Philippians 4:13 (Amplified) says that He empowers and INFUSES us with strength so that we can accomplish anything! BE INFUSED! We can't do it without Him (John 15:5) but THROUGH Him, we have victory!
It's Cinco de Mayo today! If you plan on celebrating in any way, here's a tasty and healthy alternative beverage to what's bound to be out there today. ;) Yes, it features the ever-so-delicious Shakeology!
As always, you can have fun AND be healthy at the same time! You can even make some homemade guacamole (just take it easy on the chips!). Mash up some avocados, garlic, pepper, and a touch of lemon or lime juice and you're good to go (add a bit of low-fat or non-fat sour cream if you have to).
Grace and peace to you, my friends! If you have never tried Shakeology before, sample the vast array of flavors (and improved formula) by trying a sampler pack! Have a fun and safe weekend! Be infused! God bless you!
If your holidays were as busy as mine (and whose aren't?!) you can probably understand why it's been a while since I've posted anything! I had always intended to post something every day when I initially started this blog. However, I've discovered that it just isn't very realistic, likely, or even very doable for me (unless I give up my day job as well as my main job of being a wife and mother...yeah, not going to happen!).
What I have learned over the years is that often times, "less is more" (who has time to read someone's posts every day anyways lol?). I've also learned how to not be so "all or nothing" and to prioritize. My health and fitness is always going to be something that is important to me (as well as helping others with their health and fitness needs/goals as well). However, my first priority has always been to put God and family first. It's not likely that I'm going to be one of the super duper elite diamond coaches out there who do this full-time, but that's ok with me. My success as a Christian, a wife, and a mother far outweighs anything else that I could possibly excel in; on Earth and in eternity! In fact, I've seen the best and most PRICELESS "returns on investments" EVER in the past year; both in my family and in my work environment. Most notably, my son accepted Christ and was baptized. There is no greater investment than when you invest in someone's life; especially your child's! If the only reason I live and breathe is to make sure my children know and choose Jesus as their Savior, then I'm confident that I'm accomplishing what God wants from me! I am enjoying every second of every opportunity I have in directing my children to walk in faith! Those devotionals and books that you see in the picture above were Christmas gifts for my children; which they have been reading and enjoying daily. I am extremely proud of them and that they are excited about growing in their faith!
My son, Casey, raising his hands in victory!
With that being said, I've been feeling a greater sense of urgency to make sure that I can continue being there to nurture my kids; which won't happen if I'm not functioning as well as I could be. I'm still an overweight, tired, aging Mom who finds it more and more difficult to make time to prioritize fitness back into my daily routine (because I got out of the habit again). Chris and I did do our first two months of Piyo, but we didn't get to the two months of the "strength" phase. Illnesses, busyness, exhaustion, and stress have been our obstacles in the past few months (though, I suppose that's everyone's excuse). We really need to get into our "beast mode" again! As I mentioned, one just has to find what is "doable" and prioritize even just a LITTLE bit of time. If all I can manage is just a few minutes on the treadmill for a while, a few glasses of water, one healthy choice, etc., then at least that's something...I just have to remember the Beachbody motto: "Decide. Commit. Succeed." With the Lord's help, I can definitely do this!
How about you? What are your priorities? With a fresh new year comes a fresh new perspective! Personally, I want my spiritual momentum to spill over into the areas where I am currently weak. The best part is that God excels in strengthening our weaknesses! In what areas do you need infused with his strength? Consider this verse; which has recently become a favorite of mine:
Lord, be gracious to us; we long for you.
Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of distress.
- Isaiah 33:2
Now, personalize that verse! "Lord, be gracious to me; I long for you! Be my strength every morning (and all day!), my salvation in time of distress." This prayer not only gets me through the day, but gives me a sense of joy and peace that is amazing! This verse has been very calming and I feel that it has also been a key to unlocking a prayerful heart all day!
Grace and peace to you, my friends! Leave a comment with your thoughts and feel free to contact me if there's anything I can do to walk with you on your journey this year! Visit www.infusion413.com to view the special January promotions (which include the 21 Day Fix as well as the new program The Master's Hammer and Chisel) or let me know if you need help choosing a program/customizing a plan. Remember, just start small; even if it's just walking for five minutes a day! Be the best "you" that you can be for God, your family, and yourself! Be infused! God bless you!
You know, I'm not all that keen on all the Black Friday stuff. Therefore, I propose an alternative: Bright Friday! Isn't Christmas supposed to be positive and filled with good things? Isn't it supposed to be full of cheer and the spirit of generosity? Shouldn't the start of something good have a name that sounds positive rather than negative? "Black Friday" has always sounded a little gloomy and daunting to me; and for some people who have been trampled, injured, and killed in those crazy stampedes, it has definitely lived up to that title.
