I've decided on a few ways to check my progress without the scale. First, my new weight loss buddy (my handsome hubby) and I have given each other a challenge to walk 100 miles by March 1st. We're thinking that if we meet the goal we'll treat ourselves out for a Babysitter Date to do something active rather than our usual going out to eat. Maybe we'll even let the winner choose the destination. As it stands right now, I consider it a real treat just doing the walking together since we get out alone for our 15 minute mile each day. :-)
I've also committed to One Up myself with my Morning 15. One Up means I am going to do one more of each exercise each day. I'll focus on one more sit-up, push-up and Up-Down (that's what we call stair climbing in these parts) each day. I may even apply it to my Wii workout. I'll have to see how that plays out.
I'm glad to have some other ways to track my progress. It will be good, since it will be obvious whether I'm getting stronger or not. The 100 Miles by March challenge is great, as it will get me outside for fresh air during these cold winter months when I would otherwise hibernate and get lazy.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday December 29, 2010
Today's Good Things:
8 hours of sleep!!
Bible Time
Great eating day
Blessed with 2 shopping carts full of fresh produce (thank you for your provision, Lord!)
Subway for lunch :)
Basement is clean - yay!
Ate light for dinner
30 minutes on the wii tonite
Caught up on some blogging
Today's Not So Good Things:
Mini meltdown over the scale
Feeling a bit scattered emotionally
Missed my 15's today
Missed my bedtime by too much tonite
Looking forward to some planning, listing, and purging tomorrow. In the words of my 2yo, "I happa go now!"
8 hours of sleep!!
Bible Time
Great eating day
Blessed with 2 shopping carts full of fresh produce (thank you for your provision, Lord!)
Subway for lunch :)
Basement is clean - yay!
Ate light for dinner
30 minutes on the wii tonite
Caught up on some blogging
Today's Not So Good Things:
Mini meltdown over the scale
Feeling a bit scattered emotionally
Missed my 15's today
Missed my bedtime by too much tonite
Looking forward to some planning, listing, and purging tomorrow. In the words of my 2yo, "I happa go now!"
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
God loves you, Twinkies and all!
"God loves you right now. Before you've thrown out your Twinkies and stocked up on carrot sticks. Before you've walked a mile or climbed a single stair. God loves you just the way you are right now."
~Gregory L. Jantz, The Spiritual Path to Weight Loss
I've added a few more quotes from this book to my tools page. This one makes me smile every time I think of it. :-)
~Gregory L. Jantz, The Spiritual Path to Weight Loss
I've added a few more quotes from this book to my tools page. This one makes me smile every time I think of it. :-)
Refocus on Well Doing
After my childish temper-tantrum, I settled in to my bible reading for the day. I'm reading through 1 Peter, finishing up chapter 4. Verses 12-19 address the persecution the believers of the early church were facing. Horrific persecution. I was immediately humbled by my foolish focus on my miniscule irritations in comparison. Still, I was sure this passage of scripture was not going to touch on my efforts at weight-loss. These issues were far more serious than a Pound-a-Week crazy woman's obsessions. As I read, the Lord challenged me greatly, asking to what extent I was sharing in His sufferings. (v.12) I continued to be humbled and reflect on my hardened heart. That's when my eyes were finally opened.
I love how the Lord uses His word to apply to Every. Single. Detail. of our lives. ;-)
Journal entry:
>"Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator." 1 Peter 4:19
Lord, help me focus on your purposes and commands in my life- filling my heart and time obeying. Then I can know that any struggles I face are appointed by You, Lord. And in knowing that, I can rejoice and press on - assured that I am committing the keeping of my soul to you in well doing.
And there it is. The goal is not the result. The goal is the Well Doing. You already have the result in hand - the keeping of my soul. You have accomplished this for me already. The results of my efforts, whether they be weight lost, children well trained, an orderly home, a thriving marriage - those results are not my responsibility. My work is in the Well Doing.
Practically put, the scale is not my goal. It is not my measuring rod. It is a faulty standard that varies as the wind. Just as I would be off course if I were to measure my life by the compass of the world's morality, so I am frustrated by making the scale the standard of my health. You are in charge of the results, Lord. I am in charge of the Well Doing.
My efforts at eating well, exercising, seeking You and Your refining in this area of my life - these are my acts of worship, my sacrifice of praise. You will be glorified in my Well Doing, which is the TRUE result.
As I consider how this looks practically, I understand that it is time to set the scale aside until I can use it as a tool rather than an idol. I've decided to find a different way to guage my weekly progress and take the scale out just once a month. I confess, that is going to be hard. My flesh wants to see those little numbers, it's like a lottery addiction or something. Crazy.
For now, I'm working on developing some weekly goals focused on building my strength and eating choices. Things like increasing the amount of sit-ups and the distance I can cover in my afternoon 15 walk. Continuing to increase the raw fruits and vegies I'm eating at each meal. Getting adequate rest and staying focused on building a lifestyle of health rather than an obsession with my weight.
These were my goals from the start. Anyone thinking of this verse? "You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth?" Gal. 5:7
I'm going to think through more on how I want to develop these goals. For now, I'm basking in the love of my heavenly Father. I'm so grateful that He gently, yet firmly guides me back to Him.
"And let us not grow weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." Gal. 6:9
I love how the Lord uses His word to apply to Every. Single. Detail. of our lives. ;-)
Journal entry:
>"Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator." 1 Peter 4:19
Lord, help me focus on your purposes and commands in my life- filling my heart and time obeying. Then I can know that any struggles I face are appointed by You, Lord. And in knowing that, I can rejoice and press on - assured that I am committing the keeping of my soul to you in well doing.
And there it is. The goal is not the result. The goal is the Well Doing. You already have the result in hand - the keeping of my soul. You have accomplished this for me already. The results of my efforts, whether they be weight lost, children well trained, an orderly home, a thriving marriage - those results are not my responsibility. My work is in the Well Doing.
Practically put, the scale is not my goal. It is not my measuring rod. It is a faulty standard that varies as the wind. Just as I would be off course if I were to measure my life by the compass of the world's morality, so I am frustrated by making the scale the standard of my health. You are in charge of the results, Lord. I am in charge of the Well Doing.
My efforts at eating well, exercising, seeking You and Your refining in this area of my life - these are my acts of worship, my sacrifice of praise. You will be glorified in my Well Doing, which is the TRUE result.
As I consider how this looks practically, I understand that it is time to set the scale aside until I can use it as a tool rather than an idol. I've decided to find a different way to guage my weekly progress and take the scale out just once a month. I confess, that is going to be hard. My flesh wants to see those little numbers, it's like a lottery addiction or something. Crazy.
For now, I'm working on developing some weekly goals focused on building my strength and eating choices. Things like increasing the amount of sit-ups and the distance I can cover in my afternoon 15 walk. Continuing to increase the raw fruits and vegies I'm eating at each meal. Getting adequate rest and staying focused on building a lifestyle of health rather than an obsession with my weight.
These were my goals from the start. Anyone thinking of this verse? "You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth?" Gal. 5:7
I'm going to think through more on how I want to develop these goals. For now, I'm basking in the love of my heavenly Father. I'm so grateful that He gently, yet firmly guides me back to Him.
"And let us not grow weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." Gal. 6:9
Pick a Number...Any Number
I started my day the same way I ended it. Frustrated.
Lately, I've been having a hate-hate relationship with my scale. First reason to hate it is that it is unreliable. When I step on the scale, the numbers vary so much, I don't even know what to record. I'm aiming for 3 consistent readings, but I can rarely get them. I'm seeing numbers that vary almost 2 pounds!
The second reason I'm hating my scale now is that *if* I can get a number to show up 3 times in a row...well, I'm NOT liking the number I see. ::whine::
So, I don't even know what to record for my weigh-in today. And, because of that, I had a mini-meltdown this morning...over.a.scale. (Soooooooooo embarrassed :( )
My dh was kind, understanding and patient with his crazy, irrational, self-absorbed wife. But, I wasn't wanting to hear his "you know you're doing the right things" words of love. I wanted to be angry, picked-on, and put-out.
Yep. That's how I started my day. ::hanging head::
Lately, I've been having a hate-hate relationship with my scale. First reason to hate it is that it is unreliable. When I step on the scale, the numbers vary so much, I don't even know what to record. I'm aiming for 3 consistent readings, but I can rarely get them. I'm seeing numbers that vary almost 2 pounds!
