Health Update

I'm happy and thankful because my doctor was able to see me today. As I expected, I have sinusitis. She told me I'm very congested and it's gotten infected, which is why my face all around my nose hurts so bad. I now have Augmentin for the infection, and Mucinex-D to alleviate the congestion. Praise God for doctors and medication!

And thanks to all who have prayed, those prayers mean the world to me. Now, if I can just ask that you pray for a good night's sleep for hubby and me, I'd really appreciate it. We need it!

Health-Wise Wednesdays

For starters, on a positive note, I've lost another .4 lbs. When I started on my healthy eating quest, I weighed 144 lbs. I'm now 135, so I've lost 9 lbs of unwanted fat while eating less sodium and fat. That's something to be thankful for.

On a negative note, I'm not feeling very healthy today, though it has nothing to do with my diet. My sinuses have been driving me crazy since last Friday. We had an awful fly infestation in the backyard - literally thousands of flies on our patio. I sprayed, put fly traps (they were filled in less than a week and were excessively disgusting), but to no avail. I told J I was convinced it came from the coconuts on the coconut palm which were going bad. He disagreed; he said coconuts don't go bad, they just dry up. Friday I went out with my son to throw away the fly traps because the stench was so bad I couldn't stand it. My son R helped me, and even though I put on gloves and a mask, I could feel my throat start to swell and get sore right after we'd finished getting the fly traps in the trash, just in time for the garbage truck to take them away. I was very upset that, even though the fly traps were working, there was still an enormous fly colony back there and we couldn't enjoy our backyard.

Sunday my mother-in-law came over. She wanted to go outside but J told her not to open the door or all the flies would get in the house. Then she looked up and said, "Son, why don't you take down those coconut palms? Can't you see the coconuts are rotten? They have mold on them." Aha! I was right! My hubby wasn't happy about it, though. He didn't want to have to cut down those coconut palms. He commented that yes, the palm trees had flies on them, but could it really be that his beloved trees were the cause of our flies? I gave him a better solution: cut down the coconuts and the branches that were drying up. He agreed, and took them down a couple days later. Now, the most flies I've counted out there is 5. Which is wonderful, considering there were about 5,000 before (not exaggerating).

Coming back to my sinus issues: since that day my sinuses have been inflamed and irritated. I figured it was just because it's allergy season, but last night I couldn't sleep, which meant J couldn't sleep either. He told me I have to call the doctor today. I must admit, I agree. While I haven't had any fever, I still think there may be an infection that needs taking care of. So, I'll give the doctor a call. Hopefully she can see me today, and provide us (hubby and me) with some relief. I'm praying for a healthier report later today.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today, June 29, 2010...

Outside my window...it's fixin' to be another scorcher. The days have been soooo hot, with barely any breeze except in the afternoons, and then the breeze is warm too.

I am thankful for...air conditioning!!!

I am thinking...of a dear friend who is having surgery this Friday. She was diagnosed with a small amount of uterine cancer and will have a full hysterectomy. She's 65 years old and hasn't been in the hospital since her youngest son was born 38 years ago. We're praying for a successful operation, fast recovery with minimal pain, and no chemo.

I am going...to need more spray paint. The chairs look great, but I still have one more chair and the table to paint, plus some touch-ups here and there.

I am wearing...my jammies. It's early in the morning.

I am remembering...the Hardy Boys TV show. I used to love those mysteries (and of course Shaun Cassidy was easy on the eyes! LOL).

I am currently...finished with my breakfast of Total cereal and coffee.

I am reading...Isaiah for morning devotions, chapter 15 of Having a Mary Spirit, and one of the Hardy Boys mysteries with my son.

I am waiting...on some info from my daughter. We may have to get a loan to help defer some of her school expenses.

On my mind...I need to get deeper into the Word. I've been slacking a bit lately. Can't let busyness get the best of me.

From the learning rooms...there's a trip to the planetarium tomorrow with the cub scouts, but if I'm still sick with this sinus deal I won't take my son. I hate not going, but I don't want to be around a bunch of kids if I'm sick.

I am pondering these words..."Even one or two pieces of junk can clutter your life, trip you up spiritually, and leave you less effective for the Lord." - Joanna Weaver, Having a Mary Spirit.

From the kitchen today...chicken stir fry. I love that it's so easy to make and is loaded with vegetables.

Around the house...I managed to get alot more than I expected yesterday. Today I have one bathroom to clean and a couple more loads of laundry. I also need to sweep the floors.

One of my favorite things...this daybook!

A few plans for the rest of the week...they're showing Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs for free at the movie theater this week, so we're hoping to see that. Also a library run today. I hope to get to our local pool park and find out about lessons for my son - he hasn't learned to swim because he hates getting his face wet. He needs to get over that.

Wanna join in the fun? Visit Peggy at the Simple Woman's Daybook. Have a blessed week.

Move It Mondays

I'm thinking of calling today's post, "Unexpected Monday." Ever have one of those days when you have everything planned out, then something comes up and throws you for a loop? Ever have it happen on a Monday? It seems to me those kinds of days always happen to me on Monday. I guess it's God's way of keeping me on my toes right from the start ;-).

