tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37823858979088890502024-02-08T10:32:25.785-08:00Spiritus ScientaeGracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-2115040477795156402013-01-12T23:24:00.003-08:002013-01-12T23:24:50.657-08:00Love, Sex, and Happily Ever After By Craig GroeschelIn my experience, the Christian world seemingly would like to ignore the topic of sex. There is much emphasis placed on "saving yourself for marriage", but there doesn't really seem to be a lot of discussion past the "don'ts". I feel that it is important to encourage healthy dialogue about sex.
I truly believe that having a spiritual foundation is essential to a healthy marriage, but sharing intimacy doesn't necessarily have to be outside those spiritual boundaries.
This book has good advice on growing spiritually both before, during and after meeting your mate. It is important to understand that when you embark on a relationship, it can be easy to lose yourself in that other person's identity, this leads to confusion and can be problematic. The author offers valuable advice on how to have a spiritually-centered relationship while still maintaining your individuality. I liked the fact that the book was not entirely centered around one particular topic, but rather was a compilation of a variety of subjects surrounding relationships.
It was a good read and I would recommend it for individuals who are interested in having more spiritually-centered relationships.
I was given this book by Multnomah Publishers in exchange for my unbiased review. Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-79826537531070400132013-01-12T23:02:00.002-08:002013-01-12T23:02:52.399-08:00The Encounter by Steven ArterburnThe Encounter is a very easy, fairly short read. The book details the story of an angry, aggressive man that is given a change to redirect his life. The root of his anger is that his mother gave him up as a baby. Now that he is wealthy and successful, he finds that he is not satisfied by material possessions or fame. He wants to find his mother and figure out why she gave him up.
Although I will not write a complete synopsis of the plot, I found many parts of the book to be somewhat predictable. The book seemed somewhat superficial to me. It is the type of book that you sit down with and finish in one sitting. At 176 pages, even someone who doesn't read too often will find it easy to finish.
The overall theme of the story is of healing. A theme that is relevant to modern society. Many people carry around scars, both physically and mentally from past events that cannot be changed. This book can serve as a good reminder that you must first concentrate on your own healing before achieving success in other areas, as these successes will undoubtedly be short-term. Someone who is dealing with something negative that has happened to them will have a hard time convincing themselves that these past events have not shaped them and will not be repeated. I feel that the main character in this story, through all of his fame and fortune, felt unworthy and had developed issues with self-esteem at having been given up as a baby. He couldn't comprehend how his mother could choose to give him up. I appreciated the fact that the author chose to give us another viewpoint of the situation- of his mother. This allows us, as the audience, to visualize the situation from a completely different standpoint.
Overall, this book is good when you are in the mood for something light-hearted and easy to read. Also, this book would be good for someone who isn't too much of an avid reader as the storyline is very easy to follow and the book can be read completely very quickly.
This book was given to me by Thomas Nelson, the publisher. I have agreed to write this unbiased review in exchange for the copy of the book. Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-38735533089385134392011-11-16T09:44:00.000-08:002011-11-16T09:44:51.641-08:00Praemortis by Miguel Angel MorenoUsualmente, yo no leo libros en espanol. Soy una estudiante en la universidad y los unicos libros que leo son porque mis profesores me lo mandan. Pero, estoy tratando de ayudar mi espanol un poco como voy a ser maestra y maestros que saben espanol y ingles se necesitan no solo en Tejas, pero en los EU enteros. Perdon por todos los erores gramaticos! :)<br />
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Esta historia fue muy interestante porque habla de la importancia de mantener la humanidad cuando uno tiene un proder tan grande en sus manos. Un doctor encontro una formula que pudo ayudar a su hijo, pero su hijo tomo esa formula y la uso para controlar toda la humanidad. Es un recuerdo que a veces los regalos que nos dan se pueden usar para danar. El doctor salvo la vida de su hijo, pero ahora el hijo esta usando un demonio para controlar la humanidad. Muchas veces, dios nos da bendiciones que nosotros usamos para maldad. Dios nos bendice con tantas cosas, pero nosotros habeces no conocemos estas bendiciones y decidimos que nosotros controlamos todos. Yo pienso que esto fue la situacion con el hijo de el doctor. Dios le dio la oportunidad de vivir, cuando estaba bien enfermo, pero el decidio que el hiba a tomar esa oportunidad para maldad. Esta historia fue muy interestante y tambien puede ensenar una leccion a cualquier persona que toma sus bendiciones sin considerar que estas bendiciones vienen de la sangre de Cristo. <br />
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Esta libro me lo dieron gratis de Thomas Nelson. No tube que escribrir esta resena de libro por que me dieron el libro gratis, pero yo decidi toda esta informacion.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-22422464441395713002011-11-16T09:29:00.000-08:002011-11-16T09:29:05.566-08:00Desiring God by John Piper (video)Just completed Desiring God by John Piper. I found that this video released a lot of anxiety from my life. Rather than thinking that God wants us to mundanely follow through with our expected obligations without truly "living", this video made me realize that God wants us to delight in our lives. We should be happy and vibrant in our lives as Christians. The outside world should see us and know that we are followers of Christ due to our inner happiness. This is not to say that we should ignore unfortunate circumstances, but it is rather how these circumstances are dealt with that will show that we are Christians. Believing that God wants us to delight in ourselves is important in how we live our daily lives. We were designed in God's image, and therefore meant to be happy and fulfilled. John Piper is a very respected and educated man who has written many books about Christianity, but I found it awesome that this video (it is a book as well), is such a fundamentally simple concept of Christianity but so wonderfully important in how we conduct ourselves. I firmly believe that God wants us to delight and be happy in our lives. So many Christians believe we must live in guilt or sadness, and while I understand that we cannot be the stereotypical "giddy happy" Christians that we are sometimes made out to seem, we must also learn to handle situations that arise with the understanding that God is in control. We are not. This is a very liberating concept. Thank you, John Piper! <br />
