Live Fully Nourished # 021
Pressing Pause, Shrimp Dip, Gluten-free Beer, 2023 Gluten-Free Holiday Eating Trends, and Seeking Rest…
Welcome to this week's installment of Live Fully Nourished. I’m Kymberley - the coach, cook, creator, and publisher of GfreeDeliciously.
Intentionally Stepping Back to Slow Down and Gain Perspective
Hey there,
Do you ever get overwhelmed in everyday life? Have you ever noticed you can barely catch your breath because things seem to be moving so fast? You’re trying hard to keep up, but life is speeding by so rapidly that each day feels overwhelming.
That was the case for me this past June when I decided to give myself a time-out - Time to step back and slow down intentionally. To hit the pause button on several things, including the blog (for a little while), and gain some perspective to understand me better, where I am, and how things should progress at this stage of my life.
While I’ve always felt I needed a (reasonably) full plate to occupy my hours, I believe that pressing pause (at least from time to time) allows us to recalibrate, reassess our priorities, and make more intentional choices in life.
But slowing down isn't something our society celebrates. Whether at work, church or in our communities, the world programs us to feel good about staying busy.
We like it when someone wants our input, asks for our expertise, or needs us. In contrast, the daily tasks of a family and household — like preparing meals, doing dishes or laundry, mowing the lawn, tending the garden, being attentive to the needs of a spouse or child, or taking care of aging loved ones… The list is different for everyone at every stage in life. Little things like driving kids to school or the library, picking up toys, or zipping up a jacket can sometimes seem inconsequential and invisible for moms and dads with kids at home.
Sadly, it’s so easy to get caught up in external forces, accomplishments, and accolades that we sacrifice our families and ourselves on the altar of our careers and commitments, forgetting God’s plans for us.
What about GUILT?
Sometimes, guilt can set in when I step back and intentionally take time for self-care, healing, and reflection – or to spend time just taking in a slow day or cutting back on my work time to spend more time with my husband.
While guilt can make us feel unimportant and unimpressive, God wants us to rely on Him, not ourselves.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
- Proverbs 3:5-7
Admittedly, “that guilt” often becomes a constant tension in my heart, and I sometimes notice the same in others around me. It’s hard not to be addicted to busyness in today’s society that encourages and rewards a busy lifestyle. We often are guilty of painting those who live life at a slower pace as slackers. “Why can’t so-in-so help with this project? They don’t do nearly as much as I do!”
Over the years, I’ve weighed and prayed through this busyness addiction as deadlines and commitments (self-imposed or otherwise) have pulled me in all directions, pointing away from what matters most — God, family, home, and myself.
If you had asked me this past June what I thought God’s answer to my prayers would be, I would have bet anything He would have offered peace and permission to abandon my work. But God didn’t.
So, if you happened to notice that it’s been a few months since I posted new content, you need to know that instead, I was taking time to readjust and place my weariness and concerns before the Lord in prayer. Repeatedly… And even though life might feel cleaner and less hectic today if I had abandoned this calling. My heart tells me I can’t shut down my blog or ignore my deep passion to continue my work. However, I am shifting my attention toward what serves my family, home, and myself, trying to simplify things as I go.
The benefits of slowing down…
As I’ve worked through my thoughts, praying about my purposefulness and what God has planned for me, here's what stood out from my summertime journal notes and prayers:
Slowing down and gaining perspective can help us become more present in the moment. When we rush through life, we miss the small joys, meaningful connections, and valuable lessons surrounding us. By intentionally slowing down, we can savor the beauty of everyday life, appreciate the people around us, and find gratitude in the little things. In each other.
Gaining perspective also enables us to make better decisions. When we're caught up in the chaos of life, our judgment can be clouded. Taking time to pause and reflect allows us to evaluate situations more objectively. We can see the bigger picture, consider different viewpoints, and make choices that align with our values and goals.
Additionally, pressing pause allows us to recharge and care for ourselves. We must listen to our bodies and minds, recognizing when we need a break. Slowing down allows us to rest, practice self-care, and replenish our energy. By taking care of ourselves first, we can then show up as our best selves for others.
In a world dominated by constant busyness and distractions, pressing pause to slow down and gain perspective is a powerful tool. It allows us to live more intentionally, make better decisions, and care for ourselves. So, taking a deep breath, pressing pause, and watching as the world slows down around us can reveal hidden wonders and opportunities for growth.
