Confessions & Chocolate

Episode #050:

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 03:00:10 +0000

]]>

Episode #049:

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:00:18 +0000

]]>

Episode #048:

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 03:00:03 +0000

]]>

Episode #047:

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 03:00:28 +0000

]]>

Episode #046:

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 03:00:04 +0000

]]>

Episode #045: Making Dinnertime a Joy Part 2: Overcome the Whining and End the Food War.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 01:00:36 +0000

Has dinnertime at your home become a battlefield? Feel like a short order cook in your own home…without the tips? If food has become a war between you and your children, it is time to get tough and end the battle. Deb and Heather share proven methods to eliminate whining, refusal to eat, poor table manners, and how to stimulate conversation about more than the ‘yucky’ green peas. Some of these ideas might just help your child learn to love broccoli, and if not, at least you can find ways to hide the broccoli in their food. Laugh with us as you hear stories that just may have been stolen from your kitchen.

Challenge: Choose one of the dinnertime obstacles you are facing and choose a solution to try. Give it a fair shot, at least a week, and really commit to following through. Note any improvement in your kids behavior and mealtimes. Keep trying ideas until you find one that works. Things will not change overnight, but keep the vision of the mealtime you want in mind, and you CAN overcome the food battles.

Chocolate Chip Meringue Bar Cookies- Taste of Home

Chocolate Chip Cookie Batter

3 egg whites

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon salt

¼ cup chopped walnuts

Spread cookie batter in 13×9x2 in. pan. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes or until top is dry. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in brown sugar, vanilla and salt on high speed until stiff peaks form. Spread over warm cookies to within 1” of the edge. Sprinkle with walnuts. Bake for 25 minutes. Cut into 2 dzn bars.

Resources: Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld, Dr Laura Schlessinger

Episode #044: Making Dinnertime a Joy Part 1: What is Your Vision?

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 01:00:32 +0000

When you picture the perfect family dinner, do you see the Cleavers gathered around the table with June in her pearls and heels serving a hearty pot roast and home baked pie to a happy grateful family? That’s not what happens in my house, and probably not yours either. If you want to change dinnertime to a sacred time and bring your family closer together, you need a vision. Listen and be inspired to create a new possibility for your meal time…the kitchen truly is the heart of the home.

Challenge: Spend time talking with your partner about the vision you have for mealtimes in your home. Together enlist your family and children in this vision. Identify major problems your family is having to making this vision a reality, keeping the possibility of a stress free, enjoyable time to gather each evening and talk with those you love the most about their days and the things that are important to them.

Resources: http://fitsugar.com/1078034/print, http://missourifamilies.org/features/nutritionarticles/nut198.htm, http://www.mealsmatter.org

Episode #043: Be Prepared and You Shall Not Fear Part 2: Preparation Eases Desperation

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 01:00:50 +0000

Preparing for a long term disaster can feel just like that…a disaster! Join us with Erika Collins from Emergency Essentials as we identify when we can use long term storage. She also shares great resources on how to plan for our own personal situations. You can create a year supply of food storage on as little as 7.50 per week. Listen in for great tips, inspiration and you just might catch the preparation bug!

Challenge: Assess the needs of your family. Find forms at www.beprepared.com. Decide on a budget amount per month to use for ‘food insurance’ storage. Fill all empty water bottles after use and keep them in a dark, dry place in your home.

Resources: Emergency Essentials, www.beprepared.com, Chocolate Poem by Dee Ann Gillespie

Episode #042: Be Prepared and You Shall Not Fear Part 1: Preparing for 72 Hour Disasters

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 01:00:28 +0000

Join Deb, Heather and special guest Erika Collins from Emergency Essentials as we take a fun and motivated spin on food insurance–or food storage. Learn how a 72 hour kit can be easy to put together, inexpensive, and how vital it can be to your survival.

Challenge: Take inventory of the the food you have on hand. Figure out how long you could eat, not gourmet but well enough to keep healthy. Try on putting your babies to bed hungry for a week to keep you motivated during this challenge.

