Does Music really make a difference???

Working out can get boring if you follow the same routine day in and day out.  I'm learning from my trainer that it is important to change the way you workout each day.   On the days I'm on my own, I am trying to focus on cardio which means I'm by myself on the bike, treadmill, or precor machine.   I have found that listening to music while I exercise really helps my energy level.  The gym always has music playing, but I like it  better if I bring my MP3, it really helps me.   You can have fun with it --- (well as much fun as possible at the gym)  For example tonight:  I made a game out of it.  (I know -- my nerdiness is showing)  I created a workout play list before arriving at the gym.  I picked out different songs that I love and were different in speed, sound and tempo.  As the songs would change their speed I would increase my speed.  If the songs were slower I would increase my incline and so forth.  EXCEPT on the precor -- I do good just to stay on for my allotted time.  :)  

 It was a good workout and I was beat by the end of it - however, being able to listen to MY song selection made it better...  I had a combination of songs, all on my personal MP3 play list, my workout play list tonight was as follows: 

• 
  
  Super Hero (Snazzy)
  
  
  
• 
  
  From Lolo's songs - I just happen to LOVE this song.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Hurt So Good (John Mellencamp)
  
  
  
• 
  
  A girl never grows out of John Mellencamp.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Her Man (Gary Allen)
  
  
  
• 
  
  I LOVE HIS VOICE!!!!! 
  
  
  
• 
  
  Screen Door (Rich Mullins)
  
  
  
• 
  
  Old School Rich Mullins - doesn't get any better than Rich!
  
  
  
• 
  
  I love Rock n Roll (Joan Jett)
  
  
  
• 
  
  Sorry -- I'm still an 80's girl!!!!  This song will never die.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Lifesong (Casting Crowns)
  
  
  
• 
  
  All time favorite group ever.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Walk By Faith (Jeremy Camp)
  
  
  
• 
  
  Has a great beat and in fact - didn't know if I would make it through this song.
  
  
  
• 
  
  Our Song (Taylor Swift)
  
  
  
• 
  
  My favorite Taylor song. 
  
  
  
• 
  
  You Give Love a Bad Name (Bon Jovi)
  
  
  
• 
  
  There is just something about Bon Jovi.
  
  
  
• 
  
  What if His People Prayed (Casting Crowns)
  
  
  
• 
  
  LOVE this song and the meaning behind the words.
  
  
  
• 
  
  The Name of the Lord (Karen Peck & New River)
  
  
  
• 
  
  If you don't know who Karen Peck is -- I'm so sad for you; some of my favorite songs are by Karen.  TRUE songstress!
  
  
  
• 
  
  Praise You In This Storm (Casting Crowns)
  
  
  
• 
  
  My theme song!!!!
  
  
  
• 
  
  Never Gonna - Steal My Joy (Mandisa)
  
  
  
• 
  
  Whew -- awesome song with awesome beat.
  
  
  

I really was surprised to see how quickly my workout went.  From my workout I got in the sauna and the music was much different.  It was very soothing and relaxing.   Music has been used to relax the body, like while trying to fall asleep or doing yoga for years. I think I will start using it to my advantage in the gym. 

The next step will be to replace my play list with all Christian songs.  I mean how much more will I get out of my workout if I have words about my Savior playing in my ear. 

**Word to wise, don't forget you are in the gym and there are others around you while you are working out.  I found myself on several songs singing out loud - embarrassing!!!!!  With labor breathing in between -- not a pretty sound!**

That is really all I have for tonight! 

Until tomorrow!

Christianity... The new designer label????

