Congratulations to everyone who completed or participated in the fast. I'm sure we all learned a lot of new things and hopefully gained some insight during the 21 days.
Thanks to everyone who participated in the blog. It helped keep me headed in the right direction and I appreciate you all.
I'm still down for that vegetarian outing if anyone is brave enough to go. See you at NV. :-)
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Friday, January 18, 2008
Unprepared
Today is the first day that I have no gameplan. I didn't bring lunch and all I have in my desk are some peanuts and maybe some raisins. Today is Friday aka "Bagel and Donut Day" in my office, so this should be interesting. Pray for me! lol
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Mmmmmmm....
One of the things that I’ve done (on accident) during this fast is change my portion sizes. There was a time when I was really good in this area but since that time my plates have gotten larger. Because I usually plan my meals and pack them in a container, my portions are controlled and smaller than what I would get if I bought food.
The side effect of these smaller portions is that things taste so much better. Well…maybe not, but they seem like they do. The “I can’t eat another bite of that” feeling I used to have has been replaced by “Man, I wish I had more of that!” It makes me look forward to things like leftovers and the next time I have that particular dish. Like right now, I’m wishing I had packed more lunch. It was so good! Who knew less food could make food taste better? :-)
The side effect of these smaller portions is that things taste so much better. Well…maybe not, but they seem like they do. The “I can’t eat another bite of that” feeling I used to have has been replaced by “Man, I wish I had more of that!” It makes me look forward to things like leftovers and the next time I have that particular dish. Like right now, I’m wishing I had packed more lunch. It was so good! Who knew less food could make food taste better? :-)
Six days to go and....
apparently someone desires for me to fail! I walked in this morning and there was some type of dessert on the table that someone's child made. No worries there because I don't eat everyone's cooking and it had coconut in it. However, a few minutes later someone brought in a birthday cake at 9:30am! Did you all know that birthday cake is one of my favorite desserts?! Now, no one has brought anything in here in the past 15 days so what's going on? Are they trying to sabotage me in my last days of sacrifice?! Probably not but I need to be dramatic because my feelings are hurt because I want cake! I'm not going to have it but I can shout that I want it! As I think about my current predicament, I believe that recently I have been seriously focused on the things that I'm petitioning God for and it's made this fast a lot easier for me. So could it be that I'm doing something right and the enemy is trying to divert my attentions? In that regard he can keep trying because I feel as though God is really doing something in my life and I'm not messing that up for nothing. SO at the end of my complaint I have a praise in my heart for God and I gotta get it out! (churchy) I pray that you are all doing well and staying strong.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Discoveries
As I was enjoying my cereal this morning, I began thinking about some things I’ve tried for the first time as a result of the fast. I found myself saying more than once that “I’m going to keep eating this after the fast!” I thought I’d list a couple of things and hope you will join in.
Peace French Vanilla Granola – This cereal is SO good! I love it as is, but lately I’ve been adding banana, raisins, and walnuts to it to really take it up a notch.
Baked Potato and Salsa – I’ve always heard about people eating this when they are trying to eat right. I never thought it sounded like a bad idea, but I’d never tried it until now. This is really good! It’s also a lot healthier than a loaded baked potato.
Corn and Potato Chowder – I love this recipe and I will definitely be making this for years to come…probably with a little shellfish added in! I’ve always been a little skeptical of using soy milk outside of a bowl of cereal, but this recipe changed my mind. Who knew?
What have you discovered?
Peace French Vanilla Granola – This cereal is SO good! I love it as is, but lately I’ve been adding banana, raisins, and walnuts to it to really take it up a notch.
Baked Potato and Salsa – I’ve always heard about people eating this when they are trying to eat right. I never thought it sounded like a bad idea, but I’d never tried it until now. This is really good! It’s also a lot healthier than a loaded baked potato.
Corn and Potato Chowder – I love this recipe and I will definitely be making this for years to come…probably with a little shellfish added in! I’ve always been a little skeptical of using soy milk outside of a bowl of cereal, but this recipe changed my mind. Who knew?
What have you discovered?
Monday, January 14, 2008
Still here
This weekend was the toughest period yet. I didn't have to attend any functions where they were eating but everything I smelled from Friday until Sunday smelled so delicious! I was tired of salad, tired of oatmeal, tired of granola, fruit and organic pasta sauce. Potatoes helped but what I wanted was a good ol' fashioned rib! I haven't even eaten meat in years but my body seemed to be recalling all types of wonderful, culinary goodness I've had throughout my life. I would've settled for some cream of crab soup.
I was fed up. I'd had it with this fast. All type of excuses were evolving. "I'm sure a lot of people have already slipped by now." and "Am I being too strict?"
People fast for different reasons and at different levels. When this fast started, I'd decided what I was going to do and what I would avoid. It doesn't really depend on what everyone else is doing. If I was the only one fasting, I'd still finish it. For me this fast is about regaining control of myself and I shouldn't be surprised that parts of me have organized protests.
This is the last week of the fast. There are less than 10 days left and my record is still intact. It's not getting any easier but as far as my appetite goes...."I'm still the boss of me".
I was fed up. I'd had it with this fast. All type of excuses were evolving. "I'm sure a lot of people have already slipped by now." and "Am I being too strict?"
People fast for different reasons and at different levels. When this fast started, I'd decided what I was going to do and what I would avoid. It doesn't really depend on what everyone else is doing. If I was the only one fasting, I'd still finish it. For me this fast is about regaining control of myself and I shouldn't be surprised that parts of me have organized protests.
This is the last week of the fast. There are less than 10 days left and my record is still intact. It's not getting any easier but as far as my appetite goes...."I'm still the boss of me".
Friday, January 11, 2008
Potomac Book & Health Food Store
I heard that the food (meatless and other alternatives) that we buy in the regular grocery store are cheaper here. I can definitely use a break on my expensive food. So, I decided that on Sunday I'll go and check it out and if anyone would like to join, you're welcome to.
www.potomacabc.com
Are you interested in transitioning to a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Or, simply looking to add more healthy alternatives? Our Food Department is here to help!
You'll find:
Over 200 vegetarian meat replacements
Dairy-free tofu and soy products (soymilk, cheese, sour cream, ice cream and more!)
Food for special diets: wheat free, gluten free, salt free, low carb and more!
Self-serve and prepackaged bulk section (nuts, grains, flour, legumes, dried fruit and more)
Baking supplies and seasonings
Large selection of healthy cereal, pasta, crackers, chips, cookies, beverages and more!
Natural vitamins, herbs, supplements and cosmetics
www.potomacabc.com
Are you interested in transitioning to a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Or, simply looking to add more healthy alternatives? Our Food Department is here to help!
You'll find:
Over 200 vegetarian meat replacements
Dairy-free tofu and soy products (soymilk, cheese, sour cream, ice cream and more!)
Food for special diets: wheat free, gluten free, salt free, low carb and more!
Self-serve and prepackaged bulk section (nuts, grains, flour, legumes, dried fruit and more)
Baking supplies and seasonings
Large selection of healthy cereal, pasta, crackers, chips, cookies, beverages and more!
Natural vitamins, herbs, supplements and cosmetics
warm juice
Try warming your 100% fruit juice for a soothing drink to sip. I like it on a cold morning on my way to work and evenings. Apple and cranberry juices are good contenders. It's also a good alternative to tea. I think this is a sweet scripture:
Exodus 15
The Waters of Marah and Elim
22 Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they traveled in the desert without finding water. 23 When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah.) 24 So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "What are we to drink?"
25 Then Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became sweet.
Exodus 15
The Waters of Marah and Elim
22 Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they traveled in the desert without finding water. 23 When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah.) 24 So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "What are we to drink?"
25 Then Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became sweet.
Daniel Fast - Week Two
This is another email that came out from the church.....