Recipe:

Chocolate Mousse

2/3 c. cocoa 3 t cornstarch, 1 can evaporated milk, 1 1/3 c. milk, 3/4 c sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, 3-6 T Ultra Gel, 1 t. vanilla

Combine cocoa and cornstarch in a separate bowl. Whisk the evaporated milk into the cocoa mixture until completely smooth. In a large saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Mix well. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, whisking constantly. Remove pan from heat. Whisk cocoa mixture into hot milk mixture. Bring to a boil over medium heat; boil for 2 minutes whisking constantly. Remove pan from heat. Gradually whisk 3 T of the Ultra Gel into 1 c. of hot cocoa mixture. Pour mixture back into pan. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, whisking constantly. If it needs more thickening, add the remaining Ultra Gel. Do not boil. Remove pan from heat. Add vanilla; blend well. Pour mousse into serving dishes. Cover and chill for 1 hour. http://myfoodstoragedeals.blogspot.com

Resources: Emergency Essentials, www.beprepared.com, http://myfoodstoragedeals.blogspot.com

Episode #041: Are You a Pickle Sucker? Part 2: Get Off Your Identity Drug and Give Yourself a Dose of Self-Worth Instead.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 03:00:11 +0000

What is your identity drug? Your home, your yard, trips you take, your children’s accomplishments, relationships you are in? Discover how your addiction to your negative thought patterns drives you to identity drug addiction. Join Heather and Deb in a discussion about how to free yourself from addictive thought patterns and learn how to live joyfully within your means and be content with what you have. Find out how to spend nothing and get everything.

Challenge: Ponder and identify what YOUR identity drug is and reconnect with your divine nature to build an “drugfree” self-esteem.

Recipe: Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Ingredients

16 ounces milk chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening
1 pound fresh strawberries with leaves

Directions

1. Insert toothpicks into the tops of the strawberries.
2. In a double boiler, melt the chocolate and shortening, stirring occasionally until smooth. Holding them by the toothpicks, dip the strawberries into the chocolate mixture.
3. Turn the strawberries upside down and insert the toothpick into styrofoam for the chocolate to cool.

Episode #040: Are You a Pickle Sucker? Part 1: Addiction to Discontented Covetous Thinking is Costing You Money and More.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 03:00:01 +0000

Are you stuck in the cycle of uncontrolled impulses, loss of free will, loss of self-worth, leading to the use of an identity drug? Are you addicted to thought patterns of complaining, fault-finding, or coveting aka are you a Pickle Sucker? This addiction will cost you peace of mind, deep relationships, spiritual energy, and separation from your Creator, as well as lots of hard earned money.

Episode #039: Putting Peace Back in Christmas Part 2 – All I Want for Christmas is . . . Simply Peace

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 03:00:29 +0000

Putting Peace Back in Christmas Part 2 – All I Want for Christmas is . . . Simply Peace

You can simplify Christmas without sacrificing the 5 things that we all want most out of the holidays:
Realistic expectations about gifts
A few well chosen gifts
Relaxed and loving time with the family
An evenly paced holiday season
Strong family traditions

There are ways to bring the joy into the season AND get it all done when you plan together as a family how to incorporate what makes Christmas come alive for each family member from decorations to gifts to religious activities. Learn what Deb did to make gift giving a breeze and created lifelong memories for her family at the same time. We expect too much from Christmas and from ourselves. Remember, no one has the Kodak holiday – except the people who staged the photo shoots in Good Housekeeping! Create your own special rhythm and flare that fits your family to a tee.

Challenge: Don’t expect too much from Christmas. It can’t strengthen your family, lift your spirits in winter, stimulate compassion and generosity, keep tabs on far-flung friends, confirm your deepest religious beliefs AND show off your hostess skills at the same time. Let the holiday evolve with your family’s individual style and do the activities you truly enjoy. Of course that include making fudge!!!

Resources:
Flylady.com
OrganizedChristmas.com
Google: Stress Free Christmas
Unplug the Christmas Machine by Jo Robinson and Jean Staeheli

Episode #038: Overcoming the Hectic Holidays Part 1: Putting the Peace Back in Christmas

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 03:00:20 +0000

For most women, the holidays are a time of joy and family…and stress, overeating and sleep deprivation. And each year we always say things like, Next Year I’ll Be More Organized, or Next Year I Will Feel Less Hectic, or Next Year I Wont Plan So Much to Do. Instead of waiting for next year, listen today and learn ideas to bring more peace to your celebrations this year and make the holidays about family, faith and togetherness. By simplifying and having a clear purpose you can experience a memorable holiday without the chaos.

Challenge: Spend time in quiet thought this week about the upcoming holidays. Decide what is vital and important to you and what you want to accomplish with the holidays.

Next, hold a planning meeting with your family and give everyone a chance to say what they would like to have happen for the holidays. To spark ideas and make it a fun gathering, get out old Christmas photos or family movies to get everyone in the spirit.

