Day 16 - Today was eye opening for me.
A few years ago - 2009 - I lost a lot of weight - about sixty pounds. I did it out of vanity because I wanted to look good at my high school reunion. Then, in 2010, Mark had shoulder surgery. I was kind for about a week. Then resentment and bitterness sunk in. I resented having to perform tasks and chores I believed he was still capable of doing. I resented that although he had plenty of sick time, he returned to work quickly and would not do more for me. I became bitter at having to drive him to and from therapy. I was bitter that I had to disrupt my life and schedule for him. I was bitter because when I was helpless five years earlier wrestling with fear and anxiety, he did not help me. I was selfish. I was angry. In the past I would have gossipped about him and complained. This time I stayed silent. I ate. I sat. I read books. I gained weight - 70 pounds. A year later, all of my hard work from 2009 was gone. All of the money I spent getting there, wasted. And my marriage was again hanging by a thread.
In my reading, scripture talks about Jacob wrestling with God. One night, after he sent is wives, children, and possessions ahead, he stayed behind - alone - and wrestled with a man all night. In the end, the man blessed him, but also wretched his hip. I walked with a limp after that. Jesus also verbally sparred with the Pharisees. When they accused Him of driving out demons by the help of another demon, he proclaimed that "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand." Matthew 12:25. In 2010, I allowed myself to divide our household. Later that year, we attended FamilyLife's Weekend to Remember. We volunteer with that organization and it was the annual weekend. That first night, I suffered a pinched nerve in my neck. It was some of the worst pain I have ever felt. Pain medication didn't even touch it. One of the women attending the conference was a massage therapist. She worked on it, applied oil to it, prayed over it, and me. I cried from months of pain - not from my pinched nerve, but because I was being crushed by my internal sin. They continued to pray all weekend, they listened, they gave advice, and I followed it. Jesus also said "for the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that everyone will have to give an account on the day of judgment for every empty work they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemed." Matthew 12:34b-37. My thoughts and my words were not kind. I had to accept that there was evil in me.
In the months that followed, God healed my neck. He healed my marriage again. He showed me his mercy and his grace. As marriages around me fell over the next two years, I clung to God's promises and to my husband. I continue to see the challenges we all face because of our thoughts, our words, our selfishness. I pray that this time, I acknowledge God's plan for me - and follow it. I pray that I am delivered from my stress eating and that I can finally be free of the extra weight that I have allowed to hold me down over the last decade.
"My child, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding - indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God." Proverbs 2:1-5.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Day 15 - Desiring Mercy
Day 15 - This is the day that we went to visit the kids' school. They each had an opportunity to look at their classrooms and get the lay of the land. Each played with a friend all day. It was nice for them to have one final play day of the summer.
I was not in the mood to continue my reading, eating or exercising. I was plainly aware of a variety of emotions today. I knew I had to get back on track, restart the routine, and keep moving forward, but in a phrase "I didn't want to." Times like this come, and when they do, I secretly hope I can eat what I want without consequence. Perhaps I can get away with it for a meal or two, but any longer than that is impossible.
Jesus was not welcomed by everyone when he roamed this earth. the religious leaders - the Pharisees - were the most educated and respected of all in that time. And, like anyone in power, they don't want to give it up. Nor do they appreciate when someone else is taking their glory or spotlight. Ever since God created the world, He designated one day of rest - the Sabbath. It is meant as a blessing for all - a day to rest and repose before facing a new week. Its a day to honor God and to enjoy family, friends and fellowship. I don't always honor the Sabbath, finding a reason to throw in a load of laundry or get some work done. In the days of Jesus, it was unlawful to do any work on the Sabbath. When one of the disciples picked some heads of grain to eat, the Pharisees saw and told Jesus his disciples were doing what was unlawful. Matthew 12:1-3. They later saw Jesus heal a man's hand on the Sabboth, which again, they believed was unlawful. Jesus explained that God desires mercy, not sacrifice and that it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath. Matthew 12:12. In fact, the whole point is to know God's love, and to show it to others, not to brag about what we are sacrificing in his name. I hope I can bring honor to Him as I share this journey I'm on.
"A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he had brought justice through to victory. In his name the nations will put their hope." Matthew 12:20-21.
How great this nation could be if we could all put our hope in Jesus instead of mocking Him and the ones that hope in him.
I was not in the mood to continue my reading, eating or exercising. I was plainly aware of a variety of emotions today. I knew I had to get back on track, restart the routine, and keep moving forward, but in a phrase "I didn't want to." Times like this come, and when they do, I secretly hope I can eat what I want without consequence. Perhaps I can get away with it for a meal or two, but any longer than that is impossible.
Jesus was not welcomed by everyone when he roamed this earth. the religious leaders - the Pharisees - were the most educated and respected of all in that time. And, like anyone in power, they don't want to give it up. Nor do they appreciate when someone else is taking their glory or spotlight. Ever since God created the world, He designated one day of rest - the Sabbath. It is meant as a blessing for all - a day to rest and repose before facing a new week. Its a day to honor God and to enjoy family, friends and fellowship. I don't always honor the Sabbath, finding a reason to throw in a load of laundry or get some work done. In the days of Jesus, it was unlawful to do any work on the Sabbath. When one of the disciples picked some heads of grain to eat, the Pharisees saw and told Jesus his disciples were doing what was unlawful. Matthew 12:1-3. They later saw Jesus heal a man's hand on the Sabboth, which again, they believed was unlawful. Jesus explained that God desires mercy, not sacrifice and that it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath. Matthew 12:12. In fact, the whole point is to know God's love, and to show it to others, not to brag about what we are sacrificing in his name. I hope I can bring honor to Him as I share this journey I'm on.
"A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he had brought justice through to victory. In his name the nations will put their hope." Matthew 12:20-21.
How great this nation could be if we could all put our hope in Jesus instead of mocking Him and the ones that hope in him.
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Exercise Goal for Week 3 & 4 Updated
As I've learned, my running long distance on the weekend is not ideal. The kids have soccer games and other things come up. I'm shifting my schedule a bit by a day to get the long run in on Wednesdays when I'm home alone.
Sunday: P90X chest and back, Ab ripper X, C25K week 2 day 1
Monday: Insanity plyo cardio circuit, C25K week 2 day 2
Tuesday: P90X shoulders and arms, Cardio Abs, C25K week 2 day 3
Wednesday: 6.2 mile run - Insanity cardio recovery
Thursday: P90X legs and back, Ab ripper X
Friday: Insanity pure cardio
Saturday: 5K interval training
Sunday: P90X chest and back, Ab ripper X, C25K week 3 day 1
Monday: Insanity plyo cardio circuit, C25K week 3 day 2
Tuesday: P90X shoulders and arms, Cardio Abs, C25K week 3 day 3
Wednesday: 8 mile run - Insanity cardio recovery
Thursday: P90X legs and back, Ab ripper X
Friday: Insanity pure cardio
Saturday: 5K interval training
I threw this plan out the window almost as quickly as I typed it. I did only a few DVD workouts and ran a few times, including a practice half marathon. The one thing I learned is that I have to find a schedule that balances a job, kids, practices and workouts.
Sunday: P90X chest and back, Ab ripper X, C25K week 2 day 1
Monday: Insanity plyo cardio circuit, C25K week 2 day 2
Tuesday: P90X shoulders and arms, Cardio Abs, C25K week 2 day 3
Wednesday: 6.2 mile run - Insanity cardio recovery
Thursday: P90X legs and back, Ab ripper X
Friday: Insanity pure cardio
Saturday: 5K interval training
Sunday: P90X chest and back, Ab ripper X, C25K week 3 day 1
Monday: Insanity plyo cardio circuit, C25K week 3 day 2
Tuesday: P90X shoulders and arms, Cardio Abs, C25K week 3 day 3
Wednesday: 8 mile run - Insanity cardio recovery
Thursday: P90X legs and back, Ab ripper X
Friday: Insanity pure cardio
Saturday: 5K interval training
I threw this plan out the window almost as quickly as I typed it. I did only a few DVD workouts and ran a few times, including a practice half marathon. The one thing I learned is that I have to find a schedule that balances a job, kids, practices and workouts.
Reading Goal - Weeks 3 & 4 Updated
This week begins with Jacob, the son of Issac, the grandson of Abraham, fleeing from his uncle with his two wives, his children, and his flocks. In Matthew, Jesus is in the middle of his public ministry. And, I am enjoying the praises and wisdom from Psalms and Proverbs.
The Reading Plan:
Genesis 31:1 - Exodux 8:32
Matthew 12:1 - 19:30
Psalm 9:13 - 17:5
Proverbs 2:1 - 3:20
I fell behind on my reading plan, and had to play catch up on a few of the days. I found comfort in the Psalms and wisdom in the Proverbs. It has been rewarding to reread God's love story with his people and ultimately with all of us through His Son, Jesus. I'm looking forward to continuing this amazing journey.
