I am spending a girls' weekend away with Allison in Orlando. This is the first time we have done this since she has grown up, if ever. I am enjoying the time together. She has been gone most of the summer at Cedarkirk working as a counselor. So this is a time to reconnect.
Today we went to Downtown Disney. I actually walked around on my own without the use of a walker, motorized scooter or wheelchair. YIPEE! I don't know if you can imagine how I feel. In the past, if I wanted to go anywhere that meant a lot of walking, Doug had to push me in a wheelchair or we had to put out the money for a motorized one. I did not enjoy our family trips as much as I would have liked to. I could never do the rides and I could not participate in all the fun activities with the kids. I usually spent most of the day sitting and watching Doug, Ryan and Allison as they had fun. Don't get me wrong, that was enjoyable for me. I liked to see them having a good time, but I did feel left out. Doug did not enjoy the work of moving me from one place to another either.
As we wandered Downtown Disney today, I could not help but reflect on those past experiences. The times when I could not even go into a store because it was too crowded for the wheelchair or we had to leave early because the heat was making me sick. We did not buy anything today, but I WALKED through every store with my daughter and had a wonderful time. It was hot but I was not sick or tired. PRAISE GOD!
It is days like this that remind me what an amazing change that God has wrought in my life. If I had not had the gastric bypass surgery almost two years ago, I do not know what my life would be like today. I am sure that if I was alive, I would be staying at home and not doing very much. I certainly would not have been able to go on this trip and the other weekend trips I have taken in the last year. I feel so free and happy.
The new and improved me says To God be all Glory and Honor for what He has done for me and the blessings he pours out on my family everyday! Amen!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Time to Blog
Well I guess it is time I update my blog. I have a lot to say but I am not sure how to say it. God has worked a miracle in my life. There are days that I forget to thank Him for all my blessings. He has changed my life and He deserves all the praise and honor for all I have achieved.
Things have kind of stagnated lately. I guess it is only human to wonder whether this is the weight the Lord wants me to be. I know He loves me for who I am, but I would like to lose a little more pounds. I have been getting lazy about what I eat and was just reminded the other day that I should get back to the basics. I need to go back to what was working a few months ago.
I was so sure that my eating habits had changed permanently. But I crave sugar and carbs more now than I did a year ago. This has been the hardest two years of my life, but it has been so worth it. I am so much more healthier and happier these days. I can work, attend school on campus, exercise and, generally, enjoy my life. By the grace and glory of God, I am a new person.
So I guess I need to be at peace and accept the gift that is my life. Then I should get down on my knees (and hope I can get back up) and ask the heavenly Father what He has planned for me. And remember to listen and respond! I just realized that is getting back to the basics too!
Things have kind of stagnated lately. I guess it is only human to wonder whether this is the weight the Lord wants me to be. I know He loves me for who I am, but I would like to lose a little more pounds. I have been getting lazy about what I eat and was just reminded the other day that I should get back to the basics. I need to go back to what was working a few months ago.
I was so sure that my eating habits had changed permanently. But I crave sugar and carbs more now than I did a year ago. This has been the hardest two years of my life, but it has been so worth it. I am so much more healthier and happier these days. I can work, attend school on campus, exercise and, generally, enjoy my life. By the grace and glory of God, I am a new person.
So I guess I need to be at peace and accept the gift that is my life. Then I should get down on my knees (and hope I can get back up) and ask the heavenly Father what He has planned for me. And remember to listen and respond! I just realized that is getting back to the basics too!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
LIfe is Great!
I have been thinking a lot lately about the journey that I have been on for many years. I continued to gain weight over the years until I was extremely overweight. Then I developed painful arthritis in my back and knees and gained more weight. Unable to exercise and having to depend on others to push me in a wheelchair, I was unhappy and did not have much of a life.
I was always overweight even as a child. But, it seemed that I had more trouble controlling it after we moved to Florida. I don't know if I was less active, or the heat and humidity made me move less. I know that I was not very careful about what I ate most of the time. I tried different weight loss programs, but when they didn't work, I went back to my bad habits.
Then I started feeling pain in my back and knees and had trouble getting up in the morning. I knew that if I did not use the muscles, I would lose the use of them. But it got harder and harder. And, of course, the pounds increased because I was spending a lot of time on my back.
