Holiday hectic?

If you've read this blog before or know anything about me, you know that I don't consider myself athletic, at all.

I can't do one push-up.  I can't do one chin-up.  Never could.

Phew, I feel better now that I've admitted that.  However, you also may know that I'm trying to make a better me.  This all started not long after the death of my grandmother, lost to the horrible beast known as cancer.  No, I will not make that word a proper noun.

In just a few weeks, it will be one year since my beloved Mamaw has made her residence in Heaven.  I miss her dearly and think of her often.  With that being said, I thought it was time for a new blog post.

December is a overly hectic month for me, as well as for most people reading this.  Don't get me wrong.  I absolutely adore Christmas and all things Christmasy.  In fact, I even had a Christmas wedding.

So for me, December is awesome, but hectic.  I'm a teacher, so I have classroom parties, field trips, school plays, choral performances, you name it. I'm a mom, so I also have classroom parties, field trips, school plays and performances, teacher gifts, and the list goes on.   I'm a church minister, so I have church plays, services, and parties there as well.

Not to mention, this month is my anniversary and the celebration of not only my son, but the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ!

Am I complaining? No, I am too blessed to complain!  But, it does get hectic.  

Take today, for example.  I slept in, had breakfast with my kids, made Chrsitmas cookies, watched a Christmas movie, and made dinner for my husband.   I know what you are thinking... That doesn't sound hectic to me!  You are right! In fact, I was overly joyed with this day.  Few realize how few days like this that a teacher really gets in life.

But, even on this non-hectic day, I was busy playing a role, albeit a role I love.  I was a housekeeper, a wife, a mom.  None of these are roles that I take lightly. If you know me, you know that I don't do anything unless I can do it with all of my heart.

But, I was so hectic in my roles and making sure that life around me was perfect, that I didn't take time for me.

That was, until I received a phone call from my cousin.  Without going in to details, it got me thinking about my desire to pursue a REFIT® instructor's license.  So, while my almost-7 and 9 year olds had "me time" in their rooms (this idea started after they were too old to take naps), I did my REFIT® workout.  

It felt good. It had been too long.

Too many days of running around and making sure we have the perfect December.  Too many days of not taking time to take care of me.

God calls us to take care of ourselves.  God calls us to praise Him.

I will praise You!

For I am fearfully and wonderfully made!

Marvellous are Your Works!

And that my soul knows right well!

Psalms 139:14

Reader,

God bless you on this Christmas season!  When you are feeling holiday hectic, may you find the ultimate peace in Jesus Christ!  May you find time to take care of your family, appreciate your blessings, take care of yourself, and ultimately, remember the Reason for the Season!

Merry Christmas!

~Julie

Plateaus

Ever reach a plateau?  A plateau is defined as a state in which there is little to no change.  Often, this term is used with fitness and weight loss.  I'm at a plateau.  

So, I decided to go back to logging my day (in a journal) and then blogging about it.  It keeps me focused.  Want to know what I log?  Well, because I don't consider myself a "fitness" person, I log what is important to me.  So, not only do I log my food, workout, and water intake; I also log my scripture reading.  Remember, I'm trying to make a better me!

Woke up: 4:18 a.m.

Water intake: check (take your body weight, divide in half=how much water you should be drinking daily)

Workout: 45 minutes 

Scripture: Psalm 119:81-96; John 16; 2 Samuel 1:1-16

Breakfast-vitamins, pre-workout drink, oatmeal with berries, and Spark (energy drink)

Snack-carrots and bell peppers with dip

Lunch-chicken and kale on a wrap

Snack-pizza (at an after-school meeting-this one wasn't on the original plan)

Dinner-Magherita pizza (basil, tomato, mozzarella), vitamins

Bed time: 9:40 p.m.

Why scripture? Well, just as you can reach a plateau in fitness and weight loss, you can reach a plateau in your journey as a Christian.  I think this is why I like David of the Bible so much.  God saw David as a man after God's own heart.  But, David had highs and lows.  He had plateaus, mountain tops, and slopes.  Yet, he was constantly calling on God.

Dear reader, you can reach a plateau in your fitness journey.  But, you can also reach a plateau in your Christian walk if you are not reading your Bible and calling out to God (praying) like David did.

There is hope. You see, the word plateau has another definition too.  It is also defined as an "area of high level ground". We are privileged because we have hope in Christ Jesus.  Let's not let us get so wrapped up in our fitness or our lives that  we don't allow Him to take us to higher ground.

Go!

"Go, Mommy, Go! Don't give up!"

This is what I heard from my six year old, who was laying on the bed watching tv while I worked out.  I didn't realize he was paying attention.  But, he was.

In the journey to health and fitness, others may be watching.  Those who say, "I don't exercise."  Well, they are watching too.  And, while my journey may include whole foods, exercise, vitamins, and energy drinks, it also includes my Bible, a devotional, a journal, and prayer time.  I hope that those watching can see that too!

You see, God does call us to take care of our bodies, as well as our spirits.  Our body is the home that God has given us to live in temporarily until He calls us home.  A healthier, active body is a body that is better prepared to fulfill the Great Commission:  "Go and teach all the nations" (Matt. 28:19).  Did you see that word?  Most of us focus on the word "all" and then line up a list of excuses:  God, how can I reach all?

But, that's not the focus!!  The focus is "Go!"

Get up!  Go!  God never promised anything would be easy!  In fact, He pretty much said the opposite.  Things like "burdens" or "cross to bear" or "persecution" hinder us!!  But, God calls us!  God has chosen us!  Now is the time for us to MOVE where He has called us to be! 

Are you ready?  Are you ready to get in an hour of cardio?  Run that mile? Maybe just start eating healthier?  Read your Bible more?  Reach your personal milestone? Are you ready to be the best you, so you can be the best for Him?  Take the challenge and take it one step at a time!  One day at a time!  I encourage you to get stronger physically AND spiritually!

Go!

Clouds

This morning, on my way to work, I saw the clouds.  I mean, I really saw the clouds as what they are--a masterpiece created by God, Himself.

