Disciplines

I am on a journey. To re-establish certain disciplines in my life.

It is somewhat surprising to me how easy "lack of discipline" can creep into my life. In a lot of areas. One leads to two, two leads to three...and on and on and on.

So, in my journey, I am taking on one at a time. I decided to start with my weight. That is a good example of the "creeping" that can take place. Five pounds quickly turns into ten, and ten can become twenty - and on and on and on. Suddenly - or not so suddenly - I find myself 25 pounds more than I should be. I decided that I did not want it to be 30 next year and 35 the next. So... discipline # 1. I am almost at my goal. I have actually reached my first goal, but am still working on the "ultimate" goal. And I can tell you - I feel much better. It is amazing how much better your body functions when it is not having to carry around the excess weight.

I have several more items that I intend to get back in order:
Consistent Bible Study time.
Consistent Exercise.
Order in my home.
Reading. (I have a ton of books just waiting on me to read them)
Writing. (I have several dreams/goals that I want to address here)
Even more consistency in my blogging.

I decided that I would be so overwhelmed if I tackled all of these at the same time. So, with the first one almost completely under my belt (a much smaller belt I might add :)... I continue the journey as I pick up another discipline.

I will share more as I accomplish a goal or two.

Do you want to join me on this journey. If so, tell me which area you are working on. I will pray for/with you and I covet your prayers too.

A disciplined life is a productive life. And knowing that I only have this one life - I want to spend it to the best of my ability for the Glory of God. Disciplines help me accomplish such.

Quiet...

My voice problem --Update -- Better but not well yet.

What a precious time sitting at HIS feet on Wednesday. Really desiring to listen. Hearing the still small voice of My Savior speaking directly to me.

As I sat back in my chair, praying... I even said, "Do I dare ask You to keep my voice till I hear what You are saying to me?" Or maybe I should say, "Lord, help me to hear you, even when I can speak!" Regardless, the prayer of my heart is to hear Him. Really Hear Him.

And then to follow...where He leads...

I have been reading "The Secrets of the Vine" again. And to be perfectly honest, I truly believe this is a time of pruning for me. For Hal. For our ministry together.

I do not have all my thoughts clear on this subject yet. But I know that God is dealing with me about several different issues here.

I am sure that I will share more in the days to come about this journey.

So... what are you dealing with lately? Anyone care to share?

Traveling Light ...

I am writing this from the plane on the way to Port Charlotte, Florida. We are going to be leading a marriage/parenting conference this weekend.

And I feel a need to tell about our adventure this morning. Remember when I confessed about being a pack-a-holic? Addictions die hard. I really tried to plan well for this trip. I did.

I mentally went through each day and decided what I would wear. I only planned to take one extra outfit for an emergency – or a change of plans. I really scaled back on the book bag – since I wanted to bring my computer with me. I would only take the books that would fit in the computer bag. I was so proud as I went to bed on Wednesday (even though it was around midnight!) ** Note, Scripture tells us that pride comes before the fall**

When I got up this morning at 4:00 – and started getting ready to leave… The panic set in.

I just had to add one more jacket, two pair of capris, two more shirts, another necklace and pair of earrings. The new outfits demanded another pair of shoes. And there were a couple of other books that I HAD to take. We ARE leading a conference. I really must have what I needed with me.

So, that lead to the dilemma of the suitcase not zipping. No problem. We are allowed two checked baggages. I would just get another one and quickly rearrange a few items.

And we were on our way…and I still felt good about my preparations. A little panic, but nothing major … right??

Arrived at the airport just a few minutes later than we (Hal) desired. The parking deck was extremely full. It took forever to find a parking place, and when we did… we had to walk a LONG way to the terminal. Time was ticking quickly. We get to the ticket counter, and the screen says it is too late for checked baggages. WHAT?? The attendant says she can get it through. Then we are told that we are only allowed one checked baggage each. The other two would cost $50.00 each - $100.00!!!! WHAT AGAIN????

We quickly decided that one suitcase was small enough to be Hal’s carry-on. At least we would reduce the amount by $50.00... That is – if the credit card is credited correctly…

OHHHHH…..

We made it to the plane – just barely. And now as I am riding, I am just hoping that the luggage did in fact make it. And if not… I will really have an interesting story for you, huh?

And I thought I had done so well. I really did.

Confessions of a PACK-O-HOLIC

So, I must confess. I really am a pack-a-holic!

I try hard not too. And since I know that this is a problem, I try to make a list ahead of time and STICK TO IT. But since the opportunity to go to the She Speaks Conference came quickly, and I did not even get to start packing until Thursday morning (while I was watching my precious 2 year old GRANDbaby)... the weakness took over.

I needed to pack for Friday and Saturday. I was not able to stay until Sunday. TWO DAYS.

So...

My make-up bag: (essential)

My suitcase: 2 pair of capris. 2 pair of pants. 2 skirts. 3 summer jackets. 8 (yes EIGHT) tops. 6 pair of shoes. 9 necklaces. 9 pair of earrings.

And let me note that right before I tried to zip the suitcase... I had already put 2 pair of shoes and 2 complete outfits back! So, it really could have been worse.

I also ALWAYS take a book bag with me: My Bible, my devotion book, my journal. Oh, but I also packed 7 other books to take with me. When in the world did I think that I would be able to read anything? I was driving. And the sessions were all day! When I did get back to my room... I collasped. I also had so much going through my mind, there is no way I could read anything else! LOL

The really bad part is having to take all that stuff in alone. Ridiculous! And everytime, I say that I will do better next time. And I really do try.

The Deeper Still Conference is this weekend. I am the one telling all of the Ladies from our church to PACK LIGHT LADIES. It is just one night and two days. Sure hope I can follow my directions. I promise I will try.

Confession is good for the soul...

Blessings,
DeeDee