Category: music

JULY Tidbits

**If you’re happy & you know it – SMILE.
**Jesus loves us. There is absolutely nothing you or I can do to stop Him from loving us. Singing: Jesus Loves Me
** We all pass gas, break wind, cut the cheese, etc. These 6 tips may help relieve it.

*** Tidbit 1  Humor Time

It’s free to smile. You pay nothing. – anonymous

Mrs. Smartt was fumbling in her purse for her offering when a large television remote fell out and clattered into the aisle.

The curious usher bent over to retrieve it for her and whispered, “Do you always carry your TV remote to church?”

“No,” she replied, “but my husband refused to come with me this morning, and I figured this was the most evil thing I could do to him legally.”

Things My Mother Taught Me (part 5)
**My mother taught me HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT.
“If you don’t eat your vegetables, you’ll never grow up.”
**My mother taught me GENETICS.
“You’re just like your father.”
**My mother taught me about my ROOTS.
“Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?”

 Why did the snowman look through a bag of carrots?
Because he was picking his nose.

What’s it like to have the greatest daughter in the world?
Daughter: “Mom, what’s it like to have the greatest daughter in the world?”
Mom: “I don’t know ask your grandmother.”

Why didn’t the elephant buy a suitcase for his summer camp?
Because he already had a trunk!

*** Tidbit 2  Jesus loves you and me.

Parents love their kids, at least they’re supposed to. No matter what kind of adult that child turns out to be, a parent will still love him or her. Jesus loves us. There is absolutely nothing you or I can do to stop Him from loving us. He doesn’t love sin, but He loves the sinner. He wants to have a personal relationship with each of us. His desire is that we spend eternity with Him.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting live (John 3:16).

If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Click on the video below to hear my rendition of Jesus Loves Me.

No matter how bad life gets, I have the promise that Jesus loves me, and all things are working together for my good. If you’re a born-again believer, you can say the same thing.

*** Tidbit 3   Flatulence

No matter what name you give it (passing gas, farting, breaking wind, cut the cheese or pooting) we all do it. It’s a natural product of digestion. Flatulence means that you have excessive gas in the stomach or intestine. As you digest food, your digestive system will cause intestinal gas, otherwise known as flatus.

Flatulence can result from being sedentary, swallowing air while chewing or having trouble digesting carbohydrates. There are certain foods in particular that cause gas, such as beans, high-fiber fruits and vegetables, protein shakes, sauerkraut, lentils, artificial sweeteners, and carbonated beverages. When the digestive system isn’t able to fully digest food, it will turn it into gas to escape the body.

Here are 6 tips that may help relieve flatulence and let you continue eating foods that are also good for you.

  1. Soak beans in water for at least twelve hours. Cooking them will help reduce their gas-producing properties.  Throw away the water that you soaked them in. Rinse them thoroughly and cook them thoroughly until they are completely tender.
  2. Nutritional seeds: flax, chia and/or fennel seeds. Be aware that flax seeds can cause constipation if you don’t drink enough water.
  3. Digestive Enzyme supplements help break down the food in your digestive tract especially foods that are hard to break down such as foods that high in fiber or fats.
  4. Ginger added to your dinner or smoothies may help reduce the amount of gas that is produced in your stomach.
  5. Baking soda and lemon may be fast and instant. Squeeze one lemon into a glass of water and then add a teaspoon of baking soda. Mix well and drink once the fizz has died down.
  6. Apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy for bloating, but it may also help stop gas fast. Add a teaspoon of ACV to a cup of hot boiling water and drink it slowly.

Bye for now. Thanks for visiting. Don’t forget to click the Follow button

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

Follow me on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCcrxz9YI7Eg7ycPTbPyllSw

Annette Harris – YouTube

Sources:
Jokes (stewardshipoflife.org)
https://tensionnot.com/jokes/one_liner_jokes/things_my_mother_taught_me
https://funnyeditor.com/post/why-did-the-snowman-look-through?msg_id=c1fa93d0f1784c88991dd37bb58c60f9&md5=31733c63481f00599c10bfa36d869c57&cohort_id=17&utm_source=FE-&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=FE-Intro_herolink
https://funnyeditor.com/joke/what-s-it-like-to-have-the-greatest
https://funnyeditor.com/joke/why-didnt-the-elephant-buy-a-suitcase-for-his-summer-camp
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36P-XIR3vaM&t=8s
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/783556035154928882/
http://clipart-library.com/clipart/234371.htm

Jolly Tidbits

*Don’t laugh yourself to death. Laughter does a body good. Laugh yourself to life!

* You can’t praise God and be depressed at the same time, so praise Him. Your situation may not change, but your attitude will.

* Keep reading to find out several health benefits of peppermint.

*** Tidbit  1   Humor Time

Round John Virgin
A kindergarten Sunday school teacher had her class draw a nativity scene. One youngster had done a very fine job in drawing the baby in a manger, with Mary and Joseph and the animals; but the teacher noticed with anxiety that he had drawn a little fat man right beside the manger. She asked, “Jimmy, that isn’t Santa, is it?” Jimmy replied, “Of course not, that’s the guy we sing about in Silent Night, That’s Round John Virgin.”

Cheap Perfume Christmas Gift
Michael wanted to buy something different for his wife for Christmas this year.  He knew she liked “girlie” things, and “things that made her feel special.”  He wasn’t quite sure what that meant however.

He went to the big department store downtown.  After all, they had counters and counters of ladies’ things.  They also had helpful clerks that would understand this stuff better than he could.

“How about some perfume?” he asked the cosmetics clerk.
She showed him a bottle costing $50.

“That’s a bit much,” said Michael.
She returned with a smaller bottle for $30.

“That’s still quite a bit,” Michael wined.
Growing disgusted, the clerk brought out a tiny $15 bottle.

Michael was becoming more and more frustrated, “What I mean,” he said, “is I’d like to see something real cheap.”

. . . . . . . So the clerk handed him a mirror.

I love Christmas. I receive a lot of wonderful presents I can’t wait to exchange.
– Henny Youngman

*** Tidbit  2  Praise the Lord!

For years I would get depressed during the Christmas season. I got depressed before I accepted Christ as my Savior. I got depressed after I accepted Him.  A group called the Emotions sang the song, “What Do the Lonely Do at Christmas.” “Tis the season to be jolly, but how can I be, when I have nobody? The yuletide carol doesn’t make it better, knowing that we won’t be together. A silent night I know it’s gonna be. Joy to the world, but it’s gonna be sad for me.”

That was my theme song and as I said, I sang it for years. My testimony is – I don’t sing that song anymore. I haven’t sung it for years. I’m still single. There’s no boyfriend in the picture. I can’t tell you the exact date or time God delivered me, but He did!

If you’re depressed this Christmas (maybe you’ve lost a loved one, maybe you’re single with no prospects in sight, maybe your money’s funny and you can’t buy what you desire for your family) whatever the reason, you don’t have to stay depressed. If God delivered me, He can deliver you. Go to Him, tell Him how you feel. Find some praise scriptures in the Bible and meditate on them. Begin to thank and praise God.

