Crissy's Corner

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2011-02-23T09:54:00.000-05:00

It has been a long time since I have posted anything. Life has gotten super busy. However, I will be returning to the blog scene soon with a brand new look to the blog. Stay tuned for the Grand Re-blogging!

Lemonade Stand

2010-07-14T17:44:00.011-04:00

This summer our church is sending 2 teams to Cambodia.

As a family we have several friends going on these trips and have been blessed to support them both prayerfully and financially. However, both of our boys have had a very personal experience with supporting the second team. Several of the people on this team are close friends so we already felt a strong connection to the trip. However, this trip has gained a special place in the hearts of our boys.

We have been planning for our family vacation to Disney World for some time now. As we planned the boys wanted to run a lemonade stand to raise a little spending money for our trip. Around the same time I learned that our friends, who were going to Cambodia with team 2, were planning a yard sale to raise money for their trips. This offered a perfect opportunity for Noah and Michael to have their lemonade stand.

As we prepared our goodies for the sale we talked about why our friends were having the yard sale. We also talked about the reasons they were traveling to Cambodia, to share Jesus with those who do not know Him. With this new understanding of what the Cambodia trips where all about (they thought the team was just visiting Miss Jen our missionary) the boys had the thought to give some of their profits to the team. After some deliberating they decided that 50% of all their profits should go to Team 2 towards their trip. (This made my heart soar!)

Well, the boys spent 6 hours in the hot sun selling lemonade, chocolate chip cookies, brownies, and bottled water. (of course all the supplies were donations, wink wink) They had a table all set up with a menu, cash register, and cooler full of drinks. They were so cute that several people stopped just to buy from their little stand, and then walked around the yard sale! Fun!

Their grand total in sales for the day was $40 (minus about $5 that was spent at the yard sale). So, as we were cleaning up to go home they proudly gave Miss Kim $20 and said, "This is for your trip!" How wonderful it was to see the excitement they had in supporting our friends and having a part in sharing Jesus with people on the other side of the world.

Both of the boys have felt a closer connection to this trip and while we were at Disney last week we took time to pray for our friends. Even though we have not been able to go on one of these trips (yet) we have been able to use these trips to teach our boys the importance of living and sharing Gods word. The photos and blogs our friends have been posting have made us all feel like we are right there with them.

I am so excited that our boys are beginning to understand the importance of sharing the news of Jesus with others.

Check out this blog:

Vista's Missionary

Set your mind on things above...

2010-01-27T08:51:00.003-05:00

Recently I have been reading through several books regarding teaching our children compassion and helping them grow hearts to serve. One of these books is titled Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World. As I began reading this book I had the thought, simply from the title, that I could use this book to change the hearts of my often selfish children. I dove into the book and read the first few chapters without hesitation ready for insight on how I could create unselfish children.

I had been enjoying the insights from this book and was pondering them over doing a load of dishes. However, as I emptied the dishwasher, for the second time that day, I was thinking to myself "I really hate unloading the dishwasher" ..."I wish we had a better dishwasher, half of these dishes are not even clean"..."I really like the dishwasher my friend just got, you can't even hear it when it's running." Then these thoughts turned into a full fledged 'I want to keep up with the Jones-es pity party'! By the time I realized where my thoughts had gone I was feeling depressed and wanting to buy a new... well...everything! Wow, what a selfish and discontented attitude.

God has such a sense of humor, and I love that about Him! As happens so many times when God leads me to a book like this I was convicted after the first 2 chapters. In my quest to change the hearts of my children I realized that my heart needed some adjusting. I needed to step back and readjust where my eyes were focused.

Colossians 3:1-2
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated on the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

I began to realize the first step to helping my children be content and compassionate was to make sure my eyes were focused in the right place. Of course, setting my mind on things above is a daily struggle. I just need to keep my heart focused on Christ.

New Years Resolutions

2010-01-06T17:20:00.005-05:00

Here it is Weighing in Wednesday! Yes, I know, it's not Wednesday. However, for me it feels like it is because there was no school on Monday. So, since I can't seem to remember what day it is we will weigh in on these thoughts today...

