Me, Me… Oh My!!! And I Thought We were Just Taking a Cruise…

By Beth Duewel

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer:

My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge…”

(Psalm 18:2)

I woke to the drift of the balmy sea. I’d waited 25 years for an anniversary cruise with my husband, and so my rested body jumped eagerly out of bed before the suns rays pounced on the cabin window.

No lunches to pack. No searching for missing football socks. No scrambling to make the school bus. No,no,no. This day was all about me, mee, meee. Yipeee! Oh and Jerry, too.

I headed to the bathroom to prepare for our first adventure on a tropical island. Of course, I left the light off, giving my honey a few more moments to slumber.

You know in horror movies how you can sense a scary moment looming with mood music and a dark tumultuous scene? And you know how you just want to yell “TURN THE LIGHT ON DUMMY!” and forewarn the innocent victim of impending danger… well, there was none of that.

I marched unknowingly into the miniature bathroom, grabbed my toothbrush, and began brushing my pearly whites with vigor. A few seconds into my regimen the verse from Revelation 3:16 rang true to my taste buds, “…I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Waaaaay out! I flicked on the light to see a tube of ICY HOT returned to the toothpaste cup. Horrors!!! At that moment I could only assume I rubbed my legs down with toothpaste in the middle of the night.

My tongue was like a lit match. I was one icy-hot mess! Now, since I don’t make a habit of brushing with Icy Hot. And because my mouth was on fire, I started mouthing muffled toothbrush sounds hoping my husband would investigate. He did.

He asked questions I couldn’t answer with a numb tongue. In between rinsing, I declared in foamy manner, “I bwuthed my theeth with Ithee Hot???” For a few brief seconds Jerry refrained from laughing. Obviously, he didn’t get the “all about me” memo I thought I sent out before we departed.

While he stood in the doorway, he professed remorse. And I could tell—through his laugh induced tears—that he was “thruly” sorry. You see, it had been his job to unpack the health and beauty supplies. Too bad he unpacked them in the wrong places.

Then, before I left the tiny cubicle (a cruise ship’s version of a bathroom), I realized I had dropped several tear-filled Kleenex on the floor. When I stooped down to pick them up, however, my bottom-end met the squatty-potty (a cruise ship’s version of a toilet), with such force it was unparallel to any wedgie I’d ever experienced. My lower back ached with pain. It looked like I would need the toothpaste again that night.

With the early morning events, it became very clear the trip was all about me. Yes indeed! All about me killing myself before my toes ever tickled the Caribbean sand. With a sore back and deep-fried taste buds, we headed out for more adventure. Oh, there was more. Much more.

When we stopped at Tortola to take one of our fantastic excursions, I faintly recall the guide warning to watch the tide, that there were no life guards on duty, and some muffling noise about staying away from the dangerous rocks, but my mind was already splashing in the water. On the way down the trail my husband and I could hardly hold ourselves back from an all-out run to the shore.

With no kids underfoot, both of us were eager to have fun. The day was beautiful, not a cloud in the sky. The waves rolled in blue like bubbling whipping cream as people played in the surf between two heaps of massive rock.

We couldn’t wait to get in the water. When we did the temperature was a perfect 85 degrees on a 95 degree day. Finally, we swam out to the invisible barrier that drew a line between the rocks edge and then relaxed and doggy paddled. Ahhh.

Not long into my lounging though I felt a tug on my body, noticing the tide felt a little extra sucky that day. Sucky like when the end of the vacuum hose doesn’t want to let go of my daughter’s extra fluffy sock. That kind of suction. And one look at my husband’s face confirmed my thoughts. We were definitely being pulled out…way out.

I don’t know how much time went by because time seems to blur when you’re in a panic, but I remember waving at people standing on the beach. Then, I remembered there was no lifeguard. That’s when I saw Jerry heading for the rocks.

Now, one thing I am is a rule follower! Even in my fright, I remember the warnings about the rocks. “Stay away” was all I heard in my head to the beat of my own heart pounding. But through the noise and the water plummeting over my head, I saw Jerry hanging onto a rock and yelling for me to swim over. There comes a point in every person’s life they succumb to something greater than themselves. I did. I went for the rock!

Twenty-five years ago I clung to another Rock and asked Jesus Christ to be my Lord and Savior. Gods forgiveness was gracious that day. Because I think it’s pretty clear if left to my own will and selfish ambitions there is a good chance (a very good chance) I wouldn’t survive. Me, me, oh, my!

So, I am praising God for yet another day that He saved me from myself. My wanting to control, my need for comfort, my less than self-less motivations; all like an undertow, slow and unobtrusive at first, but able to carry me places I surely don’t want to go. So I cling to the Rock, cling to faith, and trust that I am “thruly” “thruly” loved.

Going on a Cruise? Remember to Pack these Essentials:

:

• Icy Hot-In a jar marked with a glow in the dark “X.”
• Toothpaste- Large tube for all those aches and pains.
• Watch- One that tells the correct time so you don’t run late catching a taxi and almost miss the boat.
• Extra clothes- In case you miss the boat.
• Extra cash (preferably $1 bills.)- Because the taxi drivers on St. Lucia don’t take credit cards.
• Juicy Fruit gum- To pay the taxi driver just in case you forget to bring enough cash. And just in case you are curious, if you forget your wallet it takes two packs of Juicy Fruit, an apple, $3 and a very gracious taxi driver to get to the beach on St. Lucia. But I’m just guessing. Really. Smile.

Beth Duewel is a freelance writer and speaker living in Ohio with her family. She continues to cling, and bask in the fact that she is "thruly" loved by God. You can send her an email atfourwheelfive@aol.com.

The Hold of Hoarding

By Johanna Tooke

Maybe one of God’s greatest gifts to us is misery and suffering. After all, without them we’d continue to walk obliviously through life as though nothing were wrong. Like any normal human being I was doing my best to avoid undue pain. My strategy was a simple one: Do good, make things look good, and life will be good.

At all costs (literally at times) I wanted to avoid repeating pain or remembrance of it from life’s past. What’s more, I was convinced if I saved anything from my life that had represented a good memory or a happy time, somehow the darker times would fade out with the tangible memory of things from happy times. As if that weren’t enough, I had reasoned by having a passel of possessions I could single-handedly create happy memories.

My strategy was foiled by the time it took to not only keep track of, care for and organize the possessions, but create the happy memories in between. My memories- “instead of happy” were becoming prominently miserable. This problem of mine was hoarding or in kinder terms- excessive saving.

Hoarding had never even been a consideration in my litany of life dilemmas. Among the complaints on my exhaustive list were: never enough time to exercise, a lack of money to buy organizing essentials, a lack of time to organize and have a workable system, a husband who lacked a vision to see the potential behind all of my belongings and moreover a vision of what could be done with them to glorify God. Yes, I had wrapped religion into being a justifiable reason to keep whatever I deemed worthy.

I knew I kept a lot, but I also believed I was honoring God by having the items. When in all reality, I was trying to play God by keeping things and hoping I wouldn’t have to depend on Him for the things “I could handle.”

Since hoarding had never even entered into my conscientiousness, all I knew was I was miserable. Each consecutive day seemed harder then the day prior and circumstances seemed dimmer. Waking up in the morning was stifling and meandering through the day felt more like a convoluted maze. I began feverishly reading self help books on organizing and de-cluttering. Several years later and heaps mounting higher than ever before, I felt hopeless. As I swirled in the abyss of confusion, I called a professional organizer as a final effort.

