tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75446240139249276312024-03-14T10:09:07.973-05:00Simply A GoalLeah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-57338015804035154892016-07-08T10:59:00.000-05:002016-07-08T11:24:14.781-05:00Be United, Stand UnitedWhen will we realize we are a nation crumbling at the seams, consumed with hate and fear? Look at how far this great nation has fallen. I see a nation that is afraid and divided. Our enemies seek to destroy us, and sadly, they are winning, and we are helping them in their cause. When we turn on each other, we are creating more fear and hate. Yes, our history is marked with actions that are cruel; but that means we need to learn from our history and not repeat it. We need to learn to take off the lenses that cause us to see differences and see people with our hearts, as fellow humans. We are all in this life, in this world, together. When will we stop tearing each other apart? Don’t we see that with each attack we are creating more fear-the very thing some groups claim to be fighting against, or raising awareness of? <br />
<br />
We cannot fight fear with fear. Fear will consume our once great nation and destroy everything our forefathers worked and died for. We have families torn apart because of the actions of a few. Instead of looking at the actions of a few and assuming members of society, or organizations, as a whole feel the same way as those few just because they have the same color of skin- or wear the same uniform- DOES NOT mean they all act, think, or feel the same as those few who are guilty of hate and poor decisions. <br />
<br />
When we turn on each other, our enemy has won. We have gone from fighting for our cause to fighting against each other, and building the forces of our enemy. Those who are sworn to protect and serve are being attacked. Please, stop and think about that for a minute. What would it be like to be a police officer today? What would it be like to put on that uniform and prepare for your work day? To kiss your family goodbye and not know if it would be for the last time? To respond to a call, a need to protect your community, only to be gunned down? What about the families of our officers? Each and every day they are left wondering if their loved ones are safe. They are fearful of what their loved ones face while at work, and if they would return home to them. <br />
<br />
This is inside our borders, in our communities, the places we call home! Look at how far we have fallen! Are we done, yet? Have you had enough? Please, I beg of you, stop the hate. Stop the fear. This is more than a “Black Lives Matter” issue. Or, a “Blue Lives Matter” issue. The simple fact is ALL LIVES MATTER! <br />
<br />
In the words of Martin Luther King, "Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars... Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” Love. Love is the answer. Love is the only thing that can right this ship, and I pray that our nation will be united in prayer and turn to love. If you want to fight for this nation, your weapon of choice should be, and can only be, love! Love is the only answer to hate. <br />
<br />
Please, think about all of this for a moment. Do we really want our nation to crumble? Do we really want to aid our enemies in our defeat by turning on one another? Start seeing each other as who we are: Human beings, individuals with unique qualities that when put together, and strengthened, are capable of great things! Start building each other up, and stop tearing each other down. We are limiting ourselves by our current actions. Let’s make this nation great, once again. Be the UNITED States of America. Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-3237147252762609072015-02-03T15:34:00.000-06:002015-02-03T15:34:18.582-06:00Our JourneyYou know that moment when you have just started to emerge from the other side of a journey and there has been just enough space to let you look back and realize how big the journey was? That is the moment I am in right now.<br />
<br />
If I am completely honest with myself, I have had difficult times and situations within other difficult times and situations! I am exhausted!<br />
<br />
This year is our first year to home school our children. I am so thankful we made the decision to home school! The changes we have seen in our children are wonderful! We still have some more things to iron out, but for the most part, we are doing really well! We have a better relationship with each of our children, as a family, and their relationships with each other have dramatically improved! I love the development in their problem solving skills! I love that we can tailor our lessons for each child, focusing on their individual strengths and weaknesses! <br />
<br />
Of course, with every up, there is a down. I am honestly not sure why I didn't see this coming. Really, I should have expected it, but I just didn't. The loss of friends. I had a friend that I thought was a great friendship, our families did quite a few things together for a few years. Then once we made the decision that was best for our family, that person changed; cut off all contact. We went from being a large part of each other's lives to nothing, overnight. My children and I did not understand why our decision to home school, the decision that was best for our family, could affect them to that degree. We felt used. Hurt. It was just as difficult for me to understand as it was for my children. We would see them out in town and the comments made by their child were hurtful, and it was obvious he was repeating things he had heard. But, honestly, I am glad it happened. Better to see the true colors, and it gave us an opportunity to teach our children through it. <br />