This time of year always brings about those resolutions to lose weight, stop eating chocolate (not happening here), and start exercising. I personally have given up on creating a New Years resolution. I usually do well at whatever it is for a few weeks and then reality hits and I am right back where I started. Once I realize that I have failed to keep another resolution depression sets in and I feel like a complete failure. So, in an attempt to avoid this feeling of failure I have resolved to not make a New Years resolution.

After making this resolution to not make a resolution my sister called me with a little encouraging challenge. We are both in the process of trying to change our bad habits into healthy habits. So, she thought a little challenge might be in order.

We are trying to see who can lose the most weight by April 29. (My birthday!! Hmmm, a smaller butt for my birthday. Now that's what I call a present!!)

Now we are not going on some crazy, Hollywood, loose 50 pounds in a week diet. Nope! We are both trying to make healthy food choices, exercise, and focus on changing our habits every day. Something that we have already been doing, but now we have a little competition to help us focus even more on changing our bad habits. (My sister has included her niece, and her son's girlfriend in the challenge, too.)

Our reward for this challenge is a day of shopping with each other! So, no matter who loses the most...we both win!!!

So, I am challenging you!!!

Will you join us in our challenge to change our bad habits, and start focusing on healthy choices. What do you have to lose? (Except maybe those love handles, or thunder thighs, or baby belly. I hope I lose all three!)

I am going to post a weekly update on how I am doing with the challenge. Here are a couple of small habits I am working on changing...

- No second helpings!!! (No matter how yummy dinner was)
- No eating after 8pm!!! (I am sure those late night munchies are responsible for 10-20lb.)
- Exercise everyday!!! (Even if I only do a few sit ups, or dance around to the radio.)

Okay, so who's with me?

When Life Happens...

2010-01-05T13:09:00.003-05:00

Well here I am, and I know some of you have missed me. It seems that as life has been happening over the last couple of months this cracked pot dropped her new habit of blogging. So, to catch everyone up...

When we left off my husband was looking for a new job. Praise the Lord, he has found one. He has been working for a while now and we are so thankful. However, being unemployed for a few months certainly makes a person take stock. God provided for us continually, and I think knowing that we didn't have a choice but to wait on Him made us more aware of His provisions. I know that God provides for me everyday, but how often are we waiting on him for our next meal, a rent payment, or even our survival. I think that often all the "stuff" we have gets in the way of seeing the blessings He gives us. I am thankful that God brought us through this patch so that I can see His provisions clearly.

What are the blessings God has given you that you may have overlooked?

Hummus

2009-10-12T17:30:00.003-04:00

I love to cook. When I was young I would spend hours with my grandmother cooking, baking, canning, anything that got me into the kitchen. I now enjoy cooking with my own kids. So, I thought that I would post a recipe every now and then to share some of the foods I love.

I must however, make a disclaimer...some of my recipes are ideas that I have gotten from another recipe and I just fixed them up a little to suite my tastes. I like to think of a recipe as more of a guideline to be adjusted as needed.

So, my recipe for today is Hummus. I am totally addicted. I found this recipe for Spinach-Artichoke Hummus and Cheesy Toast and fell in love with the yummy alternative to spinach and artichoke dip. However, I was not satisfied with having only one recipe for my hummus. I have used this recipe for inspiration to make lots of variations.

Here is the basic Hummus recipe...

Hummus

1-15oz. can of chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
2 Tablespoons Tahini (sesame paste)
2 Garlic cloves
Juice of 1 Lemon
Salt and pepper
1/4 to 1/2 cup EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)

Put all ingredients (except EVOO) into a food processor and pulse a few times. Stream in the EVOO. Blend in food processor until smooth. (I sometimes add a little extra EVOO and blend longer until it is really smooth.)

Now with this basic recipe the possibilities are endless. So, lets think outside the box. How about 'sun-dried tomato and roasted garlic hummus'! Or just roasted garlic! Maybe a nice 'tomato and basil hummus', or an 'oregano, basil, and rosemary hummus'! 'Garlic Parmesan hummus', or for a little heat 'Tomato, Cayenne, and garlic hummus'. Just make the basic recipe and throw in what ever flavors your craving! Endless possibilities!