Greetings NV Family,
Jesus rejected fasting for display (read Isaiah 58:3-11), Jesus himself fasted privately and permitted its voluntary use for spiritual benefit (Matthew 4:2,6:16-18) During our fast, we want the Lord to honor our endeavors. Matthew 6:1-2 teaches that if our motives/actions are wrong, "We will have no reward from our Father in heaven". Let us honor God, New Vision, during this time of denial, not with proclamations of our sacrifice, but with prayers and petitions to "The King of Glory"!
For the association of fasting and prayer: see 2 Samuel 12:16, Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, Matthew 17:21, and Acts 14:23.
Optional Reading
"The Power of Prayer and Fasting, 21 Days that can Change Your Life" By: Marilyn Hickey.
"A Heart Like Jesus" By: Max Lucado.
These books are available in area bookstores.
Adventures in Fasting - Blog Your Experience
We have made it through 1 full week of fasting. Let us walk through this time together and blog (quickly communicate our thoughts and interact with our NV family) our experience.Please check out the following link (http://likedaniel.blogspot.com) to see what has been shared thus far. Viewing the entries does not require any special setup. The site has instructions to assist with blog usage. Everyone is welcome to share in the adventure. Let us encourage one another!
Recipe Spotlight
Apple Cabbage: (http://nvision.org/cabbage.pdf)
Vegetable and Brown Rice Casserole: (http://nvision.org/casserole.pdf)
Click on the recipe link to obtain instructions and ingredients.
Community Zone Questions to Ponder
Questions:
1. What are the attributes of fasting that please God? (Isaiah 58)
2. What is your individual/corporate focus during this time of spiritual rejuvenation?
3. Does fasting add power for spiritual service?
4. What should our demeanor be during our fasting period? Why?
Application: As you seek God, remember to have a watchful and praying spirit; also, set aside a time and place to pray. Observe God’s movement in your life as you have fasted from activities, foods, or other things .
God bless!
The Corporate Fast and Community Zone Teams
Greetings NV Family,
Jesus rejected fasting for display (read Isaiah 58:3-11), Jesus himself fasted privately and permitted its voluntary use for spiritual benefit (Matthew 4:2,6:16-18) During our fast, we want the Lord to honor our endeavors. Matthew 6:1-2 teaches that if our motives/actions are wrong, "We will have no reward from our Father in heaven". Let us honor God, New Vision, during this time of denial, not with proclamations of our sacrifice, but with prayers and petitions to "The King of Glory"!
For the association of fasting and prayer: see 2 Samuel 12:16, Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, Matthew 17:21, and Acts 14:23.
Optional Reading
"The Power of Prayer and Fasting, 21 Days that can Change Your Life" By: Marilyn Hickey.
"A Heart Like Jesus" By: Max Lucado.
These books are available in area bookstores.
Adventures in Fasting - Blog Your Experience
We have made it through 1 full week of fasting. Let us walk through this time together and blog (quickly communicate our thoughts and interact with our NV family) our experience.Please check out the following link (http://likedaniel.blogspot.com) to see what has been shared thus far. Viewing the entries does not require any special setup. The site has instructions to assist with blog usage. Everyone is welcome to share in the adventure. Let us encourage one another!
Recipe Spotlight
Apple Cabbage: (http://nvision.org/cabbage.pdf)
Vegetable and Brown Rice Casserole: (http://nvision.org/casserole.pdf)
Click on the recipe link to obtain instructions and ingredients.
Community Zone Questions to Ponder
Questions:
1. What are the attributes of fasting that please God? (Isaiah 58)
2. What is your individual/corporate focus during this time of spiritual rejuvenation?
3. Does fasting add power for spiritual service?
4. What should our demeanor be during our fasting period? Why?
Application: As you seek God, remember to have a watchful and praying spirit; also, set aside a time and place to pray. Observe God’s movement in your life as you have fasted from activities, foods, or other things .
God bless!
The Corporate Fast and Community Zone Teams
Thursday, January 10, 2008
He Will Supply
I was driving home listening to Kirk Franklin's 'Fight of my Life' CD (that's a bad boy...btw) and there is a song called, 'He Will Supply'. It's interesting but at that moment on the road I truly thought about the times He supplied. Now I don't mean wealth or material things, but things like health, instinct, and LIFE.
Growing up my family endured an ordeal that made us truly realize that just being together was important. Looking back I see how my parents lived off what they had and we thrived and survived. We were thankful for the Oodles of Noodles ... no wait... that was the NAME brand... (how about those RAMEN Noodles), the breakfast at dinner (which, no matter what time of the day, is still good), and whiting fish. These were meals that Mommy made a joy! Despite the financial depletion, God supplied.
I smile about the fact that that event brought us closer and I learned to be satisfied with the minimum. God does not have to give largely for us to be thankful, but with some people it is the case. His 'abundance' is giving more than what we have. He wants us to live abundantly. I thank God for abundant health: the ability to get well in times when I wondered, "What is going on?". I thank God for abundant instinct: instincts to give, instincts to survive, and the instinct and drive to LOVE. I thank God for abundant life: I am 31 and alive and well and thankful. In these times the enemy is attacking our youth more than ever. I thank God for abundant wisdom: so when I ever have the opportunity to touch and change a LIFE, I will, in His Glory.
Now onto food...
I ate something tonight that was reminiscent of what my sister and I would 'whip up ' for a treat. The original recipe involved evaporated milk, but this one doesn't! I will name it a 'fasting fruit frenzy'!!
Take brown rice (precooked), sliced banana, raisins, walnuts, a little applesauce, cinnamon and honey and put it in a bowl. Heat it up for about 1-2 minutes. Stir together and enjoy. :-)
Growing up my family endured an ordeal that made us truly realize that just being together was important. Looking back I see how my parents lived off what they had and we thrived and survived. We were thankful for the Oodles of Noodles ... no wait... that was the NAME brand... (how about those RAMEN Noodles), the breakfast at dinner (which, no matter what time of the day, is still good), and whiting fish. These were meals that Mommy made a joy! Despite the financial depletion, God supplied.
I smile about the fact that that event brought us closer and I learned to be satisfied with the minimum. God does not have to give largely for us to be thankful, but with some people it is the case. His 'abundance' is giving more than what we have. He wants us to live abundantly. I thank God for abundant health: the ability to get well in times when I wondered, "What is going on?". I thank God for abundant instinct: instincts to give, instincts to survive, and the instinct and drive to LOVE. I thank God for abundant life: I am 31 and alive and well and thankful. In these times the enemy is attacking our youth more than ever. I thank God for abundant wisdom: so when I ever have the opportunity to touch and change a LIFE, I will, in His Glory.
Now onto food...
I ate something tonight that was reminiscent of what my sister and I would 'whip up ' for a treat. The original recipe involved evaporated milk, but this one doesn't! I will name it a 'fasting fruit frenzy'!!
Take brown rice (precooked), sliced banana, raisins, walnuts, a little applesauce, cinnamon and honey and put it in a bowl. Heat it up for about 1-2 minutes. Stir together and enjoy. :-)
The Bible Experience
To wake up in the morning I must have a series of alarms. Right now, I have two cell phones (don't ask) so, I set the older one at 6:00am and the newer, which I can set multiple times, is set for 6:45, 7:00, and 7:15 am. They all went off as planned however, I set an additional one after the last one to go off at 7:30am and not until 7:35 did I rise for the morning. In order for me to get to work (in Germantown, MD) on time (9am) I need to leave the house no later than 7:45am. Who gets dress in 10min? No one if you need to do half the things I do in the morning. Anyway, I made my way out the door at about 8:06am (hair was still wrapped up though), which only leaves 54min to get there. Not going to happen! I get on 495 already concocting a lie as to why I'm late. This is going on for like 5 minutes in my head. In the mornings in my car is when I have my God time. Naturally, I started figuring out if I was going to listen to music, pray or just sit silent (like yesterday). I was so conscious about the fact that I was about to lie but instead of me asking for forgiveness I was like "Lord maybe I can listen to something that will deter me from lying and just tell the truth". Honestly, I was just joking to myself. Music originally won the game I was playing in my head. So, I put in Casting Crowns CD and played one song (Your Love is Extravagant) and then I put in the Bible Experience. I was able to listen to Ephesians, Phillipians, and half of Colossians by the time I reached work. In the midst of listening to the cd, I totally put the tensions of my lie out of my mind and relaxed. Do you know that I got to work only 5 minutes late? This means that I didn't even have to use whatever lie I was trying to come up with. That's amazing because traffic was heavy and I don't even remember everything about my travels because I was so focused on the Word.
