Day 25 - Positivity/Gratitude

Day 25. Today I am thankful for our monthly Bible study group. A group of us younger, married ladies get together once a month, share a meal and study through the book, "A Wife After God's Own Heart." It has been so great to get together with fellow christian women, in a similar situation and study what God's will is for us in our role as a wife. I gain a lot of encouragement and support from then. I really do appreciate and love each of them and the time we are able to spend together. Thank you Tanis, Catherine, Ashlee, Candice, Ashley and Jessica!

Acts 13:22

"And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.’

Day 24 - Good news!

Day 24. I am so thankful that my friend, Angie, got some good news today. She has been waiting for some biopsy results to determine if a lump was cancer returning or just some scar tissue. THANKFULLY, it is just scar tissue. We can all breathe a little easier now. Praise the Lord for good news! Also, remember to live each day with thanksgiving and not take your health for granted.

Day 23 - Fall food

Day 23. I know I said I was thankful for Fall already. But today I am really happy about Fall produce. I just love the variety that is available at this time of year. I just love having a good soup or stew or some spaghetti squash. And you can't beat a crisp, delicious apple.

Yum!

Day 22 - Gratitude of others

Day 22. Today I'm grateful for the gratitude of others. Today everyone at work planned a belated Boss's day celebration. SURPRISE! It was quite impressive. They really put a lot of time and thought into it. First off, they planned it on a day that schools were closed so we could all enjoy a celebration together. There was a potluck with some pretty spectacular food. Each supervisor/manager received a beautiful fall bouquet, a coffee mug, a coffee cozy, some office supplies and a special treat, mine was plantain chips and salsa. I thought it was so sweet that they took the time to get me something I could enjoy on Paleo. I think the thing that was most special was the card/booklet they put together that everyone signed. Reading what people had to say hit a special spot with me.

I think we've all been in that situation where we feel like we are trying hard but start to wonder if anyone notices or if it is good enough. Today gave me a lot of energy to keep going. It also reminded me how important it is to tell people why you appreciate them. It may be just what they need at just the right time. I appreciate everyone that I work with so much. We do some great things together and I know I don't tell them enough how much I appreciate them. I'm going to try to do better at that!

Positivity/Gratitude - Day 21

Day 21. Today I'm thankful for all the many brave men and women who put their life on the line to protect the freedoms we hold dear in this great nation. Thank you!

Positivity/Gratitude - Day 20

Today I'm thankful for my crazy little dog. Even when I'm not my best and not feeling so great she is always excited to see me. Sometimes she drives me crazy, but she always makes me smile. :)

Positivity/Gratitude - Day 19: My In-laws

Day 19.I love lists! I love to make lists. I love to mark things off lists. They make me happy. One thing that I have been trying to do lately if I start getting stressed or upset about something is make a list! I know I shouldn't worry about things. It is one thing to say, "Don't worry about it," but when I try that...before I know it I'm thinking about the thing I just told myself I wasn't going to worry about! What I have found to help is praying (of course), but to also focus on all the things that are going well and all the blessings I have and the things that make me happy. Before I know it what I was worried about or stressed about is long gone..I can breathe easier...and have an instant better attitude.

Today I am grateful for my in-laws. They are coming up to visit this weekend. We don't get to see them as often as we would like so I do appreciate the time that we have together. Keeping with the "list" theme...here is a list of ten of the many things I appreciate about my in-laws:

10- Hard-working. They are a great example of being driven and working hard for what they have.
9- Growth. They are both very well educated and are always looking to learn and grow as individuals and encouraging that in others as well.
8- Easy-going. I tend to be a little up tight from time to time so I really admire and need to emulate the easy-going nature of my in-laws. They are truly content in any situation; that is an amazing quality.
7- Supportive. I'm so thankful that my in-laws are always supportive and interested in what we are doing, but never in an overwhelming or meddlesome way. They really "put their money where their mouth is" and offer genuine interest and support in the things that are important to us.
6- Patience. Sometimes my shyness and insecurities can make it very difficult for people to get to know me. I appreciate that my in-laws are very patient with me.
5- Adventure. I'm not the most adventurous person, but I appreciate that my in-laws have a sense of adventure in their life. They are good about turning obstacles and detours into "adventures."
4- Generosity. My in-laws are some of the most generous people. They get involved in their community, and the world around them and are very selfless.
3- They give the glory to God. I respect that my in-laws are interested in seeking God's will for their life and give the glory to God for their blessings and opportunities.
2- Example in marriage. Marriage is forsaken by so many these days. I know Kyle and I are very blessed to have both sets of our parents together and we are very thankful for their example.
1 -Of course the top thing I appreciate about my in-laws is they gave me such a wonderful gift - their son! I love Kyle so much and the life that we have built together and I know I owe many thanks to them as parents for the values they instilled in their son, my husband.

Thank you Jim and Vicki. I know I don't tell you or show you as often as I should that I do truly love and appreciate you.