I had planned my favorite morning breakfast, then:

Start pepper steak in slow cooker
Get a couple of loads of laundry done
Change all bed sheets
Clean both bathrooms
Continue working on patio furniture
Sweep floors

I got up around 7:00, but I'm feeling miserable. My sinuses are killing me. I think it may be an infection, though I've had no fever (Praise God!). My throat is also very sore. As I was brushing my teeth, J asked me to iron his shirt, then told me I would probably have to take my car to the mechanic because it was leaking water again. I was NOT happy to hear this. We got a new water pump in my car a couple of weeks ago, so there should be no leaking, yet J had already put water in 3 times since it got replaced. I decided I'd better get food in the crock pot quick, so I did that. Instead of my regular Monday morning breakfast, I opted for Chocolate Cheerios (they were on sale, buy one get one free, and are oh so yummy!). I was almost finished cleaning the kitchen when J called and said the mechanic would take a look at the car. Problem is, the shop is about 25 minutes away, which meant my schedule would be thrown off. Don't you just hate when that happens?

So I ran the car over, and while they worked on it I read "Having a Mary Spirit". It made the time go way faster. Turns out there was some radiator cap loose, which they tightened. Everything should be working great now. Of course, it meant I didn't get started on my chores till 10:15am. But I'm happy to inform, I got caught up real quick! So far, I've:

Finished the crock pot meal
Gotten 3 loads of laundry in the wash
Changed all the bed sheets
Cleaned one bathroom
Touched up 2 patio chairs, finished painting one
Had lunch

I'm so thankful that, even with the little burp in my day, I kept my focus and have accomplished much. Lunch was done before J got home which is one of my daily goals, so I'm happy for that. Now for the afternoon, I hope to rest up a bit since my sinuses and throat aren't too pleased with all this activity and I'm getting tired. After that I'd like to finish up the second bathroom and get all the laundry put away. I'll have to stop off at Lowes or Home Depot for more spray paint but I'll probably put that on tomorrow's to do list. Right now, I'm gonna keep movin' it!

Move it Mondays is hosted by Kristilea at In The Lord's Path. Have a blessed week.

Observing My Senses

For Today, June 26, 2010...

I am seeing...the perfect weather for spray painting. I haven't been able to finish my project; we had rain, then other things took priority over lawn furniture, but I think today may be the day.

I am feeling...happy that the new capris I bought are a size 4 (woot!) but my tummy isn't too thrilled with me. Another birthday party last night (sister-in-law this time) and more late night eating. Mostly I ate salad which was delicious, but my body just doesn't approve of eating after 7:00pm.

I am smelling...my morning coffee. It's helping my throat, which is sore this morning.

I am hearing...nothing. E is sleeping, R is in school and J is off to work. There's just the rustling of the palm branches and nothing else. Ahhh.....

I am tasting...crunchy toasted english muffin.

It just takes a moment to observe your surroundings. Won't you join me?

The Friday Five

Here we are, another blessed Friday! Hope everyone has had a great week. Here's some fun with my Friday Five:


1. When is your usual bedtime?

Typically I can't stay up past 10:00pm. I will literally doze off after that, no matter where I am.

2. How many hours of sleep do you need?

Eight, though I can still manage with just 7.

3. Do you usually remember your dreams?

Not unless I wake up right at the moment I was having the dream. Even then I might forget after awhile.

4. How many pillows do you sleep with?

Two, because with my allergies one pillow is too low and my sinuses get congested.

5. What is the wildest dream you've ever had?

I dreamed I was walking our dog, and four thugs appeared to be following us. The dog kept looking back and barking, and when I would look they were standing around talking but getting closer no matter how far we walked. I was getting nervous and trying to get away from them. Just at the moment I felt them right behind me, my hubby put his hand on me to wake me up and I screamed and jumped so high he almost had a heart attack! It was a scary experience. I was shook up for awhile after that.


Join the fun at the Friday Five. Have a great day, and a blessed weekend.

Thankful Thursdays

Today I'm thankful for summer. Monday was the first official day of summer, though it has been summertime in South Florida for over a month now. It gets hot, humid, sometimes there's no breeze, sometimes it's sweltering, but I'm still thankful for the summer. Thankful that my son is off from school so we can do fun things together. Thankful for the warm sun on my face as I walk in the park, or on my back as I pull weeds from my front yard. Thankful for outdoor activities, such as the beach, the pool, picnics, or just splashing on the waterslide in the backyard. Every season is special, and summer is no exception. Rather than complain about the heat, I say look at the positive, and be thankful you're alive to enjoy the summer.

Thankful Thursdays is hosted this month by Iris at Grace Alone. Have a blessed day.

Health-Wise Wednesdays

Topic: Eating Out

I have exciting news today: I reached my goal!!!! That's right, this morning I could hardly believe my eyes. The scale read 135.4 and I was woopin' and hollerin' like a teenager! Praise the Lord, I'm at the weight that's right for me, my clothes fit again (actually, some are a bit big on me now!) and most important, I'm eating right and feeling great. Thank You Jesus!


One of my biggest issues is eating out. Now, when I say "eating out" I'm not talking restaurant foods. We don't eat out that way very often. It gets expensive with a family of 5, and my hubby is very finicky. He likes home-cooked meals, plain and simple. That's not a problem for me, 'cause I love to cook, so most of the time that's what we have, nice homemade meals. The eating out I'm referring to is eating anywhere that's not at home, which in our case is usually family parties.

The advantage of eating at a restaurant or fast food place is that they typically provide nutrition facts, either at the restaurant itself or on their website. This can also be a deterrent - after seeing the amount of calories, fat and sodium the foods contain in most of these places, the appetite quickly dwindles. But when the food is being prepared by a family member that enjoys eating fatty fried foods, or they purchase food that we wouldn't look at twice because of how unhealthy it is, it becomes a tough decision. In a Latin household, you're expected to eat. To say, "I'm not hungry," or, "I've already eaten," is considered rude and offensive, even if it's true. Trust me, I know. I don't like to eat after 7:00pm because it's just not a healthy choice. At that late of an hour there's no way those calories are getting burned, and it isn't good for the digestive system to go to bed with food still in the stomach. So when it's 8:30pm and dinner is being served, I make it a point to say, "I don't eat this late at night." That doesn't sit well at all. There will always be an excessive amount of food in a hispanic household, and everyone is expected to eat. No exceptions.

