My study this morning led me to compare the similarities and differences between the accounts of Mark 6:30-52 and Matthew 14:15-33. Wow, God’s word is always more than enough. I am blown away by the things He reminded me of and showed me anew in these short passages.
To set the scene, Jesus and His disciples were going away to rest and pray.
• Lord, please help me know when to take time away to rest, be alone to pray, be refreshed and gain new perspective.
As they went away, crowds of needy people interrupted them. Jesus set aside His plan for retreat and first taught the people many things and healed their sick. This took all day because evening came and no one had eaten.
• Lord, please make me perceptive to the needs of those around me, let me not miss opportunities to meet those needs when it is within my ability to do so.
The Disciples wanted to send the crowds away to get their own food, but Jesus told them to gather what was there and bring it to Him (5 loaves of bread and 2 fish). Jesus took what they brought to Him, gave thanks, gave it back to the disciples and told them to feed the crowd. It was more than enough.
To me, Jesus is saying, "bring me what you have...I will bless it...give it back to you...and then you serve Me by giving to others and serving others with it".
• Lord I bring you all that I have (time, money, possessions, knowledge) and place it in Your hands, please bless it. Thank You for giving back to me, I thank you for allowing me the blessing of being Your hands and feet to “feed” the “hungry”, the blessing of being a blessing to others. I commit to seek You first and trust that You give back more than enough.
Jesus had the crowds sit in smaller groups.
• Thank You for never overwhelming me with tasks too big. Thank You for taking something that seems huge and breaking it down into more manageable tasks that little by little, as I walk with You, I can one day look back and see that You provide multitudes.
Jesus didn’t stick around to hear what the crowd had to say, He provided their needs and then immediately sent the disciples into the boat and went away to pray.
• Lord, please let me not seek the praise of man and let me not be given to the fear of man, but lead me so that I do not miss the opportunities You give.
A storm arose while the disciples were in the boat. It was about 9 hours, the 4th watch of the night, between the hours of 3 and 6 a.m. when Jesus walked on water to meet them in the storm.
• Lord, I know that You will always come to my rescue in the storms of life. There are times when I am completely in Your will, yet storms arise. I thank You for these times that they refine and renew my faith in You. I thank You for letting me sit in the storms so that I will realize my need for You and recognize Your presence. I thank You for “walking on water” to get my attention, for meeting my needs and for calming my soul when I cry out to You in fear. Even when storms rage on longer than I expect, I trust in You to calm my soul.
And He got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were amazed and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.” – Matthew 14:33
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011
Halibut...Two Ways
My dad’s favorite fish is halibut. I know this because he tells me every time we have it for dinner. My mom and I favor salmon, but we order some of each so we can switch up our fish meals during the week. I find halibut to be very mild and in need of a little spicing up. The first attempt to give it a little something extra was with a mango salsa. We had unfortunately run out of red onion on this night, so the salsa consisted of mango, red bell pepper and lime juice. The fish was baked with a little extra virgin coconut oil, Celtic sea salt and cumin sprinkled over the top. It looked really pretty once it was on the plate and topped with the fresh mango salsa.
For our second attempt at a mango salsa, we had unfortunately run out of red bell pepper, but were able to include red onion. It tasted delish, but the red onions smelled so strong and they just linger. As Scott Conant has said on Chopped…raw red onion is just really offensive! That combined with cumin which also has a strong somewhat offensive odor left me wanting a shower and good teeth brushing! This was clearly not my most favorite way to have halibut, so it was back to the drawing board.
The second attempt at a halibut preparation was to bake the fish with just a little extra virgin coconut oil and a sprinkle of Celtic sea salt. As the halibut baked, I mixed up a fresh basil pesto in the Vitamix:
¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Cup Walnuts (pine nuts could also be used)
1 Clove Fresh Garlic
1 Lemon, Juiced
2 Cups Fresh Basil
The pesto turned out amazing and it really gave a nice flavor to the halibut. Plus, the health benefits include omega-3 fats from the walnuts, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties from lemons and garlic as well as digestive support from the basil. We have on occassion added a little spinach to give the pesto a more green color and pack in a few more nutrients.
The great thing about the pesto is that it can also be used with egg dishes too!
For our second attempt at a mango salsa, we had unfortunately run out of red bell pepper, but were able to include red onion. It tasted delish, but the red onions smelled so strong and they just linger. As Scott Conant has said on Chopped…raw red onion is just really offensive! That combined with cumin which also has a strong somewhat offensive odor left me wanting a shower and good teeth brushing! This was clearly not my most favorite way to have halibut, so it was back to the drawing board.
The second attempt at a halibut preparation was to bake the fish with just a little extra virgin coconut oil and a sprinkle of Celtic sea salt. As the halibut baked, I mixed up a fresh basil pesto in the Vitamix:
¼ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Cup Walnuts (pine nuts could also be used)
1 Clove Fresh Garlic
1 Lemon, Juiced
2 Cups Fresh Basil
The pesto turned out amazing and it really gave a nice flavor to the halibut. Plus, the health benefits include omega-3 fats from the walnuts, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties from lemons and garlic as well as digestive support from the basil. We have on occassion added a little spinach to give the pesto a more green color and pack in a few more nutrients.
The great thing about the pesto is that it can also be used with egg dishes too!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
French Fries and Chocolate Milk
I was thinking back to some of my favorite childhood foods and remembered that one of my favorite lunch meals was French fries with chocolate milk. I loved hot crispy shoe string fries with a little saltiness paired with a cool carton of chocolate milk. I’m sure now, looking back, there was little if any real nutritional quality in this lunch, but as a child I didn’t think too much about nutrition...it was all about taste!
It’s been years since I’ve eaten white potatoes (they're just a little too starchy for me) or chocolate milk. Nowadays it's still all about taste, but nutrition is equally important, so when I want to reminisce and yearn for a comfort meal I make baked sweet potato fries and chocolate pudding!
I’ve been on a chocolate pudding kick for the last few weeks…I’m going through phases apparently, because a few weeks before that I was making and eating chocolate truffles weekly! The pudding is dairy-free with the main ingredient and source of creaminess being avocados. Avocados are a rich source of potassium and healthy fat, plus they contain 17 vitamins and minerals…they are great on salads, but this is quite possibly my most favorite way to have them!
Creamy Chocolate Pudding
4 Medjool Dates (pitted, soaked in water, drained)
¼ Cup Raw Honey
¼ - ½ Cup water (as needed depending on desired thickness)
3 Avocados
¾ Cup Cocoa (I prefer the taste of Rapunzel brand)
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract
Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to eat. This generally serves 4 at my house. We like things on the less-sweet side, so if you are not a fan of dark or bitter chocolates you may want to add more dates or honey as needed to best suit your taste.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
It’s a Good Thing These Two are so Cute…
We were testing Cole and Chloe to see how they would do overnight in the laundry room without a crate and just their puppy gate up to keep them hemmed in. Not so successful…they howled and scratched at the gate all night. Needless to say, the entire house was kept awake.
The next night we tried a pop-up crate with the hopes that we could save space during the day by taking it down when it is not needed. About 2 a.m. I was awakened by the frantic scratching of little paws at the side of my bed. Even in the dark of night, I knew immediately it was Chloe and wondered how she managed to get out of the crate (although my dad has nicknamed her Houdini from past escape artist feats she has pulled). In my sleepy state of the wee-morning hour awakening I picked her up and walked through the dark house to turn on the light in the laundry room and find Cole halfway in and halfway out of a hole they had managed to rip in the front of their pop up crate!
The look in his eyes and the sight of this was just about too much! Even though it was a rude awakening, they are just so funny and cute that no one could be too mad. The next morning we promptly ordered them a new more permanent wood and metal crate. Lord, let it get here soon! They might not be so cute if we keep having sleepless nights!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
A Theme Song?
I was out for a run this weekend and was reminded of a song from years ago by Switchfoot...Learning to Breathe! As I listened to the words of the song, I realized how perfectly they fit as a sort of "theme song" for this blog that I unknowingly had given the same name and how perfectly they matched my feelings of gratitude and joy at this present time.
Check out this video I found for it on You Tube:
Check out this video I found for it on You Tube:
Friday, May 13, 2011
Not Mine, but Thine
When you walk, God’s commands will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. – Proverbs 6:22
Over the past year, I have truly come to know Jesus as the Author and Perfector of my faith. I have had moments, days, and weeks when I’ve wondered if I heard Him correctly or if He had spoken at all, if I was really listening to Him or if I was just pretending to seek Him yet trying only to hear Him speak what I wanted Him to speak in regards to my wants and perceived needs. Then there were moments, days and weeks where I felt His presence so near and so clearly that it was undeniable, those times where I knew with every fiber of my being that I was walking in His will and fulfilling His purposes for that moment. As He has grown my faith through both types of circumstances, I am thankful to know that I know that I know that He is always walking with me, that when I sleep physically and yes, spiritually by slipping into patterns of busyness and honestly, just plain selfishness, that take my mind and my heart from wholeheartedly seeking Him, He is there, watching over me. I am also thankful that morning by morning He awakens me to His mercies anew and that by His glorious grace He awakens me spiritually to hear His commands that guide me into His purpose and work that He has prepared for me to do.
Praise you Jesus!