Without mincing words she told me what my husband had all along, “Whoa you have a lot of stuff.” Okay, so she couldn’t stop exclaiming in between breaths how much I had. Her reaction to my basement sent me reeling. We made a plan to help me stop the influx of stuff and begin the outtake. Once we parted ways, I spent every spare moment doing my best to clean and cull. Bravely I’d pack another box full of things we weren’t using, ready to be hauled off. My efforts seemed to be paying off. Except I noticed instead of experiencing freedom, I was feeling suffocated and smothered by this new lifestyle.

Still determined, I continued to zealously makeover our home. That was until one day I had a stomach ache I couldn’t shake. When the pain was intolerable a visit to the emergency room was in order. A couple of days later in the hospital, I felt as though there was more than a bug that had paid me a visit. I was reminded of Psalm 23:2, “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters.” While I didn’t have angels hovering over my hospital bed delivering a message, I encountered a stillness I hadn’t known for some time. Moreover, I had gotten to spend time praying and reading my Bible, disciplines I had abandoned until the house was placed in proper order.

Before I headed home I recommitted myself to be faithful in reading my Bible, journaling and giving God my day before it took off without me. The next morning I flipped open my Bible to the ribbon that held its place in the New Testament. That day’s reading was in Matthew 23. I was caught by the words in verse 26: “Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.”

“Wait,” I thought, “the Bible does have a thing or two to say about cleaning house.” After calling upon a wiser friend in Christ, I confirmed what I had suspected: I had been cleaning house in precisely the opposite order Jesus had intended. I had been so immersed in scouring, decorating, organizing, and saving ALL for the outside- I had given hardly any thought to the inside. At once I felt relief wash over me with a healthy dose of insufficiency to humbly level me; leveling me to the foot of the cross where my real help could be found.

Three years have passed since my hospital visit. Since then trailer loads of things have backed out of our driveway. As a family we are still vigilantly attempting to live with less. Now, instead of turning only to man’s wisdom to weave my way out of the colossal messes, I turn to God’s Word. Regardless of the battle, we fight with the same weapons. “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” (2 Corinthians 10:4)

Johanna Tooke lives in Forsyth, Montana with her husband Ryan, and three children: Gracie (10); and twins Royce and Katie (7). In between family, friends and country living, Johanna leads Bible Studies for girls and women. Her hope is to encourage women of all ages in their walk of faith with Jesus Christ. For more on Johanna’s journey, go to www.johannatooke.com.

Editor’s Note: Hoarding can be a sign that an individual needs more help than a book or a friend can provide. If you know someone who hoards, please visit The Institute for Challenging Disorganization (www.challengingdisorganization.org) for resources.

If you need a little extra push to get organized, please consider purchasing one of these two resources by our own Proverbs 31 Ministries writers: “I Used to Be So Organized”
by Glynnis Whitwer and “The Complete Guide to Getting and Staying Organized” by Karen Ehman.

Ten “At-Risk” Factors for Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes

by Lisa Morrone

One in three adults have problems regulating their blood sugar. Could you be the “one”? Consider these questions:

1. Are you carrying around excess belly fat? (Especially if your waist, when measured just above your belly button, is greater than 35 inches.)

2. Do you have a parent or sibling who was diagnosed with diabetes?

3. Would you consider your lifestyle to be mostly sedentary?

4. Have you been diagnosed with high blood pressure, even if it is controlled with medication?

5. Have you been told that you have unhealthy cholesterol levels, even if you are taking medication to improve those levels?

6. Are you often thirsty and do you urinate frequently (eight times a day)?

7. Are you over 45 years of age?

8. Have you ever had gestational diabetes?

9. Have you given birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds?

10. Have you been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome?



If you’ve checked off one or more of the above risk factors, ask your physician to order an A1C Test (blood test) so you can learn if you’re already “too sweet.”

The Champion of Breakfasts

by Lynn Bowen Walker

It’s not always easy to get your family out the door in the morning. There are the gym clothes to remember, homework to collect and shoes to unearth. And, if your family includes a reluctant eater, there is: The breakfast problem.

The breakfast problem arises when you, trying to do your good-mom job, direct your kids to the breakfast offerings. Cereal, maybe, or frozen waffles, or a piece of fruit. Your child – let’s say, for argument’s sake, a son – says he doesn’t like breakfast. Never has liked it. Doesn’t want any. Thank you very much.

You know that this young man will burn off approximately 13 trillion calories in the next six hours, starting with climbing on and off every bench he sees between his bedroom and his school locker. He will spend all breaks between classes with a ball of some sort, bouncing it, catching it, whamming it against inviting-looking walls. Then, he will take all opportunities to burn a few more calories trading jabbed elbows with best friend, which will inevitably wind up in a friendly wrestling match on a grassy field, a gymnasium mat, or the lunchroom floor. He will also, after school, head straight to a two-and-a-half hour basketball practice, whereby, in just stopping at the water fountain, he will burn the remaining 25 calories that presently cling to his 95-pound frame.

In short, this young man desperately needs calories. Good solid calories that you, chief-mom, know come especially from that all-important, crucially nutritious, early morning meal. But, as I believe I’ve mentioned, he refuses to eat. I feel your pain. I have been there.

On that remarkable day when my teenage son turned to me and said (finally), “Mom, I think I want to eat a healthy breakfast; it’ll help me in sports,” the heavens opened, the angels rejoiced, a thousand hallelujah choruses rang out. I immediately began researching breakfast options that contained words other than “chocolate” and “Pop-tarts.”

Here are a couple true and tried breakfast offerings that your oh-so-not-a-morning-person child might actually eat. You can prepare them while humming a made-up little tune to the following words: “She rises also while it is still night, and gives food to her household . . .” (Prov. 31:15a)

And what do you know, someday her household might (finally) actually eat it.

Oatmeal-Peanut Butter Bars

Make these ahead of time. They keep well on the counter and can even be frozen.

Line a 13 x 9-inch pan with foil.

In large bowl, mix together ¾ c. peanut butter, ¾ c. brown sugar, and ¼ c. butter, until well blended. Stir in ¼ c. honey, 1 egg, and 1 t. vanilla. Add 1 c. oatmeal (uncooked), quick or regular, along with 1 c. uncooked oat bran and ½ c. nonfat dry milk.

Stir until mixed. It will be a little crumbly. Press into prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes, until edges are lightly browned. After it cools, lift out of pan by the foil and onto cutting board. Cut into two-inch squares.

Berry-Lime Smoothie

Smoothies are a great way to get fruit into your kids. If they like them, you can experiment with all kinds of ingredients, from mango to blueberries to peach nectar to yogurt. Here’s a tasty start.

Place in blender 1 c. frozen strawberries, 1 c. fresh or frozen pineapple chunks, ½ c. frozen raspberries, ¼ c. orange juice, and 2 T. frozen limeade concentrate. Whirl together- you can add a bit more juice, if needed. Bendy straws make it even more delicious.

Lynn Bowen Walker is the author of “Queen of the Castle: 52 Weeks of Encouragement for the Uninspired, Domestically Challenged or Just Plain Tired Homemaker.” You can read a chapter of her book at www.christianbook.com.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is a fight we can win together. This month, show your support for those currently battling cancer and those who have survived it, by getting involved in an event near you. You can find information on these and other reputable sites:
Please create links for these

American Cancer Society www.cancer.org and www.relayforlife.org

Susan G. Komen for the Cure www.Komen.org and www.the3day.org

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month www.NBCAM.org

Not Another Migraine!

by Lisa Morrone, PT

You feel it coming on—Oh please, not today… (As if any day was a good day to have a migraine!) Sadly you resign yourself to the inevitability of this fast approaching “pain storm” by making a mental list of all the things you won’t be getting done in the next day or so. And then you hunker down and brace for its impact.