The second reason I'm hating my scale now is that *if* I can get a number to show up 3 times in a row...well, I'm NOT liking the number I see. ::whine::
So, I don't even know what to record for my weigh-in today. And, because of that, I had a mini-meltdown this morning...over.a.scale. (Soooooooooo embarrassed :( )
My dh was kind, understanding and patient with his crazy, irrational, self-absorbed wife. But, I wasn't wanting to hear his "you know you're doing the right things" words of love. I wanted to be angry, picked-on, and put-out.
Yep. That's how I started my day. ::hanging head::
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Tuesday December 28, 2010
Today's Good Things:
I got a full 7 hours of sleep. (wow, can't remember the last time I've slept that long uninterrupted. Thank you for you prayers!)
Got our cleaning chores done before lunch
Enjoyed another great morning in the Word
Date Night
Made a yummy cabbage salad with my dh for lunch today. (he doesn't often join in the meal prep, so it was a real treat)
We found a "healthier" pizza to order for our regular date night meal. (thin crust with grilled chicken and spinach, topped with feta cheese. SO YUM!)
Today's Not So Good Things:
I over ate by several hundred calories
No real exercise (mopping floors doesn't technically count)
My attitude. :(
Major headache that lingered the whole day
I feel just awful today. My head has been throbbing off and on all day. I feel completely discouraged by the scale. (yeah, I peeked again) I don't even want to step on it tomorrow. :( I tried getting in a nap today, but couldn't settle in. I'm feeling restless, but worn out and..um...Lumpish. That is SO not a word, but it's how I feel. Like a big lump that can't find the desire to do anything.
It could be a result of eating sweets over the holiday weekend. It could be from being cooped up in the house during the 2 day blizzard. It could be I am still behind on sleep. It could even be I'm coming down with something. (my throat was feeling a bit sore today too) Whatever it is, I hope it goes away tomorrow. I have a busy week waiting for me and I really want to stay on target. I love that so much has gotten done already and I want to keep moving on.
Hey, maybe it's the "die off" feeling from this "cleanse" I'm doing this week. I know that happens with a real cleanse. Maybe my body, mind and soul are having some adverse reactions to my efforts this week. I have no idea how to think that through, but it's worth some consideration, I suppose.
I am hoping the sleep comes easily tonite so I can begin my morning early enough for some time alone with the Lord.
I got a full 7 hours of sleep. (wow, can't remember the last time I've slept that long uninterrupted. Thank you for you prayers!)
Got our cleaning chores done before lunch
Enjoyed another great morning in the Word
Date Night
Made a yummy cabbage salad with my dh for lunch today. (he doesn't often join in the meal prep, so it was a real treat)
We found a "healthier" pizza to order for our regular date night meal. (thin crust with grilled chicken and spinach, topped with feta cheese. SO YUM!)
Today's Not So Good Things:
I over ate by several hundred calories
No real exercise (mopping floors doesn't technically count)
My attitude. :(
Major headache that lingered the whole day
I feel just awful today. My head has been throbbing off and on all day. I feel completely discouraged by the scale. (yeah, I peeked again) I don't even want to step on it tomorrow. :( I tried getting in a nap today, but couldn't settle in. I'm feeling restless, but worn out and..um...Lumpish. That is SO not a word, but it's how I feel. Like a big lump that can't find the desire to do anything.
It could be a result of eating sweets over the holiday weekend. It could be from being cooped up in the house during the 2 day blizzard. It could be I am still behind on sleep. It could even be I'm coming down with something. (my throat was feeling a bit sore today too) Whatever it is, I hope it goes away tomorrow. I have a busy week waiting for me and I really want to stay on target. I love that so much has gotten done already and I want to keep moving on.
Hey, maybe it's the "die off" feeling from this "cleanse" I'm doing this week. I know that happens with a real cleanse. Maybe my body, mind and soul are having some adverse reactions to my efforts this week. I have no idea how to think that through, but it's worth some consideration, I suppose.
I am hoping the sleep comes easily tonite so I can begin my morning early enough for some time alone with the Lord.
Monday, December 27, 2010
Monday December 27, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Had a lovely time of bible reading and journaling
Got in my Morning 15
The second floor is Deep Cleaned and Decluttered! (2 bags+ of trash and 1 bag for the thrift store...yay!)
Met my water goal
Logged my food and exercise
Ate within my eat to lose goals
Ate raw fruits or vegies at each meal
32 minute workout on the wii tonite
My sweet husband joined MFD so we are officially weight loss buddies now. :D
Today's Not So Good Things:
Baby was up twice in the night, so I missed my wake up goal...by A LOT.
I was not smart and missed my bedtime goal by a lot too.
Add the two above together and you get one T.I.R.E.D momma who was not as patient and gentle as she should have been during our cleaning sessions. :(
Missed my afternoon 15
Didn't get in my 2 liters before my tea this morning.
All in all, I'm rather impressed with my day. I feel like I've been dragged through the mud, but I was still able to keep moving and even get in my workout tonite. Actually, I needed that workout. After struggling with my bad attitude and some other b.a.'s today, it felt good to escape into some physical exertion. I wish I would have gotten myself out the door to shovel some snow or at least play in it today. It would have done wonders for me to have gotten some fresh air.
Tomorrow is a new day and tonite is a new night. I have a glimmer of hope that I could get a full night's sleep, allowing me to wake at an earlier hour, allowing me to get to my morning routine sooner, allowing us to get our cleaning chores done before lunch, allowing us the opportunity to get outside as a family and enjoy the fresh air and newly fallen snow, allowing myself to be refreshed and ready to take on the rest of this week. I'm glad there is Hope. :-)
I'm pleased with the course this week is taking. I like the plan of "cleansing" from top to bottom. I'm thinking I may start this as a tradition for the week after Christmas. It sure is wonderful to walk into my tidy bedroom tonite and enjoy the peacefulness it holds. I can't wait to conquer the main level tomorrow. I've been having a hard time ignoring the messes that have erupted down there. ;-)
I also enjoyed my time in the word today. I didn't get to any time of reflection yet, but I'm eager to continue seeking the Lord in that area.
Okay, off to sleep for this lady. I really am feeling worn out since the baby has been sick and not sleeping well. I don't know how I've been able to keep up as I have, knowing in the past I'd have never been able to accomplish so much with so little sleep. Truly, the Lord is at work enabling me to walk in His strength.
Had a lovely time of bible reading and journaling
Got in my Morning 15
The second floor is Deep Cleaned and Decluttered! (2 bags+ of trash and 1 bag for the thrift store...yay!)
Met my water goal
Logged my food and exercise
Ate within my eat to lose goals
Ate raw fruits or vegies at each meal
32 minute workout on the wii tonite
My sweet husband joined MFD so we are officially weight loss buddies now. :D
Today's Not So Good Things:
Baby was up twice in the night, so I missed my wake up goal...by A LOT.
I was not smart and missed my bedtime goal by a lot too.
Add the two above together and you get one T.I.R.E.D momma who was not as patient and gentle as she should have been during our cleaning sessions. :(
Missed my afternoon 15
Didn't get in my 2 liters before my tea this morning.
All in all, I'm rather impressed with my day. I feel like I've been dragged through the mud, but I was still able to keep moving and even get in my workout tonite. Actually, I needed that workout. After struggling with my bad attitude and some other b.a.'s today, it felt good to escape into some physical exertion. I wish I would have gotten myself out the door to shovel some snow or at least play in it today. It would have done wonders for me to have gotten some fresh air.
Tomorrow is a new day and tonite is a new night. I have a glimmer of hope that I could get a full night's sleep, allowing me to wake at an earlier hour, allowing me to get to my morning routine sooner, allowing us to get our cleaning chores done before lunch, allowing us the opportunity to get outside as a family and enjoy the fresh air and newly fallen snow, allowing myself to be refreshed and ready to take on the rest of this week. I'm glad there is Hope. :-)
I'm pleased with the course this week is taking. I like the plan of "cleansing" from top to bottom. I'm thinking I may start this as a tradition for the week after Christmas. It sure is wonderful to walk into my tidy bedroom tonite and enjoy the peacefulness it holds. I can't wait to conquer the main level tomorrow. I've been having a hard time ignoring the messes that have erupted down there. ;-)
I also enjoyed my time in the word today. I didn't get to any time of reflection yet, but I'm eager to continue seeking the Lord in that area.