Day 18 - Having fun with people at work

Day 18. Today I am grateful for the people that I work with. I love that we can have a great time together at work, but we work hard, pull together and get the work done.

Day 17 - The Great Northwest

Day 17. Today was just an amazingly beautiful day. The sun was shining through the clouds, the leaves were bright on the trees. I am so grateful for where I live and the beauty that surrounds me every day! Sometimes I look around, even on my drive home from work, and am in awe of the beauty. I often take it for granted, but sometimes it just really catches me off guard and makes me stop and think:God is so good!

Day 16 - A Heavenly Country

Day 16. Sometimes you just have to be thankful that this life isn't what it is all about!

Hebrews 11:13-16

^"These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them,embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return.

But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country.

Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them."

Day 15 - Conveniences

Day 15. Today I am thankful for the conveniences of life. Having said that...sometimes they can be a curse too. I know I all too often take things for granted and become complacent. Have you seen anyone post "First World Problems." Here are a few of them. They are kind of funny...but sad too! Sad...because it is true sometimes! I'm thankful for everything I have...and will try to do better about not taking them for granted...and always remember there is someone out there who would love to have "my problem!"

My hand is too fat to shove into the Pringles container so I am forced to tilt it.

I didn't have a wasteful childhood, so I can't turn my pain into art.

I had too much food for lunch and now I'm tired.

I'm kind of hungry, but my roommate has guests over, so if I go into the kitchen I'm going to have to introduce myself.

I accidentally clicked iTunes and had to wait 2 minutes for it to open before I could close it again.

I'm trying to text while at a red light, but I keep making all the greens.

I can't hear the TV while I'm eating crunchy snacks.

The Domino's pizza tracker is not working. Now I don't know when to put my pants on.

My laptop is low on battery, but the charger is over there.

Day 14 - My brother

Day 14. Jordan led a beautiful prayer at the end of worship services this evening. He prayed that we would never forget to tell the people we love that we love them and are thankful for them. I know I don't tell you enough Jordan, but I love you very much and am thankful for you. I'm thankful you are my brother and for all the memories we share together. I'm thankful for the man you've grown to be. You are a smart, caring, confident guy and a great example. I'm so excited to see all the wonderful things you do with your future and I'm glad I get to be a part of it.

I love you brother!

Positivity/Gratitude - Day 13

Day 13. Kyle is on kind of a strange schedule right now which makes me thankful that usually our jobs allow us to be able to spend most evenings together; we are very blessed!

Positivity/Gratitude - Day 12

Day 12. You know what makes this "challenge" so difficult? It is all day, every day. Most of the other challenges up until this point have just been setting aside some time during the day to accomplish the task. With this one you have to constantly be on guard for something that might get you off track and consistently be in the mindset of gratitude and positivity. I'm constantly having to stop and think, is this constructive to say? I catch myself starting down a negative path of thinking and have to stop and turn it around. But it is so true, the more you focus on the positive, the more positive you start to see. So rewarding!

Today I am grateful to have a nice warm home, and a nice warm bed tonight. There are a lot of people out there who aren't going to have that tonight; shame on me for taking that for granted!

Day 11 - "You're hired!"

Day 11. Today is pretty short. I'm headed to bed in just a couple minutes. (Yes...it is only 7:30...don't judge!)

Today I'm grateful for the ability to create and fill some new positions at work. It is so amazing to be able to tell someone, "You're hired!" There is a lot of background and emotion tied in with this one...but we'll just leave it at that.

Day 10 - Don't take yourself so seriously

Day 10. Today I am grateful for pushing myself a little (okay...a lot!) out of my comfort zone. For those of you who know me well you know I don't like to bring attention to myself. For those of you who share my sentiments the actual dressing up for Halloween is the most TERRIFYING aspect of the whole day! But in the vein of trying to be more positive and fun at work I decided I better go ahead and go for it....really go for it! There were many times I almost backed out. Walking up the stairs to enter work was painful...but I did it. And you know what...I'm glad I did!

1 - It really pushed me outside of my comfort zone. They say "it is good to push yourself," and "you'll be a better person for it"...or whatever!

2 - It made people laugh...and laughter is good for the soul. (Except for that poor elderly lady at the 4 way stop I think I confused driving home this afternoon.)

3 - It forced me not to take myself so seriously...I need to do that more often! It is okay to have a little fun once in a while.

So there you have it...I was SHOCKED (get it?!) it wasn't as painful as I had anticipated. Don't get me wrong...it was still painful...especially when pictures started circulating throughout the company...but not SO bad.

Who knows...if I keep this up maybe I'll be known as the fun, confident one. Yeah, you're right...still a long way to go on that one!

And no...I'm not a zombie (common mistake today). I was "struck by lightning!" I'm missing my fried umbrella in this picture.

Happy Halloween!

Day 9 -Companionship

Day 9. What got me through today was the quote,

"Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today."

 Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think that was a Thomas Jefferson quote. I feel like I'm coming down with a bit of a cold and it was an emotionally exhausting day at work. All day long part of me was pulling to go home, put some PJ's on and just "relax." This quote was in the back of my mind and helped me get some things accomplished at work that really needed to be done.

After getting out of work a little later than I was hoping the quote once again encouraged me to get the grocery shopping done. Yay - now that is no longer hanging over my head.

Today I am grateful for God, in His wisdom, arranging for a companion in life through marriage. You always have someone in your corner who has your back. Sometimes one of you has to step up a little more, but you know the favor will soon be returned.

Thanks Wilson for having the house vacuumed, getting dinner ready and being just so sweet and supportive on a day when I really needed it. Thanks for being my companion in life, my partner in crime, my encourager, the one who calls me out when I need it, my best friend, and the love of my life! Love you Wilson!

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one,
Because they have a good reward for their labor.
For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.
But woe to him who is alone when he falls,
For he has no one to help him up.
Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm;
But how can one be warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.
And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Day 8 - Celebrating a Birthday

Day 8. Today I am grateful that I got to celebrate a dear friend's birthday with her. I feel like sometimes we start to take birthday's for granted...it turns more into cards and presents. Sometimes maybe we lose the real meaning of birthdays - taking time to reflect on how thankful we are for an individuals birth, celebrating the last year of their life and wishing them well in the year ahead.

Nothing has made me realize that more than celebrating Angie's birthday with her today. As we embraced this morning with tears in our eyes the words, "I'm so happy to celebrate with you today" have never meant more. Angie fought breast cancer this past year. She still has a road ahead of her, but she kicked cancer's booty and is getting strong.

So today I'm thankful for my sweet, generous, gracious, beautiful friend. I'm thankful she was born; I'm thankful her Mother's spirit shines brightly in her. I'm thankful that God brought this amazing woman into my life. I'm thankful she is a fighter and we were able to celebrate with her another year of life.

I wish you all the love and joy that the possibilities of the future bring. I know you will be a blessing to many people as you help them through their journey. Thank you for blessing me with your friendship!

So Happy Birthday Angela Marie Frakes - I love you dearly!

(Ang rockin' the pink hair as only she could!)

Day 7 - My health

Day 7. I was avoiding writing this tonight because I have a pretty bad headache and am feeling nauseous.I had a couple meals this weekend that I wasn't totally sure of the ingredients. BUT...it does make me think how grateful I am for how much improved my health is from a year ago.

So that is what I have tonight! I'm not feeling so great right now but it helps to know that tomorrow will be a better day! Last year at this point it could get pretty depressing because I felt bad most of the time. So I'm thankful for the health God has blessed me with and that I was able to find something that helps me feel worlds better...and is helping my family too.

Day 6 - Saturday with the Mr.

Day 6. Another short one today. We are about to head out to a Halloween party.

I just wanted to say today I am grateful for a nice relaxing day with my husband. We don't get the weekend off together too often these days so I'm really thankful when we do. We slept in this morning (I slept in a little too much which is unusual for me). Then we enjoyed an awesome brunch in front of the cozy fire place. We had paleo pumpkin waffles topped with coconut ice cream and blackberries, eggs and bacon; I'm still a little full!

It is kind of easy to stay positive when you don't have a whole lot going on and aren't being pulled in a lot of different directions and get to spend the day with the person that you love. It was a nice day to recharge, get some things done around the house and get ready for the week ahead. I would say I wish it would never end, but I'm looking forward to a day of worship and celebration with family tomorrow.

Day 5 - The best Friday nights

Day 5. By Friday night I am usually so tired from the week that I don't make it much past 9 (if I'm lucky). I'm pretty sleepy right now so I'm thinking this won't be a very long post. The timing is really poor because I could say so much about what I'm thankful for today. My eyelids are trying to close on me as I'm typing this...but here it goes...

The past couple Fridays Kyle and I have brought dinner over to my parents house and enjoyed a meal together. Do 2 Fridays in a row count as a tradition? Kyle was the one that suggested we go over tonight...that made it even more special. I headed over pretty much in my PJ's after a run with Lo in the rain today. (Isn't that the best thing about family? They don't care what you look like, they love you for you.) Kyle made a delicious stew (more brownie points) tonight stocked full of vegetables; it was just so warm and perfect on a cold rainy night. After enjoying some good food we enjoyed some good conversation. I was even able to get a little time in with my busy brother, Jordan. Mom had made some paleo banana bread muffins that were pretty yummy served up with some blackberries and coconut ice cream. All in all a pretty great night.

Today I'm grateful that...I get to enjoy simple nights like this with the people that I love most. We'll have to get Jess and Sam in on this and we're set. I feel so lucky to be a part of such an amazing, loving family.The family I chose I would choose again and the family that was chosen for me I couldn't choose any better!

