Well, we are going on the fourth week that my husband has been without a job. So, this is a little update on how we are believing BIG for God to provide not only a job, but also for our needs in the meantime!
We are the type of family that for the most part lives paycheck to paycheck! (Shocking, I know! ) Although, we do have a little savings it is just that, little. However, during this needy time we are in God has provided and will continue to provide beyond all we could ask or imagine... (Eph 3:20)
The Provisions
First, a week before we learned my husband would not have a job I received a check from my student loans. Now, normally all of the loan money goes directly to the school. However, since I am finishing up my AA degree this week (WHOO HOO!) there was a surplus of money from this quarter, and they sent me a check for that amount. (Of course, thinking life was good our first thought was...Let's go to Disney World!) Being the responsible adults we are (lol) we decided to save it and think about the best way to use this unexpected surplus! The next week we got the news and realized we needed this money to get us through until a new job was found. He provided before we new we would need it!
Second, as health insurance stuff can sometimes be bumpy when switching jobs I decided to get my son's ADD meds refilled. Stocking up so we would not run out. However, I realized we needed to make an appointment for a new prescription, we were on the last refill. This would work except the only appointment available was a couple weeks out. I then realized we didn't have enough meds to last that long. I prayed that God would work it out somehow. The next day I got a phone call from the pharmacy telling me my prescription for my son was in. I hung up the phone confused. I didn't call it in, and the nurse told me she could not call it in until he had seen the doctor. So, we headed to the pharmacy and sure enough, there was a prescription for my son's ADD meds. I looked at my husband and said..."Now that, is JESUS!!!"
During this time I was starting to doubt that God was even thinking about my needs, my kids needs, my husbands needs. However, as we picked up the mysteriously ordered prescriptions I realized that He did see our needs, my son's needs. More than that, He was all over it! He had it under control! He provided! Why did I even doubt for a second?!
I am continuing to believe BIG and in those doubting moments I am praying "Help me overcome my unbelief!" (Mark 9:23-25)
Thank you Lord for providing even when I doubt!
A side note:
My husband has had several phone calls this week and things are looking promising. Continued prayers for God's direction to be clear would be wonderful! He will provide!!!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Back on track
I have been working on getting back on track in many areas of my life recently. First is making healthy choices, and using this blog to track those choices. (Weight Loss Wednesdays) Second is getting back into the daily cleaning routine that keeps my house in order. Third is taking the time to read my bible and pray daily.
However, as I have been getting back on track I have been wondering..."How did I get so off track in the first place?"
I have slowly started to get the answer to this question as I have been making changes to get back on track.
Each time I make a choice to keep going with the routines that I have in place, I set myself up to stay on track. However, on those "I don't feel like it" days this choice becomes harder.
So, the answer to how I got off track is choices! Yep, choices! In an early post I wrote about the choices I am making in regard to getting healthy. However, I have realized that each choice I make in any area in my life sets me up for success or failure with making the next choice. (I know I have been posting a lot about choices lately, but that is what is swirling in my head right now!)
On an "I don't feel like it day" if I make the choice to stay in my PJ's until noon (and this has happened on occasion) I know I will feel tired and not be very productive. However, if I make the choice to get up, shower, and get ready for the day I know I will feel better and be ready for action! This simple choice of getting ready for the day will set me up for making other choices throughout the day. Then at the end of the day I will look back and think, "Wow, I accomplished a lot today!" instead of "Wow, I didn't get anything done today!"
So, whether I am on track for meeting my goals or wondering where I went off course I know I can start making better choices to change my direction.
I am beginning to see how this works with getting healthy, keeping my house clean, and even my relationship with God. I am realizing that if any area in my life needs adjusted all it takes is making a different choice, a better choice, a choice that will lead me in the direction I want to be going. Then when I reach my goal and look back I will see how far I have come because of every single one of those choices.
However, as I have been getting back on track I have been wondering..."How did I get so off track in the first place?"
I have slowly started to get the answer to this question as I have been making changes to get back on track.
Each time I make a choice to keep going with the routines that I have in place, I set myself up to stay on track. However, on those "I don't feel like it" days this choice becomes harder.
So, the answer to how I got off track is choices! Yep, choices! In an early post I wrote about the choices I am making in regard to getting healthy. However, I have realized that each choice I make in any area in my life sets me up for success or failure with making the next choice. (I know I have been posting a lot about choices lately, but that is what is swirling in my head right now!)