Truths discovered…
Perhaps you’ve heard the Dr. Seuss quote from his book Oh, The Places You’ll Go, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.”
Over the summer, that’s precisely what happened. I pressed pause long enough to reassess my goals with GfreeDeliciously and return to what has always been before me.
My short list of unshakeable truths...
I love to write.
I love to cook and…
Tell stories that nourish and inspire… It feels good to share what I’ve learned – To help those who worry about “GUT PAIN” and being “GLUTENED” to stop wasting time trying to figure everything out on their own.
Lastly, I feel called to this service of helping others who want to pursue easy-to-implement lifestyle strategies that promote wellness, gluten-free health, God, and Christian values beyond what they have known.
With God’s help, these truths will unfold for each of these things to continue.
Most importantly, I now understand my emotional and mental capacity better after this time of reflection. I’ve had to let go of much of the information onslaught of current times and focus on what God has put “right in front of me.” You are part of that.
I invite you to join me in these bi-monthly posts here on Substack.
The focus will be on sharing my original easy-to-read essays and what I’m reading, enjoying, exploring, and finding apart from the blog in an organic way – mainly in these categories:
Cook. – Simple and delicious gluten-free recipes, family-friendly meal ideas, healthy cooking…
Eat. – Everyday encouragement, easy-to-implement lifestyle strategies, healthy explorations, et’ cetera…
Discover. - Done-for-you meal plans, devotionals, simple do-it-yourself ideas for building healthy foundations, and practical solutions for living fully nourished…
New Blog Recipe:
Game Day Deliciously Creamy Shrimp Dip
Our deliciously creamy shrimp dip is the perfect appetizer for this time of year. Make it to serve during parties, holidays, or Game Day to impress any crowd. Our lightened-up version bursts with fresh shrimp, creamy Neufchatel cheese, and a medley of flavorful spices. It's a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
The creamy texture and savory flavors combine to create a dip that is rich, luscious, and utterly addictive. Serve it with dippers such as toasted bread, crispy crackers, or crunchy veggies for a crowd-pleasing dish that will disappear in no time.
Whether you're hosting a party, gathering with friends, or simply craving a savory snack, this deliciously creamy shrimp dip will surely score!
Gluten-Free Beer
What’s October and Octoberfest without Gluten-free Beer?
We found an excellent gluten-free beer brewery resource if you live in the U.S. and are looking for gluten-free beers. While the Great American Beer Festival event is past, the searchable listing on the site lets you filter by state and includes direct links to small and independent craft brewer websites.
The Great American Beer Festival is the premier U.S. beer competition, showcasing the finest examples of over 100 beer styles. While this year’s competition and show has passed, it took place October 10th through 12th, 2023, in Denver, Colorado; you can always sign up for their newsletter to stay in the loop.
2023 Gluten-Free Holiday Eating Trends
Can you believe that Thanksgiving Day in Canada is next Monday, and it’s only 34 days away in America? With that in mind, here are five gluten-free trends we're noticing, with a few eating tips that you might find helpful as we head into the holiday season.
Increased awareness and availability: In recent years, there has been a growing awareness and understanding of gluten-related disorders such as celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. This has led to an increase in demand for gluten-free options during the holiday season. As a result, more restaurants, caterers, and food manufacturers are offering gluten-free alternatives to traditional holiday dishes.
Gluten-free recipe adaptations: With the popularity of gluten-free diets on the rise, many recipe developers and food bloggers have been creating gluten-free versions of traditional holiday recipes. This means that individuals following a gluten-free diet can still enjoy festive meals without compromising on taste or texture.
Greater emphasis on whole foods: Many naturally gluten-free foods, such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, and proteins, are perfect for incorporating into holiday meals. Emphasizing these whole foods can make finding suitable holiday options easier for those following a gluten-free diet.
Awareness of cross-contamination: In addition to avoiding gluten-containing foods, people with gluten-related disorders must also be aware of cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and cooking methods. An increased awareness of this issue has prompted many eating establishments to implement better practices to minimize the risk of cross-contamination, ensuring safer options for gluten-free eaters.
Labeling and certifications: Look for certified gluten-free labels and more certifications appearing on packaged foods this holiday season. These labels indicate that the product has been tested and meets specific gluten-free standards. The presence of these labels can help buyers make informed choices when selecting holiday treats and ingredients.