When you allow yourself to get down and out, praising God is the best way to lift your spirit. Praising God may not change your situation, but it can change how you feel about the situation and how you react to it. You can’t praise God and be depressed at the same time.

Praising God is more effective than any advice from a counselor. It’s greater than any medicine. Praise invites God to come into your presence, and when He does miracles can happen. You don’t have to ask for any favors or anything like that. Just praise Him with your whole heart.

[Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and hear the song that I’m singing, “Praise the Lord.” The Lord gave the words to my sister, Pastor Charlotte Bryant, years ago. I hope it blesses you.]

*** Tidbit  3   Peppermint & the Candy Cane

Peppermint is the most universally used plant and is considered to be the greatest of all therapeutic remedies. You can get peppermint leaf through tea, capsules or as an extract. You can get peppermint oil in essential oils, extracts and capsules. Make sure that you know what kind of oil you are using. Read directions very carefully. Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be diluted if you are going to drink them or apply them to your skin.

Here are 8 health benefits of peppermint. 
1. Peppermint oil has antibacterial properties and has been shown to kill germs that lead to bad breath.
2. Studies confirm that it effectively fights several types of bacteria like E. coli, listeria, and salmonella.
3. Peppermint may treat gas, stomach pain, constipation, nausea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and diarrhea.
 4. Help ease tension headaches when it is applied to the forehead and temples.
5. Provide relief from itching and muscle pain when it is applied to the skin.
 6. Reduce the intensity and length of menstrual cramps because it helps prevent muscle contractions.
7. Boost your memory and increase energy.
8. Reduce common cold symptoms as well as allergy symptoms like an irritated, stuffy nose, sneezing, and red, itchy eyes.

The original candy cane was made 50 years ago. It was white, completely straight and flavored with only sugar. The first red and white striped candy canes were made at the turn of the 19th century. The first striped candy canes appeared around that same time. Then, the peppermint flavor was added. Over time the candy cane has become a symbol and tradition during the Christmas holiday.

The solid texture or hardness of the candy cane is said to symbolize the solid rock which was the foundation of the church, and firmness of the promises of God. Jesus is our solid rock of all ages. Turn the candy cane upside down and you will see the “J” that reminds us of Jesus, who was born to save us. Turn it back upright and you will see the crook that reminds us that He is the Good Shepherd.

The stripe on the candy cane reminds us that Jesus was beaten for us. Some canes have 3 fine stripes and some do not. Those three fine stripes are believed to represent the Holy Trinity. The red color reminds us of how He shed His blood on Calvary to save us from our sins.

The white represents the virgin birth and the purity, (the sinless nature) of Jesus. It tells us that He can wash our sins white as snow. The peppermint flavor is said to originate from an herb called hyssop. Hyssop was used in the Old Testament to symbolize the purity of Jesus and the sacrifice He made.

When you break the candy cane be reminded of Jesus’ broken body. As you eat it be reminded that fellowship with Jesus is so very sweet.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If not, what are you waiting on? In crazy times like these, we need a Savior. If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Thanks for stopping by.  Thanks for following this blog. 
Until next time, have a blessed day!

Resources
Funny Christmas Stories: Kids Say The Funniest Things! (clean-jokes-and-humor.com)
Cheap Perfume Gift (atimetolaugh.org)
christmas candy cane clipart – Clip Art Library (clipart-library.com)

Heart-Warming Tidbits

Heart-Warming Tidbits: **Your body doesn’t know the difference between real & fake laughter. Right now – just laugh! **Who will remember you 100 years from now? Only Jesus Christ. **Reflexology does a body & mind good: Foot Massage & Roller Balls. YESSS!

Tidbit 1   Humor Time

A funeral service is being held in a church for a woman who has just passed away. At the end of the service, the pallbearers carrying the casket accidentally bump into a wall jarring the casket. They hear a faint moan. They open the casket and find that the woman is actually alive. She lives for 10 more years and then dies. A ceremony is again held at the same church and at the end the pallbearers are again carrying the casket out. As they are walking, the husband calls out, “Watch out for the wall!”

Did you hear about the man that got hit hard in the head with a can of Mountain Dew? Don’t worry. He’s alright. It was a soft drink.

Daddy reads some bedtime stories to make little Johnny fall asleep.  Half an hour later mommy opens the door quietly and asks: “And, is he asleep?”
Little Johnny answers, “Yes, finally.”

Tidbit 2  Only What You Do For Christ Will Last

How long do you think you’ll be remembered?  You may be remembered for a generation or three, for a few heroic things, but after that, it’s not likely that anybody will give a thought about you (unless you’re written about in a history book). Jesus Christ is the one and only person that will think about you far past your lifetime-once you have accepted Him as your Savior.  He will remember when you encouraged that person.  He will remember when you brightened someone’s day by giving them a compliment.  He’ll remember how you witnessed for Him.  He’ll remember that you were obedient to His word.

He’ll remember the things you did for Him. Just make sure you do what He directs you to do and not what you want to do. In other words did He direct you to build that cathedral or did you direct you to build that cathedral? Only what you do for Him is going to last.

[Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and to hear the hymn: Only What You Do For Christ Will Last.]

Tidbit 3 Reflexology

How are you doing with managing your stress?  It is said that a large percentage of disease is stress related. We know that massage can help manage stress.  Did you know that reflexology can also help you manage stress and provide other benefits as well?

Reflexology is a therapeutic form of foot massage and of course, hand reflexology is a therapeutic form of hand massage. Reflexology is based on the belief that each part of each foot is a mirror site for a part of the body.  For example, the low back and intestines are towards the heel.  The heart and chest are around the ball of the foot, & so on.

I like to use a roller ball to massage my feet.  As you can see, I have several.  I love using them, especially this yellow porcupine ball.  It is said that using a roller ball for 10 min. every day, can relieve some tension, increase energy levels and enhance feelings of well-being. I want to share 6 benefits of foot massage with you.

A foot massage may:

  1. Improve circulation.
  2. Help lower blood pressure.
  3. Support sleep.
  4. Prevent injury by improving the mobility of your feet.
  5. Reduce the effects of depression and anxiety.
  6. Provide pain relief, not only for your feet. 

Here’s my testimony #1: One time I had a pain in my neck.  The pain was there for more than a week.  I took aspirin, used a heating pad, but neither of them worked.  The Holy Spirit brought to my attention, my porcupine massage ball.  I began to roll one foot and then the other over the ball and immediately the pain began to ease.  I did it the next day and the day after, then the pain in my neck was totally gone.  Hallelujah!

Testimony #2: I had a pain in my chest. The pain would come and go. Once again the Lord reminded me of the massage ball.  He told me to use it for a certain amount of days.  I followed His prescription and the pain went away. 

God has all kinds of ways to help us, if we let Him.  You don’t have to have a massage ball to reap the benefits of foot massage.  You can use your hands to massage them.  You can roll each foot over a golf ball, tennis ball, or a rolling pin.  I’m not getting paid to endorse these products.  I just want to share how I have benefited from using them.  To God be the glory!

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better.  If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be the wisest decision you will ever make.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.  Check with your health provider if you have health issues.

