Why I'll Go Bare & Bald!

Do you ever pause to remember and think about how your passion got its start? Did you go into the arts because of a teacher? Did you become a mechanic because you liked to take things apart as a kid? Did you personally witness something that made you want to go into a particular profession or fight for a cause? What were the things that inspired you?

This year's  t-shirt!

I often think about these things when remembering why I'm so passionate about the sanctity of life. My earliest memory was hearing my pastor preach about the truth of abortion when I was a teenager. I don't think I remember truly knowing much about abortion until I heard that message. I was stunned and brokenhearted! It horrified me and angered me that this kind of thing actually occurs!

The burden on my heart to fight to make it stop only grew the more I learned about it and how to get involved. It was the book "Answering the Call", by John Ensor, that really drove it home for me (as well as "Gianna: Aborted, And Lived to Tell About It" by Jessica Shaver Renshaw. My own daughter, Gianna, was named after her). I remember crying and feeling completely broken after seeing one of the images of severed baby body parts on one of the pages. That devastation I felt when I first saw those pictures comes rushing back every time I see one of those recently released videos; you know, the ones in which Planned Parenthood's evil and barbaric practices of butchering and selling aborted babies for profit get exposed. Yeah, those! I just can't fathom how anyone can watch those and NOT be outraged and moved to do something!

I normally wouldn't be posting an entry like this on my fitness blog, but I just had to make sure that the word was getting out in case you hadn't read about it on my other blog! My family and I will be participating in the Heartline Walk for Life this Saturday (so yeah, that's fitness related lol! There's a 5k too if you want to sign up for that!). I also wanted to post on here because I haven't posted anything for "Media Monday" in a while and this song has been on my heart. It's a song by Kathy Troccoli called "A Baby's Prayer". This was also one of those things that sparked my passion for fighting for life and I even sang it for church. Please, watch this video and listen to the words. It's such a beautiful song!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I am hoping and praying that in these final days before the walk, my family, friends, and readers will help me meet my goals! As I mentioned, I have promised to make a lot of personal sacrifices to encourage you to donate (even a dollar will help! Can you PLEASE donate at least a dollar?!). I have vowed to go a week without makeup and post a no-makeup selfie each day (this is kind of a big deal for me lol). I've also offered to giveaway a Piyo workout program (the same program that Chris and I have been doing) as well as a bag of Shakeology! My husband has also offered free computer tune-ups. And....the big one.....I will SHAVE MY HEAD if I raise $5,000 or more! I'm serious...I'll really do it (and you know how much my hair means to me lol). Do you want to see/make that happen?! Donate something and not only will you be helping to save lives (and your donation is tax deductible, by the way) but you'll also be getting a chance to win this stuff I'm offering and possibly see me go bald for babies! :) Please, our crisis pregnancy centers need your help more than ever!!! Please, donate SOMETHING and share this post with your friends on social media! Contact me if you have any questions about anything! Be infused! God bless you!

We Won't Quit!

Finally! I have a moment to post something! It will be short (rare, I know lol) but I wanted to at least take a moment to assure everyone that reads this blog that Chris and I are STILL persevering with Piyo! Like I mentioned in my previous post, it's sometimes a struggle for me to keep going. However, I push forward no matter what!

Sweaty Selfie!

I'm so glad that I haven't given up and that Chris and I have been encouraging each other to push through it (even Chalene Johnson has liked our photos on Instagram!). We are seeing a difference in our strength and endurance levels. We look and feel better and are transforming and improving every day! We have been pushing through no matter how tired and busy we are!

Speaking of busy, that's another reason I haven't posted (well, not on this blog anyways). I've posted a couple things on my original blog. Please take a moment to read those posts if you haven't already because they're really important! If you ever wondered what I would look like without makeup or even without hair (I'm not kidding!) you'll want to read about how you can get me to shave my head!! You could even win your own copy of Piyo or Shakeology as well! Read the post for all the details!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I'll leave you with this amazing video that often plays out in my head when I'm working out (it's from the movie "Facing the Giants" which is a MUST SEE!). It encourages me to give my all, persevere, and to NEVER give up!! :No matter what, we won't quit; and that applies to everything in our lives! Anytime you feel like you can't go on, just think of this and "DON'T QUIT! DON'T QUIT!" Do your best...your VERY BEST!! KEEP GOING! DON'T GIVE UP! You can do it and God is right there supplying you with what you need to accomplish it! Be infused! God bless you!!

