tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19370619306213187722024-03-07T11:57:46.995-08:00life with joysmusings on life, running, and JesusUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger274125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-52345726013188058542024-03-07T11:57:00.000-08:002024-03-07T11:57:03.189-08:00Enough is Enough!I am so over the fact that women cannot run without fear. I am so beyond mad that when I go out and run, I have to be on constant guard. I am angry that I often choose to run on my treadmill because I'm not in the mood to deal with jerks and possible assaulters and killers. Why do I have to forgo what I love (running outside) because a terrible person can't properly live in society??<div><br /></div><div>When I awoke yesterday morning, I felt the need and desire to get outside in fresh air and hit the pavement. I mentally prepared my course so that I would be in areas where cars and people are. I felt a tad fearful, but, honestly, I am so tired of living scared. I no longer want to be held back by someone else's choices. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFm7Wc2roKcqgVMrUzYOPyGzFnsGUnwKO5S8voUxTItkt-BlAm4Uluus8pqQKCPfWMxnaRXZJaexVGfm4BEwHPSBTb3ptGfwQCNLQuW7L9gF9920USN6hflF7W1rWL4VYacBpmNw7Si6E9au6Odm34zHGH6eoihkoM863rqjdvJwz877FRQKf-VslXkRI" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFm7Wc2roKcqgVMrUzYOPyGzFnsGUnwKO5S8voUxTItkt-BlAm4Uluus8pqQKCPfWMxnaRXZJaexVGfm4BEwHPSBTb3ptGfwQCNLQuW7L9gF9920USN6hflF7W1rWL4VYacBpmNw7Si6E9au6Odm34zHGH6eoihkoM863rqjdvJwz877FRQKf-VslXkRI" width="180" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div>Two of my children were at our home and before I left, I texted them my exact route and time I would be gone. I placed my Air Pods in and chose what I would listen to as I ran. I was conscience about making sure my podcast was low enough that I could easily hear my surroundings. I am not one to get lost in what I am listening to, as I am constantly monitoring my surroundings to make certain I am safe.</div><div><br /></div><div>My route was to take me around a set of neighborhoods. It's almost as if I was going to run the shape of a box to get back to my home. The route has nice sidewalks that are wide enough and visible to anyone driving by. I liked this because no one could be hiding in the trees without being seen.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8QI7PPml125mYtNBiHM_M8v5WHFef_DyLkrrZKu-Y1eywOM0NOUs-9lWmyv_MhOKgZ_JagTlqj5wJmr3FlhHdZmuxLVCQs_2jXB6A1vB6K4g6ybgwzeWS_JyGUz1ejcte3cObiESJkWj665-wBV2YTJJvYMlhkFiqCjYGGTjsdWF5_YVKFjhmgMvSr8k/s4032/running%20sidewalk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8QI7PPml125mYtNBiHM_M8v5WHFef_DyLkrrZKu-Y1eywOM0NOUs-9lWmyv_MhOKgZ_JagTlqj5wJmr3FlhHdZmuxLVCQs_2jXB6A1vB6K4g6ybgwzeWS_JyGUz1ejcte3cObiESJkWj665-wBV2YTJJvYMlhkFiqCjYGGTjsdWF5_YVKFjhmgMvSr8k/s320/running%20sidewalk.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>I set off for my run and fell quickly into my groove. I felt nice and safe because many cars were driving by. I was finally starting to settle in and feeling safe. I could tell this was the case because my breathing was even and my shoulders were nice and relaxed.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I turned onto the next street, I heard a truck honk. I immediately turned and looked. It was a large white truck and as it drove by, the driver stared at me like I was his candy. Gross, I thought! However, there were other cars around so I didn't feel alarmed. I did feel very annoyed, though. Why do some men think it's okay to do this to women?!</div><div><br /></div><div>I continued to run, albeit less relaxed. About 5-7 minutes later, a black truck pulled up next to me and was driving very slowly. The passenger turned and was hanging halfway out the passenger side window. He was whistling and saying raunchy things. I immediately scanned the area and there were no cars in sight. There was a golf course to my right and not a golfer was on the green. I felt fear overtake me. Tears began to fill my eyes and then, in an instant, I was filled with anger and rage. I raised my right arm in the air and shot the finger at them. I then threw both hands in the air and screamed as loudly as I could. This must have startled the men because they sped off. </div><div><br /></div><div>There was a side street up ahead and I feared they would be parked on it and grab me as I ran by. I contemplated calling my son to come pick me up. I chose not to because I'm just so stinkin' tired of women going through this. Thankfully, cars, once again, began driving by in both directions.</div><div><br /></div><div>I continued on my run with a force of anger so strong. I am angry that I can't run without this happening. I am filled with rage at the thought of women being assaulted, kidnapped, and murdered just because some insane being thinks it's his right.</div><div><br /></div><div>Leave us the hell alone! I am on a mission to bring awareness to this. Enough is enough! Women should be afforded our right to go into the world and run safely and without incident. We shouldn't have to choose a treadmill because we are scared for our lives. Our families shouldn't have to worry every time we leave for a run. My children have asked me not to run outside anymore because they are so afraid someone will harm, or worse yet, kill their mama. </div><div><br /></div><div>To bring awareness to this epidemic, I will be writing a post each week to honor a woman who has lost her life while innocently out running. My goal is to bring awareness to what women face each time they step out of the door with laced up shoes and a heart ready to get some milage in. Within time, I may turn it into a podcast.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also have an idea of a product that will help protect women and allow them to get help quickly. I am researching how to approach companies and get their backing. I am talking with an attorney on the best way to get this accomplished.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please stay vigilant while running. Let others know your routes and estimated time you will return home. Carry mace and keep your music low.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lastly, please don't think it won't ever happen to you. I am a 52 year old woman. Deranged men don't care your age, stature, weight, busyness of the route you are on, etc. </div><div><br /></div><div>Love to you all and happy AND safe running!</div><div>💗,</div><div>Marci<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwP7eKHfO6Jg83o5ei3WwMzO44j1OdghDxwHu8yR64Fe8fkkZlvrgXVqGiOBpVunk8QMisuwXY3G3RW_gK07wgEYWniUa4nG2fkCerComPbsGkuFLwopSJi3rJ0-GixteVpUsuoi6hKcg-eRwqZZkonrCi-bwjNhS33P6FfsC-B_2jH63EEruCubvOWQ/s3088/running%20hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPwP7eKHfO6Jg83o5ei3WwMzO44j1OdghDxwHu8yR64Fe8fkkZlvrgXVqGiOBpVunk8QMisuwXY3G3RW_gK07wgEYWniUa4nG2fkCerComPbsGkuFLwopSJi3rJ0-GixteVpUsuoi6hKcg-eRwqZZkonrCi-bwjNhS33P6FfsC-B_2jH63EEruCubvOWQ/s320/running%20hat.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-21584544402367821912024-03-01T15:49:00.000-08:002024-03-01T15:49:04.519-08:00Leave Us Alone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfK68Sb14k30I6ISgdVufHxj-ozWQxRvk0YouPkuAziPKtzFKV1TCHjIdkVyQz740d-9Kl8QzdjcybSVYkX_0JiVkK32uJITM7x-clxBPDPCoqIv3-FyY0UhC3aYKcDe8tPaytXYRtMeB5U_Lm58OJhg9Y0kMvseVNtLkKkg3idfFm-JSkKlS8wVCvLPA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="184" data-original-width="274" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfK68Sb14k30I6ISgdVufHxj-ozWQxRvk0YouPkuAziPKtzFKV1TCHjIdkVyQz740d-9Kl8QzdjcybSVYkX_0JiVkK32uJITM7x-clxBPDPCoqIv3-FyY0UhC3aYKcDe8tPaytXYRtMeB5U_Lm58OJhg9Y0kMvseVNtLkKkg3idfFm-JSkKlS8wVCvLPA" width="320" /></a></div><br />The world and running community have been awakened, once again, to the dangers of running for women. I'm sure men, to some extent, encounter certain harassment as well. My son has been honked at, yelled at, and had the middle finger aggressively shown to him while minding his business on a run. My other son has had pancakes thrown at him (not going to lie-that one made us giggle a bit. If you knew my son, you'd laugh too. He could write a book on things that he has done and things that have happened to him.) I'm a woman. I know the fears in my head, the precautions I must take before and during each run, and how frustrating it is. I write this as a woman.<div><br /></div><div>Prior to each run, I stop and listen to how I'm feeling. Am I feeling uneasy about this outdoor run? Will there be enough people around during my run? Is the area I'm running populated? Eight times out of ten I end up choosing my treadmill. My choice is not because I choose to live in fear. It's not because I am choosing to allow what if's to rule my life. My choice is because I know fear. </div><div><br /></div><div>Many, if not most of us, have a story to share of something extremely scary that has happened to us while on a run. Often, we don't share with anyone besides our family. </div><div><br /></div><div>I want to finally share my story. It's time we speak up and out for the dangers we face on a daily basis. I have held this one in because I wanted to forget it. It scared the living daylights out of me and, honestly, I feel shaky now just thinking of the story.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was December of 2022. The day was a Saturday and my husband, daughter, and youngest son were home. I noticed it was a beautiful day out and was perfect weather for a run. It was my long run day and I mapped out the course I would take to get in my 8-9 miles. I was so happy! I chose my favorite running skirt, my blue long sleeve running shirt, and, of course, my Hoka Mach 5's. I was bouncing around the house as I pulled up my playlist and sucked down some electrolytes. </div><div><br /></div><div>Prior to leaving, I let my family know my route in case I needed them. This was routine in case I fell, felt sick, or just needed them. I said goodbye and headed out my back door. As I was in the backyard, I turned on my Garmin watch and waited for the GPS to load. I turned on my running playlist and began singing as I did my warm-ups. I made sure the music was not too loud so I could hear my surroundings.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once my GPS was loaded and my legs and body were warmed up, I stepped out of my backyard onto my driveway. I'm certain I even had a smile on my face, as I love running in beautiful weather and my playlist was already pumping me up.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I got to the street, I began my run. It felt good right away. It didn't take long to get into my groove. Everything felt right that day. My body felt loose, my feet were hitting the ground at a good pace, and my breathing was steady. Dare I say it felt perfect?</div><div><br /></div><div>That day my run was taking me through our neighborhood and across an intersection into the other side of our neighborhood. Once on the other side of the neighborhood, there is a bridge going over a ditch that leads to a trail behind the local elementary school and high school. The trail ultimately leads to a small college campus. I always loved to run through the campus, as it is surrounded by trees and I often get glimpses and close up views of the beautiful deer that inhabit the area. </div><div><br /></div><div>As I ran along the backside of the trail, the deer were out in full force across the waterway. I marveled at their beauty and we watched each other as I ran. Pure joy! I was definitely in my happy place.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFZVLj4q1bnTA4-pIK9VJbLPN2ty9LdizyFZumMZ7-gN_fZW5h_gfn5wumjAxU2SPqj4no_B9frkq6qRaWUuUQMTPxlTRnNV7tdwUHBbALgxOCbC7-aGOotoefelo_jP29m-9s_GBA2f6oKmht1nzDXQfKYYGlg_v655nhdawbPH7cK6EtpuxFEaA0OY/s4032/Deer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFZVLj4q1bnTA4-pIK9VJbLPN2ty9LdizyFZumMZ7-gN_fZW5h_gfn5wumjAxU2SPqj4no_B9frkq6qRaWUuUQMTPxlTRnNV7tdwUHBbALgxOCbC7-aGOotoefelo_jP29m-9s_GBA2f6oKmht1nzDXQfKYYGlg_v655nhdawbPH7cK6EtpuxFEaA0OY/s320/Deer.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDh09IJQzqQ9qqH0hjm7DODhpQcCm3Tw4SUY-PohiMAwtDBtU3B75u4YO-UJDGgswLsfXDghrVlvyoqqU0o-_miSNH5ZxzhJVWujC6ES2sQT1MaMpGeOWLM6SzIql9yWTOxAL7uWwcYtlj6ch-4YPoJTaPD_EL4XuJNlS6qYcVqkWgmquKu8sFv-dfePM/s4032/deer%20and%20water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDh09IJQzqQ9qqH0hjm7DODhpQcCm3Tw4SUY-PohiMAwtDBtU3B75u4YO-UJDGgswLsfXDghrVlvyoqqU0o-_miSNH5ZxzhJVWujC6ES2sQT1MaMpGeOWLM6SzIql9yWTOxAL7uWwcYtlj6ch-4YPoJTaPD_EL4XuJNlS6qYcVqkWgmquKu8sFv-dfePM/s320/deer%20and%20water.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The end of the trail runs into the college campus that I had planned to run around. There is a big loop that circles the buildings. One end of the loop empties onto a main street that I usually run down to add more mileage. </div><div><br /></div><div>As I got on the back of the loop, I heard a car behind me. I turned to look and saw a black car coming up behind me. I didn't think anything of it, as I assumed it would pass me as is always the case. It did not pass me and came up right behind me and followed me. It wasn't close enough that I felt it was going to hit me. However, it was definitely close enough that it was obvious that it was following me. </div><div><br /></div><div>My adrenaline kicked in full force. I scanned the area and it was just me and the car. I turned to look at the car again so I could take in what the car looked like and see the driver and possible passengers. The windows were tinted so dark that I couldn't even make out the driver, let alone determine if anyone else was in the car. </div><div><br /></div><div>To my left sat a very large parking lot with a building at the far end. I decided to turn into the parking lot. I needed to move away from the car and see if I truly was being followed. As soon as I turned into the parking lot, the car turned in and continued to follow right behind me. I quickly pulled my phone from my arm band and called my husband. I was sprinting as fast as I could go. I turned to look at the car again. I wanted them to see I was on the phone and get the license plate number.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was in a state of panic. And, my husband didn't answer his phone. As I was pushing my phone screen to call my daughter, the car slowly turned and drove away. My daughter answered as I was running into the building. The first set of doors opened, but the set that gave entrance to the building were locked. I crouched down and tried to tell my daughter what was happening. She was screaming for my husband. As I was on the phone with my daughter, my husband ran out the door to come get me. </div><div><br /></div><div>While waiting for my husband, I noticed the car come back and drive very slowly through the parking lot. It drove right up to the building and it was obvious the driver was looking for me. By this point, I was on the phone with my husband. I was crying hysterically.</div><div><br /></div><div>It took about 7 minutes for my husband to arrive. It felt like an hour. He told me he sped and ran red lights. By the time he arrived, the car was gone. I ran to my husband's car and was a mess. I was shaking and struggled to speak. He drove around a bit to see if he could see the car. Honestly, I just wanted to get home to safety.</div><div><br /></div><div>The car was nowhere to be found.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I got home, I immediately called the police. They were so kind and helpful. They called me back a few times to ask for more details and gave me updates. I was surprised, but kind of not, to learn that I was not the first person to report suspicious activity involving this car. No one, including me, had obtained a license plate number. The car did not have a plate on the front bumper.</div><div><br /></div><div>Many people, including my family, have asked why I didn't call the police first. I truly don't know. I was in a state of shock and in full fledge panic mode. All I wanted was my family, my rocks, my security.</div><div><br /></div><div>I no longer run that route. I have had to give up the beauty of the route, the peaceful deer, and the serenity it gave me because some people are cruel and evil. I now run most runs on my treadmill. On the days I go out, I stay in very populated areas. This makes me sad. However, I'd rather be safe.</div><div><br /></div><div>So many people have asked what can be done to correct this. </div><div><br /></div><div>We can carry mace, alarms, or run with a group. I read an article recently that claimed that 1% of women are now carrying guns when they run. In full disclosure, my husband really wants me to be a part of the 1%. He, too, felt fear that day. He was angry and was ready to fight. I'm not ready to be a gun toting runner...yet. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sadly, the violence will never completely end. We live in a world that houses evil people. However, I think by bringing awareness to the problem we can stand together. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are ways I believe speaking up and standing together can help:</div><div>1. Awareness is power. The more we voice what we have experienced, the more aware other runners will be. </div><div>2. We will be more conscious about looking out for one another. If something seems suspicious, check it out. Don't think it will make you look silly if all is well. It's better to look silly and have everyone safe.</div><div>3. ALWAYS tell someone your route and the time you will return. If you do not return safely, the authorities can be notified immediately. </div><div><br /></div><div>In order to spread awareness and honor those who have been harmed or killed while running, I am going to start posting a case about one runner each week. I have thought about turning it into a Podcast. If you guys are like me, I'd rather listen to a case. I am 100% open to feedback and case suggestions.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-45337810">Click here to read the article I referenced above.</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFufb8efuuvkka-1pqVZcV9AAqtRX-tEtQhrLEmQyjPL_cs2RSk6VblV33L7PSuhgo4BX50YjoELwHOXPys3VTxaK-tDzl_KTOZdBW55ZUhWHVQxbV8gWdSuOiw5M4mimc1OrM1BF8UNBOnzz4-I15p7YFq-ZGMfsl8NbnMUvd1pb48RXpJXy6H-Fgoc/s3086/Me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3086" data-original-width="1810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFufb8efuuvkka-1pqVZcV9AAqtRX-tEtQhrLEmQyjPL_cs2RSk6VblV33L7PSuhgo4BX50YjoELwHOXPys3VTxaK-tDzl_KTOZdBW55ZUhWHVQxbV8gWdSuOiw5M4mimc1OrM1BF8UNBOnzz4-I15p7YFq-ZGMfsl8NbnMUvd1pb48RXpJXy6H-Fgoc/s320/Me.jpg" width="188" /></a></div><br /><div>Regardless of where I have to run, I will never stop. It's my joy and I refuse to let that be stolen from me!</div><div><br /></div><div>Please stay safe and aware! Happy running!</div><div>💗,</div><div>Marci<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-38903908888295135452024-02-29T11:35:00.000-08:002024-02-29T11:35:40.033-08:00Thankful Thursday<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7tVglXpr_2Xc__VsZO5yM_QhDymw-r0AHudRrDR4vQ9gSsDF_uWlS7niDxQ94TcvE7UNGTp2t_6pDKjY23T6OZ3npkVCKlIZVmrLv-WiN2qTCnh1GYxT6LXhZEsrygYJL0EhWeFWVf8b-k2jXvXLFiuGGsKaqyj9cfC1UJv9drhc0j0gXBn1kKX331I/s200/TT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="148" data-original-width="200" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7tVglXpr_2Xc__VsZO5yM_QhDymw-r0AHudRrDR4vQ9gSsDF_uWlS7niDxQ94TcvE7UNGTp2t_6pDKjY23T6OZ3npkVCKlIZVmrLv-WiN2qTCnh1GYxT6LXhZEsrygYJL0EhWeFWVf8b-k2jXvXLFiuGGsKaqyj9cfC1UJv9drhc0j0gXBn1kKX331I/s1600/TT.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Spring like weather</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fresh air</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Warm coffee</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mornings outside</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Writing in my prayer journal</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laughter with my family</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The love of my husband</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our home</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our pups</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Walking our pups</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Long runs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Short runs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> My treadmill</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sweet apples</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Squirrels running along our back fence</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Downy fabric softener</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Basketball games</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Friends at basketball games</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Matcha tea</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Energy</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The love of good friends</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">💗,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Marci</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-70866198207743423322024-02-23T12:40:00.000-08:002024-02-23T12:40:03.736-08:00To Shame is to Bully and Bullies are Weak<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEWvcQL6NDflbJgY7FtjeVlKwYhik1zz3tr3I7YFA_URJxAaLn68G6MVY8d8ajmrli-1PWb0GgANdZwvNFlEBo1mhb3fvdSZ1-jeP_xx6Co3THBMm6rSCo7ex1CxgwBX8ON4P_BSiGxa3mwDrUDKt09K7Kz8Hd9S3EU7CqF1H05Lo5JsA5sVVvFReGGE/s259/support%20not%20shame.