Oct 30, 2010

It's coming


Are you in???

Tag...I am it, you will be shortly

And So I've been tagged by SayRah at ButterflyChic , which makes me feel rather loved and highly obligated to participate!  HA!  Just kidding, you know I'm a sucker for such things.
Here's how it works, I answer all these 8 questions, make up my own 8 questions, and then pass it on to 8 of you. Here it goes!

8 Questions for me:
1. What is your favorite recipe?
Easy Beef Enchiladas or BBQ Brisket.  Both are extremely flavorful and make my tummy happy!  I should probably link those recipes, but i am not going to because I am cruel like that.

2. What are your hobbies?
Blogging is one because I love to write, physical activity ranks right up there and doing anything with my family.  I am relatively easy to please: if there are people there, I am having fun!  I also enjoy photography, but I am far from being on any expert level. 

3. What is your favorite movie to watch when you are sick?
I typically do not watch movies when I'm sick because I like to sleep until I am well.  But, if I did pull one out it would probably be Dead Poets Society.
4. What is your favorite book?
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers.  It's an incredible book, and so well written.  Oh gracious, it's so good.  I also love ANYTHING by Andy Andrews, he's a genius I tell you, genius!  And, his books will rock your happy little world into action.

5. What would you do if you won the lottery?
Pay off our house so that we no longer owed anything to anyone.  Then, I would set up a philanthropic fund some investment funds.

6. You are in your car, where are you driving to?
Probably my parent's house!  I am thankful we are just a few miles from my parents and my sister and her family.  We are actually in the center of the two, and, I love hanging out with them!

7. What do you love about Fall?
The cooler weather first and foremost!  I do not like being hot, so average temperatures put me in a better mood!  When we were in TN, I also adored the colors of fall.  It was a season filled with an array of splendid colors.  And, I know that the holidays are approaching, which are always fun.

8. Finish the sentence: I'd like to _____.
Never be sick again, ever, not a simple cold, not anything.  And the same for my family.

And here are the lucky 8 who get to play now:
The lovely Mrs. Ha at Shouting for Ha
Amydeanne at The 160 Acre Woods
Melynie at Organized Chaos

And now, time for your 8 questions (drum roll please):
1.  What will you be dressing up as for Halloween?
2.  What would the title of your autobiography be?
3.  If you could acquire any one skill, what would it be?
4.  You have your choice of living anywhere in the country world, where would it be?
5.  You have 1 million dollars you must donate to charity, which charity do you choose?
6.  What achievement are you most proud of?
7.  What makes you laugh the hardest?
8.  What is your favorite snack food?

Ok friends, enjoy! 




Oct 28, 2010

I will take honesty for 200 please

People amaze me, all too often.  There are situations that should not surprise me, but they do.  Am I naive?  Maybe.  Do I simply expect the best in people?  Quite possibly.  I am all for the principle of "let you no be no and your yes be yes."  Mean what you say, say what you mean.  It is simple.  I do understand that we do not want to hurt one another's feelings, but a half truth is still a lie.  Need an example?

I had a client who had purchased some AdvoCare products, and stated she wanted to become a distributor.  I told her I would help her any way possible, and would send information to her that would help.  However, if she ever decided she was not interested, to simply let me know.  A few days ago, I received a call from the manager of the gym where I train informing me this client would be switching trainers because she felt like I was always trying to sell her AdvoCare.  I laughed, and explained my side.  He apologized and said he knew my character well enough to believe what I told him.  He then went on to say that in spite of the conflict, I was not to approach the person and try to resolve anything.  What?  There is a problem, I would like to apologize for a misunderstanding and clarify my intentions, yet I could not, was asked not to in fact.  That was worse than the first blow.  Not only do I believe in "no means no and yes means yes," but I also believe in settling disputes with others.  I wrestled with that interally because as fellow believers, I disagreed with saying and doing nothing.  Out of respect, I agreed to just move along.