I'm not real sure where this blog will end up tonight.   As I have stated before Todd and I teach the college and career class.  After we completed our regular lesson, we were all just talking about this or that.  We have a young lady in our class that was raised in Haiti.  She is such a joy and just one of my favorite people, I learn from her!  Her faith is amazing!  She is in nursing school.  She brought up how different America vs' Haiti is.  She stated that in Haiti - you didn't have to guess about someones salvation.  If someone said they were a Christian -- they were.  She is having a hard time understanding how someone who goes to church and says all the right things, can act the way they do.   She talked about how she has been ask to go places she knew she wasn't suppose to go and to do things she knew would not please God.  It was so nice to be able to sit back and listen to these young men and ladies talk through this discussion.   Another student made this comment.  (at the age of 21 such wisdom) "It is kind of like having a designer bag, everyone wants it."  she continued, "but, not because they believe they need it, they want it for show."  At that moment I thought to myself, I wish I had that "heart" knowledge at the age of 21.    Our discussion continued and the open hearts they shared with this young lady was just (for lack of better words) cool.   I am so proud of the growth in these young men and women that God has entrusted to us.  So many people proclaim to believe in Christ or to be a Christian, but they lack the desire to please and walk in His light.  I guess the scripture that says it best is... 

I love the way she used the analogy of the designer handbag.   You can not always tell the difference between a real handbag or a fake. 

  

It could be said the same for a Christian; however, the bible tells us you can tell by a persons fruit.

Matthew 7:16-20 (King James Version) 

• 16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
• 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
• 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
• 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
• 20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

I praise Him for allowing us to be a part of His ministry.  From my Sunday school class to Girl Power - I am so excited to see where God is leading me.  I know my heart is to carry out the Master's business.  My journey to become a Rock Star is ALL about that.  

If you do not know this Master, I speak about - - I am ready to introduce HIM to you! 

Mr. Blog - that is all I have for tonight.  Until tomorrow!!!

I'm half way there!!!!

Well today is the 45th day of my blog.  I committed to writing it for 90 days and I guess I'm 1/2 way there today with the publish of this one.  WOW  I have such a long way to go in my journey; but it feels good that I have made 45 days of this blog.  As stated before - the blog is an accountability friend. 

Todd and I went to the gym this morning and I did cardio.  I also sat in the sauna for 20 minutes.  I'm still reading the Jillian Michael's book "Master your Metabolism" during my sauna visits.  I'm learning so much about what she has to say.  The theme today was pretty much -- if it doesn't have a mom, or wasn't grown - don't eat it.  For example...  Cheetos wasn't grown from the ground nor does it have a mom -- SO WHY ARE YOU EATING IT?  Jillian has a way of looking at things, that I like.  She is such an easy read.  I will work with Steph again on Tuesday.   Gym is closed tomorrow so will not be back in there until Monday.  Guess it will be Biggest Loser Wii tomorrow. 

Diet was good today - Peanut Butter toast before workout and lunch out with friends today.  Stayed within my healthy choices and had pineapple and a very high protein dinner.  Yummy!  :) 

I took pics today of the Smith family, who also happen to be some of our closest friends.  Danny is such a nut and always makes me laugh -- I really needed to laugh today.  It has been nice to get my camera out again -- I have so missed taking pictures -- there is just something about giving someone a lasting memory of their loved ones.   

Another really good friend of ours went with us.  James and Faith!  James is a single dad and you have never seen a dad look at his daughter the way that James looks at Faith.  They are a team of two and I absolutely love watching them interact with one another.  I was so glad they tagged along cause they were so fun to photograph. 

We were to take family pictures for our Christmas cards and I was still in my wonderful mood so, doing the entire hair/make-up was postponed.  However, I got a few really cute shots of my little guy. 

I have a few snapshots of Logan and James that are really cute --- Logan thinks James is a TALL kid.  :) 

 

I would like to end with the SMITH STRUT!!!! 

I thank Jesus for good friends and a day that was STRESS-free allowing me to do something I LOVE!!!

:)  Until tomorrow!!!!

What a way to start...

The ugly truth of today...  I did NOT start my day sunny side up.  For whatever reason, I woke up this morning in a TERRIBLE mood.  I had planned to go to the gym first thing so that I could have the rest of the day free.  I did not get out of my PJ's until almost noon.   We finally were all dressed and ready to get out of the house.  I think today was the HARDEST day to get up and go to the gym.  I had a 'guilt' moment as Logan said to me -- "mom, sometimes going to the gym is boring for me and I am all alone!"  I tried to explain to Logan that I knew it wasn't fun for him and I was sorry that we were spending so much time there, but it would all be worth it in the long run.  The gym has a nice room with a TV and he sometimes takes his DS and plays it.  It does not hurt him and I know that, but... at 5 it isn't fun to sit and be "good"  :)  His not wanting to go just added to my already bad mood.   I thought of a zillion other things I would rather do.  Being a couch potato was #1 on that list.  I think I was having one of those poor me days.    After going to the gym I did feel better and was glad that we went.   However, the mood did not change!