Remember to have some fresh baguette slices, whole grain crackers, or pita chips ready to scoop up this yummy snack! (Of course, I could just eat it by the spoonful, whatever works!)

Gotta go, I think I'm craving....

HUMMUS!!

Now where is that wagon?

2009-10-07T19:57:00.006-04:00

Well, today is Weighing in Wednesday, and I have to say I knew this day would come. I knew that sooner or later there would be a day that I had to post about my journey to being healthy and the report would not be so good. However, I know we all have those weeks so, in the spirit of encouraging someone else here is my post.

This last week I had the best intentions of working out more than I did last week. However, I only exercised 2 days and even those days were not complete workouts. Not only did I not exercise the way I wanted, but my eating was terrible too. More than that, I didn't care.

I didn't just fall off the wagon...I can't even find the wagon!!

I have thought over all of the excuses I could write here, and there are plenty. However, I realized that what it comes down to is me not making the right choices. I was lazy. I didn't want to take the time to think about what I was eating, or how I was feeling, or the goals I have for getting healthier. I just plain didn't care!

One choice that I did make was to find comfort in food. (Can we say emotional eater?!) I should have turned to God for my comfort, but I chose apple pie instead! (with ice cream!)

So, here I am searching for the wagon so I can jump back on. I am not going to dwell on the fact that I didn't make good choices this week. Instead I am going to continue on toward my goals and focus on getting my comfort from the only One who can give it to 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.

Lacking Compassion

2009-10-06T09:44:00.003-04:00

There are times during this journey of parenthood that leave me looking back wishing I had said or done things differently. Of course, this is life, we learn from our mistakes, right?!

Recently, God has been working on an area of my heart that I am needing some adjustments in. (Working on my plank, Matthew 7:3-5) This area has to do with compassion.

I am a fairly compassionate person however, I seem to loose touch with this compassion when my husband or children are ill. I tend to be a 'suck it up' type gal, and when others are ill around me and whiny, (see there I go) I tend to think they should do the same, suck it up. Of course, I do care for my family when they are ill, I just get a bad attitude.

God has been bringing this to my attention recently with the struggles we have been having with my son Noah. We are at point with is ADD issues that we need to adjust some things. (Growth spurts throw everything off) However, I have not been very compassionate regarding his struggle. My attitude has not been filled with grace, mercy, or compassion. Instead, I have been impatient, angry, and even hurtful with my words at times. As I talked with a friend yesterday about Noah's struggle I realized just how little compassion I had been showing him. Ouch! I thought to myself "How can a mother be so awful to her son!" Thankfully, God is showing me this so, I can correct it. I found this verse today and it seemed to fit where my mind was on this heart issue...

Isaiah 49:15
"Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!

This is how I felt thinking about my attitude. How could I forget to be compassionate to my son?! I am beginning to realize that I have a selfish attitude. The problem is not so much that I forget to be compassionate, but that I am selfish. Taking care of others, especially my children, takes a lot of time, effort, and often every ounce of me. When I am completely tapped out (like with the recent ADD issues) if I am not leaning on God for strength, my ugliness and bad attitude start creeping out.

Parenting is hard work, and it is work that never, never, never, (did I say never) stops. I can only be the parent my children need if I am leaning on God for guidance, wisdom, and even my sanity! So, for now I am working on this 'plank' and have apologized to my son for my bad attitude.

I want to have the same compassion for others that God has for me. Thankfully, I can know that even when I am a less than perfect parent He will not forget me or my children.

Yep, working on my plank!

Can you hear Him?

2009-10-02T20:41:00.003-04:00

As a wife, mom, student, classroom mom, PTA member, and all the other various hats I wear I often have to take time out to hear God speaking. However, getting in that daily time can sometimes seem difficult and even impossible. Even when I do get in a daily devotional I find myself rushing through it, and checking my watch as I try to cram it into my schedule. I do not think that these quick glances at a few bible verses really defines 'listening' to God.

Over the summer we were having some family difficulties. Because of these difficulties I decided to pull back from the various things that I was volunteering for as well as areas I was serving in within our church. Little did I know, God was trying to get my attention. As I spent the summer not serving in any area, except with my family, I began to hear God clearer. I began to take more time reading my bible, praying, and listening. I realized that all to often I am doing, and doing, and doing when God wants me to simply stop and listen.

