Tuesdays Mommy Tip – Creative Ways to Get Kids Eating Healthy

Do you have a great tip for Moms? They can be about anything (family friendly, of course) that pertains to a Mom’s life, including; beauty, kitchen, health, parenting, and so much more! Click Here to find out how YOU can join Moms of Faith’s Tuesday’s Mommy Tips!

NOTE: PLEASE read the rules. We have a few who are not posting to the ACTUAL TIP post on their blog. I need you to post your link to the actual TIP POST…NOT the main page of your site. THANK YOU!!

OK, on to this week’s Mommy tip

Creative Ways to Get Kids Eating Healthy

Getting kids to eat healthy can be a daunting task! However, creativity will get surprising results. It’s not just what we give them, but, HOW we give it to them. Instead of just celery and peanut butter, try calling it a boat. Put a few nuts or dry fruit pieces “in” the boat for people, a stick pretzel and a small triangle piece of cheese for the boat’s sale. Now, you have something FUN. Instead of just a banana or cucumber, slice them into cylinders and call them wheels. Oh, and DIP is another way to get them eating healthy. A healthy dip, of course! For fruit you can make a yogurt dip. For veggies peanut butter is always a good one. Be creative!!! Before you know it, your kids will forget they are eating those veggies! Soon they will LOVE to eat healthy!






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Tips for Moms to Keep our Kids Cold Free

While colds can be caught ANY time of year, this time of year is prime for our kids to catch colds. It is never too early to teach our children to be sanitary and how to avoid getting sickness and germs. We hope these tips help you keep your little ones…AND…Dr. Mom herself from catching any nasty bugs this cold season!

Cold Prevention Tips for Moms

1. Wash Hands Frequently. Moms need to teach our kids to wash their hands with soap and water regularly. They should wash them after they use the bathroom, before they eat, when they are around sick people, etc. Explain to them what the cleaning does and how it keeps those mean little germs that make them miserable.

2. Keep Sanitizer on Hand. While washing your hands with soap and water is the best, sanitizer is certainly a good substitute when you are away from a sink. I give my little one a pocket sanitizer to keep with her. It not only makes her feel like a “big girl,” she is learning to use it when needed to avoid sickness. She knows to use it when she is around other sick kids.

3. Flue Shot. This will not prevent all illnesses. However, it will keep the flue bug at bay.

4. Avoid Sick People. Unfortunately, for kids this can be hard. Many parents will send their kids to church, school or daycare sick. They do not care that their kids are getting other kids sick. So, you will not always be able to avoid this. However, when possible keep away from sick people!

5. Airborne. I love this product! When you know you are going to be in contact with illness or one of your family members have already gotten sick, this is a GREAT way to prevent more sickness, or at the very least keep it from getting as bad. They have it for adults and kids. (airbornehealth.com)

6. Teach your Kids to use a Tissue. Coughing and sneezing into their hands is NOT a good thing. They are putting the germs there and everywhere they touch. Teach them to use a tissue.

7. Keep Hands away From Face. This can be tricky. Mostly for the littler ones. However, try and teach your little ones to keep their hands away from nose and mouth…ESPECIALLY when around sick people.

8. Drink Lots of Water. Water is the best drink. Moms must teach our children young to appreciate it and get used to drinking it. My kids rarely drink soda or other beverages. I only allow 6oz of juice a day, a couple cups of milk, and water takes up the rest. The reason I do not give a lot of juices is because it can cause obesity. FRESH fruit is better.

9. Eat Fresh Veggies and Fruit. There are tons of antioxidants and germ fighting nutrients in fresh fruits and vegetables. Train your child to eat them and they will learn to love them. Children learn what they are taught. If you give your child junk, they will crave junk. If you give them fruits and veggies, they will learn to love them and eat healthy as adults.

10. Yogurt. Eat more yogurt. There are good bacterias in yogurt that research has shown to help reduce your chances of getting a cold by 25% !

11. Exercise. Kids…and adults need exercise. It is good for your body and keeps you healthy. Exercise makes your body strong and able to fight illness.

