♥ Christian Encouragers #186 ♥
 

Sue's Post from this morning
 

Didn't want you to miss her post from this morning... ;)

Sue Posted:

Hello I am the long lost CE! LOL I have been so busy my Jessi was a grad from 8th grade. this is a big deal because she has been in this christian school and now will go to public. She also was comfirmed! So we have been busy busy. I also went to the Dr. because my foot was bothering me. I had to see another Dr. and it always happens I end up on a big work up! She was upset because she noticed a heart murmur and the Dr didn't have it on his chart. And I told her about my Dad dying at 47. So I ended up with a lot of bloodwork and a heart thing hooked up to me for 24 hrs.(it was suppose to be for 30 days but she wrote the order wrong) everyone at work would say what is wrong? (because you could see the wires and box through my shirt) and I would say my foot hurts! Then sunday when I went to church one of the members who makes products for the foot drs saw me limping and looked at my foot and said it was sweat glands cloged up and I just needed to soak them and wear white cotton socks. (the dr I saw didn't know what it was and was sending to a speicalist) We enough about me. I will catch up and post more friday. (My DD got a new game and I have to fight for the computer!)

Miss you all,
Sami

♥ Morning!
 

Dieters devotions for June 10, 2004
 

June 10


1 Peter 1:8
Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.


When it's all over, we can hardly belive we struggled so much. The reward of losing weight is so great that it wipes out all the bad memories along the way. We experience such a sense of triumph and joy, accomplishment and goodwill. We feel a power from within that helps us believe that anything is possible to us, if we will only have patience, courage, and commitment. God has made us conquerors, and He empowers us to do those things which we set our minds and hearts too. When we live life in hope of glories to come and pursue those glories with everything we have, the Lord will reward us and bless us richly.
Today's thought: I may not see it yet, but a new me is right around the corner!

:wave: Hi guys, have to be quick, only me and the boss in today. Wanted to just say hi and let you know i'm praying for you all!

Went to chiro this a.m. and he is really wonderful! I like him so much. I'm still waking up during the night in pain, but i'm confident that i'll be slowly getting better. Starting to take a fish oil now and he gave me the ok to start at a gym. I found a hotel nearby that offers their gym services for a year at $75, including the pool. It's not very busy, so i think it's a good fit for me. I especially want to swim and i really don't like the idea of a big gym with all those people. I have to wait awhile to get on the treadmill.

Really rainy here today but that's ok. It's nice weather, everything is green and just think how much all the new plantings are loving this!

Goodafternoon CEers
 

I’m just sitting here at work waiting for my copies to get done, so I have a few minutes to post.

SunnyD
Glad to hear you are walking again. It would be great if I’d just begin. :tread:

Mitchy-
What a great deal at a hotel. What hotel? Does this allow you to use their equipment as well as the pool?

I “could” have used another day at home this week but I felt good enough to get in and get a mailing out that is a must for today. I do feel tired. :yawn: But…it is the weekend!!!

Tonight, Gary is going to work on someone’s brakes (lady from church) and I will have her join me at Fruitbasket to buy flowers for table centerpieces for next week.

Tomorrow, I will go to my mom’s trailer park where they are having garage sales. Looking for that old jewelry to buy and tear apart and remake. THEN…shopping for that dress I need…soon. Our life team from church meets that night…potluck then bible study then prayer time.

Sunday, church as usual then R&R for awhile then off to a membership class for our church. YEA!!! Then…another week of work…then my VACATION!!!! :D

Ok…whine time…I’m still stuck at a 15lb loss. It’s been over a week and zippo, nada, nothing, zero lbs lost AND someone at work made macaroons and a cake and it sits 4ft away from me. :shrug: I WILL RESIST! I have not had sweets (refined sugar) in 3 weeks. I think it did good for that pms stuff. Well…gotta go, I hear the copy machine stopped and that means press on! Bless all of you…you are all soooooo great! :balloons:

Mary

Dieters devotions for June 11, 2004
 

June 11


Psalm 33:18-19
Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.


Hunger can be a terrible, terrible feeling. It is unbelievable that just being hungry can make us feel so sick and weak, but it does. We need to find ways to train our minds to ignore the pleadings of the stomach. We need to engage in activities that will occupy our minds and absorb us, so we won't think of the food we should not have. In days gone by, people used to carry a copy of the Gospels with them, and whenever they felt tempted to do what they knew they should not do, they pulled out the Bible and read Scriptures until the desire passed. God is a wonderful diversion to occupy ourselves with when temptations arise.
Today's thought: I'm not dying of hunger; it just feels that way!

