Recently Published Articles...

May 9, 2013

Since I don't know any other way to do this, I am posting the links to 2 of my recently published articles. I hope you enjoy them...

http://www.eastmountaindirectory.com/articles/Schwebach-Farm-A-Family-Tradition-a66.html

This first one, published in East Mountain Living Magazine, is about a wonderful, godly homeschooling family living in Moriarty, NM. They own and operate Schwebach Farm. Here you can find the BEST produce available on this side of the mountain! Not to mention some sweet and edifying conversation :). Visit any of their roadside stores or the farm store in Moriarty during the harvest season, August-October. 

http://occupational-therapy.advanceweb.com/Editorial/Content/Editorial.aspx?CC=267489

This next one is an article on Zero Balancing that was published in Advance for Occupational Therapy Practitioners. As you may know, I am an occupational therapist with a small private practice in Tijeras, NM. Ideally, this article should be on my health and wellness blog, but since that one is still getting underway, I posted it here. 

Thank you for visiting!
God Bless!
Jeanne

Letting go...

May 1, 2013


On the first day of every month this year, I have been astounded that it arrived so quickly. Today, May 1st, is no different. The speed at which each new month presents itself is so staggering that I can hardly keep up. In fact, I feel as though I have been tossed from a boat; It is slowing down to let me catch up and I am swimming as fast as I can to reach it, but it eludes me, continually. I am certain that I am not alone in this. 

Why, especially as women, do we find ourselves in this free-fall, this constant state of perpetual "behind-ness"? When I see a friend in a frenzied state, taking on too much, I tell them, "When your plate gets too full, it's not OK to just get a bigger plate so you can pile on more stuff!" So now, as I find myself feeling stressed and burdened, I remember that witty advice... Is it applicable to my current state? I think I have to say, "no, not this time." Although, as a family, we have just finished several commitments, when I look at what is requiring my attention, my plate really isn't too full (my husband may beg to differ). As I contemplated what could be amiss, I realized that some of what I was choosing to take on, may not be the best things for me. Whoa! Light bulb moment!

Is it possible (yes) that we sometimes continue to do things for the simple reason that, we have always done them? We've gotten used to them? This isn't very healthy, that's for sure. I think it is wise for us to re-evaluate our commitments from time to time and weed out what is no longer productive. What are we giving our time to? What is taking away from our children and our spouses? What purpose does it serve? Did it start out being a good and edifying thing, and now it's sucking the life out of you? Maybe it's time to let go of that obligation. When we hold on to things that have served their purpose, they have a tendency to become toxic in our lives. Even if they are "good" things.. holding on to them past their time may be preventing God from blessing us in another way. 

I know there are seasons of catching up, but I don't want that to define me. I would hope to enjoy the blessings the Lord has given me, especially my family. I would hope to be involved in things that help others and bring honor to God. I would hope to be able to be a good steward over what He has given me and to be joyful all the while. Joyful...Hhhhmm.... Are we being joyful as we handle the things on our plate? That may be the deciding factor. Not, "are you happy about what you're doing?" But, rather, "Are you joyful in your journey?" 

As I pray for wisdom and discernment while examining the contents of my plate, I will surely ask whether I can continue a given activity with a godly attitude, a happy heart, as unto the Lord. 

I apologize for the brevity and possible lack of depth in this post. It is because I have had a stomach bug imposed upon me for three days, and I probably should be resting ;)

I pray your plate will be overflowing with joyful blessings from the Lord!

Be well. Live well. Love abundantly.
Jeanne