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This video was provided courtesy of Multnomah Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for the video.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-72161868830265204242011-07-19T00:20:00.001-07:002011-07-19T00:20:05.041-07:00You Were Born for This by Bruce WilkinsonI didn't know what to expect when I received this book. I was perhaps expecting a compilation of various miracle stories, but this book exceeded my expectations. There were many stories of everyday miracles, which kept the read interesting and light, but there was also a lot more. The author honestly makes you realize that you might be missing out on everyday miracles, if you are not actively looking for them. Small coincidences might be miracles, depending upon the faith of the beholder. How many times has one said "well, that's a coincidence". Maybe its not. This book makes you realize that in our skeptical culture, as Christians, we should expect miracles from God. When we are reborn, we are reborn into a new existence. The same world surrounds us, but our viewpoints drastically change, or at least they should. So, next time something amazing happens that seems too amazing to be a coincidence, maybe it's not! <br />
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This book was provided to me by Multnomah Publishers at no charge in exchange for my review. This review is completely my own opinion and I was not influenced in anyway by either the author or publisher.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-342265244771048612011-07-18T23:32:00.000-07:002011-07-18T23:32:48.963-07:00Why God Won't Go Away by Alister McGrathI must confess that I immediately gravitated towards this particular book due to the fact that it was authored by Alister McGrath. After having read the Dawkins Delusion among other McGrath works, I have a deep appreciation for McGrath's common sense approach to "the God issue" as well as his tongue-in-cheek stabs at the "New Atheist" leaders such as Christopher Hitchens and Richard Dawkins. I find McGrath to be brilliant, but also have a good understanding of fairness and common sense. He has publicly debated Hitchens, Dawkins and several other members of the "New Atheism" movement and has held his own, quite admirably. My favorite part of this book was the way in which McGrath completely exposed the inaccuracies and overstatements that have plagued the "New Atheist" leaders. One of my absolute favorite parts was the description of how the "New Atheists" have decided to name themselves the "Brilliants". This move was an obvious show of intellectual cockiness and turned off many individuals, including those within the movement. <br />
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One of the strongest mainstays of the "New Atheism" is the concept that religion is evil. McGrath faces this concept with dignity, and an open-minded understanding. There are alot of things wrong with "religion". "Religion" has caused wars and bloodshed throughout history. This is why the "New Atheist" leaders declare that religion is evil and therefore so is God and both should be done away with. This intolerant view shows no understanding of the true root of Jesus and his ministry. Unfortunately more than a few Christians don't seem to understand the root of Jesus and his ministry, either. Jesus kept company with sinners and the "undesirables" of the time. He would have come across as a radical, preaching that one should forgive those that sin against us and love our enemies as our friends. Perhaps if the "New Atheist" movement bothered to study their Christian Theology more thoroughly they would see a loving, forgiving God that loves us all, including the "New Atheists". <br />
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McGrath has done a wonderful job in explaining the "New Atheism" and the inaccuracies that plague its handful of members. I would have liked this book to have been a bit longer, due to the importance of the information that is covered, but it is a very easy read and quite entertaining. I definitely consider it worth the time and it can even be read in a single sitting, although it took me 3 days since I read it sporadically. <br />
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This book was provided to me, free of charge, by the publisher, Thomas Nelson, through the http://www.booksneeze.com program. My review was not influenced by the publisher or the author and is completely of my own understanding of the book.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-37060644060249233712011-07-04T13:51:00.000-07:002011-07-04T13:51:55.138-07:00Bible Verses Dealing With Identity in ChristVerses Dealing With Christian Identity:<br />
1 Peter 1:23- For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. <br />
Ephesians 1:7- In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace. <br />
2 Corinthians 5:17- Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here. <br />
1 Corinthians 6:19- Do you now know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not you own;<br />
Colossians 1:13- For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness, and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves. <br />
Galatians 3:13- Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.”<br />
Ephesians 6:10- Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. <br />
Ephesians 1:4- For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy ad blameless in his sight. In love. <br />
Ephesians 1:6- to the praise of His glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves. <br />
Deuteronomy 28:1-14- If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God. You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock—the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks. Your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out. The Lord will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven. The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The Lord your God will bless you in the land he is giving you. The Lord will establish you as his holy people, as he promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the Lord your God and walk in obedience to him. Then all the peoples on earth will see that you are called by the name of the Lord, and they will fear you. The Lord will grant you abundant prosperity—in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your ground—in the land he swore to your ancestors to give you. The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouses of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom. Do not turn aside from any of the commands I give you today, to the right or to the left, following other gods and serving them. <br />
