It snowed yesterday! This morning my mom called me at eight a.m. to tell me to go look at the park across the street. I went to look and the park looked so pretty covered in snow! I was bringing groceries to my car yesterday when I first noticed snow flakes falling. Last night I made some minestrone to help celebrate the snowy weather. It turned out pretty good but I just added a can of tomato paste to it because I wanted it more tomatoey. I wonder if I have some Italian blood in me as much as I love tomatoes.
I just read my ten chapters of the Bible according to Dr. Horner's Bible reading system. I'm on my thirty-first day of reading but I notice I keep missing days. Now I'm trying to give myself incentive to read my ten chapters everyday by keeping track of it on my wall calendar. Here is a link to Prof. Horner's Bible-Reading Sysem.
It seems that I'm more inspired to achieve good use of my time. It occured to me that I really like self discipline. When I'm being careful to not waste time, to work toward doing something important to me, it reminds me of when I'm happily and busily getting ready for a family or social event. Practicing good self discipline is an important achievement and rewarding whether or not it's related to events.
Sometimes to help me get going I think about smaller goals I'd like to attain, which gives me enthusiasm. I've always been enthusiastic about beauty products, and I want to be as enthusiastic about cleaning something in my apartment as I am about reading beauty product reviews!
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Nice Day but Would Like to Feel Better
When I was leaving my 9:30am appointment this morning my stomach started bothering me. I went and got something my doctor had recommended and it helped. After lunch it was bothering me again a little bit and I though some frozen yogurt would help things. The sugar free frozen yogurt was yummy.
Then I went to Marshall's and found such a cute skirt and scarf, all for about thirty dollars. At Albertson's I got lucky because my doctor had already called in a prescription I needed. I also found some baby cucumbers, which I like to make California Rolls with; they're really pickling cucumbers, but we'll see how they do in the sushi. I went to Books A Million. I love their "Dream by the Fire" hot tea, which I drank while looking at some books and a magazine. I also bought another one dollar book today-- "The Fall of Frost"; it looks like a good book. Next I went to Walmart for some grocery essentials.
I got home and the yellow and white cat greeted me. He has been hanging out at the apartments apparently nonstop. Yesterday the guy who was taking care of the grey cat paid for the cat's adoption ticket-- that is he paid for the cat to be spayed and for her shots, so if anyone wants to adopt her they can free of charge. This hopefully will lead to her finding a good home soon.
I'm glad to be back home with the groceries etc. put away. I wish my stomach get back to normal.
Then I went to Marshall's and found such a cute skirt and scarf, all for about thirty dollars. At Albertson's I got lucky because my doctor had already called in a prescription I needed. I also found some baby cucumbers, which I like to make California Rolls with; they're really pickling cucumbers, but we'll see how they do in the sushi. I went to Books A Million. I love their "Dream by the Fire" hot tea, which I drank while looking at some books and a magazine. I also bought another one dollar book today-- "The Fall of Frost"; it looks like a good book. Next I went to Walmart for some grocery essentials.
I got home and the yellow and white cat greeted me. He has been hanging out at the apartments apparently nonstop. Yesterday the guy who was taking care of the grey cat paid for the cat's adoption ticket-- that is he paid for the cat to be spayed and for her shots, so if anyone wants to adopt her they can free of charge. This hopefully will lead to her finding a good home soon.
I'm glad to be back home with the groceries etc. put away. I wish my stomach get back to normal.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
A Nice Saturday
I've been in a great mood today and I had a really nice day. Here's how my day started. I woke up at about 9:30 this morning and called my mom. She told me my sister, who lives out of town, had just pulled in the drive way.
I ate breakfast and got dressed. I had decided to dress up and put on nice make up. When I got to my mom's house, my sister and my mom were working on restoring a table, which was my sister's purpose for visiting today. I visited with them for a while and then told them that I wanted to go somewhere since I'd gotten dressed up.
I went to Books A Million and found a wonderful sale. I got six nice books for a dollar apiece, including a Silver Palate cookbook! The other books I got included a books about presidents, about presidents' mothers, cooking outdoors, caring for roses and a book that tells how introverts can thrive in an extrovert world. I bought my books and got some delicious vanilla almond tea to sip on while I read a magazine.
Then I went to Hobby Lobby and looked around. They have such pretty things there. I found some cream colored silk roses to go with some I already had. I made an arrangement with all the cream colored silk flowers and think it's really pretty. I put it on top of my chest of drawers in my bedroom.
I took a nice one mile walk late this evening and did my stretches. I'm looking forward to hearing a great preacher tomorrow at my sister's church.
I ate breakfast and got dressed. I had decided to dress up and put on nice make up. When I got to my mom's house, my sister and my mom were working on restoring a table, which was my sister's purpose for visiting today. I visited with them for a while and then told them that I wanted to go somewhere since I'd gotten dressed up.
I went to Books A Million and found a wonderful sale. I got six nice books for a dollar apiece, including a Silver Palate cookbook! The other books I got included a books about presidents, about presidents' mothers, cooking outdoors, caring for roses and a book that tells how introverts can thrive in an extrovert world. I bought my books and got some delicious vanilla almond tea to sip on while I read a magazine.
Then I went to Hobby Lobby and looked around. They have such pretty things there. I found some cream colored silk roses to go with some I already had. I made an arrangement with all the cream colored silk flowers and think it's really pretty. I put it on top of my chest of drawers in my bedroom.
I took a nice one mile walk late this evening and did my stretches. I'm looking forward to hearing a great preacher tomorrow at my sister's church.
Cats
The pretty grey tabby cat looked about half grown and it's sweet lengthy meows were often. The cat tried its best to block me from walking past it. I'm allergic to cats and the allergy causes wheezing. I prayed for the cat to find someone who would adopt it and give it a nice home. Soon a guy who lives in the same apartments as I do adopted the cat and unsuccessfully tried to let it be an apartment cat, then just kept the cat outside.
A few days ago he told me he would be out of town for a few days and arranged to leave the cat food in the laundry room. The cat always seemed to be meowing for food and would eat as often as four times a day. The cat's owner who was out of town, still wasn't back in town several days after I though he would be back, and I knew he had only planned on being in our town on a short term basis for a temporary job anyway. I purchased some more cat food. I enjoyed making sure the cat was well fed and talking to the cat.
Thursday morning when I wanted to feed the cat a big yellow and white cat kept lingering at the apartments. I talked to my mom about this she suggested getting the cats taken to the animal shelter, since I'm allergic to cats and was recently hospitalized due to a lung condition. The animal shelter men picked up the grey cat but the yellow and white cat ran away.
Later in the day I saw the guy who had adopted the cat and he said "I've been back in town for a few days." I told him what happened and he said he would pay for the cat to be spayed and for her shots if someone wanted to adopt her (he had also told me this before going out of town). I couldn't get a call through to the animal shelter today but I'm going to try to call again Monday and I hope and pray the grey cat will be adopted from the shelter.
The big yellow and white cat is still hanging out at the apartments a lot and this evening was rubbing against my legs when I was taking clothes out of the drier. My mom says the yellow and white cat looks like it has a home (which it looked like it was running for when it escaped from the animal shelter men) but she thinks it's here a lot because the grey cat was about to go into heat.
A few days ago he told me he would be out of town for a few days and arranged to leave the cat food in the laundry room. The cat always seemed to be meowing for food and would eat as often as four times a day. The cat's owner who was out of town, still wasn't back in town several days after I though he would be back, and I knew he had only planned on being in our town on a short term basis for a temporary job anyway. I purchased some more cat food. I enjoyed making sure the cat was well fed and talking to the cat.
Thursday morning when I wanted to feed the cat a big yellow and white cat kept lingering at the apartments. I talked to my mom about this she suggested getting the cats taken to the animal shelter, since I'm allergic to cats and was recently hospitalized due to a lung condition. The animal shelter men picked up the grey cat but the yellow and white cat ran away.
Later in the day I saw the guy who had adopted the cat and he said "I've been back in town for a few days." I told him what happened and he said he would pay for the cat to be spayed and for her shots if someone wanted to adopt her (he had also told me this before going out of town). I couldn't get a call through to the animal shelter today but I'm going to try to call again Monday and I hope and pray the grey cat will be adopted from the shelter.
The big yellow and white cat is still hanging out at the apartments a lot and this evening was rubbing against my legs when I was taking clothes out of the drier. My mom says the yellow and white cat looks like it has a home (which it looked like it was running for when it escaped from the animal shelter men) but she thinks it's here a lot because the grey cat was about to go into heat.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The Perks of Exercising
This evening when it was time for my evening walk, I was a little tired and the walk seemed pretty strenuous, but after I got back home and did my stretches I felt wonderful. I swam about twenty-two laps yesterday, which could be why I was a little tired. I love it when exercise perks me up. Sometimes if I'm kind of lethargic, even just a little exercise energizes me. A couple of times though I've worked out so much with my therapists that I was disappointingly too tired to go for a walk or swim. When the therapist was here the time previously, stepping up on a high platform 30 times had worn me out. Doing thirty chair push ups used to take all the steam out of me but I can do them a lot more easily now. Yesterday I said I'd do my therapy exercises if they didn't wear me out so much that I couldn't go swimming. Then I was able to swim ten more laps than the last time I swam. I love it when my fitness really seems to be improving! It's one of the things that makes me happiest and of course makes me feel great!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Slimming
It's nice to make new habits that in turn change you so much in a positive way. I was hospitalized at the beginning of October. The doctor put me on a diet in the hospital, which helped me get used to eating lighter meals more spaced apart. When I got out of the hospital and stayed with my mom, she really helped me to diet like I should. I've lost a lot of weight before but I usually really struggle with the concept of limiting myself to what's allowed on a restricted calorie diet, and just try to do the best I can. I've been eating about 1,600 calories per day since getting out of the hospital. My mom say's I am looking so much different that I don't even look like the same person. Yes, there is a lot of weight to lose but this is a wonderful start, my body is changing for the better and I'm getting well established in a diet that can help me lose all my extra pounds. I'm so happy about this!
I'm trying to exercise every day. I love taking walks, swimming, yoga and weight training. Aerobic exercise has always been really good at getting me trimmer-- so I want to walk and swim as much as I reasonably can..
It's very helpful to my diet that I like to cook interesting healthy meals. Although I usually eat the same thing every day for breakfast and supper, I have good healthy meals with lots of variety for lunch each day. For breakfast I eat a boiled egg, steel cut oats with prunes and 100% stone ground whole wheat toast with diet margarine and sugar free jam. For supper I eat a peanut butter and banana sandwich sprinkled with cinnamon with milk to drink. For lunch today I ate at my mom's house. We had some chicken & rice soup that I made along with steamed spinach and broccoli. I had a persimmon for dessert. I consider this really good eating.
I'm so thankful that God has helped me so much like this so that I'm beginning to lose weight and hopefully can lose a good bit of weight. To me is seems like grace-- unmerited favor, and I'm so thankful for how much he loves me.
God loves you just as much! Oh that more people would come to know Jesus as their Savior and Lord. God sent Jesus to earth because He loved us so much that He didn't want sin to separate us eternally from his wonderful goodness, loving kindness and His glorious presence. Jesus came to earth as a baby and at age thirty-three he died on the cross for our sins. He however, never sinned--but by believing in Jesus's death on the cross for our sins and His being raised to life on the third day, we are forgiven for our sins and receive His righteousness. Through God's Word (the Bible) and the Holy Spirit we can walk in newness of life. Then love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (the fruit of the spirit) begin to be seen in our lives!
John 3:16-18
16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.(NIV)
I'm trying to exercise every day. I love taking walks, swimming, yoga and weight training. Aerobic exercise has always been really good at getting me trimmer-- so I want to walk and swim as much as I reasonably can..
It's very helpful to my diet that I like to cook interesting healthy meals. Although I usually eat the same thing every day for breakfast and supper, I have good healthy meals with lots of variety for lunch each day. For breakfast I eat a boiled egg, steel cut oats with prunes and 100% stone ground whole wheat toast with diet margarine and sugar free jam. For supper I eat a peanut butter and banana sandwich sprinkled with cinnamon with milk to drink. For lunch today I ate at my mom's house. We had some chicken & rice soup that I made along with steamed spinach and broccoli. I had a persimmon for dessert. I consider this really good eating.
I'm so thankful that God has helped me so much like this so that I'm beginning to lose weight and hopefully can lose a good bit of weight. To me is seems like grace-- unmerited favor, and I'm so thankful for how much he loves me.
God loves you just as much! Oh that more people would come to know Jesus as their Savior and Lord. God sent Jesus to earth because He loved us so much that He didn't want sin to separate us eternally from his wonderful goodness, loving kindness and His glorious presence. Jesus came to earth as a baby and at age thirty-three he died on the cross for our sins. He however, never sinned--but by believing in Jesus's death on the cross for our sins and His being raised to life on the third day, we are forgiven for our sins and receive His righteousness. Through God's Word (the Bible) and the Holy Spirit we can walk in newness of life. Then love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (the fruit of the spirit) begin to be seen in our lives!