A few hours later I received a message from the person that was a straight out lie, an avoidance of the real situation.  First you won't try to resolve the conflict, and know you choose to lie about it.  Nice.  I laughed, out loud, I will admit.  Seriously?  The manager of the gym and I have a genuine respect for one another and there is no way he would begin training a former client of mine without alerting me first.  We work with integrity, which is one of the main reasons I chose to train there.  I did respond, since I was the one contacted by simply stating, "I have talked to the manager, and I know the reason.  I never meant to make you feel harrassed!  My fault and I am sorry.  You will love training with ---, he is the best in the city."

Let me just say, that yes, I am passionate about AdvoCare.  It has and is changing lives not only physically but spiritually and financially.  I have seen it, am seeing it, am experiencing it.  So yes, I will happily fill others in on it.  However, I know that not everyone will catch the vision or really be able to see exactly how one direct sales company can come without strings, without any catches, and truly be as incredible as I say.  Not everyone will want the products, not everyone will want to join the team.  And you know what?  That is ok with me.  Yes, I think they are missing out on a great opportunity, but we all are given a choice, and I am completely fine with your choice being different from mine.

I am still annoyed over the dishonesty and the complete avoidance of trying to resolve what they saw as an issue.  It boggles my mind that adults are sometimes worse than children when it comes to disagreements.  Yet, this does not stop me nor hinder me in my pursuit of doing what is right, striving for what is holy, and pressing on to obtain the goals before me.

Oct 26, 2010

WFW - Eph 6:15


Eph6:15
Originally uploaded by chelled.
Ephesians 6:10-18

The Armor of God
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

To enjoy more Word Filled Wednesday posts click here..

Manners, such a wonderfully lost concept

Being a personal trainer is definitely a blessing, and most of the time, quite a bit of fun.  I get to walk alongside people who desire to be healthier, and I love it.  I love seeing when people finally "get it" and everything starts falling into place.  They begin eating well, they are exercising consistently, and feel better overall.  It is such a blessing to watch my clients take the journey to health.

Of course, there are some pitfalls to the job.  For instance, I received a call last week from someone asking about training sessions and she went on to say she and a friend were interested in training together.  No problem, group sessions are even more fun.  After discussing the details, we agreed to meet and start their sessions on Monday.  Onto the calendar it went, and off I went to prepare.  They were scheduled to arrive at 11:30, and as I watched the time tick by 11:30, I wondered if they were going to arrive.  I knew the individual's number was still in my phone, so I retrieved it and called.  Yea, here's the how that conversation went down:
Me:  Hello ---!  How are you?  I was calling to see if you and your friend were coming in today for our scheduled appointment.
Person: I lost my i.d. so I couldn't come in to get a membership (fyi: you don't need it to get a membership)
Me:  Oh no.
Person:  Yea, my purse got stolen over the weekend.  So, until I get all that resolved, I won't be able to come.
Me:  Ok
Person: I was going to call you, but it just slipped my mind.
Me:  Ok, hope everything gets worked out.

As I hung up the phone, I proceeded to use white out to remove the "dynamic duo" from my calendar.  After a few years of training, I know enough to know that the person actually meant, "We decided we weren't going to train because that would mean we'd have to commit and we aren't ready for that.  I had no intention of calling because I figured we would just blow you off in order to avoid being honest.  No, we will not be joining, training, or anything else."  Excuse after excuse.  Please, save it for your Mama.  And, notice how the person did not apologize, not once, not even flippantly.  Not an "oh my gosh, I'm sorry, it totally slipped my mind over the weekend."  Nope, no apology, just a tone and attitude that let me know this person is not one who will show up for sessions and will be wasting my time.  The girl who works in the office of the gym asked me what I would do if the person called back and wanted to start training.  What would I say?  It would go something like this, "No, I will not be able to train you, but feel free to call the gym to obtain contact information for other trainers." 

The lack of common courtesy astounds me.  I wouldn't have even been as upset if I had gotten a simple text.  Still not as nice as a call, but at least I would have known they were going to be a no-show, and I would not have wasted my time going to the gym for no reason.  Come on people, show some respect for others every now and then, especially when you have scheduled an appointment with them!  And I have been reminded that it is always best to call the day before to ensure the person will be showing up. 

