The Power of Positive Thinking, by Guideposts founder Dr. Norman Vincent Peale, was published originally in 1953 and I recently read that it has sold somewhere around 26 million copies worldwide.
It's not surprising that it is filled with meaningful insight that is still relevant today.
I wanted to highlight one aspect of the book in particular this week because it has taken on great meaning for me, especially in recent days. That concept is the daily practice of having a time of nothing but quiet. The prescription Dr. Peale recommends is for 15 minutes of absolutely no noise. Don't try to organize your thoughts. Don't read. Don't write. Just listen.
Silence is a precious commodity for me. The balancing act of wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, author and speaker—although all of those roles are precious to me—can leave me tired and needing renewal. I am sure each of you can relate to the various demands that fall on all of us. And I have begun to understand with a growing appreciation the value of something as simple as quietness.
I have recently tried to implement this 15-minute rule in my own life. Some days I make it, some days the quiet doesn't come until I collapse into bed at the end of a busy day. But on the days that I can snag a little piece of solitude early on, I realize so many benefits. I can listen to God. And sometimes the silence reveals the very greatest truths to our hearts and lives from Him.
I firmly believe this practice is making a difference in my energy levels, productivity and patience throughout my day. Isaiah 30:15 says it best: “In quietness and rest is my strength.” Make yourself a priority by treating yourself to 15 minutes of unscripted solitude. You'll be amazed at the blessing you receive.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
It's time to say, "Yes, I Can!"
I just returned from speaking at an event for an organization called Yes, I Can, Inc. At 39, I was on a slate of speakers with a bunch of 20'ish Hollywood actors, and it really made me nervous. The audience, too, was younger than those I normally address.
Without even realizing it, I began the old, negative self-talk. I asked myself, “What do I have to offer this group? I’m an old lady compared to the rest of them. They couldn’t possibly want to listen to what I have to say.”
It was like I was transported back in time to when I was their age. And that wasn’t a very empowered, confident time in my life.
But fortunately I have learned a thing or two on this journey I have been on for the past few years. And I know better than to give into that kind of negativity. I believed I was there for a purpose. All I could do was share my heart and my story.
In the end, I got great feedback from the very same kids I was so nervous about. I got a chance to talk one-on-one with several of them; they said they got inspiration and motivation from my story of transformation, a fact that still humbles and amazes me to this day.
The experience reinforced some things for me, things that closely mirror the mission of the organization I was working for:
What if I don’t listen to the voices of fear, uncertainty or doubt?
I can choose. I can change. I can persevere. I can do it.
In a world that is telling me I cannot, it’s time to stand and say, “Yes, I can!”
So I leave you with those same encouraging words today. Whatever the obstacle you are facing, remember: Only you can choose your path—whether it be a path to success or failure. If you want to lose weight, or get an education, or change careers, or build better relationships, you can do whatever you want to do.
And no matter what the world says, it’s time for you to say, “Yes, I can!”
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Keep Movin'
I hate the process of moving. It’s really no fun. But sometimes it’s a necessary evil to get where we need to go. Sound familiar?
There are so many things in life that are really no fun, but after all the hard work is done we can truly appreciate where we’ve been and where we are now. The past two weeks have been a confirmation of that for me, as my family moved…again! (But for what I hope will be the last time for a long, long while.)
It seems I’ve been swimming in an endless stream of boxes and Bubble Wrap; forced to clean out drawers and make “keep-it-or-ditch-it” decisions on items that I swore the last time we moved I’d never take to another house.
Sometimes I don’t think we even realize how much unnecessary “stuff” we accumulate until we are actually forced to face it. As I sorted through still-unpacked boxes from our last move, I realized, If I haven’t used it—or missed it—in a year, I probably don’t need it. There were old clothes I’ll never wear again. I came across toys that my kids just had to have that have gone un-played with since before I can remember. There were lots of things that at one time really seemed important that I realized I don’t need to keep after all.
It actually made me think about many things we don’t need to keep but that, in our human nature, we tend to hold on to.
Maybe you have been holding on to a grudge over something that you can’t even really remember the origin of now, but it seemed important at one time. Or maybe there is bitterness that you’ve packed away that you didn’t have any intention of getting rid of. Is it jealousy? Unforgivenness? Hurt?
I’ve come to the conclusion that sometimes it’s good to unpack your life—both literally and figuratively. Moving forces us to do that. And moving on forces us to do that too. Both are hard, but both are good for us. Both really help us to live a cleaner, less complicated, more peaceful existence.
I think at this time of year, we can all benefit from a good spring cleaning…not just in our homes, but in our hearts and lives as well.
There are so many things in life that are really no fun, but after all the hard work is done we can truly appreciate where we’ve been and where we are now. The past two weeks have been a confirmation of that for me, as my family moved…again! (But for what I hope will be the last time for a long, long while.)
It seems I’ve been swimming in an endless stream of boxes and Bubble Wrap; forced to clean out drawers and make “keep-it-or-ditch-it” decisions on items that I swore the last time we moved I’d never take to another house.
Sometimes I don’t think we even realize how much unnecessary “stuff” we accumulate until we are actually forced to face it. As I sorted through still-unpacked boxes from our last move, I realized, If I haven’t used it—or missed it—in a year, I probably don’t need it. There were old clothes I’ll never wear again. I came across toys that my kids just had to have that have gone un-played with since before I can remember. There were lots of things that at one time really seemed important that I realized I don’t need to keep after all.
It actually made me think about many things we don’t need to keep but that, in our human nature, we tend to hold on to.
Maybe you have been holding on to a grudge over something that you can’t even really remember the origin of now, but it seemed important at one time. Or maybe there is bitterness that you’ve packed away that you didn’t have any intention of getting rid of. Is it jealousy? Unforgivenness? Hurt?
I’ve come to the conclusion that sometimes it’s good to unpack your life—both literally and figuratively. Moving forces us to do that. And moving on forces us to do that too. Both are hard, but both are good for us. Both really help us to live a cleaner, less complicated, more peaceful existence.
I think at this time of year, we can all benefit from a good spring cleaning…not just in our homes, but in our hearts and lives as well.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Take Action to Achieve Your Goals
Recently a friend recommended that I read The Principle of the Path: How to Get from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, by Andy Stanley. The book's main message really spoke to me and I wanted to share my perspective.
I think we can all agree that we have hopes, dreams and plans for our lives. And most of us probably have pretty good intentions when it comes to seeing those things happen. But what are we really doing about them?
Chances are, if your plan is to live a long, healthy life, sitting on the couch and just thinking about exercising isn’t the road that will lead you there.
In other words, if you want to end up someplace, you must take deliberate steps to get there. Good intentions are fine, but they aren’t a substitute for action. You need to be on a path to your destination, both literally and figuratively.
If there are disconnects in your life and discrepancies between what you desire in your heart and what you are doing in your life, then let today be the start to changing that.
If you have a destination you are trying to reach (and I believe we all do), remember: Your direction — not your intention — determines that destination.
I think we can all agree that we have hopes, dreams and plans for our lives. And most of us probably have pretty good intentions when it comes to seeing those things happen. But what are we really doing about them?
Chances are, if your plan is to live a long, healthy life, sitting on the couch and just thinking about exercising isn’t the road that will lead you there.
In other words, if you want to end up someplace, you must take deliberate steps to get there. Good intentions are fine, but they aren’t a substitute for action. You need to be on a path to your destination, both literally and figuratively.
If there are disconnects in your life and discrepancies between what you desire in your heart and what you are doing in your life, then let today be the start to changing that.
If you have a destination you are trying to reach (and I believe we all do), remember: Your direction — not your intention — determines that destination.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
There's Worth in Imperfection
I’m so grateful that life is full of teachable moments and that God is constantly reaffirming to me the enormous value and worth He places on all of us as His children.
This point was reinforced before my very eyes yet again this past week.
Several months ago, a new family came to our church and we immediately hit it off. They were warm and friendly; just a great family. Not long after we met, the father shared the story of one of their daughters, whom they'd adopted. (I’ll call her Elizabeth for the purposes of sharing this story.)
He told of how she was born with a cleft palate and her biological parents abandoned her at birth. Whether it was because they felt they couldn't financially care for an infant with health needs or some other reason, this precious baby was given up.
With no hesitation at all, our friends adopted her and welcomed her into their family. They loved her unconditionally and poured themselves into that little life. Years — and many surgeries — later, she is a lovely young woman. But more obvious than her physical attributes is her beautiful heart. She is sweet, loving, funny and kind; a woman who loves God and people. It’s a blessing to know her.
Still, there’s no doubt that she is aware of the circumstances surrounding the early days of her life. She knows the story of her birth parents’ decision. She must remember the medical procedures she underwent to have brought her to where she is today.
Flash forward to a kennel of beautiful Labrador Retriever puppies for sale by another family in our church.
They were all adorable! Some white, some yellow, some black. All playful and energetic. Except for one. (I’ll call her Molly.) She was born without a tail and her back legs don’t work. The American Kennel Club wouldn’t grant a registration for this puppy because she wasn’t perfect. When potential buyers came to look at the litter, they overlooked the smallest, least lovely one.