I wish we didn't let the busyness of life get in the way of making time for the people we love. Spend time with your family! Don't let not doing that be something that you regret later!

I know I didn't do it justice at all...but as soon as I shut this computer...I'm pretty sure I'll be asleep!

Positivity and Gratitude - Day 4

Day 4. Here is something that has been on my mind a little these past couple days... Do you ever feel disappointment when you feel like you're trying really hard (and I do have to TRY REALLY HARD) and then feeling like others maybe aren't trying as hard? I guess that kind of defeats the whole purpose of being positive, right? I'm just asking a question. I'm not admitting that I have ever felt this way. (wink, wink) But seriously, it has made me stop and think how others have maybe felt about me in the past (and the present for that matter). My struggle has been remembering to give others the benefit of the doubt and be patient with each other as God is patient with us. (Sometimes it is just a little misunderstanding and you have to have the patience to work it out!) The other struggle: not letting a little bump in the road get me off track but DECIDING my reaction to any given situation. I could have handled things differently today...but remembering God's word helped me through it.

Colossians 3:12-13 

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

Romans 12:17-21

Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

 Today I'm grateful for..."the friend that sticks closer than a brother" (Prov. 18:24). Close friendships can be like family...sometimes you have disagreements, sometimes the relationship is strained. But you put the work into it and have the difficult conversations. It tests your longsuffering. It tests your humility. Sometimes it causes you to look at yourself in the mirror. The hurt hurts deep, because the love is so deep. But you love each other through it and you never have a doubt that the friendship will remain. Because in the end...you ARE family...and what is family if not love?

Positivity and Gratitude - Day 3

Day 3. Today was a pretty great day. I think I stayed on track for the most part. I'll be honest, I did slip up once. I have a pretty sarcastic sense of humor and sometimes I just can't help myself! But I was thinking about it...and I think I'd rather be known as the kind-hearted person over the sarcastic person. I still have a long way to go on that one. Which brings me to the other thing on my mind quite a bit today: relying on God. I fear at times I may come off as making changes and accomplishments in my life via my own strength and will. I know it is God working in me and giving me the strength as I work to transform my life according to His perfect will. I feel I need to acknowledge that more in my life.

Philippians 2:12-16

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

What I'm grateful for today...there are just SO many things. How can I possibly choose just one? I'm going to go with what is filling my heart with joy at this very moment. I'm thankful that I have the opportunity to teach Bible Class. I am so thankful to be able to teach Connor and Logan.  Connor is an old pro at coming to Bible Class and is helping to be a good example for Logan. Logan just started coming to Bible class over these past couple of weeks. It is just so neat that he is starting to pick things up and is so excited about coming to Bible Class and Connor is being such a good helper. It just warms my heart to see Logan's big ol' open mouth grin and excitement as he claps his hands after he does little things like bows his head as Connor says the prayer for us. It is also heartwarming to see how supportive Connor is and happy that Logan is participating. One question: How do children always have SO much energy! I'm always exhausted by the time class is over...but I'm also somehow energized.

Thank you Connor and Logan! Thank you for energizing me with the love, excitement and purity of a young soul that loves to learn about God! I pray that you never lose that as the years go by! (I'm really wishing I would have taken a picture of those two right about now so you can see how adorable they are!)

Oh...and Happy Birthday to my brother-in-law Sam. I love you and am thankful for you...but we'll save that for another time!

Positivity and Gratitude - Day 2

I had an epiphany today. I never realized how many times a day I do or say something that isn't necessarily constructive or for that matter...necessary. I caught myself about 6 times today.  It feels good that I'm making progress, but it is a little unsettling that I never really noticed how many comments or emails I probably shouldn't make or send in the course of a day. I'm starting to see how pushing the "pause button" and asking myself if what I'm about to do or say is constructive can really be life changing. I talked with a couple other people who are taking the positivity challenge and they echoed the same sentiments...at least I'm not alone!

Ephesians 4:29-32

"Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, 

but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.  

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.  

Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.  

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, 

even as God in Christ forgave you."

Today I am grateful for - A jog with a friend on a brisk fall day! After work today a friend and I went for a quick jog on a trail by work. Even though we didn't do much talking, I think we pushed and encouraged each other. It just felt good and gave me so much energy for the rest of the day. Thanks Lo!

Positivity and Gratitude - Day 1

Day 1: The Power of an Unexpected Compliment

I found myself driving home from work today contemplating if everyone really was in a better mood today...or if it really just took me adjusting my attitude! I'm still not sure, though I suspect it was just me adjusting my attitude. I am finding however, if you look for the positive in things...you just find more positive. I already knew that...but deliberately practicing it is so eye opening...and energizing!

So far so good on my first day or having a more positive attitude. There were a couple real tests thrown my way today too. :)

What I'm thankful for today: The power of an Unexpected Compliment!
I'm not the best when it comes to compliments. I'm not the best at receiving them...I'm not the best at giving them.  Hmmm...maybe that will be a future 31 day challenge? Today I'm thankful for compliments...they are so powerful...especially when they are unexpected.

