tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89458969998838542102024-03-13T09:37:55.226-07:00Finding Joy In The Middlekjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-49846307117816020382018-06-04T14:19:00.000-07:002018-06-04T14:19:20.740-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-63756061554137987742016-04-29T12:40:00.000-07:002016-04-29T12:54:35.396-07:00A Community In Waiting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This morning, as I sat on the lounge chari on my deck, I realized I needed support. I was reading a blog that I have recently discovered called <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/" target="_blank">We Are That Family</a>. Kristen Welch is a Godley women with a huge heart and I have been blessed many times while reading her blog. In a recent post she shared about some encouragement she received and listed some suggestions for other women, going through life challenges.<br />
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One of her suggestions was this-<br />
<i>"Surround yourself with a community of broken people who share a common journey (adoption, leadership, teenagers, toddlers)"</i><br />
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I realized I needed a community. One who shares in my journey of being a Christian women who is married to a man I am deeply in love with, a man who has Aspergers. I set out to find that community. I was sure it was out there. Aspergers is somewhat new to the disorder scean, but there is more being discovered about it everyday and the awareness is growing, so where is my community?<br />
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I found a few post on random sites, but most were outdated and not being maintained. I realize I don't have much room to talk, I stopped blogging years ago. I never found my voice, never found a community. Well if I can't find one, maybe I need to make one.<br />
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Are you out their ladies? Do you long to be a Godley wife, but sometimes struggle with your spouse's uniqueness? Do you need encouragement and someone who understands what it's like to live with the ups and downs of personality disorder?<br />
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I have no special knowledge or background in autism. I don't have a list of remidies to make your marriage better. I just have a desire to build a network of women how can support one another. I often feel like I have no one to turn to, when it comes to the struggles I face. Most people find it hard to understand where I'm coming from. It's hard enough to get people to understand your desire to be a Godley wife ("Why would you want to be submissive?") let alone the sacrifices that must be made to maintain a peaceful home, living with an Aspie.<br />
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If your out there, drop me a line. I'll be waiting.....<br />
Kristenkjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-39911967183110809752014-06-11T21:48:00.003-07:002014-06-11T21:48:54.573-07:00HumbledIt's been a little while.<br />
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Life for me lately seems like an endless cycle of work, exercise, sleep, repeat. My weight loss efforts have been going well and at this point I have lost 25 pounds. During the last 5 months I have discovered a new found interest in health, nutrition and fitness. I feel like my weight is no longer something that is keeping me from victory and although people are noticing the changes, when I look in the mirror I just don't feel it.<br />
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I came across this video today rather by accident and it instantly brought tears to my eyes.<br />
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Women are courages and beautiful, no matter what they look like. I want to be fit and healthy but I also want to love this body that God gave me. I want every women to know that true beauty doesn't come from the outside but so few understand that...including myself.</div>
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I wanted to share this video today because it touched my heart. Im still pressing forward towards my fitness goals, but with more understanding. Every step along the way has taught me something new and today I learned that no matter how fit I am, I have to embrace every part of the women God made me or I will never be happy with how I look.</div>
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- Kristen</div>
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-84214852712851136032014-05-01T07:36:00.000-07:002014-05-01T07:36:01.654-07:00Your Beautiful<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just a little reminder that you are beautiful and you are loved!</span></div>
kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-88821691875347792922014-04-25T15:30:00.000-07:002014-04-25T15:30:27.084-07:00Confessions of a Closet Christian<br />
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I have been a Christian all my life. It's something that is apart of me literally; my name means "Believer in Christ". As a young girl, I would never hesitate to talk about Jesus.....so what happened? The boldness I had when I was younger has been replaced with a need to be accepted.</div>
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In all honesty I have allowed myself to be a victim of insecurity. You see I care what people think of me, I always have. I don't want to offend, upset or make anyone feel uncomfortable. I'm not sure if you have ever read about Jesus or his time on earth, but let's just say he was the complete opposite, a perfect mix of rebel and redeemer. He healed and loved people, but he challenged and angered them too.<br />
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I think a big part of my hesitation is the fear that if I were to speak boldly about Christ, I would instantly be thought of as "closed minded" and nothing I said or did would be taken seriously. Christian's have gotten a bad reputation (in some cases rightly so) for some pretty hateful things done "In the name of Jesus" over the years.<br />
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But staying in the closet isn't going to change that negative perception. Only living a life as instructed by God's word, a life of love, kindness and humility, will ever be able to change what people may think about Christians.<br />
