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19 Valentine’s Day date ideas. #love #valentinesday

EllyFilho1 Comment

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Because you love his romantic side. And he loves seeing you smile.
  • After all this time, you are still each other’s favorite person to spend time with.

    So why not use this February 14th as just another reason to spend that time together doing something fun?

    Need some ideas? Here you are!

  • 1. Cook something yummy together

    Find a new recipe you both want to try. Or take a cooking class together. Watching his inner chef come out will be cute. And in the end, you get to enjoy a yummy meal together.

  • 2. Take a dance class

    So your cha-cha might not be the smoothest thing ever. But he thinks it’s cute. Try learning some new dance moves together that you can use at home later on when your favorite song comes on the radio.

  • 3. Visit a farmer’s market

    Pick out some fresh ingredients for salsa, or grab some fresh fruit. Or head to a winter market for squash and jarred goodies.

  • 4. Go on a dinner cruise

    A delicious dinner while surrounded by water and stars – need we say more?

    Or, if this doesn’t fit the budget at the moment, spend the evening planning the details of a future vacation, and then start saving so you can take it.

  • 5. Visit a museum or art gallery

    Pick one that you both think sounds interesting, and see what new things you learn.

  • 6. Go bowling

    Winner gets to pick where you go for dessert.

  • 7. Take a hot air balloon ride

    Unless one of you dislikes heights. You want this to be fun, remember?

  • 8. Re-create your first date

    Take her to the restaurant you first took her to. Talk about when you first met. Reminisce about the little details of that time together.

  • 9. Make s’mores

    And snuggle in a warm blanket under the stars.

  • 10. Go to a play

    Dressing up for a nice evening out can be refreshing and fun for both of you.

  • 11. Visit a new city or town together

    Go exploring and see what cool places you discover. Find an old town to walk around while holding hands, or try a new restaurant you stumble upon.

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  • 12. Make ice cream sundaes

    Go shopping together beforehand to pick out all the toppings. Or grab some root beer and ice cream for root beer floats.

  • 13. Go hiking

    If you go often, go to a new spot you’ve been wanting to try together. Maybe even bring along a picnic.

  • 14. Play tennis

    It’s a date and a great workout all in one.

  • 15. Go swimming

    Find a heated pool or some hot springs or hot tubs and relax.

  • 16. Have a spa night

    Book a couples massage or some facials.

  • 17. Have a perfume/cologne date

    Go out and smell some new fragrances, and then help each other pick one that you both like. You’ll have a cute date and get your Valentine’s Day gifts for each other picked out at the same time.

  • 18. Try a couples yoga class

    Because why not use Valentine’s Day to de-stress, stretch and feel great afterward?

  • 19. Attend a sports game

    A night out with a little cheering while eating good food may be just what you both need.

    Give one of these a try this Valentine’s Day – and then use the others for regular date nights with your spouse, and see how much closer you become.

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Article by  Kelsi Jones
Kelsi graduated with a journalism degree and is passionate about the written word and the power it has to bring more good into the world.
Challenge · family · mom · motherhood · review · women · Wordless · World VS Life

“Sure Foundation”

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“Sure Foundation”
Insecurity is probably the worst feeling in the world. It robs you of confidence, rest, and freedom. Just talking about the word floods my mind with so many memories. Being a little girl, afraid of the dark, peeking my eyes just above the covers to see if there really was a monster in my room. As a new kid at school, not knowing a soul, wondering if I would ever find a friend. Auditioning for a musical, nervous and afraid I would forget song lyrics. Picking an outfit for a date, hoping to impress and hold his interest. The day we purchased our first home, wondering if we were grown up enough to handle the responsibility. The way I felt the day we brought home our first baby and the overwhelming reality that we were responsible for his very life. Each of those moments all caused me to feel unsure, and creating a deep desire for something solid to stand on and keep me steady no matter what.