Staying focused on the Word definitely keeps you from stupidly sinning. Lying is such a stupid sin to me and I can't stand it. I have a brother who is a compulsive liar and I can't be an example for him if I'm lying too. He may not know that I was going to lie this morning about why I was late but I know. I was listening to 91.9 yesterday and the radio personality said that a survey showed that most people say they believe in God but don't go to church because of hypocrites in church. This is not a newsflash to me but it is a reminder that I don't want to be the wrinkle that makes my church a hypocritical church. Our motto is Serving Our Lord with Excellence and our mission statement is Making Contemporary Disciples to Confront the problems of a Contemporary World. I want to be a part of that!
Staying focused on the Word definitely keeps you from stupidly sinning. Lying is such a stupid sin to me and I can't stand it. I have a brother who is a compulsive liar and I can't be an example for him if I'm lying too. He may not know that I was going to lie this morning about why I was late but I know. I was listening to 91.9 yesterday and the radio personality said that a survey showed that most people say they believe in God but don't go to church because of hypocrites in church. This is not a newsflash to me but it is a reminder that I don't want to be the wrinkle that makes my church a hypocritical church. Our motto is Serving Our Lord with Excellence and our mission statement is Making Contemporary Disciples to Confront the problems of a Contemporary World. I want to be a part of that!
I made it!
Last night was the toughest night so far. I'd had my fill of salads, beans, soups, oats, and everything else on the list. I needed something hot and delicious!
A quick call to the first lady and I was off to the store again. Last night Corn Spaghetti saved my life. lol
A quick call to the first lady and I was off to the store again. Last night Corn Spaghetti saved my life. lol
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
WOW
I look forward to this fast every year and I feel like I'm finally in the right frame of mind at the right time this year to feel successful. Haven't had alot of success lately, in other areas, so this feels good.
I have found that by purging my body of all the junk I normally consume, I feel free of all the hang ups and emotions that come with my normal eating habits. No more feeling heavy and bloated and full and tired after lunch, or craving something and giving in to it just to feel guilty and sick later. Now, I don't know if I will be able to continue these habits after the fast, but I hope I can take some of the habits and make them permanent. I'm starting to see how a small, slender person ( or just plain healthy ) thinks . It's a total mind set where you are not medicating yourself with food, but rather eating for nutrition and energy. Instead of "I need coffee to wake up, or I need a treat before bed."
We went to the farmer's market, and I visited the organic section of the grocery store to stock up. I've been eating oatmeal plain, salads, beans, brown rice , fruits , nuts, seeds, and when I'm out I've been able to find vegie wraps, vegetarian burrito ( at Qdoba ) .
Tina and I have taken this opportunity to start "Purpose Driven Life" and try to strengthen our devotional life.
I remain hopeful and prayful during this time that a stronger relationship with God will follow.
I have found that by purging my body of all the junk I normally consume, I feel free of all the hang ups and emotions that come with my normal eating habits. No more feeling heavy and bloated and full and tired after lunch, or craving something and giving in to it just to feel guilty and sick later. Now, I don't know if I will be able to continue these habits after the fast, but I hope I can take some of the habits and make them permanent. I'm starting to see how a small, slender person ( or just plain healthy ) thinks . It's a total mind set where you are not medicating yourself with food, but rather eating for nutrition and energy. Instead of "I need coffee to wake up, or I need a treat before bed."
We went to the farmer's market, and I visited the organic section of the grocery store to stock up. I've been eating oatmeal plain, salads, beans, brown rice , fruits , nuts, seeds, and when I'm out I've been able to find vegie wraps, vegetarian burrito ( at Qdoba ) .
Tina and I have taken this opportunity to start "Purpose Driven Life" and try to strengthen our devotional life.
I remain hopeful and prayful during this time that a stronger relationship with God will follow.
Loving Coffee vs. Loving God
So, when I have things on my mind I usually wake up in the middle of the night. Last night I went to bed in the 9's, but was awake from 1 to 5 a.m.
Knowing I would be so sleepy when the time came to get ready for work, overnight I started fantasizing about having a reunion with a nice rich cup of coffee in the morning to get me up and keep me going. I had pretty much decided/planned in advance to cheat on the fast with just this one cup...because I would need it.
Well, knowing that God was with me and that this sacrifice is for Him, I did not have the coffee. The opportunity to have it didn't miss my sight, but I am thankful that I beat the urge.
It's just that the urge hasn't gone away yet, so please pray for me!
Knowing I would be so sleepy when the time came to get ready for work, overnight I started fantasizing about having a reunion with a nice rich cup of coffee in the morning to get me up and keep me going. I had pretty much decided/planned in advance to cheat on the fast with just this one cup...because I would need it.
Well, knowing that God was with me and that this sacrifice is for Him, I did not have the coffee. The opportunity to have it didn't miss my sight, but I am thankful that I beat the urge.
It's just that the urge hasn't gone away yet, so please pray for me!
Chick-Fil-A/The Ultimate Gift/Fast from 6am to 6pm
Hello everyone,
I have three different topics to quickly address.
1. Chick-Fil-A is our lunch vendor for the day and it smells so good. I'm not a Chick-Fil-A fan normally but I can't deny that the smell makes me want some chicken some kind of aweful. I'm hanging in there though because I'm about to go and heat up my Corn and Potato chowder that I made last night. It's going to be great! I hope it overpowers the chicken smell that's enthralling me!
2. The Ultimate Gift: This was a movie that I watched last night and was completely amazed by the story. In short, a blind man wrote the novel, The Ultimate Gift, which was made into a movie. The movie is about a very wealthy man who dies and leaves behind a humongous inheritance to someone but no one in the family knows who it's going to be. Mind you this man has a fairly large family. Without telling you the entire story, the Ultimate Gift that the man wants to give is bestowed upon his grandson but his grandson hates him. The other family members don't know that the grandson is the chosen one and he can't tell them. Anyway, he concocts this plan for him to earn the Ultimate Gift. It's amazing how this man thought out how he would teach his grandson, from his grave, the things he needed to learn in order to gain this gift . I won't tell you anymore about the story but I would like everyone to see this movie in the hopes of learning about love, forgiveness and changing the world. Maybe we can discuss it one day in a group discussion.
3. Fasting from 6am to 6pm: My best friend and sister go to my old church and they are fasting from 6 to 6. Both of them have complained to me about their fast and I'm like "boy I think I could that fast with my eyes closed". I feel like I don't eat sometimes because I don't know what to eat because of the amount of thought I have to put into making sure my meals are compliant with the criteria of the fast. My sister was telling me all her woes and while she was talking I sent her an email with our fasting criteria and she was like, "yeah I can't do that". I was saying to myself, "now shut it up". At the same time, I also saw how controlled she was by her lack of food instead of focusing on the things that she's sacrificing for. I can't be too hard on her though because I'm actually shocked that she's doing it all. So, I encouraged her.
Those are my thoughts for today!
I have three different topics to quickly address.