John 3:16-18
16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.(NIV)
Monday, October 19, 2009
Back Home
I had to be hospitalized for a few days this month and then stayed with my mom and stepfather for a few days. I sure enjoyed the hospitality. While I was in the hospital my mom started spring cleaning my apartment, getting rid of clutter and getting it organized beautifully. My sister helped her and I helped some too after I got out of the hospital.
My mom is so precious to me. She has golden character! I love seeing her purposefully carrying out her plans. She's humble and winsome. I love her so much! It means so much to me that she is my mom. Now she is getting ready for my stepfathers family to be houseguests. She cooked gumbo today and I cut up some vegetables to go in the gumbo.
I've been getting some home health therapy and had to rest for about three hours today after having to do thirty chair push ups! I took a two mile walk this evening--so glad to be able to do this again and hopeful about getting to go swimming soon!
It seems like God is pouring His grace out on me in various ways, and I'm so thankful and truly want to live in a way that glorifies Him. God has helped me to recuperate quickly from a serious health issue. I'm so glad I'm really on a good track with my eating and am losing weight. I'm so glad my apartment is really clean, including my walk in closet and I'm looking forward to inviting some friends over --probably for some homemade sushi.
My mom is so precious to me. She has golden character! I love seeing her purposefully carrying out her plans. She's humble and winsome. I love her so much! It means so much to me that she is my mom. Now she is getting ready for my stepfathers family to be houseguests. She cooked gumbo today and I cut up some vegetables to go in the gumbo.
I've been getting some home health therapy and had to rest for about three hours today after having to do thirty chair push ups! I took a two mile walk this evening--so glad to be able to do this again and hopeful about getting to go swimming soon!
It seems like God is pouring His grace out on me in various ways, and I'm so thankful and truly want to live in a way that glorifies Him. God has helped me to recuperate quickly from a serious health issue. I'm so glad I'm really on a good track with my eating and am losing weight. I'm so glad my apartment is really clean, including my walk in closet and I'm looking forward to inviting some friends over --probably for some homemade sushi.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Sunday Napping
I was up late last night because I just didn't get sleepy until about 2am. I napped for about two hours after lunch. However I noticed I was about to fall asleep a couple of times at my computer. So I decided to sleep some more. I'll say I slept some more, I slept until about 8pm and I was in a deep sleep!
Mom and I sat on her porch this morning and it was a beautiful morning and the temperature was very pleasant. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful clear day but with a softer light. We watched a hummingbird feed at a hummingbird feeder. Once it was at an angle where I could see each time its little head dipped down to drink some of the homemade nectar--so cute!
Mom and I sat on her porch this morning and it was a beautiful morning and the temperature was very pleasant. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful clear day but with a softer light. We watched a hummingbird feed at a hummingbird feeder. Once it was at an angle where I could see each time its little head dipped down to drink some of the homemade nectar--so cute!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Summoned By An Angel?
My mom is at home recovering from surgery. I visited her this morning and she seemed to be feeling a little better. My aunt who lives in another state called me this evening. She said she kept getting a busy signal when she tried to call my mom. The same thing happened when I tried to call. My mom has call waiting so there shouldn't have been a busy signal. I went over to my mom's house and told her my aunt had been trying to call her. My step father told me my mom wanted me to make her a bowl of oatmeal. Mom told me just how she liked her oatmeal and I cooked it for her. When I brought it to her, she said "I've never wanted a bowl of oatmeal and not felt like going into the kitchen and making it. I was wanting some oatmeal so bad and then you were at the door." Mom called my aunt (her sister) while I was cooking the oatmeal. My aunt also called her back without any problem this time. When I got home I called Mom and she answered the phone and said her oatmeal was "so good".
I'm wondering if angels could have temporarily have interfered with the phone line, so I'd go check on my mom, and be there to fix some oatmeal for her.
I'm wondering if angels could have temporarily have interfered with the phone line, so I'd go check on my mom, and be there to fix some oatmeal for her.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
August Scripture Memory
I'm behind on Scripture memory. I made this Scripture acrostic tonight. I've been really having a struggle resisting eating sweets. I know how much Scripture helps me to have victory. Most of these are Scriptures I've memorized before. Quoting a lot of Scripture in the face of persistent temptations is so powerful. It really helps me to get on a higher spiritual plane. I definitely want to put this into practice more often. I like the title of this acrostic because it reminds me that I need to make God first place in my life and live a life that glorifies Him.
GOD FIRST
God
1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (KJV)
link to New International Version
O
Psalms 34:8-9 O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. (KJV)
link to New Living Translation
Delight
Psalms 119:24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors. (KJV)
link to New International Version
Faith
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (KJV)
link to English Standard Version
In the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.(KJV)
link to English Standard Version
Right
Proverbs 8:6-9 Hear; for I (wisdom) will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things. For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them. They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.(KJV)
link to New International Version
Selfish
Proverbs 18:1 He that separateth himself seeketh his pleasure, he is vehement against all sound wisdom. (Darby)
link to King James Version
The battle
Ephesians 6:10-12 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.(KJV)
GOD FIRST
God
1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (KJV)
link to New International Version
O
Psalms 34:8-9 O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him. (KJV)
link to New Living Translation
Delight
Psalms 119:24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors. (KJV)
link to New International Version
Faith
Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (KJV)
link to English Standard Version
In the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.(KJV)
link to English Standard Version
Right
Proverbs 8:6-9 Hear; for I (wisdom) will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things. For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips. All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them. They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.(KJV)
link to New International Version
Selfish
Proverbs 18:1 He that separateth himself seeketh his pleasure, he is vehement against all sound wisdom. (Darby)
link to King James Version
The battle
Ephesians 6:10-12 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.(KJV)
link to New American Bible Version
Friday, August 21, 2009
Birthday
Yesterday was my youngest sister Jill's birthday. Jill, Mom and I went out to eat at Sake Sushi. They have great food. I got Jill a really nice journal for her birthday. I'm glad she said she likes to journal. After we went out to eat, we went to a bad part of town trying find some metal stairs, which Jill said someone told her they had seen, and that weren't in use. We found the location but the stairs weren't there. Then we went to Jill's house to see some home renovation projects that are in progress.
I just brought home some great books from the library and also bought produce at a great sale. I eat a lot of fruit in the summer. To me summer fruit is extra good. I don't usually buy that much of it at a time because you can't always be sure that you are getting good peaches etc. So when I bring home fruit it doesn't take long for it to disappear. I got some green grapes and pluots (a cross between a plum and an apricot) for $1.00/lb. today.
I've been feeling like I could be getting sick for the past few days but I think I'm just about over it, which I'm thankful for.
I just brought home some great books from the library and also bought produce at a great sale. I eat a lot of fruit in the summer. To me summer fruit is extra good. I don't usually buy that much of it at a time because you can't always be sure that you are getting good peaches etc. So when I bring home fruit it doesn't take long for it to disappear. I got some green grapes and pluots (a cross between a plum and an apricot) for $1.00/lb. today.
I've been feeling like I could be getting sick for the past few days but I think I'm just about over it, which I'm thankful for.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Unusual Sleeping Hours
This is my fiftieth Discipled Pilgrimage blog post. I'm glad August is here. After all the rain last week, we've been enjoying some sunny days--only a month or so of summery weather left. It's very hot but not as it was during the June heat wave. I'm hoping to go swimming this week. It would be great if I could swim four or five days a week.
Lately I haven't had very much to blog about because in April my doctor added a new medication which has had me sleeping roughly from 1am to 4pm. What kind of hours are these? It reminds me of when I worked the night shift as a hospital nurse. The deal is that my doctor needed to change one of my medications, and it was necessary for me to be on the new medication for a few months, before stopping the old medication. Now I'm tapering off the old medication and will be completely off of it by September. I'm so excited about this! I told someone the other day that if I had a million dollars and could buy normal sleeping and waking hours with it, it would be worth it to me.
Lately I haven't had very much to blog about because in April my doctor added a new medication which has had me sleeping roughly from 1am to 4pm. What kind of hours are these? It reminds me of when I worked the night shift as a hospital nurse. The deal is that my doctor needed to change one of my medications, and it was necessary for me to be on the new medication for a few months, before stopping the old medication. Now I'm tapering off the old medication and will be completely off of it by September. I'm so excited about this! I told someone the other day that if I had a million dollars and could buy normal sleeping and waking hours with it, it would be worth it to me.
Friday, July 31, 2009
A Week of Thunderstorms
We had a week of rain forcasted. It is proving to be an accurate forecast. Late every afternoon, at about four o clock, the thunder begins and we get some rain. We also had thunderstorms late tonight with plenty of rain. Tonight the thunder started out being distant. It keeps seeming to subside then rumbling back to life, closer and louder. It seems like we've gotten more rain lately than in a long time. It's quiet now. I'll wait a few minutes and see if I can go take a shower. I just heard thunder again. I've done this three or four times. The thunder seems to be moving off in the distance though. I'm looking forward to sunnier weather because it seems to energize me but rainy weather makes me want to sleep.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Back-to-School Sales
I love back-to-school sales! I got three spiral notebooks and four spiral bound memo books for two dollars. I also got a Pink Panther "Think Pink" purse size journal with an elastic flap to keep it nice and tidy, for only a dollar. I think the five subject spiral bound notebooks are way cool-- I don't really see where I would need one though. I'm glad there will be back-to-school sales for weeks and I'll be checking out the best offers at the sales!
Notebooks bring back memories of studing for tests and all the important facts my notebooks contained. I love learning. I envy students but I don't really have a reason to go back to school. The notebooks won't go to waste because there are always random things that they are useful for. But I still would like to put my notebooks to some sort of nifty good use even though I'm not taking classes. I just haven't thought of what that is yet.
I like to keep a spiral bound memo book on my desk for making various kinds of lists. I've noticed that these don't get lost nearly as easily as a card or piece of paper would. It can be quite interesting, to me, to read through all the entries in an old spiral bound memo book.
When I was a child my cousin and I used to gather together office supplies and play "secretary". Now, as an adult, I love browsing through the school and office supply section of stores.
Notebooks bring back memories of studing for tests and all the important facts my notebooks contained. I love learning. I envy students but I don't really have a reason to go back to school. The notebooks won't go to waste because there are always random things that they are useful for. But I still would like to put my notebooks to some sort of nifty good use even though I'm not taking classes. I just haven't thought of what that is yet.
I like to keep a spiral bound memo book on my desk for making various kinds of lists. I've noticed that these don't get lost nearly as easily as a card or piece of paper would. It can be quite interesting, to me, to read through all the entries in an old spiral bound memo book.
When I was a child my cousin and I used to gather together office supplies and play "secretary". Now, as an adult, I love browsing through the school and office supply section of stores.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
I've Been Bitten By the Dieting Bug
Mom invited me over for lunch today. We had baked chicken and she also made the best fried eggplant, green tomatos and portobello mushrooms I think I've ever put in my mouth. I'll try to make oven fried eggplant. This afternoon I went to the bake shop to get a cupcake and when they didn't have what I wanted I ended up getting what must be the most fattening thing there-- a brownie tower. But the good news is that now I think the dieting bug has finally bit me. This is the only way I know how to describe it. I've been wanting to diet again. However there's nothing like being enthusiastic about it, which helps me to be zealous and successful. I weighed myself yesterday and I've gained about ten pounds. I hope I can stay on this diet for a long time and avoid regaining any weight. It's so needed and would be wonderful for both my health and appearance. I hope I break my pattern of mistakenly thinking that I can get off of my diet for a meal and get right back on it. What happens is that being off my diet for a meal, turns into being off my diet for days and weeks or longer-- in other words good bye diet. This is so sad because the dieting bug doesn't bite often and when my good dieting mode is lost I just can't seem to recover it. So I end up not losing the pounds I so need to shed and even putting on more weight. I think it would wise for me to just not get off my diet.
I took a short walk late this evening. It seemed like I had more pep in my step. I'm glad for this and think it's due to walking more regularly, at least a few times each week. It's so nice that it really cools down in the evening before the sun goes down. This is such a nice time to take a walk. It's amazing to me how significantly the the length of the days changes throughout the year. A few months from now I'll be taking evening walks about three hours earlier, an hour of which is due to daylight savings time.
Two things that really stand out to me at this time of year are hummingbirds and the last of the good watermelons. My mom and stepfather have hummingbird feeders in their yard but I haven't seen any hummingbirds myself yet, but my mom says she has seen them. I'm looking forward to seeing them too. We had some really good watermelon this week--the best of this summer. Half of it is still in the fridge.
I took a short walk late this evening. It seemed like I had more pep in my step. I'm glad for this and think it's due to walking more regularly, at least a few times each week. It's so nice that it really cools down in the evening before the sun goes down. This is such a nice time to take a walk. It's amazing to me how significantly the the length of the days changes throughout the year. A few months from now I'll be taking evening walks about three hours earlier, an hour of which is due to daylight savings time.