It was in that simple, small moment that I realized I'd faultered.  The Bible speaks of a "slow fade" into sin.  Was I a sinner? Well, of course, for all sin daily and repent daily.  In the book of Song of Solomon, it states that it's the foxes that spoil the vineyard, meaning that it's the small things that will ruin something.  

I'd grown "too busy" and indifferent.  I was just living life and life was good.  But, I wasn't at the heart of who I am in God, of who I am in Christ Jesus.  

Moreover, I'd gained some of my weight back.  I wasn't eating as healthy.  Even on the verge of beginning my first exercise class as an instructor, I seemed to have lost my enthusiasm.

My family life-great.  My work life-great.   But, while looking at those clouds, I realized that I had taken my eyes off of the Son!

Reader, maybe you've gone into a slump like I was!  Hebrews 6:12 warns us not to be lazy in the ways of the Lord, but to have faith and patience and lay hold on the promises of the Lord.  

When lost at sea, He is our Compass.  When drowning in life's <fill in the blank here>, He is our Life Savor.  When tossing to and fro, He is our Anchor!

Yesterday, my family decided to get back on track with our healthy eating.  Today, I am getting back on track with the path that God is leading me through. And, my prayers are that you, my dear reader, will also always be able to find your way home to Him.

Love and prayers,

Julie 

You are more than a to do list

Luke 10 tells the story of Mary and Martha.  Jesus visited these two sisters.  Mary sat at Jesus' feet all day long and just listened to His Word.  Martha went about playing hostess, cleaning house, and busying herself with the "things that needed to be done."

To be honest, if it were me, I would be like Martha, even though I desire to be Mary.  I am a get-the-job-done type person.  I am known for my reliability and ability to make and accomplish tasks.

Yet, I am more than a to do list.  It doesn't define who I am!  

You are not a to do list!  Even as I pondered on this subject on the drive home from work.  When I got home, I had dinner, did laundry, washed dishes, made sure my kids had homework and baths done, and graded papers.  All before I sat down to read my bible!  Yes, I'm a Martha!

But, it doesn't have to be!  Dear reader, you are more than what is required of you!  You are a daughter of the Most High!  You have a royal legacy and know the Maker of the rain!  Allow Him to calm the storm within you and raging around you.

Do you have unfinished laundry and toys lying all over your floor?  Is your bed not made?  Your paperwork incomplete?  Maybe, your to do list is not fully checked off?

I know mine isn't!  Life is about balance and I'm learning what's important:  God and my family... All other things come second, even as much as I may love them and love that feeling of accomplishment when I get something done.  

Allow God to set your balance.  He wants all of you, but He is a gracious God and a Gentleman.  Trust in His presence.

Pursue

My husband was very persistent when he was courting me.  He gave me random presents, paid for my haircut, and even stood outside a women's restroom one time when I was sick.  At one point,  I even told him that I didn't want to date him.   But, he was pursuing me.

Even before that, I focused on getting my college education.  I didn't date much.  I wanted to focus on college.  See, I was pursuing my dream to become a teacher.

Within this last year, I have pursued a quest in becoming a healthy version of me!  Today, I even ordered my Refit Instructor package!

But, what does it mean to truly pursue something?  The dictionary says that to pursue something means that you chase after something until you catch it!

The bible speaks of a heart that pursues.

But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.  1 Timonty 6:11-12

Do you pursue after these things mentioned in Timothy? Are you chasing after righteousness and godliness until you catch them. Until. You. Catch. Them.

The bible often uses the word "selah", which means "think about it".  

So, think about it.  Do you pursue after the things of God like you do the things of this world?  Your relationships? Your work? Your success in life?  It's okay if you don't always do this.  So many times, we excuse our behavior because we are embarrassed by our mistakes.  Yet, King David of the Bible was an adulterer, a man who acted crazy, and a man who sent another innocent man to his death.  Yet, David went on to become "a man after God's own heart" and the author of the most beautiful prayers and my personal favorite book, the book of Psalms.

So, no more excuses.  Pursue after God's righteousness and holiness.  I promise you won't be disappointed.  God never moves from us.  He is stable and unable to fail.  Seek Him until you catch Him.

Easy Happens Through Hard Work

Okay.  It's confession time.  I am an all or nothing kind of girl.  I don't do things half-heartedly.  I either give it all I've got or I don't do it.  It makes me very loyal.  It makes me very dependable, because I get the job done.  However, this all or nothing approach to life doesn't benefit my health.   Even a little exercise is better than none at all, right?

It's not easy.  Today, I did my workout in my classroom, after school, all by myself.  The same classroom in which it is posted, "We don't do easy. We make easy happen through learning and hard work."  

I've been doing this Refit workout since January; it was easy today.  But, I've been working at it.  I started with 2 songs and only a 10 minute workout.  Now, I'm to a 45 minute workout and considering becoming a Refit instructor.  

But, things don't come easy, naturally.  The bible speaks of a man name Jacob.  Jacob loved a girl named Rachel.  Jacob agreed to work for Laban (Rachel's father) for seven years, in order to earn her hand in marriage.  Seven years!!  Well, Laban, loving the free help that he received through Jacob, tricks him upon that seventh year into marrying Leah (Rachel's sister) instead! What does our lover boy, Jacob, do? He works ANOTHER seven years to get Rachel!  Now, that's hard work!

The same thing is true for Christians.  God says that the way to follow Him is narrow.

So, what do you want to make easy in your life?  Recently, my husband and I were told that we make marriage look easy.  But, that's not true either.  That happens through hard work, too.

You see, just like my all or nothing concept, some things are worth working for and worth fighting for.  What do you wish to fight for?  What's worth working for? What's worth letting go?  Make your decision and give it all you've got!

 

It takes about 4-6 weeks to get in a routine of something and create (or break) a habit.  

You can do (almost) anything for a year.

If you can do it for a year, it can become a lifestyle.

Jesus moments and me moments

 "How many of you are multi-taskers?  Is your hand raised? Mine is!

The Proverbs 31 woman takes care of her husband (v 12), works (v 13-14), takes care of her household (v 15), gardens and farms (v 16), plans (v 16), takes care of the needy and volunteers (v 20), prepares for the future (v 21), and is not idle (v 27).