<br />
Home schooling also affords us flexibility within our schedule. I could not be more thankful for that flexibility! We had a family member become ill, out of state. Our lives suddenly became full of car trips and hospital visits. We could adjust our schedule and activities as much as we needed, it has been an absolute blessing! We no longer had to worry about excused and unexcused absences; we were able to be there for our family when we needed to be, without any added pressures. <br />
<br />
We have learned to be more flexible. Yes, we have our schedule, and our appointments and commitments; but we no longer feel like our lives are run by the clock. We can have fun without the worry of being late because we are in control of every aspect of our schedule. If we realize a few weeks into our curriculum that we are no longer loving it, we can just change it. We can change it multiple times per year, if we need to! We can focus on books, 100% online, or a combination of. We can spend more time on a concept if we need to. We get to use more hands on methods as well. We can study art, then go to the museum and see pieces. We can go to the science museum and test concepts. We can have fun with PE, and our cafeteria always has the best food! <br />
<br />
In all seriousness, while our decision may not have been the popular decision for our "friends," it was the best for our family and I do not regret a single minute of it. I am thankful for the changes we have experienced, for the closeness we have developed, for the freedom we now have. What a blessing this experience has been!Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-27710018306900278602014-11-18T14:03:00.000-06:002014-11-18T14:03:04.144-06:00Snow and Essential OilsOklahoma has some of the most interesting weather I have seen. It could be 90 one day and snowing the next. We had warm weather last week and snow Sunday. Since it had been warm, the ground was still pretty warm; the snow quickly became ice on the roads. <br />
<br />
Our Young Living team had a health fair and we continued as planned! We love the opportunity to share these wonderful products with others! It is so neat to see how lives are changed! Our fair went well, and now I am finalizing plans for our Make & Take class, I am so excited! My hope with these classes is to help people find more uses for their oils, give them a chance to think outside of the box.<br />
<br />
I have been using orange oil in my water lately and I just love it! It is one of my favorites! I am researching the skin care line and putting together a class to teach at the beginning of the year. So very exciting! <br />
<br />
Have you tried Young Living? If so, what is your favorite product?Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-26492457793698989502014-09-23T04:57:00.001-05:002014-09-23T04:57:36.405-05:00Hello Autumn!I love the fall! Cooler temperatures, beautiful changes in nature, all things pumpkin, it just demands a slower pace to appreciate it all. It gives us another opportunity to appreciate God's work! <br />
<br />
When I was younger, I always loved the summers. My birthday is in the summer, we always spent 95% of the time in the pool, we were out of school, what's not to love? But, it seems summers are hotter now, or maybe it is just the fact that we do not have a pool? I have been less tolerant of the summer heat this year, welcome to surgical menopause after severe anemia: Straight from the freezer to the fryer! <br />
<br />
Today, I was able to turn off the air conditioning and open a window! My frugal side is rejoicing! I would love to be able to keep the a/c, or heater, off for a couple months; that would be fantastic! I no longer feel as though I am melting away and it is wonderful! <br />
<br />
Next week we will be making our first trip to a pumpkin patch with one of our homeschool groups and I am looking forward to it! We will also have a field trip for a more hands on state history lesson. The idea of more outdoor fun and enjoying some cooler temps has this girl pretty excited!<br />
<br />
What autumn traditions do you have? What are you most looking forward to?Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-5673189671684113522014-09-04T17:34:00.000-05:002014-09-04T17:34:31.564-05:00Different is Good!So, we are now a homeschooling family; and let me tell you, I LOVE IT! I love the time I get to spend with my children! I love the way our relationships have grown! I guess I am just wired differently than most people. <br />
<br />
I have friends who count down the days for school to start with enthusiasm! They can't wait for them to go back to school, to be back to their normal with a schedule around school. This is what works for them, and there is nothing wrong with that. Really, there isn't. It just doesn't work for me.<br />
<br />
I love summer break! I love having my kids home with me! I hate back to school time! I hate sending them to school for so many hours a day and for so many months. I hate having their teachers spend more waking hours with them than I do. But, most of all, I hate how much it changes them. You see, we had a problem with bullies. Little girls can be mean, and the attitude and rudeness starts so young!<br />
<br />
At the beginning of the summer, every year, my oldest would go through a season, if you will, where she would decompress from school and how she was treated. It is a bit like watching ice cream melt. She would be tense, and stressed; over the course of the summer she would relax and return to her natural self. Every year was becoming more difficult. <br />