Reconcile your ideas with your families since, we all know, you will be the driver behind making the holidays happen in your home. Make a master list and tack it up so you can stay on track. Or if you like to take your organization a step further, check out one of the resources listed below for holiday planners and enjoy sailing through your holidays with plenty of peace, time for quiet, and what matters most.

Resources:

www.flylady.com
www.organizedhome.com search for Christmas
google search ‘stress free Christmas’
‘Unplug the Christmas Machine’ by

Episode #037: Struggling With Juggling Part 2: Your Home or Work Office Space—Create Order from Chaos

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:04:52 +0000

Is you work space chaos causing your distress? Do you procrastinate dealing with the ‘papers’ in your life until they are a mountain of stress? Join Heather and Deb as they learn from Simplification Strategist Debbye Cannon how to create a peaceful and orderly environment in your office or creative space. After listening, you will find you are excited to tackle the mountain of mess in your office! Have Fun!

About Our Guest: Debbye Cannon is the designer of the SMARTcut systems, developed to simplify repetitive activities such as laundry, housekeeping, meals and shopping. She teaches workshops, live retreats, and published ‘Organizing Without Agonizing’, a guide to getting your life in order. You can learn more about Your Meals Simplified and her other organizational systems at businessmommentor.com.

Special Confessions and Chocolate Offer: Receive a discount on Debbye’s next retreat Nov 20-22nd by going to bizmomretreat.com and entering VIP as the promotional code.

Resources: businessmommentor.com, bizmomretreat.com

Episode #036: Struggling With Juggling Part 1: Bringing Simplicity to Your Meal Planning

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 22:54:57 +0000

Are you struggling with juggling the demands of your family, home, and your business work? Enjoy this candid chat with Simplification Strategist Debbye Cannon, founder of Business Mom Mentor. Debbye shares with us her systems to meals and shopping and brings back order to your kitchen. Her ideas are simple and will revolutionize mealtime at your home.

Special Confessions and Chocolate Offer: Receive a discount on Debbye’s next retreat Nov 20-22nd by going to bizmomretreat.com and entering VIP as the promotional code.

Resources: businessmommentor.com, bizmomretreat.com

Episode #035: Protecting the Gift Part 3: Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My! Preparing Your Children for the Dangers in Our World Today

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:00:20 +0000

Just as mothers on the prairie had to protect their children from rattlesnakes, bears, and other dangers in their world, we women of today must keep our children safe from the inherent dangers in our world. Be informed yourself, teach your children, follow safety protocols, and then turn your children over to God – they are His children first. Here are many websites as resources in this journey through the “wilds” of 21st Century living:

www.ncmec.org National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

www.fbi.gov/hq/cid/cac/registry.htm

www.nsopr.gov U.S. Department of Justice National Sex Offender Public Registry

www.ice.gov/graphics/predator/sexoffenders.htm

These sites have teaching tips, safety quizzes for you and your children, and ideas for both of you in being safe and having peace of mind.

Protecting the Gift by Gavin DeBecker

Recipe:

No-Bake Chocolate Pie

7 milk chocolate candy bars chopped
20 large marshmallows
½ cup milk
2 cups whipped topping
1 graham cracker crust

In a heavy sauce pan, combine the candy bars, marshmallows and milk. Cook and stir over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat and cool. Fold in whipped topping and pour into crust. Cover and put in fridge for 4 hours.

Episode #034: Protecting the Gift Part 2: Coping with the Reality of Sexual Predators. 4 Steps to Safety

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 06:00:38 +0000

If you are prepared you shall not WORRY. Heather and Deb take you further into the world of protecting your children through education and action. The best antidote to worry is action. Almost all of the worry parents feel about keeping their children safe evolves from the conflict between intuition and inaction. Learn the steps to eliminate worry, listen to intuition and how to educate your children without making them paranoid.

Challenge: First, when faced with some worry or uncertain fear, here are two questions you can ask.
Am I responding to something in my environment or to something in my imagination?
Is this feeling based on something I perceive in my circumstance, or merely something in my memory?

Secondly, get educated. A great place to start is the book Protecting the Gift by Gavin deBecker. Then educate your children.

Episode #033: Protecting the Gift Part 1: Replace Worry with Intuition to Keep Your Children Safe in Today’s World

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 06:00:57 +0000

The world can be a scary and dangerous place to raise children today. As mothers we are blessed with a special gift to tune into the dangers and replace worry with intuitive action. Join Heather and Deb as they discuss a life-changing book Protecting the Gift and explore how you can let your Wild Brain free to protect your children and let go of your worries. Also learn the important of true fear and how it can move you to action.