Thirty-three million Americans suffer from migraines on a regular basis. Most who’ve endured head pain for years find their only “help” comes from within their medicine cabinets. Over-the-counter and prescription medication is the traditional band-aid offered to migraineurs. These chemicals work primarily by reducing symptoms (pain, nausea, and vomiting), and at times they can even be successful at diverting a full-blown migraine attack. But here is where I take issue with this time-honored treatment approach: It doesn’t lend itself to curing migraines, it merely assists in manages them!

Not only does medication not offer a cure, it also can be part of the problem! When a person regularly takes medication to keep their head pain under control—whether it is over-the counter-medication, like Excedrin or Tylenol, or doctor-prescribed meds such as Cafergot or Imitrex—their brain actually gets used to the steady diet of those brain-altering chemicals. In fact it can become downright addicted to them! So what does an addicted brain do when its chemical supply is running low? It does what it knows will get it some more chemicals—it produces another headache. Very clever, huh?!

Migraine sufferers have been shown to have a lower headache “threshold” than people who do not suffer with this condition. Research has proven that their brains are actually more sensitive to the environment around them, and to their own body’s chemical and mechanical problems. A migraine threshold (starting point) is reached by the piling up of numerous annoyances known as headache triggers. When a migraineur’s “stack” of irritants reaches their threshold point, head pain begins.

Many who struggle with migraines have been told to avoid particular foods which have a track record of triggering head pain. The most common culprits are red wine, chocolate, aged cheeses or meats, foods high in nitrates (bacon, hot dogs, certain lunch meats), and MSG-laden items such as Chinese food, canned soups, frozen meals. And while it’s true that food can trigger migraines, so can: stress, loss of sleep, noxious smells and sounds, and flashing lights. With countless articles and books being written on the subject of migraine triggers, few discuss the trigger which I believe is first one (and usually the last) that needs addressing: the neck.

As a physical therapist I have been treating patients with head pain for over two decades now, and the most influential trigger that I have found in my patients who experience migraines is upper neck dysfunction. Muscle spasms, joint restrictions, and disc bulging plays a critical role in producing head pain—especially in those who report neck pain/tension prior to the onset of their migraine. In my own clinical practice, I have had tremendous success without having to modify the diet, environment, or lifestyles of my patients because after I remove the much bigger issue—their neck dysfunction—all those other triggers that used to be a problem for my patients no longer stack high enough to produce a migraine (monthly hormone cycles included). In twenty years I’ve only had one patient whose migraines were not cured altogether with a manual (hands-on) physical therapy treatment approach.

In my book, Overcoming Headaches and Migraines, I outline a non-traditional, non-medicinal approach to curing chronic head pain, namely by addressing the neck component, or trigger. I provide self-treatment methods as well as description of specific manual therapy treatment techniques that need to be employed in order to free migraine sufferers from a life of pain and medication. You’ll read story after story from patients who have been released from their head pain sentences and are now able to live a life free from head pain. Isn’t it time you took a detour away from traditional head pain management, and instead start moving toward a cure?




Lisa Morrone, PT is passionate about three things: her Savior, her family, and her calling, "To equip the Body of Christ to age well, live long, and serve strong!" A physical therapist, professor, author, and speaker, Lisa began her company, Restoring Your Temple® in 2006 as an avenue to educate, heal, and empower the Church to do the work of Christ. Lisa is the author of three books including her latest, Overcoming Overeating: It's Not What You Eat, It's What's Eating You! She has been featured on the 700 Club, multiple national and international radio broadcasts, and the Proverbs 31 magazine. Visit her website: www.RestoringYourTemple.com.


Lisa’s book, Overcoming Headaches and Migraines: Clinically Proven Cure For Chronic Pain is available here.

Extend a Hand of Wholeness: Post-Abortion Healing

By Tracy Nunes

In the article, “Extend a Hand of Wholeness” we took some baby steps into understanding the issue of post abortion healing and why it should matter to the body of Christ. Let’s take that a bit further and talk about the “How.”

Our Words: Be aware of words like “killer,” and “murderer,” when referring to abortion. While we can’t step away from calling it the sin that it is, we need to remember that even as the baby rests in Heaven with Jesus the mother suffers still. Use words like forgiveness, healing and reconciliation when talking about it. You may never know how you will minister to a woman’s heart though unaware of it. Encourage your church to start post abortion healing groups and share this information with your pastor and congregation. You don’t have to be post abortive to start a ministry like this.

Post Abortion Help: If you are a woman who has had an abortion recently or in the distant past, there are a multitude of resources for you. The article may have stirred your feelings and that can be frightening. Don’t bury those feelings. Run to Jesus. You may feel that silent suffering will make it go away, but what is buried will still find ways to rear its ugly head. Seek out post abortion Bible studies, recovery groups or a Christian counselor who specializes in this area. Most of all…know that your abortion will not separate you from the love of God, but running away will limit your opportunities to be whole again. Remember, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4

Internet and Print Resources for Healing:
• Ramah International: www.ramahinternational.com
• The Comforted: www.thecomforted.blogspot.com
• Her Choice to Heal by Sydna Masse
• Forgiven and Set Free by Linda Cochrane


Tracy lives in Hawaii with Richard, her husband of 25 years. She has two grown daughters, one grandson and works with Hawaii Right to Life to promote awareness of post abortion issues. Visit Tracy’s Post-Abortion Healing blog The Comforted: http://thecomforted.blogspot.com. She also has a blog where she writes about all of the ways that God has taken the mess of her life and made it into something for His Glory: http://tracynunes.blogspot.com.

Overcoming Perfectionism

by Rachel Olsen

Do you feel most of what you do is never quite good enough?
Do you avoid starting tasks for worry you’ll fail?
Do you think “average” is an ugly word?

If so, rather than working toward success, you are probably trying to be flawless from start to finish. It’s likely you are plagued by perfectionism.

I know; I’ve been there.

Perfectionism refers to a set of self-defeating thoughts and behaviors aimed at reaching excessively high or unrealistic goals. Mistakenly believed necessary for success, perfectionism is often detrimental. It can rob us of a sense of personal satisfaction or achievement, damage our relationships, and prevent us from reaching our potential.

In fact, research shows women who demand perfection from themselves often achieve less than women with more realistic strivings. Surprised?

Causes of Perfectionism

A number of negative thoughts, feelings, and beliefs can drive our perfectionistic tendencies:

• Fear of failure. Perfectionists often equate failure to achieve with a lack of personal worth or value. (God tells us we have value because we are made by Him, in His image, for His plans and pleasure.)

• Fear of making mistakes. Perfectionists often equate mistakes with failure – and therefore, with a lack of personal worth. In orienting their lives around avoiding mistakes, perfectionists miss opportunities to learn and grow.

• Fear of disapproval. Perfectionists often believe if they let others see their flaws, they will no longer be accepted. Trying to be perfect is a way of trying to avoid criticism, disapproval, and rejection. (Christ was criticized, disapproved of, and rejected – and He was truly perfect.)

• All-or-none thinking. Perfectionists frequently believe they are failures if their accomplishments are not perfect from start to finish. Every part must be flawless. They deny the learning curve and discount the process of “failing forward.”

• Belief that others are easily successful. Perfectionists tend to perceive others as achieving success with a minimum of effort, few or no errors, little emotional stress, and maximum self-confidence. This of course is inaccurate. At the same time, perfectionists view their own efforts and confidence as uncommonly inadequate.

