Fit for Faith

S T R

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:46:00 +0000

Psalm 13:1, 2- How long will you forget me, O Lord? Forever? How long will you look the other way when I am in need? How long must I be hiding daily anguish in my heart? How long shall my enemy have the upper hand (LB)?

Because I am not a medical person, I appreciate simple, easy to remember information that will help folks stay healthy. The new stroke guidelines, STR, qualify. STR stands for the words Smile-Talk-Raise. That is, if a person can’t smile, talk or raise their arms above their head, they are likely having a stroke. There is no time to waste. Call 911 immediately. I pray that I never need to use this medical information. Still, if the need arises, I know when to pick up the phone and call for help.

While I have not used STR in a medical way, I often need it for my spiritual life. There have been times when my outlook was just too dim. Unable (or unwilling) to smile (bad attitude), talk (give thanks) or raise my arms (praise), I chose depression, loneliness and fear. Thankfully I knew who to call. God’s 911 number is available to all of us.

Prayer- Father, help us remember You even when our thoughts are far from Your saving grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

: from Heartfelt, 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living,
-the modern devotional for today's woman-
by Brenda J. Wood brendawoodauthor@yahoo.ca

Chocolate Covered Fruit

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:44:00 +0000

Romans 12:3-I give each of you God’s warning: Be honest in your estimate of yourselves, measuring your value by how much faith God has given you (LB).

At holiday time I look for uncomplicated recipes to serve family and friends who will be dropping in. My choice this year is chocolate- covered fruit. The ingredients are a package of semisweet chocolate chips, 1 ½ teaspoons of shortening and some dried fruit!

Melt the chips with the shortening (NOT butter or margarine) over low heat. Remove from heat. Spear dried apricots, dates etc, onto a toothpick and then dip one end into the chocolate. Place on wax paper to harden. It’s tasty and impressive. Still, it is really only fruit.

Fruit reminds me of John 15 and how God calls us to bear much fruit. The trouble with our personal fruit is that we like to put chocolate coating on it. We make it out to be more than it is or take the credit for ourselves when our fruit comes only through our close personal walk with God. This holiday season by all means try this delicious chocolate-covered fruit recipe. Yum! Just remember that there is no point in sugar-coating good solid fruit with what is not honest or true.

Prayer-Lord, thanks for letting us be part of the miracle of spiritual fruit. Forgive us for boasting or making our spiritual gifts out to be more than they are or taking credit for Your works unto ourselves. Reveal our fruit, Lord. Help us not smother it in chocolate. Amen.

: from Heartfelt, 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living,
-the modern devotional for today's woman-
by Brenda J. Wood brendawoodauthor@yahoo.ca

Neck Stretches

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 01:30:00 +0000

I received this in my email inbox and thought it worthy of sharing! Unfortunately, I'm not sure of the original author. But, I thank them for my break for the day!

Self-Control

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 10:42:00 +0000

1 Corinthians 9:27a- But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it (AMP).

1 Corinthians 6:19- Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own (NIV).

“Feel my finger!” she cried. “It sin’t wet. It does’t have bumps on it. I have self control!” Alone in her bedroom, our granddaughter chose to discipline herself. She refused to put her thumb in her mouth again. I rejoiced with her, but was ashamed of my own lack of self-control. When was the last time I decided not to take a second helping or refused a bite of chocolate or a slice of cake? Oh, sure we do that in public. We don’t want others to watch us chow down.

God’s diet/exercise/stop smoking/stop ________ plan is clear. Treat our bodies as His temple. Ask Him for the strength we need, when we need it. Our part is to receive His help by faith, resist temptation and guard the holiness of His temple. God gives strength for a walk, but we must put on shoes and open the door.

Prayer- Lord, give us grace and strength to box our bodies into shape and keep them there. In Jesus’ name. Amen

: from Heartfelt, 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living,
-the modern devotional for today's woman-
by Brenda J. Wood brendawoodauthor@yahoo.ca

You Too Can Wear a Size 4

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 10:39:00 +0000

Romans 13:14 – But clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and make no provision for (indulging) the flesh [put a stop to thinking about the evil cravings of your physical nature] to [gratify its] desires (lusts) (AMP).

The pressure was on. What to wear for New Year’s Eve? The same old tacky, meaning I’m tired of it, from six years ago? Yes. I was grateful it still fit! Buy something expensive and wear it every New Year’s Eve for the next 20 years? Sigh. What to wear?

Then I remembered the skirt I bought for $1 at the thrift sale. Absolutely exquisite fabric, black sheer embroidered with multi-colour threads. Perfect. Except that it is size 4 and I definitely am not. Thankfully, I know how to sew. I cut out the lining, removed the zipper, finished the edges and sewed sleeve openings into the end.

I plopped the waistband over my head, added a brooch and voila! I wore my expensive designer cape with black slacks and top. Compliments flew my way. That too small, formerly unwearable size 4 had become a one-size-fits-all beautiful new outfit!

Isn’t that how Jesus appears in our lives? We are what we never thought we could be. We can even do the impossible. And all because we put on the Lord Jesus Christ, the One-Size-Fits-All-God.

Prayer-Dear God, thanks. We’re grateful that we ‘put on’ Your Son, Jesus. What a difference He’s made in our lives. Amen.

: from Heartfelt, 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living,
-the modern devotional for today's woman-
by Brenda J. Wood brendawoodauthor@yahoo.ca

The I’s

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 22:53:00 +0000

Proverbs 18:9-He who is loose and slack in his work is brother to him who is a destroyer and he who does not use his endeavors to heal himself is brother to him who commits suicide (AMP).

The first time I read this verse, I got an attack of guilt. I set out to heal myself. I made a list of personal rules about what kinds of exercise I’d do, how many hours I would do it, and with whom. Then I attacked my eating. I made plans on when to eat, how much, what and with whom. By then I was so tired that I had a snack and laid down for a nap! Thankfully when I woke up, I read the next verse.

Proverbs 18:10-The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the [consistently] righteous man [upright and in right standing with God] runs into it and is safe, high [above evil] and is strong (AMP).

I restarted my plan but first I asked for God’s help in the planning and then in the carrying out. Our strength is not in ourselves. If we will begin with God, He will give us safety, elevate us above evil and be our strength.

Prayer-Lord, forgive us for running ahead of You and yes, even running in the wrong direction! Give us the wisdom and courage to run into the strong tower of Your name! Amen.