Were you like me and raised your hand to the first question?  If so, you may be more like the Proverbs 31 woman than you originally thought.  For me, personally, time is one of my most important things; yet, it is the one I so freely give away... To my church, to my family, to my work, and so on...  I know I've wished for times when I had "time" to be idle.  With this busy lifestyle, I still wouldn't want it any other way...and that is what makes me AND you more like the Proverbs 31.

HOWEVER, life is full of moments.  We can make these moments about us and our life OR we can make them Jesus moments.  Recently, I had the opportunity to sit with an older, wiser gentleman, and listen to him talk. He said, "Life is like a mist.  It's like driving a car down the side of a hill.  The older you get, the faster time goes by."

So, you can stay busy.  It's fine.  I'm guilty of it, but so was the woman from Proverbs 31.  There's nothing wrong with that.   But, you can turn your moments in to Jesus moments.  Take time to sit in His presence, to breathe in His grace, to read His word, and to worship Him!  I promise that the time will not be wasted.

And, then, it's okay to give yourself a break and have some me moments.  You can't take care of anyone, without first taking care of yourself.  That's the whole purpose behind this "journey to a better me".

"Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's" 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Take a Jesus moment.

Take a me moment.

Take care of your temple.

****

This was my morning and how I take care of my temple. How do you? 

Join me in prayer, as God may be opening the doors for me in more areas related to faith and fitness.  I always want to be in a His will.  I will keep you "posted", pun intended.  Be blessed.

Give Love

Having reached a plateau in my weight loss, I press on.  I may not have lost any more  weight, but I feel healthier than I've ever felt in my life.  

Today, in  my exercises, I pondered on things that have been happening in our nation.  Recently, the motto of our nation is "love wins". For me, love already won on the day my savior was crucified for my sin.  Yet, as I was exercising, I looked at my shirt, one of the first shirts I'd ever bought to exercise in.  It reads: "Give love".  Yet, are we, as Christians, really giving love?  Are we showing God's love?

Before I begin, allow me to say, I am a Christian.  Therefore, I believe the Bible in its entirety.  If you want to know what I believe in or don't believe, read the Bible.  I believe what it says. 

Yet, if you knew me before I was 20, you know that I had a past.  Did I partake in the sins that many teenage and young adults partake in? No, I did not.  However, I was the most judgemental Christian I knew.  I condemned a friend who told me he was homosexual.  I never had a chance to witness to him because I cut him away from my life entirely.  I went to a party (which I was completely uncomfortable in) and a friend said, "oh no, we are all going to hell" when he saw me.  Could I witness Christ's love to him? No, because all he saw was my condemnation of his sin.  Even Christian friends that didn't know me then but are friends now tell me that I wouldn't have been their friend then, because of my judgemental attitude.

So, now that you know my past, allow me to continue with my heartbreakening honesty.  I believe we, as Christians, are somehow missing the boat here.  In wanting to be like Proverbs 31, I believe the Proverbs 31 woman is a woman who gives love.  

Recently, I had an opportunity to have a long discussion with my husband about life. He said something I will never forget, "I may be a Christian but I'm not going to join the hate wagon."  So, in these last days... Yes, I believe these are the last days, but I've believed that long before a court decision or what has happened in the media...I want to encourage us all to give love.  Give Christ's love.

My husband and I are youth leaders and recently we had the opportunity to attend a Christian concert.  (I am a music nut... But I especially love music that uplifts God, His Son, and His Word!!). We heard a young man (Colton Dixon) speak to the crowd about it being the last days.  He said something along the lines of: in the last days, the Bible says we will do greater works than Christ.  Then, he said, how many people have you raised from the dead? How many people have you seen healed?  How many people have you lead to Christ?

Ouch! That hurts!  Matthew 24:12 says that because sin will abound, the love of many will grow cold (or fade away).  As a former self-proclaimed judgemental Christian, I believe that's what we are doing.  We are too busy spewing hate to show love.  The bible says that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God.  After that, to love your neighbor.  It doesn't say that our neighbor would share our beliefs.  Moreover, the great commission tells us that we are to take the word of God to the sinner.  So, get out of your comfort zone.  Get off of your social media condemnation and go out and find the sinner.  (Remember Matthew 7 tells us to take care of our own sins--through Christ--before we judge or worry about others' sins.). Go beyond your church walls and find the sinner.  Give them Christ.  Give love.

A Proverbs 31 woman gives love.

In His Image

Lately, so many things have reminded me that we are created in the image of God. From reading a Facebook post about images and how people judge the human body to hearing a new song that talks about not trying to live up to man's suggestion of what our image should be. 

Genesis 1:27 says that God created both man and woman in His image.  How much more should we reflect on this, than on Social media, magazines, the television, or even what our friends might say.  I want to reflect God, not promote the newest beauty or fitness product.

1 Corinthians 6:15 tells us that our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit.  Because of such, God calls us to take care of His temple, our bodies.  In pursuing a life of faith and fitness, this is what we are called to do.  In the same chapter, verse 20 tells us that our bodies were bought with a price and that we are to glorify God with our bodies, for they are not ours!

Psalm 139 says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made.  The new living translations says it like this, "Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!  Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it!"   Be proud of who you are!  Rest in the fact that you are His!  His creation! His image!  His love!

Can a Proverbs 31 woman be single?

Hi all, yes I've been away from the computer for a little while.  Without making excuses it's called "end-of-the-year-teacher-syndrome", which is a severe case of being super busy and super tired at the same time.  You don't have to be a teacher to understand this concept.  

Well, a few weeks ago, while looking for an image, I came upon a question that said "Can a Proverbs 31 woman be single?"  Without reading the website related to said image, I pondered on this for weeks.  You may ask why I, a married woman, would think on such things.  I remember being single.  Moreover, I remember being single in church.  I would hear things such as, "I can't wait until you're married so you can do [x] in the church..."  Such statements would make me upset.  I mean, my grandmother was a Pastor.  My grandmother.  Anyway, in my studying, I have found that a Proverbs 31 woman doesn't have to be married.  Allow me to explain. 

