DAy 35: Weekly Evaluation

1. Am I listening for and hearing God's voice? What is he saying to me?
This week I am hearing that if I will turn to him, and seek to do his will, then he will help me overcome my food issues which are related to stress. Loosing the stress and food issues will help in overcoming my health issues. I need to be like the woman with the issue of blood in Matthew and press through to Jesus to help me overcome my food issues.
2. Am I increasingly manifesting the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)? What area look encouraging? What needs prayer?
I did do better this week in my interactions with co-workers. In those interactions I was able to sow love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, and gentleness. However, I need to be more faithful in my TAG. Too many days this week I rushed through my Bible Study and prayer time. I also need to exhibit more self-control particularly in the area of taking care of my body, the temple of God. I need to follow through on my commitment to exercise and limit my caloric intake.
3. What did God teach me during my TAG?
More an more I am getting a clear message that I need to turn to God to help me with the issues of exercise, food, and stress. I tend to turn to things of the world (latest diet, latest exercise craze, and a high-stressed schedule).
4. Which priorities did I live by? Which goals did I pursue?
This week my emphasis has been on better interactions with co-workers but I have let other issues slid. I have allowed myself to become overwhelmed and stressed out at work. This then leads to overeating and not feeling like I have time to exercise.
5. Which priorities or goals did I neglect?
First and foremost I neglected my TAG because I rushed through it like a routine and did not make it a time of renewal to help overcome my stress. I failed to fully care for my body as the temple of God. I made good goals and plans but then did not follow through.
6. What new thing did I learn--about life, God, my family, and the people around me?
That God wants me to make time with him a priority then other things will fall in place. If I will turn to God he will give me the energy and desire to exercise. He will help me not get stressed over my work schedule. He will show me ways to cooperate with my co-workers.
7. What are my specific priorities/goals for the coming week?
Exercise a minimum of three days during the coming week with a goal of eventually moving to 30 minutes everyday except Sunday. Also to limit my calories and make healthier food choices during the week.

Day 34: Weekly Checkup

Cumulative Scripture Review
A wife of noble character who can find?
Sh is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her tradings is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindles with her fingers.
Proverbs 31:10-19
Prayer:
Gracious Lord, help me to make my actions be profitable in your eyes and not necessarily in the eyes of the world. Give me the engery to work into the night doing the tasks that you have set before me, that are to be my acts of work and service to my family and to you. Holy Spirit help me to keep my hands involved in the healthy, productive labors in service to the King and my family. Help me to eager pursue the way of the industrious ant and not the lazy grasshopper. Lord, keep my eyes focused on labors that are pleasing and glorifing to you. These things I pray in Jesus name, Amen.
Practical:
Saturday is a day of review and catch up on any unfinished items from Donna's instructions. Today she asks that we check our one-time task to see that we have completed the following:
I have gained understanding of the self-management system. Yes
I set my Every Day goals. Yes
I printed out and began using the Daily Page. Yes
I added "Complete Daily Page" to my Evening Routine. Yes
I gained a basic understanding of the 80/20 rule and created the suggested lists to simplify my life. Yes
I gathered up and gave away everything I could. Yes
I purchased bins and began stowing away as much as I could. Yes have been for awhile.
I created Bins List to track what is stowed in each bin. Yes but instead of storing it in my journal I have it taped to the front and top of the bin.
I involved my family in the process of giving away or stowing as much as we could. Sometime I can get Bo involved, however most of the time he does not keep things he does not use.
I created a Tackle List of unfinished business. Yes
Next we are to confirm you are routinely incorporating the following positive changes into your daily routine.
I'm using my Personal Notebook (Journal) Yes
I'm regularly reviewing my Personal Vision Statement. Yes
I'm spending time in my prayer place, enjoying TAG. Yes
I'm dealing proactively with my secret sins. Yes
I'm completing this study every day, practicing the memory verse, and reciting affirmations daily. Yes
I'm becoming consciously selective about how I dress and how I use my time and resources. Yes
I'm becoming a more serious student of the Bible. Yes
I'm practicing the presences of God, being watchful, thankful, and prayerful. Yes
I'm following my Evening Routine and going to bed on time. Almost all the time but there were two nights when I did not get to bed on time.
I'm inviting God to awaken me each morning, saying no to the snooze button, and following a Morning Routine. Yes
I'm exercising control over my eating habits and limiting sugar intake. I am exercising control but am limiting total calories not just one thing like sugar or carbs.
I'm using smaller plates and controlling food portions. Yes
I'm planning ahead for healthier eating. Yes
I'm prayer walking three to five days per week. Did not walk this week.
I begin each day with a cleaning drink and consume sixty-four ounces of water every day. Yes
I stop eating several hours before be. Yes
I'm using a rebounder to fight gravity and cellulite. No, but paid my Wellness Center dues until the end of the year and have also made an appointment with the dietician.
I rountinely take cleansing baths Yes
I'm using my Daily Page and applying the 80/20 rule Yes.
I routinely give away everything I can yes had already been doing this..
I'm tackling items on my Tackle List No have the list made but have not started on any of the
tasks
..

Day 33: Transfer Problems To A Tackle List

Scripture to Memorize:
She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindles with her fingers.
Proverbs 31:18-19
Passage to Read:
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Psalm 23:1-3
Dear Lord, you are my shepherd and I thank you for your guidance. Because I have you to lead me and guide me I want for nothing. I confess that at times I act like a child who has been over-indulged. I want things that are not good for me. But you Lord know what I need and you provide for those needs. When I rest in you my life is good and I know peace and serenity. You lead me down a path that is peaceful and quiet. Holy Spirit restore my soul, renew me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Help me to think differently and aim for you paths of righteousness. Guide me in the right pathways but not just for my reputation but for the sake of your's. Lord I desire to be a positive reflection on your name. I want people to see in my life your care and guidance. Thanks for leading me this far. Amen.
Personal:
Today Donna say that "we're going to do a simple exercise that has the power to help restore your soul. We're going to create a TACKLE LIST. You'll go from room to room and make note of everything that's unfinished, anything that bothers you, or things that need to be changed in some way. When you're done walking from room to room, sit down and search your mind. Anything else up there--phone calls to make, letters to write, classes to take, weight to lose? If it's bothering you, write it down. Get it out of your head and onto a piece of paper." Once it is on paper we are to estimate how much time that we think it will take to complete the task and then whenever we have extra time look at your Tackle List and see what can be done in however much time you have fifteen minutes, half an hour, etc. We are to add to our list whenever we think of something new.
According to Donna we should feel energized by our momentum so thaqt we can then move on to the next item, and the next, and the next. She tells us to not "let your lamp go out tonight until you've finished one item on your Tackle List. Before we go to bed at night we need to review our Tackle List.
Some of the things on my Tackle List is shampooing the carpet, one area at a time; knitting and crocheting projects that I am working on, and several unfinished books.
Affirmation: He restores my soul.
Practical:
Prepare your Tackle List. Review your Tackle List each night as you prepare your daily page for the next day. When you have completed a large number of items on your list and you have a number of crossed-off items rewrite you Tackle List. Add to it as needed.

