Tag: jokes

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

Uplifting Tidbits

Have you smiled or laughed today? Humor does a body good. Are you a constant complainer? Complaining can be bad for your health. What can spices do for you? They could protect your health. Spice up your meals and enjoy all the super health benefits that God has provided through herbs and spices!

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.

A man buys a parrot and brings him home. But the parrot starts insulting him and gets really nasty, so the man picks up the parrot and tosses him into the freezer to teach him a lesson. He hears the bird squawking for a few minutes, but all of a sudden the parrot is quiet. The man opens the freezer door, the parrot walks out, looks up at him and says, “I apologize for offending you, and I humbly ask your forgiveness.”

The man says, “Well, thank you. I forgive you.”

The parrot then says, “If you don’t mind my asking, what did the chicken do?”

What did the Judge say when the skunk walked in the courtroom?

Odor in the court! Odor in the court!
          

A police officer attempts to stop a car for speeding and the guy gradually increases his speed until he’s topping 100 mph. The man eventually realizes he can’t escape and finally pulls over. The cop approaches the car and says, “It’s been a long day and my shift is almost over, so if you can give me a good excuse for your behavior, I’ll let you go.” The guy thinks for a few seconds and then says, “My wife ran away with a cop about a week ago. I thought you might be that officer trying to give her back!”  ~James Harris               

–————————————————————   

“Complaining is dangerous business. It can damage or even destroy your relationship with God, your relationships with other people and even with your relationship with yourself.” – Joyce Meyer    

What do you do when you get really stressed out? Is your first instinct to complain? Somehow complaining has become a natural reaction to us. We gripe, groan, vent, and moan about the unfairness of it all. The Children of Israel in the Bible were famous for murmuring and complaining. They also got into a lot of trouble with God because of it.

Research has shown that when we complain, the hippocampus – the part of the brain that plays a crucial role in problem solving and intelligent thought, releases a stress hormone called cortisol.  The release of cortisol is your natural “flight or fight” response that has kept humans alive for thousands of years.  One effect is to raise your blood pressure and blood sugar so that you’ll be prepared to either escape or defend yourself.

All the extra cortisol released by frequent complaining impairs your immune system and makes you more susceptible to high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It even makes the brain more vulnerable to strokes. 

Research also shows that when we hear someone else groan, moan or complain.  It’s like inhaling second-hand smoke.  So, damage can be caused either way. 

Because complaining has become a natural reaction to many of us, we have to train ourselves to not complain so much. Now this doesn’t mean that we should never complain or vent, but if and when we do, it’s suggested that we do it with the purpose of resolving a concern or grievance not just because it rained when you wanted the sun to shine or because the clerk at the grocery store didn’t say thank you.

Venting could keep us from going off on somebody.  The key is having the right, trusted person you can vent to: Someone who can encourage you, give you insight, or just be there to listen. 

I’m a work in progress when it comes to complaining.  When I sing songs like Rev. Paul Jones’s song: I Won’t Complain, it reinforces the fact that God has indeed been good to me and I must practice being more thankful cause – things could always be worse.  Somebody said, “I had no shoes and complained, until I met a man who had no feet.”

Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of Rev. Paul Jones’s song: I Won’t Complain.

–———————————————————— 

Are you aware that adding herbs and spices to your food not only add extra flavor but they may also help protect your body?  Some aid fat burning and boost metabolism and help stabilize blood sugar.  Some have powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties.

Here are 8 herbs & spices that may benefit you.

1. Basil – Basil is a very effective anti-inflammatory herb with extraordinary healing benefits that work for arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel conditions, to name a just a few.

2.  Cinnamon is highly effective at helping to stabilize blood sugar levels, making it very effective for those with diabetes (type 1 and type 2). In one study of people with type 2 diabetes, just two teaspoons a day reduced blood sugar as much as 20-30%, as well as lowering LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

3.  Rosemary has long been known to improve concentration, boost memory, and lift depression. Rosemary also strengthens the immune system, improves circulation, stimulates digestion, and fights cancer, as well. 
 