Okay, off to sleep for this lady. I really am feeling worn out since the baby has been sick and not sleeping well. I don't know how I've been able to keep up as I have, knowing in the past I'd have never been able to accomplish so much with so little sleep. Truly, the Lord is at work enabling me to walk in His strength.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Cleanse Week
I've been mulling over the idea of doing some sort of cleanse ever since I started working on my health this fall. Actually, I've wanted to do a body cleanse for a few years, now. But, due to the fact that I have been in a season of perpetual pregnancies and nursing, I haven't been able to find a cleanse that would be safe.
After some discussion with my husband, some prayer and a lot of thought, I've realized that there are a lot of ways I can work on a cleanse even while I am nursing a baby. In fact, I've begun to think of how a real cleanse should involve my whole life, not just my body. So, this week I have chosen to work on several areas that will allow the Lord to work on cleansing out many of those things that need to go before the new year begins.
Body:
1. Meet my water goals, including my 1.5-2 liters first thing each morning
2. Work towards a goal of 50% raw food diet by including at least 1 raw food portion at each meal
3. Get back on track to meet my weekly goals list
4. Accomplish many work projects around the house this week, keeping me on the move :-)
5. Write down specific health goals with my husband for our family for the coming year
Mind:
1. Declutter/Deep Clean the house from top to bottom.
>Monday: Second level
>Tuesday: Main level
>Wednesday: Basement
2. Household/School organization
>Declutter/organize/plan for next school quarter (Thursday)
>Revise menu plan for this winter (Thursday)
3. Rest and Rejuvenate
>Organize photos and scrapbook (Friday, maybe Saturday??)
Soul:
1. Increase time for devotions by 30 minutes for the week
2. Develop a prayer journal for the coming year
3. Ask the Lord about a bible reading plan for the coming year
4. Reflect on the past year, journaling things learned
5. Pray for the coming year, considering where the Lord would have my priorities lie
I'm looking foward to this week. I will greatly enjoy the peace that comes from finding order out of the chaos of a busy season. I know I will feel energized returning to my fitness goals after a week of business and rest from those disciplines. I long for some extended time with the Lord and rejoice in having a week that allows me the freedom to do just that.
I'm also excited about this snow storm going on right now. Not only can I rejoice in the blessing that the Lord provided snow boots for the children just in time today, but ,we all get to enjoy some great fun and exercise tomorrow as we shovel, play, and maybe even get in some sledding after our choring is complete. Honestly, it's been years since I've really wanted to play and be active with my children. I'm so glad the Lord has helped me find the energy that gives me the desire to do it now. I know that comes from these past couple months of regular exercise. It's amazing to me how I feel less tired the more active I am. It doesn't make sense, but it is definitely a reality. It's a reality I greatly enjoy.
And now, I'm off to pray the Lord's will be done in the coming week. I know all too well that my plans are not always His plans.
"A man's heart deviseth his way, but the Lord directeth his steps." Proverbs 16:9
After some discussion with my husband, some prayer and a lot of thought, I've realized that there are a lot of ways I can work on a cleanse even while I am nursing a baby. In fact, I've begun to think of how a real cleanse should involve my whole life, not just my body. So, this week I have chosen to work on several areas that will allow the Lord to work on cleansing out many of those things that need to go before the new year begins.
Body:
1. Meet my water goals, including my 1.5-2 liters first thing each morning
2. Work towards a goal of 50% raw food diet by including at least 1 raw food portion at each meal
3. Get back on track to meet my weekly goals list
4. Accomplish many work projects around the house this week, keeping me on the move :-)
5. Write down specific health goals with my husband for our family for the coming year
Mind:
1. Declutter/Deep Clean the house from top to bottom.
>Monday: Second level
>Tuesday: Main level
>Wednesday: Basement
2. Household/School organization
>Declutter/organize/plan for next school quarter (Thursday)
>Revise menu plan for this winter (Thursday)
3. Rest and Rejuvenate
>Organize photos and scrapbook (Friday, maybe Saturday??)
Soul:
1. Increase time for devotions by 30 minutes for the week
2. Develop a prayer journal for the coming year
3. Ask the Lord about a bible reading plan for the coming year
4. Reflect on the past year, journaling things learned
5. Pray for the coming year, considering where the Lord would have my priorities lie
I'm looking foward to this week. I will greatly enjoy the peace that comes from finding order out of the chaos of a busy season. I know I will feel energized returning to my fitness goals after a week of business and rest from those disciplines. I long for some extended time with the Lord and rejoice in having a week that allows me the freedom to do just that.
I'm also excited about this snow storm going on right now. Not only can I rejoice in the blessing that the Lord provided snow boots for the children just in time today, but ,we all get to enjoy some great fun and exercise tomorrow as we shovel, play, and maybe even get in some sledding after our choring is complete. Honestly, it's been years since I've really wanted to play and be active with my children. I'm so glad the Lord has helped me find the energy that gives me the desire to do it now. I know that comes from these past couple months of regular exercise. It's amazing to me how I feel less tired the more active I am. It doesn't make sense, but it is definitely a reality. It's a reality I greatly enjoy.
And now, I'm off to pray the Lord's will be done in the coming week. I know all too well that my plans are not always His plans.
"A man's heart deviseth his way, but the Lord directeth his steps." Proverbs 16:9
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
I'm here...really, I am.
I've been wanting to get to this blog for days. I've got notes about the book I'm reading I want to add. There are some great scripture passages the Lord has been using in my life this week. I've got thoughts on my weight being up today. Just all sorts of *stuff* rolling around in my brain that I'd like to get out here.
However. ;-) A few things are keeping me from the keyboard...
1. Sick baby needs more Momma-love while she battles this head cold.
2. Christmas preparations are in full swing. Would you believe that I started wrapping gifts at 11am and didn't stop until after 5pm???
3. I'm busy getting back to my exercise goals! :-)
4. Dh is off work now, so I'm spending more time hanging with my Sweetie. :D
So, while I keep thinking of things I want to add in here, I'm busy doing all the good things that this whole blog is intended to help me do. I'm using my new found energy to enjoy my family, take good care of myself, and get the good things done that need doing in my day. A few of those would include, a workout on the Wii for 3 straight nights. (yay!) A brisk walk alone with my dh this morning in the cold, snowy air. (LOVE IT!) Great conversations with the fam about setting some new health goals for the new year. (thinking on aiming for 50% raw food diet) Amazing time in the word, complete with journaling and followed up by family devotions. AND, I've gotten in my 2 liters of water first thing for the past 2 mornings. ::cheesy grin::
See? All good stuff. All within my ambitions for a healthier lifestyle. Even though I'm not meeting all of my weekly goals, the Lord is enabling me to stay focused and make good choices in the midst of a pretty crazy week.
Tomorrow promises to be another full day. I'm off to snuggle with my dh and pray we can all rest in Heavenly Peace. ;-) Your prayers that Baby Dear gets well soon are greatly appreciated!!
However. ;-) A few things are keeping me from the keyboard...
1. Sick baby needs more Momma-love while she battles this head cold.
2. Christmas preparations are in full swing. Would you believe that I started wrapping gifts at 11am and didn't stop until after 5pm???
3. I'm busy getting back to my exercise goals! :-)
4. Dh is off work now, so I'm spending more time hanging with my Sweetie. :D
So, while I keep thinking of things I want to add in here, I'm busy doing all the good things that this whole blog is intended to help me do. I'm using my new found energy to enjoy my family, take good care of myself, and get the good things done that need doing in my day. A few of those would include, a workout on the Wii for 3 straight nights. (yay!) A brisk walk alone with my dh this morning in the cold, snowy air. (LOVE IT!) Great conversations with the fam about setting some new health goals for the new year. (thinking on aiming for 50% raw food diet) Amazing time in the word, complete with journaling and followed up by family devotions. AND, I've gotten in my 2 liters of water first thing for the past 2 mornings. ::cheesy grin::
See? All good stuff. All within my ambitions for a healthier lifestyle. Even though I'm not meeting all of my weekly goals, the Lord is enabling me to stay focused and make good choices in the midst of a pretty crazy week.
Tomorrow promises to be another full day. I'm off to snuggle with my dh and pray we can all rest in Heavenly Peace. ;-) Your prayers that Baby Dear gets well soon are greatly appreciated!!
About Inches...
I just started measuring my waist and hips. I feel like a klutz doing it, and recruited my dh to help. I have a 1.5 inch loss showing on my hips since my last measurement 11 days ago. I'd like to be happy about that, but I have a hard time thinking I can really trust the measuring. It seems there is a lot of room for error, being I have so many curves to work around. ::blush::
Everything I read says that taking measurements is a better way to guage progress, since our weight loss can be swayed by so many factors. But, I'm really unsure about how reliable I can be with that.
