I sit here, and wonder what I should write about today. Looking for something to grab hold of, to share. My mind must be very tired for it is not bringing forth anything. I have a lot of work ahead of me today, but my first email this morning here at work was a nice one.
One of the directors I work with, and have been busily preparing binders for an important meeting for (and unsure of exactly what she wants as this is the first time I have been involved from the beginning of the preparations), sent me a note. A nice note. I had stopped by her office yesterday with what I had already prepared in the binder. And discovered she had already changed the agenda numbering, so that I will need to go into the 20 binders I have prepared already and do some changes. No worries, easily done, but time consuming. Anyway, she sent me this note, which I thought was very nice.
"Hope you can hang in there with me for a bit longer…I bet with your help we can get things running smoothly and effortlessly!
There is no hope without you…you saw the fix things were in! You have introduced some much better ways of doing things so I know you have already made a difference!
I really appreciate all that you have done to help catch us up!
Have a nice day tomorrow…see ya Wednesday."
I feel that was very thoughtful of her. AND, of course I forwarded it on to my boss, who always tells me I'm doing a great job. It always makes me feel better to know I am doing what I need to do - correctly.
When I see a co-worker going out of his/her way to do something, I want to send a note to them and copy their boss. I just think that is good to show you notice the 'little things'. I like it when it is done for me, and so I try to always do it for others. Sometimes it happens when they have had perhaps a bad day, and it is a 'lifter' for them.
What about you? Do you need some encouragement today? Do you need to shake off the heaviness that has been following you and see the beautiful side of life? Send someone a note and let them know you appreciate them. If need be, send one to yourself. That always works!
In fact, I received a note in my regular emails today.
"If you have a problem with a member of your family who is negative, begin by writing a list of all the things you appreciate about that person. Remember to include gratitude to them for giving you a great desire for positivity in your life; because that is a gift they are giving you. As you focus with all of your strength on appreciation, you will not only reduce your exposure to the negativity, but at the same time you will be attracting positive people into your life."
I think I will close this off with that comment. Look for the positive in people; look for the good. Start today.
Blessings!
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
Friday, January 24, 2014
Hanging on..... sometimes by a thread
As I wrote the above subject line, not knowing what exactly I would be writing, I decided to google 'Hanging on by a Thread' just to see what came up. Surprisingly, a song by The Letter Black is titled Hanging On By A Thread. Funny. Here are the words....
My past has followed me and
I just can't get away
I'm not the same as I was
Leaving my disarray
Take me just as I am
(I'm broken down)
Pull me into your arms
I'm hanging on to every word
Save me from losing myself
I'm hanging on by a thread
Can you see who I am
Underneath my scars?
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
I'm hanging on by a thread
I still can hardly believe
The person I once was
I'm trying to hard to change
Help me work through my flaws
Take me just as I am
(I'm calling out)
Pull me into your arms
I'm holding on, to every breath
Save me from losing myself
I'm hanging on by a thread
Can you see who I am
Underneath my scars?
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
I'm hanging on by a thread
I'll never need
I'll never want
With you, with me
I'm so complete
I'll never run
I'll never hide
With you right here
I'm safe inside
Save me from losing myself
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
Save me from losing myself
I'm hanging on by a thread
Can you see who I am
Underneath my scars?
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
I'm hanging on by a thread
Songwriters
SARAH MARIE ANTHONY, ROB HAWKINS, MARK ANTHONY
Published by
Lyrics © EMI Music Publishing
Hmmmm, just reading the words it could be written by a Christian, do you think? I mean that it doesn't sound like a secular song. Never heard of The Letter Black, so I don't know. Interesting. Yet, as I re-read the words, I think of how any of us could have written this cry for help. These words that are speak of the anguish of the soul. How many of us have been there? I know I have. I know I have many times. Even this morning on the way in to work and saying some prayers, my heart is in anguish over some things. I don't know where to turn, I don't know what to do. All I can do is hold on by a thread.
Many times we put ourselves in that situation. I know I have. Stupid things said or done. Getting what you 'have to have it' when you really don't have the money for it, running up debt that you will find difficult to pay. Been there, done that, still paying the stupid tax, as Dave Ramsey would say. And you at times feel like you are 'holding on by a thread'.
Perhaps you are there now. Out-go is higher than in-come. Said something cruel and stupid, and you knew as soon as it came out of your mouth it should not have been said. You use people, even unintentionally. You take advantage of situations to make yourself look better to others, to feel better about yourself, only to discover it hasn't changed anything but the situation. You still feel like you are 'hanging on by a thread'.
Somestimes life just sucks. But it is our choices that make it that way. It could be our choice of mate, boyfriend/girlfriend, debt, job situations, children issues, in-law issues, out-law issues, that little lie you told that you didn't think would make any difference that has come back to haunt you. Our choices. Many bad, hopefully most good.
The best choice we can make is first of all, accepting unconditional love and acceptance from Jesus Christ, and inviting Him into our hearts (and our homes) as LORD. Put Him as the center focus of all you do. Surrender these things that torment you, that hold you, that drag you down to Him. Ask Him to intervene. Ask Him for favor. Ask Him to grant you wisdom and guidance to make the right choices, the right decisions. It doesn't mean that all your troubles will disappear - they usually won't, for He wants you to learn from these things and grow in wisdom from them. ("If you keep doing what you have always done, you will always get what you always got" syndrome") Change your thought process and word process, and lean into Him, and trust Him. Then let go of that thread you are hanging onto, and grab hold of His hand. He will never leave you nor forsake you.
Do I believe all that? Absolutely. No matter what situation I find myself in(even though I walk with Him I still make stupid decisions at times when I don't ask Him first), when I let go of the thread and grab hold of His hand, I know that although times may be very difficult for awhile, He will walk with me and encourage me all the way. He will do that for you as well. Trust Him. Why do I trust Him so much? Because His Word tells me that in my troubles I can run to Him and He will walk with me. His Word says He will never leave me nor forsake me. I can trust Him more than I can trust any other person.
God said it, I believe it, That settles it.
Blessings!
My past has followed me and
I just can't get away
I'm not the same as I was
Leaving my disarray
Take me just as I am
(I'm broken down)
Pull me into your arms
I'm hanging on to every word
Save me from losing myself
I'm hanging on by a thread
Can you see who I am
Underneath my scars?
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
I'm hanging on by a thread
I still can hardly believe
The person I once was
I'm trying to hard to change
Help me work through my flaws
Take me just as I am
(I'm calling out)
Pull me into your arms
I'm holding on, to every breath
Save me from losing myself
I'm hanging on by a thread
Can you see who I am
Underneath my scars?
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
I'm hanging on by a thread
I'll never need
I'll never want
With you, with me
I'm so complete
I'll never run
I'll never hide
With you right here
I'm safe inside
Save me from losing myself
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
Save me from losing myself
I'm hanging on by a thread
Can you see who I am
Underneath my scars?
I'm afraid to fall
So I'm holding onto you
No, I won't let go
I'm hanging on by a thread
Songwriters
SARAH MARIE ANTHONY, ROB HAWKINS, MARK ANTHONY
Published by
Lyrics © EMI Music Publishing
Hmmmm, just reading the words it could be written by a Christian, do you think? I mean that it doesn't sound like a secular song. Never heard of The Letter Black, so I don't know. Interesting. Yet, as I re-read the words, I think of how any of us could have written this cry for help. These words that are speak of the anguish of the soul. How many of us have been there? I know I have. I know I have many times. Even this morning on the way in to work and saying some prayers, my heart is in anguish over some things. I don't know where to turn, I don't know what to do. All I can do is hold on by a thread.
Many times we put ourselves in that situation. I know I have. Stupid things said or done. Getting what you 'have to have it' when you really don't have the money for it, running up debt that you will find difficult to pay. Been there, done that, still paying the stupid tax, as Dave Ramsey would say. And you at times feel like you are 'holding on by a thread'.
Perhaps you are there now. Out-go is higher than in-come. Said something cruel and stupid, and you knew as soon as it came out of your mouth it should not have been said. You use people, even unintentionally. You take advantage of situations to make yourself look better to others, to feel better about yourself, only to discover it hasn't changed anything but the situation. You still feel like you are 'hanging on by a thread'.
Somestimes life just sucks. But it is our choices that make it that way. It could be our choice of mate, boyfriend/girlfriend, debt, job situations, children issues, in-law issues, out-law issues, that little lie you told that you didn't think would make any difference that has come back to haunt you. Our choices. Many bad, hopefully most good.
The best choice we can make is first of all, accepting unconditional love and acceptance from Jesus Christ, and inviting Him into our hearts (and our homes) as LORD. Put Him as the center focus of all you do. Surrender these things that torment you, that hold you, that drag you down to Him. Ask Him to intervene. Ask Him for favor. Ask Him to grant you wisdom and guidance to make the right choices, the right decisions. It doesn't mean that all your troubles will disappear - they usually won't, for He wants you to learn from these things and grow in wisdom from them. ("If you keep doing what you have always done, you will always get what you always got" syndrome") Change your thought process and word process, and lean into Him, and trust Him. Then let go of that thread you are hanging onto, and grab hold of His hand. He will never leave you nor forsake you.
Do I believe all that? Absolutely. No matter what situation I find myself in(even though I walk with Him I still make stupid decisions at times when I don't ask Him first), when I let go of the thread and grab hold of His hand, I know that although times may be very difficult for awhile, He will walk with me and encourage me all the way. He will do that for you as well. Trust Him. Why do I trust Him so much? Because His Word tells me that in my troubles I can run to Him and He will walk with me. His Word says He will never leave me nor forsake me. I can trust Him more than I can trust any other person.
God said it, I believe it, That settles it.
Blessings!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Did I really think this morning wouldn't be hectic?
Well, in all reality, I guess one could say it ISN'T hectic this morning - I got up on time, did my quiet time, got ready for work. Hubby fixed me breakfast so we sat and had breakfast together. I finished getting my things together, put a jacket on, grabbed my bag and my lunch, and headed out the door.