On an "I don't feel like it day" if I make the choice to stay in my PJ's until noon (and this has happened on occasion) I know I will feel tired and not be very productive. However, if I make the choice to get up, shower, and get ready for the day I know I will feel better and be ready for action! This simple choice of getting ready for the day will set me up for making other choices throughout the day. Then at the end of the day I will look back and think, "Wow, I accomplished a lot today!" instead of "Wow, I didn't get anything done today!"
So, whether I am on track for meeting my goals or wondering where I went off course I know I can start making better choices to change my direction.
I am beginning to see how this works with getting healthy, keeping my house clean, and even my relationship with God. I am realizing that if any area in my life needs adjusted all it takes is making a different choice, a better choice, a choice that will lead me in the direction I want to be going. Then when I reach my goal and look back I will see how far I have come because of every single one of those choices.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Feelin' Good!
Well, today is Weight Loss Wednesday! A time for me to reflect on the accomplishments (good choices) from the last week. First let me start off by letting you know I have lost 5 lb. WOOHOO! But more than that I am feeling good and can tell I have been making good choices.
A few of the little changes I have made over the past couple of weeks are starting to pay off.
I have made a conscious effort to think before I chew! Meaning I have put thought into what goes in my mouth before I have already swallowed it.
I have gotten back into the habit of making dinner instead of opting for the closest drive through.
I have been taking my vitamins and supplements everyday. (Very important)
So, can I get a WHOOT WHOOT for all of those good choices the last few weeks!!!
There is one area that I seriously struggle with...stand back...wait for it...wait for it...wait for it...
EXERCISING!!!!
Shocker, I know! I have been putting in so much effort in all of these other areas except this one. I have gotten my booty up a few times within the past few weeks, but that is not enough to make my booty smaller.
So, my next choice that I am making is to begin exercising regularly. Now I am not talking 5 hour workouts. But getting moving a few days a week for at least 30 min. I have no excuses!
My goal for this next week is to purposefully exercise at least 4 days for at least 30 min. This could be a walk, weights, a video, the treadmill, whatever! And to keep me accountable I am going to post here when I workout, for how long, and what I did.
Now a challenge for the 'millions' of readers I have (lol)...
Are you willing to workout with me?
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
A few of the little changes I have made over the past couple of weeks are starting to pay off.
I have made a conscious effort to think before I chew! Meaning I have put thought into what goes in my mouth before I have already swallowed it.
I have gotten back into the habit of making dinner instead of opting for the closest drive through.
I have been taking my vitamins and supplements everyday. (Very important)
So, can I get a WHOOT WHOOT for all of those good choices the last few weeks!!!
There is one area that I seriously struggle with...stand back...wait for it...wait for it...wait for it...
EXERCISING!!!!
Shocker, I know! I have been putting in so much effort in all of these other areas except this one. I have gotten my booty up a few times within the past few weeks, but that is not enough to make my booty smaller.
So, my next choice that I am making is to begin exercising regularly. Now I am not talking 5 hour workouts. But getting moving a few days a week for at least 30 min. I have no excuses!
My goal for this next week is to purposefully exercise at least 4 days for at least 30 min. This could be a walk, weights, a video, the treadmill, whatever! And to keep me accountable I am going to post here when I workout, for how long, and what I did.
Now a challenge for the 'millions' of readers I have (lol)...
Are you willing to workout with me?
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Finals
Well, I am in the home stretch. At least for now...
I have taken it upon myself to pursue my degree in psychology. Yep, I'm gettin' smart! This week I have finals however, it is the last of the finals for my AA degree. So, kinda a big mile stone for me. I am excited to have come this far, and have been reflecting on why I started the journey in the first place.
My inspiration for starting the pursuit of my degree is my son Noah. We have been on an incredible journey because of some chemical imbalances that he suffers from. Our journey to find a diagnosis for him has been one full of trials, challenges, learning, and yes, some triumphs.
We have been seeking help from a psychologist/psychiatrist team since Noah was 3. Yep, 3! However, I am the type of person that likes to do my own research. Therefore, I have read just about everything I could get my hands on. So, when we went for his appointments I had plenty of questions and suggestions for the doctors. Noah is now at a place where he is able to be a kid and not worry as much about his challenges. Although, they still pop up we know how to handle them or at least have some good skills in place.