A Harmful Cycle

Perfectionistic attitudes start a frustrating cycle in motion. First, perfectionists set unreachable goals based on unrealistic expectations. Second, they fail to meet their often well-out-of-reach goals. Third, they become anxious and self-critical over their failure. Finally, rather than realizing the true problem, they demand a perfect performance next time or avoid the pursuit entirely.

Also, without realizing it, perfectionists can apply their unrealistically high standards to others, becoming critical and demanding. Their frequent lack of grace damages their relationships. Furthermore, perfectionists may avoid letting people see their mistakes, not realizing that self-disclosure allows others to perceive them as more human and thus more likeable. Because of this, perfectionists often have difficulty being close to people and they create unsatisfying relationships – which only confirms in their mind their lack of value or their need to strive harder.

What to do About Perfectionism

The first step in moving from a performance-based attitude of perfectionism to a grace-based attitude of healthy striving and dependence on Christ is to realize that perfection, instantly or in everything, is simply unattainable. And the pursuit of it is counterproductive.

The next step is to challenge the self-defeating thoughts and behaviors that fuel your perfectionism. Some of the following strategies - many outlined by the counseling center at the University of Illinois - may help:

• Set realistic, reachable goals based on what you have accomplished in the past. This will enable you to rein in unrealistic expectations and experience the satisfaction of achievement.

• Set subsequent goals in a sequential manner. As you reach a goal, set your next goal one step beyond your present level of accomplishment.

• Relax your standards for success. Choose any activity and instead of aiming for 100 percent, try for 90 percent, 80 percent, or even 70 percent success. This will help you to realize that the world does not end when you are less than perfect.

• Learn to discriminate the tasks you want to give high priority to from those tasks that are less important to you. On less important tasks, choose to put forth less effort in favor of increased rest and emotional stability.

• Focus on the process of doing an activity, not just on the end result. Evaluate your success not only in terms of what you accomplished but also in terms of how you accomplished it. Did you remain calm? Did you learn something new along the way? Did you enjoy the process?

• Use feelings of anxiety and depression as opportunities to ask yourself, “Have I set impossible expectations for myself in this situation?”

• Confront the fears that may be behind your perfectionism by asking yourself, “What am I afraid of? What is the worst thing that could happen?”

• Recall a recent mistake you made and list all the things you can learn from it. Mistakes are powerful learning tools.

• Pray daily, giving your stresses and to-do list to Christ to oversee. Remember that His priority is your character and relationships over your accomplishments.

As perfectionists, we’ve come to believe our value – in God’s or other people’s eyes – is irrevocably linked to our performance. In a quest to be accepted and loved, we set out to be flawless. This is both unnecessary and unproductive.

So pull out a sheet of paper and write out in your own words the reasons why your perfection is unnecessary and unproductive. Don’t worry if it is well-worded or commas are in the right place. And in the process, you’ll begin to overcome the plague of perfectionism.

Rachel Olsen is a woman who seeks to savor life with Christ and help others find that sweet spot as well. A writer, speaker and editor with Proverbs 31 Ministries, Rachel communicates biblical truths modern women need to know. To learn more, read her recent release “It’s No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know.”

Healing in Hurting Times

by Tamela Ward

The unemployment rate is at a 25-year high, hovering at 9.5%. Everyone knows someone that is touched by these difficult times. What happens when it hits your home? Who do you put your faith in? How do you support your family?

In my home, it hit my husband, David, before the recession. It was exactly 18 years from the date he began his career with a Fortune 500 shipping company, which happened to be his 37th birthday. It was also my first day back at work after having our third miracle child born three months prior. Little did I know that when I took that call from my husband, our lives would change forever.

Chills still run through my body when I recall his words, “I’m headed home. They just let me go.” My immediate response, “I’ll meet you at the house.” Thankfully, God gave me wisdom to say little and listen a lot. I knew God would see us through this change. We stood in the kitchen of our home bewildered with the shocking news. Questions raced through our minds like cars around a NASCAR track: How long could we make it financially? How will we explain to our friends and family? Who do we tell first?

During this difficult time, God gave me several things to do that have ended up being lifelong strategies for drawing closer.

Daily devotion – “Experiencing God Day by Day” by Henry T. and Richard Blackaby ministered to us, and is now a gift my husband gives to others in times of need. The tattered and unglued book is a treasured reminder of how God spoke to us and carried us through this time.
Words of encouragement –My aunt and I were attending a Christian women’s conference and in the slide show, the message “David, Trust in me. I am in control” caught my eye. Strangely, my aunt doesn’t recall seeing it at all. That’s because God cared enough to speak to me personally that day. Immediately, I knew those words were for me to share with my husband. Daily these words remind us that God is in control and that “nothing pleases God without faith.”
Praise – Find a prayer closet for praise. Turn on your local Christian radio station. God will send songs your way that minister to your needs. Find a quiet place where you can sing at the top of your lungs. My treadmill is often a refuge where I sing praises and release stress. My family knows I don’t want to be disturbed when the door is shut. All they can hear is the hum of the treadmill and the wailing of my seemingly a cappella tunes.
Church – Attend church. Emotions can be so raw that you dread the thought of attending church and telling your story repeatedly to friends. Don’t let Satan use that to overwhelm you. Let the love and concern of your church family heal your wounds.
Tithe –If you are a two income family, Satan will try to convince you that you need every penny. He is the master deceiver. Tithing is one of the best gifts you can give during difficult times. Tithe on whatever is coming your way and you will be blessed. You can’t out give God.
Focus – Keep your eyes on Jesus. There will be times that you feel so alone. You are not alone. God will never leave you nor forsake you. Your hopes will brighten when you think you have found the perfect new job, and suddenly the emotional roller coaster plummets you to the darkness of rejection. Know that God has a plan – the perfect plan for His will.

Find Comfort in Scripture

Scriptures float throughout my belongings and are saved to my desktop; scriptures that I repeat to myself and to my husband. Insert your loved one’s name into the scripture to remind them that our God is personal. Over and over His Word was and still is like healing salve to our hurts. There will be times that you feel at such a loss for what to do. Pull out the scriptures and read them. Feed yourself and your family extra doses of spiritual food. There is nothing more nourishing than the richness of His Word. Here are two of my favorites:

“Lord, when doubts fill my mind, when my heart is in turmoil, quiet me and give me renewed hope and cheer.” Psalm 94:19

“You can never please God without faith, without depending on him. Anyone who wants to come to God must believe that there is a God and that he rewards those who sincerely look for him.” Hebrews 11:6

Was this an easy time? No. Did God see us through it? Yes. Are we stronger and closer in Christ? Absolutely. One of the vivid memories from this time is when I called my Pastor to ask him to call my husband. He said to me, “You both have heard all your life what to do and how to live in faith. Now you have to do it.”

We all go through times that stretch our faith when we need healing for our hurt. What has you hurting today? Where do you place your faith? Who will you turn to? Have faith in Christ and know that nothing pleases Him more.

Tamela Ward is a nationally certified counselor at a local elementary school. She has been happily married to David for 21 years. David and Tamela live in South Carolina with their three miracle children. After David lost his job, God led him to start their own company which God has blessed beyond their dreams.

Artificial Sweeteners - A Sweet Deception

By Michelle M Dillon, ND

Diet sodas, diet desserts, diet candy, low carb this and that. When dieting one may seek out these food products thinking they are actually good for you, or at least that they can't hurt. However - beware. When something is diet it simply means that the sugar is taken out and replaced by a chemical. I have done some investigating into artificial sweeteners like aspartame and Splenda and the affect they have on our bodies. I have also looked at some natural sweeteners like Stevia and Agave Nectar to determine whether or not these are safe. The bottom line result of my research: if you can not find it in nature, then you might as well steer clear of it as anything synthetic should be avoided!