I get in my van, and start to back out of the driveway. It wouldn't move. I briefly thought that was odd but checked to see if I had in fact put it in reverse. I had. I gave it a little more gas, and it started to move. Mind you, at 6:00AM it is still dark out right now. Hubby always walks me to the van and watches me leave every morning. This morning was no exception. He watches, then waves for me to stop.
I have a flat tire. Right rear. Flatter than a donut. (Where did we ever get that saying?) Hubby said he would take me to work so I backed on out of the driveway and parked the van in front. He locks up the house and starts to back his car down the driveway when I realize something. It's only 6:05AM by that time and I don't have to be at work until 8AM - and regardless, I'm not on the phones any more so it doesn't matter if I'm not there by 8AM. AND, he teaches class on Wednesday evenings and as this is Wednesday, I would have no way home. I don't relish the thought of having to find someone going my way or waiting until 9PM to get to go home.
So I stop him and tell him 'no worries'. Call AAA and have them come out and add air to my tire. When our repair shop opens at 7AM, hubby can drive my van down there and they will check the tire, fix it, and check all the others (we just had it in Saturday and had the tires rotated) - all for free cause we bought the tires there a year or so ago. They take good care of us. I think I have had two slow leaks since we bought the tires and they repaired at no charge. I may not get on the road again until 8AM, but no worries. I came in and text'd my boss that I had a flat tire and I would be at work as soon as I could. My boss knows me well and knows I will be in as soon as I can. Also, I have no meetings today that I need to finish preparing for, so I'm not stressing either.
Besides, I can get online here on my home computer so 'no worries' there either. I can check her calendar and get it printed for her - she will just need to pick it up off the printer. In fact, if I chose to, I could just work at home today. I have already downloaded the tapes from the two meetings I had yesterday to the computer. I could work on the minutes here - minus my notes. But I don't want to. I don't enjoy working from home too much. Besides, I have two screens at work and it is easier to get things done. At least now I'm not being asked to do my former job as they finally hired someone.
YEA!! AAA is already here to put air in my tire - and the repair place opens in 15 minutes. I should be on the road within the hour, I'm guessing. I need to stop and get gas before I get on the freeway, but that won't take long. It's all good. This is why I like leaving early in the morning - I get to work within a half hour - 45 minutes, depending on traffic, I still have about an hour to settle in, make coffee (oh my, who is going to make the coffee this morning!!), get my water, and chill and visit before time to work. Little things like this are nothing when you allow the time for things like this to happen.
Thank You, Jesus, Tom saw the flat before I got out of the driveway! I didn't drive very far on it so the tire isn't damaged. And it is going to be fixed right away. God is good.
So guess I need to get off here and get prepared to leave again. I can ride with hubby down to the repair place, and then just drop him off here on my way to work and keep going. Works like a plan.
Hectic? Naw, not when I have allowed time for mishaps. No stress, no worries. I'll get to work when I get to work. God took care of me - again. The tire could have gone flat on the freeway. It could have blown as I drive 65 miles an hour on I-10. Well, sometimes I can, depends on traffic. Regardless, I could have been on my own. In the middle of traffic. God protected me by letting it go flat now.
Hmmmmm. Hubby just came back in. AAA said that it is a slow leak and he put air in the tire (we have nitrogen in the tires) rather than changing it, and said it will hold until hubby gets it down to the shop. I told hubby I'd go with him, but he said the lobby opens at 7AM - he isn't sure when a repair person comes in. So, rather than me sit down there and wait as well, I will stay home and have another cup of coffee. Hubby is heading off to the repair shop now.
So that is how my day is starting. Hope that your morning is uneventful and all things go smoothly. Have a blessed day!
Blessings!
I get in my van, and start to back out of the driveway. It wouldn't move. I briefly thought that was odd but checked to see if I had in fact put it in reverse. I had. I gave it a little more gas, and it started to move. Mind you, at 6:00AM it is still dark out right now. Hubby always walks me to the van and watches me leave every morning. This morning was no exception. He watches, then waves for me to stop.
I have a flat tire. Right rear. Flatter than a donut. (Where did we ever get that saying?) Hubby said he would take me to work so I backed on out of the driveway and parked the van in front. He locks up the house and starts to back his car down the driveway when I realize something. It's only 6:05AM by that time and I don't have to be at work until 8AM - and regardless, I'm not on the phones any more so it doesn't matter if I'm not there by 8AM. AND, he teaches class on Wednesday evenings and as this is Wednesday, I would have no way home. I don't relish the thought of having to find someone going my way or waiting until 9PM to get to go home.
So I stop him and tell him 'no worries'. Call AAA and have them come out and add air to my tire. When our repair shop opens at 7AM, hubby can drive my van down there and they will check the tire, fix it, and check all the others (we just had it in Saturday and had the tires rotated) - all for free cause we bought the tires there a year or so ago. They take good care of us. I think I have had two slow leaks since we bought the tires and they repaired at no charge. I may not get on the road again until 8AM, but no worries. I came in and text'd my boss that I had a flat tire and I would be at work as soon as I could. My boss knows me well and knows I will be in as soon as I can. Also, I have no meetings today that I need to finish preparing for, so I'm not stressing either.
Besides, I can get online here on my home computer so 'no worries' there either. I can check her calendar and get it printed for her - she will just need to pick it up off the printer. In fact, if I chose to, I could just work at home today. I have already downloaded the tapes from the two meetings I had yesterday to the computer. I could work on the minutes here - minus my notes. But I don't want to. I don't enjoy working from home too much. Besides, I have two screens at work and it is easier to get things done. At least now I'm not being asked to do my former job as they finally hired someone.
YEA!! AAA is already here to put air in my tire - and the repair place opens in 15 minutes. I should be on the road within the hour, I'm guessing. I need to stop and get gas before I get on the freeway, but that won't take long. It's all good. This is why I like leaving early in the morning - I get to work within a half hour - 45 minutes, depending on traffic, I still have about an hour to settle in, make coffee (oh my, who is going to make the coffee this morning!!), get my water, and chill and visit before time to work. Little things like this are nothing when you allow the time for things like this to happen.
Thank You, Jesus, Tom saw the flat before I got out of the driveway! I didn't drive very far on it so the tire isn't damaged. And it is going to be fixed right away. God is good.
So guess I need to get off here and get prepared to leave again. I can ride with hubby down to the repair place, and then just drop him off here on my way to work and keep going. Works like a plan.
Hectic? Naw, not when I have allowed time for mishaps. No stress, no worries. I'll get to work when I get to work. God took care of me - again. The tire could have gone flat on the freeway. It could have blown as I drive 65 miles an hour on I-10. Well, sometimes I can, depends on traffic. Regardless, I could have been on my own. In the middle of traffic. God protected me by letting it go flat now.
Hmmmmm. Hubby just came back in. AAA said that it is a slow leak and he put air in the tire (we have nitrogen in the tires) rather than changing it, and said it will hold until hubby gets it down to the shop. I told hubby I'd go with him, but he said the lobby opens at 7AM - he isn't sure when a repair person comes in. So, rather than me sit down there and wait as well, I will stay home and have another cup of coffee. Hubby is heading off to the repair shop now.
So that is how my day is starting. Hope that your morning is uneventful and all things go smoothly. Have a blessed day!
Blessings!
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
A busy day ahead!
I may have had yesterday off work, but today is going to make up for it! I have two meetings scheduled back to back and I have to take minutes at both. The second one is a lunch and I made sure salad was ordered, especially since it is 'Italian', so at least I can eat.
Today is our last day on the fast we chose to participate in for the first 21 days of the year. No, I haven't lost any weight, and that was not my purpose. Hubby told me this morning that he has lost 7 pounds since December, I think it was. And he said he wasn't trying to lose weight either. So, I suggested to him that perhaps he had been eating too much before, which is why he had gained it in the first place. That's usually why I put the weight on. It's the little bites here and there that add up way too quickly.
Today is my daughter's 45th birthday. Yes, I had to subtract 1969 from 2014 to determine what it is. The years have flown by, but I am grateful for each one of them. I'm not sure what her day has in store for her, but I hope that she has a wonderful day. She deserves it! I wanted to take her out for a pedicure this weekend for her birthday, but she begged off for a week or so. Perhaps next weekend we can get together - or the weekend after. I have a lot going on as well so trying to fit our schedules together is sometimes difficult.
And since I have a very busy day ahead of me and need to work on agendas, this is short today. Maybe I can have something to add tomorrow. It won't be as hectic - I don't think!
Blessings!
Today is our last day on the fast we chose to participate in for the first 21 days of the year. No, I haven't lost any weight, and that was not my purpose. Hubby told me this morning that he has lost 7 pounds since December, I think it was. And he said he wasn't trying to lose weight either. So, I suggested to him that perhaps he had been eating too much before, which is why he had gained it in the first place. That's usually why I put the weight on. It's the little bites here and there that add up way too quickly.
Today is my daughter's 45th birthday. Yes, I had to subtract 1969 from 2014 to determine what it is. The years have flown by, but I am grateful for each one of them. I'm not sure what her day has in store for her, but I hope that she has a wonderful day. She deserves it! I wanted to take her out for a pedicure this weekend for her birthday, but she begged off for a week or so. Perhaps next weekend we can get together - or the weekend after. I have a lot going on as well so trying to fit our schedules together is sometimes difficult.
And since I have a very busy day ahead of me and need to work on agendas, this is short today. Maybe I can have something to add tomorrow. It won't be as hectic - I don't think!
Blessings!
Saturday, January 18, 2014
In Stride..... new challenge at work
We have a new challenge at work to get healthy and it started last Thursday. No, I didn't challenge YOU with the same challenge, but think I will throw it 'out there' just for you to consider doing on your own. What could 'In Stride' possibly be? I'm sure you have already figured it out!