Romans 1:7- To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. <br />
Colossians 1:12- and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. <br />
Deuteronomy 28:13- The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom. <br />
Revelations 21:7- Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. <br />
1 Peter 2:24- He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sings and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. <br />
1 John 4:17- This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: in this world we are like Jesus. <br />
Ephesians 2:19- Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household. <br />
Ephesians 1:13- And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.<br />
Colossians 2:10- and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. <br />
Romans 8:1- Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,<br />
1 Thessalonians 1:4- Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children. <br />
Colossians 2:7- rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. <br />
John 13:34-35- A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. <br />
Ephesians 2:20- built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. <br />
1 Corinthians 6:17- But whoever is united with the Lord is one with him in spirit.<br />
2 Peter 1:4- Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. <br />
Ephesians 2:10- For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.<br />
Philippians 1:6- being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.<br />
John 17:21-23- that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved hem even as you have loved me. <br />
Philippians 4:19- And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.<br />
John 6:47- Very truly I tell you, the ones who believes has eternal life. <br />
Ephesians 1:14- who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are in God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.<br />
John 10:10- The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. <br />
1 John 5:4- for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. <br />
Philippians 4:7- And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts ad your minds in Christ Jesus.<br />
Ephesians 2:18- For through him we both have access to the Father by one spirit. <br />
Mark 16:17- And these signs will accompany those who believe; In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues.<br />
John 14:12- Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. <br />
Colossians 2:6- So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him. <br />
1 John 4:4- You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.<br />
Philippians 3:14- I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.<br />
Romans 8:2- because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.<br />
1 Peter 2:9- But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.<br />
1 Corinthians 2:14- The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. <br />
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Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-49639932494679571372011-06-30T12:24:00.001-07:002011-06-30T12:24:31.057-07:00Healing and God's Love<div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Although the title to this blog entry could encompass 10,000 blogs for 10,000 years, both divine healing and god's love are subjects that have been increasingly calling my attention for the past several weeks. My husband and I have both become disillusioned with the standard "church" and with the standard "religion". We are both desperately seeking that personal relationship with Jesus. It can be frustrating at times- it seems as though there is a universe up for grabs for whosoever has the faith to grab it. Divine healing is only the beginning of the miracles that can be performed by someone who is truly in tune with the holy spirit. God's love is so overwhelming and unconditional that sickness could not possibly be in His plans. Therefore if it is not of God, then what is it?</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I have been listening to Curry Blake's healing seminars as of late and I am still in the very first handful of mp3s. But he has said some very profound things that have impacted how I live my life and how I view everyday things. He said that there is only black and white and if something is gray, then it is black. Simple enough, but the implications are truly profound. If something is not godly, then it can only be of satan.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I am truly inspired and encouraged by the teachings of men like Curry Blake, and of the information provided by websites such as: <a href="http://revivalorriots.org/" style="color: #0658b5;" target="_blank">revivalorriots.org</a>, <a href="http://iamaspirit.org/" style="color: #0658b5;" target="_blank">iamaspirit.org</a>, and several others that have captured my attention. There are multitudes of Christians out there who have become tired of religion. The legalism that has placed conditions on God's unconditional love has kept countless Christians from realizing a true relationship with Jesus- the saddest consequence of all. Many well-meaning individuals attempt to comfort each other with words such as: you were stricken with this illness in order to further God's glory. But, if we are truly God's children as it plainly says in the bible, then how can God want his children to suffer? There are so many bible verses that reference healing and I am still in the beginning stages of reviewing them all.</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I will continue to post as this journey unravels itself. I am excited to keep learning about divine healing and I am encouraged to keep seeking an even-closer relationship with Jesus.</div>Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-36821605034179319702011-06-27T00:45:00.001-07:002011-06-27T00:45:23.036-07:00Macarthur Book Review<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Generally when you hear of Douglas Macarthur you think of the great WW2 general. I am intrigued by the WW2 era and by the Great Generation, overall. I am fortunate to have a grandfather-in-law that is a veteran of WW2 that survived malaria, small pox, a boat accident, and a plane crash. He initially started telling me about Macarthur while watching the news together. There is a rather large, well-traveled overpass in the San Francisco bay area that is named after Macarthur. I felt that this book would be a great opportunity to make even further conversation with my grandfather-in-law, but also to learn more about Macarthur.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I was fascinated to know that Macarthur's father was also a great military hero. He was awarded the medal of honor, an accomplishment that would be followed by Macarthur in later years. They are the only father-so duo to have earned such a prestigious honor. I felt that the book allowed the reader to view Macarthur in a new light. He was rather flamboyant, smoking out of cigarette holder and wearing kimonos. He was a great lover of Filipino culture and served closely in the Phillipines for several years. The author really brought these years to life in his descriptions of the feelings of Macarthur during the various time periods.