4.  Thyme’s active ingredient is known for treating bronchitis, sore throats, chest congestion, laryngitis and asthma.  It is also effective as a soothing stomach aid to relieve gastritis, indigestion and colic.

5.  Turmeric is said to be more effective slowing down the development of Alzheimer’s disease than many medications, because it decreases inflammation and oxidation in the brain. This spice also speeds up the recovery time from strokes as well.

6.  Cloves have strong antiseptic and germicidal ingredients that help fight infections, relieve digestive problems, and arthritis pain. One of cloves’ best known uses is its ability to relieve tooth and gum pain. 

7.  Cumin is known for being especially good for digestion.  It helps detoxify the body, and is highly effective for respiratory disorders like asthma and bronchitis. 

8. Oregano contains oil that is a very potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral agent). It may also relieve inflammation, internal or external, and offer relief from allergies, aches and pain, without side effects. 

Spice up your life a bit and enjoy all the super health benefits that God has provided through herbs and spices!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.  Always check with your physician to be sure certain herbs and spices don’t interfere with medications you may be taking

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.

I hope enjoyed these uplifting tidbits. Thanks for watching.  Until next time, have a blessed day!

Thanks for stopping by.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Look me up on YouTube.

Sources
https://www.blissquote.com/2020/04/complaining-quotes.html
https://www.beano.com/posts/snow-white-jokes

http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes/4https://ideapod.com/constant-complaining-is-bad-for-your-health/http://clipart-library.com/herbs-cliparts.htmlhttp://www.truthaboutabs.com/top-10-spices.html.

Refreshing Tidbits

Need to smile? See these jokes. Need a break from stress? Try a stress ball. Need to hear a happy praise song? You’ve come to the right place. Be blessed!

Hello! I’m excited that you decided to visit Happy & Fit 4 the Master’s Use, where I 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.

HUMOR TIME

“Trouble knocked at the door, but, hearing laughter, hurried away.” – Benjamin Franklin

During lunch at work, I ate 3 plates of beans (which I know I shouldn’t). When I got home, my husband seemed excited to see me and exclaimed delightedly, “Darling I have a surprise for dinner tonight.” He then blindfolded me and led me to my chair at the dinner table. I took a seat and just as he was about to remove my blindfold, the telephone rang. He made me promise not to touch the blindfold until he returned and went to answer the call. The beans I had consumed were still affecting me and the pressure was becoming unbearable, so while my husband was out of the room, I seized the opportunity, shifted my weight to one leg and let one go. It was not only loud, but it smelled like a fertilizer truck running over a skunk in front of a garbage dump! I took my napkin from my lap and fanned the air around me vigorously. Then, shifting to the other leg, I ripped off three more. The stink was worse than cooked cabbage.

Keeping my ears carefully tuned to the conversation in the other room, I went on releasing atomic bombs like this for another few minutes. The pleasure was indescribable! Eventually the telephone farewells signaled the end of my freedom, so I quickly fanned the air a few more times with my napkin, placed it on my lap and folded my hands back on it feeling very relieved and pleased with myself. My face must have been the picture of innocence when my husband returned, apologizing for taking so long. He asked me if I had peaked through the blindfold, and I assured him I had not. At this point, he removed the blindfold, and twelve dinner guests seated around the table, with their hands to their noses, chorused, “Happy Birthday!”   heso1

A child asked his father, “How were people born?” So his father said, “Adam and Eve made babies, then their babies became adults and made babies, and so on.” The child then went to his mother, asked her the same question and she told him, “We were monkeys then we evolved to become like we are now.” The child ran back to his father and said, “You lied to me!” His father replied, “No, your mom was talking about her side of the family.”  Anonymous

GOD IS GOOD!

We easily declare that God is good – on our BEST days. I got a raise on my job.  God is good!  I found a great parking space at Walmart.  The man of my dreams found me.  Oh, God is good!  

On our WORST days, it can be challenging to declare that God is good. I lost my job.  My car broke down on the side of the road.  My husband has been diagnosed with cancer.  Although it may not seem like it, God is still good. 