Two things that really stand out to me at this time of year are hummingbirds and the last of the good watermelons. My mom and stepfather have hummingbird feeders in their yard but I haven't seen any hummingbirds myself yet, but my mom says she has seen them. I'm looking forward to seeing them too. We had some really good watermelon this week--the best of this summer. Half of it is still in the fridge.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Springing Into Action
I'm in a good decluttering-organizing-cleaning mode. I'm pretty happy with what I've gotten done today but there's still plenty to be done. At least the more I get done the better I feel about it and I'm even getting kind of excited about it. I want to get it to where I'll be able to whizz through and clean without so much decluttering. Often decluttering involves a lot of deciding what to do with your stuff, which my brain cells can be very hesitant to do, even though I'm a smart person. I'm glad I sprung into action today and it makes a difference. I took lots of breaks because my stamina isn't that great. During my breaks I played Parcheesi on the computer, which I love. I didn't get on the internet though, because it always seems like there's always something else I want to see on the internet which can keep me from getting things done.
I discovered a really great way to wash shower curtains. Take the shower curtain outside and lie the curtain on it's unprinted side or on it's dirtiest side. If someone can assist you with this folding of the shower curtain (described next), it will be a lot easier and quicker. Turn down the top third of the shower curtain, then fold the the top fold of the shower curtain to the bottom of the shower curtain (kind of like you would fold a letter to go into an envelope). This exposes the dirtiest part of the shower curtain and protects the printed side. It also makes it fit into the washer really well. Before putting the shower curtain in the washer, add about 1 cup of white vinegar and and let the water agitate to disperse the vinegar. Put shower curtain in the washer. Let it agitate for about five minutes, then soak for about 2 hours. Then let agitate some more and finish washing cycle. My shower curtain got really clean.
I discovered a really great way to wash shower curtains. Take the shower curtain outside and lie the curtain on it's unprinted side or on it's dirtiest side. If someone can assist you with this folding of the shower curtain (described next), it will be a lot easier and quicker. Turn down the top third of the shower curtain, then fold the the top fold of the shower curtain to the bottom of the shower curtain (kind of like you would fold a letter to go into an envelope). This exposes the dirtiest part of the shower curtain and protects the printed side. It also makes it fit into the washer really well. Before putting the shower curtain in the washer, add about 1 cup of white vinegar and and let the water agitate to disperse the vinegar. Put shower curtain in the washer. Let it agitate for about five minutes, then soak for about 2 hours. Then let agitate some more and finish washing cycle. My shower curtain got really clean.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Mid July Countdown
Today's been a nice day. I've been kind of tired from yesterday's swimming, shopping and busyness. Today my mom and I cooked lunch together. We had baked chicken, broccoflower with cheese, and baked potatoes. I love brocoflower but hadn't had it in years. After lunch I took a long nap. This evening I couldn't believe how hot it was when I walked to the laundry room. At least we're already almost halfway through the month of July. I'm always eager for September to arrive, not only because it's my birthday month, but also because sometime during the month of September it cools off, at least a little. My mom said she hopes we'll have a long mild autumn--me too and I'm praying for an early autumn like last year.
I made some liquid soap this evening. I have trouble finding liquid soap that won't dry my hands. I liked Dove hand soap but I can't find it anymore. So I grated two bars of Dove Cream Oil soap and melted it a gallon of heated distilled water. I hope it turns out good. It's quite thin and watery right now but it should thicken up in a day or so. The last time tried making liquid soap it solidified.
Liquid soap making instructions:
http://greenliving.suite101.com/article.cfm/diy_make_liquid_soap
I made some liquid soap this evening. I have trouble finding liquid soap that won't dry my hands. I liked Dove hand soap but I can't find it anymore. So I grated two bars of Dove Cream Oil soap and melted it a gallon of heated distilled water. I hope it turns out good. It's quite thin and watery right now but it should thicken up in a day or so. The last time tried making liquid soap it solidified.
Liquid soap making instructions:
http://greenliving.suite101.com/article.cfm/diy_make_liquid_soap
Monday, July 6, 2009
Glowing Twilight
We got some much needed rain last night. The weather today has been nice and cool in comparison with the triple digit temperatures last week. There are things delightful about each season. The cool weather today whetted my appetite for brisk autumn weather.
I decided to go to the book store this evening. As I was driving home I noticed that it appeared half way between daylight and night and that there was such a pretty golden glow to everything. I didn't get any books today. I love books and buying new books always makes me happy. I can usually get access to any book that I want through the library though. I do have lots of books of my own. When I go to the library I wish I had a list to go by. I'd like to find some more mystery authors that I really like and I'm kind of picky. Most often in my free time at home I surf the internet and I don't even have television. Most of the time I really don't miss it. For some odd reason it's when I'm away from home that I tend to love perusing a book or magazine the most, unless it's a book so good that I can't put it down.
I decided to go to the book store this evening. As I was driving home I noticed that it appeared half way between daylight and night and that there was such a pretty golden glow to everything. I didn't get any books today. I love books and buying new books always makes me happy. I can usually get access to any book that I want through the library though. I do have lots of books of my own. When I go to the library I wish I had a list to go by. I'd like to find some more mystery authors that I really like and I'm kind of picky. Most often in my free time at home I surf the internet and I don't even have television. Most of the time I really don't miss it. For some odd reason it's when I'm away from home that I tend to love perusing a book or magazine the most, unless it's a book so good that I can't put it down.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Cleaning Can Be Fun
Today I actually enjoyed cleaning my apartment. I did some re-organizing while I was cleaning and worked for about two and a half hours. Plenty is left to be done but I'm excited to have a wonderful new attitude. Hopefully this will have such a positive affect that my whole apartment will get really cleaned well and stay in good shape. I rejoice that God is helping me to be successful where I've been having a struggle. This has been one of the things I pray about most.
There is a lot that has to happen right in order to obtain a clean home. You have put your claim on the time and make wise use of it for cleaning ever to take place. I seem to be getting on the war path with things that waste time. You have to decide on the things you want to focus on and choose strategies that will accomplish your priorities. Cleaning and organizing are really skills. I think it's really cool to put these neat skills into practice. I like accepting the challenge of accomplishing chores worthwhile for a clean home, rather than having nothing to show for my time. It makes me enthusiastic to jump in there and get things clean. Thank you God for helping me so much in my attitude and ability to to keep a clean home.
There is a lot that has to happen right in order to obtain a clean home. You have put your claim on the time and make wise use of it for cleaning ever to take place. I seem to be getting on the war path with things that waste time. You have to decide on the things you want to focus on and choose strategies that will accomplish your priorities. Cleaning and organizing are really skills. I think it's really cool to put these neat skills into practice. I like accepting the challenge of accomplishing chores worthwhile for a clean home, rather than having nothing to show for my time. It makes me enthusiastic to jump in there and get things clean. Thank you God for helping me so much in my attitude and ability to to keep a clean home.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
June Scripture Memory
I'm memorizing John Chapter Three for the Living Proof Ministries' Siesta Scripture Memory Team! Memorization of only one verse is required but I like the challenge of memorizing longer scripture passages. Memorizing a chapter of thirty-six verses though has been a real challenge. I memorized the first eighteen verses in May, plus I partially memorized a few more verses. I've been neglecting my memory work this month and was worried since it's almost time to select new scripture to memorize! I started working on memorizing the rest of the verses in this chapter and I'm really happy to say I've almost got it memorized now! I can't wait until I'm able to recite the whole chapter to my family or to anyone who would listen. I love John 3 and I'm looking forward to choosing and memorizing next months scripture too.
To read John Chapter Three in the New King James Version click on the link:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203&version=50
To read John Chapter Three in the New King James Version click on the link:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203&version=50
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Heat Wave
My mom is good about telling me gifts that my stepfather would like. For Father's day though she suggested a card and said there's not really anything he needs. I thought he might enjoy a book though. He's 87 years old and hasn't been quite as active recently. I got him a book of a private history of the White House for the last two years. He said "that sounds interesting!"
We are having such hot weather here and we sure need some rain. I love being inside in the air conditioning but I need more sunlight to help me get my days and nights straightened out. I can't stand the limbo caused by things like: having my days and nights mixed up; straying from the track of eating healthy; and procrastination instead of keeping my apartment clean and neat. I seem to get out of balance easily. The dishes are all washed though and I just straightened up my dressing room. I'm going to persistently try to keep getting a little bit more done so I can make progress instead of repeatedly putting things off. I think God is trying to teach me to make sure my choices are prudent and to not procrastinate.
We are having such hot weather here and we sure need some rain. I love being inside in the air conditioning but I need more sunlight to help me get my days and nights straightened out. I can't stand the limbo caused by things like: having my days and nights mixed up; straying from the track of eating healthy; and procrastination instead of keeping my apartment clean and neat. I seem to get out of balance easily. The dishes are all washed though and I just straightened up my dressing room. I'm going to persistently try to keep getting a little bit more done so I can make progress instead of repeatedly putting things off. I think God is trying to teach me to make sure my choices are prudent and to not procrastinate.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Beautiful Sunshine
I went swimming at 6:30 this morning. I'm so glad I decided to go swimming instead of sleeping late which I've been overly prone to lately. Early morinings are so refreshing and something about a bright sunny morning makes me feel like I'm little kid. I swim at an indoor pool-- the sun streaming through the windows was very bright dancing on the surface of the pool. I saw rainbow colors rippling in the water. I love bright sunlight; it's such an impressive part of summer memories for me. To me it's one of the best things about summer. My swimming workout left me with limberness and a feeling of well being.
I was praying through the alphabet as I swam. God showed me some things during my prayer swimming time that I want to remember. Actions always define; I should focus on areas where improvement is needed related to this. Something is excellent because of excelling. This sounds basic, but excelling can help me to attain worthy goals in areas where I'm weak. If you do good things God is leading you to do, it brings glory to God.
Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (KJV)
I was praying through the alphabet as I swam. God showed me some things during my prayer swimming time that I want to remember. Actions always define; I should focus on areas where improvement is needed related to this. Something is excellent because of excelling. This sounds basic, but excelling can help me to attain worthy goals in areas where I'm weak. If you do good things God is leading you to do, it brings glory to God.
Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (KJV)
Friday, June 12, 2009
Sushi
I recently began eating sushi and I love it. I've been thinking it would be great if I could make my own sushi. At the grocery store today I decided to stock my pantry with a few Japanese ingredients-- hot chili oil, nori seaweed wraps, rice vinegar and wasabi. This evening I made sushi for the first time-- Spicey California Rolls. These are made with imitation crabmeat, cucumbers and avocado. I've been reading two books on sushi which I checked out from the library, which has taught me a good bit.
I kept struggling trying to roll the sushi-- thinking one day I may actually get to eat it. Then I realized I shouldn't have halved the nori seaweed wrap. When I finally got to eat some I loved the way it tasted. I think making sushi is pretty simple (assuming you have the right sized nori wrap). I'm happy that I can make good sushi at home. Eating my sushi was a little bit messy because I used brown rice. Brown rice is a whole grain and good for you. To me a little messiness is a small concession to make for the sake of good nutrition.
I love wasabi! Nevermind that the first time I tried it, I ate it whole-- it does like a green pea. My mom and I were eating sushi and she suggested trying a little bit of the wasabi on the sushi; it's delicious.
I kept struggling trying to roll the sushi-- thinking one day I may actually get to eat it. Then I realized I shouldn't have halved the nori seaweed wrap. When I finally got to eat some I loved the way it tasted. I think making sushi is pretty simple (assuming you have the right sized nori wrap). I'm happy that I can make good sushi at home. Eating my sushi was a little bit messy because I used brown rice. Brown rice is a whole grain and good for you. To me a little messiness is a small concession to make for the sake of good nutrition.
I love wasabi! Nevermind that the first time I tried it, I ate it whole-- it does like a green pea. My mom and I were eating sushi and she suggested trying a little bit of the wasabi on the sushi; it's delicious.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Scriptures Translated from Swedish to English
I've been interested in Sweden since studying about it in school. I love Swedish language. It would be nice to learn to read and speak Swedish. I found the Svenska 1917 version at Biblegateway.com. Here are a few of my favorite scriptures translated from this Swedish Bible to English. King James Version Scriptures are listed, followed by Swedish, then the English translation.
