Thursday 19 December 2013

Giving

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor."
-Romans. 13:7

Hello everyone,

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear someone say "I'm unemployed and don't have a lot of money. I desperately need a new pair of winter shoes because the ones that I've got now are broken!" ? Would you feel sad for the person? Or would you just ignore the situation? Or would you actually do something about it?
When I hear someone say something like that, I, honestly, always feel like giving a pair of my own shoes (to that person).

A couple years ago, I was working at a family camp by taking care of the children. I got paid like everyone else. My mum turned around and said, "when I get money, I always give 10% of it to God".
That was the first time I had ever heard of it.
If you're wondering what the 10% is all about? It means, that every time you get paid, you give 10% of it to God. And this time, I don't mean by actually giving real cash to God by hand or transferring money through internet. No. I mean by doing something, either to help someone/something, or do something that honers the Lord. For instance, I've given my 10%s to a Christian organization, called Birds Of Hope, where they sell hand made birds for clean water.
The founder of it is my friend and I know the money goes for a good cause.
God bless their organization.

But giving doesn't always have to be money. It can be clothes, food, furniture, books, pens..you name it. And when you do give something to another person, don't expect to get anything back.
When you're giving, don't give because you want show off or because you feel guilty, give because you want to. Do it from your heart, from the very bottom of your heart.

Merry Christmas.
God Bless xxx

Friday 13 December 2013

It's almost CHRISTMAS

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"But as for me, I will always have hope." - Psalm. 71:14

Hello everyone,

It's been a while since I last wrote here - sorry. But I'm here now :)
We are half way of this month, can you believe that? Seriously! Half way already!
I absolutely LOVE Christmas and everything about it. I always make long to-do lists before December and plan absolutely everything and anything. I'm just total nutcase at this time of the year..but that's just who I am :)

I love the idea of being altogether as a family and celebrating the birth of our Jesus Christ. Having a little a cry at the graveyard, remembering all the loved ones. Making tons of food and enjoying the company. Playing games and just having fun. Opening the presents and being thankful for all the things we've got. Watching Christmas movies while drinking a nice cup of tea. Relaxing on the sofa with all the shining Christmas decorations around you. Singing all the classic Christmas songs with your family and friends. I just love Christmas. Always have, and always will :)

I seriously hope you all have a blessed Christmas full of wonderful memories!

God bless xxx

Friday 15 November 2013

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears."
- Psalm. 34:4

Hello everyone,

Today I wanna talk to you about how beautiful you are. Even though, I can't see you while I'm writing this, I know you are beautiful. And I want you to know that.
Media is such a huge pressure maker and that can seriously effect someones life. And unfortunately I know an awful amount of people who've been attacked by it.

When you buy a magazine from the shop, what do you think while you're reading it? Are these the kind of things that are going through your mind "omg, I want that body" or "why can't I look like that??" or "I'm so going on a diet!" or "I want to be just like her" ? Well, if I'm being very honest with you, these are things I do think a lot..well, not so much anymore, but sometimes yeah.
But do I really honestly want to be just like the girls in the gossip magazines?? No, I don't. Of course I've got (my) moments when all I can think is "why can't I look as good as them?", but end of day, I just want to be.

There's absolutely nothing bad in trying to look fabulous and making time for yourself. But trying to change yourself so you can look like someone else is not okay.
There's a huge difference between buying the same kind clothes than your favourite singer than going under the knife because you want to look exactly like your biggest idol. Use your common sense, that's all I can say.

If you think you need to go under the knife, think before you act. Are you doing it for someone else or because you want to be like someone else? Changing your makeup routine is totally different than changing a part of your body.
God created you, and He thinks you're wonderfully gorgeous. And so do I.
When God says something, it's the truth and nothing but the truth. So if He says to you "you are beautiful", that's the truth. And why the heck would He create ugly children for Himself? That wouldn't make any sense.

You are beautiful. Very beautiful.
God Bless xxx

Sunday 10 November 2013

A new challenge?

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"God has forgiven all your mistakes."
- Psalm. 103:12

Hello everyone,

I'm a planner. I absolutely love to plan and organize everything and anything. Especially my future, which isn't a very good thing. Because I should enjoy every moment I've got now and not always try to plan my future. I mean, it's good to know where to carry on with your life, but too much planning the future isn't the best habit to have.

Exactly 2 weeks ago, I went home for the weekend and my mum decided for us all to have a month challenge. So basically, everyone gave each other a month challenge to do. My mum's month challenge: no sugar nor wheat. My dad's month challenge: no facial shaving (which he lost, because he stopped after 2 weeks..). And my challenge was and still is: to lose weight.
So, now, 2 weeks later, I'm home again and my parents wanted to tell me something. They had an idea: If I lose at least 3.4 stone/49 pounds (..I'm a big girl), they will buy me a ticket to U.S.A. Did you just hear that..well, you can't really hear me..so, did you just read that right? To U.S.A.! Me flying to the United States of America.. Country where all the famous 50 states are! I've been super close to it, when I was in Vancouver, Canada. But America, guys!
I've been wanting to travel there since I was little. So this really means a lot to me!