The Reading Plan:
Genesis 31:1 - Exodux 8:32
Matthew 12:1 - 19:30
Psalm 9:13 - 17:5
Proverbs 2:1 - 3:20
I fell behind on my reading plan, and had to play catch up on a few of the days. I found comfort in the Psalms and wisdom in the Proverbs. It has been rewarding to reread God's love story with his people and ultimately with all of us through His Son, Jesus. I'm looking forward to continuing this amazing journey.
Day 14 - Rest for the Weary
Day 14 - This is the last day of my two-week challenge.
Overall, I'm pleased with my choices. Some of the positive moments include completing my reading goal, logging my food and exercise in MFP for all fourteen days, exercising on eleven days, but completing fifteen workouts, sticking within my calories on all but one day, and only having one margarita. I also managed to get a good chunk of the fishtank cleaned out. Yeah me. Some of the challenges include skipping exercise this past Thursday and Friday with no good reason other than laziness and not running longer than 6.2 miles, and having that hostess cupcake when I wasn't hungry, didn't need it and knew it didn't belong in my diet.
My reading for today shows how Jacob grew his family. His sons became the tribes of Israel. Jesus is also beginning to reveal his reason for coming and is starting to reveal Himself as the son of God.
It's not ironic that today was baptism day. When both my children were babies, we baptized them choosing special people to look after them spiritually. The church we attend does not baptize babies. Instead, they have a dedication. This is when the parents and the church agree to raise the child in the Christian faith. Baptism comes later, when one publically declares that they have chosen to follow Jesus Christ. They acknowledge that His death on the cross was sufficient to forgive them for all of their sins, and by God's grace they have been saved from hell and will enjoy eternal life with Christ in Heaven. After this public declaration, they are dunked in the water. This year, that water was at a point where two local rivers meet. It was powerful.
Kat chose a verse from 1Timothy 4:12. "Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." Although I didn't see it at the time, a friend pointed out that she did exactly what her verse said - she was an example to her dad. He was in the class with her when he decided to be baptized as well. It was a very good day.
"The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you." Psalm 9:9-10.
Overall, I'm pleased with my choices. Some of the positive moments include completing my reading goal, logging my food and exercise in MFP for all fourteen days, exercising on eleven days, but completing fifteen workouts, sticking within my calories on all but one day, and only having one margarita. I also managed to get a good chunk of the fishtank cleaned out. Yeah me. Some of the challenges include skipping exercise this past Thursday and Friday with no good reason other than laziness and not running longer than 6.2 miles, and having that hostess cupcake when I wasn't hungry, didn't need it and knew it didn't belong in my diet.
My reading for today shows how Jacob grew his family. His sons became the tribes of Israel. Jesus is also beginning to reveal his reason for coming and is starting to reveal Himself as the son of God.
It's not ironic that today was baptism day. When both my children were babies, we baptized them choosing special people to look after them spiritually. The church we attend does not baptize babies. Instead, they have a dedication. This is when the parents and the church agree to raise the child in the Christian faith. Baptism comes later, when one publically declares that they have chosen to follow Jesus Christ. They acknowledge that His death on the cross was sufficient to forgive them for all of their sins, and by God's grace they have been saved from hell and will enjoy eternal life with Christ in Heaven. After this public declaration, they are dunked in the water. This year, that water was at a point where two local rivers meet. It was powerful.
Kat chose a verse from 1Timothy 4:12. "Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." Although I didn't see it at the time, a friend pointed out that she did exactly what her verse said - she was an example to her dad. He was in the class with her when he decided to be baptized as well. It was a very good day.
"The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you." Psalm 9:9-10.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Day 13 - A Close Encounter
Day 13 began early - another 4:30 a.m. wake up. I considered going out for my long run, but elected against it. A bear ran across the road on my four-mile-run route last night after Ryan's soccer practice. I think I may just stay in my neighborhood for a while. I watched some television and had breakfast. One of my favorite breakfasts I enjoyed as a child was rice krispies with blueberries. I don't often have it because I rarely eat cereal, but the blueberries are so fresh this summer, how could I not? I managed to fall back asleep.
I also weighed in this morning. Part of me was concerned that my margarita last night would jeopardize all of my hard work, but I was pleased to know that I'm less than one-half of a pound away from my two-week goal of 5 pounds. I believe it will be easier to stay on track for the rest of the weekend. I completed another round of Kenpo X - what a fun workout and I'm more coordinated this week than I was last week. I'm sure that will continue to improve as well.
Today is the first day of soccer games for the kids. Luckily both games are in our hometown, so we don't have to travel very far. Both kids played well and started their respective seasons with a win. It was really hot and one of the team members suffered heat exhaustion. I feel badly that Kat's team won't have any subs for todays game since two girls are on vacation and she is being baptized.
Ryan is spending the night with a friend so Mark and I will have some alone time with Kat tonight to talk about her baptism tomorrow. Jesus said "Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven." I'm really proud of both Mark and Kat for choosing to be baptized. I think back to when I first started attended church in our old home town, and all those services I attended alone while he stayed home and slept. I thank God for answered prayer. One of the greatest and most challenging things I ever did was taking my hands off of Mark's relationship with God and allowed Him to do what He wanted with Mark. God's way is always better than our way. I'm grateful for his blessings.
"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart I will tell of all your wonderful deeds." Psalm 9:1.
I also weighed in this morning. Part of me was concerned that my margarita last night would jeopardize all of my hard work, but I was pleased to know that I'm less than one-half of a pound away from my two-week goal of 5 pounds. I believe it will be easier to stay on track for the rest of the weekend. I completed another round of Kenpo X - what a fun workout and I'm more coordinated this week than I was last week. I'm sure that will continue to improve as well.
Today is the first day of soccer games for the kids. Luckily both games are in our hometown, so we don't have to travel very far. Both kids played well and started their respective seasons with a win. It was really hot and one of the team members suffered heat exhaustion. I feel badly that Kat's team won't have any subs for todays game since two girls are on vacation and she is being baptized.
Ryan is spending the night with a friend so Mark and I will have some alone time with Kat tonight to talk about her baptism tomorrow. Jesus said "Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven." I'm really proud of both Mark and Kat for choosing to be baptized. I think back to when I first started attended church in our old home town, and all those services I attended alone while he stayed home and slept. I thank God for answered prayer. One of the greatest and most challenging things I ever did was taking my hands off of Mark's relationship with God and allowed Him to do what He wanted with Mark. God's way is always better than our way. I'm grateful for his blessings.
"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart I will tell of all your wonderful deeds." Psalm 9:1.
Day 12 - Wisdom's Rebuke
Day 12 began with high hopes of getting back to exercising and eating right. It ended with a margarita and a crappy night sleep. In between, I did manage to complete my work project and take Ryan to soccer. My throat was feeling better, but I had to forfeit my dinner with some ladies at church so that I didn't get anyone sick. I also didn't clean the house, do laundry, or spend much time with the kids.
Day 12 also marks the return to Proverbs. It states "How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you. I will make known to you my teachings." Proverbs 1:22-23
These verses were a nice reminder that my same old mindset has not produced positive results. When work gets in the way, or the road gets bumpy, resorting to no exercise and placing no limits on eating does not get me where I need to be. In fact, it is guaranteed to lead to tremendous backslidding. I must break my simple ways and start walking out the walk I'm called to do. It is the only way to have success.
" . . . but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm." Proverbs 1:33
Day 12 also marks the return to Proverbs. It states "How long will you who are simple love your simple ways? How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge? Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you. I will make known to you my teachings." Proverbs 1:22-23
These verses were a nice reminder that my same old mindset has not produced positive results. When work gets in the way, or the road gets bumpy, resorting to no exercise and placing no limits on eating does not get me where I need to be. In fact, it is guaranteed to lead to tremendous backslidding. I must break my simple ways and start walking out the walk I'm called to do. It is the only way to have success.
" . . . but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm." Proverbs 1:33
Friday, August 24, 2012
Day 11 - A good steward
Day 11 - was a day where temptation got the best of me.
One of my weaknesses is playing games on Facebook. I have a tenacious desire to conquor something new, but once I've mastered it, I become bored. One such game has dogged me for a while, and I have not been able to master it. I also use these games to occupy my mind when it is swirling with other things. One of those things was a particularly difficult assignment. Each piece of my work project I solved raised another question. As I was pursuing that, I was also interrupted by Mark and the kids each with their own wants and needs. With multiple people and things clawing at my brain, I went into shut down mode and needed a distraction - hence the Facebook game. I should have done a workout video, I could have gone for a walk, when I considered hitting the gym during Kat's soccer practice, Mark reminded me that it was the last day of the really good sales at the grocery store. When I chatted with Karen, all was in check for the day until after 10:00 when I found a box of chocolate covered peanuts and devoured them.