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So I think it's time for me to come out of the closet. I will make mistakes, but luckily God can even use mistakes to show His mercy and forgiveness.<br />
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Kristen<br />
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-68969217298304511882014-04-04T11:36:00.002-07:002014-04-04T11:36:56.680-07:00Friday's Fitness FindsHere are a few things that I'm loving this week:<br />
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<b>Infused Water:</b><br />
Lately I have been experimenting with different ways to make my water consumption a little more exciting. There are all kinds of ideas out there for infusing your water with different fruits and herbs, but right my top pick is Apple Slices and Cinnamon sticks. I have a large jug of water that has my days water supply and I just throw in two cinnamon sticks and a small sliced apple. It may look like I have a salad floating in my water, but believe me 64 oz of plain old water can get a bit dull.<br />
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<b>Fitness Podcast:</b><br />
I came across a fitness Podcast called "Fitness Behavior" by Bevan James Eyles a few days ago on iTunes and have to say that I'm really excited about it. I have only listened to the first few episodes, but the principles this triathlete shares are inspirational and can be applied to all areas of life. Definitely check it out.<br />
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<b>Breakfast Burrito</b>:<br />
I have been looking for ways to incorporate more veggies into my diet so I came up with this breakfast burrito. Tasty, filling and low on calories. Let me know what you think.<br />
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<u>Sweet Potato & Black Bean Breakfast Burrito</u><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', 'Lucida Grande', Tahoma, Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">1 Sm Carb Balance Tortilla</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', 'Lucida Grande', Tahoma, Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">1/3 Cup Roasted/Cooked Cubed Sweet Potatoes</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', 'Lucida Grande', Tahoma, Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">1/8 Cup Black Beans(I pre cook them)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', 'Lucida Grande', Tahoma, Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">1/8 Avocado (2 slices)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', 'Lucida Grande', Tahoma, Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">1 egg</span><br />
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After two months I think it's about time for an official weigh in. Im excited to share that as of today I have lost 14lb. I recently shared a few fitness tips that I feel have greatly contributed to my success so far, but today I wanted to share a few more.<br />
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<b>Support</b>: One of the differences that I have found between this time, and all the other times I have tried to lose wight, is that this time I don't feel so alone in my plight. My friends and family have always been supportive but it's just not the same as someone who is dealing with the same struggles as I am.<br />
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I have found this support through a few coworkers that are also on a weight loss/healthy living plan and the <a href="https://www.loseit.com/" target="_blank">"Lose It"</a> app that I have previously talked about. The bottom line here is you <u>need</u> the support so go and find it. Set yourself up for success, find accountability. I would love a bigger support system so let me know what your goals are and we can encourage each other.<br />
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<b>A Bigger Picture:</b> I know I have already talked about the book" Made to Crave" by Lysa TerKeurst so I won't go on and on, but it has been so important for me to let the truths of this book sink in. I needed to figure out what the real root cause of my overeating was in order to make lasting changes. I turn to food in times of stress to bring joy to my tummy instead of turning to God who has the ability to bring joy to my heart. I need to put food in it's rightful place and not look to it to provide things it was never intended to.<br />
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Please let me know if any of this is helpful to you in any way and remember you are not alone.<br />
Kristen<br />
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kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-8370121855994919872014-03-12T11:05:00.000-07:002014-03-12T11:05:31.750-07:00Finding PeaceYesterday was a hard day. By the time 3pm rolled around all I wanted to do was infuse my soul with chocolate. I had been chastised and was feeling completely unappreciated and something sweet was just the thing to take away the sting, at least that was what I felt.<br />
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What I did instead was walk outside, find a sunny spot to sit, and played some of my favorite worship songs. Slowly the need for sugar faded away and I was filled with something chocolate can never provide, peace.<br />
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For me living by faith is trusting in what I know and not what I feel.<br />
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-53434005118202764752014-02-28T23:11:00.000-08:002014-02-28T23:11:51.329-08:00Fitness Favorites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPsjZeIVRUcmPDdUJ39V79WDdfkvljGjgh1AnZlTcq0P0F2Qzd7TcfjVhTTI_dnd-PJMo0aOhYztaui2RrcWYB525VgaP3FIJki2jY87PVNoACkvkxsUGrHTjT6VGnI1EWgQ5BYNjae2y/s1600/fitness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPsjZeIVRUcmPDdUJ39V79WDdfkvljGjgh1AnZlTcq0P0F2Qzd7TcfjVhTTI_dnd-PJMo0aOhYztaui2RrcWYB525VgaP3FIJki2jY87PVNoACkvkxsUGrHTjT6VGnI1EWgQ5BYNjae2y/s1600/fitness.jpg" height="364" width="640" /></a></div>
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I wanted to share with you some of my new favorite health finds.<br />