: from Heartfelt, 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living,
-the modern devotional for today's woman-
by Brenda J. Wood brendawoodauthor@yahoo.ca

The Perfect Exercise Program

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 00:43:00 +0000

1 Peter 5:10-And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast (NIV).

Our fitness friend arranged our chairs in neat rows and convinced us to obediently follow her instructions. We did but we laughed when she added the source of each one!

1. Arise and walk - Genesis 13:17

2. Shake your feet - Matthew 10:14

3. Clap your hands - Psalm 47:1

4. Lift up your heads - Psalm 24:7

5. Rise up - Psalm 139:2b

6. Sit down - Psalm 139:2a

7. Look at one another - Acts 3:4

8. Laugh - Luke 6:21

9. Stand - Psalm 135:2

10. Shiver - Psalm 147:17

11. Dance - Ecclesiastes 3:4

12. Hug - Ecclesiastes 3:5

Found the perfect exercise program? Remember that long before our hips expanded, God planned that we be strong, firm and steadfast in every area of our lives.

Prayer- Lord, show us how to attack our slipshod places with Your energy. Make us a people willing to endure a little suffering for the end result. In Jesus‘ name. Amen.

: from Heartfelt, 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living,
-the modern devotional for today's woman-
by Brenda J. Wood

Heartfelt - Devotions for Common Sense Living

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:19:00 +0000

With the weeks leading up to Christmas, we are starting a new series of inspirational devotions. Brenda Wood has graciously offered us her devotions from her new book, Heartfelt – 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living. Enjoy!

My Shepherd

Psalm 23:1-2- The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters (KJV).

The buffet line was longer than my entire house. Did I want family food? Italian? Sushi? Chinese? Chocolate-covered, cream-filled desserts? YES! My knees weakened at the chocolate line. That’s when I recognized that my long-lived love of food had become an addiction. As a recovered bulimic I knew that I was capable of eating fifty thousand calories or more at a sitting.

Blessedly, Psalm 23 began to run through my mind. I certainly was in a green pasture. I could eat all I wanted and more, (only $9.99 with beverage extra)! But if the Lord is my shepherd, (and He is, I muttered to myself), I shall not want! I could lie down (a little loose translation here!) in this place and be satisfied. I prayed for strength, turned and stumbled back to my chair with only one serving of woman-losing-weight food. And the waters of greedy, poor me stilled.

What is yelling over the quiet, still voice of God? Is it an overloaded credit card? Does our smoking, eating, or gambling desire whine to be fed? Whatever our “feed-me-more” consider that the Lord is our shepherd. Rest in peace, knowing that we shall not want.

Prayer-Shepherd God, still the waters of our riotous minds and fill us with Yourself. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

: from Heartfelt, 366 Devotions for Common Sense Living,
-the modern devotional for today's woman-
by Brenda J. Wood

Staying Fit While Sitting All Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 23:15:00 +0000

Exercises & Stretches

Benefits of Exercise

* Elevates mood * Improves balance and mobility
* Maintains a healthy weight * Increases energy level
* Builds strength and tones muscles * A pure motive delights God

Discover the many benefits to exercise including feelings of accomplishment and wellbeing, increased energy, reduced stress and improved sleep patterns.

Stretches

Back
· Lean over and put hands on front thighs, curve your back upwards
· Keep head turned down, arch back up

Wrist
· Face palms together in front of chest
· Keep palms together, with hands in stationary position, slowly raise elbows upward as high as possible

Eyes
· Look away at distant things and blink frequently
· Imagine that you are looking at a clock; roll your eyes up to look at 12:00 o’clock, then move to each number on the face until you’re back at 12:00 - repeat counterclockwise

Neck
· Turn your head as if to look over one shoulder
· Hold and repeat for the other side

Shoulders
· Stand, arm behind your back, hold wrist with other hand
· Bend elbow and gently pull your arm across your back
· Hold and repeat for the other arm

Chest
· Stand, bring arms behind back
· Clasp hands together and gently pull arms back and up

Calf
· Stand in an upright stride position with right leg forward, right knee flexed
· Keep both feet flat on floor, slowly press back heel into the floor
· Repeat to opposite side

Exercises

Shoulder
· Stand with arms by your sides, palms facing side leg.
· Lead with bent elbows and slowly raise your arms out to your sides to shoulder height without rotating the arms.
· Your palms should face the floor at the top position with arms parallel to the floor.
· Pause briefly at the top of the move, then slowly lower to the starting position.
· Slowly raise your arms upward and forward to just below shoulder height.
· Pause briefly at the top of the movement, then slowly lower to starting position.

Shoulder
· Stand with arms comfortably hanging by your side, palms facing thigh.
· Keep your body straight, and lift the shoulders as high as possible.
· Pause at the top of the movement, then lower slowly to starting position.

Legs
· Stand with your feet hip-width apart.
· Keeping your body weight over your heels, bend forward at the hips and bend your knees in a squat until your thighs are as close to parallel to the floor as possible.
· Straighten your legs to the starting position without locking your knees.

Chest
· Stand in front of a wall, place hands in front of your shoulders on the wall with fingers pointing forward. Keep legs together and elbows bent.
· Push up from the wall by straightening your elbows, without locking them and keep the entire body in a straight line.
· Pause momentarily and slowly lower your chest to the starting position.

Wrist
· Extend and stretch both wrists and fingers as if they are in a hand-stand position
· Straighten both wrists and relax fingers
· Make a tight fist with both hands
· Bend both wrists down while keeping the fist
· Straighten both wrists and relax fingers
· Hang arms loosely at side and shake them for a couple of seconds

Eyes
· Close eyes and breathe deeply
· Cover eyes with palms, without pressing on eyeballs
· Uncover eyes after a few seconds
· Open by fluttering them and blinking

Hands
· Make a tight fist and hold for a second
· Spread fingers as far apart as you can for five seconds

50 Best Free Weight Loss Tools on the Web

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:18:00 +0000

Here's a site that may be of interest to you:

50 Best Free Weight Loss Tools on the Web

Check it out and let me know your thoughts on it.
Blessings on the road to health!

