These are exciting times for my husband and me. We are sifting through our lives to come into better balance with our possessions and our time.

It's freeing to have less instead of more. More, for us, has been a trap. The entanglement affected our vision and kept us from fully seeing God's plan and purpose for us. We see the bottom line now (though not through sifting), and that is "people."

Time is precious and too easy to waste.

With great reluctance, I've let go of the weekend. Oh, for one more day!

I haven't weighed myself for awhile, but my clothes are fitting better. I try not to be compulsive about hopping on and off the scale--it's too discouraging. In my mind I should be at my goal weight (but I still have thirty pounds to go). So much discouragement originates in the mind, and it's hard to get out of that cycle once it gets started.

It's a day at a time; any more than that gets me into trouble.

It's Friday! Yea!!!

To think the new year is just a few days away is sobering. When I look back at this year, I have only praises to God for all He has revealed. "To whom much is given, much is required" is now the challenge. What am I going to do with all that I've witnessed (from His hand) this year?

Time may not be short--but what if it is?

It's a wintry day full of snow. Not what I would have planned but....

I pray for safety for everyone traveling; it's always a time when plans may have to change. Of course, the focus is our Lord and Savior, and that never changes. He is our Savior and risen Lamb--and He's coming again! My heart is full to overflowing at the hope we have in Christ Jesus, our Messiah.

Many of us look forward to our Christmas Eve service tonight; may God be lifted up!

What a blessing it is to wake up feeling rested--and free of aches and pains.

I think that is the greatest gift I've received through my new lifestyle of eating. There is an occasional headache, sinuses flare up once in awhile, but usually I feel like I'm thirty-five again. (Notice, I didn't say I LOOK thirty-five again--ha!! Those days have long left me!)

Each day is a day I look forward to--a blessing from God.

The beginning of a new week; I'm letting go of the weekend reluctantly.

It was nice being snow-bound. I enjoyed the leisure lifestyle it afforded me, both mentally and physically. Now it's back to work for five days but with a rested body. I'm starting on my last thirty pounds (ten at a time of course). :) I see myself slipping into a complacency mode, though, and not keeping it on the front burner of importance. (My studies have somewhat thrown me off-balance!)

It's with great joy that I step into a new week!

I've been swamped! Trying to get too much done in too short a time put me in a pressure cooker!

I'm thankful for the weekend and hope to rest and work (in balance). My goal is to tie up many loose ends (and not start anything new)! I work everyday next week so will have to squeeze a family meal in sometime Thursday. The highlight of next week, though, will be Wednesday night, our Christmas Eve service. I am going to try to get off early from work and.....

fully enjoy the blessings of an evening of worship and praise to the Babe who came to be our spotless Lamb.

There is not better music to my ears than to hear, "It's Friday!"

I have lofty plans to get much accomplished this weekend. I hope I can achieve at least half of them! It's hard to take a day at a time when I see five months on my plate. I don't want to have a great surging start and end with a sputter. Finding that sensible stride has always eluded me!

Lord, teach me to relax and enjoy the gift of today.

We are working at cutting our possessions in half--what a job!

It's time-consuming, but we will love its results. I don't know why we (my husband and I) become so attached to the things we no longer use. It is a real struggle for us to peel these layers off. This task will certainly have no end; it will be perpetual.

It's a good feeling to lessen the load of "stuff!"

I've been praying about the "funk" I've been in (for over three years).

My husband thinks we're still reeling from the big move and all the headache that came with it--but can that be? Can a dark cloud loom that long over an upset? I just know I have to push myself to to get it all done, (and my body is being resistant)! Each day I seem to lag a little farther behind.

If the day were only longer--but I know that's not the answer.

I would like to close my eyes until spring--winter is coming too soon!

My second course of studies came yesterday with much material to learn. I'm trying not to look at the whole nine yards but see only a chapter at a time. My plate is so full with the unusual the everyday things seem to be pushing me over the edge.

Looking ahead can be overwhelming--but looking back is where the reward will be.

I had a wonderful weekend. I am rested and ready to take on another week (at work).

I have had to adjust my vegan lifestyle, as I'm experiencing a lot of hair loss. I have been told to add more protein to my diet--Egg Beaters. It is rich in protein with no fat and is so versatile. I hope it solves the problem quickly. (I am at the sixty-pound mark and have never felt better otherwise.)

Now I have to adjust my work attitude!

I have come to the end of another workweek. I push my way through these five days to reach the weekend.

My desire is to quit (now), but that can't happen yet--humanly speaking anyway. (I struggle with having trust and being fiscally responsible.) I will keep walking forward (toward a less-restricted employment) unless God redirects my path. My prayer is my new plan is God's plan for me.

God has a purpose in all of this. I want to embrace that purpose.

Rush! Rush! Rush! That is how my morning has been!

It doesn't pay to sleep in for an hour. To have a leisure morning, I need to be up by 5:00. My body was still reeling from the two late nights it had, and this morning it just didn't respond well to reason! There are days like that--which makes life the lesson book where we learn all the wonderful ways God has put us together.

My awe for my Heavenly Father, my love for the Lord Jesus Christ, and my appreciation for the Spirit who dwells within me grow daily.

My end-of -the-day battle is still mental fatigue. (It spills over and makes me feel physically tired as well.)

I know others work forty hours (outside the home) and still enjoy an active life. When I enter "my haven" at the end of the work day, all I want to do is sit. That is not good. In spite of my lethargy, God continues to nudge me. One (of several) thing(s) God has laid on my heart is a card ministry, especially to the widows.

Jesus prayed to His Father that His joy would be in us. His joy came from "doing the will of His Father who sent Him." Obedience is a good thing!

(More computer problems!)

I was happily surprised to see (from the finished work schedule) I have the weekend off again. I hope that means I know longer have to work them and can go back to my old schedule of Monday through Friday. God is in control of my time at work, though. He has removed my heart from it; now I wait on Him for His directing.

I love living this way--totally dependent on God. My ways usually sound good, but they are very temporal (and short-sighted). God has a marvelous plan for my life; I don't want to miss it!

(We're still working through computer problems.)

It's wonderful to be at the end of the week. I really got tired for some reason. Sleep is a truly blessed gift to bring restoration to a weary (aging!) body, though. I will be busy all day at home as well, but a slow-busy. (I don't have deadlines--with the clock being the arch enemy!)

Contentment of heart is a glorious fulfillment.

(More computer problems!)

Thanksgiving has such special meaning for our family (and for all families, I'm sure). Since I work all day, I fixed everything last night and will enjoy the feast with family tonight. The phone was busy last night with everyone calling (out of excitement!) about the activities of today. It will be a good day.

I'm thankful for a loving God who one day, thirty-seven years ago, stirred within my heart the need for a Savior. To all have a blessed day.

It's hard to believe we are so close to the end of another year!

I'm not trying to look past the approaching holidays; I just feel caught off-guard (once again!) on how fast time is moving. There is an urgency in my heart to see more clearly (in this time of uncertainty) and not to throw away the minutes of my life.

