CLUTCH

friday::FITNESS

2012-01-27T08:00:00.003-05:00

Tips for Dining Out

Frequent eating out isn’t healthy for anyone. Not only will it expand your waistline, but it’s sure to lean out your wallet. It may seem like $7 here and $12 there, but it adds up. I recommend limiting eating out to 1–2 times per week. (If you take me up on this recommendation, DON’T freak out at your first grocery bill. Wait until the end of the month, and you’ll be shocked how much money you saved.)

However, I’ll be the first to admit cooking every meal at home is unrealistic. Not only does life happen and we get pushed for time, but with ministry, we all have people in our lives. Birthdays, holidays, and meet-ups at restaurants are unavoidable.

When you do treat yourself to dining out, here are some guidelines to help you stay on track with your health & fitness.

Eat your calories — don’t drink them! Water is the best option, but you can also opt for unsweetened tea. If you have to sweeten it, carry some stevia with you, as many artificial sweeteners can be just as bad for you as regular sugar.

Scan the menu for key words. Aim to order dishes that contain words like grilled, steamed, broiled, or broth. Avoid menu items that contain words like fried or creamy.

Skip the appetizer.…at least as an actual appetizer. The extra 10–15 minutes to wait won’t kill you, and this will help eliminate eating excess calories. However, if there’s a healthy choice as an appetizer, it could make a great choice as your entree. Appetizer serving sizes generally aren’t as large, and prices are usually more reasonable as well.

Don’t assume every salad is healthy. A fried chicken salad with ranch dressing, cheese, bacon and croutons can have more calories than a Big Mac, large fries and large Coke. If you do order a salad, fill it with veggies and lean protein like grilled chicken, salmon or shrimp. Also, ask for vinaigrette dressing on the side, dipping each bite as you go.

Side items count. Just because you were good and ordered grilled chicken, don’t ruin it with french fries and mac and cheese on the side. Even if not on the menu, most restaurants will usually bring you a side of fruit or steamed veggies if you ask. (Remember — you are the paying customer. Don’t be afraid to ask for substitutions!)

Ask questions. I’m always surprised how “healthy” menu items come as prepared in the kitchen, such as steamed veggies that are served drowning in butter. Ask your waiter beforehand how what you’re ordering is prepared and make adjustments to suit your health needs. (Don’t be afraid to send it back if it’s not correct. Always be polite, but there’s nothing wrong with getting exactly what you ordered.)

Avoid the bread basket. Most restaurants serve buttered white bread, which is full of fat and simple carbs…empty calories, which will not make you feel full, causing you to overeat.

Eat half. If you’re dining with a health-conscious friend, find an entree you can split. If you can’t agree on anything, when the waiter comes back with your order, ask for a doggy bag. Put half of your meal away, and eat the other half. If you ordered wisely, it’ll be a fine lunch for tomorrow.

Have a bite of dessert. That’s right — a bite! Buy a dessert for everyone at the table to share. That way, everyone gets a taste of something sweet, but no one pigs out.

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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the pastor's children

2012-01-24T10:00:00.011-05:00

My two boys LOVE to preach. They follow daddy’s moves, his walk, they wear suits like daddy does, they watch his preaching videos over and over and over, did I say OVER. I think I have some of his sermon’s memorized myself. My boys will put daddy’s cologne on, set out as many stuff animals as they own (as their members) take out a music stand (pulpit) and start preaching away in the game room. This is their fun.

This past weekend, Bishop Holcomb, our Father in the Faith, kicked off our annual Leaders that Lead Conference. Now I must say Bishop & Pastor Val are not only our Pastors/Spiritual Parents but www.chop.org is where we served before we founded Breath of Life. While it’s not the only ministry we’ve served, it IS the only place outside of our own church the boys know. Our extended family there has seen the boys grow over the years. Our boys are very familiar with the place, people and protocol. This particular Sunday, it was Matthew’s first time on the East Wing. You see the West wing has birth to 4yrs old, the “other-side” is for the “big kids”. Well Matthew is now 5 and on the East Wing. So he wasn’t sure what to expect at Heritage Kingdom. Marcus on the other hand, knew the registration drill, order of service, exit/pick up procedures etc. Marcus asked that morning if he could go to “big church” because he missed Papa Bishop and wanted to hear him preach. The mommy side of me wanted to bring him so bad; because there is nothing like hearing Bishop in person. However, my spirit kept saying no.