I know God will help me with my challenge, but if you're reading this post, could you pray for my new challenge? It would mean a lot!

It's good to have to plans, dreams, and goals in your life, but sitting around and doing nothing won't turn them real. Sometimes your dreams/goals/plans need a little push and hard work!

God Bless xxx


Sunday 3 November 2013

Strong words

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"What I teach will give you a good, long life, and all will go well for you." - Proverbs. 3:2

Hello everyone,

When you feel down and upset, you normally want someone to say something positive and supporting to you. And that's how I felt yesterday. I was feeling homesick, and all I wanted was to hear positive and supporting words.
But just before I was going to call my parents, I bumped into a video in a blog I was reading.
I'm so happy that I watched it. It gave me that extra motivation and support. I truly recommend you to watch it. Especially women. :)

"who you are"- a message to all women

It's amazing how one simple video can have so powerful words. Made my day yesterday.
If you know any good, motivational videos, please say :)

Have a lovely, blessed, relaxing Sunday!
God Bless xxx

Saturday 2 November 2013

Autumn

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land." - Psalm. 95:5

Hello everyone,

Oh my, it's already November. Can't believe it's almost Christmas. My all time favourite holiday time! :)
For the very first time in 16 years that I've lived on this beautiful Earth, I saw the beauty in Autumn! For some reason, I've always seen the bad side of it, but now I finally saw the bright side. I always thought of Autumn as a rainy time of the year, which is very true, but Autumn brings so much beauty to the nature that we don't always see. All the colourful leaves on the trees, frosty mornings, lovely cup of tea while reading a good book, warm blankets and sweaters, woolen stockings protecting the feet, pretty candles, movie marathons and hot chocolate with mini marshmallows.

Sometimes we really need to open our eyes to see what's front of us. God has made it all, created with His own hands. And when He creates something, it's always beautiful

This is the very first time I'm actually saying this: God created Autumn, and I'm very thankful for it. <3

Enjoy the rest of your Autumn days!

God Bless xxx

Tuesday 15 October 2013

Benjamin Button

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me."

Hello everyone,

Last week, the Internet didn't work in our flat (right now I'm living in a student apartment because of my studies), so I decided to watch a movie called Benjamin Button.
I actually lent it from my room mate, who recommended to watch it. And I'm very glad that I did, because it was such a beautiful movie.
It brought up so many emotions and memories. It made me realize how precious our life is and how we should enjoy everyday. 
It made me realize as well how much good I've got in my life. I've got an amazing family, supporting friends, loving God, a roof over my head, a chance to go to school, clean water to drink, money to buy food, clothes to make me feel warmer, caring grandparents who are always there for me, a proper bed where to sleep, people who I can always talk to, toothbrush that cleans my teeth, shoes that protect my sensitive feet.. etc.
Of course there are things in my life which could better, but why can't I just be happy with the things I've got right now. That's something I need to learn...but thankfully I've got the best teacher to teach me and His name is God.


There are so many movies out there that deals with money, popularity, happy love endings, fame, jealousy and pride. But this movie, Benjamin Button, deals more with reality. It tells us how precious our life is and how important it is to enjoy every moment.
I'm not going to tell how the movie goes, just in case if someone hasn't seen it yet.
But I do recommend it to all of you. :)

God Bless xxx

Thursday 19 September 2013

Life is a long road trip

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Tears are prayers too. They travel to God when we can't speak."
- Psalm. 56:8

Hello everyone,

First of all, I absolutely love today's Bible verse. Love Psalms, they are my favourite Bible verses..but never seen that verse before. Very happy that I found it! :)

As you might know (if you've been reading my previous blog posts) I've been stressed out and feeling very down, but after watching an episode of "Breaking Pointe", I realized something. I realized that I wasn't the only one who was going through a hard time.
As selfish as I might sound, all this time I really thought that I was the only one who's going through a very hard time. I thought I was the only one who had to sacrifice something very precious. But after watching a simple episode of "Breaking Pointe" (an American reality television series about ballet), my eyes kinda opened a little bit.
After seeing what they are going through, how much they need to sacrifice, what they are willing to do for their dreams..amazes me!! They are ready to sacrifice everything just to be on the stage. Ready to put their bodies through a hard time and practise for very long hours. To have such a huge passion for something you truly love amazes me so much!! To see them work so hard and push their bodies to the limits, makes me realize that I'm not the only one who's going though a hard time.

I've got days when I just want to be in my bed and feel sorry for myself, and then there are days when I feel much better. But if I wouldn't have God by my side, I would be totally lost. He's given me the most amazing family I could've ever asked for and amazingly supporting friends.

Life is truly a very long road trip. And sometimes we don't know what's ahead of us. But what ever we have to face, we can always get through it because we've got God by our side.
We don't always know what to do when we are going through a hard time, but thankfully God does.

Have a lovely evening!

God Bless xxx

Friday 13 September 2013

Happy Friday

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength."
- Isaiah. 40:31

Hello and good Friday to everyone!