1. Chick-Fil-A is our lunch vendor for the day and it smells so good. I'm not a Chick-Fil-A fan normally but I can't deny that the smell makes me want some chicken some kind of aweful. I'm hanging in there though because I'm about to go and heat up my Corn and Potato chowder that I made last night. It's going to be great! I hope it overpowers the chicken smell that's enthralling me!
2. The Ultimate Gift: This was a movie that I watched last night and was completely amazed by the story. In short, a blind man wrote the novel, The Ultimate Gift, which was made into a movie. The movie is about a very wealthy man who dies and leaves behind a humongous inheritance to someone but no one in the family knows who it's going to be. Mind you this man has a fairly large family. Without telling you the entire story, the Ultimate Gift that the man wants to give is bestowed upon his grandson but his grandson hates him. The other family members don't know that the grandson is the chosen one and he can't tell them. Anyway, he concocts this plan for him to earn the Ultimate Gift. It's amazing how this man thought out how he would teach his grandson, from his grave, the things he needed to learn in order to gain this gift . I won't tell you anymore about the story but I would like everyone to see this movie in the hopes of learning about love, forgiveness and changing the world. Maybe we can discuss it one day in a group discussion.
3. Fasting from 6am to 6pm: My best friend and sister go to my old church and they are fasting from 6 to 6. Both of them have complained to me about their fast and I'm like "boy I think I could that fast with my eyes closed". I feel like I don't eat sometimes because I don't know what to eat because of the amount of thought I have to put into making sure my meals are compliant with the criteria of the fast. My sister was telling me all her woes and while she was talking I sent her an email with our fasting criteria and she was like, "yeah I can't do that". I was saying to myself, "now shut it up". At the same time, I also saw how controlled she was by her lack of food instead of focusing on the things that she's sacrificing for. I can't be too hard on her though because I'm actually shocked that she's doing it all. So, I encouraged her.
Those are my thoughts for today!
Monday, January 7, 2008
So far I'm Suprised
So far I'm surprised at how well I'm doing on this fast. Last year, I totally failed. I've determined that this year, I will not justify going to Chipotle to get a veggie bowl with guacamole and chips. (I can't do that anyway b/c where I live, there are no Chipotles, Baja Fresh, Qdobas, etc.) You get my point...
I did, however, almost slip up yesterday. I got angry about something so when I got home, I pulled out some Ms. Fields cookies I had in the freezer.
I'll eat these after they thaw out, I said to myself. (See, when I get upset about something, the first thing I do is pick up a snack. Usually it's something sweet!) After I ate lunch, though, I fell asleep on the couch, and by the time I woke up, I wasn't upset. Needless to say, I placed the two chocolate chip cookies back in the freezer.
My focus for the fast is building my faith. I lack faith in God in particular areas of my life, and I've realized that it's affecting me overall. Naturally, I'm studying Hebrews, and so far it's been a real eye opener for me.
the initial chapters focus on rest. Of course, I've always looked as rest meaning - taking a break from work. But reading Hebrews this time around, I'm learning that rest also refers to relinquishing my concerns and futile attempts to control my life by allowing God to handle these things. It tells us that the Israelites, whom God provided a way out of Egypt, did not enter his rest b/c they failed to believe and went astray in their hearts. Oh and I noticed that God called their exile or journey in the wilderness a trial. (I read New King James.) I never knew God considered that a trial. He was testing their faith, and they failed! I don't want that to happen to me. Uh huh...no way!
I did, however, almost slip up yesterday. I got angry about something so when I got home, I pulled out some Ms. Fields cookies I had in the freezer.
I'll eat these after they thaw out, I said to myself. (See, when I get upset about something, the first thing I do is pick up a snack. Usually it's something sweet!) After I ate lunch, though, I fell asleep on the couch, and by the time I woke up, I wasn't upset. Needless to say, I placed the two chocolate chip cookies back in the freezer.
My focus for the fast is building my faith. I lack faith in God in particular areas of my life, and I've realized that it's affecting me overall. Naturally, I'm studying Hebrews, and so far it's been a real eye opener for me.
the initial chapters focus on rest. Of course, I've always looked as rest meaning - taking a break from work. But reading Hebrews this time around, I'm learning that rest also refers to relinquishing my concerns and futile attempts to control my life by allowing God to handle these things. It tells us that the Israelites, whom God provided a way out of Egypt, did not enter his rest b/c they failed to believe and went astray in their hearts. Oh and I noticed that God called their exile or journey in the wilderness a trial. (I read New King James.) I never knew God considered that a trial. He was testing their faith, and they failed! I don't want that to happen to me. Uh huh...no way!
Extravagantly
Well, I have been waiting for a few days to hear something from God and now that I've gotten past my food focus, He is speaking loud and clear. Isn't it so inconvenient when God slams you with things that call you to action? I came across this passage today and it couldn’t have come at a better time...I have officially been shut down for the day. lol I put up The Message version because it puts it so plainly:
Ephesians 5
Wake Up from Your Sleep
1-2Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.
I have always been someone who loves cautiously. I mean, what better way to avoid getting hurt or disappointed? At this very moment, I am struggling with it because I have deliberately put up walls between myself and others and had no immediate plans of removing them. The thing is, in most cases, I have good reason to.These walls could be justified according to a human way of thinking. In God’s way of looking at things, what other people have done or could potentially do to me, should not affect the way I love them or anybody else. His love was never cautious, but always freely given to everyone, equally and extravagantly.
To make matters worse, I had to go and look up "extravagantly" in the dictionary:
1. spending much more than is necessary or wise; wasteful: an extravagant shopper.
2. excessively high: extravagant expenses; extravagant prices.
3. exceeding the bounds of reason, as actions, demands, opinions, or passions.
4. going beyond what is deserved or justifiable: extravagant praise.
5. Obsolete. wandering beyond bounds.
Wow! Even these definitions parallel God's way. You mean I should love whether or not it makes sense, is deserved or justifiable? I have to go above and beyond to love people whether they do the same or not?? Umm...God can we do something else please? What a challenge for me! It will take me the balance of this fast and beyond to love like this, but I put this post up today to publicly say that I am committing to putting this into practice. **gulp**
Ephesians 5
Wake Up from Your Sleep
1-2Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.
I have always been someone who loves cautiously. I mean, what better way to avoid getting hurt or disappointed? At this very moment, I am struggling with it because I have deliberately put up walls between myself and others and had no immediate plans of removing them. The thing is, in most cases, I have good reason to.These walls could be justified according to a human way of thinking. In God’s way of looking at things, what other people have done or could potentially do to me, should not affect the way I love them or anybody else. His love was never cautious, but always freely given to everyone, equally and extravagantly.
To make matters worse, I had to go and look up "extravagantly" in the dictionary:
1. spending much more than is necessary or wise; wasteful: an extravagant shopper.
2. excessively high: extravagant expenses; extravagant prices.
3. exceeding the bounds of reason, as actions, demands, opinions, or passions.
4. going beyond what is deserved or justifiable: extravagant praise.
5. Obsolete. wandering beyond bounds.
Wow! Even these definitions parallel God's way. You mean I should love whether or not it makes sense, is deserved or justifiable? I have to go above and beyond to love people whether they do the same or not?? Umm...God can we do something else please? What a challenge for me! It will take me the balance of this fast and beyond to love like this, but I put this post up today to publicly say that I am committing to putting this into practice. **gulp**
Colorful Food
As Patrice mentioned, last year I learned that preparation is key to fasting successfully. It just helps to avoid scrounging, last minute cravings, and bad food choices.
I once had a vegetarian friend who told me that she needed to eat more vegetables (in addition to tofu, veggie burgers, etc). I could relate last week, when most of the food I ate was in the same color family: beige! Obviously, I wasn't eating enough vegetables.
This week I'm trying to mix it up by adding colors. I've become addicted to the Target grocery section, enjoying their wheat pastas, frozen fruit slices, and 100% juices. I also stumbled across the new soul food place in the Bowie Town Center food court. Their leafy collard greens were delicious.
