wobble... wobble...

After 5 days of not working out and taking care of a sick boy, I finally dragged myself to the gym today. And oooohhhh boy, did I feel that 5-day rest!!!

I started Week 3 of the C25K today and well, I just wanted to sit on the floor and take a nice long break in the middle of my workout! Yikes. I usually do another 10 to 20 minutes of running/speed walking than what the program calls for but today, NOPE, I only did what they asked me to do. I was struggling that badly. Aaaarrrrggggghhhh!

So, I guess I'll be staying on Week 3 for hmmm.... I don't know 3 to 4 weeks. When my body gets used to this, then I'll move on. Sounds like a good plan? Yeah, I think so too! LOL.

Praises today: My boy is back to school and feeling well, I actually workout today, and my carpet got steamed today... nice clean carpet courtesy of AU Housing! =) Yay God! Well... let's see what other praises this day brings.

Ohhhh, I've got a BIG Yay God! I'm at 152 lbs. AND I fit into (though a bit snug) 2 of my 2 goal dresses and size 10 jeans!!!!!!!! Wwwooooaaaahhhh! (I'm doing a victory dance! LOl)

50th Birthday Celebrations... a special year indeed!

This year's been a very special and memorable year for both my Papa and Mama. They both celebrated their 50th Birthdays. They have certainly been blessed by God! We had a lot of fun surprising both of them on their birthdays. It was truly blessing to be able to do this for them and to see them enjoy their day with both family and friends. May God continue to bless them with good health and many many more birthdays to come!

Mama's surprise 50th Birthday Celebration. August 22, 2009

Papa's surprise 50th Birthday Celebration. October 18, 2009

I love fall in Michigan! Beautiful colours. =)

Week 2 of C25K

This week is my 2nd week on Week 2 of the C25K (Couch to 5K) program. I do each week twice just to give my body more time to adapt to the changes. So this week, it's running for 90 seconds then walk for 2 minutes. I've been running at the gym now because it's just too cold for me outside. I could probably bundle myself up good and still can run outside but I just dislike putting on too many layers... I feel suffocated! Anyhow, I noticed that I work harder on the treadmill so that's good. I guess I tend to slow down when I run outdoors. But I do miss being outside. It does good for my mind and restores me. =)

Hmmmm... now that I pretty much got the hang of running, I just have to rearrange my schedule to fit in resistance training. That and keeping a guard on my nutrition. I've got to say I've been enjoying too much yummy desserts lately even if they are vegan. I've also got to watch that I don't eat just for the sake of eating. Bad habits... habits... habits die hard! *sigh* I've got to resume juicing at night, which has been a bit difficult lately.

Well, tomorrow's another day! The key is consistency and perseverance!

Temptation...

"...temptation is powerful and so hard to resist but God is even more powerful!" My son said these words as he wrapped up his Children`s Story yesterday at Church.

He shared a story that was once read to him as a little child. It`s a story about a little girl who was given instructions by her mom not to snack late at night. However, one night, she was quite hungry but it was already way past bedtime and she knew what the rules were. But she pictured the juicy, sweet grapes sitting on top of the dinning table waiting there for her and it was just way too tempting. So she crept down to the dinning room and silently grabbed the grapes that were in a bowl. But all of the sudden, she froze for a few seconds and returned the grapes, uneaten, on the bowl. What this little girl didn't know was that her mom was watching her. When her mom saw that she returned the grapes, she hugged her daughter and said, "you won over temptation tonight". =)

You see, this wasn`t just a random story my son picked. He was adamant to share this story to the other kids at church. And the reason for this he said was that, "I too won over temptation today, Mom". =)

It had been a very tough day for him. His Dad and I finally decided to take his DS and Wii games away especially the ones he was quite addicted to. It was a hard decision for us to make as we both know how much our son enjoys playing these games. We explained to him our reasons and told him that we would keep only sports and educational games but nothing else. He was extremely upset, as you can only imagine. In fact, he was so upset that he requested us to give him time alone.

Listening to him sobbing broke my heart. I finally went to him when he asked if I could hold him. I too couldn't stop my own tears from falling. I`m as guilty or even worse because as his Mom, I allowed this to happen. He got so addicted to these games. He was even more inconsolable when we told him that we would sell these games. He was begging us not to sell them, to just keep them hidden. I told him that there wouldn't be any reason for us to keep it. It will just serve as a temptation for him. He might not see it but knowing that it's around the house... it would be a huge temptation for him. Temptations are so strong and it order to fight it, we have to get rid of it. The entire time he was sobbing, I just kept praying that the Lord would give him the comfort that he needed. I was calling upon the Lord to cast the devil away and his hold on my son!

