Last week it was True Confession week, and this week I have another confession. As many of you know, I have been on a journey to better health. Over the past year, I have had some successes, and I have had some setbacks. However, I have recently fallen off the wagon. This isn’t my proudest moment, but I believe accountability is a good thing. In September of last year, I took a nasty fall by tripping over a pothole (Yes, I’m that clumsy) and ended up in physical therapy for four months. It was painful because of the nerve and muscle damage in my lower leg. Whenever I had to stand for any length of time, my leg would immediately begin to burn and swell. Evenings were spent rolling the fluid out of my leg, icing, and keeping it elevated. The only thing that gave me relief was water aerobics. It was great when I was in the water, but my leg would throb unmercifully when I got out. I would drive home from class, take Aleve, and be done for the night, but at least I was staying active. I was released from Physical Therapy at the end of November, just in time for the cold weather and Christmas.
Christmas is a hard season for anyone who struggles with their weight. All those holiday goodies are a carb lover’s dream. Honestly, I did my best this season to pass up cookies, cakes, chips and the plethora of other foods which beckoned me. I was excited because I maintained my weight loss through Christmas, until after the start of the new year.
You would think New Year’s would have been easier. January 1st seems to be the reset day for the whole world, with every possible weight loss company promoting their plan for success. It’s also my mom’s birthday, along with all the snacking and eating out we did when I went home to visit. Also, I had the flu, and a family member passed away. Could I have made better food choices during this time? Yes, I could have and should have. The excuses I’ve made are just that, excuses. Let’s say some days were better than others.
In January, I stepped on the scales to a 3 lb. weight gain. I know that doesn’t seem like a big deal, but it is a big deal to me. I had been consistently losing weight every month, and now I had my first gain in over ten months. February came, and once again I stepped on the scale to another 2lb. gain. This makes 5 lbs. overall. This has to stop! I do not want to go back to where I was, and I don’t want to disappoint myself or those who believe in me. I will overcome because Jesus says I am an overcomer.
I don’t know what you struggle with, but whatever it is, don’t let it overcome you. You deserve more than your unfulfilled dreams. We both do. I am tired of this thorn in my flesh, and it may be something I have to deal with the rest of my life, but I will never give up trying to win this war. The enemy can mess with me, but he doesn't own me. Share on XThe enemy can mess with me, but he doesn’t own me. For every time he tells me I can’t do it or I am a failure, God tells me, “I love you from now through eternity.” A weight loss or gain doesn’t make God love me any more or less. God loves me just the way I am. He knows I am a work in progress and there will be many times He will have to take me back to the potter’s wheel to smooth out my rough edges and fix the cracks to keep me from falling apart.
This doesn’t mean I get to sit on the sideline and eat hot dogs. God wants us to be active participants in our faith. There are times when God calls us to step up to the front line of battle so we can see who the real enemy is. Sometimes I only have to look in the mirror to see that the enemy is me. I’m sabotaging myself by living in the past and not the present. A slip up doesn’t make me unworthy of God’s love. Jesus made me worthy of God’s love just the way I am. It isn’t my weight that is getting in between God and me, it is my arrogant attitude of self, thinking I have to be or do something for God to love me more. I know this sounds so elementary, but maybe you need to be reminded too.
Does it mean we give up and give in to our temptations? Not! It means we need to rework the plan that isn’t working for us, knowing God is never ready to throw in the towel.
Here are some new things I have implemented to step up my game and commit to a healthier life:
Lose It!: I have installed this app on my phone, so I can record everything I am putting in my mouth. There are a lot of benefits to tracking your food. The app tells you if you are eating too many carbs, fats or protein. You can set goals for yourself, and you can invite friends to join you. They won’t see how much you weigh, but they can encourage and help you with accountability.
Water, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar & Organic Honey: I could do a whole post on the benefits of this drink, but for now I will share my personal view. I have been drinking this drink for a month, and I do feel better. They say it is good for inflammation that is in your body and before drinking this my joints ached. Now, after thirty days, my joints no longer ache, and I’m moving around much better. It is very thirst quenching too. I’d say if you are going to do this start out slow it does take a little bit of effort to get used to the tartness. If you can’t get past drinking it, you can always make a salad dressing and put it on your salad. This is also great for helping lowering blood sugar levels. This type of vinegar contains malic acid which is good for heart health for cleaning out your arteries, lymph nodes and organs. It has also been proven to lower triglycerides, help you lose waist circumference, and lose weight after using it for three months. I figure there is nothing in this drink which will hurt you, so I’m willing to invest three months for better health. I feel better after the first month, so I’ll keep drinking because the overall health benefits are great!