Beast Mode: How to Defeat "Gaston"

It's hard to believe that Chris and I are already on our third week of Piyo. We're nearly finished with our first month, but you can still workout right along with us at any time (in fact, Piyo is on sale this month!). It hasn't been easy, but we are feeling stronger and more flexible. It's so worth it and I highly recommend it! Chris says he already has more room around the waistline of his pants and frequently likes to flex his growing arm muscles. ;) I do not mind this at all lol! I'm so proud of him/us and very grateful to God for getting us through it!

There have been many days where I have felt so tired and sore that I have wanted to just skip a workout or abandon this workout program. I pretty much feel like this every time I start a new routine but I stick with it because I refuse to give up on myself. Yes, there are times where I barely get through it, but I say my prayers and push on through!

This may sound odd, but for quite some time, there is a particular scene that plays out in my mind every morning when I wake up (and a lot of times when I'm struggling to get through a workout). In case you didn't know, I struggle with chronic pain; the doctor thinks I likely have fibromyalgia. I usually feel terrible when my alarm goes off in the morning and I often battle with finding the will to get out of bed. That's when I hear the words of Gaston, from Beauty & the Beast, mocking me: "Get up! Get UP! What's the matter Beast?! Too kind and gentle to fight BACK?!" There I am; lying there trying to convince myself to start the day. I know that I have a "beast mode" deep inside, but it would just be so much easier to lie there and give up. However, while I am a kind and gentle person, I am not a sissy that is going to just stay lying down and refuse to get up and fight for myself. Like the Beast, I always find my reason for living again and rise up strong; taking my enemy (Satan) aback. I find my "beast mode" by praying for God's strength and motivation. I remember that He is my reason for living and that He has given me responsibilities that I must fulfill for my family, my job, and everyone I encounter each day. Unless I am ridiculously sick, I get my booty out of bed and "Gaston" has to shut up for one more day lol. Satan is relentless, but my God is stronger! Jesus is the only reason I keep getting out of bed (or get up off the floor when I have done one too many reps). Beast mode.....HEAR ME ROAR!!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope this encourages you to engage your inner beast and that these fairy tale parallels can help you relate in a way that is beneficial to you (this isn't the first time God has brought Beauty & the Beast to my mind)! Ask yourself, "What is my focus? What makes me rise up courageously and ferociously to accomplish what I need to do?" Share your thoughts and comments about these questions in the comment section below this post! :) I encourage you to pursue your passion and purpose ! Ask God to reveal it to you if you don't already know. Rely on Him to be your strength and motivation and you too will defeat "Gaston" every day no matter how much he taunts you or tries to lead the charge chanting "kill the Beast"! No one can kill that Beast inside you because if God is for you, no one can be against you! ;) God bless you!

My Husband And I Are "Doing It!"

Yeah, it was like THAT lol!

My husband just told me something incredibly shocking today! He said: "I wanna do it with you." No, it's not what you think (c'mon, you really think I would share that on my blog lol?!). He was actually referring to the idea of doing a Team Beachbody workout program with me! Yeah, see........SHOCKING!! :)

It's not that Chris isn't a fan of exercise. It's just that we have both been low on the time and motivation to do much of anything aside from keeping up with our normal day-to-day routine of work and family obligations. However, we've realized that just like any other priority, you have to MAKE time for it! Our health and well-being IS a priority and it's essential that we work on being in a better state of health; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. These post-nuptial pounds gained MUST GO!

The Team Beachbody motto is: "Decide. Commit. Succeed." We are currently in the "Decide" phase where we're making a plan of action and choosing a program to commit to! Our program of choice: Piyo! I've been eager to try it ever since it was released but just haven't done it yet. I'm so excited that my husband wants to "do it" with me lol! I hope he knows what he's getting into with me as a coach because I'm going to hold him to his word! If it's anything I know and admire about my man, it's that he's just as committed and determined as I am when making a serious decision to do something! He's amazing!

As we prepare to embark on this new aspect of our journey together, a few verses come to mind:

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? - Galatians 5:7


Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. - 1 Corinthians 9:24.  

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. - Hebrews 12:1. 

