tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78569496653759125142024-03-14T07:22:40.583-07:00Mellie's MindI am Michelle Galvan. As a working mother of 5 children I am about being healthy, staying healthy, raising my kids to be upstanding normal adults and finding my place in the world, while trying to help others find theirs too. It's my passion to inspire people and leave a positive mark on this world that will make it just a little bit better. Being able to help others improve their quality of life is the best gift I can give others and myself. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.comBlogger197125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-61653263889755064672015-06-26T12:18:00.002-07:002015-06-26T12:18:40.923-07:00What Dreams May Come....I believe in God. <br />
<br />
In that belief comes the understanding there is one road that we all go down and we ultimately choose the path that will lead us to Heaven or Hell. I do believe in these two destinations and I do believe in Evil in this world. Regardless if I go to Church or not these beliefs are a part of my true core as a person.<br />
<br />
Do I live the life that God wants me to live? No. <br />
Do I worship the way that God expects me to? No.<br />
<br />
I know my relationship with my God is far from where I want to to be and far from where HE wants me to be and it is never far from my mind. I know I am a good person and I know I live a decent life with morals and family values. I have many areas that do not please God and it's up to me to work on those areas.<br />
<br />
Last night I was asleep in my room. Elianna was asleep on the floor next to me and Reuben was on the floor at the foot of my bed. I recall falling asleep and the only thing I can recall being on my mind was the events of the weekend for the kids and how I was going to manage to get it all done.<br />
<br />
Somewhere during my sleep I became aware that I could not move my body. I was awake in my mind but I could not get my body to respond. I was in a dark room filled with this piercing sound ringing in my ears. It was the sound of an animal being hurt and screaming in pain and the low roar of a noise I can not explain. It was constant and it was loud. I remember yelling at myself "Michelle, wake up, this is not real you are dreaming." But nothing was getting me out of that moment. As the noise continued on and fear grew inside me I came face to face with a floating image. It was not like a head, like in the movies, it was the outline of a face with eyes, a mouth and a nose and it scared me. It was not a face of peace but a face of evil. I recall screaming at at and still trying to wake myself up. I could hear my outer voice moaning in my sleep and crying out as the screams and roars in the room I was in got louder. Then the next thing I knew there was a hand on my arm, my reality arm not the dream arm, and I could hear someone saying "Don't go, you are not meant to be there. You will be okay, open your eyes Michelle I am here right with you." My eyes opened immediately and I jolted my body over to see who was touching my arm. No one was there. Both kids were still asleep. As I looked around my room in fear and confusion I began to sob. Then my fears became more elevated, I saw the face again. It was over my bed and it was right in front of me. For the few seconds it was there I told myself it was not real and it was my imagination. It did not move it simply was there in front of me and I quickly came to the understanding I was awake and this was real. I began praying The Lords Prayer. By the time I began the prayer a second time the image passed the side of me and disappeared into the wall next to my bed. I leaped out of my bed and moved to the end of my bed to look at the wall to try and understand what I saw. Standing in the dark of my room and in the silence of the night with the only sound of my crying and my son snoring I fell to my knees and continued to cry.<br />
<br />
I spent many more hours awake last night praying the same prayer over and over again till I eventually fell asleep but it is not far from my mind today and the fear it caused is still alive in me. Change needs to happen because evil is trying to consume me.<br />
<br />
One of my favorite movies is What Dreams May Come. In part of the movie Annie, the wife and mother of the movie, is unable to cope with the loss of her husband and decides to commit suicide. Chris, (her husband who has died in a car crash) is initially relieved that her suffering is done, but grows angry when he learns that those who commit suicide go to Hell;
this is not the result of a judgment made against them, but rather
their own tendency to create "nightmare" afterlife worlds based on their
pain. Chris is adamant that he will rescue Annie from Hell, despite
Albert's insistence that no one has ever succeeded in doing so with a
suicide. Chris sets out to search for
Annie's soul and in the end saves her from the Hell she has put herself in.<br />
<br />
As I sat and recalled the events of last night this movie came to my mind for many reasons. <br />
<br />
I have no idea what this all means and I am sure many will think I am
one step from falling off the edge of reality but I know this happened
and it was real. Was it a sign that my life is not where it should be?
Was it a message that I am too close to darkness and it's waiting for
me? What does it all mean and why did it happen to me? Perhaps it's telling me it's time to save myself...... <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://video-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hvideo-xat1/v/t42.1790-2/11264442_869756173062190_2036796296_n.mp4?oh=a18763bd24d3e5a12faa2227fe42d269&oe=558DB93B" target="_blank">https://video-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hvideo-xat1/v/t42.1790-2/11264442_869756173062190_2036796296_n.mp4?oh=a18763bd24d3e5a12faa2227fe42d269&oe=558DB93B</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-85462524211622329022015-06-01T11:26:00.003-07:002015-06-01T12:05:15.532-07:00I am.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>If you have been following my blog you know these cards are called the I
Am...... Cards. The idea is to pull a card each day to read a positive
affirmation to fill your mind with. By focusing on positive thoughts, you
can change how you feel and the way you think. It's a simple way to
experience life in a new and exciting way, and to explore your mind with the
thought behind the "I am".... card of the day.</i><br />
<br />
<i><b>I am....... worthy</b></i><br />
<br />
I
have a girlfriend who I am very close with, she knows more about me than
most other people do. She has seen me at my weakest, strongest,
ugliest and at my best. She is never judgmental and is always
supportive. She is very wise when she gives me encouragement and
advice. I truly love this woman and all that she gives to me and I try
and do the same for her at any given moment.<br />
<br />
The one thing she can not give me, however, is understanding of being worthy.<br />
<br />
Just
like me she can have issues in her life, marriage and career. I try
and support and counsel her on these areas when she is in need, just as
she does for me. When she is low I try and pick her up, when she is high
I celebrate with her, when she is alone I try and remind her she will
never be alone. But the one thing I can not give her either is the
understanding of HER being worthy.<br />
<br />
Why
is so so difficult to understand our own self worth? What happened in
our lives that makes us think, deep down in the darkness of our
feelings, we do not deserve to feel a certain way or take a certain path
in our lives? Why are we so quick to put ourselves down and tell
ourselves, in maybe different ways, that we are not worthy?<br />
<br />
When
I pulled this card out of my little bag this morning my first thought
was I wasn't worthy and I felt sad. But why is that? Why do I tell
myself that? Is it because I grew up in an unstable family that was
emotionally and physically hard? Was it because I allowed myself to be
in relationships where people, friends included, can just take from me
what they need and want and then walk away as if I was nothing to them
at all? Is it because I have been in failed romantic relationships that
I did not walk away from until it go so bad there was nothing left of
ME? Is it because I did not grow up with a father and have always felt
not good enough, even after I located him and told him about myself?
Could it be these circumstances?<br />
<br />
Probably.<br />
<br />
I
would say these are good reasons to not feel worthy about myself. As I
am sure THOUSANDS of other people have their own trials and
tribulations that make them feel not worthy.<br />
<br />
So the question is now this..... how do I change this? Because as I sit here and type this blog I<b> KNOW</b> I am worthy. Not only am I worthy because I am a child of God, I am worthy because....... I just am.<br />
<br />
I
have every chance in this world as other people do. I may have had a
rough childhood and have had some tough times in my life but it has
gotten me to this point and I am still here and I am still going. I
just need to remind myself that <u>I am worthy</u> and live each day or
every moment having that in the forefront of my mind. I will not be put
off to the side, I will not be treated poorly, I will not be taken
advantage of and I will not live in the darkness of thinking because of
other people's decisions THEY make equates me to not being worthy.<br />
<br />
I
have done things to myself to allow me to get to this point. I have
allowed my own limited vision of myself enable me to be overwhelmed and
hold myself back from reaching my goals or trying. I have allowed my
own dark feelings to prevent me from seeing the good in life. I have
focused too much time on what I don't have or what I have lost and
failed to allow myself to celebrate who I am today. <br />
<br />
Recently, I had the wind knocked out of my soul and as I laid on the ground in my closet crying in the dark I heard myself saying.... "You must be the worst person in the world since this is happening to you." But the reality is I am not, and what had occurred was not my fault or a result in any actions I had taken. I had nothing to do with the pain I was only the one on the reviving end of it. So as I wiped my tears and shoved the hurt away I told myself.. I was worthy of happiness and happiness I would have come hell or high water!<br />
<br />
I am a strong woman. I am loyal. I am smart. I am honest. I am trustworthy. I am funny and I have the ability to help motivate and encourage others. <br />
<br />
<b>I am..... worthy!</b><br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-68504645399918620392015-05-15T08:46:00.001-07:002015-05-15T09:11:03.381-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day nine!<p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making small changes, bringing big results!<br><br>I hope you will join me!<br><br>Day<span class="text_exposed_show"> 9: Small steps to find gratitude</span></span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I am learning for myself through this process finding things or situations to be more grateful for is also allowing myself to be happier, and more satisfied with everything going on around me. With all the stress, the disappointments and all the anxiety that can surround our lives I know for myself I ask in the midst of these hard times: </span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“How <em>exactly </em>can I be more grateful with my life?”</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Some days I find myself going through the motions of repetitive activities and boring tasks to get through my day. But being a mindless zombie can make us more likely to take things for granted. Instead of doing something just for the sake of doing it, I have been trying to actually make an effort to savor and enjoy the moment. </span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Yesterday I had to attend a work meeting. I told myself I was going to go into the meeting not worrying about the time is was taking away from my tasks but rather appreciate the time that each person in the meeting put into for ME. I absorbed the meeting and was thankful for the time. </span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I had plans to go to the gym, I had been looking forward to it all day. My workout partner got sick, my kids were tired and crying and wanted to stay home and I had came down with a splitting headache. Instead of getting upset with myself and the circumstances because I was not going to the gym I savored the moments with my kids instead. I even put myself to bed early and shut out all stress and anxiety. I allowed myself to care for my body and soul and gave forgiveness and thanks to my life.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I'm learning that feelings of gratitude is a direct manifestation of our environments. If we feel more driven, more passionate, and more alive, we are also bound to appreciate more, live more, and be more content.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Immerse your day and surroundings with quotes of gratitude. Meditate on thoughts of gratitude in your life. Hang sayings or pictures in your home and car so you are reminded of them at every turn.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">In my bedroom I have to sayings on my wall. Each time I go into my room it's a habit for me to read both of them. I don't even think about it anymore it just happens. Subconsciously I am reminding myself of these two thoughts thus being grateful for the woman I am and what I bring to the world.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px 0px 18px; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Make it a day of gratitude for YOU! </span></p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-24564333681894915852015-05-13T12:24:00.004-07:002015-05-13T12:24:26.418-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day eight!Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results!<br />
<br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
Day<span class="text_exposed_show"> 8: Sharing your gratitude with others</span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
Today’s challenge is all about spreading gratitude. There is an old
saying, you get more of what you GIVE away... this is so true in all
case and especially with gratitude.<br />
<br />
Today I was contacted by a