My Friend, My Mentor

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:13:00 +0000

You use steel to sharpen steel, and one friend sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17, The Message)

Attributes of a Mentor

Understanding Accepting Supportive
Involved in the community Good listener Open-minded
Positive Genuine Empathetic
Trustworthy Approachable Honest
Committed Respectful Sense of humour

Developing the Relationship

· Listen without interrupting
· Identify and reflect feelings
· Frame things from a positive perspective
· Use humour selectively and appropriately
· Follow the conversational “lead” of the talker
· Maintain eye contact, without staring or glaring
· Avoid using judgmental words like “you should” or “you shouldn’t”
· Using “I messages”, for example: “When you said ___ , I felt ___ .”
· Be yourself and share without completely switching the focus to you
· Help to identify options, pros and cons instead of giving advice
· Remain interested and focused on the person speaking
· Avoid dramatic or disapproving reactions
· Use “active listening” techniques

Luke 6:40
“A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher.”

Effective Mentoring

? Who has acted in a mentor role before? If so, can you describe the experience?

? Who has had a mentor before? If so, what was that like?

Equipping Mentors

· The partnership is fully confidential
· Mentors may take on more than one protégé at a time
· May have an opportunity to be a mentor in one partnership and a protégé in another
· Mentoring relationship will be as unique as the personalities, gifts and needs brought to it

Activity

Think about how you personally can make a difference in the lives of other women. Consider:

Whom could I be a mentor to?

Where might this mentoring process take place?

How much time am I able to devote to this?

How long am I prepared to be a mentor?

Now write down one thing, an action step, that you can take to begin the mentoring process.

Food for Thought

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:54:00 +0000

Just as eating healthy foods nourishes your body, Bible study nourishes your spirit. There are many similarities between healthy eating and Bible study:

Healthy eating and Bible study are both activities that you need do every day. They give strength and increase energy.

There are different ways to perform each. You may eat healthy at home or at a restaurant. You may enjoy different food groups. Similarly, you may read your Bible at home or in a group. Also, there are many Bibles to choose from.

Both build healthy relationships. When eating, you can enjoy the company of your family and friends. When reading your Bible, you can build a healthier relationship with God.

With a pure motive, they both delight God.

(Taken from Fit for Faith – 7 weeks to improved spiritual and physical health)

Recipe for Success

1 Book
Reading the ___________ provides you with wisdom, instructions, and comfort – “nutrition” which helps you stay spiritually healthy. The Bible is food-for-thought and as with eating food, it is also important to “digest” God’s Word.

8 cups of water
When the body gets the water it needs, it will function optimally. Water boosts your __________, suppresses appetite, increases short-term memory, prevents fluid retention, improves concentration, maintains skin, relieves constipation and rids the body of waste. The recommended water intake is eight to 10 glasses a day. Drinks containing ______________ do not count because they are diuretics, which increase water loss. You need to drink enough to keep your urine clear, light-colored and plentiful. A dark, gold colour urine may mean you are dehydrated.

4 tbsp of garlic, 4 pounds of chicken, 4 tsp of sesame seeds
Try not to eat the same food within a _____________-day period. Enjoy many different kinds of foods to get all the energy and nutrients you need. God created a variety of foods that you can enjoy to meet the needs of your body.

½ tsp each ground cumin and paprika
Focus on ______________. Add chilies, hot mustard and salsa to your meals, instead of high fat butter, rich cream or cheese sauces. Try non-fattening flavorings such as lemon juice, herbs and curry powders. And try low fat cooking techniques such as baking, broiling, steaming or boiling.

1 cup each chopped onions and red bell pepper
Reduce the amount of processed foods you buy. If you really want to be healthy, get back to the basics with ____________foods. Try to eat food the way God made it or as close to it as possible.

3 pounds of fat-free tortilla chips
________-_______ snacks may include pretzels, light microwave popcorn, vanilla wafers, fig bars, dried fruits, low-fat bran muffins, graham crackers, angel food cake and frozen yogurt.

Answers:
Bible; Energy; Caffeine; Four; Flavour; Whole; Low-fat

Plan of action

Can you remember a time when you may have had an intense yearning for something meaningful? Did the void feel insatiable? Did you turn to food to fill this void? If you feel like you still have this feeling, than your relationship with food has to change. It can no longer be looked to as your comforter, but instead you can look to the true Comforter. When you are feeling that emptiness, you can turn to your Bible and read the Word. That empty space can only be filled with God. Instead of giving into the craving, realize what it is: a deep call to spend time with God. Only God can fill the void.

Bible study cleanses your spirit. The word Bible means “the books”. It is the product of one Master Mind. The Bible itself internally claims to be God inspired and is something more than literature or history, it is God’s Word. It is the best-selling book of all time.

Bible study is not boring or irrelevant with over 40 different authors from all walks of life including priests, fishermen, prisoners and doctors. The writers came from a variety of locations and different eras. They used different writing styles including psalms, love songs, history, biography and letters.

Not just one big book, the Bible consists of 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament for a total collection of 66 books. 400 years lapsed between the writing of the Old Testament and the New Testament. The writing of the Bible spanned over 1500 years, surviving cultural, geographic and political changes.

Benefits of Bible study
Provides insight and wisdom
Details God’s interaction with people
Instills peace
Promises hope for the future
Builds a relationship with God
A pure motive delights God

Examples:
I plan to cut fresh vegetables and keep in a container in the refrigerator
I plan to participate in at least one Bible study each year
I plan to keep a water bottle with me at all times
I plan to read my Bible daily for fifteen minutes before the kids return from school

Your turn:
· I plan to:
· I plan to:

Flex Your Spirit

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:43:00 +0000

Just as flexibility exercises stretch your body, journal writing stretches your spirit. There are many similarities between flexibility exercises and journal writing:

Flexibility exercises and journal writing are both activities that many people do not do on a regular basis. Benefits are seen only when these activities become a part of your daily routine.

It is difficult to see the results. With flexibility exercises, you may feel that your body is more supple, but not “see” the effects. The same is true of journal writing. You may not see any specific changes, but rather feel a change in attitude.

Both flexibility exercises and journal writing can melt tension, reduce your stress level, and provide peace.

With a pure motive, they both delight God.