<br />
She developed eczema that seemed to be worse when she was stressed. This year we worked really hard, all summer, to get it to clear up. It finally had! We were all so relieved! Then, I had mentioned to her that there was one month of summer vacation left. Overnight, her eczema flared back up again! It was horrible! We had already been discussing homeschool, and this realization of the affects of her stress on her little body was the final straw. We officially decided to homeschool both of our girls.<br />
<br />
I started researching curriculums and purchasing our books. I attended local homeschool information meetings and joined a couple groups. We announced our decision to our family and friends, and withdrew from school. <br />
<br />
I still get nervous when people see us out in public and ask why they aren't in school, but I don't regret our decision. In fact, I seem to be enjoying it more, and more each day! We are different. But, different is good! I am reminded of something I heard once: Why do we try so hard to blend in when we were designed to stand out? So, here we are standing out because different is good!Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-30524642547312796772014-08-07T14:49:00.000-05:002014-08-07T14:49:14.906-05:00Seriously? Seriously!We are now a homeschool family! This is huge for us! I have always wanted to homeschool our children, my hubby, not so much! I am that mom who gets really sad when summer is over and they go back to school. I would rather keep them at home. Our older daughter has really struggled with being bullied and in her 4 years at school, she has not made a single friend. Each summer I watch her transform from a nervous, tightly wound bundle of nerves, to a calmer, sweeter little girl. After many conversations, we have decided to homeschool. <br />
<br />
At first, our daughter was resistant. She didn't want to be different, she was still worried about what the other kids would say. Once she realized she wouldn't have to be around them anymore she has started to relax and really embrace the decision. It is like watching ice cream melt as she is losing the shell she had put in place to survive that environment. <br />
<br />
Have you ever thought of homeschooling? This is a huge decision for us, but I strongly believe it is the best decision for our girls.Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-7115348578702226352014-07-07T11:25:00.002-05:002014-07-07T11:25:23.804-05:00At the Movies!It is July, and that means it is time for At the Movies! This is where our pastor takes scenes from popular movies and ties them in to scripture and how they apply to life. I think this is an amazing way to reach more people and keep us thinking of the bible and how it is still relevant. Sometimes it is easy to keep our ideas and opinions of church and people who go to church in a box. But churches like LifeChurch shatter the mold. It is the furthest thing for your stereotypical church. The music is loud. The lights are low. You come as you are. Wearing jeans with holes and work boots? No problem, we are just happy you came! You don't need a "Sunday best" wardrobe, we just ask that you wear clothes, the condition of the clothes is unimportant. Why not check out the website and see if there is a location close to you. If not, don't worry! We offer an online experience! Even for the kiddos! Go ahead! Check it out!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.lifechurch.tv/" target="_blank">http://www.lifechurch.tv/</a>Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-37305706146894336922014-06-28T19:58:00.000-05:002014-06-28T19:58:12.280-05:00My ChurchI love my church! Seriously! I love my church! It is the furthest thing from every preconceived notion I had about church. It is comfortable. Filled with people who are nice and genuinely enjoy being there. It is a place where you can go where there are no expectations placed on you. You are not expected to dress a certain way. You are not expected to behave a certain way. You can literally come as you are; and get this, they are always happy to see you and welcome you.<br />
<br />
Our church is not only a place where we go to learn about God, but we also listen to some amazing music. We meet people we may not otherwise meet. Here is the kicker though: We learn so much about ourselves! <br />
<br />
We learn what is important to us. We learn how to love others. We learn how much we are loved! We learn we are able to do so much more than we think we can. We learn to let go. We learn to trust in Him. We learn to help others and how rewarding that is!<br />
<br />
Here is the awesome thing about my church: Even if I can't make it to a service, I can still participate by watching the service online! I love that! Let's face it, sometimes life happens, or Satan will try his hardest to keep us away from something we need to hear, but with the online option, I can watch a service more than once! <br />
<br />
One of our favorite series is coming up, At the Movies. It is fantastic! I would love for you to take some time out of your week and watch our special series during July, you never know when you may see or hear something that was written just for you.<br />
<br />
Check it out! <a href="http://www.lifechurch.tv/" target="_blank">LifeChurch</a> You won't be sorry!<br />
<br />