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<b>"Lose it" App/Website:</b> There are a lot of health and calorie counting apps out there, but I have been using this one for that last month and a half and really like it. I am a goal motivated girl and this app is great because not only can you set goals for your self above and beyond weight loss (like fiber intake) you can join challenges that other members have created to keep you motivated.<br />
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<b>Resistance Band Workouts:</b> Having an ever changing work schedule I often find it tricky to get outside for a run or hit the elliptical at the gym consistently. With that in mind I have been looking for good workouts I can do at home. I have plenty of fitness DVDs and hand weights but I wanted something that was a tad bit easier to fit in before bed and resistance band workouts are just the thing. I have found a bunch of really great workouts on Pinterest and one I particularly love from the Tone It Up web site that you can check out <a href="http://toneitup.com/2013/05/your-new-%E2%98%80thursday-workout-surprise/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Water</b>: I know they say that when trying to loose weight you should drink a lot of water so I started consuming 64oz. a day in addition to any other beverage I was drinking. After countless trips to the restroom I started wondering exactly why I was doing this. I mean why is drinking water all that important? I did a quick web search and soon found the reasons I would be putting up with the frequent potty breaks. I enjoyed <a href="http://allwomenstalk.com/10-ways-how-water-helps-you-to-lose-weight" target="_blank">this</a> article and found it gave some great reasons above and beyond weight-loss for why drinking water is so important.<br />
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What are your fitness tips or favorite exercises?kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-1089010232578047972014-02-21T08:39:00.000-08:002014-02-21T08:39:25.004-08:00Joy in the Choice <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-KxPPdNNBcKwuoqXwJH61-wYmNsH4go9Xc3eHq1_gBUZObarutHDkkSRQ_20U4NC8ntVzYDlrEExhkAQ-P7Z-2dnE1_m4wRFA6FKZm-iWvOuCquCJQJ3LjUJVYgHU_1pyh-Zn6v4BUKK/s1600/IMG_4727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb-KxPPdNNBcKwuoqXwJH61-wYmNsH4go9Xc3eHq1_gBUZObarutHDkkSRQ_20U4NC8ntVzYDlrEExhkAQ-P7Z-2dnE1_m4wRFA6FKZm-iWvOuCquCJQJ3LjUJVYgHU_1pyh-Zn6v4BUKK/s1600/IMG_4727.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I knew when I started on my road to weight loss that it would be easier in the beginning then it would be in the end, but I wasn't expecting that duration of time to be in the span of one month. I lost my first few pounds pretty quick, but have already plateaued over the last two weeks, not even a third of the way to my goal.</div>
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One of the most common questions that people face when starting a new weight loss plan is "Will this be sustainable for the rest of my life?" Sometimes this question can stop us from even starting. For me I know that I can maintain just about anything, as long as I see results...... and here in lies one of my biggest problems.</div>
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This morning, as I stood on the scale that still hadn't changed, I realized that if I was going to keep moving forward I was going to need to sort a few things out in my head. Are all of the changes that I have made sustainable or worth while if I don't seen any results? As it has happened so many times before I knew the answer was to be found in a change of heart.</div>
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I find joy in healthy living when I see results, but I need to find joy in the healthy choices I make, regardless of the results. This battle is no about too much sugar or not enough exercise, it's about living a content life because I know I have made the right choice. It's about living in victory every time I walk away from that "thing" that is not good for me and it reaches so far beyond food.</div>
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Chasing after results alone is exhausting and in the end not sustainable, but if I can find joy in the daily decisions that I know are good for me, I will live a victorious and rewarding life. It won't be easy, but thankfully I don't have to rely on my own abilities -</div>
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<span class="selected" original-title="" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">"</span><span class="" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; text-indent: -3.5em;">The</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; text-indent: -3.5em;"> </span><span class="small-caps" style="border: 0px; color: #363030; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: small-caps; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-indent: -3.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; text-indent: -3.5em;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; text-indent: -3.5em;">is my strength</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; text-indent: -3.5em;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; text-indent: -3.5em;">and my shield;</span></div>
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<a alt="esv_09" class="va" href="" rel="v19028007" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(128, 128, 128); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; color: #404040; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></a></div>
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<span class="" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #363030; font-family: Georgia, Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="text-indent: -4em;">in him my heart trusts, and I am helped;</span>"</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #363030; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 22px; text-align: right;">Psalm 28:7</span></div>
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kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-79890342495176739662014-02-10T11:57:00.000-08:002014-02-10T11:57:57.980-08:00Small Victories <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My number one focus this year is weight loss and healthy living. Time to get honest..... this is not the first time that this has been my "number one focus"....or even the second. Truthfully weight loss has been something that I have struggled with for over a decade.<br />