We are all stewards of something. A steward is one who is commissioned to oversee and execute the affairs of another. In all three readings the Bible talked about being stewards - Abraham had a steward, who was charged with finding a wife for his son. Jesus was charged with carrying out God's plan for salvation. The human race is charged with overseeing this planet and everything in it. How seriously we take our stewardship is a sign of maturity. Today, I was pretty immature.
"What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" Psalm 8:4.
One of my weaknesses is playing games on Facebook. I have a tenacious desire to conquor something new, but once I've mastered it, I become bored. One such game has dogged me for a while, and I have not been able to master it. I also use these games to occupy my mind when it is swirling with other things. One of those things was a particularly difficult assignment. Each piece of my work project I solved raised another question. As I was pursuing that, I was also interrupted by Mark and the kids each with their own wants and needs. With multiple people and things clawing at my brain, I went into shut down mode and needed a distraction - hence the Facebook game. I should have done a workout video, I could have gone for a walk, when I considered hitting the gym during Kat's soccer practice, Mark reminded me that it was the last day of the really good sales at the grocery store. When I chatted with Karen, all was in check for the day until after 10:00 when I found a box of chocolate covered peanuts and devoured them.
We are all stewards of something. A steward is one who is commissioned to oversee and execute the affairs of another. In all three readings the Bible talked about being stewards - Abraham had a steward, who was charged with finding a wife for his son. Jesus was charged with carrying out God's plan for salvation. The human race is charged with overseeing this planet and everything in it. How seriously we take our stewardship is a sign of maturity. Today, I was pretty immature.
"What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?" Psalm 8:4.
Day 10 - Calm in the Storm
Day 10 started with my attempts to complete some work while kids were here and Mark was in Boston. Usually Wednesday is my favorite weekday - it's an easy work out day - Shoulders and Arms and only a 3 mile run. I managed to get in only a 20 minute walk/run looping my back yard as the kids swam. In fact, I haven't done a video since Saturday. The one positive note is that I have stayed within my calories on MFP and have not had a drink at all, but I'm drinking way more coffee than water. The habit of working out 2x per day and eating is broken.
My friend Donna posted this quote on her FB page.
"God sees our lives differently than we do. We are limited by time and space, but God can look beyond the next hill to a grander view. Rather than becoming discouraged with ourselves, we should leave the judgment of our lives to God. We should remember that real success does not depend on results; rather, it depends on whether we are obeying God's unique plan for our lives. When we leave the results with God, we do not need to feel discouraged in times of stress and apparent lack of results." This sums up what I had been feeling. I trudged through work, through Ryan's practice and spent some more time listening to Mark.
My reading takes us a little further in the Old Testament with the death of Sarah. The New Testament talks more about Jesus performing miracles and healing people, and how he is still calling his disciples, even the tax collector, Matthew. The Psalms are very encouraging as well.
"I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness; I will sing praises of th ename of the Lord Most High." Psalm 7:17
My friend Donna posted this quote on her FB page.
"God sees our lives differently than we do. We are limited by time and space, but God can look beyond the next hill to a grander view. Rather than becoming discouraged with ourselves, we should leave the judgment of our lives to God. We should remember that real success does not depend on results; rather, it depends on whether we are obeying God's unique plan for our lives. When we leave the results with God, we do not need to feel discouraged in times of stress and apparent lack of results." This sums up what I had been feeling. I trudged through work, through Ryan's practice and spent some more time listening to Mark.
My reading takes us a little further in the Old Testament with the death of Sarah. The New Testament talks more about Jesus performing miracles and healing people, and how he is still calling his disciples, even the tax collector, Matthew. The Psalms are very encouraging as well.
"I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness; I will sing praises of th ename of the Lord Most High." Psalm 7:17
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Day 9 - The Wise and the Foolish
Day 9 brought a bit of the laziness I anticipated I would encounter. I didn't feel like exercising and I wanted to just inhale comfort food by the handful. But I turned to God's word and took it hour by hour.
I managed to get in a 45 minute walk/run. It was hot, so I didn't finish all three miles because I walked more than I ran. I also encountered some sore shins and calf muscles. The music was a little off, so I have to modify my play list.
My first few meals were right on target and within my plan. By the late afternoon, after sitting in the sun while the kids swam, Kat wanted to go in and watch The Hunger Games....again! We made popcorn, and I ate a whole bag all by myself. Then was too stuffed for dinner. I also started getting a sore throat. I skipped dinner, had a mini ice cream sandwich and two popsicles before bed. Even with all of that, I was within my calorie range for the day.
The stand out portion of today's reading was the parable about the wise and foolish builder. Jesus said:
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and with winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus had just finished giving the Sermon on the Mount so the words of mine he refers to were all of the instruction he gave about living a life that God rewards. Basically he tells the crowd that rains will come, streams will rise and winds will blow against everyone. In other words, we will all have challenges in life. But, if we have made a life by following God's instruction, it will not destroy us. It is that hope that I cling to as we face uncertainty here.
"Lord my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me." Psalm 7:1.
I managed to get in a 45 minute walk/run. It was hot, so I didn't finish all three miles because I walked more than I ran. I also encountered some sore shins and calf muscles. The music was a little off, so I have to modify my play list.
My first few meals were right on target and within my plan. By the late afternoon, after sitting in the sun while the kids swam, Kat wanted to go in and watch The Hunger Games....again! We made popcorn, and I ate a whole bag all by myself. Then was too stuffed for dinner. I also started getting a sore throat. I skipped dinner, had a mini ice cream sandwich and two popsicles before bed. Even with all of that, I was within my calorie range for the day.
The stand out portion of today's reading was the parable about the wise and foolish builder. Jesus said:
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and with winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." Matthew 7:24-27
Jesus had just finished giving the Sermon on the Mount so the words of mine he refers to were all of the instruction he gave about living a life that God rewards. Basically he tells the crowd that rains will come, streams will rise and winds will blow against everyone. In other words, we will all have challenges in life. But, if we have made a life by following God's instruction, it will not destroy us. It is that hope that I cling to as we face uncertainty here.
"Lord my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue me." Psalm 7:1.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Day 8 - No worries
Day 8 - Wow - what a day.
It was trial time. I rarely eat during trial days. Today was no exception. I managed a protein bar before leaving, had a black coffee on the way home, and a turkey sandwich with a handful of nacho chips for dinner.
I also didn't execercise. I planned on going for a two to three mile run after my sandwich, but Mark needed to talk to me about some pretty important matters. There are some changes being made to his company and a big announcement is being made next Monday. Nothing like having to sit and stew for a week. By the time he and I finished talking, it was 10:00 p.m..
Before turning to the Bible myself, I told Mark I was interested in what his reading would show. I was interested to learn that when he opened the Bible, would he read passages like "don't worry" or would he read something like "the wrath of God is upon you." I turned to my appointed reading for the day. The Old Testament talked how God promised Sarah a son of her own, and how God saved Abraham's nephew Lot from perishing in the downfall of Sodom and Gomorrah. The New Testament, opened with "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear." Matthew 6:25. Immediate peace.
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33-34.
It was trial time. I rarely eat during trial days. Today was no exception. I managed a protein bar before leaving, had a black coffee on the way home, and a turkey sandwich with a handful of nacho chips for dinner.
I also didn't execercise. I planned on going for a two to three mile run after my sandwich, but Mark needed to talk to me about some pretty important matters. There are some changes being made to his company and a big announcement is being made next Monday. Nothing like having to sit and stew for a week. By the time he and I finished talking, it was 10:00 p.m..
Before turning to the Bible myself, I told Mark I was interested in what his reading would show. I was interested to learn that when he opened the Bible, would he read passages like "don't worry" or would he read something like "the wrath of God is upon you." I turned to my appointed reading for the day. The Old Testament talked how God promised Sarah a son of her own, and how God saved Abraham's nephew Lot from perishing in the downfall of Sodom and Gomorrah. The New Testament, opened with "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear." Matthew 6:25. Immediate peace.
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33-34.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Day 7 - Matters in my own hands
Day 7 - As promised, I got up early to do my long run. I decided to just stay in the neighborhood today. After three miles I was wiped and wanted to stop. I convinced myself that I would just do one more lap, then I would stop. I used different landmarks to mark my walk/run splits. On lap 6, I ran further than I ever have. So, I ran another lap, and ran even further, by lap 9 I was done. I drank my water and just walked. When I realized that I only had one lap left, I completed it. It was nice to finish the 6 miles. My plan called for 9 miles today, but I only did 6.2. All in all, I ran over 17 miles this week. Not a bad start.