For two weeks prior to us going, the Holy Spirit would prompt me to send Marcus to Children’s Church at CHOP on that particular Sunday. I’m so glad I followed the prompting of the Spirit, because by divine orchestration INSPIRATION and IMPARTATION occurred. It was priceless!

Imagine a room, more like a large cafeteria size with 300+ kiddos ready for children’s church. They did praise and worship and up next, instead of a Children’s Minister delivering the word that morning, a 9 year old brought the Word forth. Yes, a 9 year old, NINE year old, after 8 before 10. Marcus couldn't quit talking about it ALL day. He said mom, a kid preached. I said a real kid, or a teenager? He said no a kid he was 9 and just a little bit taller than me. Mom that is exactly what I dream of doing. I dream of preaching. I dream of preaching to the world. I want to save lives. (He just turned 7, yes we know Jesus saves – disclaimer) Marcus was INSPIRED! He said I have never met a kid like ME who loves to preach! It couldn't have been better planned, it was divine orchestration from the Holy Spirit. Now I know, not every PK will enter ministry. But I am keen enough to be aware, recognize and identify the call of God on my baby. What blessed me the most was all the idea’s that started spinning out as he told me about his dreams for ministry.

Inspiration: a divine influence or action on a person believe to qualify him or her to receive and communicate sacred revelation. Without going into details of our moment that day, I want to ask what inspires your children? We took pictures behind the children’s church pulpit I wanted to share with you. I don't ever want to be guilty of down playing the work of the ministry because it's become familiar and not cultivate the gifts God has placed in our children. I don't want to be guilty of choking the seed we strive so hard to plant in our children. I found out what 9 year old preached and turns out we know his parents well. So, we will have them over for dinner next month.

Maybe your princess has a gift to sing. Or Johnny boy is creative and mercy motivated. Pastor Val preached about leadership keys during one of our morning sessions. She challenged us as Pastors to be sure to recognize and cultivate the gifts inside our own little ones as well. This weekend turned out rather perfect. To God be the glory!

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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pastors' wives conference

2012-01-23T09:02:00.002-05:00

Pastors' Wives Conference. Free. Virtual. What more can you ask for?

Let me give you the details!

Our friends over at Leading and Loving It, are having a free, virtual (meaning you can watch from home, no travel, don't have to get your nails & hair done, you don't even have to wear make up while watching) type conference. With top of the line speakers from across the country.

It's called JustONE! I've listed this weeks line up for you. The bible teaches us that iron sharpens iron, so I invite you and encourage you to tune in. This will be ongoing for four weeks, you can check their site for additional details and be sure to put it on your calendar.

Week 1: Monday, January 23rd and Tuesday, January 24th
11am EST/ 8am PST and 9pm EST/ 6pm PST both days

“Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity.”
Speaker 1: Kay Warren, Senior Pastor’s Wife and Founder of the HIV & AIDS Initiative at Saddleback Church
Speaker 2: Jenni Catron, Executive Director at Cross Point Church
Speaker 3: Michelle Meeks, Senior Pastor’s Wife at Eastlake Community Church
Speaker 4: Jessica Cornelius, Senior Pastor’s Wife and Director or EmpowHER and Missions at Bay Area Fellowship
Speaker 5: Heather Palacios, Executive Pastor’s Wife at Church by the Glades

We love you so much and are praying for your success! I'm confident this conference will be a blessing to you!

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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cat's pix::PW life

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

Stylin', all ready for church.

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©cat sasser & clutch

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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friday::FINANCE

2012-01-19T21:53:00.005-05:00

Money. The lack of money can be stressful! I am talking about heavy weights, feeling like you are going to suffocate; stressful.

People don't like to talk about the rough times, the "going through" of when money is tight. All because it is a hard place.

I would like to remind you today that your troubles will not last always. That God made honey come out of a rock. (meaning a hard place)

We all know that we need to follow budget.

We all know that we need more coming in then going out.

But I want you to know that today, as we head into the weekend that we are praying for you! We are praying for you, your family and your church!

God is a BIG God. God is more than ABLE!

People do not like to talk about money, it makes some uncomfortable.

I'm completely comfortable. I know the difference between the gospel (the life, the death, the burial and the resurrection) vs. the counsel of God.