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I am 30 pounds over my ideal healthy weight. No 30 lb. overweight is not 200 lb. or even 50 lb. but here's the thing, it is overweight, it is unhealthy and most importantly it is the area in my life that I feel the most defeated.<br />
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I know for a fact that Jesus dose not want me to live a life of defeat. He has made me (and you) victorious. I need to loose this weight because I need victory in this area of my life. I need to be free of this burden.<br />
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Last year I read Lisa TerKeurst's book "Made to Crave". It is a very encouraging book and I highly recommend it. Currently I am going through her daily devotional by the same name. Today's message was about living in victory and it really hit home for me.<br />
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This whole time I have had the mind set that once I reach my goal weight I will be able to live in victory, but today I realized how wrong that thought process is. Jesus want's me to live in victory today, not a year from now. I can live in victory every single time I make a choice that brings me a step closer to my goal. Guess what? The little stuff counts! Walking away from a cake in the break room is living in victory right now, today!<br />
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Isn't that reassuring? Today, whatever you are struggling to change, make a list of all your small victories so you can celebrate them. After all, most of the great thing's that happen in life don't happen all at once, they happen one small step at a time.kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-3663243289828229322014-02-04T12:58:00.002-08:002014-02-04T12:58:29.689-08:00Goal Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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To finish up with my journey through Lara Casey's "Making Things Happen" series it's time at last to list my goals for 2014. Moving forward I'll be exploring some different content here so I would love to hear your thoughts on what resonates with you the most.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My Goals for 2014:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;">1:Be Fit - Loose Weight</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Have healthy eating habits</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Drink more water</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Eat fruits and veggies daily</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Consistently take vitamins</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Exercise 5 times a week</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;">2: Be Bold for Jesus -Know Him and His plan</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Better devotion time</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Always have a devotional to work through(link it to yearly goal)</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Bible reading and prayer daily</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Keep a prayer journal to track your progress </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;">3: Be Creative</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><u>Using my camera:</u></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Know my camera inside and out</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Understand the fundamentals of photography</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Experiment with different types of photography to know what area I want to focus in</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; letter-spacing: 0px;"><u>Blog:</u></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">At least once per week</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Find a focus/theme</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">4. Make Our House a Home</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">De clutter and get rid of things not used or needed</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Make wise purchases that enhance living space</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Implement cleaning schedule</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Consider “House Management” idea further</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wNzkB7nzwdlh0nzjafgEhljB-VMltqsSHvSdMWhjo4WNSNrpn1P1h4A0hQ0qD92XAGASgHYCVszvfvvnE1fouQqjZz2j6ZcavCIpc6zIxSru4O8nQHsPYkez02hHFZGV7q2-pZbfuiQo/s1600/IMG_6644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wNzkB7nzwdlh0nzjafgEhljB-VMltqsSHvSdMWhjo4WNSNrpn1P1h4A0hQ0qD92XAGASgHYCVszvfvvnE1fouQqjZz2j6ZcavCIpc6zIxSru4O8nQHsPYkez02hHFZGV7q2-pZbfuiQo/s1600/IMG_6644.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-25115118348330679852014-01-28T07:20:00.001-08:002014-02-03T11:49:24.577-08:00Saying No!What I'm saying <u>no</u> to in 2014:<br />
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<div style="font-family: 'Avenir Next Condensed'; margin-left: 36px; text-align: center; text-indent: -36px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Doubt & Fear</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unrealistic goals and expectations</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Avenir Next Condensed'; margin-left: 36px; text-align: center; text-indent: -36px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">To much television</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Avenir Next Condensed'; margin-left: 36px; text-align: center; text-indent: -36px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Spending money I don’t have</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Loosing the weight loss fight</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NvcyHdb5kt7Q9NXV9clyt6Sl2MEc6uOYX2UMXKHowo8LHVW8hkF-rmXd28oL-J_hjaQv-Zj-WVKYOdQhqJ87Rh1Y4pXKAX92UTb6tpbDzBF4vjiS2v2bmSc5UYYMcfcHthq8Txa6gJ9p/s1600/IMG_8419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NvcyHdb5kt7Q9NXV9clyt6Sl2MEc6uOYX2UMXKHowo8LHVW8hkF-rmXd28oL-J_hjaQv-Zj-WVKYOdQhqJ87Rh1Y4pXKAX92UTb6tpbDzBF4vjiS2v2bmSc5UYYMcfcHthq8Txa6gJ9p/s1600/IMG_8419.jpg" height="352" width="640" /></a></div>
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kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-52515911817804386302014-01-21T07:02:00.000-08:002014-01-28T06:59:40.613-08:00Saying Yes!What I am saying <u>yes</u> to in 2014:<br />