On Monday, May 9th, the Home Group Bible study that I attend was canceled due to our leader having a temperature of 104 degrees. I believe at this time the heat was turned up so that I would turn my eyes and ears to hear what God was ready to reveal. I spent some time studying and reflecting on the past few years.
I suffered from iron deficiency anemia, poor digestion, broken out skin, thinness/frailty, paleness, loss of energy and just a general loss of zeal due to fatigue. In the process, I tried gluten-free eating with some success, veganism with yet other benefits, supplements galore and finally an elimination diet followed by Garden of Life nutritional supplements. All of these methods produced some benefit for a time, but nothing brought full healing and restoration, the kind I longed for and felt deeply that God wanted me to experience. I wondered why He didn’t just heal me as I knew He could. During this time I prayed that God would either take me home to Heaven or restore me and help me to know the purpose, the thing that I could truly say that I was created to do.
I realized that He wanted more than to just heal me in the blink of an eye. He wanted to grow my faith and develop a closer relationship with me and for me to know the work He had prepared for me to do and had been preparing me to do. I had my own plans for life, my own agenda, my own timeline…But God, in His mercy and love, caused my work and striving to stop so that I would know He is God (Job 37:7) and no matter what I can conjure up in my mind, He has already prepared the work He has for me…I must simply seek to walk with Him.
Over the past year, I have truly come to know Jesus as the Author and Perfector of my faith. I have had moments, days, and weeks when I’ve wondered if I heard Him correctly or if He had spoken at all, if I was really listening to Him or if I was just pretending to seek Him yet trying only to hear Him speak what I wanted Him to speak in regards to my wants and perceived needs. Then there were moments, days and weeks where I felt His presence so near and so clearly that it was undeniable, those times where I knew with every fiber of my being that I was walking in His will and fulfilling His purposes for that moment. As He has grown my faith through both types of circumstances, I am thankful to know that I know that I know that He is always walking with me, that when I sleep physically and yes, spiritually by slipping into patterns of busyness and honestly, just plain selfishness, that take my mind and my heart from wholeheartedly seeking Him, He is there, watching over me. I am also thankful that morning by morning He awakens me to His mercies anew and that by His glorious grace He awakens me spiritually to hear His commands that guide me into His purpose and work that He has prepared for me to do.
Praise you Jesus!
On Monday, May 9th, the Home Group Bible study that I attend was canceled due to our leader having a temperature of 104 degrees. I believe at this time the heat was turned up so that I would turn my eyes and ears to hear what God was ready to reveal. I spent some time studying and reflecting on the past few years.
I suffered from iron deficiency anemia, poor digestion, broken out skin, thinness/frailty, paleness, loss of energy and just a general loss of zeal due to fatigue. In the process, I tried gluten-free eating with some success, veganism with yet other benefits, supplements galore and finally an elimination diet followed by Garden of Life nutritional supplements. All of these methods produced some benefit for a time, but nothing brought full healing and restoration, the kind I longed for and felt deeply that God wanted me to experience. I wondered why He didn’t just heal me as I knew He could. During this time I prayed that God would either take me home to Heaven or restore me and help me to know the purpose, the thing that I could truly say that I was created to do.
I realized that He wanted more than to just heal me in the blink of an eye. He wanted to grow my faith and develop a closer relationship with me and for me to know the work He had prepared for me to do and had been preparing me to do. I had my own plans for life, my own agenda, my own timeline…But God, in His mercy and love, caused my work and striving to stop so that I would know He is God (Job 37:7) and no matter what I can conjure up in my mind, He has already prepared the work He has for me…I must simply seek to walk with Him.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Simply Walking
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. – Ephesians 2:10
As a Christian, believing in and saved by the blood of Christ, claiming Him as my Lord, I am new. The old has fallen away and I am a new being. As a new creation, there are specific works God has planned for my life, a specific purpose to fulfill. He intends to use me for good work, good work that I am to “walk in”…if I am to “walk in them”; shouldn’t these works come naturally as a part of my day? They should be an overflow of the joy and faith and relationship I have with God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit which now lives in me.
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace…that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross. –Ephesians 2:13-16
In Christ I am one, I am whole. I receive wholeness in Jesus. Wholeness is a promise I have in Christ.
In Christ, we also are being built together into a dwelling place (a house?) for God by the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:22)
By wisdom a house (dwelling place?) is built, and by understanding it is established, by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. – Proverbs 24:3-4
In seeking Christ, He graciously gives me wisdom – in effect, he is building a dwelling place.
God’s presence (the Holy Spirit) in me is what fills the rooms of this dwelling place with precious and pleasant riches. The overflow of the filling of these rooms, this dwelling place, with His Spirit is a life of joy, peace, love, and abundance.
I am come that they may have life and have it more abundantly. – John 10:10
Abundant: sufficient, filled, overflowing, lavish, extravagant, generous, unselfish
I never thought about abundant as being unselfish until I saw it in a thesaurus.
In essence, when Jesus speaks in John 10:10, is He intending: I am come that they may have life and have it more unselfishly?
Jesus came to serve, even unto death. At his last meal he set an example for us as he served the disciples by washing their feet.
When he had finished washing their feet, he returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” He asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. – John 13:12-17
If I will simply walk with Christ, reading His Word, communicating with Him in prayer, the work the Father has prepared in advance for me to do will flow naturally from my life. Because He lives in me, I can be unselfish (Aren't acts of service the practice of unselfishness?) and I can serve Christ through obedience and faith and by serving others. The result will be a filled to overflowing, joyful, loving, and truly abundant life.
Lord, Your Word is life to me. Please seal it within my mind and my heart that I may live by it!
As a Christian, believing in and saved by the blood of Christ, claiming Him as my Lord, I am new. The old has fallen away and I am a new being. As a new creation, there are specific works God has planned for my life, a specific purpose to fulfill. He intends to use me for good work, good work that I am to “walk in”…if I am to “walk in them”; shouldn’t these works come naturally as a part of my day? They should be an overflow of the joy and faith and relationship I have with God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit which now lives in me.
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace…that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross. –Ephesians 2:13-16
In Christ I am one, I am whole. I receive wholeness in Jesus. Wholeness is a promise I have in Christ.
In Christ, we also are being built together into a dwelling place (a house?) for God by the Spirit. (Ephesians 2:22)
By wisdom a house (dwelling place?) is built, and by understanding it is established, by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches. – Proverbs 24:3-4
In seeking Christ, He graciously gives me wisdom – in effect, he is building a dwelling place.
God’s presence (the Holy Spirit) in me is what fills the rooms of this dwelling place with precious and pleasant riches. The overflow of the filling of these rooms, this dwelling place, with His Spirit is a life of joy, peace, love, and abundance.
I am come that they may have life and have it more abundantly. – John 10:10
Abundant: sufficient, filled, overflowing, lavish, extravagant, generous, unselfish
I never thought about abundant as being unselfish until I saw it in a thesaurus.
In essence, when Jesus speaks in John 10:10, is He intending: I am come that they may have life and have it more unselfishly?
Jesus came to serve, even unto death. At his last meal he set an example for us as he served the disciples by washing their feet.
When he had finished washing their feet, he returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” He asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. – John 13:12-17
If I will simply walk with Christ, reading His Word, communicating with Him in prayer, the work the Father has prepared in advance for me to do will flow naturally from my life. Because He lives in me, I can be unselfish (Aren't acts of service the practice of unselfishness?) and I can serve Christ through obedience and faith and by serving others. The result will be a filled to overflowing, joyful, loving, and truly abundant life.
Lord, Your Word is life to me. Please seal it within my mind and my heart that I may live by it!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Beach Fun!
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork...he has set a tent for the sun...Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat. -Psalm 19Wow, April was a busy month, but I was blessed to spend several days staying on the beach. My nephew and niece spent a few days there as well and I have tons of funny and sweet memories. I think perhaps my favorite moment with my niece was when she swayed on the beach singing “Jesus Loves Me” over and over again for about thirty minutes. To see her at twenty-two months old, in her little swimsuit, dancing and singing praises to the Lord was absolutely precious! One evening my mom and I took my nephew to see a dive-in movie, yes, dive-in (not drive-in). I only wish I had taken my camera to capture his cute little grin as he turned innumerous times to look at me with great joy and elation all over his face at the experience of sitting by the pool watching The Little Mermaid on a big screen. Fun times!
My mom and I prepared in advance many of the meals we had while staying at the beach. I’m not sure why exactly, but beach restaurants seem to be all about fried, fried, fried and more fried. I even saw a sign out front of a local restaurant advertising fried green beans. Sadly the nutritional quality of the majority of the food at so many local restaurants was just not good and besides, when you are spending all day in a swimsuit under the bright sunlight, fried food is probably not going to do you any favors!
Another thing that struck me was the abundance of shrimp, oysters, crab, lobster (mostly served fried) available. Now, I have eaten all of these “delicacies” at some point in the past, but over the last year, I realized that the instructions of the Lord to the Israelites in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14 regarding clean and unclean foods were beneficial to me as well. The Israelites were clearly instructed to eat only fish with scales and fins, not the shellfish and swarming creatures of the water. The truth is this word from the Lord is not to oppress me or take anything away from me, but to warn me of danger and give wisdom and protection. These unclean foods are teeming with toxins that wreak havoc on the human body. As a result of this awareness, I refrain from eating anything from the water that does not have scales and fins.