12. Get proper sleep. Kids need sleep. 8 hours. Teenager need 10 hours. Adults need 7-8 hours. Get proper sleep Moms and make sure your kids are too!

13. Stay Warm and Dry. Well, this is pretty obvious. LOL. Do not let your kids get we and cold! Make them dress warm for the cold weather.

14. Do not share Cell Phones. This is more for adults and older children. Teach them to avoid sharing their cell phone when sickness is around.

15. Do not Share Make Up, Drinks, etc…Again, this is for the older ones. No sharing lip gloss, powders, etc. This should be an always rule. There are many things that can be caught from sharing these types of things. Teach them NOT to share things that they consume or touch any part of the face.

16. Sanitize Surroundings. This is mostly for Mom. When sickness does come in the house, clean frequently. Wash the sheets, pillows and clothes. Spay some antibacterial spray, sanitize frequently. This will help it from spreading to the rest of the family members.

17. No Smoking and Drinking. Hopefully, our little ones do not do this! However, if Mom gets sick…well. Plus it is unhealthy. Also, if you do smoke in front of your kids, you are not helping them. They are more likely to get sickness and become smokers themselves!

18. Take Vitamins. No one get ALL they need from food…well, at least no one I have ever known! Find a good quality vitamin and take it on a regular basis. DO the same for your kids. Make sure they have antioxidants, vitamin C, E and Selenium. These are all great in boosting the immune system.

19. Avoid Stress. Stress is not good for your immune system. Find ways to avoid stress for yourself and kids. Yes, kids feel our stress and any tension in the home. Do yourself and your children a favor and learn stress prevention.

20. Get some Fresh Air. Fresh air makes you feel good and it is good for you! Plus, if there is sickness in the house, getting away from the germs is a GOOD thing!

These tips are sure to help you avoid illness or at the very least help keep it from becoming a nightmare! It is our job as Moms to train our children. We need to teach them many things…including how to keep germs away and take care of themselves!

Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

Do you have any tips for Moms to help them keep their kids cold free? Reply here or email them to me at Lara@momsoffaith.com






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Frugal Fridays – Homemade Gifts

All are WELCOME to participate in this weekly blog carnival, Frugal Fridays! Click Here for more information!

NOTE: PLEASE read the rules. We have a few who are not posting to the ACTUAL TIP post on their blog. I need you to post your link to the actual TIP POSTNOT the main page of your site. THANK YOU!! ALSO, please include the TITLE of your tip next to your name in Mr. Linky!

OK, on to my tip for this week…

Homemade Gifts

Money is tight for most people these days. A great way to save money AND show others you care about them is to MAKE a homemade gift for them. Holidays, birthdays, special occasions…do it homemade. You can make cookies, baking mixes, cards, mini scrapbooks, bread, soap, candles, Christmas ornaments, photo frames, herbed oil, gifts in a jar, knit something, pot holders, jewelry, tye dye, picture calendar, plant a tree, and SO much more!

Homemade gifts are not only easier on the wallet, they show the people you love just how special they are. Time is the greatest gift you can give anyone!

Do you have a frugal tip? PLEASE share! Read how, here.






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Moms Kitchen – Italian Dinner

How about Italian tonight?? Here are a few of our family favorites that I thought you might enjoy! Nothing says yum like a good old fashioned Italian dinner and why not finish it off with a delicious Tiramisu.

Italian Dinner Menu:

Caesar Salad
Easy Cheesy Chicken Lasagna
Garlic Bread
Tiramisu
Coffee

Recipes Follow…

Caesar Salad Recipe

1/2 to 3/4 cup croutons (recipe below)
1 coddled egg
2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic
1 anchovy fillet, mashed (2 inches squeezed if paste is being substituted)
1/8 tsp. kosher salt
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
6 tablespoons good quality olive oil
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, divided
1 head Romaine lettuce, hearts and tender leaves only
Coarsely ground black pepper

Croutons

Day old Italian Bread
Olive Oil
Salt

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

  • Trim the crust
  • dice into 3/4-inch cubes
  • Toss with enough olive oil to coat, but not drench
  • Sprinkle lightly with salt and spread out on a rimmed baking sheet
  • Bake approximately 10 to 15 minutes or until just golden brown
  • Halfway through the baking time, give the pan a shake to make sure the croutons toast evenly
  • Remove from oven and completely cool croutons