So often, I set my feet upon my circumstances. It’s easy to do because we naturally make agreements with what we can touch and see. For example: If our child has behavior problems in school, it would be easy to then label him a problem child or yourself a bad mom. If a dream falls apart, it would be natural to feel lost and lose sight of your identity. But we’re not called to live by human nature. We are called to walk by the Spirit, and in order to do that, we have to stand on a sure foundation. One that’s been tested and approved. One we know won’t ever be shaken by the quaking and shifting of life. If we stand on what we can see with human eyes, we will constantly shift with an ever changing world. That’s not a life anchored in Jesus. In fact, the bible calls that childish. We are called to grow up into Christ in all things. He is the security we are called to build our lives upon.

What are you standing on today? What are you building your life upon? When the world is afraid of the dark, hiding under the covers, you can be unshakable; shining like a beacon in the night. You can walk through uncertain days because He is your sure foundation.

So this is what the Sovereign Lordsays:  “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone,  a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation;  the one who relies on it  will never be stricken with panic.  Isaiah 28:16
Source A 6-day devotion
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Natural Arabica Coffee Scrub #ReviewWithElly

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100% Natural Arabica Coffee Scrub 12 oz. with Organic Coffee, Coconut and Shea Butter – Best Acne, Anti Cellulite and Stretch Mark treatment, Spider Vein Therapy for Varicose Veins & Eczema (Misc.)
Received package on time
Packaged with plenty of padding
Container was properly sealed and not leakingI tried the 100% Natural Arabica Coffee Scrub for about 2 weeks now. As you can see in my Photos the product is almost gone.
This scrub smells SO good! If you love the smell of freshly brewed coffee this is perfect for you.
The Coffee Body Scrub is loaded with antioxidants, the description states it helps to fight premature skin aging like wrinkles, sun spots, and fine lines. When applied under and around the eyes, it can help in minimizing the appearance of puffy eyes as caffeine restricts blood vessels, which reduces swelling and inflammation. It can also help lighten dark circles under the eyes.

I have used this on my face every single day. Although I didn’t see any difference as far as the appearance of the puffy eyes and dark circles.

I did notice a BIG difference in my pores and black heads completely clean and gone.
My face is as clear as it ever was, smooth and acne free.
It does say the product is 100% Natural exfoliating scrub & acne treatment.
I stand by that statement 100% they are correct.
It helps remove dirt, giving you a fresh, younger more moisturized skin.
The Coffee grounds in this scrub acts as a mechanical exfoliation that helps to scrub away dead skin to reveal the new, healthy skin underneath and as a chemical Exfoliator removing skin cells with enzymes or acidic properties. It provided my skin with a more glowing and radiant appearance upon 1st use.
All I did was Gently massage scrub in a circular motion in the bath or shower, rinse well. Your skin will have a fine film of oil, do not worry, just gently pat your skin dry to leave it feeling super smooth and soft!

I also noticed it says on the bottle it GETs RID OF CELLULITE: By combining the best quality of organic coffee grounds with moisturizing, skin-soothing organic coconut oil and dead sea salt for an extra exfoliating kick.

I applied the product everyday for two weeks to my belly, legs and arms and it did NOT reduce the appearance of cellulite.
This product also did NOT target any of my stretch marks.
There for I would have to say It is not very effective for stretch mark removal.
How ever it does soften skin as it scrubs away dirt and dead skin cells.
This formula also contains skin-loving Coconut Oil, Olive oil, Shea Butter, Sweet Almond Oil, Grape Seed Oil making this aromatic exfoliating scrub a luxurious staple in any skin care regime.

Benefits of using this Scrub:
Exfoliates your skin
Super Hydration

Instead of using body scrubs with harsh chemicals, I would defiantly recommend using the coffee to scrub that combines coffee grounds with salt, sugar, and oils that leave your skin nourished and moisturized rather than just cleansed.

My Honest review on this product I loved it. Even though it didn’t remove my stretch marks or the cellulite. It’s the best Exfoliator I have ever used and for this price it’s a bargain. Also, just because it didn’t work for me. it doesn’t mean it won’t work for you.