I was sure that I was just going to lay around until I died. I figured I would never see my 50th birthday. Then God worked a miracle in my life. He put someone in my path who suggested that I have surgery to correct the problem. What a blessing she was and is. I had never considered going that route before. But four years ago, I started researching it.
It has been almost two years since I had surgery. The miracle continues today. God is still working in my life. My arthritis is less painful, I have lost 230 pounds, and I am so active that I took my first Zumba class today. I can even sit in a chair all day at work and not be flat on my back for days afterwards.
It is hard to remember how things used to be. It has been a long, slow process. But I like the new me much better and I am glad that I chose to travel this road. Thank God I didn't have to travel it alone!
I was always overweight even as a child. But, it seemed that I had more trouble controlling it after we moved to Florida. I don't know if I was less active, or the heat and humidity made me move less. I know that I was not very careful about what I ate most of the time. I tried different weight loss programs, but when they didn't work, I went back to my bad habits.
Then I started feeling pain in my back and knees and had trouble getting up in the morning. I knew that if I did not use the muscles, I would lose the use of them. But it got harder and harder. And, of course, the pounds increased because I was spending a lot of time on my back.
I was sure that I was just going to lay around until I died. I figured I would never see my 50th birthday. Then God worked a miracle in my life. He put someone in my path who suggested that I have surgery to correct the problem. What a blessing she was and is. I had never considered going that route before. But four years ago, I started researching it.
It has been almost two years since I had surgery. The miracle continues today. God is still working in my life. My arthritis is less painful, I have lost 230 pounds, and I am so active that I took my first Zumba class today. I can even sit in a chair all day at work and not be flat on my back for days afterwards.
It is hard to remember how things used to be. It has been a long, slow process. But I like the new me much better and I am glad that I chose to travel this road. Thank God I didn't have to travel it alone!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Temptation thy name is Satan!
I think it is calling my name. I am not sure I can resist it much longer. It nags at me night and day! That piece of chocolate in the cupboard won't leave me alone. I dream about it and I think about it constantly. I want it even though I know it is not good for me. Sometimes it feels like I "need" it!
When I first came home from the hospital after surgery, I had to force myself to eat. All my temptations for chocolate disappeared. I was so happy because I thought I would not have to worry about sugar anymore. How dumb, huh? Now, I have trouble resisting the urges.
I thought that having a job would help because I would be busy and not have as much time to "graze". But I forgot about vending machines! I am sure the devil made those machines. Everything looks so delicious and so easily accessible. It is almost as if they are telling me, "you can eat this, it won't hurt you, just a little and you will be fine". Yeah right, lets be realistic!
So it is a daily struggle again. I guess it always will be. But now when I fall down, I pick myself up and try again. Lord you have worked a miracle in my life, but you did not say it would be easy. Please help me to resist temptation.
I would love to throw a pie in Satan's face!
When I first came home from the hospital after surgery, I had to force myself to eat. All my temptations for chocolate disappeared. I was so happy because I thought I would not have to worry about sugar anymore. How dumb, huh? Now, I have trouble resisting the urges.
I thought that having a job would help because I would be busy and not have as much time to "graze". But I forgot about vending machines! I am sure the devil made those machines. Everything looks so delicious and so easily accessible. It is almost as if they are telling me, "you can eat this, it won't hurt you, just a little and you will be fine". Yeah right, lets be realistic!
So it is a daily struggle again. I guess it always will be. But now when I fall down, I pick myself up and try again. Lord you have worked a miracle in my life, but you did not say it would be easy. Please help me to resist temptation.
I would love to throw a pie in Satan's face!
Friday, May 1, 2009
Birthdays are Just Another Day of the Year
Yesterday I celebrated my 50th birthday. It felt like just another day to me. I went to the gym and came home sore. Then I spent a very quiet afternoon and evening. Many people wanted to make a big deal about it.
I guess it is a milestone in my life. After all, two years ago I was not sure if I would make it to 50. Or if I did, what kind of health I would be in. I was always out of breath back then and not able to walk much. I certainly did not have much energy. There were days when I felt like I was laying around waiting to die because I could not go anywhere on my own.
Now that I have lost 230 pounds, I have so much energy. God has blessed me with a new life. I can get around on my own. I feel like I can do anything I want. He has made me a new person inside and out. I thank Him everyday for the miracle He has worked in my life.
I have been a Christian since I was small. But I am now spending more time in His word finding out what that means. I feel that I have a better relationship with My Lord. I could not have achieved the success with my weight loss without Him.