Oct 20, 2010

WFW Job28:25

WFW Job28:25
Originally uploaded by chelled.
Job 28:25-28When he established the force of the wind and measured out the waters, when he made a decree for the rain and a path for the thunderstorm, then he looked at wisdom and appraised it; he confirmed it and tested it. And he said to man, 'The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.' "
Oh dear Job. A righteous man, a man allowed to be tested. God stepped aside, having place boundaries around what the tempter could do, and allowed him to have a go at Job.

By all counts, Job knows God. He trusts him, is faithful to him, and believes God is who he says he is. As test after test is thrown at Job, those around him do not see it, even Job sometimes misses it. God is still there. He has not left him, he has not taken his eye off of him, but he is allowing the hardship, the struggle, the pit.

Towards the end of this time of testing, Job shouts out to God. God is big enough, he can take it. Job, like many of us, sees the truth, knows the truth, and can even quote God's word. But he is missing one small component. No one, not even the most just the most righteous deserves any good received. All of us are worthy of death, yet God has chosen to reach down, come down, and stand in front of us and receive a deathly blow. For all the tribulation we face, it is a mere glimpse of the suffering of Christ.

The God who tells the wind which direction to blow, the God who sets that very wind in motion, cares even more about the direction we go. Where are we going and what are we moving towards? We may wish to know where the final burst of wind will take us, but if we knew the outcome we would miss the beauty, the lessons, and the adventure of the journey itself. Like Job, we will miss the fact that sometimes God will allow us to be tested in order to strengthen and grow the faith of someone next to us. More importantly, every trial we face allows God to be glorified, if only we will sit back and call on him, wait on him, and trust in his protection.

It is difficult to raise our hands in praise when we are hurting to our core, and harder still to stand in humble obedience and worship the living God. But the God who told the stars where to go, who set the earth in motion, loves and adores us more than any other creature on Earth.  Our heavenly Father, who commands the wind where to go will also watch over us, and will not allow us to be tossed about purposelessly. We were created to be in relationship to him, and as a parent who loves his child will discipline his child and expect obedience, so too will God discipline and correct us. And like a parent, he will allow us to choose, to suffer consequences.  That is what love does.

To enjoy more Word Filled Wednesday posts click here..

Oct 15, 2010

Moms of girls, check this out

My friend Jamie, over at Lovely Nest Designs is oozing with talent. Seriously, click that link and check her out, I will wait for you.......

I know, you eyes are popping out of your head and your heart is palpitating with excitement.  Ridiculously adorable clothes for young girls that are affordable, creative, and original!  Jamie and I went to the same church when we lived in Tennessee, and I had the honor of attending a small Bible study with her.  She is not only a fantastic girl but wonderfully creative.  After many comments on her clothes and her children's clothes, she revealed her secret -- she finds items at Goodwill and the like and recreates them into spectacular looking pieces.  Seriously?  How?  My mind cannot conceive how one see something for what it can be like that.  A table is a table to me, a shirt with a stain is a shirt with a stain.  Not so with Jamie.  I have seen her redo furniture and clothes so that they appear to be high end merchandise with a whole lot of chic appeal thrown in.  She's wildly talented and friends, your little girls need to be blessed by her.

You must now head on over to her etsy shop, but please, try not to drool on your computer as your browse through her items.  Happy shopping!

Oct 14, 2010

Two, yes TWO, great contests!

Sarah Sundin presents The Movies and Memories Giveaway in honor of
book 2 in the Wings of Glory series. A Memory Between Us is available for purchase wherever fine books are sold.
From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory
Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.


AMBU_button

To celebrate Sarah is giving one lucky winner A Movie and Memory Prize
Package! One grand prize winner will receive:


* Make-your-own-photo book from Mypublisher.com (Capture your own
Memories)


* Netflix Subscription (New or Nostalgic Movies delivered right to your house)

* Starbucks gift card (To keep your engine revvin’)

*Gourmet chocolate (A favorite in the 1940’s and now)

* British specialty teas in carved wooden box (Timeless tradition)

* Miniature model of a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber & C-47 cargo plane
(Everyone needs a few toy planes)

*Big Band music CD (Break out your dancing shoes)

* WWII authentic poster playing cards (Cards – a perfect game for two)

* Keep Calm and Carry On (Uplifting sayings WWII, a boost for troubled times)

To enter simple click on the icons below (contest runs 9/27 - 10/17!)



