits for stress and fatigue.
3. Disorganization- I'd like to become that super clean freakishly crazy obsessive cleaning machine...but it's not gonna happen. It's not me. What I would like to throw out is all the "stuff" that is making my life way more cluttered than I like. I do this every year and would really like to stay organized for more than 2 weeks this year! Let the kitchen cabinet cleaning begin!
4. Lazy parenting- now I will talk about laziness. I am throwing it out....Bruce and I told the kids (maybe warned is a better word) today at the family table that there were going to be some changes coming beginning Monday. They include a detailed chore chart, menu planning, financial planning and more. I know that some of those things might not scream PARENTING, but, I think if we can be more diligent about teaching our kids how to work hard, live healthy, manage their money then we will have done a good job in raising responsible adults. Spiritually we will be spending a great deal of time focusing on Kindness and Obedience with Tucker (and ...if you've hung with Tucker recently then you probably know why these are our primary focuses). For Savannah we are hoping to help her overcome her fear of bad weather by recognizing God is in control of all our days....what an accomplishment if we can help her learn this lesson this early in her life!
5. Self-abuse- Now before you dial 911, let me assure you that I am not doing anything drastic to myself. BUT.....I am throwing out NOT TAKING CARE OF MYSELF. First, I want to take better care of myself spiritually. Reading and memorizing God's Word, reading books that will assist me in my walk and journaling more about the work God is doing. Physically, I have never taken care of myself. I rarely go to the doctor, it's been at least 4 years since I got new glasses, I buy cheap shampoo, rarely use lotion (is this becoming TMI?) and will skip breakfast or eat something totally gross and unhealthy if I need to. I don't get regular hair cuts, I forget to moisturize, I don't get pedicures unless my mom is in town, I will suffer when I don't need to....and this is all STUPID and very UNWISE!....and doesn't earn me any points in the MOMgame. This physical body isn't going to last forever and even though cheap shampoo isn't going to kill me...taking better care of myself is definitely something God is CONVICTING me that I need to do. So eating better foods, taking better care of myself and setting a better example are things I am going to work hard at in 2011. Hopefully by doing a few things for myself I will be better equipped to serve others.
So....there you have it. The old stuff. The garbage. The gunk that's gettin' thrown away. Goodbye old....hello new year. What are you going to work on in 2011?
Friday, September 10, 2010
Achoo.........
It's football season.....I wondered why my allergies were acting up this week....and then I remembered....I'm allergic to this season....not fall....but football. Really. Allergic.
The week started with beginning the preschool regime and I woke up Tuesday morning with a horrible sore throat. Great! Just in time for the first day of school. It didn't get much better throughout this week...but I did take some good medicine that put me out of my misery for a good portion of the day and night!
People that suffer from allergies can't always avoid all the things associated with the allergies. Pollen flows freely through the air, friends have cats and dogs, people wear perfume. So, you learn to deal with the sneezing, watery eyes and scratchy throat. Sometimes it's worth it...pretty flowers in the spring newborn kittens and puppies, your man's cologne and then again....sometimes it's not. Football season is much the same for me. I don't like watching the sport (or playing it FYI) but I do enjoy the camaraderie of a tailgate party, chips and dip on a wintry Saturday afternoon or Monday night... with friends huddled around the TV, the feel of fall in the air, the smell of burgers on the grill and other fine grillery (yes, I know this isn't a word). So, even though I am allergic to football season, I tolerate it for the finer things...the friends, good fellowship, good food, cooler weather.... And even if I'm suffering from one of my attacks (whining about how stupid the sport is)....know that deep down inside, I'm pretty happy that we're all stopping all the busyness of life for a few hours and spending it together...even if you are screaming at the TV! It's worth it.
The week started with beginning the preschool regime and I woke up Tuesday morning with a horrible sore throat. Great! Just in time for the first day of school. It didn't get much better throughout this week...but I did take some good medicine that put me out of my misery for a good portion of the day and night!
People that suffer from allergies can't always avoid all the things associated with the allergies. Pollen flows freely through the air, friends have cats and dogs, people wear perfume. So, you learn to deal with the sneezing, watery eyes and scratchy throat. Sometimes it's worth it...pretty flowers in the spring newborn kittens and puppies, your man's cologne and then again....sometimes it's not. Football season is much the same for me. I don't like watching the sport (or playing it FYI) but I do enjoy the camaraderie of a tailgate party, chips and dip on a wintry Saturday afternoon or Monday night... with friends huddled around the TV, the feel of fall in the air, the smell of burgers on the grill and other fine grillery (yes, I know this isn't a word). So, even though I am allergic to football season, I tolerate it for the finer things...the friends, good fellowship, good food, cooler weather.... And even if I'm suffering from one of my attacks (whining about how stupid the sport is)....know that deep down inside, I'm pretty happy that we're all stopping all the busyness of life for a few hours and spending it together...even if you are screaming at the TV! It's worth it.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)