Someone at work paid me an unexpected compliment today. They said I looked really nice and my outfit looked like something you would see on Pinterest. :) Maybe this is a silly example, but it kind of made my day...especially since what I was wearing was a little out of my comfort zone and I wasn't too sure about it. In fact, I sit on the couch at home right now still fully dressed (including my boots). I usually will discredit what people are saying when they try to pay me a compliment. Why do we do that? Okay, I still did it a little bit today. I pointed out that I had actually brought a black purse(I was wearing brown boots) - so my entire outfit didn't really work. (Maybe I shouldn't have admitted that...now I'm going to have an even tougher time convincing Kyle not to wear his black belt with brown shoes!) Back to the compliment...for the most part...I just tried to go with it and say Thanks! So that was example 1...thanks for making my day Jen!

Example 2: I also paid someone a compliment today. I let Cathy know I thought she was a very gracious person (which is absolutely true...even if you don't believe me Cathy!). I think it really meant something to her and it actually ended up getting me on the Wall of Gratitude at work (which really meant something to me! Funny how that works!). It made me stop and think...I need to do so much better at paying people sincere compliments!

All those little thoughts that run through your mind about someone (let me clarify...the nice thoughts!) SAY THEM OUT LOUD!!! You never know what it could mean to someone. It can totally change someones day.

Compliments...so little effort required...such a big impact!

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a

listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all

of which have the potential to turn a life around.”

― Leo F. Buscaglia

31 Day Challenge: Positivity and Gratitude

Proverbs 31:28

"She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness."

It is that time again...time for another 31 Day Challenge!

This time around I am going to tackle Positivity and Gratitude. 31 days will conclude just in time for Thanksgiving...how appropriate!

This one is really going to take a lot of self-discipline and determination. I am choosing not to criticize, not to complain, not to entertain a negative self dialogue, look on the positive side of things and try to keep things in perspective for the next 31 days. One way I hope to keep things in perspective is by recording one thing that I am grateful for each and every day.

I'm really excited to get the work crew involved with this one! We have a "Wall of Gratitude" for us to put daily what we are thankful for and why. We are also having different people post something around positivity or gratitude on our work blog every day. I am really looking forward to reading what others have to share and it hopefully creating an even more energetic, positive work environment.

Here is my positivity pledge for the next 31 days:

If it is not constructive, I will not say it.

If pessimism creeps in, I will choose optimism.

My purpose is greater than my challenges.

Wish me luck on this one...it is really going to be a challenge. If you catch me slipping up (which I probably will) do me a favor and remind me of my goal. Kyle can keep you informed of how well I'm actually doing! :)

Does anybody want to join me?

8 years

 A quick little love note to my husband...

8 years ago, today, I married my best friend and pledged to you the "loyalty of my life, the love of my heart, and the devotion of my soul." I promised you, "your faithful wife to ever be, until death we do part."

I remember how happy we were and how in love we were. But I can honestly say, even though we spent a good majority of this year apart, our relationship is the strongest it has ever been and I fall more and more in love with you every year. Every day I am amazed and thankful that I get to spend my life with you!

For our 8 year anniversary I thought I'd share just 8 of the many wonderful reasons I love you.

1 - You put God first. I always know you will make the right decision; it is so comforting! You encourage me and it has been so exciting to see you grow.
2 - You are the most unselfish person I know.You put me and others first and sacrifice daily. I need to learn a thing or two from you!
3 - You are so Patient. Mostly with me! :) Even when I make it difficult for someone to love me you are so patient and don't give up on me. Thank you!!
4 - You are incredibly Generous. I LOVE this quality about you. You are so giving and loving and willing to share whatever you have...your time, your money, your resources. I respect so much what you have done in the past and continue to do for our friends, family and acquaintances.
5 - You always have a Positive outlook. I know I will never hear you say something negative about another person. You always have a good outlook on life too. You look for the positive in everything, assume the best in everyone, and trust things will work out. You challenge me to do the same thing and help me to be a better person!
6 - You work so hard. You give 100% in whatever you do and have a great work ethic. That is so comforting and I am so proud of you.
7 - You are Encouraging and Supportive. I can always count on you to have my back...even with some of my crazy ideas! You do your best to support me in whatever I decide to tackle, or even when I fall short. You celebrate with me, let me cry on your shoulder and believe in me. Thank you!
8 - You make me feel like you adore me. I'm still not sure exactly why you fell in love with me many years ago. I wasn't looking...and it took me a little longer to be open to the idea of us but I'm so glad you were patient and persistent and saw something with us that you didn't give up on. You made me feel safe, special and were my friend, which eventually led to love. I still feel safe and special to this day! I love when you give me that little look that lets me know you think I am the most special person on this Earth to you! I think you are crazy...but I love you for it!

