March - A Month In Review and a Contest Winner

My goals for Month 3 were as follows:

DIET CHALLENGES

1. (MET) I will have BBQ Chicken once a week.
2. (MET) I will go to Marble Slab this month.3. (MET) I will drink more water.
4. (MET) I will try at least one new diet friendly recipe this month.
5. (MET) I will work on decreasing my sodium intake.

FITNESS CHALLENGES
1. (MET) I will work out 2520 minutes this month.
2. (MET) I will burn 14,000 calories this month.
3. (MET) I will go to the gym at least 21 days this month.
4. I will do daily body tests on Wii Fit.
5. I will do an 1 hour of exercise on WiiFit for 28 days.


SPIRITUAL / EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES
1. I will read through the books of Genesis and Exodus this month.
2. I will complete "What If Your Blessings Come Through Raindrops" Devotional by Laura Story.
3. I will pray more.
4. (MET) I will take one day/night each week for me to regroup and relax.
5. I will blog daily.


While I didn't meet all of my challenge goals, I did very well I think. I met the two main fitness goals I had set for myself. I am getting my diet under control pretty well. My fitness life is improving very much. My emotional/spiritual life still needs lots of work so I will focus more on that this month. I am very proud of the progress I have made thus far. I have lost 58 lbs so far. That is as much as two of my children weigh! I am learning to take the trials as they come. The most important thing I am learning is when we fall down, we must shake the dust off our feet and carry on. That is easy to talk about but much harder to live out. I am a work in progress. Not where I want to be, but I am not where I was. I have a lot to be proud of and thankful for. I will rejoice and be glad!


Last but not least, our contest winner. I told you I would give away a Subway gift card to one lucky winner if I met my calorie/fitness minute goal. I did that. The winner of the contest is Melissa Brown. You have 24 hours to contact me with the address you want your gift card sent to. Thank you so much for everyone for your strength and encouragement this month. It means more than you could possibly know.

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. - Galatians 6:9

Blessings,

Weight Loss Mama

Happy Birthday Mama

This post is so hard to write. Whenever I start going down memory lane with Mama, it breaks my heart. There are days when I still think she's going to come down the hallway and knock on my bedroom door just to see what I am doing.

Today would be Mama's 65th birthday. I am so thankful for the 25 birthdays I was gifted with her. Even though I didn't always see it then, each day with her was such a gift. A gift I never knew meant so much until it was gone. Now I would give anything just to hold her again. I can't believe she's been gone 3 years.

Each year we take birthday cake to the grave yard to celebrate her birthday. This year will be no exception. We will sing to her and share memories. It may sound strange to some, but this is what we do. Our boys love to "remember Grammie."

My mama was a nurse who worked for Brushy Mountain Prison. Oh the stories she would tell. I was always scared that she would get hurt, but God always brought her home safely. I was given the greatest gift in 95 when she started getting sick. I was given the gift of time. When mom retired, I spent every day with her. I had already started homeschooling so it was immediate timefest when she retired. There were days when we would drive each other crazy. I wasn't like most teens. I didn't have a social life. My life revolved around Mama. I remember making the comment to John after she passed that I hadn't spent more than a month (collectively) away from her my entire life. The longest I ever spent without her was when she'd have to go away on training for work. (Refocusing to remain positive in this post.)

Her poor health was really a gift from God. I wish she would've been healthier. I wish she were still here. If she'd been healthy, we would've never had that time together. She would probably be retiring this year. It sounds horrible to say that. I don't mean it that way. I mean that if she had been healthy, all of the time and memories that I have would've never been. I am thankful that I was given the opportunity to care for her when she was ill. It taught me compassion.

I am glad that her pain and suffering no longer exist. She is whole. She is walking the streets of Heaven. She's spending time with her Mama and her grandbabies. This is what makes the long, heartbreaking days bearable. She's happy there. This is what I will focus on...

Happy Birthday Mama. I love you so much!!!

V.E.

TMI: New Cycle

This is another one of those TMI posts so you have been warned.

I started my first post-miscarriage period today. I have had a bit of spotting here and there, but I finally started again. This is note worthy because after not having a period for so long the last cycle was 74 days long. That is horribly long, but at least it wasn't 18+ months.