So 50 is just a number, and April 30th is just another day of the year, but I am a Much Better Person. Maybe He will let me live another 50 years to I can get even Better! I KNOW HE IS NOT DONE WITH ME YET!
I guess it is a milestone in my life. After all, two years ago I was not sure if I would make it to 50. Or if I did, what kind of health I would be in. I was always out of breath back then and not able to walk much. I certainly did not have much energy. There were days when I felt like I was laying around waiting to die because I could not go anywhere on my own.
Now that I have lost 230 pounds, I have so much energy. God has blessed me with a new life. I can get around on my own. I feel like I can do anything I want. He has made me a new person inside and out. I thank Him everyday for the miracle He has worked in my life.
I have been a Christian since I was small. But I am now spending more time in His word finding out what that means. I feel that I have a better relationship with My Lord. I could not have achieved the success with my weight loss without Him.
So 50 is just a number, and April 30th is just another day of the year, but I am a Much Better Person. Maybe He will let me live another 50 years to I can get even Better! I KNOW HE IS NOT DONE WITH ME YET!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Self Absorbed
I just got word today that a good friend in my book club has passed away from lung cancer. I feel so bad because I have not seen her in a while and, unfortunately, I have not thought of her much lately either. I knew she was ill, but I admit that I have let everyday thoughts and concerns take over. If I can forget the big things, I wonder how many little things I overlook every day. Am I missing a chance to support and uplift a friend?
Another friend just informed me that her uncle is very ill and not expected to live more than a week. I totally missed how upset she was. I question if she hid it well or was I so totally oblivious. Probably some of both, I hate to admit.
Life moves so quickly and it is so easy to miss opportunities. I do not want to be a "self" person. I would hope that the Holy Spirit would be in me and that I would exhibit God's love to others. I need to stop worrying, since the scriptures say we should not worry anyway, and be more in tune to what is going on around me.
There are so many people hurting these days. Some have lost their jobs, others are losing loved ones, some just don't know where to turn. I had a discussion yesterday with a friend about faith. We both commented that life is so much better when we live by faith. We wondered how those do not believe survive the trials of life! I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME!
Help me, Lord, to keep my mind and heart on what you want instead of me! Amen!
Another friend just informed me that her uncle is very ill and not expected to live more than a week. I totally missed how upset she was. I question if she hid it well or was I so totally oblivious. Probably some of both, I hate to admit.
Life moves so quickly and it is so easy to miss opportunities. I do not want to be a "self" person. I would hope that the Holy Spirit would be in me and that I would exhibit God's love to others. I need to stop worrying, since the scriptures say we should not worry anyway, and be more in tune to what is going on around me.
There are so many people hurting these days. Some have lost their jobs, others are losing loved ones, some just don't know where to turn. I had a discussion yesterday with a friend about faith. We both commented that life is so much better when we live by faith. We wondered how those do not believe survive the trials of life! I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME!
Help me, Lord, to keep my mind and heart on what you want instead of me! Amen!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
"Fellowship with food"
Tonight we had a Meet and Eat get together. We had a wonderful time. I look forward to these events each month and would do anything not to miss one. It does not matter where we meet, it is about the fun and fellowship!
It is a chance to get to know members of our church family better. We talk about our lives and about our families and many other things. There is a lot of laughter and merriment. We make new friends and become closer to those we already know. And we give support to each other when it is needed!
I know many people thought I would decide not to participate right after my surgery a little over a year ago. But, I could not do that. It is too important to me. I went and brought my protein shake with me or ate soup. (Unfortunately, I was only allowed liquids for the first few weeks.) But, I never noticed because it is not about the food.
Our Father in heaven wants us to be in fellowship with other believers. We are a community of believers at First Presbyterian Church of Brandon. We are a warm and loving church and I believe that many who enter our doors feel that. Meet and Eat embraces all adults whether they are members or visitors to our church. I pray that we can continue to grow closer as a Family of Faith!
It is a chance to get to know members of our church family better. We talk about our lives and about our families and many other things. There is a lot of laughter and merriment. We make new friends and become closer to those we already know. And we give support to each other when it is needed!
I know many people thought I would decide not to participate right after my surgery a little over a year ago. But, I could not do that. It is too important to me. I went and brought my protein shake with me or ate soup. (Unfortunately, I was only allowed liquids for the first few weeks.) But, I never noticed because it is not about the food.