Symptoms reported to the FDA as reactions to aspartame are as follows: headaches, dizziness, mood swings, vomiting or nausea, abdominal pain and cramps, change in vision, diarrhea, seizures or convulsions, memory loss, fatigue, rash, sleep problems, hives, change in heart rate, numbness and tingling, difficulty breathing, menstrual problems, and oral sensory changes. So, as you can see, there are a variety of very common complaints that could be caused by a chemical that is purposely placed in food to produce a sweet taste. This sweet deception is ridiculous, and is a main cause of a number of complaints.

As a Naturopathic Physician I strive to find the cause of many health ailments, many of which could be attributed to the artificial sweetener craze. After eliminating the chemicals, many health complaints go away. Imagine if treating the cause was not the motive, then with a complaint of a headache you would be placed on a pain killer, or if nausea was the issue perhaps another medication to mask the symptoms. It just doesn't make sense!

Splenda also known as 'sucralose' is another sweetener used by millions each year, it's side effects include: bloating, nausea, diarrhea, various skin irritations like rashes, hives, and swelling, breathing difficulties, like wheezing, runny nose, coughing, heart palpitations, itchy eyes, migraines, blurred vision, and emotional effects like anxiety and depression, mood swings, and sudden onset of anger. Apart from these there are also a number of physical effects of sucralose or Splenda such as: enlarged liver and kidneys, reduced growth rate, decreased fetal growth rate, extended pregnancy, and even decreased red blood cell count.

Healthier Alternatives

So are there healthier alternatives? Anything that is naturally found in nature would be the answer. For example Stevia, an herb used by natives in South America for centuries, would be a very healthy and fabulous alternative. This is simply a plant that is 300 times sweeter than sugar; it does not affect insulin levels, and is not inflammatory to the body. It is not man made and therefore a lot safer. Its God made and, of course, God knows what He is doing. :)

Agave nectar is another sweetener that is becoming popular. Again, it originates from a plant and is therefore a safer alternative to chemical sweeteners. (Keep in mind that overuse of any product, natural or not, is probably not good for you. Any sweetener should be used in moderation!) Most things that come without a label are a hundred times safer than what is not found in nature. If God wanted us to have aspartame or Splenda he would have made a Splenda tree or bush.

Bottom line: if it is not found as a whole in nature, don't consume it as the body was not designed to metabolize it! And before you make a trip to the pharmacy, eliminate all the artificial sweeteners, or any other chemicals you are consuming as there is a good chance that the chemical is causing the problem!

Michelle M. Dillon earned her doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona. She specializes in women's health, using all natural alternatives to conditions like PCOS, infertility, and weight loss. A mom herself she understands the implications of what women put themselves through as mother's and how it plays a role in their health. She feels that her practice is God's calling for her life and feels blessed to be able to do so. Her private practice is in Charlotte, North Carolina where she lives with her husband and daughter. Visit her website at www.DrMichelleDillon.com for more information.

Quick and Easy Ways to Prevent Flu and Colds

By Michelle M. Dillon, ND

Don't Freak Out! Stress actually decreases your ability to fight infections. You can literally worry yourself sick instead of finding a way to constructively process these very real feelings. Go for a walk with a friend. Give your worries to God in prayer. Get a massage. Watch funny movies - laugh! You may not be able to control the viral realm of the world, but you can help your body and mind be strong in the face of any viral challenge.

Avoid the Sweets! As tempting as it may be, avoid reaching for starchy and sugary snacks to soothe negative feelings. Studies indicate that consuming large amounts of carbohydrates and sugar can drastically lower the activity of neutrophils. Neutrophils are the first responders and look similar to Pac man, but instead of munching on cherries; Neutrophils munch on unwanted invaders like bacteria or viruses. Just one teaspoon of sugar can decrease these neutrophils for up to 5 hours!

Get Your Zzzz's! When in the midst of an illness the body often demands more sleep, simply because sleep helps strengthen the body's defenses. The same is true
when trying to stay well. The key is to get adequate sleep (usually between 7-9 hours) in a completely dark environment. Darkness is necessary in order for the brain to produce adequate/optimal levels of melatonin, which may be responsible for some of the immune-boosting effects of sleep.

Get out in the fresh air and sunshine! Make sure you take the time to open up your house and air out the reused air inside. This is especially important when a family member is at home sick, you do not want to be re-breathing their air. Open the windows and get outside for some fresh air and sunshine.

There is a growing body of evidence that vitamin D, which you get from the sun, is imperative for optimal immune function. You can prime your body's immune system by getting regular sun exposure. The key is to spend time in the sun during the morning and evening hours so as not to get sunburn. I recommend 15 minutes or more of "smart sun exposure" several times a week. Consider supplementing with Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) so you can be assured a consistent and adequate supply of vitamin D, especially as we head into the winter months!

Protect yourself with food using Food as your Medicine! Fruits & vegetables will give you the best protection when it comes to supporting your immune health. They are rich in antioxidants, bioflavonoids, and phytonutrients that will powerfully support your body's health.

Increase your immune system with this easy homemade remedy: Immune boosting tea is easily made and works well to help prevent illness along with shorten the duration of any sickness. Just peel and chop up 8-9 cloves of garlic. Then boil in 2.5 cups of water for 10-15 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Then a dash of honey for taste. The combination of the three (garlic, vinegar, and honey) are medicinal and help to increase the immune system along with kill any bacteria or virus' that are causing problems.

Michelle M. Dillon earned her doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona. She specializes in women's health, using all natural alternatives to conditions like PCOS, infertility, and weight loss. A mom herself she understands the implications of what women put themselves through as mother's and how it plays a role in their health. She feels that her practice is God's calling for her life and feels blessed to be able to do so. Her private practice is in Charlotte, North Carolina where she lives with her husband and daughter. Visit her website at www.DrMichelleDillon.com for more information.

Don’t Fight the Mask

by Melissa Nesdahl


“No! No! No, mommy, no!” With hot tears streaming down her red, swollen face, my tiny two year old, Hannah, thrashed her body from side to side in desperate attempt to break my hold. As she sat on my lap inside of the loving but firm embrace of one hand, I struggled to use the other to place the mask that would deliver life-giving albuterol to her sick, RSV stricken body. Desperately wanting the best for Hannah, I encouraged her to quit resisting the doctor’s order because it would restore health to her weak body.

I love being a mother. When God blessed my husband and I with our firstborn, Grace, I welcomed the opportunity to stay home with her, investing all my time and energy into raising this beautiful girl God entrusted to us. Shortly after her first birthday, God surprised us with another pregnancy. Hannah came just two days after Grace turned two.

To care for myself, I rose about two hours before the girls, allowing time to exercise, get myself ready, and enjoy some Bible study. I felt spiritually full and ready for my day when the girls awoke. Life changed, however, when the girls grew into toddlers. Suddenly I heard “mooommy!” just as I would get out of bed. Energetic and anxious for the day’s activities, Grace and Hannah ran out of their room to greet me with their morning hugs and kisses. And my morning routine was gone.

Feeling as though I had no “me time,” I found myself struggling. I so desperately craved the exercise and Bible study squeezed out by the needs of the day, but there didn’t seem to be time. I woke up tired, cared for my girls, spent quality time with my amazing husband, volunteered in the community, was present for my family and friends, and then crashed hard at night. From sun up to sun down my day was jam-packed with activity, and I was running on empty.