Our challenge, put out by my company, is to walk a MINIMUM of 6,000 a day. THAT is very do-able, my friend! I must admit, when I am at 5,500 and it is getting late in the day, I do a little extra walking around the house just so I can get over the 6,000 mark! What's in it for me if I complete this challenge of 6,000 steps every day from January 16 to February 13? I get $250 added to my HSA account next year. Yeah, I'm doing all the challenges and things I can do to earn that. This past year I received a $300 deposit in my HSA account AND I have NO COPAY on my insurance card AND I got a drop in my insurance rate. YES, my company wants to help me get healthy, and be healthy, by presenting us all with incentives to lose weight, get healthy, and MOVE (as in moving the body). :-)
WOW. My computer just shut down on me. Totally. I hope that isn't a sign of things going on. Last week I was having difficulty with it as well - screen going black in the middle of things..... guess I need to find my little thingy... what is that called.... uh.... savedisk or something like that - oh yeah - a thumb drive, isn't it? Anyway, need to find it and get one of my boys to show me - AGAIN - how to save to it. I sure would hate to lose my photos and other things I have on here. I've lost so many things when other computers have shut down and died.
Anyway - back to my previous topic of getting healthy.... we all need to start looking at not only what we are eating, but when we are eating it, and also how much we are eating. Let's leave exercise out of it at this point, although we should be at least walking. I find when I am stressed, or anxious, or bored, I tend to eat more. And it is usually the salty/sweet things I go for. I need to reach for fruit or celery or something else to munch on if 'I have to have it'. When I'm hurt, I'm not like some people who throw up or can't eat or go into major depression. I'm not pointing fingers at anyone for I know a few people like that. I may feel very sad that there are problems, but rarely does anything come between me and my food.
Today I have fixed a healthy chicken salad for the ladies' tea that I am going to attend in a few hours. I am not eating bread right now, so will save a scoop when I fix the sandwiches for the others and will have just the scoop of chicken salad. I won't eat the cookies and dessert, but we will have soup today and perhaps a salad. I'll have plenty to eat - and lots of different teas to drink. It is always a fun time to spend with friends over tea and catch up with what is going on with them. Work had kept from from several of these last year, but I pushed through and had the tea party at my house in November, we skipped December, and here it is January and we are ready to start our monthly tea parties again. Hopefully I can attend most of them.
I usually do the cooking on weekends so it will be healthy as well. In all fairness, when hubby cooks during the week, it is usually healthy. Overall, I guess we do eat pretty well. And then go sit down and watch TV or read. Hmmmmm.... maybe THAT is the cause of my 'spread'.... instead of sitting down, I need to get on the treadmill! Will have to ponder that thought. Hey, at least I'm THINKING about it!
I threw out a challenge for my family earlier this month, and one son threw a challenge back at me - which is a good thing. It gives ME motivation to not just give the challenge to get healthy and lose weight, but for me to ACTUALLY GET HEALTHY AND LOSE WEIGHT - RATHER THIS HORRIBLE BELLY FAT!! And I need to take his challenge seriously. Especially since our weather is so nice right now.
Maybe after the tea party I can take Marley for a walk. She would like that, I'm sure! She just leads a dog's life. She loves the outdoors, that's for sure.
Ok - need to fix my face and hair for the party - at least I've gotten dressed! Hubby will be home from his meeting soon and I need to be ready to go as he is taking my van in for an oil change/tire rotation this morning and will have to take me to the tea party.
Hope that you have a great Saturday. Give yourself a challenge, a goal, a new outlook, starting today. Mend that relationship (that alone will make you feel better). (rest of blog deleted on purpose).
Blessings!
Our challenge, put out by my company, is to walk a MINIMUM of 6,000 a day. THAT is very do-able, my friend! I must admit, when I am at 5,500 and it is getting late in the day, I do a little extra walking around the house just so I can get over the 6,000 mark! What's in it for me if I complete this challenge of 6,000 steps every day from January 16 to February 13? I get $250 added to my HSA account next year. Yeah, I'm doing all the challenges and things I can do to earn that. This past year I received a $300 deposit in my HSA account AND I have NO COPAY on my insurance card AND I got a drop in my insurance rate. YES, my company wants to help me get healthy, and be healthy, by presenting us all with incentives to lose weight, get healthy, and MOVE (as in moving the body). :-)
WOW. My computer just shut down on me. Totally. I hope that isn't a sign of things going on. Last week I was having difficulty with it as well - screen going black in the middle of things..... guess I need to find my little thingy... what is that called.... uh.... savedisk or something like that - oh yeah - a thumb drive, isn't it? Anyway, need to find it and get one of my boys to show me - AGAIN - how to save to it. I sure would hate to lose my photos and other things I have on here. I've lost so many things when other computers have shut down and died.
Anyway - back to my previous topic of getting healthy.... we all need to start looking at not only what we are eating, but when we are eating it, and also how much we are eating. Let's leave exercise out of it at this point, although we should be at least walking. I find when I am stressed, or anxious, or bored, I tend to eat more. And it is usually the salty/sweet things I go for. I need to reach for fruit or celery or something else to munch on if 'I have to have it'. When I'm hurt, I'm not like some people who throw up or can't eat or go into major depression. I'm not pointing fingers at anyone for I know a few people like that. I may feel very sad that there are problems, but rarely does anything come between me and my food.
Today I have fixed a healthy chicken salad for the ladies' tea that I am going to attend in a few hours. I am not eating bread right now, so will save a scoop when I fix the sandwiches for the others and will have just the scoop of chicken salad. I won't eat the cookies and dessert, but we will have soup today and perhaps a salad. I'll have plenty to eat - and lots of different teas to drink. It is always a fun time to spend with friends over tea and catch up with what is going on with them. Work had kept from from several of these last year, but I pushed through and had the tea party at my house in November, we skipped December, and here it is January and we are ready to start our monthly tea parties again. Hopefully I can attend most of them.
I usually do the cooking on weekends so it will be healthy as well. In all fairness, when hubby cooks during the week, it is usually healthy. Overall, I guess we do eat pretty well. And then go sit down and watch TV or read. Hmmmmm.... maybe THAT is the cause of my 'spread'.... instead of sitting down, I need to get on the treadmill! Will have to ponder that thought. Hey, at least I'm THINKING about it!
I threw out a challenge for my family earlier this month, and one son threw a challenge back at me - which is a good thing. It gives ME motivation to not just give the challenge to get healthy and lose weight, but for me to ACTUALLY GET HEALTHY AND LOSE WEIGHT - RATHER THIS HORRIBLE BELLY FAT!! And I need to take his challenge seriously. Especially since our weather is so nice right now.
Maybe after the tea party I can take Marley for a walk. She would like that, I'm sure! She just leads a dog's life. She loves the outdoors, that's for sure.
Ok - need to fix my face and hair for the party - at least I've gotten dressed! Hubby will be home from his meeting soon and I need to be ready to go as he is taking my van in for an oil change/tire rotation this morning and will have to take me to the tea party.
Hope that you have a great Saturday. Give yourself a challenge, a goal, a new outlook, starting today. Mend that relationship (that alone will make you feel better). (rest of blog deleted on purpose).
Blessings!
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Hangnails - we all get them... so what do we do....
I dislike hangnails. Especially when they are on my fingernails. They snag my clothes, my hose, and scratch me. They irritate me. They always happen when I least expect it. They can be filed down, clipped off, smoothed out, tucked in. And they always seem to come back at some time or another. On another finger at times. Just realized I don't think I ever had a hangnail on my toes. Just those irritable little corners that scratch. But that is another topic.
Hangnails. What do we do with them when we get them? We file them down. We bite them. I think that is the first thing i think of doing - and if I pull it out - daggone, that hurts! And it usually sheds a drop of blood or two with it. We also cut them with clippers, scissors, or anything else we can think of to get them out of the way.
Isn't that a lot like life?
We all have 'hangnails' in our lives. It could be our spouse, our child, our sibling, another relative, an employee, an employer; it could even be us! Yes, we can be our own hangnail. How many times do we look to see who is the one in our life that is making us irritable? How many times do we want to blame someone else for our attitude, our hurt feelings, our feelings?
Granted, some times there are people in our lives who DO take advantage of us and use us. And we know who they are. They have built that reputation with care, I think, and go from one to another, using them until that person refuses to be used any more. Then they move to the next person. That could be anyone. That could be for anything.
Then there are those who abuse people with their control over others. It may not be physical, but can be mental. Sometimes the mentally abused just give up. Sometimes they fight. This is a big hangnail in some people's lives.
Or a hangnail could be those who take and take and take, and never give back. They scratch your back all the time, wanting more.
And then there is a hangnail that constantly wants to jab at you with comments, with their opinion, with judgement.
But the question is, how do we respond to all the hangnail people in our life? There are lots of ways, I'm thinking.
We distance ourselves to protect ourselves. We start avoiding them, even if they are family or a close friend. We just don't want to be around them. We don't want judgement, we want acceptance. We don't want 'lordship', we want love and acceptance.
We quit giving to the hangnail, cause all they want is for them. We don't want to keep giving and giving, so that they will keep taking and taking. Life is to be give and take, not all one sided. We want appreciation for the giving. We want more than just words that seem meaningful. We want words that express appreciation for our time and effort, the things we have given. We want to see love and care and appreciation in the things we share, the things we do, and not just see an open hand.
We start cipping, chewing, cutting off hangnails when they are destructive. They cut and scratch - showing us that they consider life all about themselves. What they want. What they think. What they desire. This hangnail doesn't care about anyone else except what makes them happy. They irritate, scratch, cut - just to let us know they are there.
I guess the real question is - how DO we respond to these kind of people? I think we all respond in different ways, because each situation is different - and we all are different. One thing I do know, that no matter what we think or what situation we are in, we are called to be different. Yes, different. We are not to be like the world and take and take and take. We are not to be like the world and hurt people continuously. We are not to be like the world and demand our own way. We are not to be like the world and think the world revolves around us (it doesn't).
