Helloooo...
It's Friday! Yay! Not that I have big plans or anything, but I don't have to come to work tomorrow!
I am ashamed to admit I have lost interest in the Love Dare a little.. I am going to get myself back interested in it. I want to watch the movie about it this weekend.
I have been really struggling with the whole baby thing this week. More and more people I know are getting pregnant. I am happy for them, but it makes me sad for me! Honestly I don't think I will ever have another one. I'm not sure why I feel that way, but I do, like in my heart I already know there won't be anymore babies for me. Now, if I could just come to terms with it my life would be a little less stressful. I wouldn't be sad EVERY single month, I wouldn't get my hopes up, I wouldn't cry when the inevitable happens every month. I am going to work on this, I'm just not sure how.
I gained 3 lbs back when I got my teeth pulled and sadly I have not gotten rid of those lbs. I haven't gained any, but still. I'm getting back to working out hard core. I think I am going to start bringing Tony Horton to work with me. I'm in the back of the office alone so I can workout for my lunch break. That will also be easier because once I get home I do NOT feel like working out. I will blog about how it goes.
For those who want an update on my teeth, they are better, not as painful. Still an annoyance, but not nearly like they were. I went yesterday and had them cut the wires that were bothering me. and the pushed down one of the cleats on one of the bands because it was bothering me. I can't wait till my next appointment.. my teeth are already starting to move. I took a picture of them but I am too scared to post it. When I'm all done with these braces I will post up close pictures.. like before and after! :)
Friday, February 17, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
John and I...
I know you aren't supposed to believe this stuff, but it's actually pretty accurate, I'm the Leo and John is the Capricorn.
Leo and Capricorn basically have some communication differences, still they feel attracted towards each other but definitely with a different approach. Leo is insatiably expressive in love relationships, often impulsive, and very demonstrative too. On the other hand, Capricorn possesses a steadier and practical view towards relationships which is full of realistic behavior.
Capricorn man is very quiet, subdued person who is very dedicated towards his ambitions and frugal with his money. He is not much for the social life or the luxuries rather he is a simple man with simple needs. He is reserved with his feelings and chooses to keep them from the rest of the world. He has the patience needed to help him deal with controversy but generally likes to avoid such situations. He likes to see his lady in the role of woman only. He cares and protects his lady love with true devotion and loyalty but always keeps his upper hand.
Leo woman is strong, extremely independent and out going woman. She loves to be the center of attraction and always is the flavor of the parties with admirers all around her. She is impulsive and frivolous with money and luxuries are the one thing she buys for her royal taste at any cost. She expects to be worshipped but never fathoms the idea of doing so for others. A natural born leader, she is both glamorous as well as gregarious. She loves and respects her man in every possible way but expects the same from him, rather a little more admiration and command.
Capricorn man admires Leo woman for her natural poise and pride. He loves her for her graciousness. She is on her toes when it comes to the art of conversation and can manipulate her words to get what she wants and this is where the Capricorn man salutes her intellect and admires her. She seems to be on a much higher scale than her Capricorn man. Prestige and class follow her as well as envy and admiration from many others. There are a few moments when this attitude of Leo woman creates troubles for her Capricorn man as he is more an introvert and home bound person with traditional mind-set for women especially his woman. But her generous nature and willing to forgive grabs attention of Capricorn man and her warmth and courage is something he always need.
Although Leo woman and Capricorn man seem quite the opposites, they actually have qualities the other craves, which pulls them together. His laid back attitude in life and success with money make his thrifty mind envy to others around him. She needs a man who can carry her luxurious and royal temperament for her. She wants a lover who can keep her in her status and he fits well in that position. He is well equipped to gain such qualities. Capricorn man’s determination and loyalty is well favored by his Leo lady, however, she may think of him as bitter, impassive, selfish, and penny-pinching while he sees her as being vain, spoiled, self-centered and arrogant. But together they fulfill the missing part of each other, making their partner feel complete in all dimensions of life and love.
As these two very different lovers discover the magic of unconditional love, the Leo woman and Capricorn man love, learn and grow together in an exciting adventure. There is an eternal and compelling call of affection in their spirits that keep them intact. Leo woman always needs the strength and stability of her Capricorn man while he always needs her warmth and courage. They always experience thrilling moments in their relationship that make their lives a beautiful memory to be cherished till eternity. On one hand the Capricorn man promises his Leo lady a magnificent view of life from the top of success and love and on the other the Leo woman promises her Capricorn man some most amazing and lovely paths to be discovered. Their promises are sturdy and so is the essence of their unison!
When the earthiness of Capricorn man and fire of Leo woman match up physically, they create a pleasure ultimate oneness. His touch is gentle towards her. She may not feel the affection immediately through her vanity that becomes her, but over the time she does. He melts her heart with his gentle approach and shows her the hidden power of his sexuality. Luckily for her, he is patient enough to wait for her to realize just how wonderful lovemaking can be if she just relaxes and stops thinking about her so much. Perhaps then she is able to uncover the core of the deeply rooted passion and experience that he can truly give. He knows, his patience will pay off and he will reap the benefits of uncovering the eloquence he knows lies just below his Leo woman’s shallow surface. She is the ultimate untamed lover with strong passion and burning desires, and he just has the right qualities to unleash this from her. His extreme attraction toward her is the basis for this due to her need to feel truly enamored and desired. Through the time — they make their love making a better and wonderful experience — bringing them closer physically and emotionally.
One weak point in a Capricorn man and Leo woman relationship is his overprotective and controlling nature toward her and her need for independence. She may want to rethink being so self-governing, or at least consult him in what she wants to do. This may ease his frustrations a bit as she bounds away and into society without him. He has to learn to trust that even though she needs to roam free, she knows enough to return back to him unscathed and still as loyal as she was when she left and he has to do it with an enthusiastic tone. If she senses reluctance or unwillingness from him, it is not effective and the happy peace and harmony in their relationship is destroyed. While she needs to look for his needs and should spend much time around him sharing his dreams to make him feel secure and loved.