Copyright © Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

———————————————

Easy Cheesy Chicken Lasagna Recipe

3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, sauteed
1 box, cooked lasagna noodles
1/4 cup hot water
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2-1/2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese
1 (26 ounce) jar favorite tomato sauce

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Slice cooked chicken. Fold sliced chicken with softened cream cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese being sure to mix well. In large baking dish spread 1/3 of sauce across the bottom. Layer chicken mixture, sprinkle both cheeses, lightly sauce and place 3-5 noodles over top. Repeat layers ending with sauce and a layer of cheeses on top. Bake for 45 minutes to an hour or until golden and bubbly.

Serve with Garlic Bread or Texas Toast.

Copyright © Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

———————————————

Tiramisu Recipe

2 teaspoons instant coffee in 1/2 cup water
2 ounces brandy liqueur
4 egg yokes
2 egg whites
2 tablespoons sugar
2 cups Mascarpone cheese
15 large lady fingers cut in half
3oz Milk Chocolate, finely chopped
Medium Souffle or dessert dish

  • Mix coffee and liqueur together, set aside
  • Over a double boiler, beat egg yolks and sugar until mixture becomes light yellow and forms ribbons
  • Cool 5 minutes
  • Beat egg whites to stiff peaks
  • Slowly Fold mascarpone into egg yolk
  • Then fold egg yoke/mascarpone mix into egg whites and set aside
  • Layer lady fingers across bottom of souffle or dessert dish
  • Paint the lady fingers with espresso mixture
  • Layer mascarpone mixture and sprinkle with broken chocolate
  • Repeat
  • Top with shaved chocolate

Serve with cappuccino or regular coffee.

Copyright © Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

Gustare! (Enjoy!!)

Got a recipe to share? Send it in to submissions [@] momsoffaith.com






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Rebuilding Can be Painful

We are going to look at the old Testament for today’s lesson. Sometimes we forget that there is Much to be learned there!

Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. - Romans 15:4 (NLT)

Stories in the Old Testament have significant value for our lives today. We can learn a lot. We are going to look at Nehemiah and some things we can learn from his experiences.

Nehemiah is the story of a man whom whom God used in a great way. God wanted to rebuild what was broken down. He wants to rebuild what has been destroyed in our lives too!

We all have past hurts and mistakes that God wants to fix, heal and rebuild.

God wants to…

  • take the pain from our past and rebuild peace
  • heal the hurts and abuses we have experienced
  • free us from addictions
  • restore our faith
  • help us overcome fear
  • use our weaknesses to bring us strength

OK, let’s look at Nehemiah….

They said to me, “Things are not going well for those who returned to the province of Judah. They are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem has been torn down, and the gates have been destroyed by fire.Nehemiah 1:3 (NLT)

Nehemiah - He realizes that there is a problem.

You and Me - Are you in denial? Blind to your issues?

When I heard this, I sat down and wept. In fact, for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven…Nehemiah 1:4 (NLT)

Nehemiah – It bothers him.

You and Me – Does our situation bother us enough to CHANGE?

Then I said, “O Lord, God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps his covenant of unfailing love with those who love him and obey his commands,Nehemiah 1:5 (NLT)

Nehemiah -He took it to a Loving God.

You and Me – Do you know God’s Love? Do you realize that EVERY issue us a God issue?

listen to my prayer! Look down and see me praying night and day for your people Israel. I confess that we have sinned against you. Yes, even my own family and I have sinned!

We have sinned terribly by not obeying the commands, decrees, and regulations that you gave us through your servant Moses. - Nehemiah 1:6-7 (NLT)

Nehemiah – He owned it.

You and Me – We cannot blame others, seek revenge or avoid self evaluation. We must acknowledge our part in our problems. Acknowledging our wrongs is the most important step in this process. We need to repent for our sin, bitterness, self-pity, pride, faithlessness, ignorance, selfishness, rudeness or whatever area that we have sinned in the situation.

