Ingredients for amount shown in picture below:
1 grated bar of soap (any kind you like)
1 cup washing soda
1 cup Borax
Mix ingredients in blender or food processor. Use 1 tablespoon per load of laundry.
Awesome.
and baby makes three...
2.26.2012
homemade laundry detergent
Inspired by Brooke over at B In Real Life (www.binreallife.com), I made homemade laundry detergent! It works amazingly well and only cost about $2.50 for an entire months worth of laundry detergent! Sorry some of the pics are blurry.
Ingredients for amount shown in picture below:
1 grated bar of soap (any kind you like)
1 cup washing soda
1 cup Borax
Mix ingredients in blender or food processor. Use 1 tablespoon per load of laundry.
Awesome.
Ingredients for amount shown in picture below:
1 grated bar of soap (any kind you like)
1 cup washing soda
1 cup Borax
Mix ingredients in blender or food processor. Use 1 tablespoon per load of laundry.
Awesome.
2.09.2012
inadequate
Yesterday was a rough day. Working with teenagers who are struggling emotionally/mentally/spiritually is a heart-wrenching, challenging job.
As I wrote that sentence, I actually erased it several times, trying to rewrite it to make it sound like I was feeling. That became impossible. The truth is, we are all struggling emotionally/mentally/spiritually to some degree. If we're not, then we're not growing. Growth is not easy. It's challenging. And it's rewarding. Every single day I'm reminded of that on a very, VERY big level. My struggle may not look like their struggle but it sure makes me feel inadequate some days. Like yesterday.
I am reminded of God's presence and unconditional love for me during every minute with these kids. I'm inspired, humbled, and in awe of this all-encompassing presence of our God. He is able to make changes in the lives of these hurting kids that blows my mind. Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think."
Steven Furtick said at a Leadership conference I attended last year: "If your vision is not intimidating to you, it is probably insulting to God." Today, may your faith be so audacious that you believe that every thing is possible. Every thing. I pray that you will believe bigger than you've ever believed, to the point that you look crazy-insane-out-of-your-mind-weird to the world. That, I believe, would be pleasing to God.
As I wrote that sentence, I actually erased it several times, trying to rewrite it to make it sound like I was feeling. That became impossible. The truth is, we are all struggling emotionally/mentally/spiritually to some degree. If we're not, then we're not growing. Growth is not easy. It's challenging. And it's rewarding. Every single day I'm reminded of that on a very, VERY big level. My struggle may not look like their struggle but it sure makes me feel inadequate some days. Like yesterday.
I am reminded of God's presence and unconditional love for me during every minute with these kids. I'm inspired, humbled, and in awe of this all-encompassing presence of our God. He is able to make changes in the lives of these hurting kids that blows my mind. Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think."
Steven Furtick said at a Leadership conference I attended last year: "If your vision is not intimidating to you, it is probably insulting to God." Today, may your faith be so audacious that you believe that every thing is possible. Every thing. I pray that you will believe bigger than you've ever believed, to the point that you look crazy-insane-out-of-your-mind-weird to the world. That, I believe, would be pleasing to God.
2.01.2012
nighttime
Every night, there is a bedtime routine with Will that goes like this:
1. Bath time. Will HATES bath. And I mean hates. Like worse than he hates the nose sucker.
2. Pick out P.J.'s. Will would rather wear his robe to bed. Sometimes we let him cause it's so darn cute.
3. Jason and/or I read Will anywhere between one and seven thousand books. Current favorites: Tickle Monster Book/Kit, I Love you Stinky Face, and Goodnight Moon. Will likes the one about trucks :)
4. Turn on turtle night light.
5. Turn on calming music.
6. Turn off lamp.
7. Bitty Baby Prayer Time. I've started consistently asking Will who he wants to pray for. Before now, I have just been saying a prayer for him out loud and at the end when I say "Amen" he agrees and says "Amy". Apparently he thinks we pray to the daycare lady, Amy. Now, Will has a list of about 100 people he wants us to pray for. Not literally 100, but the list goes like this: Mommy, Daddy, Will, Izzy, Grandma, Grandma, Grandpa, Kevin, Theresa, Eric, Mommy, Daddy, Will, Izzy, Sonny...you get the picture. Some people need extra prayers, I guess. It's uber sweet and inspires us to be the best spiritual guides for him possible.
