I'm Making A List and Checking It Twice!

The time to make major lists is now, isn't it? I love lists. I love to make lists for EVERYTHING!
So now I am in the process of making a major list for the New Year.

I haven't finished my list yet but I did make a list of good ideas for 2010.

It is a good idea to put your major lists in a place that you can view them frequently. I keep mine in my ipod. I love that thing! Tiny but full of so much storage!

One thing I want to put on my list before I forget is to keep Christmas in my heart all year. I am going to write a list of all kinds of simple ideas to keep the spirit of Christmas going.

Like, bake a traditional Christmas cookie in March and share them with someone.

Or, read the Christmas story in the gospel according to Luke to the children in the middle of May.

Or, glue the red felt letters to Lenny's stocking. It is missing the L and the E and somehow I never get around to doing that during Christmas. On my list it goes!

Of course, I want to add different ways we can give to others each month.

If I look at my list often, it will remind me of what I want to do and why I made it in the first place. Because at one time it was important to me!

These are some ideas of what kind of lists I want to make:
1. Goals (updated!)
2. A fresh school schedule and ideas.
3. An updated financial freedom plan.
4. My own ultimate health and fitness plan.
5. New daily to-do list. I always need to refresh my plan this time of year!
6. Books that I want to read.
7. Christmas spirit ideas.
8. New foods to try. I have had quinoa in my cupboard for oh so long. I plan on cooking it this week.
9. Fun date ideas.
10. The major progressive to-do list! You know, the never-ending one!
11. The purchase list that includes anything to crew socks for the boys (the short ones are no good for ice skates!), to the button I need for my brown church coat, to new kitchen flooring. Sometimes there are things that NEVER get crossed off of that list!
12. Spring fashion ideas.
13. Sewing and craft ideas.
14. Fun family outing ideas.
15. Gift ideas.
16. Meal ideas.

And the list goes on and on! Sometimes I have to tell myself to quit making lists and start DOING some of these things! Hee hee!

Obviously, I can't DO everything, but it is nice to look at my lists once in awhile just in case I happen to get an extra 15 minutes peace!

I think I am going to write a list of all the things I could do if I ever get bored!

Or maybe a list of what I could do when the children all leave the nest, which, of course, seems AGES away! And choosing to homeschool leaves me many, many years before I have much time during the day to work on THOSE ideas!

Funny! With all my lists so neatly organized in my little ipod, you would think that my whole life was neatly organized and that I would be GREAT at checking things off of my list! But, alas and sigh, that just is not true! But I LOVE MAKING LISTS ANYWAY! YAY!

And isn't it just the perfect time to work on our lists? The time between Christmas and the New Year? Yes, it is! So grab a pencil and a nice new notebook (put it on your grocery list!) and start making your lists!

And on the Sabbath, we can rest! Thank God and Hallelujah!

Believe!

This post is about believing!

Believing in Christmas!

Believing in joy!

Believing in love!

Believing in hope!

Believing in beauty, happiness, romance!

Believing in Miracles!

Believing in yourself!

Believing in success!

Believing in goodness!

Believing that all of your dreams can come true!

Believing in surprises!

Believing in the impossible!

Believing in perfect everlasting life!

"In September 1871, eight-year-old Virginia Hanlon of West 95th street in New York City wrote the following letter to The New York Sun:

Dear Editor,

I am eight years old. Some of my friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, "If you see it in the Sun, It's so." Please tell me the truth, Is there a Santa Claus?

In one of the most famous editorials ever written, the editors replied:

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little...

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

No Santa claus! Thank God he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood."

It is such a good reminder to think as a little child!

Our Dear Savior, Jesus Christ says:

"Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." Mark 11:24

"...that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe." Galatians

3:22

Our family wants to wish all of you a very, Merry magical Christmas! May love, joy and peace be yours this Christmas and may you believe as a little child that all dreams can come true!

Merry Christmas with love,

Laura and Family

Please listen to this beautiful song, "Believe" by Josh Groban. Just close your eyes and really listen to the lyrics. We CAN believe!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sFcisgUvGo