“Please remember what you told your servant Moses: ‘If you are unfaithful to me, I will scatter you among the nations.

But if you return to me and obey my commands and live by them, then even if you are exiled to the ends of the earth, I will bring you back to the place I have chosen for my name to be honored.’

“The people you rescued by your great power and strong hand are your servants.Nehemiah 1:8-10 (NLT)

Nehemiah -  He reminded God of His promises and appealed to His forgiveness

You and Me – Trust in the Lord. Trust what His Word says about you, your life and situation. Trust that HE will do what He says. God does not lie. He loves you and wants only the best for your life. Trust HIM more than what you feel or see.

O Lord, please hear my prayer! Listen to the prayers of those of us who delight in honoring you. Please grant me success today by making the king favorable to me. Put it into his heart to be kind to me.”

In those days I was the king’s cup-bearer. - Nehemiah 1:11 (NLT)

Nehemiah - He trusted God and took action in spite of the circumstances.

You and Me - Discomfort leads to action. When things are not going well in our lives we tend to “straighten up,” and begin taking action.

God’s ability to work in our lives is not limited by our abilities, position or lack. His only limitation is OUR willingness. God can use anyone…IF they are willing to be used, God can help anyone…IF they WANT to be helped. He is only limited by OUR will.

He wants to rebuild us so that His presence and purpose can be fulfilled in our lives. Do not resist. It is for YOUR best interest!

I am stopping there. The rest will be YOUR homework. I want to encourage you to dig deeper and allow God to rebuild the areas in your life that need adjusting and healing.

Let’s Pray;

Daddy God, thank You for Your Word and Truth. Thank You for loving me and having my best interest at heart. Help me to recognize the areas in my life where I am blinded by pride and ignorance. Help me to give my life to you completely. Help me to allow You to rebuild me and mold me into who YOU designed me to be. I love you, Daddy. In Jesus Mighty Name, Amen.

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved

Your Homework

Dig Deeper

Ask yourself these thought provoking questions. Ask the Lord to help you.

  • What areas in your life are in need of rebuilding?
  • Where has the affect of sin created an area of devastation and insecurity?
  • Do you recognize these areas as spiritual?
  • Have you owned your part of the problem?
  • Have you confessed and repented?
  • Do you know God’s love and are you willing to trust Him to rebuild it?
  • Are you willing to obey Him in whatever He wants?

Further Study

The rest of Nehemiah’s story…

He sized up the problem (2:13-16)

He encountered resistance:

  • Questioning (2:19-20)
  • Despising (4:2-6)
  • Threats and Discouragement (4:7-23)
  • Sin (5)
  • Distraction (6:1-4)
  • Slander (6:5-8)
  • Intimidation (6:9-14)

Resistance continued even after the wall was built (6:15-19)

Finally read chapter 8.

In His Love and Service,

Lara ;)

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved

Special thanks to a spiritual mentor in my life, Frank. Got bless you!






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Tuesday’s Mommy Tip – Removing Stubborn Microwave Stains

Do you have a great tip for Moms? They can be about anything (family friendly, of course) that pertains to a Mom’s life, including; beauty, kitchen, health, parenting, and so much more! Click Here to find out how YOU can join Moms of Faith’s Tuesday’s Mommy Tips!

NOTE: PLEASE read the rules. We have a few who are not posting to the ACTUAL TIP post on their blog. I need you to post your link to the actual TIP POST…NOT the main page of your site. THANK YOU!!

OK, on to this week’s Mommy tip

Removing Stubborn Microwave Stains

To get those stubborn stains off of the inside of your microwave; spray liberally with two parts water and one part bleach, heat on high for 20 seconds and let stand for about an hour. The stains should come right off. For really stubborn stains heat for 30 seconds and let sit for 2 – 3 hours.

What’s your tip???






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Fall and Your Garden

Well, autumn is here! I thought it would be a good time to share tips for taking care of your garden with the fall season in mind. Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year.

Everywhere you look there are beautiful yellows and oranges that contrast against the reds, browns, and evergreens in a cascade of gorgeousness that can’t be equaled in the finest paintings.