More Sleep: What??? Yes, more sleep. I was staying up all hours of the night, and my sleep pattern was whacked. I’m now on a regimen of getting at least eight hours of sleep. Why? If I wake up tired, it is hard to be motivated to do anything else. If I want to burn more calories, I need to be more active. You aren’t active when you are tired. Lack of sleep plays havoc with you physically, emotionally and spiritually. I have found the best gift I can give to myself is a good night’s sleep.
Counting Carbs: The one big thing I quit doing, which I know contributed to my downfall, was counting my carbs. Carbs are my nemesis! My nutritionist has advised me to try to eat less than 100g of carbs a day. This is my goal and most days I can do it. I also notice when I do count them and stick to my limit, how much better I feel. There are many ways to modify recipes with vegetables, and the supermarket has become a friendlier place to those eating a Paleo diet. The internet is a great place to find delicious tried and true recipes too!
Well, now that my dirty little secret is out it is time to move forward and quit looking back. Again, I don’t know what you struggle with, but if your plan isn’t working try something new rather than risk being stuck in your rut. I’ll keep you posted on my journey to fitness.
What about you? Are you struggling with weight or something totally different? Do you need to rework your plan? You are in a no judgement zone, my friend. If you would prefer to message me privately, email me at sheila@JesusGlitter.com. I would love to encourage you! If you have had something work for you in your weight loss journey, let me know! I’m open to trying anything once.
Remember, there is nothing you can do to make God love you any more than He already does!
I think we all slip backward. It is what we do then that matters. Your honesty and determination is awesome!
Hi, Ally!
Thank You for your encouragement! I think we all slip too, but I need the accountability because it keeps me honest and moving forward! No shame, just a point to move forward from!
Sheila, you go girl. I am so proud of you!
Hi, Peggy!
I love you! Thank You for always being an encouragement to my heart and soul! I think we need a small group women’s weekend 🙂
I haven’t been able to work out as much as I like as I am nursing an ankle injury. This has made me really take notice of what I am eating. I like to use the myfitnesspal app. Thanks for being so open and candid with us regarding your struggles. Happy to know we are not alone!
Hi, Maria!
I am so sorry about your ankle injury that is no fun! I used that app too, but I like this one because it had more items in the search part. Trust me, you are not alone in the struggle! Prayer od healings and blessings to you!
Sheila, I love this. I am so far behind in reading and commenting on other people’s blogs, but I am so glad I took the time to read this, this morning. I struggle with this too. I do well for a while and then I fail. Lately, I haven’t even been caring, and that becomes a dangerous place to be! Your words made me feel better and maybe will even motivate me to try again. His mercies are new every morning, so each day is a chance to start over. Thanks so much for being real! – Amy
http://stylingrannymama.com/
Hi, Amy! Oh, my sweet friend, I know exactly what you mean! I’ve been to the not caring part a few too many times. I needed to get a grip before I became a medical hazard to myself! I am thankful his mercies are new every day, and our slate is clean. I’m praying for both of us and thank you for being real too! I hope you are doing well!
You are inspirational. Many of us have a battle with weight loss. I recently discovered the apple cider vinegar but today I will try the combination that you mentioned. Thank you.
Hi, Wendy!
Thank You for the compliment! I don’t feel inspirational, but I appreciate all the encouragement. Yes, there are many of us who do battle our weight and the important thing for me to remember is it doesn’t define who I am. I’m going to try the drink with stevia too! A friend gave me that tip!
Love this post…first, LOVED the cupcake! Lol but yes loved ir transperency with us! And reminding us to not give up even if we had taken a “break” (ahem, speaking of myself!) from one carb lover to another, you can totally do this! Altho it looks like u already know this! 😉
Hi, Jennifer!
Thanks for the encouragement and I hope you are doing well too! We carb lovers must stick together 🙂
I recently started using Apple Cider vinegar and found it extremely helpful!
Blessings to you. Remember this is a journey not a minute sprint. Don’t let the devil overtake you when you slip up. We all do. If it helps, schedule times where you can eat something you used to enjoy…after a while you may find, it’s not a craving anymore.
Hi, Kristi!
Isn’t the ACV drink great? I can’t believe how much better my joints feel. Thank you for the reminder about this being a journey and not a sprint. The enemy only knows my past, but he sure doesn’t know my present or my future! Thanks for your encouragement!
I love you precious Lady. I have added you to my Prayer list.