And yet when Elizabeth first laid eyes on her, she fell in love. In fact, she wouldn't even consider any of the other puppies. Nothing would do until she could make Molly her own. The least likely to be chosen was the one she chose. She realized that the value and the worth of this little pup had nothing to with her exterior. This dog was just as valuable to Elizabeth — maybe more so — because she was not... perfect.
As I watched this story unfold over the course of a few days, I couldn’t help but be reminded again of the incredible worth our loving God places on us. We don’t have to be the most pristine, or the most beautiful. We don’t have to be the most desirable pup in the litter. It doesn’t matter what the world says or doesn’t say about us. And it doesn’t matter where we come from. Our worth is based solely on the fact that the Creator of the Universe says we are worthy! There is no greater source of comfort and strength for me than to know that. And I hope the story of Elizabeth and Molly will remind you of your incredible worth too.
This point was reinforced before my very eyes yet again this past week.
Several months ago, a new family came to our church and we immediately hit it off. They were warm and friendly; just a great family. Not long after we met, the father shared the story of one of their daughters, whom they'd adopted. (I’ll call her Elizabeth for the purposes of sharing this story.)
He told of how she was born with a cleft palate and her biological parents abandoned her at birth. Whether it was because they felt they couldn't financially care for an infant with health needs or some other reason, this precious baby was given up.
With no hesitation at all, our friends adopted her and welcomed her into their family. They loved her unconditionally and poured themselves into that little life. Years — and many surgeries — later, she is a lovely young woman. But more obvious than her physical attributes is her beautiful heart. She is sweet, loving, funny and kind; a woman who loves God and people. It’s a blessing to know her.
Still, there’s no doubt that she is aware of the circumstances surrounding the early days of her life. She knows the story of her birth parents’ decision. She must remember the medical procedures she underwent to have brought her to where she is today.
Flash forward to a kennel of beautiful Labrador Retriever puppies for sale by another family in our church.
They were all adorable! Some white, some yellow, some black. All playful and energetic. Except for one. (I’ll call her Molly.) She was born without a tail and her back legs don’t work. The American Kennel Club wouldn’t grant a registration for this puppy because she wasn’t perfect. When potential buyers came to look at the litter, they overlooked the smallest, least lovely one.
And yet when Elizabeth first laid eyes on her, she fell in love. In fact, she wouldn't even consider any of the other puppies. Nothing would do until she could make Molly her own. The least likely to be chosen was the one she chose. She realized that the value and the worth of this little pup had nothing to with her exterior. This dog was just as valuable to Elizabeth — maybe more so — because she was not... perfect.
As I watched this story unfold over the course of a few days, I couldn’t help but be reminded again of the incredible worth our loving God places on us. We don’t have to be the most pristine, or the most beautiful. We don’t have to be the most desirable pup in the litter. It doesn’t matter what the world says or doesn’t say about us. And it doesn’t matter where we come from. Our worth is based solely on the fact that the Creator of the Universe says we are worthy! There is no greater source of comfort and strength for me than to know that. And I hope the story of Elizabeth and Molly will remind you of your incredible worth too.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Cherry Blossom Reminders
As a Florida girl for most of my life, I was accustomed to beautiful beaches and outdoor scenery. But since I moved to Georgia earlier this year I’ve been treated to all sorts of differences in climate and nature!
One of the most gorgeous sights I’ve seen in recent days has been the blooming cherry blossoms. You don’t see those in Florida! The trees don’t even look real; each flower is so beautiful—only God could be the creator of them.
As we were driving my 10-year-old, Noah, to school not long ago, my husband and I were commenting on this especially striking tree. We had passed it every day for months and never noticed it until all of a sudden it seemed that the blossoms just burst magically overnight.
We continued to admire it for a few days on our trips to and from school, when Noah noticed that in a very short amount of time, many of the blossoms had already fallen to the ground.
Now only two weeks later the branches are looking sparse. There are only a very few pretty blooms left. In what seems like an incredibly short amount of time the once thriving splendor of the flowers is gone. One can only imagine that in another week, it will look completely barren and unassuming as it had all those many months we completely ignored it.
And it happened so quickly.
I researched the average lifespan of a cherry blossom, and found out that there were several variables that could affect it, but generally a healthy tree should bloom for 2-3 weeks. So truly there is a very small window of opportunity to relish the beauty of the cherry blossom trees.
It reminds me of many things in life, and brought to mind the urgency to really soak in all the many blessings God gives us every day. When I get frustrated with the rowdy behavior of my sons, I need only to remember that just yesterday my 10-year-old was a toddler just learning to walk and talk. I blink my eyes and my three-year-old isn’t a baby anymore; but now a self-professed “big boy” who is about to start soccer practice in a month.
The only thing that is consistent in this life is change. Fortunately, the cherry blossoms are still blooming in many places around town. And for however long they last, I intend to soak in the sight of them and enjoy the beauty of this specific part of God’s creation.
I also intend to let them serve as a reminder to appreciate all the blessings in my life—all the precious relationships, experiences and opportunities that come my way each day.
One of the most gorgeous sights I’ve seen in recent days has been the blooming cherry blossoms. You don’t see those in Florida! The trees don’t even look real; each flower is so beautiful—only God could be the creator of them.
As we were driving my 10-year-old, Noah, to school not long ago, my husband and I were commenting on this especially striking tree. We had passed it every day for months and never noticed it until all of a sudden it seemed that the blossoms just burst magically overnight.
We continued to admire it for a few days on our trips to and from school, when Noah noticed that in a very short amount of time, many of the blossoms had already fallen to the ground.
Now only two weeks later the branches are looking sparse. There are only a very few pretty blooms left. In what seems like an incredibly short amount of time the once thriving splendor of the flowers is gone. One can only imagine that in another week, it will look completely barren and unassuming as it had all those many months we completely ignored it.
And it happened so quickly.
I researched the average lifespan of a cherry blossom, and found out that there were several variables that could affect it, but generally a healthy tree should bloom for 2-3 weeks. So truly there is a very small window of opportunity to relish the beauty of the cherry blossom trees.
It reminds me of many things in life, and brought to mind the urgency to really soak in all the many blessings God gives us every day. When I get frustrated with the rowdy behavior of my sons, I need only to remember that just yesterday my 10-year-old was a toddler just learning to walk and talk. I blink my eyes and my three-year-old isn’t a baby anymore; but now a self-professed “big boy” who is about to start soccer practice in a month.
The only thing that is consistent in this life is change. Fortunately, the cherry blossoms are still blooming in many places around town. And for however long they last, I intend to soak in the sight of them and enjoy the beauty of this specific part of God’s creation.
I also intend to let them serve as a reminder to appreciate all the blessings in my life—all the precious relationships, experiences and opportunities that come my way each day.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser - "Acknowledging the Source of Your Strength"
There is a song that we sometimes sing at our church called "I Will Lift My Eyes." It’s by a talented writer named Bebo Norman. It’s a beautiful, reflective song. Every time we sing it I look over at my husband and see tears in his eyes. (He would probably hate that I am sharing this with you but he can just deal with it because it’s true.)
So I finally just broke down recently and asked, "Mike what is it about that song that moves you so much every time you hear it?" His response was very touching and so I want to share it with you.
As background, some of you may not know that when I was cast as part of The Biggest Loser my interaction with my family was completely limited for months. I didn’t get to call home. No letters at first. No e-mails. No nothing.
In fact, no one even knew specifically where I was. Mike only knew I was in California somewhere. And that there was a hotline he could call in case of emergency. It is an essential part of the experience for contestants so that we can really focus on the task at hand: losing a massive amount of weight—getting healthy—and changing our lives. I understand the reason for the mandated separation now.
Well, as my husband was holding down the fort without me—with our then 6-year-old son who didn’t really know where mommy was—he would go to church every week. And during that time they introduced the song "I Will Lift My Eyes" to the congregation.
The first line of the chorus says, "I will lift my eyes to the Maker of the mountains I can’t climb. I will lift my eyes to the Calmer of the oceans raging wild. I will lift my eyes to the Healer of the hurt I hold inside. I will lift my eyes, lift my eyes to You."
Well, those lyrics obviously spoke to him in a very personal way. And as he explained them to me I began to tear up myself.
He said that the wife that he put on a plane to Los Angeles was morbidly obese. Walking up a flight of stairs was more than I could physically do. And he knew I would be forced to "climb mountains" and run races and exert myself physically far beyond what I was capable of doing in my own strength.
He knew that from watching the show that sometimes there was drama and game playing and that there was bound to be some "turbulence" somewhere a long the way and he suspected I would fight against "oceans raging wild" in a number of different areas.
And finally, he knew that this would be a process of soul searching and diving deep into some of the emotional hurts of my life. Eventually examining the reason I allowed myself to get in the unhealthy condition I was in. Because as I have come to believe, excessive weight is not always connected to a number on a scale—many times it’s emotional in origin and requires healing.
So this song covered all of the things that he knew I’d be facing. And it offered the hope that there is One who could meet all those needs.
Once he explained it, I understood. And now I won’t ever be able to hear that song without sharing the same emotional reaction.
So I encourage you today to determine the source of your strength. Tap into that strength and let it give you peace for your daily life. No matter what struggles, turbulence or hurt you may experience—you can "lift your eyes" and find hope to meet you at the point of your need.
So I finally just broke down recently and asked, "Mike what is it about that song that moves you so much every time you hear it?" His response was very touching and so I want to share it with you.