Leo and Capricorn basically have some communication differences, still they feel attracted towards each other but definitely with a different approach. Leo is insatiably expressive in love relationships, often impulsive, and very demonstrative too. On the other hand, Capricorn possesses a steadier and practical view towards relationships which is full of realistic behavior.
Capricorn man is very quiet, subdued person who is very dedicated towards his ambitions and frugal with his money. He is not much for the social life or the luxuries rather he is a simple man with simple needs. He is reserved with his feelings and chooses to keep them from the rest of the world. He has the patience needed to help him deal with controversy but generally likes to avoid such situations. He likes to see his lady in the role of woman only. He cares and protects his lady love with true devotion and loyalty but always keeps his upper hand.
Leo woman is strong, extremely independent and out going woman. She loves to be the center of attraction and always is the flavor of the parties with admirers all around her. She is impulsive and frivolous with money and luxuries are the one thing she buys for her royal taste at any cost. She expects to be worshipped but never fathoms the idea of doing so for others. A natural born leader, she is both glamorous as well as gregarious. She loves and respects her man in every possible way but expects the same from him, rather a little more admiration and command.
Capricorn man admires Leo woman for her natural poise and pride. He loves her for her graciousness. She is on her toes when it comes to the art of conversation and can manipulate her words to get what she wants and this is where the Capricorn man salutes her intellect and admires her. She seems to be on a much higher scale than her Capricorn man. Prestige and class follow her as well as envy and admiration from many others. There are a few moments when this attitude of Leo woman creates troubles for her Capricorn man as he is more an introvert and home bound person with traditional mind-set for women especially his woman. But her generous nature and willing to forgive grabs attention of Capricorn man and her warmth and courage is something he always need.
Although Leo woman and Capricorn man seem quite the opposites, they actually have qualities the other craves, which pulls them together. His laid back attitude in life and success with money make his thrifty mind envy to others around him. She needs a man who can carry her luxurious and royal temperament for her. She wants a lover who can keep her in her status and he fits well in that position. He is well equipped to gain such qualities. Capricorn man’s determination and loyalty is well favored by his Leo lady, however, she may think of him as bitter, impassive, selfish, and penny-pinching while he sees her as being vain, spoiled, self-centered and arrogant. But together they fulfill the missing part of each other, making their partner feel complete in all dimensions of life and love.
As these two very different lovers discover the magic of unconditional love, the Leo woman and Capricorn man love, learn and grow together in an exciting adventure. There is an eternal and compelling call of affection in their spirits that keep them intact. Leo woman always needs the strength and stability of her Capricorn man while he always needs her warmth and courage. They always experience thrilling moments in their relationship that make their lives a beautiful memory to be cherished till eternity. On one hand the Capricorn man promises his Leo lady a magnificent view of life from the top of success and love and on the other the Leo woman promises her Capricorn man some most amazing and lovely paths to be discovered. Their promises are sturdy and so is the essence of their unison!
When the earthiness of Capricorn man and fire of Leo woman match up physically, they create a pleasure ultimate oneness. His touch is gentle towards her. She may not feel the affection immediately through her vanity that becomes her, but over the time she does. He melts her heart with his gentle approach and shows her the hidden power of his sexuality. Luckily for her, he is patient enough to wait for her to realize just how wonderful lovemaking can be if she just relaxes and stops thinking about her so much. Perhaps then she is able to uncover the core of the deeply rooted passion and experience that he can truly give. He knows, his patience will pay off and he will reap the benefits of uncovering the eloquence he knows lies just below his Leo woman’s shallow surface. She is the ultimate untamed lover with strong passion and burning desires, and he just has the right qualities to unleash this from her. His extreme attraction toward her is the basis for this due to her need to feel truly enamored and desired. Through the time — they make their love making a better and wonderful experience — bringing them closer physically and emotionally.
One weak point in a Capricorn man and Leo woman relationship is his overprotective and controlling nature toward her and her need for independence. She may want to rethink being so self-governing, or at least consult him in what she wants to do. This may ease his frustrations a bit as she bounds away and into society without him. He has to learn to trust that even though she needs to roam free, she knows enough to return back to him unscathed and still as loyal as she was when she left and he has to do it with an enthusiastic tone. If she senses reluctance or unwillingness from him, it is not effective and the happy peace and harmony in their relationship is destroyed. While she needs to look for his needs and should spend much time around him sharing his dreams to make him feel secure and loved.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
You know you love me, I know you care.. ♪♫
Happy Valentine's Day!
This morning I woke up with John.. 04:45.. ugh.. I watched him get ready, waiting for him to say Happy Valentine's day.. I almost said it once.. But I didn't, and neither did he!
I went all day a little mad at him, but eventually he did say it. He claims he was just trying to surprise me tonight. We will see.
Last night when I got home I cooked, dinner and guess what!? I worked out! Tony Horton totally kicked my butt. No more breaks for me, it had only been 2 weeks and it was super rough starting over. I just want to be skinny! Or pregnant.. either one.. if I am going to be fat I at least want there to be a good reason!
It's really hard watching everyone I know conceive, I don't understand why I can't!
So I am doing this 30 Day Song Challenge on facebook, tomorrow is a song that reminds you of someone.. That is easy and hard! There are ALOT of songs that remind me of people, not all of them I want to remember.. I think I know what I am going to pick though.
So far these have been my songs:
day 01 - your favorite song- Patience- Guns N Roses, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this song right now, I know I am a few decades behind, but who cares!
day 02 - your least favorite song- Pumped Up Kicks- Foster the People, I can't stand this song.
day 03 - a song that makes you happy- Move- MercyMe, this song puts me in a good mood no matter what, especially the live version.
day 04 - a song that makes you sad- He Stopped Loving Her Today- George Jones, this was a little hard for me, there aren't many songs that make me sad, but this song is really depressing and another sad one is Concrete Angel- Martina McBride. :(
You might have noticed I haven't talked about Baby Daddy lately, it's only because his family and his GF's family are reading this for some reason and I just don't want to argue. Not that things are going any better. If you are curious just email me.. haha.
Ok, Love Dare.