Then of course, there's dessert. My husband has an extensive family. He's one of 6 brothers and sisters, and all but one have children of their own. He also has aunts and uncles, cousins, second cousins, all living in the area, all having birthdays for themselves or their children, and all expecting us to attend and have birthday cake. I love birthday cake, don't get me wrong. I love cake, period. But sugar-rich cake laden with puffy, sugar-rich icing is not the ideal when healthy eating is the objective.

That has been my downfall this past month. I've been to about 6 different parties, birthday parties, Awana party, Cub Scout graduation, and all have had greasy fried foods, pastries of all kinds, and cake galore. None of which states, Here's my nutritional value: Zero. Yet it's pretty clear that's what it is. It's a dilemma I'm learning to deal with, one I don't believe I've conquered yet but I'm determined to continue fighting.

What I've found that works for me so far is that popular motto, "Less is more." To deprive myself completely of the foods being offered is not an option; one must go to these events, and one must eat. But how much I eat is entirely up to me.

I make it a point to eat before I go to these parties. It doesn't have to be a meal, per se. It can be a sandwich, on whole wheat bread so it's filling. It can be a granola bar, or yogurt, or some fruit. Something in my tummy so I don't arrive hungry and succumb to the aroma of food. Then I look carefully at what is being served, and try my best to choose foods that I would eat if I were at home. For instance, there will be chips and dips on the table. Mmm. I love chips and dips, especially dips that have cheese in them. But I know myself well enough. If I have one, I'll have two, then three, then I'll lose count. So I tell myself, "Step away from the Fritos and the Cheetos and all the other highly crunchy stuff, and move on." Same goes for the pastries, no matter how yummy and flaky they look, oozing with guava and cheese. If there's something healthy to munch on, like fruit, I'll indulge, otherwise I get a nice, tall glass of water. That's another thing I've learned. One glass of soda is gonna pile on the sugar and calories real fast. I hate the taste of diet soda, and most people aren't serving Crystal Light at their parties. Water has no calories, is filling, and it's free. I might still get some funny looks for not having any other type of drink, but I'm willing to suffer.

Dessert is totally unavoidable. After all, who goes to a birthday party and doesn't have at least a small piece of cake? But again, the amount I eat is up to me. I can ask for a piece of cake from the middle; that way there's less icing than the cake that's around the edges. It also means I can eat the cake and leave the icing, and it won't look like I played with my food but didn't eat anything. I can have my cake, and eat it too. And I can still lose weight.

I tried this experiment this past Monday. Our niece was turning 16, and her dad wanted to have a little get-together. He brought Chinese rice with all the fixin's, lots of soda, and cake. My mother-in-law made chicken in some sort of sweet and sour sauce. I'd eaten at home (a piece of tilapia and steamed broccoli), so all I had was about a cup of fried rice. I didn't have any of the chicken because that sauce was too heavy for me. We had cake at 9:00pm, but I had a small piece and no icing. I was able to enjoy the food without going overboard, and this morning the scale showed that my efforts had paid off.

This will still be something I have to prepare for. There's always a birthday or some other festivity going on. So long as I'm aware and careful, though, I'm sure I'll be able to stay healthy without denying myself the best part of the celebration.

How About a Laugh Today?

I thought this was just hilarious, though true! Enjoy!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today, June 22, 2010...

Outside my window...it's breezy, but the breeze is very warm. The clouds are puffy white and the sky is baby blue. It's a mighty pretty day.

I am thinking...about my sister-in-law. She'd gotten me an interview where she works some months ago but nothing came of it. Now the company is closing, and she's the one looking for work. I hope she can find something soon.

I am thankful...that God keeps His promises, and has provided for my family with just one salary.

I am going...to Lowe's for more spray paint. I'm painting the patio furniture.

I am wearing...a grey Calvary t-shirt, brown and white shorts, and socks. I've got cleaning to do and so casual is the word for today.

I am remembering...my niece when she was a cute, chubby little baby. She turned 16 yesterday. Where has the time gone?

I am currently...painting the patio furniture a chocolate brown. It's old furniture (9 years old to be exact) but the frames are good, just looking the worse for wear. A coat of paint and they'll be just like new.

I am reading...Isaiah for morning devotions, finishing chapter 14 of Having a Mary Spirit, and I'll be starting a novel by Marybeth Whalen called The Mailbox. Hope to review it once I'm done.

I am waiting...well, I was waiting yesterday for my hubby's Father's Day gift to come in the mail. It arrived: the soundtrack to the movie Cellular. For some reason, whenever I order gifts online they arrive the day after the event. :P.

On my mind...a fly infestation in our backyard. I told hubby it was probably because of the coconuts, but he wouldn't believe it. My m-i-l verified it this weekend. Those old coconuts will have to come down.

From the learning rooms...E is taking a break. He's staying at Grandma's house another night. I have books for us to read but they'll wait till he gets home. R started summer classes on Thursday, and A starts next Monday. Hopefully by taking summer courses they can finish on time.

I am pondering these words..."Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." - Ephesians 4:29.

From the kitchen today...rice and ground beef. Or maybe tacos. Yeah, I love tacos.