Day 32: Stow Away As Much As You Can

Scripture to Memorize:
She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindles with her fingers.
Proverbs 31:18-19
Passage to Read:
Better a dry crust with peace and quiet
than a house full of feasting, with strife.
Proverbs 17:1
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I know that you want me to have peace. I long to create a peaceful home that will serve as a santuary for me and my family. Forgive me for following what the world tells me that the way to a happy home is through the accumulation of material things. Today's passage reminds me that less is really more. That a house does not have to be full of material things to be peaceful and happy. It is not plenty that makes a home peace and quiet but following the precepts that you have given in your Word. Holy Spirit help me to live differently and not seek to be like the world. Teach me to pursue peace rather than things. Train my heart to seek peace and quiet instead of endless activity.
Prince of Peace make your homewith me. Amen.
Personal:
The project that Donna next wants us to tackle is stowing away the things that we do not use every month. Today is to be a jumpstart towards stowing away everything that is not used every month so you won't stow away everything at once. Also as you go through things again we are to ask ourselves once more: can I live without this, does someone else need it more, you can still give things away. Start another give away box if there are things that you determine on re-examination to give away. Donna's suggestion for a start is to give your children and husband each a bin of their own with instructions to place any off-season clothing in their bin. Some of her suggested bins: a bin for each major holiday and then one of miscellaneous holiday decorations, each family should have a bin for their off-season clothing. Then bins for tax documents (keep five years), arts and craft supplies, and childrens school memorbilia. Then if there are other bins you need. Donna shared that she has a bin for jungle gear because she has been on three mission trips in the jungle and she wants to be asked back. However, she does not want to have her jungle gear taking up room in her closet. As I shared yesterday I already have the bin thing going on out of necessity. I have also recently replaced some of my plastic bins for clothese with the vacuum bags. However Christmas decorations, arts and craft supplies, and tax records do not work well in the bags so I continue to use bins for them. I also use smaller bins to corral some items like files, pens and pencils on my desk, magazines, journals, etc. I also use baskets a lot to keep things organized.
Affirmation I store up treasures in heaven.

Day 31: Give Away Everything You Can

Scripture to Memorize:
She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindles with her fingers.
Proverbs 31:18-19
Passage to Read:
John [the Baptist] answered, "The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same. . . ."
[Jesus said,] "Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
Luke 3: 11; 6:38
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you that you have filled your word with so much practical advice that can help me and bring me blessing. I admit that I have a tendency to look for and like best the parts that speak of blessing for me. I tend to overlook those parts that deal with blessing other. Because I tend to seek first how to get blessings for myself I miss out on the many of the greatest blessings that come from blessing others.
Passages like today's are challeging for me. You clearly are telling me in the words of John the Baptist and Jesus that I am to give to others. Also that when I do so I will received more blessings. While the deceiver attempts to convince me and I regret that I often listen to his whispering that tell me I need to cling to everything I have instead of sharing with others. I need to chose to believe what your Word tells me. I also need to realize that you have only good plans for me and by giving I will enjoy the fruit of the Spirit. Holy Spirit give me the courage and generous heart to use a large measuring cup in giving to others. In Jesus name, Amen.
Personal:
In this section today Donna talks about getting rid of clutter, excesses, things you no longer need or use and give it away. She urges that you make sort of a ministry or mission project of cleaning out things and giving them away. Now this is something I have done for a long time. Mostly because I've moved around so much and partly because I have moved from larger homes to smaller ones I have found the need to discard/give away things that I no longer can use/wear. I also tend to recyle books among other things. When things are stretched financial I sale the excess but usually I give it away. I am a firm believe of the idea that if it has not be worn or used in a year to get it out of your house. Giving things away to someone who is more in need of them the better. I like out of her church's projects. They organized a church wide give away party and invited less fortunate families to come an pick out whatever they needed from the church members' give away items. Another thing they did is they loaded their pickup with give away items and helped a group of families who have been hit by a fire in an apartment complex. You can also organize an annual yard sale by yourself or with a group of friends after you have gone through your home getting rid of stuff. I do my cleaning out as I call it twice a year. Once in the Spring and once in the Fall. This also allows me to see what clothes may need to be replaced. When I do my cleaning I go through one room at a time and have three piles that are group in boxes, storage bags, garbage bags. What is no longer worth anything to anyone goes in the garbage bags. What can be used by someone other than me (no longer needed or no longer fits) goes in boxes and then what is to stay in my homes goes into storage bags. Then the next seasons things are gone through and the same bag, box system is used except now the things that are staying go into my closets. In my office it is the bi-annual cleanout of books which usually are taken to the used book store. I also go through craft stuff annually and if I have not done anything with that craft for two years I get rid of the stuff. However, Donna suggests a different criteria that I may use the next time. That is instead of how long hs it been since I used this I'll ask can I live without it? Does someone else need it more? Would someone get greater use out of this? I must also confess that I do this for the same reason Donna states she does it. I am not a good housekeeper and I don't want to deal with the mess and clutter of unwanted, unneeded, unused stuff.
Practical:
Here Donna suggests that you find out when Wal-Mart is getting in new inventory and ask them to save you ten boxes. While there also buy plastic storage boxes. I have found that the ones at Dollar General are just as good and a little cheaper. Also if it is clothes that you are storing from one season to another those vaccum bags are great. They take up less room and can be more neatly stored than plastic storage boxes. Also another place for women's clothing you want to get rid of is the Christian Women's Job Corp. Church Thrift Stores and the Salvation Army Thrift Stores are also good places to get rid of unneeded stuff.
So begin giving things away. Have two of some kitchen gadgets give one away. Have clothes you no longer wear give them away. Have clothes your kids no longer wear give them away.