8. "Mommy Back". This is the point in the nighttime routine where Will will ONLY let me rub his back. Not daddy. Apparently mommy has special skills. I'm fine with that. As is Jason who usually goes and watches some kind of wrestling show that I wouldn't normally watch with him.
That's it. Not sure what inspired me to write a post about our nighttime. Other than it's one of my favorite parts of the day. My sweet boy and his prayer list. I'm one blessed mama bear.
1. Bath time. Will HATES bath. And I mean hates. Like worse than he hates the nose sucker.
2. Pick out P.J.'s. Will would rather wear his robe to bed. Sometimes we let him cause it's so darn cute.
3. Jason and/or I read Will anywhere between one and seven thousand books. Current favorites: Tickle Monster Book/Kit, I Love you Stinky Face, and Goodnight Moon. Will likes the one about trucks :)
4. Turn on turtle night light.
5. Turn on calming music.
6. Turn off lamp.
7. Bitty Baby Prayer Time. I've started consistently asking Will who he wants to pray for. Before now, I have just been saying a prayer for him out loud and at the end when I say "Amen" he agrees and says "Amy". Apparently he thinks we pray to the daycare lady, Amy. Now, Will has a list of about 100 people he wants us to pray for. Not literally 100, but the list goes like this: Mommy, Daddy, Will, Izzy, Grandma, Grandma, Grandpa, Kevin, Theresa, Eric, Mommy, Daddy, Will, Izzy, Sonny...you get the picture. Some people need extra prayers, I guess. It's uber sweet and inspires us to be the best spiritual guides for him possible.
8. "Mommy Back". This is the point in the nighttime routine where Will will ONLY let me rub his back. Not daddy. Apparently mommy has special skills. I'm fine with that. As is Jason who usually goes and watches some kind of wrestling show that I wouldn't normally watch with him.
That's it. Not sure what inspired me to write a post about our nighttime. Other than it's one of my favorite parts of the day. My sweet boy and his prayer list. I'm one blessed mama bear.
1.08.2012
Updates and random thoughts
So, one month out from my surgery and I'm down 42 pounds. I am so, so, so happy with this decision!!! Most of the feedback has been incredible from friends. I so appreciate the love and support. Some people want me to focus on what I've gained rather than what I've lost. Here's the truth, people. I have battled for 33 years my weight. And, I mean battled. Been bullied severly...been through therapy...physically struggled with pain throughout my body, moreso than anyone except Jason really knows about. Chronic pain in my back, hips, knees, shoulders, etc. All due to my physical weight and all.completely.gone...because of what I've LOST. Clearly, I have gained a lot. Clearly. But, for now, I ask to revel in, bask in, rejoice in, even roll around in what I have lost. My life and my family's life will be forever changed. And it just keeps getting better. I'm a loser and I love it.
Randomness
1. Have everything set for private practice. Files, paperwork, place. Now I need clients :) I'll be working in Overland Park so if you know anyone in need, send 'em my way!
2. I found a house that Jason and I love. Farmhouse, two acres, barn, four bedrooms, one and a half bath, close to our price range, half way between my work and Jason's work. Problem...we have a very specific debt-reduction plan than doesn't end until June. Sadness.
3. Did you know that I seriously want to own land and have a couple of goats, some chickens, a big garden, and huge family gatherings in the backyard like they do on Parenthood. Did you know that? See #2. I must trust God's timing. Jason reminded me of that today. This house just came for sale yesterday and it isn't exactly move in ready for most people. Maybe it will still be available when the summer comes around. Brooke K...if you read this...I'm already planning an all-white country kitchen with wrought-iron accents and lanterns. You would be proud!