I feel God's hand of direction--His touch brings a quiet calm.

What a great weekend! I feel so uplifted and am still glowing from the fulfillment of the Lord's Day.

What a blessing and privilege to bear the name "Christian." My heart is full as I savor the love of Christ knowing "He calls me by name." If I could only fully grasp what all of this means, I would sort through my life throwing off all the "wood, hay, and stubble."

I thank God for the Lighthouse (of my life).

It's Friday!!! I am looking forward to the weekend!

I have a long list of things to accomplish tonight and tomorrow, but things I am looking forward to. For one thing, we plan on having lunch (tomorrow) with dear friends who are shut-ins. Time flies by so quickly for us--and so slowly for them.

I thank God for the abundance of His blessings.

I'm in a little better frame of mind this morning. (I still don't like this kind of change, though.)

My stomach has finally settled down. I'm so thankful for that. I slept so well last night. Never again will I take my health for granted. This has been a very easy week at work--but God knew all of this. He knows my daily needs; He enables me to get through each day.

There is no greater Friend.

We have a computer change; I don't like it!

The little bit I knew was working for me; now I'm lost.

I need prayer!

Never again will I boast of never getting the flu--I've been nothing but sick ever since!

I dragged home after a meeting last night and went straight to bed--with two heating pads trying to ease me from feeling so cold. I'm very weak this morning and headachy, but I don't think I will be spreading germs at work. I have had three bouts of this, all lasting about a day and a half.

I've learned my lesson about bragging!

I had a wonderful weekend (however I ate a little too heartily)!

I weighed myself this morning and was sure it would be bad news. (I like to look truth in the eye and start my week with all the facts.) Though I didn't lose, I didn't gain--I'll take that as a victory!

My heart is full of thanks and joy knowing God is directing my every step.

Fridays have become very special days. I'm looking forward to the change of pace (the weekend offers).

I hope I haven't bitten off more than I can chew, but I am walking through a new door attempting to begin a new "career." It will take several months (at least!) to get everything in place, plus I will still have to work fulltime while learning all I need to know. The bottom line--I will be at home (plus earning an income).

I want God's best for my life, (and I know that involves serving others).

Exercise--the one thing that is so hard to work into my schedule (and heart).

Though I am on my feet all day, it isn't (unfortunately) the same as a good walk. My husband keeps encouraging me to go for a brisk walk after work and get some fresh air. My flesh rebels against that good advice, though, since all I want to do is come home and flop! (And, of course, now the weather colder, so I have another excuse.)

With me, "....but the flesh is weak."

This has been a good six months.

What seems to be taking an eternity is really a (relatively) short amount of time. I would have never guessed before May 5 that I would actually be succeeding in my strivings to become healthy. For twenty-plus years I have been making (on and off) stabs at it.

A peace has now infiltrated my soul, a peace that can only come from God's nod of, "Finally, my child, you understand."

I've never been accused of being a fast learner.

I realized this morning I've been sleeping better the last few nights; and after connecting the dots, I think it is because I'm now eating supper again. Our body so amazingly clicks when it is given what it needs--then it sighs, "All is well with my soul."

I thank God for His gift of "ponderance."

It's good to feel tiptop again! Waking up with a headache every morning was the worse part of the illness--whatever it was!

I'm ready to take on a new week. I find myself (already) looking forward to the weekend, though. Right now having a job is necessary, but what it is taking from me is priceless--the best hours of my day. I hope to be taking a new direction, but the timing of it is in God's hands.

My daily decision is to be content "what ere befalls me" and go on trusting in God's perfect plan, purposed (just for me).

I have been fighting the flu bug so have been sporatic with my posts. I'm feeling better, thankfully.

It's snowing; I was so hoping it wouldn't start so early this year. We were blessed with such a great fall, it sounds ungrateful for me to be complaining (but the memories of last winter are still fresh in my mind)!

With the elections now over, our beloved country needs to be bathed in daily prayer. Pray for our leaders; pray for a spiritual awakening. To God be the glory!

Today is a very important day. "In God we trust" is at stake for the first time in our precious homeland.

Though both parties are full of imperfections, we need to think of our future and vote for the one who will appoint Supreme Court justices who will make decisions based on Christian values.

I pray every Christian pledges their allegiance today at the polls.

I made it! It's Friday!!!!! I have a very easy day at work today which I'm so thankful for--and it's also payday!!

I am going to try to leave work a little early, so I can run home and shower before going to my mom's for a chili supper. It's a family tradition that started back in 1974 after my dad died. (He enjoyed passing out the treats to the kids, and we didn't want Mom alone with all the memories.)

I have an extra skip in my step today, which I thank God for!

I'll be happy to see the weekend. Work--or should I say my boss--has been so stressful.

I've been in prayer about my job. I need to learn to say, "Okay" more often and leave it at that. The area I have the most expertise is food and some of the recipes I work with are not good. When I alter them to taste better, trouble starts--the Cardinal Rule is, "No recipe shall be tampered with!" So now when my boss says, "Follow the recipe," I'll simply say, "Okay."

I feel God's sifting, desiring His best for me. My prayer is I won't resist Him.

The week is flying by--I'm glad!

I've lost more weight. It takes a little focus; but if I continue (for a time) drinking breakfast, drinking juice/eating lunch, and then drinking supper--I should stop plateauing and get the rest of my weight off. The only hurry I have is to make it easier for my body to function in a healthy way. (Some of my numbers are still too high--cholesterol mainly--after having blood work done.)

I learn new things each day--I'm so thankful for what God has shown me.

I am amazed at a three-pound weight loss! Drinking the extra juice is so satisfying and seems to be pushing me in the right direction.

There is so much to learn about this spectacular body God has given us. Its needs are simplistic; but at the same time, there is preciseness in its well-being. My stomach tells me when I've bumped the line in my food choices--I have an unrelenting stomachache! It no longer wants to be fed that way.

I sing praises from my heart to our wonderful Lord and Savior!

It's Monday already--did I have a weekend?!

In my excitement with my new juicer, I made too much. Now I am drinking juice that is failing fast! It was a good lesson, and I sure won't do it again. It's nice not to have to make it every morning, though, as I hurry off to work.

My heart is full of thanks as my body continues its fight to correct all the problems caused by wrong eating. It takes time, and thankfully, my doctor is willing to give me that time.

I finally got access to my blog site! I work today so the weekend will be short (and confusing)!

My juicer finally came! I juiced last night for the whole weekend allowing me three 8 ounce glasses a day. (I used to drink only one glass a day.) My first impression this morning was fresh tastes better. But the overall picture is what I need to focus on--I will be drinking juice more often which should lead to better health and faster weight loss.

The next ten pounds shed will be a "mile-marker ten." My shouts of joy will probably be heard from miles around!

What a day at work yesterday. My daily prayer is I won't lose my testimony.