But this is how we are to be -
Philippians 2:5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
So how would Christ respond? I'll leave you with this question..... Do you respond to the 'hangnails' in your life with the same attitude of Christ Jesus? And, I will add this, stop and evaluate if YOU are the 'hangnail' in others' lives. If so, you may want to think about how to change that.
Blessings!
Hangnails. What do we do with them when we get them? We file them down. We bite them. I think that is the first thing i think of doing - and if I pull it out - daggone, that hurts! And it usually sheds a drop of blood or two with it. We also cut them with clippers, scissors, or anything else we can think of to get them out of the way.
Isn't that a lot like life?
We all have 'hangnails' in our lives. It could be our spouse, our child, our sibling, another relative, an employee, an employer; it could even be us! Yes, we can be our own hangnail. How many times do we look to see who is the one in our life that is making us irritable? How many times do we want to blame someone else for our attitude, our hurt feelings, our feelings?
Granted, some times there are people in our lives who DO take advantage of us and use us. And we know who they are. They have built that reputation with care, I think, and go from one to another, using them until that person refuses to be used any more. Then they move to the next person. That could be anyone. That could be for anything.
Then there are those who abuse people with their control over others. It may not be physical, but can be mental. Sometimes the mentally abused just give up. Sometimes they fight. This is a big hangnail in some people's lives.
Or a hangnail could be those who take and take and take, and never give back. They scratch your back all the time, wanting more.
And then there is a hangnail that constantly wants to jab at you with comments, with their opinion, with judgement.
But the question is, how do we respond to all the hangnail people in our life? There are lots of ways, I'm thinking.
We distance ourselves to protect ourselves. We start avoiding them, even if they are family or a close friend. We just don't want to be around them. We don't want judgement, we want acceptance. We don't want 'lordship', we want love and acceptance.
We quit giving to the hangnail, cause all they want is for them. We don't want to keep giving and giving, so that they will keep taking and taking. Life is to be give and take, not all one sided. We want appreciation for the giving. We want more than just words that seem meaningful. We want words that express appreciation for our time and effort, the things we have given. We want to see love and care and appreciation in the things we share, the things we do, and not just see an open hand.
We start cipping, chewing, cutting off hangnails when they are destructive. They cut and scratch - showing us that they consider life all about themselves. What they want. What they think. What they desire. This hangnail doesn't care about anyone else except what makes them happy. They irritate, scratch, cut - just to let us know they are there.
I guess the real question is - how DO we respond to these kind of people? I think we all respond in different ways, because each situation is different - and we all are different. One thing I do know, that no matter what we think or what situation we are in, we are called to be different. Yes, different. We are not to be like the world and take and take and take. We are not to be like the world and hurt people continuously. We are not to be like the world and demand our own way. We are not to be like the world and think the world revolves around us (it doesn't).
But this is how we are to be -
Philippians 2:5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
So how would Christ respond? I'll leave you with this question..... Do you respond to the 'hangnails' in your life with the same attitude of Christ Jesus? And, I will add this, stop and evaluate if YOU are the 'hangnail' in others' lives. If so, you may want to think about how to change that.
Blessings!
Monday, January 13, 2014
I will be positive....I will be positive.... sigh...... Lemonade!!
I had a program on my computer a few months back called "business objects" in which there are reports that need to be downloaded and sent out to other people daily. When I took this promotion, I was told that was then my responsibility to get the reports generated and distributed. No problem. I was doing it just fine. Then, one morning, it was gone. Along with all my TruCare things... remember when that disappeared and all the issues surrounding it? Well, guess what. I got my Business Objects back last Thursday. I sent out the reports on Friday as required. This morning, alas, Business Objects has once again disappeared from my computer. I sent an email to Corporate last week when I had the program and was able to use it. This morning I emailed Corporate that it had again disappeared.
But I will not let that deter me. I asked a director to sent out the reports this morning. I have emailed Corporate and cc my VP that I have once again lost the program. Now, all I can do is move on.
Sometimes that is what we just have to do. You get dealt lemons ever so often, and what you do with those lemons, i.e., your attitude on how you respond to those lemons, determine how your day will go. And, usually how your life is. It is a true reflection of who you are.
If you find yourself frustrated at a comment on facebook and you respond in anger, you have accomplished nothing. Don't even bother to respond. Just delete it if possible. If someone sends you an email, that bothers you because of untruth, delete it. And move on. You get a hateful letter in the mail; either respond in love, or just throw it away. It it opens up your eyes to see the truth, then you need to ponder what is spoken to you.
But whatever you do, do not allow that letter, that email, that posting, any words spoken against you (unless they are true!!) to cause you to become angry, bitter, discouraged or frustrated. I know, easier said than done. I've had my share of things beating me up this past year. I'm sure you all have had as well. Some have even gotten 'jabbed' this year. You just need to remember one thing.
This situation, this comment, this question, this letter, these words, anything - does not have the power to beat you up unless you allow it. You alone have control of how you respond to life. You can become angry and bitter. You can hold a grudge. You can withdraw and cry, whine, and bellyache at your pity parties. Give it up. You control your response. Not saying what is said doesn't make you angry (especially if not true). Not saying it isn't ok to get angry. But the point is, if it is wrong, go to the person and tell them that what they said was wrong and you were offended by what they said. Sometimes they don't know they are wrong; they are just wanting a response.
Sometimes I cringe when I see things on things like facebook, for I know it is going to hurt someone. And I know it usually is not true. If it was true, I'd be saying it to them, face to face. But some things do not need to be posted on facebook. Your life is private, and unless you want the entire world to see how opinionated, how stupid, how prideful and arrogant you are, I suggest you keep your posting to yourself and not do it. You know who you are. Stop and think what these things look like to the 'outside' people reading your posts. I don't care what your political opinion is. It may be the same as mine. It may not be the same as mine. But regardless, I don't care what yours is unless I ask you. Being on facebook is dangerous. You forget others read and see what you say. Other people don't know where you are coming from in your comments, your reason. The responses or the comment should be messaged between you, not broadcast to the rest of the world. Ok - sore spot for me. I just don't feel some things should be on facebook. Enough said.
And with that - it's time for me to start work - constant interruptions this morning before 8AM so my play time is gone. So whatever you do, no matter what is said to you or done to you - check your attitude.
And when you get dealt lemons, make lemonade!
Blessings!
But I will not let that deter me. I asked a director to sent out the reports this morning. I have emailed Corporate and cc my VP that I have once again lost the program. Now, all I can do is move on.
Sometimes that is what we just have to do. You get dealt lemons ever so often, and what you do with those lemons, i.e., your attitude on how you respond to those lemons, determine how your day will go. And, usually how your life is. It is a true reflection of who you are.
If you find yourself frustrated at a comment on facebook and you respond in anger, you have accomplished nothing. Don't even bother to respond. Just delete it if possible. If someone sends you an email, that bothers you because of untruth, delete it. And move on. You get a hateful letter in the mail; either respond in love, or just throw it away. It it opens up your eyes to see the truth, then you need to ponder what is spoken to you.
But whatever you do, do not allow that letter, that email, that posting, any words spoken against you (unless they are true!!) to cause you to become angry, bitter, discouraged or frustrated. I know, easier said than done. I've had my share of things beating me up this past year. I'm sure you all have had as well. Some have even gotten 'jabbed' this year. You just need to remember one thing.
This situation, this comment, this question, this letter, these words, anything - does not have the power to beat you up unless you allow it. You alone have control of how you respond to life. You can become angry and bitter. You can hold a grudge. You can withdraw and cry, whine, and bellyache at your pity parties. Give it up. You control your response. Not saying what is said doesn't make you angry (especially if not true). Not saying it isn't ok to get angry. But the point is, if it is wrong, go to the person and tell them that what they said was wrong and you were offended by what they said. Sometimes they don't know they are wrong; they are just wanting a response.
Sometimes I cringe when I see things on things like facebook, for I know it is going to hurt someone. And I know it usually is not true. If it was true, I'd be saying it to them, face to face. But some things do not need to be posted on facebook. Your life is private, and unless you want the entire world to see how opinionated, how stupid, how prideful and arrogant you are, I suggest you keep your posting to yourself and not do it. You know who you are. Stop and think what these things look like to the 'outside' people reading your posts. I don't care what your political opinion is. It may be the same as mine. It may not be the same as mine. But regardless, I don't care what yours is unless I ask you. Being on facebook is dangerous. You forget others read and see what you say. Other people don't know where you are coming from in your comments, your reason. The responses or the comment should be messaged between you, not broadcast to the rest of the world. Ok - sore spot for me. I just don't feel some things should be on facebook. Enough said.
And with that - it's time for me to start work - constant interruptions this morning before 8AM so my play time is gone. So whatever you do, no matter what is said to you or done to you - check your attitude.
And when you get dealt lemons, make lemonade!
Blessings!
Friday, January 10, 2014
What time do I start work?
I usually arrive for work around 6:45AM so that I have some time to make coffee, get waters (for my boss, my former boss, and myself), read my son's blog and write something if I still have time and can think of something to write about. Today is no different. Being Friday, traffic was a bit lighter in that a lot of people choose to take Fridays off and have a 4 day work week, or a long weekend. So here I am, trying to get my thoughts wrapped around things.
My phone rings. It is a provider returning my call from yesterday. I take care of the call. I have an email from one of the directors that I need to add a Sr VP on to some meetings. Did one, will finish the rest later. Then I flip through a couple magazines, to be sure I am finished with them, so that I can give them to my boss as she leaves early today for a little trip to Utah to visit her brother. Thought it would give her something to read. Yeah, sometimes I am thoughtful like that. I usually pass my magazines off to her anyway, just needed to get through these so that she could have today. So that is finished. I remembered a couple reports that I needed to get out first thing in the morning so stopped to do that. Now I think I can pause long enough to write a few lines.
