Lighten Up!

[greeniss]

Just cause...

[Luvmykidz]

I really like Gumby--and your new avi!

[greeniss]

Thanks girlie

[greeniss]

FYI, if you don’t have a scanner or if you don’t have a digital camera (or any camera at all), here’s one of the easiest ways you can post pictures.

1) Buy a disposable camera
2) Have a fantastically fun time taking pictures
3) Take your camera to a photo lab near you and have them developed onto a disc (near $7 where I’m from)
4) Pick the disc up
5) Download pictures from the disc to a photo sharing website of your choice (I like photobucket)
6) Share pictures Yaaaay!

[Luvmykidz]

Originally Posted by greeniss

FYI, if you don’t have a scanner or if you don’t have a digital camera (or any camera at all), here’s one of the easiest ways you can post pictures.

1) Buy a disposable camera
2) Have a fantastically fun time taking pictures
3) Take your camera to a photo lab near you and have them developed onto a disc (near $7 where I’m from)
4) Pick the disc up
5) Download pictures from the disc to a photo sharing website of your choice (I like photobucket)
6) Share pictures Yaaaay!

Thanks for the tip! I do have a digital camera. But didn't know how to get the pics from my computer to the post here.

Hmmmmmm. I will still have to sort through the ones I already have on the puter. I may have some fun ones to share.

I think it would be fun to be closer together so we could chat in person. I feel it is much easier to 'read' a person's heart when I can see their eyes, and watch them respond when I talk.

Oh well--someday, Heaven! Eternity is a long time, and I am sure we will be able to visit then!

[greeniss]

You can hang out at my mansion anytime!

[Luvmykidz]

Originally Posted by greeniss

You can hang out at my mansion anytime!

[AllieCat0817]

I am digging these posts in here! Very cool.

Heather, I don't count fat.. never really have. I don't 'limit' it, but I do know that calories matter so I try to stay within 200-300 calories of my BMR on most days. My BMR is around 1300, so if I stay 1300-1600 on most days, I am good. I eat full fat yogurt, cheese, salad dressing etc. I will never do low fat again.

[Luvmykidz]

Originally Posted by AllieCat0817

I am digging these posts in here! Very cool.

Heather, I don't count fat.. never really have. I don't 'limit' it, but I do know that calories matter so I try to stay within 200-300 calories of my BMR on most days. My BMR is around 1300, so if I stay 1300-1600 on most days, I am good. I eat full fat yogurt, cheese, salad dressing etc. I will never do low fat again.

Hi, Allie! I am thinking we have a very similar perspective (and needs) on diet. I count most weekdays, but on weekends I am a little more relaxed. Some days I have noticed I am actually very hungry, so I eat more. I think you were right about the T-Tapp increasing appetite. Must be that I am actually building new muscle that needs the fuel!

I love FF yogurt, Brown Cow is my current favorite, as it is not homogenized and has the cream on the top. I do eat it sometimes, but I have not been using the 'yogurt exception'. Counting all 12 carbs works fine for me, though, since I do PP, and allow myself 30-50 net carbs per day.

Cheese is yummy on scrambled eggs or salad! Low fat is sooooo not tasty, as far as I am concerned. Might as well not eat the foods at all, rather than eat a poor substitute, IMO.

[greeniss]

Okay, sorry it took me so long...


Heather Actually, I spent most of my life in non-denominational churches. With a brief stint in a Nazarene congregation. But I am thinking often they were offshoots of various Baptist denominations. The last couple of years,DH and I have made an effort to peel away everything we have been taught and to hold it all up for examination in light of God's word. And a lot of it just does not hold up.

Green I agree that is what you should do. 2 Timothy 2:15

Heather It is amazing how much stuff we are told that is not actually in the Bible. There are a lot of misconceptions and extra rules that MAN has injected into Biblical truth.

Green Everything preached from the pulpit at my church has scripture to back it up. I know, below you’re not saying that ALL are bad.