Day 30: Apply the 80/20 Rule

Scripture to Memorize:
She sees that her trading profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindles in her fingers.
Proverbs 31:18-19
Passage to Read:
A discerning man keeps wisdom in view,
but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth.
Proverbs 17:24
Prayer:
Dear Lord, help me to become more discerning. I want to live each day with wisdom in view. However, I admit that much of the time I let my heart and mind wander to things that do not matter. I forget what is important and I become embroiled in things of the world. I let the deceiver gain a toehold with his lies. Holy Spirit, give me the power to keep my eyes focused on Jesus. Help to be more discerning. Keep my heart and mind from becoming distract so that the deceiver can not seduce me with his lies. I trust in you Holy Teacher to draw me back to the path of wisdom. In Jesus name, Amen.
Personal:
Today Donna gives us another of what she calls a "modern-day version of the distaff and spindle: the 80/20 rule". Donna tells us that this rule comes from the work of an Italian economist and is also known as the Pareto Principle. According to Donna the rule in practical applications states that "20 percent of the salespeople produce 80 percent of the sales results;20 percent of customers generate 80 percent of business income; 20 percent of any given congregation do 80 percent of the work in the church; you call 20 percent of your friends 80 percent of the time; you watch 20 percent of you television channels 80 percent of the time. . . " She goes on to give more examples but I think by now you have the concept.
Donna say that we need to put this rule to work for us by focusing on the 20 percent of activities that will yield 80 percent return and not waste our time on the 80 percent of activities that will only produce an additional 20 percent return. The real basic truth of this rule is to not strive for perfection. Then she tells us to review our Daily Page every day and put an asterisk next to the two items on your Tackle List that will yield the 80 percent return on your time investment. These are the items that you do first. Then even if you do not accomplish any of the other things on your list you will probably have achieved 80 percent effectiveness. "Do not allow yourself to work on anything other than the items with an asterisk until you have completed those two," Donna warns. She then give the following additional ways to apply the 80/20 rule:
"Make list of ten friends. Put a star next to the two most important ones and devote your attention to them. Be nice to everyone, of course, but focus your energies on the two you have identified.
Make a list of your ten favorite hobbies/free-time activities. Put a star next to the two you enjoy most. Invest in them.
You spend 80 percent of your waking hours in 20 percent of your house (probably your kitchen and family room). Focus on making them fabulous and you'll be much happier at home."
She then goes on to say "put the 80/20 rule to good use and let it simplify your life."
Affirmation: I use the 80/20 rule to help me simplify and prioritize my life.
Practical:
I did not realize it but I am already using the 80/20 rule in most instances. At work it is just how my schedule worked out and at home it came as the result of needing to refocus priorities when I returned to school. Plus since Bo does not work he does a number of the things that I would left trying to squeeze in. I found it rather interesting that I had been applying this rule without even realizing it was a rule or principle. Another instance of God providing what I needed without me even realizing he had been doing for me.

Day 29: Maximize Each Day

Scripture to Memorize:

She sees that her trading is profitable,

and her lamp does not go out at night.

In her hand she holds the distaff

and grasps the spindles with her fngers.

Proverbs 31:18-19

Passage to Read:

Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city; spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

James 4:13-14

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for today. Help me to remember it is all that I have and I need to make the most of it. I admit that there have been many times when I have been quick to state what I would do tomorrow. I have been known to have great intentions and ambitions but not followed through when tomorrow came. Instead let me realize that what counts is my obedience today. Holy Spirit, help me to find balance today between planning for the future (which is important) and giving way to good intentions and ambitions (which is foolishness). You know the desire of my heart Lord and you have promised to give me the desires of my heart. I rest in that knowledge. My time on earth is fleeting, Lord, help me to make the most of each day by focusing on your will and on the things that truely matter in the long run. Keep me focused on fulfilling the plans that you have for my life. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Personal:

This week Donna says that she will focus us on all the work that "women do from home, namely, managing ourselves, our family, and our household effectively." (She promises to focus on the concept of generating income from home in Week 8).

In order that we can make the most out of each day Donna then suggest that we use our personal notebook (I am using this blog and my personal journal) as our "distaff and spindle". We already have set up a section entitled "Personal" and now in that section we are to set up a subsection entitled "Every Day" and within that subsection additional sub-subsections labeled: Spiritual, Physical, Relational, Personal, Ministry, and Financial. Then we are to "Reread your Personal V ision Statement, then ask: 'What would I need to do eavery day in each category to fulfill my vision statement?" In my case by Personal Vision Statement is: I will use my creativity and enthusiasm to support and inspire others to freely express their talents in a harmonious and loving way. I will help to bring other women together and to listen to one another without being judgemental and not needing to give advice. I will strive to become more Christ-like and to not hate, sterotype, feel superior to, or to be prejudice myself. Donna then tells us to determine what we need to do daily to help us bring our Personal Vision Statement to fruition.
This is what I posted in my Journal for each of these sub-subsections.
Spiritual - Spend at least an hour daily in Bible Study and Prayer.
Physical - Eat a healthy balanced diet and exercise to preserve my energy.
Relational - Balance my time between family/home, work, ministry, and personal renewal.
Personal - Become more Christ-like in how I react with others and stay informed about ways of supporting and inspiring other women.
Ministry - To work through Women's Ministry to help women to interact with one another, to support and encourage other women.
Financial - Give generously and strategically to advance God's Kingdom with special interest in support Sumarian Mission Projects.
Donna now tells us to bring together our Personal Vision Statement, our monthly calendar, our Every Day list, and the Daily Page. For me everything but my monthly calendar is either a separate computer document with email reminders or my journal. Here's what this looks like. My Personal Vision Statement and daily page are in my journal. My Every Day list and Monthly Calendar are in computer and I also keep a monthly calendar in a daily planner I carry in my purse. This way I don't forget something like daily exercise because of an appointment I make at the doctor's office or something I agree to do. Next Donna take things that are already on our Monthly Calendar and put them on our Daily Page for that day noting details like who, what, when, where, and so on. Then using our Every Day list as a reference, write one thing you need to do in each categroy on the Daily Page. She further warns only one thing not a dozen (think she's been reading my mail). Here is what my list looks like:
SPIRITUAL: TAG
PHYSICAL: Walk (or on alternate days Gym)
RELATIONAL: Christ-like speach with hubby and co-workers
PERSONAL: Daily assignment in current Bible Study
MINISTRY: Forward Inter-net Cafe or other Devotional to other women.
FINANCIAL: Post any spending on actual expense page of current month in Household Bill Payer Book
Then Donna states we are to check off items as they are completed. She then tells us to make a list of ten additional things we need to do. Any items left undone at the end of the day is then moved forward to the next day. By listing things daily Donna says that you can focus on what your are getting done and not getting done. After awhile you will get so tired of listing the one or two things that never get done you will get them off your list. She then also recommends that you list on your Daily Page the five things you are most grateful for, remember he promises to bless a grateful heart. Then as you review the things that you got done review your gratitude list as well. Next she recommends that your Daily Page include two or three things that you want to pray about (i.e., a friend upcoming surgery, a sick friend or family member, something God has laid on your heart). She also pointed out that this is not a time schedule list. This is to "watch over the affairs of your household and avoid eating the bread of idleness."
Affirmation: I maximize each day.
Practical:
I have placed my Every Day list and my Monthly Calendar in the front of my journal so that at the end of the day I can review what I accomplished (posted in my journal page for that day the night before) and added to my Evening Routine: Review the day and post tomorrow's list. My Monthly Calendar already includes important birthdays, events, and appointments from my Planning Calendar that I carry in my purse. (However, if you wish to do a notebook you can go to www.donnapartow.com/dailypage and download and print a months worth [or one original] of the Daily Page.

