A Step at a Time

God's Will

2011-07-08T00:46:00.001-04:00

Surrendering is NOT easy, I know that too well. Trying to understand God with OUR understanding is not only impossible but tormenting. We limit God to OUR thoughts. You want to KNOW what the Lord has to say to you, there is ONLY ONE place we can get to KNOW our Lord, that is through His Holy word.

Here are a few verses of who God says He is, and the things He does for us.

Isaiah 43:15 I am the LORD, your Holy One, Israel's Creator, your King."

Isaiah 43:1 But now, this is what the LORD says--he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

Isaiah 44:6 "This is what the LORD says--Israel's King and Redeemer, the LORD Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God.

Ezekiel 37:6 I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the LORD.'"

I can go on and on posting so many amazing bible verses that bring me so much peace. To KNOW the Lord is all i ask of Him, To know His character, expectations, how to honor him, fear Him, shun evil. If there's one thing i've learned through pain and suffering is that GOD DOES NOT GIVE US MORE THAN WHAT WE CAN HANDLE! I wonder if you really understand that.

Let me break it down...

God's will, WILL always be done in our lives. His purpose for you and I will come to pass wether we like it or not. The question is, are you willing to surrender to Him? Like really, are you? Because it is one of the main struggles us humans face, we suffer from the I GOT IT syndrome. Me, me me..What is it? do we not believe what the Lord says in His word.. I got you, you are mine, seek me and you shall find me, surrender to me, give me your yoke, i will deliver you... Those are the the words from our Lord to us. Now ask yourself- What prevents me from surrendering to the Lord, what stops me from DAILY giving my troubles and worries to Him... The first step is to KNOW Him and then Surrender. Surrender COMPLETELY, that every awakening is that of total surrendering, through prayer and the reading of the word.

I will continue this topic, for now please think about these questions :)

Week 2 Of the Lose 5-10lbs in May

2011-05-10T21:20:00.008-04:00

Can't believe we are on day 9 already!!!!

I've been doing good, lost 2lbs which is not great but its better than a gain any day. I've been working out inside on my elliptical because it's been raining and a bit cold over here. I am definitely eating good, especially no eating after 7pm. I also drink lots of water AND my whey protein shake everyday for lunch or dinner.

My husband and i have been taking time to go out for lunch at least every other day. We decided to take this time while the kids are at school and our restaurant is fully staffed and running smooth. I've learned how to eat out. I avoid bread, stick to water or flavored water mainly stick to greens, chicken or fish.

I chose to eat whatever i want on Sundays because let's face it, food is just way too good :) One thing i've been doing wring is not getting enough sleep which can affect weight loss tremendously, i plan on changing that from tonight on.

Let's keep pressing on ladies, if you look at this like a change how you eat and live rather than trying too hard to lose the weight you already won the battle.

So tell me about you, how are your goals coming along?

I Created a New Blog for ALL things Deals!

2011-05-05T22:51:00.001-04:00

Yes i did. I want to keep this blog to write about inspirational and weigh loss topics. My New Blog brings you all the deals i can find to save you money.

Hop on Over to check out all HOT deals - and the ones i snubbed this week.

A Dime at a Time

Also check for all your preschool ideas and printable visit my dear friend at

Pre K Ideas

Lose 5-10lb in May Challenge Begins TODAY!

2011-05-01T09:00:00.001-04:00

Hello friends! Are you ready for this challenge? OK remember no strenuous exercise or diet required, exercise and healthy eating will do.

Today, I plan on doing 30min on my elliptical and plan out my meals for the week. I will log meal and exercise ideas every week along with whatever progress i make, you are more than welcome to do the same in my community.

Week One challenge:

Lean and sexy arms

Every week i will add one challenge for us to take on. This week we will concentrate on working on our arms. How? with push ups. Let's start with 5 push ups every other day and as you build upper body strength you can increase reps.

There you have it, stay focus on the task at hand eliminate all distractions and temptations. You are doing this for YOU and no one else. YOU want this, let's get it.

Who want to Lose 5-10lbs with me in May?

2011-04-28T09:00:00.001-04:00

I am sitting here thinking i need to lose a few pounds, the only problem is i do not want the process of losing 5-10lbs to be difficult. Ok, i know losing weight is never easy but what i mean is i don't want to starve or do any extreme diet or exercise, I just want to focus and lose 5-10lbs for the month of May. Is it possible? YES IT IS...

Want to join me?

Come on just do it! what do you have to lose, OH YEA 5-10LBS... How might you ask? Here are some suggestions, you do whatever works for you.

Walking (take 15-30min walks every day, eat healthy)
Jogging (Jog for 15-30min everyday, eat healthy
At home workout program ( Jillian Michaels, Tony Horton and Shaun T are great trainers check their products out)
Sign up to the gym ( i don't have the time for this, but hey it might work for you)
Use your home exercise equipments (i have an elliptical that i plan on using the days i can't got outside for walks or jogs)
EAT SMART, yes is very important! Eat about 6 light meals a day and you should be good.

There you have, some ideas to get you started. You can then add to your daily exercise whatever works for you. No pressure, no extreme dieting just a group of women on a 5-10lbs mission.

So you with me? I will post daily updates on my BF community HERE so we can keep each other accountable and share ideas, recipes you name it!

My first VIDEO BLOG!!! All about SAVINGS with Coupons...

2011-04-21T16:51:00.000-04:00

Be nice it's my first VB ever!!! enjoy

"Oh that I had wings like a dove!"

2011-04-20T20:24:00.002-04:00

Have you ever wanted to disappear, well i have and truth is with everything i have going on in my life right now running away is the first thing that comes to mind. I feel something like David did in this Psalm

And I say, Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.

Yes, I would wander far away, I would lodge in the wilderness. I would hasten to escape and to find a shelter from the stormy wind and tempest.

Psalm 55:6-8

Today as i asked God for peace he brought me to this Psalm. Reading about King David's struggles made me feel less guilty and desperate, for even Him, a man after God's own heart had moments where he felt like he couldn't handle the storm.

To fantasize about escaping from the difficult or demanding aspects of our reality is human response Jesus understands completely. That's why He offers His own presence and way of life as the refuge we crave. We can read it here in Matthew

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Matthew 11:28-30

Ah how refreshing!!! The Lord Never gets tired, and those who rely on His strength will always find renewal. In the Mist of WHATEVER challenges life presents, we can run to Jesus and find rest for our weary souls.

Thank you God!

Why Hello there...

2011-04-18T22:22:00.000-04:00

Hi friends! I pray YOU dear reader are doing absolutely wonderful. We are all doing fabulous at the DLC household. Kids are a year older and mom is always on the move excited to share all my new ideas with the world.

I feel so alive right now and i think SPRING has everything to do with it. The beautiful weather, walks in the park, no heavy boots or coats for the next few months is simply awesome. But the most exciting thing i started doing is COUPON CLIPPING/SALE SEARCHING/BARGAIN SHOPPING like a mad woman.
As a family of 6 It took me a while didn't it? I just thought the whole process was so time consuming that i opted for the easy more expensive way out. I am done with that.

Let me show you my first attempt at this new lifestyle. Last week i went shopping and usually i would pay about 30-40 for the items you see on this picture, but no- i payed $20 for EVERYTHING YOU SEE HERE. I think i could of done better if i had enough time and more coupons to stack and double, but i am proud of my FIRST shot.

The basket where .99 cents at Bed bath and Beyond!!! Can you believe?? they are so cute too :)

I think i did good for a first time right? I plan on sharing about how to find these amazing deals at your local drug store and super market. This week i will take a trip to my local drug store to score some amazing things.. I will show you ALL.. stay tuned

No Yelling Challenge Update

2010-11-29T12:43:00.000-05:00

OK so the "No yelling for a week challenge" officially ends tomorrow. Yesterday i yelled not only at one of my kids but 2 of them. I was in one of those "whatever" moods and my 5yr apparently was in "i will not listen today no matter what" mode.

Even though i didn't stick to the plan, I don't feel as if I failed this challenge completely. Due to this task learned how to stop, breath and act instead of yelling. Now as soon as i see the situation escalating to where i might have to yell or get super irritated i pause, pull the child to the side and address the situation correctly. I can only pray that i can continue applying this to my DAILY life.

Basically that's it for that.. Is all about action from here on...With God ALL things are possible :)

No Yelling for a week challenge

2010-11-23T12:13:00.004-05:00

Alright people i have a challenge at hand and i want you to join me. The challenge is " no yelling at your kids for week" what you say, you with me?

I can't believe I'm setting myself up for this one. All i keep thinking in my head is "will i be able to actually pull this one off"? but I WILL, why not? First let me clarify something (or make myself feel a little better) I DON"T go on rampages and scream at my kids on a daily basis. I have those moments each day when i let out 2, 3 or maybe 4 loud "PICK UP YOUR SHOES, STOP HITTING, I SAID NOOOOO". I understand this approach will only make kids listen at that very moment, if that, what i mean is kids don't always think "i should pick up my shoes or mom will yell all the time", on the contrary they have a way of blocking you and go right back to the old behaviour the next day. In fact they will actually imitate your crazy yelling before they ever do what you YELL at them to do.

So today, November 23-30 i am taking up this one week challenge with the hope of eliminating this non effective, unproductive behaviour FOR EVER!!!

Care to join me?

I'm Here, I'm Here!!!!!

2010-10-28T09:38:00.000-04:00

Oh what joy i felt as i clicked on the "new post" button on blogger. It's been way to long my friends but as you all know "life happens" and boy has it happened around here.

First let me start by saying that we FINALLY opened our restaurant HOOORAY! for those who don't know my husband and i along with a very good friend of ours spent a year building a franchise. 21 Flavors of bone and boneless CHICKEN WINGS! Delicious i tell you...We opened August 12 and if we thought building and sacrificing so much for a whole year was tough, these 2 1\2 months have been even harder. We've already learned so much (i wish the learning process would of came without errors) and know we will continue to learn even more. Here's a peek of our place..

God is good...

I have to run, but i will be back tonight to share some weigh loss update...

Completed my first 5K

2010-06-22T10:16:00.000-04:00

What an amazing experience! I can't believe i waited so long to take part of something like this.

On June 13 i ran my first 5K in support of Tuft Medical Center Floating Hospital and helped save lives of children. I trained for about 6 weeks with couch to 5K program, I recommend this program to anyone for it works great. helped me to slowly worked myself to run a 5K in 6 weeks.

What an amazing accomplishment for me. The run itself was breath taking, i ran right along the harbor in Boston and the weather was pleasant. There were about 1,500 runners and walkers. Together we helped raise 256,000 for this cause.. God is good :)

I plan on doing this specific 5K run every year God willing, and next year i will run it with my 13yr daughter ... YAY

THAT WAS GREAT!!

What we been up to & My 90 days of P90X outcome!

2010-06-01T13:22:00.001-04:00

I'm sorry for abandoning you my dear readers, but exercising has taken me to a place in my life i didn't see coming. I'm no longer a home body, I'm enjoying the outside world everyday with my family :)

Last week we went on our first camping trip to Maine we had such a peaceful weekend. No Internet, phones, televisions just us creating memories. The boys went fishing with dad, i lay ed out by the lake with my girls, we built bond fires, ate smores, you name it... Time seemed to have stopped- God really worked with us through this trip...

Can't wait to do it all OVER again next year!!!

Now if your wondering what ever happened with P90X- I did complete the 90days on May 22nd. Overall i lost 8lbs.. I know is not much at all- But is not about that for me, is about how i feel and the things i am able to do now because of those 90 days. I did lose inches of my chest, waist, thighs, arms, legs and is all that matter to me...I would of lost a lot more if i had done the eating program, but i can't stick to NO eating regimen- not because i eat a lot but because I'm way too busy, seriously i am.

Here's my final 90 day progress..

Before

After

I'm Happy with my progress.. Slowly but surely i will get there- No rush.. I start my next 90 days today (i know i can't get enough of it)

I also have been training for my first 5K run on June 13- It been a challenge because of Shin problems but I WILL MAKE IT THROUGH WITH GOD'S HELP! :)

Will you support me as i Run my first 5K for a cause?

2010-05-18T18:12:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, June 13th I’m participating in the 8th annual Harbor Walk & Run, a fundraising event to benefit Tufts Medical Center and Floating Hospital for Children. Lives are saved there every day – adults and kid’s lives. Tufts Medical Center and Floating Hospital deserve our support.

I’ve made a personal commitment to raise $_500_ for Tufts Medical Center and I hope you’ll help me reach my goal. You can visit my personal fundraising page at www.harborwalkrun.org and learn more about the Medical Center, the event, and how close I am to reaching my goal.

You can make a gift using a credit card when you visit my web page.

Every dollar helps! And your gift is tax deductible. Thank you for your generosity. If you have any questions, please contact me at Jstar1418@aol.com. I really appreciate your support.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER MY PERSONAL FUNDRAISING PAGE.

Your contribution of ANY amount is appreciated.. God Bless you..

P90X Day 61-67- Week 2 of 5K training & Mommy day 2010

2010-05-10T09:47:00.000-04:00

I have never worked out so hard in my life the way I've been for the past 8 days now. I wake up at 5:45 to be out the door by 6am to do my 5K training. Considering I've never been a morning person this has been a bitter sweet experience for me. I hate it but i love it...

The program I'm using to train for the 5K is here http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml Check it out, so far it's bee great!

P90X is going really good, I think my arms are getting a little too big but as i lose the weight it will all even out. So i hope. Weight Loss is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do, staying consistent is key yet extremely hard to do, but not impossible. Because of exercise i feel like a different person. I am more active, balanced and happy.

This weekend i had a wonderful mother's day with my family. I am extremely blessed that God chosed me to bear children, especially such beautiful kids like mine :) Thank you Lord for your gift to me..

P90X Day 60-61 and 5k training day 2

2010-05-04T17:29:00.000-04:00

I don't really know where to start because so much has been going in my life right now is crazy. We went on a mini vacation for a few days, got back to do some construction around the house which lasted a WHOLE week of mess, stress you name it. We also celebrated our little O first birthday party and had a blast.

With all that's been going on working out was extremely hard to squeeze in. I had no access to my living room where i usually do my P90X so i missed one whole week of it, but I'm right back to it. I also began training for a my first 5k run yesterday, so far so good. This program promises to train me run a 5k like nothing in 9 weeks, we shall see i will keep you guys posted.

I will also post some pictures in 2 weeks after i make up for the almost 2 weeks i messed up.