I'm so blessed that God brought you into my life. I'm very lucky that I found someone who knows what real love is...actions...not just words. You have made me a better person; I feel that this has been the best year yet and I am so excited for many more adventures to come...Lord willing!

I love you Mr.! Thanks for asking me to marry you! You have the "loyalty of my life, the love of my heart, and the devotion of my soul." I promise you, "your faithful wife to ever be, until death we do part." :) I'm so happy we made that promise to each other!

A quick note to you single ladies and young girls out there. DON'T SETTLE! Find a man that is unselfish, puts God first and you second...they are out there! Don't forget...God loves you and wants you to be happy!

Paleo and Vegan "Cakies"

 I LOVE these cookies/"cakies"!

1 - They are easy!
2 - They are tasty!
3 - They are Vegan as well as Paleo! I know a few people who are Vegan and it can be a little tricky trying to find something that is good that everyone can enjoy! But these do the trick!

They are called "Cakies" because they are much lighter and more fluffy in texture. I only had almond "meal" on hand for these. It is a little more coarse than almond flour. It tastes just the same...just makes the texture a little different.

Here is where I found the recipe: http://www.multiplydelicious.com/thefood/2011/09/paleo-banana-chocolate-chip-cakies/

Banana Chocolate Chip “Cakies”

1 cup mashed ripe bananas, about 1 large banana
2 tablespoons creamy almond butter
1 tablespoons apple butter (optional)* (Sometimes I just use Apple Sauce)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of Salt
1 ¼ cup almond flour
¼ cup Enjoy Life Chocolate Chips (gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free – delicious)

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
With a hand mixer, blend together the banana, almond butter, apple butter, vanilla extract, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add in almond flour and chocolate chips and stir to combine.
Using a 1 ½” ice cream scoop, scoop dough into even scoops and place on prepared baking sheet. Bake for 11-14 minutes or until cookies are slightly golden on top. (I cooked mine quite a bit longer...hence the very golden on top!) Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before removing from pan. Again, these are soft so if you remove too soon you’ll have a soft cookie crumb mess.

Commit to be Fit

(Me and my beautiful spreadsheet....day 1...complete!
I look so bad in this picture! I had just finished working out.
It is black and white so you can't see how ridiculously red my face is!)

 Proverbs 31:17

She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.

Who knew the Proverbs 31 woman was buff! (Is that rude…I didn’t mean it to be rude!)

I have been putting this one off for a LONG time.  But we were able to get my health under control, our eating, our budget, the housework.  What could I tackle next?  Exercise.  I know one reason this one is a hard one for me.  I get quite obsessive about it.  If I say I’m going to do it every day…then I MUST do it every day.  It stresses me out if I don’t.  If I say I’m going to exercise 30 minutes…then I feel like I need to push it to 45.  If I’m going to jog 3 miles…I should push it to 3.5 or 4.  It just gets a little overwhelming. So I avoid it!

I'll exercise now and then but I haven't been doing anything consistent. I know there are so many benefits to consistency.  If Kyle wants to go on a 10 mile hike - I want to be able to keep up and not feel like I’m going to die! I need to build muscle. So many health benefits…so many excuses!

Like…"I need to make dinner when I get home."  "I don’t get off work consistently at the same time."  "I need to spend time with Kyle when I get off. " "I don’t want to get up earlier in the morning to work out, my face is red all day."  "I don’t want to do it when I get off…then I have to shower again. " …you get the idea…

I need to challenge myself and be a little more consistent with my exercise. 31 days...I can do it! (Putting it in bold makes me sound a little more confident than I actually am!)

I decided I needed to build in a little flexibility into this 31 day challenge.  That had worked really well with my cleaning project.

So here is what I came up with:

• 31 days (My lucky number)
• 30 minutes a day. (Don’t overdo it and over commit.  If I can do more…great!)
• Whatever activity I want. ( I’m not going to commit to Couch to 5K…P90X…Strength Traning…TurboFire.  I need to just start somewhere and start building some consistency that is maintainable.)
• FLEXIBILITY:  And this is the key!  If I do 31 days and 30 minutes a day that is 930 minutes.  So what if I just say that I need to complete 930 minutes in the month.  That way if I miss a day because something more important comes up I haven’t FAILED and it doesn’t stress me out and I can make it up another day.  Or, if I can only make 15 minutes on one day, but Kyle and I go for an hour hike on another day.  It all evens out.
• Accountability:  Well…I’m posting it here.  Even if no one reads it. Maybe I can recruit some others. I also created a spreadsheet. (You know I love my spreadsheets!)  It has my 31 days to cross off and my 930 minutes to highlight as I complete.  A good visual…and I get to check something off a list...FUN!

I had a couple "false starts" on this one...but I started over and I'm on Day 3 now! I’m looking forward to the benefits and building on it in the future.