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<div style="font-family: 'Avenir Next Condensed'; margin-left: 36px; text-align: center; text-indent: -36px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Trusting God's plan</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Avenir Next Condensed'; margin-left: 36px; text-align: center; text-indent: -36px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Learning my camera</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Avenir Next Condensed'; margin-left: 36px; text-align: center; text-indent: -36px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Gaining health & fitness</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Avenir Next Condensed'; margin-left: 36px; text-align: center; text-indent: -36px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Getting outside more</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Having a better relationship with Jesus</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Having fun! Enjoying life with family and friends</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Making my house a home</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: large;">More Love</span></span></div>
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kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-68071305169194621602014-01-15T23:22:00.001-08:002014-01-15T23:22:24.895-08:00Purpose In the Middle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If purpose is this years focus, it seems only right to apply it to every area of my life. In all honesty I have been pondering the purpose of this blog for quite some time. I think I started out with some vague notion that it would help me find my creative voice and I think in some ways it has, but do I want it to be more?<br />
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The blogs I tend to follow myself with any consistency are ones that I find either inspirational or informative. So what is my blog about and who do I write it for? I started blogging for myself no question, but I would love to end up with something that both enhances my creativity and brings joy to others, through inspiration, information or both.<br />
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Over this next year I plan to explore some different formats and areas of focus here. I will try to stick to a common theme for at least a month to give myself a chance to explore without being overly scattered. Trust me, I'm scattered by nature so I need a lot of help to stay on track.<br />
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What I ask from you is honest feedback...of any kind. I may be making a pretty big assumption that there are people out there reading this to begin with, but the little Google tracker shows web traffic of some kind. I never know if there are truly real people out there, but if there are and I have posted something good, bad, funny or helpful please let me know.<br />
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I'm looking forward to exploring some new ideas and to hearing from you.<br />
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Kristenkjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-59560196825578860172014-01-09T06:39:00.002-08:002014-01-09T06:44:26.559-08:00Ready Or Not<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: large;">My theme song for 2014 -</span></span></div>
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(The song and lyrics because there isn't a video of this song yet)</div>
kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-17086827471437483382014-01-07T11:27:00.000-08:002014-01-07T11:27:16.487-08:00Making Things Happen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I mentioned in my last post that I have been working though Lara Casey's series <a href="http://laracasey.com/2013/12/27/2014-goal-setting-part-1-lets-do-this/" target="_blank">"Making Things Happen in 2014"</a> and I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed the process. It has been both challenging and rewarding, but I feel like I am starting this new year with more direction and determination then ever before.<br />
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The thing I have appreciated the most about Lara's series is the steps taken to reach the goal setting portion. My normal MO is to rattle off a list of "good ideas" and hit the ground running. However, not taking the time to really think through the "why's and how's" of my goals only lead to failure.<br />
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Much of this process has been internal but for the sake of accountability I will share my most important takeaways over the next few weeks. For today I'll start with my word for 2014.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi84nBB07vM6kKysyXRbaoTe_8oZtjMkL07CHHKGLcW5TA8ZCyfStGupv2wW6OLWPGeC6ZZzDmHIeW-xjXnLeQFBgGvChbFjLtsqMT_WfJKgnUB40Giwa5N1nK0Y1qZd1co9V4UyO40UZ/s1600/IMG_0161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCi84nBB07vM6kKysyXRbaoTe_8oZtjMkL07CHHKGLcW5TA8ZCyfStGupv2wW6OLWPGeC6ZZzDmHIeW-xjXnLeQFBgGvChbFjLtsqMT_WfJKgnUB40Giwa5N1nK0Y1qZd1co9V4UyO40UZ/s1600/IMG_0161.JPG" height="156" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had started out with a different word in mind but after all was said and done I knew that this was the word that was right for the new year. This word has two meanings for me:<br />
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<i><span style="color: #134f5c;">1. I want to live each and every day with purpose and meaning. Cutting out things with no lasting value and focusing my time on my family, friends and the talents that God has given me.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #134f5c;">2. I want to find God's purpose for me. I truly believe that He has given each and every one of us a distinct set of gifts and abilities and that He intended we share them with others. I'm done hiding in the shadows, it's time I find my purpose in Him and not be afraid to shine.</span></i></div>
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I'll leave you with this quote that I found on Lara's site that hit me at my core.<br />
P.s. Thanks agin for sharing in this journey with me.<br />