I am still helping out with my former department so I am being kept really busy. I like being kept busy, but trying to do two jobs again is tiring. I was really tired when I got home again last night - and we went to bed around 9PM. So what happens? I wake up at 12:10AM. Then 1:something. Then 3:something. Finally got up at 4AM, which is my usual time. I was hoping to sleep all the way through so that I would be rested this morning. Oh well, I am going to believe my body got all the rest it needed, which is why it kept waking up.
Sometimes when we get to work a little early it is for a reason. Perhaps it was to take that call from the provider. Perhaps it was to chat with my boss for a moment as she just came in. Perhaps it is just to pause and get focused on the day ahead. I'm glad I have already had my 'quiet time' and that I also had time to pray on the way in to work; would be in desperate straits if I was trying to get that accomplished at my desk first thing.
So, are you one of those who wait until the last minute to get to work or do you plan to get there a little early so that you can get focused and ready for the day?
I can not believe this! LOL Actually, I have to laugh. It isn't going to change anything to be frustrated! I truly think Google has something going on to frustrate its members. I had typed another two or three paragraphs - and then the blog disappears and google asks that I log in again. Then I had to go to 'draft' (thank goodness it saves automatically at some point) and here I am. In draft form.
Not sure what I had written - but I think I was commenting on how I enjoy getting to work a little early so that I can plan, can think, can be still. One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 46:10 - "Be STILL, and know that I am God".
I was thinking on the way in that I am way past due for getting away for a retreat alone. I've even been thinking lately of marking off a Saturday morning, as I have done in the past, and hibernating in the back room until noon, so that I can have a long focused time with God. Need to schedule that!
And now it is almost 8AM and I need to sign off and get to work. It's FRIDAY!! Tomorrow is Market on the Move at church so plan to volunteer for that again. Get fresh vegetables for $10. My day will start off busy - then we are having lunch with friends. My weekends go way too fast.
Hope that you have a good day - a great weekend. Take some time to 'Be Still' and feel the goodness of God, and thank Him for all that He has given you.
Blessings!
My phone rings. It is a provider returning my call from yesterday. I take care of the call. I have an email from one of the directors that I need to add a Sr VP on to some meetings. Did one, will finish the rest later. Then I flip through a couple magazines, to be sure I am finished with them, so that I can give them to my boss as she leaves early today for a little trip to Utah to visit her brother. Thought it would give her something to read. Yeah, sometimes I am thoughtful like that. I usually pass my magazines off to her anyway, just needed to get through these so that she could have today. So that is finished. I remembered a couple reports that I needed to get out first thing in the morning so stopped to do that. Now I think I can pause long enough to write a few lines.
I am still helping out with my former department so I am being kept really busy. I like being kept busy, but trying to do two jobs again is tiring. I was really tired when I got home again last night - and we went to bed around 9PM. So what happens? I wake up at 12:10AM. Then 1:something. Then 3:something. Finally got up at 4AM, which is my usual time. I was hoping to sleep all the way through so that I would be rested this morning. Oh well, I am going to believe my body got all the rest it needed, which is why it kept waking up.
Sometimes when we get to work a little early it is for a reason. Perhaps it was to take that call from the provider. Perhaps it was to chat with my boss for a moment as she just came in. Perhaps it is just to pause and get focused on the day ahead. I'm glad I have already had my 'quiet time' and that I also had time to pray on the way in to work; would be in desperate straits if I was trying to get that accomplished at my desk first thing.
So, are you one of those who wait until the last minute to get to work or do you plan to get there a little early so that you can get focused and ready for the day?
I can not believe this! LOL Actually, I have to laugh. It isn't going to change anything to be frustrated! I truly think Google has something going on to frustrate its members. I had typed another two or three paragraphs - and then the blog disappears and google asks that I log in again. Then I had to go to 'draft' (thank goodness it saves automatically at some point) and here I am. In draft form.
Not sure what I had written - but I think I was commenting on how I enjoy getting to work a little early so that I can plan, can think, can be still. One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 46:10 - "Be STILL, and know that I am God".
I was thinking on the way in that I am way past due for getting away for a retreat alone. I've even been thinking lately of marking off a Saturday morning, as I have done in the past, and hibernating in the back room until noon, so that I can have a long focused time with God. Need to schedule that!
And now it is almost 8AM and I need to sign off and get to work. It's FRIDAY!! Tomorrow is Market on the Move at church so plan to volunteer for that again. Get fresh vegetables for $10. My day will start off busy - then we are having lunch with friends. My weekends go way too fast.
Hope that you have a good day - a great weekend. Take some time to 'Be Still' and feel the goodness of God, and thank Him for all that He has given you.
Blessings!
Thursday, January 9, 2014
Admiring me?
This morning as my hubby and I prayed together before I left for the office, we stood together, hands clasped, and I waited for him to start, as I always do. During this time of prayer we pray for any concerns, for our loved ones here and in Indiana and elsewhere, for the children and grandchildren, and for each other. We were holding hands and as I said a sentence or two before, I waited for him to start. And I waited. And I waited. I realized what he was doing so thought I'd be stubborn and see how long he would wait. FINALLY, I started off on the prayer before him, beginning my prayer jokingly as 'God, I'm sorry but (hubby) doesn't want to pray with you this morning..... then hubby tried to interrupt me but I continued on with my part of the prayer.
Then he prayed, and he started out with, "I was going to pray first but I was admiring my beautiful wife that you gave me."
Awwwwww. I told him he was sucking up - but wasn't sure who with - me or God. LOL But in reality, he always tells me most every day that I am beautiful, or pretty, or look nice, or something admirable. Do you men (or women) tell your wife (or husband) every day? They need to hear why you fell in love with them, why you married them, or go with them, or why do you want to spend time with them. Today would be a good day to start, if you don't. Leave her a love note if you won't be home when she gets home. Or if you leave before she does. You will feel good - and so will she (or he).
As I sit here and think about the word 'admiring', I think of God's sunrises and sunsets. I don't know which I could say was the most beautiful. I've seen both, driving to and from work due to the time frame that I leave and return. Except now, I get to leave a 1/2 hour earlier, and I get home an hour earlier, so it is usually still daylight when I get home.
My trusty Webster dictionary says this as a definition: admire: regard highly. admirable: worthy of admiring.
I think both of those apply to God, don't you? We regard Him highly (Jesus is high and lifted up), and He alone is worthy of all our praise, or all our admiration.
When you admire someone, whether it is their beauty, their knowledge, their attributes or attitudes, their giftings, do you not speak it? Tell them? For example, I admire my boss. She is a beautiful Christian woman, positive, joyful, knowlegeable, and so much more. She knows I admire her, because she is my friend, and I tell her.
But what about God? Just to clear myself, I tell God every day and throughout the day (and very often, depending on what is going on here at work!) how much I love Him and thank Him for helping me through things, helping me remember how to do things, helping me understand how to do things and why we do them, to help me more, to grant me wisdom, knowledge and understanding, and so so much more! I let Him know that I admire His favor, and I seek His face, His hand.
Have you told someone lately that you admire them? That you regard them highly? Even your child needs to hear you value him. Isn't that what admire is also? That you value them? So many children are lost in their understanding if mom or dad really care for them, because they are never told. Take some time to day to tell your child how much you value them. If you can't obviously see a reason to comment on how you value them, look for something specific. Let them feel valued, admired. It could make a difference in how they see themselves. Children always seek our approval, whether they act like it or not - and they won't ask for it. Willingly give to them your approval.
As it is nearly time for work to start, I'm sure my boss would admire me if I got started on time. Which means I need to quit this blog and get things ready for the day. This is why I come in early though, just to have time to myself and write my blog. Some days I have a lot to say, and other days, it is just reflections. Like today. Just thinking aloud.
Hope that you have a blessed day and not only get admired, but admire also those you love.
Blessings!
Then he prayed, and he started out with, "I was going to pray first but I was admiring my beautiful wife that you gave me."
Awwwwww. I told him he was sucking up - but wasn't sure who with - me or God. LOL But in reality, he always tells me most every day that I am beautiful, or pretty, or look nice, or something admirable. Do you men (or women) tell your wife (or husband) every day? They need to hear why you fell in love with them, why you married them, or go with them, or why do you want to spend time with them. Today would be a good day to start, if you don't. Leave her a love note if you won't be home when she gets home. Or if you leave before she does. You will feel good - and so will she (or he).
As I sit here and think about the word 'admiring', I think of God's sunrises and sunsets. I don't know which I could say was the most beautiful. I've seen both, driving to and from work due to the time frame that I leave and return. Except now, I get to leave a 1/2 hour earlier, and I get home an hour earlier, so it is usually still daylight when I get home.
My trusty Webster dictionary says this as a definition: admire: regard highly. admirable: worthy of admiring.
I think both of those apply to God, don't you? We regard Him highly (Jesus is high and lifted up), and He alone is worthy of all our praise, or all our admiration.
When you admire someone, whether it is their beauty, their knowledge, their attributes or attitudes, their giftings, do you not speak it? Tell them? For example, I admire my boss. She is a beautiful Christian woman, positive, joyful, knowlegeable, and so much more. She knows I admire her, because she is my friend, and I tell her.
But what about God? Just to clear myself, I tell God every day and throughout the day (and very often, depending on what is going on here at work!) how much I love Him and thank Him for helping me through things, helping me remember how to do things, helping me understand how to do things and why we do them, to help me more, to grant me wisdom, knowledge and understanding, and so so much more! I let Him know that I admire His favor, and I seek His face, His hand.
Have you told someone lately that you admire them? That you regard them highly? Even your child needs to hear you value him. Isn't that what admire is also? That you value them? So many children are lost in their understanding if mom or dad really care for them, because they are never told. Take some time to day to tell your child how much you value them. If you can't obviously see a reason to comment on how you value them, look for something specific. Let them feel valued, admired. It could make a difference in how they see themselves. Children always seek our approval, whether they act like it or not - and they won't ask for it. Willingly give to them your approval.