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">I felt that Macarthur was a great way for a normal reader who is interested in WW2 to learn more about Macarthur without dedicating a huge amount of time and effort. Some books centering about pivotal American military figures seem as though they require some in depth knowledge about the figure in order to best understand the book. Yockelson presented the material in a fashion that was simple and easy to understand. This book might not be for everyone- I feel you have to have somewhat of an interest in WW2 or Macarthur to make the read worthwhile, but I felt that it was a great way to learn more about a very important part of American military history.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #bbbbbb; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i>I was given this book by Booksneeze.com through the publisher, Thomas Nelson, in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review and everything presented above is my own opinion. </i></span></div>Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-83060537611761605992011-04-29T11:39:00.000-07:002011-04-29T11:39:09.219-07:00Jolt! by Phil CookeI recently finished "Jolt" by Phil Cooke. The book has a bright, engaging cover. The cover is a dark, midnight blue which fades into black on the outsides and electric blue to white on the title area. This book is the sort of book that makes you want to take up a hobby or try something new and challenging. It was a very easy read, with many interesting facts throughout. Phil Cooke challenges the average reader to not be stuck in such a complacent, boring, uninspired place. I think that when you are stuck in the average "routine", you lose the opportunity to do really great things. This book makes you re-examine your place in your household and in your career. It might seem that everything in the world is constantly changing and you have to run at break-neck speed to be able to keep up, but this book helps you prioritize and realize that you might not be all that far off from maximizing the changing world around you. This book is recommended by individuals such as: Joel Osteen and Tim Sanders, who was an officer for Yahoo! This book is not only for the average individual, but also for the accomplished professional.<br />
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<i>I was given this book by Booksneeze.com in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review and everything presented above is my own opinion. </i>Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-1203716940092994232011-04-11T10:42:00.000-07:002011-04-11T10:42:43.723-07:00The Sacred Journey by Charles FosterThe Sacred Journey focuses on the importance of pilgrimage. I feel that most people do not consider "pilgrimage" as applicable to modern society. We are tourists. We tour places, we do not go on pilgrimages to places, but Charles Foster contends that maybe we should. Perhaps we should be taking pilgrimages. We are not meant to build massive cities and our roots are in the ever wandering nature of ourselves. Charles Foster presents his own pilgrimage experiences as examples for the importance of pilgrimage. He details his experience traveling to the Holy Land, and honestly after reading this book I, too, felt the wanderlust to experience the Holy Land. It was very well written and interesting and presented an age-old concept in a new and exciting way. I feel that the Sacred Journey is worth the time investment, to perhaps change some pre-conceived notions about the nature of pilgrimage.<br />
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<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-107826741258262345" style="line-height: 1.4; position: relative; width: 670px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #bbbbbb; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><strong>Disclaimer</strong><br />
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <<a href="http://booksneeze.com/" style="color: #ff9b00; text-decoration: none;">http://BookSneeze.com</a>> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <<a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html" style="color: #ff9b00; text-decoration: none;">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</a>> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span><div style="clear: both;"></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #bbbbbb; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="post-footer" style="line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.5em;"></div>Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-1078267412582623452011-04-11T10:11:00.000-07:002011-04-11T10:12:07.880-07:00Book Review- The Final Summit by Andy AndrewsI LOVED this book. Normally I am not the type to be reached by books. I will read books, even motivational ones, and not feel any different than when I first started it. This book dramatically changed my outlook. I was very impressed by the ease of the read and the incorporation of the message. The basic premise is that God is going to end the world and these inspirational figures from throughout history have been convened to a boardroom style summit to try and come up with an answer as to why God shouldn't end the world. The book introduces remarkable historical figures such as Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, and King David among others. The author, Andy Andrews, brings these characters to life and the way in which he presents their personalities left me with a smile on my face after many of their interactions. As I mentioned the book is very easy to read and the way in which the story is presented is very easy to follow along with. I read the entire book in 2 sittings and I found myself taking notes in the margins of the motivational and inspirational messages that I found throughout. There is historical fact thrown in with fictional, and the most interesting part of the book was the introduction of Eric Erickson, who was instrumental in the ending of World War 2. I am very interested in history, particularly World War 2 history, but I had never heard of Eric Erickson and his valuable contribution to the war effort. This book was a very worthwhile read and it inspired me to live everyday with the simple concept of "Do Something". No matter how small or inconsequential it might seem, do something everyday for people around me.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #bbbbbb; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><strong>Disclaimer</strong><br />
