Let Go and Let God!

Letting go and letting God is sometimes easier said than done.  The amazing thing is that He is ALWAYS there for us! No matter if you are feeling anxious, tense, or concerned about anything in your life, when you turn it over to Him and allow His works to be done....God will fill your need.  It may not always happen on our time, in fact there may be times we question if He even hears us.  HE DOES! A feeling of peace and joy will carry you through every day when we "Let Go and Let God."

 

"Father, I place my life in your hands." ~ Luke 23:46

 

 

 

 

Brownies and a "secret" ingredient:)

BLACK BEANS! Yes, these brownies are made with black beans....thanks to a special friend who shared the recipe, I had to make a batch and see if it passed the hubby and kid test...IT DID!!!!
The only thing I wish I had more of was chocolate chips.  I had a whole 7 chocolate chips in my freezer....yes "7" and I used every single one:) LOL

Black Bean Brownies
1 can black beans (15 ounces drained)
1/2 c oats
1/3 c Walden Farms Chocolate Syrup
4 Tbsp peanut butter
3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa
1 Tbsp Truvia (or sweetener of choice)
2 tsp vanilla
2 tsp baking powder
dark chocolate chips to sprinkle on top
*Mix all ingredients except chocolate chips (I used a food processor till smooth)
*Pour into greased 9x9 pan and sprinkle with chips
*Bake in a pre-heated 350 oven for 15-20
*Cool and cut into 12 pieces
Macros per brownie: 90 Calories *4.4g fat(1.6g saturated) *10.3g carbs(2.7g fiber 2.5g sugar)

 

STRONGER ~ Wiping fear and doubt away

 Last night I watched the 20/20 special on Robin Roberts.  WOW! What an inspiration and faithful woman she is.  I love how she shows such an inner peace during very difficult times.  You can see that she has a strong faith and belief in God.  Her attitude and determination helps her get through it all. She has defeated MDS and she is not allowing fear to overtake! The strength of her family is incredible.  So touching about Robin knowing that her mommy is with her always and speaking words of encouragement from above.  I got spirit bumps when I heard her sister tell her that daddy is on this side of you, mommy is on this side and God is right above you.  How cool that her doctors pray for and with her too!

If we could all learn from her about not allowing fear or doubt to enter.  Stay strong and know that every struggle in your life has shaped you into the person you are today ~ These hard times can only make you stronger!

 Mandisa's "Stronger" song has been a part of Robin's journey.  What an empowering song that is a blessing to others with constant words of encouragement: "God's right there, even if its hard to see him ~ I promise you He still cares ~ When the waves are taking you under ~ Hold on just a little bit longer ~ He knows this is gonna make you stronger, stronger ~ The pain ain't gonna last forever ~ And things can only get better ~ Believe me this is gonna to make you stronger!"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=emgv-VRtMEU

HOLY HUGS!
~Deb

Turning a frown upside down :)

When I turn a frown upside down and create a smile :) it changes how I feel and look at things: POSITIVE instead of negative.  Just as this picture of a rose is opening up, its beauty and life are only beginning.

 ....I know it can turn my thoughts of "I can't" to "I CAN"

Choose Faith over Worry

Faith is so much more than believing!  It is a strong sense that we can overcome everything including worry.  Have faith in what you do, think and live for.  You will overcome and persevere!!!

Today is a GIFT

I absolutely LOVE this saying:

"Yesterday is history
Tomorrow is a mystery
Today is a gift
That's why it's called the present"

How many times do I tend to dwell in the past and worry about tomorrow.  If I remember to live each day to the fullest and treat it as a gift, each day will be a present!

Holy Hugs,
~Deb

The Ultimate Gift of LOVE!

Wishing you a HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY with the greatest gift of LOVE!!!

HOLY HUGS!

~Deb

FAT TUESDAY Family Favorite....Shrimp Creole

I decided to go for it and try a version of Shrimp Creole to go with my new fav...spaghetti squash!
Here it is:
1T butter
2T safflower oil
2T wheat flour
14 oz chicken broth
1 C water
1 1/2 C sliced celery
1 bunch green onion
1 red pepper
4oz tomato paste
Bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Red pepper flakes to taste
3 Cups of cooked shrimp

Heat butter and oil, add flour and cook for 5 min before adding all other ingredients. Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer covered for 30 minutes. A few minutes before serving add shrimp.
Serve with brown rice, pasta...or my new favorite spaghetti squash!

My family went nuts and told me that this was a keeper! YAY!!!

Spaghetti Squash is my new low carb pasta

Last night I finally made spaghetti squash.  I have no idea why it has taken me so long to try it....maybe it was because the hard thing was a little intimidating when I brought it home.  How will I get this to make pasta and how do I cook it???