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (KJV)
Galatians 5:22-23 Andens frukt åter är kärlek, glädje, frid, tålamod, mildhet, godhet, trofasthet, saktmod, återhållsamhet. Mot sådant är icke lagen. Svenska 1917
Galatians 5:22-23 Fruit's return is love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, MEEKNESS, restraint. In such non law. (Translated from Svenska 1917 to English)
1 Corinthians 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind... (KJV)
1 Corinthians 13:4 Kärleken är tålig och mild... Svenska 1917
1 Corinthians 13:4 Kärleken is durable and mild... (Translated from Svenska 1917 to English)
Ephesians 6:10-12 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (KJV)
Ephesians 6:10-12 För övrigt, bliven allt starkare i Herren och i hans väldiga kraft. Ikläden eder hela Guds vapenrustning, så att I kunnen hålla stånd emot djävulens listiga angrepp. Ty den kamp vi hava att utkämpa är en kamp icke mot kött och blod, utan mot furstar och väldigheter och världshärskare, som råda här i mörkret, mot ondskans andemakter i himlarymderna. Svenska 1917
Ephesians 6:10-12 För moreover, become increasingly strong in the Lord and in his immense power. Ikläden unto you the whole armor of God arms, so that I be able to hold a position against the devil's cunning attacks. Ty the struggle we emphasize that the fight is a fight not against flesh and blood, but against the princes and great units and world ruler, which prevail in this darkness, against the evil powers of celestial space industries.
(Translated from Svenska 1917 to English)
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (KJV)
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (KJV)
Galatians 5:22-23 Andens frukt åter är kärlek, glädje, frid, tålamod, mildhet, godhet, trofasthet, saktmod, återhållsamhet. Mot sådant är icke lagen. Svenska 1917
Galatians 5:22-23 Fruit's return is love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, MEEKNESS, restraint. In such non law. (Translated from Svenska 1917 to English)
1 Corinthians 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind... (KJV)
1 Corinthians 13:4 Kärleken är tålig och mild... Svenska 1917
1 Corinthians 13:4 Kärleken is durable and mild... (Translated from Svenska 1917 to English)
Ephesians 6:10-12 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (KJV)
Ephesians 6:10-12 För övrigt, bliven allt starkare i Herren och i hans väldiga kraft. Ikläden eder hela Guds vapenrustning, så att I kunnen hålla stånd emot djävulens listiga angrepp. Ty den kamp vi hava att utkämpa är en kamp icke mot kött och blod, utan mot furstar och väldigheter och världshärskare, som råda här i mörkret, mot ondskans andemakter i himlarymderna. Svenska 1917
Ephesians 6:10-12 För moreover, become increasingly strong in the Lord and in his immense power. Ikläden unto you the whole armor of God arms, so that I be able to hold a position against the devil's cunning attacks. Ty the struggle we emphasize that the fight is a fight not against flesh and blood, but against the princes and great units and world ruler, which prevail in this darkness, against the evil powers of celestial space industries.
(Translated from Svenska 1917 to English)
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (KJV)
Philippians 4:8 För övrigt, mina bröder, vad sant är, vad värdigt, vad rätt, vad rent är, vad som är älskligt och värt att akta, ja, allt vad dygd heter, och allt som förtjänar att prisas -- tänken på allt sådant. Svenska 1917
Philippians 4:8 För Moreover, my brothers, what is true, what dignity, what right, what is pure, what is lovable and worthy of careful, yes, all that chastity devices, and everything that deserves to be praised - the idea of all this. (Translated to English from Svenska 1917)
Friday, May 22, 2009
Easy Vegetarian "Meat Pie"
I made some Italian Lentils a few days ago. I accidentally put them in the freezer! Tonight I defrosted it, fried some & stuffed it in a pita. It reminds me of meat pie. Very tastey! In case you would like to try it here are both recipes.
Easy Vegetarian Italian "Meat Pie"
leftover That's Italian! Lentils Florentine
Tabasco (about 5 drops per patty)
Parmesan cheese, about 1 Tbsp. per patty
vegetable oil spray
whole wheat pita bread
Cut a 3-4 inch opening at the tops of pitas. Toast if preferred or just warm in the microwave. Add Tabasco & Parmesan cheese to lentils, stirring well. Make into large patties. Spray a skillet with vegetable oil spray. Fry patties over medium heat for about 5 minutes or so, cooking on both sides. Patties are still soft after cooked. Place patties in pitas. If you squish the pita a little bit, you'll get some of the filling in each bite. Serve and enjoy!
You might want to make some of these patties to keep in your freezer, ready to be defrosted and fried for a quick tastey meal.
That's Italian! Lentils Florentine
1 cup lentils, washed
1 medium onion, peeled & microwaved whole
3 cloves garlic pressed
10 oz. frozen chopped spinach, defrosted
6 oz. can organic tomato paste
about 1 tsp. oregano
1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
a few drops of Tabasco
Parmesan cheese
black pepper, liberally
Cover lentils with water, add pressed garlic & oregano. Bring to a simmer. Add more water as often as necessary, but be careful to avoid making it soupy. Cut cooked onion in strips and add to lentils. When lentils are almost done (lentils cook quickly), add defrosted spinach. Simmer for about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, Tabasco, pepper, olive oil and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasonings. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Easy Vegetarian Italian "Meat Pie"
leftover That's Italian! Lentils Florentine
Tabasco (about 5 drops per patty)
Parmesan cheese, about 1 Tbsp. per patty
vegetable oil spray
whole wheat pita bread
Cut a 3-4 inch opening at the tops of pitas. Toast if preferred or just warm in the microwave. Add Tabasco & Parmesan cheese to lentils, stirring well. Make into large patties. Spray a skillet with vegetable oil spray. Fry patties over medium heat for about 5 minutes or so, cooking on both sides. Patties are still soft after cooked. Place patties in pitas. If you squish the pita a little bit, you'll get some of the filling in each bite. Serve and enjoy!
You might want to make some of these patties to keep in your freezer, ready to be defrosted and fried for a quick tastey meal.
That's Italian! Lentils Florentine
1 cup lentils, washed
1 medium onion, peeled & microwaved whole
3 cloves garlic pressed
10 oz. frozen chopped spinach, defrosted
6 oz. can organic tomato paste
about 1 tsp. oregano
1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
a few drops of Tabasco
Parmesan cheese
black pepper, liberally
Cover lentils with water, add pressed garlic & oregano. Bring to a simmer. Add more water as often as necessary, but be careful to avoid making it soupy. Cut cooked onion in strips and add to lentils. When lentils are almost done (lentils cook quickly), add defrosted spinach. Simmer for about 5 minutes. Add tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, Tabasco, pepper, olive oil and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasonings. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Current LPM Siesta Scripture Memory
While we were sitting on the front porch, I recited the first eighteen verses of John chapter 3 to my mom. I like reciting the scriptures I memorize to my family. My mom requested that I memorize John 3. I've been thinking about how I would love opportunities to recite scripture I've memorized to more people, even strangers. I especially like the idea, because reciting scriptures about salvation could lead in to talking about salvation, and someone being saved. It could even be words they've never heard before!
I'm working on memorizing the rest of John 3, in the New King James Version. I'm memorizing more scripture this month than I usually do.
Click on the link to read John 3 in the NKJV:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203&version=50
John 3:18-36
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.22 After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.23 And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.24 For John was not yet cast into prison.25 Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.28 Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him.29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.30 He must increase, but I must decrease.31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. KJV
I'm working on memorizing the rest of John 3, in the New King James Version. I'm memorizing more scripture this month than I usually do.
Click on the link to read John 3 in the NKJV:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203&version=50
John 3:18-36
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.22 After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.23 And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.24 For John was not yet cast into prison.25 Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.28 Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him.29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.30 He must increase, but I must decrease.31 He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.32 And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.33 He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.34 For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.35 The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. KJV
Thursday, May 14, 2009
The Hourglass and House Cleaning
I was really set on catching up on housecleaning today. Suffice it to say that I didn't have any pep this morning. I went to the gym because I thought this would help and I needed to exercise anyway. I had a great workout. I've swum for the past two days too. When I got home I was tired and needed a nap. I got some vacuuming and laundry late this afternoon. This seems to be the most productive time of the day for me to do housework; there's just not as long a period of time to do it! I was pretty exasperated about being behind on housework, but while vacuuming I started thinking about how nice it will be that my carpet is vacuumed. Sometimes little things like this can change your whole perspective and I'm grateful for this. As much as I would like to, I don't know if I'll ever be able to spend my morning hours whizzing around and getting everything spotless. I'm uncomfortable wasting useful time, so I atleast need to find something worthwhile to do in the morning. Well I did make a helpful spreadsheet for keeping up with Dr. Horner's Bible reading system, after I couldn't access the website where I've been reading all the scripture. The problem is I keep forgetting to do my Bible reading.
I did a Bible study on lust this week after hearing my sister talk about the things of the world-- the lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh & the pride of life (1st John 2:16) and the need to renew your mind (Ephesians 4:22-24 & Romans 12:2) . About a week prior to this, while we were talking about the Bible, my sister mentioned something about lust and I remembered what one of my memory scriptures said about this and quoted it to my sister. It was Ephesians 4:22-24 and my sister reflectively said "yeah, I see that". My interest was piqued after hearing my sister relate this to 1st John 2:16 and I decided to find out all I could of what the Bible says about lust. I'm hoping to be sharing this Bible study with you soon. It consists of about fourteen scriptures in an outline; the Bible has so much to say about lust. It's great to immerse yourself in God's Word; I especially love finding out all I can of what God's Word says about a given topic.
I did a Bible study on lust this week after hearing my sister talk about the things of the world-- the lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh & the pride of life (1st John 2:16) and the need to renew your mind (Ephesians 4:22-24 & Romans 12:2) . About a week prior to this, while we were talking about the Bible, my sister mentioned something about lust and I remembered what one of my memory scriptures said about this and quoted it to my sister. It was Ephesians 4:22-24 and my sister reflectively said "yeah, I see that". My interest was piqued after hearing my sister relate this to 1st John 2:16 and I decided to find out all I could of what the Bible says about lust. I'm hoping to be sharing this Bible study with you soon. It consists of about fourteen scriptures in an outline; the Bible has so much to say about lust. It's great to immerse yourself in God's Word; I especially love finding out all I can of what God's Word says about a given topic.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Science of calories
I'm enthused about my new diet. I used to get frustrated trying to count calories or points, because I'm on medication that increases my appetite. However I decided to give the science of losing weight by counting calories a chance to work for me again. I think last months memory scripture from Proverbs chapter 8 (and studying the whole chapter) is the clincher. Now my viewpoint is that God gave us the wisdom necessary for helping to achieve a healthier weight. My goal, 1,800 calories per day (most days anyway), which is plenty of calories, so I'm really determined to make it achievable.
Being willing to jump in there and prepare the different kinds of food I know I can enjoy on my diet, I think is really a key to success. I've got cooked veggies, and deviled eggs (made with lite mayo), and a delicious new dessert (recipe included) in the fridge. This dessert has the texture of whipped cream and the taste brings back memories of when my mom would let me have a taste of condensed milk when making lemon ice box pies.
I've been eating a lot of wild salmon sandwiches. Buying frozen wild salmon (which I've noticed has really improved in quality) at Walmart for $7.87 / 28 oz. (1.75 lb.) is enough for seven sandwiches, which works out to $1.12 per serving of wild salmon-- which is something you might want to keep in mind if you like fast food, since these wild salmon sandwiches are much healthier and much more economical than fast food. Here is a link to a previous blog post with my recipe for salmon sandwiches:
http://discipledpilgrimage.blogspot.com/2009/04/great-perspective-makes-healthy-eating.html
This is recipe is mild to medium hot (pepper wise) but to me it's very tastey if I add about 12 dashes of the Habanero Tabasco sauce, because on a sandwich you don't taste the hot sauce nearly as much.
Dieter's "Condensed Milk" Dessert
32 oz. carton nonfat yogurt (see note)
12 oz. can refrigerated evaporated skim milk
1/4-1/2 tsp. True Lemon (crystalized lemon)
10-12 packets of Splenda (or to taste)
Line a colander with 4 layers of cheesecloth. Pour yogurt on top of cheesecloth. Strain for about 1 hr. Discard the whey or reserve for another use. Blenderize all ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer at high speed for 2-3 minutes. May be served immediately but texture is better if refrigerated a few hours before serving.
Makes 4-6 servings 160-240 calories per serving
NOTE: This recipe is made with yogurt which contains pectin and tapioca starch, which affects recipe results.
Being willing to jump in there and prepare the different kinds of food I know I can enjoy on my diet, I think is really a key to success. I've got cooked veggies, and deviled eggs (made with lite mayo), and a delicious new dessert (recipe included) in the fridge. This dessert has the texture of whipped cream and the taste brings back memories of when my mom would let me have a taste of condensed milk when making lemon ice box pies.
I've been eating a lot of wild salmon sandwiches. Buying frozen wild salmon (which I've noticed has really improved in quality) at Walmart for $7.87 / 28 oz. (1.75 lb.) is enough for seven sandwiches, which works out to $1.12 per serving of wild salmon-- which is something you might want to keep in mind if you like fast food, since these wild salmon sandwiches are much healthier and much more economical than fast food. Here is a link to a previous blog post with my recipe for salmon sandwiches:
http://discipledpilgrimage.blogspot.com/2009/04/great-perspective-makes-healthy-eating.html
This is recipe is mild to medium hot (pepper wise) but to me it's very tastey if I add about 12 dashes of the Habanero Tabasco sauce, because on a sandwich you don't taste the hot sauce nearly as much.