Cheers,
LaWanda
I once had a vegetarian friend who told me that she needed to eat more vegetables (in addition to tofu, veggie burgers, etc). I could relate last week, when most of the food I ate was in the same color family: beige! Obviously, I wasn't eating enough vegetables.
This week I'm trying to mix it up by adding colors. I've become addicted to the Target grocery section, enjoying their wheat pastas, frozen fruit slices, and 100% juices. I also stumbled across the new soul food place in the Bowie Town Center food court. Their leafy collard greens were delicious.
Cheers,
LaWanda
Fast Food Solutions
I think one of the most frustrating things about eating healthy is the shortage of fast food options. I know... I know... healthy usually does not equal fast, but there are various levels of "healthy" and various speeds of "fast". Yes, some home-steamed greens would be better than a baked potato from Wendy's. But a baked potato from Wendy's is better than curly fries from Arby's! And it is something quick that you can get to satisfy hunger and give you a few nutrients. So... in that spirit, let's offer our favorite "faster" food options for the faster on the go.
Here's my first contribution:
Food: Broccoli and garlic sauce (brown rice optional).
Location: Just about any chinese carryout (I prefer the cheaper ones... the "upscale" chinese carryouts use a different garlic sauce... more bitter).
Cost: Varies usually less than $8... depending on the size and time of day.
Most of your average carryouts don't have brown rice. The chinese places that have brown rice usually have other menu options that are better choices than this (mock shrimp, chicken, and beef, etc). So this suggestion is for your average run of the mill carryout that you can find almost anywhere. This dish has saved me on many a day.
Here's my first contribution:
Food: Broccoli and garlic sauce (brown rice optional).
Location: Just about any chinese carryout (I prefer the cheaper ones... the "upscale" chinese carryouts use a different garlic sauce... more bitter).
Cost: Varies usually less than $8... depending on the size and time of day.
Most of your average carryouts don't have brown rice. The chinese places that have brown rice usually have other menu options that are better choices than this (mock shrimp, chicken, and beef, etc). So this suggestion is for your average run of the mill carryout that you can find almost anywhere. This dish has saved me on many a day.
Daniel Fast – Week One
This email came out yesterday from the church. I wasnt' sure if everyone received it but I wanted to make sure everyone here was aware.
From: Janice Sylvestre (jsylvestre@nvision.org)
Sent:
Sun 1/06/08 6:25 AM
To:
nv-members@nvision.org
Greetings NV Family,
As we seek God, let us use David's approach as a guide. "Search me, O God and know my heart, test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting". Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)
David's earnest desire to walk before the Lord with his whole heart is a great example of what pleases God. The "open door policy" toward God teaches us a fundamental lesson: The purpose of having God search our hearts is so we may discover sin and confess it. This kind of openness - confessing sin without self-justifying arguments - allows the Lord free entry to examine and correct us. We accept his dealings and agree with his assessments. Search us O Lord as we deny ourselves for your Glory!
Optional Reading
"The Power of Prayer and Fasting, 21 Days that can Change Your Life" By: Marilyn Hickey.
"A Heart Like Jesus" By: Max Lucado.
These book is available in area bookstores.
Adventures in Fasting Blog Your Experience-
We have made it through a few days of the fast. Let us walk through this time together and document our experience. "Fasting can be rewarding, challenging, humorous, and inspiring at times. A blog (avenue to quickly post thoughts and interact with our NV family), has been created and you are invited to participate. We can use this as a place to share funny stories, insights, small and large victories (as well as stumbles and failures!), trade recipes, and keep each other updated on our progress".
Please check out the following link (http://likedaniel.blogspot.com) to see what has been posted thus far. Viewing the entries does not require any special setup. The site has instructions to assist with blog usage. Everyone is welcome to share in the adventure. Let us encourage one another!
Recipe Spotlight
Vegetable and Brown Rice Casserole; reference the following link for details: (http://nvision.org/casserole.com)
SPECIAL NOTE: The community group focus for January is the fast. Please review the fasting scripture references, noted in the Corporate Fast 2008 handout, in context or your group may choose to explore a topic from the optional reading. Additionally, some questions to ponder will be distributed separately. Take some time to share God's revelations, your experiences, and use your connect time to spur/encourage one another.
God bless!The Corporate Fast and Community Zone Teams
From: Janice Sylvestre (jsylvestre@nvision.org)
Sent:
Sun 1/06/08 6:25 AM
To:
nv-members@nvision.org
Greetings NV Family,
As we seek God, let us use David's approach as a guide. "Search me, O God and know my heart, test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting". Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV)
David's earnest desire to walk before the Lord with his whole heart is a great example of what pleases God. The "open door policy" toward God teaches us a fundamental lesson: The purpose of having God search our hearts is so we may discover sin and confess it. This kind of openness - confessing sin without self-justifying arguments - allows the Lord free entry to examine and correct us. We accept his dealings and agree with his assessments. Search us O Lord as we deny ourselves for your Glory!
Optional Reading
"The Power of Prayer and Fasting, 21 Days that can Change Your Life" By: Marilyn Hickey.
"A Heart Like Jesus" By: Max Lucado.
These book is available in area bookstores.
Adventures in Fasting Blog Your Experience-
We have made it through a few days of the fast. Let us walk through this time together and document our experience. "Fasting can be rewarding, challenging, humorous, and inspiring at times. A blog (avenue to quickly post thoughts and interact with our NV family), has been created and you are invited to participate. We can use this as a place to share funny stories, insights, small and large victories (as well as stumbles and failures!), trade recipes, and keep each other updated on our progress".
Please check out the following link (http://likedaniel.blogspot.com) to see what has been posted thus far. Viewing the entries does not require any special setup. The site has instructions to assist with blog usage. Everyone is welcome to share in the adventure. Let us encourage one another!
Recipe Spotlight
Vegetable and Brown Rice Casserole; reference the following link for details: (http://nvision.org/casserole.com)
SPECIAL NOTE: The community group focus for January is the fast. Please review the fasting scripture references, noted in the Corporate Fast 2008 handout, in context or your group may choose to explore a topic from the optional reading. Additionally, some questions to ponder will be distributed separately. Take some time to share God's revelations, your experiences, and use your connect time to spur/encourage one another.
God bless!The Corporate Fast and Community Zone Teams
Corn and Potato Chowder
In one of her comments, Patrice mentioned the delicious Corn and Potato Chowder we had on Saturday, thanks to Georgia. I could not believe how good that soup was and how easy it is to make. A couple of us went home and made it ourselves. You should definitely try this one sometime during the fast. It is soooooo good!
A couple of ideas…I've had it twice, and on Saturday carrots were substituted for the celery and on Sunday, the celery was kept, but a little Old Bay was added. I don’t think either version had peas in it, but I liked both. Add/omit ingredients according to your tastes, but I’m sure you’ll love it. This soup will definitely stay in heavy rotation after the fast. Enjoy…
Corn and Potato Chowder
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes
This easy-to-prepare chowder has the richness of a creamed soup without the cream.
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup small onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 medium stalks celery, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
2 to 3 medium russet potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
3 ¼ cups soy milk or lowfat dairy milk
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
½ cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt
Pepper
Minced fresh parsley (optional)
1. Heat the oil in a 3-4 quart saucepan. Add the onion and celery and sauté over medium heat until the vegetables soften, 7 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Add the potatoes and milk. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher to thicken the soup. Add the corn kernels. If you like peas, add them, too. Cook just until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the salt, and season with pepper to taste.
3. Ladle the soup into a bowl, and sprinkle with parsley if you desire.
Makes three servings.