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-69824046904331301602014-01-02T11:29:00.000-08:002014-01-02T11:29:15.970-08:00A Great Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Over the last week I was introduced to Lara Casey's very inspirational blog. Along with many other lovely ladies I have been going through steps in Lara's <a href="http://laracasey.com/2013/12/27/2014-goal-setting-part-1-lets-do-this/" target="_blank">"Make it Happen"</a> series, to discover what my focus and direction will be in 2014.</div>
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This process has brought a lot of soul searching on a deeper level then I have previously started off my new year, but it has been so good. I highly recommend you check out Lara's blog.</div>
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I will be sharing my goals and "word' soon, but I'm still processing. Until then, I wanted to share the above photo college that I put together, highlighting special memories from 2013. I have been doing a lot of reflecting and when I started going through all my photos, I realized that we had a very full year.</div>
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I tried to pick my favorite memory from each month, but I have to say that this ended up being rather difficult as many months (especial the warmer ones) were filled with more then one great adventure. Here are the highlights:</div>
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<b>January:</b> A day hike on one of our favorite local trails.</div>
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<b>February:</b> A very cold, but memorable overnight camping adventure.</div>
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<b>March:</b> A family trip to the zoo.</div>
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<b>April:</b> A photo walk at the Idaho City cemetery.</div>
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<b>May:</b> Our first ladies craft night.</div>
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<b>June:</b> An overnight Jeep expedition with Justin's dad.</div>
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<b>July:</b> Kayaking with the family when my dad visited over my birthday.</div>
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<b>August:</b> Cooking with Justin</div>
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<b>September:</b> Celebrating my grandfather's life with my extended family.</div>
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<b>October:</b> A lovely drive with my husband.</div>
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<b>November:</b> A day hike with a tremendous view of our valley</div>
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<b>December:</b> Baking christmas cookies with my dear friend Amber.</div>
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I am truly blessed!kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-28224239699883952002013-12-27T20:48:00.001-08:002013-12-27T20:48:42.201-08:00Small Treasures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63KAezVhZD1CFat2fuTMxmCSNiO-y6s_UdVPmVygBZy4VxBK0t1dD-nVw3JwzrdlM0gJPkyU_PLVR9ywCkhWd_1X1A_QsqeMazSH8xpCpBxrh2LItPpWRJVXMp4G3u0s5EFzB0-ZK_91m/s1600/Stamps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63KAezVhZD1CFat2fuTMxmCSNiO-y6s_UdVPmVygBZy4VxBK0t1dD-nVw3JwzrdlM0gJPkyU_PLVR9ywCkhWd_1X1A_QsqeMazSH8xpCpBxrh2LItPpWRJVXMp4G3u0s5EFzB0-ZK_91m/s1600/Stamps.jpg" height="374" width="640" /></a></div>
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I just wanted to share this adorable gift that I received from my dear friend. After a lovely pre-Christmas lunch and a whole lot of talking, my friend <a href="http://www.theelectrictypewriter.com/" target="_blank">Amber</a> and I went on a search for Christmas tree ornaments. While we didn't find anything to our liking in that department, Amber introduced me to a cute little gift shop that I had never been in called <a href="http://www.ilikemixedgreens.com/" target="_blank">"Mixed Greens"</a> in downtown Boise.<br />
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They have a fun mix of unique items from jewelry to paper crafting supplies. I fell in love with this set of vintage style mini stamps made by <a href="http://www.cavallini.com/" target="_blank">Cavallini & Co.</a> So freaking cute!<br />
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Thank you Amber!<br />
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-1492486694729313912013-12-24T12:23:00.001-08:002013-12-24T12:23:56.701-08:00A Good Amount of Planning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelOdbKsg-ROtfVxYGm5k6n4mc3vORsxiRTEb99ivAm92CW9goHzFvLhlONFhYZ6dRuWzLflLAK4TsDfF8r6WFBSz6ua7_e-LUOoZZu-9o4r7YPe5lmkoiv9xob0SU10cg1AVS9vNwv4dJ/s1600/IMG_0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelOdbKsg-ROtfVxYGm5k6n4mc3vORsxiRTEb99ivAm92CW9goHzFvLhlONFhYZ6dRuWzLflLAK4TsDfF8r6WFBSz6ua7_e-LUOoZZu-9o4r7YPe5lmkoiv9xob0SU10cg1AVS9vNwv4dJ/s1600/IMG_0063.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I have noticed that as this year is coming to a close, I have started to mentally plan for the next one. What will my word be, what goals will I set, how did I do this year? It a natural thing I suppose and I'm a planner by nature. I LOVE lists! It's so exciting to start out the year with a brand new list to check off.<br />
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Here is my problem though, I tend to spend my time either over planning, and not doing or leaping into a long list of projects,without setting a realistic goal for completion. As much as I love lists I'm thinking that a good amout of planning and reflection might also be necessary. Not to much, but a "good" amount.<br />
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Perhaps a set time weekly and monthly to analyze my current lists, plans, and goals might work. I think I'll start with a half hour at the start of each week and one hour once a month. That seems doable. I have a tendency to look at the "here and now" and not the "just around the corner". Making lists are great, but if you don't have a realistic plan to achieve them, what's the point?<br />