Specifically for what you are doing for you! You are very special
And I admire you for all you do for others. You are a God sent.
Love you.
Hi, Aunt Charlene! I love you too! I appreciate those prayers! I can say I love and admire you too! Thank You for always encouraging me throughout the years!
My hubby is starting to lose weight, just recently joined a transformation program and this confession that you shared will make him realize that he needs to be fully determined. Thanks for being honest here. You may not be there yet, but at least, you’re closer than you were yesterday or the past few days. 🙂
Wow! How cool that he is joining a transformation group! Focus is key and it doesn’t take long to get sidetracked that is for sure! Thank You for your encouragement and I will be keeping your husband in my thoughts. It is a tough battle, but it can be done!
Thanks for sharing these great tips. inspiring me to reduce weight.
http://www.learn2livefully.com
Hi, Nisha! You are so welcome! Hopefully, these tips will help you too!
Ugh!! Always such a problem. Certain times of the year are so hard. But, I can always find a reason to eat. Thanks for your honesty. And, the great tips. I love “The enemy can mess with me but he doesn’t own me.” Tweeted it!!
Great tips, thanks for sharing! I’ve also been working hard to lose some weight — I was 4 pounds down, and now I’m up 2. Bummer, but I know I need to keep trying! Thanks and good luck to you!
Hi, Patricia! It is not easy being a woman that is for sure! I’m rooting for you! I know you can meet your goals too! We are in it to win it!
Great things that you’ve implemented..it amazes me that sleep is a huge culprit of weight loss/gain. Just keep at it I know that you will meet your goals. You have the best coach on your side, Coach Jesus! You can do all things through him, because he will give you the strength to do so!
Hi, Natasha! You are right I do have the best coach ever! He is my strength and my shield. I have to say we got a new bed and I have been sleeping like a champ! It is one of those adjustable beds and it has been a blessing to my husband and I. Better Sleep equals better attitude 🙂 Blessings to you!
What an inspirational story! I eat everything but always ensure to go for running at least 5 days a week!
Hi, Ana! I always say I am not a runner, but I am a fast walker. Now that the weather is getting better I will be outside doing more walking. Thank You for your encouragement and congrats on running five days a week!
I’m definitely doing the whole apple cider and water thing (using stevia in my case)
Thanks for this, I have been trying to loose about 20 lbs before the wedding but so far I am not doing so well
Hi, Terri Lynn!
You are so welcome! Congrats on the wedding! I am cheering you on my friend! Just know each day is new and the best thing to do is make a plan. Logging what I eat and counting those pesky carbs has been a win for me 🙂 You are my thoughts and prayers! You’ve got this!
We all fall off, whats great is your get back on! Thanks for these tips .. I’m going to have to try the drink combo!
A healthy weight at my age(52) seems to be a constant battle. Thank you for your honesty. Weight health and regular exercise are becoming more and more a chore. I have to pray for a change of heart. How do you stay focused? How do you stay up? I get frustrated and kind of down at times. Love your blog my sister. Love you more.
Hi, Sue! You are inspirational! I see the amazing work God is and has done in your life and I smile! You may not know it, but you always push me to be the best version of myself. Somehow, I lost my focus that was the problem, but I’m back! I have been writing out God’s promises in my journal, praying and being diligent about exercising again. I believe prayer is key because that is where the Holy Spirit speaks to me and discerns the lies of the enemy from the truth of God’s word. Trust me I do get down, frustrated and angry! I have to remember 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 and confess when I allow my body to own me. I have to view exercise as medicine. I don’t always want to take it, but it always makes me feel better. My goal is to shoot for thirty minutes or more a day to be active doing something whether that is walking, swimming, tennis, yoga….or something new 🙂 I love you mostest! The battle is real, but God won I just need to keep taking my victory!
Your story is very inspiring thank you for sharing.
Hi, Anna!
Thank You for your encouragement! I appreciate it!
Thank you for being Real! Your heart is incredibly loving and so wise. I am encouraged by what you shared. The part on organic Apple cider vinegar and honey is also what I have been doing for several months. I have started getting arthritis (praying Jesus will heal it but til then I do this) & my natural path doctor told Keith and I about organic Apple cider vinegar. It has helped us both with our joints & high trigliserides it’s pretty amazing. Sheila, God has blessed you with a fabulous gift of expressing your love, faith and struggles through writing. I love you my Friend.
Hi, Sher!
Thank You for your sweet words! You are a blessing to my soul! I’m glad you know the benefits of ACV too! I love how it makes my joints feel stronger and not ache at all. I will be praying for God to heal your arthritis. Our God is a BIG God and we have seen Him do amazing things! The older I get the more I wish had known more about homeopathic options to wellness. Love you!