Love Dare Day 17:
Love Promotes Intimacy
He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. – Proverbs 17:9 NIV
You can be close to a good friend you’ve known since childhood or college days. You can be close to a sibling, your parents, or a cousin who’s about your same age. But nothing rivals the closeness that’s experienced between a husband and wife. Marriage is the most intimate of all human relationships.
That’s why we need it so much. Each of us comes into life with an inborn hunger to be known, love, and accepted. We want people to know your name, to recognize us when they see us, and to value who we are. The prospect of sharing our home with another person who knows us down to the most intimate detail is part of the deep pleasure of marriage.
Yet this great blessing is also the site of its greatest danger. Someone who knows us this intimately can either love us at a depth we never imagined, or can wound us in ways we may never fully recover from. It’s both the fire and the fear of marriage.
Which of these are you experiencing the most in your home right now? Are the secrets your spouse knows about you reasons for shame, or reason for drawing you closer? If your spouse were to answer this same question, would they say you make them feel safe, or scared?
If home is not considered a place of safety, you will both be tempted to seek it somewhere else. Perhaps you might look to another person initiating a relationship that either flirts with adultery or actually enters in. You may look for comfort in work or outside hobbies, something that partially shields you from intimacy but also keeps you around people who respect and accept you.
Your mate should not feel pressured to be perfect in order to receive your approval. They should not walk on eggshells in the very place where they ought to feel the most comfortable in their bare feet. The Bible says, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). The atmosphere in your marriage should be one of freedom. Like Adam and Eve in the garden, your closeness should only intensify your intimacy. Being “naked” and “not ashamed” (Genesis 2:25) should exist in the same sentence, right in your marriage – physically and emotionally.
Admittedly, this is tender territory. Marriage has unloaded another person’s baggage into your life, and yours into theirs. Both of you have reason to feel embarrassed that this much has been revealed about you to another living soul. But this is your opportunity to wrap all this private information about them in the protective embrace of your love, and promise to be the one who can best help him or her deal with it.
Some of these secrets may need correcting. Therefore, you can be an agent of healing and repair – not by lecturing, not by criticizing, but by listening in love and offering support.
Some of these secrets just need to be accepted. They are part of this person’s make-up and history. And though these issues may not be very pleasant to deal with, they will always require a gentle touch.
In either case, you and you alone wield the power either to reject your spouse because of this or to welcome them in – warts and all. They will either know they’re in a place of safety where they are free to make mistakes, or they will recoil into themselves and be lost to you, perhaps forever. Loving them well should be your life’s work.
Think of it this way. No one knows you better than God does, the One who made you. The writer of Psalm 139 was right when he said, “You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, and are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, behold, O Lord, You know it all” (Psalm 139:2-4).
And yet God, who knows secrets about us that we even hide from ourselves, loves us at a depth we cannot begin to fathom. How much more should we – as imperfect people – reach out to our spouse in grace and understanding, accepting them for who they are and assuring them that their secrets are safe with us?
This may be an area where you’ve really failed in the past. If so, don’t expect your mate to immediately give you wide-open access to their heart. You must begin to rebuild trust. Jesus Himself is described as One who doesn’t barge into people’s lives but who stands at the door and knocks. “If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and I will dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20).
The reality of intimacy always takes time to develop, especially after being compromised. But your commitment to re-establishing it can happen today – for anyone willing to take the dare.
Today’s Dare
Determine to guard your mate’s secrets (unless they are dangerous to them or to you) and to pray for them. Talk with your spouse, and resolve to demonstrate love in spite of these issues. Really listen to them when they share personal thoughts and struggles with you. Make them feel safe.
For me this isn't too hard, John knows almost everything about me.. it's the listening to his thoughts and struggles that is the hardest for me. Like when he complains about work, i want him to look at the bright side instead of complaining, which then makes him not want to tell me. I am going to work on this.
I'm also thinking of printing all of the Love Dare out so he can work on it with me.. maybe when I am done with the 40 days.
Happy Valentine's Day again!!
I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine. (Song of Solomon 6:3)
This morning I woke up with John.. 04:45.. ugh.. I watched him get ready, waiting for him to say Happy Valentine's day.. I almost said it once.. But I didn't, and neither did he!
I went all day a little mad at him, but eventually he did say it. He claims he was just trying to surprise me tonight. We will see.
Last night when I got home I cooked, dinner and guess what!? I worked out! Tony Horton totally kicked my butt. No more breaks for me, it had only been 2 weeks and it was super rough starting over. I just want to be skinny! Or pregnant.. either one.. if I am going to be fat I at least want there to be a good reason!
It's really hard watching everyone I know conceive, I don't understand why I can't!
So I am doing this 30 Day Song Challenge on facebook, tomorrow is a song that reminds you of someone.. That is easy and hard! There are ALOT of songs that remind me of people, not all of them I want to remember.. I think I know what I am going to pick though.
So far these have been my songs:
day 01 - your favorite song- Patience- Guns N Roses, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this song right now, I know I am a few decades behind, but who cares!
day 02 - your least favorite song- Pumped Up Kicks- Foster the People, I can't stand this song.
day 03 - a song that makes you happy- Move- MercyMe, this song puts me in a good mood no matter what, especially the live version.
day 04 - a song that makes you sad- He Stopped Loving Her Today- George Jones, this was a little hard for me, there aren't many songs that make me sad, but this song is really depressing and another sad one is Concrete Angel- Martina McBride. :(
You might have noticed I haven't talked about Baby Daddy lately, it's only because his family and his GF's family are reading this for some reason and I just don't want to argue. Not that things are going any better. If you are curious just email me.. haha.
Ok, Love Dare.
Love Dare Day 17:
Love Promotes Intimacy
He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. – Proverbs 17:9 NIV
You can be close to a good friend you’ve known since childhood or college days. You can be close to a sibling, your parents, or a cousin who’s about your same age. But nothing rivals the closeness that’s experienced between a husband and wife. Marriage is the most intimate of all human relationships.
That’s why we need it so much. Each of us comes into life with an inborn hunger to be known, love, and accepted. We want people to know your name, to recognize us when they see us, and to value who we are. The prospect of sharing our home with another person who knows us down to the most intimate detail is part of the deep pleasure of marriage.