As background, some of you may not know that when I was cast as part of The Biggest Loser my interaction with my family was completely limited for months. I didn’t get to call home. No letters at first. No e-mails. No nothing.
In fact, no one even knew specifically where I was. Mike only knew I was in California somewhere. And that there was a hotline he could call in case of emergency. It is an essential part of the experience for contestants so that we can really focus on the task at hand: losing a massive amount of weight—getting healthy—and changing our lives. I understand the reason for the mandated separation now.
Well, as my husband was holding down the fort without me—with our then 6-year-old son who didn’t really know where mommy was—he would go to church every week. And during that time they introduced the song "I Will Lift My Eyes" to the congregation.
The first line of the chorus says, "I will lift my eyes to the Maker of the mountains I can’t climb. I will lift my eyes to the Calmer of the oceans raging wild. I will lift my eyes to the Healer of the hurt I hold inside. I will lift my eyes, lift my eyes to You."
Well, those lyrics obviously spoke to him in a very personal way. And as he explained them to me I began to tear up myself.
He said that the wife that he put on a plane to Los Angeles was morbidly obese. Walking up a flight of stairs was more than I could physically do. And he knew I would be forced to "climb mountains" and run races and exert myself physically far beyond what I was capable of doing in my own strength.
He knew that from watching the show that sometimes there was drama and game playing and that there was bound to be some "turbulence" somewhere a long the way and he suspected I would fight against "oceans raging wild" in a number of different areas.
And finally, he knew that this would be a process of soul searching and diving deep into some of the emotional hurts of my life. Eventually examining the reason I allowed myself to get in the unhealthy condition I was in. Because as I have come to believe, excessive weight is not always connected to a number on a scale—many times it’s emotional in origin and requires healing.
So this song covered all of the things that he knew I’d be facing. And it offered the hope that there is One who could meet all those needs.
Once he explained it, I understood. And now I won’t ever be able to hear that song without sharing the same emotional reaction.
So I encourage you today to determine the source of your strength. Tap into that strength and let it give you peace for your daily life. No matter what struggles, turbulence or hurt you may experience—you can "lift your eyes" and find hope to meet you at the point of your need.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advise from a Loser - "Pushing Through the Pain to Find the Purpose"
I can honestly say that exercise has become something that I really do enjoy. There was a time in my life when I couldn't get those words out with a straight face, but now I am thankful for a healthy body that is strong enough to exercise. It's therapeutic in many ways. And for me, it's also "social."
I've mentioned several times the women's "boot camp classes" that I attend three days a week. We all sweat together and whine and complain together and yes, we all celebrate our accomplishments together. One of the things I think is the most crucial in the successful journey to not only losing weight to begin with, but also to keeping it off is accountability.
Everyone in the class is at different levels as far as physical fitness. But I still can't forget how it felt to be obese. And I remember the little victories along the way. That's why it is so easy for me to get excited with my friends when I see them hit a milestone or accomplish something significant in their own weight-loss journey.
I wanted to share a specific incident that happened with one of my friends who was new to the class. This particular instance was her very first time working out with us. It's always interesting to watch others "experience" a Biggest Loser-type workout for the first time. As I've often shared, I literally had to crawl to the bathroom in those early days because I was in so much pain.
Well, towards the end of this particular work out session my friend just broke down in tears. It's normal to see people cry during intense workouts. It's a physically and emotionally exhausting experience. (In fact, I watched some big, grown men cry like babies on The Biggest Loser campus.) As she struggled to catch her breath and talk through the tears she said she couldn't articulate why she was crying so hard.
Because of what I've been through, I knew immediately. I said, "I totally get it. You are crying for three reasons..."
1. This is the hardest thing you've ever done and it hurts!
2. You are incredibly proud of yourself for actually doing it!
3. You can't believe you've let it get so out of control and that you are in the shape you are in.
She said that was it completely! I had "read her mind."
Of course not really—but I did recognize the tears because they were my own not too long ago. But I am here to tell my friend and anybody else who is just getting started that YOU CAN DO IT!!!! It will be the hardest thing you've ever done. But like me—you didn't get in the shape you are in overnight—and you won't "undo the damage" overnight either.
Don't get me wrong, I have good days and bad days. I have victorious days, and then days when I still struggle. But I am here to tell you that it can be done. And it is so worth it. So to my friend—if she's reading this—I am more proud of you than you'll ever understand. And to everybody else—keep making progress one day at a time. And if you haven't started…today is the day!
There really is purpose in the pain.
I've mentioned several times the women's "boot camp classes" that I attend three days a week. We all sweat together and whine and complain together and yes, we all celebrate our accomplishments together. One of the things I think is the most crucial in the successful journey to not only losing weight to begin with, but also to keeping it off is accountability.
Everyone in the class is at different levels as far as physical fitness. But I still can't forget how it felt to be obese. And I remember the little victories along the way. That's why it is so easy for me to get excited with my friends when I see them hit a milestone or accomplish something significant in their own weight-loss journey.
I wanted to share a specific incident that happened with one of my friends who was new to the class. This particular instance was her very first time working out with us. It's always interesting to watch others "experience" a Biggest Loser-type workout for the first time. As I've often shared, I literally had to crawl to the bathroom in those early days because I was in so much pain.
Well, towards the end of this particular work out session my friend just broke down in tears. It's normal to see people cry during intense workouts. It's a physically and emotionally exhausting experience. (In fact, I watched some big, grown men cry like babies on The Biggest Loser campus.) As she struggled to catch her breath and talk through the tears she said she couldn't articulate why she was crying so hard.
Because of what I've been through, I knew immediately. I said, "I totally get it. You are crying for three reasons..."
1. This is the hardest thing you've ever done and it hurts!
2. You are incredibly proud of yourself for actually doing it!
3. You can't believe you've let it get so out of control and that you are in the shape you are in.
She said that was it completely! I had "read her mind."
Of course not really—but I did recognize the tears because they were my own not too long ago. But I am here to tell my friend and anybody else who is just getting started that YOU CAN DO IT!!!! It will be the hardest thing you've ever done. But like me—you didn't get in the shape you are in overnight—and you won't "undo the damage" overnight either.
Don't get me wrong, I have good days and bad days. I have victorious days, and then days when I still struggle. But I am here to tell you that it can be done. And it is so worth it. So to my friend—if she's reading this—I am more proud of you than you'll ever understand. And to everybody else—keep making progress one day at a time. And if you haven't started…today is the day!
There really is purpose in the pain.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "A Lesson from the Heart"
A Lesson from the Heart
This past weekend I was invited to travel to St. Louis, Missouri to speak at an event for Christian Hospital. It was a "Heart Fair" and several hundred people were in attendance.
I was asked to be a guest speaker to share "my story" and to educate others of what I had learned on my "journey from obesity to good health." I think after having attended the function I realized that I probably learned far more than I taught.
The motto for the event was "Learn, Change, Live…a healthier life." And there were so many incredible resources at the disposal of the attendees. In addition to presentations on the importance of health screenings, how to live longer, and what food to eat for a better life; there were informational displays where people could talk to health care professionals. I jumped right in, eager to soak in all the information I could. One in particular just about made my jaw drop.
There was a display of real human organs. I was flabbergasted to see the effects that excess fat has on the human body. Having been an obese person, I saw the detriments of fat on the outside. I never really considered what it was doing to my inside.
I never truly thought about the fact that fat accumulates around heart and leads to cholesterol build up in the arteries—and what that looks like in a healthy heart versus one affected by obesity. I’ve heard things like this for years as my own weight ballooned out of control. But seeing the organs was startling and took my head-knowledge to a whole new level. It truly reiterated to me the importance of being healthy and maintaining a healthy body weight.
I am always careful to give advice regarding diet, because I am not a dietician or a doctor and before you do any kind of weight-loss regime or diet program you should check first with your physician. But I did learn some practical, common sense things that I wanted to share with you.
They are just some simple things that can make a difference, for example:
* Eat foods that are naturally low in fat such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
* Get plenty of soluble fiber such as oats, bran, dry peas, beans, cereal, and rice.
* Limit fried foods, processed foods, and commercially prepared baked goods (donuts, cookies, crackers).
* Limit animal products such as egg yolks, cheeses, whole milk, cream, ice cream, and fatty meats (and large portions of meats).
* Look at food labels, especially the level of saturated fat. Avoid or limit foods high in saturated fat.
* Choose lean, protein-rich foods such as soy, fish, skinless chicken, very lean meat, and fat free or 1% dairy products.
To be honest, I have never been a big fan of fish, but this past weekend as I heard of the benefits of Omega 3 fatty acids in preventing cardiovascular disease I became convinced that I need to introduce these more into my own diet and into that of my family.
So I contacted a fabulous local chef in my hometown of Jacksonville—Chef Jessica Bright—to see if she would share a healthy recipe with me so I could share it with you. She was happy to comply. (And this sounds delicious to me!)
Grilled Salmon with Mustard Glaze and Grilled Broccoli
This quick and easy meal can be prepared in minutes and it is wonderfully nutritious, the recommended portion size for the salmon is 3.5 oz per person:
Ingredients
2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 ¼-pound salmon fillets with skin on
1 large head of broccoli, trimmed to medium florets
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
Preparation
1. Preheat grill to high.
2. Pat fillets dry, place skin side down, and season with salt and pepper. Combine mustard and brown sugar then apply paste to the top side of the filets.