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMEWvcQL6NDflbJgY7FtjeVlKwYhik1zz3tr3I7YFA_URJxAaLn68G6MVY8d8ajmrli-1PWb0GgANdZwvNFlEBo1mhb3fvdSZ1-jeP_xx6Co3THBMm6rSCo7ex1CxgwBX8ON4P_BSiGxa3mwDrUDKt09K7Kz8Hd9S3EU7CqF1H05Lo5JsA5sVVvFReGGE/s1600/support%20not%20shame.png" width="259" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Over the past few weeks, I have noticed a number of people shaming others for the body they occupy, running paces, race times, food intake, and on and on. I am baffled by the rudeness and boldness and have thoughts on this. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Why do some people feel the need to shame others? I am flabbergasted by the audacity of an imperfect human (newsflash-we are all imperfect!) to critique and criticize another human. This treatment of others is rooted in pride. When someone feels the need to point out what <i>they </i>view as not good enough, reveals so much about the commenter. Bottom line...insecure people put others down to build themselves up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><br /></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Hiding behind a screen to spat ugliness is weak. When I was a kid and someone would say something unkind behind another's back, it often made it's way to the person being talked about. The popular saying of the time was, "Say it to my face!" As you can imagine, when confronted, the naysayer usually denied the comment or apologized. Not many people like confrontation and it was often avoided. So many people find it easy to type a comment and then walk away with puffed up pride and a false sense of importance. This is for the people who find it necessary to type unsolicited rude advice and comments - would you say it to their faces?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. A person's words reveal a mountain about them, but nothing about the receiver of the words. When my children were growing up and someone would say something that was uncalled for to them, I would always remind them that words reveal the character of the talker, not the one being talked to. What we say reveals a great deal about our character. As my dad would often say to me, "Consider the source."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At some point in time, we will all be on the receiving end of ugliness. In truth, it can feel like a sucker punch. For a moment or two, we question if the words are truth. The old chant, "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me" is hogwash. Words hurt. Period. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When this happens, it's okay to acknowledge the pain but then get back up and wipe yourself off. Don't give the person the job of determining your worth and character. That position is closed! Look around you and take in all the good in your life. Notice your loved ones and friends. Be thankful for all your body can, and does do for you. Remind yourself that ugly words define the other person, not you. Know that it must stink to live inside that person's head. To be so crass and rude must be a miserable way to live.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lastly, I refer to those who find it necessary to make rude comments as having the bulldog mentality. (Disclaimer - I am a HUGE dog lover! In no way am I being rude about a particular breed of dog. Give me any dog any day and you'll see a happy girl!) This means they are so weak inside they must portray themselves as bigger than they feel. Putting others down and pursuing dominance is a classic sign of insecurity. Don't allow someone's insecurity to shadow, or worse yet, steal your security. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll end with the saying we've all heard since we were innocently toddling around:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9OpL6J2Mcz0ShGnCJi7jydyQMOXx9f8Y8M_scOGx89fsQjaEkMK3dABkrp33fFuVXvKeXwUWIH_XGBsiTVF4-PeGYtF8qMDloECEeVjkEzsUib3jIrE2MEgDxKYwM24-9biGnG2p0jp7Cg4IXg5J4X6HlPE2RiVAwtdk4Ankek-BaKbjNuEQ8PxV6vcc" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="197" data-original-width="255" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9OpL6J2Mcz0ShGnCJi7jydyQMOXx9f8Y8M_scOGx89fsQjaEkMK3dABkrp33fFuVXvKeXwUWIH_XGBsiTVF4-PeGYtF8qMDloECEeVjkEzsUib3jIrE2MEgDxKYwM24-9biGnG2p0jp7Cg4IXg5J4X6HlPE2RiVAwtdk4Ankek-BaKbjNuEQ8PxV6vcc" width="311" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Love well!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Marci</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-30816267562127083732024-01-25T07:32:00.000-08:002024-01-25T07:32:24.245-08:00The Peaks & Valleys of a Relationship with Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKtQe6HRqwHNemLi-w8dwCDe4qTgskkD5K88WR_1co71whKj-OWvJUU45bgKMZBoHyw1KhUq1TGyYI3Vp36NHavHGDcCJNElMXa5n_8uKVenWQmJag7d6eKFiNKT3grXXRybck5Y7cCQSA-XoOh4WF2CvBFjY09wjYMbze8MUez2htvUqRSNLT9BkRco/s4032/peaks%20and%20valleys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKtQe6HRqwHNemLi-w8dwCDe4qTgskkD5K88WR_1co71whKj-OWvJUU45bgKMZBoHyw1KhUq1TGyYI3Vp36NHavHGDcCJNElMXa5n_8uKVenWQmJag7d6eKFiNKT3grXXRybck5Y7cCQSA-XoOh4WF2CvBFjY09wjYMbze8MUez2htvUqRSNLT9BkRco/s320/peaks%20and%20valleys.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>I have struggled with an eating disorder for as long as I can remember. It was something I hid for a long time. Now, I am open and honest about it in the hopes of helping others. It stinks to feel like we are alone in our struggles. Knowing that others can relate and offer support is huge. Sharing my story makes me vulnerable, but I've learned that I'm okay with that. If I can help one person, then sharing is worth it.</div><div><br /></div><div>My eating disorder took hold of me in college. I became obsessed with my weight and clothes size. I carried around a huge bag of insecurity that reared its raging ugly head in the form of unworthy issues. I felt so out of control of myself and emotions.</div><div><br /></div><div>I suffered greatly from abandonment and rejection issues. I grew up with various forms of abuse that wreaked havoc on my mental status. Mental health was not discussed then and, in fact, was a taboo subject. If one struggled, they were looked upon as weak. As you can imagine, this compounded my mental health. I felt like such a failure in so many ways. My biological father wanted nothing to do with me, my brother and I were separated at a very young age, I was never a priority for my mother, I was always told my name was mud spelled backwards, and I had fallen into the act of giving my body to anyone who claimed they loved me. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's funny, not ha-ha funny, but peculiar funny - those I went to school with never guessed how sad I often was. I always put on a shiny, happy face and pretended all was great. I was so afraid people would truly know me and think the same way about me as my parents did. </div><div><br /></div><div>In college, I began to skip meals. I stocked up on oranges and popcorn and tried to satisfy my need for nourishment with these items. I was always left feeling like a failure because at the end of the day, I was ravishingly hungry and would eat all I could get my hands on.</div><div><br /></div><div>My worth was tied to my outer appearance. If I was thin, I felt in control. I couldn't control my feelings of self-loathing, but I could control my food intake and body. In truth, it felt good to be super thin. In my skewed thinking, I was in control of myself finally. I received many comments and compliments on my thin physique. </div><div><br /></div><div>To deny oneself the fuel of nourishment only fuels an eating disorder. </div><div><br /></div><div>At a college graduation party, there was a scrapbook of my school days. There were many pictures of me in my dance team uniforms. A now family member was looking through the scrapbook and commented on a particular picture. I can clearly see the picture in my head as I type this. I was standing with two other dance team members in a navy blue outfit. It had bright pink sequins and I had a bright pink sequins barrette in my hair. The now family member pointed at my hips and thighs in the picture and responded, "You were heavy here! You've lost weight and look so much better now." Ouch. I still get a physical response when I think upon this. I felt like crawling under the carpet and hiding away.</div><div><br /></div><div>That's the thing with commenting on a person's body. One thinks they are giving a compliment but, in truth, they are connecting worth to bodies. Sadly, it happens all the time. It's perfectly fine to comment on an outfit, hairstyle, etc. But when comments are made regarding a person's size, it's harmful. </div><div><br /></div><div>Think about this comment that is made often to people - "You look so good! Have you lost weight?" It implies that one looked bad before. That certainly is usually not the intent of the one making the comment, but that is often how it makes the receiver feel.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once graduating college, I worked in a law firm in the heart of downtown Houston. I met a woman there who I became friends with. She was older than me, but we really connected. We ate lunch together, worked out at a local gym during our lunch break on certain days, went out with our significant others on weekends, and so on. She taught me the art of taking laxatives. I could eat what I wanted and get rid of it the next day. I began to lose more weight with this practice and, sadly, I loved it. I got down to 104 pounds. </div><div><br /></div><div>I continued this practice into my marriage. I kept it from my husband, as I was embarrassed to admit it and, well, embarrassed of discussing bathroom practices. Within a few months of being married, I became pregnant. Upon finding out I was pregnant, I gave up the art of using laxatives. I turned to writing down every single thing I put into my mouth. I logged protein intake, calcium intake, and so on. I was determined to not gain too much weight.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the end, I gained 27 pounds. I was secretly mad at myself because my limit had been 25 pounds.</div><div><br /></div><div>When our child was 3 months old, he was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. Guilt. Shame. I was certain it was because I took laxatives prior to knowing I was pregnant. I felt that I had depleted my body of nutrients and, thus, my baby wasn't able to grow properly. I spoke with his cardiologist about my concerns and he tried to reassure me that it was not my fault. He tried to convince me that it is not known why some defects occur, but it surely wasn't anything I did. I didn't believe him. I felt like such a failure as a mother.</div><div><br /></div><div>My eating disorder continued on and I found myself thinking about food intake all day. I counted calories in my head and jabbed my body all day. This continued for many years. I never returned to laxatives. I began denying myself food and stepping on the scale often throughout the day. I chastised myself for every pound shown on the scale.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sadly, I began noticing that I had unintentionally exposed my daughter to my disorder. My comments about my food intake, feeling fat, etc. had attached themselves to her. She began mimicking her mother. I was horrified. Her adoption of my painfully unhealthy mindset and practices was gut wrenching. In those moments, I saw the truth of my thinking and the effects it had on those around me.</div><div><br /></div><div>I began to have open conversations with her about my skewed thinking and acknowledged my eating disorder. I started reading all I could about body image issues, eating disorders, and childhood abuse. I needed healing, not just for myself, but for my children. They needed a healthy mama who would teach them appropriate relationships with eating and mindset. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was difficult. In truth, I still struggle. Prior to eating something, I often find myself thinking about it. It is a never ending struggle, but one I'm willing to fight for myself, my family, and those around me. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have learned, and am learning, that what we put in our bodies is fuel. It sustains us, gives us energy, helps our minds stay focused, and provides us with essential nutrients for healing and health. </div><div><br /></div><div>As I contemplated sharing my story, I rolled around the idea of sharing what I've learned about calories, protein, my plant based diet, and proper consumption practices. I decided not to add those things. I don't want eating to be legalistic for anyone. Our bodies are amazing machines. They tell us what they need. When we are hungry, we should eat. When we crave it, eat it. Denying ourselves food is not healthy or vital to sustaining a healthy body and mind.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have learned many important things along my journey. One is so near to my heart that I find it of the utmost importance to share.</div><div><br /></div><div>What we see on social media, magazines, and TV is not real. People often use filters and photoshop pictures. We can't compare and seek to be like fake pictures. It will never happen. I am 51, approaching 52, and I have wisdom lines (wrinkles!) on my face, cellulite on parts of my legs, sagging skin in areas that used to be so tight. And that is okay!! </div><div><br /></div><div>I have found that true health and beauty comes from within. When our minds are healthy and void of worldly clutter and comparison, we feel good. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2LJZZzCDJ4PYGl53KkTeVn7ec5OUSitbKi1dGTnznU9Gkt-pzroKeFcYXHWFfhJL0FBPel5xTfqem58oFRsxTq2gWfEm3WjmrLdjuehomQ00QkCn7q4RKVcVx48zUE6d-Pf4TqQXvtoRUc873f2uKoV2m2XuLDbWYIR8iHszQCsxMCLCuKLusE8V_4g/s3088/smiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="1553" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2LJZZzCDJ4PYGl53KkTeVn7ec5OUSitbKi1dGTnznU9Gkt-pzroKeFcYXHWFfhJL0FBPel5xTfqem58oFRsxTq2gWfEm3WjmrLdjuehomQ00QkCn7q4RKVcVx48zUE6d-Pf4TqQXvtoRUc873f2uKoV2m2XuLDbWYIR8iHszQCsxMCLCuKLusE8V_4g/s320/smiling.jpg" width="161" /></a></div><br /><div>Moving my body helps my mindset. Running has taught me that I am strong. It has also taught me to eat. If I don't eat properly, I don't run properly. Running is not about the look of my body, but the feel of my heart and mind. It brings me peace and joy. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you struggle with food, please reach out to me or someone. You are not alone. I will gladly help and talk with anyone who needs guidance, encouragement, or an ear to vent to. </div><div><br /></div><div>With great love and admiration for all my fellow sojourners,</div><div>Marci</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-39416515544630650162024-01-21T13:30:00.000-08:002024-01-21T13:30:02.612-08:00If You Want To Run, Run Girl! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiypkyysF4pXcMy9cDl1UPa-Zdf9wXvQ0YgaYERVU4-6Wv5oYx5cBBOnqwbBHgCr5aNj2B8LXb9C3iberQ2hLFQrhbXwtHGtEXzM6hLwEKu54JF4KzdgWTSgpcrGZ-AP-3nW9FgpQp5DL2Wms4QCQiygzxK94aGsUvI4S4vJiKH8P47X4fRKZfYJuWhBR4/s1337/everyone%20can%20run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1337" data-original-width="1170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiypkyysF4pXcMy9cDl1UPa-Zdf9wXvQ0YgaYERVU4-6Wv5oYx5cBBOnqwbBHgCr5aNj2B8LXb9C3iberQ2hLFQrhbXwtHGtEXzM6hLwEKu54JF4KzdgWTSgpcrGZ-AP-3nW9FgpQp5DL2Wms4QCQiygzxK94aGsUvI4S4vJiKH8P47X4fRKZfYJuWhBR4/s320/everyone%20can%20run.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>photo from r4ucoaching on Instagram</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">As I entered my 20's, I envied those who ran. The Houston Marathon always ignited my coveters heart, but I thought there was no way I could ever run. I thought only those deemed athletic could hit the pavement. Those who ran never got winded or tired, or so my young brain believed. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I wrongly believed that runners ran fast always, ran without breathing hard, and had rock solid bodies with no wiggles anywhere.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Gracious, was I wrong!! And thank goodness I was! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Like Forest Gump, and I'm not even fudging, I just began running one day. It was a January evening in 2012.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrTSHp3ZuSOwLiFT7zKkuVFuGNofnNsnA_5sZllIxvfJhukC5QaKQZ4m76nX0Gtd6Ph1ZstxtC6xpWXsNtFpRJauaWrnHm1z5uuWztua0VzH9b40WkfnYnjNvIrEn5WpFfk7S4OAOtVVWjPNJf2_rRf9zHbapkxdPsrdIGzUsoaIE0RLdjoA-O1s8loPs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img alt="" data-original-height="173" data-original-width="184" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhrTSHp3ZuSOwLiFT7zKkuVFuGNofnNsnA_5sZllIxvfJhukC5QaKQZ4m76nX0Gtd6Ph1ZstxtC6xpWXsNtFpRJauaWrnHm1z5uuWztua0VzH9b40WkfnYnjNvIrEn5WpFfk7S4OAOtVVWjPNJf2_rRf9zHbapkxdPsrdIGzUsoaIE0RLdjoA-O1s8loPs" width="255" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I remember smiling as I ran. I felt so free and alive. I had never felt that energy before! During that first run, I fell into my own steps and pace. I didn't care what pace or milage others ran. My runs were about me and my body. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I truly fell in love with it and quickly signed up for an upcoming half marathon. I drove to a running store and got fitted for a pair of good running shoes. I ran every chance I got. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I don't remember the runs being about the look of my body at all. I just remember the freedom each run gave me. Honestly, I was proud of myself. I was doing something I never thought I could do. I dared to quietly call myself a runner and it felt amazing!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">On the day of the half marathon, I cried as I quietly drove to the race. My family was meeting me there so I had time to reflect upon my efforts, my mindset, and my heart. I was proud of my strength and endurance. I was in awe that I was about to run a half marathon.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I was nothing special, no better than anyone else. I was just a girl with a dream. A girl who had fallen head over heels in mad love with lacing up my running shoes and hitting the pavement.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Many people have said the following to me and it hurts my heart... </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;">I'm not a runner (meaning the person speaking feels they can't be a runner)</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Anyone with a dream, can be a runner.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">How to become a runner in 2 easy steps:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">1. Go outside and put one foot in front of the other.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2. Believe in yourself.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">That's it! When you shut down the negative self talk and believe in yourself, you can truly do it. No one begins running by running 5 miles, 3 miles, or even 1 mile. We all start by putting one foot in front of the other. Start slowly and alternate walking with running. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Everyday offers progress. See the growth with each step, with each breath, and with each smile. Notice as it becomes easier and you are able to run farther. It is a high like no other.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: georgia;">Running myths:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">1. You have to be fast</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">2. You have to run daily</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">3. Every single run has to be a good one</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">4. There is a particular runner's body (SO WRONG!!!!)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">5. You have to run a particular milage to be considered a runner</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">6. You have to sign up and run races</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBu3hqOQFDuiOS7mNyXKJvgT5C9CVhDgYf62NCJIB3CU78oQSCqrfD2DDpbcunpDrh7SBF6EYuG_9t_Fsh29LcbtRcGQxqJp-22DqmlLEeGClQU2gY_7_FUNIyMaztr30eJj9DNXdkPCJ-s9b_KBGnVotcAV_wc-faRQAweNVcW6MRZvMV_eba5xQ2lxI" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img alt="" data-original-height="237" data-original-width="213" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBu3hqOQFDuiOS7mNyXKJvgT5C9CVhDgYf62NCJIB3CU78oQSCqrfD2DDpbcunpDrh7SBF6EYuG_9t_Fsh29LcbtRcGQxqJp-22DqmlLEeGClQU2gY_7_FUNIyMaztr30eJj9DNXdkPCJ-s9b_KBGnVotcAV_wc-faRQAweNVcW6MRZvMV_eba5xQ2lxI" width="216" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">The morale of this whole thing is don't let negative world talk or self talk stop you from following your dream. I am a 51 year old girl who laced up some shoes and took a chance on running. There has not been a single day that I am sorry I took that first step. There have been days, however, that I clearly and hurtfully regret not starting sooner. I let the lies in my head hold me back. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">Let today be the day you take the first step. You've got this.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">If you would like someone to cheer you on and help you, please let me know. My cheerleading is free. I am not trying to gain anything for my bank account. I'm just a girl who desires to help other girls find the thrills of running. If you are in the Houston area, I will even meet up with you and offer a running partner.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiG3_syxxDB6xP2wXlaublGpUi3A6xktPHB5ayheaUgtPKGcpCAUIOcPsH2zyLWoZ1Ko9Rflt9AKoxew5lrsxu-MEWF7aJTMrDEJUQSwSKkZMhB3ofQTBmWvmE5-Ck6WzEUnZKYpIkeTE383QQ5LmKOKiONWerOwr_H6nEZfFaCdGD6t2vDhhRwsSO8EWg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><img alt="" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="86" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiG3_syxxDB6xP2wXlaublGpUi3A6xktPHB5ayheaUgtPKGcpCAUIOcPsH2zyLWoZ1Ko9Rflt9AKoxew5lrsxu-MEWF7aJTMrDEJUQSwSKkZMhB3ofQTBmWvmE5-Ck6WzEUnZKYpIkeTE383QQ5LmKOKiONWerOwr_H6nEZfFaCdGD6t2vDhhRwsSO8EWg=w115-h86" width="115" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: georgia;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: georgia;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: georgia;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: georgia;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><i>Running joyfully,</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><i>Marci</i></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-74725249252597355292023-12-23T08:58:00.000-08:002023-12-23T09:00:22.183-08:00Not Your Ordinary Forgiveness Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQZPa04tqbgnmP8haKNJsARE5EBQVqkN9Bf-qnhwNcF4hPNduxQZNoUxczaKOWK1yRehdRH3UIdrdhI28Oo8Gd3z6k0-E05uzKKYy3nYmlI237d6EAfIH1n23dUPtZF_T0VZMKj0yhIosynLOHhmPRqoT8QzlqJmispGBELww65849cGqZgPw2S0vE4Q/s4032/IMG_2899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQZPa04tqbgnmP8haKNJsARE5EBQVqkN9Bf-qnhwNcF4hPNduxQZNoUxczaKOWK1yRehdRH3UIdrdhI28Oo8Gd3z6k0-E05uzKKYy3nYmlI237d6EAfIH1n23dUPtZF_T0VZMKj0yhIosynLOHhmPRqoT8QzlqJmispGBELww65849cGqZgPw2S0vE4Q/s320/IMG_2899.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Ever been wronged?</div><div><br /></div><div>Treated badly?</div><div><br /></div><div>Gossiped about by a friend?</div><div><br /></div><div>Been made to feel like a loser?</div><div><br /></div><div>Rejected/abandoned?</div><div><br /></div><div>Manipulated?</div><div><br /></div><div>Gaslit?</div><div><br /></div><div>Yep, same. I raise my hand to all of those instances and more. In truth, it makes me really angry sometimes to recall these. In actuality, there are times these treatments occur and/or continue.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have read countless articles, blog posts, and books about forgiveness. Some have been super helpful, while some have made ME feel like the problem. The latter infuriates me. Nothing like victim blaming and shaming.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm just going to be transparent. There's no use in hiding truths. No one grows, learns, or can relate when we try and appear perfect, or dang near there. I'm so over the facade of perfection. I'm convinced that the people who try and make others think that their lives are perfect and they are perfect are the ones that are hurting the most. If they can get others to think they are perfect, get some worship going, they may have a moment, or moments, where the pain subsides.</div><div><br /></div><div>My earliest memories are of feelings of pain. People talk about great childhood memories. Not me. I have some good memories. Some that I may even be able to consider great. However, my childhood was wrought with abandonment, rejection, manipulation, and abuse. I was the caretaker physically, mentally, and emotionally. I cannot remember a time when I was carefree. I learned from a very young age that my words mattered. To speak truth about my feelings was not allowed. I was to always build the adults around me up. It was my job and responsibility to take care of emotions. To do otherwise resulted in the adult in charge becoming a raging victim.</div><div><br /></div><div>I became a great actress. I could have won an award type actress! On occasion, I am still that little actress in a grown woman's body. More than on occasion if I'm being honest.</div><div><br /></div><div>As an adult, I continued in what I knew. I knew how to excuse behaviors, cover up behaviors to protect the culprit, and blame myself. Real healthy, I tell you!</div><div><br /></div><div>There are still a few people in my life who are culprits. Unfortunately, I cannot rid my life of them. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have learned how to take up for myself, bite back when needed, and consider the source (as my dad would say).</div><div><br /></div><div>What used to cut me so low that I would allow myself to feel like the biggest loser and idiot now makes me angry. It also makes me dislike the perpetrator(s). </div><div><br /></div><div>I used to struggle with this, as I am a Jesus loving girl. I came to the realization that Jesus doesn't instruct us to put up with people's crap and poor treatment. It's okay to dislike people. We are called to ask for wisdom and discernment. To be gifted with these means we are fully aware of behaviors and treatments that don't honor Jesus or look like Jesus. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus instructs us to love. When we allow poor treatment, we aren't loving ourselves. We also aren't truly loving the other person. Plain and simple.</div><div><br /></div><div>So forgiveness...</div><div><br /></div><div>Nothing irks me more than a holier than thou person. I am not going to feed you any of that. I would likely throw up on myself while trying to type.</div><div><br /></div><div>What I am going to tell you is that forgiveness for me and my sanity looks like realizing that no one gets to define me or treat me poorly. When a person tries, I am going to take up for myself. I am also going to walk away from a person or situation if possible. </div><div><br /></div><div>Biblically, forgiveness is giving it to God and not dwelling on it. It's not excusing the person or ever allowing it. </div><div><br /></div><div>My advice to someone who is walking around feeling miserable because of someone's past or present treatment is to take up for yourself. Sometimes this looks like not answering the person, not engaging in dialogue. At times, it's walking away in the moment or for good.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also have embraced boundaries. I created specific boundaries for those in my life who harm me. I stick to them too. I refuse to share anything personal with those that I know will use the information against me at a later time. I am not going to spend time with those who get their kicks off of kicking me to make themselves feel more important. And a big one - I am not going to take care of other's emotions. Ever. </div><div><br /></div><div>My definition of forgiveness goes something like this...</div><div><br /></div><div>Forgiveness - the act of never allowing others to define you, rule you, or treat you poorly. When someone behaves or speaks in an unkind or manipulative way, walk away and dust off the hurt. Do not allow the pain to take up residence in your heart. Consider the source!</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not going to lie, I have been known to say ugly things in my head as an ugly (on the inside!) person is trying to cut me down or treat me poorly. It helps, just sayin'....</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope this gives you hope, help, and a way out of the pain.</div><div><br /></div><div>With great love,</div><div>Marci</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-9072569432283891902023-12-21T07:18:00.000-08:002023-12-21T07:18:04.267-08:00Panic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh742Ku6uUPGzq0DjK2W0AnxaZDGPhg4wDKMqg6qudJIJ6ZTPSHgSiaDeMEFFero-4iJ4XJmX64MKbJbZM44K7U53EGmzCP3BVTyrx5sPp_A6tKLANn6UOQEZYqWLsYubOdfPlnSycZb2gb4ioSzKyLX00VB-sPjMn5eeg7RW7kKnXwBeylAjwcanTo8L8/s720/image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh742Ku6uUPGzq0DjK2W0AnxaZDGPhg4wDKMqg6qudJIJ6ZTPSHgSiaDeMEFFero-4iJ4XJmX64MKbJbZM44K7U53EGmzCP3BVTyrx5sPp_A6tKLANn6UOQEZYqWLsYubOdfPlnSycZb2gb4ioSzKyLX00VB-sPjMn5eeg7RW7kKnXwBeylAjwcanTo8L8/s320/image.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Panic. Ugh, the word alone can create physical discomfort within us. It can cause us to think upon the one thing, or things, that are causing us to worry and have fear.</div><div><br /></div><div>I've been there and done that so much in my life. My oldest child was discovered to have a heart defect at his 3 month check-up. Panic. I instantly knew it was more than a benign heart murmur. Something in my mama gut told me this was not good. I immediately felt fear consume me and envisioned digging a hole, climbing in with him in my arms, and hiding from reality.</div><div><br /></div><div>We moved to New York a month after the heart murmur diagnoses. My husband was starting Physician Assistant school there. The cardiologist found a pediatrician in NY for us and informed us that 90% of those with our son's condition do not require surgery. He told us that the body is amazing and often corrects the defect by the time a child is one. </div><div><br /></div><div>We packed our things and headed to NY. Once there, I purchased plane tickets to return to Houston for our son's cardiology check-up, which was to be when he was 6 months old. We settled into our new home as best we could. </div><div><br /></div><div>As scheduled, my son and I flew to Houston for the cardiology appointment. I was extremely apprehensive, but excited to visit family. My husband had to stay in NY for school. At the cardiology check-up, I was informed our son had to have emergency heart surgery, as his heart was so enlarged it was the size of his chest. Panic. I immediately called my husband and left a message on our home phone to call me ASAP. We didn't have cell phones back then and I had to wait for him to receive my message. I felt so alone. I felt so discombobulated. Within the time it took for the words "immediate surgery" to be breathed, my world stopped. </div><div><br /></div><div>My father-in-law purchased a plane ticket for my husband and by that night, he was with us in Houston. I can remember holding my son and rocking him. I begged God to heal him. I made deals with God that if He healed him, I would do whatever He told me to do. I told God to take me if He was planning on taking our son. Panic.</div><div><br /></div><div>As insurance would have it, we had to wait almost a week for the surgery to occur. I'm not sure I really slept that week. I could not take my eyes off of my sick child. I needed to watch him and make certain he was still breathing. I could barely eat. I recall being in a room with people, but feeling like I was out of my body. Panic.</div><div><br /></div><div>Due to the severity of our son's condition, the cardiologist had us stay in the hospital prior to the surgery. I recall looking out the hospital room window and watching people walking to and fro. How on earth were these people functioning? Didn't they know my world was being turned upside down? My heart and brain were in such a fog. All I ever wanted to be was a wife and mama. How was this happening? So many things rolled through my thoughts. I could barely function.</div><div><br /></div><div>The morning of the surgery was so difficult. The moment the nurses came and took him from us was torturous. I wasn't sure if that would be the last time I held my beautiful boy in my arms. I fell to my knees and sobbed. I felt I couldn't breathe. What was life without him? I don't remember how we got to the family waiting area after he was taken from us. When I think back on that, all I can recall is how I felt. Panic.</div><div><br /></div><div>We were told the surgery would be about an hour and a half. I paced and I watched the clock. I heard people talking, but I certainly couldn't make out words. At the 45 minute mark, the surgeon entered the room we were waiting in. No. It wasn't time yet. I recall feeling like I had been punched in the stomach and I'm certain I held my breath. He walked up to me with the calmest demeanor and informed us that the surgery was over and had gone so well that he was amazed. I immediately threw my arms around him, thanked him, and cried my eyes out.</div><div><br /></div><div>Later that week, the cardiologist's nurse came and talked with me. She had been in the OR with our son during the surgery. She said it was amazing. My tiny little 6 month old, 12 pound baby had done remarkable. She stated that his blood pressure and vitals were perfect during the surgery. She voiced her amazement, as well as the other's in the room. No one could believe it. She stated that she felt the greatest peace and calm in the operating room.</div><div><br /></div><div>My panic turned to praise. My beautiful child had been left on this earth. I knew that wasn't something to be taken lightly. I knew I owed all my praise to God. I did not, and do not, take this gift in vain. I raised up our son to know his story and to know the Lord. I talked to him often about the wonders of Jesus. I informed him that he was greatly loved and left on earth for a purpose. To this day, I talk to him about honoring Jesus in all he does. .</div><div><br /></div><div>My heart still aches when I recall the memories of that time. I am transported back in time and feel all the emotions - the pain, the panic, the utter relief, the love. I will never stop thanking God for our son's healing. I will always know that it was Jesus who held him during the surgery.</div><div><br /></div><div>In Exodus 3, God gives Moses a mission - go save My people from the Egyptians. Moses panics. He asks God "who am I that I shall go"? God's response - "I will be with you".</div><div><br /></div><div>Moses panicked.</div><div>God reassured.</div><div><br /></div><div>God will never lead us to something to walk alone. Does it always turn out the way we beg? Not at all. God's ways aren't our ways. There is great pain in life. There is also great joy. Regardless of where we are being led-pain or joy-God is with us and knows. </div><div><br /></div><div>Since our son's surgery, I have had many more panic moments. He needed one more surgery when he was 4. Our family has moved homes, moved jobs, been without jobs, made friends, lost friends, my dad has died, I've had to put my mom in assisted living, and many more. </div><div><br /></div><div>One thing has remained constant during life. When I panic, God reassures. He doesn't always do it the way I would want, but He always, without fail, does it the way I need. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://s320.photobucket.com/albums/nn352/curly2880/?action=view&current=signature-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i320.photobucket.com/albums/nn352/curly2880/signature-2.jpg" /></a><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-85025790098752016162023-12-10T19:54:00.000-08:002023-12-10T19:57:02.540-08:00Always Loved<span id="docs-internal-guid-7f0356ad-7fff-7766-bb8c-ddf32b28e10e"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVznXGz2oVpi4AsGmA9Vs1grPYEbr3X1JlSk4WwwBwlNMqKc7dz2fg5QrkniCOrqO5PjBn8P2MYRTZbt1UF9Hu-_U8O_EbYGg_rTpMQgNG55VWNuhyK_7SqaNViV4yNgqyXDfNq2DKy0rJBEIgJDcVOphMJdzJtwoo1ZuqBz-iZt8Atw2ymDCBVLiQoM/s2048/084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPVznXGz2oVpi4AsGmA9Vs1grPYEbr3X1JlSk4WwwBwlNMqKc7dz2fg5QrkniCOrqO5PjBn8P2MYRTZbt1UF9Hu-_U8O_EbYGg_rTpMQgNG55VWNuhyK_7SqaNViV4yNgqyXDfNq2DKy0rJBEIgJDcVOphMJdzJtwoo1ZuqBz-iZt8Atw2ymDCBVLiQoM/s320/084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Acknowledging that we were thrown in pits is painful and can cause us to feel like we are slipping back in. Memories can be slippery slopes. Don’t allow the enemy to convince you that you deserved it or that you are unloved. I’ve allowed myself to feel both and, I promise a million times over, they are bold faced lies that the enemy uses to keep you from knowing your worth in Jesus.</span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Before we dig into Joseph (our first pit dweller), I want to prove to you that the enemy is out to keep you from Jesus. He twists Scripture just enough to get us to believe the lies. His all-time favorite saying is, “Did God really say?”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Please open your Bible and read Genesis 2:8-9.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God caused trees to grow out of the ground. What are the two things that the trees were good for? ____________________________________________________________</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The trees were good for eating and were beautiful to look at. God satisfied man with His fantastic creation through bellies and eyes. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Circle the correct answer: Did you notice anything in the above Scripture that spoke about touching the trees?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yes</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">No</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Keep your answer in mind, as we will circle back to it in a bit.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Now read Genesis 2:15-17.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God lovingly places the man in the garden of Eden. Prior to his placement, the trees were wonderfully planted and grew. God prepared everything the man would need for nourishment. As the man was being placed in the garden, God commanded him regarding what trees were for consumption and what tree was off limits. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Fill in the blanks:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are ________ to eat from any tree of the garden, but you must _____ eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for on the day you eat from it, you will __________ die.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">From the beginning of time, God has given His children free will. He instructed the man on what tree to eat from and what tree to avoid. Notice He said, “You are </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">free </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">to eat from any tree in the garden”. After stating the freedom, He clearly told of the consequence of not following His command. God will always instruct us in our ways, but He will not force us. He loves us so deeply and dearly, and He desires the same kind of love in return. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Have you ever tried to force someone to love you? If so, briefly record the circumstances and results below.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Forced love is not real love. It never has been and never will be.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read Genesis 2:20-25.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Lord recognizes that the man, Adam, was alone. He knew prior to the creation that relationships are essential. He lovingly created the woman, Eve. He did not create her to be second best. He did not create her to be Adam’s subordinate. God created Eve with great love for her and for Adam.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Fill in the blank.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Genesis 2:20b: but for the man, no ___________ was found corresponding to him.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In our society, we view the word “helper” to mean an assistant. As a former teacher, I had a classroom helper each day. The classroom helper assisted me in tasks I needed, such as sharpening pencils, taking notes to the office, passing out papers, etc. We often view a helper as second best, not having the same standing as the one being helped.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Hebrew word for helper is Ezer. Ezer is used 21 times in the Old Testament. It refers to Eve 2 times, the powerful nations that Israel calls on for help when they are being attacked or threatened to be attacked, and 16 times as God our help.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God does not work for us; He comes alongside us when we are in need. It is with love He does this, not any idea or thought or subordinacy. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In his book </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Man and Woman: One in Christ, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Philip Paynes states it this way:</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">“The noun used her [ezer] throughout the Old Testament does not suggest ‘helper’ as in ‘servant’, but help, savior, rescuer, protector as in ‘God is our help’. In no other occurrence in the Old Testament does this refer to an inferior, but always a superior or </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">an equal </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">…’help’ expresses that the woman is a help/strength who rescues or saves man.”