Hi Mary,
It's our local Best Western in town and i haven't been there yet, but my boss told me about it and she goes there. They let you use their gym including a stairstepper (i think) treadmill, free weights, exercise ball and the pool. I'm going tonight, i'll let you know all the details later. I'm wondering if other hotels offer this, it's a great idea i think.

Mary, what do you do with the jewelry? Sounds interesting.

And Sunny! glad you are better too and again on the treadmill and you are so humble, but I did notice your weightloss on your signature! Woohoo! :cb: I'm not sure how you did the hearts in our title of the thread, but you are so talented, it's so cool to see that on my email list too. I really appreciate your efforts SunnyD/Donna!

Think i'm going to only take a half hour lunch today......really busy with just us 2 here.

Work tomorrow and then I have a meeting with the Alpha people to discuss next fall's session. Pray for us to be open minded and to hear everyone's ideas.

Back Again! Just Can't Stay Away
 

Mitchypoo-
I make bracelets and necklaces, earrings, bookmarks (the one's for Bibles are nice). I'm not sure if I can post a pic, but I will try. I do sell the swarovski crystal mother bracelets quite a bit. I made a custom necklace for a lady this past week and I also sell to a place in Florida (Jensen Beach). The Nautical But Nice gift store. Everything I make for them MUST have a nautical something or other.

For your Alpha, do you serve a dinner before? We will serve a hot meal ($4) and then the video and discussion is small groups. Those who no longer want to do Alpha, can go to the next level (which I forgot the name) and we just got done with a Marriage series with Kevin Lehman (very good).

SunnyD
I'm proud of you getting right back into the swing of things with walking...I know I need to do this if I want to lose more and more quickly.

Gary just called me (DH) and I'm so proud of him. The church has him very involved with repairs, set building, a/c, tree removal, etc. He loves it...could be his ministry. He's the type that needs to be needed and the interaction with being around Godly people and the church itself has changed him. Praise God!

Well, on that note...I'm going to wind down here at work, clean up my desk and when I get home, I will be fixing Chicken Capri (SBD cookbook) with sweet taters and broccoli with a sf fudgsicle for desert. Bye Ya'll :wave:

Tgif
 

Hi Gals--

Just checking in before the Reba show comes on...a repeat I have seen, but hey it's Friday night date night for angie and I...already went out to dinner..well, sorta...went to Carl's Juniors. We have been out all week..Mexican for my sister's going away, pizza party for b-day for neice and then last night more mexican for Angie's last day of school party for teachers and spouses...a good week for me. She was going to make her frittata (which the entire family loves, except her daughter) but it was only going to be the 2 of us for dinner so tomorrow..It's ON!! I remember the first time she made it I was all frowning face but told her I would try to get it down..WOW! they are so good...and really not much to them.

Just got in from taking Reba and Rylee for a good walk..Angie in with them now working on our puppy school homework. we didn't go this week with all that was going on.

Well gotta go help with the puppies before I get detention..am reading all your posts and will catch up with all of you this week-end...it bites being a slow hunt and pecker!!

IN CHRIST--Gary

Saturday Morning
 

GOOD MORNING

Will try to catch up a little before I head off to Home Depot to get "stuff" for my chores today--have to shore up the patio, add some mesh to the bottom of the fence in spots (THANKS TO DIGGER DOGS REBA AND RYLEE!!) and finish the gym. We got the gym pretty well finished this week, all painted and shelves back but we are installing a new light fixture--have to wait for Angie's help, she is the house electrician.

Angie out walking Reba now, she went on a 2 mile run by herself, came home and took Rylee on a 1.5 mile walk and now Reba for another 1.5---me...well I READ 3 sports pages!!

CHARLOTTE Sorry to hear of problems with the DS and EX.-- just hold your ground and do the right thing...as you always do...the ex will cut her own throat..the kids will figure it out. Try adding more vinegar or go to the original Listerene if the bottle isn't working...the ticket is to just keep doing it...I totally understand, all of a sudden Reba decided she doesn't want to "sit" on command! aahhhh....House seems to be shaping up..congratulations!

SHERRY How are you doing dear? getting worried about you! Angie just bought some Advantage for the dogs on E-Bay last night...waiting for your hangings and songs!!

