Christian Encouragers #169
 

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Blessing today! My Head Boss Suprized me today with a nice card and starbucks gift card! Just to say Thank you for all that I do! I had a big meeting today to talk to the schools and parents of speical needs kids. I talk about employing speical needs kids. And what the challenges were. It turned out to be a really rewarding meeting. Please keep praying for my DD that she is able to find a job soon.

Doitforme-Wow I love the poam!
Sue-My Prayers are with your mother and you. Keep us posted.
Lilmose-A big welcome! Did you use a diffrent name before? I married young and We have been through a lot (with 6 kids who wouldn't) And I know with all my heart that God has seen use through it all. I will keep you in my prayers. With God all things are possible. I married in high School Finished school and have even had some college (I think I will go back and finish next year) We started our family two years later and we have been married for 22 years! We are here for you!
Zoe-Praise God for answered prayers!
Michele-I will pray that Gods will be done with your WA guy! I know God has someone speical for you. You are such a kind and wonderful person that I know there is someone speical out there for you! (I will pray that God hurrys a little bit)
Sherry-You have your hands full. My DD just brought in a new boxer puppy. I can't help my heart melting over him he is so cute even though I end up babysitting almost every night!
Wilma-Wow this school year went fast! I remember the post when your sons left! Enjoy them the summer will pass fast!
EZ-I am doing a work out program that my neuroligist put me on I will start slow and then build up to it. Just reading your post makes me tired!lol

May the Lord Bless and keep you in his care!
Sami

Sami~Thank you and I am with you, I pray all the time for Him to hurry up. I feel i've been alone long enough! But I also pray to accept God's will..........and His timing! :)

What a nice boss you have and I am sure you deserved it too!

TGIF
 

HOWDY LOOOOSERS :cp:
Give yourselves a big pat on the back for all the hard work you have done this week:yes: and what the heck-- give yourself one if you took it a little easier than you should have-- I certainly did.

Well, I got my 35 minutes in on the cross trainer yesterday- watched a little of the price is right while I did it to pass the time. I wasn't able to do the plaster work on my house because the caulking I put in the day before was still wet-- will try again today. Went with the wife to my step-D's freshman softball game, they won and she had a hit and a couple of walks-- it was a very warm afternoon-- t-shirt and shorts :flow1: Spring is in the air here-- this week anyway.

Ended up making BBQ chicken breasts in the crock-pot yesterday for sandwiches-- it fell through the day before, I BBQed the breasts on the grill and was going to put them on rolls with turkey bacon and bbq sauce--HOWEVER-- my wife changed the plan at the last minute when she got home and her and my son had raspberry chipotle on their chicken with salad and watermelon. Tonight my wife is cooking greek meatballs with mint and rice etc. We have 3 girls from college stopping by on the way to a tennis tournament-- should be fun.

Went by and saw my mom yesterday- She is 66 and hasn't been very healthy in 20 years-- smoking and drinking took their tool on her-- a mis-diagnosed thyroid condition didn't help either-- add a bad heart and we just thank God she is still with us!! She wants to go to Illinois this summer for 6 months to see her ailing mom-- I hope they both live that long to be honest. Prayers needed here- thank-you.

SAMI-- STARBUCKS (((WOW))) my wife would die for that!! I like it too but I drink soooo much coffee that it kills me to pay what they want for a cup-- I do though and enjoy it-- we have a Starbucks less than a mile from my house:cb: I will continue prayers for your DD's job situation. Great work on the special needs kids. Good to hear from you.



ZOE-- What is it girl-- nothing to say? Glad to see you checking in at least!!:yes:

WILMA-- How are you feeling? Ready for the company this week-end? You seem to be quite the entertainer.

SHERRY Those names for the babies sure are cute-- have fun with all the little ones-- yours too-- this wee-end. Weed that garden;)

MICHELE How is it going today dear? A few days off from school will help!! Are you able to work out at the gym now or just work? Hope all is still well and good with that WA. fellow;)

doitforme--danceforjoy-lilmoose I hope this post finds you all as well as you can be with your pastor, church, husband, mom, etc.
SAMI said my posts make her tired---SORRY-- I just get a little--O.K. ALOT WINDED when I am not working during the day-- believe me girls my wife knows the

feeling:lol: :lol: :lol: :yes: :yes: :yes:

Well I am outta here-- my son just woke up so I can work on the sliding glass door in his room--

IN HIS PEACE- Gary

Blessing to all! Today went pretty well. I am looking forward to this weekend my DS has Prom! My neice works at a tux shop so we got his tux FREE!!!!! I am doing a scrapbook of things he did in school or speical cards ect........ I have a scrapbook of speical days that is on going but the school on is what I give them for graduation. My DD loved hers and we displayed it at her open house it was such a big hit. My DS isn't sure what he wants to do. He has expressed an intrest in being a pastor but then changed his mind and now is changing it back. I think I am going to have him take a class or two here and do some soul serching because to college he would go to to be a pastor is geared toward being a pastor or teacher and if he isn't sure what he wants to be that I don't want him to spend the money then change his mind. Plus the fact that my son has not taken his SAT yet! I am back on the wagon. Please pray that I will make it this time. I don't want to be fat for my DD wedding. EZ I hope you know that reading about your busy life makes me tired (I just wander how you do it) But I love your uplifting Posts~! Michele my DD is wondering when God is going to show his will for her life to (for a job) It just looks like God is teaching us Patience! (that is not one of my strengths either) I will pray for God to maybe push it along a LITTLE faster............LOL

Prayers are with you all!
Sami

UPLIFTING WORDS
 

"OPEN HANDS SHOULD CHARACTERIZE THE SOUL'S ATTITUDE TOWARDS GOD----OPEN TO RECEIVE WHAT HE WANTS TO GIVE, OPEN TO GIVE BACK WHAT HE WANTS TO TAKE"

I read this in my current issue of Guideposts magazine-- I thought you all might enjoy it.