I usually like to wait and post that I’ve succeeded at something.  But I think I need to put it out there at the beginning.  This one is going to be a tough one for me. So here it goes….

Hopefully I can give you an update soon that says I’ve completed another challenge.

What works for you?  What gets in your way?

If you need a buddy to help hold you accountable…let me know!

"Spaghetti" (sqaush) and Meatballs

The pictures didn't turn out so great on these because we were in a hurry and very hungry! :) Our kitchen smelled SO good. It turned out quite delicious. I would highly recommend it. I think this would be something great to try if you are trying to get your kids (or husbands!) to eat more vegetables.

I haven't had spaghetti squash in quite a while because a few years back I was eating it just about every day for breakfast and got really burnt out on it.

Spaghetti squash...I've missed you...and I look forward to rebuilding our relationship! :)

Paleo Spaghetti and Meatballs:

Meatballs: (approximate measurements)

• 1 lb ground chicken;
• Garlic powder
• 1 egg;
• Almond flour;
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce;
• 1 tsp paprika;
• 1 tsp onion powder;
• Italian seasoning
• Generous amounts of basil paste
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon;
• Coconut oil
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients together (add enough almond meal to make the right meatball consistency…whatever that is?!)
2. Form into golf ball size balls
3. Heat Coconut oil up in frying pan
4. Fry meatballs up (3-5 minutes per side)
5. If you don’t move them around a lot they can get nice and crispy!

Spaghetti Sauce:

This was an experiment.  I’ll have to get measurements next time!

• 1 can of tomato sauce
• 1 small can of tomato paste
• Basil
• Lemon
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh tomatoes from the garden crushed up
• Chives from the garden

Spaghetti Squash:

Cut in half

Scrape out the seeds from the middle

Bake/Cook as directed (usually there is a sticker with instructions on the squash)

Scrape out “noodles”

Serve!


 

Flank Steak

Paleo Flank Steak:

I have never been a fan of red meat…but I’m trying to branch out a little more.  I like to do a flank steak once in a while because it seems to be a little cheaper of a cut.  Using a marinade seems to really help things out.  Get creative with your own but here is what I might do…(honestly…I just add a little of this and a little of that)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup coconut aminos
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• Juice of half a fresh lemon
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 Tbl of honey
• Garlic powder
• Fresh ginger
• Onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds flank steak

Instructions:

1. Put all ingredients in a large Ziploc bag
2. Marinate overnight (or while at work)
3. Have your husband grill it up on the grill (About 5-7 minutes on each side…or more depending on your preference).
4. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Tonight we served it up with some grilled zucchini and Mashed Cauliflower.

Paleo Chicken "Fettuccine Cauli-fredo"

 

Paleo Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo AKA: "Zuchi-ccine Cauli-fredo":

We had A LOT of zucchini from the secret garden. (What is the secret garden you ask? You’ll have to check back to this blog post.) Kyle previously made me some zucchini muffins and made some zucchini bread for himself, we used the rest for grilling (YUM!) and decided to try some Zucchini noodles.

Problem: I don’t have a mandoline. (Is that the right word? Great…now I’m going to end up with a musical instrument for Christmas!) You know what I’m talking about…right? Like a pampered chef slicing thing…yeah…I really want one! It would make this whole process A LOT easier! I had to use a peeler and peel the zucchini into strips and then cut it up into fettuccine size. It works…it just takes a while!

To cook your “noodles”: (Jessica dubbed them zuchi-ccine. I told her I didn’t think it would stick…but maybe?!)

Slice and sprinkle with salt – let rest to draw the moisture out. (About 20 minutes)

Rinse the salt off and now dry the noodles with a paper towel

Saute the noodles in some olive oil and season to taste.

Cauli-fredo:

Original recipe found here:  http://cupcakesomg.blogspot.com/2012/08/caulif-redo-sauce-aka-paleo-alfredo.html

I tweaked a little bit. My tweaks in italics

Ingredients:

• 1 head of cauliflower, cored and chopped into large chunks

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 shallot - Chives from Secret Garden only because I can’t have onion
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 Tbsp. shredded Parmesan – I added a little more
• 1/4 cup canned coconut milk
• salt/pepper to taste
• Garlic powder
• pinch of nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until fork-tender. 

2. While cauliflower steams, heat olive oil over medium low heat in a small pot and saute shallot. Add chicken broth and heat through. Add all other ingredients and heat through.

3. Add cauliflower, shallot/broth mixture, and remaining ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more coconut milk if needed.

We served it with some leftover chicken.

It is one of those surprisingly yummy recipes. Who knew Cauliflower could be so good!J

Pumpkin Waffles

 

Paleo Pumpkin Waffles:

Fall is here people! 

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Fall! I love the crisp smell in the air. I love the beautiful fall leaves. I love the fog in the morning. I love the Fall fashion. I don’t love pumpkin. (No…that wasn’t a typo!)

 

Never been a big fan of pumpkin. I’ll try to eat pumpkin pie every year at Thanksgiving, but never with any big success.