Day 28: Weekly Reflection

Scripture to Memorize: (repeat from memory and meditate on)
A wife of nobel character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm
all the days of her live.
She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong from her tasks.
Proverbs 31:10-17
Weekly Evaluation:
1. Am I listening for and hearing God's voice? What is he saying to me? Yes, and for the last two days he has been saying that I was wrong earlier this week. He has been reminding me that I should not be looking at what someone else's does but only be doing what my supervisor told me to do regardless of what other employees do.
2. Am I increasingly manifesting the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23)? What areas look encouraging? What needs prayer. This week I have been faithful in my TAG and in displaying joy because of that. However, I have been lacking in the others. My interactions with my coworkers did not manifest love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, or gentleness. I also lacked self-control of my mouth both in the way of words that came out of my mouth and what I put into my mouth.
3. What did God teach me during my TAG? He again stressed that I am to look to Him and the example of Jesus and not the example set by the world. By being resentful and unwilling to do some of Amelia's groups because she had not been putting in the hours at work that the rest of us had been doing, I was following the world's example. God has convicted me that as a believer I am to hold myself to a higher standard. I am suppose to be more Christ-like. In this case that would mean to not keep score but do what my supervisor had told me to do; which was to do a group for her and one for Sundee.
4. Which priorities did I live by? Which goals did I pursue? Unfortunately, this past week I lived by my priorities and I pursued my goals. I also ignored the healthy goals that I have set for myself as a means of taking care of God's temple; my body.
5. Which priorities or goals did I neglect? The ones related to taking better care of my body, the temple of God; the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. I ate things I should not eaten and I did not exercise.
6. What new thing did I learn--about life, God, my family, and the people around me? Most important is that if I am not diligent in my pursue of a better relationship with God, and following the path I believe he is leading me; I will very quickly slip back into old patterns. I do not have these new actions so ingrained in my being that they have become the norm.
7. What are my specific priorities/goals for the coming week? (1) EXERCISE either 30 minutes of walking or gym everyday even if it has to be broken up. (2) Eat healthy to include breakfast daily. (3) To do as my supervisor has instructed regardless of what the world tells me to do. (4) Drink my lemon water and cleansing water daily. (5) Take 3 cleansing baths, and (6) to contine my daily study of God's word.

Day 27: Weekly Checkup

Cumulative Scripture Review:
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of ther life.
She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
She is like merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
Sh gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously
her arms are strong from her tasks.
Proverbs 31:10-17
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to consider my purchases carefully and not follow the standards of the world but consider your guidelines as to what is good and profitable. Out of my earnings let me only purchase those things that are pleasing and profitable to you. Let your Word be my guide to my spending habits. Holy Spirit, direct my thinking and help me to set about my work vigorously, whether that work be at home or in the workplace. Help my body grow strong from my tasks and for my tasks. Father God for you guidance and the directions of your Word that enables me to focus on what is pleasing to you and not the world I give you thanks and praise. May I always turn to you and your Word for guidance if I am unsure of whether a purchase would be pleasing to you. You have my best interest at heart and I thank you, in Jesus name, Amen.
Practical:
On Saturday's Donna gives us a check list to determine if there is any unfinished items and have completed our one-time and are routinely incorporating positive changes in our daily routines.
One-time Tasks:
I have suitable shoes for walking without injury. X
I began walking three to five days per week. Not doing well on this one.
I found a walking partner. No
I purchased lemons and unsweetened cranberry juice and began consuming detoxifying drinks. Already had these two items in the house but have not yet prepared the drinks. Have not been able to give up my one cup of de-acidified coffee in the mornings.
I added "fill water bottles" and "consume cleansing drink" to my Morning Routine. Added it to my Morning Routine list but have not begun to actually do these things. Plan on starting tomorrow first day of a new week.
I established a new routine to allow my body sufficient time to digest. This one is half and half. I do great at home and have stopped eating before going to bed. However, do not allow my body sufficient time during the day at work to properly consume and digest my food. This week it has been bolt down lunch and dinner at my desk while I work and then immediately lead a group.
I evaluated the purchase of a rebounder. This one unfortunately I can't do. However, had updated my Wellness Center membership.
I purchased the ingredients for the cleansing bath and took my first one. I do have the ingredients already but am not certain that I will be able to a full cleansing bath as Donna suggests since I can not full emerse myself in the tub at this time. But plan tonight to do the best I can.
I added Cleansing Bath to my Evening Routine. Beginning tonight.

Routinely incorporating the following positive changes into my daily routine.
I am using my Personal Notebook. Actually I'm using this blog and a journal.
I'm regularly reviewing my Personal ision Statement. It is written on the inside of the journal cover and I repeated it every day before I write my progress in the journal.
I'm spending time in my prayer place, enjoying TAG. Yes
I'm deailng proactively with my secret sins. Yes
I'm completing this study every day, practicing the memory verse, and reciting affirmations daily. Yes
I'm becoming consciously selective about how I dress and how I use my time and resources. Yes
I'm becoming a more serious student of the Bible. Yes
I'm practicing the presence of God, being watchful, thankful, and prayerful. Yes
I'm following my Evening Routine and going to bed on time. Most of the time, I did have a couple of nights this week that I could not get to sleep.
I'm inviting God to awaken me each morning, saying no to the snooze button, and following a Morning Routine. Again most of the time, however yesterday stayed in bed beyond the alarm.
I'm exercising control over my eating habits and limiting sugar intake. No
I'm using smaller plates and controlling food portions. Most of the time.
I'm planning ahead for healthier eating. Most of the time.
I'm prayer walking three to five days per week. Not yet.
I begin each day with a cleansing drink and consume sixty-one ounces of water every day. Was already consuming that much water when I began this study but have not yet added the cleansing drink.
I stop eating several hours before bed. Most of the time.
I'm using a rebounder to fight gravity and cellulite (optional). No because of physical health issues.
I routinely take cleansin baths. Not yet but plan on starting tonight.

