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Each set of wings joins
to become one with the flock
safety in numbers
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Small steps can lead to big changes.
I’m thinking of habits. Good ones.
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I’ve taken some small steps this month that have blessed me abundantly. First of all, I’ve made exercising a priority over my writing.
After all, what good is a dead writer?
Last year wordsmith ambitions took over my life, and I’ve decided to get back into my early morning exercise routine with my step machine and stationary bike (before events of the day can interrupt me).
It worked for my devotional time.
So now I break up my morning writing time with a KISS* fitness program (*keep it simple sister). I’m also drinking more water and less caffeine. But I’m not cutting back on chocolate, since I’m already moderate with it. 🙂
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I’ve also taken some small steps that have helped me get more involved with other Christians and writers.
There is safety, support and inspiration in numbers.
In the past I’ve tended to get over involved and burnout. But this time I prayed for direction.
Last year I said no to everything, this year I’m saying yes to some things.
And it feels good to be living a balanced life.
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What small steps have you taken this year–or plan to take to improve your health?
Balanced Living Blessings ~ Wendy
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The LORD bless you and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine upon you;
the LORD turn his face toward you
and give you peace.
Numbers 6: 24-26 NIV
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My other blog:
I’m glad for your goal to be active–I had made a goal last fall to run twice a week, and it felt great to be consistent with it. It brings me joy and keeps my muscles strong! A new goal that I am working on is joining a small, local gym where my husband works out. I have lost some strength and want to get back into weight lifting (nothing big!) twice a week. Finally, after a long break, I want to write at least one day a week.
I’m happy to see you’re writing on your blog again. And I agree it feels good when our muscles gain their strength back. It’s wise that you’re stepping back into fitness gradually so you don’t overwhelm you or your body. I want to stay fit so I can keep venturing out into nature. 🙂 Welcome back to Blogville.
Excellent Wendy! God’s Spirit is directing many of us to evaluate priorities and realign our thinking to consider health. When I spent time on the treadmill walking an hour each day, I had energy enough to serve in recovery groups and spiritual enthusiasm to delve deeper for His Glory. Thanks for the post. blessings!
Thank you, Keith. Yes, “energy enough to serve” is what I like about good health. I don’t have a weight issue, but I like the lift exercise gives my mind and spirit. “Recovery” is one of my favorite topics, and I praise God for mine and everyone else’s. My heart aches for those who have yet to embrace the recovery journey and all the blessings it brings.
Well said Wendy! Be well, and blessed in all things!
It’s the same thing every year, I always seem to be starting over. Nothing ever changes in me. After thinking long and hard about this I’ve decided that the most important thing I’ll do this year is not what I do, Its who I’ll become.
I like that, Gene. It’s who we are and not what we do that counts. When the inner man is right with God, the outer man will do what’s right. Blessings, friend.
I have been reading up on foods that are supposed to promote respiratory health, and boost the immune system. I need to exercise. I haven’t been doing that. Pray for me that my physical health will improve.
Hugs and Blessings,
Theresa
Thank you, dear Theresa. I’ve written your request on my prayer list. For me, I have to keep my fitness routine as simple and as accessible as possible. I like to read inspirational stuff while I ride the stationary bike. It helps me not get bored. And when it’s snowy or icy outside–I’m still able to exercise in my cozy house. Find what works for you and be kind to yourself, dear friend. <3
Exercise is my new commitment … again! I’m healthy, but am losing muscle power. But there’s power in numbers, so with all of us thinking in the same good direction, I”m more apt to work out. Thanks!
Diane, I wish you a successful start and a long and healthy journey. Be gentle as you begin and allow yourself guilt-free days off. We need to treat ourselves as graciously as we would treat our good friends. Blessings for 2016.
Wendy,
I am with you on this one- I started walking after a long long time in 2016 and am slowly finding it easier to move than to be stagnant.
As you say, small steps.
Susie
Small steps are more likely to turn into lasting habits. I used to be so mean to myself–now I know better. 😉 Thank you, dear Susie. Enjoy your walks.