Dieter's "Condensed Milk" Dessert
32 oz. carton nonfat yogurt (see note)
12 oz. can refrigerated evaporated skim milk
1/4-1/2 tsp. True Lemon (crystalized lemon)
10-12 packets of Splenda (or to taste)
Line a colander with 4 layers of cheesecloth. Pour yogurt on top of cheesecloth. Strain for about 1 hr. Discard the whey or reserve for another use. Blenderize all ingredients. Beat with an electric mixer at high speed for 2-3 minutes. May be served immediately but texture is better if refrigerated a few hours before serving.
Makes 4-6 servings 160-240 calories per serving
NOTE: This recipe is made with yogurt which contains pectin and tapioca starch, which affects recipe results.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Storm
We had torrential wind and rain this morning. Walking into my mother's house for our family Bible study, I caught the worst of the storm. I had an umbrella, but the lower half of my dress, which was new, got soaking wet, though no harm was done to the dress. After drying off with a towel, my mom told me to stand by the stove, then she began blow drying my dress. I really appreciated it. When my sister arrived we heard that a tree was blown down near her home. My niece's boyfriend said lights were out except on our block. We had our Bible study. My brother-in-law always gives us a wonderful Bible study lesson.
After our Bible study it sounded like it was going to begin storming again and I decided to go home instead of going to church. I walked extra fast when I got to the sidewalk and saw approaching cars, to avoid a supersized splash.
After I got home I changed clothes and started eating an early lunch (I ate breakfast early this morning). Then I noticed the weather was clearing up and I really wished I'd gone to church.
After our Bible study it sounded like it was going to begin storming again and I decided to go home instead of going to church. I walked extra fast when I got to the sidewalk and saw approaching cars, to avoid a supersized splash.
After I got home I changed clothes and started eating an early lunch (I ate breakfast early this morning). Then I noticed the weather was clearing up and I really wished I'd gone to church.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
A Lovely Saturday
Today my sister who lives about an hour away was here for part of the day. My mom and my two sisters and I ate at the Texas Roadhouse. It's so nice when we all get to be together.
On my way home from grocery shopping this evening I saw the most beautiful sunset. The sun was breaking through a film of whipped cream clouds with such a clear bright light yellow pool of light, almost as bright as lightning.
I just read today's ten chapters of the Bible. Ist Timothy 4 inspired me so much today. I'm doing Dr. Horner's Bible reading system. Dr. Horner has a page on Facebook that explains further about his Bible reading system. It's organized excellently; readings from every type of the books of the Bible is included each day, a chapter to read each day from ten different books of the Bible! I like reading the ten chapters online here:
http://www.calvarybiblechurch.org/TheTenLists.aspx
This is my favorite Bible reading system I've tried. I really like it. I completed day 12 today, although I haven't been consistent, but I'm going to really make an effort to be diligent.
On my way home from grocery shopping this evening I saw the most beautiful sunset. The sun was breaking through a film of whipped cream clouds with such a clear bright light yellow pool of light, almost as bright as lightning.
I just read today's ten chapters of the Bible. Ist Timothy 4 inspired me so much today. I'm doing Dr. Horner's Bible reading system. Dr. Horner has a page on Facebook that explains further about his Bible reading system. It's organized excellently; readings from every type of the books of the Bible is included each day, a chapter to read each day from ten different books of the Bible! I like reading the ten chapters online here:
http://www.calvarybiblechurch.org/TheTenLists.aspx
This is my favorite Bible reading system I've tried. I really like it. I completed day 12 today, although I haven't been consistent, but I'm going to really make an effort to be diligent.
Friday, May 1, 2009
May Scripture Memory, Per Request
I think I'm becoming quite a tea drinker. Today at Starbucks in Krogers I had some wild sweet orange tea which was so good. This evening I've been drinking apple cinnamon and honey vanilla chamomile.
My mom, stepfather, and my sister and I had a lot of yummy veggies with lunch today. My mom and I both cooked. I'm so glad that when I was craving ice cream yesterday, I decided what I really wanted was some good veggies. The ice cream cravings still occur. I keep trying to remember to get some bananas and freeze them. Frozen bananas taste kind of like ice cream to me-- they're good!
While I've been drinking my tea this evening, I've been memorizing the first few verses of John Chapter 3. On my
computer, I color code repeated words in the scripture and type the scripture over and over, which primes my mind so I can memorize more easily. My mother requested for me to memorize John 3. I'm happy that she asked me to. For the Living Proof Ministries (LPM) Siesta Scripture Memory Team I've committed to memorize the first eighteen verses for this month, but I'm hoping to really work on it and memorize the whole chapter as soon as I can, since I'm looking forward to when I can recite it from memory to my mom. I'm memorizing it in the New King James Version. For LPM I'm supposed to memorize one scripture twice a month but I like the challenge of memorizing a lot of scripture. Memorizing scripture tightens my grip on the sword of the Spirit-- which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17), then I can recite it like I'm a warrior princess!
I'm off to write this month's scripture in my spiral index cards.
John 3:1-18
You can read John 3 in the New King James Version here:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203&version=50
There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. KJV
My mom, stepfather, and my sister and I had a lot of yummy veggies with lunch today. My mom and I both cooked. I'm so glad that when I was craving ice cream yesterday, I decided what I really wanted was some good veggies. The ice cream cravings still occur. I keep trying to remember to get some bananas and freeze them. Frozen bananas taste kind of like ice cream to me-- they're good!
While I've been drinking my tea this evening, I've been memorizing the first few verses of John Chapter 3. On my
computer, I color code repeated words in the scripture and type the scripture over and over, which primes my mind so I can memorize more easily. My mother requested for me to memorize John 3. I'm happy that she asked me to. For the Living Proof Ministries (LPM) Siesta Scripture Memory Team I've committed to memorize the first eighteen verses for this month, but I'm hoping to really work on it and memorize the whole chapter as soon as I can, since I'm looking forward to when I can recite it from memory to my mom. I'm memorizing it in the New King James Version. For LPM I'm supposed to memorize one scripture twice a month but I like the challenge of memorizing a lot of scripture. Memorizing scripture tightens my grip on the sword of the Spirit-- which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17), then I can recite it like I'm a warrior princess!
I'm off to write this month's scripture in my spiral index cards.
John 3:1-18
You can read John 3 in the New King James Version here:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203&version=50
There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. KJV
Thursday, April 30, 2009
I Need Some Veggies!
I saw a rainbow and lots of hazey pale pink clouds as I was leaving at 6:30am to go swimming. I had a wonderful swim and my new snorkel worked well. The last time I got a new snorkel it happened to be a defective snorkel. I wish the lap pool would be open tomorrow but I think it's going to be closed for a few days. They closed it today because of a visibility problem. The life guard said she noticed I couldn't see where I was going (when I wasn't in the lap lane). The pool was also closed for the same reason very recently.
I had an afternoon appointment. Then I went to the library. I was so tired when I got home. Since I ate something I'm getting renergized. I'm hoping to have lots of vegetables for lunch tomorrow. My mom is cooking green beans and I might cook some squash, purple hull peas & ??? Now what else do I want to cook? I remember my mom cooking meals with lots of wonderful vegetables from our garden, when I was growing up.
Lentil Salad
I bought a poblano pepper and cooked it in some lentils with garlic and cumin till al dente. The lentils absorbed all the cooking liquid. For salad add olive oil mayo & malt vinegar (about half & half) + a little spicey brown mustard with plenty of black pepper. I love this lentil salad! It should have a delicious tangy taste.
I had an afternoon appointment. Then I went to the library. I was so tired when I got home. Since I ate something I'm getting renergized. I'm hoping to have lots of vegetables for lunch tomorrow. My mom is cooking green beans and I might cook some squash, purple hull peas & ??? Now what else do I want to cook? I remember my mom cooking meals with lots of wonderful vegetables from our garden, when I was growing up.
Lentil Salad
I bought a poblano pepper and cooked it in some lentils with garlic and cumin till al dente. The lentils absorbed all the cooking liquid. For salad add olive oil mayo & malt vinegar (about half & half) + a little spicey brown mustard with plenty of black pepper. I love this lentil salad! It should have a delicious tangy taste.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Am I Seeing What My Eyes Are Telling Me I'm Seeing
Rain is in the forecast. It rained for a little while this morning. The sun is shining now although it keeps getting overcast. Watching the nuances of the weather is so interesting. I was looking out the glass doors to my patio and I saw something, which I thought was probably a squirrel, climb to the top of the lattice. Then I thought, how can a small stuffed tiger toy be on top of the lattice? Then I saw that it was a squirrel from the side view.
Today I'm baking some bread with100% organic graham wheat. It smells so good and it's not even in the oven yet. There is a lot to baking bread but it's something I enjoy doing. This weekend my sister said she remembered watching me roll out bread dough and shape it into loaves and that I looked so cute.
My sister invited me to dinner Friday night and we ate ate a sushi restaurant, which was only my second time eating there. I decided to try the California rolls. The California rolls are great. Are they considered sushi? From there we went to the closing session of my sister's church's statewide women's conference. It was wonderful.
I was late for church yesterday and it really couldn't be helped. I didn't get to hear the youth choir sing. Our pastor's message was wonderful and really inspiring. It was about being Easter people in our everyday lives.
I've gotten a lot more in shape over the past two weeks, having worked out 8 of the last 14 days. Fitness is such a blessing. My back is kind of stiff though. I'll probably do some yoga. I've been wanting to be fit enough to do yoga. I like the "Yoga for Dummies" book. I like to do the first set of yoga for beginners, which takes only five or ten minutes and it makes my back feel so good.
Today I'm baking some bread with100% organic graham wheat. It smells so good and it's not even in the oven yet. There is a lot to baking bread but it's something I enjoy doing. This weekend my sister said she remembered watching me roll out bread dough and shape it into loaves and that I looked so cute.
My sister invited me to dinner Friday night and we ate ate a sushi restaurant, which was only my second time eating there. I decided to try the California rolls. The California rolls are great. Are they considered sushi? From there we went to the closing session of my sister's church's statewide women's conference. It was wonderful.
I was late for church yesterday and it really couldn't be helped. I didn't get to hear the youth choir sing. Our pastor's message was wonderful and really inspiring. It was about being Easter people in our everyday lives.
I've gotten a lot more in shape over the past two weeks, having worked out 8 of the last 14 days. Fitness is such a blessing. My back is kind of stiff though. I'll probably do some yoga. I've been wanting to be fit enough to do yoga. I like the "Yoga for Dummies" book. I like to do the first set of yoga for beginners, which takes only five or ten minutes and it makes my back feel so good.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Vanilla Honey Sponge Cake
I've really been enjoying baking lately. I just love to be in my kitchen whipping up something with my electric mixer (which I got very inexpensively at Target)! About a week ago I was at my mom's house and I said "don't I have an angel food cake pan with feet here?" Mom found it for me. This morning my mom and sister and I had this Vanilla Honey Sponge cake with our coffee before our Bible study & prayer meeting. This cake is good. It has a light delicate taste and texture. To me, it's kind of rich tasting even though it contains no shortening. It's low in calories though (see nutrition info after recipe). Unmolding the cake presented some difficulty, but we just sliced the cake in the pan to serve it. My mom said to use some vegetable oil spray and that this is o.k. even though the pan has to be inverted to cool. I'd recommend avoiding though, as much as possible, spraying the sides of the pan with the vegetable oil or instead just lightly greasing the bottom of the pan with oil. You can also find angel food cake pans that separate into two pieces-- which is really nice for unmolding the cake and clean up.
Click on the link for very helpful information on folding ingredients into egg whites:
http://www.ochef.com/241.htm
Vanilla Honey Sponge Cake
5 extra large eggs, at room temperature
1 C unbleached all purpose flour, sifted
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 cup honey
1-2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
Combine flour and salt, mixing well. Separate eggs. Beat yolks for about 5 minutes. Beat egg whites just until soft peaks form. Add vanilla. Drizzle in honey while beating. Continue to beat for 1-2 minutes, just until stiff peaks form; avoid overbeating. Fold in flour 1/4th at a time. Fold in beaten yolks. Lightly grease the bottom of an angel food cake pan. Pour in cake batter. Bake in 325F pre-heated oven for 1.25 hours or until done. Your cake may cook more quickly, so it's a good idea to check for doneness after it's cooked for 45 minutes. Carefully invert cake pan, on a bottle or on the cake pan's "feet", for cooling. Serve & enjoy!
NOTE: Freeze any cake that won't be eaten in a day.