Snappy and out of shape, I broke. Something had to change. I couldn’t keep operating this way and still be the person that God created me to be.

In my youth, I learned 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, which reads, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own, you are bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body” (NIV). Although I’d always considered it in relation to modesty, premarital sex, alcohol, and drugs, I unexpectedly found the verse creeping through my mind time and time again.

God was convicting me. When I envision temples, or a place of worship, I picture a pristine structure commanding reverence. But I was doing anything but respecting my body. Life’s busyness had sucked the discipline of exercise completely out of my life.

During Bible study, I requested prayer for wisdom. My husband and I considered purchasing an elliptical machine, but space and the safety of our children were concerns. The other possibility was joining a gym. Not surprisingly, I found challenges with that as well. My girls were never cared for by anyone other than family. Would they do okay with a stranger in a playroom? And, would I honestly have the ambition to leave the comforts of exercising in my own home to get myself and the kids loaded into the car each day, drive to a facility, unload the kids, get sweaty, reload the kids, drive home, unload the kids yet again, and get myself ready?

No! No! No, God, No! And in that moment, I became to God what Hannah was to me. She wanted physical health without the albuterol mask and I wanted physical, emotional, and spiritual health without needing to alter my routine. She flailed around pleading for me not to give her the treatment and I placed an agitated heart before God begging to be released from my situation. I said, “Please Hannah, just do this, I know it will make you well,” and my all-knowing God voiced the same to me.

Eventually Hannah gave up the fight. Trusting my words, she allowed me to place the mask against her face and very quickly her shallow, constricted breathing slowed into relaxed, fulfilling breaths. Likewise, I submitted to God’s voice. Confident that He was calling me to a gym, I pressed forward and purchased a membership.

God surprised me. Although the first few separations were rough, the girls adapted quickly and now they actually desire going to the playroom each day. Meanwhile, I get to bike while reading my Bible study, walk the treadmill as I listen to scripture, and run on the elliptical while enjoying Christian music – not to mention sharing meaningful fellowship with others.

What spiritual discipline has been put on the back burner in your life? What changes do you need to make to better honor your God-given temple? I beg that you don’t fight the mask. Please listen to His voice, because when the Great Physician writes a prescription it will always breathe life into your longing body.

Melissa Nesdahl is a wife, mother, volunteer, and independent Christian writer striving to foster faith development in the life of her readers. Previous publications include the Chicago Tribune, Pam Stenzel’s “Love Lessons: Purity is Possible” CD series’ leaders guide, and “Surviving China” in Kyria. Catch Melissa twittering at http://twitter.com/MelissaNesdahl.

Biblical Resolutions

By Mindy Ferguson

Are you planning to make any resolutions this New Year’s Eve? I must confess, New Year’s resolutions have never really been my thing. But, as I prayed about the coming year, I sensed the Spirit’s prompting to research a few of the resolutions that are recorded in Scripture. I think you’ll be as challenged as I was by what has become my list of Resolutions:

Resolve to Inquire of the Lord

The first resolution I came upon was Jehoshaphat’s resolution to inquire of the Lord. Jehoshaphat was told that a vast army was coming to make war against him. But before he ever rallied his troops or formulated a battle plan, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all of Judah (2 Chronicles 20:3). The people gathered together and Jehoshaphat prayed earnestly before the entire assembly. He ended his prayer by declaring to the Lord, We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you (v.12).
Undoubtedly the year ahead will, for many of us, bring about situations for which we have no answers. But regardless what struggles lay ahead, we can take comfort in the fact that our God sees our need (Genesis 16:13), hears our cries (1 John 5:14), and knows us intimately (Psalm 139:1). He is never caught by surprise or left without a plan. When we don’t know what to do or where to step, we can resolve to inquire of the Lord and fix our eyes upon Him as Jehoshaphat did.

Resolve to Guard My Mouth From Sin

The second resolution I found is a challenging one. In Psalm 17:3, King David resolved that his mouth would not sin. Can you think of any words that you said this past year that you wish you could take back? Ephesians 4:29 tells us, 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. It’s a lofty goal, but even if we fail from time to time, just imagine the impact we can have on the people around us if we will choose to say only those words that will build up or benefit others. It is an aspiration that is well worth the effort.

Resolve to Guard My Purity

The third resolution I discovered was Daniel’s resolution to keep himself pure. When Daniel made that resolution, he was surrounded by a culture that was replete with idol worship and completely opposed to the standards of the God of Israel. But Daniel resolved not to defile himself (Daniel 1:8).

Sadly, our society is growing more and more opposed to the standards outlined in God’s Word. We are bombarded by images on our televisions or movie screens that threaten to desensitize us to evil, immorality, and violence. Lines are being blurred and boundaries are being crossed. But Romans 12:2 warns us not to conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. We are to be distinctive and committed to purity. We can’t always control our culture, but like Daniel, we do not have to allow our culture to control us.

Resolve to Keep Jesus as my Primary Focus

The final resolution is my favorite. The Apostle Paul resolved to keep his focus on Jesus. As Paul reflected on his ministry in the city of Corinth, he said, “For I resolved to know nothing (to be acquainted with nothing, to make a display of the knowledge of nothing, and to be conscious of nothing) among you except Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and Him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2 AMP).
It was Paul’s passion to wholeheartedly keep his focus on being acquainted with, displaying the knowledge of, and being conscious of our glorious Savoir. What greater resolution could there be?!!
So I challenge you to join me in making these four New Year’s Resolutions. Display them where you will see them often. Pray often and confess when you fail. I pray you have a blessed and resolute new year.

Learn more about author Mindy Ferguson at www.Fruitfulword.org.

A New You in the New Year!

Lisa Morrone, PT

10...9...8...7...6...5...4...3...2...1...HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

As women, so many of our New Year's resolutions have to do with the care and maintenance of our bodies. We often vow to loss weight, to eat healthier, and to exercise more. And we start out with such good intentions - hey, even great intentions! Yet sometime before January has turned into February, the resolution we were so passionately pursuing at first has faded into the background of day-to-day life.

The reason our resolutions fail to become resolute is because we often begin our "health pursuit" at a great disadvantage. You see when we seek wellness solely for temporal reasons (to look great or feel better) we will usually get temporary results. But if we pursue our renewed health for spiritual gain, then long term success is more likely to be had. Here's how you and I can start off on the right foot:

The right motivation:

Your physical body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and a gift from God - similar to your finances, your children, and your talents. Honoring God by improving the care and maintenance of your temple is not only an act of good stewardship; it is also an act of worship as well (Mark 12:30). By pursuing a healthier you, you are pledging that as far as it depends upon you - you will obtain and maintain a body which allows you to live long and serve strong as God's hands and feet - well into your golden years.

The right information:

Before you begin your transformation or attempt your tune up, it is a good idea to know the present "health state" of your body - specifically your body mass index (BMI) and your waist circumference. Your BMI is a measurement calculation which takes into account your height and weight, and your waist circumference is easily measured with a tape measure run round your midsection at the height of your belly button. Together these two pieces of information can tell you what your present risk status is regarding diseases related to overweight or obesity, such as diabetes, heart disease, and breast cancer to name a few. To learn your BMI and your associated health risk status, simply visit my website: www.RestoringYourTemple.com and click on the BMI Calculator, plug in a few numbers, and voilà - you will be in the know!