One study bible states that the Proverbs 31 woman refers to the church.  Another says that the qualities of a Proverbs 31 woman can be found in either gender.  So, in summarizing, a Proverbs 31 woman is a person that seeks after God with purpose. 

A woman (or man) can be complete in God.  I recently attended a women's conference with ladies from my church.  In it, the speaker stated that feminism has no place in Christianity.  She was referring to the modern-day concept of the husband not being the head of the household, but rather that both husband and wife should be equal.  Yet, Biblically, the husband is the head of the household, just as Christ is the head of the church.   

My husband does not complete me.  I was a complete person, made whole through Christ Jesus, long before I met my husband.  My husband does not complete me; he compliments me.  He adds value to my life.  Let me explain.  Recently my husband built a deck on our back porch.  Our house was already completed.  The deck did not complete the house.  But, it did compliment the house and add value to it.  The same is with a husband.  

So, can a Proverbs 31 woman be single?  The bible states that it is better for one to be single.  But, if he/she cannot remain single, then they should marry.  Can you be like the Proverbs 31 woman and be single? YES!  Can you be like the Proverbs 31 woman and be married?  YES!  Can you be like the Proverbs 31 woman and be a man? YES!  Just like that woman, seek after God with your whole heart!  Then, take care of your family.   That is the essence of a Proverbs 31 woman!

***

This journey is about faith and fitness and becoming a better me.  You may ask about my fitness.  I'm still working towards becoming fit.  I've always been skinny.  Even after having kids, because of my height, I've been considered by others to be skinny.  Let me say this: skinny is not fit.  I was skinny, but I was not fit!  I'm still working to become a better, stronger version of myself!  Want to work along with me, I've created a youtube playlist of the songs/workouts I do each morning.  Check it out here.

A Proverbs 31 Woman is a woman that prays

You may have noticed that I took a break from the blogging.  Please do not take this to mean that I've stopped my quest to become like the Proverbs 31 woman.

This blog is about being the best woman that I can be.  Perhaps, along the way, I can inspire you to be a better version of yourself.

Let me touch on the fitness part first. I have maintained my weight loss that was accomplished during the Advocare challenge. I've mentioned previously but the only Advocare product that I now  use is spark!  Spark has given me the opportunity to completely quit drinking soda pop!  I, also, still absolutely love my Refit Revolution workout videos.

That being said, I fear I may have plateaued a little on my fitness.  The answer and motivation to this: this blog.  I can keep myself more accountable and, hopefully, inspire others along the way! 

In doing Refit Revolution, there are certain workout songs that I simply cannot do.  I have a condition in my foot that basically causes flat foot,which I have to sometimes wear a brace.  Last night at church, I prayed: "God, I don't want to always have to wear a brace or always have a limp if I don't."  I believe I heard God say, "Finally. Julie, this is the first time you've actually prayed and asked for it!"  (Which is a little bit funny because I almost always pray very specific prayers.). So, back to Refit.  Tonight I completed 10 Refit songs (with strength training before) completely WITHOUT my brace!!!  Bonus: one of the songs was "Eye on it"... A song I've been wanting to Refit to, but thought it was too hard.  

I've got my eye on it!  Keeping my eyes on my Lord and my mind on His Word.  Lesson learned: a Proverbs 31 woman is a woman who prays!

Burn Bright

Wow!  Is it ever confession time?  I did my workout after skipping several days and it was HARD.  I've got to get better at this!  I'm happy to say, though, that I'm maintaining my weight loss.  I'm trying not to get discouraged because my weight isn't changing (going down) even though I know it's only a number and only one way of measuring success.  

How can I complain when I know I'm not exercising as much or watching my food intake like I was.  It's not bad....I've only had...maybe..2 or 3 sweet teas in several months and absolutely no pop (northern word...in the South everything's a Coke!)

How can I expect things to change if I don't change what I'm doing?  If you (I) expect more results, you (I) need to do more.  If you (I) expect different results, you (I) need to do things differently. 
Simple enough, right?

As far as Proverbs 31, today I reflect on motherhood.  Today, I took a half day off of work to be mom (the kiddos had dental appointments).  We went to eat, to the local bookstore, and ended up at the little league park for ballgames (the first ones that I've been free enough to attend!).  Now, don't get my wrong, I absolutely adore my job and have never desired to be a stay-at-home mom.  (I'm not bashing that, though, because that's a personal call and all us mommies need to stick together!) However, it was nice to be able to spend the majority of my day just being mom.

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed..." ~Proverbs 31: 28

Moms, your kiddos are watching what you do.  It's all well-and-good to tell them what to do and what not to do.  But, you (I) need to live it out each and every day.  You were made to shine, so, burn bright!  Your kiddos are basking in your sunlight.  Even on your cloudiest day, they need to see the YOU that God created you to be. You are great.  So, burn bright!

You might be thinking...How can I burn bright and give it my all when I'm so close to burning out.  Here's some strategies that I've found that work to avoid this I'm-too-tired-too-busy-everyone's-demanding-too-much-of-my-time-burnout:  Ladies, find you a support system...and not just your significant other.  Find some girlfriends.  Find a local church. Make and keep your "me time"...even if it is simply locking yourself in the bathroom to take a bubble bath.... You were made to shine.  No one can do your job better than you.  You cannot be replaced.  Burn bright! Brighter than the sun!

Notes: As you can tell, I absolutely love music!  The songs above, while about burning/bright/sunlight/etc., may not necessarily be about motherhood.  Yes, I realize that.  The first song, by Natalie Grant, is a beautiful, powerful song.  Listen to the lyrics of it and be truly blessed. Allow God to minister to you through Mrs. Grant.  

The second song would not even be considered in the Christian genre (of which all of the songs I've posted have been).  But, I think it's a fun, summer song.  Simple enough.  Nothing deep.  It just makes me smile, and that's okay.  Burn bright, ladies.  

Being a Christian wife in this modern world

"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loves the church..."