Suzanne Woods Fisher is thrilled to announce the release of The Waiting, book two in The Lancaster Secrets Collection. In The Waiting Jorie finds herself caught be two loves and two lives in this compelling page turner about complex people living the simple life.

The Waiting is the next stand alone story in The Lancaster Secrets Collection and follows in the footsteps of the best-selling, The Choice. The Waiting is in stores now and to celebrate Suzanne is hosting The Waiting KINDLE Giveaway.



One Grand Prize winner will receive a Kindle preloaded with Suzanne Woods Fisher titles and a Amazon.com gift certificate! The Prize Pack (valued at over $185.00) includes:

* A brand new KINDLE, Free 3G, 6", Latest Generation

* The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

* The Waiting by Suzanne Woods Fisher

* A $15 dollar Amazon.com Gift Certificate

To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form, then tell 5 or more friends about the contest. Oh, and enter soon! Winner will be announced on October 28th at Suzanne's Lancaster Secrets Book Club Party.

Join Suzanne for the Lancaster Secrets Book Club Party on October 28th! She’ll be announcing the winner of the The Waiting KINDLE Giveaway, hosting a book club discussion of The Waiting and The Choice, and giving away copies of both books and HEAPs of readerly prizes! Be sure to join us on Thursday, October 28th at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST & 8 EST) at Suzanne’s Author Page. 


Oct 13, 2010

WFW Mark 2:22

WFW Mark2:22
Originally uploaded by chelled.
Mark 2:20-22 (New International Version)20But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.

21"No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. 22And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins."

Monday evening, I came across a journal I had written while preparing to take part in the Avon Breast Cancer 3-Day walk. At the time, I was teaching and coaching, was a far cry from healthy, and was preparing to embark on a 3 day, 60 mile journey. Because I like to write, and was single at the time, I chose to put pen to paper to chronicle my journey and the lessons I learned.

One thing struck me as I turned each page, "I still struggle with the same old things." At first I just kind of laughed because I believe I have come so far, yet I realized I had not come very far at all. Following the laughter came annoyance. At one point to I let those things go? Why do I continue to pour into the old wine skins? They are worn, they are tattered, they are not suitable for my current surroundings, my current growth, my current, well, me. It is time to put those wine skins aside and believe God is who He says He is, that what He has promised will come to pass. It is time to pour only into the new and walk confidently in who He is calling me to be.

To enjoy more Word Filled Wednesday posts click here..

Oct 12, 2010

A Warrior's Purpose

Every now and again, as I am out running, a thought will pop into my head that is replayed throughout the day. Today's thought was, "A warrior without a battle to fight has no purpose." I think we can agree that unless a warrior is preparing for, engaging in, or recovering from a battle, said warrior really has no function. What good is it to be armed and ready if there is no need to engage one's weapons and defenses? It would be much like Don Quixote and his fearless fight against windmills. Even if he saw them as giants, everyone else simply saw him as insane.

We, each and every single one of us, were created for a specific purpose at a specific time in history. Each one of us, in one form or fashion, is called to be a warrior. Go to battle for your beliefs, for your friend, for the orphaned and widowed, for the oppressed. We fight to bring about good, and we fight to turn dreams into reality. We are created to be warriors, fearless and ready.

What is it then that causes one to storm the castle while another sits idly by? Why is one person armed and ready while another hardly notices there is a battle cry going out? Is it belief? Conviction? Passion? Confidence? I wish I knew the answer to that question, but I do not. I do not know why there are some in this world, given every opportunity will simply walk away, unwilling to fight for themselves, their beliefs and the opportunities that lie before them. The battle can be hard, and it can be long, and many will quit just a moment too soon.

For those individuals who will stay in the fight, who will dare to continue marching forward in spite of the obstacles and opposition, life becomes more vibrant. They know their purpose because they know who they are: a warrior. These people who will prepare, engage, and learn from every twist and turn this life offers will become victorious. The true warrior will take hold of an opportunity and do whatever is required to be successful, to reach every goal that has been set. This warrior will listen to the ones who fought before him,to those who have walked off the battlefield with their heads held high. Others will follow because of the confidence and purpose this warrior takes in every stride. And even when negativity creeps into camp, they will continue on. For they know well enough to leave windmills alone.