When you get emails from Pastors' Wives that they are struggling and their family eats Oatmeal for breakfast and dinner, with Hot Dogs and Spagetti as a luxury you don't mind so much talking about money; praying for financial breakthrough and prosperity.

We are blessed to be a blessing. So if you are in a rough season, we are praying for you this weekend! I know that God can turn ANY situation around.

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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Guest Post:: Amy Argo high heels, confidence and Jesus

2012-01-17T08:00:00.003-05:00

Amy Argo is the wife of a staff Pastor in Alabama. She wrote a fantastic blog post I wanted to share with you. You can connect with Amy on FB or check out her blog.

I am such a girlie girl when it comes to shoes. I LOVE them. If I had unlimited funding, I would have a closet the size of Rhode Island filled with them.

Lately, I have been wearing a lot of flats. They are comfortable. I have said on many occasions "if I have comfortable shoes (and pockets) I can conquer the world."

Today, I had an interview for a job much closer to home so I decided to wear heels. And as I walked from the parking deck this morning, I contemplated why I did this. Hey, God talks to me in unique ways. I don't question it. I just listen.

Do you notice that when you are wearing high heels you walk differently? You are more conscious of the way you walk. At least I am. I am not what you call graceful. That was a bit of an understatement. I tend to be klutzy, that is more accurate. So while in theory, I love high heels, I tend to shy away from them for the fear of falling on my face. Going back to my long walk in from the parking deck this morning, I noticed that when I walk in high heels that I am more aware of how I walk, I tend to stand up straighter, to be perfectly honest while they make me nervous on one hand, they actually make me feel more confident at the same time.

I think walking with God is a lot like walking in high heels.
High heels take me out of my comfort zone.

High heels make me focus more on my walk.
High heels give me added height and confidence.
High heels tend to make me walk slower and with more purpose.

High heels are good for my walk, even though there is a hint of fear in wearing them. I don't fear the shoes themselves....I love them. It's me, walking in the shoes I fear. Will I make them look bad? Will I fall and scuff horribly? Will I completely embarrass myself and want to hide?

Ever taken a leap of faith? Feels a lot like that.

I started listening to the audio book of Steven Furtick, Sun Stand Still in my car this morning during the long commute. He talks about "audacious faith." I don't think it was a coincidence that I began listening to this and wore high heels for the first time in a long time today. I think they go together. At least in my mind they do.

God is calling me out. I am excited, but I have that hint of fear that I will fall on my face. But I am not worried....Faith makes me more aware of my walk, stand taller, and more confidently. Causing me to rely on Him to carry me.

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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cat's pix::PW life

2012-01-16T09:00:00.000-05:00

The only thing MORE important for survival is my Bible!
#devotions

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©cat sasser & clutch

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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friday::FASHION

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

let your lips do the talking.

I'm so happy that bold colored lipsticks are on trend this fall because it's such an easy, chic way to incorporate color into a wardrobe. Wear it with neutrals or wear it with other saturated colors, just make sure the color compliments your skin tone.

From left to right Wearing: Revlon's "Siren", MAC's "Myth", and Boots Botanics' "Rose"

Keep it classy by toning down your bronzer/blush. Also, try just mascara and maybe some highlighter in the inner corner of your eye and under your brow bone. A clean face will keep the lips from looking drag if you know what I mean!

Too timid to paint your lips red? Try a nude or pale pink lip with more dramatic eyes. This is more of my everyday look because dark lipstick tends to be a little more high maintenance on me.

If au natural is more your thang, consider spicing things up with a tinted lipgloss. Just wear something on those smoochies!

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© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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2012: don't give up

2012-01-12T08:00:00.002-05:00

The beginning of the year holds so many new beginnings and fresh starts for many. And for others, there is a strong hold trying to remind you of the past, attempting to persuade you to forfeit your future. Last years failures may be true, may still hurt and sting, but everyday they are a memory which will soon fade and not an indication of the promises of God for this year.

I want to tell you today that every storm has an end. Don't cast away your confidence. The trials and tragedies you have experienced are trying to push you back and I'm here to declare God is faithful and with your hand in His, you can make it!

If you feel abandoned and betrayed by God, hold on, because God is faithful and His Word is true.

You may be telling God, "What were you thinking when you chose me?" "I can't take this anymore.", "I'd rather die then live like this.", "I can't go on with this situation."