As a Christian woman, I absolutely love this scripture.  My husband should love me as much as Christ, Himself, loves the church?!?! Wow!  Yet, why is it so hard to follow all the other mandates that are written for Christian wives?  Especially in the world we live in?

Perhaps it is because of words like "obey" and "submit", that are written in God's Holy Word .  Once declared in marital vows, the word "obey" has even been taken out of those.  Why?  I can't even tell you if they were in my marital vows.

This is a touchy subject in our modern day world.  In a quest to be independent and equal to men, we have somehow viewed these Godly qualities as degrading.  

I am not perfect, by any means.  I also consider myself independent.  However, in my quest to become more like that Proverbs 31 woman, I want to follow God's guidelines for being a Spiritual wife.

**I will submit (Ephesians 5:22 and 1 Peter 3:1).  

The word, submit, doesn't not mean that I'm inferior.  It means that I will go with him voluntarily. Just as found in the book of Ruth, "Where you go, I will go....where you stay I will stay..."  He will be my confidant, and I, his.  (Side thought: Ephesians 5:22 is a scripture many women struggle with.  Yet, the next ELEVEN scriptures give guidelines for the husband!  Food for thought.)

**I will keep the heart of my husband. He can trust in me.  (Proverbs 31: 11)

**I will do him good, not evil, for all of my life. (Proverbs 31:12)

**I will be reverent to my husband. (Ephesians 5:33)

This is my promise.  Will I be perfect? Well, of course not.  Ask my husband and he will not tell you that he has a perfect wife.  I am stubborn and very opinionated.  I get overly-emotional about mundane things and worry about things that I cannot control.   But, he can tell you that his wife honors him and the God we serve.

Women, be encouraged.  We are not perfect.  But, God is calling us to be just that, in every way possible.  Did you accidentally land on this blog, thinking it would be about fitness?  Yes, fitness is a part of my journey.  But, this is a journey to become a better version of myself, in all aspects of my life.

I know this may not apply to all readers...you may say "I'm single" or may even be a male reader.  God has guidelines for all of us...women, men, single, married...we just have to be willing to obey them.  I only touched on one area and I also realize that this is a touchy area for some...Please be encouraged.  Life can be difficult and God's word is strict, but He is also our Encourager and our Peace.

Are you here just for the fitness?  I'm still at it.  I've decided to go back to journaling to keep track of my water intake, food intake, exercise, and scripture reading.  Today wasn't the best day.  I had a donut this morning, as well as a cupcake and pasta.  But, I did my exercises...even if it was 10:00 at night, after everything else was done.  I write all of this to let you know that I'm just an ordinary woman living an ordinary life.  And, yes, sometimes life gets in the way of life.  But, I'm trying.  I'm trying to be the best me by becoming a better wife, a better mother, and a better me.  I encourage you to stay on this journey with me....

and to start one of your own...

Today's about encouragement

Good morning!  Well, it's morning where I am right now, as I sit and reflect on things.   It's a Saturday morning and today's about encouragement.

I arose before my family and did my morning workout, breakfast outside on the porch, and reading my Bible.

For those of you who have been reading this blog, you may say...well that's nothing new...because many of your posts began that way.  Well, let me tell you a secret.  I've been inconsistent lately.  I would do that a day, but then it would be 2 or 3 or 4 days until I would do it again.  My husband even told me that he thought I might be giving up.  I am not giving up.  So, let me get back to this morning.

As I was sitting outside on my porch (which is something I rarely do, even though I find it adorable with old wooden rocking chairs that were from the same place I had my wedding reception) I was reminded of something that I read on social media.  Here it is:

That's right, I've made mistakes and lately, my progress as been slow.  But, I'm still trying.  I exercise, although currently not daily, but I'm working on it.  I eat healthier.  I had one sweet tea the other day and couldn't finish it!  This comes from a person who liked to have tea with her sugar!  I was also unable to finish a frappe because I thought it was too sweet!

***

Let's face it.  I'm busy.  Most women are.  (Men are too, but it's a different kind of busy.)  Lately, I've been finalizing my graduate study.  I graduate with my Master's degree soon.  So, my free time isn't free; it's just time I use to work on something else.  

So, if you're like me, there are days in which you wear so many hats that you think they'll come tumbling down.  It's like that act in which they are spinning plates.  Some days, I have so many hats that I feel like the peddler in the kid's book, Hats for Sale.   From someone who considers herself fairly good at multitasking, please don't give up.  What you're do is already way ahead of those who aren't even trying!

The same goes for your Spiritual walk.  Yes, I pray every day.  Are they the best, most "religious" prayers? No.  My prayer is usually a conversation with God, like I would with you.  Some days, He talks back.  Some days, He just listens.  But, the point is, is that I have those conversations and I know He's there.

I do continue to read my Bible.  Has it been every day?  Unfortunately, like the exercise thing, no. But, I am making an effort.  Are you Christian?  Do you read and pray every day?  Yes, this is what the Bible commands.  Yet, if you're like me, and you can say no, I encourage you to not give up in this endeavor either.  What you're doing is more than someone who is not trying.  And, I personally believe that God knows where your heart lies and will honor your effort.  Do we all get "A's for effort"?  Well, of course not.  But, no one ever earns anything by standing still.  "No, we won't stand still!"

And, one last bit of encouragement.  One reason for starting this blog and journey to a better me was that it was inspired by my Mamaw.  Well, lately, I've been missing her.  This was the closest person to me that I've ever lost.  Even though, I know she's in a better place, it doesn't change the hurt.  So, in my morning Bible reading, I stumbled across these words (don't you just love it when God does that?) and these are in red, so that's the important Jesus-speaking stuff.  If you're hurt, confused, heartbroken, or discouraged, listen to what Jesus has to say only shortly before He is crucified:

"I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." ~John 14:18

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world gives, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." ~John 14:27

It's a good Friday

Good morning!  It's a good Friday.  As I wake up today, it's gloomy, dark, and raining outside.  But, it's a good Friday.    I can't help thinking that this is what the original Good Friday was like so many years ago.