Instead of eating out for every meal, we made some really delicious and nutritious foods that were refreshing and nourishing for our bodies after spending time out in the sun.
We love hummus and veggies, so this was a great way to start the day and a great lunch to have after some time in the sun. 
Raw kale salad with mango and toasted pumpkin seeds is another warm weather favorite. We enjoyed the salad with a side of ginger-spiced quinoa and sweet potatoes. 
The sunny almond salad served over spinach, with berries and pears was a wonderful refresher!
Chicken salad made with Veganaise, lemon juice, apples and pears provided a great protein boost. 
For a special treat one night we baked an almond meal crust, topped it with chocolate ganache, mixed berries and bananas. All I can say is yum!Spending time at the beach was a lot of fun and preparing easy, refreshing meals in advance made our stay super healthy and kept us balanced and well-hydrated.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Pizza!
I love making pizza at home! The crust is made from almond flour and is super quick and easy to make. It is more of a crisp crust, not doughy, but oh so good! My dad is usually the most skeptical of healthier fare, but he really enjoys this too!
I use tomato sauce or tomato paste. The sauce is a little thinner and spreads really well, but the paste is thicker and more concentrated. To enhance the sauce, I add spices like thyme, cilantro, basil and oregano. Then top with sauteed veggies, usually red onion, garlic, broccoli, and mushrooms...sometimes spinach or even kale. I go cheeseless, but the great thing about making individual sizes at home is that each one can be adjuusted to specific taste preferences.
I plan on making a dessert pizza soon with chocolate ganache, strawberries and bananas, yum!
Friday, April 1, 2011
My New Favorite Snack
I'm so excited about this great little energy booster. I start with 4 oz. of fresh squeezed organic orange juice, one half of a lemon juiced and 4 oz. of water.
Then I add one scoop of Garden of Life Perfect Food Raw. It is full of organic greens, sprouts, veggies and fruits.
I was unbelievably shocked at how this pepped me up. It really does give a big energy boost for the day. And it really does taste good mixed with the orange and lemon juice. When we are short on time and can't get our collards, kale, broccoli, or spinach washed up, this is a quick way to get our greens, plus tons of other good nutrients. It's one of those green things that I crave!
Then I add one scoop of Garden of Life Perfect Food Raw. It is full of organic greens, sprouts, veggies and fruits.
I was unbelievably shocked at how this pepped me up. It really does give a big energy boost for the day. And it really does taste good mixed with the orange and lemon juice. When we are short on time and can't get our collards, kale, broccoli, or spinach washed up, this is a quick way to get our greens, plus tons of other good nutrients. It's one of those green things that I crave!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Raw Chocolate Cake
I had a request for the raw chocolate cake recipe. Thank you for the comment and request! This will make one layer of the cake. For the birthday cake I made one layer, pressed it into the pan, let it sit in the fridge for a few minutes. Topped with one recipe of ganache, let it sit in the fridge (or you could put in freezer to speed up the process) to set up, made a second layer of cake, pressed it into the pan, then made a double recipe of ganache to frost the entire cake. It takes a few steps, but it really is worth the extra effort! Please let me know if you make it and how it turns out.
Ingredients:
1 cup dates, soaked in water to soften, then drained
1/2 Cup raw cashews, finely ground
1 Tbsp. lemon juice, fresh squeezed
1 Tbsp. extra virgin coconut oil
1 1/2 Tbsp. vanilla
pinch Celtic sea salt
1/2 Cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 Cup almond flour (I use Benefit Your Life)
1 Cup unsweetened coconut, finely shredded
Blend dates in Vitamix or food processor to make a paste. Add a little water if needed.
Grind cashews in Vitamix or food processor until fine.
In a bowl combine all ingredients. Stir and press together until well combined. Mixture will be very thick. Add a little water, but not too much, if needed to get mixture to hold together. It should be a little dry, but will hold together once pressed into the pan.
Press into a parchment paper lined spring form pan. Place in refrigerator to set. Make ganache:
1/4 Cup extra virgin coconut oil
1/2 Cup maple syrup, grade B
1/2 Cup unsweetened cocoa
Blend all ingredients in Vitamix or blender. Add more syrup or cocoa depending on your taste preference and consistency. Should be somewhat thick, but spreadable. Spread over cake and place in refrigerator or freezer to set up.
If making a double layer cake, make a second layer just like the first, press into the pan atop the first layer and ganache, let sit in fridge or freezer to set. Once you remove the cake from the spring form pan, you will want to make a little more than the above amount of ganache to cover the top and sides of the cake. The measurements are:
1/3 Cup extra virgin coconut oil
1 Cup maple syrup, grade B
1 Cup unsweetened cocoa
Of course, adjust maple syrup and cocoa as needed for desired taste and consistency. Enjoy!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Everything Green
I love green foods...my body actually craves green foods. Kale, collards, spinach, broccoli...the list goes on...and I can't remember the last time I went more than 24 hours without one of these nutritious power houses on my plate.
Chlorophyll is what makes green plants green. Consuming foods high in chlorophyll can actually darken the skin and protect against sun burn, protect against carcinogens and toxic chemicals, stimulate the repair of damaged tissues, inhibit the growth of bacteria, accelerate wound healing and minimize body odor. Who knew green foods had so many benefits?
This is one of my favorite green meals: Collard wraps with kale chips.
To make the collard leaves pliable, we heat water in a big pot on the stove. Then we dip each leaf in for a few seconds until it is softened and wrappable. The filling is created by peeling and dicing a sweet potato, massaging it with a little extra virgin coconut oil and baking in a 400 degree oven for about 20 minutes. We use a can of aduki beans (they are super tiny and easy to digest), drained and rinsed. Once the potatoes are cooked, we stir them together with the aduki beans, add a chopped avocado and season with Herbamare. Then we place a couple of spoonfuls into a collard leaf, starting at the stem end, folding up and pulling the sides in. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it now!
The kale chips are incredibly light and airy with a slight crisp. With only 4 ingredients, they are also really quick and easy to make.
1 bunch kale, chopped
1 Tbsp. lemon juice, fresh squeezed
2 Tbsp. grapeseed oil
1/4 tsp. Celtic sea salt
Massage kale with lemon juice, grapeseed oil and salt. Spread kale onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees for about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy a yummy nutritious snack!
And God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. And to the beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food." And it was so. And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. - Genesis 1:29-31
Chlorophyll is what makes green plants green. Consuming foods high in chlorophyll can actually darken the skin and protect against sun burn, protect against carcinogens and toxic chemicals, stimulate the repair of damaged tissues, inhibit the growth of bacteria, accelerate wound healing and minimize body odor. Who knew green foods had so many benefits?
This is one of my favorite green meals: Collard wraps with kale chips.
To make the collard leaves pliable, we heat water in a big pot on the stove. Then we dip each leaf in for a few seconds until it is softened and wrappable. The filling is created by peeling and dicing a sweet potato, massaging it with a little extra virgin coconut oil and baking in a 400 degree oven for about 20 minutes. We use a can of aduki beans (they are super tiny and easy to digest), drained and rinsed. Once the potatoes are cooked, we stir them together with the aduki beans, add a chopped avocado and season with Herbamare. Then we place a couple of spoonfuls into a collard leaf, starting at the stem end, folding up and pulling the sides in. I'm getting hungry just thinking about it now!
The kale chips are incredibly light and airy with a slight crisp. With only 4 ingredients, they are also really quick and easy to make.
1 bunch kale, chopped
1 Tbsp. lemon juice, fresh squeezed
2 Tbsp. grapeseed oil
1/4 tsp. Celtic sea salt
Massage kale with lemon juice, grapeseed oil and salt. Spread kale onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees for about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy a yummy nutritious snack!
And God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. And to the beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food." And it was so. And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. - Genesis 1:29-31
Monday, March 21, 2011
Sunrise, Celebration, and Raw Chocolate Cake Anyone?
I'm not one to rise early enough to see the sunrise, but my sister-in-law and I ran our first official 10K on Saturday morning and so I was up before the crack of dawn and blessed to see a beautiful sunrise. The weather was perfect for a morning run and I accomplished my goals: finish in under and hour and don't fall down! After the race, the view across the water was amazing and by 8:30 a.m. we had run 6.2 miles and were feeling great!
Saturday was also my mom's birthday, so we celebrated with a family dinner of some of her favorite things of the moment. It was a great day to honor her and thank her for all that she does for our family. Here are a few pictures of the birthday meal:
For dinner, we created a spinach salad with pears, strawberries, and blueberries. Another one of mom's faves is a broccoli salad with raisins, sunflower seeds, vegenaise, and apple cider vinegar. It really is delicious! We also had organic chicken cut into bite size pieces, dipped in coconut milk, then dredged in a mixture of teff flour, brown rice flour and Herbamare seasoning. We bake these in the oven and they are beyond good!
Mom loves chocolate (we all love chocolate), so her cake had to be super chocolatey! Actually we had two cakes. One was a flourless chocolate banana cake that is more like a chocolate mousse or pudding cake. It is super quick and easy to make with very few ingredients too.