Once we got home, Todd got all of the Christmas decorations out of the attic and I was sure this would create a happy mood - - - NOT - - - before the tree was up Todd and I were arguing, Logan was mad because he wasn't getting to 'help' as much as he thought he should.  The garland/lights we normally put up around our mantle were not working and that in itself was another problem.  Todd new medicines are NOT agreeing - as I really believe that his levels are way off and his balance is off.  He had several mild seizures today.    So needless to say our afternoon of putting up our Christmas decorations, did not turn into a happy family time.  Once everything was done and the boxes were put up, I realize how beautiful it all really is.  I love seeing all of my churches and  Manger scene with all the lights around it. I will say that watching Logan with his Thomas the Train Christmas track /train around the tree made it all worth while.  He still loves trains. 

You know sometimes I wonder how people do it.  How do work a full time job, keep the house clean, keep the yard done, and make sure that the laundry is done?  The world can creep up on you in a heartbeat.  I let it today.  I feel like I'm always on the GO (guess that is where the name GOGO came from) and never have time for the important stuff like my family.  We are planning to do Logan's birthday party next week (his birthday is on the 9th) and I've not sent one invitation nor taken deposit to the bowling alley for his party.  WHAT?  I normally have it planned a month in advance.  Not this year - so I text'd a few friends and made a very informal invite.  I know mother of the year.  :) 

When Todd got sick, our world was turned upside down and our roles were somewhat changed.  I could say more, but have decided for tonight's blog, I will not.  I say I've accepted it and know that it was all in God's will.   Deep down I know my God has it all in his hands and has complete control over me.  I get it and I love that I don't have to worry about tomorrow!  Some days are just harder than others.  The weight of the world gets heavy when you don't lay your burdens before HIM.

 

until tomorrow!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

What a great day!  It is so great to be able to spend time with your family.  I have never seen so much food - it seems like every year the tables are stuffed with more than the year before.  INSANE! In my family there are so many things that my grandmother makes that are NECESSARY during the holidays.  The first being her Mac n Cheese.  It is the one dish that you know without fail will be on the table Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Every grand child, young and old heads to the mac n cheese  first.  The other item that is famous at my grandma's house is BROWNIES!  I mean it is really sad when people will HIDE them before we even eat to make sure they get one.  A few years ago, as grandma was watering her plants a few days after a big family get together she found a brownie in a baggie at the bottom of her flowers on the porch.  All of this to say, today was no different.  You guessed it, both were on the table today!  I am very proud of myself.  I did eat just a small portion of mac n cheese (man I wanted more) and I did NOT eat a brownie or anything off of the 3 tables of sweets.  I feel that I made really smart choices.  There was no ham on my plate, just turkey.  A small helping of dressing and NO Gravy.   Side dishes were the mac n cheese, green bean casserole and broc and cheese.  There were so many more choices.  I was fine until we got home tonight and I got hungry and thought about all the things I passed up.  I want a brownie and mac n cheese right now as I type to you.  :(

Enough of that "food" talk.  I have many friends that will be leaving soon for "black Friday".  Personally, I think they have LOST their minds.  I have gone a few times and swear to never do it again.  Tomorrow we plan to have a nice quite family day at home with just the three of us.  I feel like we never get to spend time as a family.  We are always on the go or someone is here with us.  We love our friends and family; however, sometimes it is nice to just be home, just us.  I am looking forward to getting our Christmas decorations out and putting the tree / lights up.  I do plan to get up and go to the gym early in the morning. (have to work off that mac n cheese, right?)

I would like to close the blog with this one thought...  We all have so MUCH to be thankful for, why do we wait until Thanksgiving to remember what is good in our lives.  I would like to challenge you to remember each day what all you have to be thankful for.  You might be surprised how much better you feel by just making this one change! 