3. Spray the grill with grill-safe non-stick cooking spray. Gently place salmon on grill skin side down and grill until skin turns black, about 3 minutes. Turn salmon over and cook until desired doneness.
4. While salmon is cooking toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place in grilling basket and stir occasionally until stalks are tender and florets are nicely browned. Serve immediately.
Note: If you are watching the sodium in your diet omit salt and substitute your favorite sodium-free seasoning.
This Heart Fair opened my eyes to many things. I hope that me sharing with you will give you "food for thought"—and a new recipe which will give you "food for your family." Take care of your heart. And take care of yourself…until next time.
This past weekend I was invited to travel to St. Louis, Missouri to speak at an event for Christian Hospital. It was a "Heart Fair" and several hundred people were in attendance.
I was asked to be a guest speaker to share "my story" and to educate others of what I had learned on my "journey from obesity to good health." I think after having attended the function I realized that I probably learned far more than I taught.
The motto for the event was "Learn, Change, Live…a healthier life." And there were so many incredible resources at the disposal of the attendees. In addition to presentations on the importance of health screenings, how to live longer, and what food to eat for a better life; there were informational displays where people could talk to health care professionals. I jumped right in, eager to soak in all the information I could. One in particular just about made my jaw drop.
There was a display of real human organs. I was flabbergasted to see the effects that excess fat has on the human body. Having been an obese person, I saw the detriments of fat on the outside. I never really considered what it was doing to my inside.
I never truly thought about the fact that fat accumulates around heart and leads to cholesterol build up in the arteries—and what that looks like in a healthy heart versus one affected by obesity. I’ve heard things like this for years as my own weight ballooned out of control. But seeing the organs was startling and took my head-knowledge to a whole new level. It truly reiterated to me the importance of being healthy and maintaining a healthy body weight.
I am always careful to give advice regarding diet, because I am not a dietician or a doctor and before you do any kind of weight-loss regime or diet program you should check first with your physician. But I did learn some practical, common sense things that I wanted to share with you.
They are just some simple things that can make a difference, for example:
* Eat foods that are naturally low in fat such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
* Get plenty of soluble fiber such as oats, bran, dry peas, beans, cereal, and rice.
* Limit fried foods, processed foods, and commercially prepared baked goods (donuts, cookies, crackers).
* Limit animal products such as egg yolks, cheeses, whole milk, cream, ice cream, and fatty meats (and large portions of meats).
* Look at food labels, especially the level of saturated fat. Avoid or limit foods high in saturated fat.
* Choose lean, protein-rich foods such as soy, fish, skinless chicken, very lean meat, and fat free or 1% dairy products.
To be honest, I have never been a big fan of fish, but this past weekend as I heard of the benefits of Omega 3 fatty acids in preventing cardiovascular disease I became convinced that I need to introduce these more into my own diet and into that of my family.
So I contacted a fabulous local chef in my hometown of Jacksonville—Chef Jessica Bright—to see if she would share a healthy recipe with me so I could share it with you. She was happy to comply. (And this sounds delicious to me!)
Grilled Salmon with Mustard Glaze and Grilled Broccoli
This quick and easy meal can be prepared in minutes and it is wonderfully nutritious, the recommended portion size for the salmon is 3.5 oz per person:
Ingredients
2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 ¼-pound salmon fillets with skin on
1 large head of broccoli, trimmed to medium florets
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
Preparation
1. Preheat grill to high.
2. Pat fillets dry, place skin side down, and season with salt and pepper. Combine mustard and brown sugar then apply paste to the top side of the filets.
3. Spray the grill with grill-safe non-stick cooking spray. Gently place salmon on grill skin side down and grill until skin turns black, about 3 minutes. Turn salmon over and cook until desired doneness.
4. While salmon is cooking toss the broccoli with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place in grilling basket and stir occasionally until stalks are tender and florets are nicely browned. Serve immediately.
Note: If you are watching the sodium in your diet omit salt and substitute your favorite sodium-free seasoning.
This Heart Fair opened my eyes to many things. I hope that me sharing with you will give you "food for thought"—and a new recipe which will give you "food for your family." Take care of your heart. And take care of yourself…until next time.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "Love at First Sight"
With Valentine’s Day coming up soon, I thought it might be appropriate to write about “love” this week.
Love can make you do crazy things. It’s brought many a grown man to his knees. And it can make you feel on top of the world or in the depths of despair. Sometimes simultaneously. The human heart is a complex, but wonderful thing.
I personally believe that the word “love” is so misused and overused in society today. It’s not unusual to hear someone say, “Oh, I love that pair of shoes!” Really? You want to use the word “love” to describe the way you feel about a pair of stilettos? It’s crazy how lightly we sometimes take the word that inspired one of the most beautiful passages of scripture ever written in my opinion, 1 Corinthians 13; the love chapter.
But I can truthfully say that I do believe in “love at first sight.” I’ve experienced it myself.
On October 13, 2000, after quick a traumatic delivery, a skillful doctor placed a 4 pound, 7 ounce premature baby boy in my arms and—immediately—I was head over heals in love. It was then that I truly knew what unconditional love was—because I felt it in an instant. And it helped me to see a parallel between our human ability to love as parents and God’s love for us as His children.
See, I know why I love my husband. I can give the list of reasons. But that baby—my son Noah—had done nothing to make me love him. In fact, he had only been in the world a matter of minutes. And if anything, the months and months of morning sickness, extra weight, sleepless nights and body aches would prompt anything but feelings of love. And yet as I held that little squirming baby in my arms for the first time, I would have given my life for him without a second thought. My love for him was pure and complete. It was unconditional. And it really was “love at first sight.”
How incredible it is to think that God views us the same way. When He looks at us—despite all the things we might do that would prompt anything but loving feelings from anyone else—His love for us is pure and complete. He says that before He even formed us in our mother’s womb, He knew us. And loved us.
When you think about that reality, how can you not feel wonderfully blessed?
I say I have been in love three times in my life. The first time I married him. The second time I birthed him. The third time I adopted him.
My wish for each of you reading this today is that your lives will be filled with much love! Happy Valentine’s Day.
Love can make you do crazy things. It’s brought many a grown man to his knees. And it can make you feel on top of the world or in the depths of despair. Sometimes simultaneously. The human heart is a complex, but wonderful thing.
I personally believe that the word “love” is so misused and overused in society today. It’s not unusual to hear someone say, “Oh, I love that pair of shoes!” Really? You want to use the word “love” to describe the way you feel about a pair of stilettos? It’s crazy how lightly we sometimes take the word that inspired one of the most beautiful passages of scripture ever written in my opinion, 1 Corinthians 13; the love chapter.
But I can truthfully say that I do believe in “love at first sight.” I’ve experienced it myself.
On October 13, 2000, after quick a traumatic delivery, a skillful doctor placed a 4 pound, 7 ounce premature baby boy in my arms and—immediately—I was head over heals in love. It was then that I truly knew what unconditional love was—because I felt it in an instant. And it helped me to see a parallel between our human ability to love as parents and God’s love for us as His children.
See, I know why I love my husband. I can give the list of reasons. But that baby—my son Noah—had done nothing to make me love him. In fact, he had only been in the world a matter of minutes. And if anything, the months and months of morning sickness, extra weight, sleepless nights and body aches would prompt anything but feelings of love. And yet as I held that little squirming baby in my arms for the first time, I would have given my life for him without a second thought. My love for him was pure and complete. It was unconditional. And it really was “love at first sight.”
How incredible it is to think that God views us the same way. When He looks at us—despite all the things we might do that would prompt anything but loving feelings from anyone else—His love for us is pure and complete. He says that before He even formed us in our mother’s womb, He knew us. And loved us.
When you think about that reality, how can you not feel wonderfully blessed?
I say I have been in love three times in my life. The first time I married him. The second time I birthed him. The third time I adopted him.
My wish for each of you reading this today is that your lives will be filled with much love! Happy Valentine’s Day.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "Treat Your Calories Like Money....Really Make Them Count!"
I like to think of my home as a safe place in all respects, but safe regarding food in particular. I am a firm believer in “setting yourself up for success”—and I say that all the time. And part of what I am referring to involves stocking your pantry and fridge with good, wholesome, healthy foods.
So you can imagine my struggle when my son had to do a “one hundred day project” at school and informed me that his project of choice was to decorate a picture of a lion (his school mascot) with Reeses Pieces.
Say what???
You have got to be kidding me? A second grader, a glue gun and a bag full of Reeses Pieces is the equation for disaster. However, me and a bag of Reeses Pieces in any scenario…is also the equation for a disaster! It’s amazing how old feelings about food and indulgences you have deprived yourself of for so long can creep back into your mind and become a temptation.
I must be honest with you, I did enjoy a handful of the little orange, yellow and brown tempters. They seemed to call my name from the bag. But I quickly got it under control. This would not have been my response in the past. And I felt good about my decision. But it came on the heels of a recent reality I experienced when looking on the back of the can of some sort of energy drink. It said something to the effect of, “Treat your calories like hundred dollar bills. Make them count.”