God’s goodness shows up in our lives every single day.
* He wakes us up.  
* He gives us breath. 
* He protects us from dangers we can and cannot see.
* Most importantly, He provides salvation [John 3:16] and all the perks (peace, joy, deliverance ….) that come with it.

If you’re ever doubt that God is good just remember:  You didn’t safely arrive at your destination, in your car simply because you’re a good driver. You didn’t tell your heart to beat this morning.  You didn’t keep yourself safe during the night.  It was God and He is good all the time!

Click on the video below to hear an oral presentation of this blog and to hear my rendition of the song: God is Good.

STRESS BALLS

In today’s “new normal” world, it’s easy to become stressed out.  At times I find it stressful just going to the grocery store.  I put on my mask. I have to make sure I’m going in the right door. hat I’m used to buying, I can’t always find.  I have to remind myself to breathe and calm down. I feel like I’m in an episode of the Twighlight Zone.  By the time I get home, I’m just tired! 

Dealing with negative stress can have serious effects on your health and cause strain in relationships.  When stress gets too awful, your blood pressure can go up, your hair can fall out, it can lead to a stroke and even a heart attack.  It can cause you to gain weight, be short tempered and unfriendly.

One way that you can cope with stress is to use a stress ball.  A stress ball is a small, soft, kneadable ball that you can squeeze in your hand. They come in different shapes and sizes.  They are easy to find and not expensive.  

Here are 4 benefits of using a stress ball.

1. Stress causes a lot of physical tension. The main benefit of the act of repeatedly squeezing a stress ball is that it releases tension and helps to relieve stress.  When you tighten your grip around a stress ball, your hand and wrist muscles constrict. Then, as you release your hand by relaxing your muscles, your whole-body releases stress and tension. 

2. A stress ball may help boost blood circulation. As you constrict and contract your finger and hand muscles, you improve the blood flow to your hands and wrists, which helps your muscles rid themselves of toxins, and improves function.

3. Stress can cause you to lose sleep.  The use of the stress ball may help to promote sleep because it relaxes the body. When you get the right kind of sleep you need, you become more productive during the day.

4. A stress ball can contribute to your mental health.  Regular use can help clear your mind, even if only for a little while.  Your focus is directed towards the act of squeezing the ball.  As you squeeze it, your mind can become relaxed and distracted from stressful activities. 

Here’s a basic way to use a stress ball.
–     Squeeze the stress ball in your left hand for 30 seconds.
–     Pulse it for 30 seconds.
–     Repeat with the right hand.

Meditate on scripture while squeezing the stress ball.

John 14:1  Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.

Isaiah 41:10  Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Get that stress ball out!  Throw it across the room if you have to.  Just don’t throw it at your boss.  Give it a chance and see just how it might benefit you.
Check with your doctor first if you have health issues.

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.

Thanks for stopping by.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Look me up on YouTube.

SOURCES
https://www.keepinspiring.me/funny-quotes/http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes/3http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes/clean-jokes

Cheerful Tidbits

Have you smiled today? How’s your memory? Need to hear a hymn?

These mental, physical, and spiritual tidbits are here to encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile. Enjoy!

Tidbit #1                                            Humor time

Church Gossip:  Mildred, the church gossip and self-appointedBlog 2a 2020 arbiter of the church’s morals, kept sticking her nose in the other members’ private lives. Church members were unappreciative of her activities but feared her enough to maintain their silence.

She made a mistake, however, when she accused George, a new member, of being an alcoholic after she saw his pickup truck parked in front of the town’s only bar one afternoon.

She commented to George and others that everyone seeing it there would know what he was doing.

George, a man of few words, stared at her for a moment and just walked away. He didn’t explain, defend or deny; he said nothing.

Later that evening, George quietly parked his pickup in front of Mildred’s house… and left it there all night!                    

Actual Announcements from Church Bulletins
–Ladies, don’t forget the rummage sale. It’s a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house.  Don’t forget your husbands.”

–The sermon this morning: “Jesus Walks on the Water.” The sermon tonight: “Searching for Jesus.”

–Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get.