</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God did not create the woman to be the man’s servant. He created her to serve </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">with </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">the man. That’s a huge difference! God’s love for women is as strong as His love for men. Many would like us to believe otherwise. Thankfully, God’s truths trump man’s truths a million times over.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Notice that God gave the man commands regarding the garden of Eden prior to bringing the woman to life. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Continue forward in Genesis and read 3:1-10.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">And then there was the fall. I pointed out that God gave the man garden commands before offering the woman as his ezer. Does this mean that the man did not communicate God’s desires to the woman? I mean, come on, we all know men struggle with communication! Maybe he thought he told her but didn’t. He could have sworn he told her as he was watching a game on TV. A story as old as time!</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">All joking aside, the man most certainly communicated God’s commands to the woman. Everything in the garden of Eden was perfect. The relationship between the two was surely beautiful and wonderful. Think about it-God walked with the couple throughout the garden often. Imagine the conversations they had. There had to be laughter, love, joking, as well as serious talk. The three must have had such great fellowship.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Just for fun, describe a scene between the three. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The fall was just as much the man’s fault as it was the woman’s. Genesis 3:1 describes the serpent (the enemy) as the most cunning.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The Oxford Dictionary defines cunning as “having or showing skill in achieving one’s end by deceit or evasion”.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The enemy knew exactly what he was doing. He was well aware that if he used a sprinkling of truth mixed with a sprinkling of a lie, he would have the couple eating out of his hands, literally.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Write the question the enemy poses to the couple at the end of 3:1.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Did God really say…</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Did God really say that you had to be true to your marriage if you no longer feel love?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Did God really say you can’t live with your partner if you aren’t married?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Did God really say that we need to look to Him in all things? Shouldn’t we be able to rely on ourselves?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Did God really say that we are to serve others over ourselves?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Write out a few that come to your mind.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Reread verses 2:16-17 and compare it to verses 3:2-3. What difference do you see?</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yep! God never said the couple couldn’t </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">touch</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> the tree. The woman certainly knew God’s command. She walked with Him in the garden for goodness sakes! She let her guard down and allowed the presence of evil to swoon her.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Proverbs 4:23</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. (NIV)</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Can you think of a time when you let your guard down and quickly fell out of step with God’s decrees? It can happen in the blink of an eye. We must continuously guard our hearts and allow the Holy Spirit to lead us. I have found that praying for discernment and leading really helps in my day-to-day connections with others.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Reread Genesis 2:17 and Genesis 3:4.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The enemy blatantly lied to the woman, and she fell for it. Sadly, how often do we do the same? We get caught up in a person’s words and perceived care for us, and we fall right into their trap. It can happen in the snap of a finger. One minute we are walking with God, and the next we are being wooed by the enemy. He tricks us with word changes, guilt, shame, and self-absorption.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We see in Genesis 3:4-7 the woman and the man don’t think twice about tasting the fruit. The allure of wisdom sunk it’s teeth into their pride and they sunk their teeth into the fruit. And everything changed. One bite led to shame. It led to wanting to hide from God. Imagine how they must of kicked themselves. Do you think the phrase, “if only” ran through their minds? Do you think they made excuses, blamed the other? I’m certain we can all identify with the gut pain a wrong decision causes, especially when we know that God told us to do otherwise. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">We will explore this more when we discuss throwing ourselves into pits. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yes, the enemy wants to pull us from Jesus’ love. He wants us to feel like we are not lovable, and, in fact, we don’t deserve His love. Lies. Jesus has loved all of us from the beginning of time. Nothing can, or ever will, separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39).</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Let’s end today by taking in what God did after the couple tasted the fruit.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Read Genesis 3:8-10.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God knew that the couple had taken a bite of the fruit. He knew they listened to the enemy and chose his lies over God’s truths. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">God showed up anyway. Think about that. He didn’t abandon them. He walked where He knew they would walk. He </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">still </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">wanted to be with them. He still wants to be with us. No amount of shame from our pasts (or presents) will cause Him to leave us. His love is forever. The pain you suffered when you were thrown into a pit does not mean you are not loved. You are loved yesterday, today, and tomorrow.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As you go about your day, hold your head up high. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><i>You</i></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> are marked by His love forever.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><b style="font-family: "Dancing Script"; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">💗,</b><b style="font-family: "Dancing Script"; font-size: large; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Marci </b></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.7999999999999998; margin-bottom: 12pt; margin-top: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> </span></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-45548629434283031572023-12-02T19:27:00.000-08:002023-12-02T19:34:25.477-08:00Book Review - The Engagement Party by Finley Turner<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8ZHdDuGYbmaNRsV5dxbfe--FhXgNq0hn9w6xHyx-WwcMmKRQanOc_4Y25ex7lJ_yhQAFv2OAtnwP1YpkBh3bsdEQYua4WC4UDA7Np2lqfq7iK8RcfB2hWpmRaWL2P6JH9SOpVrfcaP6U2ca1agbUxoeUKXxZAnr5O-2POPUnr6Z3eI-f-P7g2cfyXbs4" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8ZHdDuGYbmaNRsV5dxbfe--FhXgNq0hn9w6xHyx-WwcMmKRQanOc_4Y25ex7lJ_yhQAFv2OAtnwP1YpkBh3bsdEQYua4WC4UDA7Np2lqfq7iK8RcfB2hWpmRaWL2P6JH9SOpVrfcaP6U2ca1agbUxoeUKXxZAnr5O-2POPUnr6Z3eI-f-P7g2cfyXbs4" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div>I love diving into a good book. I have a disclaimer, confession, or whatever one calls it...I often "read" audiobooks. I'm told this is not really reading. In my book, it is! 😄 I put in my AirPods and get lost listening while cleaning, running, cooking dinner, driving, etc. </div><div><br /></div><div>This book begins with a woman newly engaged and is elated to have found her prince charming. She quickly learns that she and her fiance have been summoned to his parents' home for an engagement party. And the fun begins....</div><div><br /></div><div>The family is NOT what she expects, to say the least. A whirlwind of drama begins and then there is a murder. Who did it and why? Will she be blamed...</div><div><br /></div><div>This book has a number of facets. A dysfunctional family. An ex-girlfriend, a previous murder, and on and on.</div><div><br /></div><div>I dislike books that move slowly. I am reading (listening ;) ) to be entertained. If the book has lulls, I have been known not to finish it. Thankfully, this book moved at a nice place. Each chapter built upon the prior one and it didn't disappoint.</div><div><br /></div><div>I give this book-</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBu0-h1CdxTZSD9ee2tjj4WXzkZ9qIXtPEh50I7x_4Tz9iWbcJnVNEBmxy13f_XcD3n8998KqKsEvcoFlzPvGA9cVEyTcopSF7ALZfIfA56brCocceKIH6Dys89uVu0conhDO6N46VJQ3lK3pUW4QtFdpZOodzyPFrvfbsGDGLzf30K4hpdhWPbjitr-g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="102" data-original-width="495" height="66" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjBu0-h1CdxTZSD9ee2tjj4WXzkZ9qIXtPEh50I7x_4Tz9iWbcJnVNEBmxy13f_XcD3n8998KqKsEvcoFlzPvGA9cVEyTcopSF7ALZfIfA56brCocceKIH6Dys89uVu0conhDO6N46VJQ3lK3pUW4QtFdpZOodzyPFrvfbsGDGLzf30K4hpdhWPbjitr-g" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Engagement Party</b> held my attention and had some twists that I really enjoyed. However, it never made me gasp, and I certainly didn't think much about it when I had finished it. I give it 4 stars out of 5 because it was entertaining. My review lost a star because it didn't wow me. With that being said, if you are looking for an entertaining read, check this book out. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">BONUS:</div><div style="text-align: left;">If you are looking for an author that will wow you and cause you to audibly gasp, check out Freida McFadden. She is an amazing author who will truly entertain you!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Happy reading!!</div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://s320.photobucket.com/albums/nn352/curly2880/?action=view&current=signature-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i320.photobucket.com/albums/nn352/curly2880/signature-2.jpg" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-20078992835994491382023-11-30T12:13:00.000-08:002023-11-30T12:13:56.907-08:00Hanging on by the Thread of His HemLet's just be honest and real...life can be hard. No matter what we do to prevent hardships, they come on without warning at times. We think we have things rolling along wonderfully and are on top of the mountain and then, boom, we are hit in the face, gut, knees, and toes. It sucks the wind out of us and can leave us in dismay. It happens to the best of people and it can stink!<div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgX5CJxUl_5vFLF3opwkwuffczAAsGk6kDAGzBQKJ89C6cqVr0BQ3MogXkZn8TL-AptTPjctYHHxQQjF-Xpzk3qIz74N05m7v5kq-jweyOM4EaeLtCY3RaGMtI54KJtZ3LHCsLkloFwLRmQ-5lvCCMg4dRQVsDrv2Mrt2fPJZ57ig4JYh9q-_dDP1bW_qM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgX5CJxUl_5vFLF3opwkwuffczAAsGk6kDAGzBQKJ89C6cqVr0BQ3MogXkZn8TL-AptTPjctYHHxQQjF-Xpzk3qIz74N05m7v5kq-jweyOM4EaeLtCY3RaGMtI54KJtZ3LHCsLkloFwLRmQ-5lvCCMg4dRQVsDrv2Mrt2fPJZ57ig4JYh9q-_dDP1bW_qM" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br /><br /></div><div>This has been one of those years for me. Yep, I said years. This year seems like a never ending whirlwind of one thing after another. Just when I think I am standing straight up again, something else comes along and pushes me over. Once again, I feel unsteady on my feet and rock back and forth like I am one of those reporters in the midst of hurricane winds.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the stance of being real, I am going to dish some of my year. </div><div><br /></div><div> I had to leave a job that I thought I would have for a long time. It offered my family financial security, and it brought me a sense of independence. Many things brought on my exit. Trouble had been brewing for a while, as I and others were not supported in our basic needs and security. When each day brings fears of physical and mental trauma to yourself and your students, that is not a recipe for peace, joy, and overall stability. </div><div><br /></div><div>The final push to walk away came when I was injured in a ridiculous running injury. As I was running, my toe clipped a portion of the pea gravel I was on and I hit the ground extremely hard. My right hand had a huge gash and skin was peeled back revealing the inside of my palm. My knee had missing skin and there was fat hanging out of an opening. Who knew there was fat on a knee cap!?! My hand had to be cleaned out and stitched up. It eventually came to be known that I had fractured my kneecap. I was unable to walk well and could not use my right hand. I took FMLA leave, but eventually had to make the decision to bow out and focus on healing. </div><div><br /></div><div>The injury threw me for a loop since running was the one thing that took my mind off of some trauma and abuse that was resurfacing. Without running, I was forced to look it in the face and deal with it. Hard stuff. My school district always talked about mental health. It became super evident that that was all it was....talk. Once I submitted my resignation and voiced my reason and the hardness of my decision, I was seen as an enemy. It hurt at first, but I began to realize that true colors come out right when they need to. My true friends were so compassionate, supportive, and kind. They encouraged me forward in my healing. I am forever grateful.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I was learning to rebound and grow, I had a friend become harsh and uncaring. Our friendship became about her. In reality, it had always been. You know those friendships where you give - are actually expected to give at the drop of a hat. However, when you need something, all you hear is crickets (or their issues!). It was painful, as I had walked through some big moments with this person. Looking backwards, it was such a blessing. It was an unhealthy friendship that needed to be excavated. Don't get me wrong, it hurt like a big, bad bee sting. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH37827J1WxEquTWhTQP7u_gCnS8Nrlqto8ie9tZihl02v6ybLW2qdg6WOXm75nIFGunUkPhyJYVMzsAPps6OREkQdLNAuoe9MDVIBcD2kSIXuakdFThk1L_GPXtHzPAQPfcoqM9IVuVL4qptL1_HgjQi-5FMNkwGEYxBQ9Jx0WUUZ143P0LjgK2S2a9s" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="162" data-original-width="311" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH37827J1WxEquTWhTQP7u_gCnS8Nrlqto8ie9tZihl02v6ybLW2qdg6WOXm75nIFGunUkPhyJYVMzsAPps6OREkQdLNAuoe9MDVIBcD2kSIXuakdFThk1L_GPXtHzPAQPfcoqM9IVuVL4qptL1_HgjQi-5FMNkwGEYxBQ9Jx0WUUZ143P0LjgK2S2a9s" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>In the midst of all of this, Jesus has taught me some good, hard lessons. When I took my focus off of Him, panic, fear, and overwhelming sadness kicked in. I had known I needed Him, but I certainly didn't practice it. I tried figuring things out and making plans. Yeah, I'm sure He laughed! ;) </div><div><br /></div><div>Two Bible verses have been glued to my brain lately. Memorizing Scripture has been such a blessing in my life. God's Word pops into my head and heart right when I need it. </div><div><br /></div><div>1. Jeremiah 29:11-12..."For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come to me in prayer, and I will listen to you."</div><div><br /></div><div>I know God has my back. He never left me and has my story already written. My job is to be obedient and listen to His leading. It's hard to do that when I create plans independent of Him. I am learning to be still, listen, and obey. Peace never comes void of Jesus. </div><div><br /></div><div>2. Philippians 2:13-14...For it is God who is working in you both to will and to work according to His good purpose. Do everything without grumbling or arguing.</div><div><br /></div><div>This verse continues to remind me that God is working a good purpose in my life. He doesn't need my help. I can sit in pure, trusting confidence that He works everything out for His purpose. Gosh, to be able to honor Jesus with my story is worth every heartache suffered. When I complain or get grumpy over circumstances and events, it only serves to pull my focus away from Jesus. And isn't that exactly what the enemy wants?!</div><div><br /></div><div>I tell you all this because I want you to know you aren't alone if, or when, you are in a deep valley. It may feel so lonely at times, but in reality, Jesus is right with us. He knows that all we can do is hang onto Him by the smallest thread, and He's okay with that. He promises that if we have the faith of a mustard seed, He sees us and knows. He gets pain. He gets loneliness. He even gets our hopelessness. When He senses these things from us, He gets into action and covers us. I can type this with nothing but pure certainty. I have seen it and felt it numerous times in my life. </div><div><br /></div><div>Hang on for dear life. He won't let you drop.</div><div><br /></div><div>Psalm 46:5...God is within her, she will not fail. 💗</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>With great love,</div><div>Marci</div><div><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-12839454411567579332023-11-28T19:02:00.000-08:002023-11-28T19:02:00.129-08:00Jesus' Pursuit of You<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnNv2_Sp61Ab4AUouhlMhoVbOWq7HMxDSwklFH3tqhZChpGFNVxhKmyypAoZDu0hUvtaQohxk-JD8hqVHhHuhhe1mYULZDM0mXEprUlYC-E0OL_Dnyi6ncuCqwFe3zUE3Fpn0iSBW9A7vc4hSs6e4y2_h5yNMCa0Fq2RVF5cq4IVmG9tA8kSmxc4Ap" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnNv2_Sp61Ab4AUouhlMhoVbOWq7HMxDSwklFH3tqhZChpGFNVxhKmyypAoZDu0hUvtaQohxk-JD8hqVHhHuhhe1mYULZDM0mXEprUlYC-E0OL_Dnyi6ncuCqwFe3zUE3Fpn0iSBW9A7vc4hSs6e4y2_h5yNMCa0Fq2RVF5cq4IVmG9tA8kSmxc4Ap" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal">Jesus’ pursuit of us never stops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He chases us all throughout our lives and
desires to catch us no matter where He finds us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless of our pasts, present, and future
lives, He wants us to know His undeniable and unmistakable love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I promise you that nothing is too hard for
Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You have not done or been anywhere
that is a shock to Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He can do more
than you can even imagine (Eph. 3:20) and I guarantee He will.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">You may be thinking that this all sounds good for someone
else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may feel that you have been
away from Jesus or messed up so badly that there is no way that He would pursue
you, let alone accept and love you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
is exactly what the enemy wants you to believe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This way of thinking keeps us separated from God and this is just what
the enemy wants for your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Allow me
to share pieces of my story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t
share to shame those intertwined in my story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I offer you glimpses into my life and heart so that you will know
nothing halts Jesus’ pursuit of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
created you so that He could love you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
fact, prior to creating you, He knew exactly what your choices and directions
would be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He loves you so much and
desires for you to know this fully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You did
not repulse Him prior to creating you, and you haven’t repulsed Him now.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">My earliest memories begin prior to the age of five.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are not joyous ones, but rather ones of
shame, anxiety, and guilt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As far back
as I can remember, I was my mother’s mother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I knew exactly how I was to behave and what I needed to say to protect
myself from wrath.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was very aware that
it was my responsibility to take care of my mother’s feelings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was not to ever say anything that made her