That really got me thinking about that concept and how brilliant it is. In the past, I was always an “all or nothing” person. If I fell off the “diet wagon” in the morning I used that as justification to continue to make bad decisions regarding food all day. I would console myself by saying, “I’ll just start tomorrow.” And then tomorrow would become the next week…then the next month…you get the picture.
So I thought about the money connection. Let’s say you had $1,200 and you went on a vacation and early in the morning on that first day you blew $500 of it right away. Would you say to yourself, “Well, I’ve already blown $500 so I might as well just fritter away the remaining $700?”
Absolutely not.
You would pace yourself much more responsibly and budget the remaining money for other things you had to pay for. So it should be the same with our calories. If you slip up and blow your calories on…let’s say…some Reeses Pieces, for example, does that mean you eat whatever you want the rest of the day?
Aboslutely not.
You pace yourself much more responsibly and budget the remainder of your calories so that you enjoy nutritious, smart choices the rest of the day. You don’t feel guilty, and you stay on track. And that’s one of the biggest challenges with losing weight initially and then with maintaining your weight loss afterwards.
In these tough economic times we all want to get the most for our money. And that’s the way we should view our calories too. If there’s something you really want—then spend those calories on it. But then budget the rest responsibly.
I really have adapted this new “treat money like calories” mindset into my way of thinking. And at the very least—it’s fun to pretend I have $1,200 to spend everyday.
So you can imagine my struggle when my son had to do a “one hundred day project” at school and informed me that his project of choice was to decorate a picture of a lion (his school mascot) with Reeses Pieces.
Say what???
You have got to be kidding me? A second grader, a glue gun and a bag full of Reeses Pieces is the equation for disaster. However, me and a bag of Reeses Pieces in any scenario…is also the equation for a disaster! It’s amazing how old feelings about food and indulgences you have deprived yourself of for so long can creep back into your mind and become a temptation.
I must be honest with you, I did enjoy a handful of the little orange, yellow and brown tempters. They seemed to call my name from the bag. But I quickly got it under control. This would not have been my response in the past. And I felt good about my decision. But it came on the heels of a recent reality I experienced when looking on the back of the can of some sort of energy drink. It said something to the effect of, “Treat your calories like hundred dollar bills. Make them count.”
That really got me thinking about that concept and how brilliant it is. In the past, I was always an “all or nothing” person. If I fell off the “diet wagon” in the morning I used that as justification to continue to make bad decisions regarding food all day. I would console myself by saying, “I’ll just start tomorrow.” And then tomorrow would become the next week…then the next month…you get the picture.
So I thought about the money connection. Let’s say you had $1,200 and you went on a vacation and early in the morning on that first day you blew $500 of it right away. Would you say to yourself, “Well, I’ve already blown $500 so I might as well just fritter away the remaining $700?”
Absolutely not.
You would pace yourself much more responsibly and budget the remaining money for other things you had to pay for. So it should be the same with our calories. If you slip up and blow your calories on…let’s say…some Reeses Pieces, for example, does that mean you eat whatever you want the rest of the day?
Aboslutely not.
You pace yourself much more responsibly and budget the remainder of your calories so that you enjoy nutritious, smart choices the rest of the day. You don’t feel guilty, and you stay on track. And that’s one of the biggest challenges with losing weight initially and then with maintaining your weight loss afterwards.
In these tough economic times we all want to get the most for our money. And that’s the way we should view our calories too. If there’s something you really want—then spend those calories on it. But then budget the rest responsibly.
I really have adapted this new “treat money like calories” mindset into my way of thinking. And at the very least—it’s fun to pretend I have $1,200 to spend everyday.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "Not Easy, But So Very Worth It"
I was recently watching a popular late-night news/entertainment show. The topic was weight loss and keeping it off. The guests had lost really remarkable amounts of weight. I was really into watching the show and was shaking my head in agreement with much of what was being said. And then all of a sudden it was like I heard the sound of screeching brakes….
One of the panelists said something to the effect of, “Once you’ve lost the weight and learned the lesson it really isn’t hard to keep it off.”
Wow. I couldn’t believe my ears, because that really isn’t my experience at all. I thought of how discouraging his remarks could be to people who are really fighting hard to maintain a significant weight loss.
Honestly, that was my perception when I first completed my time on The Biggest Loser. I thought it would be “a piece of cake” (no pun intended) to exercise lightly, eat healthily and maintain my dramatic weight loss. I found that not to be true. It’s hard work maintaining a significant weight loss. I actually think losing the weight was easier.
But I don’t want my words to be discouraging, just as I wouldn’t want the words of that talk show guest to be discouraging.
In my situation, it took me 34 years to get to where I was. It took me roughly eight months to lose the weight I needed to. And I fully expect that it will take me the rest of my life to maintain it. I don’t want to give anyone a false sense of expectation. But I don’t want to convey a false sense of discouragement either.
I think healthy living and good choices regarding food, exercise and quality of life in general are choices we all must make daily. This may surprise you, but I want to always remember the fat girl inside me because I don’t want to ever go back there. But I’ve got to be honest when I say my desire for southern fried chicken and mashed potatoes and gravy hasn’t gone away just because I lost nearly 100 pounds.
So when I heard this guy the other night quip, “Eh, it’s easy.” I thought that was a dangerous message to send. We have to combat the “Hollywood mentality” anyway—when we see movie stars drop their baby weight in what seems like minutes after having the baby. And the truth is—at least for me—maintenance is not easy.
But—and this is important—it is possible and it’s so very worth it!
I refer often to my “journey to good health and fitness.” It’s an amazing journey with so many benefits. I am thankful for the body that I have and for the strength that I possess.
I guess what I want to share with those of you reading this—is that it may be a struggle, but please don’t let that discourage you. Anything worth having is worth working hard for and for exerting continuous effort towards. Author Liane Cordes wrote, “Continuous effort—not strength or intelligence—is the key to unlocking our potential.”
So I encourage you to continue in your effort to unlock your own potential. You’ll be so glad you did.
One of the panelists said something to the effect of, “Once you’ve lost the weight and learned the lesson it really isn’t hard to keep it off.”
Wow. I couldn’t believe my ears, because that really isn’t my experience at all. I thought of how discouraging his remarks could be to people who are really fighting hard to maintain a significant weight loss.
Honestly, that was my perception when I first completed my time on The Biggest Loser. I thought it would be “a piece of cake” (no pun intended) to exercise lightly, eat healthily and maintain my dramatic weight loss. I found that not to be true. It’s hard work maintaining a significant weight loss. I actually think losing the weight was easier.
But I don’t want my words to be discouraging, just as I wouldn’t want the words of that talk show guest to be discouraging.
In my situation, it took me 34 years to get to where I was. It took me roughly eight months to lose the weight I needed to. And I fully expect that it will take me the rest of my life to maintain it. I don’t want to give anyone a false sense of expectation. But I don’t want to convey a false sense of discouragement either.
I think healthy living and good choices regarding food, exercise and quality of life in general are choices we all must make daily. This may surprise you, but I want to always remember the fat girl inside me because I don’t want to ever go back there. But I’ve got to be honest when I say my desire for southern fried chicken and mashed potatoes and gravy hasn’t gone away just because I lost nearly 100 pounds.
So when I heard this guy the other night quip, “Eh, it’s easy.” I thought that was a dangerous message to send. We have to combat the “Hollywood mentality” anyway—when we see movie stars drop their baby weight in what seems like minutes after having the baby. And the truth is—at least for me—maintenance is not easy.
But—and this is important—it is possible and it’s so very worth it!
I refer often to my “journey to good health and fitness.” It’s an amazing journey with so many benefits. I am thankful for the body that I have and for the strength that I possess.
I guess what I want to share with those of you reading this—is that it may be a struggle, but please don’t let that discourage you. Anything worth having is worth working hard for and for exerting continuous effort towards. Author Liane Cordes wrote, “Continuous effort—not strength or intelligence—is the key to unlocking our potential.”
So I encourage you to continue in your effort to unlock your own potential. You’ll be so glad you did.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "Appreciating the Good in a Bad Situation"
Have you ever had one of those weeks that was just awful?
Of course you have. We all have. And I just came off of one of them.
This past week started with me just not feeling very good at all. During my workout on Monday I started feeling it. By Wednesday I was in full blown “sick mode.” That’s especially miserable when life doesn’t stop just because you want to. I am sure you all can relate.
I felt weak…puny…pitiful. It was hard to care about anything.
By the weekend, I couldn’t suffer in silence anymore and I gave in and went to an Acute Care Center where I was diagnosed with bronchitis and a severe sinus infection. I don’t mean to complain, but I just want to paint the picture of where I was physically and emotionally and why it was particularly unpleasant when in the middle of that same night, my 8-year-old, Noah, showed up on the side of our bed violently ill with one of the worst stomach viruses I had seen in a long while.
Poor thing. He couldn’t keep anything down all night. The next day was Sunday and so my husband got himself and the baby ready for church and the two family members who were not sick took off for several hours and left the two us piled up in bed. I am sure we looked pretty pitiful…just me, Noah and a bucket.
But sometime during that morning my perspective began to change. As I got feeling a little better once the antibiotic started kicking in, and Noah started feeling better once the virus and fever started to leave him, what we were left with was actually a very precious time together. What started out as sheer misery actually morphed into a really sweet memory.