Being an Advocate for my kids

2009-10-01T14:29:00.004-04:00

Today started out as a very difficult day in the Bontrager household. My 10 year old (Noah) struggles with a chemical imbalance, or low serotonin levels. This imbalance shows itself with various symptoms one of them being ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). We have spent years seeing a psychologist and working with various behavioral modifications, diet modifications, and yes, we have tried different medications as well. (I will try whatever it takes to give him the best childhood possible!)

For the last year or so we have been very fortunate to have found a combination of behavioral modifications and medications that have kept his symptoms under control. He has been able to concentrate at school, his grades are great, and he is enjoying being a kid.

However, as we started 5th grade this year I was holding on for all of the transitions headed our way. (He really struggles with change) The first week went well, and then it hit. The ADD reared it's ugly head and put a huge halt to our year of seeing few symptoms. The last 2 weeks have been filled with meltdowns in the classroom (crying, not talking, dad had to go to the school meltdowns), an hour worth of homework taking 4 or more hours, and crying in the mornings not wanting to go to school! Yikes! My happy little 10 year old suddenly turned into a child who could not focus on anything, didn't want to go to school, and was doubting his abilities.

I must say that I was expecting there to be some issues as 5th grade started knowing that Noah is not fond of change. We have a doctors appointment for next Wednesday to discuss a change in his medication, and to discuss how he is handling 5th grade. (He has had a big growth spurt over the summer, and meds usually need adjusted after a growth spurt!)

Today however, my husband and I took him to school and sat down with the Principle and guidance counselor to discuss the issues we have been having. We now have a plan in place to get us through until we have adjusted his medication amounts.

One thing that I have learned through having a child with challenges is that I have to be his advocate. I have to be willing to walk into the school and let the teachers, principle, and guidance counselor know that things are not working for my child. I have made it my mission to make myself known by all of the teachers (including gym, art, music, library teachers, and even the lunch room helpers), the principle, and the guidance counselor. The more I show how committed I am to my child's education the more willing the teachers are to work with me.

I think this is true in every part of being a parent. I need to be my child's advocate, I need to speak up for him, support him, and give him what he needs to succeed, learn, and grow. What an amazing job God has given me!

Weighing in Wednesday

2009-09-30T16:20:00.004-04:00

Since I am the author of this blog I decided to change the title to my Wednesday posts! The new title is...

Weighing in Wednesdays

Now I am not expecting everyone to weigh themselves and post what the scale tells you every Wednesday! (That would just be weird) But I am going to be weighing in on my journey to being healthy and I did not like the emphasis being on weight loss. The emphasis needs to be on getting healthy!

So, to continue from last week I mentioned I would post my exercise so I would be accountable to those who read this blog. This last week I exercised for 4 out of 7 days. Now each time was not a hard core, hour long workout, but I did it. I plan on working out more this next week, which will include at least 5 days of a 30 minute workout. I have some videos that take you on a 90 day workout schedule. I am planning on using that and tracking my progress here.

I have had several of you (didn't realize there were so many of you reading my blog) ask if we can workout together. Here is my thought on that...

Let's all workout and on Wednesdays post how we did for the previous week. We can have a buddy system right here! (and since a few of you live to far away, this could work!)

I have had workout buddies in the past and the arrangement always starts out great, with great motivation, and great positive attitudes. However, one of the buddies always lacks the drive to continue. (There have been times when I was the 'lacking' buddy) I have been thinking about the times I have let others down with my lack of enthusiasm over working out together. (or working out at all, lets be real here) So, with all of the thinking about choices that I have been doing (and mentioning in previous posts) I have come to a conclusion.

Working out needs to be a choice that I make for myself. (and you for yourself) Just as I need to make a choice every time I eat something (how is this piece of cake getting me to my goal of being healthy), I need to make a choice every day to get off of my booty and get moving. I also have been thinking about why it is so hard to get myself moving. This is where my motivational bible verse comes in:

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.