Remember to also be thankful for the

little things as well...

 

For example:

• The way it smells after a rain.  I LOVE it!
• The little giggle Logan has when he thinks no one is watching. 
• The way a clean house smells / looks. (don't see this much) 

**there are so many things to be thankful for...

just don't take them for granted**

Mr. Blog - that is all I have for tonight.

Until tomorrow...

Thankful....

I am so thankful to those of you that are reading this silly blog. I started it on a whim at the suggestion from a good friend. (Thanks Tonya)  I am not sure where or how but it has become a very important part of my journey.  

 With Thanksgiving Day being tomorrow, I thought it was ONLY appropriate to focus on the things in my life that I am truly thankful for.  There are so many and I know I will miss many.  If you are not mentioned here -- PLEASE DO NOT THINK YOU ARE NOT IMPORTANT TO ME!!!!  It would take me all night to list everyone I love and am thankful for.  

Here it goes:

• My Salvation:  Knowing that Jesus would have gone to the cross even if I was the ONLY one to receive his gift -- that is powerful my friends - pure power!
• My Parents:  There isn't much to say except, I have the most amazing parents.  Thank you for always being there NO MATTER WHAT.  They always tried to place within me the knowledge that I could do anything and everything I set my mind to;  Most important, they always made me look at decisions in a way that I learned that the right decisions is not always the popular choice. 
• My Husband:  Even with the illness and last few years; I would NOT trade a single moment of our life together.   I know that God will continue to work within our lives if we allow Him the opportunity. 
• My Children:  Randy and Logan.  I can not imagine my life without you. 
• From the moment I met Randy, with his snaggletooth grin, I knew I would be wrapped around his finger.  I am so proud of the man he has become.  He has brought into my life such love and happiness. Not to mention the most amazing grand baby, Aydin, and such a special daughter, Risa.
• Awe and my special little guy Logan.  From the second I first laid eyes on him, I was in love!  Logan was placed in my arms within a minute of being born, I remember the tears flowing as I saw him for the first time.  I have never met anyone with such personality and charm.  I can not wait to watch him grow up into a strong man of God.
• My Church Family:  Through the illness of Todd and the birth of Logan,  this special family has been there from the beginning and continue to be there each step. 
• My Trainer:  Stephanie has become a very important part of my life/journey.  She understands when I get to that point of ... I can't do that today - - but doesn't let me STOP!  She just changes her direction!  It is so funny how someone can become this important in your life in just over a month.
• My Friends:  When I think of how blessed I am with TRUE friends, I am sometimes overwhelmed.  I have so many good friends that I could write about you all.  Although, I would like to mention everyone, I've decided to just give a few hints to those that are especially on my heart tonight...   
• 1) You can still trade your boots in!   I can't keep up - but girl I love you!
• 2)  BLAH BLAH BLAH   I would be lost without you in my life!
• 3) Chica, sisters forever!   soul mates!
• 4) HS friends for life;  The dinners and time we have recently spent together have been so much fun; but most important, you have touched my heart --

I have so many other things to be thankful for... but I wanted to touch on those people that are on my heart;  God has truly given me a beautiful life and I do not take it for granted! 

Even if you were not mentioned tonight, please know how thankful I am for you!!!  All my love this Thanksgiving.  I found this poem and wanted to share it with all of you! 

I’m Thankful for You

Thanksgiving is the appointed time

for focusing on the good in our lives.

In each of our days,

we can find small blessings,

but too often we overlook them,

choosing instead to spend our time

paying attention to problems.

We give our energy

to those who cause us trouble

instead of those who bring peace.

Starting now,

let’s be on the lookout

for the bits of pleasure in each hour,

and appreciate the people who

bring love and light to everyone

who is blessed to know them.

You are one of those people.

On Thanksgiving,

I’m thankful for you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

By Joanna Fuchs

 

 

I would like to ask a special prayer request for tomorrow:  so much food -- why do all holidays have to be centered around FOOD?  I am going to my grandmothers tomorrow and I want to make GOOD choices,   I pray right now,  for courage and strength tomorrow to make the "right" choices for my food intake.    In Jesus name...  Amen

 

Mr. Blog that is all I have for tonight - - HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL OF YOU!