This morning in church, we welcomed some ladies from Teen Challenge. This is a program that helps people of all ages overcome addictions to drugs, alcohol, narcotics, etc. by pointing them to Jesus. These ladies shared their stories of pain and addiction and how they were saved, how they are now sober and are telling others of God's grace and mercy towards them. It is very powerful to see how lives can be changed.
Today, however, was my turn to be grumpy. I tend to have a very short fuse the day before trial. The reason is because I get nervous about having to perform, having so much resting on my shoulders. In other words, I worry. Before I could get a good night sleep, I had a picnic to attend. My aunts lives on a horse farm and every summer she invites all of us cousins and our kids to come down. There are seven kids in all and they all get to go riding on the horses. It's really fun to see them, and my aunt remarked that she sometimes forgets how excited kids can be who are not used to being around horses all the time. It was great to visit with family and new friends.
The lunch was typical picnic food. I monitored my portions and logged all my food. At the end of the day, I was still within my calorie count. And I got to enjoy some potato salad too.
Day 7 in my reading log is all about taking matters into your own hands. God promised Abraham and Sarah a child even though they were almost 100 and 90 years old respectively. Sarah did not believe that she would be a mother at 90 years old, so she had her husband take her servant as a second wife and they conceived a child. Although this child, Ishmael, was blessed by God and promised that he will be the father of twelve princes, this was not God's original command. Many believe that Ishmael is the father of the Arab nations. The New Testament reading addresses several key areas such as loving your enemies, giving to the needy, praying, fasting and refraining from loving money. These areas are ripe for taking matters into our own hands.
Mark and I joke about the "ching-ching-ching" need. This came from a story our Assistant Pastor told about some people giving in the synagogues. He asked us to imagine someone walking into the synagogue with a large sack of coins. He then asked us to imagine this person really exaggerating how heavy his sacks of coins were, how slowly he would have walked to the front making sure to catch the attention of others. And he asked us to imagine how loud it would be when he dumped the coins into a collection bin in the front. How the trumpets would sound at the donation. This is where the "ching - ching - ching" sound comes from. It represents how some people want others to notice what and when they are giving to others. Now, this doesn't mean that we can't exchange presents, or never sign a card. But with certain giving (to the needy) to do so in secret, so God will see it and reward you.
I often have the "ching-ching-ching" need when I make the sports videos for the kids and I'm about to do it here. I take photos during the season, then spend hours putting it together, insuring that each child has about the same number of photos, that the music matches and that each kid has their own DVD, as a gift at the end of the season. I confess that I wait for the e-mails or calls to come in to say "thank you" or "great job" or something even more complimentary. I've learned that if I'm doing it for the praise, its for the wrong reason. I have taken matters into my own hands.
"Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." Matthew 6:1.
This morning in church, we welcomed some ladies from Teen Challenge. This is a program that helps people of all ages overcome addictions to drugs, alcohol, narcotics, etc. by pointing them to Jesus. These ladies shared their stories of pain and addiction and how they were saved, how they are now sober and are telling others of God's grace and mercy towards them. It is very powerful to see how lives can be changed.
Today, however, was my turn to be grumpy. I tend to have a very short fuse the day before trial. The reason is because I get nervous about having to perform, having so much resting on my shoulders. In other words, I worry. Before I could get a good night sleep, I had a picnic to attend. My aunts lives on a horse farm and every summer she invites all of us cousins and our kids to come down. There are seven kids in all and they all get to go riding on the horses. It's really fun to see them, and my aunt remarked that she sometimes forgets how excited kids can be who are not used to being around horses all the time. It was great to visit with family and new friends.
The lunch was typical picnic food. I monitored my portions and logged all my food. At the end of the day, I was still within my calorie count. And I got to enjoy some potato salad too.
Day 7 in my reading log is all about taking matters into your own hands. God promised Abraham and Sarah a child even though they were almost 100 and 90 years old respectively. Sarah did not believe that she would be a mother at 90 years old, so she had her husband take her servant as a second wife and they conceived a child. Although this child, Ishmael, was blessed by God and promised that he will be the father of twelve princes, this was not God's original command. Many believe that Ishmael is the father of the Arab nations. The New Testament reading addresses several key areas such as loving your enemies, giving to the needy, praying, fasting and refraining from loving money. These areas are ripe for taking matters into our own hands.
Mark and I joke about the "ching-ching-ching" need. This came from a story our Assistant Pastor told about some people giving in the synagogues. He asked us to imagine someone walking into the synagogue with a large sack of coins. He then asked us to imagine this person really exaggerating how heavy his sacks of coins were, how slowly he would have walked to the front making sure to catch the attention of others. And he asked us to imagine how loud it would be when he dumped the coins into a collection bin in the front. How the trumpets would sound at the donation. This is where the "ching - ching - ching" sound comes from. It represents how some people want others to notice what and when they are giving to others. Now, this doesn't mean that we can't exchange presents, or never sign a card. But with certain giving (to the needy) to do so in secret, so God will see it and reward you.
I often have the "ching-ching-ching" need when I make the sports videos for the kids and I'm about to do it here. I take photos during the season, then spend hours putting it together, insuring that each child has about the same number of photos, that the music matches and that each kid has their own DVD, as a gift at the end of the season. I confess that I wait for the e-mails or calls to come in to say "thank you" or "great job" or something even more complimentary. I've learned that if I'm doing it for the praise, its for the wrong reason. I have taken matters into my own hands.
"Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." Matthew 6:1.
Day 6 - Keeping the Peace
This morning I awoke to the Star Wars theme song blasting from my cell phone. The disturbing thing was that my cell phone was plugged in down stairs and I had to jump out of bed, run down the flight of stairs and turn the blasted thing off. It was 5:30 a.m. On the way down I realized how stinking sore I was from the workout yesterday. I grumbled and moaned the whole way down the stairs "ow, ow, ow, ow." Now, since it wasn't raining yet, I should have grabbed a banana, got dressed and started my 9 mile run. But, I didn't. I hobbled back up the stairs and fell back asleep. Awake a few hours later, I started my healthy eating plan again. I decided to flip flop my long run scheduled for today with my workout scheduled for tomorrow to give my legs a chance to rest.
We are also switching out cable boxes today and Mark is working on the deck. What that means is that he is pretty grumpy, and I'm babysitting the cable guy. This also means that I'm way off track on my plan and we are snapping at each other. Both kids have a birthday party to go to later today, which means I won't get to work out until after dinner. As a result, I'm also regretting not running this morning.
The birthday party was great and the kids had fun celebrating their cousin's birthday. Once we got home, they went into the pool, I went downstairs to do KenpoX. This is a hour-long fun kickboxing video. I can't help but feel powerful during and after the video. After my recovery drink, I finished the night with a 2 mile walk. Mark and I were still grumbling at each other. Because I know God tells us not to go to bed on our anger, it was easier to talk it out before bedtime. Have you ever committed to staying up until the fight is resolved? Think about it, at 8:00, its game-on and I'm are locked into my position. By 10:00 p.m., I'm at least listening to the other side, and by midnight, I'm sorry, I'm tired and I want to sleep. It didn't take us nearly that long to work through things. Thank God.
"If you are offering your gift at the alter and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the alter. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." Matthew 5:24
Today's reading plan talks about settling matter quickly. In the Old Testament, Abram (Abraham)
We are also switching out cable boxes today and Mark is working on the deck. What that means is that he is pretty grumpy, and I'm babysitting the cable guy. This also means that I'm way off track on my plan and we are snapping at each other. Both kids have a birthday party to go to later today, which means I won't get to work out until after dinner. As a result, I'm also regretting not running this morning.
The birthday party was great and the kids had fun celebrating their cousin's birthday. Once we got home, they went into the pool, I went downstairs to do KenpoX. This is a hour-long fun kickboxing video. I can't help but feel powerful during and after the video. After my recovery drink, I finished the night with a 2 mile walk. Mark and I were still grumbling at each other. Because I know God tells us not to go to bed on our anger, it was easier to talk it out before bedtime. Have you ever committed to staying up until the fight is resolved? Think about it, at 8:00, its game-on and I'm are locked into my position. By 10:00 p.m., I'm at least listening to the other side, and by midnight, I'm sorry, I'm tired and I want to sleep. It didn't take us nearly that long to work through things. Thank God.
"If you are offering your gift at the alter and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the alter. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." Matthew 5:24
Today's reading plan talks about settling matter quickly. In the Old Testament, Abram (Abraham)
Friday, August 17, 2012
Day 5 - Temptation
I weighed in today. Down 3.4 pounds. Before anyone woke up, I went out for a quiet walk, no music, just time to pray. As I walked around my neighborhood, I prayed for my neighbors - their marriages, their jobs, their health, and families, that their children would have successful school years and stay healthy and injury
free.