Heather And I am not trying to say that organized churches are all wrong or anything. But, the older and more organized a church group seems to be, the more likely there are to be flaws in some of the teachings. We humans just seem to love to tamper with what God has said (like we could improve on it!) That is just the way we are.

Green But the first churches were organized. Yes, we must be ware of men who use ideas instead of truth. 1 Tim 3:1 talks about the requirements of a Pastor and deacons in the church.
The main purpose of having a church is to have a place where you can fulfill God’s first commandment to Christians after they’re saved Matthew 28:19. A place where Christ is the head. A place where you can bring people to hear God’s word. Go, Win, Baptize, Disciple. Matthew 28:19
The collection plate that goes around is also so that Matthew 28:19 can be fulfilled. We support missionaries who “go”. We have youth ministries and activities that show kids and adults the gospel of how to KNOW for sure they’re on their way to heaven when they die. There are gospel tracks we pass out that share the gospel. We have a school. It all costs money. The amount that comes in is posted every week, and once a year, we look at what came in, and where it went. The pastor should always remain accountable.

Heather Christian beliefs are not popular these days. I guess, never really have been, considering the rough start the Church had. And with all the pressure to just shut up and let others live how they want--it is easy to just turn and ignore wrongness, or customize our beliefs and behavior to match the times, so we don't stand out so much.

Green When you’re speaking the truth from the Bible, you will always face opposition. Matthew 5:11. Look at how people reacted to Jesus. If we as Christians (Christ-Like), live up to his name, then those who refuse his truth WILL despise us also. But don’t fret. Matthew 10:14

The main thing I wanted to address was your view on Organized Churches. Acts is filled with how churches (no matter how old or new) should be run. To be a true New Testament Church, Christ must be the head.

[Luvmykidz]

Nuts, I got knocked off line while I was typing.

Well, I will try again.

I am sorry you became alarmed at my post--Um, I think I came across wrong about the things that are taught in churches. The church we left was very strong on doctrine. I am not a scholar, but DH is very sharp and has had a very good upbringing in Biblical truth. There was nothing we heard preached that was out of line with Scripture. In fact the pastor was very very adamant that we need more truth and less hand holding with the world. I don't disagree with this statement. Our former church also has taken a hard stance on church discipline, which, in its proper context, is sometimes necessary. It is dangerous to the body as a whole to allow someone into the group who claims the Christian faith, but does not live accordingly and is unwilling to recognize sin when it is brought to their attention. Part of the reason we are to gather together is to help hold each other accountable before God.

But, practically speaking, the church as a group was not really interested in building relationships between people. At least, not in the way DH and I understand should be done.(A whole other, very long story, which I probably should not relate, becuase, there is serious potential for misunderstanding, and I don't want to make it seem like we are sour on our former church)

I will say this: The church group we are now a part of consists largely of people who had once attended the original church and were hurt by the leadership, and then ostracized ( don't know if it was on purpose, or just the nature of how things were handled). These are Godly people, who love the Lord, not unrepentant sinners. DH did try to respectfully address the issue, as God showed him the problem. But he was not well received. We found out in the process we were not the first or only ones to see this. And because we do believe we need to respect and support whatever church leadership we sit under, we had to leave. We left on relatively good terms, after DH had spoken his heart over the concerns he had.

So, after taking the long way around the barn, I will say that I did not mean that truth is not being preached, but rather there are a lot of extra Biblical rules (either unspoken expectations or in church by-laws) that, by signing on to a particular group, I am acknowledging that I agree with those statements. I cant do that if I can't find in my Bible where it says 'women cannot wear pants' or some such rule that a man has added. From my perspective, If I join a group that abides by a particular set of extra-Biblical rules, and I do not believe those rules hold up when compared to Scripture, I am basically lying. There are others who firmly believe that God does not want women wearing pants, so they could sign on to that variety of congregation with a clean conscience. It is more of a 'disputable matter' or conscience issue than one of salvation. Does that make sense?