Challenge: Commit to really listening to your intuition. Pay attention to that gut feeling you get when something or someone isn’t quite right, and act on it. Trust that you can let go of your worry and be a mother with power and intuition.

Resources: Protecting the Gift by Gavin DeBecker.

Episode #32: When You Wish Upon a Star Part 2: Are You Standing in Your Own Way? Get rid of the excuses and reach your dream.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 06:00:45 +0000

In Part 1 you identified your ‘reasons’ for not achieving your hearts’ desire. Join Heather and Deb as they further explore the reality of how you self-sabatoge your dreams and learn tools to overcome and see breakthroughs every day. Discover how you currently use the methods of Distraction, Procrastination, and Fear to hold back from really going for your desires. And finally, experience a new way to approach your life filled with strength and courage to reach for the stars.

Challenge:
Start observing how you sabatoge yourself and your dreams. Recognize that isn’t you but your ego talking and tell her to take a break. You run the show, not your ego.

“What a wonderful life I’ve had. I only wish I’d realized it sooner”-Colette

Recipe:

Vegan Chocolate Shake

2 banans
1-2 T cocoa powder
2 C soy milk
½ tsp vanilla
1T raw honey
3-4 cups crushed ice

Blend together until thick and enjoy!

Resources: Henry David Thoreau, Simple Abundance by Sara Ban Breathnech, Elder M Russell Ballard in Ensign August 2009

Episode #31: When You Wish Upon a Star Part 1: Is “Goal” a four letter word? What was YOUR childhood dream?

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 06:00:20 +0000

As a child, you believed in dreams and wishes. Do you still? What prevents you from reaching your goals and how can you finally overcome all the ‘reasons’ and excuses that keep you from happiness? Listen as Heather and Deb discuss the reasons we don’t get what we want in life and look at reality: you CAN achieve your dreams. You can have anything you desire, but you must get out of your own way.

Challenge:
Identify one thing you feel a strong desire to achieve. You may have shared this desire with others, or it could be a secret known only to you. Write this desire on the top of a page, and underneath write all the ‘reasons’ and excuses you have given yourself about why you haven’t achieved this dream. Ponder on this and tune in to Part 2 and prepare for serious breakthroughs.

Resources: youtube.com search Nick Voychich

Episode #30: Sharpening Your Saw Part 1-2: How Do I Know When My “Saw” is dull? Ways to Sharpen My “Saw.”

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:37:55 +0000

Do you ever find yourself working harder and harder and getting less and less accomplished? Feeling rushed with no time to breathe? Maybe what you really need is to stop and sharpen your saw. Sharpening your saw is different than merely taking a break or even going on a vacation. That’s just putting the saw down. When you put down a dull blade for a while, the blade will still be dull when you pick it up again. Sharpening your saw is an active step to hone your skills, fill your reservoir, and recharge and refresh yourself. Join Heather and Deb and their guest, Barbara Dunbar, Baby Boomer Coach and Realtor, as they discuss how Barbara sharpened her saw and the difference that has made in her daily life and for her future.

Challenge: What does Sharpening Your Saw look like in your life? Here are some ideas: take a class, join a club, meditate, exercise, write, organize your home or office, go on a date with your sweetheart, improve your food plan, or have a deep and meaningful conversation. Sharpening your Saw is not a once in a lifetime event – or even an annual event. It can be daily or at least weekly – a time to stir your soul and give strength to your spirit. Do it and do it often!

Recipe:
Nonfat Chocolate Sauce
Serve this chocolate sauce over fresh fruit, a frozen dessert, or a slice of bread. It will satisfy your most intense chocolate craving.
Yield: 8 servings
1/2 cup skim milk

1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee (optional)

1/2 teaspoon cornstarch

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup brown sugar

In a small saucepan, combine the milk, coffee, and cornstarch and stir until the cornstarch dissolves. Stir in the cocoa and brown sugar and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and is no longer cloudy. Set aside to cool. Use when cool or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Per Serving: 31 calories

Episode #29: Play Ball!! Part 2: The advantages of Free Play and UNDERscheduling our children.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:14:51 +0000

Hosts Deb White, Heather Johnson, and Carolyn Pennington discuss youth sports in America with Dr. Mary Sara Wells, an expert on the topic. The upsides of participating in team sports. Getting your kids to enjoy physical activity at a young age can develop healthy habits that will continue with them into adulthood. There are many activities that your kid can do besides the traditional sports like basketball and football. For example, skiing, snowboarding, rowing, mountain climbing, biking, lacrosse etc. Other benefits for putting your children is sports is that your children learn how to interact with others and to work together as a team. They also learn how to fail in a controlled environment.