I am sure you want YOUR garden enhancing the natural beauty that comes with this glorious autumn season!

Let’s get to making your yard beautiful for the fall…

Garden Tools Care Tips

  1. Digging tools like shovels, hoes, and hand trowels should be free of dirt each time you use them.  Wash them with warm water. Dry completely.
  2. Sharpen dull tools when needed. Keeping your tools sharp will enable you to use them at the start of each season rather than having to prepare them for next season.
  3. Cutting tools such as pruners and loppers should be cleaned each time you finish using them. Cleaning them each time will keep them from becoming gummy from tree sap. To thoroughly clean the sap from the blades, use steel wool to remove the residue.  Make sure the blades stay dry and follow up with a thin coat of mineral oil.
  4. Tools with wooden handles. Check the handles regularly to be sure the wood isn’t split.  Split handles should be replaced.  Generously oil the wooden handles with boiled linseed oil, allowing it to soak into the wood prior to wiping of the excess.

Fall Gardening

Most people believe that once the weather begins to cool, gardening must come to an end. However, if you plan things correctly, the autumn can be the perfect time to start a whole new garden.

To get the most out of your garden, use cold frames or hotbeds to plant in, as well as your summer garden plot.  Check with a local county agent or nursery to see what can be grown in the fall and winter.

Cool-season vegetables include carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower.  Depending on where you live, the variety of vegetables might be different. The beginning of fall is the prime time to plan and plant your garden.

Prepare the garden by removing any of the summer season’s plants and any weeds that might have grown up.

If you can keep your fall garden watered properly, you should be able to plant the seed directly into the ground. However, if you are not sure your garden will get the water it needs, consider purchasing seedlings from the local nursery.  Plant the seeds deeper in the fall than you would during the spring since the moisture and temperature of the soil is different.

It is also very important to protect the garden from the first early frosts. Consider covering your beds and rows with burlap or put stakes along the rows and float a cover over the plants to protect them.  If you have a smaller garden and only a few plants, you can use milk jugs, paper cups, or something similar to protect your plants from frosts.

Plan your garden based on the type of plants – frost tolerant or frost susceptible – keeping the types of plants together so they can be easily harvested.  Some frost tolerant vegetables include beets, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, garlic, lettuce, onions, and spinach.  Frost susceptible vegetables would be beans, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, okra, potatoes, and squash.

Remember, just because autumn is here does not mean that you can’t still enjoy gardening.

Copyright © Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

I would love to see some of your garden pics! Please feel free to leave a link reply to your fall gardens, or send them in and I will post them! Lara@momsoffaith.com

Happy Fall!






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Frugal Fridays – Clip Coupons

We would LOVE for you to participate in this weekly blog carnival! Click Here for more information! PLEASE READ and follow the rules!

OK, on to my tip for this week…

Clip Coupons

Sure, clipping coupons takes a little time, however, if you add up your savings over a few months you will see the value. You can also get your kids involved with the coupon clipping, if time is a factor. To make the most of your coupon savings, look for current sales when making your meals and use any coupons you have to go WITH the sale price.

Do you have a frugal tip? Please let us know…simply read the rules to join Frugal Fridays and jump on board. They are pretty simple. :)






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



WAHM Central – 7 Quick SEO Tips

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can seem like a daunting task to some. Especially when you are starting out. Search Engine Optimization requires a lot of time and work.

These seven quick tips are meant to help get you started on the endless road of SEO. Yes, it is endless. You must ALWAYS be optimizing your site if you want it to be and REMAIN successful.

Search Engine Optimization Quick Tips

  1. Fresh Content. You must have more original content than non original.
  2. Directory Listing. Submit submit submit.
  3. Write. Write original content for your site and then submit to article sites.
  4. Socialize. Blogs, message boards and social network memberships can help you get the word out about your site and products. NO spamming though!
  5. Site Map. This will help visitors and crawlers find you and what you have to offer.
  6. Stay updated. Keep yourself informed of what is going on in the world of SEO.
  7. Consistency. A website is like a baby. It needs regular attention to flourish and grow.