Our Father in heaven wants us to be in fellowship with other believers. We are a community of believers at First Presbyterian Church of Brandon. We are a warm and loving church and I believe that many who enter our doors feel that. Meet and Eat embraces all adults whether they are members or visitors to our church. I pray that we can continue to grow closer as a Family of Faith!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Bible Study Again
I decided that I had more to say about the subject of Daniel and the society that we live in. The question is how do we live in a society that revolves around the enjoyments of the flesh. There is so much emphasis on looking good, feeling good and on looking out for yourself.
The enemy, Satan, is always after us to turn away from God. He tells us that we can have all that we want; we just need to grab for it. There are daily temptations, and I don't know how anyone without faith in a higher power can resist. I know now that increasing my knowledge of God and His love by bible study, reading His Word, and daily prayer will help to block out those attacks from the evil one.
But I am still a sinner as we all are, so we need God's infinite love, grace and forgiveness. We have been redeemed by the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. As it says in Daniel, we are holy vessels and we should not desecrate what God consecrates!
The enemy, Satan, is always after us to turn away from God. He tells us that we can have all that we want; we just need to grab for it. There are daily temptations, and I don't know how anyone without faith in a higher power can resist. I know now that increasing my knowledge of God and His love by bible study, reading His Word, and daily prayer will help to block out those attacks from the evil one.
But I am still a sinner as we all are, so we need God's infinite love, grace and forgiveness. We have been redeemed by the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. As it says in Daniel, we are holy vessels and we should not desecrate what God consecrates!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Bible Study
I am taking a Beth Moore Bible Study on Daniel. It is so great to be back in the Word of God. We see a video of Beth Moore every week and then do five days of homework. Every week I go home overwhelmed. She throws a lot of information at us in a short amount of time. I am learning so much.
This study has convicted me in some ways. I am questioning my motivation in what I say and do in my relationships with others. I have to say it has affected me. I wonder if I have too much pride or tend to boast about things. Do others see God's love in me or love for myself?
We are discussing a modern day Babylon in this study. Our society is too obsessed with self and self improvement. Is worrying about what I say a form of self interest? I know we should be ourselves. But, I want to be the best "myself" that I can be. Actually, I hope to be a better me!
I am praying to God daily that he will bring me into a right relationship with Him. I am asking Him to help me to be what He wants and not what I want. I know that I will have moments of doubt and guilt as I continue with the series. But I don't need to feel this way because God loves me and has forgiven me my sins.
I love my Lord with my whole heart, mind and soul and it is by His Grace and Glory that I am the person I am today! THANK YOU JESUS!
This study has convicted me in some ways. I am questioning my motivation in what I say and do in my relationships with others. I have to say it has affected me. I wonder if I have too much pride or tend to boast about things. Do others see God's love in me or love for myself?
We are discussing a modern day Babylon in this study. Our society is too obsessed with self and self improvement. Is worrying about what I say a form of self interest? I know we should be ourselves. But, I want to be the best "myself" that I can be. Actually, I hope to be a better me!
I am praying to God daily that he will bring me into a right relationship with Him. I am asking Him to help me to be what He wants and not what I want. I know that I will have moments of doubt and guilt as I continue with the series. But I don't need to feel this way because God loves me and has forgiven me my sins.
I love my Lord with my whole heart, mind and soul and it is by His Grace and Glory that I am the person I am today! THANK YOU JESUS!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Education Is Not So Bad
Well dear friends, I have gone back to school. I started my online class last week and it was not as bad as I thought. I was pretty nervous about it the week before. Actually, I was terrified. But, this "old dog" can learn.
Everyone at the school has been very helpful, including my professor. Some of my fellow students just happened to be in the same position as I am. We are all coming back after a break of 20 or more years. I found out we are all nervous, even the younger students. Imagine that!
I have gotten such a feeling of accomplishment from being back at school. I look forward to the new assignments and even the discussions. Online classes sure are different than being in a classroom though. Discussions are not as easy when you have to type everything you say and everyone is typing at the same time.
I remember trying to keep my kids on task when they had homework and projects to do. Motivation was not one of their strongest suits. Sometimes I wondered if they would graduate. Now it is me that has to be motivated. I know that I can do this, but I might need a reminder now and then.
My life sure has changed in a year!
Everyone at the school has been very helpful, including my professor. Some of my fellow students just happened to be in the same position as I am. We are all coming back after a break of 20 or more years. I found out we are all nervous, even the younger students. Imagine that!