Thanks for stopping by.  Thanks for following this blog.  Until next time, have a blessed day or night!

Sources:
Funeral (laugh-of-the-day.com)
Hilarious Clean Jokes | Short-Funny.com (short-funny.com)

Inspiring Tidbits

***In everything give thanks. ***Food – Creation Retold: In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth and populated the Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and vegetables of all kinds and colors, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives. ***Laughter is a good form of stress relief. Have you laughed today?

Be grateful for what you have and stop complaining – it bores everybody else, does you no good, and doesn’t solve any problems. – Zig Ziglar

Tidbit 1:   Give Thanks

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, the Apostle Paul writes, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”  Paul says very directly: No exceptions, no buts, no excuses—in everything give thanks.  No matter how we think or feel, no matter what the situation is, we need to find a reason to thank God.  I heard a minister say, “When I hear somebody say they have nothing to be thankful for, a spirit of slap comes over me and I just want to slap them.”

Here are some quotes that I came across.  The authors are all unknown.

“I want to say thank you to all the people who walked into my life and made it outstanding, and all the people who walked out of my life and made it fantastic.”

There’s one thing for which you should be abundantly thankful – only you and God have all the facts about yourself.

“There’s always something to be thankful for. If you can’t pay your bills, you can be thankful you’re not one of your creditors.”

 The thing I’m most grateful for right now is elastic waistbands.”

As you go about your day, make a point to be grateful for the things you may otherwise not even notice.  For instance, when you go outside to get in your car, thank God that the car is still there, and nobody stole it during the night.  If you really like coffee, sometimes take a minute in the morning to thank God for this “little thing” that brings you joy and comfort. How about the blessing of having hot water? It’s something we can easily take for granted, but it makes our lives so much better!  How many times have you entered your house, turned on the lights and thanked God for the lights? As we begin to thank God for the small things in our lives, it will help us to focus on the positive and everything we do have. As result, we will also be much happier!  

Click on the video to hear an oral presentation of this blog and to hear my rendition of: My Tribute (to God Be The Glory) by Andraé Crouch.


Tidbit 2   Food – Creation Retold

In the beginning, God created the Heavens and the Earth and populated the Earth with broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, green and yellow and red vegetables of all kinds, so Man and Woman would live long and healthy lives.

Then using God’s great gifts, Satan created Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream and Krispy Creme Donuts. And Satan said, “You want chocolate with that?” And Man said, “Yes!” and Woman said, “and as long as you’re at it, add some sprinkles.” And they gained 10 pounds. And Satan smiled.

And God created the healthful yogurt that Woman might keep the figure that Man found so fair. And Satan brought forth white flour from the wheat, and sugar from the cane and combined them. And Woman went from size 6 to size 14.

So God said, “Try my fresh green salad.” And Satan presented Thousand-Island Dressing, buttery croutons and garlic toast on the side.  And Man and Woman unfastened their belts following the repast.

God then said, “I have sent you heart healthy vegetables and olive oil in which to cook them” And Satan brought forth deep fried fish and chicken-fried steak so big it needed its own platter. And Man gained more weight and his cholesterol went through the roof. God then created a light, fluffy white cake, named it “Angel Food Cake,” and said, “It is good.”  Satan then created chocolate cake and named it “Devil’s Food.”

God then brought forth running shoes so that His children might lose those extra pounds. And Satan gave cable TV with a remote control so Man Would not have to toil changing the channels. And Man and Woman laughed and cried before the flickering blue light and gained pounds.

Then God brought forth the potato, naturally low in fat and brimming with nutrition. And Satan peeled off the healthful skin and sliced the starchy center into chips and deep-fried them. And Man gained pounds.

God then gave lean beef so that Man might consume fewer calories and still satisfy his appetite. And Satan created McDonald’s and its 99-cent double cheeseburger Then said, “You want fries with that?” And Man replied, “Yes! And super size them!” And Satan said, “It is good.” And Man went into cardiac arrest.

God sighed and created quadruple bypass surgery.

Then Satan created HMOs (health maintenance organization plans).

Tidbit 3   Laughter

When was the last time you had a good laugh? Laughter is a great form of stress relief.  It increases oxygen to your heart, lungs and muscles, improves your mood.  According to Milton Berle, “Laughter is an instant vacation.” Research shows that the body doesn’t know the difference between real or fake laughter.  Fake laughter turns into real laughter.  If you don’t believe it, try it.  Turn up the corners of your mouth up into a smile and then give a laugh.  It may begin as fake laughter but the longer you do it, the less fake it will be.  Give your body that needed vacation!

I hope enjoyed these inspiring tidbits. Thanks for watching.  

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better.  If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

Have a blessed day!

Sources
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/z/zigziglar617796.html#K0bTpyWuSd4udz7C.99

Creation revised (westminster.edu)

Laughing Clipart Free Laughter Clip Art Free Clipart – Boy Vs Girl Joke In English – Png Download (#2939421) – PikPng

Health – Giving Tidbits

Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. The Bible proves that God is the one and only true mastermind. If you have any doubts, start by reading the 1st chapter of Genesis. Have you stretched today? There are many benefits to stretching on a regular basis.

Tidbit 1   Humor Time

“Inside me there’s a thin person struggling to get out, but I can usually sedate him with four or five cupcakes.”– Bob Thaves

A Backyard Neighbor Funeral

Mr. Green peered over his fence and noticed that the neighbor’s little boy was in his backyard filling in a hole. Curious about what the youngster was up to, Mr. Green asked, “What are you doing, Jimmy?”

Tearfully, little Jimmy replied, “My goldfish died, and I’ve just buried him.”

“That’s an awfully large hole for a goldfish, isn’t it?” Mr. Green said.

Patting down the last bit of earth, little Jimmy replied, “That’s because he’s in your cat!”

Asking Her Age

A young mother had been too busy to visit her elderly neighbor who was ill.  She said to her small son, “Johnny, run over and see how ‘old Mrs. Smith’ is.”  Within a few minutes, the boy was back.  “She says it’s none of your business how old she is.”

Tidbit 2   Mastermind Is He

A mastermind can be described as a brilliant thinker with original ideas (a chess mastermind or a criminal mastermind).  Inventors, intellectuals, and famous geniuses can also be called masterminds. 

The Bible proves that God is the one and only true mastermind.  If you have any doubts, start by reading the 1st chapter of Genesis.  God created the heavens and the earth from the very beginning.  He just keeps on showing off His outstanding self throughout the Bible.  Look what God has done, mastermind is He!

Click on the video to view the oral presentation of this blog and listen to my song Mastermind Is He. (© ℗ 2006 Annette M. Harris. All rights reserved.)


Tidbit 3   Stretching

Have you stretched today?  Do you stretch on a regular basis?  Some people don’t realize the health benefits of stretching.  Stretching is completely adjustable.  No previous experience required.  It just gets better the more you do it.

Here are some benefits of stretching before you get out of bed in the morning.

1.  Stretching in the morning can help improve the range of motion in the joints, as well as stiffness that often accompanies being inactive or overweight.  Decreased flexibility in the joints may increase your likelihood of developing arthritis or having poor balance, which could lead to injury.