Even though my day didn't start off very well, I'm more than happy right now. Because I was able to come home for this weekend! Yay! Home is my favourite place on this earth. Filled with my best friends and God's love and peace. <3

Because I've been so down and all over the place (for the last 3 months), I haven't really been myself. When I'm not feeling well, I tend to "let go" of my good habits. I get lazy and start doing things in a different way. And then that makes me feel even worse... So, now I just want to take baby steps to a right direction. Get myself organized (again), start actually living my life, doing fun things. But of course there will be days when I will feel very down and homesick. But if it doesn't kill you, it will make you much stronger.. :)
I just want to be myself again. And maybe it will take some time, but it's better than doing nothing.

I'm a very organized person and I love having everything in a order and in their own place. I love to make everything look pretty and beautiful. That's just who I am. I'm very girly girly. I love everything sparkle and glitter..but not over the top. A little glitter makes the day a little better. :) That's what I say!

Hope, you've had a lovely day and hopefully you're weekend will be filled with happiness and God's love!

God Bless xxx

Tuesday 3 September 2013

If It's Supposed To Happen, It will

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Let your hope make you glad. Be patient in time of trouble & never stop praying."
- Romans. 12:12

Hello everyone,

A month ago, I moved out from home because of my studies. I applied to 3 different schools and God sent me to the farthest one. At first I thought it was a bad joke but then I realized that He was serious. It takes around 3 1/2 hours (by train) to go from home to my school. And that's why I had to move out. Do I love it? No. Absolutely not. But what can I do. I definitely want to study and go to a school but at the same time, I really feel like it's far too early for me to move out.

If I carry on with my studies, I have to sacrifice something that means the world to me..and that's my family. Of course I see them..but not every week. And that really hurts!
And if I want to stop my studies and move back home so I can be with my loved ones, I have to sacrifice something then as well...and that's my school. Because if I move back home, I don't have a place where to study photography.

But don't get me wrong, of course I am happy and thankful to have an opportunity to go to school and be one of the luckiest one to get in. But I never thought it would be so hard.

Why can't there just be a photography school near home? Why? Why? Why?
If there's anyone reading this post right now, can you please pray about this?

Dear Lord,
thank you for giving me a place in a new school. An amazing opportunity to study something so magnificent and beautiful. Thank you. Lord, you know how I feel. You know how hard it is to live so far away from home. So, I'm asking and praying for something big but for you it's small. Can you Lord build a new art school somewhere near my home? So, I could study near home. If it's supposed to happen, it will. I trust in You and in Your plans. Thank you. Amen.

Have a lovely Tuesday!
God Bless xxx

Monday 2 September 2013

Patience Goes Very Far

Bible Verse Of The Day:
Jesus replied, "You don't understand now what I am doing, but someday you will."
- John. 13:7

Hello everyone,

Today I want to talk to you about patience. It is something that we've all got, but often we don't know how to use it. Sometimes we need to wait for something or do something that takes time..but unfortunately our minds don't always want to wait. In many cases, when we are waiting for something and lose our patience, we give up. And that should not happen.

I admit it, my patience level is definitely not good. But it's just one of those things I need to practise and learn. There are times when I feel like I'm exploding and my mind is going mad, but I just need to remind myself that every waiting has its end. And God can always give me the strength that I need.

It's okay to feel a bit nerves and scared when you're waiting for something big. I totally understand that. But when you feel like its taking all your energy and time, pray. Praying is the best solution. God can give you the strength that you need. He will help you.

Before my Summer holiday, I had tons and tons of final exams. I was so nerves and scared. Worrying constantly about school got to me. It took all my energy and time. I was trying to read to all my exams, waiting for the results, I was going to hear soon that what College I got into...I was just constantly thinking far too much. Even though our minds are quite big, it doesn't mean it can take all the negativity. And because I was over-thinking, it definitely didn't help the situation.
I didn't have any patience. I just wanted everything to happen now. I wanted to control everything..but that's Gods job, not ours.
But thankfully I had my family and God to help and support me. :)

Have a lovely week and enjoy every moment.

God Bless xxx

Thursday 29 August 2013

Giving My Time To God.

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"God can restore what is broken and change it into something amazing. All you need is faith."
- Joel. 2:25

Hello everyone,
I've always wanted to read the whole Bible. Not because I feel like I have to, I just want to. There's a lot I don't know about Bible and as a Christian, I feel like I should know my Holy book a bit better. But instead of just reading it like a normal book, I want to go much deeper. Writing notes while reading, making questions for myself, underlining words I don't understand... I want to read His Word. There is no better book than the Bible.

For me personally, finding a good interesting book to read can be really hard. But there's a book that has never been boring to read..and that's Bible. Of course I don't understand every sentence and sometimes I go mad when I don't get the words. But when that happens, you have to pray for wisdom and understanding.
If you don't understand everything straight away, just try again. But don't give up.
Bible is a strong book with very strong words. And when you do read the verses, don't just read them without thinking anything. Read with a open mind and try to understand what it's trying to tell you.

God Bless xxx

Friday 16 August 2013

Christ Is In You.