Nutrition info:
5 eggs------------400 calories
1 C flour---------400 calories
1/2 C honey----480 calories
______________________
1 cake------------1,280 calories
1/12 cake--------128 calories
Click on the link for very helpful information on folding ingredients into egg whites:
http://www.ochef.com/241.htm
Vanilla Honey Sponge Cake
5 extra large eggs, at room temperature
1 C unbleached all purpose flour, sifted
1/8 tsp. salt
1/2 cup honey
1-2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
Combine flour and salt, mixing well. Separate eggs. Beat yolks for about 5 minutes. Beat egg whites just until soft peaks form. Add vanilla. Drizzle in honey while beating. Continue to beat for 1-2 minutes, just until stiff peaks form; avoid overbeating. Fold in flour 1/4th at a time. Fold in beaten yolks. Lightly grease the bottom of an angel food cake pan. Pour in cake batter. Bake in 325F pre-heated oven for 1.25 hours or until done. Your cake may cook more quickly, so it's a good idea to check for doneness after it's cooked for 45 minutes. Carefully invert cake pan, on a bottle or on the cake pan's "feet", for cooling. Serve & enjoy!
NOTE: Freeze any cake that won't be eaten in a day.
Nutrition info:
5 eggs------------400 calories
1 C flour---------400 calories
1/2 C honey----480 calories
______________________
1 cake------------1,280 calories
1/12 cake--------128 calories
Thursday, April 16, 2009
April Memory Scripture - Wisdom
For April, the scripture that I've been memorizing, as a part of Living Proof Ministries' "Siesta Scripture Memory Team", is Proverbs 8:1-12 NIV, wonderful scripture about wisdom that's so inspiring. I like having my memory scriptures written on spiral bound index cards. I usually learn & study my memory scriptures from my computer but when I'm somewhere else or after the computer's turned off the spiral bound index cards are really handy.
Proverbs 8:1-12
Click on the link to read it in the New International Version:
http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Pro&c=8&v=1&t=NIV#top
1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.KJV
Proverbs 8:1-12
Click on the link to read it in the New International Version:
http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Pro&c=8&v=1&t=NIV#top
1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.KJV
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Rutabega
I cooked one of my favorite foods a different & healthier way today. It's rutabega! I usually eat rutabega that's been cooked with ham. In fact once I tried cooking it without ham and I couldn't even eat until I added ham to it. I decided cook a small rutabega in the microwave and season it with cumin. I like it a lot!
Here's my recipe:
Half a small rutabega (you'll probably need a hammer or something to use like a hammer to do this). Peel the rutabega and cut in about 1/2 inch cubes. Place in a small microwave safe cooking dish. Add water to about to about 1 1/2 inches from the top of the dish (or almost cover the rutabega with water). Loosely cover and microwave for about 7-10 minutes, stirring about every two minutes for even cooking. Add more water if needed. Sprinkle with cumin when served. Add salt and/or pepper if needed.
EDIT: I discovered that I didn't like these rutabegas nearly as well when I ate left overs.
Here's my recipe:
Half a small rutabega (you'll probably need a hammer or something to use like a hammer to do this). Peel the rutabega and cut in about 1/2 inch cubes. Place in a small microwave safe cooking dish. Add water to about to about 1 1/2 inches from the top of the dish (or almost cover the rutabega with water). Loosely cover and microwave for about 7-10 minutes, stirring about every two minutes for even cooking. Add more water if needed. Sprinkle with cumin when served. Add salt and/or pepper if needed.
EDIT: I discovered that I didn't like these rutabegas nearly as well when I ate left overs.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Pray While Counting Swimming Laps - wikiHow
I had a really nice swim this morning. A man in the next swimming lane told me that I had good technique. It made me happy. He said that his wife says he doesn't keep his feet high enough when swimming. On the subject of techniques, I was using a technique to both count laps and pray for someone while I was swimming. I wrote this WikiHow article about a year ago:
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
Have you discovered how important and immensely valuable prayer is? Is fitness also one of your priorities? For people who like swimming, here is a great way for quality prayer and exercise to take place at the same time. With each lap you swim you can be praying about different aspects of an important prayer need.
How to Pray While Counting Swimming Laps
from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit
Have you discovered how important and immensely valuable prayer is? Is fitness also one of your priorities? For people who like swimming, here is a great way for quality prayer and exercise to take place at the same time. With each lap you swim you can be praying about different aspects of an important prayer need.
Steps
- Decide on an important prayer need to focus on. It could be something personal such as a weakness you want God to help you turn into a strength. Maybe there is an urgency to pray for someone in a crisis or prayer is needed to help prevent or resolve a crisis somewhere in the world.
- Begin swimming your first lap. Focus on your prayer topic and pray fervently for something (or multiple things) relating to it which begin with the letter "A". Swim your second lap while praying about anything pertinent to your prayer topic beginning with the letter "B" and so on.
- Continue prayer swimming your way through the alphabet, until you've swam as many laps as you want to.
- Count through the alphabet up to the letter you were on during the last lap of your swim. This is how many laps you've swum.
- Begin the alphabet again if you want to prayer swim more. To count how many additional laps you've swum after you've already swam through the twenty-six letters of the alphabet, start counting the next alphabet set with the number twenty-seven.
Tips
- Pray with thankfulness and weave genuine praise to God into your prayer.
- Don't stop praying just because you stopped swimming.
- This is just one way of praying, you may like another method of praying better.
Related wikiHows
- How to Count Swimming Laps Creatively
- How to Pray to Jesus
- How to Establish Personal Quiet Time with Christ
- How to Avoid Sabotaging Your Prayer Life
- How to Exercise to Become a Better Swimmer
Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Pray While Counting Swimming Laps. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
A Great Perspective Makes Healthy Eating Fun
Today it really seems as if I have my normal stamina again. I've been wanting to return to my usual daily activities, ever since about a week and a half ago, when my physician prescribed a new medication. I even walked for a mile this evening after I made a quick trip to the grocery store. I just prepared and ate a good healthy supper-- wild salmon sandwich (recipe included) and asparagus which I bought on sale today, with frozen honey meringue for dessert.
I had never cooked merigue before. I have been interested in making meringue as a topping for pies or banana pudding, because it's fat free instead of having artery clogging fat like whipped toppings. Even if the whipped topping product says it's fat free, you can still see fat on the ingredient list, and whipped topping is something that I like a lot of. So several days ago I decided to just try my honey meringue recipe, to see how it would turn out. I discovered that it's nice for satisfying my sweet tooth after a meal. I need to adjust the recipe because 4 egg whites to 1/3 cup of honey is overly sweet. The meringue fell partially when it was in the oven and also when I froze it.
I only had a limited amount of success controlling my eating yesterday. For supper yesterday I ate at a Chinese buffet. I did fair at setting some healthy limits but got a brownie later at Books A Million! I seem to be so susceptible to this lately. I've decided that a good strategy would be to quickly walk out of Books A Million the next time this happens.
I've found that diligence in praying about self control in eating is really important. During my walk this evening, God gave me a really good new perspective, regarding making decisions to eat healthier. Choosing & eating healthy foods (instead of foods that contribute to health problems) can seem as as enjoyable as taking walks that are refreshing and good for your health-- if you have the right perspective.
Habanero Salmon Sandwiches
I purchase frozen wild salmon at Walmart, which I think is economical since it's about $4.00/lb. I've noticed that the most recent salmon I've bought seems to be a different kind of salmon because it's not as pink. It tastes kind of different from regular wild salmon but it makes a great sandwich. I would say this recipe is mild to medium hot.
For each 4 oz. salmon fillet, combine about 1/2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil & about 5 drops Tabasco Habanero sauce on a plate. Mix the hot sauce into the oil with a fork. Coat each fillet. Sprinkle liberally with True Lemon (crystallized lemon). Cook in a low to medium hot skillet for about 5-8 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily and the inside of the fish appears lighter. Serve on light wheat buns.
EDIT: Recently the frozen salmon I've bought at Walmart is a good quality chum salmon, pre-portioned for 4-8 servings. I like to add more Tabasco than is in the recipe, because you don't taste the spicyness of the Tabasco nearly as much in a sandwich.
I had never cooked merigue before. I have been interested in making meringue as a topping for pies or banana pudding, because it's fat free instead of having artery clogging fat like whipped toppings. Even if the whipped topping product says it's fat free, you can still see fat on the ingredient list, and whipped topping is something that I like a lot of. So several days ago I decided to just try my honey meringue recipe, to see how it would turn out. I discovered that it's nice for satisfying my sweet tooth after a meal. I need to adjust the recipe because 4 egg whites to 1/3 cup of honey is overly sweet. The meringue fell partially when it was in the oven and also when I froze it.
I only had a limited amount of success controlling my eating yesterday. For supper yesterday I ate at a Chinese buffet. I did fair at setting some healthy limits but got a brownie later at Books A Million! I seem to be so susceptible to this lately. I've decided that a good strategy would be to quickly walk out of Books A Million the next time this happens.
I've found that diligence in praying about self control in eating is really important. During my walk this evening, God gave me a really good new perspective, regarding making decisions to eat healthier. Choosing & eating healthy foods (instead of foods that contribute to health problems) can seem as as enjoyable as taking walks that are refreshing and good for your health-- if you have the right perspective.
Habanero Salmon Sandwiches
I purchase frozen wild salmon at Walmart, which I think is economical since it's about $4.00/lb. I've noticed that the most recent salmon I've bought seems to be a different kind of salmon because it's not as pink. It tastes kind of different from regular wild salmon but it makes a great sandwich. I would say this recipe is mild to medium hot.
For each 4 oz. salmon fillet, combine about 1/2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil & about 5 drops Tabasco Habanero sauce on a plate. Mix the hot sauce into the oil with a fork. Coat each fillet. Sprinkle liberally with True Lemon (crystallized lemon). Cook in a low to medium hot skillet for about 5-8 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily and the inside of the fish appears lighter. Serve on light wheat buns.
EDIT: Recently the frozen salmon I've bought at Walmart is a good quality chum salmon, pre-portioned for 4-8 servings. I like to add more Tabasco than is in the recipe, because you don't taste the spicyness of the Tabasco nearly as much in a sandwich.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
I Love Sunshine
It was cold this morning but warm and sunny this afternoon. I sunbathed on my patio for a few minutes this afternoon. I really love being in the bright sunshine. Today brought back wonderful memories of sunbathing at the beach with friends when I was a teenager. It was fun to wade out into the Gulf and cavort with my friends. You might be shocked at the percentage of a century in which I lived on the Gulf coast, in my home town. I was frightened away by hurricane Katrina, even though my rental home, which was only about three blocks from the beach sustained only very minor damage. I remember praying for God to dispatch angels to protect my home and I'm very thankful for God's protection. My parents also moved away from the coast and now we live in the same town as my brother and youngest sister. It's super nice that we live in the same town now. My other sister lives just an hour away but I wish she lived in the same town too.
In the bright sunshine is where I want to be spiritually! Lately God has been teaching me new truths from 1st John Chapter 1. Verses 5-10 describe what I think is essential to the process of spiritual growth. I love the Bible. It's God's holy Word and it is truth so vitally needed in our lives. If I fail to admit my sin 1 John 1:10 says I make God a liar and His Word has no place in my heart.
Click on the link to read 1st John 1 in the New Living Translation:
http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Jo&c=1&t=NLT
I John 1:1-10
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.(KJV)
In the bright sunshine is where I want to be spiritually! Lately God has been teaching me new truths from 1st John Chapter 1. Verses 5-10 describe what I think is essential to the process of spiritual growth. I love the Bible. It's God's holy Word and it is truth so vitally needed in our lives. If I fail to admit my sin 1 John 1:10 says I make God a liar and His Word has no place in my heart.
Click on the link to read 1st John 1 in the New Living Translation:
http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Jo&c=1&t=NLT
I John 1:1-10
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.(KJV)
Ephesians 5:8-9 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)(KJV)
1Thessalonians 5:55 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. (KJV)
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Spring Weather & Encouragement through Scripture
I went back to get my umbrella when I was leaving for my walk late this afternoon. I walked in the rain a few blocks then the rain stopped. I loved the scent of rain in the air and the nice breeze. It was nice being able to enjoy a beautiful overcast day instead of the weather dictating my volatile mood, I noticed it was getting sunnier though just as I returned home.
I dealt with my cravings for a fast food hamburger-- actually I had justified getting a fast food hamburger, then I talked to God about seriously considering getting a fast food hamburger when it wouldn't be good at all for my health. Confessing this to God was a turning point for the good. I love 1st John 1:9!
I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (KJV)
I decided to cook some lentils with garlic & cumin. They're delicious too. I simmered the lentils in a minimal amount of water and cooked them til al dente perfection so they would have kind of a meaty taste.
Reading some scriptures from Nehemiah and the 8th chapter of Proverbs today helped give me some enthusiasm for housecleaning today. Scripture is so inspiring. Overcoming procrastinaton related to negative attitudes is a real battle for me often, but I think I'm beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.