So, this led to some opportunities to speak at a few parenting and woman's groups regarding our journey with Noah. These opportunities fed into the passion I have for encouraging women and young mothers. Therefore, God was brewing and even stronger passion in me for encouraging other women with these speaking opportunities. (I love how God works our circumstances and passions into His plan for us.) I know that God has bigger plans and more opportunities for me to share and encourage other women. However, for now He has me working on gaining more knowledge!
Which brings me to the journey I am currently on. I had never gone to college before and was very nervous. However, as I look back at the last 18 months I chuckle at that thought. This week is the last week for my AA degree. Woohoo! (I am so proud of me!)
I will have a 2 week break and then begin working on my BS in psychology! (But lets just focus on the 2 week break!) Yay, ME!!
I have taken it upon myself to pursue my degree in psychology. Yep, I'm gettin' smart! This week I have finals however, it is the last of the finals for my AA degree. So, kinda a big mile stone for me. I am excited to have come this far, and have been reflecting on why I started the journey in the first place.
My inspiration for starting the pursuit of my degree is my son Noah. We have been on an incredible journey because of some chemical imbalances that he suffers from. Our journey to find a diagnosis for him has been one full of trials, challenges, learning, and yes, some triumphs.
We have been seeking help from a psychologist/psychiatrist team since Noah was 3. Yep, 3! However, I am the type of person that likes to do my own research. Therefore, I have read just about everything I could get my hands on. So, when we went for his appointments I had plenty of questions and suggestions for the doctors. Noah is now at a place where he is able to be a kid and not worry as much about his challenges. Although, they still pop up we know how to handle them or at least have some good skills in place.
So, this led to some opportunities to speak at a few parenting and woman's groups regarding our journey with Noah. These opportunities fed into the passion I have for encouraging women and young mothers. Therefore, God was brewing and even stronger passion in me for encouraging other women with these speaking opportunities. (I love how God works our circumstances and passions into His plan for us.) I know that God has bigger plans and more opportunities for me to share and encourage other women. However, for now He has me working on gaining more knowledge!
Which brings me to the journey I am currently on. I had never gone to college before and was very nervous. However, as I look back at the last 18 months I chuckle at that thought. This week is the last week for my AA degree. Woohoo! (I am so proud of me!)
I will have a 2 week break and then begin working on my BS in psychology! (But lets just focus on the 2 week break!) Yay, ME!!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
I believe
One of my favorite Christmas movies is 'Miracle on 34th Street' the old version. At the end of the movie the little girl is so disappointed that Santa didn't get her what she wanted that she is convinced he doesn't exists. However, her mother tries to convince her otherwise. As they drive home she is sitting in the car repeating..."I believe, I believe, it's stupid but I believe." All the while feeling depressed and let down.
There are so many times within my Christian walk that I can relate to this little girl. This is exactly how I have been feeling the last couple of days. I know that God's timing is not restricted to my ideas of what His timing should be. I also know that God has His best in mind for me. I also know that He loves me. However, I still fall short on faith and find myself muttering, "God I want to believe, I believe, help me believe!"
In the book of Mark chapter 9 there is a story of a father who comes to Jesus asking "if" Jesus could heal his son. In verse 23 Jesus says to him..."Everything is possible to him who believes." The father then says in verse 24..."I do believe; Help me overcome my unbelief!" That has been my very pray these last few weeks. "God help me overcome my unbelief!" So often I loose hope, give up trusting, and fall short on faith.
However, today God has been reminding me of His love for me. Reminding me the He has my best in mind, that I can trust Him, and that even the little faith that I have on days like today is enough. It has been as though He has been whispering sweet little love notes to me all day.
I thought I would share some of the verses He has been reminding me of today!
Romans 8:28 (NIV)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Phil. 1:6 (NIV)
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Eph. 2:10 (NIV)
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Phil. 4:12-13 (NIV)
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Dear Lord,
Help me overcome my unbelief! Help me to be content to wait for the provisions You have set out for me! Thank you for loving me even when my faith wavers! Thank you for reminding me today of the love you have for me!
There are so many times within my Christian walk that I can relate to this little girl. This is exactly how I have been feeling the last couple of days. I know that God's timing is not restricted to my ideas of what His timing should be. I also know that God has His best in mind for me. I also know that He loves me. However, I still fall short on faith and find myself muttering, "God I want to believe, I believe, help me believe!"