You are right. Organization is essential. We are not trying to break away from accountability to authority. Just from human tradition. I believe there are to be teachers (pastors) and a plurality of elders within a congregation. I am not so sure about our tendency to vote them into office. I have seen several voted in pastors that I truly wonder if they even belonged in the pastoral ministry. Not saying I know this. I just wonder.

Our church group is new, and the men have been seriously praying and discussing what is the best way to recognize church leadership. We are acutely aware of this need, but are waiting for God's direction on how to bring it about. As we get to know each other better, we are trusting that God will raise up the leaders we need, rather than us jump ahead of Him and just pick some people for the sake of saying we have a pastor and elders. For the time being, heads of households are sharing responsibility of leading the group.

Discipleship of younger people by the elder , more spritually mature ones is a big focus with our group. The younger men are being encouraged to step up and learn for themselves and boldly take responsibility for leading their families. Personal responsibility before God and to each other is a top priority.

In all fairness I understand it is totally possible to have a traditional church that is right in line with Gods will. We lived in Montana for a while, and God led DH and I to such a one. It was exactly what we needed at that time in our lives. I am not trying to say they don't exist.

I believe it is Biblical to compensate a pastor for his efforts. Paul mentions this in 1 Corinthians 9. He had the RIGHT to take pay, but chose not to. He said his true reward was this "in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights in preaching it ". He was very careful to stay above reproach in his dealings with those he was teaching. No one could accuse him of being a money grubbing free loader.

Pastoral compensation should be given freely by those he serves. God can certainly prompt hearts to do what is right. I have seen it many, many times as God nudged individuals to give, and give generously. DH grew up with it. God takes care of His own. And when we obey Him and care for each other the way He says, we get to share in the blessings He freely gives.

I have not yet found where the passing of the plate is specifically commanded. I honestly would like a reference if you know of it. It would help a lot.

I appreciate your heart and can tell you love the Lord. Thanks for caring enough to discuss this.

Please, feel totally free to ask questions or bring up concerns if you have any. Like I said, I am not perfect. And God uses our interaction with other members of His body to help knock off the rough edges so we can become more like Jesus! I honestly welcome the opportunity to examine and re-examine my own heart before my Lord.

[greeniss]

Originally Posted by Luvmykidz

I have not yet found where the passing of the plate is specifically commanded. I honestly would like a reference if you know of it. It would help a lot.

I appreciate your heart and can tell you love the Lord. Thanks for caring enough to discuss this.

Please, feel totally free to ask questions or bring up concerns if you have any. Like I said, I am not perfect. And God uses our interaction with other members of His body to help knock off the rough edges so we can become more like Jesus! I honestly welcome the opportunity to examine and re-examine my own heart before my Lord.

I've always tended to be a little too straight forward and I need to be careful not to come accross as judgmental (especially since typing can be misinterpreted).

It sounds like you all want to do what is right. I'll join you in praying that God leads you in what steps to take.

I appreciate your heart as well and I am more than thrilled to have you to talk with and encourage. I won't be perfect until I meet Jesus, so grab a chissel and hack any rough edges you see off of me.

Soon I'll be able to PM and I will no longer jack your journal.

Check out Heb 7 (specifically v 5)

[Luvmykidz]

Thanks, Greeniss, for the reference, I will take a close look at it in its context.


I forgot yesterday was measurement check in.

146.5 pounds

Upper chest 35.5 original measure
bust 39.5 / 42
waist 30.75 / 32.5
ab. 35.5 / 37
Hips 39.5

I can now fit into all the clothing I wore before my pregnancy. Am almost able to wear size 9/10 jeans comfortably. And medium shirts.

[Luvmykidz]

Hmmmm, checked Heb 7, and have some initial thoughts. Still processing, though.

Soooooo, got my tapping in. I feel like I am starting over.

Should never have let it slide. 15 minutes can fit in just about anywhere.

Guess I need to just admit there are no excuses, and I have just been lazy.

Up side is that I really like the workout and it is not torture to get back into it.

