Tag: video

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)

Hopeful Tidbits

* Having a sense of humor can make life easier. Laughing at yourself can make life even easier.

* Singing: (Trouble Doesn’t Last Always© ℗ 2006 Annette M. Harris All rights reserved.). I hope it blesses you.

* Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Include them in your diet.

*** Tidbit 1   Gotta Smile

When you can laugh at yourself, you are free.

To make mistakes is human; to stumble is commomplace; to be able to laugh at yourself is maturity.~William Arthur Ward

Learn to laugh at yourself. Life will be a lot funnier. ~Valley & Co.

Blessed are we who can laugh at ourselves for we shall never cease to be amused.

Having a sense of humor can make life a little easier. Being able to laugh at yourself can also make life a little easier.  When you can laugh at yourself you admit that you are not a perfect person. You’re confident enough to share your flaws.

The ability to laugh at yourself can help you remain humble. It can be therapeutic. It can allow you to help someone else. It brings about courage because it’s not always easy to laugh at yourself.

I received an email from a friend.  She wrote, “I fixed supper and forgot to put meat on my plate.  I laughed at myself when I ate without it. Goes to show I can do without meat sometimes.” One of the best things you can do after laughing at yourself is to see what you can learn from the incident.  In her case, she saw that she didn’t have to eat meat at every meal.

One time I went in Walmart, had other things on my mind, came out and didn’t remember where I parked my car.  I was so embarrassed. I walked slowly, trying to find it. I was hoping nobody who knew me saw me. If all else failed, I would have pressed the alarm on my keys, but I found it, thank the Lord. Lesson learned: pay attention to where I park or write down where I parked.

 I’m cold natured so when the weather turns cold, I like to wear layers. One morning as I got dressed for work, I put on a black top and the matching pants.  On my way out the door, I remembered that I hadn’t put my footless tights on under my pants.  I went in my bedroom, took off my pants and put on my tights.  I already had on my knee highs. I put on my shoes and went out the door.  

When I got outside, I looked down and saw that I had forgotten to put my pants back on. Now the top was a long tunic and somebody might have thought that I was wearing a mini dress. I looked around; hoping none of my neighbors had seen me. I hurriedly went back in and put on my pants.

Usually I will look at myself in a full length mirror before I leave the house. If I would have taken the time to look, I would have seen that I only had on the pantyhose under the tunic.  Now I could have taken this story with me to my grave but I decided to share it.  I told my coworker; she felt to share it with my boss.  Another lady overheard me telling my coworker so I had to retell it.  I know I must have repeated that story at least 5 times that day. But you know what, people had a good time laughing and laughter does a body good!

Lesson learned: Always take time to look in the mirror before I go out the door, even when I’m in a hurry. It’s good to have a full length mirror and a shorter mirror.  You can hold up the shorter mirror to look at yourself from behind.

Also, be careful what you pray for.  I often ask the Lord to let me be a blessing to others. Well, that day I was a blessing to others cause they had a good laugh at my expense. I was blessed also because each time I told it, I got a good laugh.

Whenever you feel like you have nothing to laugh about, maybe it’s a good idea to laugh at yourself. In this life you’re gonna find plenty occasions to do just that. Look back over your life at some of the stupid things you did.  Some of them were funny and stupid. Some of them were dangerous. Then thank God that He kept you. He kept your mind. He kept your body. He kept you from going to jail. He kept you from beating somebody up. The list can go on and on. God is a keeper, yes He is!

We can’t blame everything on the ageing process. At all ages humans make some not so intelligent decisions. God didn’t make us perfect.  Sometimes we just need to slow down, concentrate, and stop multitasking. Sometimes God may try to warn us but we’re too busy to listen or we just think we know.  Whatever your age, don’t take yourself so seriously. You’re gonna be doing stupid stuff until you die or until Jesus comes, so you might as well learn to laugh!

*** Tidbit 2   Trouble doesn’t last always.

Aren’t you glad that trouble doesn’t last always?  Each particular trouble does have an expiration date. Good news! Born again believers don’t have to go through that trouble alone.

You will find in Psalm 91, that you can go to God and find refuge. He’ll be with you in that trouble and He will deliver you. He may deliver you while you’re on earth and He may deliver you by taking you to Heaven. Either way you’ll be delivered.

Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and hear the song God gave to me, (Trouble Doesn’t Last Always© ℗ 2006 Annette M. Harris. All rights reserved.). I hope it blesses you.

*** Tidbit  3   The Sweet Potato

The sweet potato belongs to the root family – meaning that the part you eat is the root. The white potato is part of the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes, eggplant and hot peppers. There are hundreds of different varieties of sweet potato. They are usually orange, but can also be white, purple or deep red.

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. The following are some impressive health benefits. Sweet potatoes may: improve digestion, treat inflammation, relieve asthma, reduce arthritis pain, help with stomach cramps, and boost the immune system.

Cooking sweet potatoes quickly in high heat (like steaming) is the best way to prepare them. This method retains their nutritional value. The second best way would be boiling. Boiling them in water leaches out some nutrients, but it lowers their glycemic index, which means you get less insulin spike after eating them. Steam or boil them with the skin on to retain as much of their nutritional value as possible.

Remember to include steamed or boiled sweet potatoes in your 2022 DoBetter Challenge. Set a goal to replace some unhealthy junk food with them.

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.  Thanks for the “likes.”

Until next time, have a blessed day!

potato-clipart-27.jpg (1280×720) (clipartmag.com)

OCTOBER Tidbits 

*Keep smiling & laughing!