The Visit:  A preacher visits an elderly woman from his congregation. As he sits on the couch he notices a large bowl of peanuts on the coffee table. “Mind if I have a few?” he asks.

“No, not at all!” the woman replied.

They chat for an hour and as the preacher stands to leave, he realizes that instead of eating just a few peanuts, he emptied most of the bowl. “I’m terribly sorry for eating all your peanuts, I really just meant to eat a few.”

“Oh, that’s all right,” the woman says. “Ever since I lost my teeth all I can do is suck the chocolate off them.”
——————————————————-
Tidbit #2
The hymn At the Cross was published in 1707.  It has definitely stood the test time.  It was written by Isaac Watts who wrote over 600 hymns during his lifetime, including Joy to the World. The main subject of the hymn is salvation.  The scripture verses – 1 Timothy 2:5-6 (KJV).
5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Click on the video link https://youtu.be/vvkUN4u4tMc to hear the oral presentation of this blog and my rendition of At the Cross.
——————————————————-

Blog 2b 2020

Tidbit #3
How’s your memory?
A strong memory depends on the health and vitality of your brain. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or a senior, there are many things you can do to improve your memory and mental performance.

One way to improve your memory is to give your brain a workout. You need to do brain training just like you need to do strength training.  Here are 4 things to consider when choosing a brain boosting activity.

  1. Choose an activity that is unfamiliar and teaches you something new. Let it take you out of your comfort zone.  It shouldn’t be something that you’re already good at. To strengthen the brain, you need to keep learning and developing new skills.

  2. The activity should be challenging and demand your full and close attention. It’s not enough that the activity was challenging at one point. It must still be something that requires mental effort. For example, learning to play a challenging new piece of music counts. Playing a difficult piece you’ve already memorized does not.

  3. Look for an activity that allows you to start at an easy level and work your way up as your skills improve —always pushing the envelope so you continue to stretch your capabilities. When a previously difficult level starts to feel comfortable, that means it’s time to tackle the next level of performance.

  4. Choose an activity that’s challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding. Rewards support the brain’s learning process. The more interested and engaged you are in the activity, the more likely you’ll continue doing it and the greater the benefits you’ll experience.   

Right now is the perfect time to do something you haven’t had the time to do, like learning how to play a musical instrument, take a cooking class, learn how to crochet, play chess, learn a foreign language, or master your golf swing.

— Test your recall. Make a list — of grocery items, things to do, or anything else that comes to mind — and memorize it.  An hour or so later, see how many items you can recall.  Make items on the list as challenging as possible for the greatest mental stimulation.blog 2 memory

— Do math in your head. Figure out problems without using a pencil, paper, or computer; you can make this more difficult — and athletic — by walking at the same time.

Any of these activities may help you improve your memory, as long as they keep you challenged and engaged.  Let’s get started!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.  It doesn’t replace your doctor’s orders.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, get to know Him even better.

If you do not know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be one of the wisest decisions you will ever make.  He’ll give you strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow.  He’ll be faithful.  You may change on Him, but He’ll never change on you!

Bye for now.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Thanks for visiting!

 

 

RESOURCES:
https://www.netfunny.com/rhf/jokes/05/Aug/gossip.html
http://swapmeetdave.com/Humor/Religious.htm
http://swapmeetdave.com/Humor/Religious.htm
https://www.animatedimages.org/cat-laughing-1309.ht
https://www.greatchristianhymns.com/at-the-cross.html
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Timothy+2%3A5-6&version=KJV
https://www.pinterest.se/pin/328481366545003612/
https://www.pinterest.se/pin/214906213459293354/

 

Positive Tidbits

Need to escape from the stressors of today? You’ve come to the right place! I hope that at least one of these mental, physical and spiritual tidbits will encourage, enlighten, motivate you, and/or simply make you smile.

Have you smiled today?  Have you laughed today?  Studies show that something as simple as smiling can benefit your health and wellbeing.  Studies have also shown that you can still reap health benefits even if your smile is fake.

social media smiley April 2020

Let’s begin with a little humor.