Merry Christmas Around The World

Merry Christmas-English

Boas Festas y Feliz Ano Novo-Portuguese

God Jul-Swedish

Boze Narodzenie-Polish

S Rozhdestvom Kristovym-Russian

Nodlaig Mhaith Chugnat-Irish

Sarbatori Vesele-Rumanian

Chrystos Rozdzajetsia Slawyte Jeho-Ukrainian

Nadolig Llawen-Welsh

Kellemes Karacsonyi Unnepeket-Hungarian

Vesele Vianoce-Slovakian

Glaedelig Jul-Danish

Sretan Bozic-Croatian

Noeliniz Ve Yeni Yiliniz Olsun-Turkish

Bron Natale-Italian

Houska Joulua-Finnish

Joyeux Noel-French

Kala Christougena-Greek

Vrolyk Kerfeest en Gelukkig Nieuw Jaar-Dutch

God Jul of Godt Nytt Aar-Norwegian

Feliz Navidad-Spanish

Froehliche Weihnachten-German

Vesele Vanoce-Bohemian

Cestutani Bizuc-Yugoslavian

Vrolike Kerstmis-Flemish

Dr. Mercola's Newsletter and Some Rambling

Dr. Mercola has some good information this week in his newsletter. One article is about taking baking soda to help ward off the flu (which I am doing because I feel a tiny twinge in my stomach). I like to 'prevent' rather than 'treat', if you know what I mean.

He also has a really good article on giving since that is a common thing to be doing this time of year. If you click on the links at the end of the article, it will lead you to a few other good links on giving.

And I thought the diabetes article was interesting.

So give it a look.

http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/newsletter-archive/2009/12/15.aspx

One thing we must all realize~once we have the information we cannot act like we don't know. I definitely do not always get around to practicing every little thing that I learn. I am quite slow at it, but I also know that because of the information I am receiving, I cannot act like I didn't know. In other words, if God gives us the info and we constantly ignore it, there are consequences like, 'I know why I should quit smoking but I just do not want to', OR 'I need to lose some weight so my heart will work better', OR 'If I do not get any sleep, I am going to end up in the 'funny farm''. but we just ignore it until there is a major problem. And then what?

I am not saying that we shouldn't put our trust in God and to take everything into our own hands. I know He is in control of EVERYTHING and I know that we all fall far short in the glory of God. I do believe, however, that He gave us a brain and a conscience and if we lean on him to help us with the answers, He will provide a way for us. I also have learned that no matter how hard I try with health issues, etc, the outcome may not be like I planned and THAT is when I know that God always knows best and that I need to trust in him even more.

Okay, does anybody know what I am trying to say? Or am I just sounding like a complete jerk?

Here are a few examples of what I am trying to say:
I have had 4 miscarriages now, the recent being just a month ago. After my first one, I worried about what I did to cause it thinking that I was pretty healthy and that there must have been something I could have done to cause it. Now I know that it is God's plan for me and no matter how 'healthy' I am, it will not keep Him from being the one to decide how my life will go. He gave me the information I needed to be mindful of my health and to give a new pregnancy a good, healthy start, but He also knows what is best for me and my family and I need to trust in that, as hard as it is to lose a pregnancy.

Well, for Pete's Sake, I am in my 40's now (but I feel so young and I am healthy and I....etc, etc.)! I know I can't have babies forever! He will probably give me twins at 50! The kids and I are reading the story of Jesus' birth and Mary's cousin Elizabeth and her husband Zachary were in their 60s and 70s when John the Baptist was born so I know it can happen!

Wow, I know you all know the story, but it sure is a GOOD one! I am telling you, there is no more interesting book than that Bible! Woo-wee!

Another example of what I am trying to say is: (this one is not quite so deep!)
We all know that when we eat too much candy, we will get sick! So the consequence is missing out on the days activities and puking instead! Not the wisest idea. I do stuff like that all the time. BUT I know now (that it will make me sick) and if I use just a 'little' self control, I will have a better day and I am able to do what needs to be done!

So all in all, do not let this keep you from learning. Learning brings many opportunities and "All things work together for good..." Romans 8:28

Have a wonderful day!

Boundless Energy!