Here is a link to Proverbs 8, New International Version:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=prov%208&version=31
These scriptures in Nehemiah tell of the opposition faced in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem, and how the opposition was overcome!
Nehemiah 4:1, 8-9, 17, 19-21 & 6:9
But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. ...And conspired all of them together to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it. Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them. ...They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon. ...And I said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, The work is great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one far from another. In what place therefore ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort ye thither unto us: our God shall fight for us. So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared. ...For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands. (KJV)
I dealt with my cravings for a fast food hamburger-- actually I had justified getting a fast food hamburger, then I talked to God about seriously considering getting a fast food hamburger when it wouldn't be good at all for my health. Confessing this to God was a turning point for the good. I love 1st John 1:9!
I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (KJV)
I decided to cook some lentils with garlic & cumin. They're delicious too. I simmered the lentils in a minimal amount of water and cooked them til al dente perfection so they would have kind of a meaty taste.
Reading some scriptures from Nehemiah and the 8th chapter of Proverbs today helped give me some enthusiasm for housecleaning today. Scripture is so inspiring. Overcoming procrastinaton related to negative attitudes is a real battle for me often, but I think I'm beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.
Here is a link to Proverbs 8, New International Version:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=prov%208&version=31
These scriptures in Nehemiah tell of the opposition faced in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem, and how the opposition was overcome!
Nehemiah 4:1, 8-9, 17, 19-21 & 6:9
But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. ...And conspired all of them together to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it. Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them. ...They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon. ...And I said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, The work is great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one far from another. In what place therefore ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort ye thither unto us: our God shall fight for us. So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared. ...For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands. (KJV)
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Memory Scripture Demonstrates the Importance of a Relationship With God
I began learning this Scripture March 1st as a part of the Living Proof Ministries Siesta Scripture Memory Team. Beth's memory scripture for the first two weeks of March was Hebrews 10:35-36. I decided to add it to the Scripture I had already selected from Hebrews 10.
There's going to be a "Siesta Scripture Memory Team Celebration Event", and it's not too late to get in on it!!!
http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2009/03/siesta-scripture-memory-team-verse-6.html
I've almost got this Scripture memorized through verse 14. I've been really working on it a lot for the past few days. Memorization of long scripture passages isn't required; however I like the challenge; committment to memorize just 24 scriptures in twelve months was asked for. I've been busy this month trying to get caught up on my Precept Ephesians study and I got to research and present a five minute Bible study on the bronze serpent at our family Bible study (click on the links to read the Scripture)
http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=numbers+21%3A5-9
http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=john+3%3A14-16&src=esv.org
and a Bible study on Counterfeits of things in God's Kingdom. Recently I was talking to my mom about counterfeits; it interested her and said she wanted me to give a talk on it. When I was getting the second Bible study ready, there were so many questions raised in my mind, that I thoroughly studied the book of Revelation.
Hebrews 10:5-7; 10-16; 35-36
link to the English Standard Version: http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=hebrews+10
5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: 6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God... 10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;... 35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (KJV)
The importance of a relationship with God is seen in this scripture. Until Jesus Christ's death on the cross for our sins, animals were sacrificed for sins to be covered.
Through Jesus' sinless life, the requirements of the Law given to Moses by God, are met.
Whosoever believes Jesus died for their sins is given right standing with God, through Jesus Christ, by grace through faith. It is a free gift.
As Jesus rose from the grave, we too can walk in newness of life.
In the Bible are recorded God's wonderful promises and we also find instructions on how to walk in the light of the Lord.
There's going to be a "Siesta Scripture Memory Team Celebration Event", and it's not too late to get in on it!!!
http://livingproofministries.blogspot.com/2009/03/siesta-scripture-memory-team-verse-6.html
I've almost got this Scripture memorized through verse 14. I've been really working on it a lot for the past few days. Memorization of long scripture passages isn't required; however I like the challenge; committment to memorize just 24 scriptures in twelve months was asked for. I've been busy this month trying to get caught up on my Precept Ephesians study and I got to research and present a five minute Bible study on the bronze serpent at our family Bible study (click on the links to read the Scripture)
http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=numbers+21%3A5-9
http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=john+3%3A14-16&src=esv.org
and a Bible study on Counterfeits of things in God's Kingdom. Recently I was talking to my mom about counterfeits; it interested her and said she wanted me to give a talk on it. When I was getting the second Bible study ready, there were so many questions raised in my mind, that I thoroughly studied the book of Revelation.
Hebrews 10:5-7; 10-16; 35-36
link to the English Standard Version: http://www.gnpcb.org/esv/search/?q=hebrews+10
5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: 6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God... 10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;... 35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (KJV)
The importance of a relationship with God is seen in this scripture. Until Jesus Christ's death on the cross for our sins, animals were sacrificed for sins to be covered.
Through Jesus' sinless life, the requirements of the Law given to Moses by God, are met.
Whosoever believes Jesus died for their sins is given right standing with God, through Jesus Christ, by grace through faith. It is a free gift.
As Jesus rose from the grave, we too can walk in newness of life.
In the Bible are recorded God's wonderful promises and we also find instructions on how to walk in the light of the Lord.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Praises to Jesus!
I've been studying the book of Revelation and I want to praise Jesus! He is my Savior and Lord!
Isaiah prophesied:
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:66) KJV
His birth was announced to shepherds; a multitude of the heavenly host praised God saying:
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. (Luke 2:14) KJV
How much does God love us?
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) KJV
Jesus said:
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:2-3) KJV
One day, whether we have died or are still alive, we who are in Christ will be caught up into the clouds, to meet Him in the air, and so shall we forever be with the Lord. (see 1 Thessalonians 4:17)
I love thinking about forever being with the Lord.
Recently my sister and I were discussing the book of Revelation, which tells about the beast that rises up out of the sea. The beast had a deadly wound to one of his seven heads which had healed-- which I've been taught is an attempt at counterfeiting Jesus Christ. I had trouble understanding part of Revelation 17:8: "when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is". Then the awful, sick realization of where it will be discovered that the beast "yet is"-- in the lake of fire.
Rev 13:1, 3 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. ...And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. (KJV)
Rev 17:8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. (KJV)
Rev 20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (KJV)
Rev 20:12, 15 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. ...And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. (KJV)
Isaiah prophesied:
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:66) KJV
His birth was announced to shepherds; a multitude of the heavenly host praised God saying:
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. (Luke 2:14) KJV
How much does God love us?
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) KJV
read more here: http://theromanroad.org/
Jesus said:
In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:2-3) KJV
One day, whether we have died or are still alive, we who are in Christ will be caught up into the clouds, to meet Him in the air, and so shall we forever be with the Lord. (see 1 Thessalonians 4:17)
I love thinking about forever being with the Lord.
Recently my sister and I were discussing the book of Revelation, which tells about the beast that rises up out of the sea. The beast had a deadly wound to one of his seven heads which had healed-- which I've been taught is an attempt at counterfeiting Jesus Christ. I had trouble understanding part of Revelation 17:8: "when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is". Then the awful, sick realization of where it will be discovered that the beast "yet is"-- in the lake of fire.
Rev 13:1, 3 And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy. ...And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. (KJV)
Rev 17:8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. (KJV)
Rev 20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (KJV)
Rev 20:12, 15 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. ...And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. (KJV)
Monday, March 9, 2009
Meatloaf, Exercise & Bible Study
I swam today. I was gung ho yesterday and both swam and went for a walk. We've been having nice weather and I'm loving the extra hour of daylight now! Besides getting a new swimsuit, I recently got some new walking shoes. My past three pairs of walking shoes were given to my by my mom, and they were already broken in. This must have sort of spoiled my feet, because my ankles are quite ouchy since trying to break in my new walking shoes. I can't wait until this "ouchy"ness is gone and it seems to be a little better.
I've been busy working on my Ephesians Bible study which I like. It's taking a lot of determination and good time management for the homework part. This is the first Precept Bible study I've really participated in. Covering the Precept Study selected Bible book text, from a lot of different angles, keeps you immersed in the scripture you're studying, and really seems to help it sink into your mind, even if it's scripture you're familiar with.
I made a good tofu and ground turkey meatloaf this weekend. I love meatloaf! I thought the texture and taste was a lot like regular meatloaf. It had a mild but good flavor. My mom said it was good but she'd prefer it with more meat and less tofu. Here is the recipe if you're interested. This recipe is kind of random, since I decided to put a little of my piquant homemade BBQ sauce in it. Instead of the BBQ sauce you may want to try adding some Italian tomato paste, more Worcestershire sauce, or dry soup mix.
Ground Turkey & Tofu Meatloaf
1 tube ground turkey (I think approximately 1 lb.)
14 oz. extra-firm tofu in water, prefrozen & thawed
1/3 cup instant milk
about 3/4 cup water
1 egg
2-3 tbsp. of my piquant homemade BBQ sauce
3/4 cup rolled oats
8 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic pressed
1 small-medium onion, microwaved whole
vegetable oil spray
Slice tofu into 6 large cubes and try to squeeze all the water out of the tofu. Place tofu in a large bowl and crumble it. Add ground turkey and mix well. Blenderize water, instant milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, onion and garlic. Add to tofu and meat mixture. Mix well. Add rolled oats (just enough for the right consistency). Place in a pan which has been sprayed with vegetable oil. Shape meatloaf (about 2 1/2-3 inches thick, for quicker cooking). Bake uncovered in 350F preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until done.
I've been busy working on my Ephesians Bible study which I like. It's taking a lot of determination and good time management for the homework part. This is the first Precept Bible study I've really participated in. Covering the Precept Study selected Bible book text, from a lot of different angles, keeps you immersed in the scripture you're studying, and really seems to help it sink into your mind, even if it's scripture you're familiar with.
I made a good tofu and ground turkey meatloaf this weekend. I love meatloaf! I thought the texture and taste was a lot like regular meatloaf. It had a mild but good flavor. My mom said it was good but she'd prefer it with more meat and less tofu. Here is the recipe if you're interested. This recipe is kind of random, since I decided to put a little of my piquant homemade BBQ sauce in it. Instead of the BBQ sauce you may want to try adding some Italian tomato paste, more Worcestershire sauce, or dry soup mix.
Ground Turkey & Tofu Meatloaf
1 tube ground turkey (I think approximately 1 lb.)
14 oz. extra-firm tofu in water, prefrozen & thawed
1/3 cup instant milk
about 3/4 cup water
1 egg
2-3 tbsp. of my piquant homemade BBQ sauce
3/4 cup rolled oats
8 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves garlic pressed
1 small-medium onion, microwaved whole
vegetable oil spray
Slice tofu into 6 large cubes and try to squeeze all the water out of the tofu. Place tofu in a large bowl and crumble it. Add ground turkey and mix well. Blenderize water, instant milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, onion and garlic. Add to tofu and meat mixture. Mix well. Add rolled oats (just enough for the right consistency). Place in a pan which has been sprayed with vegetable oil. Shape meatloaf (about 2 1/2-3 inches thick, for quicker cooking). Bake uncovered in 350F preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until done.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
I Love Exercise & I Love Studying Ephesians!
I just got home from walking on the track at the gym. Outdoor walks are my favorite but my back needs the kindness of the padded walking track right now, especially since it'll be a at least a few days until I can swim. Swimming is great for my back. Yesterday while I was in the whirlpool at the gym, the whirlpool jet ripped my swimsuit. My swimsuit was old and faded so I needed a new swimsuit anyway. I had to order a swimsuit online and I should have it Friday. I got twenty-five dollars off the price of the swimsuit. While I was walking at the gym today I observed what looked like a Tae Bo class. It looked really fun and like it would be an excellent core work out. I think I want to do this when I get in better shape. They were skipping sideways too! I used to love to do this when I was a kid. I remember I used to say "I could do this forever!" I would need to lose weight before I could do it easily now. I'm trying to eat as sensibly as I can. When I'm able to do a lot of cardio exercise, such as swimming laps and walking, I lose weight. In the past few days my fitness level seems to have improved. It's nice to notice how my breathing gets deeper after a few minutes of aerobic exercise. This happened twice while I was walking today. Staying on track with my exercise is an important priority, which I notice more the older I get.
I've noticed that it really helps, when planning my day, to decide on and really focus on doing the things that matter the most. For example, if there is something I really need to do-- instead of allowing failure in making progress, to cause me to get depressed, I make it my business to make sure I've planned time in my day that will give me a good opportunity to make progress toward attaining that goal. For me this is often related to some kind of housework. Focused work toward attaining important goals is rewarding and the more you practice this the more success it brings.
I've got some catching up to do on my Ephesians Precept Bible study. I've completed one week since last Thursday, but I need to do one more week. I'm behind a week because I started it a week late. Studying Ephesians is a delight! A method used in Precept is distinctly marking different types of keywords in the Bible text. This is fun too. This makes it easy to compile a lot of facts from the Bible text you've marked.