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." - Hebrews. 13:5

The Bible verse of the day really says it all. God is truly with us and He will never leave us.
When you feel down and lonely, you normally feel like there's no one who understands your situation. But you're wrong. Because God is with you all the time. He lives in you, beside/next to you, behind you and front of you. Wherever you go, He goes there with you. There is no such a place where God is not able to go. He knows where you're going before you do. He knows where you should go and where not. He knows you from inside and out. He knows exactly how you feel. He understands everything what's going on inside you. He knows when you're feeling lonely and sad. He knows how to make you feel better. God knows and understands you so much better than you will ever know.

Two weeks ago, I moved out from home because of my studies. I didn't want to move out, but it was just one of the things I had to do. At first it was SO hard and I felt SO lonely and sad. I even felt kinda angry to God. I just wanted to pack my stuff and take the first train home. At that time, I didn't feel like God was anywhere near me... But a week later, I started to feel closer to God. I started to get that connection to God again. And that was a niiiice feeling.
Of course it is still very hard for me to live on my own (hey c'mon, I'm only 16 years old..+ I hate being away from my family), but I just need to remind myself why I'm doing this.

Every story has its end. And this story will has its end at one point..maybe not today or next week, but one day. I just need to be patient (easier said than done..).

When you feel sad, lonely and/or scared, pray. Pray.Pray.Pray. God will hear, listen, see and understand you and your situation. There's nothing impossible for God. Absolutely nothing.

 "But the Lord stood with me & gave me strength." - 2. Timothy. 4:17

If you've ever been in a situation like this or you're being in a situation like this right now, please, don't be scared to tell me about it and share your story to others. Because I would love to hear your story :)

If there's anyone out there who is a same kind of situation than me, I truly hope this post has been a some kind of help for you. :)

Just remember, you're not alone. God will always be there for you. Always.
Have a blessed weekend.

God Bless xxx

Monday 22 July 2013

Feeling Thankful.

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Let your hope make you glad. Be patient in time of trouble and never stop praying."
-Romans. 12:12

Hello everyone,

Hope you're all doing well. At least I am :) Right now I just feel so thankful and blessed. My life is definitely not perfect and it will never bee..but I've got so much good in my life: super loving family, supporting friends, amazing God, food & clean water, and I'm very lucky to have a opportunity to go to a good school. There's so much to be thankful for. And sometimes you just need to open your eyes to see them...before it's too late.

You don't have to have a lot of money to feel blessed and happy. Because you can't buy feelings and emotions. If you want to feel happy, do stuff that makes you happy.
For example if there's a movie that you realllly like, well watch it then if it makes you happy. But remember, happiness should come naturally. Don't force yourself to feel something that you don't feel..otherwise you're just faking it and lying to yourself.

I've got many ways to make myself feel better and here's a list of thing I normally do..
- Do my nails
- Go to the town
- Buy something very small to myself
- Go for a coffee
- Watch a movie
- Listen to music
- Draw
- Watch make-up /or hair videos
- Write my blog
- Do some pinning in pinterest
- Read
- Go to the library
- Go to the gym (this is such a healthy and good way to make yourself feel better!)
- Go for a walk
- Bake (I would do this more often..if I just had the money for the ingredients..) 
- Pray

...Depends how I'm feeling.

Get to know yourself. Find out what works for you.

Have a lovely day :)
God Bless xxx

Wednesday 17 July 2013

Be Nice To Yourself

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit."
- 1. Corinthians. 6:19

It's been a while since I have updated my blog. Sorry for that. But here I am, with new subjects and new stories :)

Today I want to talk to you about being nice to yourself. Right now you might think "yeah yeah, what ever. I know how to be nice to myself..blah blah!" But the truth is, it's actually harder than you think. It's easy to be nice to your friends and say lovely things to them. But how often do YOU treat YOURSELF? How often do you think about your needs? How often do you say lovely things to yourself? It's not always easy to be nice to yourself. Because trust me, I'm struggling with that almost every day. I try to be nice to myself, once in a while treat myself, say lovely things to myself..but it's not easy! One step at a time. :)

But please, don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to say that the only way to be nice to yourself is by going to a fancy spa or getting your nails done. Being nice to yourself is by accepting yourself and treating yourself well (I'm not sure did I just say that right...)

Here's a great article about loving God, yourself and others:
http://www.joycemeyer.org/articles/ea.aspx?article=loving_god_yourself_and_others















God Bless xxx

Tuesday 25 June 2013

Take Care Of Your Family.

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you." - Exodus. 20:12 

What do you think of this term "family comes first"? As a Christian (and my own opinion), God comes first, then me and then my family. But why do I put myself before my family? Well..I can live without my family but I can't live without God. Without God I'm nothing. But without my family I'm still me but with a broken heart. And the reason why I put myself before my family is because.. If I want to love them and take care of them, first I need to know how to love myself and take care of myself. If I don't know how to love myself, how on earth can I love someone else?!

Your family is the greatest treasure on earth. But of course there are cases where the child is hurt by the parents or is not treated well. What ever the case is, they are your parents and your siblings. Love and forgive. Your parents might not be perfect and they might make a lot of mistakes, but so do you. And if they do hurt you (mentally), don't let them. Ask for help. Because even though they are your parents, they don't have the right to hurt you (mentally). Same goes with the siblings.