My top health goal is to have boundless energy! I love to find any information that will help me with increasing my energy and I thought I would share with you what I have found!
~The number one way for me to get more energy is to drink a lot of water to nourish and bathe every cell in the body. Whenever I feel tired I know that I have not had enough water!
There are certain foods that maximize energy, too. Dr. Gillian McKeith, author of the book, You Are What You Eat, has this to say about her list of top energy foods:
1. Sprouts-all types. All types of sprouts (seeds of legumes or grains that have been germinated) are high-energy, life-enhancing foods that help improve, revitalize, strengthen and regenerate your body.
2. Grains. Grains release sugar slowly and give you a steady flow of energy instead of a quick high followed by a low. They are also a good source of B vitamins which are needed to assist the spleen, which jumpstart the energy in your body.
3. Oats. Oats are packed with evergy nutrients and also keep blood glucose levels at an even keel to help maintain concentration and alertness.
4. Parsley. Parsley is a nutrient powerhouse. It contains high levels of vitamin B12, more vitamin than citrus fruits and just about all other known nutrients.
5. Seaweed. Sea vegetables, or seaweeds, are the highest digestible source of all minerals as well as energy-boosting vitamins B and C.
6. Vegetables. The range of B complex vitamins, plus the energy nutrients magnesium and iron, can be found in fresh green (preferably raw) vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, and spinach. Broccoli is also a good source of coenzyme Q10, a critical nutrient for energy production at a cellular level.
7. Peaches. Peaches have a high water content and a laxative effect. They alkalinize the bloodstream, regulate the bowel and build the blood. Peaches help eliminate toxins from the body and are a good food to eat on a weight loss program.
8. Flax Seeds. Flax seeds, or linseeds, contain abundant levels of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs) and in perfect balance. EFAs are involved in energy production and oxygen transfer.
9. Sunflower seeds. Sunflower seeds are packed with magnesium, iron, copper, protein, vitamin B complex, EFAs and zinc. They are great to have on hand for a instant energy pick-me-up!
10. Grapes. Grapes are very high in magnesium which is involved in the first stage of the process that converts energy to glucose.
11. Yams and Squash. Yams are packed with energy minerals and tons of vitamin C. They detoxify and balance the hormones and blood sugar levels. Squash aids in circulation and digestive function.
12. Wheatgrass. Wheatgrass has one of the most prolific array of vitamins, minerals and trace elements. It contains 25 times the nutrients than vegetables. It looks like grass and needs to be juiced. It also comes in a powder, capsule or tablet.
13. Mung Beans. Provides you with tons of energy.

~Eating smaller meals throughout the day instead of bigger, heavier meals, is also a great way to increase energy. The fittest people always say they have more energy when they eat healthy foods often (2 1/2 to 3 hours apart) and always leave the table a tad hungry instead of stuffing themselves. We all know that stuffing ourselves make us tired and lethargic, and sometimes downright sick.

~Dr. McKeith also suggests reducing your intake of sugar, caffeine and dairy foods at lunch and opt instead for brown rice, legumes, yams and sunflower seeds. Also a B Complex vitamin (50 mg) can boost your adrenal function which in turn boosts metabolism and energy.

~Hot water with the herb astragalus and ginseng is a natural source of B vitamins that helps with an afternoon energy slump.

~Small bursts of exercising also is a great energy builder. A brisk walk, your 2 minute body work (see Holiday Health Maintenance Plan in the fitness section) or even a 5 minute stretching or yoga routine.

~Also getting enough sleep is very important to our energy levels. We all know we need 8 hours of sleep, but none of us really seem to get it. The 20 minute cat-nap does wonders in giving us a little recharge throughout the day. Getting adequate sleep helps to keep our minds alert and healthy, thus keeping us happier and even helps us maintain a healthy weight.

~Another great way to feel energized is to be HAPPY! Happy people seem to have so much energy! When I am down and out I have NO energy, but when I am HAPPY, I seem to have tons of it! Doesn't it always seem that way? Please refresh yourself with the 12 Ways To Get Happy post in the happiness section. Whenever I feel a tad down and out, I go over the list just to remind myself that I have a choice and that I have so much to be happy about. Sometimes it is just too easy to feel sorry for myself, so I need a little jumpstart!

I want to have all the energy I need to be able to be the person God created me to be. We CAN have more ENERGY and I hope a few of these ideas can give you the energy YOU need to be the person God created YOU to be!

Blessings of Health to all of you!

Giving

What a beautiful time of year to give since this Christmas season is all about what WE have been given! A precious baby on Christmas day! It is the only gift we need! And since we have been given the Perfect gift, we in turn want to give. Here are some ideas for giving:
Body + Soul magazines's 6 Secrets to giving are:
1. Start with gratitude. Write down what you're most thankful for and make a point to share at least one item on your list.
2. Keep it simple. Small gestures often make the biggest impact. Smile at a stranger, offer someone a sincere compliment, or buy someone lunch for no reason.
3. Give up expectations. Let go of judgments about how your gift will be put to use. Once you've given it, your gift will take care of itself.
4. Receive graciously. Giving without receiving will deplete your energy. Remember to be receptive to what others are eager to share.
5. Wing it. Resist the urge to plan all gift-giving in one sitting. Stay open to the gift-giving
opportunities that occur naturally throughout any given day.
6. Challenge yourself. What are you hesitant to give? Your time? Unconditional love? Ask why and try to let those hang-ups go.