The chaos can sometimes brew up a fleshly action, comment, or look. I wanted to slam the door telling my boss it's not worth it (with fire in my eyes)! It was a bad day. I know God is preparing me and strengthening me through each trial (He permits), and I don't want to react to them. Yesterday was just a day of ongoing depletion of body, soul, and spirit.

How precious sleep is; God's gift to a worn out body!

I finally got my blood work back. Of course, it takes time for the body to turn around and be in a state of perfect health.

My A1C number is great, but my cholesterol (LDL) is still too high. (I'm very happy with my HDL though.) I want to give my body a year to respond to the healthy lifestyle it is now receiving. The numbers won't go down overnight, and I'm going to let my body fight its way through the adjustment (of no meds). I'm still losing weight, and that will help, too.

I am thankful for a doctor who is willing to be patient with me.

The weekend is over and a chopped-up week is ahead of me. (I have Thursday off and work Saturday.)

I'm excited about a "new" (slightly used) juicer I've ordered. It is a higher quality one and will allow me to juice for the whole day. (The one I have now, the juice is only good for a half hour.) This way, I can take carrot/celery juice to work with me and have one ready to drink when I get home! It will be so much easier, and I will be more apt to drink it more often (like I am supposed to be doing).

This will, hopefully, give me another boost in my weight loss!

Friday is finally here! I am going to enjoy every minute of it.

This has been a busy month with too much all at once. I know we are entering the busiest time of the year, but I am hopeful my life will find a way to stay in balance. I thrive on tranquility (and can take that too far, too).

"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." Oh, how I love God's Word.

I'm still trying to get back into the groove. Why is it so hard reconnecting?

Slowing everything down is what I'm trying to do this week to get back into the rhythm of my morning schedule. The last two days I've slept in which puts me out of step for the whole day (for some reason).

I need to get discipline ruling my life again.

Well, I made it to the other side of yesterday (with only a slight headache). I am truly thankful.

I plan on being good to my body the rest of the week by enjoying each day and not trying to push through it. I feel the wear and tear on my body from the last couple weeks. It's okay to occasionally put too much on your plate, but to live in that state (rushing through life) is not a good thing.

I love tranquility of soul, and thank God for it.

Today is the climax of a very busy week. After tonight I can relax again--for a while anyway.

I am already looking forward to the weekend. I don't like living that way--not enjoying each day--but these past days have been borderline chaotic. It's easy for me to yearn for a (more) simplier time, a time when reading the newspaper after supper was the "big event" of the evening. Those days are gone, and I now it (sadly).

I am thankful not everything changes. God's Word is still God's word; and our Lord is still the same yesterday, today, and forever. That brings peace back to my soul.

Fall is certainly in the air--and I love it!

I have heard, though, that this winter is going to be as bad (if not worse!) than last winter. I don't know how that can be, but I'm beginning to brace myself for that possibility.

I find myself (too often) looking too far into the future and missing the joy of today. God wants us to "consider the lilies of the field."

I found out yesterday (at lunch) I have today off--I didn't check the schedule.

Having a weekday off is always bittersweet. It's nice on one hand to break the week up that way; but on the other hand, it's not so nice to have only Sunday as the weekend. Nonetheless, I will enjoy this beautiful fall day.

With that happy thought, I'm off to start my day!

My life was a little off-center yesterday. I worked twelve hours which throws any resemblance of a routine out the window!

There will be days like that--so I did the best I could. I have every expectation of having a very good day today, though. My lunch is packed, and supper is already thought through.

I love the freedom God gives us to get back up and get going on a new day.

I love it when I have the opportunity to share my new lifestyle with others.

The only time I talk about my weight-loss is when someone else brings it up. (I don't want people to start running the other way when they see me coming!) It was nice to sit next to someone at a church fellowship who was truly interested in what I am doing. (She is in similar shoes I was in five months ago.)

I pray God can use this gift He has given to me to reach others with the same need.

I'm lagging from the busy weekend (and from poor food choices).

I certainly was not in control most of the weekend. It was too easy to "go with the flow." My diet consisted mostly of cooked foods with few raw vegetables. I feel it in my energy level today. It takes time and preparation to stay on top of the fast pace, that's for sure!

This weekend I give myself a "D" and will strive for this new week to be centered around raw foods.

I had yesterday off (for my brother's wedding), and it felt like Saturday. It was a very busy day.

I would love to have today off, too--because it is Saturday! That is the downside of working fulltime; it's a forty-hour week. Saturdays are always slow at work, though, so I shouldn't complain. Everyone is in an up-mood since the "cat's away and the mice can play!"

Life is good; I have much to be rejoiceful!

This week is flying by! To think it is already October shows me how fast February will be here--my goal date for most of my weight loss.

I wanted to be "at goal" then; but looking at it realistically, it's not going to happen. I have to keep pulling myself back to the important (and staying away from what I think is urgent), and the important is: I'm off all my (nine!) medications.

God has given me a wonderful opportunity to get healthy; that's my focus.

My day started at 5:15; it is good to get up early and feel so refreshed!

I love long mornings and try to make good use of them (before leaving for work at 8:15). Devotions is the center of my morning activities--praying and working my way through God's Word. It is a precious time. (Sharing in my blog is also a blessing.)

Mornings are my favorite time of the day!

Yesterday was such a great day! I'm so glad to back in my familiar routine.

I was almost scared to weigh myself this morning (I didn't yesterday!) but was happy to see I didn't do damage over the weekend. I feel so much better when I undereat. I love going to bed hungry now (though not starving). I sleep better and wake up encouraged.

When given the opportunity to do so, God can change the heart!

I'm looking forward to getting back into my work routine. There were too many activities this weekend--and too much eating!

At work I'm too busy to feel hungry. I like it that way. (I have lost three more pounds, though, since incorporating the tea diet with my diet--a total of forty-five). The best thing about losing weight is the way I feel. I was going down a pretty scary road for many, many years.

I praise God (continually) for this new direction He has shown me.

Another work-week has ended. Time is flying by.

Each day is exciting, watching God at work. Yesterday I had an answer to prayer the day before I prayed it! Of course, I didn't know that at the time I was praying (but got an e-mail that morning letting me know my prayer was answered the night before).

I will never stop marveling at the awesomeness of our God!

I bought some honest-to-goodness jeans--real jeans! (The last pair I bought was almost thirty years ago!)

I won't wear them yet; they're a little too tight. I didn't want to buy them for the size I am now (since I just bought some slacks this size). But, another ten pounds should put me in them!

There is no downside to losing weight; there is no downside to obedience.

My body is responding well to the tea; I've lost another pound!

This may be the catalyst needed to avoid the constant plateaus I battle. Losing ten pounds seems to take an eternity, making the weight-loss journey long and tedious. If this (the tea) is the secret ingredient to success, WOW!!!! How simple can that be?!

God is making the road I'm traveling straighter step by step--"Praise be to God" is my mantra!