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <<a href="http://booksneeze.com/" style="color: #ff9b00; text-decoration: none;">http://BookSneeze.com</a>> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <<a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html" style="color: #ff9b00; text-decoration: none;">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</a>> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span>Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-14147460729104735122011-03-26T09:45:00.000-07:002011-03-26T09:45:33.121-07:00My Perspective on the Paleo DietIt is not sustainable as a lifestyle option. It is unrealistic to restrict someone's diet to the point where they are left with broccoli and chicken breast. Considering the fast-paced American lifestyle what are you to do if you're out and about? Sit there and cook a steak and put it in a plastic baggie to carry around in your purse? I am not going to lie- I have tried the Paleo diet. This is why I feel that I can confirm that it is simply not sustainable as a lifestyle option for the majority of Americans. A low-calorie diet combined with exercise is the easiest and most reasonable way to lost weight long-term. Allowing one or two meals per week of your favorite "bad foods" allows you to keep eating low-calorie the remainder of the week.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-75300249769679949472011-03-25T19:17:00.000-07:002011-06-30T12:27:12.645-07:00Cell Phones Have Eliminated Human Communication When was the last time you actually made the effort to talk to someone? Usually it's a text or FB message. Think about it- when was the last time you actually sat down and had a heart-to-heart with someone? Even if it is just about silly things. Sit down and drink some coffee or wine and really listen to each other..?? Cell phones and electronic media have really eliminated the most basic forms of human communication. Talk to each other people!!Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-2514263899561889112011-03-15T09:13:00.000-07:002011-03-15T09:13:50.436-07:00Prayers to JapanWith everything that is currently happening in Japan, one can only send prayers to those most affected. There is a natural instinct to want to lend a hand- many wish they could fly over to Japan and dive into help find those lost and help by bringing in food and other supplies that are so desperately needed. There is also a feeling of national pride- seeing our military responding so quickly to help out those in need by dropping supplies and helping out in countless other ways. There is a feeling of selfish fortune as well, on the West Coast, that we were not the ones so devastated by an earthquake of that magnitude. The tsunami fear was prevalent in many areas, even though the sea only rose 3 feet or so along the central coast.<br />
<br />
As many Americans watch their televisions, fixated on the situation occurring across the ocean, one cannot help but wonder how much worse it will get. The best support that can be offered at this time is to pray for those affected.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-63352504143087043972011-02-06T18:26:00.000-08:002011-02-06T18:26:43.130-08:00Book Review- The Jesus Inquest by Charles Foster<strong> I am very interested in Christian apologetics. Since I am majoring in Biology, I like to have a balance in my life between the evolutionist theories and the creationist theories, that I adhere to, being a Christian. This is why I chose to read "The Jesus Inquest" by Charles Foster. This book is by no means an easy read. </strong><br />
<br />
<strong> Charles Foster is a brilliant man with an impressive academic background and his position as a lawyer causes him to have the the ability to be very convincing. But, he does not choose to try and influence the reader in either direction. He is seemingly very unbiased, a very difficult thing to be, when you are discussing your innermost beliefs and then arguing against them. There is a lot of information contained within this book and I found myself learning more and more with each page. There have been so many Christian apologetics books released recently due to the interest in Dan Brown and his books and movies. This book presents a very clear and all encompassing view of Jesus and his death and subsequent resurrection in an academic way, which is what I particularly liked about it. </strong><br />
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<strong> Some individuals might be insulted by Charles Foster- but I think it is important to have men like him that aren't afraid to challenge your mind- since that is the way that faith grows strongest. It is important to stick with the book, since you might be insulted right off the bat, but it is a worthwhile investment to learn some of the arguments that you might be confronted with as a Christian. Lately it seems as though the entire world is fighting against Christianity, so we have to arm ourselves with the word of God, and it is important to thoroughly understand the word, which is where Christian apologetics comes in. This is definitely one of my books that has highlighted pages and notes written in the margins. :)</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer</strong><br />
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com <<a href="http://booksneeze.com/">http://BookSneeze.com</a>> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <<a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</a>> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-76562872990993869702011-02-06T18:07:00.000-08:002011-02-06T18:07:34.193-08:00The Paleo DietPaleolithic nutrition is based on the premise that <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modern_human" title="Modern human">modern humans</a> are genetically <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adaptation" title="Adaptation">adapted</a> to the diet of their Paleolithic ancestors and that human <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genetics" title="Genetics">genetics</a> have scarcely changed since the dawn of agriculture, and therefore that an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Healthy_diet" title="Healthy
diet">ideal diet</a> for human health and well-being is one that resembles this ancestral diet.<br />
<br />
So my husband and I embarked on the Paleo diet after running into some Cross Fitters at church. If you are unfamiliar with Cross Fit- it is a sort of workout routine that has evolved into a new sport. Sprinting, weight lifting, all done for time. Cross Fit is an excellent workout but the gyms are very expensive. Fortunately many gyms offer WOD (workout of the day) on their websites daily and you can do the best you can at home. The Paleo diet corresponds directly with Cross Fit. The most fit people I have ever met in my life have been Cross Fitters. So, why not give this Paleo diet a try?<br />
<br />