P90X Day 57-59 Phase 3

2010-04-26T23:50:00.000-04:00

Hi friends..

Well vacation week for the little ones is over and we are back to our daily routine. The kids really enjoyed themselves which is always satisfying to us parents.

I'm going through writers block right now or i'm extremely tired, either or i feel a big fog in my head.

Last week was crazy in the eating department. I went out almost everyday with my husband and let's just say we lived it up :) It was all so worth it, but now i have a lot of work to do and it started today.

I can't believe i only have 30 more days to go with this program, this is crazy. This program has changed my life completely, my confidence level has increased so much, i am forever grateful to Tony Horton for creating this incredible workout system. My plan is to go for 90 more days once i'm done, by then it should bring me to that place i want to be.

Here's what my schedule looks like for the next 3 weeks.

P90X LEAN PHASE 3:

Weeks 9, 11
Day 1 – Chest and Back, Ab Ripper X
Day 2 – Cardio X
Day 3 – Shoulders and Arms, Ab Ripper X
Day 4 – Yoga X
Day 5 – Core Synergistics
Day 6 – Kenpo X
Day 7 – Rest or X Stretch

I need to stay motivated now more than ever and finish these next 30 days STRONG...

Love & War Giveaway Winner!!!

2010-04-23T11:08:00.000-04:00

And the winner is.....

Cop Mama- Congratulations your the random winning number 14. Enjoy your copy of Love and War

Contact me @ Jstar1418@aol.com with your info within 48 hours if not i will select a second chance winner..
Enjoy girl :)

P90X Day 49-56.. No longer M.I.A

2010-04-21T20:02:00.002-04:00

My dear bloggy friends, I am so sorry for being M.I.A for so long! I've been getting some house chores out the way. We also went on a mini vacation to New York city :) where we had LOTS of fun.

I forgot to bring my laptop, but truth is i'm glad i did because i needed to spend some undivided time with the gang. Working out has been great, i can say i am addicted to this program. I even took it with me and worked out at the hotel (yup that counts as addiction). I have to admit, even though i did not eat excessively i did eat poorly this weekend :( Need to drink my dieter's tea and meal replacements everyday this week to make up for the lost week i had...

Tomorrow i finish phase 2 of this program, which means i get to switch the whole workout schedule again! I will post Phase 3 schedule tomorrow.

AND tomorrow guess who's turning 1- Little O is turning 1 year old! SO exciting i can't believe is been a year already... Love you little princess, may the Lord give you many more healthy years with your family that loves you to pieces... And now here's a short video of this adorable little P90X baby O..Shes too funny...

Love and War Book Giveaway!

2010-04-16T10:21:00.002-04:00

I'm currently reading Love & War by John and Stasi Eldredge and i absolutely love it, so much i want to share a copy with you.

John and Stasi are very transparent and real with their own story which helps the reader connect and find open. So far is one of the best marriage book i've read. It is good for couples to go through together if possible. However, one partner putting the principles to work like John and Staci suggest will result in positive change for any marriage.

I think if you are about to get married, a newly wed, or been married for LONG years, this book is for you. It is all centered around God, Scripture and though marriage is not always easy, and sometimes disappointing, it is possible to make it!

Ok enough talk.. Let's get to it!

For a chance to WIN a FREE copy here's what you do

Leave a comment sharing why you would like to win this book
Follow my blog (and boo you if you un follow, you will miss out on my future giveaways) Leave a comment saying your a follower
Tweet about this giveaway- leave a comment
Follower me on Twitter for another entry - Leave a comment here
Blog about this giveaway- Leave a comment
Join my Blog Frog community , start a Discussion- leave a comment

This Giveaway end 4/23/10 -

I will pick a winner through www.random.org

Don't forget to join my community :)

My Kids Workout Too!

2010-04-14T12:35:00.002-04:00

I recently purchased Shaun T's Fit Kids Club DVD for my kids and THEY LOVE IT.

They have been watching me workout for 9 months now, they are my #1 cheerleader. Not only do they enjoy watching me they sometimes join me. Even my 11 month old is picking up on this, check her and my 13 yr old doing yoga with me...

(I took this pic on low lighting and on iPhone)

I found Shaun's DVD and decided to give it a try. Here's a little info about this DVD

"Get down and get fit with Shaun T's Fit Kids Club workouts for kids ages 7 and up! It's all about sweat, strength, and FUN with mad awesome dance moves that keep you healthy and energized! It doesn't matter what your size or shape is—or even if you can't dance. Shaun T will teach you cool, new steps with rad music so you'll be rockin' out in no time! These workouts are so much fun, you won't even feel like they're exercise!"

I do this DVD with them at least 3 times a week is easy. The workout is broken down into 2 parts each 25 minutes long.

1. Groovin it out

Get your groove on with Shaun T and the Fit Kids, doing cool dance steps like the Hustle, We're Cool, Body Jam, Wind & Toss, Bounce & Swipe, and Basketball. You'll be having so much fun, you'll forget you're exercising! It’ll become the best part of your day! (25 minutes)

2. Cool Moves

Get funky while you get healthy. Shaun T shows you new hip, hot steps like The Hey!, Snake It, Pound & Hop, Dust & Wave, and Smooth Groove. Learn the coolest moves and get in great shape at the same time! Work it out every day with Shaun T and the Fit Kids. (25 minutes)

Plus 3 free Bonuses

Healthy kid-friendly snack ideas
Guide to learn to read nutrition labels
Shaun T's Fit Kids Club wall poster to keep track of your workouts

To order Click on the link Below...

$19.95 plus $4.95 shipping.. WOW

P90X day 43-48- Oh what a Drag...

2010-04-12T22:22:00.000-04:00

Working out has been such a burden lately, i did my workout but not with a smile on my face. This morning i decided to do the Shred DVD and oh boy was that a BAD idea, my right knee is killing me. I don't know what is it about the Shred that makes the knees HURT like crazy, sorry Jillian but i think i'm officially done with the Shred. I just finished doing my P90X Core Synergistics i am TIRED.

I've been super busy around here. I'm hardly online and my new iphone has A LOT to do with it. I upgraded to 3G and do almost all my online stuff from there. I spent all day in Boston today and i'm super tired..

Sorry for the short post but i promise i will be back tomorrow with a SUPER giveaway...

My FIRST 5 Question Friday

2010-04-09T10:12:00.000-04:00

I've decided to join the FUN! I've been a lurker of 5QF for way too long. 5QF was created by a very sweet lady Mama M of My Sweet Little Life, if you like to read more 5QF entries head over to her blog and join in.

Here i go...

1. Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?

This is funny because all i keep thinking about when i think of someone is Angelina Jolie. I don't believe to have anything in common with her just love her acting skills :) So i guess it would be her or Dr.Yang from Greys Anatomy..lol.. In looks we have nothing in common but in everything else i think we are right on.

2. Did you ever go to summer camp?

Nope, living in uptown Manhattan was rough for a girl.

3. What sends you running and screaming in the other direction?

Jehovah's Witness.. Ok i'm joking i promise. But truth is every Saturday morning during the summer when they knock at your door at 8am, i surely wish i could run the other direction...

Bugs, crazy animals, creepy creatures totally make me run the other direction.Heck even a dog makes me run and scream..

4. What is something you do that drives your spouse nuts?

lol... This is a good one because just last night he was telling me how much this bugs him. With me a simple yes or no answer is never enough, i ALWAYS go into interrogation mode (i do this with my kids also) I want to know how things happened, when, what time EVERYTHING. Call me crazy or better yet noisy but i must have all the details.. This drives any men crazy because they are simple yes and no type of people...
5. What is currently your favorite song?

Imma B by the Black Eye Peas..Love them :)

There you have it peeps.. Enjoy

And the Winner is...

2010-04-08T21:33:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to my dear bloggy friend and P90X rocking girl-- Alison from The Levy Family Your the winning number of this awesome giveaway..

The Power of a Praying Wife Book

Email me your contact info to Jstar1418@aol.com within 48 hours- Otherwise i will draw a second chance winner..

Congrats girl.. Stay tuned for the next giveaway REAL soon.. Your going to LOVE it..

P90X Day 42- Picture update

2010-04-06T20:48:00.003-04:00

I want to thank you all for your lovely comments on yesterday's crazy post. I feel a lot better, i know your prayers lifted me :)

Now back to the good stuff...

I need to jump off the PC to get my workout done. I'm doing Cardio X which is short and sweet. But first i want to show you guys a picture i took this weekend. This is day 42

Don't mind me i like wearing black A LOT- I changed my diet, i'm eating about 6 times a day to get my metabolism moving faster. Doing P90x Lean version has helped a lot as well..

These pictures are 14 days apart- I like to believe i look thinner, at least that's how i feel.

I was trying a new hairstyle, what y'all think?

Day 1

Day 28

Day 42

Purchase P90X HERE, i can coach you for FREE!

Sadness has taken a hold of me today (My story)

2010-04-05T22:25:00.000-04:00

Today after lunch i knew the day had taken a turn. I started feeling very anxious, nauseous and the headache was so bad i cried and cried, but of course it simply got worse.

I want to share this with you because i really need to vent a little...

About 12 years ago my mother died in car accident on her way to pick me up from the airport. She had left on vacation to Dominican Republic and i was schedule to meet her there 2 weeks after. My flight was schedule to leave at 7 a.m, but i was late and missed my flight. I was able to get on a later flight, which meant i would land in DR at about 9pm. Unfortunately there was no one there to pick me up, at about 7pm and very close to the airport my mother and 2 other passengers who were also family members, were killed. It's been 12 long crazy years since this tragedy happened and i still get physically sick when i think about it.

My God is a awesome God, and without Him i would of never made it out of the dark place i once was. For almost 8 years i lived in a very dark and lonely place, where only God, my Husband and kids kept me sane. If it was up to me i would of self-destruct little by little. But because of His grace i am here.

For so long, i blamed myself not only for my mother's death but also my 2 cousins who died along with her. Many people have said to me, my husband especially that i don't have the power to cause such drastic event. I believe it, yet there;s one truth that keeps me hostage.

The night before my departure to DR i had only slept about 2 hours, i woke up late so i missed my first flight. I've always asked myself what if i would of never missed that flight, why was i so irresponsible about this? I mean i do know and believe God is in control of everything and He allows things to happen, but why this? And why can't i get past this? Before today i really thought things were getting better, and these feelings were finally dying out. But after speaking to my sister today, i can't help but feel horrible for robbing them of a mother. I was only 16 when this happened my sister was 9 and my brother 8, so the've never had a mom there through the most important times in their life...I'm hurting today- deeply.. Will continue another time because right now i need to pray for peace...

God Bless y'all

P90X Day 36-41- Thank you Tony!

2010-04-05T10:51:00.002-04:00

Tony Horton, i am for ever grateful to you for creating such great workout program. Muscle confusion is surely what makes P90X so effective.

Yoga is a workout i will never stop doing, this is forever. Tony says in one of his DVD'S "there's things i can do with my body not because i do pull ups, but because i do yoga" and Tony i completely understand you now. If mother was alive she would be proud to know i no longer slump on a chair when i sit. This workout has helped my posture a lot, and my back is stronger.

As i gained weight i moved a lot slower. I didn't go out with my kids as much as i would of liked because my body felt heavy, i found myself dragging my body everywhere. I also felt ugly, fat, yucky... Everything i wore never fit right to me, i was depressed because of my weight- what a sad way to live. But now as the weather rises going outside to do yard work or taking the kids out is no longer a hassle for me, i get up and at it without these crazy feelings hovering over me. I feel very happy and can only imagine how much better it will get.

Enough chatting.. Here's my work out schedule for the last 6 days..

Day 36- Chest, Shoulders and Triceps- Ab Ripper X-- When i first did this workout i hated it because of all the push ups you have to do, but now as i see what it's doing to my chest ME LIKE IT A LOT :)

Ab Ripper X- In this abs workout every move is composed of 25 reps each, in almost all of them I've yet to finish the whole 25 but i am proud to say i made it to 20 reps- I am proud :)

Day 37- Yoga- Out of the 94 minutes I'm suppose to do in this workout i only did 20 because i was so sick with a headache and nausea this day :(

Day 38- Legs and Back, Ab Ripper X-- This was a great workout because i love working on my back- My legs not so much because some of the moves are hard and make my legs BURN.. I'm still sore from it.

Ab Ripper X- No Ab workout for me because i had to step out..

Day 39- Kenpo X- When i did this workout for the first time it made me very frustrated because i kept messing up the moves, I'm not the most coordinated person. But this week all i did was listen to what was next and without even looking i knew exactly what to do.. again.. I'm proud.. I'm considering taking a kickboxing class this fall, this stuff is FUN..

Day 40 X Stretch or Rest- Rest for me please..

Day 41 Core Synergistics- This workout has gone from most hated to one i look foward to. A strong core will allow you to keep optimal body alignment for whatever you're doing.

And now i need to get off this PC to go enjoy this beautiful weather, going for a 20 min walk..

Have a awesome day y'all

The Power of a Praying Wife- Giveaway

2010-04-01T22:32:00.001-04:00

I recently picked my copy of The Power of a Praying Wife up again for 30 days of prayer for my husband.

The other day my husband had a tiresome look on his face that touched my heart deeply. You must know that when one of my people are not OK, i get into superwoman mode to make their life pleasant as best i can. After asking my husband what i could do to make his day better he simply said pray for me, knowing that your pleading for me to God, brings me peace. Of course it does i thought, prayers are ALWAYS the best approach to any situation because we give our cares to the Lord and He in all his perfection provides.

The first time i read this book it taught me how and what to pray for my husband. No longer was i repeating the same predictable prayer but rather covering all areas of his life where prayer is vital like

His Relationship with God
His Work
His Affection
His Mind
His Health
His Temptations

This book has been a BIG blessing to me and i want to share it with someone else...So I'm giving away a copy to one random winner!

To enter

Write a comment about why you would like to win this book
Follow and comment for another entry
Write a post about this giveaway for 3 entries..

Giveaway ends 4/8/10 .. I will pick a winner through http://www.random.org/

P90X Day 35- I Can't Believe it!

2010-03-30T23:27:00.005-04:00

You know the thought you get when you see someone who's really fit (i'm talking six pack and all) you think, man one day it might just happen- but deep down you don't really believe it can. Well I've just been hit with the "wow this might just happen"!

Today i did Cardio X and after working out i decided to take measurements and pose on the mirror a little bit (yup i actually enjoy that now) I start flexing my arms and dreaming of the day i get a 4 or 6 pack. I mean you have to understand that after seeing my stomach transform 4 times the way it has, one could only dream. But today I'm hopeful, yes i am. Can you believe i can actually feel the muscles in my abdomen getting not only stronger but taking shape :) You know the two muscles you feel on the side of your abdomen, i can actually feel them a lot more now - seriously I'm lost for words... This is huge for me because i heard so many people say " you will never get your stomach to become flat after pregnancy, don't waste your time" i even got some hateful anonymous comments about this here. And now i have words for you HATER!

DEDICATION, HARD WORK, GETTING OFF MY BEHIND, PUSHING THROUGH EVEN WHEN YOU FEEL AS IF YOUR GOING TO DIE--- PAYS OFF!

I might not be at the finish line yet but i am at a place of hope, and I'm running towards my reward. Quitting is never a option for me, i can do anything i put my heart to (with the help of God of course) and believe i shall be victorious.. Sitting at the finish line with my 6 pack baby!

Oh P90X how i LOVE you...

P90X Day 29-34- The Road...

2010-03-29T11:58:00.003-04:00

What a yucky weekend. Husband and i are sick with a cold for 5 days now, so annoying!!!

Workout has been a challenge but i managed to get through.

Day 29 Plyometrics- I was so sore after this workout, I'm getting a lot stronger and able to push through most of the the workouts. One of the things i like about this particular plyo workout is the sports moves he incorporates in the last 12 minutes or so, i have fun with it.

Day 30 Shoulders and Arms, Ab Ripper X- I always have fun working out with resistance bands, i used them through out the whole workout. Ab Ripper X is getting a lot easier i can do 20 reps in almost all the moves, that is a HUGE improvement for me.

Day 31 Yoga X- After a hour i was beat and decided it was time for a shower. 94 minutes went down to 60, it was still a good workout.

Day 32- Legs and Back, Ab Ripper X- I did such a sloppy job on this workout because i was going through crazy body aches due to this cold. I skipped Abs, shower and headed to zzzzzz....

Day 33 Kenpo X- I've never pushed myself through anything so hard as i did with Kenpo this weekend, this darn cold had me in bad shape...

Day 34 X Stretch or Rest-- And of course i chose REST..

I decided to change from the classic workout to Lean- I want to do more Cardio and less weights. This is how my workout schedule will look like for the next 3 weeks

P90X LEAN PHASE 2:

Weeks 5-7

Day 1 – Core Synergistics

Day 2 – Cardio X

Day 3 – Chest, Shoulders and Triceps, Ab Ripper X

Day 4 – Yoga X

Day 5 – Legs and Back, Ab Ripper X

Day 6 – Kenpo X

Day 7 – Rest or X Stretch

Week 8

Day 1 – Yoga X

Day 2 – Core Synergistics

Day 3 – Kenpo X

Day 4 – X Stretch

Day 5 – Cardio X

Day 6 – Yoga X

Day 7 – Rest or X Stretch

I need to loose weight a lot faster, this will give me a boost...
My eating was no bad or good- i hardly ate anything which is bad for weight loss but my appetite was no where to be found and my taste buds are still on vacation.. Let's pray for a better week.

Submission, A Woman Constant Struggle...

2010-03-26T17:56:00.002-04:00

While visiting Sailor's & Company BF community today i came across this post, which stroke a cord enough for me to write a post about it.

Michelle asked these great questions;

I know the "Sunday School" answer to this, but I want to hear practically from you godly ladies, how do you submit to your husband when he doesn't hold up his end of the bargain, and if he doesn't "deserve" it?

Like Michelle i asked God these questions all the time. I struggled with the thought "why should i submit to someone who doesn't appreciate it or doesn't submit to the Lord himself at times- Or like Michelle said doesn't hold his end of the bargain".

I thought of the first sentence she wrote "i know the Sunday school answer" and tried to come up with an answer to her questions with this in mind, but truth is i couldn't. There is no way for me to answer these questions outside of what i personally experience in my life and that is the power of the Holy spirit convicting me and guiding me to what is right. There are days when i completely toss it all out the window. I let anger, frustration, self centeredness, the enemy overall get the best of me. And yes, i toss the whole "Sunday school practice" out the window. But what happens to me at the moment, at the end of the day or sometimes the next day is the work of God through the Holy spirit guiding me to what is right. The voice speaks volume in my heart and asks me these questions;

Does Jesus in all his perfection ever ask himself why should i forgive her if she never holds up her end of the bargain, why should i continue over and over pouring my over abundant grace on her if she doesn't deserve it?

I don't have a answer to this! My part is to continue praying daily that He transforms me every day more and more like Him. That i can keep pressing on towards the finish line and come out victorious with my family. So no matter what my husband does or doesn't do, my job is to continue pressing on in prayer. My God is faithful, my God is truth- So when He says " call on to me and i will respond" i not only believe Him, but try over and over to live like it. There will be days when i fail at the attempt, but He with all His LOVE will open His arms to me and tell me "I am you father, and i forgive you" and the race continuous...

What a wonderful God we serve...

We are in a race and only the valiant reach the end, now ask yourself what are you? No matter where your partner is (unless your being abused and your life is in danger) you must remain faithful in prayer and know that, you and i are NOT perfect either we have our flaws but if the Lord has opened OUR spiritual eyes to His greatness and your partner is still not there, your responsibility is even greater and through Prayer to the one who gives the power to sustain your marriage, we shall be victorious..

Jesus Your MY ROCK!

The Circus is Coming, The Circus is Coming and I have Discounted Tickets for You.

2010-03-25T09:00:00.003-04:00

The Big Apple Circus is coming to Boston just in time for April vacation, and I'm excited to share discounted tickets with you!!!

One of the many things i remember about my childhood is going to the circus with my mom at least twice a year. I recently found a picture of me dressed as a clown on one of those visits and it literally brought me to tears (don't hold your hopes up, i will NOT share the pic..lol). The time has come to bring my own kids to the circus (can't believe they've never been) I showed them all the awesome pictures and videos and they are ecstatic.

Bello is Back! under the Big Apple Big Top performing breathtaking feats of humor in the theatrical focus of one ring with no seat more than 50 feet away!

It seems like only yesterday that this daredevil clown made his hair-raising New York debut with the Big Apple Circus. He’s been a big star all over the world ever since and was recently named "America's Best Clown" by Time Magazine. WOW i really want to see his show!

Bello is joined by a world of stellar circus stars:

*From Spain, Picaso Jr. returns with his sizzling style and extraordinary juggling act — puffing into the air up to five ping-pong balls simultaneously, and catching them — with his mouth!

*From Russia, the Aniskin Troupe amaze with their bravura, athletic trampoline act — then soar into the Big Top stratosphere with their spectacular flying trapeze act!

*The Big Apple Circus' own lovely and graceful Regina Dobrovitskaya performs a shimmering spectacle on aerial silk ribbons!

*Equestrians Christine Zerbini and Sultan Kumisbayev present an electrifying riding act — standing atop galloping chargers, Roman–style!

*Luciano Anastasini’s Pound Puppies (all rescued from animal shelters) return for a joyously jumping mélange of human and canine acrobatics!

Of course there’s more and for an extra measure of love and laughter, there’s the Big Apple Circus' very own clown -- Grandma.

WHAT A SHOW! I can't wait to see my kids faces :)

Here's all the info you need to purchase your discounted tickets to the Big Apple Circus.

Online: http://bigapplecircus.org/bostonpop.aspx and submit the code POP10 in the Promotional Codes box

By Phone: CALL 888-541-3750 and mention code POP10

In Person: Big Top Box Office 10AM–6PM daily. No service fee. Bring a copy of this blog post

*Offer good on select seat locations and performances. Must present this blog post to receive discount at the box office. Performance schedule subject to change. Offer is subject to availability; not valid on prior purchases; cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. This offer can be revoked at any time. Discount amount varies. Limit 8 tickets per order. No refunds or exchanges. Telephone and Internet orders are subject to standard service fees.

To stay updated with all Big Apple Circus news and events Follow them on Twitter @BigApple_Circus on Twitter, or become a fan on Facebook- Big Apple Circus Facebook fan page

Enjoy the show :)

P90X Day 27-28... 1 Month Pictures Update

2010-03-22T23:11:00.002-04:00

WHOA day 30 is almost here!!! And then i only need 2 months to complete round 1 of P90X, GO ME!!!

Quick update

Day 27- More Cardio X and Yoga

Day 28- Chest, Shoulders and Triceps- Ab Ripper X- This workout was intense. Remember how i told you before how much i enjoy strength training, well today i was struggling a bit. Push ups were a bit harder, faster and a lot more of them- I moderated a bit and pushed through. Let's pray next week i do better.

Now here's a peek at what i accomplished in 1 month of P90X and healthy eating...BTW I didn't attend Boston College- My husband did :) We are HUGE eagles fan around here...

2/10

Before

3/10

After

I'm satisfied with my progress so far. I'm not going to weight or measure myself until I'm done- I don't need the stress or pressure. I'm doing everything the program asks to do (except a few food cheating days, love me some cheesecake factory )

What you say, want to try this with me? Let me help you walk through it.. Contact me!

And the Winner is...

2010-03-22T10:37:00.003-04:00

**First winner never claimed the prize, and i had NO WAY of contacting her sorry**

Congratulations Kate @www.katesworldbykate.blogspot.com/

Number 6 was the random # for this Giveaway and that's YOU

Please Email me your Details at Jstar1418@aol.com Within 24 hours. If not i will select a 3RD chance winner tomorrow..

Stay tuned for the next Giveaway possibly today or tomorrow...

P90X Day 23-26- I'm Grooving!

2010-03-20T23:51:00.000-04:00

My way to a healthy lifestyle...

I am so proud of the way i been eating lately, it does not even feel as if I'm dieting or depriving myself of food because i want to make conscious and healthy choices for my body. I think when people introduce the word diet in their life they ultimately fail because they do it not to gain weight or loose, instead of doing it to live a healthy life.

Everywhere i go i bring my bottle of water and snacks, this helps me stay in check if i get hungry while i'm out. I told you guys this week was recovery week for me-Recovery week is important so your muscles take a break, recover and grow bigger. Intense weight-training puts a tremendous amount of stress on your body, and it is not just your muscles that are affected. The entire neuromuscular system, as well as immune function is stressed by weight-training so a week of rest every month is ideal. That's why i focused more on cardio workout this week.

Day 23 -Core Synergistic-- Truth is i didn't enjoy this workout at all. I should of because is great for your abs and much more yet i did about half hour of it and quit (fair to say i had a little accident that day, i drank 2 Advil PM by mistake which really messed my day) I haven't tried it again but will tomorrow. UGH

Day 24-I did Abs Ripper X and walked for 20 minutes. I was tired so i kept it light

Day 25- Cardio X- This was not on my schedule for this recovery week but i didn't want to do Core Synergistic. I like this workout a lot. It starts with Yoga, then some Kenpo X, Plyometrics and Core to make you sweat up a storm. I really enjoyed it mostly because it was short and sweet.

Day 26- Cardio X AGAIN- I had to do this workout again tonight because after going laser tagging with my daughter and her friends i was beat (i think i shredded calories after 15 minutes of running in a sauna) When i got home i didn't know how i was going to fir today's workout, so i put on my workout clothes, shook the tiredness off and got my mind to work with my body and i completed this 43 min workout.

I LOVE P90X BRING IT!!!

Shared thoughts...

2010-03-19T02:02:00.002-04:00

There's been a few thing going on around here lately some good, others not so good... Let me start with the good :)

It's birthday week in my home, my BIG boy turned 9 the 14Th and, and, you ready for this---MY BIG GIRL TURNED 13 TODAY!!! She's a- a- a- TEENAGER! I have no words to say- I'm officially the mother of a TEENAGER... YIKES! Thank you God for my children, Thank you for their health, strength and protection... THANK YOU..

Last weekend it rained for 3 days straight NON STOP- it was crazy! Due to the rain my basement got flooded pretty bad, everything i had there is gone. My boiler was off for a night or 2 and my hot water heater is still not on, so you can imagine me heating hot water for everything around here (honey I'm getting a bit upset about that already, please handle this situation PRONTO- Love you sweety :P)

Now don't get me wrong I'm so upset this happened but in a way i feel liberated from all the junk i had "stored" down there, and - you won't believe- my hubby is building me a gym with all the space we have available now after everything got crazy wet. So that I'm very grateful for

(this is NOT a actual photo of my basement, i was not bright enought to take some)

Today i'm sad because i will never experience this again

You see, the thought of not having anymore kids is liberating in so many ways but it also brings this sudden sadness. I won't ever experience a pregnancy or caress my own newborn baby again..(i love the smell of a brand new babies)- Next month i'm going to get the all time procedure done- yup- i'm ceiling the deal and i pray that the Lord continues to give me peace, take all sadness from my heart and continue to bless me with many more years to spend with the 4 beautiful gift He's given me :)

The ride has been fun...On to the Next step

P90X Day 22- Can Women Do P90X?

2010-03-16T16:57:00.000-04:00

Today's workout was so good..(yells a loud HOORAH) I was supposed to do Core Synergistic but instead i did Kenpo X- You know the Kickboxing style workout. I will do core tomorrow. I know all the moves and work them out to the max (GO ME).

So many ladies wonder if P90X is something they can do, and to answer that question i want you to meet Nancy, a 51 yr old mom who after suffering a few accidents was told she should not do more than a occasional walk.

Isn't she amazing? I've been at it for 22 days now, I never worked out in my life prior to the Shred mainly because i never paid attention to working out. I'm paying attention now and living a better happier life. P90X is not a beat you till you bleed workout, is not as hard you think. Of course if you have not done something in a long time or ever you might start off a bit shaky, but once you get the hang of things you will see how GREAT it is. Yoga especially, has been my favorite. I'm so flexible and my body aches are gone.

So the next time someone asks you, can women do P90X, tell them about Nancy then come back here and show them my upcoming 90 days progress :)

Walk with me...

A Book all Young Girls Should Own..GIVEAWAY

2010-03-15T18:29:00.001-04:00

I bought this book for my then 9 yr old daughter, and I'm so grateful i did. This book covers Head-to-Toes body care so well you will not regret the purchase. Some of the subjects are hair care, face, Body changes (period talk), nutrition etc...

My daughter was not intimidated by the book, the subjects are light but straightforward. One of the things i liked about this book is that it does not cover the topic of sex (i think this is a topic best explained by a parent rather than a book) I bought this book for my friend's daughter who after going over it immediately began washing her hair, taking better care of her nails- being more cautious about her body :)

Moms, this is a must have and i want YOU to have it...

To enter the Giveaway simply

Leave a comment why you would like to win this book
Tweet about the giveaway and leave a comment
Follow if you like for another comment entry
Blog about the giveaway for another chance to WIN

I will draw a winner through www.random.com on 3/22/10

P90X Day 18-21 Recovery week is here...

2010-03-15T10:36:00.000-04:00

Today is day 20 of my P90X journey and it's also recovery week for me. This week i will be doing less strength training and more cardio and Yoga.

Day 18 Legs, back and Abs-- I'm a total strength training addict- this is one of the workout i look forward to. At first i was not all that crazy about the legs part of the workout but they work so good on my legs is all worth the pain.
Day 19 Kenpo X--The first time i did this workout i didn't enjoy it because i was too busy trying to learn the moves, which cause a lot of frustration. I can now say is one of my fave. I love kickboxing makes me feel like a total tough girl :)
Day 20 X Stretch or Rest-- Of course i chose rest..
Day 21 Yoga X-- This is my recovery week first workout .. I'm so much better at yoga because i know the moves a lot better and don't have to be with my mind all over the place trying to figure out what's next. I'm more flexible and my balance is right on too.

This week i will concentrate on my diet and cardio. My goal is to loose at least 4lbs..Let me start by cleaning up my house a little. My big boy turned 9 this week and had a sleep over with some of his cousins and friends, so you can imagine what a house with 5 boys can look like..

Today they finish building the kitchen at our restaurant, I'm super excite about that. It's been a LONG ride but the finish line is right at the door, i can already taste it. We are opening a Wings Restaurant- 28 different flavor bone & boneless WINGS.. YUMMM Oh wait i said i would be concentrating on my diet this week and thinking about wings does NOT help a bit.. ugh..lol..

Have a Blessed day Y'All

P90X Day 15-17...Question & Answers

2010-03-11T16:20:00.002-05:00

Many of you have emailed with questions about the P90X workout program. Even though I'm not a fitness expert- Just a simple mom trying hard to lose the extra pounds through various methods. Last month i completed 61 days of Jillian Michaels 30 day Shred with good results, but need to switch things up a bit and that's when i met Tony Horton of creator of P90X.

I've been doing this workout for 17 days now, this is a 90 days plan that promises amazing results if you follow the workout program and a healthy diet. So far I've been doing great with it- I Lost 3lbs, a inch off my chest, my back is getting a lot stronger and toned. I can do twenty push ups without stopping (that is seriously impressive because i couldn't even do one) Yoga is helping me a lot with balance and stress, i absolutely love it..

On to Question and Answers;

First you will need Tony Horton complete program P90X

1. Does P90X really work?
(i got this answer over HERE, i agree with him 100%- He just explained it better than i would)

Yes! I believe there are 3 main factors that makes P90X work:

Muscle Confusion: The schedule is 3 weeks balls to the walls exercises with specific routines and then followed by 1 recovery week (mainly core, cardio and stretches)This goes on for 3 months total. Each month the types of exercises changes so you don't plateau.

Diverse Exercises: This program gets rid of the boredom of just going to the gym day in day out or doing aerobics for 60 minutes every day(blah!). You have chest and back one day, then Plyometrics, Kenpo and then there's yoga, yes yoga! I would have never in a million years ever say I do yoga. Yoga is probably one of my favorite exercises in this program. I believe I sweat the MOST doing yoga X compared to any other routine. You also feel very relaxed at the end.

Efficiency: You get 1+ hour of solid sweating, m

uscle pumping, fat burning, cardio and muscle toning routines. There is very little rest during the routines, which is the right way to workout (unless you want to bulk up). If you go to the gym, count on 10 to 30 min of driving , 15 min of socializing, 20 min total of resting between exercises which equals to about 30 min of actually "exercising" lol.

What Equipments do i need to begin?

"The only equipment that you're going to need for P90X is a set of free weights or resistance bands. Now, either and both of these can be replaced with a set of Power Bands. There are other odds and ends your encouraged to use, such as a heart rate monitor and a yoga mat, you don't need them to get started but i encourage you to buy them in the future. I didn't buy a pull up bar because i don't have a place to install it.

You can buy these online- i bought mine at Target and Walmart :)

How long are the workouts?

Aside from Abs Ripper X which is 15minutes long and Yoga which is 94 minutes- The DVD workout I've done so fat are 60 minutes long... Trust me they go by fast-th

e workout is fun (some days)

How do you make time to workout everyday?
With each program i made the commitment to not only complete it but to make it my daily priority. Each day after making sure my family has everything they need i jump right on to workout. Out of the 14 hours i spend awake - 1 hour to workout can't be that hard to pull off- bottom line it's all about how bad you want it :)

For more Q&A visit this SITE

Precious- My Reality Check

2010-03-10T10:30:00.000-05:00

Last night i watched a film that put things in perspective for me. Early this morning i was having some crazy nightmares and as i tried putting them together i knew it had to do with what i seen in this movie.

The movie is called "Precious" It's an independent film produced by Oprah and Tyler Perry. The story is about a 16-year-old girl who's been held back in 8Th grade with a baby and one on the way. She lives with her mother who is physically and mentally abusive to her. The struggles and pain she's had to endure at such a young age is unimaginable, i was deeply moved.

These past few weeks I've been stuck in my own selfish pity party. Thinking small time things like who's hurt me in life and who hasn't. I mean come on Jackie get real! Whoever said life would be easy and that people would all be nice and pleasant no, no things happen and from them we must grow and move on. Thinking about precious and all she endure my struggles seem so small- yes i know we all face different trials which God allows because He knows how much we can handle. When you look around and see that you have a loving supportive husband, beautiful kids, a place to call home, enough people in your life to call friends, all the other stuff seems so irrelevant to worry about. I believe God is working in my heart BIG time and is not for me to consume myself with anger and pain but rather grow and florence like the flower I am.

Ephesians 1:4-6

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.

P90X Day13 & 14- I shed tears

2010-03-09T18:13:00.002-05:00

Yesterday i worked on my Chest, arms and back. I really struggled to stay afloat through the workout because i felt nauseous, but i did it.

Today, I did not want to workout i even shed some tears. I don't need to tell anyone how hard working out everyday is, I'm sure you can imagine. I've been dealing with some crazy headaches the past few days that made workout not so fun. This afternoon i am feeling a little better and look forward to working on my abs tonight to make up for doing a horrible job at it yesterday. My friends you must know that this ab program has at least 320 moves, is not a joke.

I'm really enjoying the Jillian Michaels shakes, they are so handy for on the go breakfast or lunch. I need to drink A lot more water though, I've been slacking on that.

Until next workout my dear reader.

Peek into my P90X progress so far...

2010-03-07T20:42:00.005-05:00

I get tons of emails asking for P90X picture update. I was not going to share any until i hit my 30 days, but after taking my 10 days pics i felt good to share one view with you my faithful reader :)

After 4 kids my stomach has taken a beating and is MY TROUBLE ZONE AREA, even while doing the shred i would lose inches in many places yet my stomach would SLOWLY very SLOWLY shrink just a tiny bit. After changing my diet and doing Ab Ripper X for 12 days now- I think something is happening right, what you think?

WARNING: Please avoid looking at my pink crocs lol... So out of fashion

                           Day 1

                         Day 10

You can work your body out until you turn purple- But the change you want will finally come when you change what goes into your mouth :)

Can you see now why i love/hate Ab Ripper X- is some hardcore ab work ...

P90X Day 12- Some tips..

2010-03-07T17:16:00.000-05:00

Today was supposed to be a day off for me from P90X but i skipped Friday, and now need to make up for it. I worked legs, back and abs.

My husband and I were looking at pictures of this past summer, and oh my goodness i can't believe how i looked. The funny thing is that i seriously didn't notice i was THAT big and my husband couldn't help himself his words "babe wow how did i let you get like that" yea thanks honey you should of done an intervention or something, but I'm glad i saw the pics reminds me where i was and to push harder to where I'm headed. You know what happens when you workout as hard as I've been working, your mind automatically starts matching up to your body. Before you eat that cheeseburger and fries you remember the 94 minutes of yoga and everything falls in place.

Last Monday, i purchased a week worth of fruits which have been so good because any time i feel hungry or crave something sweet is always good to have them handy to do the job. Weight Loss is so much easier when you have everything you need handy- make sure you shop weekly for all your daily meals.

P90x Day 10 & 11- It's a Celebration

2010-03-06T18:31:00.000-05:00

I did it people, I did it!!! I changed my blog look ALL-BY-MYSELF, this calls for a "I did it dance" WOOO WHOOO... All you ladies at the Blog Frog know how bad i wanted a new look around here, and with a little determination and 2 days of trying- I finally found a design I'm comfortable with for now. YAY!

OK moving on to some P90X update- On Thursday i did the WHOLE 94 minutes of Yoga, of course there where some moves i didn't even dare to do but i stuck through and tried. I LOVE YOGA X- really i do, if you knew how good yoga is then you understand where I'm coming from. After the 94 minutes of workout i was BEAT but oh so relaxed. I took yesterday off because my body was screaming for some down time, but today i was at it again. I did Kenpo X today with my 2 boys- they were having fun punching, kicking and of course yelling along with Tony Horton. Because i missed Friday's workout i will have to work on legs, back and abs tomorrow.

I feel so much stronger and happy. My back looks great i'm losing inches P90X people Get with it!

P90X Day 9- Let me show you what i bought today!

2010-03-03T20:58:00.000-05:00

Today i worked on my shoulders, arms and of course my ABS! Once again I hate Ab Ripper X is so hard.

OK so today i went out to buy some exercise equipments and meal replacement. I wanted to buy a set of dumbbells but my husband suggested i didn't, he said he does not want a bodybuilder for a wife (go figure) I don't want to be a bodybuilder either dude! So instead i bought a heavy duty resistance band that does the job too. I bought it at target for $20 bucks- it's pretty good, this is how it looks.

I also bought a meal replacement shake from Jillian Michaels that i found at Walmart for only $11.95- I've been looking for something like this since sometimes is hard for me to constantly make something to eat and with this workout i have to EAT small meals through out the day to get my metabolism running and burn fat.

I bought Vanilla and Chocolate flavor and made the vanilla one for lunch, it taste pretty good i can get used to this.

I also visit http://www.beachbody.com/ to chat with other people who are also doing P90X- You can also see before and after photos of real people with REAL results...

OK i'm off for now- going to amazon to buy some books- any suggestions?

P90X Day 8- Plyometrics of Death

2010-03-02T23:00:00.001-05:00

Ladies and gentlemen today i saw stars.

Something happened in today's workout; let me remind you today is Plyometrics day, you know the kick your behind jump here then there workout. After the seven or something minutes of warm up i was sluggish, i wanted to shut the DVD and go to bed. I continued on and 30 minutes into it i entered a zone i've never been in all the times i've worked out in my life. My body got in synced with every move i jumped from one move to the next like nothing, i believe i was in a trance. After pushing my body for almost 15 minutes non stop i then snapped, felt as if my heart was coming out of my chest - my heart beat was a bit too fast i needed to stop for a minute,and that's when i realized i've become a workout addict.

Jumping, sweating, feeling out of breath never felt so good "is called P90X... Tony Horton says that all the time and i laugh because now I understand why. People this workout is amazingly good i recommend it above all other workout right now- Forget the gym drop that, get in the X zone! My body is already feeling different, my back is so much stronger i have so much energy- I move a lot faster i'm loving this.

Ladies get with it! Yes all of you who are sick and tired of all the extra weight and the feeling of always being tired- GET WITH IT ... Sorry, i'm a little too passionate about this workout but i would not be if i didn't believe it works oh so good...

82 Days to goooo come on and

P90X Day 7- And some life talk! Free from them Shackles!

2010-03-01T14:09:00.004-05:00

Today i woke up a little extra early to get my workout done, is crazy how i look forward to working out with this program. I think is the fact that is not the same workout everyday which makes me want to workout everyday.

Yesterday i was supposed to stretch or rest and i chose rest because i very well deserved it :) Today i worked on chest, back and abs. I think i did about 250 push ups (seriously) i also worked out with my band and dumb ells, every time i finish doing strength training i feel so good and confident (ready to ~~kick~~ booty) lol...I think i hate Ab ripper X is so effective but sooo HARD! ugh...

Now let's talk a little about my life lately...

Lately i've been feeling so good about myself, working out has a little to do with it but of course is God doing His thing in my life. Because i'm a young mom (28 yrs young with 4 kids and a hubby) i found myself to be very insecure, i didn't realize i was until recently. I felt as if people where constantly watching my every move expecting me to fail, after all i am a rule breaker for not doing things the way they should be done (what a beautiful world it would be if we all did what we SHOULD do right). Everything i've learned about being a wife and mom i've learned them on my own, with God as my guide- and for so long i beat myself so hard to prove to others i was going to make it no matter what, looking back i wish i would of woken up a long time ago to avoid some of the pain this constant pressure brought me. But i believe God allows everything for the good of those He loves...

Today, i've found my middle ground and no longer live to prove anyone but God how and when i do things. I've given my marriage and children to Him knowing and trusting Him to guide me the perfect way. I no longer take at heart what others say about me because i know that the one who began His work in me will complete it - I take everything directly to my father, because i've established a pretty well relationship with him to talk and listen very well. I'm wiser, stronger and ready to train my daughters to be smart God fearing woman, without fear of anything but the Lord...

I feel FREE from the insecurity chains that bounded me for so long! Thanks be to God...He's helped me break them shackles

P90X Day 6 Kenpo X

2010-02-27T22:39:00.001-05:00

What is Kenpo X? Punching and kicking combinations to improve balance, endurance, flexibility, and coordination. This is also my cardio workout.

I love it because i always wanted to do kickboxing and this workout gives it to me. Is fun but intense. While doing these workout i never think i can't do it because if i do i get weak physically, mentally and then i give up. Whenever i feel like i'm going to collapse i pause gather myself together and continue at my own pase.

I'm so tired i can't even think, i hate cutting this post like this but i really need to collapse in my bed right now.

God Bless and goodnight my friends :)

P90X Day 5 Legs, Back and Abs

2010-02-27T00:53:00.001-05:00

Today's workout was hard yet fun! I worked out with my brother's girlfriend today who wanted to try it and did pretty well for a first time... The leg workout is intense, it burns oh so good. I hate lundges with a passion yet they work really well on my bum. Believe me when i tell you that 60 minutes of workout with Tony Horton go by FAST, they don't drag or you don't feel like you want to quit.

I'm getting used to the band, i guess i will use it for 3 more weeks then purchase a set of dumbells. I feel my back getting a lot stronge. I also decided not to add any cardio to my workout i don't think i want to alter the plan Tony Horton has going on here.

Now let's talk about Ab Ripper X- I can barely do these ab workout without stopping over and over. This is intense and i hate it! I know it works tremendously but WHOA- But the more i try and push- The better i will get.. BLAH

Everyone should do this program is absolutely wonderful...Those asking for pictures- i did take before pictures and plan on taking more on day 30 so stay tuned :)

I absolutely LOVE P90X!!!

P90x Day 4- 94 Minutes of YOGA!

2010-02-25T22:57:00.000-05:00

OK so never in my life did i ever think i would be doing Yoga- NEVER! I didn't think i had the patience for it never mind 94 minutes of it- I must want this BAD!

10 minutes into the workout i was bored, i couldn't concentrate one bit because i had to keep looking at the TV to see what the next move was. I almost shut the whole thing off and jumped on my elliptical, but i don't give up that easy. The last 40 minutes made up for the whole YOGA X, the moves were extreme but WOW i never thought one could move the body in such ways. As i sit here i feel so relaxed because yoga works your muscles good. No word of a lie i can't wait to do this again next week, seriously. The more you do this the more flexible you become and i look forward to that.

I burned 320 calories through the whole 94 minutes and toned many muscles in my chest, back, ab legs- I recommend yoga to everyone!!! I am officially a YOGY :)

I need to get to bed, my body is screaming rest..

Goodnight Bloggy friends..

P90X Day 3- Shoulders, Arms and Abs

2010-02-24T20:19:00.001-05:00

I really enjoy strength training! Almost all the workout on P90X are 60 minutes long- Yoga is 94 minutes and Abs 15- but they don't seem THAT long. Tony Horton is funny in his own cheesy way, he makes the workout light and refreshing.

Unlike yesterday today i din't feel like puking. Tony makes it clear through out the whole DVD that you will build resistence as you go, i'm working through. I don't know if i like to workout with bands that much, i think i will invest on a dumbell set soon. My Abs are burning like never before- Jillian's 30 day shred never did this to me.

What i keep asking myself is if i should add cardio to my workout but i'm afraid i will push my body too much.uhm.. Maybe the days i do strength i can do 30 min of cardio in the morning then P90X Strength training at night- Decisions, Decisions...

As you know i've been thinking about summer and bathing suits; Kasey thanks for the VS idea.. Here's a few of the suits i like.

I like this one in that exact color- I am not a fan of too much cleavage though

This one is SUPER HOT

And this one with straps is a killer!

So what do you think? Share some of your fav bathing suits with me..

P90X Day 2 Plyometrics

2010-02-23T18:31:00.005-05:00

Plyo WHAT? before doing the Shred i had no idea what Plyometrics workout was and now i wonder why was i ever introduced to this...

The Physiology of PlyometricsPlyometrics refers to exercise that enables a muscle to reach maximum force in the shortest possible time. The muscle is loaded with an eccentric (lengthening) action, followed immediately by a concentric (shortening) action.

In other words is a workout that can kill you, seriously! Jillian gives us a little dosage of this on the Shred (which i would usually slacked on BIG time) You know that Rockstar move she does, yes you guessed it, Plyometrics all rigth. P90X takes Plyometrics to the next level with 60 minutes of CRAZY JUMPING... I did it though, and i will do it again because is next week if i had to do this more than 2 times a week, i don't think i would stick to it.

Oh and thank God i din't wake up too sore today nothing a little Advil can't handle, i can only imagine someone who has not worked out in a while- OUCH! Although my abs did hurt like WHOA...

Today i was day dreaming about summer time. I'm not a bikini kind of girl (even when i had the bikini BOD people, i stayed away from them) I feel way more comfortable in a one piece bathing suit, so today i day dreamed about a particular bathing suit i wan to buy for the summer and lots of cute spaghetti straps shirts- OH a girl can dream :)

Tomorrow i'm going to buy a supplement drink- i will let you all know which one i decided to buy...

P90X Day 1 Chest, Back and Abs

2010-02-22T22:25:00.007-05:00

WOW I'm not even jk when i say "this workout ROCKS"

But if it wasn't for Jillian's 30 day Shred, i would of been in trouble. This workout is hardcore, but anyone can do it! Tony Horton is awesome, he can be a little annoying but whatever i like him :)

Today i did Chest and Back (i've never done so many push ups in my life)- I also did Abs Ripper X- I found a site online that shows the 7min of Abs ripper X since i don't have the Abs DVD :( HERE is the site

I bought some resistance bands today they are essential for this workout if you don't have the pull up bar. I bought them at Target for $14.99

What i LOVE about this workout is the variety- Everyday is a different Workout for 6 days Here's how my workout schedule looks like for these next 3 weeks.

• Day 1 - Chest and Back, Ab Ripper X

• Day 2 - Plyometrics

• Day 3 - Shoulders and Arms, Ab Ripper X

• Day 4 - Yoga X

• Day 5 - Legs and Back, Ab Ripper X

• Day 6 - Kenpo X

• Day 7 - Rest or X Stretch

Tomorrow's workout is crazy hard, Plyometrics are no joke! But someone's gotta do it! I wanted to incorporate some Elliptical time to this workout, but i've been reading around that you can get over tired easily like this, so for now i will stick to the P90x plan :) I also took Before pics to share with you guys maybe in 15 days! let's see how things roll..

Love Never Fails!

2010-02-20T00:16:00.000-05:00

After being married for 12yrs i think i'm finally getting the hang of things...

I know i have so much to learn, grow and live- but as of now i like where we're at. I married young, TOO young if you ask anyone, my husband is all i've had since the age of 16. My life has been crazy and i plan on sharing a bit of it with you all soon, but right now let's talk about marriage :)

Everything i have learned about being a wife and mother i've had to learn on my own, through God's guidance of course. My husband and i have been through so much but praise God 4 kids later, we are still going at it. I was sitting in my living room a little while ago and thought to myself how upset i used to get with my husband for whatever reason and of course how upset he would get with me; but now when he does something i don't agree with i'm amazed at how i am handling myself. Don't get me wrong i do get frustrated and upset, but i find myself closing my mouth breathing it out and waiting for the perfect time to talk. I make sure i don't stay upset with him for too long and surprinsingly he's been doing the same.

Now why do i say surprisingly, haven't i been praying for this?

Yes i have. A while back i bought the book "The Power of a Praying Wife" I prayed and prayed everyday these prayers over my husband. I dedicated my all to praying for our marriage. And God being perfect as He is, always comes through. I have to admit that just today, it all hit me. Why i'm i surprised about the change happening in my marriage if i have been bringing it to God? I don't believe is a matter of not having faith for what i've prayed for but rather the human heart. We often forget who we serve and depend on. We are quick to move to the next want in our life, but thanks be to God never changing like we do.

My marriage is a work-in-progress and i like it that way. We have so much to explore- and i am grateful to be filled with a calm and understanding heart these day (and of course i pray i remain this way) which helps me learn and accept what God's will is for our union.

I promise to love my husband in good and in bad and with God's help we WILL stay true to that promise we made first to God then to each other...

Taking a break from Jillian to meet Mr. P90X

2010-02-17T21:06:00.001-05:00

I got the call i was waiting for today. A dear friend of mine had said to me 2 weeks ago she owned the P90X but wanted to try Jillian Michaels 30 day Shred before she tried P90X. After some chatting she asked if i wanted to borrow the P90X, i paused for a second because truthfully i am scared of this workout- but without further thought i said yes bring it on!

When i hung up the phone i had the same feeling i felt before starting the Shred, this will be hard but i am up for the challenge. I jumped online to check before and after results on google image and now i am pumped and excited to start on Monday 2/22/10

I CAN'T HARDLY WAIT- SEE HOW HAPPY I AM

I know that after doing the Shred for sixty something days and jogging outside i can say i am ready for this. Shred i love you but i think is time i move on, i will forever be grateful for helping me through this Journey.

I know nothing about P90X- only that is hard but WORKS

Check this lady out, she impressed me BIG time..

Who's brave enough to start with me? Let me know, i am starting this Monday

Where have you been Missy?

2010-02-16T23:57:00.000-05:00

I've been taking a much needed break from the WWW world- I needed to focus on my kids, home,husband and of course myself without interuptions for a little. Now i am back because i've missed you all, and of course i need to vent a little :)

I started running outside yesterday it was cold but i ran and i ran, and it felt oh so good. The plan is to run a 5k in June, i want to finish strong so i am getting ready physically and mentally. I am still doing the shred everyday more for strength because i also do my elliptical for 30-40 min. I won't be able to run outside tomorrow because it snowed like crazy up here- ugh! Oh well, i guess since i'm home bound i will do a hour of cardio and strength.

I feel so different lately, all i want to do is go out- i don't want to be home. My husband and i have been hanging out A LOT lately. I'm growing extremely attach to him again, in 12 yrs we've been together we never been apart but with 4 kids is easy to grow apart right in your own home. Our goal right now is to concentrate on our marriage- So far so good :)

I am excited to announce- i got photoshop this weekend :) My friend hooked me up, thanks a bunch girl. Now i can design my own blog- yey- well first i have to learn how to use it. *sigh*

I am gone for now, but stay tuned because i have a lot of fun things to share with you all.. God Bless

Excuses, Excuses!

2010-02-09T22:51:00.002-05:00

I am so SORE! Is not as bad as the first time i did the shred but I AM SORE!!! Sitting is so painful WHY???

Ok enough whinning

Today i was thinking how i ended up weighing 200 lbs at a point in my life,and all the excuses i came up with not to do the things i needed to do to get fit. Here's a few of them..

I will start on Monday
I am too tired
Not enough time
Can't stop eating
Whatever
This is hard
I will never lose weight
I'm horrible with diets
I am not a exercise person
Tomorrow

AND THE LIST GOES ON AND ON...

And get to it :) After a while eating healthy and exercising becomes a lifestyle you enjoy, trust me. The first 30 days are extremely hard but once you've created a habit, you will succeed.

I'm feeling a lot better these days. I find myself spending a lot more time with my husband outside work and kids. We've been going out on dates and enjoying life- stress level is going down THANK GOD..

Thank You Jesus- your ALWAYS on time...

Shred Again? Yes, day 61

2010-02-08T18:52:00.002-05:00

Yes i am starting the Shred again, this will be round 3 for me...There's something about this workout DVD i can't get enough of. I love how each level works different muscles in your body, all the right muscles i must add. For those who emailed me to see some pics of my progress so far, after taking the pics and almost posting them- I backed out. I won't be posting any pictures until i see a drastic difference in my weight and body. Don't get me wrong i am working out and losing weight, i'm simply taking my time at it, i live such a busy life it would be too stressful for me to add weightloss pressure. I will definetly keep you guys updated and working with some of you side by side..

Today i began day 61 of the 30 day shred workout! I'm going to use 5lbs weights for one more week then increasing them to 8 lbs, this helps to sculpt your muscles and increase your resistance. I weaned my little O about a week ago started the Special K diet, and lost 3 lbs in one week. I like this diet ( I'm a cereal junkie anyways) i find it easy to follow now that i am not breastfeeding. But overall I LOVE ME SOME SHRED! Oh but no more than i LOVE my elliptical... I'm just full of love for exercise today, uhm maybe because i've not been this weight i am right now in SOOOO long, that i am LOVING it... lol..

Why are you Walking Away?

2010-02-05T11:22:00.001-05:00

Is what i hear the Lord asking me, but i quickly shut my ears to His voice and hide. I've been trying to write lately but everytime i open a new post, it ends up in draft. I'm someone who writes from the heart. I dislike being superficial, something like what you see is what you get. I've also learned to practice what i preach, and right now i am not practicing what i sometimes preach.

Is sad how sometimes we know what we aught to do, yet choose otherwise only to end up right where we knew we would. These days i'm running the opposite direction, i know what i should do but instead i say "whatever" and turn the other way, in return i'm miserable. The noise is so loud in my head i can't even hear myself think, seriously i can't. I know that if only i would surrender to Him, i will find peace that trancends all understanding, but for now i run :(

This might sound crazy but truth be told i'm tired of doing right, you know going by the book. Yes i know "have i lost my mind" no, no, no! I am perfectly sane, is just that it takes so much effort to do what's right. For example- after shopping is easier to simply leave the shopping cart in the middle of the street or right next to the beautiful Mercedes instead of walking across the street after letting 4 kids in the car, putting groceries away and never mind the freezing cold, but nope my personal convictions would kill me! Is so much easier to take afternoon naps everyday instead of helping the kids with homework, is so much easier to not give my MIL rides when she asks UGH! But then this verse Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. And then it all makes sense...

With that said- I need to take my MIL for some errands right now, i'm putting a smile on my face THESE

in my ears.. Off i goooo...

Shred Baby Shred! Day 30

2010-02-02T22:05:00.001-05:00

30 days have come and gone! Congrats to those who have crossed the finish line. I will post my 60 days results on Sunday, i am having one of those weeks and i will not take pics like that..lol..

I know weightloss can be super hard and some did not make it all the way.. But i don't want to talk about that- Let's simply concentrate on the days ahead and if you want to join me for the next 30 days, which i plan on starting 2/8/10 jump in, Let's goooo..

I want to give someone a little prize! This girl worked out 30 days straight! She was at my community everyday sharing her results and encouraging others- You should visit her blog and check her 30 day Shred before and after pics.

Holly congrats!!! Your such a inspiration.. Keep ROCKING it girl!!!

I have a 25$ gift card for you, go have a awesome night out with hubby :) Send me your details to Jstar1418@aol.com

I wish i could continue writting- but truth be told my spirit is so down tonight i just feel like crawling in bed :(

God bless bloggy friends...

OH and let me know who wants to join in the next 30 days..

And i will still log in my community daily- feel free to stop by ....

I'm pumped about my next 30 days to equal 90 days of the Shred.

2010-01-31T23:34:00.001-05:00

Something terrible happened to me 3 days ago, the power cord to my elliptical broke, and i've been extremely annoyed with it. I've been doing the Shred but my elliptical is my baby when it comes to exercise. I was going to buy the cord this weekend but with birthday parties to attend, i've had no time. Tomorrow i will go EVERYWHERE looking for a cord that will do.

I can't explain how much i love the Shred, i don't think i will find another workout like this. Doing level 3 made me realize just how awesome this wokout can be. For those who are planning on doing the Shred for round 2, to complete 60 days, if you are using 3lbs weights upgrade to 5, if you are using 5 move up to 8lbs, you will see better results if you do.

I'm going to be a Shred momma for life- Bring on the next 30 days.. It can only get better from here.. :)

How I stay Motivated

2010-01-27T23:53:00.001-05:00

I've never been overweight but 4 yrs ago all that changed very quickly. After i had my 3rd child i kind of let myself go, i ate out ALL the time and enjoyed the good life (i have the muffin top to show for it) While i was doing this damage to myself i never thought about my weight, i just ate whatever whenever. And then people started asking me what was wrong, or even funnier some din't even recognize me (yea thanks for that one) i began to feel MISERABLE- I was so disgusted with myself it made me sick.
I signed up to the gym lost 20 lbs in 2 months and after that i bought my elliptical, worked out at home ALL the time, yet ate anything i wanted, which keep me at a set weight (mind you i still had 30 lbs to loose). Then BOOM i became pregnant with my 4th child, and was very cautious of my weight through the pregnancy which helped. As soon as the Doctor gave me the OK to workout, i was at it again. I jumped on my elliptical almost everyday, lost all my prenancy weight and them i came across the 30 day Shred.

Thank God i found this workout because i would of sunked into a really funky state if i didn't do something about the weight. I started doing some 30 day Shred research online, found a few ladies who did it and had great results. I remember the night before i started i had a LONG talk with myself

ME: You will get this program done everyday no matter what. You can't quit this, it works just stick with it! You are to blame if you don't accomplish you goals, you will be sad, you will not be healthy and you will fail once again.
Nope not me. Starting the Shred i didn't know what i got myself into, i wanted to quit so bad- Lord knows i cried many nights because i wanted to give up, but i couldn't, i wanted this so bad. I finished the 30 days and i was proud of myself, it changed me in ways i've never thought. Not only did i loose a few pounds/inches, my self esteem went off the roof, i did something super hard for 30 days straight, i didn't give up. And now i'm a few days shy from completing 30 more days to make it 60, are you kidding me?

Now let me explain, by no means i'm i saying this is easy just get up and do it, not at all. What i mean is and i ask myself all these questions sometimes,

How bad do you want it, what are you willing to sacrifice to reach your goals, when will you finally take the steps you know you need to take, are you going to let your FEELINGS or the enemy within win this battle, is food that important to you, can you really not help yourself, what example are you setting for your kids, what legacy do you want to leave behind, why oh why don't you just do it?

I ask myself these questions all the time, they keep me pressing towards the goal- I am not a quitter, weigthloss is not a monster set to take me under- I am the monster ready to take this weigth under and out of here! Mind over Matter.. LET'S GO...

Viva la Musica!

2010-01-26T17:20:00.000-05:00

Remember the musical i went to the other night?

It was AMAZING, we loved it. The actors were great, everything was just superd... We're planning a trip to NYC to see it on Broadway...

Look at my BIG smile during intermission..lol.

Cameras were not allowed inside during the musical :( but i did manage to take one click at the end of the show..SHHH

I started level 3 of the shred, this level is not as hard as level 2- I hate all the high impact jump especially the rockstar move, not happening over here, i refuse to hurt my knee again. I am going to mix the Shred with the biggest loser last chance workout DVD for the month of February, who's joining me?

And the Winner is!!!

2010-01-24T17:52:00.004-05:00

DUN

DUNN

DUNNN

http://www.reflectionsinmymirror.blogspot.com/

Please email me your mailing adress!!! Jstar1418@aol.com
Within 24 hrs- if not, i will pick another winner :)

A Not so very Happy Birthday, and some Shred.

2010-01-23T21:34:00.003-05:00

Today is my sweetheart's birthday! Happy birthday Honey, May Our Lor bless you with many more healthy ones. Sad to say he's been in and out of the bed with a very bad stomach flu :( I've had 2 LONG nights- 4 out of 6 were down with the bug in my home, and i've been spared to care for them ALL.

Things are looking a lot better this evening, this bug seems like is making its way out tonight, let us pray. There's a cake waiting to be cut and is 9:15 pm already, i hope he is able to get up after this tea i made him.

Guess where we are heading tomorrow night! To the Opera house to watch a musical! YEY.. The show is In The Heights

In the Heights tells the universal story of a vibrant community in Manhattan's Washington Heights – a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It's a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind.

I am originally from Washington Heights, NY- I know i am going to LOVE this show! I think i am going to sleep super early so tomorrow comes FAST.. lol..

On to some Shred update! I;m still holding on strong, extremely tired and all, i have to find 20 minutes to squeeze this in if not, i can become extremely annoyed. Tomorrow i move to level 3, which i find to be easier than level 2 (except for those rockstar jump, totally skip those) I am loosing weight fast because i eat very strict- I will post pictures on day 30- can't find my iphone nowhere. I am looking foward to next month's workout. This summer is going to be awesome for me because i'm finally going to look and feel GREAT.

Corner of the Housetop...

2010-01-20T19:50:00.004-05:00

Proverbs 21:9

It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife.

Everytime i read this Bible verse i get a slap in the face reminder as to what i should not be like. But as we know we all fall short sometimes. Not too long ago, i was experiencing so much stress in my life that i lost sight of what i should and should not do, and gave into my feelings (you know that thing that can toss you back and forth like the waves if you don't take hold of it).

I found myself yelling like a coo coo lady at my kids and being very rude and dis respectful towards my husband. I promise i didn't do this intentionally, i just really didn't care at the moment because i was too busy catering my poor me feelings. As i sit here, i am thinking well sometimes we must go through certain things so that we learn, grow and appreciate what we have, but in this case i don't feel like that, for most part I feel shame and conviction.

I am ashame of this persona i exposed my family to and convicted because i already know this kind of behavior is wrong, and there's not if or but, is wrong. I can say i learned a few things from the struggles i went through, they've not gone away, but through God's guidance i have taken control of my feelings.

Through the storm i'm learning to be more sensitive towards others. "Playing the Holy Spirit" in other people's lives is too often a popular Christian pastime for Christians. We put minding another's conscience and behavior on our daily to-do list. The story of Job is a good example of that- God was working in Job's life, and his friends instead of being loving and compassionate towards him- they assumed he had done something terribly wrong to deserve what he was going through, and instead condemned themselves through judgement. Lord Help us be more like you and understand we are not perfect...

I've asked God to forgive me, and of course apologized to my family as well. God willing i never have to go through it again, but if i come close to it, i will remember this season in my life and the pain i felt greaving God and my family.

Shred update with a GIVEAWAY!

2010-01-18T16:37:00.001-05:00

Shred shred shred! I am sick of it! Seriously i am. But I love it so much. Is effective, if done right and consistently it delivers the results you want. I took Saturday off because i went out with my husband and needed to get the house and kids ready for babysitter, and plus my body needed a break. I ate not to bad but not great. Today i did level 2 and 20 minutes on the elliptical, i plan on getting back on the elliptical tonight for 30 more minutes. I think my body has hit a plateau, so i need to give it a good kick in the behind with 2x a day workout for this week. (my hubby is not too excited about the 2x a day idea because he knows i can get a little cranky due to being too tired, but i promise i will NOT nag)

On to the GOOD stuff..

I have a COOL post shred workout DVD for one lucky winner! Yes i do. My son bought this DVD for me not knowing i already owned it, so my first thought was GIVEAWAY...

Product Description

In the pre "weigh-in" workouts on NBC’s hit show, "THE BIGGEST LOSER,” you’ve seen contestants push themselves to the limit to reach their weight-loss goals – and now you can too! In this intense Last Chance Workout, trainer Jillian Michaels pulls out all the stops with three workouts that challenge your body to the maximum. But don’t worry, past contestants will be by your side every step of the way. With a unique blend of cardio and strength designed to boost your fat-burning potential, and the motivation to keep going, now’s your chance to step on the scale and lose more weight faster than ever! Amazon.com

Here's how to enter for a chance to win;

Leave me a comment telling me you will join me on this workout.

Tweet about this giveaway- then leave a comment

Blog about this giveaway for another entry- Let me know you did.

and that it!

I will choose a winner through http://www.random.org/

Giveaway ends 1/24/2010

Oh and if you like to follow my blog you are welcome but not obligated to win :)

My heart is heavy!

2010-01-17T23:29:00.000-05:00

I want to talk a little more about my thoughts and how God's been working with me these days. I've been busy lately suffering and working hard to help as much as i can my neighbors in Haiti. My heart mourns each life lost, and even more those who died slowly burried alive in the rubbles. I wish i could take a plane right now and fly out there to lend a helping hand :(

I was born and raised in New York City, but my parents come from Dominican Republic. To us this hit home, not only because is so close to home but this could of been my country. And now Haitians are crossing the border to Dominican Republic by the Thousands to find refuge in DR. Can you blame them? We're praying for help to come FAST because of possible decease outbreak.

2 days ago as i watched CNN- I saw some people singing, clapping, calling out to God- It moved me and hope filled my heart. One can think how can a loving and merciful God allow such catastrophic events, but the question of the heart is- "Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, why hast Thou made me ?" (Romans 9:20). We do not establish the standars of what is right. There is really no such thing as the “innocent” suffering. "all have sinned and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23) I believe God allow such horrific event for the people of Haiti to turn to Him, give Him glory.

“For we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). Let's continue to pray for this country- and look examine our hearts and relationship with our creator- For we shall meet with Him soon, are you ready for that day?

Thoughts of a Desperate Housewive

2010-01-15T20:26:00.001-05:00

Want to know a secret? Theres days i feel as if i am literally going to lose my mind. I reach a point during the day where i have to run from everything and hide somewhere, and i'm not kidding. You see, things were not as crazy when i had 3 kids, but now with 4 i think i over did it. Today, i thought of those women who have more than 4 kids and wondered how in the world they get by? Yes is important to have a good support system, and i believe i have great support from my husband (who i think is the only obligated to help me, yet i appreciate anyone else who steps in) but is still WAY too much to handle. I know the verse that reads "God does not give you more than what you can handle" and of course i am grateful for ALL my kids, but today i feel like running.

People always tell me "it get's easier as they grow older" Uhmm i am having a hard time believing this. My oldest who's 12 is a sweet humble girl, but do you know it takes lots of prayers and constant eyes on everything she comes across to keep thing in check. Is impossible to keep them under your wings at all times, but one thing for sure, i will die trying to be the best wife, mother God created me to be. A friend said one smart thing to me "anyone can be a mother or father, yet it takes hardworking, dedicated parents to raise great children" I agree, and i'm on board, even if today i'm running to release the pressure.

Now can we talk about trying to stay healthy and fit in all this madness! They say working out releases stress, but in my case it causes more. I stress if i don't work out and just to get to it causes a lot more stress, go figure. Is like another chore, sooooo hard! And if i am overweight, i am miserable and depress too- HA! What gives!!! Oh yeaaaa i just remembered, is a sacrifice i must make for a few months, it won't be like this forever if i do it right. Alright for now i am going to keep pressing through, because God who brought me to will also bring me through it...

Today i was suppouse to do the Shred healthy recipe but what gives i am running- Yesterday i completed day 11 and today day 12 is done also- I am sore from the planks. I increased my weights from 3 to 5lbs and oh boy it burns! Stay encouraged ladies, this race is for valients.

Shred day 10- Bring Level 2- and pics

2010-01-13T20:53:00.001-05:00

Oh boy if my head could talk (WHAT A HEADACHE)!

So tonight we say goodbye to level 1 for now, i am moving up. I only lost 4 pounds on level 1- but my endurance went up a lot, and my back is so much stronger. I ate good but i know i can do better.

Here's some day 10 pics... I didn't take measurements yet because i need to buy me a measuring tape, my son broke the one i had.

Ok on to some b4 and after pics. I am 10 days into round 2- during the holidays i gained 2 pounds, which set me back a little :( - I am Latina so these Hips don't lie, i am going to like level 2 because it works the thighs really well.

Day 1-10

Before

After

Before

After

I don't know what the deal is with this exercise that instead of shrinking my butt, it makes it biggest! That is so annoying.

Level 1

Weight loss 4lbs

Goal weight loss for level 2

5-10lbs

I promise to rock level 2- Things are calming down around here, which means i will have more time on my handto plan out my days better. So i pray...

Shred Day 9 A Wanna be Jillian!

2010-01-12T23:07:00.002-05:00

Watching The Biggest Loser always puts things in perspective for me. Didn't i tell you guys that weekend 2 was one of the hardest? Uhmm yea that's what BL today was all about, pushing HARD through this week.

Today, i am looking through my blog roll and unfortunately some have dropped completely others are barely holding on to the 20 days we have left on this 30 day challenge. I mean don't get me wrong you need a day off, is cool take it but don't forget to eat right and get right back the next day on the race. The race to a better YOU.

I can't see myself giving up on this goal to a healthy and fit me :) I am not willing to postpone weight loss to when i am older and it becomes harder for me to get rid of all this baggage. I know eating chocolate, soda, pizza you name it- feels so good- yet working out and eating right is the last thing we want to do, why? I am so done with it! One day a week i will eat a little extra but right now, i am on a race. We have to get through the hard days, stop letting our feelings toss us like the wave. Take control of your feelings and stay in the race, the finish line is so rewarding!

Shred day 8- In Him all things are possible

2010-01-12T01:04:00.002-05:00

I hate posting so late, yet is impossible to find time during the day to sit and blog these days. I finish day eight of the shred plus my 30 minutes of cardio.

Just when we thought opening a business was enough to deal with, we seem to be hit with curve balls over and over these days. You know what happens when we rely on God and accept Him as having total control, we fly smoothly and land without a scratch. When you think you've hit the end of the rope and the finish line is nowhere to be seen, surrender yourself to Him, the Alpha and Omega, because in Him only- eternal victory is obtained.

In my walk, God knows how much He will allow me to go through- so anything i am dealing with right now, is only to make me grow in Him. I have thick skin and for a moment in my walk i forgot that, but I have one who lifts me up and reminds me where i've been and from where i was brought. With that said i press on towards the finish line, I can only do what God allows and wants me to do. There's no stopping me now, i'm so focused even when the world is screaming, failure, God is saying with me ALL things are possible...

Shred day 7, and some talk

2010-01-11T00:57:00.000-05:00

7 days of straight exercise never felt so good, i am loving my posture the most. My family, my #1 supporters, felt compelled to share with me how great i look (made me all gitty inside) how i should keep doing what i am doing because is evident exercise makes me happy. I am grateful to them for their love and support.

My knees are screaming at me everytime i workout, i think i am going to have to pull out my Advils and Icy/hot for the next few days. The days ahead are going to be rough in terms to exercise, is hard to workout everyday, but the goal needs to be met.

Aside from a few hurtles with my 8yr old son, the weekend was great! My husband and i spent some quality time together, which was real good for us. Today we went shopping for our business, we took ALL 4 kids who thank God behaved really well.

I need to run to bed, is 12:55am (another late night for me) I have a VERY busy day tomorrow, which i plan on sharing more about with ya'll later when i get things in order..

God bless :)

Round 2 of the Shred Day 6

2010-01-10T02:34:00.000-05:00

It's 2:30 in the AM - I know crazy late.. But i can't let today pass without saying i completed day 6- but ate horrible..Yup i did :( Oh well tomorrow is a new day, and i promise to make the best of it..

Round 2 of the Shred day 5- My Goodies

2010-01-08T16:32:00.002-05:00

Today's workout was so good. Did you know i lost 3 lbs already? yes i did. I'm so concious of what i eat, yet don't feel as if i am starving myself. I am confused as to why when i was doing my first 30 day Shred challenge i was able to do Nataly style push ups with no problem, but now my arms hurt so bad i do them Anita style, oh well at least i do them.

Since this is my second time around doing the 30 days shred, which really for me is day 35 but i am starting off fresh because 1. i still have a lot of weight to loose 2. I am working out harder than before. The reason i stick to 10 days in each level is because my intensity gets better each time i workout so i'm able to give each circuit my all and see the results i'm working so hard to get. If i jump levels too quick my body might start wearing out faster, which can lead to that dreaded word QUITTING.

I want to share some of my healthy goodies with you, that i enjoy eating and i would like for you to do the same... I started a Mcklinky so we can all share snacks, meals, or drinks on our blog.The way you do it is, write a post on your blog of your 30 day shred healthy Eat, and then come to this Mcklinky and link your blog so others can see.. I will do this every Friday.

This Friday is Healthy Snacks here are some of my favorite...

I love this not only because it helps regulate your diggest system, but they are yummy and have fiber.

I have to be very careful with these bars right here, they are so tasty you stay craving for more

Well that is it for now.. But what are your favorite healthy snacks?

Round 2 of the Shred day 4

2010-01-07T23:22:00.001-05:00

I have to apologyze for being such a sloppy blogger lately. I am crazy busy around here with 2 big kids back at school, 4yr old adjusting to preschool and a teething 8 month old, and if that was the least of everything our restaurant which we've been working day and night, is so close to open and things are getting very busy.

Day 4 of shredding was good but i had to skip my elliptical time because i had to go buy some stuff for the restaurant (sigh) sorry for the short update but i have to head to bed (i am way toooooo tired) but i promise i will answer all your emails tomorrow or this weekend..
God Bless you , i appreciate all my readers sooo much.. Thanks for stopping by..

Round 2-- Shred Day 3

2010-01-06T19:25:00.001-05:00

Today i was riding the emotional roller coaster. I woke up to a 4 yr old crying at the top of his lungs because he did not want to go to pre-school. He was on vacation for 2 weeks and that threw him off a bit. I was determined not to baby him too much once i got to his class room, and that's exactly what i did, dropped and rolled out. He was yelling in the classroom and i was crying like a baby in my car. But once again when dad picked him up, he's all excited and saying how much he loves school and can't wait until tomorrow.. Geesh the things us mom have to go through for these little people.

OK on to the good stuff - SHRED DAY 3

I am a little sore on the abs and feel over worked because sleep has been almost non existent for me. I LOVE this workout because it gives FAST results. I am being smart this time and eating well for maximum results. Even though my body is used to working out, is still hard for me to finish strong, those bicycle crunches ladies are no joke but so good, they too are my favorite.

One thing that has me a little concern are my knees, they are stronger but they still hurt everytime i work out. I pray they stay strong, i am going to have to treat them with icy/hot and advil to prevent further injury.

I know each level, especially level 1 can get a little boring after the first few days but i think we should stick to each level for 10 days each for best results.

Tonight i will satisfy my sweets cravings with this-

Steph what you think? not as fun as your last night craving ah..lol

27 days to gooooo!!!!

Round 2 of the Shred day 2

2010-01-06T00:03:00.000-05:00

I have to make this quick! My hubby is harrasing me to go to sleep early tonight. I was so cranky this morning from lack of sleep.. I am not sore which makes me think i need to get my 5lbs weight tomorrow...

Ugh ok i really have to goooo!!! I AM ROOTING FOR ALL THE LADIES ON BOARD.. I promise to ride with ya'll to the end, stick with it guess what??? we only have

28 days to gooooooo!!!!

Round 2 of the Shred Day 1

2010-01-05T00:41:00.001-05:00

I know i am going to feel it tomorrow, i did the whole workout Nataly style. I think i pushed myself a little too hard today but whatever, we will deal with that tomorrow.

Everyone at home is on board with me again on this 30 day shred journey. That my friends is super important because you will need the support from those who daily impact your life. My husband is right on with me, i asked him to be my #1 cheerleader/supporter, for this is very important to me. I am so done being un happy with my weigth, and i am doing something about it.

In order to accomplish my 30 day goal, i am going to need some serious mental and feelings battles to fight against, that is how i was able to pull the previous 30 days. There will be days when i will cry because i will not feel like working out or i might be too tired, i am expecting this, but i am not giving in to the feelings. I'm committed to this, and i will pull through. I can maybe lie to anyone i come across, but is impossible to lie to myself, and with that said there is NO room for excuses.

For those who have begun this challenge, please keep in mind that this will NOT be easy, yet impossible is not. Start slow, work your way into the workout and don't push your body too hard because you will soon and i mean real soon get discouraged. Embrace each workout, love it and enjoy it, goodness is ONLY 20 minutes :) There will also be days you will think about doing the workout for hours, and when you get to it you will kick yourself in the butt for wasting so much time thinking about those mere 20 minutes you knocked out like nothing. Mind over Matter! This is what it takes to become healthy and feel better, congratulations we are on our way..

Levels breakdown

Level 1- 10 days- Post pics
Level 2- 10 days- Post pics
Level 3- 10 days- Post pics

Let's go Ladies, we can do it!!!

30 Day Shred Challenge Day 1- Meet the Shredders

2010-01-04T07:19:00.042-05:00

I must be a Shred junkie because the excitement i feel is crazy.

Shredders We will meet at my Blog Frog Community for daily exercise log. You can discuss ANYTHING you wish.

Ok people i present to you, The Shredders. If you wish to follow their journey and encourage them just like you did with me through my previous 30 day Shred, you are more than welcome :)

Andrea - Shredding the pounds

Holly - My life in HD

Maggy - Fireworks Sparkle Rainbow

TJW - A Little bit Of this, and a Little bit Of That

Steph - Healthy and Hip

Crystal - One Roses Beauty

StephF - Life with These Kids

Lyn - Casa de Precio

Allison - 3 Peas in a Pod

Katie - Bikini by May 15

Kate- Kate's Life

Denise- My Crazy Life

Eu-La- Journey Through Life

Melanie- Shredding off The Pounds

Erica- Erica 30 day Shred Blog

Anyone is welcome to join us on this challenge, but only these ladies who entered before the closing date are eligible to win the Shred Contest.
I am so excited for you ALL, this program if you stick with it will change your life and put you on the road to a healthier life.

Last Day to Win, but NOT to Enter!

2010-01-03T17:33:00.001-05:00

Did you know if you enter the Shred Challenge TODAY you qualify for the Shred challenge giveaway? Well yeah, hurry up enter.

Those who enter a day too late, are still welcome to join us but will not be eligible to enter the contest (sorry i want to be fair on dates)

HURRY Mcklinky closes tonight at midnight, Eastern time!

More 30 day Shred Challenge talk...

2010-01-02T16:55:00.007-05:00

First off i made us a button if you wish to add to your blog.. Link up so others can join in as well..

Have you linked your blog to the 30 day Shred Challenge giveaway? if not, the link is below..For more details on the giveaway click HERE

Andrea who's joining us on the shred challenge made a great suggestion. She suggested we do a weekly Shred Menu MEME or blog hop (however one calls these Mcklinky thingy) where we can all share healthy recipes, snacks or anything that can help us shred these pounds. What you guys think?

My Shred Menu plan Week 1

2010-01-01T14:43:00.003-05:00

As some of you know i don't do great with dieting, i mean anything with the word ~~die~~ in it seems painful. When i did the 30 day Shred i didn't do any crazy diet, but moderated what i ate. This time around i want to do it a little different.

I will moderate what i eat a little tiny better than last time.

my menu plan for this week

Skim milk (or 1%)
Vegetables
Chicken & turkey
Honey Bunches of Oats cereal
Water gallons 1 a day
Wheat Bread
2 Tuna Fish cans
Fat free Mayo
Apples and Grapes
Snack Bars
Yogurt

Breakfast: Honey Bunches of Oats- Skim Milk--- Coffee (skim milk)

Snack: Apple or Grapes

Lunch: Turkey or Tuna Fish sandwich

Snack: Oats Bar or Yogurt

Dinner: Chicken and Vegetables or Chicken and Mash Potatoes with Green Beans

Eliminate as much sweets as possible

Water, Water and more Water through out the day!!!

This is an example of what works for me according to what i like, but you get the idea.

AND NOT TO FORGET -NO FOOD PAST 7:30 PM

30 day Shred Challenge Prizes goes like this!

2009-12-30T21:24:00.002-05:00

I am so excited about this 30 day Shred Challenge (round 2 for me) that i am going to award YOU for it....

Here's the deal;

For you brave ladies who dare to log your progress with pictures and stats on you blog, at the end of the 30 days i will hold a contest where YOU the audience vote the for ultimate Shredder. The winner (only those with REAL photo to show) will win a $50 dollar Visa gift card courtesy of ME!

Now wait a minute this is not over yet! I want to give someone else a chance to WIN

Here's how

If for whatever reason you don't feel comfortable showing the world your pictures but don't mind emailing them to me (for contest voting ONLY) I will choose a ultimate shredder and mail you a $25 dollar Visa gift card. *I hold all rights to choose a winner fairly*

Challenge starts 1/4/2010 ends 2/2/2010

Grab the Button link it to my blog and tell your friends what your going to be doing!
<a href="http://stepsof-faith.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n282/Jstar1418/untitled-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Shredbutton"></a>

Also click on the Mclinky below- Like this all participants can connect and support one another. Don't forget the daily log on my Blog Frog Community!! more info on the right column

What you Need to Start the Shred

2009-12-30T13:06:00.000-05:00

Overall you will need a POSITIVE, DETERMINED mindset, once you have this right you are good to go...

I started with 3-5 lbs dumbbells, you can purchase pair at Walmart or Target for roughly 8.00 the cheapest.

I purchased my mat at Target on sale for $8.50 reg price 9.99

For a pair of great workout shoes my hubby bought me the Reebok Easy Tone, i wrote a review about them Here

OK That's all you need to complete the 30 day Shred..

I suggest you eaither follow the Shred diet, or moderate your food intake.. No food after 7:30pm and NO SWEETS (well at least not a lot)

Shred Challenge 1/4/2010

2009-12-28T13:34:00.004-05:00

Shred Challenge Starts 1/4/2010

To join visit my Blog Frog Community for daily Log.

If you like to share your progress/pictures on your blog join our Mcklinky "meme"

grab the shredder button and let's go!!!

I promise you this workout will give you the results you want if you stay with it.

If you have Comcast Level 1&2 are on for FREE

To do level 3 you will have to purchase the DVD anyways which you

can get it at Walmart or Target for $10.

Or Amazon

Through the Storm, i give you ALL Praise

2009-12-27T00:08:00.003-05:00

Waiting on you Jesus is not easy my mind says no, is not possible, but my heart trust solemnly in you. I don't trust with my mind but with my heart. Even if you are late i will trust your answer, because you have all control. If doubt plagues me i will call out to you and you will deliver me. You've sustained me to this point, today i ask- what can i give you Jesus- what can i do for you?

and gently you whisper

Give me a UNDIVIDED HEART to worship. Give me TIME, SEEK me and i will be there.

I will my Lord, i will walk towards you more and more everyday. I know the pain i feel in my heart today, and the uncontrolled feelings that plague me are under your control, you've taken care of them. I am not able to be in your precense without wanting nothing else than to hear you speak, without crying like a newborn baby who yearns the comfort of it's mother. I need your touch, your voice to soothe my aching heart. I love you Jesus and through this storm i praise you, not because i am worthy but you are.

I want more of you, to live in your precense. Yes i want more of you, and everyday i will be more like you. Break me jesus, Break me and build me up just like you.. Everything i am is yours...

I LOVE YOU JESUS...

THANK YOU..

Book Review; Redeeming Love

2009-12-23T11:40:00.002-05:00

I never even considered reading a Christian fiction book prior to this book by Francine Rivers titled Redeeming Love. I din't care to read christian fiction because i felt it was a waste of time, i wanted to learn not waste my time fantasizing. One day i had this great desire to start a online book club,and went online to find a good read. I went on Amazon and found awesome reviews on his book.

Here's he outline

In this splendid retelling of the biblical story of Hosea, bestselling author Francine Rivers pens a heartbreaking romance between a prostitute and the upright and kind farmer who marries her; the story also functions as a reminder of God's unconditional love for his people. Redeeming Love opens with the Gold Rush of 1850 and its rough-and-tumble atmosphere of greed and desire. Angel, who was sold into prostitution as a child, has learned to distrust all men, who see her only as a way to satisfy their lust. When the virtuous and spiritual-minded Michael Hosea is told by God to marry this "soiled dove," he obeys, despite his misgivings. As Angel learns to love him, she begins to hope again but is soon overwhelmed by fear and returns to her old life. Rivers shines in her ability to weave together spiritual themes and sexual tension in a well-told story, a talent that has propelled her into the spotlight as one of the most popular novelists in the genre of Christian fiction. This is one of her best. --Cindy Crosby

My thought, get out and buy this book you will NOT regret it. I cried, laugh, got angry, sad .. SO AWESOME..

Stop the Gossip Madness!

2009-12-22T21:27:00.002-05:00

OK i hate gossip, i do because half the time they are NOT true- they are done for our pleasure at the cost of others. Lately i've been very careful what comes into my ears and out of my mouth. My new motto is "if it doesn't edify or build me or anyone else, i don't want to see it, hear it or talk about it". I always tell my kids when they are chatting with friends on the phone or in person, "don't discuss people in a bad way, talk about places, ideas or things." but how easy is it to TELL you kids to do and not do, when how hard is it for us to apply it in our lives. I am leaning to live by example. One way i am handleling negative talk is through the usage of phone and internet. Today i placed these labels on my phone so we are all reminded of what the Bible says about gossiping or trash talking...

I know you can't see them very well but this is what it says

James 4:11

Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.

Ephesians 4:20

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

These verses are self explanatory. My prayers are that God continues to change our heart, and that through our actions we honor Him first and learn day by day to Love one another just as Jesus loves us.

Change of Heart.

2009-12-21T20:27:00.000-05:00

For a while now i've been really out of wacked, something like living without purpose. I been working out non stop, trying to escape reality. But after non stop prayer and a little reality check, i feel me again.

I kept saying how i knew God was in control of everything i am going through, but my actions showed otherwise. I am someone who's able to hide my emotions very easy, even to make others believe i am not someone who has anything to hide, but the truth of the matter is i am quite the opposite. I know how to turn myself on and off very easy, i don't think is a real or fake thing, but rather me letting you into my world or not.

Last week i read this passage in Matthew that changed me a lot

Metthew 25:34-46

34 Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, [1] you did it to me.’

41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ 44 Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ 45 Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ 46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

Reading this struck my spirit heavy. I asked myself where do i fit in this, with the sheeps or the goats? I looked at myself within and not only was i acting very selfish, but i was staining my testimony in the process. I spent a lot of time dwelling on my feelings, my hurt and pain. Not only did i shutdown, i would hurt those who'd come across me as well. I hid behind the "they don't know what i am going through right now" forgetting that in life we will be faced with obstacles, we go through unimaginable pain but no matter what that is, God is in control. Today i feel this great peace in my heart. I am currently reading this book A Woman After God's Own Heart® where the author Elizabeth George shares with us the importance of constant prayer with God for anything and everything, she shares how her life was transformed through a daily moment by moment talk with God. The time you spend with God daily will reflect the life you will live. The time you spend reading verses like these in Matthew where Jesus puts aside all religiousity and deals with the heart. I ask myself what i am doing for Christ according to these verses. WHAT?

I am enjoying this change of heart the Lord is doing in me right now. He is helping me take all focus from the things i call "problems" and showing me where my heart should be. In return He assures me i should not be worry about senseless things, for my JUST God is in CONTROL of everything.

Time to get my act Together

2009-12-20T18:26:00.001-05:00

I've been eating so wrong lately. Maybe is the fact i've been so stressed and overwhelmed and is causing me to emotionally eat. Something is and i need to nip it in the ~~butt~~ head.

I do have a plan, and i want to share it. Yesterday i bought this;

Yes the whole Jillian Michaels package. Right now I can see all three On Demand, but i am not sure when they end and don't want any surprises. I already have the Shred DVD, which i might just do a Giveaway with the new one i am getting soon, stay tuned for that. Today i did the Boost your Metabolism workout, it rocked. I love how it has 2 kick boxing circuits, feel like a bad ~~ass~~ momma, when i do them. Tonight i am going to do the No more trouble Zones workout as well, i feel as if i need to kick myself in gear. They both do cardio but the NMTZ deals with more strength then cardio. I will start this combo tonight and next Sunday will show you all pictures of this week long torture.

I am eliminating all, yes ALL sweets and plan on NOT eating anything that is not on my daily calorie goal. Moderating my food intake worked OK with the 30 day shred, i know i could of done A LOT better if i would of counted calories and now that it kicked me this far, i need to make some sacrifices to reach my goal.

Yesterday i went to dinner with my husband and he said "wow hard work pays off BIG time, you look so different" I do feel different and look different, is what strength combined with cardio does to your body, you shed the weight but also tone muscles. My ~~butt~~ glute has gotten the best work with these workouts. I must share that i had a pair of jeans i bought way before i got pregnant with my little O, which i had not been able to wear because they would not even go pass my thighs. Yesterday i found them and thought "what the heck let me try" and yes THEY FIT JUST RIGHT!!! I was super excited and pleased with the way they looked, i love them.. Last week i purchased another pair i knew would not fit me, but the goal is to get in them by mid January. I am back in the zone, even though some days i might squeeze in 2 of her hour long DVD's, one in the morning and other at night which might make me pass out, i am going to stay true and focused on the plan at hand.

I will never Join The Gym again!

2009-12-18T09:37:00.005-05:00

NO way, now how...

**But first let me give you a update on day 2 of Preschool Jitters* When i picked Boy B from preschool yesterday after his morning meltdown, i was shock. I walk in the classroom, he's in line turned around touching something while talking to a kid. I loudly said "mama's here" he looked surprise and embarrassed..lol.. Then he yells real loud to all his friends "peace out home dogs" Yes, he did. I did not know what to make of it, then he says "mom i had such a awesome day" PRAISE God.. Today he walked in as if he's been there forever, no crying or fussing, big kiss goodbye and all smiles... again PRAISE GOD**

Alright, back to what i came here for, the NO more gym ordeal. OH but wait wait.. I want you guys to run over to visit one of my shred divas Rosa, who created a blog to log her shred progress, she's at A Woman With a Vision Go and cheer her on this awesome journey...

So yea, i am never going to the gym because i can get better results at home using weights and my own body to reach my desired body shape. I've worked out at the gym before and i can seriously say it took a lot more work and time to get the results i am getting now doing the shred and Jillian's other workout DVD's. Not to mention the time it takes to go and come back from the gym, ugh exhausting.

I just started combining 2 of her DVD's, i am sure i will see even better results than before. The shred is my overall favorite, and suggest everyone start with that workout before doing any of her other workouts. Not only are her other workouts intense but longer than 20 minutes, that's for sure, and you want your body to be ready to take the pressure so you don't end up discouraged..

Remember to eat in moderation, you won't get anywhere if you don't. Last but not least- don't let anyone or anything get in the way of you and your workout time. Make it sacred, must have time everyday...

Preschool Jitters

2009-12-17T11:05:00.003-05:00

My 4 yr old started preschool today and it was not a pretty site.

I've been through this before with my other two, not really my eldest but my now 8yr old gave me a VERY hard time in preschool, kindergarten and first grade. I took him for a tour of the school last week, which was a success. He came home saying he couldn't wait to start, but after days passed he was changing his plans. He said "yup nice school, but i am not going there". I thought with this one it would be easier because he is so outgoing and friendly, but today was no different then what i went through with my other boy. I am able to talk boy B into anything easier than boy A- (boy A is my eldest and B youngest, until i get some cool blog names for them lol) Boy B was not budging about getting out the car until i gave him "the look" (you know the ones us moms use when no words need to be spoken) He walks in and stays outside of the classroom the whole time, i am standing inside talking to the teacher and waiting for him to budge. We did this for 20 minutes (i stay that long to assure him things were OK there) then i carried him into the classroom and off i went.(yea right, i stayed outside that doo for like 10min, hearing him scream) A girl passed by and said "why are you doing this to yourself"? I thought your right, as i ran out the door.

So, here i am thinking nothing but, what is he doing right now?. The teacher called about 30 min ago and said he calmed down, and is playing by himself somewhere, still not ready to socialize. I know things will get better soon, but i can't help to feel horrible right now. I can't wait to pick him up at 1 and do this all over again tomorrow...

Just hope he has a big smile on his face. This was him this morning as his sister said smile for your first day of preschool.. He hid and said "what is there to smile about" ..Oh boy.. God is in control though...

I am addicted, i am addicted HELP!

2009-12-16T16:56:00.003-05:00

I never, ever thought i would say this but- I am soooo addicted to working out is crazy.

I've been dealing with some stuff right now that would get anyone in shut down mode, but i am pulling through because God is in control...

Even with everything going- i find workout to be such a stress reliever- i love, crave and NEED it. I also love love love Jillian Michaels SHE'S SO HARDCORE, exactly what a rough girl like me needs.

I almost quit the No More Trouble Zone yesterday, all that strength training can be tough, and this DVD does not have much cardio, but works so good. Right now as i type i am watching another DVD workout of hers called Boost your Metabolism. I feel like a junkie i want to jump up and start working out, but i will save it for later when i put everyone down. I already did the No more trouble Zone workout this morning and a little of the Shred. The combination of the NMTZ and the Boost your Metabolism should be good because one concentrates on strength and the other on cardio and strength. I will tell you all Boost Metabolism tonight, if i don't pass out first, i am tired.

My son said to me when he came home from school today "whoa, you look skinny" and walked away. With a smile on my face i ran after him and demanded him to explain himself ...lol.. He asked what is there to explain, while i asked him over and over if he was for real. Today for some reason i woke up thinner, could be day 6 of the 30 day Shred/NMTBZ- Of course... This new DVD works out so many new muscles..

Have you checked out my community yet? if not go on over to see what all my shred divas are chatting about today.

I tried, I give up for now..

2009-12-15T18:22:00.010-05:00

UGh... I seriously thought i could design my blog on my own, but goodness so annoying! No more of that until i am able to afford a designer..

Any who.. Moving on...

I want to show you guys some of my ~~awesomest~~ ornaments. Over here at the DLC's we try to do Christmas for what it really is, "Jesus Birth". It might of not been in December, but December works for us...

I ordered these ornaments last year from www.orientaltrading.com I wish i would of order more this year, but how i feel this year is another story i plan on sharing later...

The Nativity represents the place of Jesus Birth- Jesus, Mary and Joseph.

This is a Chrystal clear cross with some gold trimming- Represents the Sacrifice Jesus made for you and I.

The white Dove is a symbol of the Holy spirit, which lives in all who in Him believe.

Ah and of course The Bible, The Word of God...

These are just cute- with inspirational quotes...

I hope you enjoyed them as much as i LOVE them.. God Bless

Monday Shredded update

2009-12-14T16:27:00.002-05:00

Want to say before hand that, i am not feeling OK to make this a long post, but i wanted to update you guys on my round 2 30 day shred...

Today is day 4 of the 30 day shred round 2 for me, before i started this workout i thought i was going to need 5lbs weights- because i wanted to increase my resistance. The No more Trouble Zone changed that real quick. That workout program is NO JOKE. Is like 40 minutes of craziness, but I've lost 2 pounds in 4 days with it and i am sore all over again... I Love/Hate it.

I haven't been using my elliptical for 3 days now, after the shred and the NMTZ i am totally worn out.. I think i am going to do the Shred in the morning and the elliptical at night, we will see.

I've got my girls at my Blog Frog Community hanging strong with me.. Come check us out..

God Bless.. (homework with kiddos awaits)

Can't get enough of this!

2009-12-11T15:06:00.009-05:00

I hope you don't think i am a exercising guru or something like that.. HA! I am far from that.

Prior to my elliptical purchase i worked out here and there at the gym, never EVER motivated or happy doing it. The shred was heaven sent because, 1. i hate working out 2. I didn't have time to work because i hated it, the shred made it all fun 3. is easy and simple to follow and 4. it delivers results FAST.

Starting the shred today all over again brought some strange joy to my life...lol.. I am so serious. I also did her other workout No more trouble Zones and ohhh child, what was i thinking. It target spots i never even thought existed, seriously! I managed to do them ONLY because i had already done the shred for 30 days if not, good lord i would of been in trouble. OK i must confess, i need to confess i can't go on if i don't confess... I know i told you guys i would take yesterday off to rest, uhmm i wanted to, i really did. At 10pm last night i was so AWAKE, and my body was calling for pain (my muscles really) I did the No More Trouble Zones yesterday, i didn't do the shred though. I couldn't help it, i needed to let some steam out, i was super annoyed at something and after the workout i felt like a champ (the shred will do that to you). Today i woke up so sore, which means i worked muscles the shred didn't get to- I really suggest this workout after the 30 day shred. After the shred and this workout today, i am beat, but feel so good.

I sharing some of the goodies i eat, which are healthy and yummy..This cereal is my favorite, i eat it for breakfast almost every morning- with skim milk of course

I also love these, not only are they healthy but filling...They have them in different flavors like Apple, Peanut butter and Oats and Honey.

Ok that's it for now.. If you like to join me and my girls on this shred adventure make sure you visit my Blog Frog Shred Community

30 day Shred starts tomorrow!

2009-12-10T22:17:00.002-05:00

DId i tell you i am starting the 30 day shred tomorrow again? Well, yes i am ..And i am asking you to join in with me..

Visit my Blog Frog Community for more details..

I took today off and i am dying to get back to it... Why rest when there's work to be done. (don't mind me i am a shred junkie now)

Day 30 of the Shred, I DID IT

2009-12-09T13:02:00.012-05:00

OK i completed 30 days of workout,with one day off due to injury.

Here's my stats.

Starting weight 182

Ending weight 172

10 pounds

Chest- 2 inches

Waist- 2 1/2

2 jean sizes AMAZING!!!

I don't see much change from day 20-30 but i have lost 2 pounds since and even though the pics don't show it, there's change... I almost didn't take any pictures today because is that time of the month and i am sooo bloated (NOT FAIR) (but i had to show you guys something) Oh and my son broke my bathroom mirror (thanks son of mine) I am going to take some real pics on Monday..

Before

Day 20

Day 30 Whack pics ! My son broke my bath mirror

OK ladies, so what happens after the 30 day shred... Here's what i plan on doing..

I am taking tomorrow off, and starting all over again. Yes i am on it again...I am going to do the No more trouble zones for 30 days. Some of you who asked me to join you again for 30 days, here we gooo let's do this... Let's meet every day at my community- Is the Blog Frog community on the right side of my blog >>>right there

Let's hold each other accountable on this.. Let's introduce ourselves and DO THIS THANG!

This time around i plan on getting a little more strict on my food intake...I am still going to post my progress here, not everyday like i used to but every Monday. I will log in daily at my community though...

What you say you joining me?

Did i do ok on this shred thing?