A Healthy Lifestyle: A woman walked up to a little old man rocking in a chair on his porch.

“I couldn’t help noticing how happy you look,” she said. “What’s your secret for a long happy life?”

“I smoke three packs of cigarettes a day,” he said. “I also drink a case of whiskey a week, eat fatty foods, and never exercise.”

“That’s amazing,” the woman said. “How old are you?’

“Twenty-six,” he said.

A Special Request: A certain pastor conducts an expanded altar call at the end of his sermons. He asks those who wish to make spiritual decisions to come forward, as well as those with prayer requests or some other questions. One Sunday, his three-year-old daughter responded to his invitation. She waited patiently while others ahead of her made their requests. When her turn came, her father leaned down to ask for her request. She whispered, “Can we go to the restaurant after church”?

Busted Smiles: A boy was reprimanded for laughing out loud during school. “Teacher, I didn’t mean to. I was smiling, and the smile busted.”

Take Care of Yourself!
It can be easy to get stressed due to this “new normal” brought to us by coronavirus. It is important to make your physical, spiritual and mental health a priority during this time. God does not want us to be stressed out to the point where it negatively impacts our health.

Here are some potential stress busters.

PHYSICAL
• Physical Activity – Aim for at least 150 minutes a week. You don’t have to get it all in at one time. It can be broken down in 10-minute increments. The main thing is that you find something that you will do and then just – do it.

• Limit processed foods and include a variety of foods like citrus fruits, vegetables, spices, yogurt and other whole foods in your diet on a consistent basis. You build a stronger immune system by maintaining healthy eating habits over time.

• Get that water in – Staying hydrated can boost your immune health. Staying hydrated helps your body naturally eliminate toxins and other bacteria that may cause illness.

• Get enough sleep – God designed us to need sleep. Sleep gives your body time to rest and repair. When or if you have trouble sleeping, here are 2 Bible verses that can help you.

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”(King James Version, Psalm 4:8)

“When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.” (KJV, Proverbs 3:24)

SPIRITUAL
• Just like you eat food every day, you should do the same with your prayer life. You move closer to God and get to know Him better when you develop and maintain a consistent prayer life.

• Praise God when you feel like it and when you don’t. “Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord.” (KJV, Psalm 150:6)

social media 2 April 2020The more you praise Him, the better you’ll feel. There’s no way you can be sad and praise God at the same time.

• Meditate on Scripture. Meditate on the awesome works of God. Meditate on God himself. Psalm 145 is an excellent place to start.

MENTAL
• Write down something you are grateful for.
I’m grateful that when I get out of bed every morning, I need the help of nobody but God.

• Take a break: step away from the news, radio, social media, etc.
Turn on the radio and dance like you’ve lost your mind.

• Speak positive things to yourself. For example: Read aloud:
Psalm 118:24 This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Throughout the day speak it and make it personal:
This is the day that the Lord has made. 
I will–     I choose to–     I have a right to–     I get to–
REJOICE and BE GLAD in it!

Click on the video to hear a shortened oral presentation of this blog and to hear my rendition of the song: This is the Day.

Did I make you smile?  Were you able to escape from what’s going on in the world for just a few minutes?  I hope so.

Try to find something to smile about every day and it’s okay if your smile breaks out into a laugh.

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 because – in times like these we need a Savior.

Bye for now.  Feel free to share any tips or positive thoughts.

Thanks for visiting!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only. It doesn’t replace the advice of your doctor.

Resources:
https://clipartart.com/categories/free-clipart-smiley-face-thumbs-up.html
https://www.arcamax.com/entertainment/humor/jokes/s-1219284
Finding Faith During Times of Chaos
Hodgin,  M.(1994). 1001 Humorous Illustrations for Public Speaking.  Zondervan Publishing House.

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

 

 

Wellness

Need a little humor? Stop by. Wellness involves the whole person: the body, mind, and spirit. We must strive to have a balance in all three areas. We should periodically examine our lives to make sure that we improve and maintain our emotional, as well as physical and spiritual wellness.

Humor Time

A woman goes to the Doctor, worried about her husband’s temper.

