Sufferin’ Succotash! ~

~ *And Other Favorite Sayings*



I love quotes and sayings that have been passed down over the span of time. And I believe often, we are somewhat surprised when we find out their true origin. Like, “I see the handwriting on the wall.” ~ Straight out of the Good Book! “A little bird told me,” you’ll find as a warning in Ecclesiastes 12:4, and one of my favorites, “Straight from the horse’s mouth,” only in this case, it was an ass speaking to Balaam in Numbers 22.

There are famous sayings, for just about any subject, from the powerful words of John Paul Jones, “I have just begun to fight,” to the even more powerful (yet sad) words of Chief Joseph of the Nez Perez , “I will fight no more forever.”

Over the years, I have been amazed at the influence other people’s words have on our own lives. Never more so, then when, my then three year old referred to me as, “Dispectable!” (Yet another that can be attributed to Bugs Bunny ~ or maybe it was Daffy.)

(From my soapbox) ~ Remember the song, “Be careful little eyes what you see. Be careful little ears what you hear. For the Father up above is looking down with love, so be careful ~” ? In this day and age, we need to be especially careful for the sake of our children and grandchildren. If not us, who will be?

Perhaps Peter said it best, “Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind.”





“Hardy har har. Au revoire. Adios”

“Okay Okay I'm shuttin' up. Why should I continue to
keep yappin' when I'm told to shut up. I'm not the kind that
don't know when to stop.”

“I knew I shoulda takin' that left turn at Albuquerque.”

Be sure and go by the awesome Jenny Matlock’s and see what others are say about the letter “S” for Alphabe ~ Thursday.


Happy Thursday, everyone!

Blessings,
Cheryl

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY... from Cheryl's Daybook

Tuesday, May 25th





Outside my window... ~the moon is shinning and nearly full, a scattering of small white clouds, the sounds of the night

I am thankful for... ~LIFE, salvation, family, and good friends


I am wearing... ~ a red Old Navy tee shirt (year 2001), black stretch pants


I am remembering... ~ things that remain steadfast. We have been sitting outside in the garden the last few nights, enjoying the lightning bugs (or fire flies), the smell of fresh dirt mixed with the scent of honeysuckle, showing the boys the big dipper and how to find the North Star. These are the things that remain constant, regardless of the economy, regardless of our individual pains or sorrows; these are gifts that make up our everyday, ordinary splendor.


I am going... ~ to finish up two graduation gifts, so I can tackle some summer projects.

I am currently reading... ~ The Prophet by Francine Rivers (still) ~ This is an excellent book by one of my favorite authors. I just haven’t had a lot of time for reading lately.

I am hoping... ~ to shampoo the carpets this week. (Carry over from last week, still headed in that direction.)

On my mind... ~ All that God is doing around me. Amazing! This is one of my favorite scriptures:

"The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing." Zep. 3:17 (How amazing is that? He is going to spread joy over you with His singing!)


Noticing that... ~ that many people are making major changes in their lives, one step at a time. When I am out blog-hopping around, I find the most interesting people and so many of them are in a season of change. I am not referring to a political climate change, but change of a personal, spiritual nature. Noticing this change has affected my choice of words to ponder, also.

Pondering these words... “Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” ~Jeremiah 6:16


From the kitchen... ~ beef stir-fry, salad, fresh strawberries

Around the house... ~ too many projects and not enough organization.


I am praying for ~our country

I am creating ~a haven, a place of rest

One of my favorite things ~the garden and spending time in it with my other half

A picture to share.... the wildroses, such a welcome sign of spring making way for summer.


I didn't take this photo (it is much to clear, to be one of mine). It is from an online gardening catalog. But I noticed over the weekend, the wildroses along our dirt roads are beginning to bloom! They are so lovely! This week I plan on dusting off the camera and taking some photos to share.

For more from The Simple Woman's Daybook go here or, better yet, post your own and link up with the rest of us!

Have a wonderful week!

Blessings,
Cheryl

Plans for the Summer

The lovely Mrs. Nesbitt is posing the following questions for this week's Monday MckLinky:

What are YOU doing for summer vacation?

Where are you going? What are your plans?

Are you loading up the car and heading somewhere or does this year
bring a "stay-cation" for you and yours?

In answer to the question(s)....good questions! I know we are staying inside the borders of Oklahoma. No venturing south of the Red River for us! ~ well, maybe LOL

We are letting the boys decide, kind of. The plan is, to take one day trip each month. They (the boys) have to gather the information, either via the internet or by snail mail. They also have to locate said destination on the map and have an active hand on plotting the route to same, said destination.

For June, we are looking at Arbuckle Wilderness, with a possible side trip to Chickasaw National Park (we've only been to the nature center about a million times, but they always, always love it ~ they're boys).

Also in June, there are two air shows (AeroSpace America at Tinker, and one locally) and the National Sand Bass Festival.

July and August are still undecided (except for a Rodeo in July) but in September we are planning a trip to Robbers Cave State Park.