 

Until tomorrow!

Do you want to give an hour ----- or 24 hours?

This cartoon takes me back to words Stephanie said to me after my 2nd session with her.  I told her I felt like I was going to die...  Her words to me, "the only way you will die, is if you quit!"  She was so right and her words were exactly what I needed to hear.  It wasn't about the pain - it was about saving my life and becoming healthy.  Becoming healthy isn't about looking good in my jeans (although, that is going to be so awesome).   It is about being here to run and play with Logan.  It is ALL about being about to go about the Lord's work and have the energy to do what I'm called to do.  

Tonight was a GREAT workout.  I had my normal session with Stephanie and then had planned to get into the sauna for 30 minutes.  How wrong I was.    My trainer had another idea.  BOOT CAMP...  I told her there was no way I could do her session and then her boot camp class.  She laughed and said OK - we can compromise, "30 minutes of class and then 30 minutes in sauna" -- I knew it wasn't worth putting up a fight - I would LOSE!  30 minutes of boot camp for me, I really don't think I would have made the other 30 minutes!  When I finally waddled into the sauna - it was the biggest relief - ever.  I purchased a new book today and couldn't wait to jump into it during my sauna time.  Jillian Michaels, Master Your Metabolism.  I am very impressed with her writing as well and material so far.  She is very easy to read and the information makes since.  I can't wait to dig deeper into this book.   

While watching Biggest Loser tonight it seemed the theme was all about who is going to be a HERO.  It got me thinking about my hero.  Jesus Christ is my hero.  I just had to share that tonight!  Without his help through this wild Journey of becoming a ROCK star - I would have already QUIT!!!  Just another confirmation that the BIBLE is first and foremost TRUE!!!!  For all things are POSSIBLE WITH CHRIST!!!

Mr. Blog - that is all I have for tonight!

Until TOMORROW

Right here...Right now...

This was a very sad day for me.  I briefly mentioned the economy and a very bad day I had a few days ago.  Well, today it came to pass.  I had to let someone in my office go due to a layoff.  This person has been with me almost 4 years and was a solid performer EVERY day.  She is also an amazing person and someone I respect a great deal.  It was very hard to see her leave today.  I HATE THIS ECONOMY!!! My heart is just breaking for the people that have lost their jobs, homes and so forth... 

Not only did today stink due to losing a valued team member, another team member in my office received very bad news that her mother had tried to kill herself this morning.  Thoughts just start to race as to how someone can be so down that this would become an option!  Kendra has fought over and over to try and get her mother help.  Please pray that this will be the time that something finally happens in this situation to help this family move past this event.  It is my prayer that everyone involved in this situation will stop and realize the ONLY hope to move away from this cycle is JESUS!!!

I had a GREAT workout tonight.  I weigh in tomorrow, so I hope it was enough to remove the damage I did on Saturday with my Italian feast.  :)   I'm excited about weighing in - to compare the inches lost to the weight.  I also sat in the sauna for 25 minutes tonight and it was awesome!  I am enjoying the sauna more and more each time I'm in it.  I will meet with Steph tomorrow night.  As usual, I'm sure I will think I am dieing; however, she continues to tell me I will live. 

I am learning to take each day one day at a time.   To be in the NOW -- so for the next few months I plan to remind myself to stay right here - right now...  I know where I want to be in 6 months - 9 months and even a year; but...  I can't focus on that all the time.  I have to focus on short term goals - so for now -- my goal by Jan 12th, 2010 (which will be my 90th day of this blog) is to be down 40 pounds!  That is where my focus is going to stay right here - right now!!! 

That is it for tonight!!!  Until tomorrow...

Twenty First Time

I had so many other things to talk about tonight in my blog, but after a conversation with a very special lady it was changed.  (thanks Lavon)  No pictures tonight - just one video and a "real talk" from my heart.