Yet this great blessing is also the site of its greatest danger. Someone who knows us this intimately can either love us at a depth we never imagined, or can wound us in ways we may never fully recover from. It’s both the fire and the fear of marriage.
Which of these are you experiencing the most in your home right now? Are the secrets your spouse knows about you reasons for shame, or reason for drawing you closer? If your spouse were to answer this same question, would they say you make them feel safe, or scared?
If home is not considered a place of safety, you will both be tempted to seek it somewhere else. Perhaps you might look to another person initiating a relationship that either flirts with adultery or actually enters in. You may look for comfort in work or outside hobbies, something that partially shields you from intimacy but also keeps you around people who respect and accept you.
Your mate should not feel pressured to be perfect in order to receive your approval. They should not walk on eggshells in the very place where they ought to feel the most comfortable in their bare feet. The Bible says, “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). The atmosphere in your marriage should be one of freedom. Like Adam and Eve in the garden, your closeness should only intensify your intimacy. Being “naked” and “not ashamed” (Genesis 2:25) should exist in the same sentence, right in your marriage – physically and emotionally.
Admittedly, this is tender territory. Marriage has unloaded another person’s baggage into your life, and yours into theirs. Both of you have reason to feel embarrassed that this much has been revealed about you to another living soul. But this is your opportunity to wrap all this private information about them in the protective embrace of your love, and promise to be the one who can best help him or her deal with it.
Some of these secrets may need correcting. Therefore, you can be an agent of healing and repair – not by lecturing, not by criticizing, but by listening in love and offering support.
Some of these secrets just need to be accepted. They are part of this person’s make-up and history. And though these issues may not be very pleasant to deal with, they will always require a gentle touch.
In either case, you and you alone wield the power either to reject your spouse because of this or to welcome them in – warts and all. They will either know they’re in a place of safety where they are free to make mistakes, or they will recoil into themselves and be lost to you, perhaps forever. Loving them well should be your life’s work.
Think of it this way. No one knows you better than God does, the One who made you. The writer of Psalm 139 was right when he said, “You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, and are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, behold, O Lord, You know it all” (Psalm 139:2-4).
And yet God, who knows secrets about us that we even hide from ourselves, loves us at a depth we cannot begin to fathom. How much more should we – as imperfect people – reach out to our spouse in grace and understanding, accepting them for who they are and assuring them that their secrets are safe with us?
This may be an area where you’ve really failed in the past. If so, don’t expect your mate to immediately give you wide-open access to their heart. You must begin to rebuild trust. Jesus Himself is described as One who doesn’t barge into people’s lives but who stands at the door and knocks. “If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and I will dine with him, and he with Me” (Revelation 3:20).
The reality of intimacy always takes time to develop, especially after being compromised. But your commitment to re-establishing it can happen today – for anyone willing to take the dare.
Today’s Dare
Determine to guard your mate’s secrets (unless they are dangerous to them or to you) and to pray for them. Talk with your spouse, and resolve to demonstrate love in spite of these issues. Really listen to them when they share personal thoughts and struggles with you. Make them feel safe.
For me this isn't too hard, John knows almost everything about me.. it's the listening to his thoughts and struggles that is the hardest for me. Like when he complains about work, i want him to look at the bright side instead of complaining, which then makes him not want to tell me. I am going to work on this.
I'm also thinking of printing all of the Love Dare out so he can work on it with me.. maybe when I am done with the 40 days.
Happy Valentine's Day again!!
I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine. (Song of Solomon 6:3)
Monday, February 13, 2012
With some roly-poly, little bat-faced girl. ♪♫
You guessed it.. I didn't workout. But Whatever. I am tonight.
Maybe I will just stay fat the rest of my life. I am eating better. I would LOVE to eat the cupcake that is in the kitchen right next to my cubicle, but I'm not.
I have a headache right now. I think it is allergies, but I took Claritin this morning and I don't know if I can take it more than once a day. I threw the box away. :(
I had a pretty good weekend, a not so good Friday. I am becoming such a home-body.
Friday- I was having a pretty good day at work until I found out that I had sent my resume to the owner of my company's business partner and he in return sent it to the owner who sent it to my boss. Stupid Craigslist!! But no one mentioned it to me. So then all weekend I worried about getting fired. I couldn't sleep Friday because of it!
Saturday- The girls were at their Dad's this weekend and John worked Saturday so I went to my Uncle's birthday lunch alone. When John got off we went to his Mama's house, he worked in the garage with his Dad while I got to chit chat with his Mom, we had DELICIOUS chicken and dumplings.. by the time we got home we were both pretty tired.
Sunday- I cleaned house and then sewed pretty much all day. I really love sewing.. I never realized how much I would like it. Not that I am great at it, but I am decent. I love seeing the finished project at the end.
Ok, Love Dare. My thoughts at the bottom.
Day 16-
Love Intercedes
Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers. – 3 John 2
You cannot change your spouse. As much as you may want to, you cannot play God and reach into their heart and mold them into what you want them to be. But that’s what most couples spend a large part of their time trying to do – change their spouse.
Insanity has been described as doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. But isn’t that what happens when you try to change your mate? It’s frustration at the highest level. At some point you have to accept that it’s not something you can do. But here’s what you can do. You can become a “wise farmer.”
A farmer cannot make a seed grow into a fruitful crop. He cannot argue, manipulate, or demand it to bear fruit. But he can plant the seed into fertile soil, give it water and nutrients, protect it from weeds, and then turn it over to God. Millions of farmers have made a livelihood from this process over the centuries. They know that not every seed sprouts. But most will grow when planted in proper soil and given what they need.
There is no guarantee that anything in this book will change your spouse. But that’s not what this book is about. It’s about daring to love. If you take the Love Dare seriously, there is a high likelihood that you will be personally changed from the inside out.
And if you carry out each dare, your spouse will likely be affected and your marriage will begin to bloom in front of your eyes. It may take weeks. It may even take years. But regardless of the soil you’re working with, you are to plan for success. You are to get weeds out of your marriage. You are to nurture the soil of your mate’s heart and then depend on God for the results.