I'm so thankful my daughter introduced me to the tea book. I feel the (positive) affect of it already.

It is so easy to go through life missing the important and hanging on to the familiar. I have made a "one eighty" in most of my prior (eating) habits and have never felt better.

God's gift to me is an open mind--what freedom!

I have been reading a wonderful book, The Ultimate Tea Diet, and have found beneficial insight to help me with my weight loss.

I am very excited about it (since my weight is so slow coming off). I can see where it can work well with what I am already doing--and my mind is always open to trying new things!

I love how God unceasingly provides.

I'm thankful it's Friday. It's been a busy week.

I need a game plan, though. The weekend will be busy with family activities, so I need to do some prepping (of meals) tonight. I get excited about all the possibilities! This is such a satisfying way to eat; I'm enjoying food more--and eating less!

Each day is a blessing--I can't stop smiling!

Today my co-worker turns sixty. She is about five months ahead of me!

She is one of these people who is so very gifted but fell through the cracks at a very early age. (Her parents divorced when she was eight--the girls went with their mother, the boys went with their dad. There were eight kids.) Her mother moved around a lot, and the girls were always re-enrolling themselves in a new school (and, of course, falling behind--and quitting school by the time she was fourteen).

I hope I can help make this day a little special for her. This blog is dedicated to my friend Nancy.

I have a busy day ahead of me today. My boss wants me to make some extra salads--thankfully, no chopping is involved with them!

I have found days to be like that--different than expected. Ususally, it is different in a way where God is stretching and molding, seeing what the heart-attitude looks like. I don't always like what I see! It's good, though, to be shown the areas that still need surrendering.

The Bible tells us knowledge is needed before growth (faith) can take place. I love how God takes care of everything!

I have an amazing (additonal) doctor. He is teaching me how God wonderfully fashioned our body.

Given the proper nutrition, our body staves off innumerable diseases (everyday). I now hunger after truth, desiring to know more about the foods my body needs to thrive.

Each day is a gift; I fully understand that (now).

It doesn't feel like it should be Monday already--probably because I worked Saturday.

I am going into the new week encouraged, nonetheless. I am finally "pill free"! (I didn't think I would ever be able to say that.) It is a freeing feeling to be independent of medications--and to no longer have joint pain!

I know I will achieve the maximum health God has intended for me as I continue in this abundant lifestyle!

I had a wonderful day off yesterday (and forgot to blog)!

I ate too much; but it was a fun, carefree day. My eye appointment went well, and I'm excited about the new (conservative-looking) glasses I picked out. My prescription changed so am looking forward to reading with them, too.

The day went too fast, but ended wonderfully. Thank you Nancy and Mark for the delicious supper and enjoyable evening of fellowship! (I've already passed your dessert recipe on to many of my family members--via the Internet!)

I've slacken off on being creative; not a good thing.

My meals are not given much thought, and I need to work on that. I need to work on other areas, too. Other people work fulltime and still have a life. My problem is I like ruts--they're comfortable. (I think I've mentioned I struggle with being an "under achiever"!)

So, God has given me some (big) areas to work on, and it will take major changes (in myself) to get this to happen.

I feel so good this morning! I think I've turned another corner.

I cannot describe the joy I feel from finally breaking through my thirty-five (plus!) years of dieting. At fifty-nine I feel better than I did at thirty-nine--amazing, but true. I am so thankful for a friend at church "pestering" me to go hear this doctor speak on nutrition and how the body can heal itself (when given the proper foods).

God has given me a wonderful gift; to Him I lift up my praise!

Where did the weekend go! It was enjoyable but went all too fast.

I have found drinking a tall glass of warm water with fresh lemon (or lime) juice is a wonderful way to start my day. (I also drink a tall glass of room-temperature water for an added boost!) I really think it is going to help me obtain a more steady weight-loss. I have been averaging ten pounds a month, and that seems so slow to me (but everything I've read says slow is best).

Impatience has certainly been nipping at my heels. I need to learn to relax in this, remembering to "smell the roses"--and appreciate each new day.

I'm so glad the weekend is coming up. I need to have time to do some (more) research on my vegan lifestyle.

Actually, I would like to sit down with my friend and pick her brain. We've tried to do it via e-mail this week (and I got some good information that way), but it doesn't take the place of "face to face." We're both fairly busy this weekend--so, it's off to Barnes and Noble I go!

To feel this good is God's gift to me; I want to share it with others.

I went to bed with a renewed hope for our beloved country.

How encouraging it was to see character ethics on display (rather than personality ethics) when (Governor) Sarah Palin spoke. Everything inside me came alive as I listened to a speech filled with truth and substance.

Oh, how we need to bring our country back to, "In God we trust."

"Count your many blessings, see what God has done," has been the song of my heart.

Unless you have been sick (a very long time), it's hard to grasp the newness of life I am feeling. I use the word "sick" because of the many medications I was taking daily for diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure--nine total! (I am still taking one for blood pressure but hope to eliminate that one, too.)

"To God be the glory," is my cry!

I have decided I need more exercise.

My boss and I are both trying to get healthy, and we entered into an agreement (with our pinkies (: ) to walk no less than three times a week (over the lunch hour). It's a big commitment on my part (my boss isn't bound to a clock), as I only get a half hour (and I'm on my feet from 8:30 to 1:30 before going on break). I do know I need to exercise, though this will only be a two-block walk (but better than nothing).

I have a lot of good things happening, and I know the Lord wants me to keep going, to keep "pressing on."

The weekend (sadly) flew by. It was the kind you wished would last a very long time.

However, work will be an uplifting place today--it's a holiday! Our workload is a lot less, and the pay is a lot more! Our department (my coworkers!) is the best. It's a place the other departments like to come and take a break from their busyness--and enjoy the smells!

I'm thankful for a job that is (almost) perfect.

We're going to a wedding--how exciting!

Oh, to start over (in my marriage and child-rearing) with what I know now. Of course, I wouldn't have the energy(!), but in my mind I can see where I would do many things so much differently. BUT, (praise God!) it's never too late to start doing things right.

I thank God for the many times He has redirected my heart (and held my tongue) as I become a wife and mother (and grandmother) that brings glory and honor to His name.

I find myself living as in the state of a stretched rubber band--always racing, always hurrying.

I am weary of it and found great solice in a reminder God whispered to me this morning--"Focus on what you have control of; I will handle the rest." What I have control of? Well, I have control of how I spend my time. That is a good place to start.

Thank you, Father, for your great love for me and continued guidance in my heart.

Over-the-hump day--the week is flying by!

I am off to a slow start to this week with my food choices (raw verses cooked). I always have good intentions, but sadly, they are too soon forgotten. I have such a long way to go (with my weight) and am a little frustrated that I've squandered away so much of the week.

I'm so close to entering a new "ten pounds," and God is always there desiring the very best for me. I need that same desire.

Changes. There seems to be so many of them.