This verse completely fits with getting in the groove of exercising everyday. However, (and just for fun) here is how I see this verse motivating me to exercise more often...

No workout program seems pleasant at the time, but painful. (we know how much those squats hurt!) Later on, however, it produces a harvest of tight abs, skinny jeans, and a healthy body for those who have been trained by it.

He provides!!

2009-09-26T14:56:00.003-04:00

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!!!

Back on track

2009-09-24T16:58:00.007-04:00

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.

Feelin' Good!

2009-09-23T20:22:00.007-04:00

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.

Finals

2009-09-21T20:26:00.004-04:00

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 believe

2009-09-17T17:59:00.009-04:00

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!

Restaurant Choices

2009-09-16T16:44:00.006-04:00

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.

Look sparkly!!

2009-09-14T08:23:00.003-04:00

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!

Food Journal

2009-09-10T08:38:00.007-04:00

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}}}

Job update

2009-09-08T21:17:00.004-04:00

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

Reward charts

2009-09-04T17:18:00.003-04:00

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.

Thankful

2009-09-03T20:28:00.003-04:00

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?

Choices

2009-09-02T17:13:00.008-04:00

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!

All about me...

2009-09-01T10:27:00.005-04:00

Since I have been at this blog thing for a little while I thought I should post a little something about myself...

I am a beautiful 24 year old (okay, 36 but who's counting) and I have been married to my wonderful husband, Brian, for 11 years. I have a 10 year old son Noah and a 7 year old son Michael. We all reside in Columbus, Ohio home of the Ohio State Buckeyes! Go BUCKS! Our family also includes one goldfish (Dorthy), and a chocolate lab, Cocoa who is currently staying at Grandma's house.

I am a stay-at-home-mom, who is rarely home. I love to stay busy with activities at my boys school, and hanging out with other stay-at-home-moms. I am also working on finishing my BS degree in Psychology. Some other things I like to do are: reading, shoes, scrapbooking, shopping, writing, shopping for shoes, singing, and spending time with family and friends. Oh, and did I mention I like shoes?! ;) (I am also slightly addicted to the show What Not to Wear!)

The title of my blog is an explanation of my life. I don't claim to have it all together, but just the opposite. I plan to use this blog to share about the journeys God takes me on as he holds all the pieces together. I love how God uses our journeys through life to encourage one another.

So, that is me in a nutshell. I am sure you will learn many more things about me as this blog continues.

I can do this!

2009-08-31T08:39:00.003-04:00

Have you ever started something with all the best intentions of finishing and fall short of the finish line? I know that I have many times. I recently was reminded of this verse in Hebrews...

Heb. 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.

This verse seemed to strike a cord and I realized that I need to work on being disciplined. I recently started this blog and have had the intention of writing here everyday. Well, if you take a look at my posts you will see that I have not been diligent in this.

Another area, and stand back for this one, is my diet. I have struggled with my weight most of my life, and within the past year I have lost 50 lb. (Yay, me!) However, I have let go of my discipline in this area and have gained a little back.

While I am airing my dirty laundry here...well, yep, that's another one. I have not been very disciplined with the house work. (Pretty bad when no one has clean undies! YIKES!)

I could go on and on with areas in my life that I am lacking discipline or have left a project undone. However, what this verse made me realize is that discipline is making a choice. Making a choice to finish what I start and follow through even when the task is tough, even when I don't feel like it, and even when the task seems impossible. (That laundry mountain just keeps getting bigger!)

So, I am planning on starting with this blog. I am going to blog each day even if it is just a few words. I may even come up with some witty daily titles like...

Weight Loss Wednesdays! Yep, not only will I be working on my blog but I will be working on my discipline with my weight loss. My Wednesday posts may contain a healthy recipe, a triumph (or struggle) in my journey, or even an exercise tip.

As for the laundry...well, I will make the trek to the top of Mt. Laundry and although I may never reach the top (That's what happens when you have boys who play sports!) I will have the comfort in knowing my family has clean undies! ;)

So, is there some area that you may be lacking in discipline? Let's pray for each other that we will seek out discipline and reap the "harvest of righteousness and peace" as the verse says!