It is remarkably simple. No grains, no dairy. You want to stay away from processed unnatural foods. Grass fed meat, veggies, sweet potato instead of white potato, along those lines. I've lost 5 lbs in the past 2 weeks with very minimal effort. We actually threw in 3 cheat days (unplanned) and still lost weight. Feeling good, looking good. I think I might start posting recipes to help me remember my favorites and to help out anyone else who might be interested in also going Paleo. It definitely is a lifestyle, but if you take your time, particularly at the grocery store, then it is worth it!!Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-56979823771579445642011-01-26T21:56:00.000-08:002011-01-26T21:56:35.090-08:00Why Leap Castle Haunts Me to This Day..I saw a documentary about this castle, located in Ireland when I was in my pre-teens. The story of the elemental ghost scared me to death. Still creeps me out watching that documentary- Castle Ghosts of Ireland. They also filmed a "Most Haunted" there. Just because I'm a scientist doesn't mean I don't get scared!!<br />
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<b>Leap Castle</b> is an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ireland" title="Ireland">Irish</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle" title="Castle">castle</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/County_Offaly" title="County
Offaly">County Offaly</a>, about four miles north of the town of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roscrea" title="Roscrea">Roscrea</a> on the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/R421_road" title="R421
road">R421</a>. It was built in the late 15th century by the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O%27Bannon" title="O'Bannon">O'Bannon</a> family and was originally called "Léim Uí Bhanáin," or "Leap of the O'Bannons." The O'Bannons were the "secondary chieftains" of the territory, and were subject to the ruling <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/O%27Carroll" title="O'Carroll">O'Carroll</a> clan.<br />
The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annals_of_the_Four_Masters" title="Annals of the Four Masters">Annals of the Four Masters</a> record that the <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earl_of_Kildare" title="Earl of Kildare">Earl of Kildare</a>, Gerald FitzGerald, tried unsuccessfully to seize the castle in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1513_in_Ireland" title="1513 in
Ireland">1513</a>. Three years later, he attacked the castle again and managed to partially demolish it. However, by <a class="new" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=1557_in_Ireland&action=edit&redlink=1" title="1557 in Ireland (page does not exist)">1557</a> the O'Carrolls had regained possession.<br />
Following the death of Mulrooney O'Carroll in <a class="new" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=1532_in_Ireland&action=edit&redlink=1" title="1532 in Ireland (page does not exist)">1532</a>, family struggles plagued the O'Carroll clan. A fierce rivalry for the leadership erupted within the family. The bitter fight for power turned brother against brother. One of the brothers was a priest. The O'Carroll priest was holding mass for a group of his family (in what is now called the "Bloody Chapel"). While he was chanting the holy rites, his rival brother burst into the chapel, plunged his sword into his brother and fatally wounded him. The butchered priest fell across the altar and died in front of his family.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leap_Castle#cite_note-0"><span>[</span>1<span>]</span></a></sup><br />
In <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1659_in_Ireland" title="1659
in Ireland">1659</a>, the castle passed by marriage into the ownership of the Darby family, notable members of which included <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Darby" title="George Darby">Vice-Admiral George Darby</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_D%27Esterre_Darby" title="Henry
D'Esterre Darby">Admiral Sir Henry D'Esterre Darby</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Nelson_Darby" title="John Nelson
Darby">John Nelson Darby</a>. The central keep was later expanded with significant extensions. However in order to pay for these extensions, rents were raised and much of the land accompanying the castle was sold. This is one theorised motivation for the burning of the castle during the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irish_Civil_War" title="Irish
Civil War">Irish Civil War</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1922_in_Ireland" title="1922 in
Ireland">1922</a>.<br />
Many people were imprisoned and executed in the castle, and it is supposedly haunted by several spectres, the most terrifying of these beings is a small grey humanoid with a decaying face with black holes for eyes. The apparition is said to be accompanied by the stench of a decomposing corpse and the smell of sulphur. Some call this an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elemental" title="Elemental">Elemental</a> and its name is 'It!'<br />
While renovating the castle, workers discovered an <a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oubliette" title="Oubliette">oubliette</a>, a dungeon where people are locked away and left to die. There are spikes at the bottom of this shaft, and when it was being cleaned out, it took three cartloads to carry out all the human bones at the bottom. A report indicates that these workmen also found a pocket-watch dated to the 1840s amongst the bones, it is unknown who it belonged to. These series of spikes are now covered with a vast amount of twigs, grass and dirt, to protect anyone entering it.<sup class="Template-Fact" style="white-space: nowrap;" title="This claim needs references to reliable
sources from July 2010">[<i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed" title="Wikipedia:Citation needed">citation needed</a></i>]</sup><br />
Since 1991, the castle has been privately owned by Seán Ryan, who is undertaking restoration work.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-64697101712690583212010-12-29T16:11:00.000-08:002010-12-29T16:11:10.084-08:00Why High Fructose Corn Syrup Is Bad For Your HealthThe health issues tied to consumption of high fructose corn syrup have become more and more noticeable as the levels of consumption have exponentially increased. Since the 1970's, high fructose corn syrup has found its way into everything. In a typical grocery store, everything from salad dressings to cookies to juices are primarily composed of high fructose corn syrup. Why? It's cheap and government subsidized and lasts significantly longer than other healthier types of sweeteners. So what exactly about high fructose corn syrup is it that makes it bad for you?<br />
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Your body does not recognize high fructose corn syrup and has a difficult time metabolizing it. When fructose is present in natural forms, it is bonded on a molecular level with glucose. This makes it more of a "slow-release" process and it allows the liver to process the fructose slowly. When fructose is introduced without glucose the liver gets hammered with all of it and has a hard time metabolizing it. The liver might not be able to metabolize all of it, especially if this is an ongoing issue (you are consuming high fructose corn syrup on a regular basis and not giving your body an opportunity to recover). So the extra fructose gets stored as fat on the liver and fat on the body.<br />