On that Good Friday, Christ Jesus sacrificed Himself for our sins.  He, who had not sinned and was Perfect, made the Ultimate Sacrifice.  I've often wondered why we call it good Friday.  I'm sure there's a reason because everything has a reason.  (As logical as I am sometimes, you'd think I'd favor science over faith....but, I don't.)  

As Jesus walked on Earth during His approximate 33 years, I've also often wondered how could they kill Him?  But, no one killed Him.  He gave Himself for us.  By His stripes, we are healed.  By His sacrifice for our sins, we are saved!

So, on this Good Friday, it is a good Friday because this is the day we remember the Crucifixion. When Christ sacrificed Himself on the cross, the world became dark, much like today, both figuratively and literally.  But, light is coming on Resurrection Sunday!

So, it's been several days since I ended my Advocare 24 day challenge.  I'm sure you're wondering how I'm maintaining.  The only Advocare product I kept was the Spark, which is the drink that gives caffeine without sugar.  Yes, in over 30 days, I've had no soda pop or sweet tea!!

I've continued to do my workout.  Not every day, but not giving up either.  My husband bought me the Refit Revolution DVD.  Yesterday, I did all 12 songs.  Today, I only did 6.  I also do my strength training exercises (weights, planks, sit-ups/scrunches).  On average, I do about 9 songs cardio and about 10-15 minutes of strength training. 

I've maintained my weight loss; even a little more, I guess, because my total weight loss is a little over 10 lbs.  I read that women need to stop looking at weight and the weight of others.  This isn't about weight loss.  This isn't about beauty or sex appeal, either.  It's about a healthier, better me. Weight loss is only one way of measuring success and the physical attributes are only one part of what makes me, me.  As a mommy, my daughter watches what I do. Yes, she watches when I weigh in or workout.  But, she also watches when I read my Bible and lay on my back, worshiping God.  

And, what about food?  The key is moderation and the ability to say no.  I've still tried to make healthier choices.  But, I've also had ice cream and cheesecake (not on the same day).  To me, being healthy doesn't mean being unrealistic.  I love sweets and bread.  I'm not going to live the rest of my life without them.  I now know that I could, but I don't want to.   But, I'm not going to eat them every day, every meal.

I hope you and yours have a blessed Easter weekend.  Remember, He is the Reason for this Season, too!  God bless.

Day 25: It's over but it's not over

Today makes day 25 of the journey to a better me.  That means the Advocare 24 day challenge is over.   It's over.  But, it's not over.  Want to know my "results"?  Read on.

At the end of this first stage of my challenge, I've been reflecting on that Proverbs 31 woman.  Being raised in church, I know that so many women's ministries, women's conferences, and women--in general--hold the Proverbs 31 woman to be the perfect example.  I know I do.

Yet, as I think upon my imperfections, I think about her.  Who was she really?  Was that her reality every day?  Every day, her husband praised her?  Every day, her children called her blessed?  Every day, she was the epitome of kindness?  Every day, she took care of the poor?  Every day, she worked and gave it her ALL?  

All you and I can do is take the Bible for what it is.  The truly inspired Word of God.  

But, if you're like me, you're human.  You are perfectly flawed; yet, created in His Image.  You are perfectly imperfect, made perfect and completed--not by what you do or who you are or who you're in a relationship with--but made perfect only through Christ Jesus. 

So, maybe you're not the Proverbs 31 woman.  Maybe you're the woman at the well, who has done so much wrong that she thinks she's not worthy of Christ or anything.  Maybe you're Martha and too busy taking care of things to sit at Jesus' feet. (This is where I am on more days that I should be!) Maybe you're Sarah and want to solve the problems and not wait on God.  (I've been there too!) Maybe you're Job's wife and just want to give up.  Hold on.  There is hope.

Like you, I strive to be the Proverbs 31 woman.  But, I strive, even more, to be like Christ.

"Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ." ~Philippians 3:8 NLT

In this journey to be like the Proverbs 31 woman and to become a better me,  I've realized my shortcomings and my flaws.  We all do this, but it seems that women sometimes do this more.  This is not a stereotype, but an observation from living the life I've led.  I didn't exercise every day.  I didn't read my Bible every day.  I didn't blog every day.  There were days that I even missed church services.  I'm not perfect.  At the end of the day, all my imperfections make me who I am.  They make you who are.  Is your laundry not finished? (Is it ever?)  Is your baby crying and you sometimes just want to cry with him(her)?  Maybe you said unkind words, simply out of tiredness? It happens.  We--women (and men!)--are not perfect.  But you can be made perfect.  You can be covered in salvation.  Are you ready?  Lord, I'm ready now!

God, in Heaven, I pray for these women and men who have taken just a moment out of their day, to show interest in mine.  Maybe they are reading this to see what my weight loss is.  Maybe they are my family and just showing support for me.  But, God, You have called me to share this journey with others so that I may share You and Your Grace.  God touch them.  Help them to realize that they are not perfect, but that they don't have to be.  Your Grace is sufficient for all.  Meet them where they are.  Comfort them.  Help them to be ready to accept You as Lord and Savior, as You accept their imperfect selves.  We thank You for all that You do, but more importantly all that You are.  You are our everything.  In Jesus name we pray, Amen


And, for those who are helping me monitor my progress.  My total weight loss in 24 days is 9.4 lbs and 9 1/2 inches.  Do I feel amazing every day?  No.  But, I feel confident in who I am.  I've realized I need to spend more time for me (and that's okay!) and more time with Him.  Advocare is over but this journey is not over.  Stay blogged in.  I have a plan for my future self...

Day 22

This whole process is changing me!  (I guess that was the intent, right?)  Some days, I'm not sure it's for the better!  (This is a joke)  I do believe that my love of sweets is changing.  I am still on track, but those times when I've tasted of something sugary, it hasn't been as good as it "use to be".

Like today.  I bought frozen chocolate-covered bananas.   My plan was to have them in a few days (on day 25)...as my reward.  Kind of counter-productive, isn't it?  However,  my daughter didn't want hers today so I "tried" it.  Even though it was dark chocolate (which I'm not a fan of, by the way), it was very sweet and I ended up trading it for some kale/carrot/spinach chips.  Sigh.  Who am I?

