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Fitness and Health

What is the Bible and Bootcamps App?

“You’re ministry is found where you’ve been broken. Your testimony is found where you’ve been restored.”

Bible and Bootcamps is a Mobile App for Faith and Fitness

Have you ever looked back at where you’ve been and it all of a sudden make sense?

A few years ago, I was lost (Spiritually and Mentally), depressed, anxious, creeping up the scale, and desperate for a way out.  It wasn’t until I completely surrendered all aspects of my life and sought God’s counsel that I found a direction to take.

Then  had a “God idea.” I was scrolling through Facebook and an add for my current college popped up. I never thought of going back to school, but as if I was forcefully pushed. I pressed, “Send me more info.” Within minutes I got a phone call that has literally changed this lost girl to having a clear vision that gets even more high definition by the day. Honestly, if I list the blessings that God has given my family; it is nothing short of amazing and all God’s glory.

Well, years later, with a degree in Fitness and Exercise Science.  Several NASM certifications and pursuing NASM Master Trainer. I have had fantastic opportunities to lead people to God’s kingdom through fitness.

Taking HUGE Risk

I believe so much in this vision God has given me to build a community of women that glorify God by honoring their temple. It’s my “why” in most things that I do.  After  prayers of “How,” “Why,” and “Who.” God led me to a remarkable team to get all of these floods of ideas into a fantastic program that can help women:

  1. Increase their dependence on God through their weight loss journey
  2. Lose weight efficiently and effectively while learning lifestyle habits to help them honor their temple.
  3. Increase energy so they can be the best soldiers for God’s army and gaining confidence to lead people to Christ.

I wasn’t sure how that was going to look, but slowly and methodically just as God has ordained, I have created an effective program for women to use everywhere with a Mobile App.

Bible and Bootcamps App for Every Fitness Level

I wanted to make sure that my program addressed all fitness levels and spiritual needs. If you’re willing to put in the work and show up every day no matter your fitness level. God will meet you where you are and help you honor your temple.  My six-week transformation program has become a customized program that is designed uniquely for each women’s strengths and weaknesses.  Giving you all the tools that you need to transform your life.

Bible and Bootcamps will be a Six Week Transformation Program. We will walk daily for Forty-two days in the Word and increase our dependence on Christ on our fitness journey. Bible and Bootcamp is an intense, unique, six-week transformation to boost your potential to get dramatic results inside and out. Think of it like Basic training for a healthier lifestyle.

Bible and Bootcamp Program has a three-step approach.

  1. Spiritually and Mentally, we will help you change your thought patterns, increase your dependence on God, and enhance your self-confidence, and get rid of beliefs that have you held you back before.
  2. Nutritionally we are going to show you what to eat that fuels you.  Educating you and on healthy eating guidelines and providing a Biblically based meal plan that will help support you in your goals.
  3. Physically we are going to apply the spiritual discipline and living sacrifice into a customizable workout program that increases your strength, flexibility, core, and endurance.

What the Program Includes:

Bibles and Bootcamps will also be delivering some invaluable tools with our six-week program.

  • The 6-week program delivered to you via the FaithFueled™ Life App
  • Daily Devotionals to encourage you on your journey
  • Grocery list of approved foods
  • Cookbook with 42 recipes
  • Healthy Eating guidance, recipes, and accountability
  • Customizable workouts delivered on any device via Mobile App
  • Daily tips and training
  • Group Q&A

How is it affecting women?

I have pulled every tool out for this to be a powerful program. Utilizing my knowledge in Fitness Exercise Science. I’ve researched and spent countless hours exploring what Christian women need to stop sabotaging their efforts and start thriving.  What I have found that a critical factor is your Spiritual relationship with God, achievable nutrition, and a proven science-based workout.  My Beauties have seen some pretty amazing results.

 

“De is amazing I can tell you! She is a precious woman of God and she knows her stuff…she got me started on my fitness journey earlier this year and I lost some serious pounds (over 40) under her direction.” -Ammie B.