Love your family, take care of each other, teach new stuff to each other, talk and listen.
To have a strong loving family is so important.

Love your family. Tell your parents how you feel. Tell your siblings about your day. Share stuff and pray to God for a stronger relationship with your family members.

God Bless xxx

Monday 24 June 2013

Is It Me Or God?

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"I waited patiently for the Lord, He turned to me and heard my cry."
- Psalm. 40:1 

Have you ever asked something from God but you're not sure is it God or you that puts the answer to your head? Well, that happens to me all the time! So trust me, you're not the only one with that "problem".

When you're trying to make an important decision and you just desperately need God's help, all you can do is trust God, follow Him and listen to God's voice. Okay, it's easier said than done. Because when I'm all stressed out and trying to do what God wants me to do..I just pray and listen. But I don't get the answer immediately, if that's what you think. But I never give up on praying. Never.

God hears you when you're calling His name. God sees you when you're in trouble. God knows you better than anyone else. Sometimes we, people, need some faith and patience.

God Bless xxx

Monday 10 June 2013

You Deserve Some Love.

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"God has more in store for you than you can even imagine."
- Ephesians. 3:20

Do you deserve to be loved? ..Well, my answer to that is: YES. Everyone has a right to be loved. It doesn't matter what size you are, how you look, how much money you've got, where you live, what your background is like..no!
...Or do you wanna be loved but you just can't let people to come near you and be a part of your life? Is that the problem? If so, you're not the only one. Letting go can be so very hard for some people and because they are afraid to lose their love ones, they decide to push them away and not letting them to come too near. Sounds familiar?

If you've got a friend who absolutely loves you..let her/him to love you. There's nothing wrong in that. Yes, you've done (terrible) mistakes..but that's not the reason why he/she loves you. He/she loves you because you are you. People don't love your mistakes and your past, they love the you inside you. But of course there are people who chooses their friends because the way they look..which is very sad. Looks are just looks, the real you inside you is the main thing :)

God loves you so very much! Always remember that! <3

God Bless xxx

Saturday 1 June 2013

Lack Of Motivation?

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Nothing can stop God's plan for your life." 
- Isaiah. 14:27

If you're lacking of motivation, well then you should definitely read today's post.

This is something that really opened my eyes. What an inspiring man! May God bless him!

A World Of Difference

He lost 130 pounds, ran 3:10, and his own mom didn't recognize him.

Of all the misery Jeff Le had to deal with in March 2008—a breakup, being pick-pocketed in his Washington, D.C., neighborhood, and the death of a close family friend—suffering a relapse of malaria felt almost darkly comical. "Like, what's next?" Le says. As the fever and chills set in, four years after Le had first contracted the disease while studying abroad in Ghana, he experienced a lucid dream. "I was running somewhere," he says. "I was so at peace. I was so happy and free." This was particularly odd because Le was emphatically not a runner, and he decided it was a cosmic hint that he could change his life if he wanted to. "My friends would always joke that I would only run if there were an ice-cream truck pulling away," he says. "I knew it was a sign."

The following month, on April Fool's Day to be exact, Le joined a Gold's Gym in downtown D.C. and stepped on a treadmill for the first time. He keyed in his weight: 290 pounds on a 5'9" inch frame.

Years of ingesting chicken wings and large pizzas by himself in one sitting had taken a predictable toll. Like an alcoholic who drinks past getting drunk, Le ate past the point of being full. And then kept eating. By early 2008, the 25-year-old was noticing the consequences, often feeling winded as he made his way to his office.

His first five minutes on the treadmill didn't go so well. "I saw stars, white spots," he says. And then he threw up—on the shoe of the woman next to him. "The hardest thing I've ever done was go back to the gym April 2, at the same time, with the same people who saw all that."

This time, Le ran seven minutes, and held his cookies. Then eight minutes the next day and nine minutes the day after that. By June, he had run two 10-K races, improving his pace from 12-minute to 10- minute miles, and was down 45 pounds.

Le still gorged—now on vegetables and fruit. He gave up greasy bar food. His pants size dropped from 48 to 38 and then 30, and he lost a size and a half in his feet. Friends began to donate clothes—none of his XXL fashions fit anymore.

Although it had been just three months since he had climbed atop that treadmill, Le joined the DC Road Runners and started working toward the Marine Corps Marathon. Between June and that October's race in Washington, D.C., Le ran three half-marathons, finishing each under two hours. The week before the marathon, he felt like he was flying during a 5-K tune-up, averaging a 7:30-per-mile pace. By race day, the startling transformation was complete. The nearly 300-pound man had morphed into a lithe, 160-pound racer. One-hundred thirty pounds. Gone.

"My mom flew in—she hadn't seen me," he says. "After she walked right by me, I called her phone. She turned around, dropped her bag and said, 'I know you're my son, but you look nothing like him.'"

Le took not just his new body to the starting line but an ambitious secret hope: break four hours in his first try. He finished in 3:42. In October 2009, he ran Chicago in 3:16—six minutes shy of a Boston qualifying time. He was too close to not try again. And so in December, Le ran the California International Marathon in 3:10, earning him a spot in the country's premier distance race.