The right preparation:

In all honesty, the reason a New Year's resolution of this sort must be put into practice is because we have either abused or neglected the gift that is our body. I believe our first response to this acknowledgment should be to repent and ask God for forgiveness. Once we have done that, we need to get empowered for the road ahead. This comes from asking the Lord for His power for success (no more relying on Mr. Will Power - whoever he is!). The second part of preparation is to define a "ways and means" protocol that will move you towards where you want to be. In other words, be specific as to the method(s) you will use to achieve your goal. Get counsel if you lack wisdom. Plan ahead and you will be rightly prepared.

Lisa Morrone

The right dedication:

Health is a journey, not a destination. It is a life-long pursuit and practice. Better "practice" today than yesterday is a victory for you and for the Kingdom of God. Adopt changes, habits, and lifestyles that you can live with. Slow and steady wins the race (the one Scripture says is "marked out for us"). And when (not if) you backslide, repent quickly, forgive yourself, and continue on. Health is one good choice at a time, one day at a time.

The right communication:

In the book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon writes that "a three strand cord is not easily broken". In terms of renewing your health, those three strands are you, a support system, and Jesus. If you try to go it alone and keep your new pursuit to yourself, success will likely elude you. By staying in communication with your Savior and a supportive friend, family member, or even a group of people with similar goals, you will have both a cheerleading section and a renewable energy source - and that, my friend, is a winning combination!

New Year's resolutions can become New Life Resolutions - the difference is in the way you approach them. Let's you and I seek to age well so we can live long and serve strong!

Lisa Morrone, PT is passionate about three things: her Savior, her family, and her calling, "To equip the Body of Christ to age well, live long, and serve strong!" A physical therapist, professor, author, and speaker, Lisa began her company, Restoring Your Temple® in 2006 as an avenue to educate, heal, and empower the Church to do the work of Christ. Lisa is the author of three books including her latest, Overcoming Overeating: It's Not What You Eat, It's What's Eating You! She has been featured on the 700 Club, multiple national and international radio broadcasts, and the Proverbs 31 magazine. Visit her website: www.RestoringYourTemple.com.

Keeping the Weight Off During the Holidays

By Michelle M. Dillon, ND

It's that time of year again when everyone is rushing from store to store at the mall, getting stressed out about over-priced gifts for family and friends. Then we gather together in the homes of those same family and friends to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. These homes will often have beautiful platters overflowing with special treats lying in wait to tempt us into overindulging. When we give in (which is so easy to do) we end up packing on the pounds.

Keeping off those pounds is sometimes harder than finding just the right gift for Aunt Sally. Here are a few tips to help you navigate your way through eggnog, gingerbread, Christmas cookies, and sweet potato pie without expanding your waistline:

1. Never, Ever, Ever go to a dinner party or get-together when you are hungry enough to eat one of Santa's reindeer. The best thing to do is to eat a large apple and drink two glasses of water right before you leave for the party. Some people have the strategy that if they starve themselves all day long, they can gorge themselves later and be OK. This is faulty thinking. If a person does not eat all day their blood sugar will drop and their hunger will increase, often to ravenous proportions. When we are super hungry we tend to super-size what would have been a normal portion size. Extreme hunger from starving ourselves all day often leads us to the heavy, fat-laden foods, not the light snacks like celery, carrots, or fruit. So, make sure you do not starve yourself on the day of the party.

2. Start with vegetables and healthy snacks first. Research shows that when eating with a large group of people, we tend to eat more and for a longer duration of time. Therefore, we need to start with the good stuff, or should I say, the healthy foods like salad. Fill your plate with salad, skipping any creamy dressings, and vegetables first. Then add lean proteins like turkey, chicken or lean beef, followed by heavier foods like ham and the side dishes we all love so much. If you fill up on the healthy veggies... you won't be tempted to eat as much of those cheesy casseroles! Potatoes and bread should be avoided, as these are high in carbohydrates which pack on those pounds.

3. Use a smaller plate. Using a smaller plate keeps those portion sizes smaller, and therefore keeps your waist where you'd like it.

4. Be sure you are hydrated! If you are dehydrated your body may trick you into thinking that you are actually hungry. Each day we need to drink half our body weight in ounces of water. So, if a woman weighs 140 pounds she needs to drink 70 ounces of water each day to remain properly hydrated. If she has a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of wine, she must have an additional 8 ounces of water per cup or glass of each. Coffee, tea, and alcohol are all diuretics. Diuretics dehydrate. This means that the more of these beverages a person consumes, the more they will become dehydrated. The more dehydrated they are the more they are likely to eat - so beware and drink your water!

5. Get your rest and manage that stress! Studies show that those who do not get at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night, have a higher level of a stress hormone, called Cortisol. Cortisol is the hormone that regulates our bodies' energy, along with our blood sugar levels. If it is imbalanced due to lack of sleep or on-going stress, it can actually cause weight gain. The best way to keep Cortisol in balance is to get enough sleep and to manage our stress. Find ways to take a break during the day: pray, call a friend, take a walk, hit the gym, or just focus on breathing deeply and contemplating the blessings God has given over the last year.

Remember to keep focusing on the Reason for this Christmas Season. Be mindful of these few tips for enjoying the holiday and keep moderation as your key and it should make a healthy combination for a slimmer you come the New Year (and maybe you won't have to make that same New Years resolution on January 1st).

Be blessed and may Christ fill your heart with His love and hope this Holiday Season.

Michelle M. Dillon earned her doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona. She specializes in women's health, using all natural alternatives to conditions like PCOS, infertility, and weight loss. A mom herself she understands the implications of what women put themselves through as mother's and how it plays a role in their health. She feels that her practice is God's calling for her life and feels blessed to be able to do so. Her private practice is in Charlotte, North Carolina where she lives with her husband and daughter. Visit her website at www.DrMichelleDillon.com for more information.

The Right Start

Get Your Family Off to a Great Start Each Day with These Healthy Breakfast Tips
by Krista Burdine

A noted Chinese proverb says, "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."

Moms could adapt these words to say, "Give a child good food, and she will eat good food at home. Teach her how to make wise choices with her food, and she will eat good food wherever she goes for the rest of her life."

One of the first choices we make in any day is of what to eat. Breakfast is not the largest meal of the day, but nutritionists are always telling us that it is an important one.

Why Eat Breakfast?
Consider these benefits of breakfast eating, as reported by the Mayo Clinic. Those who take the time for a good breakfast (i.e. not coffee and a doughnut!) have a tendency to eat more nutritious food in general; to accomplish more before lunchtime; to keep their weight under control; and to have lower cholesterol, reducing certain health risks.

Kids especially can benefit from breakfast with improved coordination, concentration, and ability to think clearly. Moms want the best for their kids, and one very simple way to give them the best is to make the effort to feed them a good breakfast each day.

How Can I Make a Healthy Breakfast Part of the Morning Routine?
With today's busy lifestyles, getting a good start can be quite a challenge. Planning ahead always helps. It starts with laying out clothes and other necessary items the night before. Then, if the right food is in the pantry, and the choice for the morning already pulled to the front of the fridge, breakfast time can proceed a lot more smoothly.

What Makes a Good Breakfast?
There are several components to any healthy meal, including protein, whole grain, dairy, and fruits and vegetables. According to UCLA Health, the magic is in the combination of elements. When we consume a breakfast with at least three of the above components, we set our bodies up to be able to regulate our blood sugar throughout the rest of the day. We also give our digestive system enough to keep it busy for longer than a bowl of sugar cereal does.