<br />Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-85842217724325258582014-06-22T11:40:00.001-05:002014-06-22T11:40:26.909-05:00My New Fitness LoveHave you tried Barre3? If not, I highly suggest it! I bought a set of DVDs with a ball that we use at home. Now, by we I mean my daughters and myself. We are much more likely to continue with an exercise program if we have it at home instead of going to a gym. Some of the things I love: It is no impact, you don't need a bunch of equipment, easy to follow along, and you don't need shoes! This program is very effective and works on your core and center of balance. I simply won't be able to say enough about this program, so go check it out!Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-36977104425457942182014-06-04T17:54:00.002-05:002014-06-04T17:54:33.475-05:00Thankful!<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This morning started out like any other, we got up showered and got the kids ready. We took the oldest to basketball camp, and let the youngest pass the ball around before camp started. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Now here is where my day took a turn and started to show me its true colors. In hindsight, it is all very clear. You see, when I got up to leave, I banged my elbow on the chair back; I had clobbered my funny bone. The thing is, funny bones aren’t really that funny; they hurt!</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">The youngest and I were on our way home, which is 1/2 a mile away, when I heard a loud crack on the window. We had passed by a tractor pulling a brush-hog that had thrown a rock that had hit the side window of our car. The rock hit hard enough to chip the glass. I am so thankful the window did not shatter because that is where my youngest sits and she could have been hurt.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Then when we got home, we went out in the backyard. We had started out having fun and shooting some baskets, then we were going to go inside for something and lo and behold, the door was locked. We were lock out of the house. We were stuck in the backyard. I had to call the hubby and have him drive 30 minutes one way to let us in our own house. Of course while we were waiting, the youngest needed to go potty.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Later in the day, I decided to mow the grass. The backyard went well. I took a break to check on the girls and drink some water. When I tried to start the mower, it had other plans. Plans that did not include my front yard. I got my tools out and took apart the air breather and cleaned it. When I went to put it back together, I realized the socket had fallen off the wrench and was nowhere to be found. I resorted to using the old fashioned, manual lawn mower. You know the kind that they used on the Brady Bunch. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">It is one of those days where I am afraid to start anything else because so many things have proven very challenging. But, most of all, I am thankful. Thankful He is watching over us. Thankful things didn’t go worse. You see, the window could have broken and my youngest could have been hurt. But, He didn’t let it, it wasn’t in his plan.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I could have left my cellphone inside and we could have been locked out of the house without any way to call for help. But we weren’t, He didn’t let us, it wasn’t in his plan.</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">While my day may not have been the easiest, and it may not have gone how I would have hoped, I am still thankful for all that went right! We are safe, we are inside, and the grass is mowed before the rain starts this evening. He saw to that, and I am happy and thankful!</span></div>
Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-39716132984243212792014-05-19T17:23:00.003-05:002014-05-19T17:23:58.590-05:00Foster CareThere are over 11,000 children in the foster care system in Oklahoma. 11,000 children who are unable to go home for one reason or another. 11,000 children who need others to step up and care for them. 11,000 children who do not have the security of a loving and safe home and family in which to grow and support them. 11,000 children who lack stability. This is just in one of our 50 states.<br />
<br />
I encourage each of you to pray about what you could do to help foster children in your area. This could mean being a mentor, donating money, goods, or clothing, becoming a foster parent, or even adopting. There is something each of us could do to help these children. Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-76177998822353968062014-05-19T17:13:00.001-05:002014-05-19T17:13:12.809-05:00Run DownHave you had that moment when you realize you have ignored, or dealt with, a health problem way too long? I recently had surgery for such a health problem. I had waited so long that I did not realize how much of an affect it had had on the quality of my life. Now that I am in my third week of recovery, I am able to see how far I have come in such a short amount of time. Isn't it amazing how quickly our bodies heal and adapt! I find myself wondering how I would have felt if I did not eat a good diet and exercise. Granted, I have not had the energy to exercise nearly as much as I used to. So, take the time to listen to your body, eat well, and exercise!Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-25148472732032121742014-03-05T11:14:00.003-06:002014-03-05T11:14:41.712-06:00Are you a Breakfast Eater?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do you like breakfast? I'm more of a brunch person myself. I wonder if it is partly because I do not like a lot of sweets and most breakfast stuff is sweet? I am more likely to reheat some leftovers from dinner than to eat something sweet. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eggs, you say? I am allergic to eat whites. No can do. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Toast? I have celiac disease. I'll pass.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Non-sugary cereal? I don't eat grains. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I do enjoy what we call a breakfast bowl. I scramble some sausage and mash in some baked potatoes. Those who can have eggs put one on top, or on the side. This is also yummy with bacon or ham.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Or, occasionally, I will cook rice in coconut milk and add coconut flakes. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top and it is yummy! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My oldest kiddo loves paleo egg muffins made with coconut flour. They are very filling and will keep her hunger at bay while at school. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the summer time we will have fruit or smoothies, but not during the cold winters.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That is as close to breakfast as it gets around here. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What does breakfast look like in your neck of the woods?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-40899921417121376932014-03-03T13:21:00.001-06:002014-03-03T13:21:08.434-06:00Winter Blues<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It is this time of year when I start to look at real estate in warmer climates. I don't think I am particularly picky just something warmer, with a sandy beach, and warmer. I saw a show late last night, or early this morning depending on your perspective, about bargain price beach properties. I learned I prefer the mid to south east coast to the north west coast. I also think I would enjoy St. Augustine Florida. So pretty and so full of history! I love history!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I also look at property in Hawaii. Hawaii is very near and dear to my heart. I love it there. Beautiful people, beautiful land and beaches, great food, and fantastic weather! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Meanwhile in the tundra, we have ice from two days ago, snow from yesterday, brutal cold temps today and some earthquakes mixed in. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am ready for spring! I hope we have an actual spring season this year and don't jump right in to summer. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Off to put on another layer of clothes...</span>Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-74524540726326620472014-02-07T22:38:00.001-06:002014-02-07T22:38:28.484-06:00Horrible TV<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I must be getting old. Has anyone else noticed how bad our television programming has become? It seems as if my list of approved shows is getting shorter and shorter. To make matters worse, the commercials are horrible! Are there not regulations on commercials? Even my three-year-old knows what to do if an erection last longer than four hours. It is pretty bad if I find a show that is acceptable, but I feel like I can’t let our family watch because the commercials may expose them to things I am not ready for them to know about yet. </span></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Has anyone else noticed this? We watch a lot of PBS. We like the programming and we can avoid the commercials. I think it is sad we are left with one channel.</span></span></div>
Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-72750288920465932002014-02-04T09:34:00.001-06:002014-02-04T09:34:10.589-06:00When you have to hold strong in your faith<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think I have been shown where He is leading us, it is an exciting adventure ahead of us! There are a few things we have to be diligent with to resolve before we can proceed with his plan. Mainly paying off some debt. I feel we are supposed to put forth the effort here to get our finances in a better place to show that we are ready and willing to take that next step in His plan for us. Trust me when I say, this will not be an easy task, we have a large amount of student loan debt. But, it is something we need to work hard at and I know He will bless us in this area. I can't wait to see what He will do with our finances and our future. If you are uncertain about a situation in your life, I encourage you to turn to Him. Read the bible, it is our handbook. Pray, pray, and then pray some more. He loves when we communicate with Him, why not talk to him all of the time?</span>Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-34754837286304530672014-01-28T11:52:00.000-06:002014-01-28T11:52:08.005-06:00Spiritual Goals<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Today I will finish the first 28 days of my year-long bible reading adventure. Reading the entire bible has always seemed so overwhelming to me. I have always wanted to, but it just seemed like such a huge task. This year, our pastor taught a series about how small things can make a big difference. He mentioned how reading the bible in a year is not nearly as overwhelming if you focus on reading a little bit each day; follow a plan. So, that is what I am doing. I am reading about 4 chapters a day, and it is going really well! I am so glad I took this challenge. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I also challenged myself to a 21 day fast. This year I chose to follow the Daniel fast, where I would eliminate breads, sugar, and meat from my diet. I followed the plan very well for 15 days, then I had to modify it a bit. My body had had enough, and rumor has it I was “exceptionally cranky” and so I added back in meat for one meal a day for the remaining 6 days. Now that the fast is over, I have noticed my tastes have changed and I don’t like a lot of the foods I enjoyed before. Funny how that works, isn’t it?