Today TD Jakes tweeted "When you are at the end of your rope, tie a knot, help is on the way."

Sister, Friend.... Don't give up!

God has called you to impact, influence and inspire. You have an assignment from on high to complete and I declare over your life victory in Jesus' name! Victory over every mountain of finances, marital distress, family dysfunction, unclarity. God will restore and what He doesn't restore, He will replace.

So hold your high, keep standing, keep believing, keep praying. I am believing for divine set up on your behalf. I am believing for supernatural breakthrough and miraculous favor. God is able. God is faithful!

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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2012:: maximize

2012-01-11T10:16:00.003-05:00

When I was dating my husband and for the first few years of our marriage, there was a wonderful couple from a nearby town that served in ministry for most of their married life. They would drive into the city and attend Sunday night service every Sunday with the exception of him going out of town to minister. We were very young, 19 & 20 when we married. They were in their mid 70’s if not older. My husband could listen to this Man of God for hours on end. His wonderful wife was a spunky gal. She was moving and grooving even in her 70’s with quite a bit of whit and style. We were fortunate that they took the time to invest into a young ministry couple and two weekends out of the month, they’d give us their time. We’d usually go out to eat and talk and talk and talk or I should say they’d speak, we’d listen.

She shared many things with me, but I recall one thing in particular I wanted to share with you “Marrying a preacher is like living in Sunday School 24hrs a day.” In the beginning, I was like “okay….” whatever you say; 13 years later I get it.

What she meant and what I want you to understand is that being married to a preacher, weather he’s the Sr. Pastor, Youth Pastor, Associate Pastor, whatever; bible is going to fall out of his mouth like water comes out of a faucet. And if it’s not bible, it’s closely related, can always be tied back to the word, etc. That is a good thing. I personally enjoy having my husband as a human reference for the Word. Who needs google or Biblesearch? I can just text Mark.

Other Pastor’s Wives’ might not feel the same way. I have discovered that some wives get rather frustrated. They respond or I should say react with a deep sigh, and a look in their eyes that speaks “not again.” YES, AGAIN sweet darling. It’s who they are. I have yet to see anything other than water come out of a faucet.

I invite you to see, what are you going to do with it this year? The bible says we are his help mate right? So, instead of absorbing it all, instead of getting frustrated with it. Do something with it. That may mean a blog for some, devotionals for others, a book or possibly helping collect his thoughts, sort and organize them into conference material. There is a million things you can do with the wealth of knowledge one has. Maximize it!

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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2012::live on purpose

2012-01-10T08:00:00.002-05:00

Since 2008, CLUTCH has been about Living Life ON Purpose. As we welcome in the first month of this new year I want to bring our attention to the call, to Live Life ON purpose.

As many of us have experienced, at one time or another, it's easy to lose focus of our purpose and God ordained identities and unintentionally turn OFF purpose. Meaning, like a light switch. As women it is natural to put others first being we are caretakers; however, that does not mean we are to turn OFF purpose for our own individual lives.

Some of you write.

Some of you sing.

Some of you are amazing organizers.

Some of you are gifted in administration.

Some of you are mercy motivated.

Whatever your gift is, are you operating in it? When you surround yourself with people who let you be yourself, you are in for a win. Here at CLUTCH you can be yourself. He is the potter, we are the clay, together we are a collection of designer pieces.

As Pastors' Wives and Women in Ministry, you were designed to flourish in your position. When little things get out of place, our functionality as a whole can be diminished. I challenge you and invite you simultaneously to Live 2012 ON purpose.

For some, that is easy, because they are already operating in their gifts and need to make a few tweaks here and there, work on connections and keep pressing on full steam ahead. For others, Living Life ON purpose, might be a little more complicated. Where-ever you at at today, do it! Decide you are going to run your race, for your life. You have grace for your race as you embrace your place.

My personal mantra for women in general is for them to impact, influence and inspire the world around them. Purpose that you will do that on a new level this year. YOUR BEST IS YET TO COME!

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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cat's pix::PW life

2012-01-09T15:15:00.000-05:00

Gotta make time for your girlfriends!
#goodonesarehardtofind

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©cat sasser & clutch

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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friday::FITNESS

2012-01-06T07:04:00.006-05:00

Consistency Counts

Fitness. It's on everyone's brain. I mean, it's January - the most popular month for exercise thanks to New Years resolutions. But what if there were some tips that would help us not fizzle out on our goals by February? Thankfully, there are.