It was actually EASY...once I could cut it in half.  I used my sharp knives that I sliced my finger at the end of last year trying to separate turkey burgers, however this time made sure I kept my finger clear!  Once it was cut, I scraped out the seeds and "guts" (just like a pumpkin), placed rind up on a cookie sheet with foil that I sprayed with olive oil, and baked for about 45 minutes in a 375 temp oven.  I let it set for about 5-10 minutes then removed the insides with a fork from stem to stern and got spaghetti looking strands!
Low in Calories, Highly Nutritious - The fact that a cup of cooked strands has only around 40 calories is AWESOME! Plus, it's a very good source of fiber and loaded with lots of key vitamins and antioxidants.

Here is the nutritional facts on spaghetti squash:
PER SERVING (1 cup cooked strands): 42 calories, <0.5g fat, 28mg sodium, 10g carbs, 2g fiber, 4g sugars, 1g protein

ENJOY!
~Deb

Do I really have to exercise???

YES!  Were you thinking I was going to say something else....and with being a personal trainer! LOL

I have come across a variety of excuses, including ones I have made too, however I can not stress enough that a real transformation comes from a balance in all 3 areas: FAITH, FOOD and FITNESS = Figure By Faith!  When all are done consistently, you will create a healthy body that you and others will see and believe. 

I really do enjoy working out.  For me it is my spiritual time, stress release, feel good, get sweaty and feel the burn time.  Although if it gets too late in the day and I have not had that "fitness" time, to be honest it probably isn't going to happen.  The benefits I have seen far out reach just what many think....exercise is not just for losing weight and my outward appearance.  Exercise has brought me many blessings.  I feel refreshed, renewed and the accomplishment that I am taking care of God's temple.  My passion for this in teaching and helping others is HUGE!  I love when this all clicks with others and they see the real picture that good health starts from within. 

Life truly is a journey.....one that we can work on daily to be our best in the eyes of God!

"Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself " ~ 1 Corinthians 6:19

HOPE FAITH CURE with Juvenile Diabetes

Yesterday I heard news from some dear friends that their son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.  Although I can't imagine how they are feeling or thinking, I know they are strong Christians, educating themselves and have a huge support system to guide them in this process. By sharing this information, I hope to give some facts and HOPE about this disease.

From the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation:
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which a person's pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone that enables people to get energy from food. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, called beta cells. While its causes are not yet entirely understood, scientists believe that both genetic factors and environmental triggers are involved. Its onset has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. There is nothing you can do to prevent T1D, and-at present-nothing you can do to get rid of it.
Affects Children and Adults
Type 1 diabetes strikes both children and adults at any age. It comes on suddenly, causes dependence on injected or pumped insulin for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications.
Needs Constant Attention
Living with T1D is a constant challenge. People with the disease must carefully balance insulin doses (either by injections multiple times a day or continuous infusion through a pump) with eating and daily activities throughout the day and night.  They must also test their blood sugar by pricking their fingers for blood six or more times a day. Despite this constant attention, people with T1D still run the risk of dangerous high or low blood sugar levels, both of which can be life-threatening.  People with T1D overcome these challenges on a daily basis.
Not Cured By Insulin
While insulin injections or infusion allow a person with T1D to stay alive, they do not cure the disease, nor do they necessarily prevent the possibility of the disease's serious effects, which may include: kidney failure, blindness, nerve damage, amputations, heart attack, stroke, and pregnancy complications.
Statistics

• As many as three million Americans may have type 1 diabetes. ¹
• Each year, more than 15,000 children and 15,000 adults - approximately 80 people per day - are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the U.S.²
• 85 percent of people living with type 1 diabetes are adults.³
• The rate of type 1 diabetes incidence among children under the age of 14 is estimated to increase by 3% annually worldwide. ⁴

Warning Signs
Warning signs of T1D may occur suddenly and include:

• Extreme thirst
• Frequent urination
• Drowsiness or lethargy
• Increased appetite
• Sudden weight loss
• Sudden vision changes
• Sugar in the urine
• Fruity odor on the breath
• Heavy or labored breathing
• Stupor or unconsciousness

"So God has a way of preparing us parents. We don't know when where or why but he does. Dalton was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes yesterday. Day 1 education underway. Dalton is handling it like a pro with a great sense of humor that is keeping all of us on our toes. We're thankful knowing we have excellent resources with in our reach & very supportive family to go along this journey with us. The 'normal' road ahead is the direction we will go!! We appreciate your prayers for us all to have the listening ears so we may continue to provide for a healthy & active lifestyle for Dalton & our family.