Around the house...I got so much done yesterday! Cleaned both bathrooms, dining room, family room (dusted, vacuumed furniture, moved furniture and cleaned underneath, I mean the works), did a load of laundry, and started spray painting the patio chairs. Today I'll continue with laundry, clean the living room, and get some more spray painting done. I'm on a roll!

One of my favorite things...is refurbishing old stuff to save money.

A few plans for the rest of the week...free movies have started at our local movie theater, so E and I will probably go tomorrow or Thursday. A trip to the library today, and of course patio furniture painting.

Here's a picture thought I'm sharing...can you tell the difference? Of course you can! I'm not done painting, this is just the first couple of coats and I need to get the chair legs completely painted, but the chair looks so much better! Can't wait to see the finished result!


Wanna join in the fun? Visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook. Have a blessed week.

Move It Mondays

Happy Belated Father's Day to all the dads! Last night my in-laws came over for Mexican Train dominoes. If you haven't played Mexican train, let me encourage you to check it out - it's tons of fun! We had plenty of laughs and it was a nice way to celebrate Father's day, with a game night.

Of course, that means there's plenty to do this morning! I've had my egg-cheese-bacon-english muffin breakfast so I'm ready to go. I need to:

Clean dining room
Clean family room
Clean both bathrooms
Do a load of laundry
Sweep floors

On top of that, our patio furniture is looking the worse for wear. It's 9 years old, and has been out in the elements all that time. My hubby says he's throwing it out, but really only one of the chairs is in bad condition. The rest, I think, just need a paint job. So I bought a can of spray paint this weekend and I'm gonna try it on one chair. I'm hoping it'll work; it's much cheaper to buy a few cans of spray paint and maybe some cushions, than it is to buy new outdoor furniture.

It's gonna be a busy Monday, but with my daughter back at school, my oldest son off to work and my youngest spending the day with Grandma, I only have to stop to prepare lunch for hubby. With the Lord's help I'll get everything done.

Move it Mondays is hosted by Kristilea at In the Lord's Path. Have a blessed week.

Observing My Senses

For Today, June 19, 2010...

I am seeing...a very wet ground. Yesterdays severe thunderstorms have left everything nicely watered. The sun is shining, and my flowers and plants are happy.

I am feeling...a bit of melancholy. My daughter went back to school this morning. We miss her already.

I am hearing...Saturday morning cartoons, and the coffee pot.

I am tasting...bacon, egg and cheese on a high fiber english muffin. I don't know if I'll ever tire of it.

I am smelling...nothing. My sinuses are very upset at this sunny/rainy weather pattern, and my allergies are in an uproar. I've blown my nose so much I'm surprised it's still attached to my face. Need some Sudafed.

It just takes a moment to observe your surroundings. Won't you join me?

The Friday Five

Here as some Friday 5 questions from a few weeks ago that I thought I'd enjoy answering:



1.What was your favorite cartoon as a child?

I was a cartoon junkie. I guess my favorite, then and now, will always be Bugs Bunny. I also loved Scooby-Doo.


2. Do you read comic books? Why or why not?

I don't read comic books now, but I did read some as a child. Usually it was Archie, or the Sunday comics. My oldest son loves reading Batman comics. Now I read alot of different types of books that I thoroughly enjoy, and just am not interested in reading comics.


3. Have you read a book and thought it should be turned into a movie? If so, which book?

It seems every book I've thought should be turned into a movie, has been. Not always a good movie, but movies none the less.


4. Do you watch cartoons now if you are a teenager/adult?

Sure! Cartoon movies most of the time, but I enjoy watching Phineas and Ferb with my youngest son.


5. What is your favorite quote from a television show?

"The inner maquinations of my mind are an enigma." - Patrick Star, Spongebob Squarepants.

Check out the Friday Five for fun questions each week. Have a blessed weekend.

Thankful Thursdays

“Therefore you shall lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up."

- Deuteronomy 11:18-19

Today, and everyday this week, I'm thankful for VBS! We had 46 children accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior - how awesome!! Many of these children come from a local orphanage, some are awaiting adoption, others are hoping to be placed in foster homes, still others are in the middle of parental custody battles and are staying at the facility until the judge decides what their fate is. Think of how scary the uncertainty of the future must be for these children. I can only imagine what a comfort it must be to many of them to know Jesus loves them no matter what the circumstances are in their lives! It's the responsibility of every parent to teach their children, but when their is no parent, or the parent is unable to guide and instruct their children, what happens? Do they no longer need Jesus? On the contrary, these precious souls need Jesus desperately! God calls us to tell these, His children, about salvation, and I'm so thankful for ministries that reach out to those who can't visit a church on their own. May the Lord bless each and every one of these little ones, and may we be a blessing to them as well!


Thankful Thursdays is hosted this month by Iris at Grace Alone. Have a blessed and thankful day.

Health-Wise Wednesdays

Topic: Nutrition facts

There was no change for me this week. I weighed exactly the same as I did last Wednesday, which means...I didn't gain any weight!! That's always a positive. Besides, I'm eating healthier and feeling better, and that's what's really important.


I love bacon. Crispy bacon. Pork bacon. I know, many of you are cringing. Too much fat, not good for the arteries, bad food choice. But I just LOVE bacon. Bacon in my morning breakfast sandwich. Bacon on my burger on top of melted cheddar cheese. Bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwiches. The list goes on and on.