Flourless Chocolate Banana Cake
3 large eggs, separated
¼ teaspoon celtic sea salt
½ cup maple syrup
¼ cup coconut oil
3 ripe bananas
½ cup cocoa powder
In a Vitamix, whip egg yolks, maple syrup and salt on medium for 1-2 minutes. Add coconut oil and bananas and blend for another minute or two. Blend in cocoa powder.
In a separate bowl, whip egg whites to stiff peaks. Gently fold contents of Vitamix into bowl with egg whites.
Grease a 9-inch cake pan with coconut oil and pour batter into pan. Bake at 350° for about 30 minutes. Let cool slightly then serve.
We also had a raw chocolate cake with dark chocolate frosting. This cake has a few more ingredients and a few more steps, but it is so worth the extra effort. And yes, you read correctly, I said raw...no baking required! We keep it in the fridge so it is nice and cool and it is just so decadent! It is somewhat reminiscent of a Mounds or a German chocolate cake...it's just really, really delish!
We had a wonderful dinner and celebration. I love food, family and fellowship!
Saturday was also my mom's birthday, so we celebrated with a family dinner of some of her favorite things of the moment. It was a great day to honor her and thank her for all that she does for our family. Here are a few pictures of the birthday meal:
For dinner, we created a spinach salad with pears, strawberries, and blueberries. Another one of mom's faves is a broccoli salad with raisins, sunflower seeds, vegenaise, and apple cider vinegar. It really is delicious! We also had organic chicken cut into bite size pieces, dipped in coconut milk, then dredged in a mixture of teff flour, brown rice flour and Herbamare seasoning. We bake these in the oven and they are beyond good!
Mom loves chocolate (we all love chocolate), so her cake had to be super chocolatey! Actually we had two cakes. One was a flourless chocolate banana cake that is more like a chocolate mousse or pudding cake. It is super quick and easy to make with very few ingredients too.
Flourless Chocolate Banana Cake
3 large eggs, separated
¼ teaspoon celtic sea salt
½ cup maple syrup
¼ cup coconut oil
3 ripe bananas
½ cup cocoa powder
In a Vitamix, whip egg yolks, maple syrup and salt on medium for 1-2 minutes. Add coconut oil and bananas and blend for another minute or two. Blend in cocoa powder.
In a separate bowl, whip egg whites to stiff peaks. Gently fold contents of Vitamix into bowl with egg whites.
Grease a 9-inch cake pan with coconut oil and pour batter into pan. Bake at 350° for about 30 minutes. Let cool slightly then serve.
We also had a raw chocolate cake with dark chocolate frosting. This cake has a few more ingredients and a few more steps, but it is so worth the extra effort. And yes, you read correctly, I said raw...no baking required! We keep it in the fridge so it is nice and cool and it is just so decadent! It is somewhat reminiscent of a Mounds or a German chocolate cake...it's just really, really delish!
We had a wonderful dinner and celebration. I love food, family and fellowship!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Blessed Be God
All new life comes out of dark places.
That which is perceived as ugly transfigures into beautiful.
Two sentences from Ann Voskamp’s book, One Thousand Gifts. Two sentences that have such depth and meaning...new life and beauty often require patience, suffering, hopeful anticipation and trust before the joyous fulfillment. But, as Ann says in her book, “joy is always worth the wait.”
Waiting, especially in difficult times or unknown seasons of life, develops trust which changes our perspective and bursts open doors of praise and thanksgiving.
I experienced uncertainty and fear with regards to my health, but God said: See now that I, I am He, and there is no God beside Me, It is I who put to death and give life. I have wounded and it is I who heal. - Deuteronomy 32:39
I must admit, I read certain parts of God’s word not applying them to my life, not thinking they were still applicable in this modern day. Parts of the “law” that while Christ followers do not have to follow in order to have new life, are still applicable for protection and guidance. Truly, truly this is no empty word for me, but my very life and by this word I shall live. (Deuteronomy 32:47)
When I cried out to God, He answered me, not by immediately changing my circumstances or making the journey to good health an easy one, but He answered me. He directed me to His word, to Genesis 1, to Leviticus 11…He opened my eyes, my mind and my heart to see how He wanted to heal me, through the life giving power of His mighty hand and through the protection of obedience.
Overhauling your life in terms of how and what you eat, the products you use to clean your home or the personal care/cosmetics used to beautify yourself can be overwhelming. But God, in His mercy, prepares the way and provides our needs. I wanted a quick fix solution to my prayers, but He had a better plan. I know that I could have been miraculously healed, but I also know that it has been in the process that thankfulness and praise to God have grown and He is changing me in more ways than I ever could have imagined or hoped.
Truly God never wastes our hurts:
He makes everything work out according to His plan. –Ephesians 1:11
Surely, just as I have intended so it has happened, and just as I have planned so it will stand. – Isaiah 14:24
God’s greatest plan for each and every one of us is to know Him through a relationship with Jesus Christ. He wants to bring us to complete wholeness and He will cut through anything and everything that stands in the way…if only we will surrender to him we will find true freedom and wholeness.
The Cut – Jason Gray
Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me! – Psalm 66:20
That which is perceived as ugly transfigures into beautiful.
Two sentences from Ann Voskamp’s book, One Thousand Gifts. Two sentences that have such depth and meaning...new life and beauty often require patience, suffering, hopeful anticipation and trust before the joyous fulfillment. But, as Ann says in her book, “joy is always worth the wait.”
Waiting, especially in difficult times or unknown seasons of life, develops trust which changes our perspective and bursts open doors of praise and thanksgiving.
I experienced uncertainty and fear with regards to my health, but God said: See now that I, I am He, and there is no God beside Me, It is I who put to death and give life. I have wounded and it is I who heal. - Deuteronomy 32:39
I must admit, I read certain parts of God’s word not applying them to my life, not thinking they were still applicable in this modern day. Parts of the “law” that while Christ followers do not have to follow in order to have new life, are still applicable for protection and guidance. Truly, truly this is no empty word for me, but my very life and by this word I shall live. (Deuteronomy 32:47)
When I cried out to God, He answered me, not by immediately changing my circumstances or making the journey to good health an easy one, but He answered me. He directed me to His word, to Genesis 1, to Leviticus 11…He opened my eyes, my mind and my heart to see how He wanted to heal me, through the life giving power of His mighty hand and through the protection of obedience.
Overhauling your life in terms of how and what you eat, the products you use to clean your home or the personal care/cosmetics used to beautify yourself can be overwhelming. But God, in His mercy, prepares the way and provides our needs. I wanted a quick fix solution to my prayers, but He had a better plan. I know that I could have been miraculously healed, but I also know that it has been in the process that thankfulness and praise to God have grown and He is changing me in more ways than I ever could have imagined or hoped.
Truly God never wastes our hurts:
He makes everything work out according to His plan. –Ephesians 1:11
Surely, just as I have intended so it has happened, and just as I have planned so it will stand. – Isaiah 14:24
God’s greatest plan for each and every one of us is to know Him through a relationship with Jesus Christ. He wants to bring us to complete wholeness and He will cut through anything and everything that stands in the way…if only we will surrender to him we will find true freedom and wholeness.
The Cut – Jason Gray
Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me! – Psalm 66:20
Friday, March 11, 2011
SKYDIVING
Yesterday I had an interesting conversation with a friend who is becoming a certified skydiving instructor. It went like this:
ME: Been skydiving lately?
FRIEND: Yeah, I go as often as I can. Have you been yet?
ME: No, I would like to, but just haven’t tried it yet…if I’m going to ever try it, I need to before I get married and have children because you know, I would feel so responsible for these other people that I just don’t know if I could take the risk.
FRIEND: I want to get married one day too, but I don’t know if I could say no to skydiving. Besides, if it is God’s will for me to go at that time then it doesn’t matter what I’m doing, right?
ME: Well, what if you aren’t killed, but just injured and paralyzed?
FRIEND: That could be God’s will too.
ME: But what if it wasn’t His perfect will? What if in doing so, I stepped outside of His will for me at that time and paralysis was the consequence?
FRIEND: I see what you are saying…that makes sense…something to think about.
I think skydiving is very intriguing and maybe one day I will try it! So, I’m not saying anything against that, but it does make me wonder. How often do I step outside of God’s will, His most perfect plan for my life and how many times does He send warring angels to protect me from my ignorance or willful disobedience? How many hurts could be avoided by being so in-tune with my Creator that I can’t help but walk with Him always?
My people go into exile for a lack of knowledge. –Isaiah 5:13
Lord, please help me to know your word, to be able to give an answer for the choices I make, to choose life instead of things that lead to death. Please help me to question what I don’t understand and seek until I find the answers, your answers.
Please forgive me, Lord, for looking to the world and blindly believing lies that it tries to sell me. Please forgive me for participating in all things that have not been beneficial to me. Thank you for knowledge and for shining your light that I may see truth and change. Please continue to shine your light in the dark places of my life where I still need to grow in wisdom and discernment. Thank you for your grace and mercy that cover all of my faults and failures and guide me into your truth.
But when anything is exposed to the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore, it says, “Awake, o sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine upon you.” – Ephesians 5:13-14
ME: Been skydiving lately?
FRIEND: Yeah, I go as often as I can. Have you been yet?