Today we are very appreciative for Dalton's teacher letting us know of his changes in his routine at school. That was a major piece encouraging us get further medical advice." ~Heather

This is just a "bump" in this special boy's life.  He is a fighter and will take this challenge on! GO Dalton!!

HOLY HUGS,
~Deb

Eating Clean

When it comes to the term "Eating Clean", here are some simple steps to remember: 

1. Consume small meals daily (6-7)
2. Drink water (1/2 to full body weight in ounces)
3. Know how many calories you burn
4. Consume minimal processed food
5. Eat more greens
6. Minimal "white refined" stuff (sugar, flour, dairy)
7. Healthy fats: avocados, nuts
8. Eat .7 grams of protein per #body weight
9. Start with a protein breakfast
10. Know how your meal is prepared when eating out.

Most of all....ENJOY every bite and every meal!

Positive Thoughts

"You were made for more!" Devotion from "Made to Crave"
Ephesians 1:18-19 ~ I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know that hope to which God has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.

Self doubt and defeat can overwhelm us when we are not "seeing" the results we want.  It becomes so tempting to just quit and fall back into unhealthy habits when you feel you have "changed" in so many ways. But have you?  That is where the "truth" really speaks.  Positive thinking or thoughts are crucial in the permanent progress of putting a halt to the viscous cycle of defeat and failure.  Get rid of those negative thoughts and fill your mind with the positive! "I was made for more!"
Believe and you will achieve!!!

Overweight Physically and Underweight Spiritually

Day 2 devotion from "Made to Crave"
Ephesians 1:17 ~ I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.

Nothing changes until we make the choice to redirect our misguided cravings to the only One capable of satisfying them.  What fills your mind will fill your soul...this is a process that offers both physical and spiritual benefits.

Controlling what goes in my mouth has been often easier said than done.  It hasn't been until I have had that missing link or connection.  Having the strength and power of God changes everything.  It's not a magic diet, special pill or workout.  The ultimate and forever lifestyle change comes from having a balance in all areas and placing Him above my cravings.

Daily devotional from "Made to Crave"

Psalm 139 ~ God made you WONDERFUL! You are beautiful  and special, no matter what size or shape you are.  HE LOVES YOU!  The process of getting healthy has to be more about losing weight or for self recognition.  Setting yourself and your soul to change for the right reason. It is a spiritual journey with God as your co-pilot!

The Temptation of SUGAR

It's February 1st, a month after most of us have started our NEW habit or lifestyle.  Has your motivation become your habit that you continuing???

I have the best of intentions when I begin, good changes start to occur, and then something derails me back into old habits.  It is all part of the journey!

I am human, I am hormonal and I like sweets and salt!!  I have realized that I can be in control of what goes in my mouth and still enjoy it without feeling deprived.  What a pleasant concept:):):)

Here are some facts about sugar:

Studies of American eating habits show that almost a quarter of the calories we consume are from nutrient-poor foods, or better known as “junk food.”  So if ¼ of what we eat is junk food, a plan for losing weight should emphasize eating differently, not just eating less.

What should you limit your sugar intake to?  The American Heart Association suggests that added sugar should be limited to no more that 6-7 percent of your total calories.  You should also be aware of the natural sugars found in fruits and dairy as well.  Here is a chart listing the maximum recommendation of daily intake based on various calorie levels. 

Daily Calorie Intake	Grams of Sugar	Teaspoons
1,200	21	5
1,500	26	6
1,800	31	7
2,100	36	9
2,400	42	10
2,700	47	12

I am not saying eliminate sweets and treats altogether, just have some awareness, moderation, and then ENJOY!  Here are a few tips to help you control your sugar amounts and cravings:

1. Eat more protein and good fat (nuts).  This will help to make you feel full and satisfied
2. Have small, frequent meals to help keep your blood sugar stable which will help you avoid sugar cravings.  Eat every 2-3 hours and start with a good breakfast.  You won’t be starving because you will be eating more often.
3. Read labels.  Try not to consume food items on a regular basis that contain more than 5 grams of sugar per serving.

As hard as it might be to believe, having sugar in moderation and knowing where the hidden extra can come from will allow you to have your cake (or Valentine candy) and eat it too! :)

Also, remember the power of your mind and how it sets you up for your success to overcoming temptation.  It does take discipline and disciplining how you think.   If you want to change what you are doing (reaching for sugary foods), you need to change your thinking (a healthy life pleasing to God).  You can do this by starting with your "FAITH" of feelings and actions, that determine your "FOOD" choices and daily "FITNESS" habits. 

Holy Hugs,

~Deb

 "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.  For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life."  ~Galatians 6:7-8