Oh, I so need to get back to an exercise plan like you have. And I need to make room for more quiet time with the Lord. Thanks for challenging us and reminding us that much can be accomplished even with small steps. Love and hugs, N 🙂 <3
Thank you, dear Natalie. <3 I'm enjoying reading while riding my bike. Once it's gardening season again, you and I will get plenty of exercise.
Greetings Wendy! Well, I’ve been slow at making changes. I have a golden lab that loves to take walks so she is my get-going girl. But with all the rain in the NW, a stationary bike would be great. I’ve noticed that as I get older, I ache more. Exercise would be great to alleviate that, methinks. So, thank you for your encouragement to get going and out. Meditation with the Lord is first in the morning as usual:)
Susan, I like your phrase, “get-going girl”. Your golden lab is blessed to have such a caring mistress. And she’s blessing you by making sure you get exercise. The mental lift is my favorite benefit from being active. I have achy joints whether I move around or not—so I might as well feel good while I suffer. 🙂 And like you, I love walking and photographing at the same time.
Hi Wendy, you beat me to the “new beginnings.” I’ve had it on my mind for awhile to get back into some kind of exercise routine, but you’ve given me a nudge in that direction. Why, when we know that a good diet and proper exercise is so good for our mind, body, and soul do we procrastinate? Thanks for the gentle push.
Thank you, Debbie. Setting small simple steps is a procrastination buster. Perfectionism is its partner in crime. We need to be kinder to ourselves. Blessings as you find what works for you.
So true! I began today, a small step, but a start! Blessings to you!
Way to go, Debbie. Remember to be kind and gentle to yourself as you would be to a friend.
Wendy,
This year is it’s a practical approach for me and I like that simplicity to start 2016. Along with you, exercise and diet will be top priority. As always, your words and photo’s bring such an inspiration to my day. Bless you, friend. ~Zoey
Thank you, dear Zoey. “A practical approach” is key. Each person’s wellness plan is unique. I’ve noticed a difference already in my ability to keep up with my son while hiking. Blessings on your 2016 walk with the Lord. xo
I needed this reminder. xoxo I love your KISS … keep it simple sister. 🙂 I remember Beth Moore saying that her last name was perfect for her … more of everything. I’m the same … if I find a song I like, I’ll run it into the ground. If I get on a writing kick, I’ll run it into the ground. I keep wanting to write the 350 words a day, and some days I do … just slow but steady … and then other times, all good sense flies out the window, and I try to do too much, while other things suffer. Balance is so hard.
Shelli, I can relate to “run it into the ground”. 🙂 Moderation in all things is a worthy goal, but I think it’s over the long run things can balance out—not every day will look the same. Occasional writing marathons are recommended as a way to get the first draft down. I wish I could board that bus again and finish my recent ms. But I feel so much better having improved my fitness level. Yes, “slow and steady” is best for most days. Blessings, sweet friend, as you see and follow the particular path He has for you. <3
I’m making similar changes, Wendy. It’s great to know I’ve got like-minded people, like you, in my life. 🙂
Tracy, I’m glad to have you in my life too. <3 The changes I've made have boosted my energy level so that I've finally started cleaning up my clutter. Blessings on your new steps, friend.
It’s so true.I liked always little things knowing it are the little things that m
That makes me happy.
I agree, Marylou. Small things can bless in a big way. We mustn’t discount baby steps when they’re headed the right way.
Since I received a fitbit about a year ago, I’ve tried to pay more attention to activity and not so much sitting. Looking for ways to take back lost days to weather, I got waterproof jacket, pants, and shoes to reclaim warm, rainy days. Balance is a wonderful thing, I’m trying to get there.
Patti, I like how you’ve made it easier for yourself to be motivated. Being active outside is the best, for sure. Way-to-go. 🙂
I’m thinking of all the hikes I missed with the possibility of rain–that never showed up. I’ll be ready this year. 🙂 Thanks!
I have a good raincoat, but I need to get better rain pants. But I wear the ones I have over my jeans, and they keeps me warm anyways. Have fun. I’m often surprised at how lovely the woods can be on a dreary day. 🙂
The changes sound wonderful, Wendy.
They feel wonderful too. My energy levels have increased along with my muscle tone. 🙂
Good move, Wendy.
🙂 Thank you, dear Cynthia.
Let us hope.