It's so important to find a workout that you enjoy. If you played sports in high school and miss those days of conditioning, a bootcamp style workout may be a good fit for you. If music motivates you, maybe jogging, walking, or running outside with you iPod is better. If you prefer weights, you can concentrate on strength training. If you used to cheer or dance, there are dozens of dance workouts available. Activities you dread are easy to dismiss, but you will always be more consistent with things you like to do. (Contact me if you want to talk further about a plan that is right for you - I love helping people find their soul mate workout!)

Write it down. Schedule your workouts just like you would book a meeting at work. If you plan to work out on your lunch break and a co-worker asks you to go to lunch, say you’ve already got an appointment. You do — with yourself! Would you back out of an important meeting at the last minute just because you didn’t feel like it? Hopefully not. Plan your workouts a week in advance, write it down in your calendar, and stick to it.

Get accountability from a fitness professional. Before you argue that you don’t have enough money to hire a personal trainer, what if I told you you could get help at no additional cost to you? Joining my website makes me your FREE fitness and nutrition coach! Together, we will develop a fitness and nutrition plan that complements your priorities, your goals, your schedule and your budget.

Consistency involves consistently changing up your routine. If you continue to do what you’ve always done, you’ll continue to get the same results. So, if you want your body to change, you’ve got to change something you do. For example, I teach strength training classes. I have a few people who rarely miss a week. They are extremely consistent. But some of them are still using the same weights they were using a year ago, and their bodies aren’t changing. Few gym frustrations are worse than putting in the time to workout without seeing results. Make a commitment to change something everytime you work out. Lift heavier. Wear weighted gloves to kickboxing. Run on incline. You don’t have to change your activity — just make small adjustments to your routine.

Have a "why" that is deeper than a smaller pants size. Sure, losing weight will be good motivation for a while, but after the a few weeks, the weight doesn't come off as quickly. Instead of focusing on the scale, make the reason you work out to be a healthier mom to your children or a better partner in ministry to your spouse. Those things are closer to your heart and will motivate you much more than any number.

Happy New Year!

Let's do this,
Michelle

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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next week:: we are back

2012-01-06T06:00:00.002-05:00

Next week we are officially back from our holiday vacations! We are looking forward to a great year hear on CLUTCH!

Talk to you soon!

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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cat's pix::PW life

2012-01-02T18:38:00.000-05:00

Multi-tasking. It gets stuff done.
#lifeasamom

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©cat sasser & clutch

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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happy new year 2012

2012-01-01T17:45:00.003-05:00

Dear Friends,

2012 is upon us and 2011 is behind us! We want to take the time to wish you a big Happy New Year & speak blessings into your life! May 2012 be your BEST year yet!

We are looking forward to doing life together as we live out God's purpose and plans for our life.

His BEST is yet to come!

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T14:59:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas sweet friends!!

We pray that your holidays will be filled with joy, peace and lots of laughter as you enjoy time with your families, church families and close friends.

2012 is going to be a phenomenal year!

Lots of good stuff in store for CLUTCH!

We love you bunches,
Veronica and Sarah

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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friday::FASHION

2011-12-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

ten things about thrifting

There's something intimidating about thrift stores.

It's not the same intimidation that you experience when you shop in an expensive store with snooty sales people and high price tags, but it's really just the opposite.

Obv.

You know that musty smell masked by a cheap, nauseating air freshener you're hit with the moment you walk through the doors?

It's that.

It's the fact that you march up and down aisles with a shopping cart the same way you do at the grocery store.

It's the massive rectangular warehouse lined with piles, racks, and shelves crammed with other people's junk--and the crazy hoarders sifting through said junk looking for a "deal".

Well, I have become one of those crazy people (minus the hoarding, of course). I was incredibly intimidated by the idea of "thrifting" at one time, but I've figured out a few things since I started, that help me have a successful shopping trip every time.

Make Sure you Have Enough Time to Stroll: Thrift stores can be over-stimulating and if you’re in a rush, you’ll be wayyyy too stressed to find anything. Make sure you have plenty of time to shop slowly. My favorite time to go is in the middle of the day or early evenings. I never go on weekends because it gets too claustrophobic in there!