 

 

 

“Bibles and bootcamp has been an amazing experience. This is my first time putting my faith and Fitness together in one and the feeling is amazing. I have already starting see results after only 3 weeks and I’m excited for what left to come.”

— Dana

“I love it all. The nutrition is simplified. The workouts are fun, yet challenging and De is an awesome coach & spiritual support. ”

— V.T.
 

Why don’t you join us?

I cannot wait to see what this program does for you in your life.  I am honored and privileged to get to cheer you on the entire way.  For those seeking a way to Honor God’s temple at it’s best and tired of the on again off again plans. If you’re looking for something that is going to sustain you inside and out than you must join us! If you are looking for more information check out some frequently asked questions BiblesAndBootcamp

The Mission

Ultimately, I pray that Bible and Bootcamps become a Ministry for Small Churches to provide Wellness to their members.  Currently, I am offering BaB at two churches and praying God uses me to help more!

Have you ever used your faith to fuel your workouts? How about a fitness app? Why not try both?

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christianity Faith Journey

Reflection of 2018

Reflection of 2018 and Planning for 2019

The last half of 2018 I have slowly begun to rely on my own strength. This is a common mistake of mine that I start to seek God as a backup plan instead of the action plan.  I have let worry and anxiety drive a wedge between my trust and reliance on God.  Even in choosing my “word” for the year initially, I was motivated by my own motives or at least I thought I was until prayer.  Through prayer and scripture, I uncovered my truth for this year and intention for 2019.

My gaze has turned from 2017 focused on the things above and not of this earth.  In 2017, my word was “Focus and Legacy,” and my Verse was Colossians 3:2. 2017 was a phenomenal year. I was amazed at what I achieved. Honestly, I can say, that I focused on God that year and achieved greatness through Him.  Focusing on God and not the girl next to me allowed me to get things done that year.

Then in 2018, almost as a challenge, I believe. I was led to”Gratitude” for my word.  As anticipated there were many circumstances in 2018 where I could have said, “Why God?’ and chose “I am grateful, Lord.” It took intention, but it was a pruning experience. There were a few setbacks, humbling moments and many opportunities to give up but being grateful for what I had for the moment allowed me to persevere.

Practicing Gratitude

This year I felt like I fell from grace. It wasn’t intentional, but it has been made clear in my reflection and the way I felt the last half of the year.  I had let my need for achievement, success, and accolades over my need for the Truth and the Light.  There were brief periods of anxiety, depression, and loneliness especially at the beginning of the year when I was homebound with my ankle injury.

I felt like the things that I have worked so hard for began to crumble under my own strength. There were lots of setbacks in my life personally. I think the most significant blow was my husband tearing his Achilles at the peak of his busy training season.  We have had several roadblocks this year. We have had to pull back on some things. Change the way we lived for a while because of finances.

Despite my despair, I knew God was with me the entire time. He had never left me but allowed me my own free will to seek Him in all things.  If it weren’t for my desire to serve and be with God, I would never come to this realization. I also probably would have given in to the doubt like in the past.

Instead, I chose to trust in hope and wait in faith. It was also my reminder to be grateful even for a little bit which humbled our family this year.

Bringing it back to Prayer

I preach to honor your temple, but that can only be done and begin with prayer.  When I act first without prayer I always make a mess of things. So, here I am planning another year an in bright, bold neon letters- (God knows that’s the best way to get my attention). He has led me to a new beginning and time to learn from the previous year and set a new intention as I work to the next year.

 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 

My “Word(s)” for this year.

I founded FaithFueled™ Mom on the foundation of my intent to Glorify God.  Only through Him will it build community and grow but only if I connect with Him.

My three words for this year are “Community, Connection and Growth” initially my sinful nature defined them as,

CONNECTION with others who are on a similar mission to grow MY business.

Build a COMMUNITY of women who glorify God through honoring their temple. (Aka. FaithFueled™ mission statement)

and

GROWTH in all areas of life, finances, relationships, and business.

When God gives you a wake-up Smack

Then (yes afterward) I looked to Scripture to support MY intentions (not God).  Then as if I was smacked in the face

“But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 

That is not what I intended, but without God, my sinful nature took over my second nature. After spending time in the Word. I was set on a better path and given an opportunity to begin the year in the way of my heart’s desire.