"The most remarkable thing about Jeff is it all happened so fast for him," says Joe Emerson, a volunteer coach for the DC Road Runners. "Most people take years to qualify for Boston. Some people never get there. Jeff did it in a year and a half."

Registration for Boston 2010 had already closed, but Le can use his qualifying time for 2011. Next up is the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego Marathon in June.

"When I started, the point of running was just to be in better shape," Le says. "But it became something else. It made me feel alive. The hunger pangs and the shock on my body were challenging. But I wanted that freedom I felt in my dream. I wanted to walk up the stairs without gasping for air. I wanted to travel and climb mountains. How could I climb mountains if I couldn't climb stairs?"

Runner's World Magazine
By Mike Wise
Published 11th May, 2010


God Bless xxx


Tuesday 28 May 2013

My Personal Diary

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything." 
- Philippians. 4:6

Hello everyone,

For the last 6 weeks, I've been super busy with my school stuff! Very stressed out and nervous. I always get very nervous when I've got bunch of exams and essays to do... I just feel like I've been having so much pressure on my shoulders. But thankfully I've had God by my side and my amazing supporting family and friends :) Don't know what I would've done without them!

I just truly want to thank my parents for all the support but mostly God for holding my hand while writing exams and essays! :)

"Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light."
- Albus Dumbledore


God Bless xxx

Saturday 18 May 2013

What To Read?

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." - Psalm. 25:5

Good Saturday to everyone,
Today it's all about books. But not just any kind of books. I mean CHRISTIAN books! There's more to read than just Bible. But of course, Bible is the best book ever. :)

I've listed a bunch of Christian books you should check out (notice: I haven't read most of these books, but I would love to read them all one day!) :

 
The Prayer That Changes Everything: 
The Hidden Power Of Praising God
by Stormie Omartian
(3rd Feb 2005)





Trusting God Day By Day: 365 Daily Devotions
by Joyce Meyer
(22nd Nov 2012)

 

 


Never Give Up: Relentless Determination To Overcome Life's Challenges
by Joyce Meyer
(14th Oct 2010) 

 

 

 


The Confident Woman: Start Today Living Boldly And Without Fear
by Joyce Meyer
(15th Apr 2010)

 










What's So Amazing About Grace?
by Yancey Philip 
(15th Mar 2002)

 

 












Living Faithfully: Following Christ In Everyday Life
by John Pritchard
(18th Apr 2013)





The Grace Outpouring: Blessing Others Through Prayer
by Roy Godwin and Dave Roberts
(1st Oct 2008)

 







If you know some other good Christian books, please don't be afraid to say :) 
Be opened minded and let God speak to you through the books. When you're reading, don't expect amazing things to happen, let God do the work.


Have a lovely day and enjoy reading with a nice cup of tea/coffee in your other hand :)

God Bless xxx 

Friday 3 May 2013

He's The Place!

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"God is our place of safety." - Psalm. 62:8

Have you ever felt like you're in a dark box and you can't get out from there? Or you've got a big black hole inside you that has been growing bigger and bigger? I know exactly how that feels and it's something you don't wanna feel. Trust me, you don't.
Maybe something has happened in your past, something bad, something that keeps your mind away from this moment. Maybe you've been in an accident and you're afraid it will happen again? You've been in a horrible relationship and now you're afraid it will happen again so you decide not to date at all?
Well, it's normal to be afraid. Especially if something has happened in your past, but don't let it stop you living your life.
If you feel like you're caged to your past, to something bad that has happened in your past, let it go. If you can't...ask God to free you from your past. And He will.

Even if you're a Christian and you live for God, bad things will still happen to you. As long as you live on this Earth, Satan has always got a chance to ruin your life.
But don't get me wrong, of course God will take care of you and keep you away from bad things.

When you feel afraid, God is our place of safety. He's always there for us. :)


God Bless xxx

Sunday 28 April 2013

Sad to hear.

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Therefore, if any man is in Christ, he is a new creation. Old things have passed away; look, new things have come" - 2. Corinthians. 5:17

I once went to my sisters bedroom to give her my photos that I took of her. Because she wasn't there, I was looking for a place to put them. While I was looking for the place, I saw pieces of paper written with interesting song lyrics. I took them and started reading it. It was full of negativity! Full of negative sentences! Even though it was really hard to read I still carried on... Then I realized that it was a story that I was reading.. But after realizing that it was telling about her..it broke my heart!
I felt so bad after reading it. It was personal and private. If I knew it was a true story, I would've not read it. But it happened and I can't do anything about it... But I will tell her the truth!

I'm not gonna say exactly what it said in the papers, but what I can say is that she was complaining about who she was and how horrible her life was.

If you know someone who is going through a hard time and feels very down, do something about it. A simple lovely word can even make someones day. :)

For example if you know your friend has just divorced from a long relationship, help him/her with the situation. Be there for your friend and support him/her.


God Bless xxx

Friday 26 April 2013

Friday Of Dreams.