Susan Branch's "The Best Gifts Are Tied With Heartstrings"
The Gift of Enthusiasm: When you go out shopping wear something festive for the season~a pin or a bright scarf or hat. Smile at everyone, spread sunshine, do your part~be an elf!
A Gift of Wonder: Fill your child's closet with balloons so that when he or she opens it there's a big surprise!
A Gift of Love: Enroll someone in your own personal Treat-of-the-Month Club. Make a little coupon that promises one special homemade dish a month, a casserole, or a dessert~very good for someone who might be alone alot.
The Gift of Fun: Take time to romp in the snow~make snow angels & snowmen~go ice skating. Come in cold & frosty to something hot from the stove.
A Gift of Contentedness: Stop everything & count your blessings. Have a nice glass of hot cider in front ot the fire with the one you love. (She said 'champaigne' but I do not wish to encourage the drinking of alcohol so I put in cider!)
The Gift of Pleasure: Tuck a little note into lunchbox or pocket~or maybe into a suitcase. Put in a cartoon or douse it with perfume or stick on some stickers to make it look cute~ say something sweet.
The Gift of Yourself: Your time can be a most precious gift~a phone call or letter~cook a lovely dinner, set a pretty table, & invite good friends.
The Gift of Faith: Before you go to bed on December 31st join hands, say a prayer & make a wish for the coming year.

There are many bible verses about giving. Here are a few:

"Give and it shall be given unto you;" Luke 6:38

"Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." II Corinthians 9:7

" I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said , It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35

Enjoy the gift of Christmas and all of God's love that goes with it! Remember that our gifts do not have to be grand. Jesus came in the most humble way! It is a good reminder as this busy world seems to pull us into wanting more! We don't need more~we have it ALL in Jesus!

Know that you are loved this Christmas!

Easy Cleansing Drinks

Here are a few excellent cleansing drinks to help clean out our bodies. They are simple and easy and all have wonderful benefits!


1. Water. Drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day (water in coffee does not count!) helps to flush out by-products of fat breakdown, cleanses the kidneys, hydrates the skin to make us look younger and combats illness by hydrating all of our internal organs, helps with weight loss and reduces hunger. Many sources say to drink 1/2 to 1 ounce of water for every pound of body weight, which I believe to be a good guideline. I currently try to drink between a 1/2 gallon to a gallon of water per day, though I rarely make it to a gallon. It is more like 10-12 glasses.

2. Warm water. Warm water, especially in the morning preps the stomach for food by stimulating the glands in the stomach, flushes out the kidneys, and helps bowels move regularly and naturally. Very soothing and calming on the stomach which in turn calms our nerves!

3. Warm water with lemon. The lemon in the water aids digestion and weight loss, purifies the blood, helps with rhuematism and arthritis, reduces fever,, helps with curing respitory disorders and throat infections, improves the skin, and even aids in dental care. Use juice from 1/2 fresh lemon into 1 cup of warm or hot water.

4. Cranberry water. (1 part sugar-free cranberry juice to 4 parts pure water) Cranberry assists the lymphatic system by helping to flush out toxins and fats, helps build strong blood vessels, reduces blood sugar, reduces cravings, and helps cure urinary tract infections. Drinking cranwater is said to help eliminate cellulite!

5. Jillian Michaels Cleansing Drink. Here is a recipe that I am currently using from The Biggest Loser trainer, Jillian Michaels.
It is said to help with flushing out excess water weight and to help with bloating, etc. She claims that you could lose 5# or more of excess water weight by drinking this throughout the day for 7 days. Here it is:

60 oz. of distilled water
1 T sugar-free cranberry juice
1 dandelion root tea bag
2 T lemon juice

1. Combine all ingredients
2. Drink throughout the day

I am drinking it as a variation of all of the other drinks listed above. I already had the dandelion tea and I usually like to drink lemon or cranwater anyway, so I thought I would give it a try.

Enjoy your health!

10 Thoughts On Whole Living

These ideas came from Body + Soul magazine which I thought were nice to think about.

10 Thoughts On Whole Living:

1. Find a few minutes each day to completely unplug.
2. Giving to others is the most powerful thing we can do for ourselves.
3. See physical fitness as a practice, not a goal.
4. This winter, make it a point to heed your need for solitude.
5. The secret to beautiful skin starts with what you put inside you body.
6. Try doing even the most menial tasks mindfully and with grace.
7. The quality of your connections with other people will carry you further than you think.
8. Just because a no-frills home remedy is simple doesn't mean it won't work.
9. If you want to eat healthier, try giving yourself the benefit of better choices.
10. Home isn't a place. It's a state of mind.