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How do you achieve the things on your list?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeo3VCbtb6gRne2HrSuzCDtt7sjE3d-wHCrsMlW6ZMvi_WEfHpMysyYxnJ0T1JS0MsQW4J07EQQ-Dg_51MsWgufVhd0zQEvtJFmLFsahbXFU8-bwhkcXW2E5jLZQ6Ac9Ip4_69wrKymyHU/s1600/IMG_9839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeo3VCbtb6gRne2HrSuzCDtt7sjE3d-wHCrsMlW6ZMvi_WEfHpMysyYxnJ0T1JS0MsQW4J07EQQ-Dg_51MsWgufVhd0zQEvtJFmLFsahbXFU8-bwhkcXW2E5jLZQ6Ac9Ip4_69wrKymyHU/s1600/IMG_9839.JPG" height="281" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-54610384384082001182013-10-29T11:51:00.003-07:002013-10-29T11:51:54.818-07:00Goal # 8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkf_FJOC3nOcGNnGz2JF4QMZV5WYAkPoes0j5jGjX2I8TS-8ql2GRnIxye0EZFVZUUdkHr2eZbpCyqqfszb07TE6blvdzs8mUWSFhKSLcL0Dv6yvcoKFUFJ1vucEWzDheIAXpxR0rDhkf/s1600/IMG_9531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkf_FJOC3nOcGNnGz2JF4QMZV5WYAkPoes0j5jGjX2I8TS-8ql2GRnIxye0EZFVZUUdkHr2eZbpCyqqfszb07TE6blvdzs8mUWSFhKSLcL0Dv6yvcoKFUFJ1vucEWzDheIAXpxR0rDhkf/s1600/IMG_9531.JPG" height="393" width="640" /></a></div>
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As this year swiftly speeds to a close I'm beginning to think that giving myself 10 goals for the year was a tad bit unrealistic, but they are good goals and since I have committed to follow through I will do my best to see them completed.<br />
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Goal number 8 was something that I had intended to keep on the down low until I could check it off my list, but something I have learned over this year is the goals we set for ourselves are not always what we really need or accomplished successfully in the way we planned.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Goal #8 - Get out of retail</span></div>
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I like my job. I work for a good company and I work with a lot of really great people, but the schedule is less then ideal to put it mildly. I have been in retail for over ten years and it is not conducive to the kind of home life I want, at least that is what I have been telling myself for a long time. The truth is that I often use my job as an excuse for why my life is cluttered, messy and unorganized.</div>
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I'm beginning to understand that the things you truly want can often be yours if your willing to work for them. Having a clean and organized home is hard, it takes work. In my head I had convinced myself that it would magically be easier to have an organized life with a 9-5, Monday - Friday work week. Perhaps having a fixed schedule would make life better, but work is still work, no matter when it's done. I guess I thought the Cinderella animals would be more readily available to me if I didn't work nights or weekends.</div>
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Now I think I should change goal #8 to "Don't Wait". If having a certain home life is important to me than I need to make it happen now, in my current circumstances. I don't know if I will ever transition out of retail, but my job should never be an excuse for lack of follow through.</div>
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-76938933220046184952013-09-01T23:11:00.002-07:002013-09-01T23:11:31.348-07:00Why I cook<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm excite as I sit down to write this post because I have found that so often I don't truly understand myself or why I do what I do, until I blog about it. My posts often change completely as I write them because the act of typing allows me the chance to figure out what's going on in my brain.<br />
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As I write this post I truly don't know the answer to "Why I cook" but I know that it is quickly becoming a passion and I'm looking forward to figuring out why.<br />
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When Justin and I were first married some 17 years ago we moved across the country to a foreign place with no friends, no family and no clue about what our new life would bring. I wanted to be a good wife and bring something to the table and I found that I could do that quite literally by cooking.<br />
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I had decent cooking skills for a 19 year old thanks to my mother who always cooked us homemade meals and Justin was great about complimenting my dinners, even when they weren't so terrific. I soon started associating cooking as a way to express my love for my family. I saw it as my job to feed them and when they enjoyed the food I prepared, I was doing my job well.<br />
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So here it is, for me cooking is an expression of love and no matter how crazy my work schedule is, I can still care for my family by making them a great meal. It's something I can consistently do for them even if Im not around as much as I would like.<br />
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Over the last few years my passion for "loving" my family via food has exploded. In an effort to streamline my dinner prep I started creating a meal plan strategy. I talked about my "list" <a href="http://findingjoyinthemiddle.blogspot.com/2012/05/whats-for-dinner-list.html" target="_blank">here</a> back in May of lat year. As I started hunting down new recipes I soon discovered a whole new world of possibilities. I had no idea that I could make food that tasted so good.<br />
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Wala! A home chef was born. I strive to cook better, I strive to love better, and lets face it good food brings people joy. You can't get any more perfect then that!<br />
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-20816499400869813082013-08-22T19:52:00.000-07:002013-08-22T19:52:23.078-07:00Bitter Sweet<div style="text-align: center;">
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I cant get my head clear. </div>
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I try and it just wont come. </div>
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My husband said "Write a post, get your head working." It's been a while. I think of my blog everyday to be honest, but then I start thinking "Nobody truly cares about what's going on in my life, in my mind". Then the truth comes and I remember. This wasn't about anyone else, it was about me, it was for me.<br />
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My Grandpa just died. It's sad, oh so very sad and yet happy at the same time because it was time for him to go home. His body is healed now and his mind is whole, but he isn't here.<br />