In the book of Mark chapter 9 there is a story of a father who comes to Jesus asking "if" Jesus could heal his son. In verse 23 Jesus says to him..."Everything is possible to him who believes." The father then says in verse 24..."I do believe; Help me overcome my unbelief!" That has been my very pray these last few weeks. "God help me overcome my unbelief!" So often I loose hope, give up trusting, and fall short on faith.
However, today God has been reminding me of His love for me. Reminding me the He has my best in mind, that I can trust Him, and that even the little faith that I have on days like today is enough. It has been as though He has been whispering sweet little love notes to me all day.
I thought I would share some of the verses He has been reminding me of today!
Romans 8:28 (NIV)
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Phil. 1:6 (NIV)
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Eph. 2:10 (NIV)
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Phil. 4:12-13 (NIV)
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Dear Lord,
Help me overcome my unbelief! Help me to be content to wait for the provisions You have set out for me! Thank you for loving me even when my faith wavers! Thank you for reminding me today of the love you have for me!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Restaurant Choices
Happy Wednesday! I know that there are a few of you who are following my Weight Loss Wednesday posts and making changes! I just want you to know that I am proud of you for the choices you are making! We are getting healthier together one Wednesday (and one choice) at a time!
So, on to today's post:
One of the things that I find difficult when trying to eat a regular healthy diet is eating out. The busy lives that we all lead often leave us eating out several times a week. Without careful thought and planning this can lead to a healthy diet disaster. So, here are a few things that I do to try and eat as healthy as I can even when the menu doesn't seem helpful.
1. BE prepared to take your time ordering!!
Be prepared to order healthy. This may mean taking some time to think over the menus at your favorite restaurants. There have been many times I will order out of habit, or fall victim to the "More than you ever need to eat, VALUE MEAL!" (value for who, certainly not my hips.) Fast food restaurants are especially good at putting up BIG pictures of the burgers and make it so easy to say..."I'll have a #5, and yes make it as big as you can!" So, Be Prepared to stop and take your time, think about your order, and don't fall prey to the advertising!
2. When in doubt go for a salad!!
Most restaurants have salads on the menu. However, a salad that has fried chicken bits, bacon, and other toppings may not be your healthiest choice. This is where step one comes in. Stop and look at the options, Take your time, ask for grilled toppings instead of fried, go for the salad with the most veggies, and if a buttery roll or bread stick is offered to you simply pass it up. (However, if a nice whole grain bread is available go for it!)
3. Don't be lazy!!
This is a hard one, but lets be real here. How many times have you been in the drive through, exhausted, starving, and wanting something now. What happens? You totally cave! You order that #5 and eat it at the speed of light. You forget about step one and order lazy. However, once that #5 is gone those feelings of guilt start creeping in! (and now your hips are mad at you too) I know this process all too well! (My hips are proof!) Take those extra moments to think about what you are ordering and leave the guilt (and big hips) on the value menu!!
4. Don't be so hard on yourself!!
An occasional milk shake (had one last week with my 10 yr old) is okay. Now, by occasional I do not mean 2 or 3 times a week. But God made food for us to enjoy and having a sweet treat once in a while isn't going to mess up our healthy eating habits. However, BE CAREFUL!!! If these treats start to become more of a habit than the healthy choices then there is a problem. Go back to step one, think about your options!! If you are craving chocolate, go for a small piece of a Hershey's Dark with Almonds, (Mmmmm!) or a sugar-free/fat free pudding cup. If you are simply hungry, but not sure what you want, have a glass of water first you may just be thirsty. (Sounds crazy I know, but it works!) Offer yourself a treat now and then, but continue to make healthy choices for the majority of your meals! (I think I need a pudding cup now! Yum!)
5. A food journal
If you are worried about these sweet treats getting out of hand keeping a food journal may help. I talked about keeping track of what we eat in last weeks post...Food Journal!
All of these steps are things that help me to make healthy eating choices when I am out. However, keeping on track with making these choices every day takes discipline. So here is a reminder of the verse I am using as inspiration on this journey to getting healthier.
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
So, on to today's post:
One of the things that I find difficult when trying to eat a regular healthy diet is eating out. The busy lives that we all lead often leave us eating out several times a week. Without careful thought and planning this can lead to a healthy diet disaster. So, here are a few things that I do to try and eat as healthy as I can even when the menu doesn't seem helpful.