Twenty First Time has become one of my favorite songs.  I am not sure how I missed it when it was released. It is only recently that I finally listened to the words.   If you have not, please watch the video, before reading my blog tonight.  Just click on Twenty First Time and enjoy and really focus on the words?

Did this video touch you?  Have you been guilty of seeing someone in need, and instead of helping - judging or walking away?  It is easy to walk away; but, that isn't what we are called to do.   I am amazed at how Jesus has changed my heart.  It is such an awesome thing!  When we love Jesus, really love him, the love for others will follow us everywhere we go.   This is a price to pay, as sometimes the love, compassion you feel for others is overwhelming; however, the reward will always out weigh it all.  I thank my God for the change in me.  The joy I have is really beyond understanding.   When I think of what Jesus did on the cross for me, it almost takes my breath away.  Think about this...  even if you were the ONLY person on the face of this earth - Jesus would still have taken your punishment and went to the cross.   How special are you in His eyes.  He knows the very hairs on your head.  It isn't even really about the peace, it isn't about staying out of Hell (which by the way -- is a REAL place) -- IT IS ABOUT THE PRICE HE PAID.  It is about the love and forgiveness!  If the relationship is there with our Savior, the service will also be there.  If you have a love for Jesus, you will love others who are in need.  You will want to share your faith with others, you will want to reach out and show you care.

Not real sure where or why I wanted to post this song tonight.  It touches my soul and has a genuine message that we all need.  Diet and Workout this weekend was decent.  I did not do much exercise but will be back in the gym tomorrow and can't wait to weigh in on Tuesday. 

I will close with -- If you don't know my Jesus - let me introduce him to you.  He is the single most important person you will ever meet. 

For now... g'night -- until tomorrow!

You can LOOSE inches!!!!

What a wonderful morning!  I got to the gym this morning for my first assessment since starting.  I will say, I was brought to tears..............  TEARS OF JOY!   Brittney measured me first because Steph was doing a boot camp class (which by the way - scared me to death, and I wasn't even in the class)  - She kept saying - Steph needs to check me this can't be right.  My first thought was if this sweet girl tells me I have not lost inches I am going to tell her she did it wrong.  There is no way I hadn't lost as I can tell in my clothes!!!!  As Stephanie finished up her class she grabbed me off of the bike and remeasured me --- BRITTNEY WAS RIGHT.  Are you ready for this -- She measured Bicep, Chest, Abdominal, Hips, Thigh and calf -- 16 inches GONE!!!!  Did you get that -- I mean GONE - never to return - GONE!  I was so surprised.  I told a friend of mine - I hope it is at least 7 or 8 -- 16 -- I was amazed!  If the inches were not enough, my blood pressure was also down -- 121/80.  Wasn't high before but was borderline.  Resting heart rate went from 86 to 69.  I think it is safe to say, great report.

From the excitement of measurements, we headed to Athens to take Logan's fall pictures.  I love what the courthouse in Athens does each year.  We have not missed a year since Logan was born.  Just wanted to share a few...

From Athens, we hit Hwy 19 on to Palestine.  I will say that this GOGO could not wait to see Aydin.  I think Lolo was more excited as he could not keep his eyes off of her.  Who can blame him?  She is perfect!!!!  It was awesome to spend time with Ran and Risa.  We decided to go eat a good dinner -- Randy wanted Italian -- did you know how much I love Italian?  I decided to not over do it, but I did have Chicken Parmesan.  I will say it was delicious; however, I know that it was a once in a while treat.  It will be back to the "healthy" stuff tomorrow!  :)  From dinner we went to Wal-mart to pick up their pictures that they had made.  First family pictures.  They are adorable.  (see for yourself)

We decided to stop and see the movie Blind Side on the way home.  It was a very good movie, (could have done without some of the language) but will purchase the movie when it comes out.   Sandra Bullock is amazing in the movie.  The story is very touching and you will laugh and cry!  Just a warning! 

Today was a great day - I thank my God each day for the family he has blessed me with.  I would also like to say with the progress I am having so far on this journey -- I know that all things are possible with Christ!  Thank you Jesus!!!!

That is it for now, Mr. Blog -- Until tomorrow!!!