Todays reading begins the Sermon on the Mount. We are called by God to love God and love others. I did
not always love my neighbors. I often walked and prayed for my neighbors, but it was more difficult to pray for some. I prayed that God would change some people, but didn't see any change. Finally, I prayed for the ability to live in peace with all of them, even if we all stayed the same. That was a prayer that God answered. I have a freedom in my neighborhood now that I did not always have. For a long time I was very self conscious about my weight and did not want some of my more fit neighbors to judge me by walking or running around the block. Now, that God has brought peace for me in the neighborhood, I don't mind running at any time of the day and I don't mind who sees. It's very freeing.
Breakfast was one of my favorites - egg whites, grapefruit and Ezekial bread. I am also enjoying my recovery drink while I'm typing since Kat and I completed our second day of the couch to 5k plan. The plan is still fairly easy - 5 minute warm up, 5 minute cool down and 8 reps of 1 minute runs and 90 second walks. This time we ran all of the runs. It took us about 30 minutes. It's fun to do that with her. Tonight I have dinner plans at the Cheesecake Factory. I've checked their menu, and see a few options that fit my plan. I volunteered to drive, so that automatically gives me an excellent reason to pass on the vino. I will not drink and drive.
Finished P90X Legs and Back. I had forgotten how fun that video is. Its still super hard, but manageable. I was also ready to quit before Ab Ripper X. Those little voices were telling me "you've done enough this week" and "it's alright to miss one day. I didn't listen, and finished Ab Ripper X too. I'm glad I did.
At the Cheesecake Factory, they have a full menu of choices within certain calorie counts. It was easy to select a meal under 600 calories. When it came, I was surprised how much food there was. There was 2 chicken breasts, a small serving of rice and some steamed asparagus. I split the plate in half and took one half home. After logging in the dinner, I still have over 1000 calories left to consume. So, I ordered a piece of coffee cheesecake and only took a few bites before putting the rest in a to-go container. All in all it was a successful day.
free.
Todays reading begins the Sermon on the Mount. We are called by God to love God and love others. I did
not always love my neighbors. I often walked and prayed for my neighbors, but it was more difficult to pray for some. I prayed that God would change some people, but didn't see any change. Finally, I prayed for the ability to live in peace with all of them, even if we all stayed the same. That was a prayer that God answered. I have a freedom in my neighborhood now that I did not always have. For a long time I was very self conscious about my weight and did not want some of my more fit neighbors to judge me by walking or running around the block. Now, that God has brought peace for me in the neighborhood, I don't mind running at any time of the day and I don't mind who sees. It's very freeing.
Breakfast was one of my favorites - egg whites, grapefruit and Ezekial bread. I am also enjoying my recovery drink while I'm typing since Kat and I completed our second day of the couch to 5k plan. The plan is still fairly easy - 5 minute warm up, 5 minute cool down and 8 reps of 1 minute runs and 90 second walks. This time we ran all of the runs. It took us about 30 minutes. It's fun to do that with her. Tonight I have dinner plans at the Cheesecake Factory. I've checked their menu, and see a few options that fit my plan. I volunteered to drive, so that automatically gives me an excellent reason to pass on the vino. I will not drink and drive.
Finished P90X Legs and Back. I had forgotten how fun that video is. Its still super hard, but manageable. I was also ready to quit before Ab Ripper X. Those little voices were telling me "you've done enough this week" and "it's alright to miss one day. I didn't listen, and finished Ab Ripper X too. I'm glad I did.
At the Cheesecake Factory, they have a full menu of choices within certain calorie counts. It was easy to select a meal under 600 calories. When it came, I was surprised how much food there was. There was 2 chicken breasts, a small serving of rice and some steamed asparagus. I split the plate in half and took one half home. After logging in the dinner, I still have over 1000 calories left to consume. So, I ordered a piece of coffee cheesecake and only took a few bites before putting the rest in a to-go container. All in all it was a successful day.
Day 4 - Patience and knowledge
Day 4
My reading today continues with Noah and the flood. While most know that it rained forty days and forty nights, I learned that they were actually in the ark a little over a year. By they I mean Noah, his wife, his three sons and their wives. Plus a lot of animals. Every other living thing died. After the first forty days of rain, the earth was completely overtaken with water, and the ark floated for five months. The Word says that God remembered Noah, and the water began to recede. Only after a year were they able to depart from the ark. Genesis 8:15-19. God then made a covenant with Noah not to ever destroy all living creatures again. As a sign of that covenant, God placed a rainbow in the sky, so that whenever anyone sees it, they will be reminded of God's promise.
In the New Testament, Jesus goes through his own 40 day fast. What is interesting is that after Jesus was baptized (by John the Baptist) his first decision was to go into the desert to be tempted by the devil. Matthew 4:1. Not only did He go head to head with satan, but He did it after fasting 40 days when he was hungry. This reminds me that Jesus was able to withstand the greatest temptation at a very weak time, yet he did not sin. It is written later on that "we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin." Hebrews 4:15. It is the ultimate "been there, done that." He was able to resist the devil, and when He did, the angels attended to Him.
Day 4 also includes the beginning of Proverbs. My favorite verse in Proverbs appears in the first chapter "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." I'll cover what is meant by fear another time, but let me use this analogy. If we are driving down the highway at 80 miles per hour and see a police office up ahead, our natural reaction is to slow down to the speed limit and hope that he didn't catch us or if he did, that he won't pull out and pull us over. That same mindfulness of getting caught doing wrong and suffering the consequence keeps most of us in line while driving. Imagine if every time we got behind the wheel of a car, a police officer pulled out behind us and followed us every where we went. Wouldn't we all be perfect drivers? Yet, I don't always fear God in the same way. He actually sees everything - good and bad. I acknowledge that at times I assume He will just let it go. This way of thinking is always wrong. He offers forgiveness, but I need to strive not to purposely do things and take advantage of His grace and mercy. So, I look to Proverbs most often for guidance.
Proberbs is one of my favorite books of the Bible for two reasons. First, it is filled with tons of wisdom and guidance for daily living. Second, there are 31 chapters - one for each day of the month - so it is an easy book to read each month. Since today is the 17th, I also read chapter 17. The first verse of chapter 17 is "Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting in strife." I mean who doesn't want that?
All in all these passages remind me to have patience. I know it will take at least a year to get all of my weight off, but unlike Noah and his family, I have the ability to roam about on dry land. And, like Jesus, I will be tempted. For me, its most likely around blowing off exercising and straying from a healthy eating plan. When I am tempted, I must remember that He was tempted too when he was hungry, but he was able to resist, and I can pray for strength to resist too. Finally, I need to be mindful that God is always there and I need and want to learn from Him.
As for eating and exercising, I didn't get out for a run or walk today. Kat injured herself at soccer on Tuesday and was still complaining of pain so we went to the doctors to determine if it was broken. Luckily it wasn't, but it was bruised pretty badly. They wrapped it in an ace bandage and sent us on her way. It was just what she needed. I procrastinated with my exercise video until 4:30, but finally went to do Insanity Cardio Power and Resistance. That video was tough - very tough. There are some moves that are challenging for me to do such as tricep raises. Basically, we sit on the floor with our knees bent, hands behind us fingers pointed towards our feet. Then lift our butt off the ground and lower down using our triceps. While my wrist is better for push ups, it is still not strong enough for these tricep rises. So, I did a different tricep exercise in its place. I was glad I completed it. I was able to resist temptation and fall asleep notwithstanding the plethora of food commercials at night.
"Jesus said to him, "Away from me satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only." Matthew 4:10
My reading today continues with Noah and the flood. While most know that it rained forty days and forty nights, I learned that they were actually in the ark a little over a year. By they I mean Noah, his wife, his three sons and their wives. Plus a lot of animals. Every other living thing died. After the first forty days of rain, the earth was completely overtaken with water, and the ark floated for five months. The Word says that God remembered Noah, and the water began to recede. Only after a year were they able to depart from the ark. Genesis 8:15-19. God then made a covenant with Noah not to ever destroy all living creatures again. As a sign of that covenant, God placed a rainbow in the sky, so that whenever anyone sees it, they will be reminded of God's promise.
In the New Testament, Jesus goes through his own 40 day fast. What is interesting is that after Jesus was baptized (by John the Baptist) his first decision was to go into the desert to be tempted by the devil. Matthew 4:1. Not only did He go head to head with satan, but He did it after fasting 40 days when he was hungry. This reminds me that Jesus was able to withstand the greatest temptation at a very weak time, yet he did not sin. It is written later on that "we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin." Hebrews 4:15. It is the ultimate "been there, done that." He was able to resist the devil, and when He did, the angels attended to Him.