Anyone who knows me or has read my blogs for a while knows that I have been "racing" a long time. My health and weight have been a battle for many years. There have been many things that have "cut in on me" and kept me from continuing to "race in such a way as to get the prize." I could give you an entire list of whats and whys, but there really is no excuse. It all boils down to whether or not I made the right decisions or not. Not being consistent with my workouts, failing to eat the way I should, and not staying closely plugged in with my ultimate coach (God) will always ensure that I'm sitting on the sidelines instead of racing towards the finish line. It's unacceptable!

Everyone that is reading this right now is going to make up our "cloud of witnesses"! In the months to come, you will read updates on our progress as we persevere on this journey. We'll be working hard to throw off  all the hindrances and entanglements that keep us from reaching our goal! Prayer and accountability make it even more certain that we will get there because we'll be "doing it" together!

How about you? Are you happy with your health? Are you still running a good race and in a way to get the prize? Or, have you run into snares and potholes along the way? It's never too late to recommit! Leave a comment and share your roadblocks! We've all had them and become discouraged! You don't have to let it keep you down! I've started and restarted so many times I can't keep track; but I keep trying! :) Cheer us on and we'll cheer you on too!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope that this post will inspire courage and a renewed desire to make every aspect of your health a fresh priority! We will keep you updated on what we're doing! If you'd like to join us, contact me so we can pray for/support you! Also, feel free to follow Infusion 413 on Facebook and request to join our motivation group! You NEVER have to do this alone! Like the Nike saying goes: "Just Do It!" Be infused! God bless you!

*Note* I was originally going to talk about the newest products and promotions, but God obviously led me in a different direction...which is great, right? ;) Just visit www.infusion413.com instead and click on "shop" to see what's new! Most notable is Shaun T's newly released program (Cize), the new "Fixate" cookbook (21 Day Fix Recipes! Yay!), boost powders for your Shakeology, and new performance formulas to get maximum results! Here are some links to a few short videos for more info (or feel free to contact me): Cize video, Shakeology Boost video, Performance Formulas video.

Spring Breaking Into Fitness!

Our kids have been gone since last weekend; they are on Spring break with our exes. I can't remember the last time Chris and I got to spend some quiet quality time together! We've even got to go on a few walks. It's so nice to be able to get some exercise together and enjoy the outdoors again now that it's getting nicer out!

I hope all of you are enjoying the nicer weather! Comment and let me know what your favorite outdoor activities are! Do you have a nice scenic neighborhood that makes taking walks a treat? How about outdoor sports? Is anyone out there starting to get warmed up for Summer activities?

If you're not an outdoor person (or are looking to get in shape for the outdoor sports) watch the videos below to check out the programs on special this month. If you've already done P90X or P90X2, then take it to the next level with P90X3. Or, maybe you'd really like to concentrate on some flexibility and do some Piyo. Whichever you choose, it will be a great start to improving your fitness or getting back into shape!

Grace and peace to you, my friends. I apologize that I don't have more time to blog, but as always, comment or message me if you have any questions or want to share something! Be infused! God bless you!

March's Lions and Lambs; The Bad News and the Good News

It's only four days into the month of March and I'm sure we're all guessing as to whether it's a "lion" or a "lamb" kind of start (as the saying goes). If we're going by the weather alone, I suppose we're still seeing that lion. Around here, Winter is still alive and well (unfortunately). Warmer temperatures are starting to appear, but I guess anything above freezing feels like a heat wave!

The weather isn't the only downer of the month. In case you haven't heard, Les Mills Pump and Combat are being discontinued. :( Therefore, if either of those programs have ever sparked your interest, I suggest purchasing the program before the remaining quantities are sold out! As I've mentioned in the past, I greatly enjoyed Les Mills Combat and got GREAT results with it! I highly recommend it! It's fun, intense, and you'll feel pretty awesome wearing the gloves and throwing those punches!

Well, that's the extent of the bad news. Yep, that's all! I actually got a TON of good news for you! It involves Team Beachbody on demand, Turbo Fire, and Focus T25. Those two programs mentioned are the programs that are on sale this month. If you're itching for warmer weather and vacation, start getting in shape for it NOW. I have done both of these programs and they are personal favorites of mine! The workouts, the music, the trainers, the results....ALL OF IT is heart-pumping, weight-losing, AWESOMENESSl! 21 Day Fix Extreme (as well as the kickstart program), and the 3 Day Refresh are still on special as well. Click on any of these links or browse www.infusion413.com! You won't regret getting one of these programs (especially if you buy a challenge pack which is the program PLUS Shakeology). As always, if you are dissatisfied, return it for a refund (less s&h). No hassle! You've got nothing to lose except those winter pounds!