Now that I'm a fulltime employee, I have a work family---plus my church family and ,of course, my family-family. In all of my family circles, changes are taking place. I have to hold onto all of this loosely; I'm not equipped to ride each change to its end.

I'm thankful for a God who is equipped and ever-capable to go the distance with each one (of these changes).

I had a wonderful weekend. Not because I ate perfectly, but because it was full of variety.

I'm ready to go back to work feeling the weekend balanced out the grind of last week. We certainly need a respite from "the battle field." I love how our bodies respond to living God's way--getting proper activity, proper nourishment, proper rest, etc.

We ARE "fearfully and wonderfully made!"

It's good to have a weekend to look forward to. A change of pace is beneficial on many levels.

My husband and I having been trying to take a meal to convalescing friends of ours and hopefully tomorrow will be the day. A day off can be something of great value when work demands so much of your week. (I get off balance too many times.)

So, it's with praise in my heart that I say, "This is the day the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it!"

It was hard to get up this morning. I hope to crash early tonight.

Thankfully, I have a fairly easy day today at work, plus it is already Thursday! The weeks just fly by. (In fact, today is the first day of school for many in this area; the summer is almost behind us.) On paper I have not accomplished anything this week---not what I had planned. I am always hopeful of more but am learning to be content, even in this state.

There are many positves to be thankful for---and I am.

Though the weight is seemingly "on hold," physically and mentally I feel so good.

I'm thankful for many things that are not seen, only experienced. To be at peace with body, soul, and spirit is the same as saying, "I've reached my goal; now I will enter maintenance."

God has many lessons for me; I think I'm in the midst of one now.

I'm happy to report I survived yesterday!

I love the lessons I learn about myself in those "I-want-to-give-up" times. Though I think I've come a long way, there is still much of "self" that manifests itself contrary to the Fruit of the Spirit. How faithful God is as His Spirit reveals truth in those "everything is going wrong" days.

"Oh, how I love Jesus; oh, how I love Jesus.....because He first loved me."

It's been one of those mornings; everything I've touched has turned into an ordeal. It has to get better, or this is going to be a disasterous week!

I didn't bother to weigh myself this morning--the way my morning has gone, it's probably a good thing! However, I had a pretty good weekend, but it still was different than a typical weekday. (I think that is to be expected, though.) Life is what it is.

I have to keep reminding myself that my focus is my health, not the scale. Though I feel I'm on the right program, it has not been without trials. God always has a lesson for me to learn.

It felt like Saturday yesterday (the reason for no post), since I had the day off. It really jumbles my head up!

I really prefer working Monday through Friday (which I do every other week), but the need is there to have days I can make personal appointments, etc. (since little can be set up for Saturdays). It's just one of those adjustments that will hopefully get easier with time (and this is only a trial; I may go back to Monday through Friday every week).

So, though it feels like a Monday, it is really "Thursday!" Ha!

I'm having a good week---but my weight-loss isn't showing it.

That is the only part of my new lifestyle that gets discouraging. I don't get discouraged over the foods I "can't" eat anymore, even sugar (which used to be my "best friend"); but the fickleness of the scale is still a big battle for me. Why does it take so long to get where I want to go?

Thankfully, I am never alone. There is never a time I do not sense the ever-precious presence of God.

Yesterday was a good day; it was a good beginning.

Last night I made my salad for today's lunch--fresh cucumbers and tomatoes from the garden with a Vidalia onion and drizzled it with balsamic vinegar/olive oil and sprinkled it (heartily!) with freshly ground pepper. Now, isn't that a salad desired by kings and queens!

What a blessing to know I'm finally (truly) on the road to good health.

Mondays are nice "new beginnings." I am going to strive to stay on task, taking a meal at a time.

I'm trying to put food in its proper place, as nourishment--not recreation! I still battle the desire to eat in between meals (like recreating on almonds and the like). There is something about me and noshing that is so enjoyable!

There are always new things to learn. God continues to nudge me forward.

The work-week is almost behind me; I feel like a survivor!

I am thankful to have a two-day reprieve. I don't know if it is me or the week; it just seems so much busier than usual. It's harder to make "best choices" when coming home so mentally and physically spent. I don't think I made much progress this week as far as weight loss, but I'm planning on a good weekend.

I know what God's desires are; He is my Enabler.

This has been a week of all weeks at work. I will be thankful when it comes to an end.

A good morsel, though, is we (at work) are going back to the church we went to last week to feed supper to the team (from one of the Billy Graham ministries) who is helping with the clean-up/rebuilding in Parkersburg. What a blessing it is to hear all the testimonies from those helping, and those being helped.

It's wonderful to hear God praised and given the glory.

It's exciting to see the way my body is responding to one medication (instead of nine!) and (almost) thirty-five pounds gone.

I'm finally on the right course--and enjoying it! I look forward to the rewards of each day knowing my body is getting strengthened and revitalized. I have my impatient moments, of course, ("Why isn't this weight coming off faster!") but have a sustaining peace that makes those moments very fleeting.

God is ever-present in all of this.

God is continuing to "make me and mold me."

One of my dear Bosnian friends at work yesterday asked, "Leenda, why you so sad?" I had no thoughts of sadness, but my coutenance must have said otherwise. I made sure I displayed a spirit of joy the rest of the day!

I was coasting yesterday; God expects more.

I'm trying to stay focused on the good things that happened over the weekend.

Of course, life is full of tests. We never know when we will be given an unexpected (pop) quiz. It's a time to not let your imagination run wild, or to replay the incident over and over in your mind. Will I pass or fail? I don't want to fail--and know I will if I allow this to grab hold of me.

This is for sure, though, "God will never leave me or forsake me." To God be the glory!

It was wonderful to have a day off during the week. I even got a nap in!

I spent a little extra time making my lunch this morning. (I have been lax with that all week.) It is a spinach wrap spread with goat cheese and filled with romaine, sweet onions, assorted peppers, and tomatoes. It is a lunch fit for a king!

I look forward to each day now and am thankful for God's leading in an area where I have floundered for so long.

It's nice to have an occasional weekday off. I have many loose ends to tie up via the phone to doctors, etc., for scheduling and rescheduling appointments.

I was so blessed last night to be one of the cooking/serving volunteers at a local church (provided by my place of employment) to a crew of workers from one of the Billy Graham ministry teams helping rebuild Parkersburg after losing one third of its town to the Memorial Day weekend tornado. What a blessing it was to hear testimony after testimony from these dear selfless saints.

I'm thankful for the many ways God gives opportunity to love Him (by loving others).

I'm glad I'm moving forward again. I've taken off the weekend pounds, plus one more.

Since mixing up my routine a little, I'm seeing better results. It will be interesting to see how long I stay at my usual plateau--the next "ten." I'm four pounds away and usually camp "at the ten" two weeks (or more). It will be wonderful if I breeze into the next decade of pounds with no hesitation!

My success is all of God. I have tried every way possible to lose weight, only to yoyo. God in His goodness has said, "Today."

I am doing some backtracking; I put on a couple pounds over the weekend.

