Joyfull Living

I classify myself as a 'fitness loner' since most of my fitness routines are done by myself.  I like to think I"m disciplined enough to keep a fitness routine and although I am consistent, the same routine is done over and over.  This is great to stay healthy and active, but is a  poor plan when additional results are desired. Recently the opportunity to attend a fitness class came.  During class we were using hand weights and our instructor would periodically ask "Does anyone need to go heavier?"  She would often encourage the class if the weight being used felt comfortable, it may be time to go a bit heavier. This is a benefit of group exercise, to be challenged to reach goals and to do a little more than what is comfortable. The instructor knew that if we were comfortable with our weights, we would not achieve the greatest results.  It takes tension and resistance along with more effort for continued progress In fitness, the more tens...

“Friend” has taken on a new meaning in a world influenced by social media. It’s often used to describe someone who you barely know, who follows your life at a safe distance, communicating by clicking a “like” button.  But as busy women in our daily walk, we see lots of other women, we may call friends.  Some walk along side us and cheer us on, some walk behind us and add additional weight and baggage, some may seem to wear us down with negativity, jealousy, comparison, gossip etc.   Cultivating true friendship takes much time and effort, something many of us do not have an abundance of! But for the Christian woman, here is a glimpse of some friendships based on characteristics of Biblical women that are worth seeking out.  An Elizabeth We need an Elizabeth in our lives, someone that will speak into our lives. What does this Elizabeth look like? She is likely an older woman (older than you). She will invest time, energy, wisdom, and will hold you ...

In John Maxwell’s Winning With People , he says good relationships are the foundation for achievement. Relationships are more than just the icing on the cake in life: They are the cake—the very substance we need to live successful and fulfilling lives.  As Christians, we are called to be Christ like in behavior and in Scripture commanded to 'love one another.' Jesus set the example of loving others before us.  Not only did He love us enough to die for us, but we see through the Bible many accounts of Him sharing and loving those around Him.  People miss incredible opportunities to connect with others because they do not make themselves approachable.  This has been a hindrance for me.  Due to insecurity and fear, I hold back and allow the other person to lead.  But, often times the other person is feeling the same way!  Someone has to go first!  Even if we're not ready to instigate fellowship, we can be approachable.   Here a...

Christmas....once it's past it is easy to not even think about until next fall!  But, I found a few pictures I didn't post and even though Christmas is past, decided to share them and relive the sweet memories. Christmas Eve at my husband's parents house.  Big family, lot of food, family and celebration! Sweet hubby and I by the tree! Then home to spend with our oldest who travels on Christmas Day.  Convinced hubby to take another pic in front of our tree! All the girls take an annual photo! My boy's signature photo...this year, they let the youngest son in on it!

Grace.. .it's been said that grace is not simply a prayer we say before our meals, it is a lifestyle that receives the grace of God and in turn transfers that grace into the lives of others.  Day in, day out and in a multitude of ways. Definition of God's Grace – How do theologians define it? "What is grace? In the New Testament grace means God’s love in action towards men who merited the opposite of love. Grace means God moving heaven and earth to save sinners who could not lift a finger to save themselves." This post is about an area I'm learning to grow in grace.  Unintended pregnancy.  In our culture, it is very common,and hardly receives any attention.  In our churches it certainly attracts attention along with confusion on how to respond.    God's Word tells us we all have sinned,(Romans 3:23)  but He offers forgiveness when we confess our sin.  Grace means God moving heaven and earth to save sinners who could not lift a f...

January is a good time to begin great habits!  Newness is contagious and we are often inspired to make some changes that are needed in our lives.  For the Christian woman, reading God's Word should always hold a priority in our hearts.  There are many wonderful devotion plans and books out there, but God's Word is the authority and foundation.  Many Christians like to read the Bible through and use the New Year to get a good start. Even if that is not your plan, be encouraged to read a book of the Bible through.  Here is a great resource to help keep track of the books read.  This is a huge undertaking that will entail lots of time (life changing time!).  Here’s how it works: Print the record keeper and tape it on the inside cover of your favorite Bible. Fold or trim the paper so the edges don’t stick out. Fill in the date when you begin reading a book of the Bible. Write the new date when you complete that book. Click on t...

In case you haven't noticed, essential oils are everywhere!  Their uses are broad and are easily incorporated into daily life and home routines.  They can be used for aroma, purification of the air, comfort, healing and for food grade oils, cooking or flavoring.  Of course if you use them throughout the year, there will be oils that flow with the season.  Some are light, floral, fruity and warm.  This is the season we look for warmth and comfort.  The chilly days make us long for cozy homes, cozy food and the things to surround our homes with that feeling of warmth.  These days also bring along cold and flu season.  Especially when those invade our home, we seek out a healing warmth.   This time of year,  I tend to use oils that have a warming effect such as Clove, Cinnamon, Oregano, Peppermint and Eucalyptus. When applying these oils topically, it's very important to dilute these oils with a carrier oil like sweet Almond ...