Day 4 also includes the beginning of Proverbs. My favorite verse in Proverbs appears in the first chapter "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction." I'll cover what is meant by fear another time, but let me use this analogy. If we are driving down the highway at 80 miles per hour and see a police office up ahead, our natural reaction is to slow down to the speed limit and hope that he didn't catch us or if he did, that he won't pull out and pull us over. That same mindfulness of getting caught doing wrong and suffering the consequence keeps most of us in line while driving. Imagine if every time we got behind the wheel of a car, a police officer pulled out behind us and followed us every where we went. Wouldn't we all be perfect drivers? Yet, I don't always fear God in the same way. He actually sees everything - good and bad. I acknowledge that at times I assume He will just let it go. This way of thinking is always wrong. He offers forgiveness, but I need to strive not to purposely do things and take advantage of His grace and mercy. So, I look to Proverbs most often for guidance.
Proberbs is one of my favorite books of the Bible for two reasons. First, it is filled with tons of wisdom and guidance for daily living. Second, there are 31 chapters - one for each day of the month - so it is an easy book to read each month. Since today is the 17th, I also read chapter 17. The first verse of chapter 17 is "Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting in strife." I mean who doesn't want that?
All in all these passages remind me to have patience. I know it will take at least a year to get all of my weight off, but unlike Noah and his family, I have the ability to roam about on dry land. And, like Jesus, I will be tempted. For me, its most likely around blowing off exercising and straying from a healthy eating plan. When I am tempted, I must remember that He was tempted too when he was hungry, but he was able to resist, and I can pray for strength to resist too. Finally, I need to be mindful that God is always there and I need and want to learn from Him.
As for eating and exercising, I didn't get out for a run or walk today. Kat injured herself at soccer on Tuesday and was still complaining of pain so we went to the doctors to determine if it was broken. Luckily it wasn't, but it was bruised pretty badly. They wrapped it in an ace bandage and sent us on her way. It was just what she needed. I procrastinated with my exercise video until 4:30, but finally went to do Insanity Cardio Power and Resistance. That video was tough - very tough. There are some moves that are challenging for me to do such as tricep raises. Basically, we sit on the floor with our knees bent, hands behind us fingers pointed towards our feet. Then lift our butt off the ground and lower down using our triceps. While my wrist is better for push ups, it is still not strong enough for these tricep rises. So, I did a different tricep exercise in its place. I was glad I completed it. I was able to resist temptation and fall asleep notwithstanding the plethora of food commercials at night.
"Jesus said to him, "Away from me satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only." Matthew 4:10
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Day 3 - Faith to Follow through
Day 3 started with a bang, actually several, lightning too. A thunderstorm woke us up after 4:30 a.m. The lightning was amazing and the rain needed. The disruption to my sleep? Not so much. I should have just gotten out of bed and started my day, but I didn't. I woke up again shortly before 8:00 a.m. in a fog.
Ry was spending time with a friend, so it was only Kat and I here in the morning. She has been begging for cinnamon rolls for days. I still had not purchased any from the store, so we opted to make some from scratch. It was all I could do not to try just one. Those little voices urged me on saying "just one won't hurt" and "after all the exercise, you can have just one." I ignored them, had my eggs and grapefruit, and was happy to have won at least one battle. There was really nothing special about the remainder of my eating today, other than I followed the plan and drank my water.
After chatting with Kat about her practice the night before, she confirmed she was also a little sore from her workout. Last season, her team won their championship beating a well-known soccer team in the finals. One of the reasons we did so well in that final game was because of the conditioning of our team. We were still able to run with the ball late in the game, whereas the other team ran out of gas. Before the final game, we learned that the other team stacks their offense in the first half to get a good lead, then gives their runners a break by moving them back to play defense. Its a great strategy. We were able to keep our strongest defenders on defense the whole game and our best offense players out front. Now while a lot of credit goes to the coach for recognizing this, and of course the girls for executing and playing well, it cannot be overlooked that many of our team players also played basketball all winter. Since they had a very successful basketball season, they continued on to a few tournaments. What does this mean? It means that those girls continued to run and run and run for months leading up to the season. Guess what the soccer team is doing this year? Yup... they're running. My daughter doesn't play basketball, nor does she play offense. She is a strong fullback. I once saw a tee-shirt that said "Offense sells tickets, Defense wins championships" And, she was a vital part of their successful season. But, she doesn't have the stamina to continue to run. So practice was a challenge for her last night. Since she is also planning on running a 5K in a few months, she downloaded a couch to 5k app for her IPOD. Today was day one.
It begins with a 5 minute warm up. Then there are 8 reps of 1 minute jogs and 1:30 minute walks. The routine finishes with a 5 minute cool down. She was able to complete 4 of the 8 runs before getting a cramp. So we walked the rest. We walked about 2 miles in that half hour. Since her practices are T/Th, we can run M/W/F. This will help both of us get ready for the 5k.
Day 3 of my reading plan covered the bloodline of Adam through Noah. It's amazing when I read Genesis how long everyone lived. Noah was 500 years old when he had his three sons who were with him on the Ark. His grandfather, Methuselah, lived to be 969 years. There's something to be said for eating only fresh grown fruits and vegetables and walking everywhere. No pollution, no pesticides, no electronics. But, God ultimately numbered our days to 120 years.
The common thread in todays reading is faith - Noah had faith in God. When God told him He was going to destroy all people except Noah's family, Noah had faith to build the ark just as God commanded. After Joseph heard from the angel in a dream, he had faith that it was safe to leave Egypt with Mary and Jesus. By following God's commands, he settled in Nazareth. And in the Psalms, David (of David and Goliath fame) had faith that God would deliver him from his enemy, who was trying to kill him. At that time, it was his son, Absalom. I need to have faith that God will deliver me from my weight problem. Just like Noah had to build the ark and Joseph had to move his family, I need to work out and eat right. If I do my part, I have faith that God will do His part.
"From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people." Psalm 3:8
Ry was spending time with a friend, so it was only Kat and I here in the morning. She has been begging for cinnamon rolls for days. I still had not purchased any from the store, so we opted to make some from scratch. It was all I could do not to try just one. Those little voices urged me on saying "just one won't hurt" and "after all the exercise, you can have just one." I ignored them, had my eggs and grapefruit, and was happy to have won at least one battle. There was really nothing special about the remainder of my eating today, other than I followed the plan and drank my water.
After chatting with Kat about her practice the night before, she confirmed she was also a little sore from her workout. Last season, her team won their championship beating a well-known soccer team in the finals. One of the reasons we did so well in that final game was because of the conditioning of our team. We were still able to run with the ball late in the game, whereas the other team ran out of gas. Before the final game, we learned that the other team stacks their offense in the first half to get a good lead, then gives their runners a break by moving them back to play defense. Its a great strategy. We were able to keep our strongest defenders on defense the whole game and our best offense players out front. Now while a lot of credit goes to the coach for recognizing this, and of course the girls for executing and playing well, it cannot be overlooked that many of our team players also played basketball all winter. Since they had a very successful basketball season, they continued on to a few tournaments. What does this mean? It means that those girls continued to run and run and run for months leading up to the season. Guess what the soccer team is doing this year? Yup... they're running. My daughter doesn't play basketball, nor does she play offense. She is a strong fullback. I once saw a tee-shirt that said "Offense sells tickets, Defense wins championships" And, she was a vital part of their successful season. But, she doesn't have the stamina to continue to run. So practice was a challenge for her last night. Since she is also planning on running a 5K in a few months, she downloaded a couch to 5k app for her IPOD. Today was day one.
It begins with a 5 minute warm up. Then there are 8 reps of 1 minute jogs and 1:30 minute walks. The routine finishes with a 5 minute cool down. She was able to complete 4 of the 8 runs before getting a cramp. So we walked the rest. We walked about 2 miles in that half hour. Since her practices are T/Th, we can run M/W/F. This will help both of us get ready for the 5k.
Day 3 of my reading plan covered the bloodline of Adam through Noah. It's amazing when I read Genesis how long everyone lived. Noah was 500 years old when he had his three sons who were with him on the Ark. His grandfather, Methuselah, lived to be 969 years. There's something to be said for eating only fresh grown fruits and vegetables and walking everywhere. No pollution, no pesticides, no electronics. But, God ultimately numbered our days to 120 years.
The common thread in todays reading is faith - Noah had faith in God. When God told him He was going to destroy all people except Noah's family, Noah had faith to build the ark just as God commanded. After Joseph heard from the angel in a dream, he had faith that it was safe to leave Egypt with Mary and Jesus. By following God's commands, he settled in Nazareth. And in the Psalms, David (of David and Goliath fame) had faith that God would deliver him from his enemy, who was trying to kill him. At that time, it was his son, Absalom. I need to have faith that God will deliver me from my weight problem. Just like Noah had to build the ark and Joseph had to move his family, I need to work out and eat right. If I do my part, I have faith that God will do His part.