I should've known something was up. After we got home from church I fell asleep on the couch and woke up craving a chocolate milkshake. I normally don't like sweets (except for Marble Slab) and rarely indulge in them. I had wanted to go to the gym but woke up no longer wanting to go. Then I found out that my cycle had began so obviously I am staying put tonight.

John's making dinner for the kids so I am going to curl up with a book and wait for bedtime. Tomorrow is Mama's birthday. Please pray for my family. Thank you.


This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24


Be Blessed,


Weight Loss Mama

Emotional Week Ahead

Today is Sunday. Tomorrow is Mama's birthday. Today is the birthday of a dearly departed friend of mine also. It will be a very emotional couple days for me this week.

This weekend I did something that is going to change my life forever. I am standing on the edge of this cliff waiting for the "go-ahead" to jump. Figuratively speaking of course! I am not suicidal!!! I have prayed about this and will continue to do so. I hope that God will pave the way for everything to work out the way I think it will. It is scary and exciting all at the same time. I am not a patient person, either. Will it be today? Tomorrow?

God, please order my steps for this new part of my journey to work out for Your glory. Please calm my spirit. I don't want to be one step ahead, or behind, of your timing. I praise You for giving me this opportunity. Bring all things together according to Your will and Your purposes. Thank You! I love YOU! In Jesus' Name, Amen

I Did It

God, I took a step in faith. Please help me face these giants and my fears that I have about the journey that goes before me. Amen

Three Months, Three Miles

So today, I think I slayed The Beast! Ok, not really, but it was crying when I left it to nurse it's wounds. ;-) Yes that is right! It took me 3 months, but I not only got on The Beast, but I did 3.25 miles in an hour. I never thought I would be doing things like this.


Can I just say that I like the scales at the gym much better than the ones at the clinic? Of course I am only tracking the clinic results, but the gym scales weighed me in at 295 today. Two different times. Yes I was the crazy fat lady who couldn't believe what the scales said so I kept getting back on it just to make sure I was seeing the right numbers!!!


After having lunch and going to the gym, I was blessed with an evening at the movies to see Ken Davis' film "Fully Alive." Mr. Davis and The Jeub Family blessed me with tickets to see this video. I was very impressed. It is totally right up the alley of my life now. While there were moments in the film that made me cry, a lot of it was about his struggle with deciding to live. He became very overweight and he talks a lot about his journey back to living. I highly recommend this movie to everyone.

All in all it's been a great day. I am so thankful that this day of sorrow turned into one of great blessings for me.

Thank You God for giving me the blessing of my Aunt Flossie. Thank You for her life and her love. Thank You for her willingness to pour into my heart. Thank You for being kind and loving toward her at a time when I was certain that You were sending me into Job's house by allowing me to lose so many people I loved (and some not so much) in such a short amount of time. Thank You for giving me the gift of joy on a day filled with such sadness. Let my life be a blessing to You. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Happy Birthday Aunt Flossie.

Today is my great-aunt Flossie's birthday. If she would've lived she would be 95 today! It sure doesn't seem like it's been that long since she left. We celebrated her 90th birthday the year before we got the boys. It was the year before she entered the nursing home my cousin so calously threw her into. I am still working to forgive her for what she did to my aunt.

Aunt Flossie was more like a grandmother to me than an aunt. When I was growing up she was the one who would care for me while Mama was working. She seen me off to school each day during those elementary school days (pre-homeschool). She cooked for me. She listened to me. Most importantly, she helped set a strong Christ-centered foundation for my life. I never really took the time to tell her how much I appreciated all she did for me, but I am so thankful I will get the chance to when I get to Heaven.

During her last years she'd moved into a "retirement community" type apartments. This is where she was living when I met John. I will never forget the first time John met her. She was making dinner for us. She'd sent us to the store to get some things for the dumplings she was making. Among the things on her list was Ivory dish soap. Flossie made her dumplings with buttermilk. John had never had REAL chicken and dumplings before so he always teased that she put dish soap in her dumplings because they were "tangy."

Another time was later that year during Christmastime. She wanted to mail Christmas cards out to people. As I was addressing them for her she was singing Santa Claus is Coming to Town. She looked over to ask me if I was going to mail something and it went something like this "Oh you better what out...are you going to mail that?" So my husband, being the geek that he is decided to make a story about the ninja mailbox assains who would jump out of the mailbox when you were going to mail Christmas cards. He claims he will one day write a story about said situation. Now every time we write Christmas cards or sing that song we think of her.

I remember her cooking. No one could cook like Aunt Flossie. She made the best Banana Split Cake. The year after Michael died, John made this cake for my birthday to help raise my spirits. (We found out we were pregnant with him on my birthday the year before.) He has continued this tradition each year. His is good, but it's nowhere near as good as Aunt Flossie's. My favorite meal was when she'd make fried chicken, fried corn and biscuits with sliced tomato and onion. I told you there was a reason for my weight problem. ;-)

There are many times I wish we could go back to yesteryear, even for a moment so that I could have one more...minute...day...hour...meal...with her again. I know that would never be enough though.

I am so thankful for the time and love this precious woman chose to pour into my life. She didn't have to. She could've said no. She didn't have to step in and help raise me. She could've made Mom put me in daycare. I am so thankful for the sacrafices she made for me. For many years she gave so unselfishly.

Happy Birthday Aunt Flossie. I love you more than you know. I miss you so much.


This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

Month 3 Weigh-In

Here are the results for Month 3. Not as good as I hoped. I really wanted to hit the 200s, but I will hit it before the end of March I am sure. Pictures will come as soon as I find the power cord for my camera. My BP was up from last month, but still normal. It has been a rough week.

Date: March 21, 2012
Weight: 302 (58lbs total loss)
Resting Heart Rate (See below for instructions): 80
Circumference Measurements (See below for instructions):
Waist: 60.5 inch
Hips: 63.5 inch
Thigh: 50 inch
Chest: 53.5 inch

Hello Fear

Hello Fear by Kirk Franklin

Hello Fear
Before you sit down there's something I need to explain
Since you're here
I think I should tell you since we last talked things have changed
See I'm tired of being broken-hearted
So I made a list and you're on it
All my hopes and my dreams You took from me
I want those back before you leave

Hello Fear
I knew I would see you, You have a hard time letting go
See these tears,Take a good look cuz, soon they wont fall anymore
God's healing my hurful places
That seat that was yours now is taken
I'm no longer afraid,See I'm better this way
And one more thing before you leave

(Chorus)
Never again will I love you
My heart it refuses to be your home
No longer your prisoner
Today I remember
Apart from you is where I belong

And never again will I trust you
I'm tired of fighting it's been way too long
No longer your prisoner
Today I remember
Who I was and now it's gone
They're gone
Hello Fear
Da da da da da, da da da da da

Farewell Goodbye So long (3X)

Hello Grace
It feels like forever, I thought my chance with you was gone
See your face, it reminds me of mercy
And please let me say I was wrong
Never knew your touch was endless
How you never run dry of forgiveness
Didn't know how bad it was, was afraid just because
Sorry fear, grace took your place

CHORUS

Farewell Goodbye So long (8X)

Hello Fear
Before you sit down there's something I need to explain




This song has become one of my favorite work out songs. I am working my way to no more fear, but I'm not there yet. Today, I want to talk to you about some of my fears. In all honesty, fear is a lot of what kept me from becoming healthy before now.

THE FEAR OF BEING A NEW PERSON. Being the fat kid has always been who I am. Just like I am a wife and mama, I have allowed it to define me. People judge me based on the fact that I am overweight. I see the stares, hear the snide little comments, etc. What happens when I'm no longer the "fat kid" anymore? Believe it or not, I'm a very shy person. It's been easy to hide behind behind this mask. What happens when it's gone. What if they still don't like me? I would like to say that it won't matter, but as the song says "Everybody, everybody wants to be loved."

THE FEAR OF LOOKING DIFFERENT. I am a VERY large woman. My stretch marks could probably stretch for miles if they were were laid against one another. I know that I am not going to look like a super model when I'm done losing weight. I fear what I will look like in the mirror. I will have all of these nasty rolls skin. I won't be outwardly beautiful when I lose weight. I know this is nothing surgery can't fix, but still, there will be a time when I look in the mirror and will have a hard time seeing the woman who worked her behind off (literally) and still looks very unattractive. I am a very small chested woman. What if I lose what little I have there too?

THE FEAR OF DYING. What if I am too far gone? What if I lose all of this weight, get healthy and still have complications that will never be able to be reversed? What if I still die young and leave my children without a mama? I would like to say that I'm finally in the mindset that I am doing this for me, but in reality I'm still doing it for my kids so that I don't leave them as early as Mama did me.

THE FEAR OF FAILURE. What if this time ends up being just like the rest? What if I don't stick with it? What I give up? What if it is just like all the other times before? (For those reading, please don't worry..I'm not giving up. Turning back isn't an option for me, but these are the thoughts that plague my mind.)

THE FEAR OF SUCCEEDING So what if I don't fail? What if I don't die young? What if I am physically beautiful? I am committed to my husband and can't entertain the idea of ever cheating on him. Still, I know that this is an area Satan will use to attack me. Our marriage hasn't been the strongest. We have our share of problems, but we are working on them.

I am working really hard to face my fears, but each day has its own struggles. The only way I can face the challenges that lie ahead of me is with God's strength and grace. I know how vain I have sounded in this blog. I'm really not. My worst fear is becoming someone that I don't even like. Anyone who would say that the person I am on the inside won't change is very niave. I pray that every change I make, inside and out, is for the better. If it doesn't draw me closer to Christ then I am moving in the wrong direction.

God, please give me strength to face my fears and to become all that you want me to be. Help my openness reach someone who may be struggling as well. Use me, God. In Jesus Name, Amen.

This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

Routines

This is the day that the Lord has made...This is the day He has chosen for me. Whatever lies ahead, I know that He's handpicked it for my good. It may not make me feel good; It may force me to step out of my comfort zone, but He loves me and he's chosen to bless me with the gift of today. Now, what will I do with it?

Yesterday, I made it back to the gym. I felt so much better once I got on The Beast. He and I have a routine. For the first 20 minutes or so I dread working out. It's not that it hurts, but the finish line seems far away. Once the 20 minute mark hits I know I am a third of the way through. That keeps me going until I reach the top of the hill (30 minutes). By this time I am excited that I *ONLY* have 30 minutes left. I still find myself watching the clock like a hawk counting down the minutes until I can get off this monster. It's the same every time. Once I am done I'm so glad I went to the gym. I am so proud of myself at that point. I feel so accomplished.

Each day I try to reward myself with some time in the hot tub before I shower. This is my down time. It's the time I try to get lost in my thoughts. Sometimes this pays off, other times not so much. When you are the mama of many little ones, there is NEVER quiet in your house. This isn't a bad thing. I spent many years with WAY too much quiet. I often wondered if I would ever hear precious little voices squeal with delight. I could do without the fighting so much but the good far outweighs the bad. It's hard to turn off the "mama" when I'm out and just be me. When I just can't handle the quiet anymore, I shower and go home. Tomorrow is another day to do it all again.

I did my measurements for the month of March. I was pleasantly surprised by the results. I decided last month to start doing my own measurements at home. When the clinic measures me, they never measure me in the same place. The first month when I lost 11 lbs, they said my waist had GAINED 6 inches. The nurse looked at me and said "We must not have measured in the same place this time." After I weigh in tomorrow I will post my chart and this month's pictures!! I am excited. I am hoping I meet my weight goal for this month.

Remember, I will be giving away a Subway gift card (maybe 2 if I meet my weight goal) so enter to win. All you have to do is comment on my blogs. Each "month 3" blog post will give you one chance to win so comment, comment, comment!!! Go to the sidebar and find the label "month 3" and start commenting.


This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24


Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

Unexpected Interruptions

This weekend didn't go exactly as I had planned. As I was getting ready to leave for the gym yesterday, Cindy called me to ask if I had spoken to Kathy. Apparently, she had called Cindy several times but Cindy couldn't answer. Now, Kathy wasn't answering her phone. I ended up calling the store Kathy works at and the lady told me she'd left because of an emergency with our brother. Now, I'm freaking out. Ok, I'm not going to the gym. I rush to the van to leave. At this time I got a hold of Cindy who tells me it's our youngest brother Paul. Since I knew he was already at the hospital I had John bring me my gym bag just in case.

I rushed to the hospital with a knot in my stomach. This is the hospital they took Mama too when they pronounced her. This is the hospital that I avoid at all cost. This is the hospital that I have been to only 2 times in the last 4 years because I verge on a panic attack when I pull into the parking lot, let alone go in. The ONLY good thing about this hospital is that it is also the one Jewel-Anne was born at.

Paul had called Kathy because he was dizzy and having chest pain. When he arrived at the hospital his blood pressure and pulse were very high. They had already done an EKG that was normal. They did a chest X-ray and some blood work that were all normal. They were going to keep him and do a stress test this morning, but at the last minute the doctor decided it wasn't necessary. Apparently, he was just dehydrated.

By the time we got out it was 8 so I decided to skip the gym. I hated to because I hadn't missed a day in almost two weeks. Still, my babies needed me home so that is where I went. Today it is back to the normal routine. Back to the gym, back to The Beast, back to working off these pounds.


This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24


Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

Water Aerobics Just Aren't For Me

This morning didn't start off the way I had hoped. My intentions were to get up at 6:30, get ready for the gym, do my hour on The Beast and finish with an hour of water aerobics. I woke up at 7! I didn't get out of the house until almost 8.

When I got to the gym, I knew I would have to do The Beast after the class. I got to spend a few minutes to myself before going in. I met a very nice, but territorial lady who was in said class. Even though I was one of the very first people in the water, every where I went was someone else's spot. Other than that everyone was very friendly.

I will start out by saying I have NO rhythm whatsoever! It gets worse when I can't see what I am doing! After 34 minutes I decided I'd had enough and could do so much better on The Beast so I left and met up with my little frienemy! I did my hour, showered and left.

I do believe God meant for me to attend class though. There was another lady in class who was about my age and size. She looked at me and said "I know you! You are the one who is always on that machine! (um...I'm sorry?!) You are so brave! I watch you just working it on that machine. You are my hero! I could never do that.) After I finished my shower I met up with this lady again. God gave me the opportunity to encourage her. She said she was on week 3 of her journey. I took a moment to share about myself and how far I've come in the last 10 weeks. I hope it was an encouragement to her.

When I got home I made an appt to go to the doctor. My meds are almost gone so I need to get back in. I also stopped at the clinic to get my weight loss shot. Next week is weigh in week. I certainly hope I've done well. Either way, I know that I am still 3 weeks closer to my goal.

We are loving this warm weather. The kids have been able to play outside every day this week. There is nothing that warms my heart more than to hear the squeals and laughter of happy children. We are going to take advantage of this beautiful weather because soon it will be too hot to go out.

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Blessings,

Weight Loss Mama

Two Month Angelversary

Jeremiah,

It's hard to believe that it's been two months since you left us. My heart still aches for you. My arms still long to hold you. I long to hear your cries, your laughs, see your smile. There are days that seem so unbearable. The only comfort I have is that you are with Jesus and Grammie. You know no pain or sadness. I will see you one day and we will never part again. Mama loves you sweet boy.

Until I see you again,

Mama

I Am

I Am by Kirk Franklin
To the nobodies, to the abandoned
Who couldn't see in the pain was a plan
Looking back now Lord I can say thank you
Now let me tell you who I am

How do you do? I am a sinner
Born into sin and shaped in iniquity
Now I believe not who I was but still not what I shall be
You found me and gave me your name and
Things I desired have changed but
Inside you'll see it's still broken pieces
Deep in me reaches for you (hello)

How do you do?I am a beggar (that means I'm)
Desperate for more I hunger for your truth
See I am shattered
Though I may fall still you make all things new
You speak, the storm, it obeys
Gone is the weight of mistakes and
Though I still feel you continue to heal, look close, and see (whoa)

I am so far from perfect, I thought life was worthless
Until you showed me who I am
Not here by mistake, no luck, only grace
I'm on my way to
Who I am (not who I was),
I am (forgiven and loved)
I am (healed by your blood),
I am (yes)
Thank God I am (still being changed)
I am (help me say), I am