What is the option? Turkey bacon. Ugh. Let's be honest, turkey bacon is NOT pork bacon. It doesn't look like pork bacon, doesn't curl up like pork bacon, doesn't smell like pork bacon, and doesn't taste like pork bacon. No it doesn't. But it's the healthier alternative everyone turns to. Or is it?

My daughter and I were at Costco this past weekend and went to pick up some bacon. The turkey bacon was right next to the pork bacon, so I decided to look at the nutrition facts. You know what those are, right? That little box on every food item sold that tells us what's in the food we're looking to ingest. Most of the time, we look at what is important to us at the moment. If we're trying to lose weight, we look at the calories or fat content. If we're trying to lower cholesterol, that's what we're checking out. Diabetics want to see the sugar content. I wanted to see the difference between naturally hardwood smoked pork bacon and the turkey stuff.

Calorie-wise, it seemed an easy choice. Pork bacon contains 70 calories, while turkey bacon only has 35. Half the calories sounds a whole lot better. Then I chanced to look at the serving size: 2 skillet cooked slices of pork bacon verses one slice of turkey bacon. Hold on there! That means if I eat only one slice of pork bacon (which is what I put on my morning breakfast sandwich), I'm getting the same calorie count as a slice of turkey bacon. Hmm. No, I said to my daughter, the fat and everything else must be higher on the pork bacon. So we stood there and compared.

Fat content pork bacon: 6 grams for 2 slices. Fat content turkey bacon: 3 grams for 1 slice. No difference there.

Saturated fat pork bacon: 2 grams for 2 slices. Saturated fat turkey bacon: 1 gram for 1 slice. Again, no difference.

Cholesterol pork bacon: 15 mg. for 2 slices. Cholesterol turkey bacon: 15 mg. 1 slice. Think about that a minute. Yeah, turkey bacon was higher in cholesterol. Go figure.

Sodium pork bacon: 290 mg for 2 slices. Sodium for turkey bacon: 180 mg for 1 slice.

Protein pork bacon: 4 grams for 2 slices. Protein turkey bacon: 2 grams for 1 slice.

My daughter and I looked at the two packages, then at each other. The turkey bacon went back to the freezer, and the pork bacon came home with us.

Let's get something straight here: I'm not telling everyone to run to the store, return their turkey bacon and get the "real deal" (though if that makes you happy, go right ahead). What I'm saying here is, don't go by what people tell you is healthier or better for you. The nutritional facts are there; take a few minutes and compare. There may be 2 different brands of the same item, but compared side by side they're totally different nutritionally. The information is right there. Wanna get healthy? Get informed. Being healthy doesn't mean depriving yourself of the foods you love and enjoy. It means looking at the nutritional value, and using the information to make wise choices.

A Funny Cartoon - Or Is It?

Hahahahaha!! That's so....wait a minute....I'm not sure I wanna laugh. How funny is it? You decide.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today, June 15, 2010...

Outside my window...the sky is starting to turn from blue to grey as it does everyday. That's how the rainy season works here in South Florida.

I am thinking...about some errands I need to run. I'd much rather stay home, but it's best to get it all over with.

I am thankful for...VBS and the over 200 children who attended today. Praise God for each and every one of His precious blessings.

I am going...to finish my lunch so I can get these errands done, then get some cleaning done around the house.

I am wearing...a brown blouse, teal and brown skirt, and red flip-flops. I took my brown flats off when I got home and slipped into these flip-flops 'cause they're comfy.

I am remembering...the Hardy Boys mysteries. I got one from the library to read with my son.

I am currently...enjoying lunch.

I am reading...Song of Songs for morning devotions, Having a Mary Spirit for personal study, Emma by Jane Austen, and my son and I will be doing summer reading together.

I am waiting...for the next summer rain shower. Pretty sure it'll be today.

On my mind...VBS. Today was day 2. Three more days to go.

From the learning rooms...what better learning than vacation bible school? The focus this year is on James 1:5.

I am pondering these words..."If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." - James 1:5.

From the kitchen today...tilapia, prepared by my daughter even after having blood drawn this morning. I'm so thankful for her!

Around the house...the floors need cleaning. Desperately.

One of my favorite things...seeing little children lift their hands in worship.

A few plans for the rest of the week...VBS. All week long.

Wanna join in the fun? Visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook. God bless.

Move It Mondays

It may seem like I have no desire to move it this Monday, since it's already after 1:30 in the afternoon, but the truth is I've been movin' it all day and this is the first time I've been able to stop! See, this week is VBS (Vacation Bible School) at one of our local churches, and not only is my son E attending but I'm volunteering. Not only has this been a busy and productive Monday - it'll be a busy and productive week!

I had a bowl of Oatmeal Crisp with vanilla Silk soymilk this morning along with my coffee to get me going. We arrived at the church at just after 8:00am and began helping set up the registration table, which is where I'm serving. Once the children were separated into their groups, the count came in: 186! After that we had a few more sign-ins so that number went up. We also have a group of children coming from a local orphanage tomorrow - 61 kids to be exact, so we're probably looking at over 250 children. Praise God! Children are our future, and the time to get them on the right track is now. I'm so blessed to be a part of this ministry. It gives me plenty of motivation to Move It!

I've just finished having lunch (baked chicken with stuffing that my daughter had waiting for us when we got home - thanks A!) and now I'm gonna get moving with laundry. I'm really looking forward to this week. I'll try and post about VBS later on today. Hope everyone has a very, very blessed week!

Move It Mondays is hosted by Kristilea at In The Lord's Path. God bless.

Observing My Senses

For Today, June 12, 2010...