Yet I wonder if many of us have become so comfortable and complacent that we rarely feel a call to battle let alone know where our armor is. We have become so content in our independent worlds, complete with luxuries like three square meals, a bed and clothes, that we no long see a need to fight, to press on. We have become, in essence, stuck.

I for one no longer care to remain where I have been, as I have been. I have opportunities ahead of me, all of which I intend to firmly grasp and fight for. I will go to battle to ensure others will have these same opportunities, to be healthy, to rise above the status quo, and to attain more than they thought possible. I will leave the windmills to Don Quixote because I have a family worth going to battle for and because I believe it is possible.

Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.


Oct 11, 2010

The Waiting


The Waiting
By Suzanne Woods Fisher
is here!!!

I totally loved the first book in the series called “The Choice” which I read in one sitting.

Does book 2 stand a chance against its predecessor?

Yes it does! Suzanne quickly draws me into her stories where I remain until the last page.  I cannot read fast enough, cannot see how all is resolved soon enough.  She welcomes you in, allows you to sit and stay awhile as she unfolds her intriguing tales.  This book is beautiful, and breathtaking.  Doing what is right is not always easy, especially when we know there are others who will be affected by our choices.
The Waiting is beyond just about being an Amish love story. It is about the choices we have to make in this life, prejudices we all encounter, and how we choose to chase after dreams as we seek what God has in store for us.

I’ll be looking forward to the next book in the Lancaster County Secrets!

———————————————-

Find out more about Suzanne’s on Facebook, Twitter and on her blog!

What are others saying about the book?
Check out the fellow Litfuse group blog tour participants:

http://www.litfusegroup.com/Blog-Tours/the-waiting-blog-tour.html

———————————

Suzanne Woods Fisher is thrilled to announce the release of The Waiting, book two in The Lancaster Secrets Collection. In The Waiting Jorie finds herself caught be two loves and two lives in this compelling page turner about complex people living the simple life.

A must read!

Visit the blog tour and find out what the reviewers are saying!

Learn more about Suzanne and her books at http://www.suzannewoodsfisher.com/!

The Waiting is the next stand alone story in The Lancaster Secrets Collection and follows in the footsteps of the best-selling, The Choice. The Waiting is in stores now and to celebrate Suzanne is hosting The Waiting KINDLE Giveaway.


One Grand Prize winner will receive a Kindle preloaded with Suzanne Woods Fisher titles and a Amazon.com gift certificate! The Prize Pack (valued at over $185.00) includes:
* A brand new KINDLE, Free 3G, 6″, Latest Generation
* The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher
* The Waiting by Suzanne Woods Fisher
* A $15 dollar Amazon.com Gift Certificate

To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form, then tell 5 or more friends about the contest. Oh, and enter soon! Winner will be announced on October 28th at Suzanne’s Lancaster Secrets Book Club Party.

Enter via E-mail       Enter via Facebook         Enter via Twitter
Join Suzanne for the Lancaster Secrets Book Club Party on October 28th! She’ll be announcing the winner of the The Waiting KINDLE Giveaway, hosting a book club discussion of The Waiting and The Choice, and giving away copies of both books and HEAPs of readerly prizes! Be sure to join us on Thursday, October 28th at 5:00 PM PST (6:00 MST, 7:00 CST & 8 EST) at Suzanne’s Author Page.

** review copy provided.

Oct 9, 2010

A movie you don't want to miss on Oct 26th!



Jump Start Your Health!