Day 26: Purify Body and Soul

Scripture to Memorize:
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
Proverbs 31:16-71
Passage to Read:
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your unfailing love;
according to your great compassion
blot out my transgressions.
Wash away all my iniquity
and cleanse me from my sin.
For I know my transgressions,
and my sin is always before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned
and done what is evil in your sight,
so that you are proved right when you speak
and justified when you judge. . . .
Cleanse me with hyssop and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Psalm 51:1-4, 7
Prayer:
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to the multitude of your tender mery and loving-kindness blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly and repeatedly from my iniquity and guilt and cleanse me and make me wholly pure from my sin! For I am conscious of my transgressions and I acknowledge them; my sin is ever before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned and done that which is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and faultless in your judgment. Purify me with hyssop and I shall be clean ceremonially; wash me, and I shall in reality be whiter than snow. Amen
(Psalm 51:1-4, 7 Amplified Bible)
Personal:
Here is Donna's example of a healthy cleansing diet from her book "Becoming the Woman I Want To Be".
"On arising, drink a cup of cranwater (1/4 unsweetened cranberry juice and 3/4 quarter water) with 1 tablespoon of freshly ground flaxseed (use a coffee grinder).
Drink a cup of hot lemon water (1/4 to 1/2 fresh squeezed lemon).
Breakfast: two eggs scrabled with vegetables (i.e., broccoli, onion, garlic, peppers) or a protein shake made with one cup cranwater, one cup frozen blueberries, one-quarter cup frozen cranberries, one tablespoon flax oil, and one scoop of protein powder.
Midmorning: one service of fruit or vegetable.
Lunch: salad with one palm-sized serving of protein.
Midday: one serving of fruit or vegetable.
Dinner: one palm-sized serving of protein, along with steamed or stir-fried vegetables and a whole grain.
Before bed: one cup of cranwater with one tablespoon of ground flaxseed."

The next thing that Donna says is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself, body and soul, is to bathe. She does not think that a shower provides the purification that a cleansing bath can. Donna feels that this is very important as we begin to cleanse our systems through exercise and detoxification. Again she warns that as we begin to exercise and detox the body we may actually feel sicker. Her recipe for a cleansing bath is to "pour two cups of Epsom salts, two cups of baking soda, and a few drops of lavender or arnica oil into a hot bath. Soak until the water turns cold but no longer than thirty minutes. Be aware that you may feel dizzy when you emerge. That means the bathe did its job." I have not tried this full receipe but I do know that two cups of Epsom salts and two cups of baking soda in a warm bath can leave you feeling cool and refreshed in the Summer time and will also take care of prickly heat.
Donna suggests that you incorporate this cleansing bath in your Evening Routine once or twice a week and that you also light an aromatic candle, put on some relaxing praise music and meditate on Psalm 51 as you soak, asking God to cleanse your spirit even as you cleanse your body.
Affirmation: I purify my body and soul.
Practical:
I will begin to eat a more cleansing diet and I will purchase some lavender oil (lavender aids sleep) and some additional baking soda (already have the Epsom salts) and begin to take one or two cleansing baths into my Evening Routine. One of my biggest efforts will be to incorporate breakfast into my morning routine. I have long struggled with not eating breakfast in spite of reading in every book and web site on a healthy diet that it is important and will actually help you eat less.

Day 25: Grow Strong By Defying Gravity

Scripture to Memorize:
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
Proverbs 31:16-17
Passage to Read:
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as
living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship.
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by
the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what
God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for your mercy and your amazing gift of salvation through the agony
of suffering you endured on the cross. My belief in your death and resurrection as the Son of God is the portal through which I can be guide to eternal life. There is no way that I can possibly understand the ultimate sacrifice you made. No sacrifice that I can make will ever compare. Yet I choose to offer my body a living sacrifice to you. You have make my poor pitiful sacrifice holy and pleasing to God. By your grace and mercy this has become my spiritual act of worship.
Holy Spirit help me to not conform any longer to the patterns of this world. Instead transform me by the renewing of my mind through your Holy Word. Your Word allows me to test and approve just what your will for me is. I want to experience not only your good and pleasing will but also your perfect will. This can only happen when I offer my body as a living sacrifice. Here I am Lord, take me, use me, mold me; I am yours. Amen.
Personal:
Donna now turns her attention on exercise. In particular what she calls rebounding, which is jumping lightly on a mini-trampoline. She further gives the benefits of using rebounding as your form of exercise. Basically she states that it strenthens the whole body, cell by cell. Which reduces cellulite, stimulates the lymphatic system promoting more efficient cell-cleansing processes. Donna quotes research conducted by NASA which stated that rebounding is more efficient in producing physiological results similar to running.
Donna also suggests that you place your rebounder in front of the television and thereby redeem time that would otherwise have been spent on the couch. She says she likes to multitask by bouncing while on the phone.
She does give these warnings:
(1) Bounce lightly. Do not leap in the air.
(2) Do nopt buy a cheap rebounder. Choose a rebounder with a cushioned landing.
(3) Check with your doctor. Do not rebound if you are or may become pregnant.
Although this is very practical advice and a good form of exercise if you are able this is one form that is not recommended for me because of issues of balance. However, similar benefit can be gained, just more slowly, doing similiar movements in the pool.
Affirmation: I grow strong through regular exercise.
Practical:
Although I can not rebound, I can commit to other forms of exercise that will be beneficial to me. I have paid my Wellness Center fees for the next three months and have committed to exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes three-four days a week at the wellness center. Days I do not go to the Wellness Center will walk beginning with 3, 10 minute walks a day.