Any thoughts from my friends out there?
Everything I read says that taking measurements is a better way to guage progress, since our weight loss can be swayed by so many factors. But, I'm really unsure about how reliable I can be with that.
Any thoughts from my friends out there?
Monday, December 20, 2010
Monday December 20, 2010
Happy 98th Birthday, Great-Grandma Dolly!!!!!!
She would never find me here, but I wanted to celebrate and remember her special day anyways. What an amazing woman. She is a great source of motivation. May I keep working hard to live a strong and healthy life to invest and enjoy my own Great-Great Grandchildren!!
Today's Good Things:
Slept in after a rough night with the baby
We're still not sick! (David was sick yesterday and I've been on the watch for the rest of us to go down. So far, so good.)
I peeked at the scale today and it tells me I'm down a pound. ::tiny squeal::
Got in a FABULOUS 47 minute workout tonite. FEELS SO GOOD!
Got my Christmas packages in the mail. Whew!
I got in a 60 Second Plank!!
Today's Not So Good Things:
Didn't eat well and didn't log. (Breakfast was late and I completely forgot about lunch!)
Still working on getting in all of my water.
Too much salt at dinner
Baby is really struggling with a cold that is starting
I'm still way behind on Christmas preparations
I am SOOO happy to have gotten in a good workout tonite. It's amazing how much my body was craving the activity. I worked hard and it felt good, too.
I've decided to add to my weekly goals drinking 2 liters of water every morning before I eat or drink anything else. It's amazing how full I feel when I guzzle a bottle of water. I like feeling full from something so good for me.
I'm praying tonite includes a full night of sleep so I can get back on my wake and bed time schedule. It feels good to sleep in, and it is Christmas vacation, after all. But, if I start to slide, it will be miserable trying to get back on track again. I like feeling Not Like a Slug. :0)
Whispering...
I peeked at the scale today. I'm not supposed to do that. Wednesday is my weigh-in day, so what I saw will not be considered "official". However, after a rough weekend eating-wise and no exercise since last week...I'm down a pound!!!
I'm not going overboard with Happy, but I am motivated to get back on track so I can see that same lovely number come Wednesday. :-)
I'm not going overboard with Happy, but I am motivated to get back on track so I can see that same lovely number come Wednesday. :-)
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Food For Thought...
Got Netflix? I just watched the documentary titled, "FoodMatters: Prevent Illness, Reverse Disease, & Maintain Optimal Health...Naturally."
If you are up for some great topics to get your mind moving, give this film some time. You'll be challenged in your thoughts and actions regarding diet, supplements, toxicity, politics, education, medicine, and even theology. While I can confidently say that I do not support or agree with many of the claims, and even more so, the underlining worldview that this film is based on, I am motivated to research more and make changes.
A few things I am now wanting to give time for study:
Increasing our whole foods diet to include a larger percentage of raw foods.
Learn more about juicing. (ACK! I SO do NOT want to go there.)
Increase our supply of vitamins and supplements.
Find a reliable source for those vitamins & supplements.
Research and find reliable tools for healthy cleansing of our bodies.
The issue I always run in to regarding all of this controversy surrounding nutrition and medicine is the difficulty in finding trustworthy sources. On either side of the issue someone stands to gain in some way. Therefore, I find it almost paralyzing, knowing how to move forward.
For now, the best option is to give this serious prayer and study in God's word. That is our only, true and reliable source. From there, I will weigh my research against His truths and act accordingly.
I know that He has given us a powerful tool in our bodies. It is strengthened when it is fed according to its original design. So, I can assuredly move forward with increasing our fruits, vegetables, and vitamins as I learn and pray through the rest.
Great stuff. I'm grateful for the freedom and access to the wealth of information out there.
If you are up for some great topics to get your mind moving, give this film some time. You'll be challenged in your thoughts and actions regarding diet, supplements, toxicity, politics, education, medicine, and even theology. While I can confidently say that I do not support or agree with many of the claims, and even more so, the underlining worldview that this film is based on, I am motivated to research more and make changes.
A few things I am now wanting to give time for study:
Increasing our whole foods diet to include a larger percentage of raw foods.
Learn more about juicing. (ACK! I SO do NOT want to go there.)
Increase our supply of vitamins and supplements.
Find a reliable source for those vitamins & supplements.
Research and find reliable tools for healthy cleansing of our bodies.
The issue I always run in to regarding all of this controversy surrounding nutrition and medicine is the difficulty in finding trustworthy sources. On either side of the issue someone stands to gain in some way. Therefore, I find it almost paralyzing, knowing how to move forward.
For now, the best option is to give this serious prayer and study in God's word. That is our only, true and reliable source. From there, I will weigh my research against His truths and act accordingly.
I know that He has given us a powerful tool in our bodies. It is strengthened when it is fed according to its original design. So, I can assuredly move forward with increasing our fruits, vegetables, and vitamins as I learn and pray through the rest.
Great stuff. I'm grateful for the freedom and access to the wealth of information out there.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Friday December 17, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Beat my wake up goal by 15 minutes
GREAT time in the word today
Got a big chunk of our Christmas baking done
Enjoyed a lovely evening with friends
I made a new friend today
I visited with several dear friends on skype today
Pretty good choices for meals today
Today's Not So Good Things:
No real exercise
I taste-tested a bit (but not nearly as much as I normally would have)
Didn't handle my stressful times as well as I should have
Today was a crazy day! I had some great visits via skype and IRL in my home. It's such a gift to me to be able to talk with friends that love the Lord and encourage me to seek Him in all things. I feel so blessed to have an abundance of godly relationships.
The children and I spent the day baking and cleaning. We were all pretty tired, but got a lot done. We also enjoyed a few movies while we worked. It was a pretty neat day, aside from those harried moments when everyone needed Momma at the very same time. ;-)
I feel like I could fall asleep typing, that's for sure. Tomorrow promises to be full as well. We have the privilege of being part of a service project to share the Christmas story with some residents in a nursing home. The children are dressing up to act out the story. We are all very excited. We'll be enjoying a meal with our friends afterwards as well. Again, all of this great fellowship tends to circle around food. However, we do need to eat dinner, so we may as well enjoy it with people we love, right?
I'm planning to stay home from my normal early Saturday morning gleaning to get some extra rest. Then I will be making some semi-healthy sloppy joes to take for dinner. I look forward to getting in a workout of some kind in the morning before we leave, and possibly in the evening when we get home. For the first time in my life, I miss working out and can tell that I *need* to do it. Mostly because I enjoy it and find it helps me to relax and destress. I love that feeling!
I also want to work on one thing from my list I made yesterday regarding my habits during social events. I'm going to think and pray about a way to be more active while I'm visiting with others. What can I do to keep from just sitting and talking. How can I get moving and be productive? Some thoughts just now:
1. Be sure to help with meal set-up and clean-up
2. Don't send a child to do a task I can get up and do easily
3. Frequent checks on children as they play
4. Help children with tidying up before we leave - This is a good one, since I generally just tell them to do it. This way I can be moving but also be more carefully overseeing their work. That's a win-win!
Okay, so I've got that to work on. I like having something new to work on. :-)
Beat my wake up goal by 15 minutes
GREAT time in the word today
Got a big chunk of our Christmas baking done
Enjoyed a lovely evening with friends
I made a new friend today
I visited with several dear friends on skype today
Pretty good choices for meals today
Today's Not So Good Things:
No real exercise
I taste-tested a bit (but not nearly as much as I normally would have)
Didn't handle my stressful times as well as I should have
Today was a crazy day! I had some great visits via skype and IRL in my home. It's such a gift to me to be able to talk with friends that love the Lord and encourage me to seek Him in all things. I feel so blessed to have an abundance of godly relationships.
The children and I spent the day baking and cleaning. We were all pretty tired, but got a lot done. We also enjoyed a few movies while we worked. It was a pretty neat day, aside from those harried moments when everyone needed Momma at the very same time. ;-)
I feel like I could fall asleep typing, that's for sure. Tomorrow promises to be full as well. We have the privilege of being part of a service project to share the Christmas story with some residents in a nursing home. The children are dressing up to act out the story. We are all very excited. We'll be enjoying a meal with our friends afterwards as well. Again, all of this great fellowship tends to circle around food. However, we do need to eat dinner, so we may as well enjoy it with people we love, right?