I cannot believe how God has been dealing with my heart the past few days. And some of it was initiated through this message board! Has to be God...I'm not that educated or that smart on my own. Actually, I am kind of glad I am not 'educated'. I like being able to have God teach me and not have a presupposed idea in my head to compete.

But I think it is best to keep that to myself for now. I recall learning a lesson a few months back about not jumping to conclusions when I see God start to work.

So, for now I wait and listen.

[greeniss]

I didn't know what to say, but I wanted you to know I'm here

[Luvmykidz]

Originally Posted by greeniss

I didn't know what to say, but I wanted you to know I'm here

Thanks, Greeniss. The lesson is great, it just hasn't been completed yet. Please pray that I will listen well

[Luvmykidz]

Well, a week of not watching my carbs carefully and eating some processed meat (high sodium) resulted in a 4 pound bloat. I weighed 151 early this morning, and just a bit ago was down by one pound. I am drinking my water again. I'm back on t-tapp and it feels like starting over. Funny thing, I only got one exercise day in last week--Wed or Thurs. I can't remember for sure.

But this morning the outsides of my thighs were really sore, like I HAD been doing something the day before. I wonder if this is the muscle fibers actually deteriorating from not being used? Perhaps they are in pain because they are returning to their former shape?

So, anyway. You know what they say--My 'sin' found me out. The consequenses of poor choices caught up to me, and didn't take all that long.

Still contemplating the experience I had this past week. Actually, it has been more like 2 or 3 weeks of experience, but only the last week or so of piecing things together. Waiting for God to direct me. What am I supposed to learn here? Admittedly, I am not a very patient person. Good thing He is. Maybe that is what this is about? Just learning to wait patiently.

Of course, I may not know the complete answer for months. Or not even in this lifetime. Or ever. But I trust God to show me what I need to know as He sees fit.

[Luvmykidz]

Well, quick fly-by. Posting that I now have 2 days of T-Tapp 'reinduction' under my belt. I am really pleased at the muscle tone my legs have developed. Even my inner thighs are starting to tighten up. Yay! No more Jell-O Girl. And my tummy is flatter, too. And my upper hip fat pads are shrinking. I am thinking about taking a progress pic in two weeks (Labor Day) to post here with my "before" picture. I hope I can figure it out!

Looks like I was right about being carbed up this last week. My rings fit better today, and the scale number is going back down. 149 this morning.

Water, Water ,Water----Flush the bloat out!

And limit carbs today and tomorrow, I have enough of their effects in my system to last me til Thursday, for sure.

And easy on the salt.

I am still dumping Tabasco sauce on my eggs and tuna and salad and even on my roast last night. So weird. I went from craving sugar to craving hot sauce. That does not make sense. But at least this new 'obsession' doesn't have a bunch of sugar and fat to mess me up!

[greeniss]

Originally Posted by Luvmykidz

Well, quick fly-by. Posting that I now have 2 days of T-Tapp 'reinduction' under my belt. I am really pleased at the muscle tone my legs have developed. Even my inner thighs are starting to tighten up. Yay! No more Jell-O Girl. And my tummy is flatter, too. And my upper hip fat pads are shrinking. I am thinking about taking a progress pic in two weeks (Labor Day) to post here with my "before" picture. I hope I can figure it out!

Looks like I was right about being carbed up this last week. My rings fit better today, and the scale number is going back down. 149 this morning.

Water, Water ,Water----Flush the bloat out!

And limit carbs today and tomorrow, I have enough of their effects in my system to last me til Thursday, for sure.

And easy on the salt.

I am still dumping Tabasco sauce on my eggs and tuna and salad and even on my roast last night. So weird. I went from craving sugar to craving hot sauce. That does not make sense. But at least this new 'obsession' doesn't have a bunch of sugar and fat to mess me up!

No more jello-girl! But she was my hero

Good job on getting back down.

Day one of eating clean in a while for me.

[Luvmykidz]

Originally Posted by greeniss

No more jello-girl! But she was my hero

Good job on getting back down.