Day 24: Give Your Body Time To Digest

Scripture to Memorize:
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
Proverbs 31:16-17
Passage to Read:
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I lift up my soul.
Psalm 143:8
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for giving us the morning. Thank you for the reminder that your love is fresh each morning. That each morning is a brand new start. Your love is never failing. Remind me to put my trust in you and not other things. You alone are trustworthy. Help me to put my trust in you each new morning Lord.
Holy Spirit show me which way that I should go. Direct my decisions so that they will be good decisions today and every day. To you alone O Lord, I lift up my soul. I offer myself to you each day. Thank you for being so trustworthy. O, Lord I pray. Amen.
Personal:
In today segment Donna shares with us the fact that we should stop eating 3-4 hours before we go to bed. This gives our body time to work on digesting our food and we wake up refreshed and ready to work vigorously like the Proverbs 31 woman. She also reminds us that eating at stimulates insulin production which in turn stimulates fat storage. Donna states that if you want to aid the disgestive process to take leisurely walk after dinner. If you feel hungry later on in the night remind yourself that you just ate and that it is either thirst (drink your water) or a craving which you should be saying no too. Then flush out what has been digested by drinking your warm lemon water the first thing.
Affirmation: I gigve my body time to digest.
Practical:
Stop eating at least three hours before going to bed and consider taking a leisurely stroll after dinner. Add this routine to your evening routine in your journal.

Day 23: Purify Your Body with Enhanced Water

Scripture to Memorize:
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
Proverbs 31:16-17
Passage to Read:
Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything
that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
2 Corinthians 7:1
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for giving me your Word full of promises. I know that you have great plans for me. Plans to prosper me and not harm me. I admit that I want all your promises to be unconditional but I realize that some of your promises are contingent upon my obedience. Heavenly Father, I do want to be one of your obedient children who enjoys the fullness of your promises.
Holy Spirit guide and empower me to chose those things that purify me and not contaminate me. I know that the great deceiver wishes to contaminate me with things that will separate me from you. Therefore help me to be purified in mind, body, and spirit. Although I can not each perfection in this world, I can seek your grace to help me strive towards this goal. Out of reverence to you Father I do not want to expose you to those things that will break your heart or grieve you. Therefore, I chose the path of purity out of respect and love for you. In Jesus name, Amen.
Personal:
Donna now addresses the tendency we have to drink sodas, coffee, and tea. In particular she focuses on the large amount of soda this country drinks. She urges us to drink much more water. She states that it would be much better if we started our day with a large glass of water. She lists a number of benefits from drinking water. Some of the ones she lists is that it cleanses your internal system, promotes weight loss, clears skin, fights fatigue, gives energy, increases metabolism, prevents dehydration, helps reduce your total caloric intake and even carries fat out of the body. She suggests that instead of coffee the first thing in the morning you heat eight ounces of water and add freshly squeezed lemon juice. As much as half a lemon if your stomach can handle that much acid. This is a natural detoxification drink. Because it is removing toxins from the body it might initially upset your stomach and give you a headache which only means that the lemon is doing its work.
Donna further suggests that you resist the urge to add an artifical sweetener because this defeats the purpose. She recommends that you drink a cup of warm lemon water in the morning and at night.
Another way to increase water's effectiveness, according to Donna, is add a very small amount of unsweetened cranberry juice. She recommends that you purchase at least two thirty-two ounce bottles of unsweetened cranberry juice. Pour three-quarters of the first bottle into another container. Now fill the bottle that contains one-quarter cranberry juice with water. Drink this by noon. Refill on-quarter of the bottle with unsweetened cranberry juice and three-quarters water. Finish this bottle before you go to bed. Repeat this process every day for one month. Donna does warn that if you have not been eating healthy this process will initially make you sick. This is because your body is detoxifying itself from chemicals, excess sugar, caffeine, and other harmful substances.
She also suggests that you not plan on continuing this plan for the rest of your life but instead mix it up a bit. Some days drink two thirty-two ounce bottles with plain water. Some days add fresh lemon, lime, grapefruit, or orange juice. The important thing is to finish both bottles before you go to bed.
You can also split the water into smaller bottles. You will need to purchase a special bottle designed to be used for this purpose. DO NOT REUSE ORDINARY PLASTIC BOTTLES. Also she states that you first need to fill your two thirty-two ounce bottles and then fill the smaller bottles from these two large containers.
Affirmation: I purify myself from everything that contaminates my body and spirit.
Practical:
I do already drink lemon water, just not every day. I also drink a minimum of thirty-two ounces of water a day. However, I tend to use crystal light to flavor the water.

Day 22: Walk to Boost Energy

Scipture to Memorize:
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her ars are strong for her tasks.
Proverbs 31:16-17
Passage to Read
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize?
Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games
goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we
do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man
running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body
and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not
disqualified for the prize.
1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times that I have not run the race to get the
prize but sat idly by and failed to put forth the effort you have asked me too. Forgive me for
not putting for the effort to do the strict training needed to run the race you have laid before
me. Forgive me for seeking the crown that will not last by seeking what the world desires.
Thank you for promising me a crown that will last forever. Holy Spirit give me the will to run the race with purpose, to win the crown that is promised to me by God. Lord, help me to control my body and make it my slave so that I will not be disqualified for the prize.
Lord, help to run the race that is pleasing to you. Thank your for promising to help me reach the finish line if i fix my eyes on you. I am fixing my eyes on you Lord. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Personal:
Donna suggests that instead of downing cups of coffee in the morning to get us going to go for a walk. She lists all of the research statistics of the benefits of walking, as well as the fact that it is more beneficial than running. She further suggests that the greatest benefit of walking is not physical but spiritual because you can pray and meditate as you are walking. Also by swinging your arms as you walk you can strengthen them and burn more calories.
Donna also suggests that you walk with a buddy instead of alone because there are advantages of walking together. One of the things I have read is walking missionary work. This is where two or three people take their walks in an area and spend time to invite people along their route to church or Bible study or some special church activity. Besides having a walking buddy forces you to get up and get going. You can keep one another motivated to you walks. It is recommended that you walk at least three days a week. Donna further suggests that you and your walking partner not use this as a time to gossip or complain but that you use it as a prayer time. If you can't find a partner, Donna suggests asking the Holy Spirit to stand in the gap until you can find one. Pray for a walking partner.
Affirmation: I walk because I am in strict training.
Practical:
I have not yet attempted to find a walking partner but I have started this week to walk a little more each day. I have commited to get up earlier and go for a brief walk some where on my way to work. If I add 15 minutes each week then in two weeks I will be walking 30 minutes three days a week. Then three days a week I can ride the recumbent bike at the gym beginning with 15 minutes and building. If I find that this is too much I can do 10 minutes and build to 30 over three weeks. This is about getting back up to my former ability prior to knee and hip replacement and not about setting any records.