1. BE prepared to take your time ordering!!
Be prepared to order healthy. This may mean taking some time to think over the menus at your favorite restaurants. There have been many times I will order out of habit, or fall victim to the "More than you ever need to eat, VALUE MEAL!" (value for who, certainly not my hips.) Fast food restaurants are especially good at putting up BIG pictures of the burgers and make it so easy to say..."I'll have a #5, and yes make it as big as you can!" So, Be Prepared to stop and take your time, think about your order, and don't fall prey to the advertising!
2. When in doubt go for a salad!!
Most restaurants have salads on the menu. However, a salad that has fried chicken bits, bacon, and other toppings may not be your healthiest choice. This is where step one comes in. Stop and look at the options, Take your time, ask for grilled toppings instead of fried, go for the salad with the most veggies, and if a buttery roll or bread stick is offered to you simply pass it up. (However, if a nice whole grain bread is available go for it!)
3. Don't be lazy!!
This is a hard one, but lets be real here. How many times have you been in the drive through, exhausted, starving, and wanting something now. What happens? You totally cave! You order that #5 and eat it at the speed of light. You forget about step one and order lazy. However, once that #5 is gone those feelings of guilt start creeping in! (and now your hips are mad at you too) I know this process all too well! (My hips are proof!) Take those extra moments to think about what you are ordering and leave the guilt (and big hips) on the value menu!!
4. Don't be so hard on yourself!!
An occasional milk shake (had one last week with my 10 yr old) is okay. Now, by occasional I do not mean 2 or 3 times a week. But God made food for us to enjoy and having a sweet treat once in a while isn't going to mess up our healthy eating habits. However, BE CAREFUL!!! If these treats start to become more of a habit than the healthy choices then there is a problem. Go back to step one, think about your options!! If you are craving chocolate, go for a small piece of a Hershey's Dark with Almonds, (Mmmmm!) or a sugar-free/fat free pudding cup. If you are simply hungry, but not sure what you want, have a glass of water first you may just be thirsty. (Sounds crazy I know, but it works!) Offer yourself a treat now and then, but continue to make healthy choices for the majority of your meals! (I think I need a pudding cup now! Yum!)
5. A food journal
If you are worried about these sweet treats getting out of hand keeping a food journal may help. I talked about keeping track of what we eat in last weeks post...Food Journal!
All of these steps are things that help me to make healthy eating choices when I am out. However, keeping on track with making these choices every day takes discipline. So here is a reminder of the verse I am using as inspiration on this journey to getting healthier.
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Look sparkly!!
Well, now that we are back on a week that Monday feels like Monday, instead of Tuesday feeling like Monday, I think I am back on schedule. At least there is hope!
I realized last week in trying to keep up with the days feeling off...I get distracted easily. Okay, for those of you that know me BIG surprise, I know. However, I have used this little epiphany to my advantage. I will often be doing something and have a thought of "Oh, I should write that down for my blog." Then I do not write it down and the thought is gone. (Bye, bye thought) By the time I sit down to write here I am completely blank.
Look sparkly! What was I writing about...
Oh writing, right! Anyway I have started keeping a notebook with me to write down these little tidbits as they come to me! Brilliant, right? I know not rocket science, but brilliance in it's own right.
This new idea of writing ideas down all the time will come in handy as I prepare for my finals this week and next. I am excited for the ideas to start flowing!
In the meantime...Things I like that are sparkly!
Stars
Sun
sequins
metallic shoes (or bags, or bags and shoes that match, sparkly, or shoes with jewels, Oh and bags with buckles, or buttons, Oh wait the list...)
jewelery
Diamonds (I like fake ones too, they are just as sparkly, I think they are sometimes more sparkly, right the list...)
Moonlight on the water
My boys eyes
Sale signs (okay not sparkly for everyone, but in my world...SPARKLY!!! And Clearance Signs, put on your shades people!!!)
Well, I could go on but I am trying to remember what else I have to do today...
Now where did I put that notebook? Ooooo, look a sparkly!
I realized last week in trying to keep up with the days feeling off...I get distracted easily. Okay, for those of you that know me BIG surprise, I know. However, I have used this little epiphany to my advantage. I will often be doing something and have a thought of "Oh, I should write that down for my blog." Then I do not write it down and the thought is gone. (Bye, bye thought) By the time I sit down to write here I am completely blank.
Look sparkly! What was I writing about...
Oh writing, right! Anyway I have started keeping a notebook with me to write down these little tidbits as they come to me! Brilliant, right? I know not rocket science, but brilliance in it's own right.
This new idea of writing ideas down all the time will come in handy as I prepare for my finals this week and next. I am excited for the ideas to start flowing!