ME: No, I would like to, but just haven’t tried it yet…if I’m going to ever try it, I need to before I get married and have children because you know, I would feel so responsible for these other people that I just don’t know if I could take the risk.
FRIEND: I want to get married one day too, but I don’t know if I could say no to skydiving. Besides, if it is God’s will for me to go at that time then it doesn’t matter what I’m doing, right?
ME: Well, what if you aren’t killed, but just injured and paralyzed?
FRIEND: That could be God’s will too.
ME: But what if it wasn’t His perfect will? What if in doing so, I stepped outside of His will for me at that time and paralysis was the consequence?
FRIEND: I see what you are saying…that makes sense…something to think about.
I think skydiving is very intriguing and maybe one day I will try it! So, I’m not saying anything against that, but it does make me wonder. How often do I step outside of God’s will, His most perfect plan for my life and how many times does He send warring angels to protect me from my ignorance or willful disobedience? How many hurts could be avoided by being so in-tune with my Creator that I can’t help but walk with Him always?
My people go into exile for a lack of knowledge. –Isaiah 5:13
Lord, please help me to know your word, to be able to give an answer for the choices I make, to choose life instead of things that lead to death. Please help me to question what I don’t understand and seek until I find the answers, your answers.
Please forgive me, Lord, for looking to the world and blindly believing lies that it tries to sell me. Please forgive me for participating in all things that have not been beneficial to me. Thank you for knowledge and for shining your light that I may see truth and change. Please continue to shine your light in the dark places of my life where I still need to grow in wisdom and discernment. Thank you for your grace and mercy that cover all of my faults and failures and guide me into your truth.
But when anything is exposed to the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore, it says, “Awake, o sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine upon you.” – Ephesians 5:13-14
Friday, February 25, 2011
Birthday Meals!
Being the total foodie that I am, I had to post my yummy birthday meals. I celebrated with my parents on my actual birthday and then we had a special birthday dinner a few days later with my brother, sister-in-law, nephew and niece.
My first celebration meal was a super delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, sauteed collard greens and orange slices. This was so great that I completely forgot to take a picture...but it truly was a fantastic way to start the day.
For lunch, we had something I really enjoy...chicken with leeks and apples. Mmm...Granny Smith apples are my absolute favorite. There is just a little apple cider vinegar in this recipe too which really enhances the flavor. We had some collards left over from breakfast, so we added those as a side.
My dessert for this day was a decadent chocolate walnut brownie. I've been asked for some recipes, and this one is so quick and easy that I'll share it below. We enjoyed these tremendously!
The original plan for our family dinner was to include steak, but our local co-op was unable to get the organic, grass-fed filet in, so we went with plan B...my nephew's favorite when he is at Mimi's house: "healthy shapes" with a side of broccoli and the adults had a spinach salad. Healthy shapes are super nutritious with ingredients including; carrots, celery, mushrooms, walnuts, lentils, flax seed, thyme and parsley. We began making these in cookie cutter shapes to entice my nephew and niece to eat them, so although we now make only circles they are still referred to as healthy shapes. The great thing about them is that you can make up a bunch and freeze them to pull out for a quick meal when you are short on time.
I tried a new carrot cake recipe...it was a risk and had about a 50% approval rating. Apparently, it must be a "girl thing" because all of us girls liked it, but the men where a little less enthused. The cake was made with almond meal and sweetened with maple syrup. I used a coconut cream frosting that was also sweetened with maple syrup, so no refined sugar was used resulting in no crazy blood sugar spikes and for that we should all be thankful.
I thoroughly enjoyed both birthday meals and can't wait to try more new recipes and for more reasons to celebrate!
As promised, here is the chocolate walnut brownie recipe:
Ingredients:
1/4 C. extra-virgin coconut oil
1/2 C. bittersweet chocolate chips
1/4 C. raw honey
2 eggs
1/4 C. coconut flour
1/4 tsp. celtic sea salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 C. chopped walnuts
1/2 C. bittersweet chocolate chips
*Can use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweeter brownie.
Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 8 x 8 glass or stainless steel baking pan with extra-virgin coconut oil.
In small sauce pan melt coconut oil and 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
Add honey, reduce heat, add eggs. Whisk until well combined.
Add coconut flour, salt, baking soda and vanilla. Stir until well combined.
Spread batter in prepared pan.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts and 1/2 cup chocolate chips over the top.
Bake about 15 minutes. Enjoy!
My first celebration meal was a super delicious breakfast of scrambled eggs, sauteed collard greens and orange slices. This was so great that I completely forgot to take a picture...but it truly was a fantastic way to start the day.
For lunch, we had something I really enjoy...chicken with leeks and apples. Mmm...Granny Smith apples are my absolute favorite. There is just a little apple cider vinegar in this recipe too which really enhances the flavor. We had some collards left over from breakfast, so we added those as a side.
My dessert for this day was a decadent chocolate walnut brownie. I've been asked for some recipes, and this one is so quick and easy that I'll share it below. We enjoyed these tremendously!
The original plan for our family dinner was to include steak, but our local co-op was unable to get the organic, grass-fed filet in, so we went with plan B...my nephew's favorite when he is at Mimi's house: "healthy shapes" with a side of broccoli and the adults had a spinach salad. Healthy shapes are super nutritious with ingredients including; carrots, celery, mushrooms, walnuts, lentils, flax seed, thyme and parsley. We began making these in cookie cutter shapes to entice my nephew and niece to eat them, so although we now make only circles they are still referred to as healthy shapes. The great thing about them is that you can make up a bunch and freeze them to pull out for a quick meal when you are short on time.
I tried a new carrot cake recipe...it was a risk and had about a 50% approval rating. Apparently, it must be a "girl thing" because all of us girls liked it, but the men where a little less enthused. The cake was made with almond meal and sweetened with maple syrup. I used a coconut cream frosting that was also sweetened with maple syrup, so no refined sugar was used resulting in no crazy blood sugar spikes and for that we should all be thankful.
I thoroughly enjoyed both birthday meals and can't wait to try more new recipes and for more reasons to celebrate!
As promised, here is the chocolate walnut brownie recipe:
Ingredients:
1/4 C. extra-virgin coconut oil
1/2 C. bittersweet chocolate chips
1/4 C. raw honey
2 eggs
1/4 C. coconut flour
1/4 tsp. celtic sea salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 C. chopped walnuts
1/2 C. bittersweet chocolate chips
*Can use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweeter brownie.
Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 8 x 8 glass or stainless steel baking pan with extra-virgin coconut oil.
In small sauce pan melt coconut oil and 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
Add honey, reduce heat, add eggs. Whisk until well combined.
Add coconut flour, salt, baking soda and vanilla. Stir until well combined.
Spread batter in prepared pan.
Sprinkle chopped walnuts and 1/2 cup chocolate chips over the top.
Bake about 15 minutes. Enjoy!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Something to Celebrate!
I went back and forth a little bit on how to deal with turning 30...should I mourn the loss of my twenties or celebrate surviving them? I’m always up for a “party”, so of course the celebration won out! Here is a little recap of some great things that I experienced during the last decade:
At 20, I was loving life, spending long days at the beach and working on my B.A. in Public Relations. My parents and I traveled to Kansas City where I colored (and we dined) at the Crayola Café and we toured the Hallmark Corporation headquarters.
21: I interned at PLT and had tons of fun as “Miss Fun Tickets”, I graduated with my B.A., danced to “Paradise City” on the bar at Coyote Ugly (I do not, nor have I ever drank alcohol, but the movie had popularized this bar and so yes, I entered, I danced and ok, so maybe it was more than one song) in New Orleans. This year wrapped up with some really exciting firsts…my first trip to New York City during Christmastime included my first real snow, seeing the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, having my breath taken away by St. Patrick’s Cathedral delicately covered with freshly fallen snow, shopping at Saks on 5th Avenue, riding in a limo, dining at the exquisite Tavern on the Green (sadly it has now closed), seeing Les Miz on Broadway, eating Dunkin Donuts in Times Square (this was long before my gluten-free days).
22: Began my first career path in the fast-paced world of advertising, welcomed my beautiful sister-in-law into the family, our lives were forever changed when my mom and I brought two little Maltese puppies home on Christmas Eve. Cole and Chloe have been in charge ever since!
23: This must not have been too eventful of a year! I settled into my career and spent time with friends, oh yes and we adjusted to life with two puppies in the house.
24: Mom and I nearly caused dad to have a heart attack when we almost missed our flight to New York. This time we went during July and it was more than HOT. We had a fun time with more NYC firsts: dessert at Carnegie Deli, two Broadway shows: Movin’ Out and Sweet Charity (starring Christina Applegate), Veniero’s Pastry where we had our first cannoli’s (yum!), appearing on Good Morning America hosted by Barbara Walters and Charlie Gibson.
25: Celebrated my Mama Mae’s 80th birthday, began career #2 in interior design (extremely fun!), celebrated the birth of my nephew Deacon which forever changed all of our lives for the better!
26: Missed our flight (for real this time) to Washington D.C. (dad handled it much better than before…really, who knew you had to be there 45 minutes before the plane was scheduled to leave?!), had my picture taken in front of the White House with George W. Bush as President, started back to school to try my hand at accounting.
27: Continued my “detour” through school and continued to study God’s word and seek more of His plans for my life.