DONNA STORMY weather huh...bummer for the trees! I don't know how you folks live in those places..a little earthquake now and then is all we get here. Hot and humid weather awaits us in a few weeks when we go to Virginia...can't wait :( Glad to see you are doing better, walking with your friend should help get you "TOTALLY" motivated again.

SAMI Sorry about your foot..hope it is much better now! Congrats to Jessi for her acomplishments..you PROUD mom!! Take care of that BIG heart!!

MICHELE Can't beat that price on the gym! Take advantage of it!! How did the Alpha meeting go? John...?

SUE WO-WO-WO-WO..What do you mean the 24th to the 17th? We can't go then cause I have to leave for Virginia on the 3rd. Guess you will have to go without me..unless....Still hoot and humid I see from watching the news on Reagan. Enjoy your trip dear!! How are those youth gonna make it without you?

WILMA What do you mean you don't do anything dear? Going to Costco for us is a MAJOR event!! Not too many years ago Angie and I would spend Sunday's after church going to the grocery store and fruit and veggie store..it was our way to get away from the kids and be alone for a few hours...now the kids just come and go but are rarely here at the same time, even though we added my nephew to the mix.

SPROUT, JUDY (where are you?), MCKENNA and BETH...come visit.

Well gotta get going...daughter coming soon to paint the fence...the back fence we had put in a few weeks ago, and a couple of the new gates..need to get back from Home Depot fast...like that ever happens.

ENJOY YOUR FAMILIES!! Gary

Information on Chromium Picolinate
 

Thought you all would like this info - by the way I am doing not so bad - finally getting some help with son - beginning the process of diagnosing and then going from there to get him (and us) the help he will need to survive well as an adult. Need patience to get through all of this - and not turn to food in the process.

Here is this article:

Chromium Picolinate is sometimes promoted as products that have the ability to even out levels of sugar in the blood while enhancing the body’s fat burning metabolism. Some research studies have shown that additional chromium in a person’s diet may help to normalize sugar levels in diabetics, but not in everyone. It is an ideal supplement for more mature adults as the body absorbs less chromium as we age.

Chromium Picolinate is a dietary supplement that may be helpful in suppressing appetites and cravings. Additionally, it has been shown to build muscle and trim fat simultaneously. If taken with exercise and as part of a calorie controlled diet, the results can be outstanding.

Research conducted on overweight volunteers given Chromium Picolinate for 72 days, but following no particular diet or exercise regime, were shown to have lost an average of just over 4 pounds of fat while also gaining 1.4 pounds of lean muscle. Therefore, for anyone wishing to lose weight, adding the recommended dosage of Chromium Picolinate can aid in weight loss and lead to desirable results.

Dosage should not exceed 1200 micrograms (mcg) per day as this may result in liver and kidney problems. Pregnant or breast feeding women should avoid Chromium Picolinate.

Hi everyone!
 

I've had a busy day today. DH and I went out for awhile in the a.m. and I am now finally getting some baking done. Rhubarb pecan muffins are baking and the smell is driving me crazy. I have cookie dough ready too. We'll see if there's time enough to bake that too. My family won't know what that smell is when they come in the house - it's been so long since they've smelt it. :lol:

Tonight DH and I are going out to The Keg for dinner. We are celebrating my 45th birthday. I told him not to get me a gift because I want to continue going to Curves. He bought me my membership for my BD last year. My guys are both busy working so it'll be just DH and I and I like it that way!!

I feel like I have my eating under control and hope to be able to share some more results with you on Wednesday. It's amazing how just knowing that you're doing well helps with your mood and desire to carry on.

Timer just went. Gotta go! Have a super weekend!

[COLOR=Lime] :( Hello everybody! Haven't been doing too well the last few days - VERY sore back (lower back). I don't know if it's due to cheap shoes, new exercise video, old mattress, or a combo of all these things. All I DO know is that it hurts!! Bought a pair of New Balance sneaks and new box spring and mattress all in the last day, so hopefully those things and some prayer, Motrin, and Ben Gay (I feel so old!) will turn things around. Obviously I haven't been able to exercise :mad: so that is bugging me too. When the Motrin kicks in and I can sit for a while I've been reading The Purpose Driven Life and Dr. Phil, so the sitting time is well spent. Yes, I feel very discouraged :( ! I know God wants me to succeed in all things, not just losing weight, but right now He seems far away. I guess that's why I ate that Whopper for supper tonight :devil: ! Oh well... My husband is still sniffling, but feeling a little better. Thank you all for your prayers :) . My little guy is having an asthma flare-up and could use some prayers too. He is taking SUCH good care of me since my back has been aching, and my older one even vacuumed for me today!!! Gee, maybe God isn't as far away as I thought :lol: ! God bless you all for being here; reading all the posts cheers me up!
McKenna

Dieters devotions for June 13, 2004
 

June 13


Revelation 21:3
And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, 'Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.'