But you won’t be able to do this alone. You will need something that is more powerful than anything else you have. And that is effective prayer.
Prayer really does work. It’s a spiritual phenomenon created by an unlimited, powerful God. And it yields amazing results.
Do you feel like giving up on your marriage? Jesus said to pray instead of quitting (Luke 18:1). Are you stressed out and worried? Prayer can bring peace to your storms (Philippians 4:6-7) Do you need a major breakthrough? Prayer can make the difference (Acts 12:1-7).
God is sovereign. He does things His way. He’s not a genie in a lamp that submits to your every wish. But He does love you and desires an intimate relationship with you. This doesn’t happen apart from prayer.
There are some key elements that must be in place for prayer to be effective. But suffice to say that prayer works best when coming from a humble heart that is in a right relationship with God and others. The Bible says, “Confess sins to one another, and pray for one another … The effective prayer of righteous man can accomplish much” (James 5:16).
Have you ever wondered why God gives you overwhelming insight into your spouse’s hidden faults? Do you really think it’s for endless nagging? No, it is for effective kneeling. No one knows better how to pray for your mate than you.
Has your scolding or nagging been working? The answer is no, because that’s not what changes a heart. It is time to try talking to God in your prayer closet instead.
A husband will find that God can “fix” his wife a lot better than he can. Wife will accomplish more through strategic prayer than from all her persuasive efforts. It is also a much more pleasant way to live.
So turn your complaints into prayers and watch the Master work while you keep your hands clean. If your spouse doesn’t have any type of relationship with God, then it’s clear what you need to start praying for.
Beyond this, begin to pray for exactly what your mate needs. Pray for his heart. Pray for her attitude. Pray for your spouse’s responsibilities before God. Pray for truth to replace lies. Pray for forgiveness would replace bitterness. Pray for your heart’s desires – for love and honor to become the norm. Pray for romance and intimacy to go to a deeper level.
One of the most loving things you can ever do for your spouse is to pray for them. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to” (Matthew 7:7)
Today’s Dare
Begin Praying for your spouse’s heart. Pray for three specific areas where you desire for God to work in your spouse’s life and in your marriage.
Have you experienced the power of prayer in the past? This Love Dare is pretty personal, but yes, I have experienced the power of prayer before.
What did you choose to pray about? I'm not going to say. :)
Was it easy for you, or did it feel foreign to you? It is easy for me. I pray every morning on my way to work. No radio, no phone, just me and God. I had gotten away fro it for awhile, but I have been doing better lately.
Maybe I will just stay fat the rest of my life. I am eating better. I would LOVE to eat the cupcake that is in the kitchen right next to my cubicle, but I'm not.
I have a headache right now. I think it is allergies, but I took Claritin this morning and I don't know if I can take it more than once a day. I threw the box away. :(
I had a pretty good weekend, a not so good Friday. I am becoming such a home-body.
Friday- I was having a pretty good day at work until I found out that I had sent my resume to the owner of my company's business partner and he in return sent it to the owner who sent it to my boss. Stupid Craigslist!! But no one mentioned it to me. So then all weekend I worried about getting fired. I couldn't sleep Friday because of it!
Saturday- The girls were at their Dad's this weekend and John worked Saturday so I went to my Uncle's birthday lunch alone. When John got off we went to his Mama's house, he worked in the garage with his Dad while I got to chit chat with his Mom, we had DELICIOUS chicken and dumplings.. by the time we got home we were both pretty tired.
Sunday- I cleaned house and then sewed pretty much all day. I really love sewing.. I never realized how much I would like it. Not that I am great at it, but I am decent. I love seeing the finished project at the end.
Our bedroom curtains.. made by me!!
Throw pillows!
Valance for the master bathroom.
Ok, Love Dare. My thoughts at the bottom.
Day 16-
Love Intercedes
Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers. – 3 John 2
You cannot change your spouse. As much as you may want to, you cannot play God and reach into their heart and mold them into what you want them to be. But that’s what most couples spend a large part of their time trying to do – change their spouse.
Insanity has been described as doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. But isn’t that what happens when you try to change your mate? It’s frustration at the highest level. At some point you have to accept that it’s not something you can do. But here’s what you can do. You can become a “wise farmer.”
A farmer cannot make a seed grow into a fruitful crop. He cannot argue, manipulate, or demand it to bear fruit. But he can plant the seed into fertile soil, give it water and nutrients, protect it from weeds, and then turn it over to God. Millions of farmers have made a livelihood from this process over the centuries. They know that not every seed sprouts. But most will grow when planted in proper soil and given what they need.
There is no guarantee that anything in this book will change your spouse. But that’s not what this book is about. It’s about daring to love. If you take the Love Dare seriously, there is a high likelihood that you will be personally changed from the inside out.
And if you carry out each dare, your spouse will likely be affected and your marriage will begin to bloom in front of your eyes. It may take weeks. It may even take years. But regardless of the soil you’re working with, you are to plan for success. You are to get weeds out of your marriage. You are to nurture the soil of your mate’s heart and then depend on God for the results.
But you won’t be able to do this alone. You will need something that is more powerful than anything else you have. And that is effective prayer.
Prayer really does work. It’s a spiritual phenomenon created by an unlimited, powerful God. And it yields amazing results.
Do you feel like giving up on your marriage? Jesus said to pray instead of quitting (Luke 18:1). Are you stressed out and worried? Prayer can bring peace to your storms (Philippians 4:6-7) Do you need a major breakthrough? Prayer can make the difference (Acts 12:1-7).
God is sovereign. He does things His way. He’s not a genie in a lamp that submits to your every wish. But He does love you and desires an intimate relationship with you. This doesn’t happen apart from prayer.
There are some key elements that must be in place for prayer to be effective. But suffice to say that prayer works best when coming from a humble heart that is in a right relationship with God and others. The Bible says, “Confess sins to one another, and pray for one another … The effective prayer of righteous man can accomplish much” (James 5:16).
Have you ever wondered why God gives you overwhelming insight into your spouse’s hidden faults? Do you really think it’s for endless nagging? No, it is for effective kneeling. No one knows better how to pray for your mate than you.