I don't like to cry

2009-08-29T17:06:00.004-04:00

Crying is not one of my favorite pastimes. Of course, I don't know many people who actually enjoy crying. I use to be one of those people who would never cry, at least I never let anyone see me cry. I grew up being taught that crying showed weakness. However, through marriage and becoming a mom God has softened my heart and now I seem to cry at everything. (Yes, I cry at the Hallmark commercials) Although, I still do not like for people to see me cry I now think very differently about what crying is all about.

Today my 7 year old Michael had a very long crying episode. His feelings had been hurt and the tears just would not stop coming. He is a little boy that loves with all he is, and I love that about him. So, during this weeping he sat on my lap and just let the tears flow. He is not a cuddly child, he is an on the go child so, I knew when he crawled onto my lap we were going to be here a while. After 20 minutes Brian took Michael onto his lap and the tears continued. As I watched my husband holding Michael and listened to him saying it was okay to let the feelings out, tears came to my own eyes.

This brings me back to my thoughts on crying. I had a heart that had been hurt over and over again, and I never let the feelings of that hurt out. Therefore, my heart started to become hard and emotionless. I envision it as if my heart had a dark thick coating of mud on it from holding on to years of hurt. Each time I would be hurt another layer would be added growing thicker and harder to the point that I didn't feel the hurts anymore. However, because of these layers and layers of hardened hurts on my heart I was not able to let anything into my heart either. My heart became covered, hardened, and protected (or so I thought) from any hurts that came my way.

The layers on my heart seemed to protect me from feeling hurt. However, I didn't realize that at the same time I was not able to feel other emotions; joy, love, compassion, etc. After Brian and I were married God started to show me this through many, many, many tears. Years of tears that had been packed away and not allowed to pour started to make their way out. I have been very blessed to have a wonderful, loving husband, and God used our marriage to break through the layers of hardened hurts around my heart. As I began to feel love the layers of hurts began to crack and not only was love getting in, but all those years of hurts started to flow out in the form of tears.

Because of this beautiful transformation that God has taken me through I see crying in a whole different way. As my precious little boy sat there feeling the hurt and letting the tears flow I explained to him how I see tears...

A heart that feels love will also feel hurts. However, when those hurts come and fling mud at our hearts God sends our tears to wash away the mud and to wash away the hurt. Yes, we will still feel the pain of the hurt however, once the tears have flowed our hearts can begin to heal. A heart that is allowed to heal is a heart that will continue to feel God's love, and is a heart that will truly be protected.

And yes, I am typing this through tears...cleansing, healing, wonderful tears!

Job 16: 19-21
Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high. My friends treat me with scorn, as my eyes pour out tears to God; on behalf of a man he pleads with God as a man pleads for his friend.

Summer went fast!

2009-08-26T19:36:00.003-04:00

Well, tomorrow is the first day of school for the year. I can hardly believe that my boys will be in the 2nd and 5th grades. The summer has just flown by, and I know that I will miss them during the day.

I spent the day today sitting in curriculum meetings and taking supplies to school. As I sat there with my 5th grader I realized just how much he has matured over the summer. I look at both of my boys sometimes with wonder and amazement. What an honor that God would call me to be their mom.

I am praying for the experiences they will have this year, the learning they will do (in class and from friends), but mostly I pray that their little hearts continue to seek God as they grow. I am feeling the huge responsibility of parenting today as I realize how they are growing up.

God give me the wisdom to guide these precious little ones to You!

Fun Family Day

2009-08-25T21:14:00.005-04:00

Today was our last day to enjoy summer break. Technically school doesn't start until Thursday, but tomorrow is full of meeting teachers, curriculum conferences, and preparing for the first day back.

So, today we went to the Columbus zoo and spent a few hours enjoying the rides at Jungle Jacks Landing. Noah and Michael had a blast! We rounded out the afternoon with a trip to Graeter's for ice cream!

I really enjoyed my boys today. There are moments when I look at them and can almost see them growing before my eyes. Today was one of those days. This one is getting tucked away in my memories as a fun family day.

Yesterday...