Indeed, there is strength in numbers. When we stand alone, we are very vulnerable, and it is easy to give in to trial and temptation. When we stand with others who can relate to our situation, we find a special strength that allows us to cope. Our Lord put us on earth to live together; to draw upon the strength that comes through fellowship. We have fellowship with one another and with God. He is with us wherever we may be. By His presence, He turns our weakness into strength and helps us hang on through the tough times.
Today's thought: God makes my hopes reality!

Good Afternoon!
 

McKenna-
Ouch about the back. The walk away the pounds video and just walking outside tends to hurt my lower back as well. Wow...I'm just not that strong right now. Prayers for healing just went your way.

At a birthday party/life team last night, my Gary is so verbal about my weight loss. He's proud of me and I am thankful for his 100% support. He even eats the recipes that don't turn out so well.

One of my friends struggles with the whole weight/food issue as well and asked what was different this time (7 weeks). All I could say is that is was the grace of God. Never have I been able to be this determined about changing my eating habits. I told her I must've let something at the foot of the cross that I didn't even think was holding be back. I no longer live to eat but eat to live. Of course my cold has wiped away any appetite this week. But I have a sense of strength that I never had before. Anyway...enough said.

I found a dress yesterday, shoes and jewelry all for a grand total of $61.00. Praise God! I'm a cheap date...really.

At church today, the message was all about busyness and how to just be still and know that I am God. How to really listen to God, making time and a place and a consistent time for Him and to prioritize and to make changes in our lives. One of my goals when we're down south next week is to relax, take time out alone in the solitude and listen to God's voice as how to arrange my time/life here at home and then come back and apply it.

Well, I am going to go and pick up around the house and take a drive to the hobby store. Catch ya'll later.

Mary

1-went to church
2-son, nephew and I tore down the patio--have had it since 1980 and need new one. Alot of work--beat.
3-Son has friends over--going to watch my Lakers--hope they can finally win one.

Enjoy your evening--later, gary

The Daffodil Garden (June 14/04)
 

Several times my daughter had telephoned to say, "Mother, you must come
see the daffodils before they are over." I wanted to go, but it was a
two-hour drive from Laguna to Lake Arrowhead. "I will come next
Tuesday", I promised, a little reluctantly, on her third call.

Next Tuesday dawned cold and rainy. Still, I had promised, and so I
drove there. When I finally walked into Carolyn's house and hugged and
greeted my grandchildren, I said, "Forget the daffodils, Carolyn! The
road is invisible in the clouds and fog, and there is nothing in the
world except you and these children that I want to see bad enough to
drive another inch!"

My daughter smiled calmly and said, "We drive in this all the time,
Mother."

"Well, you won't get me back on the road until it clears, and then I'm
heading for home!" I assured her.

"I was hoping you'd take me over to the garage to pick up my car."

"How far will we have to drive?" "Just a few blocks," Carolyn said.
"I'll drive. I'm used to this." After several minutes, I had to ask,
"Where are we going? This isn't the way to the garage!"

"We're going to my garage the long way," Carolyn smiled, "by way of the
daffodils." "Carolyn," I said sternly, "please turn around."

"It's all right, Mother, I promise. You will never forgive yourself if
you miss this experience."

After about twenty minutes, we turned onto a small gravel road and I
saw a small church. On the far side of the church, I saw a hand lettered
sign that read, "Daffodil Garden."

We got out of the car and each took a child's hand, and I followed
Carolyn down the path. Then, we turned a corner of the path, and I
looked up and gasped. Before me lay the most glorious sight. It looked
as though someone had taken a great vat of gold and poured it down over
the mountain peak and slopes. Th e flowers were planted in majestic,
swirling patterns-great ribbons and swaths of deep orange, white, lemon
yellow, salmon pink, saffron, and butter yellow.

Each different-colored variety was planted as a group so that it
swirled and flowed like its own river with its own unique hue. There
were five acres of flowers.

"But who has done this?" I asked Carolyn.

"It's just one woman," Carolyn answered. "She lives on the property.

That's her home." Carolyn pointed to a well kept A-frame house that
looked small and modest in the midst of all that glory. We walked up to
the house.

