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Earth Day

April 19, 2010 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

Earth day is this week (4/22/10).

How should Christians respond to Earth day?

First, I think we need to keep it all in perspective. Yes, we are to be good stewards of the planet. However, we are not to be earth “worshipers.” The earth is just another thing in our lives that God wants us to be a good steward with. Yes, it is important…However, Jesus Christ and His shed Blood is much more important. Saving souls should be above saving polar bears. You know what I mean?

So, do I think Christian’s should celebrate Earth Day?

Sure. Just make sure you have this whole eco, green planet stuff in perspective. Make sure that you are lined up with the Word and that God is your priority and His will. Do not let being green override sharing the Love of Christ and your true God-given purpose.

All that said, I thought it would be cool to add some fun stuff to do for earth day…

Earth Day Activities:

Plant a tree. This could be a fun family project.

Recycle. Take those cans you have been saving and turn them in.

Make the whole day green. Make eco choices all day long.

Clean up. Take your family to the park and clean up the junk left by others.

Make a point to add more green. Add at least one more green activity to your life.

Go on a nature walk. Enjoy the beautiful environment that God created for you.

Organic. Visit your local Ma and Pa farmer and shop for some earth friendly stuff.

Earth Day Recipes:

Mushroom Kebabs

3/4 cup sliced fresh portabella mushrooms, sliced 1 inch thick
2 green bell peppers, cut into 1-inch squares
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch squares
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Preheat grill.

String mushrooms and peppers alternately on metal or soaked wooden skewers. Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl and brush onto skewered vegetables.

Place skewers on oiled grill and grill 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with oil. Mushrooms should be tender but not mushy when finished.

Earth Day Garden Cups

2 cups of cold whole milk
1 package 4-serving instant chocolate pudding
3-1/2 cups cool whip, thawed
1 (16-ounce) package chocolate Oreo cookies, crushed
Gummy worms or insects or anything else with a garden feel

Whisk together milk with pudding mix until fully combined. Let mixture rest for a few minutes then gently fold in cool whip and 1/2 of the crushed Oreos. Spoon 1 tablespoon of remaining cookie crumbs in the bottom of individual cupcake liners set in a cupcake tin, or a large shallow serving bowl.

Fill cups or bowl with pudding mixture and top with the rest of the cookie crumbs. Place gummy worms and insects around to decorate. Chill until ready to serve.

Copyright © Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved





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.


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7 Reusing Paper Tips for Young Children

April 1, 2010 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

For those of you that have toddlers or young children the issue of using paper to draw on has most likely come up. How can we let our kids enjoy coloring without feeling like we are allowing the waste of paper and the over killing of trees? Well, by being creative, coming up with ways to reuse it, chilling out and teaching your children how to draw and enjoy the paper without wasting it! Children do what they are taught. If we teach them to be green and that God wants them to take care of the environment and be good stewards, they will be conscience of that.

7 Tips for Toddlers and Young Children to Lean to Recycle Paper

Both sides – make sure that when they draw, they are using the whole sheet of paper and both sides as well.

Make more art - once the paper has been used, instead of tossing it, throw it in your art scraps for later. Old drawings can be cut up and used to make collages, or to cover an old frozen juice container and make a pen holder or other crafts that require paper.

Wrapping paper - it can be used as wrapping paper for gifts your child gives others. A great personal touch…especially for the Grandparents!

Make a puzzle – Use the pictures that are clear and have them cut it into medium size pieces to make a puzzle.

Scrap for Momma – you can take some of the drawings that can be reused and use them for grocery lists, memos, phone messages, etc.

Lining - cover some of the pretty pictures with contact paper and made draw liners. You can also make a couple place mats for snack time.

Book covers – protect some of your child’s good books by making book covers with their art. You can use the contact paper for that as well.

It really isn’t that hard to be green. It just requires a change of thinking and the willingness to be creative and make better choices!

Do you have any tips to share on reusing paper with kids? Please post your tip in a comment below!

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved





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.


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Is it Expensive to Be Green?

February 17, 2010 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

This is a question many people have asked me and unfortunately the answer is not that easy. While, yes, to buy organic and items that are green can be quite costly, there are also many ways to be green that are very affordable. You do not need to spend a lot of money to be green. It simple requires a willingness to be a better steward of God’s planet and some creativity.

When I first decided that I wanted to be green, I was not swimming in the green…if ya know what I mean. LOL! However, I had a desire to be a better steward of the planet and I started to brainstorm. It helps me be more creative and I am forced to come up with cheap and free ways to be an environmentally minded person.

Yep, that’s all it takes, people. Willingness and effort.

Eco Tips to Get Your Started on the Greener…Cheaper Path

Recycle. most states have recycling programs and they provide the bins and pick up service for minimal cost. It is actually a part of your garbage bill…at least it is in my town. this ONE act can do a world of good for the environment!

Reuse. start thinking about ways that you can reuse the items you use every day.

Limit paper use. stop overusing paper towels and paper products like they are going out of style. make the most of everything and use it more then once. we have many paper tips here.

Stop wasting. waste is something anyone and everyone can stop doing. it is free and simply requires willingness.

These are just a few simple changes to get you started. If you implement even one of them, you are already making a difference!

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved





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.


Filed Under: Frugal Living, Green Moms Tagged With: ,

Green Start to Your Day

February 9, 2010 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

What better way to begin your day than Green? You can start your day glorifying God by taking care of what He placed in your hands…His planet. How?

Simple. Forget about the norm when you wake up each morning. Try waking up a little early and having a warm natural bubble bath. Light some candles and spend some time praying and giving your day to God. Taking baths helps save water verses a long shower.