28: Led in the preschool department at church and acquired numerous hilarious and precious stories related to toddlers and potty training…fun times! Experienced the miracle of life as I stood by in the delivery room while my niece Layla entered the world. Learned about gluten and eliminated it from my diet. Finished school with a degree in accounting.
29: Worked full-time in accounting, left behind that career path. Vacationed in Savannah where we toured the squares with a true southern gentleman, Savannah Dan; dined at Paula Deen’s Restaurant, Lady and Sons and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. Spent time resting, reflecting and seeing God’s grace, mercy and goodness.
The 20’s were certainly a time to be celebrated and filled with laughter, love, heartache, pain, and everything in between. Reflecting, I see God’s hand, His divine purpose and blessing. I pray for the next year, 10 years, lifetime that I will step aside and let God do all that He had in mind when He created me. I’m excited to see where He leads.
You crown the year with your bounty, your wagon tracks overflow with abundance. – Psalm 65:11
At 20, I was loving life, spending long days at the beach and working on my B.A. in Public Relations. My parents and I traveled to Kansas City where I colored (and we dined) at the Crayola Café and we toured the Hallmark Corporation headquarters.
21: I interned at PLT and had tons of fun as “Miss Fun Tickets”, I graduated with my B.A., danced to “Paradise City” on the bar at Coyote Ugly (I do not, nor have I ever drank alcohol, but the movie had popularized this bar and so yes, I entered, I danced and ok, so maybe it was more than one song) in New Orleans. This year wrapped up with some really exciting firsts…my first trip to New York City during Christmastime included my first real snow, seeing the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, having my breath taken away by St. Patrick’s Cathedral delicately covered with freshly fallen snow, shopping at Saks on 5th Avenue, riding in a limo, dining at the exquisite Tavern on the Green (sadly it has now closed), seeing Les Miz on Broadway, eating Dunkin Donuts in Times Square (this was long before my gluten-free days).
22: Began my first career path in the fast-paced world of advertising, welcomed my beautiful sister-in-law into the family, our lives were forever changed when my mom and I brought two little Maltese puppies home on Christmas Eve. Cole and Chloe have been in charge ever since!
23: This must not have been too eventful of a year! I settled into my career and spent time with friends, oh yes and we adjusted to life with two puppies in the house.
24: Mom and I nearly caused dad to have a heart attack when we almost missed our flight to New York. This time we went during July and it was more than HOT. We had a fun time with more NYC firsts: dessert at Carnegie Deli, two Broadway shows: Movin’ Out and Sweet Charity (starring Christina Applegate), Veniero’s Pastry where we had our first cannoli’s (yum!), appearing on Good Morning America hosted by Barbara Walters and Charlie Gibson.
25: Celebrated my Mama Mae’s 80th birthday, began career #2 in interior design (extremely fun!), celebrated the birth of my nephew Deacon which forever changed all of our lives for the better!
26: Missed our flight (for real this time) to Washington D.C. (dad handled it much better than before…really, who knew you had to be there 45 minutes before the plane was scheduled to leave?!), had my picture taken in front of the White House with George W. Bush as President, started back to school to try my hand at accounting.
27: Continued my “detour” through school and continued to study God’s word and seek more of His plans for my life.
28: Led in the preschool department at church and acquired numerous hilarious and precious stories related to toddlers and potty training…fun times! Experienced the miracle of life as I stood by in the delivery room while my niece Layla entered the world. Learned about gluten and eliminated it from my diet. Finished school with a degree in accounting.
29: Worked full-time in accounting, left behind that career path. Vacationed in Savannah where we toured the squares with a true southern gentleman, Savannah Dan; dined at Paula Deen’s Restaurant, Lady and Sons and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. Spent time resting, reflecting and seeing God’s grace, mercy and goodness.
The 20’s were certainly a time to be celebrated and filled with laughter, love, heartache, pain, and everything in between. Reflecting, I see God’s hand, His divine purpose and blessing. I pray for the next year, 10 years, lifetime that I will step aside and let God do all that He had in mind when He created me. I’m excited to see where He leads.
You crown the year with your bounty, your wagon tracks overflow with abundance. – Psalm 65:11
Monday, February 14, 2011
I Love Valentine's Day!
Yes, I am a single girl who loves Valentine’s Day! And yes, I just referred to myself as a girl…I’m holding on to my “girlhood” until at least my next birthday (which is coming much more quickly than I’d like) upon which I will probably have to accept that I am no longer a girl, but indeed a woman…that just sounds so much older, but I’ll tackle that issue another day. Back to Valentine’s Day…any day that requires pink, red, hearts and chocolate (preferably dark) is a day to be celebrated in my book!
Since I’m waiting for my true “Valentine” I thought I would share some things that I love. I’ll begin with a passage in Psalms that I recently read and wrap up with some yummy chocolate treats!
I was recently drawn to Psalm 107. I’m going to print it below (it’s kind of long). When I read this Psalm, my heart was just so heavy with love and emotion for God. It doesn’t matter how many times we wander away from Him seeking direction or purpose from people and things, or we willfully rebel and give in to sin, or are just ignorant in the decisions we make, or let the storms of life cause us to falter, if we turn to him, He is always there with this steadfast love to make our way straight, to break the chains of sin and flood the darkness with His light, to heal and calm the storms and calm our souls. This passage just really spoke volumes…
Psalm 107
Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble
and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.
Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city to dwell in;
hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them.
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He led them by a straight way till they reached a city to dwell in.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.
Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and in irons,
for they had rebelled against the words of God, and spurned the counsel of the Most High.
So he bowed their hearts down with hard labor; they fell down, with none to help.
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and burst their bonds apart.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
For he shatters the doors of bronze and cuts in two the bars of iron.
Some were fools through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities suffered affliction;
they loathed any kind of food, and they drew near to the gates of death.
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his deeds in songs of joy!
Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the great waters;
they saw the deeds of the Lord, his wondrous works in the deep.
For he commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea.
They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their evil plight;
they reeled and staggered like drunken men and were at their wits’ end.
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed.
Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
Let them extol him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
He turns rivers into a desert, springs of water into thirsty ground,
a fruitful land into a salty waste, because of the evil of its inhabitants.
He turns a desert into pools of water, a parched land into springs of water.
And there he lets the hungry dwell, and they establish a city to live in;
they sow fields and plant vineyards and get a fruitful yield.
By his blessing they multiply greatly, and he does not let their livestock diminish.
When they are diminished and brought low through oppression, evil, and sorrow,
he pours contempt on princes and makes them wander in trackless wastes;
but he raises up the needy out of affliction and makes their families like flocks.
The upright see it and are glad, and all wickedness shuts its mouth.
Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things;
let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.
Powerful words that have so many layers of meaning for my life.
More V-Day favorites…
My favorite “love” songs right now:
Your Love (Brandon Heath)
More Like Falling in Love (Jason Gray)
Hold Us Together (Matt Maher)
Show Me Your Glory (Third Day)
Yummy Valentine’s Treats…
These flourless chocolate chip cookies really take the place of a traditional oatmeal chocolate chip cookie. Quinoa flakes take the place of oats, dates and honey take the place of refined sugar and crunchy roasted almond butter brings it all together.
Triple chocolate cookies are divine! They too are flourless, made with almond meal and sweetened with honey. Plus a super special secret ingredient that really enhances the decadent blend of cocoa, bittersweet and semisweet chocolates.
These brownies have proven to be a real favorite around our house and seem to be big hit with others too. Like the previous cookies, they too are flourless. The main ingredient is creamy roasted almond butter so there is no need for any extra oil or butter either. These are sweetened with maple syrup which pairs nicely with the chunky bittersweet chocolate chips.
In my opinion, Valentine's Day is not complete without chocolate truffles. These are virtually guilt-free too. They are raw and the only ingredients are walnuts, dates, unsweetened cocoa and unsweetened shredded coconut. Lots of vitamins, fiber, healthy omega-3 fats and other nutrients, so it's more than ok to indulge a little on these!
However you choose to celebrate the day, I hope you feel loved and blessed.
Since I’m waiting for my true “Valentine” I thought I would share some things that I love. I’ll begin with a passage in Psalms that I recently read and wrap up with some yummy chocolate treats!
I was recently drawn to Psalm 107. I’m going to print it below (it’s kind of long). When I read this Psalm, my heart was just so heavy with love and emotion for God. It doesn’t matter how many times we wander away from Him seeking direction or purpose from people and things, or we willfully rebel and give in to sin, or are just ignorant in the decisions we make, or let the storms of life cause us to falter, if we turn to him, He is always there with this steadfast love to make our way straight, to break the chains of sin and flood the darkness with His light, to heal and calm the storms and calm our souls. This passage just really spoke volumes…
Psalm 107
Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble
and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.
Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city to dwell in;
hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them.
Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He led them by a straight way till they reached a city to dwell in.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.
Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and in irons,
for they had rebelled against the words of God, and spurned the counsel of the Most High.
So he bowed their hearts down with hard labor; they fell down, with none to help.
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and burst their bonds apart.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
For he shatters the doors of bronze and cuts in two the bars of iron.
Some were fools through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities suffered affliction;
they loathed any kind of food, and they drew near to the gates of death.
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his deeds in songs of joy!
Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the great waters;
they saw the deeds of the Lord, his wondrous works in the deep.
For he commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea.
They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their evil plight;
they reeled and staggered like drunken men and were at their wits’ end.
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed.
Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
Let them extol him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
He turns rivers into a desert, springs of water into thirsty ground,
a fruitful land into a salty waste, because of the evil of its inhabitants.
He turns a desert into pools of water, a parched land into springs of water.
And there he lets the hungry dwell, and they establish a city to live in;
they sow fields and plant vineyards and get a fruitful yield.
By his blessing they multiply greatly, and he does not let their livestock diminish.
When they are diminished and brought low through oppression, evil, and sorrow,
he pours contempt on princes and makes them wander in trackless wastes;
but he raises up the needy out of affliction and makes their families like flocks.
The upright see it and are glad, and all wickedness shuts its mouth.
Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things;
let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.
Powerful words that have so many layers of meaning for my life.
More V-Day favorites…
My favorite “love” songs right now:
Your Love (Brandon Heath)
More Like Falling in Love (Jason Gray)
Hold Us Together (Matt Maher)
Show Me Your Glory (Third Day)
Yummy Valentine’s Treats…
These flourless chocolate chip cookies really take the place of a traditional oatmeal chocolate chip cookie. Quinoa flakes take the place of oats, dates and honey take the place of refined sugar and crunchy roasted almond butter brings it all together. 
Triple chocolate cookies are divine! They too are flourless, made with almond meal and sweetened with honey. Plus a super special secret ingredient that really enhances the decadent blend of cocoa, bittersweet and semisweet chocolates.
These brownies have proven to be a real favorite around our house and seem to be big hit with others too. Like the previous cookies, they too are flourless. The main ingredient is creamy roasted almond butter so there is no need for any extra oil or butter either. These are sweetened with maple syrup which pairs nicely with the chunky bittersweet chocolate chips. 
In my opinion, Valentine's Day is not complete without chocolate truffles. These are virtually guilt-free too. They are raw and the only ingredients are walnuts, dates, unsweetened cocoa and unsweetened shredded coconut. Lots of vitamins, fiber, healthy omega-3 fats and other nutrients, so it's more than ok to indulge a little on these!However you choose to celebrate the day, I hope you feel loved and blessed.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Abundant Life
I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. -John 10:10
For the longest time John 10:10 was constantly on my mind and brought before my eyes and ears. I meditated on this verse and what exactly I was supposed to glean from it. I knew that Jesus came to save me from a life of sin and that eternally I had the promise of abundant life, but what about now? Here on earth, did God want my life to be abundant, and what did that mean? I didn’t feel very abundant…I didn’t feel like I was pursuing a career that I was well suited to and physically, I felt bad and looked bad. By April, I had tried every kind of cleanser, lotion, potion and make up brand that touted clear skin benefits. Some products may have provided slight relief for a time, but in the end they all failed to live up to their claims and my skin just looked worse. Not only that, but I could scarcely stand to look at myself in the mirror, my skin was pale and I had dark circles under my eyes, my muscle tone and ability to exercise was decreasing as well. I knew this was all more than skin deep and the root of the problem needed to be identified.
I made an appointment with a dermatologist who quickly looked at my skin and said, “If you don’t do something about this you are going to be scarred.” I wondered in that moment just what he thought I was doing in his office. I was there for help, and his words were not helpful, they just incited more worry. He quickly prescribed antibiotics and said that it would most likely get worse for a few weeks before it started to get better. I asked what the side effects were and he quickly told me there were none. Now, I’ve never been one to take much medication and am aware that there are always possible side effects to medicine. Before rushing to the pharmacy, I researched the drug and upon finding several possible side effects, my spirit would not let me fill the prescription. I just believed there had to be a more natural method of healing.
I made an appointment with an alternative health practitioner to have an iridology reading. It was really interesting what he could tell me about my health (things I knew to be true) just by looking into my eyes with a magnifying glass. He prescribed some herbal supplements (which I researched for possible side effects). It was at this time that I discussed with my mom the possibility of quitting my job. We decided it was most important to focus on healing and restoration and the best way to do that would be to eliminate as much stress as possible. This was a real turning point where I prayed for God to teach me to number my days that I may gain wisdom (Psalm 90:12). I began praising Him for the rest and peace He was giving to my soul. After a few months, I saw some benefits from the supplements, but the healing seemed slow.
During this time I tried a vegan diet (or a Daniel Detox, see Daniel 1:8-16). My mom came along on this journey with me as we eliminated all animal products from our diets. This lasted for several months and we saw the benefit in it to cleansing the body of toxic build up from processed foods, non-organic meats and chemicals. During this phase we began reading The Maker’s Diet by Jordan Rubin. In it he tells the story of his journey from severe illness to glorious health. It got us thinking about what God says about the foods we eat and how we are to care for our bodies. At the end of the book, Jordan has a 40-Day plan for physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually taking care of ourselves according to God’s word. We felt a little overwhelmed with committing to this 40-Day plan. We just didn’t know if we could “give up” certain things (namely chocolate) for 40 days. Instead, we found a 28 day elimination diet to help identify any possible food allergies. We began our 28-Day Elimination Diet (see blog posts from last year) and by the time day 28 arrived, we both felt led to continue the plan for 40 days. We felt really good and I was definitely feeling healthier, but it was the end of 2010 and I wasn’t fully healed. My sister-in-law found and told us about a podcast and website for health and nutrition. In January we were watching this video http://www.draxe.com/video/best-books-for-the-new-year-transformation-tv-episode-022/ on recommended readings for the coming year. Hmm…he suggested The Great Physician’s RX by Jordan Rubin. My mom and I both felt the need to read this book. This is where things really started to come together. We were fully ready to embrace and apply the truths of God’s word with regards to health.
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. -1 Corinthians 6:19-20
For the longest time John 10:10 was constantly on my mind and brought before my eyes and ears. I meditated on this verse and what exactly I was supposed to glean from it. I knew that Jesus came to save me from a life of sin and that eternally I had the promise of abundant life, but what about now? Here on earth, did God want my life to be abundant, and what did that mean? I didn’t feel very abundant…I didn’t feel like I was pursuing a career that I was well suited to and physically, I felt bad and looked bad. By April, I had tried every kind of cleanser, lotion, potion and make up brand that touted clear skin benefits. Some products may have provided slight relief for a time, but in the end they all failed to live up to their claims and my skin just looked worse. Not only that, but I could scarcely stand to look at myself in the mirror, my skin was pale and I had dark circles under my eyes, my muscle tone and ability to exercise was decreasing as well. I knew this was all more than skin deep and the root of the problem needed to be identified.
I made an appointment with a dermatologist who quickly looked at my skin and said, “If you don’t do something about this you are going to be scarred.” I wondered in that moment just what he thought I was doing in his office. I was there for help, and his words were not helpful, they just incited more worry. He quickly prescribed antibiotics and said that it would most likely get worse for a few weeks before it started to get better. I asked what the side effects were and he quickly told me there were none. Now, I’ve never been one to take much medication and am aware that there are always possible side effects to medicine. Before rushing to the pharmacy, I researched the drug and upon finding several possible side effects, my spirit would not let me fill the prescription. I just believed there had to be a more natural method of healing.
I made an appointment with an alternative health practitioner to have an iridology reading. It was really interesting what he could tell me about my health (things I knew to be true) just by looking into my eyes with a magnifying glass. He prescribed some herbal supplements (which I researched for possible side effects). It was at this time that I discussed with my mom the possibility of quitting my job. We decided it was most important to focus on healing and restoration and the best way to do that would be to eliminate as much stress as possible. This was a real turning point where I prayed for God to teach me to number my days that I may gain wisdom (Psalm 90:12). I began praising Him for the rest and peace He was giving to my soul. After a few months, I saw some benefits from the supplements, but the healing seemed slow.
During this time I tried a vegan diet (or a Daniel Detox, see Daniel 1:8-16). My mom came along on this journey with me as we eliminated all animal products from our diets. This lasted for several months and we saw the benefit in it to cleansing the body of toxic build up from processed foods, non-organic meats and chemicals. During this phase we began reading The Maker’s Diet by Jordan Rubin. In it he tells the story of his journey from severe illness to glorious health. It got us thinking about what God says about the foods we eat and how we are to care for our bodies. At the end of the book, Jordan has a 40-Day plan for physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually taking care of ourselves according to God’s word. We felt a little overwhelmed with committing to this 40-Day plan. We just didn’t know if we could “give up” certain things (namely chocolate) for 40 days. Instead, we found a 28 day elimination diet to help identify any possible food allergies. We began our 28-Day Elimination Diet (see blog posts from last year) and by the time day 28 arrived, we both felt led to continue the plan for 40 days. We felt really good and I was definitely feeling healthier, but it was the end of 2010 and I wasn’t fully healed. My sister-in-law found and told us about a podcast and website for health and nutrition. In January we were watching this video http://www.draxe.com/video/best-books-for-the-new-year-transformation-tv-episode-022/ on recommended readings for the coming year. Hmm…he suggested The Great Physician’s RX by Jordan Rubin. My mom and I both felt the need to read this book. This is where things really started to come together. We were fully ready to embrace and apply the truths of God’s word with regards to health.