Then take the 24-Day Challenge! This bundle features everything you need to get you going toward your next goal.*
Bundle with MNS® Max E or Max C - $180.25
Bundle with MNS® Max 3 - $182.25



Days 1-10 Cleanse Phase
The first ten days are about cleansing your body of toxins and preparing for optimal nutrient absorption, and you may enjoy weight loss as well!*
•Herbal Cleanse-Citrus: helps to cleanse and detoxify your body.*
•OmegaPlex®: essential fatty acids for increased overall wellness.*
•AdvoCare Spark®: nutritionally-advanced energy*

Days 11-24 Max Phase
Give your body the best tools you need to achieve your next weight management goal during days 11-24!*
•Metabolic Nutrition System (MNS®): Your choice of Max C+ (appetite control), Max E+ (energy), or Max 3 – for weight management, appetite control and overall wellness.*
•Meal Replacement Shake - Chocolate: Complete nutrition in a great-tasting shake!
•AdvoCare Spark®: nutritionally advanced energy*

Each 24-Day Challenge includes:
•One box of Meal Replacement Shakes - Chocolate
•One box of Herbal Cleanse - Citrus
•One bottle of OmegaPlex®
•One box of AdvoCare Spark® - Mandarin Orange
•One box of AdvoCare Spark® - Fruit Punch
•Your choice of one box of MNS® Max 3, C, or E

+ Compared to MNS® Max 3



Medical Rock Stars

Nurses are awesome.  Can we just admit that?  Seriously, they are the rockstars of medicine.  That's what I think, and this is my blog, so that's what I'm writing about. 

I had to have a minor procedure done yesterday, and I must say, the nurses I encountered were so incredible.  I think they have the harder jobs, and yet, tend to be the most personable and kind.  The nurses I encountered, most male, were so funny too!  There I was, dressed up in my gown (ha ha), and laughing hysterically thanks to them. 

There is a special calling for nurses, and I am thankful for those who have chosen nursing as their profession.  Thank you for your kindness, your smiles, and for being personable.  Sure, there are some less than stellar nurses out there who will gripe about anything, but for the most part, I think they tend to be incredible people with an incredible gift of mercy and kindness. 

So, to all of those out there who are nurses, thank you.  You are amazing.

Oct 7, 2010

Is it worth the pain?

Earlier this year, I found out that my right leg is 11mm shorter than my left leg.  This has caused some problems, and explains past problems.  My right hip tends to tighten up, and seeing as how I was constantly at a tilt, I have had problems with my lower back, knees, etc.  You name it, it has hurt.  This is a problem, especially for someone who makes a living helping people become more active.  I took the necessary steps (no pun intended) and was fitted for a heel lift and shoe inserts.  I was told if nothing else, to wear the heel lift.  And I did, and do, most of the time.

My feet however sometimes cry out to be bare and free of shoes.  They want to wiggle and move and breathe.  And I let them.  And then, I suffer.  Freeing my feet means my body is physically unbalanced, without a chance of alignment, and it does not like it.  It sends warning signals, a muscle cramp here, a quick pain there.  When I ignore the warning, the pain intensifies, I wish my chiropractor lived next door, and no amount of stretching will suffice.  The heel lift and inserts are all my body needs to retreat back into a functioning unit again.

Last week, I spent half the week in sheer pain.  There were moments I caught by breath due to the pain careening through my back.  It hurt to do anything, and everything.  It took me about 4 days to realize it was due to being barefoot for three days straight.  For three days my body was off center, literally, and I was paying for it.  Yes, I like to be barefoot, but I also like to enjoy my days free of pain.  I enjoy playing with my daughter and training clients and running without stabs of pain in my lower back and hips.  The pain I endure from freeing my feet is just not worth it.

It is such a small thing really, choosing shoes or not.  Yet, isn't that how life is too?  Everyday we make choices.  Growth, remain where we are.  Learn, ignore.  Experience freedom, stay in bondage.  It is always a choice.  Tell others about opportunities you know will work and benefit them or keep the news a secret.  Do what you need to, even if it is uncomfortable for a time, or do nothing and suffer the consequences.  Our choices are what will help us arrive at our goals and dreams or drive us further from them.

Oct 4, 2010

What will you tell yourself?

Proverbs 18:21
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Proverbs 15:4
The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.

While listening to the first podcast done by The Pink Dress, I began thinking of the power of the tongue.  We tell our children to be nice, to use nice words.  We even remind ourselves and one another not to speak ill of other people.  But I wonder, what are we allowing our tongues to say about us?  What does your tongue speak when it is speaking of you?  Is it life or is it death?  Is it rolling off your God given talents and gifts, or is it spewing venom against your weaknesses?  There are times our tongues adopt what others have said about us, words covered in hatred and lies.  It is all there, shouting out to us, about us.