In the meantime...Things I like that are sparkly!
Stars
Sun
sequins
metallic shoes (or bags, or bags and shoes that match, sparkly, or shoes with jewels, Oh and bags with buckles, or buttons, Oh wait the list...)
jewelery
Diamonds (I like fake ones too, they are just as sparkly, I think they are sometimes more sparkly, right the list...)
Moonlight on the water
My boys eyes
Sale signs (okay not sparkly for everyone, but in my world...SPARKLY!!! And Clearance Signs, put on your shades people!!!)
Well, I could go on but I am trying to remember what else I have to do today...
Now where did I put that notebook? Ooooo, look a sparkly!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Food Journal
This week started off with Monday as part of the weekend. I don't know about you but that threw me way off schedule. I realized as I was sitting down for this post today that it is Thursday. Ooops! I completely missed posting yesterday and now feel behind. So... here is Weight Loss Wednesday on Thursday! ;) (Who knows maybe I will blog twice today to catch up!)
Last week I made a commitment to myself and to all of you (all 3 or 4 of you who read this) ;) to be more disciplined in my journey to being healthy. I have been focused on the choices I am making with each meal and snack. Now of course I have not been perfect, (snickers milkshake date with my 10 yr old yesterday) but I have been aware of my choices and keeping track of when I eat something not completely healthy.
So, how am I doing this? Well, when I started on this journey almost 2 years ago I began with the simple task of keeping track. Yep, I would keep track of the food that I ate. Now I didn't get all crazy and track every single morsel that I chomped on, but I did write down everything at each snack or meal. By doing this my eyes where opened to exactly what I was feeding my body. I have to say when I first started I was shocked at all the things I ate and didn't even think about.
A few days of keeping a food journal and I started rethinking what I was eating. I would reach for a piece of cake and think, "Oh, if I eat this I am going to have to write it down." Or I would stand there and debate over the brownies or the apples, "Hmmm, if I eat the brownies I will have guilt later when I look at my journal. Better eat the apple!" I saw just how much of my food intake was junk and how little of it was good fuel for my body. Wow!
Now that I had a good picture of what my eating habits were like, well, I didn't like what I saw. This allowed me to see where I could make changes and what time of day was the hardest for me. (Late night snacks are my worst! Ice Cream anyone?!) So, I began to make small changes, choosing fresh fruits and veggies over the brownies, and having healthy snacks on hand for those late night cravings.
I would encourage anyone wanting to improve their eating habits to start out with this simple task. Keep track of what you are eating everyday for 2 weeks. See if anything surprises you or if you see any patterns of poor eating habits. (Ice Cream at 11:30pm, yep that's me!)
A reminder of the verse I am holding onto through my journey:
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Changing habits is not an easy task! But the reward of a healthy body is worth it!
{{{HUGS}}}
Last week I made a commitment to myself and to all of you (all 3 or 4 of you who read this) ;) to be more disciplined in my journey to being healthy. I have been focused on the choices I am making with each meal and snack. Now of course I have not been perfect, (snickers milkshake date with my 10 yr old yesterday) but I have been aware of my choices and keeping track of when I eat something not completely healthy.
So, how am I doing this? Well, when I started on this journey almost 2 years ago I began with the simple task of keeping track. Yep, I would keep track of the food that I ate. Now I didn't get all crazy and track every single morsel that I chomped on, but I did write down everything at each snack or meal. By doing this my eyes where opened to exactly what I was feeding my body. I have to say when I first started I was shocked at all the things I ate and didn't even think about.
A few days of keeping a food journal and I started rethinking what I was eating. I would reach for a piece of cake and think, "Oh, if I eat this I am going to have to write it down." Or I would stand there and debate over the brownies or the apples, "Hmmm, if I eat the brownies I will have guilt later when I look at my journal. Better eat the apple!" I saw just how much of my food intake was junk and how little of it was good fuel for my body. Wow!
Now that I had a good picture of what my eating habits were like, well, I didn't like what I saw. This allowed me to see where I could make changes and what time of day was the hardest for me. (Late night snacks are my worst! Ice Cream anyone?!) So, I began to make small changes, choosing fresh fruits and veggies over the brownies, and having healthy snacks on hand for those late night cravings.
I would encourage anyone wanting to improve their eating habits to start out with this simple task. Keep track of what you are eating everyday for 2 weeks. See if anything surprises you or if you see any patterns of poor eating habits. (Ice Cream at 11:30pm, yep that's me!)