How do you do? I am a winner (it wasn't easy)
I've lost a few and life's knocked me to my knees
But now I am standing (hallelujah)
Not by my power, but your life inside of me (just like you, I've gone through)
Even through seasons and changes (no tear)
No tear has ever been wasted
Misunderstood still it worked for my good
Look now and see
I am not the old me but still(I am not the old me but still)

I am (I am) so far from perfect
I thought life was worthless
Until you showed me who I am (don't forget you're)
Not here by mistake (yes)No luck, only grace
I'm on my way to
Who I am (now called your son)
I am (forgiven for what I've done)
I am (forgiven for what I've done)
I am (yes)
Thank God I am (sealed by your grace)
I am (still here, help me say), I am

Here and I'm closer, praise now is stronger
Stood up to fear, by faith I'm still here
Couldn't walk away, love said not today
Times haven't seen what God has for me
The hurt and the lies, through the pain, through the night
Cried and I cried but still I survived

I am so far from perfect
I thought life was worthless (yes God)
Until you showed me who I am (I am)
Not here by mistake, no luck, only grace
I'm on my way toWho I am (and all of you)
I am (I'm in love with you)I am (here to worship you)
I am (Jesus)Thank God I am (ready to be closer)
I am (ready to go higher), I am

I am so far from perfect (so far)
I thought life was worthless (yes)
Until you showed me who I am (but you showed me)
Not here by mistake (thank you)
No luck, only grace (thank you)
I'm on my way to Who I am (I'm not ashamed),
I am (look, I'm not the same)
I am (I'm letting go of the pain),
I am (yes Lord)Thank God
I am (more than what you see)
I am (not yet what I shall be), I am
Thank you
You didn't give up on me while I was still in the process
Hallelujah God that you could see what I couldn't see
Thank you

Growing up I often referred to myself as an accident because Mom was 36 when I was born. I certainly wasn't planned by my parents. That has done a number on the way I see myself. That mentality certainly didn't help the Valley Days of my life. The truth is that God doesn't create accidents. I was planned, loved, and thought about before I was ever conceived, as much as I was after I was born.

I am so far from perfect. I am not who I want to be. I am not where I want to be, but God tells me to hang on because I will get there. For me I struggle with perfection. It's not worth doing it unless I can do it perfectly. Striving to achieve the best is wonderful, but I have to understand that perfection takes work.

When I get down I try to remind myself that I am sooooooooo far from perfect, but I'm not here by mistake. I am on my way to who I am. I am not where I want to be, but I am not where I was either! More importantly, I am not going back!

God, I am so thankful that You didn't give up on me when I gave up on myself. Thank You for loving me through my pain. I am thankful that You knew and loved me long before I was in the womb. Teach me. Mold me. Make me. Shape me into all that You have for me. Amen.

This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

Another Week

It's another week. Today seems like Monday for me. John has taken vacation this week so my internal clock is all messed up. It's nice to have him home though!

I have 8 days until I weigh-in. I have developed a nice routine at the gym so I am hoping it pays off. I spend an hour on "The Beast", 15-30 minutes in the hot tub and then shower before coming home. I don't swim, but I love being in the water. I am enjoying being able to relax for a few minutes before hitting the real world again.

Yesterday was very hard for me. I need to be mentally focused in order to do well. I just wasn't focused. To top it off my mp3 player had died so I was forced to listen to their music. I still made it an hour though. The second half of the workout was easier because I started counting down the minutes until I got off! ;-)

This week I am hoping to add water aerobics to my routine. That means that my schedule will be constantly flip-flopping from morning to night. Hopefully this works because I am really excited about. I will go in and do my hour on "The Beast" then head to water aerobics.

I am looking for a good, but inexpensive, exercise watch. One that tracks how many calories I burn throughout the day. If you point me in the right direction that would be such a blessing.

The March Fitness Contest is still going on. We've had very few entries. Remember you ge one entry for commenting on each blog for the month of March. You can go back and comment on all previous blogs under the label "month 3."