Now, for the other part of that good news....TEAM BEACHBODY ON DEMAND! If you are a complete workout junkie, THIS is the deal for you! Get the Club Challenge pack this month (which includes Shakeology) and choose from any workout from any program whenever you want and stream it from your TV, computer, or whatever! All your favorite workouts INSTANTLY! That's the perk of being in the Team Beachbody Club (as well as a 10% discount on all products you buy when you're a member). If you don't want to get the club challenge pack, you can always become a Team Beachbody Club member whenever you'd like and try it out. You'll never have to buy the programs or fiddle with DVDs again! Just pick a workout and go! Don't you just love technology?!

Grace and peace to you my friends! I hope that March will turn out to be a great month for you! With all these great deals, how could it not be?! Additionally, a SUPER Shakeology Sampler Pack is going to be released on the 16th. The current sampler pack available lets you sample all the Shakeology flavors minus the vegan ones. The SUPER sampler will INCLUDE the vegan flavors. That's good news if you've ever been curious or interested in trying the vegan flavors (or have contemplated a vegan diet). As always, if you have any questions or comments, leave them below or contact me! Be infused! God bless you!

INSANE Results...in 30 MINUTES!

I'll just keep it short and sweet: Shaun T's new program, Insanity Max 30, has finally been released! Of course, it couldn't be more timely because the challenge pack (the program PLUS Shakeology) is deeply discounted for the month of December. So, whether you're buying it as a gift, or for yourself, this is the best time to get it! Shaun T's programs are very popular, so it's highly likely that it might sellout quickly. 

Grace and peace to you, my friends! Watch the short video below to see what you're in for! If you're familiar with (or have done) Insanity, you probably already have an idea. ;) One thing's for certain, Shaun T's programs GET RESULTS! I've done Hip Hop Abs, Rockin' Body, and Focus T25. I love those programs and I lost pounds and inches. I'm sure this program will be no exception! Intensity and results, and in only 30 minutes! Awesome! Be infused! God bless you! 

I TRIPLE DOG DARE 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! 

You're the Next 21 Day Fix Success Story!

Wow! A few months ago when 21 Day Fix was released, it sold out quickly!! It took a while before they could even get the program back in stock (there was a WAITING LIST!). In other words, it's super popular and wildly successful! Not only is it a great workout program, but it effectively teaches eating and portion control. I have had several customers do this program and I've been loving their "before" and "after" photos (don't forget to submit your photos to the Team Beachbody challenge when you finish a program for a FREE t-shirt of the program you completed!).

Anyways, yeah....Team Beachbody is fully stocked and ready to offer their awesome deal on the 21 Day Fix challenge pack again (which is the program PLUS Shakeology)! The deal also applies to the 21 Day Fix in Spanish! So, check out the short video below and order it before it sells out.....AGAIN! :) You won't regret it! You'll be the next 21 Day Fix success story; losing weight and INCHES!

On another note, if you're Canadian, the coaching opportunity is now available for you too! So, if you have ever wanted to be a Team Beachbody coach, now you CAN!! Visit my website and check out the coaching section or contact me if you have any questions or need help. I would LOVE to have you on my team and show you the ropes! :)

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I'll do my best to start getting back to blogging regularly again. Life is almost kinda sorta normal lol. We still have a little bit of transitioning to do (and still waiting on my house to sell as well as a good job for me up here). Prayers are appreciated! Thanks for your support and understanding! No matter what, I'm still here for you and am always ready and willing to help you with your health, nutrition, and fitness goals. Be infused! God bless you!

 

August Update

It's been a month since Chris and I have been married. We often get asked the typical question of "how's married life?" Of course, we naturally say it's "wonderful" (because it is). In fact, compared to the previous marriages that we've both had (which were difficult and abusive) we are always amazed at just how wonderful and "normal" this marriage is and that we finally know what it's like to have a relationship that is centered around God's design/principles. It certainly is a blessing to have something real, genuine, and truly lasting! Sometimes, we are still stunned by our own love story lol. God is so good!

The fact that our faith has been our foundation is what continues to make our marriage and family stronger. If we didn't have that, we would have surely fallen apart a long time ago due to so much stress in the last 8 months. All the transitions have been tiring and tedious; plus we have had a lot of unexpected things happen as well (unexpected loss of a family member as well as a friend). These are some of the many things that have been weighing on us; most of which I cannot really list in a blog. It's because of this stuff that I have still been unable to get back into my blogging routine. I sure do long for the day where things are finally stabilized/normal and everything is more settled lol. Once everything is moved and my house is sold, that will probably make a lot of things better. I appreciate everyone's prayers about that!

Anyways, that's all I had to say on a personal note. The other thing I wanted to make sure to share was this month's promotions. The very popular and effective Focus T25 Challenge Pack is on sale once again (and for the last time this year!). This program is one of my personal favorites and is only 25 minutes a day! Yep, that's it! Combined with Shakeology, it's a sure fire way to achieve results and look/feel great! I should know because I did it! ;) The other program that is on sale is the 10 Minute Trainer Challenge pack. If 25 minutes a day is too much for you, how about just 10? Yes, 10!!! Surely you can do 10 minutes of working out each day! No problem! Watch the videos below to find out more! :)

Grace and peace to you, my friends! Thank you for understanding my scarceness in this time of transition. As always, I would like to reiterate the fact that while I may not have a lot of time for blogging, I will ALWAYS have time for YOU! Comment or email me with any questions you have or if you need help with anything. Coaching is and always will be something that I'm passionate about because I'm passionate about helping PEOPLE! I'm here for you! Be infused! God bless you!

Fighting Weight-Loss? How to "Stay with the Fight"!

My wedding date is next month already (I know, right?!). I'm incredibly busy; and incredibly tired! However, no matter what is going on, I make sure that I continue to workout. :) Sometimes, it's a challenge to keep being consistent when all I want to do is pass out from exhaustion, but I know that the endorphins from exercising will help me manage all the stress and keep me in a good mood in the big picture of things! Plus, I've got some momentum going and there's no way I'm stopping now!! :)

I got my FREE t-shirt for
completing Les Mills Combat!

With that being said, I want to encourage you to keep on working out too; no matter what! Or, if you have stopped your workout routine (whether recently or maybe a long time ago) start it up again! Find something you enjoy and do it - for YOU! Do it for you body, your mind, and your spirit! You'll be glad you did! If you need help choosing something, let me know and I will suggest something that will be a great fit for you! That's what I'm here for, and like I have promised, I'm here for you no matter how "busy" I am! Helping people is my passion! Don't hesitate to comment or email me! 

Two exercises you might want to consider are the ones that are on special this month! If you workout regularly and are wanting to step up your game and REALLY get fit, now is the best time to buy Insanity because the challenge pack is $45.00 cheaper than it normally is! But, if that's not what you're looking for right now, how about the Shaun T Dance challenge pack? You get Hip Hop Abs AND Rockin' Body....AND Shakeology....all at one great price! I can personally vouch that all three of those things are AWESOME! :) I've been doing a little bit of everything right now, and those two programs usually end up being something that I end up doing! The exercises are effective and fun; and the music is great so you don't even think of it as a workout! 

"Stay with the Fight!"
You can do it!!

If neither of those options really appeal to you, I got even BETTER NEWS! From now until Sunday, many other Team Beachbody programs are discounted up to 50% OFF their normal prices! P90X and P90X2, for example, are only $59.90!! Or, maybe you'd like to get one of my other favorite programs, Les Mills Combat, for only $35.91?!! Yeah, really!! :) The prices on these programs are ONLY for a few days so DON'T WAIT! Shop the special summer selection now by clicking on this link to see everything that is available!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! Check out the video clip below to learn more about the dance pack (click here to view the Insanity video because the embed code wasn't working). Again, if you have any questions, just ask! I'm here for you and we're all in this together! I know it's difficult, but "stay with the fight"! Don't get knocked out; just get back up no matter what! Find time for "you" and you'll get to where you need to be! It may take time, but you'll get there! I'm still on this journey too; and as you can see, I'm progressing! :) If I can do it, so can you! Be infused! God bless you! 

Very Vegan Video!

A while back, I shared the fact that not only does Shakeology have vegan options, but the flavors now taste better than ever! Though, you don't have to be vegan to appreciate it! Watch this short video for more information!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! Sorry I'm so short with the blog today, but I'm absolutely overloaded with a lot right now! I'll be sure to update you more when I can! Thanks for your support and prayers! Be infused! God bless you!

What Makes You a Woman?

If you're a woman, chances are you have lots of ideas in your mind about what femininity is (or isn't). We're taught by our Moms, family members, friends, and our culture about what it means to be a woman and are bombarded with so many different things that we don't always know who we really are. Often times, we end up with distorted views of who we are supposed to be; thinking that what makes us a woman is how we good we look, what we can do, etc.

There is no easy way to define what a woman is in today's world, but there are some things that never change and that is how God designed and fashioned a woman to be. There's no way I could describe it as eloquently as Kent did on Mother's Day, so you'll just have to watch it for yourself. Trust me, you'll love it! As always, he explains things in a style that is not only informative and thought provoking, but humorous as well! As a matter of fact, "It's not about the nail" is likely going to become a running joke between Chris and I. Kent shared a video of a woman talking to her husband about how much her head hurts and how tough things are and the husband is telling her that she has a big nail in her forehead (which she does; a big huge one lol). She yells at him that it's not about the nail and that he's not listening to her lol. I think we, as women, have those moments; where we just want to be listened to and all the guy wants to do is fix things. Though, as a lady in the service pointed out after the sermon, sometimes we have to allow our men to "fix" things and take out those nails. God has gifted us with special men in our lives that he put there to help mend and heal thing;s just as we help mend and heal them. Pride has to be laid down and we have to be open to accepting help and healing.

One of the main things I got out of this message was that Kent said that men (and society) has largely reduced women to being about their parts. The more he said it, the more I seen it in a fresh way. Yes, we see and hear the overly sexual images, songs, jokes, etc. that talk about women's "parts" in ways that are less than flattering. Though, we don't give much thought to it anymore and many buy into the lie that that's what women are all about. As a result, women buy into the lie that it's all about how those "parts" look and what they can do with those "parts". Ladies, that's not true! Men, that's not true! Who a woman (or any person) is, is determined by the parts you can't see: the heart and mind.

Grace and peace to you, my friends! Women (and men too, actually) really need to hear this message! I promise it will bless you in so many ways! I was beyond blessed to hear that message and to rethink what it means to be a woman! It was humorous as it was enlightening and inspiring, and I hope you'll take a minute to see it for yourself! Be infused! God bless you!


Mother's Day: Biblical Femininity from Vineyard Community Church on Vimeo.

Almond Paradise

Be honest. When you read the title, you thought of "Amish Paradise" by Weird Al, didn't you....or was it just me?! If you're like, "ohmigosh, yes!" that's great, because then I won't feel like such a dope lol. If not, then I guess I'm really losing it because that's what registered in my brain when I saw the title for this Shakeology recipe. I don't know if it was because I was tired or if I just caught the "A" and the "paradise" and it just made me do a double take or what. Who knows lol?! Anyways, I just had to laugh at myself a little bit because that's what I thought of when I first caught sight of the title. Just thought I'd share that blooper with you! ;)

Anyways, here is the recipe itself! It features the vegan tropical strawberry flavor (which I mentioned last week is now better than ever!).

Almond Paradise 

1 serving vegan tropical strawberry Shakeology
1 cup almond milk
1 tsp. all-natural almond butter

Mix all ingredients in a blender with desired amount of ice to suit your consistency preference. Enjoy!


Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope you are having a great weekend! Ok...just for fun, here's the Weird Al video lol. You are welcome lol! Hey, "I don't care who ya are...that's funny right there!" (especially if you grew up around a lot of Amish like I did). Amish are cool people (and I mean no disrespect by posting this; it's all in good humor). Be infused! God bless you!

Workout Warnings

For the past week, I've been doing a little of this and a little of that. I'm not doing any set schedule program at the moment, so I've been doing whatever Beachbody program I've felt like doing! :) Additionally, I've also gone for a run outside (today was cool and a little rainy - felt nice!). I'm still burning up the calories and feeling good!

Last week, I was feeling a little rough after doing a Turbo Fire workout. Let's just say that I ignored my own advice of modification. I KNOW that my back and hips are in the kind of condition that do not support a lot of jumping and shock to my spine. Yet, I got a little too "fired" up and I was really feelin' it the next day! Not good! Doing that can really injure one's self! So, here is a friendly reminder that no matter what workout program you're doing, pay attention to your body and don't take workout warnings lightly. There is NO SHAME in modifying. In fact, sometimes you MUST in order to ensure that you don't hurt yourself and then prevent yourself from being able to workout at all! Sitting on the couch icing your back and putting yourself out of commission is never fun! It's not worth it!

I LOVE being able to workout and challenge myself! It's what keeps me going! However, I also know not to overextend my limits. I can't compromise my physical safety. Modifications get results too; they do! You aren't a wimp if you don't do it "exactly" the way everyone else does on the video. You are NOT "everyone else". Know yourself and do your best. If your best means that you have to take it down a notch, that is OK! It really is!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! Remember, always pay attention to those workout warnings; whether they are literal ones before the DVD starts or the signals that your body gives you. Priority number one is always SAFETY! Be careful when you do Turbo Fire (or any other program - especially the high impact ones). Yes, it is STILL on sale until the end of this month so don't wait to buy your challenge pack! Click on the video below to preview what it's all about. You'll love it! Be infused! God bless you!

Don't Watch These Videos!

All three of the videos for "The Perfect Execution" series are NOW available! I know what you're thinking. There are all sorts of videos and sermons out there and everyone is saying, "Oh, you got to watch this one! It's so good!" I've had friends and family members recommend things to me in the past as well. Sometimes I get around to listening, reading, or watching it and sometimes I don't. Though, when I do, I'm usually pretty glad I did!

Below, you'll find the video for the last part of the series. Here are the videos for part one and two if you haven't seen them yet (be sure to subscribe to The Vineyard Community Church on Vimeo!). I won't say that you MUST watch them because maybe you aren't like me at all. Maybe you've never had a problem understanding God's grace or the fact that you don't have to earn your way into God's favor. Maybe it's all been easy for you to grasp and you've never felt (or been) legalistic, fearful, unsure, or had a hard time figuring out what it means to be forgiven and your sins paid in full. But, if you ARE like me, you HAVE had those moments of wondering if you're "enough" and if you're going to "make it" to heaven; wondering if your efforts will get you where you hope to be. If any of this sounds like you, watch this series! It has really been helpful in reaffirming to me what it means to be dependent on grace and not on myself. Chris had told me many times that Pastor Kent was good at explaining things in really relevant ways and is able to break things down to where people can understand. He's absolutely right! I love his preaching style and I am absolutely loving the Vineyard Church! Buuuuut...don't watch these videos. They're probably not for you. ;)

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope you had a blessed weekend! I sure did! It was busy and tiring, but full of family and good times (as well as those handmade Mother's Day cards lol). I'm so blessed! The Mother's Day sermon was outstanding too; can't wait for that to be uploaded because it talks about the femininity of a woman. Very interesting! Be infused! God bless you!



The Perfect Execution: Part 3 - Freedom from Vineyard Community Church on Vimeo.

Tasty Vegan Options!

Vegan. It seems to be a trend these days. There's a lot of pros and cons to "going vegan". Personally, I am not a vegan (nor do I see myself becoming one; sorry, I am very much a carnivore lol). However, mad props to those that are; and can live the lifestyle! I imagine it can be very challenging sometimes!

When it comes to special ways of living (vegan, gluten-free, etc.) food choices can be VERY limited. Thank goodness for VEGAN Shakeology, right? There is vegan chocolate and vegan tropical strawberry. I have never tried the vegan chocolate, but I HAVE tried the other one (and I hated it!). In fact, I guess I wasn't the only one! That's why Team Beachbody has reformulated their vegan flavors so that they taste better than before! So, if you're like me and couldn't stand the chalkiness of it, it is NOW smoother and creamier. There is also more cocoa in the chocolate and more guava in the tropical strawberry. Hmmm...maybe I COULD go a LITTLE vegan! ;)

Anyways, that's the heads up for you! I wanted to make sure that you always know what your Shakeology options are (and how to afford it). As always, if you have any questions, let me know! I'm here for you!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I hope you are having a blessed weekend! Be infused! God bless you!

 

I'm Finished! What's Next?!

Guess what?! I'm DONE with my Les Mills Combat workout schedule! It was definitely tough, but worth it (and that was just the BASIC one! I'll do the REALLY tough one at a later date). I'll take some stats tomorrow (as well as some "after" pictures so I can get a FREE t-shirt for completing the program). I don't expect there will be much change (I have a long way to go and I wasn't on any special eating plan other than Shakeology) but I definitely feel better and stronger regardless!

So, what's next for me? I'm not going to do a set program for a while. Let's just say I have a LOT in the works right now (concerning my personal life). However, that doesn't mean I'm going to stop working out! Gosh, no! I'm just going to enjoy doing whatever I feel like doing without being tied down to one program. I'll probably walk/run outside, do a little Hip Hop Abs, Rockin' Body, Turbo Jam, Focus T25, Turbo Fire, or whatever I feel like! I'm also kind of eagerly waiting on PIYO to come out (click here to be the first to know when it does so you can get it before it sells out! By the way, 21 Day Fix is FINALLY off of back order!).

Speaking of Turbo Fire, it's on sale this month!! It's definitely one of my personal favorites! Chalene Johnson is one of my preferred trainers! She is very spunky, positive, and motivating! Not only that, but she is an EXCELLENT choreographer! The music and the workout moves that she uses is not only a great calorie burning fest, it's lots of fun!

By the way, Turbo Fire isn't the only challenge pack on sale! P90X3 is on sale too! This program is perfect for those that love intense and effective programs but don't want to spend a ton of time working out. It's only 30 minutes a day!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! Watch the two videos below to get an idea of what the programs are like! Let me know if you have any questions! Be sure to order soon! These deals are only available until the end of this month (and summer is right around the corner, so it's time to get fit!). Be infused! God bless you!

The Cross Worked!!!

Last week sure was a crazy week! I have been BEYOND busy, tired, and overwhelmed! Having a garage sale is a lot of work (even more so when you have other things going on at the same time; but I won't get into that right now). It was so windy, and there didn't seem to be as many people, but Chris and I still made a nice amount! :)

Church was really great yesterday! I am enjoying this series so much because I used to have a really big problem with legalism and understanding grace. I had some big breakthroughs in 2007, but then I started having a hard time again after my divorce. I'm re-learning again that (as always) it's all about Him and not about me. It's about His sacrifice on the cross. Nothing I do can add or take away from it. His blood is sufficient for me; always. I can't make Him love me more or less. Neither good deeds nor my horrible mistakes will change anything.

The second part of "The Perfect Execution" series has just been uploaded. It is SO WORTH WATCHING! Be sure to check out part one as well! If you have ever struggled with wondering if you're good enough, if you're going to "make it" to heaven, if you have done too much wrong and not enough right, you need to watch this!! The bottom line is: "The cross WORKED!" It did! It worked and it continues to work; forever! As the old hymn goes, "my sin, not in part, but the whole...is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more. Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!" ALL of our sins (yours, mine, EVERYONE'S) was dealt with. Not just some, or in part, ALL OF IT!!! We are forgiven. We are made holy and perfect. THE CROSS WORKED!!

Grace and peace to you, my friends! These sermons are such a blessing; trust me! You will be so glad you watched them; especially if you are like me and sometimes beat yourself up over stuff and don't "feel" forgiven. Take heart and remember that no matter what you "feel", truth is truth...and the truth is, THE CROSS WORKED!! Be infused! God bless you!



The Perfect Execution: Part 2 - Friends with God from Vineyard Community Church on Vimeo.

Taking a Break this Week

This is going to be a busy week! I have a lot going on; mainly the upcoming city-wide garage sale this weekend. So, I think I'm going to take a break from blogging for the week because I have a lot of cleaning, sorting, and pricing to do (be sure to visit the Willowbrook addition to see what we've got! We're always a VERY busy area when this event is going on and have LOTS of nice stuff! Just don't park where the police have specified not to or you WILL get a parking ticket).

Grace and peace to you, my friends! I'll leave you with this video. It's the sermon that I talked about last week (which includes a really cool skit). Watch it! You'll be glad you did! I can't wait until they post the video from yesterday's sermon! I was going to blog a bit about it last night, but I didn't have the time to do so. Be infused! God bless you!



The Perfect Execution: Part 1 - Peace With God from Vineyard Community Church on Vimeo.