2.   It can dramatically improve blood circulation.  A quick stretch when you wake can energize you to get out of bed.  Proper circulation helps you move and function throughout the day. 

 3.  It can help relieve stress and tension and help you to face the day more positively. 

Before you take on the daily pressures and demands of job and family, allow yourself a few minutes to stretch and breathe.  Before you do those stretches or even put one foot on the floor – acknowledge the Lord.  Give Him a wave offering, a “Thank you Jesus”, blow Him a kiss, give Him a scripture verse, tell Him good morning – acknowledge Him.  Then proceed with your stretches.

You can lie on your back, on your bed and just stretch your whole body & wiggle your fingers and toes.  Some other movements include: Knees-to-Chest Stretch, Spinal Twist, Seated Forward Bend, or you can just be creative.


Stretching before going to bed gives you a chance to transition to quiet and let go of any negative thinking.  Listen to some scripture verses, or soothing music.

  1. Breathe slowly and deeply, stretch lightly and be relaxed. 
  2. Stretch in a smooth movement, without bouncing, only as far as it feels good to you.  Bouncing as you stretch can injure your muscle and actually contribute to muscle tightness.  Don’t worry about how far you can stretch. 
  3. Hold each stretch position steadily for about 30 seconds to give your muscles time to lengthen.

With your body relaxed, you should be able to fall asleep quicker and sleep more soundly.  Your goal with a bedtime stretch is relaxation, to reduce muscle tension that has built up from the day’s activities.  So take a few minutes tonight and stretch before telling God good night.   

Stretching anytime anywhere is a great way to take a break from your busy day to recharge and strengthen your body and your mind.  It does not need to be time consuming.  If you take a few minutes out of your day to stretch and try to do so at least 2-3 days a week you can achieve the most benefits.  If you stretch on an irregular schedule, your body will not be able to maintain a consistent range of motion.  In other words, if you don’t use it, you lose it.

What are you waiting on?  Get started today!

Thanks for stopping by. I hope enjoyed these Health-Giving Tidbits.  This presentation is intended for informational purposes only.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better. 

If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Have a blessed day!

Sources
https://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
P. 197 (1001 Humorous Illustrations for Public Speaking) Michael Hodgin  Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan  1992, 1994
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mastermind
https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/mastermind
http://clipart-library.com/stretching-cliparts.html
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/5-minute-wake-up-workout/


Priceless Tidbits

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall and had a great fall. He couldn’t be put back together again. If you’re broken from a fall, God specializes in mending broken pieces. Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. Aromatherapy may lift your mood & help alleviate the symptoms of various conditions.

Welcome! I’m so glad that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use!  These priceless physical, mental, and spiritual tidbits are here to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile.  It’s not about one part, it’s about the whole. God wants us healthy mind, body, and soul.

Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.
Humpty Dumpty had a great fall.
All the king’s horses and all the king’s men, couldn’t put Humpty together again.

We don’t know why Humpty was on that wall.  All we know is that this time, they couldn’t put him back together. 

We’ve had to deal with a lot of challenges during COVID-19.  Many people have found themselves faced with losing their homes, life savings, jobs, family members, and friends, etc.  Some of you may be wondering how or if, your broken life, your broken situation is going to get put back together.  If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and you are broken or severely damaged from any kind physical, mental or spiritual fall, Jesus can fix your broken pieces.  Nothing is too hard for Him.  He specializes in restoration.

Maybe you’re broken from falling off the healthy living wall.  At one time you were drinking your water, getting enough sleep, exercising, limiting your sweets and processed foods, you were mindful of how you were treating your body.  Maybe you’ve picked back up some habits that you had previously dropped, like smoking, cursing or drinking alcohol.  Maybe your body is physically broken, well, it’s not too late.  God cares about your body and how you treat it and He’s able to put you back together again. 

At some point in my school age years I developed an inferiority complex. I let the devil drill it into my mind for years and years how inferior I was.  This went on until one day I was in my college dorm room and God spoke to me and told me that He was going to teach me to love myself.  I looked in the mirror and I declared, Annette, you are somebody and you’re not inferior to anybody.  From that day forward the journey began.  It didn’t happen overnight.  I began to look in the mirror and make positive declarations about myself and about my life.  Yes, I was broken.  I mean badly broken but I thank God that He has restored the broken pieces in that area.

Maybe you’re broken spiritually.  You’re not walking with God like you used to.  You’re not praying and seeking Him like you once did.  God can still mend your broken pieces.  I want to share with you from the second chapter of Joel.  The prophet Joel wrote to the people of Judah during a difficult time in their history.  They had endured the loss of crops and livestock as well as the death of friends and loved ones because of a plague of locusts. The Lord sent Joel to speak of His desire to restore to them what they had lost.

Joel 2 verse 25 reads, And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you.  The years that the locusts have eaten represent negative experiences in the past, especially seasons of loss or lack.  When those locusts did their work, it looked complete and final, but God promised that He could even restore the years that the swarming locusts has eaten. 

All the king’s horses and all the king’s men couldn’t put Humpty Dumpty back together again, but Hallelujah, I serve a God who specializes in doing just that!

Years ago I attended an event where I heard BeBe & CeCe Winans sing a song called Humpty Dumpty. It has stayed with me all these years.  Click below to view the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of Humpty Dumpty.

Gotta smile

The church council met to discuss the pastor’s compensation package for the coming year. After the meeting the chair of council told the pastor: “We are very sorry, Pastor, but we decided that we cannot give you a raise next year.”

“But you must give me a raise,” said the pastor. “I am but a poor preacher!”
“I know,” the council chair said. “We hear you every Sunday.”

Timing Problem:  A little girl came home from school and said to her mother, “I wish you would let me take my bath in the morning before I go to school, instead of at night before I go to bed.” 

“What difference does it make?” her mother asked.

“Every day at school,” the little girl said, “Miss Taylor tells everybody to stand up who had a bath today.  And I haven’t been able to stand up one time since school started three months ago.” 

Words of wisdom: “There’s a fine line between a long, drawn-out sermon and a hostage situation.”

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being.  Sometimes it’s called essential oil therapy. 

The term “aromatherapy” was coined by a French perfumer and chemist who had discovered the healing potential of lavender in treating burns.

Aromatherapy works through the sense of smell and skin absorption using products like diffusers, aromatic spritzers, inhalers, roll-ons, bathing salts, body oils, creams, or lotions for massage or topical application, facial steamers, hot and cold compresses, and clay masks.

You can find them at many places including like Walgreens, Walmart, and online.  These oils aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  This means that essential oil products can vary in purity, strength, and quality across manufacturers.  Be sure to only purchase essential oils from reputable brands.  Look for a product that is 100 percent natural and doesn’t contain any additives or synthetic ingredients.

Some essential oils include: lavender, lemon, peppermint, spearmint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, and rosemary.  Each essential oil has multiple healing properties, uses, and effects.  You can use these alone or in any combination. 

Essential oils may help manage pain, improve sleep quality, help relieve symptoms of depression, reduce stress, agitation, and anxiety, improve digestion, fight bacteria, and boost immunity, and those are just some of the benefits.  One study found that peppermint oil led to a boost in exercise performance.  Another study shows that sniffing rosemary can increase memory by 75%.