On the patio, we saw a poster. "Answers to the Questions I Know You are
asking" was the headline.

The first answer was a simple one. "50,000 bulbs," it read.

The second answer was, "One at a time, by one woman. Two hands, two
feet, and very little brain." The third answer was, "Began in 1958."

There it was, The Daffodil Principle.

For me, that moment was a life-changing experience.

I thought of this woman whom I had never met, who, more than forty
years before, had begun-one bulb at a time-to bring her vision of beauty
and joy to an obscure mountaintop. Still, just planting one bulb at a
time, year after year, had changed the world. This unknown woman had
forever changed the world in which she lived. She had created something
of ineffable (indescribable) magnificence, beauty, and inspiration.

The principle her daffodil garden taught is one of the greatest
principles of celebration. That is, learning to move toward our goals
and desires one step at a time--often just one baby-step at a time--and
learning to love the doing, learning to use the accumulation of time.

When we multiply tiny pieces of time with small increments of daily
effort, we too will find we can accomplish magnificent things. We can
change the world.

"It makes me sad in a way," I admitted to Carolyn.

"W hat might I have accomplished if I had thought of a wonderful goal
thirty-five or forty years ago and had worked away at it 'one bulb at a
time' through all those years? Just think what I might have been able to
achieve!"

My daughter summed up the message of the day in her usual direct way.
"Start tomorrow," she said. It's so pointless to think of the lost hours
of yesterdays. The way to make learning a lesson of celebration instead
of a cause for regret is to only ask, "How can I put this to use
today?"

So, stop waiting...

Until your car or home is paid off

Until you get a new car or home

Until your kids leave the house

Until you go back to school

Until you finish school

Until you lose 10 lbs.

Until you gain 10 lbs.

Until you get married

Until you get a divorce

Until you have kids

Until you retire

Until summer

Until spring

Until winter

Until fall

Until you die

There is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a
journey, not a destination. So work like you don't need money, Love like
you've never been hurt, and, dance like no one's watching.

Dieters devotions for June 14, 2004
 

June 14


1 Thessalonians 5:8
But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.


In battle, the helmet is one of the most important protections. Head wounds can be fatal, and so the helmet must be strong. No soldier would think of entering the fray without proper head protection. Thessalonians says that our Christian helmet is the hope of salvation. Christ gives us that helmet. Through the hope we have in Christ, we are protected and prepared to meet the challenges of our lives. Dieting is just one of those challenges, and without hope of success and completion, we are ill-equipped to meet that challenge. The greater our hope, the better our chance to lose weight.
Today's thought: Lord, give me a helmet which covers my mouth, too!

Hello I have been so busy!!!! More with work than anything. Now I have to go to a new store that hasn't open and be support help. I don't mind going but it is the way my boss told me I had to go that bothers me. I was taking today off as a personal day and he told me I HAD to go! The thing is I have to go again in two weeks for the whole week. and while I am there who is doing my job? NO ONE!

Angel lover-I am so sorry to see it is still so stressful. Someday you will look back and see that God has blessed you but you just need to get through NOW. I know from 1985-1987 we went through a lot I lost my father,brother.grandmother,sister my cousin and while we were at my cousins funeral my moms house burned down. We almost lost our house and was really deep in dept. But slowly God blessed us and little by little I realized the blessing of Gods plans. If my Father had not died first my brother would have never turned to God (before that he always said there was no God) and if my Mom's house had not burned down when it did she is such a deep sleeper that if it happen when she was asleep she would have died in the fire. And the house was very depressing because she had all the things that belong to my dad and sister just like it was when they died. and on and on. Trust that God is blessing you even if you don't see it now. a great big ((((HUG)))) for you I understand it is hard to deal with as you are going through it.

MKay-I hope you can post pictures I love to look at others crafts. My SIL makes jewlery and I love the crystals!

Donna-I hope you can save your plant! We have had a lot of rain here also. I am having trouble getting back in the swing of things since I have been sick. I got some of the bloodwork back and it was boarderline. I am going to have to get going on the diet and up my workouts.

Sprout-thanks for the saying. I enjoy them.

McKenna-I am praying things start going better for you. I know the feeling I keep telling myself it took awhile to get where I am at and it will be awhile to loss!

Wilma-I wish I lived close so I could come and eat!!!!!

EZ-How did the dogs do in doggie school? Glad you are able to still stop in and post even though you are so busy.

Got to run and go to the other store!!!!! I am sorry if I missed anyone.