The rest of the time there will be trips to the library, to the river, lots of work in the garden, working with their animals, and time in the pool.

I'd like to take them to Gainesville, Texas, aboard Oklahoma's Heartland Flyer. We can board at Pauls Valley (about 20 miles from us) and take the train to Gainsville (a little over an hour). Once at Gainesville, I understand there is a shuttle we can ride to the Outlet Mall, where we would spend the day, then return that evening. Not that I want to spend all day at a mall with four boys, but I think the train ride would be a great experience.

That's about it. Mostly, we are going to enjoy the summer, one day at a time!

Hope your summer's a blast! In the meantime, have yourself a blast and head on over to the Real Housewives of Oklahoma and see what others are planning!

Blessings,
Cheryl

Memorial Day Challenge ~ Week 3

This Memorial Day Challenge is brought to you by Sandy. You can visit Sandy at A Working Mom's Joy. Thank you, for doing this, Sandy. And I promise, no nagging this week.;-)

Memorial Day Challenge - Week 3

Weigh In Day: Saturday

Starting Weight: 248

Challenge Goal: Loose 24 lbs (I know, it is a lot in a short time. Keep reading!)

Week 1: May 8 - 248

Week 2: May 15 - 239 (Tada!)

Week 3: May 22 - 236

Week 4: May 29

Not as dramatic as last week, but (since I finally found my tape measure) I am happy to report I dropped 7 1/2 inches!

I know, I didn't drink as much water as I should have this past week. I am going to work on that.

I did exercise a little, which helped my over all mood.

As for the effect of the hCG:

I am no longer having the headaches that I was plagued with the first few days. And I did start taking potassium, which has seemed to help in a number of ways - less muscle cramps (I was already taking magnesium), resting better at night. And the real plus is, I am not having any cravings. I went to town yesterday with DD#2. She was hungry, so we stopped and she ate a cheese burger, chips and pop and I was fine with water. Not even a chip!! Before, I would have at least eaten a couple of chips without thinking.

There were two days, I didn't watch what I ate as carefully as I should have. Not that I really over ate (for me anyway), we just had too much going on and lots of company. By the time I cooked for everyone else, I just grabbed a little of whatever. Notice, I said little.....no huge helpings or going back for more.

At this rate, I probably won' make my goal, but it was a little unrealistic to begin with. I will be in a better place than I was at the start. Overall, I am thrilled with the results of the hCG....and another thing, my hair and nails seem to be growing like crazy!

This week I am going to work very hard at drinking more water. I have restocked with lots of fresh fruit and lean meats. I think we will have a reduction in "busyness" now that school is out, which will make life much easier on me, thus reducing my stress and the temptation to just eat something, because I am too exhausted to care.;-)

I am going to work at adding more exercise.

I am going to focus on positive thoughts, rather than negitive.

I am going to choose LIFE.

Be blessed!
Cheryl

Gorgeous Blogger Award

I recently received the Gorgeous Blogger Award from the lovely Crystal at Soupbaby. Thank you, Crystal!

The rules that go along with this award are:

Accept and thank the person who gave the award to you!

List ten about yourself.

List five additional things you DISLIKE.

Then pick five people to receive this award.

Ten things about me:

I have a secret desire to go para-sailing.

I started working when I was 14.

I volunteered to drive a car on a biology field trip, before I had my drivers' license. My 16th birthday was on a Tuesday and at that time, Tuesday was the only day the driving test was given. I left school at noon, got my license and at 1:30 p.m. drove myself and five other students on the field trip.

I love Mexican food.

My favorite fruit is watermelon, followed closely by cantaloupe, peaches and blackberries.

I love flavored teas. In the winter my favorite is apple-cinnamon, during the summer I enjoy both peach and raspberry.

I saw Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid nine times in the theater....no, it wasn't in black and white.

I was once in a tornado....it is Oklahoma. Actually, I've been in two. During one I went to a cellar. The cellar was small. There were 21 people and 2 dogs in there. I said I would never go back to another cellar. (I have, but..). The other, I was on horseback when we spotted the funnel cloud. We made it back to the house.

I love being outside, even more so at night. I look at the stars and it amazes me, that those are the same stars Abraham and Sarah saw when they were in the desert, or the ones Yeshua and the disciples sat under while cooking fish on the banks of the Galilee.

I love my blogger friends! Knowing each of you has added so much to my life!

Five things I dislike:

Baby-talk or whining from anyone over two.

People who are selfish.

When veterans, or others who have served our country, are not shown the respect and courtesy they deserve.

That our country has gotten away from many of basic principles on which it was founded.

When pictures, or anything for that matter, doesn't hang or sit level. Drives me crazy.

Now to choose five lovely, gorgeous bloggers to carry this award forward.

Let me say, I love and enjoy each of you. I can't tell you how much I have learned from all of you! Whether you are on this list or not, you ROCK!