Like I said, this is endless. If you want a website and you want it to be successful Search Engine Optimization is vital. Without a good SEO strategy you will fail. Websites do not magically become successful and gain high traffic. If they did then we would all be rich!

Successful websites require commitment, consistency, active involvement, originality, trial and error, continual Search Engine Optimization education and hard work. I believe that if you give it your all, you can’t go wrong!

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved

Hats off to your SEO success!






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.



Making Decisions that Honor God

Decisions are a part of life. We make them every day. However, do we ever stop and think to include God in our decision making? God should be included in EVERY aspect of our lives. If we include the One Who loves us more than any other, we will find ourselves making better decisions that HONOR our Beloved.

Steps for Making Decisions that Honor God

1. See What the Word Says

All uncertainty is removed if God’s Word says something against what you are deciding. Make your decisions based on what GOD wants and you will have peace.

You may be thinking; “God’s Word does not specifically tell me everything I need to know…like should I take that new job.”

Well, maybe not “specifically.” However, as you read and study God’s Word and get to know Him more, you will soon realize that His Word really does have something to say about pretty much anything. His Word is life and it WILL speak to you in all situations…IF you know it and IF you are willing to hear.

God will use His Word to help us see our motives. Are they pure in the decision? Many times, He will reveal any heart issues we have.

So, to answer the previous question; there could be a clear answer to the job issue. What are your motives? Is it more money? Will you be leaving your kids more? Maybe you have a contentment issue? Hmmm…

2. Pray. What is the Holy Spirit saying to You?

This ties in with knowing God’s Word. The Holy Spirit will remind you of Scripture.

Pray! Include God. Ask Him what HE wants you to do in the situation. WAIT for your answer. Do not make the decision until you are certain and have peace. If rushing is involved, perhaps you already have your answer and are not happy with it!

Trust God. His Spirit dwells within you. His sheep hear His voice. He WILL answer you. TRUST that He will. He may make us wait to teach us something. To help us examine our motives and reveal heart issues to HELP us.

3. Seek godly Council

This is more valuable than you may think. You will get different perspectives from those who are not emotionally involved. They may be able to give you insight that you would not have had. It expands your understanding of the circumstances that you are in.

The act of seeking council is an act of humility. Pride will keep you from seeking godly council. Do not think that you know everything.

Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. - Proverbs 16:18

Also, you need to be VERY careful WHO you seek council from. Have they experienced what you are? Are they spiritually fit and mature in the Lord? They should NOT be emotionally invested. (ex. parents are not good marriage counselors)

4. Your Experiences

Is this a familiar experience? have you been down this road before? Someone once said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results.

If nothing changes nothing changes.

Think about the Israelites going around and around the mountain. If they would have listened to the Lord and STOPPED making the same WRONG choices maybe just maybe the trip would have taken the 11 days it was supposed to take instead of FOURTY years!

5. Pros and Cons

This is an easy one. Simply make two lists. Write down the pros and cons of the decision results. What do you find? More questions? Well, you better wait. Clear answer? Well, maybe you know what to do now?

The point is do not jump into any decision. Take your time. Read the Word. Pray. Seek God. Seek godly council. Look at your past experiences. Be certain before you jump.

Let’s Pray;

Daddy God, thank You for Your Word. Thank You for only wanting the best for me. Thank You for loving me. Lord, I ask that You help me in every aspect of my life. Help me to include You in my decisions. Help me to slow down and seek Your face. Send me people that I can trust to speak in my life. Help me be all that You created me to be. I love You, Daddy. In Jesus Mighty Name.

Copyright Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved

For Further Study and Application

Dig Deeper

Take the time to look over these steps and be ready to apply them in your decision making. Find godly people who will speak honestly into your life. Make a commitment to seek God and LEARN His Word, so you will KNOW what it says in YOUR situations.

Scripture Study

Next, study the Scripture references from this devotional to help you gain a better understanding of the Word. You may also want to search for more!

Here are the reference verses:

  • Psalm 19:7-14
  • Psalm 15
  • Proverbs 15:12, 22
  • Proverbs 16:18
  • James 1:5-6
  • 1 Cor 2:9-10

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved

In His Love and Service,






A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.



Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.