My “Word (s)” Redefined

CONNECTION will be through Christ. He will lead me to the people to carry out His plan and not my own.

James 4:8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.  Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

COMMUNITY will continue to be my mission to grow a community of women who are glorifying God through honoring their temple.

“Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17

GROWTH spiritually that will trickle into all aspects of my life.

“Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” 2 Peter 3:17-18

My Word for 2019

I really want to keep it simple this year, so I am going to group these three under CHOSEN. Totally off my initial thought of my word(s) or is it?

One thing that I have felt this year is unqualified and unworthy. I think its time to realize that I am worthy and completely qualified. Only through God because He chose me to live this life.

“just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will to praise the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.” Ephesians 1:3-6

I have been chosen and this year I want to accept it. I want to connect with the God who chose me, build a community and share with other chosen women and grow and feel qualified through Him and not others opinions.

No longer living in doubt and question of my purpose. I want to walk in my life knowing that I was handpicked by God to bring Him glory.

My Faith fuels me

My intent is not to come across as a Saint because I am not a Saint.  I am a Child of God who was chosen in love to bring glory to His kingdom. I enjoy it; it brings me passion and drive to do what I do and help other people.  When I lose sight of Him, I lose my way, and that’s when I feel anxiety, worry, depression and not my best self.  So, I have to remember what I learned a few years ago and what got me so far. I need to

“Set my mind on the things above and not the things of this world.” Col 3:2

He will give me the clarity to fuel my journey as He has in the past and will do it again an again. Open the doors of opportunity and make the path straight. Whenever in whatever capacity I need.

Instead of “living my best life” I plan on “living the chosen life.”

It may mean a different course of action this year but I know that with God it ultimately, be in my favor, It always is when I seek and trust in Him.

My anticipation for 2019

When it is all said and done even if I don’t make it to a New Year. I want to live every day of 2019 connecting with God and seeking His purpose. Growing my faith and being in a community that is adding women to His kingdom. Living as if I was already chosen by Him to live a life of purpose. What do you think too lofty? You’ll just have to stay tuned and see how He manifest His goodness this year.

” For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:5-8

If you feel lost in your way seek God for guidance. He will give you direction and peace on your path.  Praying you to have a Happy Healthy New Year.

What did you learn in 2018 that you are going to use in 2019? What is your word?

 

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Product Review Product Reviews raising family Weightloss Journey Wellness

2018 Fitness Holiday Gift Guide & Desk Cycle Ellipse Giveaway

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Turkey has been consumed! Family time has been had, and now if you haven’t already, it’s time to get ready for Christmas.

I am sure you have had some sort of clue from the Christmas Display that has been taunting us in most retail stores that’s it’s that time of year.  If you have intentionally been ignoring the festive advertisements until now.

Yay! Me too!

Time to start Shopping

Now that the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers have been eaten I am ready to decorate the house for Christmas.

For my girls it’s simple, and I pride myself in getting the girls Christmas complete the week before Thanksgiving and regardless of the early date this year. Now is the hard part shopping for others that I love in my life and the older we get, the harder it gets?  

I love checking out gift guides because it gives me some great ideas of things that I may have never considered. Have you ever considered giving someone the gift of Wellness?

Gift ideas for Fitness Enthusiast

No seriously, I know it sounds lame, but your gift can help some live a better life. Whether its makeup, skincare, fitness equipment or the gift of preventative health it all could be appreciated. There may be that person in your life who really values going to the gym, wellness or just fitness.  It can be daunting to find a unique gift that they don’t already have or may need.  

Feeling a little like Oprah but here are:

7 of my Favorite things

that are must buys for Holiday gifts this year! I am excited to share with you some of the things that I truly love this year. I hope it’s helpful and buying the perfect gift for the one you love. 

My Affiliation

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com. 

This post also contains other affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, I make a small percentage of the sale with no additional cost to you. Although, I was given these products or am an ambassador my opinion is entirely my own and can’t be bought. My Full Disclosure Policy 

Activmotion Bar

Life is dynamic, and our training should reflect that and really didn’t realize the potential until receiving my activmotion bar to try. This bar is excellent for anyone looking to add core stability to their workout or challenge themselves.  Activmotion bars come in different weights, and the most popular is a 10-pound bar.  This gift is going to add variety, body awareness, and stability to your workout and just a great tool to have if you like to exercise.  

Right now you can get 25% off your bar using code fitapproach25 from now until January 5, 2019.  Grab your bar here

PlateJoy

Plate Joy has been a lifesaver this year for me and definitely one of my favorite things.  Getting a subscription to this app would be an excellent gift for the Mom who is at her wits end with creative meal ideas.  Until I found Plate Joy, I was always frustrated trying to think of something healthy, fast and affordable for dinner.  When it’s the end of the day nothing is worse than asking your family what they want for dinner for them to respond, “I don’t know.”

Having my own personal meal planner that not only plans the meals but also makes the grocery list, tells me the correct portion size and even takes into consideration leftovers. It has been a time saver, budget minded and just a helpful tool.  I think any Mom would love to have a year of meal planning from Plate Joy for a Holiday gift!

You can get a Free Trial here, or You can get $10 off your Gift Card or Subscription with code FAITH10 Get your PlateJoy here.

Momentum Jewelry

Photo Credit https://beforeandaftermyemptynest.com/

Often get asked about my Inspire necklace from Momentum Jewelry! I customized it this summer to remind me of my “why” The Inspired Necklace inscribes “For His Glory,” and it’s a great reminder of why I do what I do!  You probably will always catch me with some type of Momentum wraps, jewelry, and accessories.  It’s nice to have wearable inspiration for when you need to see a reminder or your spirits lifted.  I think Momentum Jewelry is great for everyone, but this inspiring jewelry is meant for the Athlete in your life.

They are having so many sales for the Holiday’s grab some spark to share with someone in your life! Grab your Momentum Jewelry here.

 

Glider Gloves

It’s cold ya’ll! Every year around November I start to reconsider my residency in New Jersey. I was made for Arizona or New Mexico because I hate the humidity and hate the cold.  Winter in Jersey comes with hat, scarf and a warm pair of gloves.  The worst is when you have to take your texting handoff in the cold.  Get someone you love these warm and cozy Glider gloves that swipes just like your finger without the biting chill.  Great gift for anyone in your life this year!

Get your Glider Gloves here!

 

SoleHealers

Sole Healers are Therapeutic Stretcher and Massager for your feet! They are amazing, and everything begins at the feet. SoleHealers are a pair of foot and calf stretching tool.  It helps to increase circulation, flexibility, and range of motion in your feet. I highly recommend these to anyone whether you are active or not, using these after you Desk Cycle or standing on them and gathering your balance at the day. If you suffer from foot, knee, or hip pain, plantar fasciitis, tight Achilles tendon, bunions or hammertoe I would add one in for you too! These are by far one of my favorite things to use for recovery.

Grab your Sole Healers here and don’t forget to get you a pair too! Use coupon code “15BLESSED” to get 15% off your purchase.

Cross Training Couture Tanks, Sweatshirts and Hat

Often, I get messages of “Where did you get your tank or what we call a “Truth on a Tee”?

The answer usually is Cross Training Couture which is a Faith and Fashion line that I am an ambassador.

When choosing brands represent companies I have to personally love and believe in what they represent. Cross Training Couture’s ministry is to witness through fitness (And wardrobes) is similar to my own. I am grateful to be able to be a Cross Training Influencer for them.

Another way that I get to connect with women fueled by their faith and desire to honor their temple is through their CTC VIP group monthly. It’s such a God-centered group that devotes, worships, prays and workout together and if you’re looking for something like that in your virtual world you should join them. If you are looking for cute, hats, tanks, sweatshirts and more for you and your family. Check them out! Tell them I sent you through this link and got your very own Truth on a Tee for someone you love this Christmas!  Another one of my very favorite thing! 

Grab your tank here! 

 

 

Desk Cycle- Ellipse

Whoever thought to put an elliptical under your desk was a genius! I am pedaling right now and have to say since getting my Desk Cycle Ellipse I have been getting some extra cardio instead of sitting idle.  The Desk Cycle Ellipse can only be used while sitting and is excellent for a tall or short desk.  It’s very quiet and comfortable to adjust resistance.

The other day I cranked up the dial, and after reading through emails, I was feeling the burn — leaves very little excuses for why you can’t move.  There is an LCD that is found on the Ellipse, or you can have sit on your desk to keep you motivated.  My little divas have competition on how many revolutions they can get in their homework time.   I am obsessed with the Desk Cycle Ellipse and think it’s a fabulous gift for anyone who sits at a desk in your life and shares it on my Instastories. I am amazed at what I can achieve while sitting.  It’s a great way to get your body moving while you work.

Grab your Desk Cycle here!

Desk Cycle Giveaway

Have I told you lately how absolutely thankful I am for you? Some of you have been following me and supporting me from the very beginning. Others are very new to my journey.  Whenever you came in I am grateful for your likes, double taps, follows, shares and comments.  I want to say Merry Christmas and give you some motivation to stay active in the New Year!

You have no excuses now because I have partnered with Desk Cycle. We are giving away their new under desk exercise equipment the Desk Cycle Ellipse by 3D Innovations.  The giveaway will end 12/9/18 11:59 pm EST.  So enter as many chances as you can before now and then!

I want to wish you a Merry Christmas and hope I gave you some ideas for a gift for your loved ones!

Click Picture Below to Enter into the Giveaway!

 

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Faith Journey Fitness and Health Weightloss Journey

3 Years Ago I Started this Weight Loss Journey

Three Years Ago I started my weight loss journey

Three years ago I started my weight loss journey so; I guess it’s my anniversary! When August 4th came this year I questioned myself, “Should I celebrate it? Write about it? Are people sick of hearing me talk about it?” That’s when the whisper,

1 Thessalonians 2:4 but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts.

which reminded me why I do what I do!

Why did I start my weight loss journey?

Three years ago today I decided I had enough!  

I needed to do something different!

Lonely, depressed and a Stay at Home Mom of three little diva’s I connected through Social Media, and that’s where I began my journey.

That is where I began holding my self-accountable through blog post and Social Media of the frustrations and triumphs of weight loss.

A friend gave me the idea. I told her privately that I wanted to journal my weight loss and she told me to share it on my Instagram (like everyone else) does and I did.  Thanks, Toni by the way because I have met some fantastic people through this journey.

Being vulnerable and sharing the realities of weight loss and I found others like me.

When I began this journey, I never started intending on creating a business. I was seeking a program that catered to Christian Women, and that is what I am beginning to develop three years later.

This all began because I was tired of being tired.  I didn’t feel like I was walking in the body I was meant to have. I saw other fit people running outside or working out at the park (because you would not catch me at a gym) and I wanted to be like them. But I had a lot of excuses no time, no money, and no clue.

I used to hate exercise

Growing up my parents never spanked us they chose an alternative form of discipline that has it owns consequences.  My parents would use “grounding us in our rooms” and exercise drills as punishment. Little offenses would be things like pushups, planks; wall sits for extended amounts of time.  Mile runs for more significant crimes or solitary confinement in my room for two weeks.  I was raised as the oldest of six children, so I spent a lot of time in my room and doing pushups, planks and wall sit.

Although my parent’s intentions were good, and children do need discipline,  the method now that we are older, is questionable. All but my youngest sibling will tell you that we despise exercise. Why punish ourselves as adults? Yet, the way our genes work it’s highly necessary to exercise to stay healthy and eat what we please. This, as I have shared before, is not my first significant weight loss journey.  Or the most weight I have ever lost yet, it will be my last.  By changing my attitude from resentment to worship has been a game changer.

For God’s Glory

This weight loss journey I was motivated by something different than in the past.  In the past, I was a Christian but not a Follower. Before I believed in God but had no real relationship.  This time not only do I believe in God but I have taken the time to get to know Him.  My external is a direct reflection of my internal;  From what I put in my mouth to what I put in my heart can be seen.  So, when I hesitated to celebrate my third year anniversary.  I went directly to Him. This isn’t to boast on what I did but to show what Christ has created in me.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17

Why I do what I do?

There is absolute power in prayer, worship, and devotion.  Just like exercise and “clean” or Biblically-based eating has taught me.  The more you do it, the more it becomes second nature.  At this point, I am a statistics and a testimony.

According to the National Weight Loss Registry, “We have also started to learn about how the weight loss was accomplished: 45% of registry participants lost the weight on their own, and the other 55% lost weight with the help of some type of program.”

I can show that a program, consistent effort will get results. Most importantly I can show what happens when you use Scripture, prayer, and devotion as your motivation.

I really don’t believe I could have achieved what I achieved in the last three years without God. In the past when I have tried it on my own, I have cheated or failed.

My goal is now to be a light for His glory and share where my strength, motivation, and faith comes from in all that I do.

Momentum Jewelry 1″ Inspired Customized Necklace

What I do differently than I did three years ago?

I pray frequently some people would consider it obsessively but those aren’t my kind of people. As much as, you would talk to yourself out loud. I talk to God (and myself still too) sometimes.

Now I am not a saint, and there are lots of times that I don’t consult God about my decision. Those are not my good days and usually when I make mistakes or fall from grace.  But on the whole, my relationship with God is completely changed in the last three years, and I would say that I intimately have a relationship now that is a daily thing instead of a weekly celebration.

For example, We have three prayers in Bibles and Bootcamps to help us when tempted.  I have them committed to memory because I use it so often.  Prayer doesn’t need this 15 minutes ordeal it can be a short, simple praise or request between you and God.  Like:

“Lord, Give me the desire and commitment to honor my temple daily. In Jesus name, Amen”

That simple!

That one is my favorite prayers in the Bible and Bootcamps because it helps me to stay on track. God is in the business of answering prayers, so I find that He daily delivers on that prayer.

Food Fixation

Three years ago when I started this weight loss journey, I wasn’t aware of food fixation. Through a Book Study that I did with my FaithFueled Life Members about two years ago. I learned more skills of dependency on God over food which I can share today.  I also think that food is one of the hardest addictions to overcome.  It’s so satisfying, accessible, legal, acceptable, and we are inundated with opportunities and encouragement to indulge. The difference between need and want can easily be blurred.

Three years walking through this journey has not only strengthened my bond with Christ but has instilled a passion in me to help others honor their temple.  The obstacles that I have overcome, victories I have won, and amazing opportunities I have experienced have all been because I decided to live my life differently, lean on God and honor my temple.

7 Tips I have learned in Three years from starting my weight loss journey

  1. Everything you can’t do God can; so, lean in and hold on for the ride.
    2. This is a journey, not a race.
    3. You have to show up and do things you don’t want to do (at first 😉).
    4. The consistent effort pays off
    5. Don’t count the days, count the gainz
    6. If you don’t challenge yourself, ou can’t progress.
    7. You don’t care how long it took you once you get there.

What’s Next?

That’s the hard part this year! I have no idea! I have never imagined getting on stage, being featured in National Publications or having two online fitness apps: and PerFIcT App; that is really helping people or working at an amazing gym surrounded by amazing trainers.  Or to get to to help empower women!

Right now, I can’t afford to do another Figure competition. I tried Ninja Warrior Training, and my ankle is still not ready, unfortunately.  After experiencing my first significant injury in my life and recovery was a faith experience as well. My ankle is not prepared to train for a Spartan Race which has also been on my things to do list.

Honestly, I am seeking something different than just dumbbells and barbells.  I have no idea what that looks like but it gives me lots of opportunities to try something new.  Like I did three years ago.

Thank you!

For those of you who prayed, encouraged, and motivated me in the last three years:

Your comments, likes, double taps, retweets, direct messages, gifs, and in real life hugs and love have also gotten me here today.  I really do appreciate your encouragement and support.  It’s been an amazing journey, and I am blessed to be where I am today!

“I still remember the days that I prayed for what I have now! “

I would love to help you with your journey! 

Check out my other Anniversary Post to see what I have taken away each year! First Year, Not an Overnight Success Story: 2 Year Anniversary

 

 

 

 

 

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christian mom christianity Faith & Self Care Faith Journey faithfueled friday

I just want to “Say Thanks”

Declaring Gratitude

I declared my word for 2018 as gratitude, and I knew that it would be  challenged the moment I pressed “share.”

Here I am again reflecting. Ever since December, I’m not going to lie this girl’s mental strength has been on a 4 or 5 out of 10.  Anxiety has crept its way back into my life, and it’s only because I’ve been allowing myself to rely on myself. Old habits die hard, and I am five months into my recovery from my ankle injury. I am at another commonplace in my faith journey and through the seasons.

Bad Habits Die Hard

Yep, I have been running on my own but unlike in the past. I KNOW better and know that relying on my own strength, know-how and provision will last for a moment. God has shown me some amazing things in my life when I give them to Him!

I also have too much going on; Way too much and when your “still” (whether intended or forced by an ankle injury) like in my case. It becomes pleasantly clear.

To say God hadn’t warned me would also be a lie. I knew what I was doing it as I am very capable of saying, “No.”  When God would say “slow down.” I’d say, “okay, just after this one thing.”

When God said, “Ask me?” I’d say, “Sure but let me see if this works first” and here I am ending the first quarter of 2018. Spent, warn, lost and like the knucklehead I can be; finally listening.

Different Reaction

This time it’s different. I am no longer like; “Why me?” I have yet to say that but before that would have been my first go-to. Although, I fell back into old habits. One thing that has changed is my strength in the Lord. I am lost, but I am lost in the right direction. I know the burden is too great so I know I must give it to God. Even though I was disobedient, God did not turn His back on me but persistently reminded me to lean on Him.  I also am now fully aware and have experienced an unconditionally loving Father who will never leave nor forsake me. I can turn to Him anytime and seek His grace, mercy, love and guidance. I will continue to grow. God will continue to prune me.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deut 31:6

Why am I confessing?

I felt really led to share because I am not a perfect Christian. I am one of those who knows that my sinful nature will always take over my second nature to be obedient to God.

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV

That I too struggle with my faith walk. I think its great to see the highlight reel of life. To see how good it could be but let’s not forget and live in reality. We all struggle that’s why we need God, and we are also supposed to hold each other accountable.

“Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:1-2 NASB

You can’t hold someone accountable if they don’t tell you.  It’s also an opportunity to help someone else grow or relate. The facade of perfection has to stop. Because what are we genuinely seeking? Unless it’s to be more like Jesus, it is all in vain.

Plank Challenge?

So, I am giving all the things to Jesus second quarter and seeing where that takes me. I am going to give it my best try. I’ve done it in the past and it He has always surpassed my expectations or anything that I could have done on my own.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matt 11:28

Working on a Grateful Mindset

I am also doing a Challenge in April! I am beginning Easter Sunday and through the entire month of April!

Each day I will be planking for 60 seconds and saying “Thank you, God!” For the little and the big things.  Each day while planking I will be reciting or meditating Scripture!  

I want to invite you to join me? There is nothing to gain but a grateful perspective.

We did a plank “talk” challenge in Bibles and Bootcamps. Most of the women chose to meditate and recite their favorite scripture.  All were shocked at how much longer they held the plank with scripture. We call them “Power Verse” in #BaB.

One day I was thinking how amazing it would be to see women expressing gratitude to God; then planking came to mind-not because it rhymes with Thanks.  I just thought of my Beauties and how powerful it would be to see people praising God and thanking Him while planking.

Will you join me?

Join my event on Facebook and hopefully join a month of Praise and Thanks as we end our first quarter! Even if you do it privately on your own, I have some verses for you to use in your meditation.  If you do want to join me merely post on whatever Social Media platform you like (I will be on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) and use and follow the hashtag #TYGod

Can you be grateful even with a little bit?

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