I'm planning to stay home from my normal early Saturday morning gleaning to get some extra rest. Then I will be making some semi-healthy sloppy joes to take for dinner. I look forward to getting in a workout of some kind in the morning before we leave, and possibly in the evening when we get home. For the first time in my life, I miss working out and can tell that I *need* to do it. Mostly because I enjoy it and find it helps me to relax and destress. I love that feeling!
I also want to work on one thing from my list I made yesterday regarding my habits during social events. I'm going to think and pray about a way to be more active while I'm visiting with others. What can I do to keep from just sitting and talking. How can I get moving and be productive? Some thoughts just now:
1. Be sure to help with meal set-up and clean-up
2. Don't send a child to do a task I can get up and do easily
3. Frequent checks on children as they play
4. Help children with tidying up before we leave - This is a good one, since I generally just tell them to do it. This way I can be moving but also be more carefully overseeing their work. That's a win-win!
Okay, so I've got that to work on. I like having something new to work on. :-)
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Thursday December 16, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Started a new book
WONDERFUL visit with a precious friends and her family
Got the house clean in preparation for that visit (and another gathering happening tomorrow night)
Got our new school room set up a little more
Lentils for lunch (always a good choice ;-)
Lentils for dinner (glad I made a big batch!)
My super-duper husband brought me coffee, again. Second time this week. :D
Today's Not So Good Things:
Didn't log my food
Didn't get in my 15's (I thought maybe I was busy enough with the cleaning?? Probably not.)
Ate (a pb sandwich...ugh) while I was getting dinner on the table. NOT smart.
Crabby at my children today. :(
So, the day started well enough. I missed my 4:30am wake up, but was able to rise at 5:30am with the children. I didn't get in any bible reading, so I'm pretty sure I set myself up for a rough day with that. Getting the house in order has it's challenges and keeping people focused on the task at hand is generally the biggest obstacle. I am forever in need of more patience as I work with others in learning diligence. Sigh.
Our breakfast was small and late, so by the time I got to lunch I was famished. So much so, that I was munching while I served the meal. I guess I set myself up with that since that bad habit led to me doing it at dinner as well. Only at dinner, I just went ahead and made a whole sandwich to eat instead of just a few nibbles. Ugh.
I'm pretty sure I haven't gotten in nearly enough water either. Too busy chatting and enjoying good coffee instead. ;-)
However, my soul was greatly encouraged by my visit with my sweet friend. I guess I was enjoying myself so much, I just plain forgot anything else! It's obvious that I need to work on understanding better how social settings affect my eating habits and choices. Today I learned:
1. I don't eat when I should because I think it would be rude.
2. I eat more if I see others eating more.
3. I eat more if there is still food out.
4. I indulge in sweets and other things I wouldn't normally eat because the time seems "special" and those foods help to make it "special".
5. I sit too much when I visit. I need to find a way to socialize and still get in some activity if the visit is long.
Those are just some things I noticed. Likely, there are some revealing things in there. I guess I'll have to wait and see what the Lord tells me about them. Until then, it's good just to see them listed so I can work through what I'm seeing.
I started reading my new book today, titled: The Spiritual Path to Weight Loss: Praising God by Living a Healthy Life, by Gregory L. Jantz. I read just the preface and the first chapter. So far, I really like it. The author's purpose for writing fits right in with my motive for making these changes in my life. Here are a couple of quotes that struck me as I read today:
"If food meant love, who wouldn't want bushels of it?" p.10
"Food is not the problem, and, therefore, food is not the cure." p. 11
"The antidote to dieting -- is to live a truly authentic, balanced, healthy life as a person who is growing into the individual God created you to be." p. 11
Good stuff, huh? I'm going to write out my thoughts and the quotes that resonate with me on the My Tools page on the blog. So, look there if you'd like to read more as I learn and apply the things Mr. Jantz shares.
Okay, well, Lil' Miss is wanting her Mommy Time, so I'll close for now. Still thinking about heading down for a workout tonite. I sure could use one. We'll have to see how long it takes for her to settle down for a Long Winter's Nap. ;-)
Started a new book
WONDERFUL visit with a precious friends and her family
Got the house clean in preparation for that visit (and another gathering happening tomorrow night)
Got our new school room set up a little more
Lentils for lunch (always a good choice ;-)
Lentils for dinner (glad I made a big batch!)
My super-duper husband brought me coffee, again. Second time this week. :D
Today's Not So Good Things:
Didn't log my food
Didn't get in my 15's (I thought maybe I was busy enough with the cleaning?? Probably not.)
Ate (a pb sandwich...ugh) while I was getting dinner on the table. NOT smart.
Crabby at my children today. :(
So, the day started well enough. I missed my 4:30am wake up, but was able to rise at 5:30am with the children. I didn't get in any bible reading, so I'm pretty sure I set myself up for a rough day with that. Getting the house in order has it's challenges and keeping people focused on the task at hand is generally the biggest obstacle. I am forever in need of more patience as I work with others in learning diligence. Sigh.
Our breakfast was small and late, so by the time I got to lunch I was famished. So much so, that I was munching while I served the meal. I guess I set myself up with that since that bad habit led to me doing it at dinner as well. Only at dinner, I just went ahead and made a whole sandwich to eat instead of just a few nibbles. Ugh.
I'm pretty sure I haven't gotten in nearly enough water either. Too busy chatting and enjoying good coffee instead. ;-)
However, my soul was greatly encouraged by my visit with my sweet friend. I guess I was enjoying myself so much, I just plain forgot anything else! It's obvious that I need to work on understanding better how social settings affect my eating habits and choices. Today I learned:
1. I don't eat when I should because I think it would be rude.
2. I eat more if I see others eating more.
3. I eat more if there is still food out.
4. I indulge in sweets and other things I wouldn't normally eat because the time seems "special" and those foods help to make it "special".
5. I sit too much when I visit. I need to find a way to socialize and still get in some activity if the visit is long.
Those are just some things I noticed. Likely, there are some revealing things in there. I guess I'll have to wait and see what the Lord tells me about them. Until then, it's good just to see them listed so I can work through what I'm seeing.
I started reading my new book today, titled: The Spiritual Path to Weight Loss: Praising God by Living a Healthy Life, by Gregory L. Jantz. I read just the preface and the first chapter. So far, I really like it. The author's purpose for writing fits right in with my motive for making these changes in my life. Here are a couple of quotes that struck me as I read today:
"If food meant love, who wouldn't want bushels of it?" p.10
"Food is not the problem, and, therefore, food is not the cure." p. 11
"The antidote to dieting -- is to live a truly authentic, balanced, healthy life as a person who is growing into the individual God created you to be." p. 11
Good stuff, huh? I'm going to write out my thoughts and the quotes that resonate with me on the My Tools page on the blog. So, look there if you'd like to read more as I learn and apply the things Mr. Jantz shares.
Okay, well, Lil' Miss is wanting her Mommy Time, so I'll close for now. Still thinking about heading down for a workout tonite. I sure could use one. We'll have to see how long it takes for her to settle down for a Long Winter's Nap. ;-)
Wednesday December 15, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Met my wake up goal (actually beat it by an hour, I was up at 3:30am. GULP!)
THE SCALE LIKES ME!!!!
Got in both of my 15's
Skipped the bun with my dog at lunch
Trip to the library
Enjoyed ice cream sundaes with my family for dessert and was still within my Eat To Lose count
Got in an extra 30 minute workout before bed
In bed before 10:30pm
Today's Not So Good Things:
Gave in and had a couple cookies while we packaged them for the librarian
Didn't get the schoolwork corrected
Didn't get my laundry jobs done
House is a mess :(
As far as eating and exercise, today was impressive. At least to me. I can't believe I was able to stick to my goals with so little sleep. I'm sure my good attitude, which was boosted by my visit to the scale, helped. I was delighted to see that I was under the 215 mark!!! However, it does unnerve me that I am so greatly affected by the value of a few electronic numbers. I *know* that they can't really tell me how my body is changing. Those numbers can't give me real assurance that I'm making progress. They could be fooling me. Yet, when I see those numbers decrease, well....I get pretty excited.
I found a book at the library dealing with some spiritual aspects of weight loss. I'm interested to see how it applies faith to this journey. I know that this has been all about my walk with the Lord. My choices are always connected to the work He is doing in my life. I'm off to give it a read and see how I like it.