Later that afternoon, he finally made the decision to go ahead and sell his games. I know for sure that Jesus helped him win the battle over the devil and his hold on him through these games! Praise God!!!

This was why his little children story was so important for him. It wasn't just a story. It was a testimony that he shared with this little girl. They both won over temptation!!! What a testimony and I pray that he doesn't forget how God delivered him that day!

What a lesson we can take from these children! Though their temptations might seem a trifle thing to us "adults", it was equally as powerful as our temptations. And if these precious little children can win over their temptations and break satan's hold on them through Jesus Christ, so can we!

Yummmy Divan

Some of our closest friends came over to our place on Monday evening to have dinner. Nothing big. Our husbands are quite busy with their studies and so it was a good excuse to have them home for dinner instead of working at the library or plugging away at their computers. =) Plus it was an awesome way for the ladies to get together without making the guys feel left out. LOL.

This is a remake of my Chicken Divan. Since I've turned vegan, I've been trying to remake my old recipes and see if it worked out. This turned out really well. I was more than pleased with it. =)

Vegan Divan

1 large stalk of broccoli, chopped into florets and lightly steamed
2 cups sauted Turkette (in can by Cedar Lake) or any veggie meat or tofu, seasoned
1 can condensed Mushroom Soup

1/2 cup Vegenaise
1 tsp. lemon juice
1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
2 tbsp Earth Balance margarine, melted until liquid
Herbed Tofu Cheese mixture (recipe below)

Herbed Tofu Cheese Mixture:
2 squares of Tofu (or 1 pound)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp honey
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried basil
1 tbsp nutritional yeast
~Mash tofu with fork and mix the rest of the ingredients until blended well

Heat oven to 350 F. Grease 12x8 inch baking dish. Arranged lightly steamed broccoli florets at the bottom of the baking dish. Layer sauted Turkette or veggie meat over broccoli. In a separate bowl mix together the mushroom soup, vegenaise, and lemon juice. Then layer this on top of the Turkette and broccoli. Then sprinkle the Herbed Tofu Cheese mixture until it covers the enter dish. In a separate bowl, mix the Earth Balance margarine and bread crumbs. Sprinkle this over the "cheese". Bake for 30 to 4o minutes or until crumbs are golden.

Bon Appétit!!!

Cycling...

I actually went to the gym yesterday evening! Yay God! It's been months since I've been around there. I've been taking advantage of the beautiful weather we've been having. Except lately, it's been well... wet and cold. Yesterday, it was pouring and so I knew I need to head to the gym. I was quite proud that I actually dragged myself there! =)

Anyway, I had a good run on the treadmill but found it difficult to concentrate on the sermon that I usually listen to after my run (which would bring me to an hour walking after). There was too many distractions. It was a bit disappointing. I love my walks after my run as it rejuvinates me both mentally and spiritually. There is nothing like walking outside in God's nature and listening to His inspired messages. It also helps clear my mind and convicts my soul as there aren't any distractions. Now that it's getting cold, I'll have to find a way to get in my walks outside as it isn't possible to really have my quiet time in the busy gym!

Anyway, when my time on the treadmill ended and as I was waiting for my elliptical machine, I walked past the front desk and I heard the word "cycling". So I asked the receptionist if there was a cycling class tonight and she nodded. I was intrigued! I've been wanting to try this class for a while but it just seemed so intimidating. Plus people have told me that cycling was HARD. So I was just going to watch and see how hard it really was. But then I saw the Gym Manager, Elise, who I knew and talk often with and felt more "safe" to join in. I approached the instructor and told her I was interested in joining but I explained that it was my first time. So she walked me through the adjustments to the bike and explained the phrases she'll be using during the class.

So I was there with 6 other ladies and I was thinking, "oh boy, don't hurt yourself girl!". LOL. The last thing I need is an injury not to mention the embarrassment. lol. Plus I wasn't sure if I had anything left in me to put in another good workout as I've already put in a good hour and a half of running and speed walking.

Well... I survived!!! =) It was difficult for sure. There were a few times I thought my body would stop listening to my brain to keep going. LOL. The first time we stood up on the bike, my thighs were not happy and my muscles were definitely letting me know of their displeasure! LOL. But no injuries and, praise be the Lord!, I didn't embarrass myself! =)

I think I'll be looking forward to cycling classes as it's a break from my usual exercise routine. =) Glad I listened and went to the gym last night. =) Praise God!

oh, often do I fall!