I don't know about you, but standing in line to buy a bunch of stuff doesn't sound as fulfilling or appealing as standing at a kettle stand to ring the bell for charity. So, if you'd rather skip the shopping frenzy and put that generous/gifting spirit to better use, please, volunteer to bell-ring! In my county, we have very few people who have signed up for Friday. Maybe everyone is going to be too busy shopping or maybe they are just opting out of being around the chaos that day. Totally understandable. I get it. However, being that this IS a high trafficked day, it's a very CRUCIAL day to get volunteers. Filled shifts on big shopping days have a higher probability of raising more money to help local needy families; families who more than likely don't have enough money to shop on Black Friday (or even basic needs on ANY day, for that matter). Not only can they not afford gifts for under the Christmas tree, but probably not much food on their tables either.....UNLESS we can raise plenty of money to help. The many children who are hoping to receive clothing items, toys, etc. will only wake up to find those things on Christmas morning if we have the means to provide it for them. Hopefully, they'll even have more food to eat if our pantry shelves have more to offer as well. Please, ring the bell for at least an hour. Even if it's not on Friday, just pick at least ONE day!
I know that no matter what I say, there's going to be a ton of people out shopping anyways; and that's ok. I'm not trying to condemn shopping (anyone that knows me knows that I could NEVER do that lol!). I'm just advocating a balance because even though we're all going to be shopping at some point, it's important not to lose sight of the bigger picture. I'm obviously going to have Christmas shopping to do too, though I have no "battle plan" for it. I'm just more determined than ever this year to stay focused on what matters. It's not just because I work for The Salvation Army now, but because each year I get more tired of the "hype" because I'm yearning for the "heart" of Christmas. Is it just me, or is there anyone else that feels that way too? I just want to give, not get. December the 25th is when we celebrate the birth of Christ and yet, we get all the presents? I'd rather just give to Him (and to others in TRUE need) in His name. I want to experience Christmas...for REAL! How about you? What's your reason to celebrate the season?
Grace and peace to you, my friends! I was going to take a moment to talk about the "special" Team Beachbody deals here at the end, but I really don't care anymore. You're welcome to visit www.infusion413.com to see, but if you only have time to visit just one link, pick www.registertoring.com . It's the BEST deal for you and for the people you would be helping! I truly mean that! Have a BRIGHT Friday! Be careful out there; whether you're shopping or volunteering (or both). Grab a friend (or a group of friends) and ring together! :) Be safe, stay warm, and take care of yourself! Be infused! God bless you!
At this point in the year, I don't think it's uncommon to just stop and wonder where all the time went. Every year when it's about time for the holidays again, I think "is it that time again already? We just got done with that!" It just seems to get busier every year! Weren't the holidays so much simpler when we were kids and we just got to enjoy all the good stuff lol?!
The first week of November has already come and gone so quickly. Just a few more days and the month will already be half over. It's yet another one of those times where I'm like, "oh yeah, I forgot to mention this month's promos." The busier things get in my life, the less the Team Beachbody world seems to factor in for me (in more ways than one). I wish it weren't that way. I've been a coach for over four years and I'm not where I thought I'd be (again, in more ways than one). Though, as I always say, I'm not a quitter! I know I'm not the only one out there that is busy at this time of year, or with the regular stuff in life (as well as the unexpected surprises). I've never quite felt that I've had a long enough period of time to really get momentum and keep it going long-term. There have been far too many drastic life changes in my life in the time since I've started. I'm hopeful that things are finally stabilizing, but you never know lol.
That's why I just want to encourage everyone out there to just keep enduring! Seriously! No matter what it is that you're doing, need to do, or are still AIMING to do, just be patient with yourself! No one does a perfect job at anything; and there's always the proper time and season. Even the best trainers and coaches have their slumps. No kidding! Sometimes, I see Shaun T on Facebook making the occasional post about how he's had moments of discouragement or days where he didn't "feel like it" either. We all get weary. The important thing is that we remember how to renew our strength and we do that by leaning on the Everlasting Arms! ;) Jesus is always there to INFUSE us with His strength!