Hi!
 

Angel- Sorry to hear things are going so badly, there is no easy answer as to why, except to say there is a purpose, It is easy to say God will never give us more than we can handle, but sometimes we are darn close or so it seems. All I know is there must be a good reason and we may never know. So, in the mean time I will keep you and your family in my prayers, and try to remember God will take care of you.
McKenna- sorry things are rough for you as well, God trully is right there, talk to Him, it always makes me feel better, What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer. He knows our every weakness! I love this old hymn.
Sami- Sorry to hear about your foot, hope your soon feeling much better, DD graduating into high school wow all growed up!
Sunny- Weather is crazy went from 93 degrees to freezing where you had to scrape windows and cover plants, bible says things will get crazy weather wise, before the Lored comes I think were getting there. Glad to hear your feeling better!
Mitchy- Cool price on the gym, soundsgreat- My dad plants clewmatis reminds me of morning glorys- very pretty.
M-kay- Making your own jewlery sounds neat, make nice presents
EZ- Busy, Busy, Busy Guess we'll have to pack lighter if your not going to be there to lug our bags- ha ha, hope you have a great time in Virginia. My youth group is going on a mission's trip a week after I get back from Alaska. We are going to S. Jersey they are so exciting, they have been practicing their skits and sons, they do a great job.
Wilma- Yum... I smell something cooking- must be coming through the wires, nothing smells better than baking goodies, do you send samples? :lol: Happy Belated Birthday! pray your day was great

Hi Sami-
 

You posted while I was, you said it! He knows why and there is always a reason! Pray things go better at work, and your boss relizes what a great employee you are! Have a great day! How is the foot, Any better?
Gotta run, trying to get outfits together for vacation. See ya !

HAPPY (late) BIRTHDAY TO WILMA
 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILMA!!!!!!

I am such an airhead!!! When I posted previous I was going to wish it...but with my old age...5 older than you...older but wiser?..........HA! not even. Well, anyway I "FORGOT" ...sorry. :balloons: :dance: :hat: :cp: :hb: :hb: :hb: :bravo: :hb: :bravo: :cb: :gift: :gift: :gift: :gift: :gift: :dance: :dancer:

Forgive me? :^:

Hello All!
 

Angel-
God turns bad into good for those who love Him. When I look back at my 5.5 year marriage to Gary (DH), the first time we separated and I returned home, I got saved...and it's been not so easy since until...I finally let go of Gary...and gave him to God to deal with AND learned to KEEP MY MOUTH SHUT...I don't need to win all the battles. Yes, you probably feel like Job right now...fire/rain...it's all just stuff...with wings to fly away. As you mop up, thank God that it's just wet and not burned this time and remember...it's not about you...it's about being faithful to God and KNOWING He has a plan.

If I were there...I'd be there to help you clean up the mess and we would have fun doing so. So...get tired, get silly with DH, don't forget to hug him and thank him for being there with you and remember everyone here is praying for you.

Heal our hearts oh God...turn our mourning into dancing our tears into laughter for we know our future hold eternity!

Gotta get back to work...our GIS mapping works only when "it" wants to work and I need to see if it's going to let me work today.

Bye All,
mary

Dieters devotions for June 15, 2004
 

June 15


Romans 5:1-2
. . .Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.


Some days we just need to stop and congratulate ourselves on how far we've come. Perhaps there aren't a lot of outward signs of our diet yet. Perhaps we aren't even close to where we hope to be. Perhaps we still have a long way to go. That's okay. Sometimes we need to rejoice in the progress we've made in order to have the energy to keep on going. The Lord created in six days, and on the seventh He rested. In every endeavor, especially the difficult ones, we need a break to sit back and enjoy what we've done so far. Even if the beginnings are humble, we can feel good that we are devoted to doing something good for ourselves.
Today's thought: I'm better than I was yesterday, and I can't wait until tomorrow!

An Hour to Go!
 

Mitchypoo-
You could mention meeting him at the movies so it doesn't seem so much like you're asking him out. OR, could you ask him if he'd like to go for a walk? Lunch? Boy, it's hard when you just want to do something with someone without them "thinking" anything (are you "thinking" anything?).

Another way is to tell him you're cooking a new recipe and if he'd want to try it with you. Never mind...that one's dumb. Bike ride?