Choose a Nice Location: Only go to a thrift store in a nicer part of town. The nicer the community is, the better their second-hand items usually are, which makes your thrifting experience a lot easier.

Go with Specifics: Since thrift stores are filled with a mish-mash of items, it's best if you know what you're looking for. I usually go with some sort of color-specific agenda since I know that most of the racks are organized first by size, and then by color. This helps me block out all of the chaos that I know I'm not interested in.

Skip the Cotton: If you are grossed out by the idea of wearing someone else's old t-shirts, just skip the "Knit Tops" section. You can find some quality items in that section, but the majority of it is stretched, stained, or stinky. Instead, head towards the sweaters or blouses.

 Have a Use in Mind: The low prices and “here today, gone tomorrow” mentality are a good thing, but often lead to impulsive purchases that you’ll never wear. When you’re inspecting a garment, think to yourself “What do I already have in my closet that I could wear with this?”

Put it in the Cart: Thrift stores are a jumbled mess, so if you see something you might want, put it in your cart so you don’t misplace it! Make sure that you keep looking at it as you shop the rest of the store, and try it on before the final decision time.

Inspect the Clothes and Try Them On: Most thrift stores do not accept returns or exchanges, so it is important to inspect your garments for stains or rips before you buy them. Even if your sizing is always standard, most of these clothes have been washed and dried and maybe even stretched, so be sure to try everything on.

Don’t Buy it Unless you Love it: Even if it’s a $3 blouse, don’t buy it unless you know you’ll wear it. On the other hand, even if you don’t know what you’ll wear with it, if you love the item, buy it because chances are, it’ll be gone if you decide to go back for it later!

Clean Your Clothes: You never know how long your ~~new~~ old blouse sat in the previous owner’s garage before they got around to donating it, so you never know what kind of germs might be living in the garment. No big deal! Just make sure you wash it before you wear it.

Don’t Give Up: You must, must, must keep trying and shop often in order to score at these stores. It’s hard at first, but I promise that it gets easier! Maybe take a friend with you to divide and conquer!

I hope that helps everybody! Don't be afraid to check out your local thrift store. When I first started, I would only look at the "home" section for things like baskets, vases, and lamps.

So, there is definitely something for you--no matter what your comfort level is with second-hand shopping!

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© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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cat's pix::PW life

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

The water pipe busted while we were packing up our house. PW life is an adventure, right?
#soaked

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©cat sasser & clutch

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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friday::FINANCE

2011-12-16T00:00:00.000-05:00

TIP::Know how your financial choices will affect your credit, and make responsible decisions based on your personal situation.

The best way to maintain a good credit report is obvious - keep current on all your payments and never spend more money than you have.

But what are some other things that affect your credit score?

With so many tips circulating out there, it can be hard to find what really works. Aside from the basics, maintaining or raising your score can be tricky. The answers aren't “one size fits all”, but here are a few guidelines to keep in mind. Most of these pointers come from the FTC website (http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menus/consumer/credit.shtm) so if you want to learn more, check it out.

Keep track of how many lines of credit you have. Access to a lot of credit raises your balance-to-credit ratio which helps you look more responsible, but it also raises questions about how you plan to use your credit in the future. On the flip side, canceling a line of credit (even if it is all paid up) lowers your balance-to-credit ratio. So evaluate your situation and weigh the consequences before canceling a credit line.
Always make your payments on time. If you can pay off your entire balance every month, even better.
In most cases it's best to maintain credit card accounts for as long as possible. Credit checkers want to know how loyal you are. If you have more cards than you think is best, cancel the in-store cards (i.e. Express, JC Penny’s etc.) first and keep the card you use the most on a regular basis. Also, look at the credit limit you have on each account. The higher the limit, the more valuable the card is to your credit score. Instead of canceling a card, you may want to just cut it up and let it become inactive on its own. (Make sure you only do this with cards that do not have an annual fee.)
Keep your balance low. It's good to pay a portion of your balance off weekly or at least twice a month. Doing this keeps the ratio of your balance-to-available-credit low, something lenders like to see.
Finally, pay off all debt as quickly as you prudently can. The lower your outstanding debt, the higher your credit score.

Remember money is a talent we all have, let’s seek to use it wisely and to the glory of God.