Today we have dear friends coming for a visit and tomorrow more friends coming for a holiday gathering. It's going to be busy and likely, difficult to resist some yummy treats. Another run at strengthening my self-control. I'm thankful the Lord allows me so many opportunities to grow.
Met my wake up goal (actually beat it by an hour, I was up at 3:30am. GULP!)
THE SCALE LIKES ME!!!!
Got in both of my 15's
Skipped the bun with my dog at lunch
Trip to the library
Enjoyed ice cream sundaes with my family for dessert and was still within my Eat To Lose count
Got in an extra 30 minute workout before bed
In bed before 10:30pm
Today's Not So Good Things:
Gave in and had a couple cookies while we packaged them for the librarian
Didn't get the schoolwork corrected
Didn't get my laundry jobs done
House is a mess :(
As far as eating and exercise, today was impressive. At least to me. I can't believe I was able to stick to my goals with so little sleep. I'm sure my good attitude, which was boosted by my visit to the scale, helped. I was delighted to see that I was under the 215 mark!!! However, it does unnerve me that I am so greatly affected by the value of a few electronic numbers. I *know* that they can't really tell me how my body is changing. Those numbers can't give me real assurance that I'm making progress. They could be fooling me. Yet, when I see those numbers decrease, well....I get pretty excited.
I found a book at the library dealing with some spiritual aspects of weight loss. I'm interested to see how it applies faith to this journey. I know that this has been all about my walk with the Lord. My choices are always connected to the work He is doing in my life. I'm off to give it a read and see how I like it.
Today we have dear friends coming for a visit and tomorrow more friends coming for a holiday gathering. It's going to be busy and likely, difficult to resist some yummy treats. Another run at strengthening my self-control. I'm thankful the Lord allows me so many opportunities to grow.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Tuesday December 14, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Met my wake-up goal
Great devotion and journal time
Good morning discussion w/ children
Got in my morning 15
Skipped the pizza at lunch
Got dinner in the crockpot
Good day of lessons & choring
Logged my meals
Feeling sore on one side again. Grrrr...
Skipped the bread at dinner
Today's Not So Good Things:
Missed my afternoon 15
That blasted chocolate cake and pb cookies!
Ate the bread for evening snack
Pretty heavy character training issues today
Baby's dipes are looking like she's not getting enough hindmilk again. Sigh.
Fussy girl isn't sleeping well tonite.
I dread getting on the scale in the morning. The wii scale has been saying I'm down, but the bathroom scale says I'm up. And, I use the bathroom scale for recording purposes, wouldn't ya' know it.
I'm taking my second measurements tomorrow too. It's all just a bit depressing.
Met my wake-up goal
Great devotion and journal time
Good morning discussion w/ children
Got in my morning 15
Skipped the pizza at lunch
Got dinner in the crockpot
Good day of lessons & choring
Logged my meals
Feeling sore on one side again. Grrrr...
Skipped the bread at dinner
Today's Not So Good Things:
Missed my afternoon 15
That blasted chocolate cake and pb cookies!
Ate the bread for evening snack
Pretty heavy character training issues today
Baby's dipes are looking like she's not getting enough hindmilk again. Sigh.
Fussy girl isn't sleeping well tonite.
I dread getting on the scale in the morning. The wii scale has been saying I'm down, but the bathroom scale says I'm up. And, I use the bathroom scale for recording purposes, wouldn't ya' know it.
I'm taking my second measurements tomorrow too. It's all just a bit depressing.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Monday December 13th, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Woke at 4:30am
Bible reading and journaled
Went back to sleep at 5:30am. (that doesn't sound all that great, but I was so near exhaustion, it had to be done.)
Declared today a Day of Rest, sending everyone to naps.
Large salad to offset the pizza for dinner.
Today's Not So Good Things:
No exercise whatsoever. Nothing. Nada. Not even a light household chore. I was tired and lazy. Wait...I *did* put away a few piles of laundry. Okay, there's at leaast something. Whew.
WAY too much Taste-Testing. :(
My laziness led to pizza for dinner.
It's been several days since I posted, and, yep, you guessed it, it hasn't been good. This weekend was extremely busy. I didn't log my food for Saturday or Sunday. The baking has been fun, but hard. I didn't get enough sleep, which has me feeling poorly and unable to meet my goals for the week. In short, I haven't done well and haven't wanted to post it either.
I don't want to use the excuse that it's the holidays. I want to be strong and enjoy this season without a license to gluttony. This is a time for celebration, not indulgence. There is no where a definition that my rejoicing must include eating poorly. I harm my body when I do it, make myself susceptible to illness, and leave myself emotionally defeated. I want to look back on this Christmas joyfully, knowing I focused on Christ and the victory His birth has given to me.
My prayer is that I would be busy and active pursuing those things which build my faith, create precious memories, and strengthen the love our family shares in the coming days. I also pray that tonite I will find the rest I need to wake headache free, willing to work, and eager to smile at all the opportunities that await me.
So, while I *could* get in some push ups, sit ups and stretching tonite. What I am going to do is publish this post, close the screen and get some zzzz's while the getting is good.
Woke at 4:30am
Bible reading and journaled
Went back to sleep at 5:30am. (that doesn't sound all that great, but I was so near exhaustion, it had to be done.)
Declared today a Day of Rest, sending everyone to naps.
Large salad to offset the pizza for dinner.
Today's Not So Good Things:
No exercise whatsoever. Nothing. Nada. Not even a light household chore. I was tired and lazy. Wait...I *did* put away a few piles of laundry. Okay, there's at leaast something. Whew.
WAY too much Taste-Testing. :(
My laziness led to pizza for dinner.
It's been several days since I posted, and, yep, you guessed it, it hasn't been good. This weekend was extremely busy. I didn't log my food for Saturday or Sunday. The baking has been fun, but hard. I didn't get enough sleep, which has me feeling poorly and unable to meet my goals for the week. In short, I haven't done well and haven't wanted to post it either.
I don't want to use the excuse that it's the holidays. I want to be strong and enjoy this season without a license to gluttony. This is a time for celebration, not indulgence. There is no where a definition that my rejoicing must include eating poorly. I harm my body when I do it, make myself susceptible to illness, and leave myself emotionally defeated. I want to look back on this Christmas joyfully, knowing I focused on Christ and the victory His birth has given to me.
My prayer is that I would be busy and active pursuing those things which build my faith, create precious memories, and strengthen the love our family shares in the coming days. I also pray that tonite I will find the rest I need to wake headache free, willing to work, and eager to smile at all the opportunities that await me.
So, while I *could* get in some push ups, sit ups and stretching tonite. What I am going to do is publish this post, close the screen and get some zzzz's while the getting is good.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Oh dear...the Christmas Baking List
We just wrote out our Christmas Baking list for the year. Gulp.
Each recipe/treat is so loved. It's neat how one goodie is special to one person and another goodie just cries out "Christmas!" to another. We can't leave them out, they help make our Christmas memories so special. Many of these treats are passed down from Nana or Great-Grandmas. Some are connected to special times when we were newly married or come from special friends from years gone by. Every time we make them and enjoy them, we're thinking of those dear people. We're also building such fun memories together. Funny how food does that for us.
So, I'm excited about the list. It makes me happy to think of those treats we haven't tasted for at least a year, some even longer. However, I am cringing at the thought of filling my shopping cart with all of that butter, white and brown sugar, bags of powdered sugar, chocolate chips and even corn syrup! GASP!!! (okay, I confess, I still have enough corn syrup in the bottle on my shelf to use. Yes, I just admitted to having corn syrup on my pantry shelf. ::hiding::)
I know shopping for these ingredients will be great fun. (well, minus the crazy-busy aisles and checkout lanes) I know that making these delectibles will be totally great. I know that if I eat these abundant morsels it will be heavenly...for the moment. ;-) So, the plan is going to be to enjoy the shopping, baking, packing and tiny-taste-testing (gotta make sure we don't poison anyone, you know!), and then: Get Them Out The Door!!!
The things I'm counting on to keep me from making this a season of Gluttony is:
1. The purpose of this baking is to bless others with the sweetness of Jesus.
2. I have two freezers that can hold those tantalizing treasures out of sight.
3. I have many other taste-testers in the house, there won't be much left for me to nibble. ;-)
So, off I go to begin the Baking Brigade. Today we'll be shopping and maybe get a batch or two done for the freezer. Otherwise we've got all next week to get our list completed. Every good thing comes with some challenges, right? (I sure wish chewing burned more calories. :-P) I just pray I'm up for it. Please give me the strength, Lord!!