Why waste money in high-priced spa treatments? Indulge in this coffee grounds facial scrub to soften the delicate skin on your face.

Organic Kona Coffee, Coffee Arabica Seed Oil, Dead Sea Salt Granules, Organic Coconut Extract, Dead Sea Salt, Organic Olive Oil,Organic Sweet Almond Oil, Organic Grape Seed Oil, Cacao Extract, Organic Shea Butter

I have received this product at a discount in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Challenge · Devotion · Family Share · World VS Life

The perspective that changes Everything

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A 365 Day Challenge Day #26

The perspective that changes Everything

The fear of the Lord _ that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding. Job 28:28 

Understanding God’s true place in the universe gives your prayers depth they would not otherwise have. As you ponder the certainty of His victory over evil, as you consider how deeply He cares, your own confidence in God’s answers to your prayers will grow, and the nature of your prayers will change. You will begin to see things from an eternal perspective and long for the same things that God Himself desires.

The Bible calls this ” the fear of the Lord.” This is a settled determination never to go against the Almighty, a reverential awe for His majestic presence and purposes, a healthy respect for His power, and a complete trust in the goodness of His motives; an understanding that God really does know best. As you pray from this perspective, your fear of people and circumstances wanes, your faith grows, and your doubts diminish. You begin to see how God can use even a small person to make a big difference, and your prayers will echo God’s deepest desires.

God, show me who You really are, especially with regard to…

It’s been a little over 2 years and I’ve been praying and waiting.
Show me who you really are God. Make a difference in my life. I need my confidence in God to grow. It’s been a true struggle and frustrating moments. Help me look into the future and not the past.

Photo courtesy Michelle W.

A 365 Day Challenge Day #27

A Beautiful Aroma

Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice. Psalm 141:2

In the process of selling a home, sometimes real estate agents ask their clients to bake bread just before the house is shown to a prospective buyer. Why? Research has shown that certain smells, such as fresh-baked bread or cookies, attract buyers, while other odors, such as chlorine bleach, repel them.

Did you know that your prayers actually have a beautiful aroma? The Bible describes the prayers of God’s people as “golden bowls of incense” in heaven carried by the angels into the presence of God. God loves the smell of your prayers. What you share from your heart is honored in heaven and long remembered by God.

There isn’t anything you need to off to make your prayers more attractive; they already are beautiful to God because they come from an honest and sincere heart. It’s eloquence of the spirit not vocabulary that matters to God. Trying to impress Him is a useless exercise. He hears and He answers because He cares deeply about you.

God, what is on my heart today is…

I woke up this morning with a lot in my heart. I was grateful God answer prayers. I have been asking for closure on an ongoing matter in my life and just this week I received a letter. It wasn’t closure but, it’s the beginning of the end, and I was very happy. In my heart today I’m asking God to see me through. I need this to be resolved and soon.

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Urgent cry of a hurting child

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A 365 Day Challenge Day #20

A Shared Presence

Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. For the Lord is the great God. Psalm 95:2-3

In courtship, a couple will probably share many different kinds of dates. Depending on their circumstances and preferences, they might go swimming together, or shopping, take a walk in a park, share a quiet meal, or go sightseeing. Some moments together will be noisy and boisterous; others will be quiet and reflective.

Your prayer journey will similarly include many different kinds of experiences with God. Sometimes you will connect with God in a noisy concert. At other times, you will share quiet moments with Him where neither of you is saying anything, but you’re both aware of and appreciating each other’s presence.

Prayer is not so much a collection of words as it is a shared presence. Inviting God into your world and giving Him the place of honor is at the center of prayer. What are you doing today? Invite God in. Allow Him to share life with you. Prayer ” dates ” can be varied and fun, just like the shared experiences of courtship.

God, today I want to invite You to join me as I…

On this day, I invited God in to join me in prayer as I fasted the full week, 7 days of fasting for a purpose that might be impossible to men.
I needed an experience with God just me and Him, so I dedicated this week to honor Him.