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cat's pix::PW life

2011-12-12T18:35:00.000-05:00

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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friday::FITNESS

2011-12-09T00:00:00.011-05:00

How to Not Jiggle All the Weigh: Avoiding Holiday Weight Gain

The average adult gains 7-12 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Years Day.

YIKES! That's around a pound a week!

Here are a few things you can avoid to help you stay the same size throughout the holiday season.

1) DON’T skip your workout.

We know. The most wonderful time of the year is often the most stressful time of the year. Did you know that exercise has been proven to reduce stress? You need your workout now more than ever! Get a workout buddy and hold each other accountable. You could also mix up your routine to avoid bordom — try a new class, give yourself a gift of a a new home workout program, etc.

2) DON’T skip breakfast.

Knowing of an evening party, many people will skip breakfast as an attempt cut calories. WRONG! Eating a healthy breakfast (oatmeal, egg white omlet with fresh veggies, whole wheat toast and low fat yogurt) at the beginning of the day starts your metabolism and will prevent you from overeating later in the day. Those who consistently eat breakfast consistently weigh less than those who skip the most important meal of the day.

3) DON’T eat only fat and carbs.

Most Christmas goodies (gingerbread cookies, candy canes, hot chocolate, etc.) are full of refined sugars and unhealthy fats. These are also the nutrients that make you feel even more hungry than you did before you ate something! Fill up with lean protein first to help control cravings.

4) DON’T eat straight from a bowl.

When you get to those holiday gatherings, take the time to put everything that you eat on a plate. If you nibble straight from the dish, you will mis-judge portion size and be in trouble before you know it! Try and fill your plate with veggies and lean protein. Only allow a small place on the place for treats. (Additional tip: Try using the dessert plate instead of the dinner plate. It’s smaller, and it will help you with portion control.)

5) DON’T eat treats that you like.

Only splurge for those treats that you love. If you just like them, you don’t need them.

6) DON’T let ignorance be bliss.

Weigh in regularly this month so you can see how you’re doing. If you prefer to monitor a different way, get your favorite pair of pants that make you feel healthy and fit. Try them on every other morning to see how they fit.

7) DON’T go to a party hungry.

The worst thing you can do is arrive at a party famished! Because you know there will be LOTS of unhealthy options, and very few items that fit into your nutrition plan, try eating a bowl of broth-based soup or a salad before you go. That way, you already have some healthy nutrients in you, and you’ve knocked the hunger edge off so you don’t devour every unhealthy food in sight.

8) DON’T eat the whole thing.

Most of the time, you can satisfy a craving with just a few bites. Instead of eating a whole piece of pie, split a piece with your spouse.

9) DON’T eat for speed.

Slow down your eating, and savor every bite. You don’t indulge every day. Take the time to enjoy it! Plus, the longer you take, the longer your stomach has to realize that you’re full, and you can avoid overeating.

10) DON’T beat yourself up if you mess up one time.

If you go to a party and overeat, don’t use that as an excuse to let yourself go for the whole season. Get up the next day, go to the gym, and make a healthy food choice at the next meal. No one expects you to be perfect!

Michelle Myers is going to have fit and healthy before you know it! You can connect with Michelle Myers Online, Twitter, Facebook, Myers Cross Training and be sure to check out her latest book The Look that Kills: An Anorexic's Addiction to Control (2010)!

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just for pw #11

2011-12-05T10:32:00.006-05:00

Joy continues the "Just for Pastors' Wives" series. You can connect with her on Facebook and Twitter. Currently, Joy’s husband Joel serves as lead pastor of Willamette Christian Church, where she serves in a wide variety of teaching, serving, counseling and advisory roles. She is passionate about helping women understand and apply the truths in God’s Word and enjoys using speaking opportunities to do so.

Dear Pastor’s Wife,

Have you noticed that every church provides a different culture for their pastor’s wife? Some have long standing traditional expectations. Play the piano. Teach children’s church. Dress very conservatively. Others have expectations that were set by the involvement (or lack thereof) of the previous pastor’s wives. Still other churches are large enough, or progressive enough, to try and avoid expectations of us altogether. Yet, this is not always realistic or helpful, for there are always expectations, voiced or otherwise. If not from the congregation or leadership, then certainly placed upon ourselves.

Each of us is unique. Our giftings, personalities, passions, experiences, training, calling, community, and even our husbands and their specific positions, play a big role in finding a niche that brings us joy within our faith families. However, finding that niche is up to us. We must be proactive and deliberate in determining how the Spirit of God would have us to minister and serve. Then, we must rise up into that role with Godly confidence and grace, lovingly communicating and living out that to which God is calling us.