I have gotten such a feeling of accomplishment from being back at school. I look forward to the new assignments and even the discussions. Online classes sure are different than being in a classroom though. Discussions are not as easy when you have to type everything you say and everyone is typing at the same time.
I remember trying to keep my kids on task when they had homework and projects to do. Motivation was not one of their strongest suits. Sometimes I wondered if they would graduate. Now it is me that has to be motivated. I know that I can do this, but I might need a reminder now and then.
My life sure has changed in a year!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Education For Me?
I am so excited. I have been offered a scholarship for one free class online through Kaplan University. I loved college, but that was almost 30 years ago.
Everyone has been telling me that if I want to get a job after 20 years, I need to reeducate myself. But that is easier said then done. It costs anywhere from $30,000 and $60,000 for an average Bachelors of Science program. Where do I get that kind of money? The schools all say just take out student loans. But that is a scary proposition. My son is dealing with that right now. He will have to start paying back his loans in 4 months. What happens if I don't get a job in six months?
I am going to enjoy this class and then decide if I want to continue. I will pray that God has a job in mind for me. It would be great to get a job with a company who would reimburse the tuition. I need to take this one step at a time and trust that all will happen by God's plan and in His time.
Pray for me please. It has been a long time since I was in school. I told Kaplan that I could be trusted to finish what I start. I gave my kids a hard time all the years they have been in school so I hope I practice what I preached.
Can "old dogs" learn new things? I'll let you know in about a month!
Everyone has been telling me that if I want to get a job after 20 years, I need to reeducate myself. But that is easier said then done. It costs anywhere from $30,000 and $60,000 for an average Bachelors of Science program. Where do I get that kind of money? The schools all say just take out student loans. But that is a scary proposition. My son is dealing with that right now. He will have to start paying back his loans in 4 months. What happens if I don't get a job in six months?
I am going to enjoy this class and then decide if I want to continue. I will pray that God has a job in mind for me. It would be great to get a job with a company who would reimburse the tuition. I need to take this one step at a time and trust that all will happen by God's plan and in His time.
Pray for me please. It has been a long time since I was in school. I told Kaplan that I could be trusted to finish what I start. I gave my kids a hard time all the years they have been in school so I hope I practice what I preached.
Can "old dogs" learn new things? I'll let you know in about a month!
Friday, January 2, 2009
Job Hunting
I have been searching for a job since the end of August. It is not easy because there are not a lot of jobs out there. I have not worked in over 20 years, so I guess that might make it more difficult for me too.
Today I had my first interview. I was not looking forward to it because it was way over in Clearwater and it was for a telemarketing job. I decided to go anyway and check it out. I spent the time before I got there in prayer trying to find out if this was the job God wanted for me. I was not nervous at all because I believed that if it was the right job, He would tell me.
I had too many reservations about the job after the interview, so I don't think I will be taking it. I am not upset about that. I know that God and my family love me and that they want me to get a job that will make me happy.
Spending time looking for a job can be depressing. This time around I have decided to pray before I do any looking. I am not desperate and I intend to stay upbeat. I know how difficult it is and I feel sorry for those out there that feel they need to take the first job that comes along. I hope I never get to that point. I saw lots of people at this company today that seem to be in that position.
If we all let God lead our lives instead of trying to do it ourselves, how much better would our lives be? My New Year's resolution is to try to remember to put God at the center of my family, life and relationships.
Happy New Year and may we all have a better year!
Today I had my first interview. I was not looking forward to it because it was way over in Clearwater and it was for a telemarketing job. I decided to go anyway and check it out. I spent the time before I got there in prayer trying to find out if this was the job God wanted for me. I was not nervous at all because I believed that if it was the right job, He would tell me.
I had too many reservations about the job after the interview, so I don't think I will be taking it. I am not upset about that. I know that God and my family love me and that they want me to get a job that will make me happy.
Spending time looking for a job can be depressing. This time around I have decided to pray before I do any looking. I am not desperate and I intend to stay upbeat. I know how difficult it is and I feel sorry for those out there that feel they need to take the first job that comes along. I hope I never get to that point. I saw lots of people at this company today that seem to be in that position.
If we all let God lead our lives instead of trying to do it ourselves, how much better would our lives be? My New Year's resolution is to try to remember to put God at the center of my family, life and relationships.
Happy New Year and may we all have a better year!
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