I am going to try and pick five of the more recent bloggers I have *met*. Some of these are newer to blogdom, so if you have a few minutes, go by and say hi. One thing they each have in common, whether they know it or not, they all reflect qualities of the Proverb 31 Woman.

So, in no particular order, they are:

One Heart (Love the artwork on her header and her sweet spirit.)

Jen @ Reflections in the Window (Jen is a breath of fresh air, striving to please her Heavenly Father in all things!)

Gae @ Cherished Hearts At Home (Gae would receive my vote for Mother of the Year~down under division. She home schools (& as rewarding as that is, it is also difficult at times), she is the mother of 11 beautiful, imaginative children, and currently her husband is having to work away from home; yet she manages all of this with an ample supply of grace.)

Territory Mom @ OklaHome (Barbara Mandrel had a hit song, "I Was Country, When Country Wasn't Cool". Territory Mom is the real deal. She's an Okie and she's country. You'll love meeting her. I think the Dept. of Tourism should hire her....but, then she'd have to commute and wouldn't have time to blog.)

Wendy @ There Are Always Pine Needles (Wendy oozes energy and enthusiasm for all those things she cares about! Whether she is making diapers for Haitian babies or teaching you how to make Dandelion Cookies, she is welling to give 100%.)

I had intended to also join Jenny Matlock for Alpha-be Thursday; however, we were surrounded by storms once again...reeling, rocking, rowdy storms! I cannot count the times I have lost the signal while attempting to write this post. So I am giving up for the night.

Because I will be fasting and praying tomorrow (Thursday), I won't be around much. I will check my email through out the day though. If you need anything, email me at:

bloomwhereyoureplanted (at) yahoo (dot) com

(P.S. ~ No, I didn't take time to proof read. Don't ya hate that?!)

(P.S.S. ~ Blogspot is once again, not allowing me to put spaces in. If they are there now, it is because I just tried for the third time. Sorry!)

Blessings,

Cheryl

The Simple Woman's Daybook

Notice....I will be leading a group of ladies in prayer and fasting this coming Thursday. If you have a prayer request or would like to join us, feel free to contact me either by leaving a comment or email me at:

bloomwhereyoureplanted (at) yahoo (dot) com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

For Today.....from Cheryl's Daybook

Tuesday, May 18th

Outside my window....~ I hear crickets, tree frogs and every once in a while the call of a whippoorwill

I am thankful for.... ~ the fact, we rec'd no damage from the recent storms

I am remembering.... ~ this evening is the beginning of Shavuot or Pentecost (Feast of Weeks)

I am going.... ~ to plan on taking the boys and the grandkids to Arbuckle Wilderness soon

I am currently reading.... ~ The Prophet by Francine Rivers and Take Two by Karen Kingsbury

I am hoping.... ~ to shapoo the carpets this week

On my mind.... ~ getting ready for Memorial Day weekend

Noticing that....~ our weather seems to be growing in intensity

Pondering these words.... ~ "So teach us to number our days that we might apply our hearts to wisdom." Psalms 90:12

From the kitchen.... ~ pot roast with all the trimmings, fresh fruit

Around the house.... ~ removing clutter that seems to build up during the school months

I am praying for.... ~ among others, Katie's daughter (Kayla) in India on a short term Missions Trip

One of my favorite things.... ~ the garden

From my picture book....

For more, visit The Simple Woman's Daybook

Blessings,
Cheryl

~ Prayer & Winners ~

Prayer ~



Notice: This will be posted at the top for the next few days.

I have been asked to lead a group of ladies in prayer and fasting this coming Thursday, May 20th. If you have a prayer request, you are more than welcome to post it in the comments or if you are more comfortable with emailing me, feel free to do so at:

bloomwhereyoureplanted (at) yahoo (dot) com

Please type "prayer" in the subject line. Somedays, I don't have a chance to read all my emails. I would feel terrible if I received a request and then didn't open it for several days.


Winners! ~

The following three ladies will receive an asortment of both soy and palm wax tarts. They are:

Dawn @ Momza's House

Mari @ Mari Larkin

Raymonde @ Everyday I Walk With You

These two "Okies" (I could not believe that!) will receive either two eight oz. candles or one 16 oz. candle.

Katie @ Dishin and Dishes

Beth @ Beth: A Work In Progress

And (drum roll, please!) the grand prize winner is ~~~

Dianna @ Bits and Pieces

Congratulations to all the winners, but these aren't just winners, they are my friends. Each person who comes by my blog and shares is very special to me ~ even some of you who do not comment, you too are special! (Really, I don't bite!) Please do me a favor and go by and say hello to the ladies who won! I will do another contest soon and we will be having an amazing autumn candle give away toward the end of summer!

Now that I finally announced the winners, I have to share this: making candles to fill the orders for Mothers' Day about wiped out my supplies ~ poor management policies~(When you are the boss, the candle stick maker, and the janitor, whata ya gonna do?)! Therefore, I will need a little time to reorder supplies. I apologize for making you wait and will get these out as soon as possible. In the meantime, if the winners would, please email their addresses to:

prairiesongcandles (at) gmail (dot) com

To Everyone:

Again, if you are following me, and I haven't returned the favor, leave me a comment, so I can be sure and take care of doing so!