Has your scolding or nagging been working? The answer is no, because that’s not what changes a heart. It is time to try talking to God in your prayer closet instead.
A husband will find that God can “fix” his wife a lot better than he can. Wife will accomplish more through strategic prayer than from all her persuasive efforts. It is also a much more pleasant way to live.
So turn your complaints into prayers and watch the Master work while you keep your hands clean. If your spouse doesn’t have any type of relationship with God, then it’s clear what you need to start praying for.
Beyond this, begin to pray for exactly what your mate needs. Pray for his heart. Pray for her attitude. Pray for your spouse’s responsibilities before God. Pray for truth to replace lies. Pray for forgiveness would replace bitterness. Pray for your heart’s desires – for love and honor to become the norm. Pray for romance and intimacy to go to a deeper level.
One of the most loving things you can ever do for your spouse is to pray for them. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to” (Matthew 7:7)
Today’s Dare
Begin Praying for your spouse’s heart. Pray for three specific areas where you desire for God to work in your spouse’s life and in your marriage.
What did you choose to pray about? I'm not going to say. :)
Thursday, February 9, 2012
I suck. I know.
Ok, I know I haven't blogged in awhile.. but it's because I haven't been doing what I am supposed to!
I haven't worked out at all, I haven't eaten terribly, but I could do better. Like, I didn't need those 3 chicken tenders Kayleigh brought home last night.. and I probably shouldn't have just ate that cupcake my co-worker brought in..
I haven't been doing much besides working. I did see the BFF this weekend, which was nice. I also had a really great time fishing with the husband. It was fun, just the two of us.
My teeth are better, I am almost used to these stinking braces.They are still uncomfortable, but definitely manageable. They will be better after my next appointment. Right now I have wires poking me because of where they cut them to extract the 4 teeth. I'm not regretting them as much now.
I haven't focused on the Love Dare this week, I am going to get back to it starting today though. I could just wait for Monday, but there is no time like the present, right? I really wish I would have bought the book, but I didn't so I am relying on the Internet. FUN.
I also have a new product that I absolutely LOVE. It's called Yes To Carrots. It is a lip balm but it is tinted. I have the soft plum one now.. It is WONDERFUL!
Ok, back to the Love Dare..
So where did I leave off?
Day 15.
Love is Honorable-This one is hard for me. I'm not sure how to show John I honor him. I already do the things the suggest.. but I am not sure he sees it as honor. Here you go.
There are certain words in our language that have powerful meanings. Whenever these words are used, an air of respect is associated with them. These words never lose their timeless quality, class, and dignity. One of these will be our focus for today. It is the word honor.
To honor someone means to give them respect and high esteem, to treat them as being special and of great worth. When you speak to them, you keep your language clean and understandable. You are courteous and polite. When they speak to you, you take them seriously, giving their words weight and significance. When they ask you to do something, you accommodate them if at all possible, simply out of respect for who they are.
The Bible tells us to “honor” our father and mother, as well as those in authority. It is a call to acknowledge the position or value of someone else. Honor is a noble word.
This is especially true in marriage. Honoring your mate means giving him or her your full attention, not talking to them from behind a newspaper or with one eye on the television. When decisions are being made that affect both of you or your whole family, you give your mate’s voice and opinion equal influence in your mind. You honor what they have to say. They matter – and because of the way you treat them, they should know it.
But there’s another word that calls us to a higher place, a word that isn’t often equated with marriage, though its relevance cannot be understated. It’s a word that actually forms the basis for honor – the very reason why we give respect and high regard to our husband or wife. That word is holy.
To say to your mate should be “holy” to you doesn’t mean that he or she is perfect. Holiness means they are set apart for a higher purpose – no longer common or everyday but special and unique. A person who has become holy to you has a place no one can rival in your heart. He or she is sacred to you, a person to be honored, praised, and defended.
A bride treats her wedding dress this way. After wearing it on her special day, she covers and protects it, then sets it apart from everything else in her closet. You won’t catch her in it when she’s working in the yard or going out on the town. Her wedding dress has value all its own. In this way, it is holy and sacred to her.
When two people marry, each spouse becomes “holy” to each other by way of “holy matrimony.” This means no other person in the whole world is supposed to enjoy this level of commitment and endearment from you. Your relationship is like no other. Your share physical intimacy with only her, only him. You establish a home with this person. You bear your children with this person. Your heart, your possessions, your life itself is to be wrapped up in the uncommon bond you share with this one in individual.
Is that the way it is in your marriage? Would your mate say you honor and respect them? Do you consider them set apart and highly valued? Holy?
Perhaps you don’t feel this way and maybe for good reason. Perhaps you wish some outsider could see the level of disrespect you get from your wife or husband – someone who would make your mate feel embarrassed to be exposed for who they really are behind closed doors.
But that’s not the issue with love. Love honors even when it’s rejected. Love treats its beloved as special and sacred even when an ungrateful attitude is all you get in return.
It’s marvelous, of course, when a husband and wife are joined in this purpose, when they’re following the biblical command to be “devoted to one another” in love, when they’re giving “preference to one another in honor” (Romans 12:10). “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure” (Hebrews 13:4 NIV).
But when your attempts at honor go unreciprocated, you are to give honor just the same. That’s what love dares to do – to say, “Of all the relationships I have, I will value ours the most. Of all the things I’m willing to sacrifice, I will sacrifice the most for you. With all your failures, sins, mistakes, and faults – past and present – I will choose to love and honor you.” That’s how you create an atmosphere for love to be rekindled. That’s how you create an atmosphere for love to be rekindled. That’s how you lead your heart to truly love your mate again. And that’s the beauty of honor.
Today’s Dare
Choose a way to show honor and respect to your spouse that is above your normal routine. It may be holding the door for her. It might be putting his clothes away for him. It may be the way you listen and speak in your communication. Show your mate that he or she is highly esteemed in your eyes.
Ok, as I have said before we have very traditional roles in our house.. I do all the "womanly" things, so I am not sure how to show him "honor". I even asked him how I could show him I honor him.. he didn't have an answer.