</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Last year, I had made a commitment to read more devotionals and bible studies. I am happy to say that I did just that. I immersed myself in several Beth Moore books, some by Priscilla Shirer, and a much needed study on boundaries. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This year I am planning to continue reading as many bible studies as I can get my hands on, along with my year-long reading adventure. I am also hoping to write some of my own studies. I feel like I am being led to write my story so that I can use it to reach others. While I am still coming to terms with this, as I am a private person when it comes to my family and my past, I need to follow His leadings. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What are your plans for this year? Have you set your spiritual goals as well as the goals for the rest of your life? If not, I encourage you to do so. You won’t regret it!</span></div>
Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-34735951087712541052014-01-27T13:44:00.002-06:002014-01-27T13:44:56.055-06:00Busy 2 WeeksToday is the first day of a very busy, but happy, two weeks in our family. This is birthday time! My oldest brother's birthday is today. Then, my older brother's birthday is the 29th. Then, my oldest daughter's birthday is Saturday. Lastly, my mother's birthday is the next Friday. That is a lot of cake! But it is a time filled with love and I couldn't imagine it any other way! <br />
<br />
I could even go a step further and think about Valentine's day on the 14th, and my Hubby was born on the 29th of February and we will celebrate on the 28th. <br />
<br />
Lots of fun in our house! For me, the only thing that would make this time better would be if we had a month of warm weather to go along with it. I am a warm weather, beach soul at heart! This cold winter weather is brutal!<br />
<br />
I am off to create something great for presents! I prefer to make gifts than to buy them! Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-49797153523973367542014-01-24T10:58:00.001-06:002014-01-24T10:59:14.999-06:00CrossroadsThe past couple of months were very difficult for my family, and I haven't posted in awhile. To say we were thrown a curveball would be putting it mildly. We had one of those situations where you either jump all in with your faith in the Lord, or drown.<br />
<br />
I have always believed in God, but I guess you could say I have never been one of those people who fully trusts in Him and lives worry-free without a second thought about whether or not he would come through. While I know everything I have is because of Him, it has always been hard for me to let go. You know what I mean? <br />
<br />
See, I am a planner. Like to the extreme. I need to have everything mapped out, I love maps too, but I digress. At the root of it all I am a worrier. There I said it. I worry. I worry about a lot. I worry instead of trusting Him. I take away His opportunity to do something amazing because I am too worried about the situation. I not only worry about the outcome, but about the process, too. <br />
<br />
These past months have been a learning opportunity. We were taken to the brink where we had no other choice but to trust that He would handle the situation. As bad as the situation was, I am thankful for it. Still with me? Good! You see, without this situation, I would not have grown closer to Him. I am much more prayerful than I have ever been before. I know He already has the answers because He wrote the story, long ago! <br />
<br />
I am working hard to change my worrying ways. I'm not cured, because our spiritual enemy loves to trip us up, but I have made great strides! I think I am most shocked about the feeling of peace that has washed over me. <br />
<br />
I am so glad we jumped all in with our faith in Him! If you aren't familiar with this type of a relationship with our Lord and Savior, I encourage you to explore it! You won't be sorry!Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-24207215322261926102013-11-18T00:44:00.003-06:002013-11-18T00:44:38.871-06:00Struggles and WaitingHave you had that moment when you are in the middle of a storm. The spiritual enemy is attacking you in nearly every direction he can. You know the Lord is about to do something great with you, you can feel it. You are just waiting to see the whole picture? That is where I am at right now. I think I have an idea of what he is placing on my heart. I am just waiting to see the full extent of it. Part of me is fearful. I am afraid he wants me to open up about my past. This is not something I do, ever. I don't like the looks I get from other people when they hear everything I have been through. So, for now, I am praying. Praying for His guidance. His wisdom.Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-91862936768926739322013-11-11T09:41:00.001-06:002013-11-11T09:41:33.827-06:00Paleo Week 5In case you haven't noticed, I am really happy with my decision to change our lifestyle to Paleo! I love the foods we eat, I love the way I feel, and I love the loss of body fat! <br />
<br />
We are figuring out some staple recipes for us, things that must be made weekly, we have figured out our favorite snacks, and we are starting to decide what we want for our holiday meal. <br />
<br />