(Taken from Fit for Faith – 7 weeks to improved spiritual and physical health)

Stretch your Knowledge

Stretching
a) is just for athletes
b) relieves your body from tension
c) is “warming up”
d) is painful

Journal writing
a) helps you to express your personal feelings about God, or about your experiences and needs
b) is a way to document Bible information that you have discovered
c) helps to record ways to put Bible truths into practice in your personal life
d) all of the above

Flexibility
a) is the joint’s ability to move freely in every direction and is an important component of fitness
b) activities include gentle reaching, bending and stretching of all your muscle groups
c) melts tension, reduces stress, decreases risk of injury, maintains good posture, increases range of motion of joints, and improves muscle imbalances
d) all of the above

Journal writing
a) is writing for other people’s benefit
b) nurtures your spirit and helps to achieve greater well-being in your body and spirit
c) is about writing only “nice” things
d) can not help you recognize and avoid repeating old, nonproductive patterns, and free you to focus your energy for God

Plan of Action

Warm up
· Before starting a stretching program remember to always warm up with a gentle, rhythmic exercise such as walking or riding a stationary bike for five to 10 minutes.
* It may be difficult to find time for journal writing. If your life revolves around children, family and society expectations this may be a sign that life is out of balance. Through journal writing you can learn what is most important to you and your health.

Hold
· Stretch all your muscle groups daily and hold each stretch for at least 10 seconds, working up to 30 seconds. Stretching every day is ideal, but at the very least stretch before or after you exercise.
* Journal writing is a place to record your feelings about your new or renewed relationship with God. It is about listening and responding back to God through handwritten notes. You may write about your triumphs. You may write about your failures. The important thing is to write.

Be specific
· Besides a general stretch of major muscle groups, stretch the specific muscles required for your sport or activity.
* Through journal writing, you can explore your eating and exercise habits, your feelings about your body, and your relationship with God.

Watch your technique
· Do not bounce or force the stretch. Use gentle, smooth movements. Gradually ease into it and stretch to where you feel a slight, mild tension, never to the point of pain.
* Writing may help you reclaim who you are and achieve a sense of health and wholeness. Journal writing can help you recognize and avoid repeating old, nonproductive patterns, and free you to focus your energy for God.

Remember to breathe
· Do not hold your breath as you stretch. Breathe in a natural rhythm – inhale deeply and then exhale slowly.
* You may find you are spending a great deal of time listening to the world outside you. Your mind may be full of chatter some days and so it is helpful to get rid of the noise in order to explore your thoughts more deeply. This is the time to slow down, listen and write.

Examples:
* I plan to start stretching activities in the morning in my bed
* I plan to explore my eating and exercise habits through journal writing
* I plan to buy a video on stretching and use it two times each week
* I plan to write in my journal at least fifteen minutes every day

Your turn:
· I plan to

Fit for Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:53:00 +0000

I am starting a new fall series to share with you what I've learned about spiritual & physical health. I look forward to your comments and questions!

Fit for Prayer

What cardiovascular exercise and strength training do for building a strong body, prayer does to build spiritual strength.

There are many similarities between exercise and prayer:

To be physically and spiritually healthy requires discipline. You need to practice them both daily and use this strength or you will lose it.

The effects can be both immediate and/or long term. You may see the results right away or the effects can be cumulative.

Both are significant in improving balance in your life, improving your quality of life and boosting your mood.

With a pure motive, they both delight God.

(Taken from Fit for Faith – 7 weeks to improved spiritual and physical health)

Frequency (how often?)

Myth: I have no time to exercise.
Fact: Exercise means active living. You can walk your dog, go for a short bicycle ride or take the stairs instead of an elevator. It all adds up. For a more formal program, schedule time for yourself to exercise with the same amount of respect and consideration that you would schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Myth: I must pray only in the mornings.
Fact: Like exercise, prayer is not a one-time thing. You can pray everyday, anywhere and anytime. It is important to spend time in private prayer each day – just you and God. It is important to not only find time for prayer, but to make time.

Intensity (how hard?)

Myth: Low-intensity exercise will not promote weight loss like high-intensity exercise.
Fact: The most important exercise factor for losing body fat is the total calories burned, regardless of the rate at which they are burned. The benefit of working out at a lower intensity is that you won’t get as tired as quickly.

Myth: Prayer is only for highly spiritual people.
Fact: Prayer is not just for highly spiritual people. God delights to have you come to Him with your requests. You do not have to be “good enough” to pray.

Time (how long?)

Myth: I need to spend hours in the gym to see results from an exercise program.
Fact: Even if you don’t have time for a formal workout during your day any exercise is better than none. Try to take three 10-minute walks. For strength training, three 20-minute sessions a week will do the job.

Myth: I must pray for at least one hour at a time.
Fact: Prayer can be as short as a “Lord, help!” or it can be planned time every day at the same place. It can be that you pray as you breathe or you can kneel on your knees and pray for a full 20 minutes. Or you may shoot a quick prayer of thanks as it comes to you. It does not need to be a specific time limit.

Type (how?)

Myth: If women lift weights they will bulk up.
Fact: Women have less of the hormone needed to build muscle bulk easily. Very large muscles are most likely not in their genetic potential. Generally, women can’t develop huge muscles without spending hours a day lifting very heavy weights.

Myth: I must say the same prayer each day.
Fact: Prayers change as your needs change, your moods change, your heart changes.
God does not want a “canned” prayer, but one that is sincere and comes from the
heart.

Plan of action
Frequency - How often?
Intensity - How hard?
Time - How long?
Type - How?

Some ideas to combine active living with a healthy prayer life:

Pray while walking
Exercise while watching a Christian program on television
Read a Christian magazine/newspaper while working out on a treadmill
Read the Bible while doing floor warm-up stretches
Reflect on Scripture during exercise class
Read a daily prayer from a devotional book before eating
Listen to the Bible on tape while riding a stationary bike
Keep a prayer journal of answered prayers

Your turn:

· I plan to

Blessings on the road to health!

Mermaid or Whale

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:11:00 +0000

I received this in my email inbox and thought it worthy of sharing:

Mermaid or Whale

Recently, in large French city, a poster featuring a young, thin and tanned woman appeared in the window of a gym. It said: THIS SUMMER DO YOU WANT TO BE A MERMAID OR A WHALE??

A middle aged woman, whose physical characteristics did not match those of the woman on the poster, responded publicly to the question posed by the gym.

To Whom It May Concern:

Whales are always surrounded by friends (dolphins, sea lions, curious humans). They have an active sex life, they get pregnant and have adorable baby whales. They have a wonderful time with dolphins stuffing themselves with shrimp. They play and swim in the seas, seeing wonderful places like Patagonia, the Barren Sea and the coral reefs of Polynesia. Whales are wonderful singers and have even recorded CDs. They are incredible creatures and virtually have no predators other than humans. They are loved, protected and admired by almost everyone in the world.

Mermaids don't exist. If they did exist, they would be lining up outside the offices of Argentinean psychoanalysts due to identity crisis. Fish or human? They don't have a sex life because they kill men who get close to them not to mention how could they have sex? Therefore they don't have kids either. Not to mention who wants to get close to a girl who smells like a fish store? The choice is perfectly clear to me; I want to be a whale.

P.S. We are in an age when media puts into our heads the idea that only skinny people are beautiful, but I prefer to enjoy an ice cream with my kids, a good dinner with a man who makes me shiver and a coffee with my friends. With time we gain weight because we accumulate so much information and wisdom in our heads that when there is no more room it distributes out to the rest of our bodies. So we aren't heavy, we are enormously cultured, educated and happy. Beginning today, when I look at my butt in the mirror I will think? Good gosh, look how smart I am.

17 x 10

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 01:14:00 +0000

Watch this video to learn 17 exercises you can do in 10 minutes while sitting at your computer.

Secret Weapon for Busy Women by Laurette Willis

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:56:00 +0000

As we enter to into a new season this will be our last featured article in our summer series from guest bloggers. Let’s welcome back Laurette Willis from Praise Moves

"I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live" Deuteronomy 30:19

"Choose Life" = Spiritual Shorthand for the Busy Christian

What's one of the quickest ways to experience positive change in our lives? Choose life. How about for weight management, fitness and vibrant health? Yes, the "choose life" decision can be made in a minute and lived moment-by-moment one day at-a-time. Choose life.

How can a scripture and spiritual directive to "choose life" assist us in our goals to be fit witnesses spiritually and physically? As busy people, we need some practical, proactive tools we can use at a moment's notice to help us handle decisions, challenges and temptations.

I have found these two simple, yet startlingly powerful words have kept me from falling prey to sudden urges for "just one" (bite, cookie, candy bar, soda, binge or foray into Debtsville). You may be different, but for me "just one" rarely ends with just one.

Whenever I simply stop and say to myself, "I choose life," my spirit (the real me) rises up with strength to overcome the flesh and I'm suddenly able to say "No" to the temptation.

These two potent little words from scripture can also help us get moving when our flesh wants to "veg out" in front of the television or skip the fitness break we've committed to taking that day.

"I choose life," I'd say as I laced my running shoes and headed for the door or mini-trampoline.

"Choose life," I'd say to myself when I wanted to pout and "punish" my husband for hurting my feelings instead of forgiving him. Choosing to follow those two little words would often turn the whole situation around.

What IS "Life"?

Jesus said His words are life.

"The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life," He said in John 6:63.

Is "choose life" some sort of "magic incantation" or "lucky charm"? No, certainly not! Both magic and luck are part of the enemy's bag of tricks. When you have the blessing and favor of God through your relationship with Jesus Christ, you want nothing to do with capricious fortune, magic or luck. God's promises are based on truth, not happenstance.

When you meditate on and speak God's words, you are being "transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). As your mind is renewed on the Word of God, you will be transformed, and part of that transformation process relates to the choices and decisions you make.

We are presented with hundreds, even thousands of choices every day which affect the health and fitness of our spirit, soul and body. How well I know the cry of the flesh, "I want it and I want it NOW!" I had to have my favorite snack, drink, a second helping--my "fix." Like a child, I thought only of the desire of the present moment and wanted to have my way. Let the grown-ups deal with the consequences. It didn't matter how strong my will power had been or how solid I thought my commitment was, my flesh would scream and I'd cave in like a startled soufflé.

"Choose life." Again and again those words would come to me. I'd be faced with a temptation to forgo my food plan for the day, or neglect the exercise I'd purposed to do and the words would come to me: "Choose life." I'd want to blow off a commitment I'd made, or stay in bed instead of getting up early to invest in my relationship with the Lord, and the words would come to me, "Choose life."

A third-party report (i.e. gossip) would come to me and I'd want to share the "news" -- then I'd hear the words in my heart, "Choose life" calling me to make a godly choice.

To choose life is to choose God's way of doing things. Can we override the gentle nudge of the Spirit of God bringing His Word to our remembrance? Yes. The Lord's still, small voice doesn't come with a two-by-four to enforce compliance. While we may try "reasoning" or bargaining with the Lord, the more time we invest in reading, meditating and speaking His Word, the more we will want to heed His gentle reminder to "Choose LIFE" -- it IS the secret weapon for the Busy Christian.

(Adapted from The Busy Woman's Guide to Total Fitness by Laurette Willis, Harvest House Publishers) available at www.PraiseMoves.com.

And now I'd like to invite you to get my free "Fit Favorites Devotional" and PraiseMoves FitNews. To get yours, go to http://praisemoves.com.
Laurette Willis ©2009

Christian Fitness Expert and author Laurette Willis is the Director of PraiseMoves® Fitness Ministry, offering fitness programs, DVDs, books and instructor training for those interested in a Christian ALTERNATIVE to yoga, plus fitness for spirit, soul and body at http://praisemoves.com . To follow Laurette on Twitter, please visit http://twitter.com/Fit4Christ, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/people/Laurette-Willis/661158603

I am not an athletic person by N. J. Lindquist

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:36:00 +0000

Our summer series of articles from guest bloggers continues with N. J. Lindquist of Blue Collar Writer.

It's really difficult when your occupation requires you to spend a lot of time sitting, and when you relax you prefer to read, do jigsaw puzzles, or otherwise continue in a seated position. There’s simply no urge to get up and run around. (Okay, now and then there's an urge to stroll around a shopping mall, but I don't think that's ever going to be enough activity.)

Now if the habit of sitting came with a reduced appetite, that might help. But as far as I'm concerned the opposite seems to be true. I like to have something to nibble on while at my computer. Preferably something involving chocolate.

Unfortunately, I know that sitting all day isn't going to help me lead a long, healthy life. I know I need to get up and move. I just wish there was a little switch I could turn on that would make me feel I need to jump up and do things.

You see, I know people who have the mindset of athletes. And they seem to have a different outlook.

My husband, for example, has been swimming three or four times a week since he was in university. And I don't mean splashing in the pool. I mean swimming hard - an hour of laps - including butterfly. He still goes to some Masters Swimming competitions and does quite well. And he's now doing weights and walking, even some running.

Three of my four sons are also athletes. One made it to the Olympic Trials in swimming. Another is on one of Canada's elite ultimate frisbee men's tour teams. The third manages to squeeze volleyball, basketball, and workouts in between coaching his kids' soccer and basketball and his job.

It's as though something in them drives them to be active. They don't mind the sweat. They don't mind running around in pouring rain. Or getting up at six to hit the pool. I remember when my oldest son (the one with the kids) was fourteen years old and getting up at four AM to swim. He was born a nightowl and still has trouble thinking before ten AM. But nine times out of ten, he was up on his own and ready to go. At four AM! (The tenth time there was a loud banging noise at our front door and then a hurried exit to join his car pool.)

What drives people to physical activity like that, I honestly have no idea. It's never been the case with me.

Of course, I grew up with three strikes against me:

1. An overprotective mother who was always worrying I'd get hurt and telling me to be careful.

2. Young male phys ed teachers who had no idea what to do with people who weren't athletically minded.

3. The feeling that I wasn't at all athletic and therefore couldn't be good at any sports activities.

There wasn't much I could do about any of those things.

But here's the funny thing. When I got to university, I somehow ended up on the badminton team. All because I ended up with a very athletic roommate who was on four teams and dragged me with her to badminton because they were short of players. Not only did I make the team, but I loved playing badminton and did reasonably well - especially in doubles. Who knew I'd have such a wicked serve!

In the following years, I managed to stay reasonably healthy by having four very active sons to keep up with, as well as houses with lots of stairs, and the odd activity. Unfortunately, an arm injury when I was forty kept me from playing anything that involved my arm (badminton, golf, bowling, curling, etc. etc. )

The result was that I eventually did what most sedentary people do - I gained weight.

I subscribed to Prevention magazine. Then I joined Weight Watchers. I started walking and eating less. And I did manage to get rid of thirty pounds. But then I started to yo-yo, putting on five pounds and losing it again, and so forth.

And I realized what I needed was a complete lifestyle change. I needed something to make me want to get off the chair and actually move. But what? I tried walking outside. Good for a while but then pretty boring. I got a tread mill and watched TV while walking. Better, but... I bought weights. So so. I even tried swimming. I'm allergic to the chlorine. Nothing really motivated me - everything I tried was more or less of a chore. Nothing I did was fun!

And then Nintendo came out with Wii Fit, Active Sports, Sports Challenge, Sports Resort, and now My Fitness Coach. And I am soooo pumped! I love them all. There are mornings when I wake up at 7:00 AM and can't wait to run downstairs and turn on the Wii!

In the past four months, I've done three-30 day challenges with Active Sports. I use Wii Fit aerobics, balance games, and yoga on "rest" days. I play Outdoor Challenge and Sports Resort in the late afternoon or evening when I need something fun to do. I just did my first workout in My Fitness Coach, and I'm happy with it and ready for more.

After all these years, I've found something "athletic" that I enjoy. And I've realized a couple of things that may apply to other people like me:

1. There were two things I hated about phys ed. One was the militant attitude of the teachers who were themselves athletic and didn't understand what it was like to be someone who had no athletic drive, and had very little patience or sympathy for those of us who felt klutzlike, or felt forced to do things we hated. But the second thing is that I don't like to do things with a group. I'm an introvert. I like to be alone. Being with other people puts additional stress on me that I just don't need. I don't like writing in a group either. With my Wii games, no one is looking over my shoulder. I'm competing against myself, and that's enough for me.

2. There are ways to keep fit that don't involve organized sports. And the Wii Fit programs suit me to a T. They are composed of different elements. I can do them at my own pace. I can customize my program. And at the same time, they make me try new things and stretch my abilities. I push myself harder because of the programs, yet it's always my choice.

3. The best way to be active is to do something you love. So don't give up until you find it. It doesn't have to be the "normal thing." Try walking, dancing, canoeing, bowling, or doing a Wii activity. Don't give up. We all need to be healthy and that means we need to move so our muscles stay in shape and we don't become overweight. Writers are definitely at risk here, as are most office workers. So look for something you will love doing.

My current goal is to be active for 2 hours a day, 6 days a week. That involves four 45-minute sessions with upper and lower body weight training, a lot of cardio aerobics, Wii Fit balance games, walking outside while it's warm, stair-climbing (we have a three-story house), and other Wii games. I figure anything that gets me up from a seating position is a good thing. :)

N. J. Lindquist is the co-editor and publisher of Hot Apple Cider, which was recently chosen as the "one book" for the Church Library Association of Ontario's "One Book / One Conference" October 3rd at Tyndale University College and Seminary. N. J. blogs at Blue Collar Writer.

Indoor and Outdoor Workouts by Monica Schmelter

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:10:00 +0000

Our summer series of articles from guest bloggers continues with Monica Schmelter of Bridges on Christian Television Network

It was a beautiful sunshiny day and I was up for a new kind of workout. I tried an outdoor fitness challenge. It started with two minutes of jumping rope, then two minutes of sprints and then off to the hula hoops! I learned first hand what I had been told - it’s harder to work out in the elements

Our walk with Christ is very similar. We go to church – inside the four walls for spiritual teaching, and encouragement. In some ways, when we’re inside that building it’s a controlled environment. We’ve got climate control and we’re usually surrounded by others with similar faith. We hear the Word of God, our fellowship is rewarding, and the prayers are beautiful. Then, we leave the comfort of that church building and head out into the elements.

At that point, we encounter people from all walks of life, some angry, some not, and others that are outright hostile to the faith we hold so dear. We’ve been trained, of course, inside the four walls of the church - and we’re eager to witness and reach. Yet, we find the real test of what we’ve learned comes into play when we meet others that are very different from us.

As I completed the outside fitness challenge, I found my face more flushed than usual. My heart rate got up there more quickly than in the comfort of air conditioning and sprints are definitely more difficult outside when you’re running up hill.

While the outdoor challenge was more difficult, I enjoyed it. I was well aware that this is what I train for each day when I work out. Those indoor workouts prepared me to face the great outdoors with confidence and endurance. I completed the challenged sweaty and tired but I enjoyed every single bit of it.

It’s just like that for the church. The four walls provide us training time - they help us grow and gain confidence in Christ. They prepare us for the encounters that we will have with those that don’t know Christ yet. The church prepares us to face all situations with His Word, love, grace and mercy. Sure it may be challenging at times as we experience the fierce winds of unbelief, or the sting of persecution. But our training time within the four walls of church equips us to run the race with endurance and to keep our eyes on the prize. We train indoors as we gather together with like-minded believers in the church, but we run the race outside “rain or shine” with God’s Word as our firm foundation.

**

Monica took her new passion for Christ and studied mass communications in college. This course of study opened a door for her at Christian Television Network in Nashville. There she hosts a daily talk show called “Bridges” where she has the pleasure of interviewing Christian artists, authors, pastors and community leaders.

Monica is an example of one person fully surrendering themselves to Christ. This once rebellious an angry young woman allowed God to use her in such a way that no one could have dreamed. She enthusiastically shares her journey so that others will take their own steps of faith, becoming all that Christ created them for, one step at a time.

You can watch Bridges M-F on WHTN at 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM. You can also watch Bridges on DirecTV #376 and on DISH on Tuesdays at 8 PM CST.

Slim Tips "On the Cheap" by Laurette Willis

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 01:39:00 +0000

Our summer series of articles from guest bloggers continues with Laurette Willis of Praise Moves.

Do the ads for expensive fitness equipment, pricey gym memberships and overpriced weight loss programs have you down? No need to get bent out of shape financially just to keep in shape physically. Here are seven skinny tips to burn the fat without burning a hole in your wallet.

1. The journey of 10,000 steps begins with a single-
Pedometer! An inexpensive pedometer at your local department store can help you meet that 5-mile recommendation for good health (10,000 steps equal 5 miles). You may be surprised to learn you walk less (or more!) than you thought you did!

2. Stepping Out and Stepping Up
We've heard this before: take the stairs instead of the elevator and park further away from the entrance to the store. Such habits make fitness a lifestyle (instead of something you're doing just to lose a few pounds).

3. Clean out the Cobwebs
Cleaning house can help you burn over 200 calories in 30 minutes. Want to really spruce things up? Moving furniture around can up the ante to about 450 calories per hour (but watch that back!).

4. Flashdance!
Turn up the radio, take out the CDs, or crank up the mp3 and boogie (or baile!). Shake away that breakfast burrito by shaking the blues away and burn tons of calories for free!

5. More Bounce to the Ounce
Ever bounce on a mini-trampoline or rebounder? It's not just for kids! A low-cost rebounder is great for the lymphatic system and provides a terrific low-resistance workout that is easy on the joints.

6. Who's Your Ethel?
You don't necessarily need a personal trainer or fitness coach to motivate you - try the buddy system. Lucy had Ethel, Andy Griffith had Barney Fife. You and your friend can encourage each other to keep in shape and go the extra mile (whether Ricky and Fred want to go or not!).

7. Gym in a Bottle, or a Soup Can
Don't have the extra money or space for fancy gym equipment? No problem! Use the stairs instead of the StairMaster®. Gallon jugs with water can become inexpensive hand weights. A gallon of water weighs about 8.33 lbs. Too weighty? Try soup cans instead (just don't strap them on for leg weights-you'll look really silly).

Getting and staying in shape need not be a costly proposition. Plus, the benefits can actually save you money as your health and energy level excel!

And now I'd like to invite you to get my free "Fit Favorites Devotional" and PraiseMoves FitNews. To get yours, go to http://praisemoves.com.

© Laurette Willis 2009
Christian Fitness Expert and author Laurette Willis is the Director of PraiseMoves, offering fitness programs, DVDs, books and training for those interested in a Christian alternative to yoga, and fitness for spirit, soul and body at http://praisemoves.com . To follow Laurette on Twitter visit http://twitter.com/Fit4Christ and on FaceBook: http://www.facebook.com/people/Laurette-Willis/661158603 .

Are we Growing? by Diane Stephenson

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:01:00 +0000

Our summer series of articles from guest bloggers continues with Diane Stephenson of My Healthy Living blog

Plants stop growing, and we toss them in the garbage. If children don't grow properly, we seek medical help, fearing the cause. When a puppy is smaller than the rest of the litter, we call it the 'runt'. Often no one wants the runt.

We were created to grow. We need to eat the right kind of food, drink lots of pure water, breathe clean air and get proper rest. We also need regular exercise. When we are young, our parents see to these things, but when we grow older, we take on that responsibility for ourselves. Or not! Why do I speak of physically growing in adulthood? Our cells are continually dying and being renewed, a different type of growth yet essential.

Spiritually we must grow. Before we experience salvation we are dead in our sin. When we are born again, we begin to grow. We need the right food--the Word of God. We need good 'air'--the atmosphere of heaven. The Living Water, Jesus, is indispensable to healthy growth. And we need to rest in the Lord, worry-free. It’s imperative to consistently exercise our faith. All these contribute to increased spiritual stature.

Often we are unaware of the growing process. It's only as we look back that we see where we were and how far we have come. I have traveled a long road over the nearly forty years I have been a Christian, through valleys, over mountaintops, and sometimes in dark pits. I have known periods without growth as well as growth spurts. There have been long periods of slow, continual growth. Through it all, I see how much I have grown in the Lord. I know Him more intimately, and am so thankful that God does not leave us alone. He knows our hearts, and when we reach out to Him, even in our ignorance and in our immaturity, He is there to take us forward.

He has a destiny planned for each one of us. Are we willing to grow into the person He created us to be? I may still be far from the goal, but I have positioned myself to grow in the knowledge of the Lord through the study of His Word, in relationship with Him through prayer and worship, and in the ministry and gifts He has given to me by doing what I have been called to do. I wholeheartedly desire to grow in grace. How about you?

**

Visit Diane’s blog, My Healthy Living, where you can learn general information about health, information about her business and regular spiritual messages interspersed with photos to add a little beauty.

Life's Treadmill by Belinda Burston

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 10:45:00 +0000

Our summer series of articles from guest bloggers continues with Belinda Burston of Whatever He Says blog

Until lately, I was on a treadmill that had nothing to do with fitness and I didn’t know how to get off. My lifestyle was hardly an inspirational model for others.

I was overwhelmed by my busy life. I told myself that soon things would settle down, but weeks went by and the pace didn’t let up. It didn’t occur to me that I was responsible for any of this.

My home and habits were in bad shape:

· I was not getting sufficient rest

· My finances were two months behind

· Every storage space in our home bore testimony to the “make room by pushing and piling,” philosophy, including the fridge and I hated the disorder

· I wasn’t taking time to plan and prepare healthy meals

· I ate junk food late at night for energy

· I told myself I didn’t have the luxury of time for exercise

Then a sudden health crisis resulted in emergency surgery and a recovery time of several weeks. Some major plans had to be cancelled. I had no choice but to stop completely.

I consider this crisis as a gift from God. It was an opportunity to stop the insanity. I knew that I didn’t want to go back to life as I had been living it. Slowly, I regained my sense of peace and my soul and spirit healed along with my body.

A quote from Peter Scazzero, in his devotional book, The Daily Office (p.15), summed up the essence of my problem:

“It was a favourite theme of C.S. Lewis that only lazy people work hard. By lazily abdicating the essential work of deciding, and directing, establishing values and setting goals, other people do it for you.”

My lessons and commitments:

1. I have a finite store of energy that must be respected and stewarded. I will no longer push myself beyond healthy limits

2. I choose to get adequate sleep and relaxation in order to replenish my energy

3. I am responsible for the state of my schedule; for what I say yes to and take on. I will grit my teeth and say no. Even to good things that I would love to do, if there is no spare room in my schedule

4. We are blessed with an abundance of healthy food in Canada and I will invest time in planning and preparing meals that nourish my body and keep it strong for life

5. Exercise is energizing and important to maintain fitness for the long haul. I will incorporate it several times into every week—my preference is walking our family dog or my Leslie Sansome exercise DVD, Walk Away the Pounds

**
Belinda is a manager in the field of Developmental Services. She is a member of The Word Guild and of the Writers Nest writing group, and she blogs at http://www.whateverhesays.blogspot.com/

Her favourite verse is Hebrews 12:12 & 13:

So take a new grip with your tired hands and stand firm on your shaky legs. Mark out a straight path for your feet. Then those who follow you, though they are weak and lame, will not stumble and fall, but will become strong.

Superior Scribblers Award

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Thanks to Susan at Notes from Innisfree for awarding Fit for Faith the Superior Scribblers Award

The blog award rules are as follows:
Each Superior Scribbler must in turn pass The Award on to 5 most-deserving Bloggy Friends.
Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author & the name of the blog from whom he/she has received The Award. Each Superior Scribbler must display The Award on his/her blog, and link to visit and add his/her name to the Mr. Linky List. That way, we’ll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who receives This Prestigious Honor! Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog.

The 5 bloggy friends that I'm passing this award to (in no particular order) are:

Midlife Odyssey - A woman’s journey through midlife – the challenges, the tears and the joy. Let’s journey together by Denise Rumble

Future Tense - News, ideas and thoughts about the rapidly-changing writing, publishing and retailing industry... and about Christian publishing in Canada in particular.

In God’s Image – exploring the intersection of faith and fitness by Kate Wicker and Cathy Adamkiewicz

One Day at a Time by Maureen Breakspear

To Love, Honor and Vacuum by Sheila Wray Gregoire

Why not visit these blogger friends and leave a note to congratulate them on receiving the Superior Scribblers Award!

Wii Fit by Fern Boldt

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 09:32:00 +0000

Our summer series of articles from guest bloggers continues with Fern Boldt

Wii Fit

Who would have thought one incident could have made such an impact on my life?

That’s what happened this past Christmas when our son and his family came for a visit toting a Nintendo Wii Fit. It was an instant success at our house. My husband and I soon purchased our own and started bowling after dinner. Almost every morning for the past five months I’ve weighed in, found out my Wii Fit age for that day and done some aerobics. We made little “Miis” to represent most of our family and some friends. When I do the ten-minute run around an imaginary island, I recognize my kids, grandkids and friends running along with me. I greet them and keep on running.

After running in place in the house for several weeks, I thought to myself, “Why couldn’t I do this outside?” Never mind the fact that I’ve never run more than a few feet before and am soon to start collecting an old age pension! Well, I tried it. I tucked my kitchen timer in my pocket and set it for ten minutes. I ran five minutes away from home and five minutes back with a lot of huffing and puffing, and some walking in between.

Next, I ran ten minutes and took a long walk after. Then I got the brilliant idea of running an entire 2 km. Now I do it three times a week. I look forward to the mornings when I run. It gets easier and easier.

The results of all this? I’ve lost 15 lbs. since January and feel better than I have in a long time.

If you don’t have the Wii Fit, try it. The grandkids play on it all Sunday afternoon. Great competition and great fun!

**

Visit Fern at her blog

Our Bodies, Amazing! by Rev. Janet Stobie

noreply@blogger.com (Kimberley Payne) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:30:00 +0000

Our summer series of articles from guest bloggers continues with Rev. Janet Stobie

Our Bodies, Amazing!

Last month we received this email from my son, who lives in China: “Later today I’m having surgery on my lower back to fuse some vertebrae. I’ll be the bionic man. They’re going to use Titanium.” He hadn’t been complaining about back pain so we were shocked and then worried. Back surgery is always scary. Four days later, we were surprised to learn that he was up, walking. In three weeks, he flew home. Amazing!

When my grandson was three he shut a door on his hand. One of his little fingers was severed from the last joint. My daughter rushed Chris and the finger to the hospital. The doctor literally glued that finger back together. Within a few months the finger was totally healed.

Responsibilities, worries, busyness, can cause us to forget that our bodies are awesome. I know that I often begrudge the time for sleep, because I have too much living to do. We’re often dissatisfied with our bodies. We want to be thinner, taller, stronger. If only our hair was straight, or curly, thicker or thinner. We each have our complaints.

For the next month I encourage you to take time to appreciate the wonder of your body. When you get up each morning, instead of complaining about work to be done, or loneliness to be endured, give God thanks for your eyelashes that protect your eyes so skillfully. Give thanks for knees that still bend at least a little, for skin that miraculously heals after scrapes and cuts, for fingers that feel the smoothness of satin and the coarseness of sand. Make a list of the wonders of your human body. You too will be amazed.

“I praise you, God, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14

**

With the encouragement of her congregations, four years ago Jan published her first book of short stories which has sold out. Jan writes a monthly devotional for a local newspaper and is welcomed as a storyteller at fundraisers and group meetings. Jan is married. Together she and Tom have five grown children and seven grandchildren. Visit her blog