Each recipe/treat is so loved. It's neat how one goodie is special to one person and another goodie just cries out "Christmas!" to another. We can't leave them out, they help make our Christmas memories so special. Many of these treats are passed down from Nana or Great-Grandmas. Some are connected to special times when we were newly married or come from special friends from years gone by. Every time we make them and enjoy them, we're thinking of those dear people. We're also building such fun memories together. Funny how food does that for us.
So, I'm excited about the list. It makes me happy to think of those treats we haven't tasted for at least a year, some even longer. However, I am cringing at the thought of filling my shopping cart with all of that butter, white and brown sugar, bags of powdered sugar, chocolate chips and even corn syrup! GASP!!! (okay, I confess, I still have enough corn syrup in the bottle on my shelf to use. Yes, I just admitted to having corn syrup on my pantry shelf. ::hiding::)
I know shopping for these ingredients will be great fun. (well, minus the crazy-busy aisles and checkout lanes) I know that making these delectibles will be totally great. I know that if I eat these abundant morsels it will be heavenly...for the moment. ;-) So, the plan is going to be to enjoy the shopping, baking, packing and tiny-taste-testing (gotta make sure we don't poison anyone, you know!), and then: Get Them Out The Door!!!
The things I'm counting on to keep me from making this a season of Gluttony is:
1. The purpose of this baking is to bless others with the sweetness of Jesus.
2. I have two freezers that can hold those tantalizing treasures out of sight.
3. I have many other taste-testers in the house, there won't be much left for me to nibble. ;-)
So, off I go to begin the Baking Brigade. Today we'll be shopping and maybe get a batch or two done for the freezer. Otherwise we've got all next week to get our list completed. Every good thing comes with some challenges, right? (I sure wish chewing burned more calories. :-P) I just pray I'm up for it. Please give me the strength, Lord!!
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thursday December 9, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Great time in the word today :)
My wonderful husband was home for lunch and joined me and the boys for my afternoon 15. (yay!)
Got my final Christmas order done as well as organizing my "stash" aka, gift box.
Good soup for lunch
Sweet ds made us breakfast this morning. (french toast :))
Dh took us out for dinner and a long drive to look at Christmas lights. LOVE that!
Not So Good Things:
Missed my wake up goal by 30 minutes
Missed my Morning 15
Small battle with some of my Schoolies this morning. sigh.
Didn't get everyone's lessons caught up
I ate too much at dinner.
Lost a very long and heartfelt blog post on my journal today...AGAIN...ARGGGG. :<
So, today was just a lost day. I felt that way as soon as the post got lost. Silly that something like that would defeat me. I spent the whole day trying to find my place. I wasn't sure how best to spend my time and even the trusty old adage, "Do the next thing" wasn't working because I couldn't figure out what that next thing should be.
I did, however, get some good things done. I'm feeling much better prepared for Christmas in the gift department. David and I started working on a new school room in the basement. We're hoping to do it up nice as a Christmas gift for the children. I skyped with a dear friend today. And I still have an evening to spend with my sweet husband now that the children are settled in bed. (although baby slept a lot in the van, so I'm thinking it will be a late night on that end.) I also have one with a headache tonite. Will we ever get over this bug????
Tomorrow is Friday and my Honey will be home again. I love that. But, I'm not sure how we'll do with meeting goals and such. I guess the best way to make changes is to bring it on!
Great time in the word today :)
My wonderful husband was home for lunch and joined me and the boys for my afternoon 15. (yay!)
Got my final Christmas order done as well as organizing my "stash" aka, gift box.
Good soup for lunch
Sweet ds made us breakfast this morning. (french toast :))
Dh took us out for dinner and a long drive to look at Christmas lights. LOVE that!
Not So Good Things:
Missed my wake up goal by 30 minutes
Missed my Morning 15
Small battle with some of my Schoolies this morning. sigh.
Didn't get everyone's lessons caught up
I ate too much at dinner.
Lost a very long and heartfelt blog post on my journal today...AGAIN...ARGGGG. :<
So, today was just a lost day. I felt that way as soon as the post got lost. Silly that something like that would defeat me. I spent the whole day trying to find my place. I wasn't sure how best to spend my time and even the trusty old adage, "Do the next thing" wasn't working because I couldn't figure out what that next thing should be.
I did, however, get some good things done. I'm feeling much better prepared for Christmas in the gift department. David and I started working on a new school room in the basement. We're hoping to do it up nice as a Christmas gift for the children. I skyped with a dear friend today. And I still have an evening to spend with my sweet husband now that the children are settled in bed. (although baby slept a lot in the van, so I'm thinking it will be a late night on that end.) I also have one with a headache tonite. Will we ever get over this bug????
Tomorrow is Friday and my Honey will be home again. I love that. But, I'm not sure how we'll do with meeting goals and such. I guess the best way to make changes is to bring it on!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Wednesday December 8, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Time spent in the Word, great family bible time
Oatmeal & grapefruit for breakfast! (yay fiber!)
Got in my morning 15 (Ttapp with my girls)
Made a double batch of turkey noodle soup, a pasta bake and applesauce (from dd) for sick friends
Made a double batch of tortellini soup for the fam. (only 225 per serving!)
Wii Fit workout with my oldest. (fun!)
Still sore with the duct, but it's getting better.
We DIDN'T go for the Kid's Night special at a favorite restaurant for dinner.
Today's Not-So-Good Things:
Woke up 45 minutes late
Pizza for lunch. (2 pieces, no salad, ate late so was too hungry...blech.)
Missed my afternoon 15
Ate ANOTHER slice of pizza after my dinner...just because I was feeling grumpy. :<
I REALLY wanted to go to that restaurant for dinner. (blush)
So, today was kind of hard. I'm seeing a pattern that when my husband is home, which I love, I'm not as careful about my eating, exercising, educating, training, and choring as I should be, which I don't love. Hmmmm...looks like I'm needing to find some ways to make some changes there. I sure do love having him home, so I'm going to have to get myself some tools to make better choices.
My oldest daughter had a great time working out on the wii tonite. She sometimes struggles with some of the activities we do together to build in exercise. It was so nice to see her excited about moving, working and burning some calories. I've never focused on her weight, but we've always strived to give her a vision for caring for her body and making herself strong for the Lord's work. I pray that as I learn to enjoy exercise and living more actively, she also will embrace these changes for her lifetime.
I've been feeling moody, tired and short-tempered all day. It could be the lack of sleep. It could be the heavy carbs for lunch. It could be that I was trying to get all that soup made today while I should've been a little more attentive to my girlies. (the more supervision the better with them, ya' know. ;)) Whatever the reason, I'm praying for a good night's sleep so I can wake feeling refreshed. I haven't had that feeling in longer than I can remember. 8)
Time spent in the Word, great family bible time
Oatmeal & grapefruit for breakfast! (yay fiber!)
Got in my morning 15 (Ttapp with my girls)
Made a double batch of turkey noodle soup, a pasta bake and applesauce (from dd) for sick friends
Made a double batch of tortellini soup for the fam. (only 225 per serving!)
Wii Fit workout with my oldest. (fun!)
Still sore with the duct, but it's getting better.
We DIDN'T go for the Kid's Night special at a favorite restaurant for dinner.
Today's Not-So-Good Things:
Woke up 45 minutes late
Pizza for lunch. (2 pieces, no salad, ate late so was too hungry...blech.)
Missed my afternoon 15
Ate ANOTHER slice of pizza after my dinner...just because I was feeling grumpy. :<
I REALLY wanted to go to that restaurant for dinner. (blush)
So, today was kind of hard. I'm seeing a pattern that when my husband is home, which I love, I'm not as careful about my eating, exercising, educating, training, and choring as I should be, which I don't love. Hmmmm...looks like I'm needing to find some ways to make some changes there. I sure do love having him home, so I'm going to have to get myself some tools to make better choices.
My oldest daughter had a great time working out on the wii tonite. She sometimes struggles with some of the activities we do together to build in exercise. It was so nice to see her excited about moving, working and burning some calories. I've never focused on her weight, but we've always strived to give her a vision for caring for her body and making herself strong for the Lord's work. I pray that as I learn to enjoy exercise and living more actively, she also will embrace these changes for her lifetime.