You find diluted and undiluted oils.  Read the label.  If you buy undiluted oils, be sure to always dilute them in a massage or carrier oil such as Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, or Jojoba Oil.  Some of the oils could irritate your skin, if you apply them to your skin directly without diluting them first. 

There are some ready to use aromatherapy oils that have already been diluted.  I found some good ones at Dollar Tree.  One reason I like Dollar Tree is, I never know what jewels I might find there. 

On average, essential oils are up to 75 times more powerful than dried herbs, so a couple of drops go a long way.  The fragrance doesn’t stay on your skin like regular perfume does. So, don’t worry, if you use peppermint or lemon oil you won’t smell like peppermint or lemon all day.

Like most alternative therapies, aromatherapy shouldn’t be used as a replacement for your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan. Don’t stop taking medications, attending counseling sessions, or using other prescribed therapies without talking to your doctor first.

Essential oils may lift your mood and make you feel good with just a whiff of their fragrance.  Conduct your research to find more information on how to incorporate Aromatherapy into a healthy lifestyle.

Have you tried Aromatherapy?   How did it work for you?  Do you have a favorite oil?

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better.  If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

Thanks for stopping by.  I hope enjoyed these priceless tidbits. Until next time, have a blessed day!

Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

SOURCES
https://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
Hodgin, M. (1994). 1001Humorous Illustrations for Public Speaking. Zondervan Publishing House.
https://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
http://clipart-library.com/clipart/essential-oils-cliparts_13.htm
https://www.byrdie.com/essential-oils-guide
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Essential_oil
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-aromatherapy#how-does-it-work?
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/aromatherapy#treating-depression



Rosy Tidbits

Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. God has been so good! I get joy/happy when I think about all He’s done for me. Apple Cider Vinegar has a history of being a powerful, cleansing, and healing cure-all. What can it do for you?

Welcome! I’m excited that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use.  l’ll some share physical, mental, and spiritual tidbits to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile. It’s not about one part, it’s about the whole. God wants us healthy mind, body, and soul.

Tidbit 1   Humor Time

PECANS IN THE CEMETERY

On the outskirts of a small town, there was a big, old pecan tree just inside the cemetery fence. One day, two boys filled up a bucketful of nuts and sat down by the tree, out of sight, and began dividing the nuts.

“One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me,” said one boy. Several dropped and rolled down toward the fence.

Another boy came riding along the road on his bicycle. As he passed, he thought he heard voices from inside the cemetery. He slowed down to investigate. Sure enough, he heard, “One for you, one for me, one for you, one for me…”

He just knew what it was. He jumped back on his bike and rode off. Just around the bend he met an old man with a cane, hobbling along.  “Come here quick,” said the boy, “you won’t believe what I heard! Satan and the Lord are down at the cemetery dividing up the souls!”  The man said, “Beat it kid, can’t you see it’s hard for me to walk.” When the boy insisted though, the man hobbled slowly to the cemetery.

Standing by the fence they heard, “One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me.”

The old man whispered, “Boy, you’ve been tellin’ me the truth. Let’s see if we can see the Lord…?”

Shaking with fear, they peered through the fence, yet were still unable to see anything. The old man and the boy gripped the wrought iron bars of the fence tighter and tighter as they tried to get a glimpse of the Lord.

At last they heard, “One for you, one for me. That’s all. Now let’s go get those nuts by the fence and we’ll be done…”  

They say the old man had the lead for a good half-mile before the kid on the bike passed him.

A newly-ordained pastor, in the first days of his first call, was attempting to console the widow of an eccentric man who had just died. Standing before the open casket, the nervous young pastor said, “I realize this must be a very hard blow for you, Mrs. Svenson.  Just try to remember that what we see before us is only the husk, the shell of your dear husband–the nut has gone to heaven.”

Tidbit 2   What God Has Done for Me

I woke up one morning feeling kinda “blah”.  Covid-19 and all the other drama that’s going on, can get to you sometimes.  I began to think about the Lord.  I began to think about the fact that through Him I am victorious!  I am triumphant!  I am an overcomer!  Jesus made that possible when He died and rose again.  If He would have just died, it wouldn’t be possible, but He died and rose again with all power in His hands!

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I began to laugh as I thought about those facts.  I laughed and I laughed.  Boy, was it fun!  God knows what we need and that morning I needed to laugh.  Laughter is medicine & it sure does a body good.  I get joy; I get happy when I think about what God has done for me.

Click on the link video to view the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of I Get Joy When I Think about What He’s Done for Me.


Tidbit 3   Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has a history of being a powerful, cleansing, and healing cure-all.  It contains natural occurring antibiotic, and antiseptic properties, that fight germs and bacteria for a healthier, stronger, longer life.  It’s been traced as far back as 3,000 BC.  It was used in Biblical times as an antiseptic and a healing agent.  In Paris, in the Middle Ages it was sold from barrels by street vendors as a body deodorant, healing tonic and delicious vinegar drink to keep the body healthy and ageless.

ACV may relieve headaches, zap sore throats, fight coughs and colds, help improve digestion, fight kidney and bladder problems, fight arthritis, & combat mucus.  If splashed on a burn of any kind, it may stop the intense continual pain instantly and permanently.  It also may help prevent scarring.

All vinegars are not created equal.  The vinegar that I’m talking about is raw, organic, unfiltered unpasteurized, ACV with the “miracle mother”.  I use this vinegar first, before I try anything else, especially for several of the reasons I just shared with you. 

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The “mother” is believed to be rich in health-boosting natural protein, healthy bacteria and acetic acid.  It forms naturally as raw organic vinegar ferments, producing a cloudy, brownish vinegar with cobweb-like substances at the bottom of the bottle.  If a vinegar looks crystal clear, it’s been filtered and pasteurized to remove the “mother” and most of its nutrients. 

This vinegar is more expensive than regular vinegar, so I don’t use it for cleaning. Once your bottle is half gone, you can add regular brown vinegar with it.  Just make sure that you still have some “mother” at the bottom of the jar.  It never needs refrigeration.

ACV has been used as an alternative to salt, a foot soak, skin cleanser and toner, a cleansing hair rinse, a steam facial treatment, sore muscle reliever, a salad dressing, and as a daily drink.

A common dosage for ACV as a drink ranges from 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons per day, mixed in a glass of water.  It can be hard on your throat if you don’t mix it with water. It’s acidic, and cause damage to tooth enamel.  So, drink it through a straw, mix it with water or rinse your mouth with water after taking it.

If you’re considering giving ACV a try as a drink, start slow to gauge how your stomach handles it. And consider talking to your doctor about the potential risks—especially interactions with your current medications.

I am a firm supporter of this God given home remedy.  I sing its praises because I’ve experienced the benefits.

Have you tried ACV with the “mother”?  How did it work for you? 

 I hope enjoyed these rosy tidbits. Thanks for stopping by.  Have a blessed day.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better. 

If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

Look me up on YouTube.

Sources
http://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
http://www.stewardshipoflife.org/jokes/
http://www.clipartpanda.com/clipart_images/laughing-animation-clipart-68239449
https://healthyhints.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/the-mother-Apple-Cider-Vinegar.jpg

Why blog? Why sing?

I asked myself, “Why do you bother blogging? Not many people read your posts or view your videos.” Then I answered myself, “I blog and I sing because I get to share Jesus and I enjoy doing it.” Stop by for a little humor, some health nuggets and some singing!

Sometimes I talk to myself.  Some people say it’s okay to talk to yourself as long as you don’t answer back.  Well, I talk to myself and I answer back.  I tell myself jokes and then I laugh.  I ask myself questions and answer them.  I make comments to myself.  I talk to the Lord.  Sometimes I quote scripture.  I talk to myself when I’m out in public but I try to make sure my lips don’t move.  Even if I slip and my lips move, hopefully people will think I’m just singing.  I’ve read that there are benefits to talking to yourself.  They include:  motivating yourself, talking yourself through a task, and organizing your thoughts.

The other day I asked myself, “Why do you bother blogging?  Not many people read your posts or view your videos.  You certainly don’t have many followers. You might get one or two comments (thank God for the one or two positive comments).  It takes a lot of time and effort to gather and organize the information.  You’ve stopped and started several times yet you keep coming back.  Why even bother?”  If you’re one of the few reading this, don’t feel sorry for me.  I don’t feel sorry for me.  There’s more that I could do to promote my blog.  I choose not to at this time.

Why do I blog? I blog because when I get started writing, I feel a release.  It’s therapeutic.  Sometimes I don’t even know what I’m going to write about but when I get started, the words and motivation come.  That’s what’s happening as I write these words.

I love researching and organizing.  I really love it when a plan comes together.  I love sharing the humor.  Humor and laughter help me get through the seriousness of life.

Why do I sing?  I sing because I can.  Now don’t take my statement the wrong way.  If you have a voice you can sing also.  It doesn’t matter if you can or can’t carry a tune.  I may not be able to sing like some of the celebrities but I can do what I do.  It’s also therapeutic.  Unless God performs a miracle, I won’t be famous for my singing, but that’s not why I put my videos on this blog and on YouTube.  I do promise that if you focus on the words of the songs you will be blessed.

This blog, YouTube and my radio broadcast are platforms for sharing Jesus.  I may never travel to other parts of the world like some missionaries, sharing Jesus.  There are many, many, many churches that I will never speak in.  There are people who I will never be able to witness to physically.  But I do have this platform for this season of my life. When I’m dead and gone, the words and songs that I share on this blog and YouTube will still be around on the Internet.

As you can see, I asked and answered my questions.  When I get discouraged, don’t feel like it and want to quit during 2018, I will refer back to the conversation I had with myself and keep running.Capture5

And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.   Isaiah 42:16 King James Version (KJV)

What a wonderful promise!  Hope this video blesses you.

Humor Time

Teacher: “Which book has helped you the most in your life?”
Student: “My father’s check book!” – Anonymous

There was an elderly couple who in their old age noticed that they were getting a lot more forgetful, so they decided to go to the doctor. The doctor told them that they should start writing things down so they don’t forget. They went home and the old lady told her husband to get her a bowl of ice cream. “You might want to write it down,” she said. The husband said, “No, I can remember that you want a bowl of ice cream.” She then told her husband she wanted a bowl of ice cream with whipped cream. “Write it down,” she told him, and again he said, “No, no, I can remember: you want a bowl of ice cream with whipped cream.” Then the old lady said she wants a bowl of ice cream with whipped cream and a cherry on top. “Write it down,” she told her husband and again he said, “No, I got it. You want a bowl of ice cream with whipped cream and a cherry on top.” So he goes to get the ice cream and spends an unusually long time in the kitchen, over 30 minutes. He comes out to his wife and hands her a plate of eggs and bacon. The old wife stares at the plate for a moment, then looks at her husband and asks, “Where’s the toast?”                   –Donald Fre…

A boy asks his father, “Dad, are bugs good to eat?” “That’s disgusting. Don’t talk about things like that over dinner,” the dad replies. After dinner the father asks, “Now, son, what did you want to ask me?” “Oh, nothing,” the boy says. “There was a bug in your soup, but now it’s gone.”   –John Ocall…

My friend thinks he is smart. He told me an onion is the only food that makes you cry, so I threw a coconut at his face.

Q: Is Google male or female?
A: Female, because it doesn’t let you finish a sentence before making a suggestion.  –Montgomery…

The 2018 DO Better! Challenge

(If you’re new to this blog just go back to a few previous posts to get caught up.)

Report:   My goal for February: a) Can have meat (red, turkey, chicken, etc.) only two days a week.  b) Can have salmon or other fish two days a week.

I achieved my goal for February (thank you Jesus).  I didn’t have any setbacks this time.  What’s your report?  If you had some setbacks just remember – you may fall down but you don’t have to drop out. The good news is: life is a marathon.  Here’s the key to the marathon of life: You’re not in a race to run fast. You’re in a race to end well. You’re in a race to get to the finish line. You make progress one step at a time. That’s the way you go towards your goals – one step, one day at a time.

March is National Nutrition Month.  nutrition

National Nutrition Month is an educational campaign focusing on the significance of physical fitness as well as eating nourishing meals.  Scientists and researchers are trying to make a difference and encourage people to try a healthier lifestyle.

Here are 3 possible goals for March:

  1. Incorporate certain veggies and fruits (ex. Collard greens, kale, cranberries, avocado, bananas, and cauliflower, Swiss chard) into your diet. (be specific) Ex. I want to eat five servings of fruits and veggies 3 days a week.

Try some fresh veggies and fruits.  The fresher the food, the more nutritious.  Get fresher produce by shopping in season.  There are also some benefits to eating lightly steamed veggies.  Why not do both.  Please don’t cook them to death because you’ll lose a lot of the nutrients.  Step out of the boat and try some new veggies and fruits.  You get a variety of phytonutrients with colorful produce.5 to 82. No soda and sugary drinks (with meals or days)Studies have shown that people who consume sugary drinks regularly have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart, disease, and other chronic conditions.

3. Drink more water (Ex. I’ll begin by drinking 6 8-ounce glasses a day). You lose water throughout the day.  It’s very important that it be replaced. You become dehydrated when your water intake doesn’t equal your output.

Avocado is not one of my favorite fruits.  I’ve tried and tried, but don’t see what all the excitement is about.  Research shows that there are many wonderful benefits of including it in your diet. I’m going to give it one more try before I totally give it up.

My goal for March: Include a serving of avocado in my diet 2 days a week.

Feel free to share what goals you (and hopefully a friend, family member, or co-worker) set for March. and how you plan to achieve them.

Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to view the video and read all the nuggets.

Bye for now.

 

 

 

 

Sources

http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+42%3A16&version=KJV

https://www.google.com/search?q=funny+nutrition+quotes&sa=X&biw=1579&bih=647&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=t7wIgPt-uRr8WM%253A%252CmiSdvul7DvzhHM%252C_&usg=__YOig1d24NgeVcoP_A8Y7V4vSnaU%3D&ved=0ahUKEwi63vTY4MPZAhXwpVkKHTfsA_8Q9QEIKzAB#imgrc=9qnGTUzn8PyN_M:https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-drinks/soft-drinks-and-disease/

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes

Yes I Can

Let’s get started on the DO better! Challenge, so that we can better fulfill our destinies and enjoy all the plans God has for us on this earth. You only have one body – so look after it. Do better in February than you did in January!

Humor Time
Have Faith My Child

For the umpteenth time Mrs. Youngston came to her pastor to tell him, “I’m so scared! Joe says he’s going to kill me if I continue to come to your church.”

“Yes, yes, my child,” replied the pastor, more than a little tired of hearing this over and over. “I will continue to pray for you, Mrs. Youngston. Have faith – the Lord will watch over you.”

“Oh yes, he has kept me safe thus far, only…..”

“Only what, my child?”

“Well, now he says if I keep coming to your church, he’s going to kill YOU!”

“Well, now,” said the pastor, “Perhaps it’s time to check out that little church on the other side of town.”

Going Out

A couple was going out for the evening. The last thing they did was to put the cat out.

The taxi arrived, and as the couple walked out of the house, the cat shoots back in. So the husband goes back inside to chase it out.

The wife, not wanting it known that the house would be empty, explained to the taxi driver “He’s just going upstairs to say goodbye to my mother.”

A few minutes later, the husband got into the taxi and said, “Sorry I took so long, the stupid thing was hiding under the bed and I had to poke her with a coat hanger to get her to come out!”

What would you like them say?

Three buddies die in a car crash, and they go to heaven to an
orientation.

They are all asked, “When you are in your casket and friends and
family are mourning upon you, what would you like to hear them say about you? The first guy says, “I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor of my time, and a great family man.”

The second guy says, “I would like to hear that I was a wonderful
husband and school teacher which made a huge difference in our children of tomorrow.”

The last guy replies, “I would like to hear them say, “Look! He’s moving!”
laughing face

Nutrition

The best vitamin for a Christian is B1.

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms is a hymn published in 1887 with music by Anthony J. Showalter and lyrics by Showalter and Elisha Hoffman.  Showalter said that he received letters from two of his former pupils saying that their wives had died. When writing letters of consolation, Showalter was inspired by the phrase in the Book of Deuteronomy 33:27 “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms….”

Hope this video blesses you.

The 2018 DO Better! Challenge

Faith confession: Yes I can! I believe I can so I will Do Better!  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. – Philippians 4:13

This challenge came about in Dec. 2015.  One night in choir rehearsal  I asked, “How many of you have healthy lifestyle habits that you know you need to pick up or put down – you don’t have to go home and pray about it- you just know you need to do it?” Everybody raised their hands.  I said, “I want to challenge you to pick a goal for the next 30 days.  They picked a goal and the Do Better challenge began the next day.

Every week after rehearsal we met and gave a report.  It was based on the honor system.  I asked,” Did you meet your goal?”  There were only 2 possible answers – Yes or No.  Why is it that you have to almost fight people for an answer to a yes or no question?  If you did not complete your goal for that week, the answer is No.

We would then share about our successes and failures.  We encouraged each other.  This is why you should invite others to join you –for accountability and support.  Every month we added another individual goal.

Each goal rolls over.  You don’t do one for a week or a month and stop doing it the next week or month.  You add a new goal every month and continue with the previous one.  That’s how it becomes a lifestyle change or habit.   The challenge is flexible.  You may want to add a new goal every week for nine weeks.  You decide.

Our challenge lasted 13 months.  We started off with 9 participants.  Two of them dropped out.  At the end of Jan. 2017, we had adopted 13 healthy lifestyle habits.

The goal of the DO Better! Challenge is to help you develop and maintain healthy lifestyle habits.  It’s never too early or too late to begin living healthier.  Any healthy lifestyle change is better than none at all.  This is not a weight loss challenge.  You may shed some pounds but it will depend on the goals that you choose.

It’s very unlikely that you will live to be 100, 120, or older.  Even if you do live to be 103 wouldn’t you like to be a spry, feeling good 103 – still doing some kind of work for God?  I’m not striving or praying to live to be 103.  I’ve often shared that my goal is not to live longer.  My goal is to improve the quality of my life.  I don’t want to be old, in pain, on medication, and hardly able to get around.  I want to be spry, able to dress myself and drive myself around for as long as possible.

Research shows that if you’re going to be successful at almost anything in life, the very first choice to make is to set some goals.  Remember, your goal must be measurable.  For example, if you choose exercise, how many days and how many minutes will you do it?  If you choose to stop drinking so many sodas, how many will you drink each day or each week?

The following are a list of possible goals.  Conduct your own research.  Discover why and how adopting some of these goals may help you become and remain fit for the Master’s use – for the rest of your life.

Here are 4 possible goals for February:

  1. No fried foods days (ex. no fried foods 4 days a week).  Fried foods can increase your fat, calorie and salt intake.  You won’t find a lot of nutrients in fried foods.  Eating a lot of fried foods can have negative effects on your health.
  2. Meatless days (ex. No meat at all, no chicken, no red meat, no pork).  Health experts suggest that most Americans eat way too much protein.  Excessive protein intake can also have negative effects on your health. There could be an association between red and processed meats and cancer and inflammation.
  3. Junkless days (candy, cake, etc. and/or chips, cheese puffs, etc.).  The word junk implies that something is extra and useless. We usually want to get rid of junk not accumulate it.  Junk food can contribute to depression, fatigue, obesity and other ailments. They have lots of calories and very little nutritional value.
  4. Improve sleep habits (ex. Avoid heavy and/or large meals within a couple hours of bedtime. Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night).  The amount of sleep you get or don’t get can affect your health, mood and weight. Studies have found a link between insufficient sleep and health problems, such as diabetes and heart attacks.  Sleep also helps fight some of the fallouts of stress.

Let’s get started on the DO better! Challenge, so that we can better fulfill our destinies and enjoy all the plans God has for us on this earth.  You only have one body – so look after it.  Do better in February than you did in January!

One of my goals during 2017 was to eat less meat.  I did really well with this goal until Thanksgiving.   After then I jumped off the wagon.  I didn’t fall off, I jumped off.  I ate way too much meat.

I’m getting back on the wagon.  My goal for February: a) Can have meat (red, turkey, chicken, etc) only two days a week.  b) Can have salmon or other fish two days a week.

Feel free to share what goals you (and hopefully a friend, family member, or co-worker) set for Feb. and how you plan to achieve them.

Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to view the video and read all the nuggets.

 

Bye for now.

 

Sources:

http://jokes.christiansunite.com/Faith/Out_Of_Gas.shtml

http://www.broadcaster.org.uk/section2/jokes/parentingjokes.html

http://www.christian-jokes.net/Jokes/Heaven-and-Hell-Jokes/31-What-would-you-like-them-say.aspx

http:// www.jokesclean.com/ChristianJokes/HolyOneLiners.php

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaning_on_the_Everlasting_Arms

 

 

Smile!