I haven't worked out at all, I haven't eaten terribly, but I could do better. Like, I didn't need those 3 chicken tenders Kayleigh brought home last night.. and I probably shouldn't have just ate that cupcake my co-worker brought in..
I haven't been doing much besides working. I did see the BFF this weekend, which was nice. I also had a really great time fishing with the husband. It was fun, just the two of us.
My teeth are better, I am almost used to these stinking braces.They are still uncomfortable, but definitely manageable. They will be better after my next appointment. Right now I have wires poking me because of where they cut them to extract the 4 teeth. I'm not regretting them as much now.
I haven't focused on the Love Dare this week, I am going to get back to it starting today though. I could just wait for Monday, but there is no time like the present, right? I really wish I would have bought the book, but I didn't so I am relying on the Internet. FUN.
I also have a new product that I absolutely LOVE. It's called Yes To Carrots. It is a lip balm but it is tinted. I have the soft plum one now.. It is WONDERFUL!
So where did I leave off?
Day 15.
Love is Honorable-This one is hard for me. I'm not sure how to show John I honor him. I already do the things the suggest.. but I am not sure he sees it as honor. Here you go.
There are certain words in our language that have powerful meanings. Whenever these words are used, an air of respect is associated with them. These words never lose their timeless quality, class, and dignity. One of these will be our focus for today. It is the word honor.
To honor someone means to give them respect and high esteem, to treat them as being special and of great worth. When you speak to them, you keep your language clean and understandable. You are courteous and polite. When they speak to you, you take them seriously, giving their words weight and significance. When they ask you to do something, you accommodate them if at all possible, simply out of respect for who they are.
The Bible tells us to “honor” our father and mother, as well as those in authority. It is a call to acknowledge the position or value of someone else. Honor is a noble word.
This is especially true in marriage. Honoring your mate means giving him or her your full attention, not talking to them from behind a newspaper or with one eye on the television. When decisions are being made that affect both of you or your whole family, you give your mate’s voice and opinion equal influence in your mind. You honor what they have to say. They matter – and because of the way you treat them, they should know it.
But there’s another word that calls us to a higher place, a word that isn’t often equated with marriage, though its relevance cannot be understated. It’s a word that actually forms the basis for honor – the very reason why we give respect and high regard to our husband or wife. That word is holy.
To say to your mate should be “holy” to you doesn’t mean that he or she is perfect. Holiness means they are set apart for a higher purpose – no longer common or everyday but special and unique. A person who has become holy to you has a place no one can rival in your heart. He or she is sacred to you, a person to be honored, praised, and defended.
A bride treats her wedding dress this way. After wearing it on her special day, she covers and protects it, then sets it apart from everything else in her closet. You won’t catch her in it when she’s working in the yard or going out on the town. Her wedding dress has value all its own. In this way, it is holy and sacred to her.
When two people marry, each spouse becomes “holy” to each other by way of “holy matrimony.” This means no other person in the whole world is supposed to enjoy this level of commitment and endearment from you. Your relationship is like no other. Your share physical intimacy with only her, only him. You establish a home with this person. You bear your children with this person. Your heart, your possessions, your life itself is to be wrapped up in the uncommon bond you share with this one in individual.
Is that the way it is in your marriage? Would your mate say you honor and respect them? Do you consider them set apart and highly valued? Holy?
Perhaps you don’t feel this way and maybe for good reason. Perhaps you wish some outsider could see the level of disrespect you get from your wife or husband – someone who would make your mate feel embarrassed to be exposed for who they really are behind closed doors.
But that’s not the issue with love. Love honors even when it’s rejected. Love treats its beloved as special and sacred even when an ungrateful attitude is all you get in return.
It’s marvelous, of course, when a husband and wife are joined in this purpose, when they’re following the biblical command to be “devoted to one another” in love, when they’re giving “preference to one another in honor” (Romans 12:10). “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure” (Hebrews 13:4 NIV).
But when your attempts at honor go unreciprocated, you are to give honor just the same. That’s what love dares to do – to say, “Of all the relationships I have, I will value ours the most. Of all the things I’m willing to sacrifice, I will sacrifice the most for you. With all your failures, sins, mistakes, and faults – past and present – I will choose to love and honor you.” That’s how you create an atmosphere for love to be rekindled. That’s how you create an atmosphere for love to be rekindled. That’s how you lead your heart to truly love your mate again. And that’s the beauty of honor.
Today’s Dare
Choose a way to show honor and respect to your spouse that is above your normal routine. It may be holding the door for her. It might be putting his clothes away for him. It may be the way you listen and speak in your communication. Show your mate that he or she is highly esteemed in your eyes.
Ok, as I have said before we have very traditional roles in our house.. I do all the "womanly" things, so I am not sure how to show him "honor". I even asked him how I could show him I honor him.. he didn't have an answer.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
2 days, 1 post.
I would love a Sour Cream and Cheddar potato chip. Yes, I am hungry. I guess not sticking to my diet is catching up with me.. I gained 3 lbs back.
Last night didn't go as planned. We ended up going to Cross Creek for dinner. I had fried pickles, 2 margaritas, BBQ pork, and a baked potato. The service was HORRIBLE.. but the food was ok.. just not part of my low cal plan!
By the time we got home I did not work out and I did not talk to John about the love dare.
Ok, all that was from yesterday. For some reason I wasn't in the mood to blog.
Yesterday I did do well on my diet, I didn't eat any chips.. as well as today. The scale is moving in the right direction again too! But, no working out still! I am putting my shoes on and working out as soon as I get home today though.
When I got home yesterday John stayed in the kitchen with me while I cooked. I had him watch the Love, Marriage and Fairy-tales youtube video and I also had him read the Love Dare... I haven't actually shown him any of them up until now. But the day before we had talked about spending more time together and not just being in the same house.
Here is the Dare:
Love Takes Delight
Enjoy life with the wife you love all the days of your fleeting life. – Ecclesiastes 9:9 HCSB
One of the most important things you should learn on your Love Dare journey is that you should not just follow your heart. You should lead it. You don’t let your feelings and emotions do the driving. You put them in the back seat and tell them where you’re going.