A couple of ideas…I've had it twice, and on Saturday carrots were substituted for the celery and on Sunday, the celery was kept, but a little Old Bay was added. I don’t think either version had peas in it, but I liked both. Add/omit ingredients according to your tastes, but I’m sure you’ll love it. This soup will definitely stay in heavy rotation after the fast. Enjoy…
Corn and Potato Chowder
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes
This easy-to-prepare chowder has the richness of a creamed soup without the cream.
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup small onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 medium stalks celery, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
2 to 3 medium russet potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
3 ¼ cups soy milk or lowfat dairy milk
1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
½ cup frozen peas, thawed (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt
Pepper
Minced fresh parsley (optional)
1. Heat the oil in a 3-4 quart saucepan. Add the onion and celery and sauté over medium heat until the vegetables soften, 7 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Add the potatoes and milk. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher to thicken the soup. Add the corn kernels. If you like peas, add them, too. Cook just until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the salt, and season with pepper to taste.
3. Ladle the soup into a bowl, and sprinkle with parsley if you desire.
Makes three servings.
Gift inside the Mystery
I woke up to a song this morning that’s been in my head. It’s a Nichole Nordeman song called Heaven & Earth. The chorus is:
I’ve been thinking about how true the last line is. “…love is a gift, wrapped up in the mystery of You”. It’s a poetically simple way of conveying a complex lesson I’ve been learning for so long.
The more I unravel the mystery, the more I get closer to and can enjoy the gift He’s given.
Love has always been complicated to define perhaps because our understanding of it is tied to what is revealed to us by Him. As complicated a mystery as that is, I am convinced of the truth that every time I get go deeper and peel back a layer, my awe at real love is revitalized. I'm excited because I have that "I knew it was good but not that good!" feeling all over again.
I’m amazed at what this chorus does in 8 lines but I’m more amazed at the fact that it’s true. I’m living it now. I'm still learning the lesson and I suspect I will be for as long as I'm alive.
"How could One, could one so holy
Be prepared to live inside
Of a heart like mine
I'll never know why
But as I, as I go deeper
I know I can be certain
That love is a gift
Wrapped up in the mystery of You"
I’ve been thinking about how true the last line is. “…love is a gift, wrapped up in the mystery of You”. It’s a poetically simple way of conveying a complex lesson I’ve been learning for so long.
The more I unravel the mystery, the more I get closer to and can enjoy the gift He’s given.
Love has always been complicated to define perhaps because our understanding of it is tied to what is revealed to us by Him. As complicated a mystery as that is, I am convinced of the truth that every time I get go deeper and peel back a layer, my awe at real love is revitalized. I'm excited because I have that "I knew it was good but not that good!" feeling all over again.
I’m amazed at what this chorus does in 8 lines but I’m more amazed at the fact that it’s true. I’m living it now. I'm still learning the lesson and I suspect I will be for as long as I'm alive.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Joining the Fast!!
Hey everyone,
My name is Janice, but I go by 'Jai'. Our church called for a fast today for 21 days, so we, my husband, Jay, and I, will be joining the journey. I love fasting; overall, its so cleansing. You focus on God and the word (even though that's redundant because they are one in the same :-) ), you eat healthier and feel great, and the commitment is fulfilling.
We can do Daniel's fast, a juice fast, or a one meal fast. Our bishop does focus on being smart with the decisions of health so he tells us to do what is best (i.e. if you are diabetic, one meal might not be good for you).
I did start 'The Maker's Diet' on Dec. 31st and the initial days 1 and 2 were difficult, but after a week, it has definitely been great. It is a 40-day commitment involving prayer, partial fasting, bible study (I am using the daily bible for women), required supplements, and 30 minutes of exercise per day. I have to admit I did only 5/7 days of exercise, but it was still fulfilling, but I do need to get better with that aspect. The diet focuses on foods influenced by the Bible, avoiding seafood without fins (like shrimp, crab, clams, etc... which I LOVE) and meat from animals with hooves (like pork). This past week wasn't too bad. I was still able to eat beef, chicken and turkey (not processed like luncheon meat).
So now, I will combine requirements for the Maker's Diet plan with our fast. I will eliminate the meat for the Daniel's fast and if there are days that I do one meal (required with the one day partial-fast with the 'Maker's Diet'), I will still follow the 'Maker's Diet' plan with what I choose to eat). Once the 21 days are over, I will still commit to the remaining 12 days for "The Maker's Diet". However, I hope that I can make it a lifestyle change instead of a temporary commitment.
I will pray for everyone's strength, courage, and commitment during this journey.
Peace in the Middle East... I can still say that because we hope that there will be, eventually!
My name is Janice, but I go by 'Jai'. Our church called for a fast today for 21 days, so we, my husband, Jay, and I, will be joining the journey. I love fasting; overall, its so cleansing. You focus on God and the word (even though that's redundant because they are one in the same :-) ), you eat healthier and feel great, and the commitment is fulfilling.
We can do Daniel's fast, a juice fast, or a one meal fast. Our bishop does focus on being smart with the decisions of health so he tells us to do what is best (i.e. if you are diabetic, one meal might not be good for you).
I did start 'The Maker's Diet' on Dec. 31st and the initial days 1 and 2 were difficult, but after a week, it has definitely been great. It is a 40-day commitment involving prayer, partial fasting, bible study (I am using the daily bible for women), required supplements, and 30 minutes of exercise per day. I have to admit I did only 5/7 days of exercise, but it was still fulfilling, but I do need to get better with that aspect. The diet focuses on foods influenced by the Bible, avoiding seafood without fins (like shrimp, crab, clams, etc... which I LOVE) and meat from animals with hooves (like pork). This past week wasn't too bad. I was still able to eat beef, chicken and turkey (not processed like luncheon meat).
So now, I will combine requirements for the Maker's Diet plan with our fast. I will eliminate the meat for the Daniel's fast and if there are days that I do one meal (required with the one day partial-fast with the 'Maker's Diet'), I will still follow the 'Maker's Diet' plan with what I choose to eat). Once the 21 days are over, I will still commit to the remaining 12 days for "The Maker's Diet". However, I hope that I can make it a lifestyle change instead of a temporary commitment.
I will pray for everyone's strength, courage, and commitment during this journey.
Peace in the Middle East... I can still say that because we hope that there will be, eventually!
Friday, January 4, 2008
Hanging Tough
I made a slight miscalculation and went to the movies without realizing that popcorn and Icees are as much a part of my moviegoing experience as the movie. I was there, alone...who would know? I mean, technically, I can have popcorn. Still, I knew the popcorn I can have wasn't the artery clogging, salt-fest served at the theatre. I didn't think about it too long because I may have found the right button to push. I saw my movie, sans popcorn. I felt good! It was only God and I and neither of us had a reason to feel guilty.
To reward myself, I found some legal pancake mix and plan on adding pineapple, blueberries, cinnamon, and honey. I dodged a bullet in the theatre and I'm going to make it to Jan. 22, one battle at a time.
To reward myself, I found some legal pancake mix and plan on adding pineapple, blueberries, cinnamon, and honey. I dodged a bullet in the theatre and I'm going to make it to Jan. 22, one battle at a time.
Today is good day!
Today I'm prepared! Last night I went to the grocery store and got lots of things! I called Lanette and Miguel last night to figured out where this Quorn brand of meatless products would be in the Giant and I found it! I was so excited. I bought fruits (fresh and organically dried) and lots of veggies to hold me for a few days. Because I did that last night, I didn't wake up this morning wondering what I'm going to eat or dreading the great smelling Greek vendor that came in for lunch today. I was well prepared and to be honest, for me to get through this fast successfully I believe being prepared is the key. I haven't thought about food today but I have thought about the things that I'm looking for God to do through this fast and I've prayed more today because my mind and heart is free to do so! This is not to say that I won't have days where I "drool" over a couple of pieces of chicken but knowing what I need to do will help me to have less of those days and focused on the important aspects of this fast. So I praise God for giving me the funds to pay for the expensive food I bought last night and I praise Him for a beautiful day!