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Ask and it will be given to you;" He said, "Seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." - Matthew. 7:7-9

Good Friday to everyone.
You know when you're a child, you dream of being a princess and saved by a cute prince. When you're a bit older..around 9, you dream of being an actress/singer/dancer. A few years later you dream of being rich. When you're a teenager, you dream of being famous, gorgeous, popular, having a boyfriend/girlfriend, being skinny and rich. And when you're a bit older, you normally dream about having a boyfriend/girlfriend, getting married, having a family, living in a beautiful house, working somewhere where you get good money. Well, that's how I see it... But it doesn't mean everyone thinks like that.

When I was a child, I always dreamed of being a princess and saved by a super cute prince. And yes, I did dream of being an actress, famous, rich, popular, good looking, singer... But now when I'm a bit older (still under 18), I've started to be a bit more realistic with my dreams and goals. But It's very healthy and normal to dream. Even about the weirdest stuff.
Even though I'm 16, I still dream of being that beautiful princess. But If I would be dreaming of dying..well, then there would be something wrong with me.
......................................................................................................
Just a minute ago I was talking about how healthy and normal it is to dream...but what about trying to make some of them come true?
My sister is a HUGEEE Justin Bieber fan! Has been for last 3 years. One day she decided to start save her money to go to see him (to his concert). The tickets cost almost £85/ $130. Holy Moly. But that was one of her dreams. She was tired of only dreaming about it...so my sister decided to do something about it. And I'm really proud of her and very happy for her. :)

If you really want something, you have to work for it. You can't get the results for doing nothing.
Is like, you can't get an 'A' from an exam if you're not willing to study.



God Bless xxx

Saturday 20 April 2013

Helping Hands

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you."
- Matthew. 5:42



Happy Saturday, everyone! Saturday has always been my favourite day of the week. Maybe because it used to be my and my siblings sweet day! :)
My typical Saturday: Going out (town, shopping..etc), reading (a book, or for an exam if I have to..), relaxing, going to the Gym.

But this Saturday was a bit different. In a good way of course. Now because my grandparents were away (on a little trip), we (me, dad, mum) decided to clean their house! And talk about a good feeling! I felt so good afterwards :)

What's the first thing that comes in your mind when someone is talking about helping? ..Money?  a Great feeling? Waste of time? Kindness? Well, the last thing you should be thinking is Money. When you're working you normally do it because of money but when you're helping others you should do it out of kindness. Why? Does Jesus ever ask for money when He's helping you? No.


When you ask Jesus to heal you, does He ask for money? No.
What about when Jesus is asking you to do something, do you ask for money? No.
But when you're at work and your boss is asking if you could do some overtime work. Then is normal to think about money.

Sometimes you don't always get a job because you're underage, too old, too big, too small, too weak, not qualified, lack of education, being different (disabled)..etc.
But there's no "rules" for helping. Amen. You can help whoever, whenever, wherever, the way you want.. You don't have to be an amazing helper. You just do it from you heart and through God.

Work hard but don't always do it because of money. Do it because you enjoy it.
Help others but remember it should come out of kindness. There is no limit for helping.

God Bless xxx

Sunday 14 April 2013

Be Thankful.

Bible Verse Of The Day: 
“Worship the Lord your God and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away
sickness from among you.” Exodus 23:25

If something is beautiful in Gods eyes..that means it's amazingly beautiful! God created us and if God thinks we are beautiful in His eyes, that's the truth! You might not see beauty when you look at yourself in the mirror, but what is it that makes you feel so ugly? Not having the same kind of hair than your friends? Having big arms and a fat tummy? Lost a part of your body in an accident? Looking different? Well, you're not the only one! Like I've said before, only God is perfect.

After seeing (real) homeless people, I realized how blessed I actually am. I've seen homeless people before as well, but because I was so young then, I didn't really understand.

I once saw a documentary of 3 little girls who were blind and deaf at the same time. It made me think how blessed and lucky I am. I can see all the amazing things God has created, I can hear every little noise this world is making, I can speak and praise with songs, I can walk with 2 legs. Okay, maybe I don't look like a model but who said you have to look like a model to be beautiful? Where in the Bible does is say that you have to have the perfect body, loads of money, amazing hair to be beautiful? Nowhere!

"Be thankful for what you've got." That's what my parents have always told me and my siblings.
You might not have the perfect nose, but you've got something someone else doesn't have.

Be thankful for the little things. You might think it's silly to be thankful for having a proper bed where to sleep, eating fresh food, drinking clean water and having someone taking care of you. Well, unfortunately there are a lot of people who are living on the streets, eating old food from the rubbish bins, drinking dirty water. But in the end, only God can help.



God Bless xxx

Monday 8 April 2013

#Monday

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"You will look for Me and find Me, when you look for Me with all your heart."
- Jeremiah. 29:13


God Bless xxx


Sunday 7 April 2013

Love Yourself!

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"Love the Lord your God with all heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and most important command. And the second command is like the first: 'Love your neighbour the same as you love yourself'." - Matthew. 22:37-39

You've just bought a new dress and you wear it the next day in school. What would you say if someone random just came to you and say "wow, I love your dress. You look so gorgeous."? Would you be like "Oh...this dress... it's nothing special. ... Yeah right! You're more gorgeous me!"
That's how we, people, normally act(but not everyone). But why? Isn't nice when someone comes up to you says something nice?

Here are 2  good examples of not good conversations:
Miranda: "I hate my hair!"
Debby: "You've got a beautiful hair. But look at mine! It's horrible! I would love my hair to look like Kim Kardashian's!"
Miranda: "No I don't. It's all dry and ugly! Me too.. I would literally die to have her hair!"

Kate: "I absolutely hate my legs. I'm so gonna go on a diet."
Sally: "Me too. My legs are fat and full of cellulite.."
Kate: "Have you ever thought about plastic surgery?"
Sally: "Not really... but that's something I could consider about."

Why do always have to look for the bad sides in you? And before you're gonna say "..but there's nothing good about me!" ... well, that's not true. Like I've said before and I will say it again, why would God create an ugly child?
You're never gonna be perfect and that's the fact. Because only God is!

Of course it's nice to put some makeup on and look good, but remember not to go too far.

Remember that the true beauty comes from the inside.
Because which one would you choose:
A girl who's  rich, fake tan, lives in a millionaire family, gorgeous. But she's VERY nasty and the only person she thinks of is herself. She doesn't care about other people opinions and uses her friends and family. ?
A girl who's poor, has only 2 pairs of shoes, lives on the street, no family, horrible clothes. But she's got the most warmest heart in the world. Her biggest dream is to help others and she doesn't care about what people think about her. ?

Life isn't always all about how good you look in your clothes, how much money you've got, how many times you've been in a relationship...
 



If you don't know who to love yourself, how can love your friends?
So start loving and respecting yourself.

God Bless xxx


Saturday 6 April 2013

It's NEVER too late!

Have you ever thought about giving your life to God? To someone who created you and died for you. To someone who loves you more than anyone else.
Or would you like to give your life to Him but you just don't know how? Or do you think it's too late?
Well, I've got good news to you, my sisters and brothers, it's NEVER too late to give your life to God! And I mean it...NEVER! But if you don't believe in Jesus Christ and after you die and go to Hell...then it's too late!

God is not like us. He doesn't criticise others like we, people, do. He doesn't choose His favourite people. He doesn't order us to follow Him and tell us how we should look like. All God wants is us to love Him, believe in Jesus Christ, follow Him, pray to Jesus, give our life to His hands, and live for Him. Is that too much to ask for? No!


There's no specific place where you have to go to give your life to God. You can do it whenever, wherever! If you really don't know where you should do it...well, here are some examples: The Church, Parish, Christian Conference, Christian concert, Christian Camp, at home, at your friends home....etc.


As you can see, it says "Only In God Will You Find True Happiness", and it's so true!

Bible Verse Of The Day:
"God has inscribed you on the palm of His hand."
- Isaiah. 49:16









God Bless xxx

Saturday 30 March 2013

Telling About Jesus?

Bible Verse Of The Day:
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
- Jeremiah. 29:11 


Have you ever thought about telling about Jesus...I mean to someone you don't even know?... Thought about missionary work? Well, you don't have to pack your bags and change your life just to tell about Jesus. One of the main reasons why I wanted to create this blog was to tell about Jesus.
You can even write posts on your FB wall about Jesus and how amazing He is.

Why Should We Spread The Word?
So there would be more and more Christians. It even says in the Bible that we should tell about Jesus Christ. The more there are Christians the better place this Earth will be.
God created this amazing world but devil (satan) made all the bad work. God created all the people but devil gave all the pain and evil thoughts into us. People should know who the real King is! People should know all the amazing things our Savior has done and will do!

If you feel like you want to spread the word, but you're not a very good speaker... well, don't worry love! There are many ways to tell about Jesus:
- Write a Christian post on your FB wall
- Create a Christian Tumblr blog (with only pics or with text).
- Create a "Christian diary blog" where you write about your life as a Christian.
- Write a nice note (as an anonymous) to someone for example in school that says "Jesus Loves You" or "Thank You Jesus For Creating (the name)"

But remember: Jesus STILL loves you even though you wouldn't spread the word!

God Bless xxx

Friday 29 March 2013

The Cross.



Bible Verse Of The Day:
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me will live, even though they die.  Everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" 
- John. 11:25-26

Jesus died for us all. Not because so He could show off how amazing and cool He is..no. God sent His only son, Jesus, to live like a human, suffer like a human and die like a human.
Jesus died for our sins. I mean how amazing is that!?

What would you do if a friend of yours would give their life for you? What would you say to that person? .... Or what if the person that would give their life for you would be someone you wouldn't even know? What would you say then? ...... Would you be angry? No! Would you thank the person for the rest of your life? Of course you would!
So, what makes you think that Jesus is any different? ...He died for YOU. He gave His life for YOU. He was ready to suffer because He loved YOU SO much! So, how can you even say that He's never done anything for you?!

Even though Jesus was(still is) Holy and the son of God, He still suffered like a human. He had feelings and He was in pain. Imagine if you would have to go through something like that? Would you be in pain? Of course you would!
Would you be ready to give your life for someone you dearly loved? ...What about giving your life for someone you've never liked? ... Well, Jesus didn't die only for Christians, He died for EVERYONE!

God Bless xxx