In your marriage relationship, you won’t always feel like loving. It is unrealistic for your heart to constantly thrill as the thought of spending every moment with your spouse. Nobody can maintain a burning desire for togetherness just one feelings alone. But it’s also difficult to love someone only out of obligation.
A newlywed takes delight in the one they now call their spouse. Their love is fresh and young, and the hopes for a romantic future linger in their hearts. However, there is something just as powerful as that fresh, new love. It comes from the decision to delight in your spouse and to love him or her no matter how long you’ve been married. In other words, love that chooses to love is just as powerful as love that feels like loving. In many ways, it’s a truer love because it has its eyes wide open.
Left to ourselves, we’ll always lean toward being disapproving of one another. She’ll get on your nerves. He’ll aggravate you. But our days are too short to waste in bickering over pretty things. Life is too fleeting for that.
Instead, it’s time to lead your heart to once again delight in your mate. Enjoy your spouse. Take her hand and seek her companionship. Desire his conversation. Remember why you fell in love with her personality. Accept this person – quirks and all – and welcome him or her back into your heart.
Again, you get to choose what you treasure. It’s not like you’re born with certain pre-sets and preferences you’re destined to operate from. If you’re irritable, it’s because you choose to be. If you can’t function without a clean house, it’s because you’ve decided no other way will do. If you pick at your mate more than you praise them, it’s because you’ve allowed your heart to be selfish. You’ve led yourself into criticism.
So now it’s time to lead your heart back out. It’s time to learn to delight in your spouse again, then to watch your heart actually start enjoying who they are.
Today’s dare may be directing you to a real and radical change of heart. For some, the move toward delight may be only a small step away. For others, it may require a giant leap from ongoing disgust.
But if you’ve been delighted before – which you were when you married – you can be delighted again. Even if it’s been a long time. Even if a whole lot has happened to change your perceptions.
The responsibility is yours to relearn what you love about this one to whom you’ve promised yourself forever.
Today’s Dare
Purposefully neglect an activity you would normally do so you can spend quality time with your spouse. Do something he or she would love to do or a project they’d really like to work on. Just to be together.
It's crazy we were just talking bout this! We have agreed to get off our phones, the internet, my nook.. all things that we pay attention to and just hang out and talk to each other. Now of course last night didn't go exactly as planned.. at first it did , but then I said something that made him mad and it just went down hill from there. But this morning he woke up and apologized and told me that I am a good wife and how much he loves me. Wish us luck for tonight!
Last night didn't go as planned. We ended up going to Cross Creek for dinner. I had fried pickles, 2 margaritas, BBQ pork, and a baked potato. The service was HORRIBLE.. but the food was ok.. just not part of my low cal plan!
By the time we got home I did not work out and I did not talk to John about the love dare.
Ok, all that was from yesterday. For some reason I wasn't in the mood to blog.
Yesterday I did do well on my diet, I didn't eat any chips.. as well as today. The scale is moving in the right direction again too! But, no working out still! I am putting my shoes on and working out as soon as I get home today though.
When I got home yesterday John stayed in the kitchen with me while I cooked. I had him watch the Love, Marriage and Fairy-tales youtube video and I also had him read the Love Dare... I haven't actually shown him any of them up until now. But the day before we had talked about spending more time together and not just being in the same house.
Here is the Dare:
Love Takes Delight
Enjoy life with the wife you love all the days of your fleeting life. – Ecclesiastes 9:9 HCSB
One of the most important things you should learn on your Love Dare journey is that you should not just follow your heart. You should lead it. You don’t let your feelings and emotions do the driving. You put them in the back seat and tell them where you’re going.
In your marriage relationship, you won’t always feel like loving. It is unrealistic for your heart to constantly thrill as the thought of spending every moment with your spouse. Nobody can maintain a burning desire for togetherness just one feelings alone. But it’s also difficult to love someone only out of obligation.
A newlywed takes delight in the one they now call their spouse. Their love is fresh and young, and the hopes for a romantic future linger in their hearts. However, there is something just as powerful as that fresh, new love. It comes from the decision to delight in your spouse and to love him or her no matter how long you’ve been married. In other words, love that chooses to love is just as powerful as love that feels like loving. In many ways, it’s a truer love because it has its eyes wide open.
Left to ourselves, we’ll always lean toward being disapproving of one another. She’ll get on your nerves. He’ll aggravate you. But our days are too short to waste in bickering over pretty things. Life is too fleeting for that.
Instead, it’s time to lead your heart to once again delight in your mate. Enjoy your spouse. Take her hand and seek her companionship. Desire his conversation. Remember why you fell in love with her personality. Accept this person – quirks and all – and welcome him or her back into your heart.
Again, you get to choose what you treasure. It’s not like you’re born with certain pre-sets and preferences you’re destined to operate from. If you’re irritable, it’s because you choose to be. If you can’t function without a clean house, it’s because you’ve decided no other way will do. If you pick at your mate more than you praise them, it’s because you’ve allowed your heart to be selfish. You’ve led yourself into criticism.
So now it’s time to lead your heart back out. It’s time to learn to delight in your spouse again, then to watch your heart actually start enjoying who they are.
Today’s dare may be directing you to a real and radical change of heart. For some, the move toward delight may be only a small step away. For others, it may require a giant leap from ongoing disgust.
But if you’ve been delighted before – which you were when you married – you can be delighted again. Even if it’s been a long time. Even if a whole lot has happened to change your perceptions.
The responsibility is yours to relearn what you love about this one to whom you’ve promised yourself forever.
Today’s Dare
Purposefully neglect an activity you would normally do so you can spend quality time with your spouse. Do something he or she would love to do or a project they’d really like to work on. Just to be together.
It's crazy we were just talking bout this! We have agreed to get off our phones, the internet, my nook.. all things that we pay attention to and just hang out and talk to each other. Now of course last night didn't go exactly as planned.. at first it did , but then I said something that made him mad and it just went down hill from there. But this morning he woke up and apologized and told me that I am a good wife and how much he loves me. Wish us luck for tonight!
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