Well...it's the countdown to Rachel's wedding. I'm not nervous, just bland...I almost think I'm excited that I have vacation the week after. Isn't that awful? I'm going to go on this vacation with a huge open mind of adventure. Gary's dream is to live in AR on our 20 acres. I nervous about the tics and chiggers; it's all wooded. He even borrowed a 4-wheeler so I could join him as he drives his 3-wheeler. I will NOT be a baby about anything (bugs especially). I want to be his companion and champion while we are gone.

Sunny...where in the heck are you?

EZ- Our puppy (2yrs old) is going with us. Nikki is 80 lbs now and she is a love (yellow lab).


Angel, are you doing ok? I can't imagine going through all that and the hard work that is involved. My daughter's apt burned 1.5 years ago and just seeing all her belongings burn and that she did work hard for the little she had was heart sickening. Fortunately, she had renters ins and so did the people who caused the fire. She made out quite well in the end, but still, it's devastating.

Thanks again for everyone on this site/thread/forum/subscription/whatever...I'm really glad to have found you.

mary

Well Mkay, I am thinking something but only if it's reciprocal. I'm not sure he's ready to date or interested, but in the mean time i'm enjoying getting to know him and spending time with him. It's a waiting game. It's odd, cuz i wouldn't mind dating him, but i'd rather just spend time with him, unless he wants to date. I think that's a great idea about meeting him wherever. Or i could just say, hey, i'm going to the 7:30 show of Shrek, meet me there if you want....something like that ;).

Ending out the Day
 

Mitchypoo-
Well Mkay, I am thinking something but only if it's reciprocal. I understand the "only if it's reciprocal." It can be tons of fun "getting to know" someone and just hanging out. The waiting game can be mind boggling :dizzy:

I'm liking the idea of what you said about hey, I'm going to Shrek... but if he didn't show...you may feel it. You could also call and say I'm going to the book store to browse...want to come along? It's hard I know. Fun though. ;)

Well, I just bought the silk flowers for the table decorations and I best be doin those cuz Saturday is just around the corner.

Hugs to you all!

Tuesday
 

OUCH!! My LAKERS just got rocked by the PISTONS...not a good end for the basketball season for me..I must say they deserved to lose..arogant! Didn't even finish watching the game, it was so bad..went with Angie for a 2 miler with RYLEE and REBA...exciting...trash day tomorrow so with all the cans out REBA can and will do anything from bolting by them or refusing to go by them...big chicken!

SAMI, MICHELE, SUE and MKAY...good to see to posting...missing a few...

ANGEL-LOVER CHARLOTTE Having a pity party are ya? Gee, don't we all from time to time....makes me think of my mom, when I was younger, and would complain about not having something...she say "did I ever tell you the story of the man who complained he had no shoes..until he met a man that had no feet!" ouch....
So you have a wet house...you got a house, so the laundry got wet...you got clothes...so on and so on...
I understand what you mean too about having more when you got married than now....join the club..a divorce, business failure etc... I have lived in my home since 1979...paid it off a few times...owe twice as much as when I bought it...fortunately for me it is 6 times worth what I paid for it....
You know God gives us all our blessings...sin and free will harms us...He gets us through it...you know all this..
Sometimes I too, (no grandkids yet...bummer) get frustrated...I raised my kids..now I have a 13 year old nephew...sometimes he really gets on my nerves..but then days like this when he was a big help to me in the afternoon and entertained me by singing that new song...REDNECK GIRl...I feel so blessed to have been given him from our Lord.
Pretty sure that you don't REALLY have less now than when you first got married...I have seen your website, read you posts....you are giving so much back to others...from what you have been given...OH, you were thinking of material things....sounding more and more like me dear.
How much can you take? not sure but I do know God is with you..He is not harming you...Maytag, lawyers, etc may be but not Him. You know that! But that is why we are here...for you and all of us to vent our frustrations! You certainly have alot on your plate..I will say. GOD BLESS YOU!! ah, He already is..YOU KNOW THAT!! I don't need to tell you ;)

Off to bed...hope all my friends are OK!!!! You know who you are!!!!

Wednesday A.M.
 

Oh My Goodnight! I "thought" I bought enough flowers for the table rings but whoa is me...I may have to take 1/2 day vacation and get back to the store...buy some more and get busy. I only assembled 5 rings last night. :fr:

Ok, now that I got that off my mind...EZ...Whew!!! You said alot and with great wisdom. Boy oh boy, knowing the down times. Gary's business $$$ just went bankrupt...personal bankrupt...house??? Yeah...mortgaged not for what I thought I'd ever do. BUT...our sins caught up with us and now there is a price. We STILL have our Lord who will see us through our down times. I still have my job...Gary is reorganizing and renaming his business and prayfully, will do things different. We are much better together than we were 5 years ago. Whatever...I'm happy to be right where I am today...one foot in yesterday and one in tomorrow will crap all over today. AND...my dad used to say the same saying to us about the man who had no feet. I even did it in calligraphy and framed it.