Listen to the show and make comments to get 2 FREE tickets to the upcoming woman’s conference!

Resources:

startupprincess.com
naturallysweetrecipes.com

Episode #28: Play Ball!! Part 1: Have we forgotten the “PLAY” part of that?

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:25:02 +0000

Hosts Deb White, Heather Johnson, and Carolyn Pennington discuss youth sports in America with Dr. Mary Sara Wells, an expert on the topic. It is difficult as mothers to find a balance between keeping our children active and pushing them to hard. Many children’s are so structured with every moment that their is no room for free time and creativity.

Challenge: Take a look at your child’s schedule and see if you are over scheduling their life.

Episode #027 Mother of Bridezilla Part 2: Are Bridezillas born of made? Use the 4 C’s to keep the happiness flowing.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:00:49 +0000

Helping to plan your daughter’s wedding is a significant rite of passage in your life. Tune in to share in the up’s and down’s of wedding planning ala MOB (Mother of the Bride) and learn some powerful strategies to deepen and enrich your bond as mother and daughter through this life changing time. A daughter is a magical thing – if you are blessed to have one, recognize this blessing.

Challenge:

Remember the 4 C’s: Be your daughter’s Cheerleader, Complimenter, Confidante, and Champion!

Episode #026 Mother of Bridezilla Part 1: Whose Wedding is it Anyhow? From “Will You” to “I Do” with your daughter.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:47:10 +0000

So you’ve gotten the amazing news that your daughter is getting married and the joy and happiness is tangible. How do you get from “Will You Marry Me?” to “I Do” and keep that joy and happiness alive and well for both you and your daughter?

Chocolate Recipe:

Another choice chocolate find – Amber Lyn Chocolates. Amber Lyn makes a healthy, yummy chocolate high in anti-oxidants, diabetic safe, all natural, sugar free treat that tastes just the way chocolate should!!! You’ll find it at Costco and Sam’s Club on their road show weeks or visit their website at www.amberlynchocolate.com

Episode #025 Enjoying the Journey of Life Part 2: Stop Multi-Tasking to Recover Your Sanity. Grantitude for each moment brings that illusive serenity.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:48:48 +0000

Instead of always wishing your life were different, what if you had the power to change what you dislike in a snap? All it takes is the right spirit and attitude, sprinkled with some daily gratitude. Start enjoying the ups and downs of your life journey by applying a few simple but revolutionary habits into your daily round. Learn what Deb, Carolyn and Heather have tried that truly helps make each day a bit of heaven. And don’t forget the chocolate!

Challenge: Start of daily Gratitude Journal. Get a beautiful notebook and a pen you love to write with and jot down a few things each day you can be grateful for. This simple task will change your life.

Recipe:

Brookies- by Leslie Knecht

Fudge Brownie Mix
Sugar Cookie Mix
Caramels
Milk

Mix up the brownie and cookie mixes in separate bowls. Grease a 9×13 pan. Pour in the brownie mix. Drop the cookie mix by big spoonfuls over the brownies. Bake following instructions on brownie box. Unwrap and melt caramels, mix in 2-3 T milk and stir until smooth. Pour caramel over cooled brownie/cookie mix. Serve alone or with ice cream. YUM!

Resources:

‘Little House in the Ozarks, A Laura Ingalls Wilder Sampler, The Rediscovered Writings’ edited by Stephen W. Hines.
‘Finding Joy in the Journey’ Ensign November 2009, Thomas S. Monson.
‘Simple Abundance’ by Sarah Ban Breathnach.

Episode #024: Enjoying the Journey of Life Part 1: The Only Time You Have to be Happy is RIGHT NOW!

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:10:45 +0000

Today is truly a present. But how can we live each day so we enjoy the moments along the way instead of always looking back with fondness or looking ahead for what might be? Join Heather, Carolyn and Deb as we share what has worked for us to find joy in the journey, not the destination. Learn tips for living in the present and being happy NOW. And have you always wondered what is most important in life? Tune in to find the answer and lots of laughs.

Episode #023: Soul Purpose in Action: In the Puzzle of Life, You Are the Missing Piece

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:37:42 +0000

Why are you here? What is your soul’s purpose? Are you doing what you were born to do? Join Heather, Deb, and Carolyn and they visit with Rebecca Wood, a woman who has found her soul purpose and is living it with a passion. She will share with you how she uncovered her soul purpose and what barriers she has overcome to become a woman who loves her life.