I'm still pinching myself, though, as I haven't been this weight in twenty-two years! I turn sixty in about six months--wouldn't it be wonderful to be in better shape than when I was thirty-eight! (It would sure make turning sixty a whole lot more palatable!)

So, with these anticipatory thoughts, I begin a new day giving thanks to the One who is faithfully guiding.

The weekend flew by! I ended up not accompanying my husband to Rockford, IL to pick our son up. (My husband loves to be on the road; I find it hard to endure.)

I'm glad the weekend is no longer than two days (for my health's sake). It is hard to be regimented when I'm removed from the "box." I am a person who thrives on routine and flounder somewhat when the clock isn't directing me.

It's good to have a new week luring me forward. I thank God daily for all the opportunities that await me.

Hooray for Friday (even though I'm looking at a busy weekend)!

Tomorrow we will be leaving bright and early for a family reunion, caravan style. My brother, and his fiance and her four kids, will be following us which will make it that much more fun. Sunday we will be going out of town (again!) to pick up our son who has spending part of the summer in Michigan. (We only have to go to Rockford, Ill., so it won't be too tiring.)

That's my busy weekend; a lot of in-the-car time! God is good!!

I'm feeling much better today. I was very careful what I ate yesterday.

It took until about noon for me to start feeling normal again. I learned a good lesson. What I ate would not bother most, I'm sure; but God has given me this meal plan, and I'm to stick with it. (He has shown me that more than once.)

My reward for yesterday is another pound lost! "Faithful is He..."

I'm paying the price.

Yesterday I ate too much fat--instant mashed potatoes made with whole milk (at work). I had that twice. (I battle compulsiveness, too!) I have had a stomachache ever since. (This has happened once before. I hope I've learned my lesson!)

It's off to work I go feeling a bit under the weather. God knows the best way for me to finally get it!

It's funny how my body will let go of ten pounds, then stop. (I lost another pound today.)

It will be interesting to see how long it takes me to lose this next new ten. I seems it takes two (to three) weeks, then there are two (to three) weeks where no weight is lost. I need to do some journaling to see if that's the pattern.

It's such a good feeling, no matter what the formula is, to know my body is returning to a healthy state.

It finally happened; I'm two pounds lighter!

That is a real praise. My next eight pounds usually come off pretty steadily, then it's a long wait again. I'm so thankful for my new direction. It has given me so much (long awaited ) hope.

It's a wonderful way to start a new week.

It's Friday already. I'm looking forward to spending some time rearranging my schedule this weekend.

This weekend is fairly empty, so I should have plenty of time to do some more reading (and practicing) on getting my pounds to start dropping again. It most likely is my eating habits after work. I don't have time to eat much during the day; and when I get home, I'm too hungry.

I am so thankful for the path I am on. I pray God uses this to His glory.

My "ten pound club" is aptly stated. Every time I reach a new "ten," I sit there as if I had reached my goal!

I do need to stir things up a little (thanks, Diane!) to see if I can get this going again. The body likes routine and gets very comfortable (very noncompliant!). I will see what I can do to throw things off balance today and see how my body responds.

May be if I make a game out of losing weight, my enthusiasm will reach a new level!

I am stuck on a number, and it is so frustrating. God is teaching me to be less controlling through this!

I need to relax and enjoy the wonderful affects of being off seven of my nine prescriptions and the renewed energy I have. The rest will come in its proper time. I get excited, though, thinking of all that lies ahead.

The "wonder of it all" is uncontainable!

I enjoy facing each new day. What a difference it makes knowing where I'm going.

My "hit and miss" lifestyle in the past was shaky, at best. God has given me a wonderful gift in giving me total satisfaction in my limited "menu items." It is all Him; that is why I feel so complete.

I see a difference in myself. And it shows on the outside, too.

It's Monday already--the hazzard of working on Saturday!

I was so hopeful I would be starting a losing streak again, but (sadly) I'm stuck on the same number I was on over a week ago. Losing weight is such a slow process--and putting it on takes just a day! God has a message in that.

Each day is committed to Him; that doesn't change. I will start losing weight again "in His time."

Yesterday felt like Saturday all day, since I had the day off. (I forgot to blog!)

It was wonderful to have a weekday off. It felt like the "good old days" again. It made me realize what a life-change it was to go to work.

Life is bittersweet, the way it is meant to be. I'm reminded, "This world is not my home; I'm just passing through." So much more awaits us!

I am really looking forward to work today; it is my last day before I have a day off!

I am going to start working every other Saturday, which will give me a day off during the work week twice a month. It will be so nice to schedule appointments, etc., on those days.

I woke up thanking God for all He has given me--and most of all, for what is yet to come.

I'm still lagging from the big weekend. It's hard to make the best choices at those times.

This morning, however, I'm back on my usual routine, making carrot/celery/beet juice for breakfast. I went without it for two days and really felt the difference. (I'm going to make sure I juice when I get off work today, too.)

My energy level is so high when I stay on task. God has His ways of showing me when I'm off the mark and being tired is one of them!

I'm dragging a little but had such a wonderful weekend.

It was reunion time and what a special time of bonding we had! I love getting together with my cousins, aunts and uncles. Everyone looked great, and we all enthusiastically got caught up on everyone's life. ( A sad note, however, was an aunt who was too frail to make the long trip, passed away during the time of our reunion.)

Family is a gift, a generous gift from God.

I don't know what happened to yesterday's blog; it disappeared instead of posting. Computers!

Finally, I lost two pounds. I am now at 25 and am encouraged once again. I was beginning to wonder if I was at "my" desired weight! I don't know why weight-loss takes so long, but weight-gain can happen instantaneously.

I am already looking at the next ten pounds--God is looking for my contentment.

"The heavens declare the glory of God," is what I thought as thunder broke the silence of the early morning.

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer." That was my prayer this morning, because I work among so many who do not know my Lord and Savior. They are Muslim and live in fear because their god does not love them.

"I love you with an everlasting love." We are truly blessed to have the true God love us with an everlasting love.

Because of a slow weight-loss, I have added more raw vegetables to my diet. I am amazed at my increased energy!

I am thankful for finding the way, finally. I think of all the wasted years (and jeopardized health) of eating a high-protein diet. I don't know where all of this will lead, but one thing I want to do is help others find the way faster than I did.

My desire is to use our home in that way. I give that deisre to the Lord to be used to His honor and glory.

I had a wonderful weekend, well balanced with duties and pleasure.

I have a very busy work-week ahead of me, though. (Nothing is hard but very time- consuming, and I only have eight hours to get it all done.) I ask God to carry me through each day--I could never do it in my own strength (especially mentally).

"To God be the glory great things He hath done!"

I'm glad it is Friday; it's good to bring this work-week to a close.

I'm looking forward to this weekend, because it is (I hope!) completely empty of obligations. It's been one thing after another at work, and it's good to have a rest from the insanity.