4. My grandmother passed away on New Year's Eve. She was a saint. I miss her terribly.
5. I think my feet have shrunk, too. Shoes are loose and won't tighten anymore and they are lace-ups. Strange, huh?
6. Jason is a talented fire starter. So thankful for that!!
7. Had my mother-in-law and her father-in-law over for dinner tonight. Made a shrimp boil and it was awesome. Best food since my surgery. Three shrimp, one baby potato, and half an ear of corn. Delicious and stuffed. My teeny-tiny stomach is happy now.
8. Will is still an angel boy. Tonight, I found him passed out in bed with his nightlight shining in his face. It's a turtle that glows with stars onto the ceiling. So, Will had stars all over his face. He also had six books surrounding him. Think he's gonna need a bigger bed.
9. Jason and I are slowly pursuing adoption. I sometimes fantasize about meeting a pregnant coffee girl who wants me to raise her baby. Hasn't happened...yet. We are gonna need more babies to fill our farmhouse and to mow our lawn. See #2. ;)
Randomness
1. Have everything set for private practice. Files, paperwork, place. Now I need clients :) I'll be working in Overland Park so if you know anyone in need, send 'em my way!
2. I found a house that Jason and I love. Farmhouse, two acres, barn, four bedrooms, one and a half bath, close to our price range, half way between my work and Jason's work. Problem...we have a very specific debt-reduction plan than doesn't end until June. Sadness.
3. Did you know that I seriously want to own land and have a couple of goats, some chickens, a big garden, and huge family gatherings in the backyard like they do on Parenthood. Did you know that? See #2. I must trust God's timing. Jason reminded me of that today. This house just came for sale yesterday and it isn't exactly move in ready for most people. Maybe it will still be available when the summer comes around. Brooke K...if you read this...I'm already planning an all-white country kitchen with wrought-iron accents and lanterns. You would be proud!
4. My grandmother passed away on New Year's Eve. She was a saint. I miss her terribly.
5. I think my feet have shrunk, too. Shoes are loose and won't tighten anymore and they are lace-ups. Strange, huh?
6. Jason is a talented fire starter. So thankful for that!!
7. Had my mother-in-law and her father-in-law over for dinner tonight. Made a shrimp boil and it was awesome. Best food since my surgery. Three shrimp, one baby potato, and half an ear of corn. Delicious and stuffed. My teeny-tiny stomach is happy now.
8. Will is still an angel boy. Tonight, I found him passed out in bed with his nightlight shining in his face. It's a turtle that glows with stars onto the ceiling. So, Will had stars all over his face. He also had six books surrounding him. Think he's gonna need a bigger bed.
9. Jason and I are slowly pursuing adoption. I sometimes fantasize about meeting a pregnant coffee girl who wants me to raise her baby. Hasn't happened...yet. We are gonna need more babies to fill our farmhouse and to mow our lawn. See #2. ;)
12.11.2011
best.birthday.ever
This birthday is different. It is not focused on where I will eat my birthday dinner, which birthday dessert I will choose, what presents I will get. I confess, I have been very selfish when it comes to my birthdays. Entitled, even.
This year is different. Family is coming over. Friends are visiting. There will be no cake. There will be minimal food (for me, anyways). There will (apparently) be a ton of pain. But most importantly, there is such hope. Hope of finally shedding pounds in the coming year. Hope of releasing a burden that has plagued me for 33 years. THIS IS THE BIGGEST AND BEST BIRTHDAY PRESENT I'VE EVER GIVEN MYSELF!! I can't even fathom what is to come. Can't.even.fathom.
I'm in quite a bit of pain this morning. Enough that we're not going to church. Our church family has become very important to us, to our marriage. We have some church-hurts that have happened throughout our marriage that kept us away for a while. It's comforting to have found an awesome church home here in Independence.
Despite the pain, I am happy. I believe I have been happy for a long time but this kind of happiness is new to me. It is one that has been slow-roasted, marinated, and dripping in awesome-sauce. That kind of hope. It's fascinating.