As it is nearly time for work to start, I'm sure my boss would admire me if I got started on time. Which means I need to quit this blog and get things ready for the day. This is why I come in early though, just to have time to myself and write my blog. Some days I have a lot to say, and other days, it is just reflections. Like today. Just thinking aloud.
Hope that you have a blessed day and not only get admired, but admire also those you love.
Blessings!
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Finding Joy....
Ok - I'm starting this off without a title cause I have already changed and erased a time or two. I start to type and think, naw, I don't want to talk about that.... and then I start over. Thank God we have 'do overs' or 'start overs'. That can be in any thing - life in general. I'm so glad that God doesn't give up on me.
What is this! People around me are coming in to work already!! Sigh. I love this time when it is quiet except for the ticking of the keys as I press on them. But now, my silence is broken by a lot of nonsense chatter. This goes on all day. One of the reasons that I like coming in to work early - I have time to myself to think and prepare myself for whatever is ahead of me. Even though I work right next to these girls - rather, they are on the other side of my cubicle, and we speak, but we don't talk. They are in another department and they do their thing and I do mine. So my silence has ended. Does my thinking?
Two good things happened last night - I got to have dinner with a dear friend - only to have her about an hour later glance at her watch and go 'oh my goodness, I'm so sorry, I have to go - I have a plummer at my house!' LOL Ok - so does that mean the plummer was already there and she forgot and left to meet me for dinner - or she told him she would be back in an hour..... ?? She seemed so startled, I'm thinking she forgot he was there. Funny. I came home and hubby was having his 'men's group' meeting in the front room so Marley and I headed to the back of the house. Found out later that a friend who made figi pudding ("So bring me some figi pudding, so bring me some figi pudding....lalalala") from scratch brought some over for us. Had to taste it last night - and it is yummy! I think I want to get the recipe - it would be a fun gift to give at Christmas time.
That's what I can do - I can start looking for new recipes to do for Christmas gifts. I've done my bread and butter pickles, cranberry pumpkin nut breads and salsa for years now. Everyone seems to enjoy them, but I'm always wanting to do something different. I remember one year making flavored butters. Not sure how many people eat butter that much anymore. I know I don't. I've also made a jam and/or syrup; depending if it jelled or stayed runny. If it was runny, I'd tell them it was syrup. :-) Hey - it worked! When I can freeze or can in a jar something, it makes it much easier to do earlier and just put away. I have less than a dozen jars of pickles left so will have to be sure to get more made up this summer. I know one grandson who, if available, will come help me. He got to be a pro at making pickles with me last summer and I enjoyed having the 1:1 time with him. That's what I ought to figure out - how to do one project with a different grandchild! That would give me 1:1 time with them. Hmmm but with 8 grandchildren here in Phoenix, I could be kept really busy! Will have to do some thinking on that.
As I was driving in to work this morning I was pondering over life, my life particularly, and reflected on where I am in my walk with God. I used to be so focused in getting up early and spending time with Him and reading my Bible, saying/writing my prayers, reflecting on things. I still get up to spend time with Him, and read my Bible, write in my journal, and pray.... but I feel the crushing circumstances of the past six months or so has stolen my joy. So, I'm praying for joy again. Joy in loving Him, loving life. Joy in serving, Joy in doing. Joy in just being. I feel my joy has been sucked out of me through various things, and I want it back. I told the enemy this morning he can not have my joy, that my JOY in is the Lord. His Word says so. God's Word says, 'The JOY of the Lord is my strength'. I believe it! I know that JOY is something within me, and not as a result of the circumstances that surround me. I may find enjoyment in things, but they do not bring me the JOY that I seek, the Joy that I desire. I need to focus on my inside JOY, and not let my circumstances, issues, or other problems drag me down into despair.
What about you - things in life getting you down and frustrated? The bills are bigger than the paycheck and you don't know what to do? Issues with kids and they just won't listen to you? Been there - am there - probably am that. Yet, I know what I know what I know.
This morning on Facebook was a video - I'm sure most of you have seen it, as I have seen it before - of the man who does triathalon (sp)with his CP son. I watched it and my heart rejoiced in that the man loved his son so much that he wanted the son with him in every race, no matter how difficult the race became. Makes me think of how much God loves His SON, Jesus, and allowed the worst to happen to Him, and then brought Him Home to sit at His right hand. Just like we are loved so greatly that God never leaves us nor forsakes us, no matter what we go through - or no matter what we do. We can reject Him, but He doesn't reject us. He doesn't throw us aside because we disobey Him, but waits patiently for us to come back.
I'm so grateful that I am so loved and accepted; just the way I am. And so are you. Find your JOY in Him alone.
Blessings!
What is this! People around me are coming in to work already!! Sigh. I love this time when it is quiet except for the ticking of the keys as I press on them. But now, my silence is broken by a lot of nonsense chatter. This goes on all day. One of the reasons that I like coming in to work early - I have time to myself to think and prepare myself for whatever is ahead of me. Even though I work right next to these girls - rather, they are on the other side of my cubicle, and we speak, but we don't talk. They are in another department and they do their thing and I do mine. So my silence has ended. Does my thinking?
Two good things happened last night - I got to have dinner with a dear friend - only to have her about an hour later glance at her watch and go 'oh my goodness, I'm so sorry, I have to go - I have a plummer at my house!' LOL Ok - so does that mean the plummer was already there and she forgot and left to meet me for dinner - or she told him she would be back in an hour..... ?? She seemed so startled, I'm thinking she forgot he was there. Funny. I came home and hubby was having his 'men's group' meeting in the front room so Marley and I headed to the back of the house. Found out later that a friend who made figi pudding ("So bring me some figi pudding, so bring me some figi pudding....lalalala") from scratch brought some over for us. Had to taste it last night - and it is yummy! I think I want to get the recipe - it would be a fun gift to give at Christmas time.
That's what I can do - I can start looking for new recipes to do for Christmas gifts. I've done my bread and butter pickles, cranberry pumpkin nut breads and salsa for years now. Everyone seems to enjoy them, but I'm always wanting to do something different. I remember one year making flavored butters. Not sure how many people eat butter that much anymore. I know I don't. I've also made a jam and/or syrup; depending if it jelled or stayed runny. If it was runny, I'd tell them it was syrup. :-) Hey - it worked! When I can freeze or can in a jar something, it makes it much easier to do earlier and just put away. I have less than a dozen jars of pickles left so will have to be sure to get more made up this summer. I know one grandson who, if available, will come help me. He got to be a pro at making pickles with me last summer and I enjoyed having the 1:1 time with him. That's what I ought to figure out - how to do one project with a different grandchild! That would give me 1:1 time with them. Hmmm but with 8 grandchildren here in Phoenix, I could be kept really busy! Will have to do some thinking on that.
As I was driving in to work this morning I was pondering over life, my life particularly, and reflected on where I am in my walk with God. I used to be so focused in getting up early and spending time with Him and reading my Bible, saying/writing my prayers, reflecting on things. I still get up to spend time with Him, and read my Bible, write in my journal, and pray.... but I feel the crushing circumstances of the past six months or so has stolen my joy. So, I'm praying for joy again. Joy in loving Him, loving life. Joy in serving, Joy in doing. Joy in just being. I feel my joy has been sucked out of me through various things, and I want it back. I told the enemy this morning he can not have my joy, that my JOY in is the Lord. His Word says so. God's Word says, 'The JOY of the Lord is my strength'. I believe it! I know that JOY is something within me, and not as a result of the circumstances that surround me. I may find enjoyment in things, but they do not bring me the JOY that I seek, the Joy that I desire. I need to focus on my inside JOY, and not let my circumstances, issues, or other problems drag me down into despair.
What about you - things in life getting you down and frustrated? The bills are bigger than the paycheck and you don't know what to do? Issues with kids and they just won't listen to you? Been there - am there - probably am that. Yet, I know what I know what I know.
This morning on Facebook was a video - I'm sure most of you have seen it, as I have seen it before - of the man who does triathalon (sp)with his CP son. I watched it and my heart rejoiced in that the man loved his son so much that he wanted the son with him in every race, no matter how difficult the race became. Makes me think of how much God loves His SON, Jesus, and allowed the worst to happen to Him, and then brought Him Home to sit at His right hand. Just like we are loved so greatly that God never leaves us nor forsakes us, no matter what we go through - or no matter what we do. We can reject Him, but He doesn't reject us. He doesn't throw us aside because we disobey Him, but waits patiently for us to come back.
I'm so grateful that I am so loved and accepted; just the way I am. And so are you. Find your JOY in Him alone.
Blessings!
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Getting going....
It's Tuesday this week - a REAL Tuesday! Although I did so very much enjoy the days off the past two weeks for the holidays, I am glad NOT to have two Mondays in one week! Yesterday, being Monday, was a pretty quiet day for me. Didn't do much out of the ordinary. I was at work, of course, but no big meetings to attend and take minutes. I'm caught up on transcribing so that is a good thing as well. My first big meeting this month is the 21st - which will seem like a Monday as we are off on the 20th for "civil rights day" or whatever you want to call it. Personally, I would rather work that day and have a floating holiday in which I can take any time I want to.
Nothing big on the agenda for work today. I'm trying to teach myself more about Sharepoint and some other programs I need to know about. When I left my last job I closed my mind to all these programs and now I am having to learn them again. These have been upgraded as well, which means I have to really learn how they operate. Oh well, it is all a learning process. I just keep praying for wisdom and knowledge to know how to accomplish the tasks associated with this job.
Started a new challenge here at work. I had received notice that what we call "Healthy Pathways" was starting a new challenge on January 16 - February 13 called 'In Stride'. What that means is that they want to encourage everyone to walk more. In fact, the challenge is to walk 6000 steps a day. I usually average 4,000 - 6,000+, depending on what I do. I checked my fitbit last night and only had about 4500 so I jumped on the treadmill for awhile and got it up over 7000. I'm just trying to get motivated to keep moving. I registered for the challenge just for the fun of it. We earn points by doing healthy activities, i.e., 5K walks/runs, challenges, etc. Last year I earned enough points the company put $300 into my health savings account AND gave me a $100 Fitbit. Not bad for doing a couple walks and completing other health challenges. This year we earn "points" for the results of our biometric screening - which I have scheduled for February 12. Or is it the 14th. I don't remember right now. But anyway, it is scheduled. Depending on where my cholestrol falls, where my glucose is, blood pressure, etc, I get a certain number of points. I can earn over 300 points; 300 points gets me a 'don't worry about the rest of the year'. However, I do want to push myself and keep active.