We lay in bed together and had a half a day of uninterrupted time…just the two of us. And I don’t know about the children in your life…but to get either of my sons to sit still for a minute is a miracle. We watched some TV, but mostly just talked. We talked about all sorts of important things: his favorite video game and what level he had gotten to…we talked about second grade politics…we just shared our hearts.
I learned a valuable lesson during that time. Sometimes God allows you to get knocked off your feet to let you see what’s really precious. Even though I hate being sick and hate seeing my child sick even more; it was a good lesson and turned into a time with my son that I will cherish.
So when things don’t seem like they are going exactly like you wish they would…look a little deeper.
Sometimes you might just find a blessing in disguise.
Of course you have. We all have. And I just came off of one of them.
This past week started with me just not feeling very good at all. During my workout on Monday I started feeling it. By Wednesday I was in full blown “sick mode.” That’s especially miserable when life doesn’t stop just because you want to. I am sure you all can relate.
I felt weak…puny…pitiful. It was hard to care about anything.
By the weekend, I couldn’t suffer in silence anymore and I gave in and went to an Acute Care Center where I was diagnosed with bronchitis and a severe sinus infection. I don’t mean to complain, but I just want to paint the picture of where I was physically and emotionally and why it was particularly unpleasant when in the middle of that same night, my 8-year-old, Noah, showed up on the side of our bed violently ill with one of the worst stomach viruses I had seen in a long while.
Poor thing. He couldn’t keep anything down all night. The next day was Sunday and so my husband got himself and the baby ready for church and the two family members who were not sick took off for several hours and left the two us piled up in bed. I am sure we looked pretty pitiful…just me, Noah and a bucket.
But sometime during that morning my perspective began to change. As I got feeling a little better once the antibiotic started kicking in, and Noah started feeling better once the virus and fever started to leave him, what we were left with was actually a very precious time together. What started out as sheer misery actually morphed into a really sweet memory.
We lay in bed together and had a half a day of uninterrupted time…just the two of us. And I don’t know about the children in your life…but to get either of my sons to sit still for a minute is a miracle. We watched some TV, but mostly just talked. We talked about all sorts of important things: his favorite video game and what level he had gotten to…we talked about second grade politics…we just shared our hearts.
I learned a valuable lesson during that time. Sometimes God allows you to get knocked off your feet to let you see what’s really precious. Even though I hate being sick and hate seeing my child sick even more; it was a good lesson and turned into a time with my son that I will cherish.
So when things don’t seem like they are going exactly like you wish they would…look a little deeper.
Sometimes you might just find a blessing in disguise.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "All I Needed to Know About Life I Learned from My One-Year-Old"
All I needed to know about life, I learned from my one-year-old.
Okay, well maybe not everything I needed to know about life…but there is a lot of truth to that statement!
My youngest son turns one this month. And just being his mother the past year has taught me such incredible life lessons. My eyes have been opened to things that maybe I hadn’t taken the time to notice before—or at least not in the past eight years (the last time I had a baby around).
Things like…
It’s okay to cry when you don’t feel good.
You need to eat—and eat often (as long as it’s the right things)—in order to be healthy.
Getting a good night’s sleep can make the difference between a good day and a bad day.
There’s just something wonderful about being held by somebody you love when you are feeling cranky.
Before you can ever learn to walk…you’ve got to fall down a few times. (Okay, many times.)
When you take the time to notice them, even tiny seemingly insignificant things can be amazing.
A belly laugh really is contagious.
Even the worst day can be turned around with a sweet smile.
Everything that looks good, doesn’t necessarily taste good—like red crayons—and is not good for you.
The squeaky wheel does usually does get the oil.
But probably the most significant thing my one-year-old has taught me is something I really already knew: Nothing compares to unconditional love.
Think about all the blessings you have in your life. And take a moment to reflect on some of the most simple truths you know. You may find, like I have, that there’s a lot of wisdom in the innocence, thoughts and actions of a child.
If we pay attention, we can actually learn a lot.
Okay, well maybe not everything I needed to know about life…but there is a lot of truth to that statement!
My youngest son turns one this month. And just being his mother the past year has taught me such incredible life lessons. My eyes have been opened to things that maybe I hadn’t taken the time to notice before—or at least not in the past eight years (the last time I had a baby around).
Things like…
It’s okay to cry when you don’t feel good.
You need to eat—and eat often (as long as it’s the right things)—in order to be healthy.
Getting a good night’s sleep can make the difference between a good day and a bad day.
There’s just something wonderful about being held by somebody you love when you are feeling cranky.
Before you can ever learn to walk…you’ve got to fall down a few times. (Okay, many times.)
When you take the time to notice them, even tiny seemingly insignificant things can be amazing.
A belly laugh really is contagious.
Even the worst day can be turned around with a sweet smile.
Everything that looks good, doesn’t necessarily taste good—like red crayons—and is not good for you.
The squeaky wheel does usually does get the oil.
But probably the most significant thing my one-year-old has taught me is something I really already knew: Nothing compares to unconditional love.
Think about all the blessings you have in your life. And take a moment to reflect on some of the most simple truths you know. You may find, like I have, that there’s a lot of wisdom in the innocence, thoughts and actions of a child.
If we pay attention, we can actually learn a lot.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "Goal Setting for the New Year"
There’s a popular saying, “Shoot for the moon…even if you miss you’ll still land among the stars.” And while that may be good advice in some things, as we begin the new year I want to suggest something kind of contradictory to you: aim small!
Now before you go, “Gee, thanks for the vote of confidence, Julie,” let me explain what I mean.
I am not suggesting that you underestimate yourself or your potential in any way. As children of God we have within us the power to excel and achieve. But in regard to a weight loss journey—or really any monumental task that you have set for yourself—I say take it slow.
I not only look at my own experience, but I am basing this on what I’ve heard hundreds of others say as they share their experiences with me. They look at how quickly we did things on The Biggest Loser and compare those results to their own. Sometimes it seems unrealistic and discouraging. Sometimes if you look at the big picture all at once it’s easy to get discouraged. Discouragement leads to excuses. And excuses lead to giving up.
At the beginning of my journey to lose nearly 100 pounds, if I had really thought about all that I would have to do to reach that goal, it would have been easy to let discouragement set in. So I learned to set little, achievable goals for myself. And that’s what I recommend to others. Take it one day at a time; one pound at a time. Every pound lost is a victory. And then I recommend that when you’ve hit a milestone or a significant marker along the way (no matter how small)—CELEBRATE!
I used to celebrate significant accomplishments with a big piece of chocolate cake. Not so anymore. I encourage you to be creative in your rewards for yourself. But you do need to acknowledge your hard work and your accomplishment. Go get a pedicure. Or make a date with your favorite person to go on a nice, relaxing walk in the cool of the day. Or you might even treat yourself to a new piece of clothing one size down. But whatever you do, celebrate yourself.
And then before you know it, all your little goals will add up to the one big accomplishment you are striving for. And you will realize how strong you are and have a true feeling of achievement.
Remember, anything worth having is worth working for, and working hard for.
I wish you the very best in whatever it is you are working for in 2009. Just remember to take it one day at a time, be consistent, don’t get distracted by the big picture, and don’t be afraid to be your own cheering section!
Now before you go, “Gee, thanks for the vote of confidence, Julie,” let me explain what I mean.
I am not suggesting that you underestimate yourself or your potential in any way. As children of God we have within us the power to excel and achieve. But in regard to a weight loss journey—or really any monumental task that you have set for yourself—I say take it slow.
I not only look at my own experience, but I am basing this on what I’ve heard hundreds of others say as they share their experiences with me. They look at how quickly we did things on The Biggest Loser and compare those results to their own. Sometimes it seems unrealistic and discouraging. Sometimes if you look at the big picture all at once it’s easy to get discouraged. Discouragement leads to excuses. And excuses lead to giving up.
At the beginning of my journey to lose nearly 100 pounds, if I had really thought about all that I would have to do to reach that goal, it would have been easy to let discouragement set in. So I learned to set little, achievable goals for myself. And that’s what I recommend to others. Take it one day at a time; one pound at a time. Every pound lost is a victory. And then I recommend that when you’ve hit a milestone or a significant marker along the way (no matter how small)—CELEBRATE!
I used to celebrate significant accomplishments with a big piece of chocolate cake. Not so anymore. I encourage you to be creative in your rewards for yourself. But you do need to acknowledge your hard work and your accomplishment. Go get a pedicure. Or make a date with your favorite person to go on a nice, relaxing walk in the cool of the day. Or you might even treat yourself to a new piece of clothing one size down. But whatever you do, celebrate yourself.
And then before you know it, all your little goals will add up to the one big accomplishment you are striving for. And you will realize how strong you are and have a true feeling of achievement.
Remember, anything worth having is worth working for, and working hard for.
I wish you the very best in whatever it is you are working for in 2009. Just remember to take it one day at a time, be consistent, don’t get distracted by the big picture, and don’t be afraid to be your own cheering section!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Guideposts.com - Advice from a Loser: "What a Difference a Year Can Make!"
When I think back on life just one short year ago, so much has changed for me.
A year ago I was coming off the excitement of eight months on a reality TV show. I came home and faced the challenge of blending all of the things I had learned through my experience on The Biggest Loser with real life. My household hadn’t really changed, but I sure had. And I had a lot of work to do to get the rest of the family “up to speed” in regards to a new way of viewing food, exercise and healthy living.