The scale. The scale helps on days like today that feel particularly impossible in regards to pain. I'm down 23 pounds. I had gained some of my weight back after surgery since they pump you so full of fluids. So, since this journey started two weeks ago, I have lost 23 pounds. Is that insane? I've almost lost Will's entire body weight!
I have been so blessed. I think having less focus on the "whats, whens, wheres" of my birthday, has opened me up to the who's and the why's. Who's: I am blessed beyond belief by friends and family. Endless messages checking how I'm doing, food being delivered for Jason by my work family on a daily basis, visitors who don't expect me to be a good hostess or to have a clean house when they drop by. Why's: I don't doubt the love God has for me. Jeremiah 29:11 tells me God has big plans for me, plans for hope and a purpose. This has been my favorite verse for 15 years. Today, I get it. I believe it. I understand it.
Thank you, friends, for your support. Your text messages, emails, Facebook posts, cards, emails...mean the world to me. I love you all so much (all five of you who read this :)
Much love,
This year is different. Family is coming over. Friends are visiting. There will be no cake. There will be minimal food (for me, anyways). There will (apparently) be a ton of pain. But most importantly, there is such hope. Hope of finally shedding pounds in the coming year. Hope of releasing a burden that has plagued me for 33 years. THIS IS THE BIGGEST AND BEST BIRTHDAY PRESENT I'VE EVER GIVEN MYSELF!! I can't even fathom what is to come. Can't.even.fathom.
I'm in quite a bit of pain this morning. Enough that we're not going to church. Our church family has become very important to us, to our marriage. We have some church-hurts that have happened throughout our marriage that kept us away for a while. It's comforting to have found an awesome church home here in Independence.
Despite the pain, I am happy. I believe I have been happy for a long time but this kind of happiness is new to me. It is one that has been slow-roasted, marinated, and dripping in awesome-sauce. That kind of hope. It's fascinating.
The scale. The scale helps on days like today that feel particularly impossible in regards to pain. I'm down 23 pounds. I had gained some of my weight back after surgery since they pump you so full of fluids. So, since this journey started two weeks ago, I have lost 23 pounds. Is that insane? I've almost lost Will's entire body weight!
I have been so blessed. I think having less focus on the "whats, whens, wheres" of my birthday, has opened me up to the who's and the why's. Who's: I am blessed beyond belief by friends and family. Endless messages checking how I'm doing, food being delivered for Jason by my work family on a daily basis, visitors who don't expect me to be a good hostess or to have a clean house when they drop by. Why's: I don't doubt the love God has for me. Jeremiah 29:11 tells me God has big plans for me, plans for hope and a purpose. This has been my favorite verse for 15 years. Today, I get it. I believe it. I understand it.
Thank you, friends, for your support. Your text messages, emails, Facebook posts, cards, emails...mean the world to me. I love you all so much (all five of you who read this :)
Much love,
12.09.2011
home sweet home
Well, surgery is over. Man, I was NOT expecting this pain AT ALL! I know everyone's different in how they respond. Apparently, I respond in lots of pain. BUT, it's getting better everyday. Highlights/Lowlights:
1. Apparently, when my mother-in-law went to get something to eat Wednesday night, I asked her to bring me back two pairs of chopsticks. Strange. I'm on a liquid diet for now...absolutely NO need for chopsticks. Must have been the meds. Funny, huh?
2. I can now stand and sit without help. Woop Woop!!
3. Since Tuesday evening, I have eaten about 4 tablespoons of liquids (broth, sugar free jello). Isn't it crazy?!
4. Jason and his mom are currently eating pizza. I realized today that I have had absolutely zero cravings. Mind-blowing!
5. Before, during, and after my surgery, I continued to get texts from my co-workers letting me know I was being prayed for. They also sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers.
Feeling very loved.
That's it. Just wanted to update you a bit.
1. Apparently, when my mother-in-law went to get something to eat Wednesday night, I asked her to bring me back two pairs of chopsticks. Strange. I'm on a liquid diet for now...absolutely NO need for chopsticks. Must have been the meds. Funny, huh?