I am seeing...bright sunshine and blue skies. Thank God! We're leaving in a little while for E's Cub scout graduation at a local park, and there's not a dark cloud to be seen. I just hope it isn't too hot out.

I am hearing...HGTV. I like getting home decorating ideas.

I am feeling...excited at all the activities for today. First my son's cub scout graduation, then my hubby's grandma's birthday party. She turned 90 last month. It'll be a busy day.

I am tasting...breakfast, including my morning coffee. Aaahhhhh.

I am smelling...bacon. We had a hearty breakfast to start our busy, blessed day.

It only takes a moment to observe your surroundings. Won't you join me?

The Friday Five

Here's my fun Friday answers for June 11, 2010.

1. Tea or Coffee or juice in the morning, and why?
Coffee in the morning. Juice has too much sugar, and tea was giving me kidney stones. Besides, there's nothing like a good ole cup o' Joe in the morning.

2. What's your typical breakfast on workdays, and what on weekends?
Everyday is a workday (LOL), but I like my english muffin breakfast: a high fiber multi-grain english muffin, one scrambled egg, half a slice of cheddar cheese, and one slice of bacon. It's delicious, filling, and energizing. Weekends we like pancakes and sausages.

3. What do you drink through the day?
Water. Lots of water.

4. Best snack?
Raisins. I like Sunmaid Vanilla Yogurt covered raisins best.

5. Your favourite dinner when you cook for yourself alone?
Pasta. Either spaghetti cooked in olive oil and garlic or macaroni in marinara sauce. With plenty of parmesan cheese, yum!

Have a great weekend!

Thankful Thursdays

Yesterday was the last day of school for my youngest son E. School has been a struggle for him for years because of his dyslexia. That's why I'm so thankful this morning. Not because of his learning disorder or his struggles, but because of the certificate he brought home. "Most Improved". He tried his hardest this year, and his teacher was able to appreciate it. It's always a good feeling when our efforts are recognized, and he was so excited! I'm thankful that this year I was home and able to help my son with his reading and writing. Although he's done with the school year, we actually don't know if he passed, since the FCAT scores are not in yet. Still, I'm thankful for the improvements my son has made. It's such a great feeling to pray for something, and see God's hand in our children's lives as He gives us our desires!

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.
His love endures forever.

- Psalm 136:1

Thankful Thursdays is hosted this month by Iris at Grace Alone. Have a blessed rest of your week.

Health-Wise Wednesdays

It's been a super busy day, and I still have stuff to do, but I just wanted to come over quickly and report that this morning I weighed in at 136.4 lbs, which is a 0.8 lb loss for the week. I'm happy, because I'd stalled for awhile. I thought for sure I would gain weight after 2 birthday parties this weekend (and you best believe I had cake!) but I kept eating well the rest of the time and it paid off. Praise the Lord for my healthier self!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today, June 8, 2010...

Outside my window...it's a bit breezier than it's been the past week. We've had some of the hottest weather I can remember - humidity so high the thermometer was registering in the 100 degrees. It feels a little more comfortable today. Hope it lasts.

I am thinking...about what God is going to do with me next.

I am thankful...for my children, who love me despite my faults and flaws.

I am going...to switch the living and family room furniture back. I like the layout now, but the recliners need to be in the family room. They're more comfy.

I am wearing...one purple tank top over a white one, and khaki capris. And flip flops.

I am remembering...a non-stop weekend filled with birthday parties, and a phone I need to return to Walmart. I've got to put it somewhere so I don't forget it again.

I am currently...finishing up this daybook entry so I can get moving around the house.

I am reading...Proverbs for morning devotions, still working on Having a Mary Spirit, and Emma by Jane Austen again.

I am waiting...to find out my son's FCAT scores. Why does it take so long to get their test scores in? In NY I remember getting our scores before school ended; now we have to wait, sometimes till a couple weeks after school's over. Aren't computers supposed to make everything faster and more efficient?

On my mind...family.

From the learning rooms...tomorrow is the last day of school! Yay! Of course they aren't doing much these last few days, mostly playing board games. That's okay. It'll be a nice memory of the last few days of 4th grade.

I am pondering these words..."The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender." - Proverbs 22:7.

From the kitchen today...chicken. I took chicken tenders out of the freezer, but I don't know what I'll do with them yet. All because I didn't prepare a menu for the week. Shame on me.

Around the house...moving furniture, cleaning floors, finishing laundry (I got a bunch done yesterday but I still have a couple or three loads to go).

One of my favorite things...a warm summer breeze. Not the kind we've been getting all week loaded with humidity. The one that plays with your hair and feels like a hug from heaven.

A few plans for the rest of the week...my son's Cub Scout graduation is on Saturday. Also my husband's grandmother's birthday party. She turned 90 last May 20. Her party is also this coming Saturday. Another busy weekend.

Wanna join in the fun? Visit Peggy at the Simple Woman's Daybook. God bless.

Move It Mondays

It's the first Monday in June, and it's a real scorcher! South Florida seems to have gone from cold to mild to intensely hot in a very short time. We've had hot, sun-filled mornings and dark, stormy afternoons for the last week, and it looks like today won't be much different. At least we won't have water shortages this year.

It was a busy weekend, with birthday pool parties on Saturday and Sunday. I've hardly been home at all this weekend, meaning there's tons of laundry to get done today. Breakfast is comfortably sitting in my tummy (my Monday morning egg-cheese-bacon-high fiber english muffin concoction) so I have the energy I need to get about 4-5 loads done today. In addition, there's:

Tidying up the family room
Sweeping
Clean up bedroom
Pick up branches and leaves in back yard

It's a full day of activity, which is a great way to start the week. Hope everyone has a productive week as well.