Challenge:
Send an email to your closest friends, family, and even people who may not like you so well—they will be the most honest! Tell them you are working on discovering your soul purpose and you would like their honest assessment of your strengths and gifts. Things you do well and traits they see in you that help you excel or accomplish in life. You will be uplifted and amazed as the emails come back listing the gifts that others see in you so easily that you just ignore or take for granted. This will be a starting place for you to begin to daydream about what a women living with purpose who has these gifts and strengths would be doing with her life.

Visit www.awakensoulpurpose.com and find out how you can awaken the incredible women you are and start living your soul purpose NOW.

Recipe:
Frozen Chocolate Cheesecake Bites! (www.hungry-girl.com)
(2 Bites: 40 calories, 0g fat, 100mg sodium, 6.5g carbs, 0g fiber, 1g sugars, 2g protein = 1 Point!)??Ingredients:
3/4 cup Cool Whip Free
5 tbsp. fat-free cream cheese; softened
1 tbsp. SPLENDA, Granular
10 tsp. HERSHEY’S Sugar Free Syrup
Directions:
Using a fork, vigorously mix Cool Whip, cream cheese and Splenda until smooth and well blended. Evenly distribute mixture into 10 sections of an ice cube tray. Tap tray firmly on the counter a few times to get mixture to settle flat. Next, top each with a teaspoon of chocolate syrup. Tap tray again to settle. Place tray in freezer until Bites are solid – at least 2 hours. Once frozen, Cheesecake Bites should pop out easily (if not, run the bottom of the tray under the faucet for a few seconds to loosen them). Makes 10 Bites!

Resources:

www.awakensoulpurpose.com

www.hungry-girl.com

Episode #022: Dressing Room Dilemmas – Will That Look Good on Me or Only on the Mannekin? Shopping pointers.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 19:38:39 +0000

Carol Tuttle joins Heather, Deb, and Carolyn for a real live look at how life becomes a delight when you apply Dressing Your Truth principles and honor your own Energy Type. Learn Deb’s biggest type for success in your day, how to simplify shopping for clothes that enhance your self-expression, and how Dressing Your Truth can even help you lose weight. Blow the top off your wardrobe and have fun doing it!!!

Challenge:
Read, It’s Just My Nature, find your energy type and learn how to Dress Your Truth. Have fun with your wardrobe and know that you are worth looking and feeling great every day. You house the divine and every holy house is adorned beautifully and a joy to behold. Don’t wait – start today. Groom and dress complete to shoes for 1 week and see the difference it makes. You’ll be able to answer the door every time it knocks!

Chocolate Recipe:

Coconut Bliss brand vegan ice cream
Made from Coconut Milk and everything organic and comes in Dark Chocolate and Chocolate Hazel Nut. It is truly BLISS!

To learn more about your nature, your energy type, and Dressing Your Truth, visit www.dressingyourtruth.com.

Episode #021: Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat? Dressing to Match Your Energy Profile can make looking in the mirror FUN!

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:22:47 +0000

Do you ever feel like you have plenty on your plate, and do not want one more thing to do?! Even if you believe it is good for you? Join Carolyn, Deb, and Heather as they chat with Carol Tuttle, best selling author, about her new workshop “Dressing Your Truth.” Carol shares why dressing your truth is so important, especially for us women who feel we have a lot on our plates. Carol does not believe that a down economy or a busy life should hold us back. She believes once we understand our true nature and dress our truth we will have an increase in energy and spirit that we can only understand once we’ve
tried it. Listen in on the conversation and learn why you may just want to add one more thing on your plate!

Challenge: Do you notice the difference you feel in your energy and confidence when you take the time to get dressed in nice clothes and put your best foot forward? Our challenge today is to simply invite you to consider if there is another level you can achieve, if dressing well (as opposed to sweats and a pony tail) can make you feel so much better what might happen to your energy, confidence, and spirit if you dress for your energy type and begin to dress your truth?

Episode #020: What is Your Soul Purpose? There Has to Be More Than Paying Bills and Scrubbing Toilets

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 19:56:37 +0000

The 3 Big Questions: Where did I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here?
Join Heather, Deb, and Carolyn’s discussion on Soul Purpose – the unique series of talents, strengths, passions, gifts, interests, hobbies, attitudes and values that form the essence of the most magnificent version of YOU. It is possible to pursue your own individual Soul Purpose while filling your roles as mother, wife, daughter, grandmother, and so on. Learn how to Live and Thrive not just exist and survive. Be the woman who loves your life even while scrubbing toilets!!