This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

WIYBCTR DAY 11 - The Blessings That The World Has To Offer

The Blessings That the World Has to Offer


The Lord was very angry with Solomon, for his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. He had warned Solomon specifically about worshipping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the lord's command. 1 Kings 11:9-10 NLT


If you're like me, you've heard a lot about the "American Dream." You know the dream I'm talking about; it's the one that says if you work hard enough, know the right people, and say the right things, you can some how obtain the nice house, the right car, the white pickett fence, and the 2.5 kids. But, is this really the dream God has for us? And, if it's not part of God's plan for us, are we selling ourselves short by sacrificing so much for a "dream" that offers us little or nothing in return?


King Solomon also started with a dream. As part of his dream, Solomon was able to ask God for anything - and what he asked for was wisdom. "Give your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people to discern between good and evil."


Like Abraham, Solomon asked God to bless him with wisdom so that he might, in turn, bless the nation of Israel. God granted Solomon's request, and peace and prosperity was enjoyed throughout Israel.

Eventually, Solomon's desire for the blessing of wisdom changed. What happened? King Solomon became trapped by a powerful temptation: the temptation to accumulate things. It began when Solomon acquired alliances with other nations; then, he acquired enormous wealth and many many women (around a thousand to be exact). To make matters worse, Solomon built a large palace for himself (that palace, by the way, just happened to be twice as large as the one he had constructed for the Lord to dwell in). Amazed at how "blessed" Solomon was, the queen of Sheba even traveled to visit him.

But what did these earthly treasures bring Solomon? The answer, not surprisingly, is trouble. We are told that Solomon's "wives turned his heart away to other gods." (1 Kings 11:4) Could it be that Solomon had elevated those beautiful creations above their Creator? Is it possible that Solomon began to wrship the blesssings, rather than the Giver of those blessings? Solomon had the resources to rocure every possession his heart desired, and yet those very possessions were his downfall.


And what about the rest of us? Have we bought into the lie that if we just had a little more money, we'd be satisfied? Or do we believe that if we had different spouses, or that if we were from different families, or that if we had different jobs, then we would be blessed?


When I see how greedy my own heart is, I am reminded that the worst thing God could do to me is give me the treasures I have elevated above Him. The blessings of this world will never satisfy. Though scripture tells us that every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord, unless they stay surrendered to the Giver, those blessings have a potential to become little idols, stealing away the attention and affection we should give to God alone.


Material possessions may seem appealing at first, but they pale in comparison to the spiritual gifts that God gives to those who put Him first. Count yourself among that number.


(Disclaimer: I took this from the book "What If Your Blessings Come Through Raindrops" by Laura Story. I make no claim to the above as my own work.)


Wow that makes sense and hurts all at the same time! To know that I keep myself from the blessings I would like to have really hurts. At the same time I am thankful that God loves me enough to give me the things I need instead of spoiling me with the things that will distract me.


This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24


Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

The Beast Met Mama!

This morning I rose and went to the gym. The intention was to do some work on The Beast and then do water aerobics. It didn't turn out that way though because I left later than I meant to.

When I got to the gym, I popped on my MP3 player and mounted The Beast. I was determined to make it an hour and I did. The machine's computer kept cutting in and out so I just timed myself and then calculated my calories when I got home. I did 70 minutes and burned 1304 calories!

Afterwards, I went to the hot tub and watched everyone do water aerobics. Hey, I was late to class. I couldn't exactly interrupt, could I? I did some mild stuff in the hot tub, but nothing like they were doing. After they were finished the coach came over and assured me she'd get me out of the tub to join her next time. I think she will. If I can conquer my fear of The Beast then I can make a fool of myself for water aerobics!

Lunch was a nice big salad and some cabbage soup. It was delicious and so fulfilling. I am determined to get to the goal I made for myself by the time I weigh-in this month!!

This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24


Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

WIYBCTR DAY 10 - When Strength Is Gone

When Strength Is Gone

I cried out to the Lord in my suffering, and he heard me. e set me free from all of my fears. - Psalm 34:6 NLT

At times, even the strongest among us run out of energy. The demands of daily life can drain us of our strength and rob us of the joy that is rightfully ours in Christ. When we find ourselves tired, discouraged, or worse, there is a source from which we can draw the power needed to recharge our spiritual batteries. That source, of course, is God.