2009-08-21T10:17:00.003-04:00

Yesterday my husband learned that he will no longer be employed in 2 weeks. This was some what expected however, still a shock to say the least. We were having a lunch date, a much needed date, and he got an email with the news. So, we prayed and we continued with our date trying not to let the news ruin our time together. When we got home he began his job searching right away.

Over the years we have made a financial sacrifice so that I can stay home with our kids. However, this is one of those moments when I start to wonder if that was the right choice. I was trying to be optimistic and trust that God had it all under control. However, I must admit that I wanted to start blaming Him for causing our distress. Then a verse popped into my head:

James 1:2-3
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

This verse however, did not help my attitude. How was I suppose to be joyful when my husband was losing his job?! So, I didn't dwell on the verse and started thinking about where I could get a job. My plan was under way! However, as the day went on I was still feeling overcome with worry and fear.

After dinner I received a verse from a dear friend. The verse was actually her status update on her Facebook wall. The verse was:

Isaiah 46: 3-4
Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all you who remain of the house of Israel, you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.

Wow, this verse just hit me upside the head. I could hear God reminding me of all the trials He has already brought me through. How could I forget all that He has done for me already and not trust that He will do the same again. Oh, my faith is so small.

I spent some time in prayer and this morning I can say that I have a peace and calm that is not my own. I am now finding joy in the anticipation of what and how God is going to provide for us in this difficult situation. Sure, the worry and doubt will creep in from time to time, but I know who will sustain me, who will rescue me, who can do more than I can ask or imagine. (Eph 3:20)

So, I am waiting to see what His plan holds for us.

Boys, boys, boys

2009-08-18T11:33:00.003-04:00

We have had a wonderful, fun-filled summer this year. The summer has been full of lots of time together at weddings, amusement parks, trips to grandmas, fairs, the zoo, and many other family activities. However, as summer is coming to a close my boys, Noah age 10 and Michael age 7, are getting antsy.

The last week or so the boys have been fighting non-stop. No matter what we do or where we go they seem to be always picking on each other. I am forever hearing a chorus of..."He's touching me!", "No, he hit me!", "Now he's kicking me!" These cries are usually followed by a conversation over who started it and why the other needs punished. A very frustrating situation for a mom.

In these moments I often want to pull out my hair and scream back at them. And well, let's be honest there are times I do lose it. Of course, that leads to mommy apologizing and that is a whole different post. However, I have been taking this time in the last week to share a verse with my boys regarding pointing out their brother's wrong doings. The verse is:

Matthew 7:3-4
Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?

This is a big concept for them to grasp. I have seen a difference in how they react when the 'who started it' conversations begin. Although, my concern for how they are treating each other remains. So, now they are working on their own 'planks', but still fighting. Just as I am beginning to think they might rip each other apart they surprise me.

Last evening we took the boys to Chuck-E-Cheese for an end of summer splurge. Expecting them to fight over how many tokens each other had I was all prepared. I had the verse we had been talking about on my tongue, along with a few others, and was prepared for the worst. So, the evening of video games began and to my surprise the boys were...wait for it...helping each other out and sharing. Gasp! Can it be!

Yes, they were working together. As they were walking around playing games Michael dropped his cup of tokens. (Tragedy) Noah helped him pick them up and offered to carry a few tokens for Michael in his pocket. (Note: Always make sure they have pockets when going to Chuck-E-Cheese) The rest of the evening Noah made sure he knew where Michael was, and kept checking to see if he was out of tokens. If Michael needed a token and Noah was playing a game he would wait patiently for Noah to finish before asking for a token. I was so happy to see them getting along so well.

I am beginning to realize that fighting is something that boys do. The picking on each other is not going to stop. (No matter how crazy it makes me!) But I can see that they are learning to think of others and can be kind to each other.

Here we go...

2009-08-17T15:18:00.001-04:00

Well, after much thought and consideration I have started a blog. I often have a lot to say so I guess I might as well put it out there.

As my title says I am a cracked pot letting God hold it together. I sometimes think about all the work God has to go through picking up my pieces as I go through life cracked and broken. I will be sharing my adventures as a cracked pot here on this blog. I know there are many other cracked pots out there and together we can help each other focus on the One who loves us to pieces!

Psalm 34:17-19
The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all.