My goal for the spring is to lose weight. I have a deadline and I’m already making progress.
Hi, Katie!
Congratulations on making progress! Moving forward is a wonderful thing and it feels good to hit those goals! I’m cheering you on!! Are you following a specific plan?
So hard to admit to the world that we slip but most if us do sometimes. The way you put it gives me the courage to keep trying no matter what. Thanks Sheila.
Hi, Dorothy!
You know my struggle because you have known me since I was a kid! You have had tremendous success, and I am so proud of you! I know all the hard work you have put in to achieve your goals. You are very inspirational! I appreciate your encouragement! I love you, friend!
Gosh what a great time for this post to come in! I have been so down on myself all of this week because I feel like my weight is going back up. Since my son was born my weight has been up and down and while I never get on the scale, I can always tell my how my clothes fit and how I feel about myself. I wish you all the bes tin your recovery and for you to love yourself more and be strong. I love that you were so brave to share this and it encourages me as I am sure it will encourage others. Love that quote and will be sharing this post!
Hi, Sheri!
I have to tell you when I read your post yesterday it was so empowering! I soaked in every word and saved it. I tweeted your quote too! For me, it was about having a point to move forward from and embrace a new day without baggage! I am cheering you on too! We got this because we ARE beautiful people! The enemy loves it when we get down on ourselves, but I’m not having anymore of it! Thank you for your encouragement and your blog. I am a fan!!!
Could you share the recipe to the Water, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar & Organic Honey drink? It sounds like something I would like to try. I suffer so much from joint pain. Thanks.
Hi, Maria!
Thank You for asking! I should have included it in my post. I have seen tremendous results since I have started drinking ACV with honey. I take a 16oz. water bottle and add 1 tablespoon of raw honey and 1 tablespoon of Bragg’s organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar with the mother. I do this twice a day in the morning and after dinner. If you need to start out slow try a teaspoon of each and work up to a tablespoon. I have heard they now have apple cinnamon flavored Bragg’s vinegar with the mother. It is on my shopping list. Let me know if you try it and your results. There are plenty of articles on the web about the benefits of this natural drink! I’m sorry about your joint pain. It is hard to be motivated when you are hurting! I’ve added you to my prayer list for comfort and healing!
I, too have been struggling with an ongoing battle of the weight loss. I think I may install the app as well so I can keep better track of what I am putting in my mouth.
Hi, Nicole!
It is a great app to use! It is very helpful when you go out to eat as well. I love being able to look at my options and know what I am choosing doesn’t mess up my goal. They have a free option and a paid option. I did upgrade to the paid option so I didn’t have to be bothered by the ads. Plus, I figure it was worth the investment to better health. Much success to you! We are in it to win it!
I am struggling with making a career decision. I know this is totally unrelated but I could relate with you struggles. After applying for jobs in the hope of switching from Law to Business, I find my self slipping back to law due to setbacks from job interviews. But, with perseverance, I hope to fully embrace change and move forward.
Hi, Olubukonla!
It may be a different struggle, but it is a struggle. The frustration is the same and whether it is physical, emotional or spiritual we all battle. I was a paralegal at one time, and I have to say I don’t miss that job at all! I believe in you, and I’m here to say, “You Got This!”. Setbacks are temporary blips on the screen. Perseverance is the key to keep us motivated and on track! Keep me posted about that good news that the switch has been made 🙂
Sheila,
Your honesty is inspiring. Your story helps us to see ourselves more fully through the eyes of God.
God bless you my friend!
Hi, Toni!
I’m so thankful for the amazing people God has placed in my life. You are “JesusGlitter” to many! Your words of hope and encouragement fill my heart and others with the love of Jesus. Together, we keep moving forward and not looking back because we know what happened to Lot’s wife and I don’t need all that salt. 🙂 I love you, dear friend!
Sheila these true confessions really set off conversations. I love reading the comments.
I love you…beautiful you!
Hi, Cathy!
Confession is freeing! It breaks the chains and the power the enemy has over us by admitting our weaknesses. God hates pride and doesn’t want us to carry guilt and shame. Many times I think we look at confession as being weak, but actually, it is just the opposite. It shows we have the strength and power of the Holy Spirit within us who wants to fight for us in every battle if we are willing to admit we need help. When I can move from my past and look towards my future, I know the plans God has for me….I appreciate and love how you love your family and others! Thank You for loving authentic me…..I love beautiful you even more!