Some suggested traditional breakfast combinations include high-fiber cereal, skim milk, and a banana; whole-grain toast with peanut butter and a glass of 100% juice; a hard-boiled egg, an apple, and an English muffin; or a smoothie made with plain yogurt, fruit, and a couple tablespoons of wheat germ. Less traditional, but still appropriate, options could include leftover veggie pizza on whole-grain crust; cut-up veggies layered in a tortilla with salsa and string cheese; or even a baked potato topped with broccoli and cheese.

How Do I Train the Kids?
Moms can help their kids learn to make good breakfast choices in two ways.

First, offer nutritious options by only bringing "good choice" food home from the store. Just a few alterations can make breakfast a whole lot healthier. Change one item a month for a few months, and they will have gradually re-educated their taste buds.

For example, choose cereals with higher fiber, such as Raisin Bran, Shredded Wheat, and Multi-Grain Cheerios. Switch from flavored to plain yogurt, and stock up on frozen fruit to stir in. Begin to serve less juice, but make sure it is 100% juice with no sugar added, then dilute it about 20% with water. Develop the habit of only buying whole-grain bread. One final trick is to invest in some wheat germ and/or ground flaxseed, and stir it into all kinds of things from muffin mix to yogurt to oatmeal.

Second, moms can influence their kids by setting a good example. When moms eat right, the kids learn to distinguish good from poor choices. This can be a challenge for those of us still loving the fact that we are on our own and have the freedom to choose! But it is so important, given our role in setting our kids up for long-term success.

More than Good Food
Choosing a smart start in the morning includes one other key element. All of the child-rearing good we do is useless if we fail to teach our kids the importance of looking to God at the beginning of each day. Psalm 5:3 says, "In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation" (NIV). Again, we start by setting the example of doing so ourselves: Take a moment to invite God to be part of your morning before even getting out of bed; allow ten minutes to read God's Word before getting the kids up.

Then, help them do the same. As you greet the kids, sit down together for a moment to ask God to be part of their day. Some parents even wake their kids early enough that the kids can do their own quiet time before getting ready for school. It is so simple, yet all it takes is just a little planning ahead, and the rewards will continue for years.

Sometimes change is difficult, but a mom's job is to stand strong. The kids may complain for awhile, but soon they will have forgotten the old ways. Remember, the changes are not just to give them good fuel for the day, but to help them learn to make good choices for the rest of their lives!

The Summer of My Blueberry Cobbler

by Melanie J. Dorsey

Upon retrospect, 2004 was quite a delicious summer. My parents had returned from a visit to the “blueberry capital of the South”—Alma, Georgia, and I was the grateful recipient of two flats of blueberries. These tiny treasures were destined for a blueberry cobbler. Rather, cobblers. I waxed nostalgic with visions of the cobblers my mamaw used to make—the syrupy sweetness of the berries, the tender flakiness of her crust. With peach cobblers and apple crisps already under my belt, that is apron strings, I searched through the modern woman’s cookbook for a recipe that resembled Mamaw’s berry cobbler. Actually, I googled “blueberry cobbler.”
The delicious summer of 2004 also proved to be quite fattening! I gained at least eight pounds from baking all those blueberry cobblers. Okay, I gained eight pounds from eating all those blueberry cobblers and the two scoops of premium French vanilla ice cream that crowned each serving. Everyone knows that a hot cobbler melts one scoop of ice cream, which necessitates the second scoop. Everyone knows that—right?
Fast forward three and a half years to our family’s annual ski trip in December 2007. I wore the same pair of ski pants from previous years but this time I was not wearing them. They were wearing me, and the view from behind was not a pretty sight. Fortunately, my ski jacket helped conceal my hinder parts. Believe me, if pants could talk, mine would have muttered some downright rude comments. I was definitely 15 pounds overweight. “Definitely,” to quote Rain Man. Apparently, the “blueberry cobbler eight” had gotten lonely and needed seven more friends!
Riding on the lifts and schussing down the slopes, I vowed to lose weight before I had to waddle in those pants again. Once home I considered the diets I had tried before but with little success because I could not stick with the Spartan-like eating plan. I prayed asking God for guidance. Upon sharing my thoughts with my husband, he suggested I individualize my own plan and added he was confident I could succeed. Smart man!
My plan needed wiggle room for what I was not willing to concede in exchange for what was relatively painless to give up. One tablespoon of real cream in my morning cup of coffee I deemed a keeper—a satisfying trade-off for eliminating fat elsewhere. I am a tortilla chips and salsa kind of chica so I kept my favorite, fresh salsa from the deli, and traded regular chips for a daily, single portion of baked chips.
Most mornings I am out of the house by 7:15, so a fast yet figure friendly breakfast is a must. I opted for a nutritious fruit smoothie for those early up and at ‘em mornings. My favorite smoothie, at barely 200 calories, has four ingredients: blueberries, ground flax seed, plain low-fat yogurt, and soymilk. I conceded the cobbler but kept the berries.
Blueberries, long touted as a super food, are high in antioxidants. High in potassium and vitamin C, blueberries are also anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is the current buzzword in the fight against all chronic diseases, so blueberries host a bevy of benefits. Another ingredient in my morning smoothie—ground flax seed, is chock full of Omega 3s, credited with lowering the risk of heart disease as well as combating arthritis and memory loss. Whole flax seed can be stored in the pantry. Once ground however, the flax seed may be stored safely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about a week. I use a small coffee grinder to yield a week’s worth of ground flax seed in my blueberry smoothie.
The best yogurt, a good source of calcium and protein, is one that contains only live active cultures and milk. Generally, the shorter the list of ingredients in a food, the better it is for you. Other benefits of yogurt are its friendly bacteria (good for the colon and intestines), its immune-boosting properties, and its easy digestibility.
Although there is some controversy surrounding the use of soy products, after researching the differing opinions, I enjoy soy in moderation. According to Dr. William Sears, well-known pediatrician and author, soy reduces cholesterol, contains intestine-friendly carbs and drum roll, please, is an anti-aging food.
In addition to trading blueberry cobblers for blueberry smoothies, I also limited the high glycemic carbohydrates, choosing old-fashioned oatmeal and whole grains over less nutritious alternatives. In choosing carbs, portion control and making better choices is key. Besides, the last time I drastically cut carbs, I became testy and a tad anti-social. When that happens, friends and family turn in to pizza-pushers, wanting the “old lovable you” back.
Surprisingly I found keeping a food journal to be very helpful. Mine is nothing fancy, just a notebook from the kids’ school supply stash. Subduing my tendency toward perfectionism, calling for a stylish journal and a crash course in calligraphy, this go around I actually made entries well past day three!
Ultimately, my path to better health and weight loss was about better nutritional choices. As my clothes felt looser, success bred success and I stayed the course. Finally, I was able to shop my own closet, retrieving still fashionable favorites that had not seen daylight prior to the summer of my blueberry cobblers.
Recently I taught a Bible study encouraging individuals to be good stewards of their God-given gifts. Being a good steward includes looking well to the areas of health and nutrition for optimum living. I am delighted to say that God answered my prayer to find the path of successful stewardship in the area of health and weight loss. He
led me to my passion for research and my husband’s good advice. As a result, I lost the weight and kept the blueberries. I plan to keep the husband, too!


Melanie Dorsey lives in Clearwater, FL, with her husband and three children. A gifted Bible teacher, Melanie is passionate about studying and teaching God’s Word exegetically. She holds a B.A. in Communications and Modern Foreign Languages and is a certified teacher. Melanie is a contributing writer to Daily Devotions for Writers and is a graduate of She Speaks 2008. You can read more about Melanie at her blog: www.bellamella-melanie.blogspot.com.