Move it Mondays is hosted by Kristilea at In The Lord's Path. Have a blessed day.

Observing My Senses

For Today, June 5, 2010...

I am seeing...the sunshine streaming through the windows, as it has every morning this week. The ground is wet because it rains every afternoon. It's the only sign that it's still spring; the weather has been so hot it feels like the dead of summer.

I am feeling...tired today, and I have a million things to do: grocery shopping that didn't get done yesterday because my car seemed to be leaking water (it wasn't, praise God), a birthday pool party that E was invited to, and I still have to do my hair and take E for a haircut. Ugh. It's one of those days I'd rather just stay home.

I am hearing...the coffee-maker gurgling, the ceiling fan whirring, a bedroom door creaking as my daughter gets up, cartoons on tv, you know, normal household sounds.

I am tasting...my morning coffee, along with a fried egg, one sausage link, and 2 pieces of whole wheat toast. Hopefully this will give me some energy this morning.

I am smelling...humidity in the air. Chances are, we'll get rain yet again. That's okay. I haven't had to water the plants in a week :-)

It only takes a few minutes to observe your surroundings. Won't you join me?

The Friday Five

Here's my Friday 5 for June 4, 2010...

1) If you could turn invisible, what would you do with this ability?
I'm an introvert, so I've used this "ability" plenty of times. It helps me observe others quietly.

2) If you could fly, how would you do it? Wings? Rocket pack? Purely under your own power, like Superman?
I guess I've never thought about it, since I'm afraid of heights!!

3) If you could tranform into other people, look however you wanted, how would you choose to look, or who would you turn into?
I've thought about this many times, but the truth is, everyone has hangups about the way they look, so no matter how I would transform, I'd probably never be happier than I am the way I am right now.

4) If you could turn into an animal, which animal would it be?
Animals are fascinating. I think owls are the most beautiful creatures I've ever seen in person. I'll go with that.

5) If you had superpowers, would you use them to become a vigilante superhero, fighting crime?
We all have "superpowers", we just don't know it. Helping someone in need without expecting anything in return is a superpower. Teaching is a superpower. Encouragement, compassion, empathy, all are superpowers. Instead of trying to invent powers that are so out there they make us feel defeated, we should just use the gifts God has given us for good. What a world this would be if we did!

Wanna answer your own Friday 5? Join in at The Friday Five. Have a blessed weekend.

Thankful Thursdays

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

- 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Giving thanks sounds easy, doesn't it? Someone does a favor, you say "Thanks". An unexpected gift? "Thanks". Encouragement? "Thanks".

But what about when things don't go our way? Do we still give thanks?

Here's the thing: when everything is going well, we see what we're thankful for, yet we forget to thank God for all we have. When things aren't going well, we complain because all we see is what's going wrong in our lives. Are we ever really thankful?

I look at our home, a nice, comfortable house, completely furnished and decorated to my liking. The pantry is filled with food, we have running water, electricity, books to read, televisions to watch, games to play. Yet how many times have I caught myself wishing we could get new furniture, or that I could change out some items in the home that are old or outdated? It's not that I don't realize how blessed we are. I know there are people in this world who lack even the bare essentials. Our home is a luxury mansion compared to how some families live. Yet there are those times when I forget what a wonderful life we have.

Oh, but when troubles come, I'm quick to complain! There's something I don't forget! I want everything to run like clockwork, with no kinks, no jams, no problems. It's annoying to have things go in a different direction from what I consider to be "the best way". I get grouchy, I pout and sulk and become a pain to be around.

Then this verse will come to mind. "Give thanks in ALL circumstances." When life is running smooth, give thanks. When the road gets rocky and winding and I feel like I'm gonna be sick if I don't get off this roller coaster ride soon, give thanks. No matter what's going on in my life, I need to remind myself that God is in control, and I need to be thankful.

Father, forgive me when I forget how very blessed I am. Thank You for all You've done in my life. Thank You for what You're doing today, and what You'll do tomorrow. Thank You for my salvation, for my family, for the joy in my life. Thank You also for the troubles and the sorrows that teach me to trust and depend on You and not myself. Thank You for those learning curves that are difficult to experience but that draw me closer to You. When I complain Lord, remind me that You promised never to leave me or forsake me. You're with me in the good times and the bad times, and I need not worry for anything. Thank You for loving me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Thankful Thursdays is hosted this month by Iris at Grace Alone. Have a blessed rest of your week.

Health-Wise Wednesdays

Topic: Portion control

I got up this morning expecting great things. I've been good all week, eating right, watching my sodium intake, keeping active. I thought for sure I'd lost SOMEthing. Instead, the scale read 137.2. Hmm. I gained .2 pounds? That's strange, especially since my clothes are fitting loose. Then it occurred to me: I've been walking more. Each day I park my car several blocks away from my son's school and I walk over to pick him up. On our way back I carry his very heavy backpack. This burns calories, but also strengthens my muscles. So of course, when I get on the scale, it doesn't tell me, "This much weight is what you lost in fat and this is how much you gained in muscle." I made the mistake of not measuring myself to see how many inches I've lost (because I don't have a tape measure), but I know I've lost inches when my waistbands aren't cutting off my circulation. Pants that were uncomfortably tight are now fitting properly, and skirts that fit fine are now getting to be too big. So, even though the scale appears to be stating otherwise, I feel it's been a successful week healthwise, and that's what matters.