Day 21: Weekly Reflection

Donna want us to use Sunday to meditate on the entire Proberbs 31 passage. Paricularly what we have memorized to this point.
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth fara more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides for for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
Weekly Evaluation
1. Am I listening for and hearing God's voice? What is he saying to me?
I am listening for God's voice and at times I hear him, if I'll slow down and wait to hear him. He is telling me to be patient, to wait on his directions, his timing. I struggle with this because I am not good at waiting.
2. Am I increasingly manifesting the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23)? What areas look encouraging? What needs prayer?
I am beginning to manifest the fruit of the Spirit. I have no problem with love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and at times even gentleness. I still struggle however with patience and self-control. In particular self-control over my tongue.
3. What did God teach me during my TAG?
Mostly this week God has been telling to just slow down and relax. That he has everything under control. That If I would just be faithful to Him He would help me get through the week and complete everything on time. That I need to depend on Him to make things happen.
4. Which priorities did I live by? Which goals did I pursue?
Because this week at work was sort of hectic the priority that I tried to live by was letting God direct things. That was such a struggle when my schedule was so chaotic. However, I discovered it I would just let go and let God set the pace it all worked out.
5. Which priorities or goals did I neglect?
This week I neglected the goals of eating healthy and exercising. Time constraints made exercise extremely difficult and all of my meals except lunch Friday were eaten so fast that the message that I was full did not have time to reach my brain and therefore in the evening when I got home I overate. Because I don't get home until 9:30PM eating heavy then is the worst possible thing to do.
6. What new thing did I learn--about life, God, my family, and the people around me?
One new thing I did learn is that when I was polite and explained my situation the Diva was easier to work with.
7. What are my specific priorities/goals for the coming week?
(1) Slow down--don't get frazzled it will all get done.
(2) Eat healthier and slow down when I eat.
(3) Work some exercise into my daily schedule.
(5) Make a point to go to the gym at least twice this week.

Day 20: Weekly Check-up

Cumulative Scripture Review
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
Proverbs 31: 10-15
Turn verses 14-15 into a Scripture-based prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, speak to my heart and help me to be willing to go to the extra effort to insure that Bo and I have healthy foods from which to prepare our meals. Help us to eat only healthy portions and to maintain a healthy balance between vegetables and fruit, complex carbohydrates, and proteins.
Holy Spirit, guard the thoughts I have while shopping and instead of cravings high processed food, refrined sugars, and fat, to remain focused on the guidelines of what you consider healthy eating. In Jesus name, Amen.
Practical
Saturday is your day to review and catch on any unfinished items. Confirm that you have completed the following one-time tasks:
I purged my pantry of nonfood foods.
I resolved to follow Daniel's example by eating vegetables and water for ten days (this I am not prepared to do that this time but will increase the number of vegetables that I eat each day).
I switched to smaller plates to help control food portions.
I prepared or printed off the menu planner/grocery list.
I have found a meal-assembly kitchen near me. (Unfortuntely I have not been able to locate one. Therefore will instead implement to program of preparing extra on the week by preparing large meal items that can be divided into a minimum of two other meals.).
Check to confirm you are routinely incorporating the following positive changes into your daily routine.
I'm using my Personal Journal
I'm regularly reviewing my Personal Vision Statement.
I'm spending time in my prayer place, enjoying TAG.
I'm dealing proactively with my secret sins.
I'm completing this study every day, practicing the memory verse, and reciting affirmations daily.
I'm becoming consciously selective about how I dress and how I use my time and resources.
I'm becoming a more serious student of the Bible.
I'm practicing the presence of God, being watchful, thankful, and prayerful.
I'm following my Evening Routine and going to bed on time.
I'm inviting God to awaken me each morning, saying no to the snooze button, and following a Morning Routine.
I'm exercising control over my eating habits and limiting sugar intake.
I'm using smaller plates and controlling food portions.
I'm planning ahead for healthier eating.

Day 19: Plan Ahead for Healthier Eating

Scripture to Memorize:
She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides fooed for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
Proverbs 31:14-15
Passage to Read:
This day I will call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set
before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that
you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God,
listen to his voice, and hold fast to him.
Deuteronomy 30:19-20
Prayer (Donna Partow):
Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of choice, even though it sometimes feels like a burden. It seems life would be better if everyone just automatically did the right thing all the time. But you created us in your image, granting us the power to choose which path to follow. I'm so thankful that you've given us your Word and in it you've set before us life and death, blessings and curses. All of heaven and earth bear witness that you've made clear to humanity what the consequences of obedience and disobedience look like. Today I choose life, not just for my own sake but for the sake of my children and all who will come after me. Holy Spirit, lead me in right pathways and empower me to choose wisely. I love you, Lord. I'm listening for your voie and holding fast to you. Speak to me and hold me, too. Amen.
Practical:
In this segment Donna talks about the unhealthy nature of using fast food to feed ourselves and/or our families. She suggests instead that we do some planning ahead to make meals for ourselves and our families. Her first suggesting is the good old crockpot since you can start the meal in the morning and it can simmer all day while you work, run errands or whatever it is that occupies your busy day. The other beauty of the crockpot that she mentions is the fact that you can feed family members at different times. In her example she can feed her daughter Tara at 4:00 p.m. and spend time talking to her. Then when her husband gets home at 8:00 p.m. they can enjoy a meal together. These meals will be much healthier. The other is called My Girlfriend's Kitchen which is a place where you can go to assembly several healthy meals that you can take home. We can actually do the same thing without travelling outside our homes by some careful planning. Prepare enough food during the weekend to carry over for two or three meals during the week. An example a roast for Sunday dinner (cooked in the crockpot while you were at church), the leftover meat can be used for beef fiajatas during the week, and the remainder can be combined with lowfat gravy (prepared using the liquid from the roast) and placed over noodle or rice for beef tips with gravy. Add vegetables and/or salads with fresh fruit and low fat yogurt or cheese for dessert and you have three healthy meals that you cooked and prepared Sunday afternoon.
The other recommendation she make is using a shopping list that you carry with you to the store. Place it in a handy location in your kitchen and every time you run out of something immediately add it to the list. You might also want to make up your list based on the sales and coupons from your Sunday paper. This will help you save some money in addition to preparing good healthy meals for your family.
Practical:
Investigate meal-assembly kitchens in your area. The website she gave for locating one in your area was wwww.mygirlfriendskitchen.com. She also suggests the book "Once-a-Month Cooking" by Mary-Beth Lagerborg and Mimi Wilson. Also check out www.frugalmom.net. On her website Donna also has a Menu Planner/Grocery List worksheet that you can download for free and copy, www.donnapartow.com/grocerylist. Print up several at once and attach to a handly place in your kitchen. I secure it to my refrigerator with a couple of magnets. When something runs out it's replacement is placed on the shopping list for my next trip. Then before heading out to the grocery store, I check coupons, standard items and then I have my grocery list for the store. Another way of saving money is to only buy what is on your list and do not give in to impulse buys UNLESS there really is a special on something that will be used by your family. Buying 4 cans or spinach for a dollar is not a savings if your family won't eat spinach.
Affirmation: I plan ahead for healthier eating.