The missionary Andrew Murray observed, "When there is much prayer, there will be much of the Spirit; where there is much of the Spirit, there will be ever-increasing power." These words remind us that the ultimate source of our strength is God. When we turn to Him - for guidance, for wisdom, and for strength - we will not be disappointed.

Do you need renewal? Is your energy on the wane? Are your emotions frayed? If so, take the time - or more accurately, make the time - to delve deeply into God's Holy Word. Are you siritually depleted? Call upon friends and family to support you, and call upon Christ to renew your spirit and your life. When you do, you'll discover that the Creator of the universe has the power to make all things new...including you.

Where do you turn for strength? Do you depend upon the world's promises or, for that matter, upon your own resources? Or do you turn toward God for the wisdom and strength to meet the challenges of the coming day? The answer should be obvious: God comes first.

Each morning, before you become caught up in the complexities of every day life, spend meaningful moments with your Creator. Offer Him your prayers and study His Word. When you offer God the firstfruits of your day, you gain wisdom, perspective and strength.

(Disclaimer: I took this from the book "What If Your Blessings Come Through Raindrops" by Laura Story. I make no claim to the above as my own work.)

As the mama of 5 kids, there are many times when I feel like I can't go on, emotionally or physically. I am so thankful, that in those times, God is there to renew my mind body and soul. He can, and will, do the same for all of us if we fully trust Him.

This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

The Beast

So I got on the elliptical for the first (real) time tonight. I did 30 minutes and the machine said I burned 400 calories. However my exercise tracker said it was 699 calories. Who knows!

I am just proud of myself for biting the bullet and not giving up until I got to the 30 minute mark. I had climbed on this beast a couple times before only to get back off as soon as I got back on. Stephanie was encouraging me just to make it 5 minutes. She had no idea the goal I had my eyes on. I feel like I climbed a mountain today. I feel so accomplished.

The funny thing was when I got off "The Beast" I couldn't walk. I wasn't really sore. I couldn't stand up. While I was in the shower I still felt like I was going to fall. It took almost an hour before I felt "normal" again. I will definitely be doing that again.


This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama

WIYBCTR DAY 9 - Our Blessed Hope

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teach us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawlessdeed and purify for Himself His own special people, ealous for good works. - Titus 2:11-14 NKJV


We lead not-so-perfect lives, and we inhabit a less-than-ideal world. Things go wrong, people misbehave, bad things happen, and hope is sometimes in short supply. But even when life seems to be spinning out of control, we still have every reason to be otimistic about our futures. Why? Because we are loved and protected by the Creator of the universe, that's why!


One of my favorite quotations comes from the author and theologian C.S. Lewis, who observed, "If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world." This quotation remins me that it's ok for myh life to be less than fulfilling. In fact, it's entirely possible that my deepest desires for physical, relational and emotional healing are being intentionally left unmet in order to point me toward something that is far greater.


There is joy to be found in this life through jesus christ; yet, he will not let our joy be complete here on this earth. Any sense of wholeness we feel is simply an appetizer. any display of splendor on this earth is simply the opening act for His "glorious appearing."


Is it possible that God leaves an ache in my soul to remind me that this worl is not my home? Does He leave that tinge there ti impassion me to tell others about that hope?


This is our blessed hope: that we are His and will some day spend eternity with Him. Until then, we are strangers and foreigners, left with the scars and the limps, and all the other subtle reminders of that sweet truth: we are not home yet.


We have a blessed hope: that we will spend eternity with our Father in Heaven. But until then, we remain strangers and foreigners here on earth, reminded constantly of the bittersweet thruth that we are not home yet.


(Disclaimer: I took this from the book "What If Your Blessings Come Through Raindrops" by Laura Story. I make no claim to the above as my own work.)


There have been times in my life that I have longed for certain things, wondered why others were blessed with xyz but I wasn't. This devotion gives me comfort that God isn't trying to keep good from me, but to keep me longing for home. That makes the other stuff easier to deal with. It reminds me of the song I have posted on my blog so many times before "You left us with the greatest gift of all, because our hearts ache for home."


This is the day which the LORD hath made ; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24

Be Blessed,

Weight Loss Mama