Challenge:

Start a list in a journal or notebook of your talents, strengths, and gifts. Keep the list handy so you can add to it as you go about your day and recognize unique things about yourself. Ask God to help you identify what makes you magnificent. Write yourself a litter including this list and mail it to yourself.

Chocolate Recipe:

The Yummiest Muffin Tops Ever – Triple Chocolate Chunk VitaTops, the best part of the muffin! Order from VitaTops.com

To find out more about discovering your Soul Purpose, visit awakensoulpurpose.com.

Episode #019: I Don’t Have Time to Be Sick-I’m The Mom. Tips to Keeping Life Flowing in the Face of Illness

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 23:41:38 +0000

Whether you are dealing with a chronic health situation, or temporary but, or maybe expecting a baby or recovering from delivery, there will be times when you are NOT on top of things physically. Then what happens to your well-orchestrated plan and the flow of your life when mom’s down and out? How can we, as women, navigate these waters and keep them calm instead of dark and stormy? Tune in as our host, Carolyn Pennington, relates her continuing trek towards health and teaches us strategies she’s learned to weather storms when mom is sick.

Challenge: Gather things that give you a lift and place them in a drawer or box to bring out when you are sick or under the weather. Include a favorite movie, a yummy chocolate, special notes from people in your life, a deck of cards, a special poetry book, scented lotion, a candle, soft bedsocks, and anything else that lifts your body, mind, and soul. Add things to this collection when you are drawn to something that nurtures you. And keep the chocolate well stocked!

Recipe: Chocolate Smoothie

1 banana – frozen works great!
3 TBSP Cocoa Powder
1 can coconut milk – found in the Asian food aisle
2 TBSP Honey
2 cups ice cubes

Blend with the LID firmly in place!! Until smooth and frothy.

Episode #018: Proud to Be an American? Fun Ways to Teach Your Children Patriotism and Get Involved in Your Community

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:37:23 +0000

Deb White, Heather Johnson, and guest host Kimberly Small (mother/attorney) talk about what it means to be a Patriot. Teaching your kids to develop love for their country. Do simple things like teaching your kids ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ on a road trip, teach them how to fold the flag, send letters to people in the military. The importance of becoming involved in the community to have your voice heard! A great show for the 4th of July season!

Listen to the whole show to get another great chocolate recipe!

Episode #017: I’m Bored! Beat Kid Boredom with Fun Crafts, Recipes and Activities From Family Fun Magazine

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 23:48:33 +0000

Summer is a magical time of year of kids. No school, no homework, no schedule. But how do you beat the ‘I’m bored!’ summer blues? And how do you stay connected and have fun with your kids after they are grown and moved out? Laugh and learn how to keep your sanity, whether your babies are in preschool, or newlyweds. Senior Associate Editor of FamilyFun Magazine, Ellen Wall, also shares some great craft ideas and easy activities for all ages to keep your kids busy, learning, and having fun all summer long. You will relate to these ideas and surely find some you, and your budget, can live with.

Challenge:
Start a summer bucket list—things you want to do with your kids or family before the end of the summer. Let every family member give ideas. Narrow them down to a manageable list and schedule the activities on the calendar. Then see your summer transform into one anticipated event after another.

Get more family fun ideas by picking up a copy of FamilyFun Magazine or go to FamilyFun.com and subscribe for a year of fun family ideas. You can also usually find copies of FamilyFun at your local library. Don’t forget to comment at the end of this podcast for a chance to win FREE copies of FamilyFun Magazine.

Recipe:
Chocolate-coated mousse-cream cones (Hungry Girl)

2 flat bottom ice cream cones
1 jell-o sugar free pudding snack any flavor
2 T sugar free chocolate syrup, room temp.
½ c. Cool-whip fat free

Put 1 T syrup inside cone until evenly coated and put in freezer.
Put cool-whip and pudding in dish and stir. Chill in freezer 45 min to an hour- but not fully frozen
Spoon cool-whip mixture into cones.
Top each cone with a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Only 84 calories and 1 gram of fat.
Enjoy!

Resources:
www.familyfun.com

Episode #016: Ever Said “I Could NEVER Do That”? From Couch Potato to Marathoner, Achieve Your Fitness Goals with Coach Keena’s Advice

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 01:02:36 +0000

If you want to be a powerful and strong woman, the physical can’t be neglected. Our bodies were made to move and it can be fun! Coach Keena shares her experiences with triathlons and shares ideas on how to get started exercising. Her athletes are women from all walks of life; the soccer mom, business executive, single, married, non-exerciser, competitive athlete. She teaches us how to become and stay motivated to make movement part of our life, and that we are never too old to start learning something new…maybe even tap dancing at age 60! Listen as Heather, Deb and Coach Keena laugh and share ways to get you moving and having fun.