It's important to note that these trends and practices may vary by location and individual preferences. So, if you or someone you know follows a gluten-free diet, it's always a good idea to communicate with hosts, restaurants, or catering services in advance to ensure that suitable options are available.
Worried about navigating the holiday season while sticking to a gluten-free diet? Fret not! Whether planning a trip to visit family or heading on a much-deserved vacation, this article will provide all the essential tips and tricks to ensure a stress-free and gluten-free travel experience. We've got your back – with suggestions that may shorten your learning curve and hopefully save you some time and trouble along the way.
So, pack your bags and get ready to enjoy a joyful and gluten-free holiday season while exploring new destinations or reconnecting with loved ones.
Helping you enjoy Jesus…
No matter where you are on your walk with Jesus, I invite you to grow your relationship and deepen your faith with the following:
Pressing Pause to Rest and Reset -
The concept of "rest" in the Bible often extends beyond physical relaxation or taking a break from work. The passage I’m studying this week in Colossians 4 encompasses a deep spiritual peace, trust, and confidence in God's provision, guidance, and control over our lives. This rest is not just a temporary relief from our daily toils but a constant posture of tranquility in our hearts, grounded in our relationship with God. Therefore, when studying the concept of rest within these verses, it is essential to consider the broader biblical context.
In Colossians 4:2-3 NIV, the passage reads:
"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains."
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
While the term "rest" is not explicitly mentioned in these verses, we can still explore the underlying themes of rest, prayer, and reliance on God's grace found in this passage.
In Colossians 4:2, the apostle Paul encourages the believers to devote themselves to prayer. This devotion to prayer implies a consistent and intentional commitment to communicate with God, seeking His wisdom, guidance, and presence. This regular connection with God through prayer contributes to the cultivation of inner peace and rest in the midst of life's challenges.
Paul also emphasizes that as believers, we should be watchful. This watchfulness refers to being alert, attentive, and discerning in our spiritual lives. It involves being vigilant against the enemy's schemes, the world's distractions, and the allure of sin that can hinder our rest. By remaining watchful, we are better equipped to maintain our focus on God and sustain a state of rest in Him.
Furthermore, Paul encourages thankfulness. Gratitude plays a significant role in our restful relationship with God. When we are grateful for His love, faithfulness, and provision, even in circumstances beyond our control, it helps us maintain the perspective that God is in control and that we can trust Him. Expressing thankfulness fosters a mindset of contentment, which contributes to the overall restfulness of our souls.
In verse 3, Paul also requests the Colossian believers to pray for him and his companions. This request demonstrates Paul's reliance on the intercession of fellow believers, recognizing that prayer is a powerful means through which God works. Paul seeks the opening of a door to share the mystery of Christ while he is in chains. Although he is physically restrained, Paul's heart is at rest because he knows that God is in control of his situation. Paul's example encourages us to rely on God's grace and trust in Him for opportunities to serve and proclaim the Gospel, even amidst challenging circumstances.
While the term "rest" may not be explicitly mentioned in Colossians 4:2-3 NIV, the passage highlights the importance of prayer, watchfulness, thankfulness, and reliance on God's grace. By faithfully seeking God through prayer, remaining watchful, cultivating gratitude, and trusting in His provision, we can find a deep spiritual rest that sustains us through life's challenges and enables us to fulfill our purpose in proclaiming the message of Christ.
More Verses to Explore:
Psalm 131:1-2 NIV, “My heart is not proud, LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have calmed and quieted myself, I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content.”
Jeremiah 6:16 NIV – This is what the LORD says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Matthew 11:28 NIV, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Dear Father in Heaven, thank you for lighting my path. Help me to follow You today and trust You for my future. Amen.
What’s your favorite thing about October?
There’s so much to love about October, even if you’re from an area in the country that doesn’t experience full colors and leaves changing until November. For me, I love just about everything about October, with its cooler temperatures perfect for wearing sweaters and, of course, pumpkin lattes and cranberries coming into season.
Vote for your favorite thing about October in this week’s poll.
Gfree Dad JOKES… 😜
What animal scares someone with celiac the most? …
A RYEnoceros.
Reply to this email with your questions! Or you can always comment below. 🍂
Have a great weekend.
XXO,
- Kymberley
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