I have seen what happens first hand for those who just sit and do nothing. Not only does their body spread, they have no life in them. They THINK they are active and busy, but to others who see them, they are not. I think of my parents who sat around all the time - I can not remember my mother ever being active. Perhaps that is why I push myself. I loved my mother dearly, don't get me wrong. I just don't want to be like her. I want to live my life, not just survive it day by day. I want to experience new things. I want my body to still be moving actively when I'm 70, 80 and even 90. I turn 65 this year; I don't want to ACT like I'm 65! When I was growing up, 65 was OLD. Heck, 50 was OLD.
Speaking of challenges, I have only received two notifications of those who accepted my challenge for 5% - 10% or more weight loss throughout this coming year. I like issuing the challenge for it not only helps them, it helps me. If no one takes me up on it, then I struggle to keep motivated. With others doing it, I can tell myself 'ok, so and so is doing this, and I can too'. I presented the challenge on New Years Day - on paper. If you are interested and want a copy, please let me know. Of course I limited it to children, spouses, grandchildren - but that doesn't mean YOU can't challenge yourself and reward yourself at the scheduled times for how you are doing. Rewards are always nice.
I realized this morning that perhaps my children and family aren't the only ones who read this blog; I need to revise my challenge somewhat. My rewards for weight loss achievements is for my children, spouses, and grandchildren. I can't afford everyone - although I wish I could! I do encourage you to set your OWN goals and even encourage your family to participate in your challenge to them to get healthy this year.
Got a 'jetpack' so that I can use my Ipad here at work but have't gotten it set up yet. Just haven't taken the time to study the instructions. I always overthink these things. Maybe I can get it done tonight. Like today, I brought my ipad in wanting to show for Indiana snow photos from facebook... forgot that I can not get on the internet here at work, therefore, I can't show the photos. I should save them to my photos then I can show them,until I get hooked up that is. Oh well.
Speaking of work, it is about time to get busy so guess that I need to close this off. Thinking of my prayers on the way in to work this morning; God has been - and is - so good to me. I don't always get everything I ask for (Thank you!!) but I always have all that I need. Sometimes His answers take a little while (my son getting a job), while others happen without my even asking, because He knows what we need.
What has God supplied for you recently? Was it something you asked for? Something you didn't ask for? Even if you don't verbalize the prayer, He knows the prayers in our hearts. And YOU may not have prayed for it, but perhaps someone who loves you did. Thank Him for it anyway. He provides for our every need.
Have a good day!
Blessings!
Nothing big on the agenda for work today. I'm trying to teach myself more about Sharepoint and some other programs I need to know about. When I left my last job I closed my mind to all these programs and now I am having to learn them again. These have been upgraded as well, which means I have to really learn how they operate. Oh well, it is all a learning process. I just keep praying for wisdom and knowledge to know how to accomplish the tasks associated with this job.
Started a new challenge here at work. I had received notice that what we call "Healthy Pathways" was starting a new challenge on January 16 - February 13 called 'In Stride'. What that means is that they want to encourage everyone to walk more. In fact, the challenge is to walk 6000 steps a day. I usually average 4,000 - 6,000+, depending on what I do. I checked my fitbit last night and only had about 4500 so I jumped on the treadmill for awhile and got it up over 7000. I'm just trying to get motivated to keep moving. I registered for the challenge just for the fun of it. We earn points by doing healthy activities, i.e., 5K walks/runs, challenges, etc. Last year I earned enough points the company put $300 into my health savings account AND gave me a $100 Fitbit. Not bad for doing a couple walks and completing other health challenges. This year we earn "points" for the results of our biometric screening - which I have scheduled for February 12. Or is it the 14th. I don't remember right now. But anyway, it is scheduled. Depending on where my cholestrol falls, where my glucose is, blood pressure, etc, I get a certain number of points. I can earn over 300 points; 300 points gets me a 'don't worry about the rest of the year'. However, I do want to push myself and keep active.
I have seen what happens first hand for those who just sit and do nothing. Not only does their body spread, they have no life in them. They THINK they are active and busy, but to others who see them, they are not. I think of my parents who sat around all the time - I can not remember my mother ever being active. Perhaps that is why I push myself. I loved my mother dearly, don't get me wrong. I just don't want to be like her. I want to live my life, not just survive it day by day. I want to experience new things. I want my body to still be moving actively when I'm 70, 80 and even 90. I turn 65 this year; I don't want to ACT like I'm 65! When I was growing up, 65 was OLD. Heck, 50 was OLD.
Speaking of challenges, I have only received two notifications of those who accepted my challenge for 5% - 10% or more weight loss throughout this coming year. I like issuing the challenge for it not only helps them, it helps me. If no one takes me up on it, then I struggle to keep motivated. With others doing it, I can tell myself 'ok, so and so is doing this, and I can too'. I presented the challenge on New Years Day - on paper. If you are interested and want a copy, please let me know. Of course I limited it to children, spouses, grandchildren - but that doesn't mean YOU can't challenge yourself and reward yourself at the scheduled times for how you are doing. Rewards are always nice.
I realized this morning that perhaps my children and family aren't the only ones who read this blog; I need to revise my challenge somewhat. My rewards for weight loss achievements is for my children, spouses, and grandchildren. I can't afford everyone - although I wish I could! I do encourage you to set your OWN goals and even encourage your family to participate in your challenge to them to get healthy this year.
Got a 'jetpack' so that I can use my Ipad here at work but have't gotten it set up yet. Just haven't taken the time to study the instructions. I always overthink these things. Maybe I can get it done tonight. Like today, I brought my ipad in wanting to show for Indiana snow photos from facebook... forgot that I can not get on the internet here at work, therefore, I can't show the photos. I should save them to my photos then I can show them,until I get hooked up that is. Oh well.
Speaking of work, it is about time to get busy so guess that I need to close this off. Thinking of my prayers on the way in to work this morning; God has been - and is - so good to me. I don't always get everything I ask for (Thank you!!) but I always have all that I need. Sometimes His answers take a little while (my son getting a job), while others happen without my even asking, because He knows what we need.
What has God supplied for you recently? Was it something you asked for? Something you didn't ask for? Even if you don't verbalize the prayer, He knows the prayers in our hearts. And YOU may not have prayed for it, but perhaps someone who loves you did. Thank Him for it anyway. He provides for our every need.
Have a good day!
Blessings!
Friday, January 3, 2014
It must be a 'sluggish day' for every one and every thing!
I did not want to get up this morning. I mean, I really did not want to get up this morning! It feels like I am completely wiped out, slowed down, sluggish. Judging from my son's blog from yesterday, he is feeling the same way, thinking it is too much sleep. Mine is probably from not enough! I think, for me, it is more Christmas last week and that hustle and bustle, then, since I choose to celebrate the New Year with those I love and prepare a meal, I also have my energy poured into that day. Add working into that - lack of sleep, last minute things - and I'm sluggish. I really had trouble waking up this morning. However, I got around and was at work before 7AM. Got the coffee made, water for my boss, my former boss, and myself (filled up our glasses) - and tried to bring up my computer.
Gads. Talk about sluggish! I'm trying to get to the Indianapolis Star to check out an obituary for a friend and former brother-in-law. Didn't know him real well as I have lived here in Phoenix for the past 30 years. And he was a l-o-n-g time ago. Like I'm guessing, 25 years or so. Anyway, the system just would not move to get me where I wanted to go. I tried to get into my blog - it never would come up. I finally shut every thing down and brought it back up. It's still sluggish, but at least I'm getting there.
Today is going to be an extremely busy day as we have urgent work to complete for the State. Lots of detail work and I need to focus on it. In fact, I have about 20x5 things I need to be printing and scanning this morning. I will be doing that all morning. But I don't mind it. I work with an awesome boss and she is right in there as well, doing the tedious things that she has to complete for this project. She makes coming to work fun.
One of hubby's Christmas presents came in yesterday. From China no less. sigh. I ordered from Amazon on a whim - an Arizona Cardinal iphone case. Thought it was something he would enjoy. It finally arrived yesterday. At least I could truly surprise him. In fact, he forgot to get the mail yesterday and I happened to notice I didn't see the mail on the counter this morning and asked about the mail - he pulled it out of the mailbox. So his day started out really good with a present.
Speaking of presents - sigh - I'm still working on the quilt I wanted to give to my son and his beautiful wife. In fact, I DID give it to them. Unfinished. I had worked so hard on it the past few months that I really wanted them to get it for Christmas. If I had been smart, I would have taken my time to finish it and put it back for next year. I would like to get it done this weekend. It is just tedious work and a lot of hand sewing. Yes, every bit of it is hand-sewn. I'm not the greatest seamstress, and my threads are easily seen, but it is the love I put in it that I hope they see, and not the work itself. I think I have a little more than one side of binding to sew down, then do some touch up where I had to pull some seams, then I should be finished.
And I do need to get started on my work - it has to be completed by noon today and I want to get it to my boss within the next couple hours so that she can complete her things with it. So with that - hope that you have a wonderful day - and a great weekend. Plan some fun family time. Pop popcorn and watch a movie together. Anyone want pretzels? I have three bags left from Christmas - need to get rid of them! Actually, I may finish up a gift I was going to give the kids and never got to it - too busy. I always plan so much I want to do for my kids - and just don't get everything done cause I end up having too much to do there at the last. Will have to ponder that. :-) Now I have you wondering!
ok - need to get my day going - it's 7:30-ish and want to get started. Have a blessed day - and an awesome weekend!