Day 18: Eat Reasonable Portions

Scripture to Memorize:
She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
Proverbs 31:14-15
Scripture to Read:
My {daughter}, pay attention to what I say;
listen closely to my words.
Do not let them out of your sight,
keep them within your heart;
for they are life to those who find them
and health to a man's whole body.
Proverbs 4:20-22
Prayer: (Donna's from the book)
Dear Heavenly Fatgher, I come before you as your daughter today. I'm
choosing to pay close attention to your words and have committed myself to
keep your Word before me through regular reading. Holy Spirit, strengthen
me with wisdom and diligence as I study and store the Word in mjy heart.
Thank you for the promise that your Word will bring life and health to
my whole body. I believe that I can experience wholeness in spirit, soul,
and body. As I keep my mind at peace, meditating on the Word, I'll be
enabling my body to do what you created it to do: heal and restore itself.
Thank you for the power of your Word. Not only does it renew my mind,
strengthen my will, and soothe my haywire emotions, it even brings health
to my body. You are such a wise and loving God! Thank you. Amen.
Personal:
Today Donna's focus was on portion size. "Americans are suffering from a severe case of portion distortion". She, as has many others in the arena of health and/or diets, stated that we no longer have a realistic sense of what a reasonable portion of food even looks like. She then give this suggestion for keep portion sizes in line with eating moderately. Take a standard sized plate and draw an imaginary line through the middle of the plate. One-half of your plate should be filled with vegetables and fruits. Divide the other half into two equal parts: one section for protein and the other for whole grains. This is a very simple way instead of trying to remember other guide lines such as a correct portion of meat is the size of a deck of playing cards (and that is the only one I can ever remember).
She goes on to say that Moderation seems to be something that is considered anti-American. This is probably why we are among the unhealthiest people on the planet.
Another strategy she suggests is never clean your plate. Another one for eating out that I have read is to ask for a to-go box before your food arrives and then immediately place half of the food in the box before you begin eating.
Keeping portions is another one of the things I struggle with. This is something that I am working on. Also working on educating my husband to reduce the amount he cooks.
Practical:
Begin using eight- or nine-inch plates, rather than the typical eleven- or twelve-in dinner plate. Don't take seconds of anything other than vegetables. Consciously reduce your portion sizes and never, ever clean you plate! One helpful tool is The Portion Plate, available on-line at www.theportionplate.com, a nine-inch plate with visual aids to remind you, at every meal, exactly what a reasonable portion looks like?
Affirmation: I eat reasonable portions.

Day 17: Limit Your Sugar Intake

Scripture to Memorize:
She is like the merchant ships,
brining her food fdrom afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
Proverbs 31:14-15
Passage to Read:
When you sit to dine with a ruler,
note well what is before you,
and put a knife to your throat
if you are given to gluttony.
Do not crave his delicacies,
for that food is deceptive.
Proverbs 23:1-3
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I am blessed in deed that the King of Kings is a part of my meals. Thank you for all the good things you have provided including my daily bread. Forgive me for all the times that I have not practiced self-control and have allowed myself to be seduced by things that are not healthy food. Help me to make better choices when I eat out at restaurants and special events. Help me to not eat what I know is not pleasing simply because I do not want to offend people.
Holy Spirit give me the strength to practive self-control where food is concerned. Help me to change my eating habits to be healthier. When I purchase the food for my home help me focus on only healthy food and avoid those things like refined sugar that does not satisfy but only causes problems for my body. Help control my cravings for sweets and deserts to stay in healthy moderation and only those things made with healthy ingredients. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Personal:
In this section today Donna talks about how damaging sugar is to our body. In particularly, she tells us how sugar effects our immune system. She encourages readers to begin limiting their intake of sugar. She also states that a person without self-control is like a city without city walls. In other words when we refuse to exercise self-control we leave ourselves open to destruction. We need to protect our immune system by limiting our intake of sugar.
Practical:
Pray and ask the Holy Spirit if you've been guilty of the sin of gluttony. Begin today to limit your intake of sugar.
Affirmation: I limit my sugar intake, lest I become like a city whose walls are broken down.

Day 16: Resolve to Control Your Eating Habits

Scripture to Memorize:
She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
Proverbs 31:14-15
Passage to Read:
But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel, but the official told Daniel, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has assigned your food and drink. Why should he see you looking worse than the other young men your age? The king would then have my head because of you."
Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, "Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see." So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days.
At the end of ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food.
Daniel 1:11-15
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for including the story of Daniel in the Bible to instruct and encourage me to follow your directions, even in the area of food. These courageous young men show that by following your instructions instead of the worlds, or the culture the outcome is better health.
Holy Spirit strengthen me to make wise food choices. Help me to make conscious choices instead of just operating on autopilot. Help me realize that the latest diet fad is not the answer to a healthy body. Give me the strength to stick with a good healthy diet and not indulge in excessive indulgent of rich food or foods high in refined carbohydrates. Remind me that fad diets do not result in healthy weight lose but in weight lose that is rapidly gained back once the fad diet is stopped.
Dear Lord, for the bound of you abundant supply of good healthy food and for your provision so that I can provide this to my family, I give you praise and adoration. Help me to always seek your guidance and instructions on the matter of diet.
Personal:
I agree with the principles of Donna's comments in this section. However, I already know from past experience I will not follow her recommendaton for the next 10 days to eat only vegetables and water. However, I will resolve to may sound choices in my food choices and to keep my caloric intake under 2200 calories and to give up any form of junk food. I already know from past experience that although I could follow her recommendation of only vegetables and water as soon as the ten days were up I would revert back to old behavior. I determined sometime ago to follow the advice of "Lose It For Live" program which is to not diet but make permanent life style changes and to see the change as life style changes and not a diet.
Practical:
I do resolve to reduce amount of foods other than vegtables and water and increase the amount of vegtables I eat each day. I already consume the maximum of water and allow myself only one cup of coffee a day. However, I have found that if I add Crystal Lite it is a lot easier to drink the recommended 84 ozs. a day.