I haven't given up, though.  I've just been, well, tired.  You know those days where you work really hard at one thing (like work) and the other (like housework) doesn't get done, or not done as much?That's been me, lately. My multi-tasking superpower has faded somewhat this week.

But, I'm not quitting.  Granted, I didn't exercise yesterday or this morning.  Yet, when I got home, I had my third work-out shirt ever given to me as a gift.  

My alma mater!  My husband wanted to encourage me because I'd been working so hard.  I needed the encouragement today.  I was reminded of a scripture:

"I count not myself to have apprehended;

But this one thing I do,

forgetting those things which are behind

and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded,

God shall reveal even this unto you." ~Philippians 3:13-15

And, I did my workout: complete with scrunches, planks, weights, and 9 Refit songs.  Let me say that again, 9!!!!  I began with, what? 2 or 3?  I've also been ending the workout with some worship songs, where I just lay down, and give praise/thanks to God.  It's a good time.  I've got my eye on the prize. I press on.

Are you still curious about my food intake?  Yep, I'm still on track.  It's day 22 of the Advocare 24 day challenge...that means in 3 days, it's a weigh-in/measure day!

Here's what I ate today:

Breakfast: Advocare Shake
Lunch: Salad with grilled chicken and boiled eggs
Dinner: Grilled porkchop, homemade potato chips, and wheat bread
Snacks: Berries, granola, banana


Are you like me?  Do you need encouragement, like my husband was to me today?  Try this on for size (one of my favorite scriptures):

"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, 

what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink;

nor yet for your body,

what ye shall put on.

Is not the life more than meat,

and the body more than raiment?

But, seek ye first the kingdom of God,

and His righteousness;

and all these things shall be added unto you." ~Matthew 6: 25, 33

Day 18

Hi all!  It's been a few days since I've been able to post.  It's not because I've stopped working on my faith and fitness.  It's just because life happens. 

Today makes day 18 of the Advocare 24 day challenge and my own challenge to myself to become a Proverbs 31 woman in the best way possible, which started as a tribute to my Mamaw.  Today, I was with my granddaddy when he was talking to someone about her.  I had to look away because I didn't want to let him know I still cry over her. 

That brings me to my Bible reading today.   Today I read 1 Sam 21 and John 11:1-44.  In John, I'm to the part where Lazarus has died.  This is the only time in the Bible (to my knowledge) that it mentions Jesus, Himself, crying.  I believe God wrote this story down to encourage us to believe in miracles.  Verse 15 says:

"And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe;

nevertheless let us go unto him."

Jesus loved Lazarus so much that He mourned for him.  Yet, here He tells the disciples that he's glad he wasn't there.  If Jesus was there when Lazarus was sick, He could have healed him.  But, he wanted the disciples to believe that He is the Resurrection. 

As Jesus goes to Lazarus, Martha basically says, "You're late.  If you'd been here, he wouldn't have died".  Now, we all know that He's an on-time God, so just hold on.  Later in the chapter, Mary says the same thing, "If you'd have been here, Lazarus would be alive".  And, a third time, Martha says, "he's already been dead 4 days!" 

Jesus was on time.  You see He raised Lazarus.  He, Himself, conquered the grave at the Cross.  Believers will once again be Resurrected into a Heavenly Jubilee one day.  Ready to get your worship on?

My prayer for you:  God, our Father, we know that you are an on-time God.  We know that You are Jehovah Jireh, our Provider.  You are Jehovah Shalom, our Peace and Jehovah Rapha, our Healer.  You are Jehovah Shammah, our ever-present help in time of need.  God, I know so many that are in need right now.  They've heard bad news at the doctor.  They've heard bad news in their professional lives.  They've heard bad news in their personal lives.  God, only You know what we need and have the power to surpass any bad news that we may hear.  God, strengthen us.  Strengthen those that need help, guidance, healing, and wisdom to make decisions when times are hard.  You said You won't leave us or forsake us.  God, we ask that you confirm your presence in our lives so when that bad news comes, we all can say, "God, this is rough, but I know You've got this".  We thank You for all you've done.  We thank You for sending Your Son that gives us hope for the future through Salvation.  Most of all, we thank You for who You are.  in Jesus' mighty Name we pray, Amen.

****

Today's Menu

Breakfast--Chocolate Meal Replacement Shake

Lunch--Chicken sub on wheat bread

Dinner--Venison meatballs with roasted cauliflower

Snacks--Sunchips (these chips have the best ingredients I've found), pear, apples with all-natural peanut butter, and kiwi (3 snacks per day)

****

I wanted to get all the Bible reading and exercise done in the morning, as is mentioned in Proverbs 31..when it talks about the woman rising early.  Yet, today, I was sick.  I didn't go to work, slept until 9, and ended up going to the doctor.  (All is well--just an allergic reaction that required a shot).  

That being said, I ended up doing my work out at night--about 10:00 to be exact.  I did weights, scrunches, planks, and 7 (yes, 7!!!!) Refit songs from my Playlist!!  Afterwards, I played a worship song and laid on the floor, just praising God.  It wasn't that bad to be so late in the evening.  Here's what I posted on my Facebook page after taking my first-ever post-workout picture.  Isn't that the thing to do on social media?

"Not-so-beautiful, post-Refit photo.  But, it's not about beauty.  It's about fitness and faith.

10:00...I should be in bed...Yet, I missed my workout this morning, because I was sick.

Carpe Diem.  Today's the day to change your life!"

P.S.  I really mean what I say about it not being a beauty-thing.  I've never been into beauty or fashion.  But, because I wanted this process to be the purest, best form of myself, I even didn't wear make-up for the first 10-11 days of the challenge.  I don't wear a lot of make-up anyway, so I think only my daughter noticed.  

Be you.  Be beautiful as God created you.  He created You in His image.  You're body is a temple.  Why not take care of it?  You're every bit of lovely.