"From the Lord comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people." Psalm 3:8
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Day 2 - Do what is right.
Day 2 started with a 2 mile walk/run in the neighborhood on an empty stomach. One of the lessons I learned from my Monday night run was that I am capable of running at a faster pace for at least a minute. More importantly, however, is that it takes me the same amount of time (about two minutes) to recover my breath and for my heart rate to return to normal. So, why not train to run at that faster pace? A friend told me "train fast, run fast. train slow, run slow." If I'm going to cover 26 miles, I'm going to need to pick up the pace. So, my goal on T/TH is to incorporate a speed run into the program. Those are my big cardio days, so a quick 30 minute morning run should not take away from my abilty to complete the Insanity DVDs.
Speaking of Insanity, today was Plyo Cardio Circuit. This video is my favorite of the first month videos. I love his intensity and I'm seeing improvements in my ability to keep up with him. It's 42 minutes of fast pace cardio, but it is broken down into 2-3 minute segments. The time flys by and I always feel good about myself once its done. I noticed that as I was doing the video that my muscles were sore from the previous day.
Kat had soccer practice today, so I used that time to get in an extra 50 minute elliptical workout. It was not nearly as exciting as the runs outside - I watched the news on the TV. I also noted that the 6:00 p.m. time frame is manly-man hour. Lots of guys using the free weights and running fast on the treadmills. There was one woman using the weights - she got a lot of attention from the people around her. Not only was she very fit, but she was really focused.
Eating was a little more challenging. But with all the extra exercise, I was able to have some nachos (just one serving) and some salsa before bed. It was nice to crunch something besides my stomach. I didn't read today, so when I woke up during the thunderstorm, I managed to read a little bit before falling back asleep.
"If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it." Genesis 4:7
I'm trying to do what is right in terms of my exercise and eating plan. I'm also trying to do what is right by God.
Speaking of Insanity, today was Plyo Cardio Circuit. This video is my favorite of the first month videos. I love his intensity and I'm seeing improvements in my ability to keep up with him. It's 42 minutes of fast pace cardio, but it is broken down into 2-3 minute segments. The time flys by and I always feel good about myself once its done. I noticed that as I was doing the video that my muscles were sore from the previous day.
Kat had soccer practice today, so I used that time to get in an extra 50 minute elliptical workout. It was not nearly as exciting as the runs outside - I watched the news on the TV. I also noted that the 6:00 p.m. time frame is manly-man hour. Lots of guys using the free weights and running fast on the treadmills. There was one woman using the weights - she got a lot of attention from the people around her. Not only was she very fit, but she was really focused.
Eating was a little more challenging. But with all the extra exercise, I was able to have some nachos (just one serving) and some salsa before bed. It was nice to crunch something besides my stomach. I didn't read today, so when I woke up during the thunderstorm, I managed to read a little bit before falling back asleep.
"If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it." Genesis 4:7
I'm trying to do what is right in terms of my exercise and eating plan. I'm also trying to do what is right by God.
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Day 1 - In the beginning
The first day had some great successes. I woke up in plenty of time to get an early morning workout in, but chose to daydream in bed. Not a great start. When I finally got out of bed, I started the day with prayer. I had my grapefruit and egg whites and packed my lunch for the day. I also listened to Charles Stanley on the way to work talking about burdens. He had a great perspective. I spent some time with a friend planning out the next ninety days, but focusing on the next two weeks. It's my goal to lose 5 pounds this first two weeks.
I had two workouts planned today. P90X - Chest and Back and Ab Ripper X DVD and a 3 mile run. Chest and Back is one of those DVDs that is played a lot in my house - not because I love it - although it's a challenging workout - but because it is the first DVD in the series. I've blogged quite a bit about my love of starting things, so that is why Chest and Back gets a lot of air time. It is mainly a push up and pull up workout with some challenging back exercises too. And because its a resistence day, it is followed up by Ab Ripper X. I had forgotten how darn hard Ab Ripper X is. I have two approaches to Ab Ripper X. One is do what I can in the time of the video. The other is to complete all 25 reps per exercise and just use the pause button. Since I woke up this morning with minimal soreness, I clearly did not push myself as hard as I could.
Mark and I also had some work on the deck to complete. One of the posts was leaning and we had to make it level. Pushing and pulling wooden boards was not how I wanted to spend the next hour especially since I had just worked those muscles, but we were able to fix it. Although I just wanted to sit, I went out for my run. There is a 2.6 mile loop around the block. It was after 7:15, so I knew it was getting dark. Perhaps that would motivate me to run faster. I set my timer for 30 minutes and set off. On this run, I have three landmarks - the giant green dumpster on the first corner, the corner of Pine Street - and the cemetary. My goal is to pass those markers before each ten minute mark. I had great success on all three - although I had to push it to make the last one. It still took me 39 minutes to finish, but that was faster than my last time. My music wasn't nearly as inspiring this time. I'm averaging a 15.20 minute mile, which is faster than the necessary Disney time, but still 3 minutes over where I want to be. I'm sure all of the cardio I'm doing will help.
For all my firsts and starts, I have not read Genesis nearly as often as one would think. This past summer, the VBS program was all about how God created the world. Starting this reading plan gave me another opportunity to read about creation. The first reading in the New Testament is the birth of Jesus. Since God is three persons - Father - Son - Spirit - Day 1 of this reading plan sees the Son as creator and the Son as human. Another way to look at it is to see the problem - sin in the Garden of Eden - and the solution - Jesus.
"For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction." Psalm 1:6
I had two workouts planned today. P90X - Chest and Back and Ab Ripper X DVD and a 3 mile run. Chest and Back is one of those DVDs that is played a lot in my house - not because I love it - although it's a challenging workout - but because it is the first DVD in the series. I've blogged quite a bit about my love of starting things, so that is why Chest and Back gets a lot of air time. It is mainly a push up and pull up workout with some challenging back exercises too. And because its a resistence day, it is followed up by Ab Ripper X. I had forgotten how darn hard Ab Ripper X is. I have two approaches to Ab Ripper X. One is do what I can in the time of the video. The other is to complete all 25 reps per exercise and just use the pause button. Since I woke up this morning with minimal soreness, I clearly did not push myself as hard as I could.
Mark and I also had some work on the deck to complete. One of the posts was leaning and we had to make it level. Pushing and pulling wooden boards was not how I wanted to spend the next hour especially since I had just worked those muscles, but we were able to fix it. Although I just wanted to sit, I went out for my run. There is a 2.6 mile loop around the block. It was after 7:15, so I knew it was getting dark. Perhaps that would motivate me to run faster. I set my timer for 30 minutes and set off. On this run, I have three landmarks - the giant green dumpster on the first corner, the corner of Pine Street - and the cemetary. My goal is to pass those markers before each ten minute mark. I had great success on all three - although I had to push it to make the last one. It still took me 39 minutes to finish, but that was faster than my last time. My music wasn't nearly as inspiring this time. I'm averaging a 15.20 minute mile, which is faster than the necessary Disney time, but still 3 minutes over where I want to be. I'm sure all of the cardio I'm doing will help.
For all my firsts and starts, I have not read Genesis nearly as often as one would think. This past summer, the VBS program was all about how God created the world. Starting this reading plan gave me another opportunity to read about creation. The first reading in the New Testament is the birth of Jesus. Since God is three persons - Father - Son - Spirit - Day 1 of this reading plan sees the Son as creator and the Son as human. Another way to look at it is to see the problem - sin in the Garden of Eden - and the solution - Jesus.
"For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction." Psalm 1:6
Monday, August 13, 2012
The Reading Plan Week 1 & 2
Since I'm starting at the beginning . . . I'm starting in the beginning.
Genesis 1:1 - Genesis 30:43 - completed
Matthew 1:1 - Matthew 11:30 - completed
Psalm 1:1 - Psalm 9:12 - completed
Genesis 1:1 - Genesis 30:43 - completed
Matthew 1:1 - Matthew 11:30 - completed
Psalm 1:1 - Psalm 9:12 - completed
The Food Goal - Week 1 & 2
After some fun calculations, I learned that I have to aim for 2,286 calories per day to lose weight - so long as I keep up the exercise. If I skip a day, my calories drop to 1798 per day.
Karen suggested eating the same thing each day for two weeks. I'll give it a shot for weeks 1 and 2.
3 cups of black coffee per day - UPDATE: Black coffee turned into coffee with a TBS of cream.
Breakfast: 1/4 cup of egg whites, 1/2 grapefruit, 12 raw almonds - I had this breakfast a few times, I also made an egg sandwich out of Ezekiel bread, a little cheese and a smidge of ketchup.
Snack: Cliff bar - I had a few types of protein bars this week.