Blogging Clarification
This is just to clarify the user roles associated with the blog. I’ll put the important stuff up front and for those who want more details, feel free to read on.
Definitions
Reader – Users who can read or comment in blog
Author – Users who have the added ability to post
Admin – Users who have all of the above rights and can also invite other people to be Authors or Admins
If you’re reading this, you’re a Reader. You can view the blog and, if you like, comment on various posts. The only things you can’t do as Readers are write posts of your own and invite others to be Authors.
If you would like to write posts of your own you would need to become an Author. The process to do that is simple. All you have to do is send an email to one of the Admins (Lanette, Mike Logan or Myself) telling us that you want to be invited. You will receive an email with a link. Click the link and you will be allowed to sign up as an Author. You'll need to use your Gmail account. No Gmail account, no problem. It's free and easy to register from the same link. If you don't have a Gmail account, shame on you for not having such a wonderfully, free and great online email storage space. :-)
All are invited to read but we recommend that, if you think you may want to write your own post anytime during the fast, you send the email to become an Author sooner than later. We say this because if you wait to ask for the invite until those thoughts absolutely have to get out, you may 1) not be able to reach an Admin who may be away from the computer or 2) lose the desire to post by the time you send the email, get the response, and sign up. If you become an Author now, you don’t ever have to post but you’ll be able to if the urge hits you.
This blog is a community tool and all of your input is valuable. We would hate to miss out on your good information and insight. So, if you’re at all interested, err on the side of caution, be prepared, become an Author. :-)
----------
I hope I haven’t confused the process. This next part is for the people who care to know. If you’re already tired of reading, use the rest of your energy to become an Author. lol
The reason you have to be invited to become an Author is because of the way blogs are designed. A blog is a personal column typically written by one (or few) and read by many. The blog belongs to someone even though it’s open to everyone. Imagine having a blog about your daily observations and one day realizing that Brandon from Sioux City posted his observations in your blog! They’re designed to prevent this which is why Readers can read and comment but not post.
This blog isn’t owned by anyone but because it’s set up using a popular blogging vendor, the usual restrictions apply. This is our blog and everyone who desires can post. You only have to make the painless transition from Reader to Author by sending the email.
We hope everyone has the opportunity to participate. Whether as a Reader or an Author, this is for all of us. So, tell more people, check back often, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Definitions
Reader – Users who can read or comment in blog
Author – Users who have the added ability to post
Admin – Users who have all of the above rights and can also invite other people to be Authors or Admins
If you’re reading this, you’re a Reader. You can view the blog and, if you like, comment on various posts. The only things you can’t do as Readers are write posts of your own and invite others to be Authors.
If you would like to write posts of your own you would need to become an Author. The process to do that is simple. All you have to do is send an email to one of the Admins (Lanette, Mike Logan or Myself) telling us that you want to be invited. You will receive an email with a link. Click the link and you will be allowed to sign up as an Author. You'll need to use your Gmail account. No Gmail account, no problem. It's free and easy to register from the same link. If you don't have a Gmail account, shame on you for not having such a wonderfully, free and great online email storage space. :-)
All are invited to read but we recommend that, if you think you may want to write your own post anytime during the fast, you send the email to become an Author sooner than later. We say this because if you wait to ask for the invite until those thoughts absolutely have to get out, you may 1) not be able to reach an Admin who may be away from the computer or 2) lose the desire to post by the time you send the email, get the response, and sign up. If you become an Author now, you don’t ever have to post but you’ll be able to if the urge hits you.
This blog is a community tool and all of your input is valuable. We would hate to miss out on your good information and insight. So, if you’re at all interested, err on the side of caution, be prepared, become an Author. :-)
----------
I hope I haven’t confused the process. This next part is for the people who care to know. If you’re already tired of reading, use the rest of your energy to become an Author. lol
The reason you have to be invited to become an Author is because of the way blogs are designed. A blog is a personal column typically written by one (or few) and read by many. The blog belongs to someone even though it’s open to everyone. Imagine having a blog about your daily observations and one day realizing that Brandon from Sioux City posted his observations in your blog! They’re designed to prevent this which is why Readers can read and comment but not post.
This blog isn’t owned by anyone but because it’s set up using a popular blogging vendor, the usual restrictions apply. This is our blog and everyone who desires can post. You only have to make the painless transition from Reader to Author by sending the email.
We hope everyone has the opportunity to participate. Whether as a Reader or an Author, this is for all of us. So, tell more people, check back often, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Happy Friday and Some Recipes To Try...
I forgot that one of my coworkers aka "The Donut Stud" buys Dunkin' Donuts for the whole office every Friday. This is the first Friday I didn't appreciate his generosity. :-) I walked into bagels & a box of donuts on one end of the table AND a candy jar and the 12 Days Of Christmas depicted in chocolate (of course) on the other end! What a way to start the day...
On another, more helpful note, a friend sent these recipes yesterday (thanks Jai!) that I thought would be good to share. I'm looking forward to trying a couple of these:
Fruit Smoothie: Cut up desired berries: strawberry, blackberries, blueberries, whatever and put it in a blender. Add orange juice, apple or pineapple juice (if you use canned pineapples with 100% juice, just put the entire can in the blender). Now this is important... ADD BANANAS!! This helps thicken the smoothie as would a dairy product. Add ice and blend. Add extra ice if you prefer an 'icier' smoothie.
Strawberry salad: Use baby greens and slice strawberries on top. Add walnuts and top with Raspberry Vinaigrette dressing (sugar-free)!
Whipped sweet potato: Take sweet potatoes or canned (not in syrup), whip on medium speed with apple juice. Warm to desired temperature and top with raisins!
Sweet mixed berries: take blackberries and strawberries, cut them up in the bowl, top with a thin layer of honey and put in the refrigerator over night. The honey pulls the juices from the berries and makes a nice sweet, guiltless juice that you can indulge in after you eat the fruit.
Some other ideas: salad with Italian dressing (with olive oil), Kashi granola or Giant's Natural granola with almonds and raisins, all natural corn tortillas (baked) with salsa.
Even I'm surprised...
I've been trying not to focus on the food and what I can and can't eat. We're only 3 days in but I'm happy to say that the food hasn't been much of an issue. I've started the first of many grocery store runs to prevent lack of food from causing me to think about it more.
I'm a little surprised that it's not the food that I miss. I get to work at 6:30am and it's been really cold the past few days. They're perfect hot chocolate and Earl Grey days. It's these hot drinks I miss the most. It's not so much the drink itself but the heat of the drink that I miss on cold mornings. Heating up water is gross and heated juice is even worse.
I guess it's time to make another grocery store run for some decaf Earl Grey and a bottle of honey.
I'm a little surprised that it's not the food that I miss. I get to work at 6:30am and it's been really cold the past few days. They're perfect hot chocolate and Earl Grey days. It's these hot drinks I miss the most. It's not so much the drink itself but the heat of the drink that I miss on cold mornings. Heating up water is gross and heated juice is even worse.
I guess it's time to make another grocery store run for some decaf Earl Grey and a bottle of honey.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Veg DC
After last year’s fast, I gave up beef, pork and chicken permanently (I still love my seafood though!). Since then, I have tried many veggie-friendly spots in the area through one of my favorite sites, Veg DC. I know some of us may not be used to the no-meat thing, so I thought I’d highlight a few of my favorite spots around town:
Red Ginger (Chinese)
9039 Lanham Severn Rd Lanham, MD
(301) 731-8828
They have a REALLY good mock General Tso’s Chicken. (edit: which you probably can't eat because I think it's fried! Try it another time.They have other mock meat stuff and plenty of veggies. Sorry! lol )
Asian Bistro (Chinese)
8537 Georgia Ave
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301.589.0123
They offer mock chicken, beef, pork, AND seafood! They also serve brown rice.