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A 365 Day Challenge Day #21

Crying out to God

Before they call, I will answer, while they are yet speaking, I will hear. Isaiah 65:24

Even very young children quickly learn to call out for their parents when they’re hurt or afraid. In a healthy family, a responsible dad wants to be there for his children, and a good mom will drop everything to respond to the urgent cry of a hurting child. Good parents think nothing of giving this kind of attention to their children because they understand the roles they have been given.

God’s children also instinctively cry out to God in times of trouble. Self-sufficiency is great, up to a point. But all of us face troubles, dangers, and challenges that are bigger than we are. Our own resources are quickly exhausted, but God’s are not.

When you’re sick, in danger, confused, or hurting, go straight to God. While prayer doesn’t take the place of visit to the doctor, nor does it rule out taking prudent precautions, it brings God into your circumstances as you acknowledge that He can do what we cannot. When His children cry out to Him, He is quick to respond.

God, my biggest need right now is…

This week as I mentioned before I cried out in hope God would hear me. My troubles only God can help me, my circumstances only He can fix, my biggest needs, and fears right now only God can help me. I believe he has the best for me.

Challenge · Devotion · Family Share · World VS Life

Sometimes anger gives you the energy

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A 365 Day Challenge Day #18

Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply. 1 Timothy 2:1 MSG 

Praying for Those in Authority Sooner or later, people in places of power and governmental authority will make decisions, pass laws, and implement policies that you don’t like. In some countries you have the freedom to enter the political process and advocate reform; in some nations you don’t, but you always have the freedom to pray.

Praying for leaders is always your first and best option. Leaders are not usually available to listen to your requests, but God is. presidents, governors, justices, and legislators sometimes make bad decisions, but God can take those poor choices and turn them around for good. God can protect you from the evil (instead and unintended) that poor leadership can bring into your life. God can give you peace and encouragement, even when governments create terrible circumstances for you. Finally, God can take your prayers and use them to draw that leader into a relationship with Him.

When it comes to politics, many complain but few pray. As one who prays, you are paving the way for a better tomorrow.

God, when I think of my leaders, I most want to…

When I think about the leaders of this world, I have to believe God you are in control, because it can’t get any worst. I understand they are dealing with the most difficult situations ever, but there is a lot they should be doing and don’t. So, I put my trust and faith in The Lord. Like I saw on T.V today Mr. Trump making fun of a special need child. How sick can this guy be? Who in their right mind would vote for a sick person like that? I felt sick to my stomach

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A 365 Day Challenge Day #19

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Anger and Prayer 

Can you pray when you’re angry? Should you pray when you’re annoyed? The answer, which may surprise you, is yes ___ absolutely yes. Anger is like dynamite. It can accomplish much good, or it can do terrible damage depending on where and how it is used. By bringing God’s presence into the heat of the moment, you can direct your anger into its most positive purpose.

Sometimes anger gives you the energy to right a wrong, to rectify an injustice, to solve a problem. But anger can also be out of proportion to the situation, and then prayer gives and opportunity for God’s transforming presence to clear up unresolved issues.

In either case, sharing your anger first with God puts Him at the helm, where your emotions can be leveraged for the best possible outcome. “Lord, I’m angry because” is a great way to start a prayer. During the course of your conversation with God, your openness to Him will allow Him to bring wisdom for the moment. which will save a world of regret later on.

God, I find myself getting angry when…

It’s always a good time to pray so let us pray 🙂

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#30DayPhotography Challenge

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“Childhood”

Childhood is a magic castle of sand on a shore:
One moment, it’s here; the next no more.

 Author: Unknown

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#PhotoaDay Challenge

EllyFilho1 Comment

It is not necessary

It is not necessary to improve your appearance, get a lot of culture, raise the heels of your shoes, or make more noise.
We need to reduce the noise, walk more slowly, pay attention to those arriving, lower our heads and put the humility to work. We are big, when we are small.