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Fortunately more companies are now making the conscious decision to replace high fructose corn syrup with regular sugar. But the Corn Refiners Association is lobbying to allow high fructose corn syrup to be re-named "corn sugar". Consumers have to make sure to keep their eyes wide open to avoid being tricked by the CRA- it is a desperate and pathetic move since the CRA was unable to convince Americans that high fructose corn syrup is not bad for you, i.e. sweetsurprise.com. Do not be tricked!!Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-37069250622647208832010-12-21T11:51:00.000-08:002010-12-21T11:51:55.695-08:00Christmas ShoppersAs Christmas approaches I notice more and more shoppers hurrying along their merry way attempting to max out their credit cards in last ditch attempts to satisfy their un-satisfy-able partner or children. So, the question begs to be asked- why spend Christmas in such a miserable fashion. I, personally, hate being in crowds of people. It makes me feel claustrophobic, rushed, uncomfortable, you name it- I try to my shopping late at night where I can take my time looking around at whatever I am potentially buying- and even many score some attention from a salesperson. As many pastors gear their messages around the "reason for the season" it is easy to get swept away in the unapologetic consumerism that envelops all of us this season. Why do we allow companies to get into our brains and tell us what we should want? Particularly children. It is disturbing the way that marketing agencies work to target their products to children. This is why I have a love-hate relationship with TV. I love watching TV, unfortunately, something I consider a flaw in my life that I have yet to correct, and yet I hate TV and all the hidden messages and innuendoes. I have Netflix and I regularly stream TV shows to avoid the commercials. Commercials are truly obnoxious and not only that- they have hidden messages that attempt to sway you into their group-think mentality. No thank you. In the new year I hope to spend less time watching TV and more time reading. I recently signed up for Booksneeze.com and I will blog about them later, when I receive my first free book. :) Happy Holidays, residents of internetland, remember the REASON for the season, and guess what- it ain't shopping...Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-29629085003579160512010-12-20T13:12:00.000-08:002010-12-20T13:12:29.827-08:00Benefits of Cinnamon<div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">Cinnamon is one of the world's oldest known spices. The tree is native to Sri Lanka where it was found thousands of years ago. It is the best spice available in terms of its nutrition and health. It contains unique healthy and healing property comes from the active components in the essential oils found in its bark. Cinnamon has extremely high anti-oxidant activity due to which it has numerous health benefits. Aside from being used as a medicine by other cultures since ancient times, the health benefits may also come from eating it which can be listed as follows:</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">1. Lowers Cholesterol:<br />
Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon included in a daily diet can lower cholesterol.<br />
Also Cinnamon may significantly lower LDL "bad" cholesterol, and triglycerides (fatty acids in the blood) and total cholesterol.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">2. Reduces blood sugar levels and treating Type 2 Diabetes:<br />
Several studies have shown improved insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control by taking as little as ½ teaspoon of cinnamon per day. Improving insulin resistance can help in weight control as well as decreasing the risk for heart disease.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">3. Heart Disease:<br />
Cinnamon strengthens the cardiovascular system thereby shielding the body from heart related disorders. It is believed that the calcium and fiber present in cinnamon provides protection against heart diseases.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">Including a little cinnamon in the food helps those suffering from coronary artery disease and high blood pressure.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">4. Fights Cancer :<br />
A study released by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland showed that cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">Besides, the combination of calcium and fiber found in Cinnamon can help to remove bile, which prevents damage to colon cells, thus prevents colon cancer.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">5. Tooth decay and mouth freshener:<br />
Cinnamon has traditionally been used to treat toothache and fight bad breath. Small pieces of cinnamon can be chewed, or gargled with cinnamon water which serves as a good mouth freshener.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">6. Cures Respiratory Problems:<br />
Cinnamon is very useful home remedy for common or severe colds. A person suffering should take one tablespoon of honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">Cinnamon also found to cure flu, influenza, sore throat and congestion.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">7. Brain Tonic:<br />
Cinnamon boosts the activity of the brain and hence acts as a good brain tonic. It helps in removing nervous tension and memory loss.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">Also, studies have shown that smelling cinnamon may boost cognitive function, memory, performance of certain tasks and increases one's alertness and concentration.<br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">8. Infections:<br />
Due to its antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-parasitic and antiseptic properties, it is effective on external as well as internal infections. Cinnamon has been found to be effective in fighting vaginal yeast infections, oral yeast infections, stomach ulcers and head lice.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">9. Eases menstruation cycles:<br />
Cinnamon has also been found useful for women's health as it helps in providing relief from menstrual cramping and other feminine discomforts.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">10. Birth Control:<br />
Cinnamon also helps in natural birth control. Regular consumption of cinnamon after child birth delays menstruation and thus helps in avoiding conception.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">11. Breastfeeding:<br />
It is also believed that cinnamon aids in the secretion of breast milk.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">12. Reduces Arthritis Pain:<br />