A reminder of the verse I am holding onto through my journey:
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Changing habits is not an easy task! But the reward of a healthy body is worth it!
{{{HUGS}}}
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Job update
A few posts ago I mentioned that my husband was informed that his job would be ending. Well, Friday was officially his last day. We are still believing God for big things and know that He will provide the perfect job in His timing.
Brian has had several interviews and several more resumes waiting for responses. The waiting is the hardest part even though we know God's timing is perfect. So, we continue to believe and pray for God to reveal the next steps.
I am believing in the One who is able to do more than I can ask or imagine.
Eph. 3:20
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us
Brian has had several interviews and several more resumes waiting for responses. The waiting is the hardest part even though we know God's timing is perfect. So, we continue to believe and pray for God to reveal the next steps.
I am believing in the One who is able to do more than I can ask or imagine.
Eph. 3:20
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us
Friday, September 4, 2009
Reward charts
I love to reward my boys for good behavior, doing chores without being told, and simply helping out mom and dad. By reinforcing their good behavior this teaches them what is expected of them as well as how to be responsible.
One way that we reward good behavior in our house is with a reward chart. Each boy has his own chart with his own areas to work on. These areas might include making the bed, being nice, setting the table, doing homework, etc.
One of the boys stickers is labeled 'BE NICE' as they have been having some trouble respecting others and their feelings. Last night I was tallying up their stickers for the day and neither boy had received a sticker for being nice. However, as we talked through their achievements for the day Michael had a realization. He realized that both of them had been mean to me and therefore didn't earn their 'Be nice' sticker.
He looked at me and said, "Poor mommy!" I asked him what he meant and he said, "You have been mean to today! Everyone has been mean to you!" I almost started to cry because he was seeing our reason for the 'BE NICE' sticker and realizing how mean he had been. After tallying the stickers Michael came to me and apologized for his mean words then asked if I would snuggle and read a book. (Who could say no to that request?!)
This was one of those moments when I saw that all my re-directions, correcting, and disciplining is really having an affect on my boys. Sometimes I feel as though all I do is discipline them and wonder if any of it is sinking in. Here was a precious little glimpse of what his little heart is learning. All of the effort I put in really is worth it! What an honor to train a little heart!
And, you can be sure I took full advantage of the offered snuggle and reading as these moments are rare with a 7 year old boy! ;)
Proverbs 22:6
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
One way that we reward good behavior in our house is with a reward chart. Each boy has his own chart with his own areas to work on. These areas might include making the bed, being nice, setting the table, doing homework, etc.
One of the boys stickers is labeled 'BE NICE' as they have been having some trouble respecting others and their feelings. Last night I was tallying up their stickers for the day and neither boy had received a sticker for being nice. However, as we talked through their achievements for the day Michael had a realization. He realized that both of them had been mean to me and therefore didn't earn their 'Be nice' sticker.
He looked at me and said, "Poor mommy!" I asked him what he meant and he said, "You have been mean to today! Everyone has been mean to you!" I almost started to cry because he was seeing our reason for the 'BE NICE' sticker and realizing how mean he had been. After tallying the stickers Michael came to me and apologized for his mean words then asked if I would snuggle and read a book. (Who could say no to that request?!)
This was one of those moments when I saw that all my re-directions, correcting, and disciplining is really having an affect on my boys. Sometimes I feel as though all I do is discipline them and wonder if any of it is sinking in. Here was a precious little glimpse of what his little heart is learning. All of the effort I put in really is worth it! What an honor to train a little heart!
And, you can be sure I took full advantage of the offered snuggle and reading as these moments are rare with a 7 year old boy! ;)
Proverbs 22:6
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Thankful
All to often I forget to be thankful. There are so many things in life that can get in the way of realizing what I have, or how blessed I am. So, here is a list of a few things I am thankful for today...
Beautiful sunshine, A day at the zoo with my husband, 2 handsome and healthy boys, God providing for our needs, my many friends, a home, Knowing I am a daughter of the King (and therefore a princess!) I could go on and on.
I am blessed!
What are you thankful for today?
Beautiful sunshine, A day at the zoo with my husband, 2 handsome and healthy boys, God providing for our needs, my many friends, a home, Knowing I am a daughter of the King (and therefore a princess!) I could go on and on.
I am blessed!
What are you thankful for today?
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Choices
Today I have decided to start...Weight Loss Wednesdays.