I've noticed that it really helps, when planning my day, to decide on and really focus on doing the things that matter the most. For example, if there is something I really need to do-- instead of allowing failure in making progress, to cause me to get depressed, I make it my business to make sure I've planned time in my day that will give me a good opportunity to make progress toward attaining that goal. For me this is often related to some kind of housework. Focused work toward attaining important goals is rewarding and the more you practice this the more success it brings.
I've got some catching up to do on my Ephesians Precept Bible study. I've completed one week since last Thursday, but I need to do one more week. I'm behind a week because I started it a week late. Studying Ephesians is a delight! A method used in Precept is distinctly marking different types of keywords in the Bible text. This is fun too. This makes it easy to compile a lot of facts from the Bible text you've marked.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Learning More From Scripture
Let your manner of life reflect an attitude that is admirable, with attributes of calmness, wisdom, diligence and peacefulness-- which is useful for management of responsibilities, problems and challenges. See life as a chance to serve God through good stewardship. Let vitality be aparrent in your efforts as you walk in all kinds of good works God had in mind when he created you. This is what I've been learning from James 3:13 and Ecclesiastes 9:10 (scriptures below). These two scriptures have been on my mind this week. Recording things God is teaching me through Scripture inspires me and helps me to be focused.
Studying James 3:13 in the original Greek language proved insightful. At the link you can study the Greek words of this verse. Strong's numbers for the words of this verse are displayed. When you click on a Strong's number you can see the Greek definition.
http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Jam&c=3&t=KJV#conc/13
Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. (KJV)
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (KJV)
James 3:13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. (KJV)
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. (KJV)
Studying James 3:13 in the original Greek language proved insightful. At the link you can study the Greek words of this verse. Strong's numbers for the words of this verse are displayed. When you click on a Strong's number you can see the Greek definition.
http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Jam&c=3&t=KJV#conc/13
Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. (KJV)
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (KJV)
James 3:13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. (KJV)
James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. (KJV)
Monday, February 23, 2009
Casserole of Baked Beans, Potatoes & Beef
A few months ago I found some casseroles made with pork n' beans or baked beans, ground beef & potatoes which sure sounded good. I thought something like this might be good to help me curb my recent fast food cravings. I've haven't eaten any fast food recently. Go me!
I love Angus ground beef, which is on sale, and I decided to extend the wonderful Angus beef flavor with tofu, which also makes it low fat and economical. Tofu absorbs flavors really well and often tastes like meat, depending on how it's prepared.
This makes a large casserole, but you could half the recipe. I cooked this with canned no added salt tomato sauce & navy beans because I really watch sodium in my diet. I tried to give it that great baked bean flavor though. I like this recipe a lot! It's a pretty involved recipe but fun and it would be great for times when you're bored and want
something to do.
Casserole of Baked Beans, Potatoes & Beef
1 lb. ground chuck, browned and drained of fat (try Angus beef when you can find it on sale)
14 oz. extra-firm tofu, prefrozen, defrosted, squeezed dry & crumbled
1 slice cooked bacon, crumbled
3 lbs. russet potatoes in jackets, microwaved & sliced in 3/4 - 1 inch rounds
1 Tbsp. olive oil
2 15 oz. cans navy beans, bean broth reserved
2 8 oz. cans tomato sauce
1 onion, peeled and microwaved whole
1/2 green bell pepper, cut in strips and microwaved
3 cloves garlic, pressed
2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce, or to taste
1 Tbsp. spicey brown mustard
2 Tbsp. molasses
1 dash Tabasco
about 1 Tbsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. or so paprika
dried parsley, generously
dried mustard, sparingly
salt to taste
vegetable oil spray
Add to blender tomato sauce, onion, bell pepper & bacon, blending after each ingredient added. Pour into a large pot sprayed with vegetable oil spray. Add reserved bean broth, 1 cup of water, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, molasses, brown mustard, dry mustard, spices and parsley. Simmer slowly for 5-10 minutes. Add beef and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Add tofu and simmer for 5 minutes. Add salt to taste ( I usually like a lot of pepper but this didn't even taste like it needed pepper). Remove from heating element and cover with lid.
Spray a large rectangular pan (about 11 x 15 1/2 x 1 3/4 inches deep) with vegetable oil spray. Add olive oil to coat pan. Line pan with potato rounds. Sprinkle lightly with salt and dried parsley.
Add beans to beef mixture. Adjust seasonings. Pour bean mixture over potatoes and bake in 350 F oven for 30-40 minutes. It's okay if there's a little juice in the pan that hasn't absorbed into the casserole yet. Cover with foil after removing from oven (or before if top of casserole dries out or browns too quickly). Serve (tell everyone it's better if they cut up their potatoes) & enjoy!
I love Angus ground beef, which is on sale, and I decided to extend the wonderful Angus beef flavor with tofu, which also makes it low fat and economical. Tofu absorbs flavors really well and often tastes like meat, depending on how it's prepared.
This makes a large casserole, but you could half the recipe. I cooked this with canned no added salt tomato sauce & navy beans because I really watch sodium in my diet. I tried to give it that great baked bean flavor though. I like this recipe a lot! It's a pretty involved recipe but fun and it would be great for times when you're bored and want
something to do.
Casserole of Baked Beans, Potatoes & Beef
1 lb. ground chuck, browned and drained of fat (try Angus beef when you can find it on sale)
14 oz. extra-firm tofu, prefrozen, defrosted, squeezed dry & crumbled
1 slice cooked bacon, crumbled
3 lbs. russet potatoes in jackets, microwaved & sliced in 3/4 - 1 inch rounds
1 Tbsp. olive oil
2 15 oz. cans navy beans, bean broth reserved
2 8 oz. cans tomato sauce
1 onion, peeled and microwaved whole
1/2 green bell pepper, cut in strips and microwaved
3 cloves garlic, pressed
2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce, or to taste
1 Tbsp. spicey brown mustard
2 Tbsp. molasses
1 dash Tabasco
about 1 Tbsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. or so paprika
dried parsley, generously
dried mustard, sparingly
salt to taste
vegetable oil spray
Add to blender tomato sauce, onion, bell pepper & bacon, blending after each ingredient added. Pour into a large pot sprayed with vegetable oil spray. Add reserved bean broth, 1 cup of water, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, molasses, brown mustard, dry mustard, spices and parsley. Simmer slowly for 5-10 minutes. Add beef and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Add tofu and simmer for 5 minutes. Add salt to taste ( I usually like a lot of pepper but this didn't even taste like it needed pepper). Remove from heating element and cover with lid.
Spray a large rectangular pan (about 11 x 15 1/2 x 1 3/4 inches deep) with vegetable oil spray. Add olive oil to coat pan. Line pan with potato rounds. Sprinkle lightly with salt and dried parsley.
Add beans to beef mixture. Adjust seasonings. Pour bean mixture over potatoes and bake in 350 F oven for 30-40 minutes. It's okay if there's a little juice in the pan that hasn't absorbed into the casserole yet. Cover with foil after removing from oven (or before if top of casserole dries out or browns too quickly). Serve (tell everyone it's better if they cut up their potatoes) & enjoy!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Gratitude, Thanksgiving & Praise
Today as I walked into my parents home for our weekly Sunday morning Bible study, also with my sister and her family, I told Mom "I'm as happy as a little kid out of school for the summer". Why was I so happy? Because I was up and about this morning, instead of sleeping through noon, like I have for the past several days, and I knew that it wasn't soon going to be dark before my day really had a chance to get started good. I hadn't been in this kind of a rut any recently until this. Some medication I take makes me more prone to sleeping long hours, if I don't get regular exercise. I was sick for a few days and managed to hurt my foot twice. I'm very thankful I got well quickly. I love our family Bible study and it was wonderful to be back in church today.
I've been reading from E.M. Bounds Essentials of Prayer, which is so inspiring. Here are some excerpts from chapter four, "Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving" including a link to this chapter online, where you can also read the whole book at Christians' Classics Ethereal Library.
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bounds/essentials.v.html
Excerpts:
Many are the causes for thanksgiving and praise. The Psalms are filled with many songs of praise and hymns of thanksgiving, all pointing back to the results of prayer. Thanksgiving includes gratitude.
Thanksgiving is just what the word itself signifies—the giving of thanks to God. It is giving something to God in words which we feel at heart for blessings received. Gratitude arises from a contemplation of the goodness of God.
Answered prayers cause gratitude, and gratitude brings forth a love that declares it will not cease praying: “Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.” Gratitude and love move to larger and increased praying.
As prayer brings things to us which beget gratitude and thanksgiving, so praise and gratitude promote prayer, and induce more praying and better praying.
Gratitude and thanksgiving forever stand opposed to all murmurings at God’s dealings with us, and all complainings at our lot. Gratitude and murmuring never abide in the same heart at the same time. An unappreciative spirit has no standing beside gratitude and praise. And true prayer corrects complaining and promotes gratitude and thanksgiving.
The bane of the wilderness-journey of the Israelites on their way to Canaan was their proneness to murmur and complain against God and Moses. For this, God was several times greatly grieved, and it took the strong praying of Moses to avert God’s wrath because of these murmurings. The absence of gratitude left no room nor disposition for praise and thanksgiving, just as it is so always.
The spirit of praise was once the boast of the primitive Church. ...That this spirit of praise is sadly deficient in our present-day congregations must be evident to every careful observer. That it is a mighty force in projecting the Gospel, and its body of vital forces, must be equally evident.
Praise is so distinctly and definitely wedded to prayer, so inseparably joined, that they cannot be divorced. Praise is dependent on prayer for its full volume and its sweetest melody.
Giving thanks is the very life of prayer. It is its fragrance and music, its poetry and its crown. Prayer bringing the desired answer breaks out into praise and thanksgiving. So that whatever interferes with and injures the spirit of prayer necessarily hurts and dissipates the spirit of praise.
Where grace abounds, song abounds. When God is in the heart, heaven is present and melody is there, and the lips overflow out of the abundance of the heart.
The music of praise, for there is real music of soul in praise, is too hopeful and happy to be denied.
According to our special needs, so must our praying be. We are to be special and particular and bring to the knowledge of God by prayer, supplication and thanksgiving, our particular requests, the things we need, the things we greatly desire. And with it all, accompanying all these requests, there must be thanksgiving.
It is indeed a pleasing thought that what we are called upon to do on earth, to praise and give thanks...
I've been reading from E.M. Bounds Essentials of Prayer, which is so inspiring. Here are some excerpts from chapter four, "Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving" including a link to this chapter online, where you can also read the whole book at Christians' Classics Ethereal Library.
http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bounds/essentials.v.html
Excerpts:
Many are the causes for thanksgiving and praise. The Psalms are filled with many songs of praise and hymns of thanksgiving, all pointing back to the results of prayer. Thanksgiving includes gratitude.
Thanksgiving is just what the word itself signifies—the giving of thanks to God. It is giving something to God in words which we feel at heart for blessings received. Gratitude arises from a contemplation of the goodness of God.
Answered prayers cause gratitude, and gratitude brings forth a love that declares it will not cease praying: “Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.” Gratitude and love move to larger and increased praying.
As prayer brings things to us which beget gratitude and thanksgiving, so praise and gratitude promote prayer, and induce more praying and better praying.
Gratitude and thanksgiving forever stand opposed to all murmurings at God’s dealings with us, and all complainings at our lot. Gratitude and murmuring never abide in the same heart at the same time. An unappreciative spirit has no standing beside gratitude and praise. And true prayer corrects complaining and promotes gratitude and thanksgiving.
The bane of the wilderness-journey of the Israelites on their way to Canaan was their proneness to murmur and complain against God and Moses. For this, God was several times greatly grieved, and it took the strong praying of Moses to avert God’s wrath because of these murmurings. The absence of gratitude left no room nor disposition for praise and thanksgiving, just as it is so always.
The spirit of praise was once the boast of the primitive Church. ...That this spirit of praise is sadly deficient in our present-day congregations must be evident to every careful observer. That it is a mighty force in projecting the Gospel, and its body of vital forces, must be equally evident.
Praise is so distinctly and definitely wedded to prayer, so inseparably joined, that they cannot be divorced. Praise is dependent on prayer for its full volume and its sweetest melody.
Giving thanks is the very life of prayer. It is its fragrance and music, its poetry and its crown. Prayer bringing the desired answer breaks out into praise and thanksgiving. So that whatever interferes with and injures the spirit of prayer necessarily hurts and dissipates the spirit of praise.
Where grace abounds, song abounds. When God is in the heart, heaven is present and melody is there, and the lips overflow out of the abundance of the heart.
The music of praise, for there is real music of soul in praise, is too hopeful and happy to be denied.
According to our special needs, so must our praying be. We are to be special and particular and bring to the knowledge of God by prayer, supplication and thanksgiving, our particular requests, the things we need, the things we greatly desire. And with it all, accompanying all these requests, there must be thanksgiving.
It is indeed a pleasing thought that what we are called upon to do on earth, to praise and give thanks...
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