When I blog like this, I remember how much I miss blogging on a regular basis; and not particularly regarding the fitness stuff. Not that this blog doesn't matter to me (it does) but what has always mattered most was the spiritual aspect of things. I've always included in with the fitness stuff too, but even when all the fitness and Beachbody stuff goes on my back burner, my faith does not. So, it's more than likely that this blog (and my coaching in general) is just going to continue to be one of those facets of me that is going to be more in the background rather than the forefront (at least for a while). Right now, I'm still focused on continuing to adjust to all the new changes of the past few months (as well as getting through the holidays). So, my posts will be short and sweet for a while; unless they're on my other blog. My heart is with my family as well as the mission of my new job (which is focused on helping people in need and especially right now at Christmas). I hope you'll read my posts and support my efforts as I keep you updated on that! ;)
"I TRIPLE DOG DARE YOU!" - from the movie "A Christmas Story"
Grace and peace to you, my friends! Watch the video below if you want to learn more about this month's Beachbody specials. It's Piyo (one of the programs I've ben "aiming to" do myself and haven't gotten around to). I hear nothing but good things about it; and I LOVE Chalene! I'll make my booty do it if yours does lol. If someone buys a Piyo Challenge Pack or a Piyo Kickstart and Shakeology Challenge Pack, I will too and I'll start gettin' r done again lol. And if Piyo isn't your thing, there's the Les Mills Combat, Pump, and Ultimate Reset Challenge Packs which are on special too. Actually, if I sell ANY challenge pack of any program this month, I'll do it lol! This is your chance to kind of coach your coach. ;) If not, well, I'll probably just keep putting it off until after the holidays. Can you MAKE ME workout?! ;) I'm curious and wondering if anyone will, but I'm betting that I'll probably be off the hook this time because no one will want to take the challenge with me and make me work my butt off (literally lol) before Christmas! Is someone going to prove me wrong? I TRIPLE DOG DARE YOU!!! ;) Be infused! God bless you!
There are only ten more days until Halloween. The kids' costumes have been picked out and ordered and we are looking forward to taking them out to get candy. I'm just hoping it won't be cold and/or rainy! It's been horrible weather for it the past few years! Irregardless, we'll still be going and making new family memories! This will be our first Halloween together!
Speaking of new things, there are a few other new things that are happening right now. It's been keeping me so preoccupied that I completely forgot to post this month's promotions (sorry about that!). Before I tell you what's going on with the fitness stuff, I'll just fill you in on the two big blessings that have been taking up my time.
The first one is the sale of my house (yes, finally!). It's very bittersweet. While we are very glad to finally get it sold (which will free up our budget, bless us with a profit, and take a load off of our minds) it's also sort of sad for me. As you might remember, I bought the house last year and my parents and I went to work on updating/improving the inside. The house not only reflects my personal taste, but it meant so much to me to be able to live close to my Dad and to have been able to get the house as a single mom. It was a milestone for me. I barely had any time to really savor it before God surprised me with Chris and things began moving me in a different direction (both literally and figuratively). The merging of our two lives meant trusting that God would provide for us as well as bring a new job opportunity my way. It's been a little unsettling to have to wait for the house to sell as well as a new job.
That's my other great news! :) It took three tries, but I finally ended up with the right job! It was almost like "The Three Bears" story in which the previous two jobs/interviews had a lot to offer, but only the third one was "just right" for me. God always knows best and I'm glad that He didn't allow me to have the jobs that I felt were right. He knew what the perfect fit would be for me (and when) and no matter how disappointed I felt in missing out on the first two, I knew that that only meant that God had something better. :) I am so thankful to God, and to The Salvation Army, for giving me the opportunity to work and serve the organization! It is an honor and a joy to be part of a team of people with big hearts and big faith! I am enjoying the learning process and looking forward to using my gifts and skills to help people!
Of course, one of my gifts is being able to connect with people, so I'm hoping that I will be able to enlist the help (as well as donations) from my big hearted family, friends, and readers of my blogs! ;) The organization can't exist without YOUR time and gifts. It is because of YOU that The Salvation Army can continue to have the means to feed, clothe, and give assistance to those that might otherwise not have basic needs. Please, prayerfully consider how you can get involved; whether it's through a donation of any amount or volunteering your time (we need individuals, families, groups, church congregations, etc. to start signing up for bell ringing! Click here to sign up to be a bell ringer!). These last few months of the year are busy for everyone. The holidays can be a hard time of year for various reasons. What better way to show your Christmas spirit and spread, peace, joy, and hope to others than by spending at least one hour of your time ringing that bell and encouraging people to donate their spare change for those in need?! C'mon, you can do it! One hour will bless you AND others. Get your spouse, kids, or church involved too! :) You'll be glad you did!
Ok, so I've been so busy talking about the Lord's business here that I nearly forgot about my own business. It pales in comparison, but since I need to finally clue you in, I'll throw it in here at the end lol. You've got a little over a week left to take advantage of the following deals: the new P90X challenge pack and the Ultimate Reset challenge pack. Additionally, they are offering up to 50% savings (yeah, I know, right?!) on Les Mills Pump and Les Mills Combat challenge packs, programs, and accessories! Now THAT'S a deal! I LOVED doing Les Mills Combat! I got three words for that: Fun. Fit. Fierce! It was enjoyable, got me results, and I felt super tough (how can you not when you're doing boxing and martial arts mooves?!). Get it while the getting is good! You won't regret it!
Grace and peace to you, my friends! Thank you so much for reading! Also, a big thank you to all who have supported and prayed for my family and I. We couldn't have made it without you! We appreciate everyone's encouragement and prayers! Be infused! God bless you!
Independence Day is just a week away! That means fireworks, food, and fun!! Praise be to God for all the men and women who have made the celebration possible! May we always remember the sacrifices made and the lives given for our freedom!
If you are looking for ways to get into the patriotic spirit without consuming too many holiday calories, this might be a good and simple recipe for you! Check out these Patriotic Fruit Skewers! That's easy enough to do, right? All that for only 80 calories a serving! Can't beat that! Plus, you're getting those wonderful antioxidants in all those berries (which is always a good thing!).
Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope you have a wonderful weekend! It's going to be a bittersweet one for me! Tomorrow is my last day at my current job. Then, I'll be busy preparing for my wedding which is next weekend! Plus, I'll be packing up and moving things in the coming weeks as well. Prayers for strength, endurance, etc. (and to find a new job) would be appreciated! May we all be infused! God bless us and this great nation!!
Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone! As I mentioned yesterday, I hope you're taking a few moments to remember and appreciate the deep spiritual meaning behind today. It really is something worth reflecting on! For a fun and fresh reminder of what that is, please watch video #1 at the end of this post! It's the hilarious (but informative) Veggie Tales version of who St. Patrick was, what he did, and the meaning of the shamrock.
St. Patrick's Day, 2011
As serious as this day is, I am not a buzz kill by any means (you're talking to the chick who LOVES dress up days!). I have been dressed up in all sorts of St. Patrick's day attire in years past (see photos lol). I am definitely not opposed to some St. Patrick's day fun! So, if you are wanting a good laugh, make sure you watch video #2! Tony Horton (creator of the P90X programs) mixes up some greenberry Shakeology while donning some special St. Patrick's attire; and attempting to speak with an Irish accent. I got a good laugh out of it lol!
Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope you are having a meaningful and fun St. Patrick's Day! I hope that if you're drinking something green, it's Shakeology (clearly more healthy, and won't be a choice you'll later regret!). I also hope that you'll WIN a little green to spend in the Team Beachbody store! Be infused! God bless you!
Tomorrow is St. Patrick's day. It's yet another holiday with wonderful spiritual meaning behind it that has been corrupted and commercialized by modern society. I have written about it before regarding St. Patrick's day (as well as Christmas).
I don't know about you, but don't you get tired of all the hype and commercialism that comes with every holiday? Wouldn't it be GREAT if it were easier to focus on the essence of what we were celebrating without the bombardment of advertising and alternate meanings for what we are supposed to be concentrating on?
There's no way we can block it all out (and I'm not saying all the novelty things are 100% bad either). Though, I guess the only thing we can do is to make sure we take the time to celebrate holidays like St. Patrick's day, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and the upcoming Easter holiday, in ways that matter. We can educate ourselves and our children about the real reasons we celebrate these holidays and just take some time to meditate on the real reasons for their existence. Holidays are created as a way to observe and celebrate special things that deserve to be remembered. All of the above mentioned holidays are rooted in Christian faith. It's very important as believers to refresh our hearts and minds with the reasons why we believe what we believe and not get lost in the worldly mess of it all. Go ahead. Eat or drink something green, but remember that the green stands for Ireland's people; the people that St. Patrick was passionate about witnessing to so that their souls might be saved. Decorate with shamrocks and remember that St. Patrick used them to illustrate to the pagans what the trinity was all about. Think about all the important reminders of faith that you might ordinarily overlook and cherish the heritage behind it!
Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope you have a blessed day tomorrow and that all the green will also remind you of the green grass that is surely on its way when Spring arrives! It's a celebration of faith and new life! It's wonderful! Let your faith be renewed as you go green! ;) Be infused! God bless you!
There's nothing like indulging a little on Valentine's Day! Savoring quality time with the ones you love comes in many different forms; usually involving romantic dinners, desserts, and gifts. Here's one dessert that's sweet but not overly indulgent in calories! It's a mini Valentine's Day trifle! Strawberries, yogurt, and granola. Sweet, simple, and tasty!
Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope you had a wonderful Valentine's Day! Have a blessed weekend! Be infused! God bless you!