One day while watching Pastor Steven Furtick on TBN, he said, “If you’re happy and you know it – tell your face.” I thought what he said was so funny and so true that I decided to sing about it. This blog is dedicated to those of us who need to smile more. Take the challenge!

smile-1-poster

One day while watching Pastor Steven Furtick on TBN, he said, “If you’re happy and you know it – tell your face.”  I thought what he said was so funny and so true that I decided to sing about it.  Hope you enjoy the video. 

I am dedicating this rendition to those of you (like me) who have serious faces.  People have told me that I look “mean.”  I agree with them although I don’t look “mean” intentionally.  Sometimes I have other things on my mind and I don’t even realize my facial expression.

Some people just naturally look friendly and happy.  I have to work at it.  I have to remind myself to look pleasant and to smile more when I’m out and about.  I know that I am not alone.  Many people have this same issue.  Can I get an AMEN?  How do I know?  I know because I observe people when I’m out and about.  

Sometimes I visit a particular church.  It’s a big church.  Most of the people don’t know me and I don’t know them.  I find it interesting that as people are walking through the parking lot to go into the church, they will walk right past each other without even smiling or simply saying, “good morning.”  What’s up with that?  We’re going in the same direction to worship God, yet we can’t even greet each other.  I have also walked into the restroom and received neither a smile nor a good morning.  As a result, I decided that I would be the initiator – I would smile and I would speak first.  I’m trying to make it a habit.  I don’t always feel like doing it, but at least I’m trying.

One day I was in Costco’s siting at a table waiting for my sisters to pay for their purchases.  A man walked towards me.  I asked myself, “Why is this man coming towards me? I don’t know him.”  Yes, you all, I talk to myself and answer myself back.  Anyway, he walked up to me and said, “Smile, you are gorgeous!” 

Well, you could have knocked me over with a feather.  I’m at the age where I feel like I am invisible to men.  I was so shocked.  I smiled and replied, “Thank you.”  He then replied, “No, thank you!  He then proceeded to walk out of the store.

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Instead of saying “Thank you” I should have said “No, thank God” because I had nothing to do with how He created me.  I’m His handiwork.  Really, I was too shocked to say anything else.

 The take away from my story: 

Smile because you never know how your smile might bless and uplift someone.

 

My brother Sam is in a nursing home, recovering from a stroke.  When I visit him I usually end up saying something funny.  I don’t plan it; it just comes out of my mouth.  It really blesses me when I say something that causes him to smile.  It really makes my day.

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Sometimes I wake up with a smile on my face because I wake up thinking and thanking God.  I lie there for a few minutes, throwing Him kisses.  I imagine Him smiling as He catches those kisses.

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I’m sure you know the wonderful benefits of laughing.  Do you know the wonderful benefits of smiling? 

Smiles:

  • Boost your mood.  You can’t be happy and sad at the same time.
  • Change your mindset when you’re in a bad situation. This can contribute to you finding other ways to successfully deal with that situation.
  • Keep stress at bay.  Stress plays a major role in heart conditions and hypertension.
  • Are contagious.  Ever notice how often a friend, colleague or complete stranger will reciprocate a smile after you share one?
  • Make you more approachable. You come across as more likable and friendly.
  • Through pain show strength.  It takes a strong person to smile through pain.
  • Can redirect your day toward adventure, possibility, and being carefree.

Meditating on the Word of God will help you smile more.

 A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22 King James Version (KJV)

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.

All the days of the afflicted are evil: but he that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.  Proverbs 15:13, 15 (KJV)

Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The Lord hath done great things for them.

The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.  Psalm 126:2, 3 (KJV)

 If I say, ‘I will forget my complaint, I will put off my sad face and wear a smile,’ Job 9:27 New (NKJV).

Humor Time

At Sunday school they were teaching how God created everything, including human beings.  Little Johnny seemed especially intent when they told him how Eve was created out of one of Adam’s ribs.  Later in the week his mother noticed him lying down as though he were ill, and said, Johnny what is the matter?  Little Johnny responded, “I have pain in my side.  I think I’m going to have a wife.”                                                            –Author Unknown

Two boys were walking home from Sunday school after hearing a strong preaching on the devil.  One said to the other, “What do you think about all this satan stuff?”  The other boy replied, “Well, you know how Santa Claus turned out.  It’s probably just your dad.”           –Author Unknown

An elderly woman died last month.  Having never married, she requested no male pallbearers.  In her handwritten instructions for her memorial service, she wrote, “They wouldn’t take me out while I was alive, I don’t want them to take me out when I’m dead.    – Author Unknown

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One of my quests for 2017 is to encourage people (myself included) to do better (mentally, spiritually, and physically).  I believe the best way to do this is by setting goals that you can live with for the rest of your life. 

The Do Better challenge for this blog:  SMILE MORE

Ways to do this include, but are not limited to:

Goal A  

  1. Write the word “Smile” on an index card. You’re painting a picture that your brain can see. If it visualizes something – it will aim to work toward it. 
  1. Tape the index card to your bathroom or bedroom mirror. The bathroom mirror would probably be better because then everyone else who goes in there will also be encouraged to smile.
  1. Every time you look in that mirror, smile. Your brain doesn’t know the difference between what is real versus what is false.  So smile whether you feel like it or not.

Goal B

  1. Smile at a complete stranger at least once a day. Someone may think you’re strange and won’t smile back.  They may even think you’re trying to get a date, but don’t let that stop you.  If they refuse to smile back, it’s their loss.  Just move on to the next person.  Think of your smile as a two-fold good deed.  You’ll feel good and you could also brighten someone’s day.

Did you achieve your goal?  Ways to measure:

  • Take a few minutes at the end of each day to write down your smiling experience for that day.
  • Keep a calendar where you can check off or put a smiley face each day that you complete your daily goal. Keep doing this every day, and you’ll have a chain of days you’ve checked off.

Do this challenge for 2 weeks or until it becomes habit.  Encourage someone to join you.  

I can’t encourage you to do something that I’m not willing to do.  So I’ll be taking this challenge beginning March. 1st.

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When I sat down at the computer to begin this blog, I didn’t know what I was going to share.  The only thing I knew for certain was that I wanted to share my song.  Now I have to make myself stop typing.  It’s like eating potato chips.  Once you get started, it’s hard to stop.

Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to view the video and read all the nuggets. 

Bye for now.           2 smiling faces.jpg

“Smile”

Smile tho’ your heart is aching
Smile even tho’ it’s breaking
When there are clouds in the sky
You’ll get by

If you smile
Thro’ your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You’ll see the sun come shin-ing thro’ for you

Light up your face with gladness
Hide ev-‘ry trace of sadness
Altho’ a tear may be ever so near

That’s the time
You must keep on trying
Smile, what’s the use of crying
You’ll find that life is still worth-while

If you just smile

— NAT KING COLE

 

Resources

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/520165825686344332/

Steven Furtick, Pastor of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina

https://stevenfurtick.com

TBN  (Trinity Broadcasting Network)

https://www.tbn.org/

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job+9%3A27&version=KJV

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job+9%3A27&version=NKJV

http://www.goal-setting-motivation.com/set-your-goals/writing-goals/

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/natkingcole/smile.html