I'm looking forward to finishing my book, The Secret of Happiness, by Billy Graham (on the Beatitudes). It is a wonderful reminder to keep that which is important and let go of the rest.

I need to stop weighing myself!

Word of caution: If you want to lose weight fast, don't wait until you're an old lady to do it! The scale is discouraging--but the way my clothes fit and the way I feel are encouraging.

This is an exciting time in my life. Hope is a wonderful thing.

My excitement increases daily in my walk toward a whole-body (healthy) make over.

I have a goal in mind which includes the numbers "74" and "60". (It's pretty easy to figure out!) But, I don't want to run too far ahead--just keep a steady, daily gait.

God encourages me each day to meditate on that which is "true..., noble..., just..., pure..., lovely...,----and the God of peace will be with you." I am truly blessed!

"I'm too blessed to be stressed!" is what I'm choosing to play in my mind this morning.

My flesh wants to go toe to toe with an issue, but my spirit is quietly saying, "What good will come from it?" I know no good will come from--just a moment of satisfaction in feeling righted. It's not worth it; my peace is too important to me.

God's ways are full of peace and holiness, wonderful by-products of living obediently.

I ate out twice this weekend (which is unusual for me).

I was surprised to see vegetarian choices. Either the restaurants are expanding their service base, or I just didn't notice these options on the menus before.

Even in eating out twice, I managed to lose a pound! I thank God for redirecting my path (that was once going nowhere).

This has been a busy week. I (my daughter and I) will be traveling to a meeting tonight after work; I'm glad it is Friday!

The speaker will be the doctor/herbest who helped me get on the right track, so I'm looking forward to it. He allows time for questions and answers at the end, which is always helpful.

It has been a good week. I give God the glory for that.

No one has noticed I'm losing weight.

The first twenty pounds kind of gets lost; it's like removing a thimbleful of water from a gallon jug! However, the next twenty will be like removing two cups from the gallon--a little more noticeable.

Each day is a joy, a day to give thanks to an Almighty God.

It's hard for many to understand (or make sense of) my drastic lifestyle change.

They are polite about it, but it is obvious they are perplexed. I can understand it. I was, too. That is what's so amazing; God is leading me in this new venture.

I'm glad I didn't miss His call to get my life in order.

Today is one of those days I'm eager to get started.

It's not because it is a special day (though all days are special), but because I feel so full of life. Each day I feel fewer and fewer aches, as if the clock is moving backwards. Part of it might be because I'm not taking a lot of medications anymore(which all come packed with side effects).

I praise God for the path He has me on for good health. It is such a comfort to know "He cares for me."

I can hardly believe it is already the middle of June. Did we have spring?!

I am ready for another week of work. I am thankful that rest gives such a renewed boost to the body, soul, and mind. I'm thankful also that sleep comes so readily when I lay my weary head on my awaiting pillow.

God has provided so much; the least I can do is handle it with care.

The weight is slowing dropping again. I feel so much better, and that should be my main focus.

My long term-goal is to have the pleasure of maintaining. I love that word! It means I've reached my goal! (Then spending the rest of my life doing what it takes to stay there, of course.)

God's by-product of all of this is clarity of mind and peace of heart---wow, what more could one ask for!

Another day filled with rain. My heart goes out to all who have suffered so with the tornadoes and the flooding.

It's sometimes hard to see God's plan and purpose, but He has one in every event in life. He is the Good Shepherd, the Rock of all ages, the Mighty Fortress, the Lover of our soul. I turn to Him for comfort and a renewed strength.

He is the great "I AM!"

My body is being stubborn about shedding pounds. It likes things the way they are, so I need to step it up a notch to get things moving again.

That means eating more foods in their raw form. I have been enjoying whole wheat pasta with vegetable sauce, and I think that is too satisfying, too hearty. So, it's back to cold meals!

"Whatever it takes" is my new motto for getting healthy. Health is a serious matter; I don't want to wait until it's too late.

Life is certainly a classroom. God puts situations together, so we can see the areas that need work.

He gave me a big test yesterday, and I learned how fast my flesh can go into survival mode! I had to commit that all to Him this morning, so I wouldn't play the tape over and over in my mind keeping me from displaying the joy of the Lord.

It's freeing to get past yourself!

What a busy weekend! I managed fairly well but could have done better.

With this eating program, the more raw foods eaten the better. I try to eat over fifty percent of my food raw but don't think that happened this weekend--too much activity.

I made a beautiful salad for lunch today (full of assorted peppers, tomatoes, onions, and chickpeas) and that will get me going in the right direction again!

Yesterday our phone lines were down; it usually happens after a heavy rain--(I'm surprised they are not down again this morning after our early-morning storm and tornado alert)!

It's good to be at the end of the work week. I need a break from this hectic pace of racing the clock all day. I'm fitting nine hours worth of work into an eight-hour day. By the end of the week, I'm spent.

I'm thankful for my job God graciously provided for me. Maybe after shedding some weight, I will be able to move faster and fit all my work into eight hours without traumatizing my heart!

It's been interesting to watch God work in my life as I've traveled this l o n g road to good health.

No matter what I tried to get these extra pounds off, I've felt His presence. Sometimes that was the "only" comfort I had. Working on a weight problem for over twenty years, and never experiencing success, needs the presence of God to keep one ever-encouraged to keep trying.

That's the wonder of it all--He cares for me.

Yesterday was a crazy day at work; no time for lunch, no time for breaks.

I came home very weary--and ready to eat! I had a plan, though, and that really helped. I ate some supper, then took a shower and brushed my teeth. (I didn't want to do any nibbling the rest of the night so brushed my teeth early.)

I am thankful for God's ever-presence. I feel His constant indwelling as I move through this chaotic world.

What a busy weekend! I am ready to start a new week.

I am disappointed that I am not losing faster. I think I will start eliminating some foods for awhile, like the almonds I am enjoying. I start out on good footing but seem to end on shaky ground--eating a little too much for supper.

I will try cutting back and see if that helps. I don't want to lose fast, but I want it to be steady. I feel so much better, and that counts for something, too!

Another week has flown by! I have so much to learn about my new lifestyle.

I think I will use the computer this weekend to learn more about being a vegan. The books are good, but they aren't in agreement (and I think I would lose weight faster if I knew the correct formula). I need to get a better fundamental grasp in a "Reader's Digest" form.

It is going well, and I do feel so much better. It just takes time to learn a whole new way of thinking.

I am trying to come up with a variety of healthy options for my main meal.

The more I read, the more I'm realizing I'm going to have to decide what is working for me. Each book tells a different story on what foods to stay away from. So, I will be checking labels looking at fat grams, sugar grams, and fiber grams. (That rules out a lot of foods!)

God is wonderfully in this; that is my joy.

Last night was much better with no desire to eat more than a salad. I was thankful.

My weight isn't falling off like I would like it to; but I have reduced my pill intake, taking three instead of nine! I feel great and am looking forward to feeling even greater!