Challenge:
Set a movement goal. Decide one specific thing you can do this week to move more and with more joy. Register for a 5K race or even a full or half marathon! Book that biking tour in Italy you’ve dreamt about, take dance lessons with your husband, hire a coach to get you through your first triathlon. Start where you are and make your goal a reality!

Go to Coach Keena’s website at www.coachkeena.com. Check out her online training tools and live classes customized just for women. Take your training to the next level and maybe even become and IronWoman!!

Recipe:
Upside Down Chocolate Cream Pie from Hungry Girl
1 Jell-O Sugar Free Chocolate Pudding Snack
1 sheet (4 crackers) low-fat honey graham crackers crushed
2 T Cool Whip Fat Free

Line bottom of small dish with whipped topping. Even spoon pudding on top. Cover with crushed graham crackers. Voila!

Resources:
www.coachkeena.com

The Biggest Loser

www.hungry-girl.com

‘Running with Angels’

Episode #015: If Hunger is Not the Problem, Eating is Not the Solution. Healthy Ways to Improve Your Relationship to Food

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:25:33 +0000

You have one constant address – the house you live in – your body. Your body is the tool through which you do your life’s work. How well are you keeping up on your “house work” and how are you taking care of your most important “tool”? Heather and Deb explore the reasons we all know more than we do when it comes to caring for our bodies. Eating was planned to be one of life’s sublime simple pleasures. But if hunger is not the problem, eating is not the solution. Hear some strategies for small changes that will help you eat when hungry, sleep when tired, and nurture yourself in healthy, fun ways that an M n M couldn’t hope to do for you!

Challenge: Make small healthy changes and add new ones each week. A power nap, drinking 6 glasses of water/day, switch to butter spray, try a new healthy food like quinoa or Greek yogurt, join a club that calls to you, take a class you’ve always wanted to try.

Chocolate Recipe: Painted Apricots

½ cup finely chopped pistachios
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
24 dried apricots

Melt the chocolate in a glass bowl. Hold apricots from one end and dip them one at a time into the chocolate, coating about ¾ of the apricot. Dip the tip of the apricot into the chopped pistachios. Place on a waxed paper coated cookie sheet and let set about 1 hour. Can be stored in a container separated by waxed paper about 2 weeks in the fridge.

Resources:

Weight Watchers International 1-800-651-6000
www.awakensoulpurpose.com
Simple Abundance, Sarah Ban Breathnach

Episode #014 Fashion Challenged? Learn from Carol tuttle How to Dress Your Truth and Look Fabulous Every Day

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 22 May 2009 01:00:56 +0000

Have you ever wondered why some women have such a great sense of style and always look so ‘together’? Do you often stand at your closet and feel like you’ve ‘nothing to wear’? Join author Carol Tuttle and your hosts Heather and Deb as we learn how to follow our true nature and dress for our energy type. Your clothing and your appearance speaks for you before you open your mouth, and with Carol’s knowledge in energy work and her incredible experience you will learn to show the world, and yourself, how beautiful you truly are.

Challenge:
Find out your energy profile by visiting www.myenergyprofile.com. It will change the way you see yourself and the world around you, and improve your relationships with a new understanding and appreciation for the unique differences in every person you interact with. ALSO, comment on the show for a chance to win a copy of Carol Tuttle’s new book, ‘It’s Just My Nature’.

About Our Guest:
Carol Tuttle is the author of the groundbreaking new book ‘It’s Just My Nature’ and the spiritual self-help book ‘Remembering Wholeness’. Carol is a leader in the areas of Energy Psychology, EFT and Energy Medicine. Find out more about Carol and her Dress Your Truth live and online courses at www.myenergyprofile.com.

Recipe:
Chocolate Crepes, Johnson Style

1 can CHOCOLATE sweetened condensed milk
1 C flour
6 eggs
½ tsp salt
add water to desired consistency

Mix all ingredients in a blender of kitchenaid mixer.
Pour, eat with coolwhip or powdered sugar sprinkled on top.
Makes 8-10

Resources:
‘It’s Just My Nature’ by Carol Tuttle, www.myenergyprofile.com, www.caroltuttle.com, Dress Your Truth

Episode #013 It’s Just My Nature. Join Carol Tuttle and Learn How to Have More Fun Being You.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 15 May 2009 23:53:10 +0000

Human Nature – what is it? Why are you “a natural” at some things? