Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Tuesday, March 22

Okay, let's be honest... We did pretty well with that diet and exercise thing right after the New Year, but it's difficult to keep up. Here are some tips on how to start back down the right path.


Thursday, March 17, 2011

Friday, March 18

Here are links to organizations that are on the ground helping with the physical and spiritual needs in Japan:

Living without Caffeine "Midday Joy Fog Blog" Update
Interestingly enough, it took me about four days to permanently get rid of my "I'm-missing-my-Joe-really-bad!" headache. I have also noticed that I've been struggling with stomach pain since I've been without my caffeine. I don't know what that one means exactly! Went to get my oil changed yesterday and nearly grabbed a cup of complementary coffee--oops! Instead, I ran over to a gas station and purchased a very unique, tasty mango juice from Mexico. It's supposed to be very good for you--and helps relieve stomach pain. Great two-for-one!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Tuesday, March 15

Ideas from mom and writer Vicki Lansky about how we can remember things:

*Always lock your car from the outside with your keys- that way you'll never lock your keys in the car

*Place a hook (cup hook or one of those Command hooks) next to the door for your keys

*Call your voicemail to add to your "to-do" list while you're out of the house. (Bonus: You can't misplace your to-do list if it's in your phone!)

*Lose phone numbers, addresses and email address? Learn how to use your cell phone! Get out the manual and see the features it has that can store this information.

(Also, simply go to www.whitepages.com and forget about keeping all that information! There is even a place there to keep addresses for those Christmas cards!)

Monday, March 14, 2011

Monday, March 14

When disaster strikes, people tend to have one of two responses toward God--they are either drawn to Him or they become bitter toward Him. This is a crucial time for believers in Jesus Christ to pray for revival in our world as people are reeling from the tragedy in Japan and along the West Coast. Here is an informative website with information on praying for revival.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Thursday, March 10

A new inspirational major motion picture is hitting theaters soon--Soul Surfer--the story of surfer Bethany Hamilton. Bethany, as you may remember, was the sufer who lost her arm in a tragic shark attack and has continued to inspire others with her faith and courage. Watch for it April 8th.

Speaking of courage...the trailer for "Couraegous" (the latest from Sherwood Pictures) has just been released. Check it out here!

LUNCH FOR A BUNCH: Congratulations to the staff at Delmar Elementary School--hope you enjoy your free lunch from Heroes Famous Grille in Salisbury!

Wednesday, March 9

Caffeine-Free Midday (Fog) Blog

"Passionate (Bieber) Worship"

On Saturday afternoon, I took Lindsey and a friend to the roller rink to celebrate her 12th birthday. While we were there, I noticed a group of girls there for an all-girl 7th birthday party. The mom came in with a Justin Beiber hoodie--even dad was wearing (I'm sure kicking and screaming!) a t-shirt with the name "Justin Beiber" ironed on in navy blue. The presents and party favors had the face of Justin on them- before the haircut- I should note! To top it off they had a 5 ft. tall cut-out of Justin over the in corner where all the girls could pose for a photo. When the song "Baby" came on there was a scream in unison of 10 little seven-year-olds skating as fast as they could back out onto the floor. No one had to encourage them to sing along to their favorite song- they did it naturally. Wherever Justin's image was- they wanted to be. They were worshipping- wholeheartedly and passionately. Although their worship was misplaced, I think they have something to teach us.

When we are passionate about something we don't complain about our schedules, our lack of sleep, or how we can't fit it in. We can't help talking about it and couldn't imagine NOT fitting it in. (Think about March Madness and our favorite teams- lack of sleep is part of the badge of honor which shows how big of a fan you are.) If we are really consumed with Christ we are going to move heaven and earth to get our photo taken with His cut-out or sing His song (so to speak.) The more I think about this, our schedules are not our issue- it is misplaced passion or more simply put- idolatry. How would you fill in these blanks: "I will be happy when ____________. OR I could be happy if ___________ would happen." There is a good chance whatever is in those blanks is an idol.

The Lord is showing me caffeine is something that I go to in order to get that buzz when I'm down. I feel the Lord wants me to give that up for a season. I am praying the Lord will grant me an increasing passion for time spent with Him.

*Looking to get started on your Spring Cleaning (in an organized fashion)? Check out this great website!

Monday, March 7, 2011

Monday, March 7

We all have moms in our lives who need encouragement--whether they are friends, coworkers, or spouses. Here are four things every mom needs:

1. Affirmation
2. Friends, and time away with friends
3. Organization
4. A creative outlet

Moms, read more ideas here!

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Thursday, March 3

It was back on this date in 1931 that the "Star Spangled Banner" was designated the National Anthem by Congress. Check out some inspiring thoughts about the mindset those who sing it should have while they perform...

LUNCH FOR A BUNCH: Congratulations to the staff at Big Brothers Big Sisters & Maryland Mentoring Partnership in Salisbury! Enjoy your lunch from Quiznos!

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Tuesday, March 1

-What is your favorite daytrip in and around Delmarva? What is some place you can enjoy as a family (when the weather warms up) without spending a ton on gas and lodging? I'm collecting ideas for a future show as we look ahead to spring break getaways!

-One popular Bible teacher says we shouldn't be eager to cheer the uprisings in the Middle East. Find out why.