Why does no one silence that tongue?  You stop yourself if you are about to speak harshly of another, so why not stop yourself when you are about to speak harshly of yourself?  You have worth.  You have value.  God has you on this earth, at this time, for a specific purpose.  There is no one else like you, no one else who can fill your role just as you do.  Why are you being so cruel to yourself?

As a personal trainer and AdvoCare distributor, I hear women referring to themselves negatively all day long.  It is disheartening, saddening, and more than anything, it is all lies.  Straight out, boldly spoken lies.  Many times I stop them, correct them.  I cannot allow them to speak so horribly about a person I care about, and I do care about my clients and AdvoCare team.  I cannot listen to them belittle themselves, and in essence, proclaim God has messed up.  He cannot.  He does not.  There are no mistakes in eternity.

There are moments in my past that death (in various forms, not necessarily physical) was being spoken to me.  There has been, in my past, a cycle of me believing those things, those words that were void of life.  There are moments I walked not in the light of who God has called me to be, but in the darkness of lies spoken from another's blindness.  Oh how I wish I could take back those moments, to get them back and speak life to myself, to allow God's word to wash over me and renew my spirit!  How I wish I could return there and tell myself to stop walking in shame and hurt and start walking with grace and mercy and beauty as my guides! 

And now, I look at my daughter and watch her play, admire how she smiles at herself in the mirror while she proclaims, "Oh, I am so pretty!"  I have started keeping note of the comments I make to myself, about myself.  For her to know her value, I must know mine.  In order for her to look in the mirror and see beauty, I must see beauty when I look in the mirror.  And it is not in vain conceit, but solely in the knowledge that I am the daughter of the King Eternal, and friend, there is nothing more beautiful than a princess.



Break time

Last Thursday, my child decided to act like most, well, 2.5 year olds.  It was a draining day, and one filled with discipline.  I was tired, she was testing every limit known to children, and I was wiped out at the end of it.  Just before her nap, she required discipline again.  Of course, she asked to cuddle with her daddy before laying down for her nap.  He was on a business call; she was left with me.  I sat her in my lap, here's what followed:
Me:  Look at me
Her:  Looks at me, slowly.  Ok.
Me:  I love you, very very much.
Her:  OK (her eyes begin filling with tears)
Me: But when you disobey, I will discipline you.  That doesn't mean I don't love you though child.  Nothing you can do can change how much Daddy and I love you.
Her: as a small tear runs down her cheek - OK mama.  I love you too.

It was a great moment, and I sometimes stand in awe of what my child seems to comprehend.  How much she truly "gets" I do not know, but I thought it was important to make that statement now.  I wish I could tell you she woke from her nap and we had no problems.  But alas, that was not the case. 

The following day, I called my father and asked if I could drop her off.  We were on the same path as the day before and I knew we needed a break from one another.  As soon as we arrived, she looked at me and said, "Ok, you go."  The girl knew.  She spent the night with her grandparents that night, and her cousin was there too.  They seem to have had a grand old time at their slumber party, and I was able to be still and breathe for a little bit.

Andy and I had planned on going to pick her up following our small group meeting that night, but my mom sent a text saying our girl had fallen asleep.  We just sat and stared at each other, "what now?"  A comedy show via Netflix was our answer, and we stayed up entirely too late laughing hysterically.  Saturday morning, which also happened to be Andy's birthday, found us slowly entering the day.  Although we enjoyed not having to go straight to "parenting mode," we both kept looking around as if we expected our child to simply appear from nowhere. 

I am thankful my parents so willingly help us with our child.  It is such a blessing to see her develop a close relationship with them, to see how their relationship with her helps her learn and flourish.  I am thankful they are a phone call away when she and I need a break from one another, our separate corners to go to.  My family provides so much for me to be thankful for. 

Andy and I also realized we do not do well with freedom.  Staying up too late left us feeling tired, and in need of mass quantities of Spark all weekend long!  HA!  We just aren't as young as we used to be.