Cinnamon spice contains anti-inflammatory compounds which can be useful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">A study conducted at Copenhagen University, where patients were given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">13. Digestive Tonic:<br />
Cinnamon should be added to most recipes. Apart from adding flavor to the food, it also aids in digestion. Cinnamon is very effective for indigestion, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, diarrhea and flatulence. It is very helpful in removing gas from the stomach and intestines. It also removes acidity, diarrhea and morning sickness. It is often referred to as a digestive tonic.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">14. Reduces Urinary tract infections:<br />
People who eat cinnamon on a regular basis report a lower incidence of urinary tract infections. Cinnamon is diuretic in nature and helps in secretion and discharge of urine.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">15. Anti clotting Actions:<br />
A compound found in Cinnamon called as cinnamaldehyde has been well-researched for its effects on blood platelets. [Platelets are constituents of blood that are meant to clump together under emergency circumstances (like physical injury) as a way to stop bleeding, but under normal circumstances, they can make the blood flow inadequate if they clump together too much]. The cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon helps prevent unwanted clumping of blood platelets.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">16. Natural Food Preserver:<br />
When added to food, it prevents bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">17. Headaches and migraine:<br />
Headache due to the exposure to cold wind is readily cured by applying a thin paste of powdered cinnamon mixed in water on the temples & forehead.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">18. Pimples and Blackheads:<br />
Cinnamon helps in removing blood impurities. Therefore it is often recommended for pimples.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">Also external application of paste of cinnamon powder with a few drops of fresh lemon juice over pimples & black heads would give beneficial result.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">19. Thinning of the blood and improves blood circulation:<br />
Cinnamon is a blood thinning agent which also acts to increase circulation. This blood circulation helps significantly in removing pain. Good blood circulation also ensures oxygen supply to the body cells leading to higher metabolic activity. You significantly reduce the chance of getting a heart attack by regularly consuming cinnamon.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">20. Toning of tissues:<br />
Considerable anecdotal evidence exists to suggest that cinnamon may have the ability to tone and constrict tissues in the body.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">21. Muscle and joint pain relief:<br />
Those who eat cinnamon on a regular basis often report that their muscle and joint pain, as well as stiffness, is reduced or even eliminated.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">22. Immune System:<br />
Honey and cinnamon paste is good for boosting the immune system, removing regular fatigue and increasing the longevity of an individual. It is also known to have anti-aging properties.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">23. Itching:<br />
Paste of honey and cinnamon is often used to treat insect bites.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">24. It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">25. Healing: Cinnamon helps in stopping bleeding. Therefore it facilitates the healing process.</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">Found this article at: http://ezinearticles.com/?25-Health-Benefits-of-Cinnamon---A-Miraculous-Spice&id=1665340</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;">The author, Yazmin Ellas, has been teaching for several decades. Truly inspiring article. I will start sprinkling cinnamon on my coffee every morning. </div><div style="color: #4b4b4b; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"><br />
</div>Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-30032951733850294522010-12-20T12:52:00.000-08:002010-12-20T12:52:36.893-08:00High Fructose Corn Syrup=Corn Sugar?I just read that the Corn Refiners Association is attempting to petition the FDA to allow high fructose corn syrup to be labeled corn sugar. The consumption of high fructose corn syrup has dropped dramatically due to the numerous research studies released showing the ties between high fructose corn syrup consumption and obesity. The Corn Refiners Association would have us believe that consuming high fructose corn syrup is equivalent to consuming cane sugar. I beg to differ. This is a clever re-branding attempt, but consumers have to maintain their eyes wide open. If in doubt, leave it out. Do not add these dangerous genetically modified chemicals into your family's diet and if your family is consuming copious amounts of these chemicals, take the steps necessary to introduce healthier alternatives. I for one, do not touch high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, artificial colors, or preservatives. This is each individual's choice. But, it is important to read about what you are putting into your body, and most importantly, your children's bodies. Hyperactivity disorders in children have been linked to consumption of sodium benzoate (a preservative). And numerous other health issues have arisen since the 1970s when high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners first started gaining prevalence. I am not some ranting and raving hippie. I am simply interested in maintaining the highest level of health for myself and my family as possible. Reading food labels can be daunting at first, but it is completely worth your health. Life is too short to spend sick... Consume proper nutrition and allow your body to blossom into its potential. Now, I will remove myself from my soap box. More nutrition-based blogs to come. ;)Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3782385897908889050.post-11084904485150652972010-12-19T14:25:00.000-08:002010-12-19T14:25:51.253-08:00Welcome to the world of bloggingHere I go embarking on yet another project. I have decided that I will begin blogging. I feel blogging is a good way to remember events, and basically sort out your day. I have never particularly considered myself interesting enough to write daily about. Whenever I started journaling as an adolescent it always ended in sporadic entries for about a week or so before the entire endeavor ended up being abandoned. So, we'll see how this goes. For anyone who might happen upon my blog, I am an aspiring Biology teacher, growing Christian, dedicated wife, voracious bookworm and overall laid-back chick. :) Thanks for visiting.Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010513097190833240noreply@blogger.com0