Day 15

"for he loved him as he loved his own soul" ~ 1 Sam. 20:17

1 Samuel chapter 20 tells the story of the friendship between Jonathan, son of Saul, and David.  In verse 17, it states that Jonathan loved David as much as his own life.  Saul wanted to kill David.  This angered Jonathan insomuch that Jonathan warned David.  Do you have friends like that in your life?  I absolutely adore my husband and he is probably my best friend.  I've mentioned that he is my main supporter in this endeavor.  However, I am privileged to have about three really good, strong, Christian women as friends...that I could count on for almost anything.  It's important to have friends.  AND, what would be more important as a woman that to have other women who are STRONG and of similar faith?  I don't believe anything can compare to that.

***

"You believe not, because you are not of my sheep" ~ John 10:26

The above scripture is written in red in my bible...that makes it extremely important as it is the words of Christ Himself.  Here, Jesus was talking about why people could not believe in Him as the Son of God.  This was during the time that he was accused of blasphemy.  One cannot believe in Christ if he/she is not in Christ.  Without getting overly biblical or adding/taking away from the scripture, here's my interpretation.  As Christians, we are judging and holding non-believers to the same Christian standard as we are held accountable for...yet they have yet to accept Christ as their Lord and Savior.  I think Christian singer, Mandisa, calls these people "pre-Christians".  God's law applies to all, but one cannot fully understand all of it until they've come to know the Son of God.  Take for example, the great creation debate.  One cannot believe in creationism without believing in the Creator,  Himself; thus, all debate is invalid and useless until those unbelievers come to know Christ.  If you're reading this and you are Christian, I encourage you to show love, instead of judgment.  If you're reading this and you are not a Christian, I encourage you to remember we--yes, we Christians--are not perfect people either.  We're just a bunch of imperfect people, trying to do the right thing.

Be blessed.  If you're interested in salvation, feel free to contact me.

***

My exercise routine is moving right along.  This morning I did about 30 minutes of my workout.  Then, when I got home from work, my daughter wanted to "dance" with me, so we did 3 or 4 more Refit songs!  It was fun to share that experience with her!

Food intake is staying on track.   Tonight, I had to make cupcakes for tomorrow.  Let's say this:  It's all about self-control!  Cupcake-0, Julie-1.  Yeah, I got this!

Day 14

It's been a few days since I posted.  I haven't fallen off of the bandwagon.  You've read about my love for Refit Revolution that I found on YouTube.  Well, I found out that the Refit founders were coming some-what locally and I just had to attend.  I was there!

Yep, I did that!  I've mentioned before that, at the start of this challenge, I'd never exercised much at all!  So, this was the first exercise class I've done and the longest amount of time I've exercised at one time!  I'm very proud of myself because I went alone and was very nervous.  In fact, one of my very best friends mentioned how out of my nature this was!  Let me say, I had a BLAST!  I like Refit because of the use of Christian music.  The message behind of what they do is more than fitness!  At the end of the class, one is lying on her back, reflecting on her life, and giving God the glory!  A-MAZ-ING!  Thank you to Angela and the entire Refit team! 

I also bought my second workout shirt from Refit.  I chose purple in honor of my Mamaw, who was mentioned at the start of this blog.  Purple is the color of pancreatic cancer awareness.  Mamaw, I am working hard to become that Proverbs 31 woman and I will see you again someday!

This was on Day 12.    But, let's talk food!  Instead of giving you my menu, like I usually do, let me say this.  Right after the Refit class, I went to out to dinner with my husband.  I sent the bread basket back with the waitress!  If you know me, this is HUGE!  Before, I could live off of bread!  

Now, thanks to God and the support of the one He gave me to spend my life with, I am slowly changing my life...one day at a time.

On Day 13, due to things going on, I didn't get to exercise/study my Bible.

Now, as I type on the morning of day 14, I feel blessed.  I'm back on schedule and did my morning routine, as always.  Check out my YouTube playlist.  In addition to my scrunches, planks, and weights (only 5 lbs. still), my Refit videos this morning consisted of: "Good Morning", "Funky Jesus Music", "Celebrate", "I Am", and "Cry Holy".  I always start with "Good Morning" and end with "Cry Holy".

Scripture Time:

Day 12: 1 Sam. 18; Psalm 113-114

Day 13: ------

Day 14: 1 Sam. 19; Psalm 115

"The Lord has been mindful of us;

He will bless us...

He will bless them that fear the Lord,

both small and great.

The Lord shall increase you more and more,

you and your children.

You are blessed of the Lord which made Heaven and Earth."

Psalm 115

~Be blessed,

Julie

Refit Revolution

Day 11

Day 11-It's judgment day

Well, not really.  But it is weigh-in/measurement day!  On the Advocare  plan, you weigh/measure on Days 11 and 25.

Spiritual intake:

1 Samuel 17

Proverbs 16

Psalm 112

John 9

Exercise: 30 minutes

Food intake:

Breakfast: Advocare Meal Replacement Shake-Chocolate

Snack: Pear

Lunch: Salad with chicken and boiled eggs

Snack: chicken salad on crepe (this was a cheat...but I was really hungry at the time)

Dinner: Chicken wraps

Snack:  Kiwi

And, here it is. 

After 11 days on the Advocare 24 day challenge, watching what I eat, exercising daily, taking Advocare products,  and only "cheating" twice (once was the blueberry muffin, once was the chicken salad today), here it is:

Total Loss:

6.6 lbs

6.5 inches... 2 1/2 inches on waist alone!

I am completely okay with this!  While not the only goal, my "weight loss" goal was 15 lbs, so if I'd lost it all in 11 days, I'd probably think it wasn't healthy.

Suggestions for success if you're wanting to begin your own fitness challenge:

1.  Plan out the food--This is KEY!  It's not as easy to eat whatever's nearby when you have your meals and snacks planned out.

2.  Record what you're eating--I keep a log of food, water, bible reading, and exercise.

3.  Exercise

4.  Have a support system/encourager (mine is my husband)

You don't need a miracle product.  I used (am using) Advocare to kick start my fitness plan and reset my metabolism.  The key is determination.  Watch the food intake.  Exercise.  Feed your spiritual body.

Be blessed.  This journey is not over.  Thank you for visiting my blog.  Keep visiting, as I will continue to update it throughout the rest of the challenge.