Yep, I plan on tracking my journey to get healthy right here and posting my progress, along with some other healthy tidbits along the way.
I mentioned in an earlier post this week that I have lost 50 lb. in the past year or so. Well, over the summer I have not been as focused on disciplining my eating habits and old eating habits have crept back in. (Unfortunately, along with these old habits a few of those lost pounds have found their way back to my booty.) However, I know with a little discipline I can get back on track and loose those pounds for good.
Over the last 2 weeks I have been slowly making small changes in my eating to try and get back into the healthy groove. However, on Sunday my family went out to lunch after church. As I sat there pondering over the menu I kept looking at the salads feeling sad that I was going to miss out on what everyone else was going to order. (Oh, poor me I cannot have the fries, or cheese sticks, or the way to much food for anyone platter...such a martyr way of thinking) Then it hit me...
It's a choice! A choice that I make! My choice! A choice to choose being healthy. A choice to choose what I know is better for me! It is my choice and only my choice that gets me to my goal of being healthy. (and the side affect of a smaller booty isn't bad either!)
I realized that this choice is not a simple one time deal. NO! This choice is made every time I walk into my kitchen. Every time I put a fork to my mouth. Every time I look at a menu. Every time I fix dinner. Every time I ...
However, this CHOICE is not what you think. Oh, no! This is not a choice of doughnuts or oatmeal, cookies or apples. NO! This is a choice of being healthy, doing what is best for me, taking care of the body God has blessed me with that is His temple.
As I sat there I looked at my husband and said, "It's a choice! And I have to make this choice every time! Every time!" I no longer had the martyr attitude (although I could still hear the cheese sticks calling me) and I made my choice. I chose to have a healthy attitude about the changes I am making and choose to eat a healthy lunch.
Other choices that I am making to help me stay on track are: Blogging about my journey (encouragements are welcome, and so are gentle kicks in the booty if needed), reestablishing an exercise routine (check back next week), thinking healthy whenever I eat, focusing on who I am in Christ.
I think my verse for this journey is going to remain
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
I know this is not a rocket science or brain surgery type of epiphany, but every choice that I make (that you make) sets me up for success or failure when the next choice comes along.
I am CHOOSING to make healthy choices!
Yep, I plan on tracking my journey to get healthy right here and posting my progress, along with some other healthy tidbits along the way.
I mentioned in an earlier post this week that I have lost 50 lb. in the past year or so. Well, over the summer I have not been as focused on disciplining my eating habits and old eating habits have crept back in. (Unfortunately, along with these old habits a few of those lost pounds have found their way back to my booty.) However, I know with a little discipline I can get back on track and loose those pounds for good.
Over the last 2 weeks I have been slowly making small changes in my eating to try and get back into the healthy groove. However, on Sunday my family went out to lunch after church. As I sat there pondering over the menu I kept looking at the salads feeling sad that I was going to miss out on what everyone else was going to order. (Oh, poor me I cannot have the fries, or cheese sticks, or the way to much food for anyone platter...such a martyr way of thinking) Then it hit me...
It's a choice! A choice that I make! My choice! A choice to choose being healthy. A choice to choose what I know is better for me! It is my choice and only my choice that gets me to my goal of being healthy. (and the side affect of a smaller booty isn't bad either!)
I realized that this choice is not a simple one time deal. NO! This choice is made every time I walk into my kitchen. Every time I put a fork to my mouth. Every time I look at a menu. Every time I fix dinner. Every time I ...
However, this CHOICE is not what you think. Oh, no! This is not a choice of doughnuts or oatmeal, cookies or apples. NO! This is a choice of being healthy, doing what is best for me, taking care of the body God has blessed me with that is His temple.
As I sat there I looked at my husband and said, "It's a choice! And I have to make this choice every time! Every time!" I no longer had the martyr attitude (although I could still hear the cheese sticks calling me) and I made my choice. I chose to have a healthy attitude about the changes I am making and choose to eat a healthy lunch.
Other choices that I am making to help me stay on track are: Blogging about my journey (encouragements are welcome, and so are gentle kicks in the booty if needed), reestablishing an exercise routine (check back next week), thinking healthy whenever I eat, focusing on who I am in Christ.
I think my verse for this journey is going to remain
Hebrews 12:11
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
I know this is not a rocket science or brain surgery type of epiphany, but every choice that I make (that you make) sets me up for success or failure when the next choice comes along.
I am CHOOSING to make healthy choices!
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