No time for a bath, you say?

There are other ways you can save water and make your mornings greener…

1. Shorter Showers. Take 5 minute shower and work quickly to get the job done. This will save a lot of water every year.

2. Married? Consider showering with your better half. Not only will you save water…you will heat up your marriage as well!

3. Turn off water when shaving, brushing teeth, hands, etc. Avoid letting it just run down the drain as much as possible.

4. Keep Up with any leaks. If you notice a leak, in the morning, have it fixed before the day ends. Stopping leaks is a simple way to conserve water.

5. Low-flow shower heads and efficient water heaters are also great options to help cut your water usage drastically.

6. Buy a permanent razor versus disposable razors.

7. If you wear makeup, consider Eco-friendly products.

8. Clothing. Consider switching to natural organic fibers. This will take time, so you do not break the bank…but remember, every little thing helps!

9. Morning Java. Try a cup of organic coffee to help rev up your engine in the morning. Or, if you are not a big coffee drinker, try some organic green tea.

10. Try using the same glass or cup when you get home. The less you dirty, the less there is to clean. The less water used.

11. Car Pool when you can. If you work far and MUST drive, try carpooling. The less cars on the road the better. Plus, with gas prices the way they are everyone involved will save some money!

12. Ride a bike. If work is not too far and riding a bike is an option for you.

13. Cancel your Newspaper Delivery. Try the Digital version. This will help save some trees. Plus, most online versions are free, so you will save a few bucks too!

14. Turn off the Lights. When you wake up in the morning, open the blinds. Use as much natural light as you can.

15. Most important -> Pray on your way to work. Instead of listing to your radio while you drive, spend time praising and talking to God. Radios use your engine and more energy. Plus, He sure would love to hear form you!

These are just a few ideas to help you start your day green. If we all do a little it really will be a huge help to God’s planet.

Stay Green!

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved





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.


Filed Under: Blog, Green Moms Tagged With: ,

What does the Bible Really Say About Being Green?

February 3, 2010 By Faith_Mom 1 Comment

Green Christians is a relatively new term. However, how “new” is the concept? Um…well…It’s NOT new. God’s Word tells us what He thinks about the planet and it is clear what He wants us to do with His planet.

Our God is well balanced. This is made very clear simply by looking at His Creation. The way the earth sits just right. The way the Eco system is just right. The way the moon sets the tides. The list could go on for a very long time. Our God IS balance. Everything about Him shows balance and excellence.

How could we ever think He would not want us to be green?

How could we ever think He would not want us to take care of what He placed in our hands?

How could we ever think it is OK to destroy what he gave us to enjoy?

I cannot think that way. Only uneducated and poorly studied individuals can possibly think that way. The Living God I serve is green and He wants us to be good stewards with all that He blesses us with…including HIS planet!

Do we think that EVERY issue brought up by the environmental community is factual? NO. That is where personal convictions and common sense must occur.

Is Green Biblical?

This is easy! YES! Green IS Biblical! If you do not believe me keep reading…or study the Word for yourself…

What does the Bible have to say about taking care of the Environment?

First, you must understand that everything God created is His. He created mankind and He created the earth and universe. He created it all in perfect balance.

If you have ever read or studied what happens when an ecosystem is throw off kilter then you know just how delicate that balance is. That information alone should be enough to make any Christian aware of our responsibility to the environment.

Isa. 24:5-6: “The earth is defiled by its people; they have disobeyed the laws, violated the statutes and broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore a curse consumes the earth; its people must bear their guilt. Therefore earth’s inhabitants are burned up, and very few are left.”

This is a profound prophetic Scripture. This shows us very clearly that we have the power through our ignorance and lack of care to destroy something beautiful that the Lord Created for us to enjoy!

Why going green is Biblical and should be a part of every Christian’s life

* We are part earth. God made us from the dust of the earth. We are part earth. (Gen. 2:7, 3:19)

* We are joint heirs with Jesus Christ. He is the first in all Creation and was there in the beginning. (Col. 1:15-20; Jn. 1:1-3; Heb. 1:2-3; I Cor. 8:6b; Eph. 1:10)

* The earth declares the glory of God. Why would we want to take away from God being glorified? (Ps. 19:1-4, 96:1, 11-12; Rom. 1: 20-23; Rev. 4:11)

* He told us to take care of it. (Gen 1:28, 9:1)

* God Created it and we are His children. Would you like it if your children destroyed your house or something you took the time to carefully make just for them? (Gen 1, 2:1-4; Ps. 104; Job 38-41; Isa. 40:12, 26, 42:5-7)

* It belongs to God. We are but caretakers. He is the one who owns the deed. (Col. 1:16b; Heb. 1:2; I Cor. 10:26; Ps. 24:1; Lev. 25:23; Deut. 10:14; I Chron. 29:11-12; Neh. 9:6; Isa. 66:1-2)

* God cared and so should we. When God told Noah to build the ark to save himself and his family, He cared about the earth dwelling creatures as well. Shouldn’t we? (Gen. 6:19-21)

* Creation shows His existence. It is proof of Who is is. (Rom 1:19-20)

I am certain that if I continued my study into this topic, I would find many more reasons that Christian’s should be green. We are responsible even more than non believers. We are God’s children and we are the ones that He left in charge!

In closing, do I think that EVERY issue brought up by the environmental community is factual? NO. That is where personal convictions and common sense must occur.

Pray. Investigate. Use your judgment.

Stay Green!

Copyright © Lara Velez, All Rights Reserved





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.


Filed Under: Green Moms Tagged With: , ,