I've been feeling moody, tired and short-tempered all day. It could be the lack of sleep. It could be the heavy carbs for lunch. It could be that I was trying to get all that soup made today while I should've been a little more attentive to my girlies. (the more supervision the better with them, ya' know. ;)) Whatever the reason, I'm praying for a good night's sleep so I can wake feeling refreshed. I haven't had that feeling in longer than I can remember. 8)
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Tuesday, Dec. 7th, 2010
Today's Good Things:
Met my early rising goal.
Spent time in God's word.
Found 2 scripture verses for encouragement. 1 Peter 2:11 (tool), and Ephesians 3:20-21 (hope)
Met my eating & exercise goals, plus an extra 30 minutes on the Wii for date night tonite. Fun!
Resisted the HUGE temptation to skip my Naptime 15.
Started with a large fresh salad and only ate ONE potato wedge with my fried chicken dinner. ;)
Today's Bad Things:
The aforementioned Fried Chicken Dinner. (I hate it when I eat a high sodium dinner the night before my weigh-in. sigh.)
The last two days have been great. My motivation is up. My attitude has been changing for the better. I've been doing very well keeping up with everyone's school work. And I've met all but my bedtime goals for the week.
I feel like I've woken up. Likely it has everything to do with coming out of the Baby Blues (borderline PPD this time) fog that has clouded my mind for the past 6 months or so. When I look back at other seasons and babies, I realize that it's right around the 7 month pp mark that I start to come back to life again. It's that feeling that I *want* to start my day, not just that I *have* to do it. It's a much better place to be.
I'm also thinking it has some to do with getting in some regular exercise and fresh air. That will put a spring in one's step. :-)
I will admit that I struggled a bit today feeling tired. It's going to take some time to adjust to rising an hour earlier. I'm also fighting another blocked duct, which is painful. I'm getting these every couple of weeks and it's so frustrating (due to some health issues I'm saving for another post). So, with every few steps forward, there will always be a reason or two to keep me humble and relying on the Lord's intervention.
Tomorrow is my weekly weigh-in. I always look forward to it with mixed emotions. Last week was so deflating. I had been losing my goal of 1.5lbs (give or take a tenth) for several weeks and then found myself up 2.5lbs. GASP!! I'm hopeful the scale will take a U-turn back in the right direction, but it's a bit depressing that I'm just trying to get back to where I had been the week pior. Even so, I'm doing well with my health goals, the homefront is sailing smoothly (well, okay...I'm behind on laundry, housework and meal prep...but I'm still moving forward ;)), and my time with the Lord is enriched. There's no number I could see on a scale that could give me the joy that comes from seeing the Lord lift that dark cloud from my life.
Met my early rising goal.
Spent time in God's word.
Found 2 scripture verses for encouragement. 1 Peter 2:11 (tool), and Ephesians 3:20-21 (hope)
Met my eating & exercise goals, plus an extra 30 minutes on the Wii for date night tonite. Fun!
Resisted the HUGE temptation to skip my Naptime 15.
Started with a large fresh salad and only ate ONE potato wedge with my fried chicken dinner. ;)
Today's Bad Things:
The aforementioned Fried Chicken Dinner. (I hate it when I eat a high sodium dinner the night before my weigh-in. sigh.)
The last two days have been great. My motivation is up. My attitude has been changing for the better. I've been doing very well keeping up with everyone's school work. And I've met all but my bedtime goals for the week.
I feel like I've woken up. Likely it has everything to do with coming out of the Baby Blues (borderline PPD this time) fog that has clouded my mind for the past 6 months or so. When I look back at other seasons and babies, I realize that it's right around the 7 month pp mark that I start to come back to life again. It's that feeling that I *want* to start my day, not just that I *have* to do it. It's a much better place to be.
I'm also thinking it has some to do with getting in some regular exercise and fresh air. That will put a spring in one's step. :-)
I will admit that I struggled a bit today feeling tired. It's going to take some time to adjust to rising an hour earlier. I'm also fighting another blocked duct, which is painful. I'm getting these every couple of weeks and it's so frustrating (due to some health issues I'm saving for another post). So, with every few steps forward, there will always be a reason or two to keep me humble and relying on the Lord's intervention.
Tomorrow is my weekly weigh-in. I always look forward to it with mixed emotions. Last week was so deflating. I had been losing my goal of 1.5lbs (give or take a tenth) for several weeks and then found myself up 2.5lbs. GASP!! I'm hopeful the scale will take a U-turn back in the right direction, but it's a bit depressing that I'm just trying to get back to where I had been the week pior. Even so, I'm doing well with my health goals, the homefront is sailing smoothly (well, okay...I'm behind on laundry, housework and meal prep...but I'm still moving forward ;)), and my time with the Lord is enriched. There's no number I could see on a scale that could give me the joy that comes from seeing the Lord lift that dark cloud from my life.
Monday, December 6, 2010
And So I Begin...
I'm so excited to begin this blog! I have so many thoughts and ideas I want to include here, my head is spinning as my un-techy hands struggle to know how to pull it all together.
My hope in using this blog is to record the work the Lord is doing in my life regarding my health and this seemingly impossible task of losing such a vast amount of weight. When I first began this journey, about a year ago, I would have never wanted to advertise the actual numbers I was dealing with. Yet, the Lord is doing a mighty work! Someday I will look back upon this season and be amazed at the incredible miracle the Lord has done on my behalf. I do not want to miss the journey and all that He is teaching me along the way. There is so much more to this challenge than merely shedding the pounds. The more I work on this, the more I realize how much of my past, present and future are connected by the habits and choices I've made to become who I am today. As I see the Lord decrease my physical weight, I rejoice that His presence will increase in every part of my being.
This is not an easy task. I have a lot of learning and unlearning to do. I have terrible habits that need to be broken and fruitful habits to establish in their place. This losing weight by the decimal point is painstakingly L-O-N-G. Truly, I don't have even the ounce of patience necessary to stick to it. Yet, right from the start, I recognize what a valuable tool this valley is to keep me looking up to My Help and My Strength.
So, when it's all said and done, this blog is for me. I will write as the Lord speaks to my heart. I will be honest with my memories, feelings and struggles. (well, as honest as I am able to be, keeping in mind this is still a public forum. ;)) I debate keeping this private, allowing me to muddle my way through as I go. Yet, I have been incredibly blessed by reading the journeys that others have and are walking on this similar path. They give me hope and a vision for what the Lord desires to do for me. So, if you are reading along, please know that it is not my intention to offend or press you to accept all that I say as truth. However, you must understand that I do believe there is Truth, and I will live my life by it every step of the way. I will cling to that Truth: the work of my Savior, Jesus Christ, and allow that Truth to guide, transform and speak clearly to my heart...and yours.
May all that I eat, drink, think, do, say and write be always to the Glory of God!
My hope in using this blog is to record the work the Lord is doing in my life regarding my health and this seemingly impossible task of losing such a vast amount of weight. When I first began this journey, about a year ago, I would have never wanted to advertise the actual numbers I was dealing with. Yet, the Lord is doing a mighty work! Someday I will look back upon this season and be amazed at the incredible miracle the Lord has done on my behalf. I do not want to miss the journey and all that He is teaching me along the way. There is so much more to this challenge than merely shedding the pounds. The more I work on this, the more I realize how much of my past, present and future are connected by the habits and choices I've made to become who I am today. As I see the Lord decrease my physical weight, I rejoice that His presence will increase in every part of my being.
This is not an easy task. I have a lot of learning and unlearning to do. I have terrible habits that need to be broken and fruitful habits to establish in their place. This losing weight by the decimal point is painstakingly L-O-N-G. Truly, I don't have even the ounce of patience necessary to stick to it. Yet, right from the start, I recognize what a valuable tool this valley is to keep me looking up to My Help and My Strength.
So, when it's all said and done, this blog is for me. I will write as the Lord speaks to my heart. I will be honest with my memories, feelings and struggles. (well, as honest as I am able to be, keeping in mind this is still a public forum. ;)) I debate keeping this private, allowing me to muddle my way through as I go. Yet, I have been incredibly blessed by reading the journeys that others have and are walking on this similar path. They give me hope and a vision for what the Lord desires to do for me. So, if you are reading along, please know that it is not my intention to offend or press you to accept all that I say as truth. However, you must understand that I do believe there is Truth, and I will live my life by it every step of the way. I will cling to that Truth: the work of my Savior, Jesus Christ, and allow that Truth to guide, transform and speak clearly to my heart...and yours.
May all that I eat, drink, think, do, say and write be always to the Glory of God!
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