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Letting go is hard, even when it's time. I have been letting go of a lot of things lately and I know that it's good, know that it's right....it's still hard.kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-84268889956656282782013-06-26T22:19:00.001-07:002013-06-26T22:19:23.230-07:00Goal #7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So how is your summer treating you? At this point I'm convinced that there must be something called a summer fairy and it doesn't like me much, because it keeps stealing my summer days. I used to like fairies. I figure as late in the year as it is, I better get a move on with my list of 2013 goals or I'll never get through.<br />
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As it turns out goal #7 was some what short lived, but not from a lack of trying. Here it is:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">#7: Perfect the art of cooking shrimp</span> </div>
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I grew up in a household where the fish in our diet consisted solely of tuna fish sandwiches. Fish just wasn't my mom's thing. Don't get me wrong she was a health NUT and we eat our fair share of fruits, vegetables and Tofu, but not fish.</div>
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On the other hand my dear husband grew up in Alaska.....they have a lot of fish there. For years, despite my families peas and the knowledge that seafood is super good for you, I just didn't have the taste for it and I certainly didn't know how to cook it.</div>
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Two wonderful things recently changed all that. One, the magical occurrence of getting older and having your tastes buds die off means you like things you never used to. Two, my new found love of cooking has given me the confidence to branch out and try a host of new thing. Why just last night I made squash, this girl.....squash, get out!</div>
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I am not altogether sure why I started my seafood culinary endeavor with shrimp, but that is what I picked. Things have been going pretty well and I have made some pretty yummy shrimp dishes. My favorite, yet time consuming, was <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/coconut_shrimp.html" target="_blank">this one</a> from Eating Well. Alas my exploration was not to last.</div>
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It turns out that shrimp is one of the worst things you can eat if you have high cholesterol. It also turns out that my husband has super high cholesterol, who knew? So I have put a hiatus on the shrimp but have started to explore salmon in its place. I took <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/recipes/quick-recipes/2013/06/spiced-salmon-kebabs" target="_blank">these kabobs</a> on a recent camping trip and they were amazing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_FZYuQSONJFsiOhYrkfDUXn5HZBAhMfz4YHXofCCt26riWgfo8ZlV7358W5mRwPP0AGA7PbEZrTHcZYlypR9Pu7xVzDylyb0uVlBPa9h-Tlr4A0u1Z5EtnpRkoOFOjE0LoCkUpaMqeBm4/s1600/spiced-salmon-kebabs-646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_FZYuQSONJFsiOhYrkfDUXn5HZBAhMfz4YHXofCCt26riWgfo8ZlV7358W5mRwPP0AGA7PbEZrTHcZYlypR9Pu7xVzDylyb0uVlBPa9h-Tlr4A0u1Z5EtnpRkoOFOjE0LoCkUpaMqeBm4/s1600/spiced-salmon-kebabs-646.jpg" height="400" width="343" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="label" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto; text-transform: uppercase;">Bon Appetit - PHOTOGRAPH BY </span><span class="name author" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/search/query?contributorName=Hirsheimer%20&%20Hamilton" style="color: #888888; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none;">Hirsheimer & Hamilton</a></span></td></tr>
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Please share any good salmon recipes that you know of. I need to expand the Fish section of <a href="http://findingjoyinthemiddle.blogspot.com/2012/05/whats-for-dinner-list.html" target="_blank">the List</a>.</div>
kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8945896999883854210.post-11356338315197901442013-06-12T12:40:00.000-07:002013-06-12T12:40:46.659-07:00Confessions Of A Want-To-Be Farm Girl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Truth be told I wish I had a little farm. I'm not talking about a "get up at four a.m. to milk the cows, wash my knickers by hand and plow the fields" kind of farm, but boy would it be wonderful to have a large garden with a few chickens and possibly a goat for milking.<br />
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What started as a few tomato plants in the back yard to use for salsa has blossomed into a deep appreciation and fascination with the homesteading lifestyle. There is just something about being self sufficient. A certain joy that come with "homemade" and the more I learn, the more I'm hooked. Just the other day I made my first batch of cheese. No it didn't come from my own goat, but still....I MADE CHEESE!<br />
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For now I will have to settle with some Mason bees instead of the honey variety and possibly add just one more garden bed in back as I don't think a mini farm is in my immediate future. I'm guessing that if my HOA didn't like my Christmas wreath displayed in February, they certainly will have unpleasant things to say about a chicken coop in the back yard.<br />
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But the thing is, you don't have to have twenty acres or even two to get the satisfaction of growing or making something for you and your family. Heck you could do it on an apartment patio. Just because you or I can't produce enough crops to get us through the winter, doesn't mean we can't buy cheap fruit when it's in season and learn to can.<br />
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Yes progress is great and technology is super useful, but I don't want to throw away being self reliant just because it's easier to let some machine do all the work for me. In our day and age "homemade" is something unique and dare I say magical. It's something I want to hold on to for dear life.<br />
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<br />kjoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08580511665114254494noreply@blogger.com0