* When I look around and see what this world is coming to & what the aging process is doing to me, I don’t know what I would do without the Lord!

* 50 and over? You are automatically a member of the Celebrated 50 PLUS club. Enjoy the journey!


Great day everybody! It’s a great day because Jesus is alive! I don’t know what I would do without Him. 

Tidbit 1  Humor Time
*** A good laugh is sunshine in the house.
— William Thackeray
*** Biblical Songs
Noah: “Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head”
Adam and Eve: “Strangers in Paradise”
Lazarus: “The Second Time Around”
Esther: “I Feel Pretty”
Job: “I’ve Got a Right to Sing the Blues”
Moses: “The Wanderer”
Jezebel: “The Lady is a Tramp”
Samson: “Hair”
Salome: “I Could Have Danced All Night”
Daniel: “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”
Joshua: “Good Vibrations”
Peter: “I’m Sorry”
Esau: “Born To Be Wild”
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: “Great Balls of Fire!”
The Three Kings: “When You Wish Upon a Star”
Jonah: “Got a Whale of a Tale”
Elijah: “Up, Up, and Away”
Methuselah: “Stayin’ Alive”
Nebuchadnezzar: “Crazy” ~Unknown

*** Actual Announcements from Church Bulletins
 – Barbara remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more transfusions. She is also having trouble sleeping and requests tapes of Pastor Jack’s sermons.
– Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community.
– This evening at 7 pm there will be a hymn sing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
– Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done.

Tidbit 2  I Don’t Know What I Would Do Without The Lord
In times like these we need someone that we can depend on. We need someone who will always be there. We need someone who we can call on anytime and anywhere.  When I look around and see what this world is coming to, I don’t know what I would do without the Lord. When I look in the mirror and see what the aging process is doing to me, I just don’t know what I would do without the Lord. Click on the video below to hear my (50 PLUS) rendition of I Don’t Know What I Would Do without the Lord.(4:11 min.)

Tidbit 3 Welcome to the club! 
If you’re 50, 60, 70, 80 and over, you are automatically a member of the Celebrated 50 PLUS.  Age brings intelligence, experience, wisdom and beauty. So why are many people scared of it? I blame society. Society has played a big role in our perceptions of aging.  As a result some people struggle with the fact that they are growing older. Is it possible that we fear and deny aging, because we fear and deny death? As a result, are we rejecting the wisdom of the aged? Are we robbing old age of its meaning and the youth of its direction?

Adults 50 and over can feel that they are invisible and neglected by society.  JESUS loves you!  You are not invisible to Him. He will never neglect you. He can still use you if you’re on top of the hill (50) or over the hill (PLUS).

Really though, age is just a number… a number that gets you extra discounts and savings (woohoo)! Turning 50 and going beyond 50 is not a time to look down, but a time to look up.  Exciting things can still happen.  We’ve got places to go, people to see, goals to fulfill, books to write, songs to sing, people to inspire, people to mentor. The list goes on and on. 

  • Harland Sanders, didn’t become “The Colonel” of Kentucky Fried Chicken until he was 65.
  • Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t publish her first novel until she was 65 years old. She’s known for the book –Little House on the Prairie. She went on to write 12 more books.
  • Grandma Moses (Anna Mary Robertson Moses) was 76 when she began her career as a painter.
    Research shows that people 50 years and older who had a more positive self-perception of aging lived 7.5 years longer than people with negative self-perceptions about aging. Research also suggests that those who are grateful report less pain and take better care of themselves, which can increase longevity. 
      
    Affirmations for the Celebrated 50 plus:
  • Whatever my age, my personal relationship with Jesus Christ will empower me to discover and share the hidden wealth that lies within me.
  • Today I make the choice to enjoy life fully, with no regrets (no shoulda, coulda, or woulda from me).
  • It is what it is. I can’t reverse all of the effects of aging.  I WILL strengthen those things that remain because I have work to do for God.  Read Revelation 3:2.
  • Laughing, living in the moment, and adopting a positive attitude will help me stay young at heart.

    Perks Of Being on & over the Hill
  • Kidnappers are not very interested in you.
  • In a hostage situation you are the most likely to be released first. 
  • No one expects you to run — anywhere.
  • You can quit trying to hold in your stomach no matter who walks into the room.

    It’s good to keep a sense of humor as we age, otherwise we could become bitter. The last thing I want to become is a bitter older woman. The aging process and all that goes with it is a reality, a natural part of the life cycle. It’s going to happen, whether we like it or not. The only alternative is – instead of being on top of the hill or over the hill – to be under the hill. So, why not just celebrate?

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.

Thanks for stopping by. Thanks for the “likes.” Don’t forget to click the Follow Button.
 
Until next time, have a blessed day!


                      

Resources
https://www.laughteronlineuniversity.com/quotes-about-laughter/
http://swapmeetdave.com/Humor/Religious.htm
https://www.google.com/search?q=funny+quotes+about+aging&sa=X&biw=1494&bih=766&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&ved=0ahUKEwi_uKPDrrjOAhUCSyYKHR1QDc0QsAQIGw#imgdii=1O2Zt42HnEhdlM%3A%3B1O2Zt42HnEhdlM%3A%3Bl_jSHhHlBHBRcM%3A&imgrc=1O2Zt42HnEhdlM%3A

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.”

blog 16blog 16a

 

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

______________________________________________________________________________

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.

______________________________________________________________________________

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.

blog 16b

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:

 

 

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.

smile-2-poster

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