During my walks, I've been listening to a good book called Ministry of Healing by Ellen G. White. Yesterday, I was listening to Chapter 5, Healing of the Soul. It was such a balm to my soul!

Often times, I get frustrated with my faults and weaknesses or just eat myself up with guilt over something. As I listened to this chapter, several friends popped into my mind who've shared their anguish and remorse of falling over and over again into temptation, usually the same ones. I too have said this many times. Sometimes, too embarrassed to approach my Father to ask His forgiveness once again. I know there were times when the sorrow was so great and it seemed so impossible to overcome! But there is such hope, isn't there?! There is such a promise and assurance of deliverance and victory over sin and temptation. The Good Book says in Galatians 1:4, "Who gave himself (Jesus) for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father". He will deliver us daily and give us His strength when we are weak and tired. "The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower." Psalm 18:2 It is not our ability that causes us to overcome but by His strength and His power that victory is guaranteed. In our weakness, He's power is realized! Because when we are weak and broken, we are more susceptible to His will and His strength.

I was able to find the part of Chapter 5 that really spoke to my heart. I pray that it speaks to yours as well and may it bring hope, joy and comfort to your soul! This part talks about the palsied man beside the pool called Bethesda. This story can be found in the Bible in John 5. The following can be found in pages 84, 85, 89 & 90 of Ministry of Healing.

[pg. 84] Jesus had given the palsied man no assurance of divine help. The man might have said, "Lord, if Thou wilt make me whole, I will obey Thy word." He might have stopped to doubt, and thus have lost his one chance of healing. But no, he believed Christ's word, believed that he was made whole; immediately he made the effort, and God gave him the power; he willed to walk, and he did walk. Acting on the word of Christ, he was made whole.

By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. Many realize their helplessness; they are longing for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God, and are striving to obtain it. But in vain. In despair they cry, "O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?" Romans 7:24, margin. Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness [pg. 85] and pity, "Wilt thou be made whole?" He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe the Saviour's word. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is "dead in trespasses." Ephesians 2:1. He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.

The sense of sin has poisoned the springs of life. But Christ says, "I will take your sins; I will give you peace. I have bought you with My blood. You are Mine. My grace shall strengthen your weakened will; your remorse for sin I will remove." When temptations assail you, when care and perplexity surround you, when, depressed and discouraged, you are ready to yield to despair, look to Jesus, and the darkness that encompasses you will be dispelled by the bright shining of His presence. When sin struggles for the mastery in your soul, and burdens the conscience, look to the Saviour. His grace is sufficient to subdue sin. Let your grateful heart, trembling with uncertainty, turn to Him. Lay hold on the hope set before you. Christ waits to adopt you into His family. His strength will help your weakness; He will lead you step by step. Place your hand in His, and let Him guide you.

Never feel that Christ is far away. He is always near. His loving presence surrounds you. Seek Him as One who desires to be found of you. He desires you not only to touch His garments, but to walk with Him in constant communion.

[pg. 89] Jesus knows the circumstances of every soul. The greater the sinner's guilt, the more he needs the Saviour. His heart [pg. 90] of divine love and sympathy is drawn out most of all for the one who is the most hopelessly entangled in the snares of the enemy. With His own blood He has signed the emancipation papers of the race.

Jesus does not desire those who have been purchased at such a cost to become the sport of the enemy's temptations. He does not desire us to be overcome and perish. He who curbed the lions in their den, and walked with His faithful witnesses amid the fiery flames, is just as ready to work in our behalf to subdue every evil in our nature. Today He is standing at the altar of mercy, presenting before God the prayers of those who desire His help. He turns no weeping, contrite one away. Freely will He pardon all who come to Him for forgiveness and restoration. He does not tell to any all that He might reveal, but He bids every trembling soul take courage. Whosoever will, may take hold of God's strength, and make peace with Him, and He will make peace.

The souls that turn to Him for refuge, Jesus lifts above the accusing and the strife of tongues. No man or evil angel can impeach these souls. Christ unites them to His own divine-human nature. They stand besides the great Sin Bearer in the light proceeding from the throne of God.

The blood of Jesus Christ cleanses "from all sin." 1 John 1:7.

"Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:33, 34."

Michiana Fil-Am Drill Quad at the 2009 AU Parade
Performed their fancy drill that won them 1st place from the
International Pathfinder Camporee at Oshkosh, Wisconsin this past Aug.

Marching with their banner