Now, because you are so loved, and the fact I haven't pulled myself together and posted a Friday Fragments post in a few week.......and because we need to laugh (it is good execise!), here is a picture from Wade's Wisdom:

I don't know where he finds this stuff!



For today ~ live, love, laugh and be blessed!

Cheryl

Memorial Day Challenge - Week 2

(sorry, this is all running together; blogspot is having one of its spells this morning.)

This Memorial Day Challenge is brought to you by Sandy. You can visit Sandy at A Working Mom's Joy.

Shabbat Shalom! And good morning to everyone! I am in a good mood, as it is NOT raining or STORMING this morning. It is cloudy, but I am thankful for a break in the weather.

Okay, here's the challenge statisics:

Memorial Day Challenge - Week 2

Weigh In Day: Saturday

Starting Weight: 248

Challenge Goal: Loose 24 lbs (I know, it is a lot in a short time. Keep reading!)

Week 1: May 8 - 248

Week 2: May 15 - 239 (Tada!)

Week 3: May 22

Week 4: May 29

I am excited! The hCG is working for me!

I finally found my tape measure, so later today I will take my measurements and I'll be able to actually note the loss in inches next week.

I promised I would do this in front of "everybody" and report my true feelings, in order that all of us could discover a little more about the hCG effect on the body. So here is a review of my week:

Obviously, last Saturday and Sunday were a snap. I was told to begin taking the hCG (6 drops, under the tongue, twice a day) and load up of food. You can tell from my weight, this was a concept I am quite familar with. Saturday evening we cooked hamburgers and Sunday we enjoyed fried chicken.

True to what I had heard, I was not hungry Monday. As a matter of fact, I had that ick feeling. HDifficult to describe, as I wasn't sick, I just didn't think I wanted anything. Tuesday was a little different. I wasn't hungry, but I "wanted" something! This lasted through Wednesday evening. I also experienced a slight headache both Tuesday and Wednesday, similar to when you go off caffeine. Since I was allowed coffee and tea, I think the headache may have been a combination of sugar "withdrawls" and lack of sleep (due to storms).

I talked to Pam and she suggested that I take potassium, she also suggested L - Glutamine.

I had potassium on hand, but I didn't have L-Glutamine.....other than I have a bottle of Bragg's Liquid Amino Acids. From all I've read, L-Glutamine is great for hunger cravings and it also helps break down fat so it can be burned by the body. Cinnamon will also deminish cravings.

By Thursday, the cravings left pretty much on their own. (I had experienced same the thing years ago on Atkins - the first three day were always the most difficult. And Thursday was my 4th day of eating only 500 calories.)

My energy level also picked up on Thursday and I felt wonderful! Yesterday, was also good, but I had to run errands all day and I didn't plan ahead for that. I was away from the house from one until after seven last night. The boys were with me, so of course they wanted to stop for something to drink, ice cream and something to eat. I bought them milk shakes at Sonic and I got a lime ice (I figured that was "safe").

The bad news was, Wal-Mart about did me in. It was our last stop and by the time we finished, I was dragging. I ate lunch before we left the house, probably about 11:30 and I didn't think to take an apple (or something similar) with me. Also, I should have grabbed at least one bottle of water somewhere along the way. Since I was dragging, we had the garlic chicken from the deli, along with salad for dinner last night. And I was ready for my serving of chicken! (I know it wasn't cooked according to the diet directions, but at that point I didn't care.)

Today, I feel great! I wish the sun was shinning, but nice weather will return soon!

Believe or not, I am happy on the 500 calories a day. I am thinking most likely, our ancestors came closer to eating 500 calories a day, than today's American diet. Also, while we have never used an over abundant amount of preprocessed food, I am glad I am movng away from so many preservatives and chemicals.

My daily routine goes something like this:

Upon getting up, take my first 6 drops of hCG

Put the coffee on

As soon as 15 minutes pass (from when I took the drops), I drink the juice of one lemon in a glass of water with a few grains of sea salt.

Then coffee (surprisingly, I am actually drinking less coffee)

Mid morning, I have either an apple or an orange

Lunch is 3 oz of lean beef or chicken (one day I had cottage cheese and strawberries)

Late afternoon, I have an apple and about an ounce of protein

Dinner, is 3 to 4 ounces of lean beef or chicken, along with celery, onions, cucumbers or sliced tomatoes. I can have mustard greens and lettuce, but just haven't yet.

Also, there is a soup recipe that is allowed, but I haven't made it as of yet. (Wish I had known of it during the first three days.)

Lots of water and 2 to 3 glasses of tea

It's pretty simple, I just have to make sure the boys don't eat all the apples. I try to hide 3 or 4, so I don't run out between trips to the store! *smile*

It goes without say, anyone is going to loose weight on 500 calories a day. HCG allows the body to accept only 500 calories more easily. It also helps the body to burn the calories stored in fat and resets the hypothalmus, so your metabolism works like it did when you were younger. This helps to keep the weight off. The percentage of people who keep the weight off, is much higher with those who lose using the hCG.

I know of two others who are currently on the hCG diet and it is working for both, as well.

So there you have it! My report for the last week.

Praying everyone has a wonderful weekend and a blessed week starting Monday!

Whether your Sabbath is today or tomorrow, rest and renew yourself in HIM.

Blessings,

Cheryl

Missing You

I miss you guys! Long time, no *see*.


I haven't tried to post the last few days, as my mind has been filled to overflowing with clutter, bits and bits of clutter. I realize this is a busy time of year and all of you are probably busy too. Another thing, my cluttered brain hasn't felt all that creative, due in part to loss of sleep.

I have a question. Why do tornado producing storms occur when you had rather be in bed? It is a strange phenomena similar to when children get sick after the clinic closes or when animals show signs of something being wrong late on Saturday evening. Amazing, isn't it?

As I am sure you know, we have been experiencing spring and all her orneriness. Still, we have managed to get most of the garden planted and work toward the "outdoor" kitchen we are planning.

We have two graduations coming up, I am working on decluttering the house of all that "stuff" we manage to collect during the school year. Still working on packing away the winter clothes, and the weather isn't co-operating there either and we have a ton of other stuff going on, but none of which is very interesting.

So, how are you doing?

My diet is going well and I'll reveal how well on Saturday; probably not early Saturday though.

I finished reading Here Burns My Candle (Liz Curtis Higgs) and Take One (Karen Kingsbury). I'm now reading The Prophet by Francine Rivers.

I have decided to try and recover some of our lawn furniture. Wish me luck, as I am not much of a seamstress.

Tuesday afternoon, I was blessed with tons of flowers to repot and set out, and I was also given a few antiques. Anyway, I need to hush and start dinner before the troops die of starvation. Just wanted everyone to know, I'm thinking about each of you! Hopefully, I'll feel like doing Friday Fragments tomorrow, but if not, I'll *see* you on Saturday!

Blessings,
Cheryl

No, I didn't proof read this...forgive me.;)

Tuesday, After the Storms

(I'm not sure where I found this image, but if I "borrowed" it from you, please forgive.) Edited to say, now I can read the name.

Not much to say this morning, but wanted to let everyone know we are okay after last night's storms. We had some friends that lost their home, but all of our family members survived the tornado activity.

I'm just finding it a little difficult to get started today.

For a closer look at all our excitement visit Katie at Dishin and Dishes. Katie has done an excellent job of blogging about the storms and has included many pictures from around the state.

Praying all is well with each of you.

Blessings,
Cheryl

Oklahoma Is Holding It's Breath!

But first, Happy Mothers' Day to all the wonderful Moms! May your day be blessed!



Sunday In My City and across Oklahoma, everyone is holding their breath! And here is the reason why:



(The following is from an article appearing in our local paper.)

With one episode remaining, cowboy brothers Jet and Cord McCoy are among the final three competitors on the CBS-TV reality series “The Amazing Race.”

The McCoys, ranch-raised cowboys from Tupelo (Oklahoma), have won four of the 11 legs of the race around the world. They finished the 11th episode in second place, just behind the dating models, Brent Horne and Caite Upton.

“I feel like we have a good chance to win the million dollars,” said Cord, one of the fan favorites on the Professional Bull Riders tour. ~ The Ada Evening News

We live northwest of Ada, Oklahoma and Tupelo is just southeast of Ada. Everyone around here and across the state will be cheering for the McCoy brothers tonight. Win or loose, Jet and Cord are good people.

Want to come to the watch party?

Be sure and visit the coolest spots around the globe. You ticket is free. Just begin your tour with Unknown Mami.

Have a great week!
~Cheryl

Want To Get Healthier? Leaner, Meaner - JK on the last one

Memorial Day Challenge – Week 1

Weigh In Day: Saturday
Starting Weight: 248

Challenge Goal: Loose 24 lbs (I know, it is a lot in a short time. Keep reading!)

Week 1: May 8 -248

Week 2: May 15 -

Week 3: May 22 -

Week 4: May 29 -

I am joining Sandy from A Working Mom’s Joy in her Memorial Day Challenge. If you would like to take part, just go by Sandy’s and leave her a comment. It is wonderful when we can be an encouragement to one another.

My battle of the bulge is a long and boring story. I have never been accused of being skinny at anytime in my life. I once heard someone say, "If it wasn’t for dieting, they would be a mountain." Yeah, me too!

A few years ago, I lost 70 lbs. first on Atkins and then on the (no) white diet. Both diets are excellent, but for some reason (age?) this time around I have experienced a difficult time getting started and staying focus. I could explain all the reasons why or why not, but that isn’t what this post is about ~ may another time.

Anyway, today I am beginning a new journey. After much prayer and pondering, I started taking hCG this morning. As the days and weeks follow, I will record my journey here. There are many pros and cons to this method of dieting, but I truly feel that it is right for me.

HCG works by resetting your hypothalamus. Therefore, once the deed is done, there is a much better chance you will not regain the weight you work so hard to loose.

I have much to tell you and a lot of information to share, but it will have to be done over a period of time and in several posts. I am hoping to set up pages, so just one area of the blog can be devoted to health & weight issues. Once the pages are set up, I will post pictures and share any weight loss tips that I find work for me.

By the way, my final weigh in date for this phase is on hubby’s birthday. How cool is that?! He is always happy when I do something positive to enhance our over all health and my weight loss. ;)

If you have questions, just ask in the comment section and I will try to answer you as best I can. Whatever progress I make or do not make will be for all to see.

Blessings,
Cheryl

5/8 Got up at 6:30 and took the first dose of hCG. Today and tomorrow are “load up days” or “pig out days”. No kidding! Who starts a diet and then is forced to eat all they can the first two days? They say, if you do not do this, you will be extremely hungry the first week.

Okay, okay. You don’t have to twist my arm! This will make Mothers’ Day dinner a lot easier tomorrow! Ha!

It is now 2:00 p.m. and already I can tell a mild difference, in that I am not “wanting” everything I see, even though I am suppose to be eating like a pig. It is a little cool today, much makes drinking my water a little bit more difficult, but I am working on that.
~more later!

Friday Fragments, Follow and Friends!

Win one of 4 $100 Tooth Soap® gift certificates! It’s your chance to try out some of the MOST TALKED ABOUT product on the blogger web! To find out more click.





Did any of you see this? If they should combine You Tube, Twitter and Facebook, you would end up at www.youtwitface.com (How appropriate for some of us!) LOL

We seem to be on the receiving in of a lot of animals people give to their kids, only to decide a little later that it was a bad decision. For the most part, people ask (beg, offer their first born if we will also take said pet), or just drop them at the end of our driveway. I think the end of our driveway must be marked in a fashion similar to how hobos marked houses during the 30’s….here ~ easy mark! Will feed! With the grandkids it is a different story, just like their “treasures” their parents think should be thrown away end up at our house, so do some of their pets.

Brennon our star just turned eight y/o received a pet rat for his birthday last Tuesday. The answer is NO, NO WAY, AIN’T GONNA HAPPEN ~ and that is my final answer! (And yes, three of the six dogs that live here are former members of that particular household.)

You who live where sidewalks exist would faint at the amount we spend at the “feed store” each month!

This school year will soon be apart of history. I am so relieved, although we will be doing some interesting, fun stuff this summer, but without the guilt if we don’t get it all done! Plus, I get to start planning for next year. Sometimes, I think I am a better planner than doer.

I am so sorry Tennessee and some of the other states in that area are experiencing so much flooding. I am praying for that area of our country. But I am also ever so thankful we are experiencing on of the loveliest springs we have had in a long while….and so far, minus the threat of tornadoes (for the most part).

Because this is Mothers’ Day Weekend ~



A few Momisms

A little soap & water never killed anybody.

Bored! How can you be bored? I was never bored at your age.

Do not put that in your mouth, you do not know where it has been.

Stay away from that creek until you learn to swim.

This hurts me more than it hurts you.

The following Momism continues to grow in difficulty with time.;-)

When I was your age, I had to walk ten miles through the snow, uphill, by myself, to go to school.

Wade’s Wisdom:
This white chocolate Dove bar tastes like soap.
... oh, wait....

Be sure and visit Mrs. 4444 at Half-Past Kissin Time for more Friday Fragments.

Then jog over to join the part at Friday Follow and be sure to enter the big Mothers' Day giveaway while you are there!

And last, but never least see what is going on over at The Girl Creative. Hopefully, you'll find a friend or two at New Friend Friday and there is another giveaway there!
**Love the craft from last Tuesday at TGC. It would make a nice Mothers’ Day Gift** ~ hint ~ hint ;-)

Have a wonderful Mothers' Day weekend!

Blessings,
Cheryl

I Have to Share This

In my last post, I shared how prayer can change the structure of water. And I explained that I had originally written that post for a Messianic ladies group I am a member of.

The following is one of the comments I received. It is from my friend Ardienne:

How great is the power of the Word and how amazingly complex the interconnection of the whole of creation. Our bodies are mostly water. Scientist say water and electrical activity are the means by which cells communicate and send messages to the brain. Speak life to ourselves, spouses, and children and we restore the damage done by others as we go about the day.

I have taught this to others. There is a town near to us which has horrible water. The people of Whittemore buy drinking water. When I teach the affects of our words and thoughts, I have everyone take a sip of this nasty tasting water. Most people look for a place to spit it out. I then have them pray over it telling it how good it is, how much it is loved, and what a blessing water is to us. Then I have them take another taste. People are amazed that the water is more than drinkable. It is delicious. What I find amazing is that some people "get" this and use it. Others blow it off as an interesting experiment.

My husband has been praying over ever thing that enters his body. He is growing more hair (he lost most of it when he was 21. He is now 65), his hair is losing the grey, his beard is not white anymore, and his health is much better.

Quantum physics tells us that all physical things are just manifestations of a frequency/vibration . Disrupt the frequency and damages is done which changes how a thing looks or works. Have you ever noticed that angry people have cars which are always breaking down? Or have you ever picked up an item thinking it looked nice but when you held it it "felt" wrong? The vibration of the negative thoughts and words of the owner effect the way a vehicle works and can be felt by others. Our Abba has told us in his word that what we think about, believe, and speak has great power. Science is just discovering this truth. Abba has given us truth it is up to us to put it into practice.... ......... ......to just believe and to do. Speak the Word and when it goes forth it does so with power. Our Abba has provided us with energy centers above and below our tongue. How amazing is that?! It is no wonder James said to bridle our tongue.

Isn't that amazing! Just wanted to share this with you, because it was such an encouragement to me.

Have a blessed day, everyone!

Cheryl

Aging, Water and Prayer

~ or ~ my personal science experiment!

I wrote the following for a Messanic Ladies group I am a member of, but I thought I would also share it with you. Be blessed! ~ Cheryl


A few years back I read Dr. Len Horowitz’s book, Healing Celebrations. In Healing Celebrations, Dr. Horowitz explains the work of research scientist, Masaru Emoto, and how our words and thoughts affect those things around us, in this case WATER. If you are unfamiliar with Mr. Emoto’s study, you can learn more about the study, but more importantly you can see the actual pictures here.

Here is an example. The photo below is a sample of water taken from Fujiwara in Japan. The water is frozen, then examined under a microscope.



This next picture is also from Fujiwara, but the water has been prayed over.



When I first saw this I was fascinated, however like so many things we read or hear about, this study got filed in one of the “lost” corners of my mind for a few years.

My doctor is a naturopath. It has been more than ten years since I saw an allopathic doctor. And Dr. Mary does this one test that measures the water content of my cells. When we are young, our cells are nice and plump, but as we age our cells gradually loose water, which is a direct cause of wrinkling. Ever wonder about the expression, “She looks like a dried up old prune”? Wonder no more.

Due to my age and weight Dr. Mary insisted (encouraged) me to get my water intake to at least three quarts a day. Three quarts of water is a lot. Over the months the amount of water in my cells did not decrease to any great degree. This was good news.

Then one day, I remembered Mr. Emoto’s study. By then, I had loaned my book out, but the study was easy enough to find on the internet. So I decided to put this “theory” to the test myself. I got two plain Quart Mason (canning) jars and with a permanent marker wrote good things on the outside of the jars ~ the fruits of the spirit, favorite Scripture verses, etc. Each night I would fill the jars, placing them in the refrigerator and the next day drink my water. I didn’t do anything different other than drinking the water from these jars (and it was a quart less than what I was supposed to drink). When I went back to Dr. Mary, my cellular water percentage had increased (instead of just maintaing), placing me in a lower age group “health” wise.

Dr. Mary wanted to know what I had done. So, I began to tell her about Mr. Emoto’s work, which as it turns out, she was very familiar with, and my own little experiment. She then explained, in all her years of practice, I was the first “client” (of hers) who reversed the aging process ~ in other words, the water content of my cells was such that I was at a level for a person younger than myself.

Well, I’m a little slow (evidently) and it took awhile for the Holy Spirit to bring a full awareness of the impact of what He was trying to show me. Why does His Word tell us to pray without ceasing? Why should we pray over our food (and I dare to also suggest we should be praying over whatever meds or supplements we tale)? Because, speaking over what goes into our bodies, affords Yahweh the ability to transform that lifeless, stale, no nutrition, excuse for food, into the life sustaining, nutrition HE designed it to be. We are inviting Him to do what He does best, perform HIS Word. Amen ~

Not only that, if we get into the rhythm of allowing ~ no, inviting Him into every area of our lives, then HE is able to take that which is lifeless and breathe life into it. Should there come a time when you cannot get something you need, you will be sustained by prayer and Yahweh’s power to produce life. That is why He instructs us to choose LIFE.

Last night when I was thinking about sharing this, I was lead to the following quote:

~"Thinking about the night as the beginning of the day reminds us that everything doesn't depend on us. We go to sleep, but God is working all through the night. So we don't have to be anxious or rushed. When we wake up, we will simply join him in his work."
~Eugene H. Peterson

We know, healing takes place at night. As we rest, our bodies are able to repair the damage suffered from living in this world. I am amazed, the Holy Spirit directed me to this quote for this time, as it fit so perfectly. But then I am always amazed at how He arranges things!

I know many of you have more knowledge and a greater understanding of natural healing and health issues however I felt this was important enough for me to share. Praying it will benefit someone, if not now, in the days to come.

May you be blessed.

~ Cheryl

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY... from Cheryl's Daybook



Outside my window... ~ cool and pleasant as another day unfolds. The cool nights have made for the best sleeping. I love spring.


I am thankful for... ~ so many people my life has been blessed with!


I am wearing... ~ a pair of black pants and a light blue tee-shirt that has some pretty embroidered flowers around the neck, bare feet as always.


I am remembering... ~ other springs, past Mothers' Days


I am going... ~ to be considering how I want to reorganize our home over the summer months.


I am currently reading... ~actually, yesterday I finished Here Burns My Candle. Now, I am trying to decide what I want to read next.


I am hoping... ~ to start creating an outdoor kitchen area.

On my mind... ~ people, several people, for as many different reasons as there are people.

Noticing that... ~I am anxious to start the new diet. Almost to the point of being excited!


Pondering these words...~ "Thinking about the night as the beginning of the day reminds us that everything doesn't depend on us. We go to sleep, but God is working all through the night. So we don't have to be anxious or rushed. When we wake up, we will simply join him in his work."
~Eugene H. Peterson

From the kitchen... ~ still haven’t decided

Around the house... ~ trying to out smart the weather and pack the winter clothes away. Do you think I’m rushing the season?

One of my favorite things ~ the spring flowers that are blooming! What a gift!

From the picture journal....


For more posts visit
The Simple Woman's Daybook.

The First Year of Marriage, Oops!

Oops! This is last week's question, because I don't pay attention! (Okay, you know I'm slow.)This week's question is, "How did he propose?" Sorry, I'll have to hand my report in late! How did he propose anyway....maybe it was my idea....hmm ~ wouldn't you like to know?! Anyway, here is my response to last week's question of the week! (And that's all I have to say about that!);-)

What funny lessons did you learn in your first year of marriage?



My goodness, it has been so long ago, whatever I learned that first year, I have probably forgotten! I will try, but without any promises.

I grew up in town with one sister. Because Ada is a relatively small town and my folks owned the cab company, I knew everyone in town (which translates to: I couldn’t get by with squat without my folks finding out.)

Honey hunk grew up in the country with five brothers. Not only did honey-hunk have five brothers, he also had five uncles (his mom’s brothers), who lived in the area (which translates to: more cousins than I could count!). And they all lived west of Ada toward Asher.

It wasn’t long until I realized, I couldn’t get by with squat outside the city limits either! The handy part was, if I broke down or ran out of gas (I was experimenting with weaning the car), it was never long until one of my in-laws came by and saved the day.

Which brings up another point, which I do remember: If I had car trouble before we were married, he was always eager to come to my rescue. After a few months of marriage, he seemed to loose his enthusiasm. Finally, I got to noticing, when we were together and came upon someone with car trouble issues, we always stopped and offered assistance – cheerfully. So one muddy, dreary day when I managed to get stuck and he had to come to my rescue he had “that look” – that, don’t tell me you actually got stuck and couldn’t drive it out “look.” I suggested he treat me like a stranger, rather than his wife. “Just smile, pretend you don’t know me, and get my car out of this ditch!”

Honey-hunk is also a twin and I learned it isn’t unusual for twins to want someone around pretty much all the time. If he was in the shop, he wanted me in the shop. If he had to work in the pasture, he wanted me to go along – then, I had this rather “light bulb” moment. It couldn’t be he just wanted me to clean the tools (or parts) or ride along to open the gates, could it? Surely not….?!!

Over the years, we have had very few differences of opinion. He has learned that it is his job to rescue me (even from myself). I’ve learned to “enjoy” air shows, early morning trips to the barn to see the latest surprise, and to embrace his large extended family. We’ve adjusted ~ he’s the thinker, I’m the talker ~ he’s laid back and easy going, I get in a hurry and have been known to get frustrated. As a matter of fact, he used to call me “Susie Spotless.” He couldn’t put a glass down, without me grabbing it. Time and age have taking care of that! And my presence is no longer required at the shop. That’s what sons, son-in-laws and grandkids are for. (I do still open a gate now and then.)

We just celebrated our 37th anniversary. We have weathered the storms of aging parents, job changes, and watched kids grow up. I am still crazy about him! One of my aunts used to tease me saying, “He really steals your thunder, doesn’t he?” Yeah, he does! I wish everyone’s marriage could be as good as ours, not because our marriage has been perfect, but because it has been “solid.” He is my “help meet” in every sense. Sitting here, I’ve tried to figure out why us? Why have we been so blessed in our relationship? We’ve seen many of our friends and relatives divorce and go their separate ways. If I could tell young couples anything, it would be to love one another, have faith in God, and keep that sense of humor handy!

One other thing ~ My mom was a good cook. One of the first suppers she prepared was chicken & dumplings, because Daddy had told her, it was one of his favorites. However, my dad made the fatal mistake of telling her, "It's not like Mama used to make." It was five years before he got the chance to say that again....but he didn't! *smile*

To read more answers to, "How did he propose?" visit Real Housewives of Oklahoma. They rock!

Blessings!