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Day 8 – A Bad Habbit 
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Day 9 January 20th Someone You Love

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#PhotoAdAy

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#30DayPhoto

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Day 2 what I wore

I started a 30-day photo challenge and only did a day one.
Didn’t get to keep going. My days have been so busy I can’t keep up with all I’ve set up myself to do.

I started way too many challenges and I never finish LOL.
I wanted to upload all the images up to date so I can catch up in this post and go on day to day as the days go on. I do apologize to the people who follow my blog and expect it to be so right all the time, but hey! I’m only human.

First of all, I’m a wife, (to a pastor of a church) and a mom to 3 teens 🙂 (so this includes all mom and wife duties LOL)
We go to church 3 times a week
I’m currently on a 365-day prayer challenge that I do every day (just don’t have the time to post it)
I’m on a Theological school that I have to study and do a test every month (that’s in Portuguese and extremely hard because of the language) I’m taking a 6.00.1x introduction to computer science as a tool to solve real-world analytical problems at MIT. (Also, really hard and time-consuming)

I have online media groups that requires me to post every day or every week in order for me to remain a member (time-consuming)
So, keeping up with all this and feeling sick, and all doctors appointments is not easy but it’s something I love to do. It’s me 🙂
I just wanted to ask for patience .. and say thank you!

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Day 4 Something Green – My kids playing at the Gillette Stadium
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Day 5 – From a High Angle
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Day 6- From a Low Angle 
Challenge · Devotion · Family Share · World VS Life

Not a performance

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A 365 Days Challenge Day #16

Not a performance

Many people are concerned that they don’t know the right words to say when they pray. But Jesus assures us that prayer is not a performance that will be graded, but instead a moment to be shared. ” Go into a hiding place and pray,” Jesus says. No one needs to watch your prayers and give their seal of approval.

In a healthy family, children don’t recite a script when addressing their parents; they just open their mouths and the words tumble out. In a happy marriage, spouses often speak to each other in cryptic, incomplete sentences. Their words would make little sense to someone on the outside, but, between the two of them, there’s a world of meaning.

The best prayers are not necessarily the most eloquent, but rather the most heartfelt. The syntax and grammar of prayer are honestly and humility. Anyone, anytime can let go of pride and bow his or her heart before God. That posture of the heart gives all of us equal footing with God.

Heavenly Father, it’s easiest for me to talk to You when…

The easiest time and place is the comfort of my home. Just this morning as I was getting ready for church I was in a big argument with my closet because half of my clothes didn’t fit and the other half is too big. So I stopped to look at the time and noticed I was getting late, and thought to myself. What’s more important? Me getting or even going to church? or looking good? Dressing all up? I believe it’s what I’m going there for, and what my heart is feeling, my humility, not my pride, and certainly not my looks. The outside shouldn’t matter. If going to a place to talk to God, I need to look better than someone than I don’t want to go there. I shouldn’t feel like that. I need to look and feel my best but not for others. So the comfort of my home is my best place.

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A 365 Days Challenge Day #17

Our Father in Heaven

Prayers flows out of relationship. It is your connection with God that creates your conversation with God. As you come into relationship with Him, you experience Him not as some remote deity, but as your loving Father who deeply cares about you.

Earthly fathers can be awesome, aloof, abusive, or absent altogether. Your relationship with your biological or adoptive father may have been less than perfect. But things are different with Father God.He is always there for you. He understands. He always has time for you. He never forgets, never fails to keep a promise. He will encourage you and never put you down. In this relationship you can be yourself because He is here to coach you into fulfilling your true potential. When it comes time for correction, your heavenly Father always acts with kindness, never with the heavy hand of condemnation.

Knowing God’s great care for you as your Father frees you to bring anything that is on your heart to him. He will care for you.

Lord God, when I think of You as my Father, I…

When I think of you I remember you always have time for me.
You never forget me, You never fail me, You always keep a promise, you encourage me.
You will Never put me down. You will forever LOVE ME for who I AM.