feel uncomfortable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sharing my hurts, disappointments,
and sadness was never to be done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
quite the actress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As early as age five,
I knew how to behave in such a way that kept my mother’s hurt feelings at
bay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was the master of manipulation,
and she lived in a highly decorated world of victimhood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I understood I was considered a pain and a
bother.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was often told that my name
was mud spelled backwards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I heard this
phrase often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was called a brat most
days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was a shame filled child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Every time an adult looked at me or spoke to
me, I just knew they were thinking that I was a stupid, annoying child.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">My parents divorced when I was two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My biological father was not involved in my
life at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He expected me to reach out
to him and create a relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was told
that he was an awful person and had tried to drown me because he did not want a
girl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have no idea if that is true,
but it certainly stung every time I heard it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Prior to his death about twelve years ago, he wrote me a three-page letter
on legal sized paper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He let me know
what a disappointment I was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He quoted
Scripture and tried to convince me that God, too, was disappointed in me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I also encountered sexual abuse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a young child, I would sleep with the
lights on and cover my head with the blanket.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I often put something in front of my bedroom door to alert me to anyone
trying to enter my room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only was I
the victim of physical sexual abuse, but I was also exposed to pornography and
sex talk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As I grew into a teenager, I thought the only way to be
worthy was to have a boy say it was so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unfortunately, my world revolved around having a boyfriend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I did whatever I thought necessary to have and
keep a boyfriend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m sure you can surmise
the pain this caused me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My choices
harmed me in more ways than I was aware of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I forwent friendships in pursuit of boys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often spent time alone because I did not
create or establish healthy relationships with friends or boys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This would spiral me into believing I needed
to do whatever it took to have a boy notice me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was the girl no mom wanted her daughter to be friends or son to date.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As a young adult, I began dating my husband.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is more than fair to say that we were both
a mess waiting to explode.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We married a
year after college, and within our first few months of marriage we got pregnant
and had our first child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was a beautiful
child who stole my heart instantly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By
the time he was three months old, he was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His first surgery was when he was six months
old, and his second surgery occurred when he was four.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By this stage in my life, I was a crumbled
mess.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had major anxiety that I could
barely control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was critiqued and criticized
often for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt more alone than
ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was afraid to take my eyes off
my son.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could barely catch my breath
and function.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt more alone than
ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I suffered two miscarriages prior
to our son’s second surgery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second
miscarriage happened when I was four and a half months pregnant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cried often and struggled silently as I
cared for my young child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found it almost
impossible to function.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As time went on,
I was told by many people who should have been there for me that I needed to
get over it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was informed that I was
weak and being self-centered.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Praise God, we were blessed with two more wonderful
children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were several times when
my children were young that I contemplated suicide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I truly believed that my husband and children
would be better off without me around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
felt I hindered their lives because of my struggle with anxiety.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt that I was a bother and unlovable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, I can remember writing out my
obituary and who my pall bearers would be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The love I had for my children stopped me every time from going through with
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I would think upon my inability
to follow through with it, I berated myself for even stinking at being able to
successfully kill myself.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Not too long after I received the letter from my father, I
completely shut down and lost it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My oldest
son was in junior high, and my daughter and youngest son were in elementary school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My children were upstairs and I was
downstairs cleaning the kitchen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A
feeling of pure disgust for myself completely overtook me and I began throwing
dishes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was crying and didn’t have to
ability to stop myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was in such pain,
but yet so numb.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I clearly remember
sitting down on the kitchen floor and struggling to breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I cannot explain it, but I felt a presence
cover me and hold me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt like a large
human had wrapped his arms around me and was soaking in my pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I think upon it, I can still vividly
recall the physical sensations it caused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My crying quieted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t hear
any spoken words, but I felt that I was being told it was going to be okay and that
I was loved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember quietly
repeating, “I just want a daddy”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
believe Jesus was there and comforting me.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Not long after that, I was invited to a Bible study at the
church where my youngest son attended Pre-K.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I was so nervous that people would know my past and think I was a fake.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something inside of me urged me to go
anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Upon hearing God’s word, I was
hooked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn’t, and still can’t, get
enough of His words and His love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has
used me to share His love with others, and I still sometimes quietly say to
Him, “Really God?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Me?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was such a mess and so broken.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was sure I was beyond repair and not worthy
of any kind of love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus thought differently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He pursued me until I said yes. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looking back upon my life, I see glimpses of
His presence and protection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never gave
up on me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He never thought me too messed
up and used up to forget about me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can
now confidently say, “I am by beloved and He is mine” (Song of Solomon 2:16).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I have prayed that YOU will be convinced you are worth catching.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus sees you, loves you, and wants you to be
His.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He longs to feel you take comfort
in Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He desires to show you how deeply
He loves you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He looks forward to the
day that you and He are in deep relationship with one another, and you talk with
Him all day long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I pray that the words
you read and study throughout the coming weeks will transform your heart and soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May you know you are worth catching and
loving.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be caught, by friend!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">With deepest respect and love,<o:p></o:p></p>Marci 💗</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-18359951067852952862023-11-28T10:41:00.000-08:002023-11-28T10:41:40.999-08:00Ever notice how quick we are to judge people and pick at their scabs? We may smile on the outside, but often times we are searching for the dirt - the uglies.<br />
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I think we are all guilty of this at times. </div>
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Recently, someone told me a story about some people. The person was telling me some facts, but there were definite judgments attached. For the next couple of days, I couldn't stop thinking about the story. The more I thought about it, the more my heart broke for the people involved. </div>
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The more I pondered it, the more I wondered why it was so attached to my heart. The Lord began to show me how often we {me included} see the dirt rather than finding the gold. He began convicting my heart over situations and discussions I have been involved in.</div>
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We all have dirt because we are all human. We are sinful creatures who can create quite the dirt piles. We, more than anyone else, know how dirty we are and can become. We are fully aware of the imperfections and sins that plaque us. </div>
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Do we focus on other's dirt to avoid seeing our own sometimes? Does focusing on other's dirt take the spotlight off of our own messiness?</div>
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Yep-I think that's it. We focus on the dirt other's wear so our dirt doesn't appear to be so brown.</div>
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Aren't we suppose to be building each other up and encouraging one another to live life better? We can't really do that if we are focusing on the messy, even if just in our minds.</div>
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Our family visited Colorado a few summers ago. We decided we would go on an adventure and search for gold. We grabbed our tin bowls and began sifting through the water in search of the sparkly stuff. It didn't take long for our kids {and me} to get bored. All we seemed to find were dirty rocks covered in mud. After about 15 minutes we set our bowls aside and began running around in search of instant fun. </div>
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We never found any gold - we didn't look long enough.</div>
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We can be that way in our interactions with people. Sometimes we don't look long and hard enough for the sparkle. We notice the dirt and quickly walk away. </div>
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Everyone has sparkle inside of them. We can find some people's fairly quickly. But some people have hidden it so well that it takes quite a while to find it. When there is a glimmer of sparkle in those people, however, it is the most beautiful shine. Not only are you recognizing it, but the person may be too. They may not even be aware that any kind of glimmer exists in their broken, messy hearts. </div>
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What if we stopped looking at the dirt and searched for the gold? </div>
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What if when we see even a hint of a glimmer, we focus on that rather than the mess? </div>
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Can you imagine the shine that will sparkle when we do? </div>
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Imagine showing someone their gold when they had no idea any existed.</div>
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Be the one who finds the gold, my friend. Oh what we can do for God's Kingdom if we only look hard enough.</div>
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Loving you with a golden heart-</div>
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Marci</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-70934806570175516342023-11-24T10:46:00.000-08:002023-11-28T10:40:42.031-08:00What are We Teaching our Future Leaders?<div class="separator"><a href="http://s320.photobucket.com/albums/nn352/curly2880/?action=view&current=signature-2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><br /></a><a href="http://s320.photobucket.com/albums/nn352/curly2880/?action=view&current=signature-2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><br /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjktoximONKwqdeZvaEf-1WV7zDry2ZBkTnHbecS8S_5YOFCwJv3XV3MDQQ14KIaWp_YoZkHNP9wiHzDqj4aFpXLB6gSQMBWmDY44vCFz3Ji38E__7Jx5zwI8MIctpZJ398FDIPnkIHEtE2mKSQuB1gw-UnBOCTvD-v4EbFsPiSGPXGCjCbkIyPI_DQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjktoximONKwqdeZvaEf-1WV7zDry2ZBkTnHbecS8S_5YOFCwJv3XV3MDQQ14KIaWp_YoZkHNP9wiHzDqj4aFpXLB6gSQMBWmDY44vCFz3Ji38E__7Jx5zwI8MIctpZJ398FDIPnkIHEtE2mKSQuB1gw-UnBOCTvD-v4EbFsPiSGPXGCjCbkIyPI_DQ" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Teachers are people too. This thought has come to mind so often over the past few months. We have emotions, fears, and past traumas stored in our DNA. Yet, we are expected to endure abuse all in the name of educating students. We are expected to continuously have violent and verbally abusive students in our classrooms because THEY have a right to an education. All sane people would, and do, ask....what about the rights of the other students in the classroom? Don't THEY have a right to a safe environment where they can learn? I have come to learn that the answer to that is a hard no. The next question that many ask is don't teachers have a right to feel safe and be protected? Again, the answer to that is a hard no. Oh sure, districts will tell you that they care about the well being of students and teachers. But we all know that actions speak way louder than words. Words are just noise when not backed by actions. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Teachers are told to instill character in students. We are to teach them to be caring, respectful, responsible, trustworthy, and fair. We should teach them these values and virtues by modeling them, pointing them out in student behavior, and providing lessons on them. When abusive and disruptive students are allowed to continually be in the classroom with little to no consequences, aren't we just teaching words? We are not teaching truths. How are we to lead children to become good citizens with these virtues if this is what they witness and experience?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Unsurprisingly, yet truly heartbreaking, teachers are leaving the profession in throngs. Many have termed it the great resignation. The teachers I know who have left, and those prepared to leave, do not do so because they are bored, want more money, or dislike teaching. Sadly, it is because their mental health takes top priority. Not only are teachers affected by the toxicity and abuse, but their families are as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And while we are on the topic of being affected by toxicity and abuse, we can't leave out the most important people affected - the children. It behooves me to realize all that these little people have to endure every single day. Students have told me how afraid they are. This is not right! Children should be able to attend school and feel safe mentally and physically. Unfortunately, this is not the case.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Teachers and parents have to start speaking up. We have to fight for the rights of the children and teachers affected by disruptive and dangerous behaviors. Accepting these things will never promote change. Your voice matters! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In a nutshell, we are teaching our future leaders that being fearful, called derogatory things, and experiencing physical violence is normal. They are learning to be abused. They are also learning to be abusers. They are learning to live with anxiety. All of this is so wrong. We have to take a stand and show children they matter. </div><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-23875032827459251122023-02-23T07:32:00.004-08:002023-11-28T10:38:32.925-08:00How I Fell In Love with Running<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfnGWrpNlxxz-zUU5_KQ4f9kkY7DNHAAibk-VQwY2pHZN763k0sREjEkUIA3a-3E6MnrJW8cmxzRCSzzeDMUfNNOUSTiGx99fIbJMQ_Kj0YhQlgoNJNh3JzMFH8U9QKza5J3lJnnugklRnqqQFrRVqG5sw7rpOmc6FoOb4_Ixso4EoYK_L0ej_sdO/s3088/run%20pic%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="1388" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfnGWrpNlxxz-zUU5_KQ4f9kkY7DNHAAibk-VQwY2pHZN763k0sREjEkUIA3a-3E6MnrJW8cmxzRCSzzeDMUfNNOUSTiGx99fIbJMQ_Kj0YhQlgoNJNh3JzMFH8U9QKza5J3lJnnugklRnqqQFrRVqG5sw7rpOmc6FoOb4_Ixso4EoYK_L0ej_sdO/s320/run%20pic%202.jpg" width="144" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Running hasn't always been a passion, okay-obsession, of mine. I always wanted to run, but I never thought I was capable. I never considered myself the athletic type. Since my early 20's, I had a desire to run the Houston Marathon but never thought myself capable. I sat back, dreamed, and continued on with life. In truth, I was too afraid to take the leap. What if I was no good? What if I failed? <div><br /></div><div>Fast forward to January of 2010. The Houston Marathon had just taken place and I had the itch to run it more than ever! It was quite nasty outside so I jokingly told my family I was going to run the loop inside of our house that connects our kitchen to our living room. As I was running the loop, I couldn't believe how much I loved the motion and the feeling I was getting. I ran the loop for over 30 minutes! What started out as a joke, ended with me having a major crush on running!</div><div><br /></div><div>The next day I decided to take it outside and see if I felt the same. Oh my gracious, did I ever! It was so exhilarating and I felt so alive! My only goal was to enjoy each run and have fun. I began to look forward to my daily runs. In the back of my mind, I wondered if it was a quick high that I would grow tired of. Before that happened, I decided to sign up for a half marathon. I know, not a 5K or a 10K. I jumped right into a big race!</div><div><br /></div><div>I had so much fun training for that race. I no longer had a run crush. I was deeply and madly in love with the activity of running! I could not get enough of it!! When race day came, I clearly remember driving to the race with tears streaming down my face. I was so excited and proud of myself. I couldn't believe I was actually going to run a race. The race went so smoothly and fantastic. My family came and cheered me on. It was so much fun and I gained so much confidence in myself and abilities.</div><div><br /></div><div>Since then, I have run a number of 10K's and half marathons. The Houston Half Marathon continues to be my all time favorite race to run. There is something so exciting about that particular race. The energy, the people, the fact that my daughter runs it with me are all factors in my love for the race. In truth, it is one of my all time favorite days of the year. I get giddy the night before and struggle to sleep. I feel like a child trying to sleep on Christmas Eve knowing that Santa will deliver gifts at any minute.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I sit here injured from a terrible fall I had during a run, I have even more goals for myself as a runner. It's time to fight the full marathon fear and begin training for a 26.2 mile race. As I have learned during my love affair, one never regrets the miles. Training can be hard, but it is always so worth it. One will never regret the strength gained mentally when running the miles. </div><div><br /></div><div>Beginning something can be difficult. We come up with so many reasons why we may fail. But what if you actually succeed and change your life for the better? I would love to help you begin your journey. I am beyond passionate about finding oneself on the pavement. As you run, you truly find out who you are and what you are made of. I have never regretted a run.</div><div><br /></div><div>Move with joy-</div><div>Marci</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-79617722540368880352022-02-04T12:42:00.001-08:002022-02-04T13:12:26.468-08:00What's Stopping You?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBUbUGMy516MBe_U8AmvVUKUg7hdXfDWUiI6fI08tp1OtRYdN8E-DiZf5O-ZRD_msyfyWpc6TiKqLmhVpqSJDHl9BSMUApONc-8mVbzNvryiK6Cdl5UrmonOWNCBgxCCGkt-56AVMiFhh8IxcDMc_jxt04deNf2ehGmTnljsxgs1rVuohB5ebtULOg=s993" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="993" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBUbUGMy516MBe_U8AmvVUKUg7hdXfDWUiI6fI08tp1OtRYdN8E-DiZf5O-ZRD_msyfyWpc6TiKqLmhVpqSJDHl9BSMUApONc-8mVbzNvryiK6Cdl5UrmonOWNCBgxCCGkt-56AVMiFhh8IxcDMc_jxt04deNf2ehGmTnljsxgs1rVuohB5ebtULOg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>All of us have dreams, but how many of us hide them under the rug because we think we can't accomplish them? There are times we daydream upon them, but then that nasty, irritating voice creeps in and tells us otherwise. Really, you think you can do that? There's no way...and then every obstacle you can imagine pops into your head and fills you with a who do you think you are, stupid, mindset. <div><br /></div><div>I have dreams that I fear if I spoke them outloud, I would be laughed at or told they were impossible. That says nothing about the people I surround myself with, and everything about my fears. Why is it that we don't just step out and try?? Fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of feeling dumb, fear of feeling laughed at, fear of being disappointed.... I could go on and on, but you get the picture.</div><div><br /></div><div>What if we said enough is enough. It really could be that simple. What if we stopped overthinking and just did it. What's the worst thing that can happen? What if we really accomplished something or learned some strength deep within ourselves that we never knew about. Wouldn't those things make it worth it?</div><div><br /></div><div>I have wanted to run the Houston half marathon since I was in my early 20's. I am knocking on 50's door and it will be opened in 2 weeks time. I FINALLY ran the Houston half marathon on Janurary 16th of this year. It truly was the best experience and accomplishment of my life. I know that sounds so cliche, but it's the honest truth. I think the ecstatic feelings come from a sense of great accomplishment. I never thought I could do it. I never thought I was a real runner. Isn't that silly? I compared myself to everyone else and convinced myself that I just didn't have it in me.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg4emdT5Y6JHJeosyRNl520VkAXwyJzX1jGB1bicF2nOEQgAv6e_IIv718fGPrlVSh7QlRkAWdTbQyiqVJ2AUToPBwRUAdw70VUg0xRud0JN562Hr8DX4FvIJNXPKmUQA1T0iYgl3-TL-gNuwXsuUaXO_nXj4FAoIx3s4LVlm0UBGVIOuDszN1inWV0=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg4emdT5Y6JHJeosyRNl520VkAXwyJzX1jGB1bicF2nOEQgAv6e_IIv718fGPrlVSh7QlRkAWdTbQyiqVJ2AUToPBwRUAdw70VUg0xRud0JN562Hr8DX4FvIJNXPKmUQA1T0iYgl3-TL-gNuwXsuUaXO_nXj4FAoIx3s4LVlm0UBGVIOuDszN1inWV0=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8hWY2KXYtaY5f7F_ceCX_2GGiIFJBkDHvZrxyJo5mbhCzCKgfCr-UJuoIXjrSuUBAYc1MAnL5eP242cHJQ_FsEhktx-E1_Zxd63kF7jVooqnvwviclhFyDgrVreWpyOsYoJdpS7GbTFpnZPfDxLUNAQE953foUIwiAFB2p_Ad4GuHTB8-uVEB5K-w=s1033" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="827" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8hWY2KXYtaY5f7F_ceCX_2GGiIFJBkDHvZrxyJo5mbhCzCKgfCr-UJuoIXjrSuUBAYc1MAnL5eP242cHJQ_FsEhktx-E1_Zxd63kF7jVooqnvwviclhFyDgrVreWpyOsYoJdpS7GbTFpnZPfDxLUNAQE953foUIwiAFB2p_Ad4GuHTB8-uVEB5K-w=s320" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Running the half marathon has changed me. It's made me see physical and mental strength that I never knew I had. It's made me recognize that chasing a dream and grabbing it is so life giving and life changing. I no longer want to sit and daydream, I want to grab hold of my dreams' coat tails and follow them until I am wearing the coat. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have more dreams that I have hidden under the rug because of a number of fears I attached to them. No more. I am lifting the rug and letting them free. I am going to follow them and work to accomplish them. It may be hard, but it is so worth it! God gifts us with this one life. Why not live fully and make those dreams a reality?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8Jw_37_6oQOs0fTo7VukjB4ohASok9pESD6NuLbUGFYba1xmlCdreduJ_l9gNRip9v3huAePRHejCmDdmY-ZGxPm2OXiYK30jkIuZgw4mqsVTnw5JF81HojjDCyyVw-GdoMUzBRs_gwBaypomcSXQBkGZAju0-insQOno0KXJIOgwX4Mx4gFT_gRY=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8Jw_37_6oQOs0fTo7VukjB4ohASok9pESD6NuLbUGFYba1xmlCdreduJ_l9gNRip9v3huAePRHejCmDdmY-ZGxPm2OXiYK30jkIuZgw4mqsVTnw5JF81HojjDCyyVw-GdoMUzBRs_gwBaypomcSXQBkGZAju0-insQOno0KXJIOgwX4Mx4gFT_gRY=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A week ago, I ran the Hot Chocolate 15K race. My dream of running races still has me on cloud nine, as you can tell from my medal gazing!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>More on my next dream to come. What dreams do you have? Let go and chase them. I promise you will have a high that you could never imagine possible!!<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2KXPVYhmzHWkSmsA11UM-kS3YRLV32Xlat4xkKZKcEVSK0utLF1UqWz3awUxTJsyXLNqrS9scS_RYK54i9u9wTOI3fD08eroeagVqKb7M_Hf3ZrXw8XZ_C2EU_PZV4d8nD-k-TrY8bqRkEqcSMJudOJ4hlu-tB6sPTahL1Aj4ft0xSSxbCtfKIcFV=s900" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="900" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2KXPVYhmzHWkSmsA11UM-kS3YRLV32Xlat4xkKZKcEVSK0utLF1UqWz3awUxTJsyXLNqrS9scS_RYK54i9u9wTOI3fD08eroeagVqKb7M_Hf3ZrXw8XZ_C2EU_PZV4d8nD-k-TrY8bqRkEqcSMJudOJ4hlu-tB6sPTahL1Aj4ft0xSSxbCtfKIcFV=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With love,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Marci</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-86059319890700806552019-09-01T12:00:00.000-07:002023-12-02T18:54:32.199-08:0030 Days of Love - Day 1<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: "georgia";"><strong>1 John 4:19...We love because He first loved us.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: "georgia";">God is our example and our perfect role model. He does not love us only when we are perfect (which is never). He did not set eyes on us the moment we were born and decide He would only love us when we please Him. Rather, He loves us before, during, and after our messes. When we are faced with someone who is completely unlovable, may we remember His love for us in our times of utter frustration. It is so easy to growl internally at those who drive us bonkers or have hurt us. How easily and often do we write off people who we label not worthy? </span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: "georgia";">He has not called us to live dysfunctionally, but He has called us to love. Even if we have to walk away from someone, may our hearts love that person the way Jesus loves us. I believe one way to love an unlovable person is to truly pray for him or her. Praying for someone who drives us crazy will ultimately cause us to let go of the stress and be free of the frustration. Another way to show love is to keep our mouths shut when tempted to talk about the unlovable. God doesn't share our stink with others and we shouldn't either. As we go about our day, let's remember we are loved. Take that love and give it away to someone who needs it. Your love just may transform that person into a lovable. </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-87504016812157601712019-08-28T12:01:00.000-07:002023-11-28T10:41:17.167-08:00Moving Out of the Corner of Pain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There are times in life where we all have wanted to throw in the towel and call it quits. Life can get overwhelmingly difficult and the word hope is no longer in our vocabulary. We feel defeated and question our choices, our circumstances, and even our faith. Times like this can leave us feeling so alone, unheard, and unseen. </div>
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This past year was one of those years for me. Someone I love experienced some gut-wrenching pain and I crawled into the trenches to support, encourage, and love on this person. While the experiences did not happen to me personally, watching someone you absolutely love suffer and question his/her existence is devastatingly painful. At times, life became almost too hard to handle. Because the person and I were so close, the pain that was felt by my loved one was often turned into hateful anger directed at me. My level headed mind knew it was just deep-seated pain and was never a personal attack. I won't lie, there were many times that the anger became too much and it cut my heart into a zillion pieces. On top of that, I was painfully heartbroken for this person and felt so much anger, betrayal, hurt, etc. </div>
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As I woke each morning, and often throughout the day, I prayed for my loved one. At first, my prayers were to surround my love, comfort my love, and heal my love. I prayed that God would set a table before my love in the presence of the enemies. I prayed that those who caused the pain would suffer greatly and feel exactly what they had inflicted.</div>
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As time went on, I realized my prayers were filled with bitterness. They were also very limiting. God can do so much more than we can imagine and I needed to praise Him for this, as well as pray loving prayers over the enemies. At first, I gritted my teeth as I prayed blessings over those who caused such heart devastation. It was unfathomable to me to pray that those who had caused so much harm would receive blessings.</div>
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The more I prayed for them, however, the more God opened my heart to feel empathy and forgiveness. I began to pray for my loved one to grow closer to God in the pain. I prayed that my love would recognize God's sovereignty and constant presence, even in the trenches. I also prayed that the inflicters would know God's love. I began to realize that those who are hurting hurt others. I prayed that rather than feeling pain like I originally prayed for, that they would feel freedom and peace.</div>
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As God always does, He heard my prayers and answered them. My loved one has more strength, courage, and drive for life than I ever imagined possible. My love experienced true feelings of forgiveness and mercy. There are no grudges, no retaliation hopes, and no ill will. My love is truly free, joyous, and happy. So many opportunities have presented themselves and so much growth has taken place. </div>
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While I would never wish for my love to suffer so greatly, so much was gained from this experience. Life lessons about God, love, forgiveness, strength, and a will to live happily were gained. I no longer feel anger about the situation, but rather grateful for the growth that has taken place. </div>
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Life lessons often come from pain. We can stay stuffed in a corner with ridiculously bitter hearts or we can open our hearts to God's leading, growing, and healing. Am I ever grateful that my love chose the latter!</div>
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You may be wondering what became of the offenders. God is definitely at work in their lives. A couple of the people actually accepted responsibility and apologized. That is huge! I continue to pray for them and have great hope that they will feel God's love and mercy with such force that they will know the source. My love offers them forgiveness and mercy, which I truly believe they feel. </div>
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If you find yourself in the trenches and feel alone, abandoned, hopeless, and helpless, know that you are not alone. God is with you and waiting for you to ask for help and guidance. Pour your heart out to Him and trust that He hears you. He created you to love you, not to hurt you. Often, lessons hurt like major heck, but the growth that comes is worth it. We will never grow hiding away with bitter hearts. Growth and healing are results of lots of knee time in prayer. Be honest in your pain and in your prayers. Look for the teeny blessings that God provides for you each day. Those teeny blessings add up.</div>
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One moment at a time in trust and you will feel and see God direct your heart to Him.</div>
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Loving you so much-</div>
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Marci</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-32212571963199073162019-06-21T10:10:00.000-07:002019-06-21T10:10:05.770-07:00Mindset Changes Everything<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mindset is defined as "the established set of attitudes held by someone." (Dictionary.com)<br />
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Our mindsets are so important to our overall health. The stress that we allow into our bodies through our mindsets can wreak havoc on our health. We can eat nothing but whole foods, exercise regularly, but if our mindsets are programmed to think negatively and destructively, we are not contributing to a healthy lifestyle. Rather, we are harming our bodies. This harm has immediate and lasting effects on our overall health.<br />
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Controlling our mindsets should be one of our top priorities. We can't just say to our minds, "Alright, already-stop this way of thinking!" That's impossible. It is a process that takes time and dedication. If it were easy and quick, we would all have mindsets that support healthy living. Unfortunately, many of us have mindsets that are extremely destructive and we are so caught up in it that we don't even realize the negative effects it has on our lives and bodies.<br />
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<b>The benefits of a healthy mindset are:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>increased longevity</li>
<li><b></b>reduces depression</li>
<li>lowers levels of anxiety</li>
<li>increases immunity</li>
<li>reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease</li>
<li>promotes healthy relationships</li>
</ul>
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Thankfully, there are many ways in which we can train our mindsets. They take practice, but they are so worth it. In time, you will notice more peace in your life. You will recognize when a destructive thought enters your brain and be able to push it away quickly. You will feel freer and happier.<br />
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<b>Techniques for growing a healthy mindset:</b><br />
<b></b><b></b><br />
<b>1. Guard your minds</b> - be mindful of what and who you are listening to and watching. Be aware of how these things make you feel and what they cause you to focus on. <br />
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<b>2. Be proactive rather than reactive </b>- be mindful of what and who pushes your buttons. Establish game plans on how best to deal with these situations BEFORE they happen. <br />
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<b>3. Surround yourself with people and places that honor and promote a healthy mindset</b> -this one needs no explanation! :)<br />
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<b>4. Banish negative self-talk </b>- we all have times where we allow our minds to go on a negative road trip. We have gone clear across the country before we even realize it. This leaves us feeling grumpy and depleted. Be extremely mindful of EVERYTHING you are thinking upon. If you notice ugliness, change your talk immediately. There is no room in the inn for negative self-talk. Not one good thing comes from it.<br />
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<b>5. Live a balanced life</b> - be sure to practice self-care. When we give to others and deny ourselves, we become overwhelmed and our mindsets are not supportive. <br />
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<b>6. Help others</b> - it is amazing what happens to our mindsets when we help others!<br />
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<b>7. Be grateful</b> - I often suggest to people that they keep a gratitude journal with them at all times. Set a goal for how many things you want to record. It often helps to break it up into times of the day. When we only do it in the morning or evening, we forget to focus on gratefulness throughout the day.<br />
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These techniques really will change your mindset for the better. With time and practice, you will feel better and happier. You will notice your stress levels diminishing and your energy levels rising.<br />
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You CAN do this! I believe in you and your health!<br />
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Proverbs 23:7...As someone thinks within himself, so he is.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Marci</span></i><br />
<i></i><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
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<b><br /></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-49967390510370138102019-06-14T19:43:00.001-07:002019-06-14T19:45:53.656-07:00Learning to Take Care of Yourself<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
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<b><i>Mark 6:31</i></b><br />
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<b><i>He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while."</i></b><br />
<b><i>For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.</i></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></b><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></i><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></b><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></i><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></b><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></i><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> When my oldest was a baby, we lived in New York. My husband and I are both from Texas and our little one was the first grandchild on both sides. Needless to say, we flew home a LOT!!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Every time we flew, the flight attendants made sure I knew that if there was an emergency I needed to put my oxygen mask on before putting a mask on my little one. Thankfully, I never had to experience this for real!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Because of all the flying we did, I adopted the phrase, "Put your oxygen mask on first". When I am speaking to new mamas, worn out friends, or even myself I use this phrase.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> We cannot be at our best if we feel depleted and lack the fuel we need to operate. On a plane, lack of oxygen will cause us to pass out and eventually die. In life, lack of care for ourselves will cause burnout, depression, anxiety, and lots and lots of stress.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Often times, we feel guilty and/or selfish if we take time for ourselves. We carry around the mentality that we have to be super people who give, give, give and never relax. In our world, if someone is not a super achiever, they are labeled a slacker. Thankfully, that is not God's label. He created rest and desires for us to use it. He knows that without some rest and rejuvenation, we will not be on our game.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><strong style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">God did not create us to save the world. He did not create us to fix everything, solve everything, and be everything to people. We will never be difference makers if we fail to take care of the person God created us to be.</strong><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><strong style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></strong><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Putting on your oxygen mask will ensure that your heart and head are well rested. You will feel revived and refreshed. There is no shame in needing your oxygen mask!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Individual oxygen masks look different for each person. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> For me, I like to wake before my family and have a quiet time with Jesus. Also, it helps me to read at least one chapter in a book each day. This reading can occur anytime throughout the day. It is soothing for my soul to steal away and get lost in a book.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> My husband's oxygen mask consists of quiet time alone doing yard work. It is so soothing to him and allows his mind to be refreshed.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> What does your oxygen mask look like? </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> What causes you to feel refueled and refreshed? </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> What is holding you back? Keeping you from getting your God prescribed rest?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> No matter what your oxygen mask looks like, don't be ashamed to admit you need it. Failing to consistently put it on will cause you to feel overwhelmed and lack the essential body and mind energy to successfully conquer each day. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Taking care of yourself is not selfish, it is energy for your soul. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> If you find it difficult at first, try scheduling it out. Make yourself a priority, sweet friend. There is joy in rest and rejuvenation. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> And when you find it difficult to settle down and rest because of guilt, a mile long to-do list, etc., remember the words of your Savior - the one who calls you to rest.</span><br />
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<b><i>Mark 6:31</i></b></div>
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<b><i>He said to them, "Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest for a while."</i></b></div>
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<b><i>For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.</i></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> Loving you all,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #525050; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "crimson text"; font-size: 110%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.4; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #525050; font-family: Crimson Text; font-size: 14.86px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Marci</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-72606522185797754912019-02-02T11:56:00.000-08:002023-11-28T10:41:04.360-08:00Creating an Active Prayer Life<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGVh2XuwGVn3SoRNXQ2_xavtIs-B7O4hwgosxk-B3-6-XOB18wqP3Y7rj34ov4A5eGwMrIXJ6u52P5MNID2wjput4n-57IVgrcliTDrebaYmThXzQbmfy1w7wp4EDZFdYaOOgC51byxA/s1600/pray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGVh2XuwGVn3SoRNXQ2_xavtIs-B7O4hwgosxk-B3-6-XOB18wqP3Y7rj34ov4A5eGwMrIXJ6u52P5MNID2wjput4n-57IVgrcliTDrebaYmThXzQbmfy1w7wp4EDZFdYaOOgC51byxA/s320/pray.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><b>Prayer is a game changer</b></i>. When done consistently, our hearts learn to lean towards Jesus in all areas of our lives. The abundant life that He speaks of in John 10:10 becomes a reality. This is not to say there will never be trials, heartache, tears, and anger. These things are a given when living in a broken world. However, cultivating an active prayer life will change the way we deal with these things and create an overall sense of peace and calmness amidst the storms. Fears will still come, but they won't pull us under the roaring sea. When prayer is part of your day and part of your life, your life truly will change.<br />
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Sounds great, right? But how does one pray continually? We have so much going on in life and so many things to think about, plan, and execute. I remember on numerous mornings telling myself I was going to pray throughout the day only to crawl in my bed that night and realize I didn't utter one prayer. I would get discouraged and frustrated with myself. <br />
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I began to really think about how I could pray continually throughout the day. I realized (God probably actually smacked me with this reality!) that prayer is not a wordy, impersonal act. Prayer is literally just talking to Jesus. Prayer is our direct line to Him. <br />
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Think about it...we talk to ourselves all day long. Instead of just speaking to ourselves, we can train our minds to speak to the Holy Spirit more than we speak to ourselves. And that, my friend, is prayer! Nothing fancy. Nothing showy. Just pure, honest talk. <br />
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So how do we train our minds? With lots of practice. Anytime we begin something new, it takes effort. We create habits over a series of days and weeks, not minutes. The practice of continual prayer is not meant to frustrate us, it is meant to encourage us and enrich our lives. <br />
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There are many ways to train our minds. We are all different and, therefore, some things work for some while other things work for others. I'm going to share how I was able to train my mind. You can use it all, you can use bits and pieces, or you can throw it all out the window. Do what works for you. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyz9HIBV38Q0FQ4icSjCVQy0teW0CO87FheAXYp2z7m_QdT0c9aG0DZpgzmnQNwHg94kc26pdk7ALI5VrHTtGFsjaHTTDB7blZuJLCrONvUUgauzBqFLxF8_Dp9vvTaQzmX8yf5yQr6bs/s1600/pray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyz9HIBV38Q0FQ4icSjCVQy0teW0CO87FheAXYp2z7m_QdT0c9aG0DZpgzmnQNwHg94kc26pdk7ALI5VrHTtGFsjaHTTDB7blZuJLCrONvUUgauzBqFLxF8_Dp9vvTaQzmX8yf5yQr6bs/s320/pray.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>How I trained my mind to have an active and consistent prayer life:</b></div>
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1. I begin my day with Jesus. Before doing anything else, I grab my prayer journal and write out what I am thankful for, personal prayers, and prayers for others. Prior to beginning, I ask Jesus to show me sins I need to confess and people I need to forgive. This clears my heart and prepares me to focus on Jesus. By waking and going to Jesus first thing, I center my thoughts around Him rather than around me. It has made a HUGE difference in my life.<br />
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2. I committed to reading Scripture daily. This is often done mid morning or early afternoon. I have found that this has helped me so much. If my mind wanders away from the will of Jesus, reading Scripture always brings me back to Him. This can be five minutes or thirty minutes. It is dependent upon my day. However, I generally always stick to it because it has made such a difference in my mindset and heart.<br />
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3. I like to focus on a verse each day. When I wake in the morning and have something on my heart, I will look for a verse during my prayer time that I know will help center me. For example, if I am in what if mode, I will think upon Philippians 4:6-8. If I do not have the verse committed to memory, I will write it down on a small index card and keep it with me.<br />
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These practices have been so helpful in training my mind to think upon Jesus throughout the day. My prayers are short - often one to two sentences - but they are consistent. For example, if I am outside with my puppy and hear a bird, I will tell Jesus what a beautiful sound He created and thank Him for allowing me to hear it. <br />
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Praying consistently has made such an impact on my life. I feel so very connected to Jesus. I recognize His presence so often and feel Him speaking to me. There truly is a peace that surpasses all of my understanding and I know, without a doubt, that it comes from having an active prayer life.<br />
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My mom recently said something that was a golden nugget. I grabbed it and tucked it away for safe keeping hoping to never forget it. She said, "As I'm praying throughout the day, I don't say Amen. I keep my heart open so that my prayers are flowing all day." I love that! Let your prayers flow all day and feel the transforming effects of a consistent and active prayer life.<br />
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Rooting for you and your prayer life,<br />
MarciUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-13184912352170610862018-03-16T13:00:00.001-07:002018-03-16T13:00:23.654-07:00Detox Your Life – Part 1 {Your Body}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our bodies are exposed to tons of toxins. We eat them, drink them, lather them on our skin, and breathe them in. Just thinking about all of the uglies that go inside of our bodies can cause an uneasiness and a sense of urgency to rid our bodies of anything foreign.</div>
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Before you panic and do something drastic, let me give you some good news.</div>
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<ol style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.54px; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 27px; margin-left: 54px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Our bodies are stronger than we think. We have been gifted with immune systems that fight for us every single minute of every single day. Think of your immune system as the best SEAL team ever. This team doesn’t have any other job but to protect our bodies. Also, this team never sleeps. It is punching the clock 24/7.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">I am going to walk you through a detox program that will be easy (if you are committed) and free your body, mind, and environment of nasty toxins.</li>
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The definition of detoxification is: <em style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The process of removing toxic substances or qualities from one’s body.</em></div>
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<strong style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 700; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Signs that you need to detox your body:</strong></div>
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<ul style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.54px; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: disc; margin-bottom: 27px; margin-left: 54px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Lethargy</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Brain fog</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Weight gain</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Indigestion</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Excessive sinus problems</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Headaches</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bloating</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Gas</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Heartburn</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Headaches</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Acne</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Bad breathe</li>
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Think of toxins as horrible rebels that want to take out our SEAL team. Little do they realize that we are on to their drama and we are going to take away their swords and shields and leave them running for the hills.</div>
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Detoxing our bodies takes effort and commitment. I have some great news, however. It will not kill you and will actually make you feel better. When most people think about detoxing, they think belly aches, no food at all, and tons of added supplements.</div>
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That’s not my kind of detox. I believe that detoxing our bodies is really just fine tuning our lifestyles. I am going to share with you a way to pull those toxins out without making you go crazy. I will warn that if you are a sugar lover or caffeine goddess, you will experience headaches and an overall feeling of grumpiness for the first 2-3 days. It stinks, I know, but stick with it because the reward of feeling better and improving your health will be worth it.</div>
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My advice is if you fall into the sugar or caffeine category mentioned above, reduce your amount by half for a week before starting this program. It will not be as big a shock to your system and, thus, you will not experience the cold turkey symptoms that may make you feel like jumping in front of a truck.</div>
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Are you ready? Thinking about boarding the detox train? You won’t regret it!</div>
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<a href="https://marciandhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/pexeloatmealberries.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #f2a09d; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition-delay: 0s; transition-duration: 0.2s; transition-property: all; transition-timing-function: cubic-bezier(0.42, 0, 0.58, 1); vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="pexeloatmealberries" class="wp-image-1157 aligncenter" height="249" sizes="(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px" src="https://marciandhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/pexeloatmealberries-442x295.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; display: block; height: 250px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 154.5px; margin-right: 154.5px; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 684px;" width="375" /></a></div>
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<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.54px; margin-bottom: 27px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<strong style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 700; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Detoxing your beautiful and amazing body:</strong></div>
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<ol style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.54px; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; list-style-type: decimal; margin-bottom: 27px; margin-left: 54px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Before beginning, take a glance at what you're eating and drinking on a regular basis. Be mindful of when you are eating and what you are snacking on. Define your goal for detoxing. Doing this will prepare your mind and you can refer to the goal(s) when you feel like throwing in the towel and running for the nearest junk food aisle. Also, jot down alternatives to all the foods/beverages on this list. This will prepare you and keep you ahead of the game.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If you drink from plastic water or juice bottles, find an alternative. Plastic bottles release toxins into the liquid, especially when they are warm. Remember, they probably were pretty warm as they were being transported to your local store. If you work outside of your home, take a cup that you can refill often. My favorites are the Dyln water bottle and the Corkcicle cup. They fit nicely in my car cup holder and it keeps my drink cold for over 8 hours. I can continue to add water to the ice that stays all day. </li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Remove coffee and all caffeinated beverages.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Drink LOTS of filtered water and herbal teas. Stay away from tap water. The goal here is to visit the bathroom often! The water will help flush out the toxins.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Avoid sugar at all costs. Remember, this is not forever. It is only for a set amount of time. {We will discuss times in just a sec!} Read the labels of everything you put into your mouth. Sugar is added to pretty much everything. The best rule of thumb for this process is to stay clear of foods that are sold in boxes – crackers, cereals, breads, granola, etc.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Remove all white foods. This includes rice, bread, and flour. Brown is best!</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Avoid alcohol. Sorry, it’s not forever!</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Say no to dairy. This includes milk, cheese, and butter. This is a great opportunity to taste test various nut milks. I have become a huge fan of almond milk.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Add a probiotic to your day. I know I said this detox program would not be a crazy one that involved buying the entire supplement store, but a probiotic will help flush out toxins and help your gut bacteria balance out so that your belly feels in tip top shape.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Eat the rainbow. No, not Skittles! Eat a variety of various colors of fruits and veggies. This does not have to be boring and cause you to stare down the produce department. Be creative with your eating. Create awesome salads and garnish them with olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. I add some cayenne pepper to the vinaigrette for an added flavor boost. You can also roast veggies in the oven with a sprinkle of olive oil, salt, pepper, or your preferred spices.</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Organic, organic, organic!! Stay clear of fruits and veggies that are not organic. If you eat produce that is not organic, you will be adding toxins and chemicals with every bite. That kind of defeats your purpose!</li>
<li style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Keep away from meats, chicken, and pork. Replace them with legumes. Thankfully, there is a wide variety of legumes for you to test out. If you must eat meat and chicken, only eat organic, grass fed beef and free range chicken that you are certain contains no antibiotics.</li>
</ol>
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This program can be done for 7, 14, or 21 days. It depends on you. I generally do the program for 7 days. I notice a HUGE difference in my energy level, calmness, happiness, and gut health. I always feel like pulling out my Wonder Woman cape and wearing it everywhere I go. Ok, I don’t really have one…sniff, sniff. But if I did, I might just add it as an awesome accessory!</div>
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Once you have completed the length you desire, don’t rush to the grocery store and overflow your buggy with all things not on this list. This program not only detoxes your body, but it helps train your body, mind, and taste buds to eat in a healthier manner.</div>
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Now I’m not naïve, I know sugar and caffeine will be added back. Heck, I add it back too! However, do it gradually and mindfully. For example, if you generally drink 3 cups of coffee, cut back to one and a half. You will most likely find that your fine with this and actually may now prefer only one cup. A trick to reducing cups is drinking it more slowly. Don’t chug it like the world is void of any more coffee. Take your time drinking it and really enjoy every sip.</div>
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As far as sugar is concerned, choose the days you will enjoy a delightful treat. Rather than grabbing something sweet on a daily basis, designate official dessert days. For our family, dessert days are Friday and Saturday after dinner. It has worked well for us. That is not to say we never, ever eat sugar on the other days. We just don’t make it daily occurrences.</div>
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Also, remember to continue to read labels and notice sugar amounts and those ingredients that look like you are back in high school on the first day of your foreign language class. Avoid those as often as possible.</div>
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Repeat this program when you notice those crazy symptoms sneaking back up on you.</div>
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<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.54px; margin-bottom: 27px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
Ok, now it’s time to begin. You totally have this!! Once your designated detox time is up, you will feel accomplished, empowered, and awesome. You go, people!!</div>
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<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.54px; margin-bottom: 27px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
I’m excited to hear about your experiences. Let me know if you need any help, guidance, or have questions. You can shoot me an email anytime, just head to my work with me tab. My email is listed at the bottom of the page.</div>
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<a href="https://marciandhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/love-heart-makeup-beauty-medium.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #f2a09d; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition-delay: 0s; transition-duration: 0.2s; transition-property: all; transition-timing-function: cubic-bezier(0.42, 0, 0.58, 1); vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="love-heart-makeup-beauty-medium" class="wp-image-1158 aligncenter" height="251" sizes="(max-width: 377px) 100vw, 377px" src="https://marciandhealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/love-heart-makeup-beauty-medium-442x295.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; display: block; height: 252px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 153.5px; margin-right: 153.5px; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 684px;" width="377" /></a></div>
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Cheering you all on!!</div>
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<em style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: italic; font-weight: 400; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Marci</em></div>
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<div class="addtoany_share_save_container addtoany_content_bottom" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #3a3a3a; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.54px; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 16px; orphans: 2; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-title="Detox Your Life – Part 1 {Your Body}" data-a2a-url="https://marciandhealth.com/2016/10/03/detox-your-life-part-1-your-body/" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(58, 58, 58); border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; touch-action: manipulation; vertical-align: baseline;">
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padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: absolute; vertical-align: baseline; width: 32px;">Twitter</span><span class="a2a_svg a2a_s__default a2a_s_google_plus" style="background-color: #dd4b39; background-repeat: repeat; border-bottom-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-bottom-left-radius: 4px; border-bottom-right-radius: 4px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-image-outset: 0; border-image-repeat: stretch; border-image-slice: 100%; border-image-source: none; border-image-width: 1; border-left-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-top-left-radius: 4px; border-top-right-radius: 4px; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; float: none; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; 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border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-top-left-radius: 4px; border-top-right-radius: 4px; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clip: rect(1px, 1px, 1px, 1px); display: block; float: none; font-family: "Source Sans Pro",sans-serif,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; height: 32px; line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; opacity: 1; outline-color: invert; outline-style: none; outline-width: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: absolute; vertical-align: baseline; width: 32px;">Google+</span><span class="a2a_svg a2a_s__default a2a_s_a2a" style="background-color: #0166ff; background-repeat: repeat; border-bottom-color: rgb(242, 160, 157); border-bottom-left-radius: 4px; 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padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: absolute; vertical-align: baseline; width: 32px;">Shar</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-30823584037329980312017-11-01T17:39:00.001-07:002023-11-28T10:41:25.110-08:00How To Bring the Magic of Christmas into Your Home and Heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgplgHv-APzVhYt6-acg3sf-k5dfbuOX0tF3gjVrBk0XPxozZsH8w95h1JColqTmuL8gwjrItQ3HFF4izzXZy9v9aPwcYmbjchbVH4m02rENe6-hY3RP_7Ei6y2N1Um8AlXz9hnROPPykw/s1600/Christmasblogwriting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgplgHv-APzVhYt6-acg3sf-k5dfbuOX0tF3gjVrBk0XPxozZsH8w95h1JColqTmuL8gwjrItQ3HFF4izzXZy9v9aPwcYmbjchbVH4m02rENe6-hY3RP_7Ei6y2N1Um8AlXz9hnROPPykw/s320/Christmasblogwriting.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Cue the Christmas music. It's officially (in my home anyway) the Christmas season. I love the Christmas season for so many reasons. <br />
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I love...<br />
<ul>
<li>Family and friends gathering together</li>
<li>Christmas movies</li>
<li>Christmas music</li>
<li>Flavored coffees</li>
<li>Hot chocolate</li>
<li>Shopping for gifts</li>
<li>Decorating</li>
<li>Making Christmas cookies and goodies</li>
<li>Strangers sharing kindness with one another</li>
</ul>
<div>
I decided a few years ago that I was no longer waiting until after Thanksgiving to start bringing the wonderful Christmas feel into our home. There is something magical about the season that makes our home feel so much more comfy and cozy. </div>
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In order to put the sparkle of Christmas into our home I -</div>
<ul>
<li>Light candles that have a holiday smell</li>
<li>Prepare comfort foods like soups (with a healthy flair, of course!)</li>
<li>Turn on Christmas movies (thank you very much Hallmark Channel!)</li>
<li>Begin adding Christmas decorations to our home</li>
<li>Have my kids start making their wish lists</li>
<li>Bake pumpkin bread</li>
<li>Play Christmas music</li>
</ul>
<div>
I know that this season is hard for some people. I can totally relate because I really struggled for a few years with feelings of depression during the holidays. The holidays left me feeling lonely and, honestly, like something was wrong with me. My heart goes out to anyone who feels this way. It is a terrible guilt that we often leave bottled up inside.</div>
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<div>
We all have our reasons for the sadness the holidays can bring on. Mine had to do with my biological father. You see, we never had a relationship. When he died, I was left feeling so sad and empty. I had always dreamt of him telling me he loved me and he was proud of me. His death was a death for my dreams too. The holiday season exasperated my pain and caused me to grieve for a relationship that never would be. Christmastime is a time for families, for love, and for children to feel the magic of it all. I guess the little girl in me broke when I realized that I would never hear "I love you" or "I'm so proud of you".</div>
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<div>
After a few years of struggling, I made a conscience decision to be purposeful in my thoughts. I decided that I was no longer going to let something I could not control wreak havoc on my time with my children and family. While it still hurt, I didn't want the holiday season to be tainted by my broken heart. If my heart was going to be repaired and I was going to enjoy the season, I had to let go and trust God to lead me in love. I had to take every thought captive and turn it into praise for Jesus and all that He does for me. I decided that I could wallow in my sadness or recognize all the blessings God places around me. I began keeping a blessings journal and I was amazed at what all I began to notice! Trust me when I say that a blessings journal is a sure fire way to see the love God has for us.</div>
<div>
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<div>
To overcome the holiday blues I did a variety of things.</div>
<ul>
<li>I kept a blessings journal - I wrote down everything I noticed throughout the day - no matter how small.</li>
<li>I turned on Christmas music and sang loudly. I wanted to put the song into my heart!</li>
<li>I found others to bless. It's funny how blessing others blesses us a million times more.</li>
<li>I made Christmas cookies and handed them out to anyone who would take them.</li>
<li>I spent time with others I knew were struggling. I wanted to show them God's love and let them know that they weren't alone. I aloud them to be authentic, cry, and release what was on their hearts.</li>
<li>I was purposeful about finding joy in shopping for gifts. I didn't let it become a have to.</li>
<li>I rewarded myself often with a trip to a coffee shop.</li>
</ul>
<div>
I don't claim to know the depths of people's hurting hearts, but I do know that sharing love and kindness always helps - if even for a short time. Let's be open and purposeful about showing love to those around us this holiday season. A loving, kind, and listening heart is so much better than a store bought gift. If you know of someone who is hurting, make time to love on them and let them know that they matter. </div>
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Wishing you a season full of love-</div>
<div>
Marci</div>
<div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-87927850880096318382017-10-30T15:24:00.000-07:002023-12-02T18:54:34.845-08:00I woke a few mornings ago to find a heartfelt and sad post on Instagram. It has occupied my mind ever since and I go from pity, to anger, to sadness, to frustration. <br />
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The post was about being burned - shunned really - by a church. The person who shared her story has been devastated and even questions God's goodness and love. She shared her heart with a raw emotion that left me wanting to reach through my phone and hug her.<br />
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It's a pity and a shame when people are so righteous and judgmental. It makes me queasy to think of people sitting in God's holy house condemning and turning His children from His love. Steam is coming from my ears.<br />
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Seriously, satan can sit back and relax. So called Christians are turning people away from God quicker than his gnarly schemes ever will. <br />
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So why does this cause such a stir in me? For one, because we are called to love for goodness sakes! Jesus commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves. We are called to be His disciples and share Him from one end of the earth to the other. <br />
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Jesus said to love. Simple concept. Hard to do at times, but to truly love Christ is to truly love others. Period.<br />
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The second reason this causes a fire in me is because this has happened to my family. It was terrible and, honestly, when I think about it, it brings back the pain of rejection and hurt. <br />
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I have remained fairly quiet about it. It took me a long while to process it and my family suffered so I have never written about it. After reading the Instagram post, I decided it was time to share my story. Too often, we suffer silently and feel we are alone. We believe that no one else can understand or identify with our experiences and pain. Honestly, I hate that. Wouldn't it be so much better to come together in truth and support than stand in the shadows of life pretending all is perfect in our little corner of the world? Life is always so much easier when we are authentic and love on one anther. When we share our hearts, we create opportunities to share and show love. We do life with each other. Often times, people only want to do the pretty parts of life. What is ever gained by that? I'll take deep and dirty over pretty and proper any day. I want to love dirty. I want to walk into heaven knowing I got messy in love. I want to openly and honestly love - even when that means walking through the grit of life. Let's be purposeful in encouraging others and walking in real life together.<br />
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My family's story is a story of great pain, deep questions, suicidal thoughts, and God's loving guidance and visions of the promised land. We had the carpet swept out from under our feet so severely that it left our heads spinning. We wandered in the desert looking forUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1937061930621318772.post-75526134640586343182017-10-24T09:00:00.000-07:002023-02-22T13:16:43.324-08:00Living Beyond our Pasts and into the Futrure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Do you have a closet of skeletal bones that if the door was opened, you would be horrified? Do you have past sins that pain you when you think upon them?<br />
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Yeah, me too. My heart aches at some of my past choices and sins. Sometimes I think upon them with such shame and wonder what in the world was I thinking!? <br />
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Actually, I know exactly what I was thinking when I was buried in the sins that cause me great shame. I was a broken mess searching for clarity, worth, and anyone to save me. I looked for anyone and anything to validate me and tell me that I mattered. <br />
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Any chance you can relate? <br />
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If I think about it hard enough, I can still feel the terrible gnawing at my heart. The quiet, but powerful begging for someone to love me. Gracious, there are times I just want to give that old girl a hug. <br />
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I am proof - as you may be too - that ugly messes can turn into beautiful and mighty workers for Christ. <br />
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There are still times, however, that the stupid devil tries to get me to feel the bitterness of shame and regret. The pest screams at me when I'm feeling down that I will never matter because of my past. He likes to tell me that if my biological father didn't love me, no one else really does or will either. <br />
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He's a liar. In fact, he's the father of lies. He has no truth in him. You and I should NEVER believe him.<br />
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If I feel the heavy heat of shame try and overtake my heart, I have to remind myself that Jesus' ways are not my ways. His thinking is not mine. He isn't seated on His beautiful throne reliving my disgusting sins. He is not reliving yours either. He is filling His heart each moment with love for us. He is looking upon our obedience and desire to live for Him and saying, "That's my girl! I have faith in you, sweet child."<br />
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You may be reading this and thinking, "How on earth can you be so sure? You have no idea of the sins I have in my locked up closet."<br />
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I know because Jesus tells us it's so. Allow me to show you-<br />
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{If you have a Bible available, read the entire account in Luke 7:36-50.}<br />
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<i><b>Luke 7:36-50</b></i> tells us that Jesus was at the home of a Pharisee dining when a woman who was labeled a sinner came in and wept at His feet. She cleansed Jesus' feet with her painful tears and rubbed her very expensive fragrant oil on them. The Pharisee was outwardly horrified and disgusted. He asked Jesus if He knew what kind of woman was touching Him and how on earth He could allow it.<br />
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The town had labeled the woman a sinner. You can be certain they had names for her and liked to make themselves feel superior by condemning her. We are all sinners so I am led to believe that she had a very open sin that the town knew about. The Scriptures do not detail her sin but if my guess is correct, I would say she was a prostitute. I would bet she had a harried past and felt great shame and embarrassment. I would also bet that many in the town treated her like yesterday's trash and looked down upon her.<br />
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Jesus sternly tells the Pharisee that those who are forgiven much, love much. Jesus also assures the woman that she is forgiven. <br />
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Read Jesus' words and allow them to penetrate to your core. If needed, write them on an index card and keep it with you to read often until you know without a doubt that those sweet words are spoken directly to you and about you. <br />
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<b><i>Luke 7:50</i></b></div>
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<i>And He said to <u>(insert your name)</u>, "Your faith has saved you. Go in peace."</i></div>
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He does not shame her or validate the Pharisee. He actually calls the Pharisee out for being...well a Pharisee. </div>
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In Luke 7:44-47, Jesus basically calls the Pharisee out for being so condescending, rude, and pious. I love it!<br />
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Jesus isn't about to let people condemn His loves and get away with it. <i>He stands for us every single</i> <i>time</i>. <br />
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Let me show you a few verses that prove my statement above.<br />
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<i><b>Luke 6:37-38</b></i></div>
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<i>Do not judge and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure - pressed down, shaken together, and running over - will be poured into your lap. For the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.</i> </div>
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<i><b>John8:7</b></i></div>
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<i>When they persisted in questioning Him, He stood up and said to them, "The one without sin among you should be the first to throw a stone at her."</i></div>
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<i><b>James 4:11-12</b></i></div>
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<i>Don't criticize one another brothers. He who criticizes and brother or judges his brother criticizes the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. There is one lawgiver and judge who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?</i></div>
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See what I mean - Jesus doesn't take judging and condemning lightly. When you experience them, know that Jesus sees and doesn't like it. Nobody messes with His girls!</div>
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The best part of this story is told to us from the account in <strong>Matthew 26:13-</strong><br />
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<strong><i>I assure you: Wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told in memory of her.</i></strong></div>
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Jesus assures us that our faith will be remembered, not our sins. Our legacies will be based on our faith and devotion to Christ, not on our harried pasts that make our hearts heavy at times.</div>
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Isn't that an awesome balm for our hearts?! I don't know about you, but that is beautiful music to my heart! He takes our uglies and turns them into our beauties. He takes our past (our testimonies) and uses them to show the glory of His love and Kingdom. </div>
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Now that is some amazing mercy and grace! Let's all shout amen and hallelujah!</div>
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While many of us wish we could erase our past sins, they are actually what have caused our hearts to be so devoted to our Savior. Because we have been forgiven much, we love Him so very much. He cleaned up our messes and threw His loving arms around us. He welcomes us into His great Kingdom with open arms and a love that spins our heads with great devotion.</div>
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Be encouraged, sweet friends. You are loved with a great fierceness by your King.</div>
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Loving you all will an overflowing heart of adoration-</div>
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Marci</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com