Ok everyone...wake up...I going to go get a cup of java. :coffee:

Bye for now!

Mkay....thanks for caring & the kind words. You are a real asset to this thread....Always know the right things to say, & I feel that you care. Yes, I'm ok. I guess I need to wait until I'm not so frustrated to post. ;) Sounds like you've had some bad times, also. Remember, though, it's not ALWAYS because of our sins. The Bible tells us it's going to rain on the JUST & the UNJUST alike.
Well, it's a very rainy week. DH is loaded in work, so he can't do anything about the roof right now. He went without work for a couple of months. Since we live from pay check to pay check, he needs to stay on the job. I just keep mopping up (not suppose to be mopping! ouch!) Happy about the work, though. :) Anyway, the ceiling is ruined now in the bathroom & it's the only room in the house that only sustained smoke damage in the fire....we had just remodeled it. We'll just replace it when we replace the rest of the house.Oh well...when all the company leaves Friday....I'm just going to wade through the water when it rains...& go on. :lol: Wish you WERE here with me...not to help me clean....wouldn't do any good. :lol: But, we WOULD have fun!

Mitchypoo....thank you, also. You're so sweet. We had a nice dinner out for our anniversary. Managers at the TV station sent us out as a gift from them. :) DH gave me the ultimate compliment. Said if he had it to do over....HE WOULD...& with ME!
I hope things work out with John. I know it makes you want to be very cautious, after the other experiences. I'm not going to give advice, just say I'll pray for you. You've shown to have a very good head on your shoulders.

Gary...You're right...I'm blessed. All of my children & grands are healthy & that, alone is worth more than any house.
Sorry for the "pity party". We DO have a lot on our plate...more than I told all of you. I usually just post my frustrations in "notepad" & erase....as I'm praying. I'm the type to need to talk things out, when I'm troubled. I don't have anyone in my life to do that with. My closest friend is the station manager & she has helped me a lot. But, she's the type to turn the conversation into her problems. She loves to be miserable about something all of the time. I'm thinking one of the reasons the Lord has me at the station is to help her. He gives us BIG jobs, sometimes. :^: My personality is/or was, bubbly & up. Without anyone to talk to, I'm afraid I may be changing, & I don't want to do that. Just thought I'd vent a little to my friends, here. That's enough about "myself"....just pray for us....DH is also getting discouraged...& he never worries about ANYTHING.
Oh....the puppy is getting better!!! I didn't say he was OK, yet, remember. :lol: I enjoy your posts & pics of your pets & family adventures.

Do it for me....thank you for the encouraging words...& prayers. Yes, I wonder sometimes about the load. When I pray....I remind the Lord of His promise. :^: At least this all is happening after my last treatment had time to "kick in"...that's a great help!

Wilma...belated "HAPPY BIRTHDAY"! I hope it was a great one! :balloons: (my graphic site is down....sorry.)

Sami...thanks so much. :) I suppose I just needed a little lift. Know what? The sun just came out! It's beautiful! :sunny:

Sprout...you reminded me...this is a diet forum! :D I'm just trying to maintain now, after losing my weight last summer. (although I could stand to lose a little more.) So....I mostly read about the other things.
I realize that's selfish of me...although, most days my time is short. I want to congratulate EVERYONE for your tremendous EFFORT & SUCCESS!
You're devotions are so inspiring....thank you for making the efforts to bless our days!

Sherry...I'm REALLYmissing you! :wave:

SunnyD & everyone else....have a good day! :grouphug:

Dieters devotions for June 16, 2004
 

June 16


Hebrews 6:18-19
That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil.


When waters get choppy and the foul weather blows in, those who sail know enough to drop anchor so they won't be capsized or dashed onto the rocks. We can learn a lesson from that. As we fight to lose weight, we may find the weather a little foul and the waters a little choppy. Thank God that He is our anchor in all situations of stress and turmoil. If we remember to place our hopes in Him, He will protect us from the temptations and desires that threaten to sink our diets. Call upon the Lord, and He will answer you, and you will be saved.
Today's thought: God makes me immovable in my determination to lose weight!

*Wilma*