Lunch: 1 can tuna, 2 cups of salad, a few sprays of salad dressing. I only had this meal a couple of times as well. In fact I stopped eating salad all together as the week progressed. I know it's stress that causes me to want something different than salad. Mark often says he craves salad. I think he's full of malarky.
Dinner: 1 serving of lentil soup, 1 slice of Ezekial bread, 1 Tsp of peanut butter, 2 cups of salad with lemon wedge. - I only had this once as well. Most of my dinners included chicken, salad, or a protein shake.
Post-workout meal: Protein smoothie with almond milk. - I had a post-workout shake several times, as well as a few other meal substitutions.
Snack: granny smith apple
Water: 120 ounces of water per day. Week 1 was fine, but as Week 2 progressed, my intake of water also decreased. Again, old habits and behaviors under stress reared their ugly head this week.
Daily multi-vitamin. - Again, I was great for Week 1 and not for Week 2
I'm also going alcohol free for the first two weeks. - I slipped once and indulged.
Karen suggested eating the same thing each day for two weeks. I'll give it a shot for weeks 1 and 2.
3 cups of black coffee per day - UPDATE: Black coffee turned into coffee with a TBS of cream.
Breakfast: 1/4 cup of egg whites, 1/2 grapefruit, 12 raw almonds - I had this breakfast a few times, I also made an egg sandwich out of Ezekiel bread, a little cheese and a smidge of ketchup.
Snack: Cliff bar - I had a few types of protein bars this week.
Lunch: 1 can tuna, 2 cups of salad, a few sprays of salad dressing. I only had this meal a couple of times as well. In fact I stopped eating salad all together as the week progressed. I know it's stress that causes me to want something different than salad. Mark often says he craves salad. I think he's full of malarky.
Dinner: 1 serving of lentil soup, 1 slice of Ezekial bread, 1 Tsp of peanut butter, 2 cups of salad with lemon wedge. - I only had this once as well. Most of my dinners included chicken, salad, or a protein shake.
Post-workout meal: Protein smoothie with almond milk. - I had a post-workout shake several times, as well as a few other meal substitutions.
Snack: granny smith apple
Water: 120 ounces of water per day. Week 1 was fine, but as Week 2 progressed, my intake of water also decreased. Again, old habits and behaviors under stress reared their ugly head this week.
Daily multi-vitamin. - Again, I was great for Week 1 and not for Week 2
I'm also going alcohol free for the first two weeks. - I slipped once and indulged.
The Exercise Goal - Week 1 & 2
This morning I spent some time reviewing my fitness options and mapping out a two-week plan. My goal is to lose 5 pounds by August 27th. The exercise plan is as follows:
Mondays: P90X - Chest and Back and Ab Ripper X - plus a 3 mile run
Tuesday: Insanity - Plyo cardio circuit
Wednesday: P90X - Shoulders and Arms and Ab Ripper X - plus a 2 mile run
Thursday: Insanity - Cardio core balance
Friday: P90X - Legs and Back or Insanity Cardio Power
Saturday: Long run - 9 miles
Sunday: P90X Yoga or Stretch - 30 minute brisk walk
Week 1 & 2 Review
I completed my M - F plan during week one. On Saturday I did Kenpo X instead of my long run and ran 6.2 miles on Sunday.
I didn't do any videos M - F during week two. I managed only a three mile run on Tuesday and a 1 mile run on Wednesday. By Saturday, I did Kenpo X again. I still haven't run longer than 7 miles during this training session.
Mondays: P90X - Chest and Back and Ab Ripper X - plus a 3 mile run
Tuesday: Insanity - Plyo cardio circuit
Wednesday: P90X - Shoulders and Arms and Ab Ripper X - plus a 2 mile run
Thursday: Insanity - Cardio core balance
Friday: P90X - Legs and Back or Insanity Cardio Power
Saturday: Long run - 9 miles
Sunday: P90X Yoga or Stretch - 30 minute brisk walk
Week 1 & 2 Review
I completed my M - F plan during week one. On Saturday I did Kenpo X instead of my long run and ran 6.2 miles on Sunday.
I didn't do any videos M - F during week two. I managed only a three mile run on Tuesday and a 1 mile run on Wednesday. By Saturday, I did Kenpo X again. I still haven't run longer than 7 miles during this training session.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
The Weigh and the Truth
For the past eleven months, my friend, Karen and I were working towards our goal of getting healthy with a reward of a few days in Newport, Rhode Island to reap the benefits of our hard work. Karen looked amazing. Me? Not so much. Now, this isn't a "poor me" pity party - just reality. I completely failed to reach my goal. Karen - forever the optimist - phrased it well. She said this past year was about learning what works and this year is about implementing what works. And with that encouragement, the sequel begins.
As we sat overlooking the ocean in Newport, Karen and I talked about what worked, what didn't and what we want to accomplish in the next year. One suggestion Karen had echoed what I had been feeling as well, which is to introduce my faith into the equation. She noticed - as had I - that when I was squarely in my faith while eating right and exercising, I had great success. So, this year is about my one year through the Bible and my quest to lose ... dare I say it ... 100 pounds.
My title incorporates a little from last year . . . weighting for Newport (Karen's brilliant suggestion) and my willingness to be more transparent (truth). But, because of my Christianity, my title gives honor to Jesus who said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me." John 14:6.
This passage was referenced this morning in church. I do not believe it was a coincidence that one of the other scriptures cited this morning was the same one God used to save me fifteen years ago. It is from Ephesians 2:8-9 "For it is by grace you have been saived, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." If you are wondering "huh?" don't worry. That was my reaction fifteen years ago, too.
Basically, when God created the world and created Adam and Eve, he had a close relationship with them in the Garden of Eden. But when they sinned - ate of the fruit - their perfect relationship with God was impaired. And every other person followed suit - we are all sinners and we all fall short of what is necessary to have a relationship with God. Until Jesus. He was perfect. He never sinned. And He died on the cross for my sin. It was God's grace to send His son - His perfect son - to die in my place. By putting my faith in God's promise that if I believe that the death of Jesus was sufficient to reconcile my relationship with God, I have been saved. Again, Ephesians 2:8-9 says "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." In other words, I can't earn the right to go to Heaven. No matter how good, how generous, how kind I am, it will still never be enough. No one can boast that they earned their way into Heaven. Only by accepting God's grace, can we be assured of salvation. Jesus confirmed this himself when He said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
I have a Bible entitled "Once a day Bible." Each day has scripture from the Old Testament, the New Testament and a passage from Psalms or Proverbs. It will run for 365 days. If we assume day one began on January 1st, today is technically Day 224. But since I'm starting now, I'll start at the beginning. Likewise, since I want to lose 100 pounds, I need to set a goal of one pound every 3.65 days - or about two pounds a week. I'm looking forward to the year ahead.
As we sat overlooking the ocean in Newport, Karen and I talked about what worked, what didn't and what we want to accomplish in the next year. One suggestion Karen had echoed what I had been feeling as well, which is to introduce my faith into the equation. She noticed - as had I - that when I was squarely in my faith while eating right and exercising, I had great success. So, this year is about my one year through the Bible and my quest to lose ... dare I say it ... 100 pounds.
My title incorporates a little from last year . . . weighting for Newport (Karen's brilliant suggestion) and my willingness to be more transparent (truth). But, because of my Christianity, my title gives honor to Jesus who said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me." John 14:6.
This passage was referenced this morning in church. I do not believe it was a coincidence that one of the other scriptures cited this morning was the same one God used to save me fifteen years ago. It is from Ephesians 2:8-9 "For it is by grace you have been saived, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." If you are wondering "huh?" don't worry. That was my reaction fifteen years ago, too.
Basically, when God created the world and created Adam and Eve, he had a close relationship with them in the Garden of Eden. But when they sinned - ate of the fruit - their perfect relationship with God was impaired. And every other person followed suit - we are all sinners and we all fall short of what is necessary to have a relationship with God. Until Jesus. He was perfect. He never sinned. And He died on the cross for my sin. It was God's grace to send His son - His perfect son - to die in my place. By putting my faith in God's promise that if I believe that the death of Jesus was sufficient to reconcile my relationship with God, I have been saved. Again, Ephesians 2:8-9 says "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." In other words, I can't earn the right to go to Heaven. No matter how good, how generous, how kind I am, it will still never be enough. No one can boast that they earned their way into Heaven. Only by accepting God's grace, can we be assured of salvation. Jesus confirmed this himself when He said "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one goes to the Father except through me." John 14:6
I have a Bible entitled "Once a day Bible." Each day has scripture from the Old Testament, the New Testament and a passage from Psalms or Proverbs. It will run for 365 days. If we assume day one began on January 1st, today is technically Day 224. But since I'm starting now, I'll start at the beginning. Likewise, since I want to lose 100 pounds, I need to set a goal of one pound every 3.65 days - or about two pounds a week. I'm looking forward to the year ahead.
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