Blessings!
Gads. Talk about sluggish! I'm trying to get to the Indianapolis Star to check out an obituary for a friend and former brother-in-law. Didn't know him real well as I have lived here in Phoenix for the past 30 years. And he was a l-o-n-g time ago. Like I'm guessing, 25 years or so. Anyway, the system just would not move to get me where I wanted to go. I tried to get into my blog - it never would come up. I finally shut every thing down and brought it back up. It's still sluggish, but at least I'm getting there.
Today is going to be an extremely busy day as we have urgent work to complete for the State. Lots of detail work and I need to focus on it. In fact, I have about 20x5 things I need to be printing and scanning this morning. I will be doing that all morning. But I don't mind it. I work with an awesome boss and she is right in there as well, doing the tedious things that she has to complete for this project. She makes coming to work fun.
One of hubby's Christmas presents came in yesterday. From China no less. sigh. I ordered from Amazon on a whim - an Arizona Cardinal iphone case. Thought it was something he would enjoy. It finally arrived yesterday. At least I could truly surprise him. In fact, he forgot to get the mail yesterday and I happened to notice I didn't see the mail on the counter this morning and asked about the mail - he pulled it out of the mailbox. So his day started out really good with a present.
Speaking of presents - sigh - I'm still working on the quilt I wanted to give to my son and his beautiful wife. In fact, I DID give it to them. Unfinished. I had worked so hard on it the past few months that I really wanted them to get it for Christmas. If I had been smart, I would have taken my time to finish it and put it back for next year. I would like to get it done this weekend. It is just tedious work and a lot of hand sewing. Yes, every bit of it is hand-sewn. I'm not the greatest seamstress, and my threads are easily seen, but it is the love I put in it that I hope they see, and not the work itself. I think I have a little more than one side of binding to sew down, then do some touch up where I had to pull some seams, then I should be finished.
And I do need to get started on my work - it has to be completed by noon today and I want to get it to my boss within the next couple hours so that she can complete her things with it. So with that - hope that you have a wonderful day - and a great weekend. Plan some fun family time. Pop popcorn and watch a movie together. Anyone want pretzels? I have three bags left from Christmas - need to get rid of them! Actually, I may finish up a gift I was going to give the kids and never got to it - too busy. I always plan so much I want to do for my kids - and just don't get everything done cause I end up having too much to do there at the last. Will have to ponder that. :-) Now I have you wondering!
ok - need to get my day going - it's 7:30-ish and want to get started. Have a blessed day - and an awesome weekend!
Blessings!
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Day 2 of the New Year
Yes, I'm at work this morning - and have about 15 minutes left that I can type a short blog. Running about 15 minutes later than usual this morning - just couldn't get out of the house. Feels like Monday all over again. And it will also be a busy day today as well. My boss should be in soon. It has already started crazy with my running late.... then I couldn't get the internet to come up on my work computer to get to my blog. What's up with that? Oh well. It seems to be working at the moment.
Yesterday I cheerfully gave my son $50 for the 5%+ weight loss he had this past year. Really proud of him for accomplishing it. I passed out the invitation for this coming year - but I don't think there were any takers on it. Makes me sad, for it isn't about the weight loss, it is about eating healthy and getting our bodies healthy. I would have like to have someone walk the journey with me, for that is my goal this year. I want to eat more healthy and I want to get back in my exercise routine. I don't need to know the hows or whys or whats of the plans anyone has - I just wanted someone to walk the journey with me - encourage me as I could encourage them. Maybe they just wanted to think about it.
This morning I received my first call from Coach Jeffrey - my new coach for 2014. It was good talking with him and we have figured out a plan to start with. I am to walk 2-3 times a week, 20-30 minutes at a time. I can do more if I want. I can also incorporate videos if I want. But, we are pretending I am just starting an exercise program (mainly because I told him I haven't done much of anything the past two months) and he wants me to take it slow and then build on it. I think 2-3 times walking is do-able. He is going to call me back the first part of next month to check on me. Trust me, I hate telling someone I haven't done something when it is expected for me to complete it. I will do my best to get at least 2 days a week of walking in. That in itself is encouraging, to know I have someone outside of my spouse to hold me accountable. Having a spouse hold you accountable is like having your parent hold you accountable - you rebel. At least I do. I have to do it for ME. Having someone I will never meet but will only talk to once a month, but in that call I have to be accountable, well, it is incentive. Plus the fact that because I did participate in activities and did my walking, got my physical, etc, I had $300 deducted from my insurance cost, plus I won a $100 Fitbit, which helps track my steps, calories, etc. I need to utilize it better and add my eating in the program. Right now I just track steps - and I can view it on my phone. That is really cool. Any time I want to know how many steps I've walked, I can check my phone and it will sync and let me know. There is another fitbit that I think is about $129 that will show the information on the fitbit itself, but free is better than having to pay for it. I'll take what I've got.
New Years Day went fairly well. I enjoyed the day with family - children and grandchildren alike. Youngest son was away 'playing' in California with his financee but his children were with the rest of the family. Other than him being gone, the rest of us were there. Even my princess from Tucson came up. I made the ribs, coleslaw and fixed blackeyed peas as usual. Doesn't seem as many ribs were eaten as usual.... maybe I need to re-think what to fix for New Years Day lunch..... has to be pork though. All part of the poor man's lunch. Maybe I just fixed more than usual - but I don't think so - I usually buy 7-8 packs of ribs - I nearly went back for more - so glad I didn't. Left some with my daughter and brought a packet of ribs home. Hubby is to contact a son this morning to take that packet of ribs over to them. We ate them yesterday (I actually forgot I was giving up pork for 21 days) - but we both want to get back on track for the 21 days we are fasting. It really isn't fasting - it is just eating fruit, vegetables, and chicken or turkey. Just healthy eating. Good thing we like salads! :-) Still, I can fix my taco soup - just leave out the tortilla chips.
I do have a lot to do today here at work so need to get off here and get started. This weekend will be busy as well - take Christmas tree and decorations down, put away wrapping paper and boxes, etc. So much stuff still laying around. Need to get rid of bags of pretzels and other things left over from Christmas baking. It will all go this weekend - cleaning house!
Set some new goals for 2014 and left them in the envelope with my daughter. We didn't do it last year - but the year before I checked and I met all my goals. YEA! It probably took me the two years! New goals for 2014 and I'm ready to go.
Hope you had a great New Year's Day and are ready to face the year with confidence and a postive attitude.
Blessings!
Yesterday I cheerfully gave my son $50 for the 5%+ weight loss he had this past year. Really proud of him for accomplishing it. I passed out the invitation for this coming year - but I don't think there were any takers on it. Makes me sad, for it isn't about the weight loss, it is about eating healthy and getting our bodies healthy. I would have like to have someone walk the journey with me, for that is my goal this year. I want to eat more healthy and I want to get back in my exercise routine. I don't need to know the hows or whys or whats of the plans anyone has - I just wanted someone to walk the journey with me - encourage me as I could encourage them. Maybe they just wanted to think about it.
This morning I received my first call from Coach Jeffrey - my new coach for 2014. It was good talking with him and we have figured out a plan to start with. I am to walk 2-3 times a week, 20-30 minutes at a time. I can do more if I want. I can also incorporate videos if I want. But, we are pretending I am just starting an exercise program (mainly because I told him I haven't done much of anything the past two months) and he wants me to take it slow and then build on it. I think 2-3 times walking is do-able. He is going to call me back the first part of next month to check on me. Trust me, I hate telling someone I haven't done something when it is expected for me to complete it. I will do my best to get at least 2 days a week of walking in. That in itself is encouraging, to know I have someone outside of my spouse to hold me accountable. Having a spouse hold you accountable is like having your parent hold you accountable - you rebel. At least I do. I have to do it for ME. Having someone I will never meet but will only talk to once a month, but in that call I have to be accountable, well, it is incentive. Plus the fact that because I did participate in activities and did my walking, got my physical, etc, I had $300 deducted from my insurance cost, plus I won a $100 Fitbit, which helps track my steps, calories, etc. I need to utilize it better and add my eating in the program. Right now I just track steps - and I can view it on my phone. That is really cool. Any time I want to know how many steps I've walked, I can check my phone and it will sync and let me know. There is another fitbit that I think is about $129 that will show the information on the fitbit itself, but free is better than having to pay for it. I'll take what I've got.
New Years Day went fairly well. I enjoyed the day with family - children and grandchildren alike. Youngest son was away 'playing' in California with his financee but his children were with the rest of the family. Other than him being gone, the rest of us were there. Even my princess from Tucson came up. I made the ribs, coleslaw and fixed blackeyed peas as usual. Doesn't seem as many ribs were eaten as usual.... maybe I need to re-think what to fix for New Years Day lunch..... has to be pork though. All part of the poor man's lunch. Maybe I just fixed more than usual - but I don't think so - I usually buy 7-8 packs of ribs - I nearly went back for more - so glad I didn't. Left some with my daughter and brought a packet of ribs home. Hubby is to contact a son this morning to take that packet of ribs over to them. We ate them yesterday (I actually forgot I was giving up pork for 21 days) - but we both want to get back on track for the 21 days we are fasting. It really isn't fasting - it is just eating fruit, vegetables, and chicken or turkey. Just healthy eating. Good thing we like salads! :-) Still, I can fix my taco soup - just leave out the tortilla chips.
I do have a lot to do today here at work so need to get off here and get started. This weekend will be busy as well - take Christmas tree and decorations down, put away wrapping paper and boxes, etc. So much stuff still laying around. Need to get rid of bags of pretzels and other things left over from Christmas baking. It will all go this weekend - cleaning house!
Set some new goals for 2014 and left them in the envelope with my daughter. We didn't do it last year - but the year before I checked and I met all my goals. YEA! It probably took me the two years! New goals for 2014 and I'm ready to go.
Hope you had a great New Year's Day and are ready to face the year with confidence and a postive attitude.
Blessings!
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