My husband J has also been trying to eat better and lose weight, though for different health reasons. He started having issues with high blood pressure due to the fact that he was seriously overweight. His cholesterol and triglyceride levels were high. Both his parents and one of his brothers is diabetic, and his doctor was concerned. J realized he had to take matters under control if he was to correct the blood pressure problem and steer away from diabetes, so he began exercising and changing his diet. He has made excellent progress: he's gone from 201 lbs. to 182, and his blood pressure is under control, praise the Lord. It was a slow process, though, and one of the hardest lessons he had to learn was portion control.

My hubby was convinced his weight gain came from eating white bread and rice. He decided to eliminate these from his diet altogether, and began eating Special K cereal (which is kind of funny, since the first ingredient in Special K is rice). Since it's made from whole wheat and has lots of vitamins, I thought it was a good start. He would have Special K for breakfast and dinner, hoping to begin losing weight right away. Instead, weight loss was sluggish at best, and he couldn't figure out what he was doing wrong. He ran on the treadmill twice a day and wasn't eating processed grains; shouldn't the weight be coming off faster? Then I watched him have his cereal one morning. He filled up his cereal bowl to the brim and added 1% milk. When he was done, he served himself another bowl, then another. I was shocked at how much he was eating at one sitting. J didn't think anything of it; he figured it was fat free healthy food so it didn't make a difference how much he ate. I took the box and read the nutritional facts to him: a serving size of 1 cup has 110 calories, not including the milk. "Not only did you serve yourself more than a cup," I told him, "but you served yourself 3 times. Therefore, you have had over 330 calories of cereal, with about another 300 calories in the milk. In just this one meal, you've had over 600 calories, and the day is just getting started." It was quite a wake up call. He had been eating foods that were good for him but in the wrong proportions. Once he adjusted his serving sizes, the pounds began melting away.

Americans have a "super-size" frame of mind. More is better. Gotta get my money's worth. Small fries and a small Coke don't cut it - it's gotta be the extra large of both, and 2 beef patties, if you please. I worked with some Europeans who were shocked at the amount of food served in restaurants. A serving size bowl of pasta at one of our local restaurants is the equivalent of what a family of four would eat in their countries. And let's not even talk about how much fat, calories and sodium are in these dishes! No wonder Americans are so overweight! In one sitting we eat a day's worth of everything, leave the table feeling like a balloon ready to pop, then plant ourselves in front of the TV to "rest" it off. And what do we watch on said television? Shows like "Biggest Loser." We laugh at the morbidly obese as we turn into one ourselves.

As I began looking at what I was eating, I also looked at the amounts I would eat. I had a tendency of eating a good, proportionate serving of food, then go back for seconds. That meant that I would have a meal of 500 calories - twice. I was eating too much food. It's as simple as that.

To keep myself on track, I now measure out my food and have only one serving. It was difficult at first. If it was a meal I particularly liked, I would want to have more. To help curb the craving, I'd have a large glass of water after eating. This would fill up my stomach while washing away the taste of the food from my palate. It's taken some time, but I can more easily control the amount of food I eat now and stay away from overeating.

Lesson to be learned here: it's not enough to eat the right foods; it's also necessary to eat the right amounts of the right foods. Not only will the weight come off easier, your digestive system will thank you for not overloading it. Scripture always puts it best: "And put a knife to your throat if you are a man given to appetite." (Proverbs 23:2).

Jokes, Anyone?

"Goat" Tell It on the Mountain
My three-year-old son, Grant, told me he learned a new song in children's church about goats on the mountain when Jesus was born. I hadn't heard that one before, so I asked him to sing it. He began, "Goats tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere. Goats tell it on the mountain, that Jesus Christ is born."



Grin and Bear It
A friend of mine used to teach Sunday school, and her favorite hymn to sing in class was, "Oh, the Consecrated Cross I Bear." One Sunday, a concerned mother questioned my friend about a song her child said she'd learned in class. Her daughter had been singing, "Oh, the constipated, cross-eyed bear!"


Love hearing the little ones worship! From Church Laughs at ChristianityToday.com.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

For Today, June 1, 2010...

Outside my window...it's still lightly drizzling, which means I won't have to water the plants today. God took care of that for me :-)

I am thinking...about pride. It's the chapter I'm working on in my personal study.

I am thankful...for godly women who share their testimonies and hardships, and listen to mine. It's such an encouragement to know there are God-fearing women out there praying for me.

I am going...to finish up the laundry and clean up the rooms.

I am wearing...an olive green shirt and khaki capris.

I am remembering...my oldest son's love of everything Ninja Turtle. We were looking at pictures of him when he was 7 years old and had all the action figures and accessories. He's 23 years old now and still loves Ninja Turtles.

I am currently...planning our summer activities.

I am reading...Psalms for morning devotions, Having a Mary Spirit for personal study, and not much else. It's time for a library run.

I am waiting...for the sun to come out and dry things up so I can clean up in the yard.

On my mind...summer fun!

From the learning rooms...7 more days of school, counting today.

I am pondering these words..."My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord. Let every creature praise His holy name for ever and ever." - Psalm 145:21

From the kitchen today...tilapia and veggies. Keeping it simple.

Around the house...the standard stuff. I need to do some yard work, but that depends on whether it keeps on raining.

One of my favorite things...is rain hitting against the window in the middle of the night. It's like God singing me a lullaby. I find it so comforting.

A few plans for the rest of the week...a couple of birthday parties this weekend, and the last Cub Scout meeting. Pretty quiet otherwise.

Wanna join in the fun? Visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook. Have a blessed week.