I didn’t end up morbidly obese overnight. But my experience on The Biggest Loser had given me plenty of opportunity to realize why and how I had ended up that way.
I had always struggled with my weight. Some people are just prone to that and I am one of them. But I really began to lose the battle of the bulge when I got married and became a mother. I had the very best of intentions. But it was like everyone and everything else took precedence over my own well-being. I just couldn’t “neglect” my husband or son or home or friends or church responsibilities. They all needed me. So who did I neglect? Myself.
Jillian Michaels, who was my trainer on the show, asks this very powerful question: “Would you treat your children like you treat yourself? Would you skip their doctor’s appointments? Would you feed them junk? Would you withhold play time?”
The answer is an emphatic “No!”
Then why do we do that to ourselves?
I guess one of the most valuable things I have learned over the past year is that “selfish” is not a dirty word. And when I say selfish, I really mean a healthy concern for yourself.
I now know that by taking care of myself and making time to exercise and plan healthy menus and find some time just for Julie, that I can be so much better at all the things that really matter.
See, before I was trying to run this “machine” that is my body with absolutely no fuel whatsoever. I fed it the wrong things, I deprived it from rest and restoration, and I even let a busy schedule deprive it from spiritual nourishment. And the result? I was a train wreck.
With a new mindset I am able to be a better wife and mother. I am more productive. I am healthier and happier than I have ever been. And you know what? My husband and children have totally “survived” that new way of thinking just fine! In fact, it’s better for our family all the way around.
Eleven months ago we adopted a precious newborn baby. And mixing late night feedings and diaper changes and the general care of a baby is exhausting. A wonderful blessing; but exhausting. I felt the temptation to neglect myself in order to get everything else done. So I had to make a conscious decision not to do that and to really practice what I preach.
But through determination and God’s grace, it’s all coming together beautifully. And that’s my wish for you in the coming year.
Don’t be afraid to make yourself a priority in 2009. And I bet you the results will not only be a Happy New Year—but also a “Happy New You!”
A year ago I was coming off the excitement of eight months on a reality TV show. I came home and faced the challenge of blending all of the things I had learned through my experience on The Biggest Loser with real life. My household hadn’t really changed, but I sure had. And I had a lot of work to do to get the rest of the family “up to speed” in regards to a new way of viewing food, exercise and healthy living.
I didn’t end up morbidly obese overnight. But my experience on The Biggest Loser had given me plenty of opportunity to realize why and how I had ended up that way.
I had always struggled with my weight. Some people are just prone to that and I am one of them. But I really began to lose the battle of the bulge when I got married and became a mother. I had the very best of intentions. But it was like everyone and everything else took precedence over my own well-being. I just couldn’t “neglect” my husband or son or home or friends or church responsibilities. They all needed me. So who did I neglect? Myself.
Jillian Michaels, who was my trainer on the show, asks this very powerful question: “Would you treat your children like you treat yourself? Would you skip their doctor’s appointments? Would you feed them junk? Would you withhold play time?”
The answer is an emphatic “No!”
Then why do we do that to ourselves?
I guess one of the most valuable things I have learned over the past year is that “selfish” is not a dirty word. And when I say selfish, I really mean a healthy concern for yourself.
I now know that by taking care of myself and making time to exercise and plan healthy menus and find some time just for Julie, that I can be so much better at all the things that really matter.
See, before I was trying to run this “machine” that is my body with absolutely no fuel whatsoever. I fed it the wrong things, I deprived it from rest and restoration, and I even let a busy schedule deprive it from spiritual nourishment. And the result? I was a train wreck.
With a new mindset I am able to be a better wife and mother. I am more productive. I am healthier and happier than I have ever been. And you know what? My husband and children have totally “survived” that new way of thinking just fine! In fact, it’s better for our family all the way around.
Eleven months ago we adopted a precious newborn baby. And mixing late night feedings and diaper changes and the general care of a baby is exhausting. A wonderful blessing; but exhausting. I felt the temptation to neglect myself in order to get everything else done. So I had to make a conscious decision not to do that and to really practice what I preach.
But through determination and God’s grace, it’s all coming together beautifully. And that’s my wish for you in the coming year.
Don’t be afraid to make yourself a priority in 2009. And I bet you the results will not only be a Happy New Year—but also a “Happy New You!”
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Blogging for Guideposts.com
Hi everyone.
I have recently been given a wonderful opportunity to work with Guideposts.com.
Guideposts Magazine ("America's Favorite Magazine") has been providing its readers with inspirational stories since 1945! And I am so happy to be joinging them as one of their online contributors.
So please visit: http://www.guideposts.com/ to read not only my blogs - but all of the information, stories and articles about health & wellness, prosperity, relationships & family, faith & living and personal change. It's a great place to "visit" just to be encouraged.
I am going to post my blogs from Guideposts.com here on my personal blog as well.
Hope you are experiencing a wonderful holiday season and that the coming New Year will be especially blessed for you and your family!
Love,
Julie
I have recently been given a wonderful opportunity to work with Guideposts.com.
Guideposts Magazine ("America's Favorite Magazine") has been providing its readers with inspirational stories since 1945! And I am so happy to be joinging them as one of their online contributors.
So please visit: http://www.guideposts.com/ to read not only my blogs - but all of the information, stories and articles about health & wellness, prosperity, relationships & family, faith & living and personal change. It's a great place to "visit" just to be encouraged.
I am going to post my blogs from Guideposts.com here on my personal blog as well.
Hope you are experiencing a wonderful holiday season and that the coming New Year will be especially blessed for you and your family!
Love,
Julie
Monday, June 16, 2008
Our Orlando Trip
We just got back from a long weekend in Orlando. I had some business to take care of in Winter Park on Friday and then we decided to enjoy a day at "Sea World" and then take a leisurely ride home on Sunday, which was Father's Day - and I happen to be married to one of the best fathers in the world! My sister Jennifer and her roommate Rachel went with us. They are the best!! And definitely made the trip more memorable.
As soon as I walked through the gates of the Park, I was greeted by some avid fans of "The Biggest Loser." That's always neat. Later in the day my son Noah was featured in the new Shamu Show "Believe." The Show itself was incredible – but as a mom it was so moving to see my child so excited about something. They asked him what his dream was – and he said to be a veterinarian. He beamed when they took him down to the front of the theater and showed his image on the huge screens. It really was a neat experience. After we left the Show he was still buzzing about how cool it all was. We asked him, "Noah, which was more exciting? Be in the 'Believe' Show just now or being on national television on 'The Biggest Loser'?" He thought about it for a second and said, "I guess the Shamu Show just now…because there were so many more people watching."
Mike laughed and said, "Yeah, 14.5 million television viewers for the Biggest Loser…they had to have twice that many people in that amphitheater." (Not.)
The whole day was interesting - - different this time - - but in a lot of good ways. As I've said before – food is going to always be an issue for me. Making good choices is a decision that I've got to make everyday. And it's something that does get easier in some ways (because I know Jillian will fly to Florida and kick my butt if I don't), but it would still be very easy to fall back into bad habits. So I was SO EXCITED to see that Sea World now has a healthy alternatives restaurant called "Mama's Kitchen." If you are visiting the park you really should try it. They've got salads and turkey sandwiches and whole wheat pasta salad. They even have sweet potato chips. It was good to see that mainstream venues like Sea World are offering healthy options for those of us who are trying to eat right – but want to still enjoy all the fun everybody else is having.
And I know this probably sounds silly to mention – but I haven't been to a theme park in years. And I couldn't believe the difference in how it feels to sit on a roller coaster and not be afraid that the bar will fit over me. Or not be embarrassed on a ride that my butt is spreading over into the seat of the stranger sitting next to me. It was a great feeling!
So I guess that's it. I just wanted to share a little bit about our weekend. I hope everyone is having a great week so far and that all you dads out there had a blessed Father's Day.
Take care.
Julie
As soon as I walked through the gates of the Park, I was greeted by some avid fans of "The Biggest Loser." That's always neat. Later in the day my son Noah was featured in the new Shamu Show "Believe." The Show itself was incredible – but as a mom it was so moving to see my child so excited about something. They asked him what his dream was – and he said to be a veterinarian. He beamed when they took him down to the front of the theater and showed his image on the huge screens. It really was a neat experience. After we left the Show he was still buzzing about how cool it all was. We asked him, "Noah, which was more exciting? Be in the 'Believe' Show just now or being on national television on 'The Biggest Loser'?" He thought about it for a second and said, "I guess the Shamu Show just now…because there were so many more people watching."
Mike laughed and said, "Yeah, 14.5 million television viewers for the Biggest Loser…they had to have twice that many people in that amphitheater." (Not.)
The whole day was interesting - - different this time - - but in a lot of good ways. As I've said before – food is going to always be an issue for me. Making good choices is a decision that I've got to make everyday. And it's something that does get easier in some ways (because I know Jillian will fly to Florida and kick my butt if I don't), but it would still be very easy to fall back into bad habits. So I was SO EXCITED to see that Sea World now has a healthy alternatives restaurant called "Mama's Kitchen." If you are visiting the park you really should try it. They've got salads and turkey sandwiches and whole wheat pasta salad. They even have sweet potato chips. It was good to see that mainstream venues like Sea World are offering healthy options for those of us who are trying to eat right – but want to still enjoy all the fun everybody else is having.