The Doctor asks: “What’s the problem?”

The woman says: “Doctor, I don’t know what to do. Every day my husband seems to lose his temper for no reason. It scares me.”

The Doctor says: “I have a cure for that. When it seems that your husband is getting angry, just take a glass of water and start swishing it in your mouth. Just swish and swish but don’t swallow it until he either leaves the room or calms down.”

Two weeks later the woman comes back to the doctor looking fresh and reborn.

The woman says: “Doctor that was a brilliant idea! Every time my husband started losing it, I swished with water. I swished and swished, and he calmed right down! How does a glass of water do that?”

The Doctor says: “The water itself does nothing. It’s keeping your mouth shut that does the trick.”

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10 Things You Never Hear in Church

  1. Hey! It’s my turn to sit in the front pew!

  2. I was so enthralled; I never noticed your sermon went 25 minutes over time.

  3. Personally I find witnessing much more enjoyable than golf.

  4. I’ve decided to give our church the $500 a month I used to send to TV evangelists.

  5. I volunteer to be the permanent teacher for the Junior High Sunday School class.

  6. Forget the denominational minimum salary. Let’s pay our pastor so he can live like we do.

  7. I love it when we sing hymns I’ve never heard before!

  8. Since we’re all here, let’s start the service early.

  9. Pastor, we’d like to send you to this Bible seminar in the Bahamas

  10. Nothing inspires me and strengthens my commitment like our annual stewardship campaign!

    Submitted by: NoNo & Co.
    Author/Creator Unknown

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I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.

O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.

Psalm 34:1-3 Kings James Version(KJV)

Hope this video blesses you.

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WELLNESS

Wellness:“Wellness is the complete integration of body, mind, and spirit – the realization that everything we do, think, feel, and believe has an effect on our state of well-being.” – Greg Anderson

Emotional Wellness implies the ability to be aware of and accept our feelings, rather than deny them, have an optimistic approach to life, and enjoy life despite its occasional disappointments and frustrations.

Seven tips to improve and maintain emotional wellness:

  1. Learn to accept changes in your life. Change happens whether we like it or not. It may not always feel good, but it provides an opportunity for growth.

  2. Think about what you’re thinking about. Only you can decide what you think about. So make the decision to think positive.

  3. Learn to laugh, especially at yourself. Research shows that laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax your body, and reduce stress.

  1. Have hope. Having hope helps you to believe that your situation won’t last always. We read in Psalm 42:5, Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.(KJV)

  2. Enjoy life. Do at least one thing every day that you enjoy doing (taking a walk, drawing, knitting, etc). Write down things you are thankful for. Practice smiling.

  3. Learn to love and accept yourself just as you are. You can’t change your height. You can’t change your skin color. You can’t change your age. Don’t compare yourself or your life to those around you. The bottom line: it is what it is.

  4. Let bygones be bygones. Holding on to past hurts and failures can be toxic for your emotional wellbeing. It’s important to learn how to forgive and move forward.

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 post:  Examine your emotional wellbeing.  Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Am I able to maintain a balance of work, family, friends, and other obligations?

  • Do I have ways to reduce stress in my life?

  • Am I able to make decisions with a minimum of stress and worry?

  • Am I able to set priorities?

If you answered “no” to any of the questions, you’re lacking in this area at this time of your life.  Set some goals to help you adopt healthy habits and attitudes that foster wellness. The better you are able to master your emotions, the better able you are to cope with the stressors of life. You will also be able to move forward in a positive direction.

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Bye for now.  Thanks for visiting.

 

Resources

http://www.sunnyskyz.com/funny-jokes/146/A-Woman-Goes-To-The-Doctor-Worried-About-Her-Husband-s-Temper#l5iRs5DdM0om7zmr.99

https://wellness.ucr.edu/emotional_wellness.html

https://www.google.com/search?q=emotional+well+being&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=0ahUKEwiR2Oac083TAhVFKWMKHVPkBUgQ_AUIBygC&biw=1390&bih=763&dpr=1#imgrc=f-IYgXuMOkEnrM: