Proverbs 25:16

"When you find honey, remember to eat only what you need,
because if you eat in excess, you may be sick and lose all of it."  

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Workout Wednesday

Who knew there were so many verses in the Bible about our eating habits and fitness?  I’ve really

On this week's menu: scallop shish kabobs

enjoyed finding passages related to our health!  God created us in a way that dictates a responsibility to take care of our bodies.  Turns out the old saying “you are what you eat” is true!  Lately, with my new diet plan, I’ve noticed my desire to “shovel” has decreased.  Are you familiar with shoveling?  In the past when life has been super busy, I have found myself not stopping to eat, but opting to work through meal-time.  The result is hunger pangs that lead to a meal made and eaten hastily.  In other words, I become so hungry I shovel in the food and before I know it I’ve eaten more than I needed. The result is a “too full” feeling, along with regrets of the over abundance of calories I’ve consumed.  Now though, I’m thinking more about my meals.  If the day keeps me so busy I don’t want to take the time to sit down to a lunch, there are plenty of berries, healthy cheeses, flour less bread and almond butter on hand for a quick snack that keeps me going throughout the day.  When suppertime comes I make the preparation enjoyable.  I love cooking and have decided to look at it as a hobby rather than a task or chore.  When I finally do sit down, I eat more slowly, savoring every bite rather than shoveling, and paying attention to the flavors and textures.  The end result seems to be that I need less food.  Apparently eating more slowly gives my brain more time to register that my stomach has had enough.  I’m no scientist but a quick search on the Internet will come up with several articles saying there is a reason for this.  In layman’s terms, it takes up to 20 minutes for the brain to receive the signal that your stomach has had enough.  (Like I said- layman’s terms)  All I know is that when I slow down while I’m eating, I seem to be satisfied with less volume of food than if I eat quickly.  The other benefits are the luxury of enjoying –actually tasting – the food, not feeling so full after the meal that I am uncomfortable, and of course losing weight!  
If you are a "shoveler", try slowing down- at least for one meal a day and see what it does for you. 

Enjoy the flavors and textures of the food you or someone else has prepared.  Taking a few extra minutes for some much needed "down time" will leave you feeling refreshed and nourished and better able to tackle the tasks that life has for you.                                                        ©2014 JCD

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 With my rekindled love of cooking, I also have a renewed thankfulness for food in general.  While I am trying to eat less,  I know every day there are families who are wondering if they will have enough to eat just to survive.  Below is a link to a local food pantry to which I was introduced at a recent outdoor market.   They have a great website and it’s easy to get involved.  

 

http://www.worthingtonfoodpantry.org/

My progress:  I have lost 3 lbs now!
Still walking or working out 6 days a week.
My clothes feel less tight and I have an overall feeling of healthiness that I had started to lose! 

Recipe
Okay, I know "meatless sloppy joes" may sound really bad- almost sac-religious to many of you- but my son and I tried this last night and it was awesome!

I read several recipes, and finally made this one up.  SUPER easy!

2 cans Progresso® vegan lentil soup, drained. (there's not much liquid in it)
one small can tomato paste (we like Trader Joe's brand)
ketchup and mustard to taste(we use about 1 1/2 tsp mustard, 1/4 C ketchup)
1/4 cup maple syrup
salt and pepper to taste
 (Actually:  however you make sloppy joes, use that- but with the lentil soup instead of ground beef)

Mix well and cook it all together in a skillet until it's heated through-  simmer for about 5 minutes, serve!  My son ate his on a bun just like a regular sloppy joe.  I ate mine plain with tortilla chips.
SO good!  Enjoy!

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1 Corinthians 3:16 

Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?

 Workout Wednesday's post..... late....

 Sorry!  I didn't have internet service available on Wed so I'm posting this on Thursday!

 

Why I Choose Organic (mostly)

Organic tomatoes from my 2013 garden

Today I want discuss organic vs. non-organic food choices. I choose organically grown produce and hormone free, organic meat whenever possible.  Yes it tends to be a bit more expensive but I’ve learned to watch for specials.  Most local food markets have organic products now, and so the prices seem to be more competitive these days.  Also, it seems to be the general consensus around my home that organic produce tastes better.  I haven’t decided why that is yet, but nothing beats the sweetness of the organic berries I get – and my fruit salad is always the topic of conversation at gatherings because the cantaloupe and honeydew are “so sweet!”  The only reason I can give to my happy fruit salad consumers is that I buy organic.  When I pass it by and purchase conventional, disappointment is inevitable.

So, what’s the big deal about organic?  Haven’t we been eating non-organic meats and produce for years?  Some say the jury is still out on whether or not pesticide and other chemical residue on and in the foods we eat has an effect on our health.  Though this is something I’ve researched extensively, and believe there is good evidence in favor of eating organic whenever possible, common sense dictates, too,  that choosing organic is best.  If I am able to choose between an apple ridden with chemicals, and an apple that is not, wouldn’t I want the latter?   Why would I choose exposure to something that could be harmful to my health, if I don’t have to?  So here, in our household, I choose organically grown produce when I can, and when we serve meat I make sure the label says it is hormone free and antibiotic free. 

Remember, I am not a fanatic.  I still eat the stadium hot dog now and then, or the popcorn at a movie theater.  My intent is not to ban these occasional treats, but most days my diet consists of whole grains, organic produce, and organic meats and cheeses. 

Below is a meatless recipe that I’ve had for years.  It’s an easy quiche and is good either with or without a crust.

Janet’s quiche

 6 eggs whisked together with ½ cup milk

 1 C any  shredded cheese (we like co-jack or cheddar)

 1 & ½  C  total-any 2 sautéed veggies-

(I sauté them first, then let them cool while I get my egg mixture ready.

some of our choices:  -Spinach and mushroom-

                                   -Thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms and  sliced tomatoes

                                   - Broccoli

(whatever veggies you want!)

Put the eggs and milk in a big bowl, add the cheese and cooled veggies and pour into unbaked pie crust or a greased casserole dish with no crust:  bake at 350 degrees F for 45 min to1 hour.

SO good!  And because you can change the veggies it’s like a different dish every time!

Also, for the workout portion of my life, I am training for a 5K now!  So excited!  It helps me to have a goal!  Feel free to share what your workout goals are in the comment section! 

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 Getting Together

 Hebrews 10:23-25
^"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.   And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,  not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

WOF conference with my sis

 Friday and Saturday my sister and I attended the Women of Faith® conference, held yearly at Nationwide Arena here in Columbus, OH.  While I listened to words of encouragement, excellent Bible teaching, and inspiring music, my heart was overwhelmed with joy, as I was reminded time and time again of God's love for me.  Together, with thousands of other women, we were spurred on to a life of loving Him.   It was wonderful to remember how loving Him is the key to sharing Him. 
 Sunday, while I was still soaking in all the blessings of the WOF conference, I had the privilege of participating in a benefit art show.  My part was to have a booth set up, and to sing a song in the short program that preceded the exhibit.  On my way to the event, I prayed God would use me for His glory, and that all would go smoothly.  I had no idea of the huge blessing-filled day in store for me.  My "booth neighbors" were lovely.  We shared stories, testimonies, hugs, and plenty of laughter throughout the afternoon.  Countless people stopped by to encourage me.  I was humbled to know that God had used my song to touch hearts or bring a word of hope to someone who needed it.  Throughout the day testimonies were shared between total strangers.  At one point a loving sister and I broke out in song as we held hands and our eyes met:  "Trust and obey-for there's no other way-to be happy in Jesus-but to trust and obey."

My table at the "Choices" benefit

Listening to one another's  faith journeys, encouraging each other with singing, prayers, and scripture allows the Holy Spirit to recharge our hearts.   Today my soul is overflowing with happy memories of a blessing filled weekend.  If you are someone who dislikes traditional church, I want to encourage you to find some way to get together with fellow believers.  Nowadays, churches have small group meetings, breakfasts, picnics, benefits like the one I attended this weekend, and of course conferences such as Women of Faith®, all of which can help you in your walk with God.  You may find yourself shying away from group events such as these because of a past experience that left a bad taste in your mouth.  Still, I believe you need to find a group of like minded Christians with which to fellowship, because when loving brothers and sisters in Christ gather, something amazing happens. 

Check out the links below!

http://www.scarletcitychurch.org/  
Outside of the Sunday morning services, Scarlet City Church offers many opportunities to gather throughout the year.  I need to say however, Sunday morning service will not disappoint.  The Bible teaching is wonderful, the music stirring, and the people genuine.  

http://choicescolumbus.org/blog/
Choices is the charity behind the benefit art exhibit I attended yesterday!  A wonderful organization!

http://www.womenoffaith.com/events/
Several years ago my cousin invited me to attend a Women of Faith® conference and I've been going every year since.  I already have my ticket for next year!  Wouldn't miss it!

http://www.tangibleinspirations.com/
Takes you to my main website-check out the new featured artist if you haven't yet!

Work Out Wednesday!

With a benefit show coming up, some interviews in the works for new featured artists, and a few writing projects I'm feeling busy but so very happy and thankful!  All that to say this entry will be brief but as promised, I'm posting a short word of encouragement to all who may be trying to get fit and eat healthier! 

If I could choose something that might encourage any of you out there who are getting on the scales every day, or trying to eat better, or exercising more that you have in the past, it would be  to say don't beat yourself up when you make a mistake and eat something you shouldn't, or skip a workout.  It's a process.  I think changing over completely to a new way of eating -going "cold turkey", if you will, makes the challenge, well, too challenging.  For me, I set reasonable goals.  I knew I could go meatless 4 days last week but also knew I would really miss meat if I cut it out all together.  
2 days of fish and 1 day of either beef or chicken seemed something I could do.  The result is I don't feel like a failure.  Even so, there was a day I was supposed to be "meatless" but was invited by a friend to eat at a restaurant.  None  of the meat free options there seemed appetizing, so I opted for chicken.  I didn't mope or give up because I had veered off the chosen diet path, I just told myself I did the best I could given the situation, and moved on.
Over all, I still feel the week was successful.  I didn't lose any more weight, but I didn't gain either.  I exercised most days and enjoyed some incredible meat free meals!
I am determined!
Here is a link to another fabulous recipe.  Meat free!  My son and I ate this and thought it was absolutely amazing!!!!
Enjoy!

http://ohsheglows.com/2014/01/20/cauli-power-fettuccine-alfredo-veg

1 Corinthians 10:31

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 

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Work Out Wednesday!                               Psalm 139:14 I praise you because I am fearfully  and wonderfully made.
                                                                                                                                                                  

Most of my blog entries have been about what God is teaching me, my spiritual experiences, and His intense love for us.  I'll continue to write those posts, but since taking care of our bodies is important to Him, and is healthy for us,  today is the start of "Work Out Wednesday" blog entries: all about my diet and exercise plan for life.  Each week I'll post a favorite healthy recipe, a link I've visited, or book I've read that I think is worth your while.  Though it's been a while since I've eaten processed foods, I decided to ramp up my diet and launch into "clean eating".   There are variations of the clean eating diet.  Some claim vegan is the way to go (sorry, that's not me).  Others advocate organic only meats in small quantities.  Then there is the whole "fat" debate: Some fat, no fat, don't worry about the fat....I'm pretty sure I've read or heard about every combination out there that would be considered clean.  Throughout the spectrum of clean eating plans, though, eating less meat and more of a plant based diet, seems to be key.  Without wanting to sound too much like a fanatic, I would like to recommend the documentary "Forks Over Knives", to those of you who are curious about the benefits of a plant based diet.  You don't necessarily have to agree with everything you hear in the film.  It was for me, however, convincing enough.  It is not the only source I've used for my research.  A quick search on-line will lead you to hundreds of research articles and books by scientists, medical doctors, PhDs, and lay people who have changed over to clean eating and miraculously improved their health.  The diet I've chosen is moderately easy to follow:  four meatless days, two fish days, one lean beef or chicken day. Minimal dairy is allowed. (I've yet to find a dairy free cheese that is worth eating, and low fat yogurt is allowable.)  The other food item I'm giving up is flour.  I just purchased some flour-less, truly "whole wheat" bread.  (Delicious!)  So far I'm not experiencing hunger pangs and the meals are incredibly satisfying.  Finally, I intend to get some kind of exercise every day.  Walks are great- but at least three times a week I'll be choosing one of my many exercise DVDs and working out for 30 minutes in addition to my walk.  Though it might sound radical, I am serious about committing to this diet and exercise regime because I know it will be good for me.  
Feel free to comment below or email me at:  tijanet@tangibleinspirations.com with your own experiences and ideas.  Hopefully I can be an encouragement to anyone out there who would like to eat well and get into better physical condition!

To start, here is an incredible meatless recipe I tried last night with my son.  (Loved it!)  We used plain organic yogurt instead of sour cream, organic regular cheese instead of non-dairy, and skipped the chips.
Here is the link-lots of other great recipes there as well!
http://ohsheglows.com/2011/12/13/naughty-nice-vegan-enchilada-casserole/

 Some more interesting tidbits:

http://www.forksoverknives.com/

 http://battlebuddydiet.com/
 (I'm reading this book!)

Finally, I always loved this part of Daniel's story, where he and his men declined the "kings food and wine" and instead chose a diet of veggies and water.  Result: After 10 days they looked healthier than the men who ate the king's assigned diet!  Check it out!
Daniel 1:12-16

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Psalm 139:14

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

 your works are wonderful,  I know that full well.                                                                                  

                                                                                               Below: Scene from a walk last year

Getting Fit

I will never be a fanatic about fitness, but I do enjoy the way I feel when I am in shape.  Lately I've noticed the results of a winter with very little exercise.  My strength has decreased, and my energy level is lower than it was not too many months ago in the fall of last year-when I was exercising regularly.  Last week, when Spring broke through for a tease, I decided to start my daily walks again.  What I remembered as I began my exercise regimen, which included not only the walks, but weight training and the dreaded crunches, was how refreshing exercise can be for the soul.  A two mile walk gives me time to talk to God, thanking Him for the beauty of His creation all around me.  While feebly trying to complete my light weight training and sit-ups, I am reminded of how we are "fearfully and wonderfully made"- and that this body is a gift and I need to take care of it.  Exercise, then, can be a form of worship, which makes it, instead of something I dread, something quite enjoyable!  After just a few short workouts scattered over the last 7 days, my body is already responding positively to the increase in physical activity, and my soul is being refreshed as I gain more energy and stamina.  Like a well oiled machine, our spiritual and physical health seem to be at their best when we are doing what we were designed to do....move!  What a wonderful creator we have, who gave us the need and the desire to be physically active.  I try to get some type of exercise in daily, but I know in this fast paced life, there are some days it's just not going to happen.  Below is a list of how I assure myself I will at least get some activity each day.

1) Park far away.  

   When I am running errands, I park as far as I can from the store.  The walk does me good!

2) Elevators and escalators are not an option for me.

3) When I'm going up the stairs, sometimes I do it twice, even if I don't have to. (You can laugh if   

     you want!)

4)  When I let the dog out, I go out too- just to walk around the yard a few times.  Casey, my wheaten 

      terrier, is always happy to have the company!

These are just a few ideas.  Do you have any?  Happy moving!  
©2014 Janet Carol Davis

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased at a price. Therefore, glorify God in your body.”

Read more at http://www.beliefnet.com/Faiths/Galleries/7-Bible-Verses-to-Motivate-You-to-Exercise.aspx?p=5#e78jSZQRYW2EEGHO.99

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased at a price. Therefore, glorify God in your body.”

Read more at http://www.beliefnet.com/Faiths/Galleries/7-Bible-Verses-to-Motivate-You-to-Exercise.aspx?p=5#e78jSZQRYW2EEGHO.99

Turn It Around


After a weekend business trip, I looked over at the refrigerator and saw a letter from the utilities company I had clipped there on Friday.  I remembered it had said I should set up an appointment for my inside water meter to be checked.  Picking up the letter I found the number and called.  The representative on the other end seemed very polite and while she was checking for an appointment time, she calmly informed me that she was going to put me on hold for a moment while she dispatched a message to the workers in the field that day to cancel turning my water off.  My response was something like, "What? Did you say they were going to turn off my water?"  (I was sure I had misheard)  But the kind, (yet now defensive sounding) voice replied, "Yes, if we can't get an appointment within a certain time period we have to turn the water off until our workers can get in the home."  It was only the Holy Spirit-it had to be- that kept me calm.  I almost laughed, in fact.  Had I forgotten to pay my water bill sometime and didn't know it?   She assured me that all my bills had been paid in a timely manner and my only offense was that I hadn't called to make the appointment.   She agreed that it was extreme to turn off the water without giving the customer more notice than what I had received.  Thankfully, the crisis was averted, my water service went uninterrupted, and the appointment was made.
At another time in my life, I might have let something like this upset me.  It seemed so unfair.  Following up with that letter only a few days after I received it did not seem unreasonable to me.  I could have really let the conversation with the lady from the water company ruin my day.  But I didn't.  I sensed the defensive tone in the voice of the representative, and knew she most likely had to deal with angry customers frequently.  She was probably waiting for me to say something unkind in my frustration, but instead my response was: "You know, let's count it a blessing that I happened to pick today to call you, because I called you just in time to stop them from turning off my water.  Thanks for listening and for taking care of that for me.  You've been wonderful."  The strident defensive tone in her voice changed immediately to one of relief.  I could practically hear her smiling when she said, "Really?  Oh wow, okay, let's do that.  Thank you!"
Life's little inconveniences, fair or not, can set off tempers and frustrate us to the point of saying things we regret, but if we keep things in perspective, the "little inconveniences" are just that- little.  God loves us and wants us to always be joyful.  Knowing myself and my tendencies in the past, it is nothing short of a miracle when He works in me to take a potentially bad situation, and turn it around to a blessing.  If I keep my heart and mind focused on Him and what is important, He gives me the ability to accept the day-to-day annoyances with grace, and in the process, allows me to pass that grace to someone else.                                                                                                                                               ©2014Janet Davis

Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
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