Day one of eating clean in a while for me.

Thanks for the encouragement! I have a couple more pounds of bloat to lose and then it is back to business!

Congratulations yourself on your day of clean eating! The first couple of days always seem hard, but once you get back into the right mind set of "this is my eating style" it gets a lot better.Like any habit, you just have to keep repeating it and it will eventually sink in.

I gotta go color a picture with my little girl.

Have a great evening.

[Strawberry]

WOW, I am lovin' the conversation regarding churches here too, like Allie!

I struggled with this issue quite a bit as a result of the church-hopping my family did, during my childhood and teens, some non-denominational some denominations. Being hurt and confused by some of the teachings and goings on that didn't seem truly biblical... but more of someone's stretch of the Bible or interpretations.... to the point where for a while, I honestly didn't want to go to church, and when it was left up to me in college, I just listened to the radio sermons of some churches and didn't even want to deal with the "people" part of any church. I watched my parents confronting the same things you and your hubby had to confont, Heather.

Now I'm starting to see that was the wrong reaction and attitude, to basically throw the baby out with the bath water. I'm still struggling a bit looking for a church where I live, so I really appreciate reading this.

Heather, you are soooooo close to goal!! Hang in there! The last couple lbs are so often the hardest to lose.

[Luvmykidz]

Hi, Strawberry!

Thanks for the encouragement! I am close to my posted goal, and am kind of nervous. I probably should cut it to 135, because once I carb back up, I will end up at 140. But, I will take things one step at a time. I think, for me, losing the last few pounds is hard just because I get lazy because I am 'so close'.

I am glad you feel our church conversation is good for you. I have had some serious thoughts as to whether it is wise to do it this way....But since it is already started publicly, it might as well continue, yes?

DH and I have struggled a long time with 'churchiness'. His family was pretty much raised in the church as his dad is a pastor. And my family was more of the hopping variety. After we married, we both got really burned out, because we started to recognize all the flaws in the organizations, and we quit going altogether for a while. And then we moved out of state for a year and didn't know anyone. The town we moved to was really small, but had several churches, and we felt God was urging us to give it one more try.

So we closed our eyes and picked one. And wouldn't you know, it was EXACTLY what we needed. During our time there, we came to a realization that the church--the true Church is not programs or buildings or denominations or by-laws or even great sermons...It is Gods people. WE are the church--Christ's body. And, although people tend to be the biggest problem with the church, people are also what it is all about. People are why Jesus came in the first place. Loving others is second only to loving God.

I think often about 1 Corinthians 13. The LOVE chapter. And until I read it in its context, I always thought it was a beautiful description of what love really is (which it is, BTW). But in its context, it is actually a rebuke to the Corinthians for their shameful mistreatment of each other. We are to be known for our love for each other, but so often, we are recognized by non-believers for our factions, our denominations, our scandals, our hypocrisy......

Anyway, we have had some ups and downs, but God has been faithful to teach us. Certainly we don't have it all figured out. But now we have our priorities more in line. And we are enjoying Christ centered fellowship, even if it is a bit unconventional at this time.

You are more than welcome to join the conversation! I like having people give me input and even opposing views are welcome. If I am wrong in my thinking, it will help me correct it. If I am right, I don't have anything to fear from questions.

Part of the beauty of belonging to Jesus' family is that He uses each of us to help bring others closer to their completeness in Him.

[Luvmykidz]

Jumping in for a minute to post Day 3 of T-tapp 'reinduction', even though I have not done it yet. Now I have to because I said so!


Weight is still going down 148 this morning. I sure do wish I had been more careful last week!

Oh well--As the saying goes "If wishes were horses then beggars would ride".

Wishing doesn't change reality.

So, now I'm off so I don't make myself out to be a liar!

[Luvmykidz]

Okay, I did the exercise, AND it was the whole basic workout, including the hoedowns . I had some trouble with balance and proper form during the second set, but I didn't fall over.