But…I LOVE these pumpkin waffles! They may have just made a pumpkin lover out of me. I’ll post some pumpkin muffins that are pretty tasty too at some point! (Thanks for the recipe Jacob!)
 

Imagine it…What could be more yummy than curling up in your PJ’s with your family on a foggy, Fall Saturday morning to some delicious pumpkin waffles and a mug of tea (or coffee for you coffee lovers). 

Hint: NOTHING!  It is just so heartwarming and absolutely delicious!

Here is a link to the original recipe: http://paleomg.com/paleo-pumpkin-waffles/

I doubled it, made a couple little tweaks

Paleo Pumpkin Waffles

Ingredients

• 1 cup pureed pumpkin
• 1.5 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk
• 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 4 tablespoon maple syrup (I used honey!)
• 4 eggs, whisked
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (I used a lot more!)
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger (I used fresh grated)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Sugar free/Dairy free chocolate chips

Instructions

1. In a medium sized bowl, mix together coconut milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla.
2. Then add the rest of the dry ingredients and pumpkin and mix together. Add a bit more coconut milk, if needed.
3. Ladle into your waffle maker. Be careful, they expand a bit so they will be pour over if you get ladle happy.
4. Cook until done – mine took a little longer than a “normal” waffle

You can top with some coconut ice cream and fresh blackberries. Or some coconut butter and blackberry "syrup." Or whatever sounds good to you!

 

SOOOOO GOOOOOOD!!!!

Baked Chicken and Mashed Cauli

 

Paleo Baked Chicken:

Easy and delicious…what more do you need to know?

I didn't have pecans...so I had to use Almonds.

Original recipe found at:  http://everydaypaleo.com/2010/05/01/pecan-crusted-chicken/

Pecan Crusted Chicken
4 chicken breasts
1/2 cup organic spicy brown mustard
2 tbsp raw organic honey
1 cup pecans
sea salt
Instructions:
Pre heat oven to 350. In a medium sized mixing bowl blend together the mustard and honey.  Toss the pecans in a food processor and pulse until the nuts are finely chopped.  Pour the chopped pecans either on a plate or in a pie pan if you have one.  Using a paper towel, remove any excess moisture from the outside of your chicken breasts.  Taking one chicken breast at a time, first place the chicken into the mustard/honey mixture and coat on both sides.  Transfer chicken to the chopped pecans and again cover both sides.  Place coated chicken into a greased glass baking dish (I used a little olive oil spray to cover the bottom of the dish) and sprinkle each chicken breast with just a little sea salt.  Bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until the chicken juices run clear.

We chose to serve it up with some Mashed Cauliflower.  I’m going to tell another of Kyle’s secrets…he has never been much of a Cauliflower person. Every time we are going to have it he has to tell me how cauliflower is actually a cabbage broccoli hybrid and not a real vegetable etc. (A lot of you are thinking…”that sounds like Kyle.”) He recently said though, “As much as it pains me to say this, I think you might have made a cauliflower convert out of me.”  Maybe you’ll be a Cauliflower convert too.  There are so many things you can do with it: Riced Cauliflower, pizza crust, “alfredo" sauce (coming soon!)  But for now...

Mashed Cauliflower:

Steam your cauliflower florets

Put in a food processor

Add some chicken stock

Season to taste (Worchestire sauce is good!)

Cooking

Proverbs 31: 15

She also rises while it is yet night,
And provides food for her household,
And a portion for her maidservants.

I’m going to tell on you honey.  So…one time (a few years back) Kyle made the comment that I wasn’t very domestic.  GASP!!  But I’m your wife?  He didn’t mean it in an ugly way at all.  But it hurt…it hurt because it was true! I’m sure if he knew it would have hurt my feelings he wouldn’t have said it. I was good at other things…but cooking and cleaning weren’t really my forte!

Fast forward a few years…I’m very pleased to announce Kyle more recently said I was a good cook! J  Thanks babe! That makes me very happy.

Eating Paleo has forced us to be a little more creative with our cooking.  I LOVE trying new things now.  I’m a little more confident in just going with things and not having to follow a recipe.

The key for me is to keep mixing things up and trying new things to keep it fresh and exciting. Before eating Paleo we were pretty much on a rotation of the same foods each week: Fajitas, Taco Salad, Spaghetti, Grill something, Pick up something at the store on the way home, take out…

Now we have a few staples that we keep on the rotation but we have been trying a lot of new things.  It is hard to plan ahead sometimes and sometimes it doesn’t turn out the best! :)  But it is always fun and a learning experience. It is also rewarding, empowering, AND HEALTHY!! J

Every week I plan out our menu (usually with some help from Kyle) and then go shopping for the week.  Now it is just part of our routine and helps our family function so much more efficiently!

Try it out…even for a week.  Plan a menu and start cooking!

What keeps you from making home cooked meals?