And I know this probably sounds silly to mention – but I haven't been to a theme park in years. And I couldn't believe the difference in how it feels to sit on a roller coaster and not be afraid that the bar will fit over me. Or not be embarrassed on a ride that my butt is spreading over into the seat of the stranger sitting next to me. It was a great feeling!
So I guess that's it. I just wanted to share a little bit about our weekend. I hope everyone is having a great week so far and that all you dads out there had a blessed Father's Day.
Take care.
Julie
Friday, April 25, 2008
My best advice
I made the following post to my blog on "Myspace" - but my friend Tammie reminded me that not everybody uses Myspace so she suggested that I put this information here - on the Blog associated with my Web site. So here it is..."My best advice"...for what it's worth.
Hi everybody! Life continues to be so busy - - but wonderful. Both my boys are growing by leaps and bounds before my very eyes. Noah is almost as tall as I am and he's only seven! (Ok, so Mike calls me a legal midget, but still...) And Jaxon turned three months old yesterday. And he is barely fitting in his 3 month outfits. Life is good!
I spoke at a local middle school today and I am often asked the same questions. I am flattered that people even care what I have to say. It's kind of odd but good at the same time if you know what I mean. I still maintain that I am just an ordinary person who was presented with an opportunity to take control of an area of my life that was in desparate need of some attention.
I really do mean it when I say, "If I can do - anybody can do it. There's nothing extraordinary about me." Actually it seems to be that statement that resonnates so loudly with people. And I am thankful that I can share that viewpoint because I really do believe it.
One of the teenage girls at the school today - who is also a Myspace fan - asked me for some advice. There are a few key points that I think were very significant in my own journey and I like to share them with others when they ask. And I do actually get asked that a lot. This sweet girl was very appreciative of the time I spent talking to her and said, "You really should post that advice on Myspace! I'd love to be able to go back there and read it again."
So I thought, you know, that's not a bad idea. It's only my opinion. There's nothing magic to the words I am about to share with you. But I am going to share them anyway. If nothing else they are a good reminder to ME.
Most of you who are reading this probably know that fought my weight most of my life. I was never really thin. But I finally understood that THIN doesn't necessarily mean HEALTHY. And it really is about good health and quality of life. It's not a vanity issue.
So here's my best advice to anyone struggling with weight issues like I was:
1) Start today!
Stop putting it off. Stop making excuses.
2) Find your motivation.
For me it was the example I was setting for my son. It was the desire to have another baby. It was the fact that I wanted to grow old with my husband. That was the defining motivation for me.
3) Don't look at the big picture.
Take it one day at a time. One pound at a time. Looking too far ahead will only discourage you.
4) Move more and eat less.
Burning more calories than you consume is the ONLY way you will lose weight. You have got to get moving. Take it slow but do it.
5) Surround yourself with positive influences.
Rid your home of bad foods. Surround yourself with supportive people who will encourage you. Set yourself up for success!
6) Set small achievable goals and then when you reach them...CELEBRATE!!!
Don't have a piece of chocolate cake though. Go get a pedicure. Or take a walk with your best friend. Buy a piece of clothing one size down that NOW you can get in to. Do something for you.
7) BELIEVE you are worth it. Because you are!!
I think that last one is one of the hardest. Because as an overweight person I was faced with a lot of rejection. Prejudice against the obese is the last acceptable prejudice left in society. And it's hard not to buy into the lies we hear all around us. But you've got to do it. And then when you are on this side of the struggle you'll be so glad you did.
You know my motivation t-shirt on the Show was "To finish what I started, for once." I've had so many people tell me they could relate to that slogan. But you know what? I have realized that I will never "finish what I've started." This will be an ongoing journey for me for the rest of my life. So my new slogan is "to continue what I've started...forever."
Friday, April 11, 2008
"Paying it Forward: Biggest Loser Style"
Hi everybody. The following article hit the newspaper in Jacksonville today so I guess it's ok to share the info with you.
You know "The Black Team" loyalty runs deep. We really are like a family with "Momma Jillian" looking after all her "kids."
As the following article explains better than I can - after the Final Four this year were determined (in "real time" not what you saw on TV last week) I had a phone conversation with KELLY. She is - in fact - absolutely as sweet and sincere as she appears on TV. She was struggling to get in "the groove" in prepping for her upcoming Finale. So it seemed like a no brainer to invite her to come to Jacksonville - and move in with me and my family for six weeks - and work together. And that's exactly what happened.
We've had a great time and she has worked so hard. My local trainer Margie has very similar leanings in her training style as Jillian. So there was no mercy shown. The end result to all of Kelly's hard work from the past several months on the Show leading up to now - as you will on April 15 - is amazing.
I am so very proud of her. And in the process I've developed a friend for life. I don't want to sound cheesey, but I've got to say that I believe that God allows us to go through extraordinary experiences in this life not to keep it all to ourselves but to share those blessings with others. My "Biggest Loser" experience was life-changing. So I had to "pay it forward" with Kelly. It really was a privilege to be able to do that.
Hope you enjoy the following article. Thank you to writer Mark Woods and the Florida Times Union.
'Losers' team up to tone up, slim down for NBC finale
By MARK WOODS, The Times-Union
While eating lunch with two participants in NBC's The Biggest Loser, one past and one present, I asked if strangers ever recognize them.
As if on cue, when Kelly Fields got up from the table, a woman approached her.
"Thank you," the woman said excitedly. "You're such an inspiration. I hope you win."
If the woman had glanced back at the table, she would have seen - and probably recognized - the reason that Fields, a 38-year-old nurse from Titusville, was in Jacksonville.
Julie Hadden was the runner-up on The Biggest Loser's fourth season. She lost 97 pounds, going from 218 to 121. And she has been where Fields is now: beginning the jarring transition from reality TV to reality.
"You learn so much from being there [on the show]," Hadden said. "You have to pay it forward."
So when the fifth season headed to its final phase - with the four remaining contestants leaving a rigidly controlled environment and heading home for several weeks before the season finale - Hadden offered to help.
She invited Fields to come live with her family and to work out with her trainer, Margie Marshall.
The short-term result: Despite being limited by a herniated disc in her back, Fields has continued to drop weight and jean sizes.
"Stairs, stairs and more stairs," Fields said with a laugh last week. "I came here between a size 10-12. In three weeks, I'm down to a six."
The long-term result: By spending time with Hadden, Fields has an idea what is ahead. Life after the finale.
The term "reality TV," of course, is a misnomer. Most of the genre involves more fantasy than reality. And when shows end, with the exception of a few big winners, the reality is that little changes. The bachelors and bachelorettes don't get married and live happily ever after.
But that's part of the appeal of The Biggest Loser. Many of the participants - not just the eventual winner of a $250,000 prize - say the experience is life-changing. And that has touched a nerve with viewers.
So an obvious question is what happened when Hadden returned to Jacksonville last December.
To start with, she no longer could run a "quick" errand.
She'd go into Wal-Mart and inevitably someone would recognize her and start pouring out their own story, often through tears.
America loves a good makeover. And The Biggest Loser produces the most dramatic ones on television today. The most viewed video on jacksonville.com this year used to be a song about Jack Del Rio. Now it's "Julie Hadden's Amazing Transformation."
She was scheduled to go to Washington to talk to Congress about the importance of nutrition. But in January, something bigger came up. She and her husband, Mike, adopted a baby boy, Jaxon.
So she has gone from life on The Biggest Loser ranch to life at home. Changing diapers, waking up for 4 a.m. feedings, doing activities with 7-year-old Noah, church, shopping, bills, meals and ... OK, here's the answer to the question you want to know: No, she hasn't turned into The Biggest Gainer.
She is about 10 pounds heavier. But that's compared to the unrealistic bar set by the season finale. She's still nearly 90 pounds below her old weight and determined to stay there. She has changed her lifestyle and eating habits for the long term. And for the short term, she has some familiar motivation. She wants to look good for another season finale.
She will be on national TV again on Tuesday, this time as Fields' mentor.
"I saw myself in her at the beginning of the show," Hadden said. "I could just tell that her self-esteem, her persona was almost sad. Some people are like, 'I'm going to win this thing.' She was like me, saying, 'I just hope I make it until tomorrow.' "
Fields kept making it to tomorrow. She went from 271 pounds at the start to 178 in the show that aired this week. And in the process, she has developed loyal fans, which is both flattering and strange. A co-worker asked her for an autograph. Strangers call out her name. After she ordered a meal recently, another diner asked the waitress what she had. And when the show's ardent fans see "Kelly from Season 5" together with "Julie from Season 4," it's like they've hit The Biggest Loser jackpot.
Hadden was getting her hair done recently. Fields and Marshall, their trainer, stopped in to chat. While they were talking, a girl and her mother burst through the door.
"I'm sorry, but we've walked by here 15 times," the mother said. "Are you Kelly from The Biggest Loser?"
When Fields said she was, the two strangers let out yells.
"What are you doing here?" one of them asked.
"I'm visiting my friend," Fields said.
The hairdresser spun around the chair, turning Hadden toward them.
More screams.
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