I will try harder to open my hands to receive and give back the things you will for me dear Lord, in Jesus name I pray.

Have a great week-end ladies, Gary

SATURDAY
 

ARE YOU OUT BURNIN' THOSE CALORIES LADIES? ;)

I can talk "BIG" since I have done the cross-trainer for a whopping 4 straight days now for 35 minutes each day-- it takes me that long on it to get to the 3 1/2 mile mark and the 400 calories I try for ( I know the calorie count is probably not accurate but it does give me a guide to shoot for).
HOW ABOUT IT--- IF YOU AREN'T ALREADY DOING AT LEAST A HALF HOUR A DAY OF EXERCISE, WHY DON'T YOU JOIN ME AND TRYING JUST A HALF HOUR A DAY THROUGH THE SPRING--- :)
The girls came by on their way to the tennis tournament last night--my wife made her greek meatballs and rice, greek salad and rolls-- very good. I finally got a night off from cooking this week-- HEY, WAIT A MINUTE--I didn't really work all week so I guess no one will feel sorry for me:lol:
I plastered around my slider yesterday and it came out very well, now I need to paint it and then blast it with the hose and see if it still leaks...
My wife is out for her Saturday morning run/jog/walk of 3+ miles. My son left the house at 5:30 to head to his track meet and she left at 6 to take her run--- me-- well I burned off the cals reading the paper!! HEY-- watch your smart mouths now-- I HAVE TWO PAPERS:lol:

SAMI--- O.K. dear, here is the deal--- YOU have to join me in the exercise even if no one else is--HELLO--WEDDING---there is no wagon to get on or off from, from now on-- LIFESTYLE CHANGE-- the wedding will be the first goal at seeing some success.
Now as far as that boy-- God will lead him-- right idea if he is not quite ready to step out-- get him in a community college for a couple of years and then transfer when ready-- there is plenty of college that can be done before the decision needs to be made to be in the ministry or not. No hurry--Patience.
My wife did a Creative Memories scrapbook for my son and daughter for their high school sports-- it was an awesome gift-- your kids sure will enjoy it for their entire lives!!
Your DD is still in my prayers for the right job to come around-- it is tough across the states right now-- there is always the rollercoaster ride of the economy-- one thing for sure in AMERICA though is that it will always get better--ALWAYS.
LET's go Sami-- I know it sounds trite but it is true-- ONE DAY AT A TIME---- OHHHH Baby it is going to be a great wedding!!!!!!!!!

Have fun this week-end ladies.... all of you who are having troubles at the moment know where to give them..

Give those kids a ((((HUG)))) for me!! ((((HUG))) those hubby's for yourselves;)

IN HIS HANDS FOREVER-- Gary

SATURDAY NIGHT
 

WHERE IS EVERYONE?

Well I got off the cross-trainer an hour ago, stretched and took a shower. I did 3.5 miles and 31 minutes, 400 calories. It changes a little with my speed, I wasn't going to do it today as I am a little tight but my personal complainer--errr, my personal trainer-- my wife shamed me into it---- you think she would take it easy on me since I dug up two bushes and transplanted them today while she pruned her roses. She went with me to Home Depot to look at paint samples-- if she doesn't paint something every 3-4 months she goes nuts!! She is making tortilla soup and quesidillas now-- she asked me if I wanted 1 or 2 and I told her 3 or 4--- she is still laughing and it has been at least 5 minutes.

Well dinner is ready-- gotta go-- Gary

Good Sunday Morning, Happy Lord's Day ~

It's about 5 minutes until I have to leave for church and I just wanted to stop in and say hello to y'all. I know I haven't been here much but if it's not one thing, it's another. First, I'm too stressed to be here due to not knowing what was happening with my tests ~ then, after I find that all is well, I'm so busy with all the stuff that I couldn't set my mind to do while I was stressed. What a cycle. :lol:

Gary ~ I too am POOPED just listening to ya. haha. Keep up that good work with the exercise. I'm hoping for my "want of it" to kick in any time now. :rolleyes:

Have a wonderful blessed day.

Zoe <><

Not getting emails?
 

SUNDAY NIGHT
 

HI LOOOOOOSERS ;)

Well my day went fairly well-- my LAKERS won in a close game against the T-WOLVES so that was good-- although they aren't looking like they will repeat as champions this year-- we shall see. Went to early church and sold tickets for our Cinco de Mayo Manana party next Sunday after, came home for a couple of hours and did my 35 min. 3.5 miles on the cross-trainer--- then went back after the second service and sold more tickets. Came home and been watching basketball ever since-- this makes my wife sooooo happy:lol: Actually most the time it is O.K. for me to watch the Lakers and my college teams-- it is when I start watching EVERY game in the playoffs with teams I don't even like that is the problem-- today it was ok as she was busy making invitations for her future sil bridal shower.
We rented the WINDTALKERS last night---WOW! if you haven't seen it, and can handle battle scenes, go get it-- what a debt we owe the Navajo men who gave their lives for our nation too.

ZOE-- Hey I always thought it was " if it's not one thing- it's your mother!":D Great job on getting through all that stress---NOW turn that energy into something functional--- stress takes energy that we can always use somewhere else-- easier said than done of course!!!!!! Glad to see you taking charge again-- remember not very long ago YOU were our rock girl:strong: :yes:

MICHELE-- Dinner is ready:) Glad to see some positve movement on the Washington front. My wife cannot live without chriopratic help every week or two-- an injury from her past, it really helps her out-- me... I am a little skeptical of them-- goes back to old wives tales. Staying away from "white foods" is not such a bad idea-- however--- and I really mean this from the bottom of my heart--- I really think the only diet that works all the time is a healthy eating lifestyle-- I have seen so many people lose on a diet only to gain it all back--- different reasons-- sometimes it is just too hard to follow a diet-- I know there are many out there that will disagree-- I also say whatever works for you is what you should do. I have seen much more success that STAYS though on those that have healthy eating habits and moderate exercise on a daily basis.
Try to get ready for that walk-- 17 miles is a long way-- stay healthy. As far as caffeine, I'm am not sure why you are giving it up, but I also feel a cup or two in the morning is not harmful-- I of course drink way more than that-- this is not good! I have tried to put mustard on most everything that I used to put mayo on-- we switched to low-fat mayo and didn't care for it-- we switched back to regular when we started just using it on BLT's pretty much. I really like the different flavors of mustard they have-- dijon, honey, sweet onion, etc.

Well the wife called for dinner again-- chicken and rice.

IN HIS CARE-- Gary

P.S. My wife wanted me to post my picture-- she wants ya all to see what I really look like lol.

Ez your on. My neurologist gave me some exercise to do everyday so I am going to start off with them and work my way up. I also made sure we had healthy foods to eat everyday. One of our down falls is that we eat a lot of quick frozen types of foods because we are always in a hurry. But those foods are highter in fat and salt. I feel that what you said and Michele is right I know what I should do and with all my health problems I need to JUST DO IT! Thank you for all your prayers for my DD. She has an interview Monday so I am praying it works out. I also want to ask for prayer for my friend Cindy I called her Sat and I am sad to say she isn't doing well She has Lupus and so does her DD. She is in a lot of Pain. We had a long talk and both of us have reached the point that I can't live like this anymore. But what can I do about it? It is so hard to live with pain everyday of your life. I use to go in remission and that gave me strenght to struggle through the bad times but it has been a long.......... time since I have felt well. And my dear friend is a lot worse than I am. I think it made both of us feel a little better to talk to someone who understands. Thank all of you for your prayers I am going back to posting more often because you keep me going. I was supprised today when I relized I have lost 10 lbs (I think it is because everything hurts my stomach) but for what ever reason I'll take it!
My the Lord bless you!
Sami

JUST CHECKING IN WITH SAMI
 

SAMI---
Oh my goodness girl you sound soooo down-- boy are you in the right place-- we are here to help the best we can.

First of all--GREAT JOB :cb: :yes: on changing your eating habits-- I know that I yap all the time about it-- only from my own personal fast food downfall before I re-married do I feel I can though. Fast food or fast frozen food becomes a habit just like everything else-- my wife worked with me-- I was a kickin' and a screamin' all the way though---- I became a fast food addict after my ex left, with my kids involved in sports, dance and both in scouts, it seemed all I had time for was to run them around and stop and get fast food--- it was a hard habit to break for me--I craved it-- my wife made a ton of chicken and pasta dishes that I wasn't used to-- I used to make fun of "ALL th chicken we ate-- boy am I ever thankfull she changed me-- I would be in serious trouble now I am afraid-- now I haven't smoked for 6 years and rarely eat fast food or processed food--- we are not perfect and we are still very busy-- we do it fast food on occasion-- however we just try to PLAN better each week-- it really doesn't take that long once you get in the habit-- probably takes less time than waiting in the drive thru or in line. We pretty much just refuse to buy processed food or mixes-- my wife can put about a millon different sauces on chicken that is much better than store bought flavors-- alot of different pasta dishes even store bought are reasonably healthy-- try to eat whole wheat pasta if you can-- I know it is hard to find and somewhat expensive-- and drier-- but so much better for you. Sorry to ramble on.:(

Sami, your life really touches mine in so many ways. I have a sister with Lupus-- the doctors gave her 5 years to live 9 years ago-- I know there are many types of it-- hers is the most serious--her body just slowly shuts down, she has had so very many strokes, for some reason she has lost alot of weight too in the last few months. She is 43 with ahusband and a 21 and 18 yr old girls. I will certainly put Cindy and her daughter in my prayers.

I can't imagine the pain you are going through-- all I can say is that with my divorce years ago I really wanted to die from all the "inside pain"-- it was an 8 year battle-- the 4 years before she finally left me and 4 years after-- no matter how hard I tried, no matter how many times I read in my bible or tried to give it to God the pain just wouldn't go away-- I can see now that as much as I was trying to give it to God, I was holding on to the pain too-- the only thing I was doing right was understanding that I didn't have to be like this and trying to get out kept me focused on trying. That was over 8 years ago now-- but I still remember. God has blessed me in so many ways since that I can't even begin to tell you in this post-- but you see HE was always doing it-- I just didn't see. I wasn't opening my hands as my post from the other day said.

I can also relate a little to your stomach hurting with everything you put in it-- my 20 yr old daughter has always had stomach aches-- she has and myself done so much reasearch on it over the years-- doctors too-- the only thing we can come up with is the IBS-- it really hurts me to see her in so much pain-- she tries so hard to eat the right things so that it won't happen.

Sami-- I read Guideposts magazine-- they have a website that is really good-- as a member I can go through their old magazines and pull up articles from the archives-- I really wish you would check it out-- there are so many articles on people living with pain and how God has seen them through it. I think for those that don't subscribe to the magazine it is $5 to check it out for a month-- if you think it would help I suggest you try it-- the website is www.dailyguideposts,com

Well I gotta run for now-- I just wanted to reach Sami as I know you all do!! Love all of you-- you are all in my prayers, Gary

Sami-- that is www.dailyguideposts.com with a period not a comma.

Hi there!
 

I went home this wekend, and spent the weekend with mom/dad. It poured on SAt. But Sun. was beautiful and so is today. E.Z. I love your new icon up in the corner, that is cute.
Congrats on working out everyday. I have never seen windtalkers but heard it was good. Sami- and Zoe glad to see you guys back again- sami stay focused you'll be as fit as a fiddle. Hi mrs. Hummer- you sound like you got your hands full, litterally.
Mitchy- hope all works out for you with Mr. WA sounds like your being a good girl. Hi also to seattle sue your still in my thoughts and prayers for your mom, hi also to wilma, and lilmoose, and all others gutchie ect. Hope this finds you all well. Keep smiling- God is good, and his timeing is perfect. love ya's Sue

I'M BACK
 

Hi Gals-- I was looking up the results from the 5K I did a few weeks ago and they had the photos posted. If you really want to see what I look like you can go to www.asiorders.com then scroll down to Carlsbad 500-Worlds Fastest 5K on 4/13. Where it says bib number if you put in the #1511 you will see me and next to me is a picture of me and my daughter with her friend and mom. She is the one # 3275 with the red volley shirt. If you go to # 1510 you will see my wife and # 3274 is my son. But of course this is at the end of the race so my wife and son look alot worse off than my daughter and I since we walked and they ran-- my wife would kill me if she knew I sent you gals this picture!!! Don't tell her lol.
I just got off the cross-trainer-- I am able to get to 400 calories burned and 3.5 miles alot quicker now-- great improvement in only 1 week. Keep up your BEST ladies.

Later-Gary

Good Monday Evening y'all ~

Ah, another Monday under my belt. I love it when Monday is over with. The rest of the week is a breeze. :)

Gary ~ A great picture. I of course, did not read ALL of your post as I was going to the website so all I 'heard' was "if you want to see a real picture of me.....go here". So I clicked and there was this ironman guy. :lol: I thought, heck, he's pullin' my chain again. So I went back to your post and read more..."scroll down to Carlsbad 500" so I did (without reading more) and there was this guy, running his heart out.....once again, nah, can't be Gary.....ha. Then I went back and read your entire post and finally got to the real you. :) Great picture and a handsome guy at that. :)

Sami ~ Praise God for your 10 lb loss. Hope you're feeling well.

Sue ~ hope your visit with your mom and dad was wonderful. Sorry it rained on Saturday but glad Sunday was a good one.

Well, I finally got to church yesterday. I had been getting SO lazy. But I promised God that I would go and I would NEVER promise Him something that I didn't deliver. I'm too afraid. :lol: Anyway, it was great, as usual. I love being there. I don't know if I ever mentioned that my pastor is a fairly known singer. His name is Gary Oliver. I don't know how to have you hear his music but the church website is www.gomin-top.org

Hi to everyone else. Have a wonderful evening and a blessed Tuesday.

Love,
Me <><

Hi everyone! It's been a hectic few days. I spent my weekend cooking for guests and sleeping when they weren't around so that I could get over this cold. I feel much better today but still get really tired easily.

DS changed my internet connection to his computer - much faster - and I lost my password for this site. I finally have it and am back in business.

I'm glad to hear that so many messages were here for me to read when I finally got logged on. I have missed you! I don't have time to address everyone tonight but will in the near future.

I did enjoy your picture Gary. It's nice to put a face to all the eloquent words! Thanks for being here. I am also going to try to take up the challenge of 30 minutes of exercise a day as soon as I can breathe properly again.

A quick prayer item - both my sons are looking for summer employment and being in a new city we don't have the connections that come with finding work. Please pray that they find work and within bussing distance as we don't have an extra vehicle for them to use.

Good night! I'll talk to you again in the morning.

ez-Thank you so much for your kindness I almost cried. I can tell you know where I am comming from. I am starting to keep track of what really sets me off to see if I can get this under control. I had another bad attack at work today. I trying to eat healthy but I have to be real careful not to eat to many salads or red or pop nothing with garlic because that sets off an attack. Thank you for sharing your experience with me I can not even express how much that means to me. One of my great fears it that my DH will become tired of me because this is deeply affecting our life but I am so thankful that he is so understanding and he picks up my slack on bad days without complaining.
I checked out your pictures WOW you look nothing like the Icon! Your a very nice looking family! Thank you again for lifting me up today.
Sami

Did I post my picture already?? I can't remember. Haha. So here I am, with John, my co worker. This was taken last week. As you can see, I'm hiding behing the chair because I didn't like what I was wearing. :rolleyes: I'm a size 10 now so at 5'7", that ain't bad......but here I am, what you can see of me. :) that's my office, to John's left.

Zoe, that is a nice pic! And I think you are silly to hide behind a chair, you are adorable. All of you!

You know it's been talked about recently about patience and waiting and God's timing, well here is today's affirmation. I thought it might say something to some of you too.

Waiting Builds Character
Character is built during the hard times of waiting.
********************
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
- 1 Peter 5:10 KJV

So I should have so much character, i can't stand myself! :lol:

Good Morning Everyone! It's a lovely day out there and I'm feeling better every morning. Last night was the first night I didn't wake up because of my cold and I feel rested this a.m. I still don't have much of an appetite which is probably not a bad thing. I packed a chicken sandwich, carrots, fruit for my lunch today. I plan to barbeque chicken tonight. I also plan to do 1 mile of walking tonight to get myself back in the habit.

Zoe: You look great! My dream is to be a size 10 and seeing you accomplish it is giving me inspiration. Thanks.

Michele: I love your quote on patience. If everything came easily to us we wouldn't grow in our faith or character.

Sami: I'm praying for you! I too know what it's like to have problems with certain foods. Red meats and cheese used to set me off as well as anything deep fried. Now I never eat deep fried foods and limit the red meat and cheese and the pain has gone away.

Hello to everyone else out there! Have a wonderful day!

TUESDAY MORNING
 

WWWWWWWWOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWW :lol:

I was almost beginning to think I was the only one posting-- all I had to do was put up a picture of my ugly mug to get you all going again:lol: THANKS SOOO MUCH :yes: for the compliments on my family-- I did tell my wife that I sent the site of her picture-- my arm still hurts OUCH!! I guess what I did was a :nono: Nah, I'm not saying she was happy about it but she just wished it was a better picture of her to share-- aren't we always like that! My pictures are always crappy because I am always chewing gum-- instead of smoking!-- so my mouth always looks screwed up--- what the heck, I am anyway:)

Looking forward to all of you who aren't exercising already joining me in the 30 minutes a day work-out. I know some are healthier than others-- just go at your own pace at the exercise you want, The main thing is to JUST DO IT as they say. I have been doing the cross-trainer for a week now-- it was taking me 35 minutes to get to 3.5 miles, now I am getting there alot quicker. It takes time to build up... take it at your own speed-- 15 today 30 next week etc. by the end of summer an hour of exercise will be nothing. You all know as well as I do that as soon as we see improvement we get excited and want to push a little harder. Yes I know as we get older it gets much harder to push but gals the thing is we GOTTA keep moving forward-- if we don't-- it's over!

I made beef stroganoff yesterday-- roundsteak in the crock-pot coated with flour, salt, pepper and dried mustard-- layer with onions and canned mushrooms-- pour beef broth over-- set on low for 8 hours-- add sour cream, serve over noodles and wala- a very easy super FATTENING meal with the sourcream and noodles-- I bought these noodles in the frozen section--Grandma's Noodles- very good- but after I was cooking them I saw the calories--320 per serving- only 10 from fat though-- the package had 5 servings but there were no leftovers for the 3 of us at home yesterday. I better add a few minutes to my cross-trainer.

I also blew it because I ate ice-cream! which is something that I do only once every two years or so-- honest--I more of a popcorn kind of guy. Plus I don't know who remembers but in the past I was a Ben and Jerry Cherry Garcia junkie-- anyhow I was thinking about my little brother who passed away a few years ago and how much he enjoyed strawberry ice cream-- the thought was still in my mind when I passed some on sale in the freezer section-- I bought it and had some last night too-- better add a few more minutes

:lol: to that cross-trainer.

I'M BACK
 

Thought I'd give you gals a break-- such long posts I have-- I should probably go back to work soon! Actually I am supposed to start a new little job on Friday. I have work coming up so I am not too worried... actually there is work out there I am just taking a little break-- my wife doesn't care as long as I pay the bills she gives me and help out around the house-- I can't sit around all day watching tv or I am toast! As long as I have dinner done on my off days and do a chore or two it's ok. She knows I put in alot of hours over the year-- in construction there are the 12 hour days for weeks at a time sometimes.

doitforme- Glad to hear from you dear-- what did you and your ma and pa do this week-end? How is that Pastor these days? Camping season is soon. Happy to hear you have some better weather now. Check in when you can-- house still clean?

ZOE-- Was wondering if you were coming back-- glad to see you-- wow what a hottie you are!! No need to hide behind a chair that's for sure!! I am happy to hear you are back in church-- boy isn't it easy to get in the habit of not going from time to time. I will look up the website after I post this- thank-you. How is that new place coming along? Should be getting close.

WILMA-- Another week-end with guests over huh? What in the heck are you? The Martha Stewart of Canada:lol: ?Glad to see you are going to start walking a mile a day-- good for you! Just a little at a time though until you feel better. I will pray for those boys summer jobs-- didn't one work at the golf course last year? Great work on planning those meals-- that really is the ticket!!

SAMI-- I am happy if I helped encourage you-- isn't that what this site is all about!! I am also happy you have a great husband-- don't worry about losing him!! if he is great-- he isn't going anywhere-- just be carefull not to bring him down-- stay as positive as you can through all the pain and troubles!!:) I know it isn't easy-- we just have to keep from being our own anchors.Just do what you can in the exercise and eating dept. it takes time--- right now we have time-- as long as God blesses us life-- we have time! Here are prayers for your friend and her DD and your too:)

MICHELE Boy girl, you add a whole new meaning to road kill:lol: I am sure you will do fine in your walk-- just go at your level of ability-- be patient or we will have to pick your chacter up off the road!! I have seen women almost kill themselves-and men- in these events! How are your classes going? Sounds like you and that Wa. boy are on the right track-- good for you-- you certainly deserve a great guy!!

SHERRY--lilmoose--danceforjoy--JOANNE I hope all is well for you. Prayers sent.

Well I better get something done around here and do the X-trainer. The wife and I will be busy this afternoon-- step-D has a softball game and DS has a basketball game at 9:15 ouch! I don't have to cook tonight-- there is a healthier Mexican food restaurant down the street that is donating all of their proceeds tonight to Make A Wish foundation-- we are eating there after the softball game and before basketball-- at least I will get to see part of my Laker game before my son's.

Checkin' out for now-- IN HIS LOVE- Gary

AGAIN
 

Hi everyone-- I have a few minutes before my wife gets home and we go to my step-D's softball game. I did my 35 minutes on the x-trainer and I really must be improving-- at least for today. Last week it took me 35 min. to get to 400 cals. burned and 3.2 miles-- today at 35 minutes I was at 500 cals. burned and 4 miles!! That made me so happy that I did a half hour of weights-- my wife would be so happy!! It was cool too cause I was watching The Price is right and there was a girl from my daughter's school on it-- she got in the showcase but didn't win that. Sure are alot of college kids on that show now-- I enjoy it but the main reason I watched it was because it is on the only channel we get in the garage.
Well the:drill: is here so I gotta get off and head to the ballgame.

Enjoy your families this evening-- Gary

Blessing to all! I am doing a little better today had a healthy lunch and I didn't give into my craving to get this super sweet and high fat dessert! I did get in a lot of walking at work today but I am still going to do my work out that my Dr gave me.
EZ-Thank you again for your kindness. I work really hard not to be mean and nasty when I feel bad. My Dh can tell when it is real bad because I go up stairs to be by myself. Michele your verse was just what I needed to hear also! God I am Waiting! (in your time dear Lord) Zoe-I have to say I had a picture in my mind of what you look like and I must say you look so much better than the Picture I had in my mind. You look GREAT! You are such a inspiration!!!! Tell me again how long did it take for you to lose your weight and how much have you lost? Wilma one day Im comming for dinner!LOL and and EZ house next LOL. I am praying for all and we miss all the MIA'S Sherry and all the others EZ listed Please come back We miss you!
Sami

Good Evening Friends ~

Just another quiet evening at home. We had chicken salad tonight, mine made with low fat mayo, of course. :) Some melba toast and I'm full.

Sami ~ It's funny how we picture someone in our mind and it's NEVER what we think. I am on the phone with customers all over the USA and when and if I finally meet any of them, I'm taken aback since I usually have a picture in my mind......and I'm never right. :lol: As for my weight loss, I've lost about 45 lbs since the first week in Sept. To be honest, it should be more, I should be at my goal long ago (7.7 more lbs) but I've been playing around lately ~ the last month, month and a half. I went from wearing 16's and some 18's to 12's and mostly 10's. I feel great! I'm so glad that you're feeling better.

Gary ~ thanks so much for the compliment. I haven't been called a "hottie" in.....well, in maybe forever. :lol: My birthday is this month coming (May) and I'm getting really over the hill.. Haha.
Church was GREAT on Sunday. My church is VERY charismatic and it's such a great feeling. 2 1/2 hours just fly by so quickly. :)

Wilma ~ glad to hear that you're feeling better. Your packed lunch sounds yummy.

Michele ~ thanks to you too for the compliment. I always hide behind things, usually people. :lol: I am going to have Greg take some pictures of me this coming Sunday (when I'm dressed for church and look presentable) so I'll have some.

I heard a commercial for Jenny Craig tonight and the woman said that she stayed out of pictures when she was over weight. She said she was pushing herself out of her families memories by doing that. That really hit a nerve because I am always staying out of photos.....one, because of my weight and two, I look awful in photos. Sometimes I wish I could just pick a face from a catalog and say, "I'll take that one". :lol: :lol:

Well, lemme go.....have a wonderful evening. God be with you all.

In Christ's Love,
Patti and Zoe <><

Sherry.........where are you, sweetie? :?:

I will post later today, getting ready for work.

Hi everyone! I have found that planning does work. I ate very well yesterday and today I woke up hungry. That doesn't happen very often. Today I have a salad with chicken packed for lunch as well as a low fat pudding and an apple. Tonight is's spaghetti night. I'll try not to have any garlic bread!!

I didn't walk last night - still felt fatiqued. The boys wanted me to watch a movie with them. It was dumb. I should have walked instead!!

Gary: I love beef stroganoff. It's okay to have it once in a while. It sounds like you eat healthy most of the time so indulge once in a while. ICE CREAM? Did you say ice cream? I had a bit last night with fresh strawberries imported from California!!

Yes, oldest DS did work at the golf course but we've moved 5 hours away from there and now they have to find work in an area they don't know. they have some leads but it's to the point already that they can't be to picky. They just hope it won't be at a fast food place.

Sami: Way to go not giving in to temptation. You're doing great. And... you're welcome to come to dinner anytime.:)

Zoe: I know what you're saying about the pictures. But...if you look at pictures and see how far you have come that's a good thing. You do look great! No more hiding behind chairs!!!:lol:

Well, I should go get ready for work. It's a busy day today - month end. I'll be on my feet all day!

Have a wonderful day!

Hi there!
 

Well Zoe/E.z. Ir is nice to put a face to a name- What great pictures. E.Z. what a nice looking family ! Zoe- The chair has to go. You look great. Wilma glad to hear your feeling better- Mitchy glad all is working out with you and Mr. WA. Pray He is fine as well, and nothing serious medically going on. I have been so busy. I worked nights last night then went to a friend's kid's confirmation. I gave him a teen extreme bible and cover, I just hope he spends time reading and growing in the Lord. I refuse to give them cash. Because it tends to be spent on junk. I will soon have 2 staff out on disability and one took a promotional job, so I will have someone new. so I have been haveing lots of scheduling nightmares. Where I am early morning coverage as well as evening shift coverage. The state will not let us on-line except to the state site. So I haven't been posting much. But your all in my thoughts and prayers. Congrats sami- I am happy to see a healthier you, you sound much better even. I hope to start getting my campsite ready since may is almost here. But have to work this weekend, so probably won;t be till next weekend. Remember tom. is national prayer day. so. don't forget!

continued-
 

I tried sevveral times to attach a picture of me, but it keep saying the image is too large, I made it smaller now its saying its an invalid attachment. Go figure. Guess it wasn't ment to be. Oh, well gotta give up anyway and get ready for work. love ya's Sue

Newbie
 

I wanted to drop in and introduce myself. :wave:

I am Beth, and I am on a healthier lifestyle journey using FirstPlace, a Christian weight loss/health plan and so far I have lost 15 lbs. But it is still HARD!

Surrendering my will to God, and being obedient to His word is very difficult.

I work full time, am newly married (we celebrate our first anniversary May 18th) and do not have any children. My DH has a daughter who is 11.

I don't see how anyone who is a Christian could possibly be successful at losing weight without the strength from our Lord!

How is everyon else doing? :)

WEDNESDAY NIGHT
 

HI LADIES-- :)

Well I had to work today and boy am I sore-- it was really a tough day back!! I'll survive-- I even did the 35 minutes on the X-trainer when I got home-- I did it right away though because I knew if I waited it wouldn't happen. I will sleep good tonight, I didn't get home last night until 11 from my son's basketball game, up at 4:30, hard day-- and now we are going to step-D's soccer team party.

ZOE-- Happy almost birthday, my sister's is the 22nd. Wow, 2 1/5 hours of church-- boy our Pastor gets yelled at if he runs it more than an hour-- obviously we are not charismatic! but very traditional-- we are progressing though towards more contemporary style though. How is that house coming?

WILMA-- So glad to see that the planning is working for you-- now PLAN to PLAN!!! Great job on the choice for lunch. Go ahead and eat a piece of garlic bread-- it is when we deprive ourselves that we get messed up--- it is a healthy lifestyle-- smaller portions, less junk. It's like with coffee, you can have a cup-- you don't need to drink 5 pots! This I tell myself daily!! WALK-WALK-WALK girl-- that spring wardrobe has to fit through spring!! Strawberries from California-- yep-- they sell them on almost every corner this time of year-- gotta be carefull though-- you can pay from $1- to $5 for the same amount.
Yes I do try to eat healthy-- I am pretty good-- we don't eat only healthy meals though-- we just try to keep the bad stuff at a minimum---my problem is that I over eat!! I never-- NEVER snack-- never have-- during the day-- I eat a good healthy breakfast and usually a healthy lunch-- my downfall is dinner-- I can eat enough for 3 guys-- Heck yes I'm full halfway through-- I just keep eating!! As long as there is something there! My wife now will eat just until she is full- then if she is hungry later she gets a cup of tea, no caffeine-- and a couple of grahm crackers or pretzels-- sometimes some popcorn-- small bowl no butter-- or even a small bowl of ice cream-- me-- if I eat a snack later it is popcorn in a huge bowl!!! Way more than I need-- at least I only do this 1 time a week-- maybe 2.

SAMI-- NICE-- on the healthy lunch-- give me your Doctors number and I will call him to make sure you are doing your exercises!!!:lol: Seriously-- I am not kidding-- it is important! We all get mean and nasty when we hurt-- it's being able to ask forgiveness and apologize-- and keep it to a minimum. You are welcome to dinner anytime-- HEY-- we could have one heck of a progressive dinner couldn't we.

doitforme-- THERE you are!!:) Sorry you can't post more often-- I am so unhappy your picture didn't make it!! It really does help to have an image of our friends doesn't it! The bible is a great idea-- you never know when it will save someones life-- I always try to buy good ones at the used book store-- then when someone needs one I got 'em. Not for a gift:lol: those I buy new.
I hope the changes at work bring you new friends and happiness!! Post when you can-- we know you are there... waiting to hear good news on the fellas though;)

BethG Welcome!! You are in the right place!! Blessings:angel:

MICHELE-- SHERRY-- EVERYONE-- ANYONE Post when you can.

IN HIS CARE--- Gary


START TODAY!!!! Whatever it is you are waiting for can WAIT!!!!!

Blessing to all,
I have to be quick because I worked a long day and I still need to work out! I had another good day today. Please pray that I am going to stay strong!
Zoe-You statement really hit home with me too. I do scrapbooking and since I am the one who takes most of the pictures It is the easy way to stay out of the pictures. But when I do my scrapbook pages I have often thought about the fact I I am not in them. It is almost like I am not part of the family. I am going to reach that goal so I am proud to be in my DD wedding pictures!.
Zoe-so glad you are feeling better. Will pray for DS jobs.
BethG-A BIG welcome! This is such a great group! Post often looking forward to getting to know you better.
Sue-I hope you can get your picture to post. I will miss your posts but I pray you are enjoying camping.
Michele-I am praying for your man! Let us know what her finds out.
EZ-Alright I am going so I can work out! I will post my picture after my DD wedding.

Praying for an OP day!
Sami

Hello everyone

Just scrolling through all your new messages and saying a prayer for you!!

I just returned from an emergency trip to visit my Mother, who just had both legs amputated... at 87 it was quite traumatic for her; not so easy on the rest of us either. It is difficult being so far away... I do appreciate your prayers.

Sue

Good Morning!
 

It's a gorgeous day here today! I wish I could be at home enjoying my new yard but that's not to be.

I did a 1 mile walk last night. I am really out of shape. I made it through but was tired. Things can only get better from here. Today I work until 6 and then go for a hair cut so I won't be home until late. Hopefully I have enough energy to go for another mile.

Michele: You're not whining! You just sound a bit stressed. Maybe it's a good thing your mom is coming. Does she do stuff around the house for you? When my inlaws come I know I don't have to cook that week. I love it! Please make sure you take time for yourself. You deserve it!!

Sue: My prayers are with you and your mom. To have this happen at this time in her life doesn't seem fair.

Sami: You are doing so well. I can hardly wait until weigh in to hear how you've done. Keep it up! I've packed a salad for lunch and also a bit of chili because it'll be a long day for me today.

Gary: Thanks for the inspiration. It's because of you I walked last night. I was reading the messages and then came to yours and thought "Right, I'm supposed to walk tonight." So, I popped in the tape and did it. I'm going to do the 1 mile for a while and then advance to the 2 mile. I will also get outside once in a while too.

Beth: A big welcome to you! I hope you find as much support here as I have. We need to go to God for our main support but we are also supposed to rely on each other and I have found this group to be the biggest support I have. Looking forward to getting to know you better!

doitforme: I've tried attaching pictures too and get the same message you did. I'm going to get my DS to help me some time.

Hi to everyone else! Have a wonderful day!

Hi there!
 

I just did a long post and lost it all! I hate when that happens.
This is gotta be shorter, as I have to bowl, last time till fall. for this league. Welcome Beth- these guys are awesome, stick around and let us get to know you. Ez. you are an inspiration, love reading your posts, your so uplifting, not to mention good cook. I am the supervisor, and unfortunately the new item had to be posted female because male staff can't transport female clients. So, its a female. But I leave all my meeting the right one in the Lord's hands if it is met to be it will happen, to busy most of the time to worry about it. Mitchy- hope your visit at chiro- went well, that should help relax ya Sue- pray mom is doing better- that is a hard thing for anyone to except losing both legs, but I am sure at her age it makes it even more difficult. Sami so gald your back around, miss you when your gone, here praying for an op day, you'll get in that picture, I'm sure. Zoe- nice to have you back as well, miss you guys when your not posting, stay out from behind chairs, Hi to everyone else! Mrs. Hummer where are you, I am going to send out a search party,let us know how those babies are doing. Wilma- plan plan plan, key to succes, spaghetti and garlic bread yummy! well gotta run. see ya