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. -1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Eat Your Veggies!
I love to eat my veggies and quiche is a great way to get lots of them! I started this one with a homemade almond flour crust. Chopped green onions give it a little something extra.
Then I sauteed a veggie mixture of whatever was in the fridge. This included broccoli, carrots, red onion, mushrooms and a package of frozen chopped spinach.
I don't do cheese, so I whisked together a few eggs and poured the veggie and egg mixture into the crust to be baked. The result was this delicious, nutritious, savory quiche.
We like to serve our quiche with a side of mixed fresh berries, an orange, or a green salad. I think we were all too delighted to taste it that no picture was made of the quiche once it made it to our plates!
Then I sauteed a veggie mixture of whatever was in the fridge. This included broccoli, carrots, red onion, mushrooms and a package of frozen chopped spinach.
I don't do cheese, so I whisked together a few eggs and poured the veggie and egg mixture into the crust to be baked. The result was this delicious, nutritious, savory quiche.
We like to serve our quiche with a side of mixed fresh berries, an orange, or a green salad. I think we were all too delighted to taste it that no picture was made of the quiche once it made it to our plates!
Friday, February 4, 2011
Sweet Fellowship
Following the whirlwind of 2009, I was confident that 2010 was going to be a good year. I had finished my degree and began working full-time, so I believed there would be less stress with a more “normal” weekly schedule and with the reduced stress I hoped that some of my physical ailments would again be relieved. I committed to go deeper in my studies of God’s word and asked Him to do big things...I was ready to listen and obey. Reflecting on the previous year, I was reminded of Mary and Martha (see Luke 10:38-42). I let myself get so busy (ala Martha) with all the things I thought I had to do that I wasn’t sitting at Jesus’ feet as Mary did. If satan can’t make us bad he will surely make us busy, but truly the one thing we cannot do without is our relationship with Christ. I was ready to be still by the side of the Lord, to “keep” His word by reading it, memorizing it, meditating on it, and filling my mind with things that are pleasing to Him.
In addition to studying God’s word, I began reading The Magnificent Obsession by Anne Graham Lotz. I love her! If you’ve never read one of her books, I definitely recommend you check one out. I’ve read several and they are all life changing! Ok, getting back on track…two quotes from this book set the tone for me in 2010.
Then, in February I began reading So Long Insecurity by Beth Moore. Another of my favorite authors, if you’ve never read one of her books or done a group study written by her, you are missing out! They will radically change your life, so again, check one out! Ok, where was I…Beth led her blog community through the study of her new book, So Long Insecurity, which I highly recommend for anyone to read, because, let’s face it, we are all human and we all have areas where we feel very insecure at times. I was a little apprehensive to do the study because I knew that I would have to experience some hard stuff to get rid of the yucky, insecure gunk that my Lord wanted to deliver me from. I faced truth about choices and decisions I’ve made, I faced truth about insecurities that have been passed down from generation to generation. The enemy worked overtime on my emotions to cause me to stumble, to doubt God’s promises, to question my ability to hear clearly what God spoke to me in the quiet moments of my time studying His word, I faced the fear of what if…what if He doesn’t do what I hope He will do? What if life doesn’t work out like I think it should? Persistence and patience were vital to obedience to God in this season. I can honestly say that as a result, I know God is in control and that He provides spiritually, physically, and emotionally in ways and means by which we may have never heard of or thought of.
He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. – Deuteronomy 8:3
I was experiencing sweet fellowship with my Lord and spiritually and emotionally I began to feel more alive and aware of God’s presence and hand in guiding me. My confidence in His care and provision had been renewed, so as my physical state declined, I knew that He could just heal me, but I also trusted Him to lead me to answers if there were changes I needed to make.
In addition to studying God’s word, I began reading The Magnificent Obsession by Anne Graham Lotz. I love her! If you’ve never read one of her books, I definitely recommend you check one out. I’ve read several and they are all life changing! Ok, getting back on track…two quotes from this book set the tone for me in 2010.
“Obedience requires persistence and patience.”
“One of the primary tactics of the enemy is to tempt you and me to doubt God’s word and to doubt God’s character. Since the Garden of Eden, satan has tried to cast God in such a negative light that we lose confidence in who He is and what He has said, and therefore we draw away from Him and disobey Him.”
Then, in February I began reading So Long Insecurity by Beth Moore. Another of my favorite authors, if you’ve never read one of her books or done a group study written by her, you are missing out! They will radically change your life, so again, check one out! Ok, where was I…Beth led her blog community through the study of her new book, So Long Insecurity, which I highly recommend for anyone to read, because, let’s face it, we are all human and we all have areas where we feel very insecure at times. I was a little apprehensive to do the study because I knew that I would have to experience some hard stuff to get rid of the yucky, insecure gunk that my Lord wanted to deliver me from. I faced truth about choices and decisions I’ve made, I faced truth about insecurities that have been passed down from generation to generation. The enemy worked overtime on my emotions to cause me to stumble, to doubt God’s promises, to question my ability to hear clearly what God spoke to me in the quiet moments of my time studying His word, I faced the fear of what if…what if He doesn’t do what I hope He will do? What if life doesn’t work out like I think it should? Persistence and patience were vital to obedience to God in this season. I can honestly say that as a result, I know God is in control and that He provides spiritually, physically, and emotionally in ways and means by which we may have never heard of or thought of.
He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. – Deuteronomy 8:3
I was experiencing sweet fellowship with my Lord and spiritually and emotionally I began to feel more alive and aware of God’s presence and hand in guiding me. My confidence in His care and provision had been renewed, so as my physical state declined, I knew that He could just heal me, but I also trusted Him to lead me to answers if there were changes I needed to make.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Yummy New Favorites!
I've been enjoying some yummy new recipes and just had to share a few pictures!
Almond flour is a new favorite to bake with...it was perfect in theses super delicious chocolate chip scones! I'm so excited to have eliminated refined sugar from my diet as well. These are honey-sweetened and the dark chocolate chips give a little antioxidant boost!
This raw apple crisp was sweetened with only dates and raisins. A special thanks to my brother and sister-in-law for their very generous gift of a Vitamix for Christmas! This awesome dessert was so quick and simple to make with the right equipment on hand.
A really healthy balanced dinner...
This is my favorite way to eat spinach...the citrus from the orange pairs so nicely with the raw spinach.
I'm loving this version of a raw broccoli salad...It's made with grapeseed oil Vegenaise, plus it has lots of healthy ingredients...sunflower seeds, green onions, apple cider vinegar, raisins...I like to have it with an orange for breakfast...I know...it's an odd choice first thing in the morning, but I like it.
Another unconventional breakfast...lentils with kraut, bok choy steamed with lemon juice, maple syrup, cranberries topped with toasted pecans and teecino to warm me up.
Bok choy is excellent with home made baked chicken nuggets for dinner too.
I think this is my mom's favorite breakfast, especially on a cold winter morning. Sprouted quinoa porridge with berries, it really doesn't get much better than this, plus this is just a good warming meal for a quick lunch or dinner too.
I love hummus! Mmm, it is so delicious with raw veggies and a green smoothie...an incredible snack, but also good for lunch, dinner and even breakfast...it's what I had this morning.
Seriously, avocados never tasted so good! I think I could eat my weight in this chocolate pudding! It is so decadent and with avocados, dates, maple syrup and cocoa...it's a "health food" right?
It's so important for little ones to develop a taste for nutritious foods early on. When my nephew and niece are here these are their favorite breakfast and lunch meals...
Almond flour is a new favorite to bake with...it was perfect in theses super delicious chocolate chip scones! I'm so excited to have eliminated refined sugar from my diet as well. These are honey-sweetened and the dark chocolate chips give a little antioxidant boost!
This raw apple crisp was sweetened with only dates and raisins. A special thanks to my brother and sister-in-law for their very generous gift of a Vitamix for Christmas! This awesome dessert was so quick and simple to make with the right equipment on hand.
A really healthy balanced dinner...
This is my favorite way to eat spinach...the citrus from the orange pairs so nicely with the raw spinach.
I'm loving this version of a raw broccoli salad...It's made with grapeseed oil Vegenaise, plus it has lots of healthy ingredients...sunflower seeds, green onions, apple cider vinegar, raisins...I like to have it with an orange for breakfast...I know...it's an odd choice first thing in the morning, but I like it.
Another unconventional breakfast...lentils with kraut, bok choy steamed with lemon juice, maple syrup, cranberries topped with toasted pecans and teecino to warm me up.
Bok choy is excellent with home made baked chicken nuggets for dinner too.
I think this is my mom's favorite breakfast, especially on a cold winter morning. Sprouted quinoa porridge with berries, it really doesn't get much better than this, plus this is just a good warming meal for a quick lunch or dinner too.
I love hummus! Mmm, it is so delicious with raw veggies and a green smoothie...an incredible snack, but also good for lunch, dinner and even breakfast...it's what I had this morning.
Seriously, avocados never tasted so good! I think I could eat my weight in this chocolate pudding! It is so decadent and with avocados, dates, maple syrup and cocoa...it's a "health food" right?
It's so important for little ones to develop a taste for nutritious foods early on. When my nephew and niece are here these are their favorite breakfast and lunch meals...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)