Have you ever written out your own job description? What role do you want to take on as a pastor’s wife? How do you want to be remembered? How do you want to be defined? Of all the things that you could concern yourself about within the church, what is most important to you? What is your gift mix and how has He shaped you? How can you be a helper to your husband in ministry? Where is the need that perhaps only you can fill? After much prayer, self-examination, and discussion with your husband, on what specific things will you focus?

Writing it down brings clarity, both to you and to those with whom you serve.

May I share mine with you as an example?

1. I am a pastor to the pastor. There are some things that only a pastor’s wife can do for her pastor husband. Whereas pastors spend much of their time ministering to the needs of his congregation, as his wife, I want to spend much of my time ministering to his needs. This includes taking care of various household responsibilities so he doesn’t have to. It means that I forego many personal opportunities to make sure that our children do not feel neglected within the ministry. It means that I (try) to look after his health needs, including monitoring stress and creating balance. I spend much time in prayer over him since I know when it is that he is feeling the most discouraged, vulnerable, or needy. I carve out time to comfort, listen, process, or just be with him.

2. I am a shepherd to the feminine half of the church. I truly want to be Joel’s counterpart both at home and in ministry. This means that I represent him and his ministry/vision to my own gender. I can reach into areas of our faith family in ways that as a man, he cannot. This doesn’t mean that I need to lead the women’s ministry, but I do feel responsible for keeping a pulse on it and for loving on the women in our church. I take every opportunity I can to listen, pray for, and speak into their lives. I want to encourage them to rise up into leadership and see their great potential for influence. I want to exhort them in their specific needs and roles as wives, mothers, and women. I want to fan the flame of love for Christ in whatever way I can. This ministry begins with the staff wives, elder’s wives, and female staff as they allow, and as we build relationships over time (read…priority). It is also manifested as I use my teaching gifts to clarify the truths of Scripture, or my gift of exhortation to verbally encourage women.

3. I am a culture-shaper. I don’t always have a specific ministry, but I can be a voice that speaks into several different areas. Again, I know my husband’s vision and can help to forge the way in the various ministries in which I may be present. I can also be eyes and ears amongst our church to provide feedback to my husband regarding things that I see happening, for the purposes of meeting needs.

4. I am an esteemer of mentorship and discipleship within the church. I am passionate about the Biblical mandate of making disciples, and this can be done through a variety of ways: teaching, writing, one-on-one, leading a small group, or by modeling it. It is my heart that there be many, many women within our church who take up this same mantle as they are given confidence and tools, and that this would simply be the DNA of our culture.

Your role description will probably look different than mine. In fact, I hope it does, reflecting the distinct beauty of who you are. However as a pastor’s wife, only you can really define it clearly, for the glory of God and the benefit of the church. May you rise up into your exquisite God-given role.

© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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cat's pix::PW life

2011-12-05T00:00:00.000-05:00

Staff meetings... I'm not a neat note-taker... but my effort counts for something, right? ;)
#organizedlife

********
©cat sasser & clutch

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friday::FASHION

2011-12-02T00:00:00.001-05:00

benefits of a belt

One of my wardrobe essentials is a leather belt.

I own about three and purchased them all at the thrift store for about $2 each. They are an easy way to add shape to a shapeless blouse, or coordinate with ~~your~~ my winter boots that ~~you~~ I wear. Every. Single. Day.

As you can see below, I wear my belt with a pencil skirt, over layers, or with high-waisted jeans. I think we can pretty much all agree that belts are always hip (pun intended) but instead of hiding it under your top, let the leather do the talking and wrap it up on top of your outfit like the ribbon around a Christmas present!

Three benefits of a belt:
1. Defines your waist, even if you don't have one
2. Adds visual interest right in the middle of your outfit
3. Keeps everything in place (ie. pants up, shirts in, weird pooches from wearing a bulky fur vest nonexistent, etc.)

Tip: Never buy a full-priced belt. If you’re not ready to venture into the musty thrift stores yet, try a discount store like Ross, Marshalls, or Burlington Coat Factory.

Will you consider the way you wear a belt?

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© CLUTCH, 2009-2011 unless otherwise sourced.
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