Oct 2, 2010

Oct 1, 2010

The other side

Yesterday, I posted some videos of a woman whose birth mother planned to abort her.  The plan did not work, and Gianna Jessen is an articulate, incredible woman.  Her story is riveting, and listening to her will stir you up inside.  If you haven't watched, you need to.

This morning, I began to think of the other side of that coin.  The ones who have chosen to abort whether from being forced to or feeling they had no other option.  I began to remember my senior year in highschool when a dear friend chose to have an abortion.  It tore me to my core, but what I felt was nothing in comparison to what I saw in her eyes as she told me. 

What I want to say, what I feel has to be said, is that forgiveness is still for you dear one.  No sin is too great, no choice so horrible that the God of this universe, the one who set the stars in the sky and who knew you from the beginning of time, will not forgive.  He loves you, he wants you near to him.  And your child?  Oh do not worry dear one!  Your child is safe, and whole, and alive at the foot of Heaven's throne!  No power on earth can override the power of Heaven!  And yes, you too can enter into those gates one day.  I believe I am being told to let you know that it is time to step out of the darkness, step out of your shame, take off the cloak of sin, and despair, and hate and regret, and put on the cloak of righteousness, and forgiveness, and mercy.  Allow Him to restore you, to make you whole and to walk beside you as you walk confidently through this life.  Do not allow a past choice to condemn you for an eternity.  There is more for you, more for you to do on this earth, but you must first believe in the one who is calling to you.

Psalm 32:5
Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity.  I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD "— and you forgave the guilt of my sin.


A Memory Between Us


MY THOUGHTS:
Sundin has written another hit with her follow up to A Distant Melody, A Memory Between Us.  I quickly became caught up in this story, which is obvious from the fact it only took me one day to read it.  With a two year old in the house, that is no easy task, but friends, this book is that good.  I found myself journeying with Ruth, wanting to know her story, and once it is revealed, wanting her to forgive herself from her past.  Each of us can relate to this story of forgiveness, of ourselves and one another.  It is a journey many face, for many years, stepping out of the past in order to live fully in the present.  Sundin has done well in writing this book because we all need to be reminded of the power held in God's forgiveness.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
Can they overcome the past to find a brighter future together?

Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge--until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top-priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she also is determined not to give her heart to any man.

As the danger and tension of World War II rise to a fever pitch, Jack and Ruth will need each other more than ever. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways?

From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.

A Memory Between Us is the second book in the WINGS OF GLORY series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Sarah Sundin is an on-call hospital pharmacist and holds a BS in chemistry from UCLA and a doctorate in pharmacy from UC San Francisco. Her great-uncle flew with the US Eighth Air Force in England during WWII. Sarah lives in California with her husband and three children. This is her second novel. For more info please visit her website at www.sarahsundin.com!


LOVE THE BOOK?
Don't forget to post a review on Amazon, CBD or B&N!


LINK TO BUY THE BOOK:
http://www.amazon.com/Memory-Between-Us-Novel-Wings/dp/080073422X/ref=sprightly-20


CONTEST


About The Memories and Movies Giveaway:
Sarah Sundin presents The Movies and Memories Giveaway in honor of
book 2 in the Wings of Glory series. A Memory Between Us is available for purchase wherever fine books are sold.
From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory
Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.


AMBU_button

To celebrate Sarah is giving one lucky winner A Movie and Memory Prize
Package! One grand prize winner will receive:


* Make-your-own-photo book from Mypublisher.com (Capture your own
Memories)


* Netflix Subscription (New or Nostalgic Movies delivered right to your house)

* Starbucks gift card (To keep your engine revvin’)

*Gourmet chocolate (A favorite in the 1940’s and now)

* British specialty teas in carved wooden box (Timeless tradition)

* Miniature model of a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber & C-47 cargo plane
(Everyone needs a few toy planes)

*Big Band music CD (Break out your dancing shoes)

* WWII authentic poster playing cards (Cards – a perfect game for two)

* Keep Calm and Carry On (Uplifting sayings WWII, a boost for troubled times)

To enter simple click on the icons below (contest runs 9/27 - 10/17!)


Check out the blog tour
http://www.litfusegroup.com/Latest/2010-fall-blog-tour-schedule.html
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