friend via text who shared with me how "Mellie's Days of Gratitude"
inspired her and her family to make one small change in gift giving to
help a family member out in need. She expressed to me how thankful she
is for her health and the ability to help this family member as well as
being thankful for the reminders in these posts. She went on to say it
is helping her with her small children as well. Together they read what
Mommy is grateful for and now the kids are going to be making their own
list of gratitude.<br />
<br />
Wow!<br />
<br />
This communication this morning
inspires our challenge for the day and how we can spread the word to
even more people around us. We can always find gratitude and it only
takes a few small things to share it.<br />
<br />
Here are a couple quick tips:<br />
<br />
Share with your friends on Facebook or twitter what you are most
thankful for today and ask them to share what they are most thankful
for. The best part is if this is what you choose to do, you can just
click on this post below and share it on your page or on the page of
someone who might be struggling.... simple!<br />
<br />
Sharing gratitude, like a smile, can become infectious. The more you share it the more it comes back to you!!<br />
<br />
You could also send out a group text (most of you know how much I LOVE
those and use with my people I am trying to help with getting healthy)
stating what you are most grateful for and ask your friends what they
are most grateful for today.<br />
<br />
Reach out to friends, families and
co-workers and let them know what you are grateful for and ask them to
respond. It can open doors, minds and hearts and really have an impact
on someone out there who may need it today!<br />
<br />
Lets spread some gratitude.<br />
<br />
I'll go first- Today I am grateful for the opportunities I am given to
chase my dreams both by God, the support of my family and friends and am
forever grateful to have been born in a country that gives me these
rights!<br />
<br />
What are you grateful for today and how many people can you ask today?<br />
~Mellie<br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-27375286571649671472015-05-12T08:21:00.001-07:002015-05-12T08:21:31.517-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day seven!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results!<br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
Day<span class="text_exposed_show"> 7: New Beginnings </span><br />
<br />
I am a firm believer in everyday is a new opportunity to have a new beginning at your life. The past is the past and today is the day. You have new goals each and every morning when you wake up, regardless if they are big or small. You have a new opportunity to be a better version of yourself than the day before. You have a new chance on being even more happy or making others more happy in your day. I lay my head down and night and say my prayers, ask for forgiveness for any wrong doings and ask for new strength and guidance in the dawn of the new day.<br />
<br />
I'm grateful <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD1">for this</span> because I am able to grow and develop more each day. Today offers new insights and possibilities to <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD3">try again</span>.<br />
<br />
Today is YOUR new day, make the most of it!<br />
<br />
~Mellie<br />
<br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-12461422828826109402015-05-12T08:12:00.001-07:002015-05-12T08:12:15.852-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day six!Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results!<br />
<br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
Day<span class="text_exposed_show"> 6: Gratitude and Grace.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
Today I want to talk about gratitude and grace. Grace is a disposition to be generous or helpful to others in this case.<br />
<br />
When the feelings of gratitude and grace combine something remarkable
happens. You get out of yourself and start putting your energy into
others. Why is this important?<br />
<br />
When we take a step away from
ourselves or we stop internalizing everything we do or that is done to
us we begin to be free. What I mean is we stop worrying, stop obsessing
and stop fearing about or world and we start living.<br />
<br />
Being in a
state of gratitude and or a state of grace in itself is a place of calm
and gentleness. A place in which we are wrapped in a blanket of Gods
love and can be the start of something beautiful in your life.<br />
<br />
I
write about this today because I feel I am most in need of both grace
and gratitude. So my challenge to you and to myself for the rest of
today and the rest of the week is to be in awe of God's grace for us and
to feel grace in our own world to share that grace with those around us
and to be grateful in doing so.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-30360098369959996022015-05-12T08:10:00.001-07:002015-05-12T08:10:17.612-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day five!Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results!<br />
<br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
Day<span class="text_exposed_show">
Five: For the past 5 years I have been helping people get healthy. I
help them with food, workouts, self esteem and mentally changing who
they are. Some are successful and some walk away because THEY are not
ready for the change in themselves. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
Day 5 of gratitude is about our self love. List 5 things you LIKE
about YOU! Not what people say about you but how you feel about
yourself. 5 positive attributes about your body, your personality or
your life. (There is no right or wrong ~ this is for you)<br />
<br />
So
many times I hear people tell me how they hate things about themselves,
no worries I am guilty too. So many times I hear them list all the
things they want to change, all the things they hate seeing in the
mirror or all the things they hate about their feelings. This is
perfectly normal but if we only focus only what we do not like we are
going against the ability to REALLY change. <br />
It was a cold
morning when I decided many years ago I was going to change something
about myself to improve on my relationship at the time. I was only
sitting in negativity beating myself up over what was wrong, so I
decided that day I would only think positive about the situation. Things
really took a turn and began to improve for me.<br />
<br />
We all want to
be better, we all have things we are currently working on to improve
and we all want to change things about our bodies. But we have to
learn to love ourselves first, REALLY love yourself, and this is when
change really happens.<br />
<br />
List the 5 things you like, hang them up
next to your gratitude list from day one and read that list daily.
Remind yourself of all the good things about yourself and really learn
to love who you are and the body you are in.<br />
<br />
Feel free to share your list here if you would like.<br />
<br />
Make it a great day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-45828208799845652962015-05-12T08:06:00.002-07:002015-05-12T08:06:12.486-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day four!Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results!<br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
<br />
Day<span class="text_exposed_show">
FOUR: Today I just want us to remember to find gratitude in hidden
little places. Not all days show us gratitude in an easy noticeable way.
Some days, honestly, I don't feel grateful at all I can struggle just to
get through my day with all it's challenges and emotions.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
These days are the days when we all need to seek out gratitude the
most, by looking around at the little things. When you have a day you
don't feel like getting out of bed or those days when you wish we had
never gotten out of bed... these are the days gratitude can become a
very compelling tool that can make a great impact on our overall well
being. It's such a cliche to say but start with the fact that you were
ABLE to get out of bed. Find the silver lining in your hard day knowing
you were allowed another day with your family and friends. Be thankful
for your health, even if you deal with chronic pain or a
disease....you're still here and fighting. If dealing with troubles in
relationships, be thankful for new beginnings or try and focus on the
good memories to allow yourself peace and grace towards the other
person.<br />
<br />
Gratitude does not have to appear on a billboard, it
doesn't need to be a life changing moment... sometimes it can be quiet
thought in our heads to help us remember to be grateful for SOMETHING
and to continue to seek out even more little things throughout our day.<br />
<br />
Today I am grateful that I woke up. I am grateful I was able to get my littles motivated and moving and off to school on time in a calm and
loving way (we were REALLY late this morning) and I am grateful for the
laughs in the car on the way to school. Most of all I am grateful for
those little tax deductions because THEY are the reason I work so hard, I
push myself and thrive to be better and ultimately they are the reward
for MY life.<br />
<br />
Find your gratitude today and feel free to share
with anyone and everyone what it is..so that YOU too can help someone
else find theirs!<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-80318033004454539652015-05-12T08:04:00.003-07:002015-05-12T08:04:11.541-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day three!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnlJbSZTsQKzQgNjAfbmGnd1nTKdj7EVkLf15_-9jwHSRN9cz4hE4RZqN9YgJ7Xj0Lfs6l3j6V7VwmtmDA-_xzttgpyGMvE8KEUO7Kh4OHdNoZqOnB_NfynsaXLv8kpGU8TMsQy32I9V4/s1600/1897028_10206304699080346_4356181938418171642_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnlJbSZTsQKzQgNjAfbmGnd1nTKdj7EVkLf15_-9jwHSRN9cz4hE4RZqN9YgJ7Xj0Lfs6l3j6V7VwmtmDA-_xzttgpyGMvE8KEUO7Kh4OHdNoZqOnB_NfynsaXLv8kpGU8TMsQy32I9V4/s320/1897028_10206304699080346_4356181938418171642_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results!<br />
<br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNNpPyCuxM9eic-koIZYI9WJOrvrIxJXfppWjN_jbft4H2X1caVfXWj8HBxKF1Ei_YvoaZJvZi9_PwS45AXB65szvZ7D0jxla3p9nyHqnELxrYQ-e2axpOn4JuhLNM-QWuBSJaI0-wFks/s1600/happy-thankful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzNNpPyCuxM9eic-koIZYI9WJOrvrIxJXfppWjN_jbft4H2X1caVfXWj8HBxKF1Ei_YvoaZJvZi9_PwS45AXB65szvZ7D0jxla3p9nyHqnELxrYQ-e2axpOn4JuhLNM-QWuBSJaI0-wFks/s320/happy-thankful.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzBtTKzN7Z7D_yL0rcZusegs3jEGfrSMCqHNu4JLx8x5ha9XuDE3E17dFMLy080U8QBf5XLbfi-3XzdNr-A2j19y9AColUUN0wcC3nty9AoWsDFdLBHjUGGlXH2IS971qowx6XwZaUf9R/s1600/words415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzBtTKzN7Z7D_yL0rcZusegs3jEGfrSMCqHNu4JLx8x5ha9XuDE3E17dFMLy080U8QBf5XLbfi-3XzdNr-A2j19y9AColUUN0wcC3nty9AoWsDFdLBHjUGGlXH2IS971qowx6XwZaUf9R/s320/words415.jpg" width="293" /></a><br />
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Day THREE: Re-read your list (out loud) of your 10 things you are
grateful for that was created on day 2. THEN Say, text, email or hand
write a heartfelt THANK YOU to someone important in your life-
regardless if they are a part of your past or current life!<br />
<span class="userContentSecondary _c24"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-18927739610728361342015-05-12T08:00:00.002-07:002015-05-12T08:00:36.668-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day two!Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results!<br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
<br />
Day<span class="text_exposed_show">
two: Make a list of 10 things YOU are grateful for and HANG that list
next to your computer, on your fridge, in your room, on a mirror or
wherever you will see it almost everyday and where OTHERS may see it to!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-34649820814742703032015-05-12T07:57:00.003-07:002015-05-12T07:57:57.233-07:00Days of Gratitude... Day one!Welcome to "Mellie's Days of Gratitude". The following days will
hopefully help open your heart to the miracle of gratitude and the
amazing changes that can happen when we become more grateful. Sharing
this will also help me in many ways too. Life for me is about making a
difference, helping someone and paying rent for my space while on this
earth. Together we can support, love and honor each other while making
small changes, bringing big results! <br />
I hope you will join me!<br />
<br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
Day one: Repeat one thing, ten times, that you're grateful for TODAY!<br />
<br />
<br />
"I am grateful for open talks that bring peace to my heart."~ Mellie </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-57820100523173157542015-04-09T15:45:00.002-07:002015-04-09T15:45:33.303-07:00Whispers... Day 2<div>
<div>
I am in a personal growth challenge with some friends of mine. Here
is the back story to that challenge and how it came to be. The blog
that follows my "Ah-ha" moment of the day. I hope anyone reading this
can not only follow along with my thoughts but also find in themselves
if they are struggling in this area too. Thanks for the read!<br />
<i>**********************************************************</i><br />
<br />
<i>A few days ago my girlfriend shared how she was going to make an effort for the next 21
days to limit her negative self talk. It became clear to me that not
only did I need to support her in this decision I needed to participate
and share with others too. So I sent out a group text to several of my
friends and family inviting them to join us as well.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>The text read:</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><span style="color: red;">We
are gong to take the next 21 days and limit our negative self talk, the
ones in our head and the ones that come out of our mouths. I am also
going to be writing something each day in my journal/blog. No matter
how short or how long I want it to be. I would encourage you to do the
same with me!</span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
***********************************************</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"The first step in any type of self inquiry is recognition. We have to recognize that there are parts of us that need improvement. Despite the desire of many of of us to improve our lives, there is often resistance to the whole process. It's not easy to recognize our faults or weaknesses. Many people go through the greater part of their lives unaware that they may be doing things that are hurting themselves and others. Recognition of personal strengths or weakness is a giant step in the right direction. There is tremendous liberation in the simple realization of why things are the way they are. And some fortunate instances, recognition alone is enough to break through whatever blocks we may have. More often, though, recognition is the critical first step towards transformation. Also, our recognition doesn't have to be Limited to faults. It can be in earnest desire for overall improvement. It can be the recognition of a virtue or strength that we were not fully aware of." -Change your aura Change your life. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What will be your recognition today? With improvements negative thinking does NOT have to follow. Recognizing our areas of improvement do not have to be deemed negative. We are able, if willing, to find our faults and rather than boast in the negativity of it all we can chose to shine in the understanding and awareness!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
I found myself getting caught up in my whispers today. Not whispers of my own but whispers of others rattling in my mind. Threatening the core of my well being at every turn. It dragged me to a place of sadness, doubt and self pity. It made me asks myself questions of why others do things that in the end hurt me? Why do I allow certain toxic people in my life only to get burned by them or called out by them because they think I should live my life a certain way? Why do I allow the spew of someone who is jealous of me affect me in what they think of me? Why do I doubt my own value?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then it occurred to me....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Real friendships and relationships allow a person be what he or she really is. Most people will love you for who you pretend to be. We sometimes think to keep or find their love, we have to keep pretending. </div>
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We get locked in that image, and it's hard for people to see us any other way. We even get so used to that image we are portraying we grow attached to our own masks. </div>
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We can be lost without out our chains and can forget all about who we really are.</div>
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But as I have learned to break free from my mask and chains I have not mastered breaking free from the chains others hold me to. They want me to stay the same so they can feel needed. So they can feel more power or so they can feel like they are better than me to make themselves feel better.</div>
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The only power they have is the power I allow them to. </div>
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So I hushed my whispers by reminding myself that I am good enough</div>
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I am valuable </div>
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I am enough </div>
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I am worthy of good things and good people </div>
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And those who try and hold me back or try and take what is mine have to be let go in all ways.</div>
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My life is about giving, helping and caring for others. But I have to love and care for myself above all.</div>
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- Ramblings of a hungry girl! 😃</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-35443056286823866862015-04-09T15:14:00.000-07:002015-04-09T15:45:43.187-07:00Defining moments....Day 3I am in a personal growth challenge with some friends of mine. Here is the back story to that challenge and how it came to be. The blog that follows my "Ah-ha" moment of the day. I hope anyone reading this can not only follow along with my thoughts but also find in themselves if they are struggling in this area too. Thanks for the read!<br />
<i>**********************************************************</i><br />
<br />
<i>A few days ago my girlfriend shared how she was going to make an effort for the next 21
days to limit her negative self talk. It became clear to me that not
only did I need to support her in this decision I needed to participate
and share with others too. So I sent out a group text to several of my
friends and family inviting them to join us as well.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>The text read:</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><span style="color: red;">We
are gong to take the next 21 days and limit our negative self talk, the
ones in our head and the ones that come out of our mouths. I am also
going to be writing something each day in my journal/blog. No matter
how short or how long I want it to be. I would encourage you to do the
same with me!</span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
***********************************************<br />
<br />
I want to share something I've never shared with anybody my entire life not even my closest friend knows this about me. It's something I carried around inside with me for many years and never really thought affected me until I decided to change my lifestyle.<br />
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<div>
Many years ago when I was going through my divorce my ex-husband, in the heat of the fit, told me that I wasn't attractive anymore. He told me the weight that I carried around from the birth of the two babies I had at that point in my life would forever be with me. I would forever be a frumpy girl and no one could possibly love me, I was a fool to be leaving him. Of course I knew that in my heart it would not be true but somehow I took those words to heart, internalized them and I allowed them to subconsciously define me for many years to come.</div>
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Every time I attempted to lose weight or get healthy I would recall those words that were etched into my memory and my subconscious. I would begin to believe them all over again. I believed that I would never be healthy, I would never be thin, I would never look like I had always dreamed to look like. That was until I decided I would no longer allow anyone else to define me.</div>
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The process did not happen overnight. It took days, weeks, months, and yes, even years to not only let go of those words whispering in my brain, that I had carried around with me far too long, but to allow myself to be successful in this area. Sometimes it was almost easier to fall back on those words than it was to go through the entire process of training due to the dedication it took not only to become healthy, but to actually call myself a winner and to be the fit person I dreamed of being.</div>
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Fast forward A few years and that time and struggle seems like a lifetime ago to me. Of course the the early morning cardio sessions, the late-night workouts, the two a days, are all still fresh in my mind and seem like it was just yesterday I was fighting the battle of fat but the words that I allowed to defined me are a faint memory in my mind and no longer control me.</div>
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As I sit here today thinking to myself about my own journey and the 21 day challenge of limiting our negative self talk. THIS memory flooded my mind just moments ago to remind me that even though I'm stronger and a better person than I was then. I still allow people to define me I just wasn't accepting it or facing it.</div>
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Over the years I have heard certain things about myself from others that I see for the first time today I have allowed to define me. I'm sure if we all took a look at ourselves we would see that we all do in some ways. So much of what you accept is what others will define you as. If you are told look like someone famous, maybe an actress, you might not change your hair because she supposed to be seen as a beautiful person. That's allowing yourself to be defined. If you're told you're cute and have an attractive body, your clothes might get smaller and you might show more. That's allowing yourself to be defined. </div>
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Same with the negative defining. If you're told you play a victim role in your past relationship you probably stomp your feet and disagree but if you really look at yourself are you acting like the victim? Maybe if you're walking around with a sad look on your face or telling anyone who will listen to your side of the story as if to defend yourself then yes, you're playing the victim. You have just let that person define you. </div>
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Since starting this challenge it has made me so aware of the thoughts that roll around in my head. I subconsciously allow people to define me and I believe them and process that negativity in my head and then berate myself. It's not something that I was aware of until today and I certainly don't sit here and beat myself up but when faced with certain situations I react in a private self mutilation of my self esteem. </div>
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Of course there is no quick fix to the solution but what I appreciate about this challenge is that it's brought this to the forefront of my mind. I know that certain things that I do during my normal day, maybe not every day, is affected by what others have said about me in the past and I allowed it to define me in the present. This also leads to living my life in a certain amount of fear... Which is a whole other issue! 😃</div>
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I love th<span style="color: red;">is </span>quote from Oprah:</div>
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<span style="color: red;">"You define your own life. Don't let other people write your script."</span></div>
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What an amazing message! </div>
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-Mellie<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-46504643013200476382015-04-07T08:21:00.002-07:002015-04-09T15:45:54.507-07:00I am.....Day 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<i>If you have been following my blog you know these cards are called the <b>I
Am</b>...... Cards. The idea is to pull a card each day to read a positive
affirmation to fill your mind with. By focusing on positive thoughts, you
can change how you feel and the way you think. It's a simple way to
experience life in a new and exciting way, and to explore your mind with the
thought behind the "I am".... card of the day.</i><br />
<br />
<b><i>I am....self-accepting</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
It's amazing to me how things happen and line up exactly the way they are suppose to for us. Yesterday was a normal day for me, I was focused on working and getting the kids ready for this next week of school and just taking care of things in my household. The evening started to become difficult. My mind began racing and my insecurities began to take over my thoughts. Then one of my dear friends was struggling with a man in her life who basically just tossed her to the side. Another friend of mine was sharing her recent struggles in her marriage. It seemed like the night was going to bring me to a place of drama and stress. <br />
<br />
However, when talking to the friend who was sharing her marriage issues, she shared how she was going to make an effort for the next 21 days to limit her negative self talk. It became clear to me that not only did I need to support her in this decision I needed to participate and share with others too. So I sent out a group text to several of my friends and family inviting them to join us as well.<br />
<br />
The text read:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">We are gong to take the next 21 days and limit our negative self talk, the ones in our head and the ones that come out of our mouths. I am also going to be writing something each day in my journal/blog. No matter how short or how long I want it to be. I would encourage you to do the same with me!</span><br />
<br />
This this morning, as I said I would, I decided to reach into my <b><i>I am</i></b>..... bag and pull out a card to use to blog with. The one that appears in this blog is the one that I choose. Amazing how things are lined up for us, are signs from God and can have an impact on our daily lives.<br />
<br />
<b>YES! I am self-accepting</b>. I accept myself today exactly as I am. I accept the challenges that can come to me daily and know that if I take them head on, doing the very best I can than that's good enough for me. I accept that having goals and wanting to change things about my body, my mind, my soul or my lifestyle does not make me weak. It only shows my strength in my ability to always want to be a better form of myself. I accept that where I fall short in my life are areas for improvement not for self loathing. I accept that not all people are going to like me, like my message or like the way I do things and that is okay! The only one I HAVE to answer to is God and he knows the secrets, struggles and strengths I have in my core and loves me the way I am.<br />
<br />
I am self-accepting and today you should be too!<br />
<br />
~Make it a great day!<br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-14961850199675540462015-02-18T12:45:00.001-08:002015-02-18T12:45:22.304-08:00Ash Wednesday......<div class="_38 direction_ltr">
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Lent
Wednesday<br />
18 February 2015<br />
Ash Wednesday<br />
Psalm 38
Daniel 9.3–6, 17–19
1 Timothy 6.6–19
Daniel 9.3–6,17–19 ‘For your own sake, O my God’ (v.19)<br />
</span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;"><span class="null">Daniel’s cry is one of real
desperation. As if not only he, but the whole city of God, is sinking in
quicksand. Floundering is of no avail; no good to clutch at the straws
of human righteousness and self-justification. The imperatives tumble
over each other. Listen! Let your face shine upon us! Incline your ear!
Open your eyes! Forgive! Do not delay! This is an urgent, wholehearted
appeal to the mercy of God to save the city and people who bear God’s
name.<br />
Anyone who suffers stress, or anxiety, or panic attacks
knows the reality of this – how you feel like the foundations of life
are no longer there. The more you try to find a secure foothold, the
more shaky your hold on your life becomes. When the foundations are
undermined, there seems nowhere to turn to escape. The more you
struggle, the deeper you go.<br />
It is Ash Wednesday today – a day on
which to take seriously the reality of our utter dependence upon God. A
day on which to remember how lost we are when we rely upon our own merit
and virtue – how quickly things turn to dust and ashes in our hands
without the grace of God sustaining and leading us. Let us pray today
for a deepened sense of God’s grace throughout the days of Lent ahead,
so we come to know more clearly and dearly, and nearly, that sustaining
love. Without it, we are already the dust to which we shall return. But
not yet, for God’s sake.<br />
</span></span><div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="null"><span style="color: blue;">COLLECT </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Almighty and everlasting God,
you hate nothing that you have made
and forgive the sins of all those who are penitent:
create and make in us new and contrite hearts
that we, worthily lamenting our sins
and acknowledging our wretchedness,
may receive from you, the God of all mercy,
perfect remission and forgiveness;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">~Frances Ward</span><br />
</span><div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="null"> This is not my first Lent season in my life. I have been a "Catholic" now for almost 11 years and have been around the Catholic faith for over 15 years. But each Lent season comes a better understanding of my faith and of the season itself. <br />
<br />
During mass this morning the Father of my church explained Lent a little different than I had heard in past years. He explained to us that this was a time of change. A time to change something about our lives that not only bettered us but also helped us be a steward for our faith. He went on to say by the end of the 40 days it's OUR goal to be a new improved person with new habits in our lives. <br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>"At the end of the 40 days it is our goal to be a new improved person with new habits in our lives."</i></b><br />
<br />
This one statement really reached out and grabbed me and took a hold of me. This was my time to change things about myself and about my life so at the end of the 40 days I could look back and know that I bettered myself, my family and possibly anyone around me who needs help too.<br />
<br />
As the scriptures say above... <b><i>"Daniel's cry is one of real desperation."</i></b> <br />
<br />
I AM in a position myself of <b>real desperation</b>. I go through my days by doing the motions of my life. I do the same thing everyday and I walk around with a smile on my face but my soul is in torment. My heart is broken and my mind is a scattered mess. I can sometimes feel myself spinning out of control because of things I have NO control over. How messed up is that?<br />
<br />
This is day to remind us how lost we are are and how we NEED to rely upon God and His plan for us. This is a day that I HAVE to finally let go of the things in my soul and heart and move past them and move towards God. This is a day to stop praying for something to happen and just pray that God will take over. This is the day to let go, wipe the slate clean and rather than chase something or someone, I need to chase God.<br />
<br />
As a person who likes to try and control her surroundings as a defense mechanism, I am the first person who should be letting go of that control and just learning to trust in God. People are going to lie to me, people are going to hurt me, people are going to think they are getting the better of me.... all of that will happen and continue to happen for the rest of my days on this Earth..... so why fight it? Why not just learn to stop thinking about it, let it go and give it to God? It seems so simple, yet it's the hardest thing I have to do for myself. <br />
<br />
I am in a position of real desperation and there is NO one that is going to be able to save me. It is a time to look to Him and stop looking to others or to myself for fix me.<br />
<br />
As I wear my ashes on my head today and I silently go through my day working, going to the gym and being with my family my words and thoughts will focus on finally letting go. <br />
<br />
This season WILL be a time of change for me.<br />
<br />
~Mellie <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-33650125241642511132015-01-14T14:57:00.000-08:002015-01-14T14:57:01.665-08:00I am.......<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<br />
<i>If you have been following my blog you know these cards are called the I
Am...... Cards. The idea is to pull a card each day to read a positive
affirmation to fill your mind with. By focusing on positive thoughts, you
can change how you feel and the way you think. It's a simple way to
experience life in a new and exciting way, and to explore your mind with the
thought behind the "I am".... card of the day.</i><br />
<br />
<b><i>I am....willing</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
This can mean so many things and can say so much about my life, I am not
sure in what direction I am to go with this card. If I allow the negative
in I think to myself someone would think I am not willing. That person
would say I am not willing to accommodate them or do what they ask or be the person
they think I should be. But I quickly dismiss this from my mind and
remind myself that this is not about negative. This is about being
positive and <b><i>I am.....willing.</i></b><br />
<br />
My friend and I have been discussing the past few days how to change our
lives. We discuss how she feels when she meets someone new and what her
expectations are. If those expectations are not met right away then she
is quick to move on. Her saying is "BBG" (BITCH be GONE!)<br />
<br />
However, it's my thought that if she changes her expectations and she
changes the way she allows a person to treat her then this will change the
actions that take place. We were talking last night and I told her she
had to do things differently if she expected a different outcome. <br />
<br />
This rings true for me and for everyone. We all want some change in
our lives and we all have this idea of what certain areas of our lives should
look like but do we do what is needed to get there? Are we <b><i>willing </i></b>to
take new steps to get there or stay stuck in the pattern we have always been
in?<br />
<br />
For me this card means this... <b><i>I am .... willing</i></b>. <br />
<br />
I am
willing to start making the small necessary changes in the areas of my life, my
heart and my head, to get me to where I want and think I should be. I can
no longer let myself be sucked into circles of drama. I can no longer
allow what a person says to me cut my deep. I can no longer put myself
out there like I always do to try and save people. I have to be willing
to take new steps to achieve new goals. This does not mean I cannot
still help people, but it does means I don't have to be a doormat for some.
It doesn't mean that I have to inherit everyone's sadness and save them.
It means that I have to draw new boundaries and be willing to take new actions
to get new results. <br />
<br />
Positive changes aren’t a matter of will. It's a matter of being
willing to do what it takes to get me where I want to be. When I am not
willing, no matter how much I proclaim I am, change will not happen. I do
not need a strong will to succeed. I only need willingness to whatever is
required to make my goals and dreams happen. I need to be willing to
change the way I allow others to treat me. I have to be willing to work
around, go through, over or under any obstacles that get in my way.. Including
myself.<br />
<br />
Every day we must focus on our purpose and act on our plans. Just like
getting in shape physically I had to make a plan and work my plan. The
same willingness for a positive life has to be endured and the same kind of
action plan has to be focused on.<br />
<br />
Today I will make a list of things I want to see improved in my life.
It can be anything or everything it is up to me. I will put that
list on my desk, where I will see it every day, and I will read it over and
over again. So that it not only is in the forefront of my mind but I can
be reminded of it and reminded that I must be open and willing to the change
for it to happen.<br />
<br />
No one is going to make my life for me. No one can save me or make
things better. I have the power and I have the ability I just have to be
willing.<br />
<br />
<b><i>I am....willing</i></b><br />
<br />
Make it a great day!<b><i> </i></b> <br />
<br />
~Mellie <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="background-color: #ffff99;"></span><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-51640194319855269582015-01-13T13:12:00.000-08:002015-01-13T13:12:01.457-08:00Time to get back at it.. week two <div class="yiv9763744142s4" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61216" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4ZSwqb2jeqprpWS0NkMfAxkbz9xXFGpNVgcTiK0U4nghzbOFV-LExmWaFGFBKeDCg2vKO_EgKcSzEhwRaW8JYyYhwkJy0N7fnor52S1DM6XhAKgCmquGtgl_1yOAa5Q1Nw6tPs8_cofl/s1600/521617_10151737991112103_548207090_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4ZSwqb2jeqprpWS0NkMfAxkbz9xXFGpNVgcTiK0U4nghzbOFV-LExmWaFGFBKeDCg2vKO_EgKcSzEhwRaW8JYyYhwkJy0N7fnor52S1DM6XhAKgCmquGtgl_1yOAa5Q1Nw6tPs8_cofl/s1600/521617_10151737991112103_548207090_n.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a></div>
For many of my friends, family and those who follow me you all know
me to be a hard worker. Someone who gives it her all and goes for it
with everything I have. I tend not to back down from many challenges
nor do I back down from anything or anyone coming against me.<br />
<br />
As
this year comes to a countdown of hours left I have been faced with the
reality to really review the last year of my life and evaluate where I
was, where I was headed and where I ended up.<br />
<br />
As a part
of growing up, yes I am still growing at 41, it has came to my
realization as of today that I spent most of 2014 chasing things.
People, dreams, expectations and ideas other people had for me. Some of
it was good, some of it was not. I do not regret the year but I regret
what I allowed to fall apart..... my standard of living a healthy life
as well as pushing those around me in theirs.<br />
<br />
So, I am
going to get back on the wagon and force myself to stay on it. Time to
refocus on myself, my fitness and helping those around me. No more
chasing, no more grasping and no more putting myself last.<br />
<br />
This
upcoming weekend I will do what I have not done in a LONG time... I
will cook my food for the week. I will create my caloric intake and I
will create the meals that will get me there. I will create my plan for
my caloric burn to achieve my daily/weekly deficit and I will begin to
live the lifestyle I thrive in... <i><b>a healthy one.</b></i><br />
<br />
If
you find yourself in the same position I am in and if you feel lost,
then please... feel free to follow along. I will TRY and post my weekly
menus and workouts so that anyone out there can follow along too. Make
sure you have no food allergies and understand each weight movement. I
am NOT responsible for you if you hurt yourself or if you eat something
that makes your face blow up! I am not offering personal menus for
anyone and I can not adjust if you do not like a food.. please do not
ask. I am simply giving you the option to follow along and change your
life too.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Isn't it time we start living the lives we were meant to live?</b></i></span><br />
<br />
Happy New Year!<br />
<br />
~Mellie <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>***** WEEK TWO*****</b><br />
<br />
<span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61284">Breakfast:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">1 cup cooked Bob’s Red Mill Oatmeal</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">1/3 cup Almond Milk-original</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">½ cup fruit of any kind</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="yiv9763744142s4" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61231" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="yiv9763744142s3">Am Snack:</span></div>
<div class="yiv9763744142s7" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 0px;">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">½ cup of almonds</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="yiv9763744142s4" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61282" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61281">Lunch:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">Mellie’s Chicken & Andouille Soup</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">1 cucumber</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">2 oz. almonds</span></li>
<li>•<span class="yiv9763744142s3">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="yiv9763744142s4" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61277" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61276">PM Snack:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61265">1 scoop of protein </span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="yiv9763744142s4" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61235" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span style="color: red;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61274"><span class="yiv9763744142s12" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61273" style="font-weight: bold;">(After a </span><span class="yiv9763744142s13" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">weight workout</span><span class="yiv9763744142s12" style="font-weight: bold;"> only drink 2 scoops of ARM)</span></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv9763744142s4" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61238" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61271">Dinner:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3">Mellie’s Chicken Dinner in a packet</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61269">2 cups Broccoli-cooked or raw</span></li>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61267">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="yiv9763744142s8" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61252" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9763744142s4" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61254" style="margin-bottom: 7px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61265">PM Snack: (1 hour to 30 min prior to bed)</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span class="yiv9763744142s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61265">1 scoop of protein </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="yiv9657838333s17" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61551" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 10px;">
<span class="yiv9657838333s16" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61658" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"><span class="yiv9657838333bumpedFont15" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61657">Mellie’s Cajun Chicken & Andouille Soup</span></span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s18" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61553" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s18" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61555" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;">
<span class="yiv9657838333s19" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61655" style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients</span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61558" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61557" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61651"><span class="yiv9657838333s3">2 </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61653">lb.</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61650"> boneless skinless chicken breast cut into ¾” pieces</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61562" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61561" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61648"><span class="yiv9657838333s3">8</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3"> </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">oz.</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61647"> Andouille or other fully cooked </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">sausage</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3"> halved lengthwise and then cut into ¼” pieces.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61566" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61565" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61645">8 cups of low sodium, organic, chicken broth</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61569" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61643" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61641">2 14.5 oz. cans of organic crushed tomatoes</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61571" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61639" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61637">2 cups of organic corn kernels</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61573" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61635" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61633">2 cup sliced fresh or frozen and thawed okra</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61576" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61575" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61631">2 small red onions, chopped</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61580" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61579" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61629">2 green bell peppers, chopped</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61584" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61583" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61627">3 celery stalks, chopped</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61588" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61587" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61625">4 large garlic cloves, minced</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61590" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61623" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61621">1 tsp. Cajun seasoning</span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61623" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s22" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61597" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 18px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61592">Combine
all ingredients into a 10-quart or larger slow cooker. Cover and cook
on low for 6-8 hours. Season with black pepper to taste.</span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s22" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61597" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 18px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s22" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61597" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 18px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61592"> </span><span class="yiv9657838333s23" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61619" style="text-decoration: underline;">Divide into 7 servings</span></div>
<br />
<div class="yiv9657838333s17" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61094" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 10px;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61093"><span class="yiv9657838333s16" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61092" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"><span class="yiv9657838333bumpedFont15" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61091">Mellie’</span></span><span class="yiv9657838333s16" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61113" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;"><span class="yiv9657838333bumpedFont15" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61112">s Chicken in a Packet</span></span></span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s2" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61089" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">7 5-oz boneless skinless chicken breast halves</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">4 cups sliced fresh organic mushrooms</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">4 medium carrots, cut in thin strips</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">2 medium zucchini, unpeeled and sliced</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61045" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61044" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">4 </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">Tbsp.</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3"> organic olive oil</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">4 </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">Tbsp.</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3"> lemon juice</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61046" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">2 </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">tsp.</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3"> dry basil</span></div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s21" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61048" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-left: 36px; margin-top: 5px;">
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61047" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
•<span class="yiv9657838333s3">Black pepper to taste</span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s20" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61047" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-indent: 0px;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s18" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61051" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;">
<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61087">Preheat oven to 375</span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s18" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61057" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61056"><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61055">Fold 7 12X28 pieces of foil in half to make 7 12x14 rectangles. Place one chicken breast half on each piece of foil. </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61085">Top the chicken in each with mushrooms, carrots and zucchini, dividing the vegetables equally among the chicken bundles. </span></span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s18" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61061" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;">
<span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61060">In a small bowl, stir together oil, lemon juice, basil and pepper. Drizzle oil mixture over vegetables and chicken.</span></div>
<div class="yiv9657838333s18" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61065" style="margin-bottom: 5px; margin-top: 5px;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61064"><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61083">Pull up two opposite </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">edges</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3"> of </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">foil</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">. </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">Seal</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61067"> with a double fold. The fold in remaining </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61063">edges</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">, leaving enough space for steam to build. Place the </span><span class="yiv9657838333s3">bundles</span><span class="yiv9657838333s3" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61075"> side by side in a shallow baking pan.</span></span></div>
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1421178728059_61081">Bake 35 min</span><br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-2519214844328180032015-01-07T12:56:00.002-08:002015-01-07T12:56:13.899-08:00I put the EMOTION in emotional eating......<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">How many times in your life have you
"emotionally ate?" For me on and off about a billion times in
this last year alone. Or at other times I will "emotionally"
starve myself because I am too upset to eat and somehow subconsciously punish myself.
What causes this emotional state of mind that is then directed to the patterns
of my consumption of ... anything?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We have ALL heard that stress is BAD
for us. It heightens our senses; it keeps us up at night and can take the
joy out of joyful things. But it also increases the chemical levels in
our bodies. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When we are stressed the body
increases it levels of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone.
Cortisol is made in the adrenal glands. It helps regulate blood sugar,
the process of carbohydrates, proteins and fats into and out of the
cells. High levels of cortisol works against your body's natural desire
to stay thin and healthy and it can create cravings for salty and sweet
foods. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When we are under stress some people
seek out friends for social support. This can be a great outlet if used
properly but most of the time we tend to go out with our friends for dinner or
drinks and try and reduce our stress over a meal. Emotional eating this
way can make you feel better at the moment but often will be only short term
and thus leaving you with regret later. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VvTNkH4YKzEcrdt-2AxlozcuenfeLYSJaBoQQpbgsB2q5MxeRk8v1MccRSm3hQk46Fub3uLGJaUPXgfLacoF4RuexWiaUvbPnlCe1jTYBJtKPxe5zrbOKSM18JqjPFIFMv-TteoWvZZS/s1600/emotional-eating-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9VvTNkH4YKzEcrdt-2AxlozcuenfeLYSJaBoQQpbgsB2q5MxeRk8v1MccRSm3hQk46Fub3uLGJaUPXgfLacoF4RuexWiaUvbPnlCe1jTYBJtKPxe5zrbOKSM18JqjPFIFMv-TteoWvZZS/s1600/emotional-eating-21.jpg" height="193" width="320" /></a></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Some emotional eating I have seen is
due to nervous energy. Those who find themselves anxious or fidgety will
lead to eating when they really are not hungry at all. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">An emotional eating trigger I have
is from being a child. My mother would celebrate us with treats or help
up feel better after a bad day with allowing extra sugary treats. I also
witnessed this behavior from her as well when she was depressed. She
would not only go into her room for days at a time she would consume excessive
amounts of salt and sugar in treats, chips and or take out. Food can be
powerfully comforting or rewarding in times of stress. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Other examples of emotional eating
are when we stuff our faces to stuff our emotions. People who are uncomfortable
with confrontation may deal with their frustrations with a piece of cake, a
candy bar or any number of things. Food can take the focus off our anger,
fears or anxiety so we do not have to feel them. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I once knew a woman who struggled
with her weight. She would hide Jolly Rancher bars all over her
house. When her and her hubby would fight, about anything, she would take
solitude in the candy as well as in her mind she was non verbally telling him
off by eating the candy. She did this for many years before she fully
understood that she wasn't taking the anger out on him but on herself instead.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We all have many reasons for
emotional eating and we all can struggle with it in one way or the other.
But what's important is that we understand and become aware of our triggers and
have a game plan in place for when the triggers arise. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Here are a few suggestions if you
find that you are an emotional eater:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Try going for a brisk walk. By getting up and
moving either by walking or going to the gym you get your endorphins
going. If you are at work and cannot get away try taking your break
and walking around the parking lot. Even a short, brisk walk will
help.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Meal plan. Have your meals prepared and planned
for one week at a time. This makes you less likely to grab a snack
if you know when and where your next healthy meal is coming from. </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Drink water. Chug as much water as you can
down. This will not only be good for your body but it will make you
feel full and less likely to grab that candy bar out of the machine.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Journal. Write your feelings down at that very
moment you feel week. Get it out and don't worry about anything but
getting the words out onto paper There is such a release when we
journal our feelings.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Call a friend and ask them about THEIR day. Don't
focus on your, focus on them. This will not only buy you time to get
through the cravings it will also probably fulfill your emotional need at that
time and make your friend feel good too. </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There is no quick or 100% answer for
emotional eating. It all comes down to you and what your triggers
are. But if you can honestly sit back and understand what the body is
doing and then understand why YOU are allowing it to happen you can fight it
off even more. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You have the power to stop the vicious
circle of emotional eating and you have the power to change your life.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Start living the life you were meant
to live.... TODAY!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">~Mellie </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolRNJYNozvU4BuR3ei5FrPtrToUi_RgV2SeyDjXXFp1rIW9voGL6zxBi6L-MxFSjdM9rBSTEtaECSr6rehzq_YvqGDl0EJlK0-v1_ZVu6z7xJGEr3wPAEAEpaW_q8NCyVWnhyP8eLA-Rx/s1600/emotional-eating2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolRNJYNozvU4BuR3ei5FrPtrToUi_RgV2SeyDjXXFp1rIW9voGL6zxBi6L-MxFSjdM9rBSTEtaECSr6rehzq_YvqGDl0EJlK0-v1_ZVu6z7xJGEr3wPAEAEpaW_q8NCyVWnhyP8eLA-Rx/s1600/emotional-eating2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-7637835148524099262015-01-07T09:12:00.002-08:002015-01-07T09:12:20.528-08:00I am...... <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MxupnH4EJKqu07f3u2Ijqdmx0Qrhgu14v3FcTjUDfZmlgw9nxQ0fJ10oILVDnxwVm4cnNNwROt_TSXNj6wIvrO1mEBgC7vzDe1HfwFLZ2-8NXY8d3INpfA8cyxV_j_M8XKd_xR97eOX4/s1600/01+06+2015+I+PHONE+5+IMPORT+587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MxupnH4EJKqu07f3u2Ijqdmx0Qrhgu14v3FcTjUDfZmlgw9nxQ0fJ10oILVDnxwVm4cnNNwROt_TSXNj6wIvrO1mEBgC7vzDe1HfwFLZ2-8NXY8d3INpfA8cyxV_j_M8XKd_xR97eOX4/s1600/01+06+2015+I+PHONE+5+IMPORT+587.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i>If you have been following my blog you know these cards are called the I
Am...... Cards. The idea is to pull a card each day to read a positive
affirmation to fill your mind with. By focusing on positive thoughts, you
can change how you feel and the way you think. It's a simple way to experience
life in a new and exciting way, and to explore your mind with the thought
behind the "I am".... card of the day.</i><br />
<br />
<b><i>I am....friendly</i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
When I was a young girl I was very shy. I came from a household with
two older brothers who were outgoing and didn't have issues making
friends. My brother who was just a few years older than me was the
charismatic one. I not only admired his outgoing personality and
friendliness I also lived in his shadow. He could do no wrong in my
mother's eyes and everyone was drawn to him. I was the little sister that
tagged along.<br />
<br />
I, like most girls, had body image issues. I was never pretty enough or
thin enough. My "development" was slower than most and I just
was not comfortable in who I was. I knew I was a good person but my lack
of self-esteem prevented me from really showing this side of myself and being
outgoing at a young age.<br />
<br />
As I grew and began having children I really found myself analyzing who I
was. I would sit and think about my own self-worth, how I allowed others
to treat me and how I treated myself. Even into adulthood I was not very
nice to myself sometimes and I would hide in my own shadow. <br />
<br />
One of the good things about growing up like this was it made me appreciate
others who felt similar. I was and still am able to tell when other
people are feeling the same way I use to feel. Being shy and insecure is
no longer an issue for me, however, it has allowed me to recognize and
understand when others are and thus allowing me to go out of my way to be
friendly to them.<br />
<br />
I am a friendly person. Most days I walk around making eye contact with
those around me. I will offer a smile and sometimes a hello, no matter
where I am, what sex, race or age the people around me are. When I was
not so outgoing I knew how it to walk around and be invisible and I don't want
that for anyone else, even if they are a stranger to me.<br />
<br />
When I am out in a group of friends I will scan the room and make sure everyone
is having a good time. If someone is left out of a conversation, I will
maneuver myself in that conversation to allow the person being left out to have
an opportunity to contribute. If someone is not being engaged with I will
go out of my way to talk to that person in hopes to ease their discomfort and
draw them in and offer myself as a friend they can be with rather than feeling
alone. <br />
<br />
When talking to a person who I sense is not feeling comfortable or insecure I
will be encouraging with them. I will point out a quality about their
personality that is positive so they will hear me tell them I think they are a
good person. This could mean I tell someone how much I appreciate their
humor, or how well they do their job and how much I appreciate them.
Sometimes I will go out of my way at the gym to let a female know I can see the
changes she is making in her body with her workouts to give her
encouragement. All of these little acts are real and have nothing to do
with me. I have no agenda, I am not trying to be Ms. Popular, and I am
simply taking a second out of my day because I can sense someone needs some
friendliness. <br />
<br />
As I got older and became more aware of the impact I have on others and the
ability to help people change their lives for the better I also became someone
who others are drawn to. My hubby use to tell me all the time that people
are always drawn to me. That my smile lights up a room and naturally
people want to be around me. Others would try and break me down and out
of jealousy or hate and criticize me but I knew they were not speaking the truth. <br />
<br />
We all have the same opportunities in life and we all have the power to help
someone each day. I would encourage anyone reading this to try little
steps in your life to make yourself even friendlier. Offer smiles to
strangers. Look people in the eye as you are passing them and say a quick
hello. Invite someone at work who maybe keeps to themselves to lunch one
day. If they don't accept right away, keep trying. Have a
conversation with someone you know and do a quick check in with them. Maybe
they met someone new, ask them about it. If they switched positions at
work, congratulate them and ask them how the transition is going. Do
small gestures with others that will make them feel accepted and noticed.
Not everyone knows how to express themselves and be outgoing. This
doesn't mean they are a snob or being rude it could simply mean they are shy
and lost in themselves. Try and go out of your way to bring new people
into your circle and be a positive influence on them. You never know the
impact you will have in someone's life unless you try.<br />
<br />
I am... friendly.<br />
<br />
Can you think of ways you can be too?<br />
<br />
~Mellie<br />
<br />
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<![endif]--> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-55784845792022310022015-01-06T11:15:00.004-08:002015-01-06T11:15:48.638-08:00Don't sabotage yourself..... <div class="copy-paste-block" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Always seek out the seed of triumph in every adversity" </span></span></div>
<div class="copy-paste-block" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">~Og Mandino </span></span><br />
<br />
</div>
<div class="copy-paste-block" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="copy-paste-block" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yesterday was my FIRST day getting refocused on being healthy and getting back into my hardcore workouts. As stated in past blogs I have allowed my time to run away with me in the past year vs. me running MY time. Things have gone to the waste side including my weight and the healthy lifestyle I live. So I got a couple girlfriends on board with me and we are getting back to basics together.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="copy-paste-block" style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="copy-paste-block" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The menu I planned on having this week I made some adjustments to at the last minute. The meals in blue are my changes that I have made. This allowed me to hit my caloric deficit goal as well as enjoy the food I am eating.</span></span></span><br />
<br />
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<br /></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 scoop of protein </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s Turkey Chili 2014</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">PM Snack:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 scoop protein</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(Drink one scoop of ARM
immediately after a <u>weight workout</u> only)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dinner:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: blue;">5 Oz lean steak</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2 cups of spinach</span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>PM Snack</b>: (1 hour to 30 min prior to bed)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 scoop of protein</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Day 1 was suppose to be AM cardio and PM weights workout. However neither one of those plans were accomplished. Sunday night I had issues sleeping and only got 2 hours worth of sleep. That night I was not feeling well, still tired and worked 10 hours, so I just told myself to take the night off and not stress over not getting any kind of workout in. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In the past this would have sent me spiraling. I would have felt out of control, I would have been mad at myself for failing. I would have thrown my hands up in the air and subconsciously would have allowed myself to walk away from the plan for another week. But instead I reminded myself Rome was not built in a day. Adversity comes to us at all times and from every direction and the best thing I could do is accomplish what I could and stay the course. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This morning, again, am cardio session was planned and yet again I failed to achieve it. But once again I was not mad at myself nor did I beat myself up. I simply went right into my meal plan and got on course with that. I intend to get to the gym tonight, and I am looking forward to it, but I know that I can only do what I can do. If something comes up, just like everything else, I will deal with it and adjust.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As you begin to enter into your goals and taking the steps to make your changes just remember to be kind to yourself. Do not set your, or allow anyone to set your, expectations too high. Make a plan and take the necessary small steps to help you achieve your plan. You do not have to be instant body builder material or gym rat to start out and you don't have to do things 100% perfectly. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So many times I have seen many people fail because they put way too many demands on themselves. Consequently when they have an off day they throw in the towel. Don't sabotage your goals and don't sabotage yourself.. you have nothing to prove to anyone but yourself.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Have a healthy day!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">~Mellie </span></span><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/o/og_mandino.html" title="view author"> </a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-13927444347980880182014-12-31T14:52:00.001-08:002014-12-31T14:52:28.830-08:00Time to get back at it.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJDLRr11DhijTFh8dl12rwkE48m4SPYNuncILv68zGMuLtD04vsw7nV7JtnUUd3ar7BCT-ETBYPV3dC2vBTsdGlyIO9l8xHN7HoOq269JYCsx95bwbYusJmjDwAEaZYRGlhorJSiU_YYr4/s1600/521617_10151737991112103_548207090_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJDLRr11DhijTFh8dl12rwkE48m4SPYNuncILv68zGMuLtD04vsw7nV7JtnUUd3ar7BCT-ETBYPV3dC2vBTsdGlyIO9l8xHN7HoOq269JYCsx95bwbYusJmjDwAEaZYRGlhorJSiU_YYr4/s1600/521617_10151737991112103_548207090_n.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For many of my friends, family and those who follow me you all know me to be a hard worker. Someone who gives it her all and goes for it with everything I have. I tend not to back down from many challenges nor do I back down from anything or anyone coming against me.<br />
<br />
As this year comes to a countdown of hours left I have been faced with the reality to really review the last year of my life and evaluate where I was, where I was headed and where I ended up.<br />
<br />
As a part of growing up, yes I am still growing at 41, it has came to my realization as of today that I spent most of 2014 chasing things. People, dreams, expectations and ideas other people had for me. Some of it was good, some of it was not. I do not regret the year but I regret what I allowed to fall apart..... my standard of living a healthy life as well as pushing those around me in theirs.<br />
<br />
So, I am going to get back on the wagon and force myself to stay on it. Time to refocus on myself, my fitness and helping those around me. No more chasing, no more grasping and no more putting myself last.<br />
<br />
This upcoming weekend I will do what I have not done in a LONG time... I will cook my food for the week. I will create my caloric intake and I will create the meals that will get me there. I will create my plan for my caloric burn to achieve my daily/weekly deficit and I will begin to live the lifestyle I thrive in... <i><b>a healthy one.</b></i><br />
<br />
If you find yourself in the same position I am in and if you feel lost, then please... feel free to follow along. I will TRY and post my weekly menus and workouts so that anyone out there can follow along too. Make sure you have no food allergies and understand each weight movement. I am NOT responsible for you if you hurt yourself or if you eat something that makes your face blow up! I am not offering personal menus for anyone and I can not adjust if you do not like a food.. please do not ask. I am simply giving you the option to follow along and change your life too.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Isn't it time we start living the lives we were meant to live?</b></i></span><br />
<br />
Happy New Year!<br />
<br />
~Mellie <br />
<b><br /></b>
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</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Breakfast:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s Banana Pancakes <b>OR</b> Mellie's Oatmeal 2014</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Am Snack:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 apple</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 scoop of protein </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lunch:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s Turkey Chili 2014</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">PM Snack:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 scoop protein</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<span style="color: red; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">(Drink one scoop of ARM
immediately after a <u>weight workout</u> only)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Dinner:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s Meatballs</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">2 cups of spinach</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Green Tea, no sugar of any kind added</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>PM Snack</b>: (1 hour to 30 min prior to bed)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">1 scoop of protein</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s
Banana Pancake Breakfast</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ingredients:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 scoop Vanilla Protein shake</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/4 cup quick-cooking rolled oats</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 cup whole wheat flour</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/2 teaspoon baking powder</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 dash sea salt</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 large eggs</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 small ripe banana, mashed</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 teaspoon safflower oil, (divided use)</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sliced banana and raspberries (for garnish,
optional)</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-left: .25in; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Directions:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="1" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mix Shake, oats, flour, baking powder, and
salt in medium bowl: set aside</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Beat eggs in medium bowl: stir in mashed
banana and almond milk</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients: mix
well</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Heat 1/2 teaspoon oil in large nonstick
skillet over medium heat. Pour about 1/4 batter into skillet for each
pancake; you should be able to fit 2 or 3 in pan at once. Cook for 1 to 2
minutes, or until bubbles form on top. Flip with spatula and cook for 30
seconds.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Add remaining 1/2 teaspoon oil and repeat
with remaining batter.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Serve warm; garnish with bananas and
berries if desired</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">.</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Makes 1 Serving</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s
Oatmeal 2014</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ingredients:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>2-1/4 cups water</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>1 pinch sea salt</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>1 tablespoon slivered almonds</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>1 tablespoon dried cranberries</div>
<div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l5 level1 lfo9; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<span class="bold">1. </span>Heat water and salt to boiling in medium
saucepan. Reduce heat to low; add oats; cook, stirring frequently, for 5
minutes or until water is just absorbed. Remove from heat; let stand for 5
minutes.<br />
<span class="bold">2. </span>Add almond milk<br />
<span class="bold">3. </span>Sprinkle with cinnamon and top with almonds and
cranberries.<br />
Drink with a protein shake <br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Makes 1 serving</span></u></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></span></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s
Meatballs</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ingredients:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Cooking spray</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 1/2 pounds lean ground Turkey</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 teaspoon sea salt</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/2 teaspoon black pepper</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 large egg, lightly beaten</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3/4 cup quick-cooking rolled oats</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 cloves garlic, minced</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l7 level1 lfo7; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 tablespoons all natural tomato sauce (no sugar added)</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Directions:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<ol start="1" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Preheat over at 400 degrees. Spray a large baking sheet
and set aside.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Combine all ingredients into a large bowl and mix well.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Roll mixture into 30 1″ meatballs and place on sheet.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l8 level1 lfo8; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Bake for 15-20 minutes.</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Makes 6 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Servings – 5
balls each serving</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 18.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Mellie’s
Turkey chili 2014</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ingredients:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 teaspoon olive oil<br />
1 1/2 pounds lean ground turkey meat<br />
1 medium red onion, chopped<br />
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped<br />
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin<br />
1 Tablespoon chili powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon sea salt<br />
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)<br />
1 (15 oz.) can kidney or pinto beans, rinsed and drained<br />
1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce (no sugar-added variety)<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Directions:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">– Heat oil in large saucepan over
medium-high heat. Add turkey, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.<br />
– Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until turkey is no longer
pink.<br />
– Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper; stir and cook for 1
minute.<br />
– Stir in kidney beans and tomato sauce; bring to a boil.<br />
– Reduce heat to low and gently simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20
min. or until thickened.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Makes 4 servings 1 ½ cup each</span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-2543563389878665922014-12-28T14:29:00.004-08:002014-12-28T14:29:33.187-08:00I am..... <div class="copy-paste-block">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>If you have been following my blog
you know these cards are called the I Am...... Cards. The idea is to pull
a card each day to read a positive affirmation to fill your mind with. By
focusing on positive thoughts, you can change how you feel and the way you
think. It's a simple way to experience life in a new and exciting way,
and to explore your mind with the thought behind the "I am".... card
of the day.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i>I am....flexible.</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i> </i></b> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">When I pulled this card I
laughed out loud at the message. I was JUST told last night by someone I am
just getting to know that one of their observations of me was that I was able
to adapt to most circumstances, which of course for me goes hand in hand that I
am flexible.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">"Your
comfort zone is not a place that you want to remain in. </span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Dare,
discover, be all that you can be." ~</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> Catherine <span style="background: yellow;"><span id=":10.1" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">Pulsifer</span></span></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Yes, there are MANY areas in
my life where I am flexible. I <span style="background: yellow;"><span id=":10.2" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">th</span></span>ink when change comes down the pi<span style="background: yellow;"><span id=":10.3" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">peline</span></span> I am quick
to express my <span style="background: yellow;"><span id=":10.4" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">li</span><span id=":10.5" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">kes</span></span>
or dislikes about <span style="background: yellow;"><span id=":10.6" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">th</span></span>e
change and then I am also quick to get the new change into my head and adapt in
any way I need to so that I can continue to s<span style="background: yellow;"><span id=":10.7" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">ucce</span></span>ed in my life. <b><i> </i></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Of course for the most part
if I had the choice I would really not want a lot of change in my life.
Like most people I get myself into my comfort zone and I want to stay there and
enjoy the security of feeling safe. For me, and for most others, my
comfort zone relates to my anxiety level. The lower my anxiety the
greater the comfort zone is for me and human nature keeps me there. No one
wants to feel anxious, high levels of stress or have feelings of
insecurity. But in life, as we all know, change is always inevitable.....
Good or bad. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">There is a type of anxiety
that is good for us all, it's called Optimal <span id=":10.8" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">Anxie</span><span id=":10.9" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">ty</span></span>. This is a
higher level of anxiety that pushes us to perform better and do more. Anyone
who has ever set a goal and pushed themselves knows this level of anxiety is
what gets us to a new accomplishment level. But it's a known fact that
too much anxiety and our bodies shut down and we do less than what is typically
normal for us. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Being flexible in simple
situations in my life has allowed me to be more flexible and adaptable when
changes I do not foresee coming happen. Continually allowing myself to step out
of my comfort zone in small ways reminds me that if I can be flexible with
these little changes then I can really focus on the big changes and allow
myself to brainstorm and problem solve the bigger issues. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">For me getting out of my
comfort level is a learned skill. I tend to be an A to Z girl. I will go
from one end of the scale all the way to the other end without a blink of an
eye. This is what needs to be done; this is how I am going to get there
and then BOOM.. I am there. What I tend to forget is all the area in the
middle. There is so much to learn from the middle, there is so much to
experience and so many people and other opportunities there too.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As I think about my life and
my routines I think of new ways that I can change those routines up to have
more life experience thus forcing me out of this comfort zone I am currently
in. It's the little changes that we can make that will really change
us. Here are some of the changes I am going to try and focus on to get
out of my current comfort zone:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I am going to try and do
everyday things differently. My daily routine is pretty much the same
each weekday. But what if I changed the hours I worked, or the hours I
went to the gym. What if instead of working at the same gym each day of
the week I went to other locations and experienced the workouts there and the
people? What new doors could that open up for me?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I tend to go to the same
places for food or drink that are in my comfort zone. The staff and other
patrons know me there. I know the menu and the choices and I know that
satisfied feeling I have going to those locations. But what if once or
twice a month I went somewhere new? What new foods could I try, what new
people and cultures could I experience? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I am going to slow down when
making choices in my life. As stated before I tend to be A to Z.. I
really want to see what's in the middle and see what it has to offer.
Typically I know when I do not like something; I will move past it and never
look back. But what if I gave it two or three more chances to real<span id=":10.10" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">ly</span></span>
experience it and perhaps learn something new about m<span id=":10.12" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">yself</span></span>. I do not want to be
so quick to just make my decision and move on. I really want to learn to
slow down in the mo<span id=":10.13" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">ment</span></span>.
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I am going to stop fearing
fear. Fear protects me but it also <span id=":10.14" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">hin</span><span id=":10.15" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">ders</span></span> me and pr<span id=":10.16" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">ev</span><span id=":10.17" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">ents</span></span>
me from living the life I am meant to live. It can be overwhelming at
times and it can also be so faint I do not really grasp that fear is keeping me
in a place I no longer want to be at. As I begin to understand the fear
in my life and address it, rather than <span id=":10.20" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">preten</span></span>d I am <span id=":10.21" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">stron</span></span>g and it's not there, I
know the more I will be able to <span id=":10.24" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">br</span><span id=":10.25" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1">eak</span></span>
fr<span id=":10.27" role="menuitem" style="background-attachment: scroll; background-position-x: 0%; background-position-y: 0%;" tabindex="-1"><span style="background: yellow;">ee</span></span>
from it. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">These are only a few ideas
that I have to allow myself out of my comfort zone and be even more
flexible. But once we get into our minds that it's possible we can really
begin to make big positive changes. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">I always want to be
flexible. I always want people to know I am flexible and as long as I am
not taken advantage of they can count on this from me. Being flexible is
a good thing and a quality I want to continually improve on. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">What areas are you flexible
on and what areas do you need to work on? Can you make a list of changes
you want to make and take the steps necessary to make them? Of course
you can! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Make today the FIRST day you
allow yourself out of your comfort zone and be just a little more flexible and
then continue to build on that daily in any way you can.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">We all have the ability to
live the life we were meant to live, let’s start doing it sooner than later!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">~Mellie </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-16079739690262246122014-12-17T16:22:00.003-08:002014-12-17T16:22:16.730-08:00I am...... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>If you have been following my blog you know these
cards are called the I Am...... Cards. The idea is to pull a card each
day to read a positive affirmation to fill your mind with. By focusing
on positive thoughts, you can change how you feel and the way you think. It's a simple way
to experience life in a new and exciting way, and to explore your mind
with the thought behind the "I am".... card of the day.</i><br />
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<b><i>I am....capable.</i></b><br />
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As I drew this card out of the bag at lunch time I caught myself holding my breath. Was it going to be a card that I would not be able to admit to? Would it be a card that I would not relate to? Would it be a card that would make me feel insecure about myself? (The complete opposite of the purpose of the cards, but a reality none the less) Or would it be a card that would allow me to celebrate myself?<br />
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The answer? It's a card that I can relate with and makes me feel insecure about myself.<br />
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One of the things I love the most about myself is the ability to provoke the potential out of people. I know most people that I know are not demonstrating all they are truly capable of and it's a gift for me to be able to look at them and coax them to their potential. That could be in their relationships, their work, their weight loss or parenting. Each situation depends on the person and what I observe in their lives. Most people daydream about a better lifestyle. They have in their minds what they think their life should look like and can almost see themselves doing it, but can not seem to get there. I try and look at them and find out what it is holding them back. I try and determine what is stopping them from being all they can be? I then will try and guide them just enough to show what actions they need to get there. This makes me capable to motivate and provoke potential. <br />
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What I struggle with is being capable in my own life.<br />
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The obstacles I allow to detour my own dreams as well as not being able to see the actions I need to take to allowing me to achieve my goals. This is one of the most frustrating characteristics about myself.<br />
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I am a successful person in many ways. I do very well with my job and can manage myself and my goals surrounding it. I raise good, solid children who are not lazy or entitled. I am able to manage my household and ensure that all the key players are in place and all the requirements are getting done. If faced with a challenge I can rise to it and overcome most of the times. I was successful in changing my lifestyle and eating habits thus changing not only my body but my life. Yet, when it comes to my daydreams and what I yearn for I only see the steps in front of me and find I am paralyzed to actually climb those stairs. <br />
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Why is that? <br />
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Why am I, or anyone else, able to be so driven and successful in so many areas yet not able to be capable of achieving even higher accomplishments and making our daydreams a reality? <br />
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There is a huge gap between what we want and what we do about it. <br />
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For me I it comes down to a few questions:<br />
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How bad do I want it?<br />
Is it enough just to know that it's possible, if only I were willing to push a little harder?<br />
Am I content to know it is there and pretend that "one day" I will do something about it?<br />
Or is it that I am too fearful because of the risk of embarrassment or disappointing others? <br />
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I live daily in a life where I know there are even bigger and better things waiting for me. I understand that the decisions I make on a daily bases will either put me closer to those dreams or leave me in the same place I have been each morning when I wake up. Each little decision I make will either support the change or it will support my fear of the steps. Usually I remain in the same place until something dramatic happens in my life or around me that forces me to realize... "I want more than this!" "I want more from myself!" <br />
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Sometimes little moments in life such as the lyrics to a song, a quote, a story of someone who triumphed, can motivate me. Or it could be that someones life has ended and I am left knowing they were not done living yet and not wanting this fate for myself. When I find myself in this place, this is the time that I resolve to make changes and do something remarkable.<br />
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It's these moments when I have to really reflect and ask myself tough questions. "Am I being the best me I can possibly be?" And the answer is usually no, because I know there is so much more that I am capable of in this life. I have to learn to take new steps, go in new directions and remove myself from the comfort of fear and allow myself to fail or succeed. I can not continue my life wondering or daydreaming about other things I should be doing. I can not continue in my life waiting for someone to come along and push me or discover me and hand me the keys to my dream. I can not continue to allow the influences of others hold me back from what I want and know I can do. I have to take new steps to move myself out of my current complacency and step into my potential. <br />
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I am tired of accepting less from myself than I know I am capable of. My potential is a gift to the world, maybe not all of the world but a large part of it, and it's up to me and only me to get out there and share it....... every single day.<br />
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Just like working out became who I am and part of my lifestyle, my dreams need to as well and it's up to me each and every day to take it one step further to get to where I am going and want to be. <br />
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<b><i>I am....capable.</i></b><br />
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Of <u>many</u> great things, and I am capable of overcoming <u>many</u> great things. I owe it to myself to make it happen and so do you!<br />
<br /><b><i> </i></b><br />
Go out and be remarkable today!<br />
<br /><b><i> </i></b><br />
~Mellie <br /><b><i> </i></b><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-81746972559893518762014-12-12T13:14:00.001-08:002014-12-12T13:14:29.027-08:00The Elf On The Shelf...... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRELAQgKJJnhNDg2RBt0TXIzOvfmV1JnqDVwWWinP2VCDUuQMKmt4UK2A3Q9PtG_awWinSBlTKhEUkZvXw5OPSEW4ADtYBseB6nYBKS6xxd-1mZjpoXc9b-v9nRni2RoYD3iIGCQ6gsBVu/s1600/10857854_10205186523526656_1340461587153190437_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRELAQgKJJnhNDg2RBt0TXIzOvfmV1JnqDVwWWinP2VCDUuQMKmt4UK2A3Q9PtG_awWinSBlTKhEUkZvXw5OPSEW4ADtYBseB6nYBKS6xxd-1mZjpoXc9b-v9nRni2RoYD3iIGCQ6gsBVu/s1600/10857854_10205186523526656_1340461587153190437_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Here are two days of Elf On The Shelf...<br />
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The one with his head in the bag was a lazy quick day. The kids were gone to their dad's house that night so I just did this one real quick so when they got home from school Toto, our Elf, would be there for them to see. They thought it was funny and talked about how he likes candy. <br />
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This one was last night. Of course the movie Frozen was the thought behind this one. I just shoved him into the rolls or TP and then drew the face of the snowman and details on his body. That is a really baby carrot as a nose. I used my scissors to dig a hole in the roll and then just pushed the carrot in there. The snowman's scarf are two colored pipe strings wrapped around. And the gloves are being held up by two suckers on each side of the rolls. Very easy, yet very fun!<br />
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Trying to write on the mirror so my kids would not reorganize my handwriting was the most difficult part, it looks like I have the handwriting of a serial killer. <br />
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Have a great day!<br />
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~Mellie<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11423397640477227522noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7856949665375912514.post-61948170463891044062014-12-12T10:53:00.002-08:002014-12-12T10:53:07.531-08:00Things I have learned while on this earth......<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
ALWAYS trust your
gut. Tell people you love them. Life is short. Forgive but don't forget.
Learn to love yourself. Accept things. Always do what you want, not
what others tell you to do. Love your babies, they grow and move out and
move on. Be social. Meet new people. Travel. Scream to the top of your
lungs at least once a month. Regret is a mother sucker and no matter how
much you try and put it out of your mind it's always looming.<span class="text_exposed_show">
Work hard, always, at everything. The truth will set you free. Time
heals, but not everything. Jealousy is a disease, wish those sick to get
better soon. The grass is greener where you water it. Maybe I don't
need that many shoes. Be loyal always. Only allow true people in your
inner circle. Trust is only earned and should not be given away. Love
your body, it's the only thing carrying you around. Love yourself no
matter what others pretend to know about you. Teach others to respect
you at all times, no passes. Learn to be alone. Laugh as much as you
can. Love and pursue God.</span></div>
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