All in all, it is going very well! To be completely honest, my husband still doesn't understand the difference between gluten-free and paleo; so he is not as consistent as the rest of us. But, he is taking baby steps, and that is fine with me. He will get there eventually.Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-17156903122654326322013-11-10T16:07:00.001-06:002013-11-10T16:07:52.171-06:00Stepping Out of My Comfort ZoneYou know that moment when you realize you have to do something you never thought you would do. Something you just didn't think you were capable of. The kicker is you know you are being called to do this thing. So you go ahead and agree to it. <br />
<br />
I am stepping out of my comfort zone. In a big way. Back in January I had made the commitment to pour myself in to devotionals and bible studies. I have read several books, and I participate in a weekly bible study group with a remarkable group of ladies. Recently, I had read A Blessed Marriage by Robert and Debbie Morris, and I felt called to lead a study group over the book. <br />
<br />
Did you catch that? I am leading a study group. I never, in a million years, thought I would be leading a group!<br />
<br />
The book is a fantastic book, but I think it was designed for couples to read together. We are doing our best to support each other through it. In addition, I am writing supplements, if you will, to complement our readings. <br />
<br />
I enjoy writing, but I never thought I would be writing for a bible study group. <br />
<br />
There are many new experiences right now. I am praying my way through it and hoping God will use me to reach whomever needed this study resulting in my growth.<br />
<br />Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-40657455923788729932013-11-06T16:34:00.003-06:002013-11-06T16:34:58.082-06:00Paleo Week 4<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Week 4 of Paleo eating went really well! It is getting much easier! I love all of the choices we have. Eating out is much easier, too! My kids have some favorite dishes, for example, Chicken nuggets and carrot fries. They love them so much! I will even share the recipes:</span><div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Carrot fries:</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Peel the carrots and cut them into sticks. Put them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with sea salt and pepper. Toss to coat and place on a sheet pan. Bake at 350 until soft.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Chicken nuggets:</span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Cut up chicken breast into bite sized pieces and place in a large bowl. I use 3 large chicken breast. Coat with olive oil and season with sea salt and pepper. Set aside.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In another large bowl: combine almond meal roughly 2 cups and flax seed meal roughly 2/3 c. Then add seasonings. I use onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, sea salt. Mix well.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Then take a few pieces of the chicken and coat with the breading. Continue until all are breaded. Place on a sprayed sheet pan and bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 min (bake time depends on the size of the nuggets)</span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">These are like gold in my house! They eat them up! Last time I made roughly 4 pounds of nuggets and 3 pounds of carrots. We had them for dinner and my oldest loves to take them in her lunchbox. They make a great snack even. They would love it if I would make them weekly.</span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Give it a try sometime, you just may love them!</span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 10px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-64313111540322965062013-10-21T12:03:00.001-05:002013-10-21T12:03:12.689-05:00Processed FoodsWhy must our food be processed to the extent that it is? Why can't food just be food? When did we become a society that has to have added flavors to everything?<br />
<br />
I know a lot of people prefer meals that are fast, or require short prep times, but can we not have healthy meals, too?<br />
<br />
Maybe I am one of the few people who prefer the actual taste of food, not all of the additives or artificial flavors. I like being able to prepare meals the "old fashioned" way. Faster is not always better. I think it is unhealthy to cook in teflon coated pans, give me cast iron cookware any day! I don't think artificial flavors belong in our foods. Why would we want something created in a lab instead of something grown in nature?<br />
<br />
Why can't sugar just be sugar? Why is it being bleached? Why has wheat been modified to be the product we now have today? And corn for that matter. <br />
<br />
Why is profit more important than our health? Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7544624013924927631.post-56664726059396494922013-10-19T22:10:00.001-05:002013-10-19T22:10:09.763-05:00Paleo Week 3Week 3 with the Paleo lifestyle went pretty well! We had one slip up today; we had family over, watched football and ordered pizza. That was our only lapse, I think we did pretty well! <br />
<br />
My husband seems to be enjoying the recipes we have tried, my kids love it, too! Their favorite so far has been the chicken nuggets. <br />
<br />
Tomorrow, we are having a roast (this is a family tradition that will make my Grandma smile down on us) and I will make a stew with the leftover meat.<br />
<br />
Tasty comfort food during a snap of cold weather.Leah G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/02115857305860450963noreply@blogger.com0