2. I can now stand and sit without help. Woop Woop!!
3. Since Tuesday evening, I have eaten about 4 tablespoons of liquids (broth, sugar free jello). Isn't it crazy?!
4. Jason and his mom are currently eating pizza. I realized today that I have had absolutely zero cravings. Mind-blowing!
5. Before, during, and after my surgery, I continued to get texts from my co-workers letting me know I was being prayed for. They also sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers.
Feeling very loved.
That's it. Just wanted to update you a bit.
11.30.2011
One Week
In one week my life will change pretty dramatically and I can.not.wait!!!
This past week has been a challenge but not at all the kind I thought it would be. I've done it. It's been worth it. I've been supported. Friends who have been texting me, please know that means SO much to me. Please don't stop. I'll need continued support even following the surgery.
Today, I met with the surgeon and he was elated that I had already lost 11 pounds in one week! I asked him, "Is there *any* other food I can eat, even pudding, maybe yogurt, a biscuit, ANYTHING?!?!" I was expecting a firm "no" or maybe an "absolutely, if you don't want to have the surgery". I wasn't hopeful and then he said it. The word I didn't expect to hear. I can still hear it in slow motion. "sssssuuuuurrrreeeee". I'msorrywhat? Excuse me? Como se what? Did you say "sure". Seriously!?! Apparently, he was so happy with my 11 pounds that he feels I can add have a few actual meals (high protein, low fat) between now and next Wednesday. Oh.my.word. Who knew a stinkin' chicken breast would mean so much? Ahhh. So, after church tonight I picked up a few Kentucky Grilled Chicken wings. I bought three, didn't want to overdo it. I ate one and had had enough. That was all I needed. I can't believe this will soon be the story of my life.
Michelle Worley: Livin' life one chicken wing at a time :)
Things I could use prayer for:
1. Anxiety about getting everything caught up at work so that I can leave for the week following my surgery without the pressure of paperwork left behind. Saturday I'm spending the ENTIRE day at Panera doing paperwork. 12 hours. Intense.
2. I'm helping plan a Spiritual Retreat for students and staff at Shelterwood Monday and Tuesday. My surgery is Wednesday so the timing is perfect. I have a LOT to do to be ready for the retreat. On top of the paperwork, it's causing some stress but I'm really excited for the retreat.
That's it. I'm ready to go. Oh my oh my. So excited!!
This past week has been a challenge but not at all the kind I thought it would be. I've done it. It's been worth it. I've been supported. Friends who have been texting me, please know that means SO much to me. Please don't stop. I'll need continued support even following the surgery.
Today, I met with the surgeon and he was elated that I had already lost 11 pounds in one week! I asked him, "Is there *any* other food I can eat, even pudding, maybe yogurt, a biscuit, ANYTHING?!?!" I was expecting a firm "no" or maybe an "absolutely, if you don't want to have the surgery". I wasn't hopeful and then he said it. The word I didn't expect to hear. I can still hear it in slow motion. "sssssuuuuurrrreeeee". I'msorrywhat? Excuse me? Como se what? Did you say "sure". Seriously!?! Apparently, he was so happy with my 11 pounds that he feels I can add have a few actual meals (high protein, low fat) between now and next Wednesday. Oh.my.word. Who knew a stinkin' chicken breast would mean so much? Ahhh. So, after church tonight I picked up a few Kentucky Grilled Chicken wings. I bought three, didn't want to overdo it. I ate one and had had enough. That was all I needed. I can't believe this will soon be the story of my life.
Michelle Worley: Livin' life one chicken wing at a time :)
Things I could use prayer for:
1. Anxiety about getting everything caught up at work so that I can leave for the week following my surgery without the pressure of paperwork left behind. Saturday I'm spending the ENTIRE day at Panera doing paperwork. 12 hours. Intense.
2. I'm helping plan a Spiritual Retreat for students and staff at Shelterwood Monday and Tuesday. My surgery is Wednesday so the timing is perfect. I have a LOT to do to be ready for the retreat. On top of the paperwork, it's causing some stress but I'm really excited for the retreat.
That's it. I'm ready to go. Oh my oh my. So excited!!
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