Along the way, God is teaching me and stretching me to be ready for the day that weight is no longer my challenge; He will show me a new one!

I spent last night feeling dissatisfied; the flesh is alive and well!

I don't know why it hit me so hard, but it certainly caught me off guard. I ended up going to bed early, after doing some more reading on why I'm eating the way I am. It helped, and it made me sleepy!

So, today is a new day. I hope tonight isn't a repeat of last night's struggle!

On this Memorial Day our troops are remembered and thanked for their heroic willingness to serve our beloved country.

Remembered also are the many families affected by the tornado devastation yesterday. My heart goes out to them as they mourn and try to pick up the pieces of their life.

May God bless each one of them.

Friday is here with a busy weekend ahead of me. I have to work four hours Sunday, so there goes my nap!

I've had a great (almost) three weeks and can see only positive things coming from my new lifestyle. It's funny how I thought I was on the right path, only to find out I've been eating all the wrong foods--and abstaining from all the good foods! The more reading I do, the more I see where my error in thinking was. How can two camps, though (claiming the same outcome), be 180 degreees apart?!

I'm thankful for God's prompting to go to a meeting that changed my life--forever.

I started reading a book last night on reversing Type 2 diabetes and was relieved to see that the diet this doctor prescribed to was the same one I have been eating the last two (plus) weeks.

I like affirmations; this really solidified my thinking that I'm on the right path (for me). It will be a happy day when I can be "drug free" and live a life free from the consequences of obesity.

It's a step at a time. God reminds me of this as I charge forward.

It's another beautiful day--what a blessing!

Climbing out of winter was a long, up-hill road (both physically and mentally!), and now being in the midst of spring is a great refreshment. Of course, everything looks brighter when it is seen through a clear (decluttered) head.

I am thankful for this new road "I" found.

Being freed from food cravings has been such a blessing. Unless you have been there, you have no idea how insane that can become.

There is something about this new way of eating that is so satisfying, (yet so limiting). Food is in two catagories now: good for me; bad for me. There is no weighing or measuring, just a rigid confinement to certain foods.

I like simple things, but God already knew that.

My closet is overwhelming. I have been trying to make decisions on what to keep and what to let go of.

That is never easy for me. I'm a saver. But, the time has come where it is necessary; it is too time-consuming trying to figure out what to wear. Some things I am hanging on to is for "just in case." That's probably the majority of my closet!

It's time to take action. God loves order, an untanglement of all the "things" in life.

Last night was the first time eating out with my new food program. It went well!

I am becoming more familar with my new eating style and am not missing (most of) the foods I can no longer have. One thing I want to bring back into my daily program is my coffee with cream and sugar. I am going to wait three months, though, before doing any tweaking.

I can already see good results in my new-found lifestyle, and I thank God for that!

I am waking up so much more rested since not taxing my stomach so.

It's like putting glasses on for the first time and realizing how much I've missed. I didn't know this eating adjustment would give me a sense of "unaging." I feel so energized.

Looking back is always interesting seeing the hand of God in each step of my life.

I feel new habits being formed in my daily walk with food.

Since I make the desserts (and salads) at my place of employment, it has always been easy to "taste" what I make. With my enthusiasm for my redirection, I no longer fall into that trap. It's a good feeling.

I don't know all that God has for me, but God continues to whisper in my heart, "Be still and know that I am God."

It's exciting to start a new day when life is in order. I'm thankful for God redirecting my steps.

My thinking had to be changed a full 180 degrees, but it was done in the blink of an eye. I knew God was at work in my journey to good health; I just had to be patiently waiting as I hovered close to Him.

God's love is beyond measure.

Today is the beginning of the second week of my new eating lifestyle. I don't remember when I've felt so good.

What is most surprising is how satisfying the food is. No longer am I rattling the cupboards looking for something else, then looking for something else..... (My food cravings were bordering on insanity!)

It doesn't surprise me--though I marvel at--God's goodness. He is faithfully leading me into good heath.

I've been on sabbatical; our computer has been down!

I have never felt better! This eating program is fully agreeing with my system, though it's not the way my flesh would chose to eat. I'm still adjusting to "eating to live, not living to eat."

I thank God for His daily guidance in my life. I can live in peace knowing He is in control (when the flesh is yielded).

Yesterday was a test. It was very difficult because of the busyness at work.

I came home so hungry, because I didn't have time to make my special lunch. Last night I made it ahead, so it is ready for me to eat at lunch time today. I can no longer just pop something(s) in my mouth!

This is going to stretch me in the discipline area of my life. God knows me best; it must be an area that needs attention!

May 5, 2008, is a new beginning for me.

I spent part of the weekend learning a new way of eating, and today is my first day. This is something I've never tried before. After listening, reading, and praying, I think this is exactly what my body needs. It is being done under a doctor's care, and I'm still taking all me prescribed medication--but, hopefully, not for long! If I can stick with this, it will be a win/win for me.

A few days ago I was wandering, but always staying close to God. This weekend He gave me a nudge.

As I am thankful for Mondays, I'm equally thankful for Fridays. It's good to close out a week.

I've had a great week as far as work goes, but a bad week for personal accomplishments. I know God has this all under control; I know He has the answer.

I am wandering around right now but staying close to the Master.

I've had some scares with my eyes lately. It feels like I have someone else's glasses on.

Of course, I think of my diabetes right away. It is going to make it easier to stay away from carbs today as I feel I'm on overload. Lunch will be a couple hard-boiled eggs; supper will be protein as well.

It is good to do what is right--always. I know that; so why don't I?

I think procrastination is a big part of my weight-loss problem. "I can start again tomorrow" is something I quote quite often.

That's not good; I've had over twenty years of "tomorrows." Today really is tomorrow for someone who has health issues because of weight.

Maybe that should be my new quote, "Today really is tomorrow."

It's going to be difficult to be "sugar-free" again. I wasn't successful yesterday.

Sometimes I think I need to go to a "shrink" to find out what's keeping me from breaking through this seemingly impossible predicament--losing weight. How long have I been trying! (Looking at it from that standpoint, it's not going to happen.)

God gives me an opportunity each day to trust Him. I am far from Him in this area.

I usually enjoy seeing Monday roll around; I like the mundane routine!

The weekend got a bit out of control, unfortunately. (Sugar!) There was finger food all around me at an award's reception (honoring my son and others), and each tasty morsel was beautifully displayed inviting each of us to spend time enjoying. I get caught up in the moment and forget about my need to get the extra weight off.

I'm a long way from where I had hoped to be when starting this journey to good health.

My mind is still on exercising. I'm thinking about walking part way home after work, having my husband pick me up at a designated spot (he takes me and picks me up from work).

If I get my walk in that way, I don't have to think about it when I get home. (Home is a mental and physical place of respite for me.) I am open to a walking companion, though. So, if God were to provide one for me in our neighborhood, I would jump at that opportunity.

Until then, I plan on walking "alone" with thoughts and praises to my Lord and Savior!