Busboys and Poets (I’d guess you’d say American)
2021 14th Street, NW (14th and V)
Washington, DC 20009
202.387.7638
AND
4251 S. Campbell Ave
Arlington, Va.
703-379-9756
Busboys has several vegetarian dishes on the menu (check to make sure they are allowable) and also offers live entertainment. A nice outing spot.
Vegetate (Vegetarian)
1414 9th St., N.W.
Washington, D.C.
202-232-4585
This is one of my favorite places…I almost hate to let the cat out of the bag! lol VERY cool atmosphere, great food, and and it’s an all veggie restaurant.
Fabian House Café (Vegetarian)
8519 Chestnut Avenue
301 464 6777
Bowie, MD
Okay, I admit I’ve never heard of this place until today, BUT it’s in Bowie and the menu looks pretty good (curried corn w/brown rice, veggie chili, mock riblets, etc), so I thought it was worth highlighting.
This is just a very small sample of restaurants, but there are way more than this on the Veg DC site. You can find out more about all of them and find ones close to your home or job (plus natural grocery stores) on the site. We CAN do this!
http://www.vegdc.com/
Red Ginger (Chinese)
9039 Lanham Severn Rd Lanham, MD
(301) 731-8828
They have a REALLY good mock General Tso’s Chicken. (edit: which you probably can't eat because I think it's fried! Try it another time.They have other mock meat stuff and plenty of veggies. Sorry! lol )
Asian Bistro (Chinese)
8537 Georgia Ave
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301.589.0123
They offer mock chicken, beef, pork, AND seafood! They also serve brown rice.
Busboys and Poets (I’d guess you’d say American)
2021 14th Street, NW (14th and V)
Washington, DC 20009
202.387.7638
AND
4251 S. Campbell Ave
Arlington, Va.
703-379-9756
Busboys has several vegetarian dishes on the menu (check to make sure they are allowable) and also offers live entertainment. A nice outing spot.
Vegetate (Vegetarian)
1414 9th St., N.W.
Washington, D.C.
202-232-4585
This is one of my favorite places…I almost hate to let the cat out of the bag! lol VERY cool atmosphere, great food, and and it’s an all veggie restaurant.
Fabian House Café (Vegetarian)
8519 Chestnut Avenue
301 464 6777
Bowie, MD
Okay, I admit I’ve never heard of this place until today, BUT it’s in Bowie and the menu looks pretty good (curried corn w/brown rice, veggie chili, mock riblets, etc), so I thought it was worth highlighting.
This is just a very small sample of restaurants, but there are way more than this on the Veg DC site. You can find out more about all of them and find ones close to your home or job (plus natural grocery stores) on the site. We CAN do this!
http://www.vegdc.com/
Checking my attitude!
Yesterday, I was very reclusive by default. I didn't want anyone to talk to me and I didn't want to talk to anyone. I came to work yesterday morning and I knew I had lots of work to do so I wouldn't think about food. Unfortunately, it didn't happen that way! I didn't make things easier for myself because I still had the instant oatmeal in the cabinet that I normally eat in the morning, along with other snacks that we aren't supposed to eat during this time.....temptation just staring me in the face. Well, I snapped at someone at least once and immediately felt like I needed to check my attitude. On the document about the fast, they should have put on there "don't complain or be awnry about it". I guess some could say that its implied but for people like me it was needed but it's cool because God showed me yesterday that I wasn't honoring the fast by having this "leave me alone" attitude. So, I got up at 11am and went to Whole Foods (got lost on the way) and found some prepared brown rice with vegetables and some trail mix. Unfortunately, neither of those items were good to me but I ate them anyway. Also, my job bring in a different vendor everyday to provide lunch for us for like $5 and it's good food. The blessing for me yesterday was that the vendor didn't show up so I didn't have to deal with the temptation of going to them after my whole foods ordeal.
Knowing me is to know that I am the pickiest person on the earth but I'm trying to work it out. So anyway, after that experience I went to Giant Food and got some fruits, oatmeal, juice, and some meatless veggie products. I'm looking forward to finding new things to eat and I need everyone's help. Especially as it pertains to dinner.
Knowing me is to know that I am the pickiest person on the earth but I'm trying to work it out. So anyway, after that experience I went to Giant Food and got some fruits, oatmeal, juice, and some meatless veggie products. I'm looking forward to finding new things to eat and I need everyone's help. Especially as it pertains to dinner.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Where is the congestion when I need it?
This was the first day of the fast for me and I think I did pretty good. I had oatmeal for breakfast but it was my uber-fasting style oatmeal with applesauce, raisins, almonds, and bananas. Lunch was light...fruit and peanuts and dinner was a salad wrapped in a 100% whole wheat tortilla. Devotions and reading throughout the day were great!
I just wish there was a way to stop smelling all of the french fries, fried chicken, baked goods, and hot bar goodness that bombarded me all day. I went to the grocery store to pick up some beans and the usual freshly mopped linoleum smell had magically become a symphony of aroma consisting of food from the four corners of the globe. It's only Day 1.
I'm trying not to think of food and focus on the important parts of the fast. So far I'm doing ok but why can't I catch a cold now...a nice, cuddly 21 day cold? lol
I just wish there was a way to stop smelling all of the french fries, fried chicken, baked goods, and hot bar goodness that bombarded me all day. I went to the grocery store to pick up some beans and the usual freshly mopped linoleum smell had magically become a symphony of aroma consisting of food from the four corners of the globe. It's only Day 1.
I'm trying not to think of food and focus on the important parts of the fast. So far I'm doing ok but why can't I catch a cold now...a nice, cuddly 21 day cold? lol
Day One
Today is going well so far. I decided to return to my abandoned workout regimen along with the fast and I actually pulled myself out of bed at 5:15 this morning to do it (ask me in two weeks how that's going ;-) A great start to the day (along with my devotions of course!)
When I got to work, I had to move offices which worked out perfectly. I am all alone now in a tucked away office where I can focus and not get caught up in all the office conversation. This afternoon, a late Christmas package arrived from one of our vendors full of Godiva chocolates. I could hear everyone out in the hall way eating it and raving about how great it was. I could hear my co-worker, Mike going from office to office offering chocolate. I was bracing myself for the offer, but it never came. I guess he didn't know I was in that office and passed it by. Whew!
I didn't get very hungry during the day and snacked on peanuts. By the time 5:00 rolled around, I was feeling it. My walk to the Metro was filled with so many smells and sights...all food! It was like I was tuned in to every rustling candy wrapper, saw every Styrofoam container of food (and wondered what was inside of course), and smelled every edible item I passed. I hopped on the Metro and I began my usual, "What am I eating for dinner?" train of thought. I had settled on either shrimp & broccoli or pizza when I realized I couldn't have either one.
Boo!! lol
When I got to work, I had to move offices which worked out perfectly. I am all alone now in a tucked away office where I can focus and not get caught up in all the office conversation. This afternoon, a late Christmas package arrived from one of our vendors full of Godiva chocolates. I could hear everyone out in the hall way eating it and raving about how great it was. I could hear my co-worker, Mike going from office to office offering chocolate. I was bracing myself for the offer, but it never came. I guess he didn't know I was in that office and passed it by. Whew!
I didn't get very hungry during the day and snacked on peanuts. By the time 5:00 rolled around, I was feeling it. My walk to the Metro was filled with so many smells and sights...all food! It was like I was tuned in to every rustling candy wrapper, saw every Styrofoam container of food (and wondered what was inside of course), and smelled every edible item I passed. I hopped on the Metro and I began my usual, "What am I eating for dinner?" train of thought. I had settled on either shrimp & broccoli or pizza when I realized I couldn't have either one.
Boo!! lol
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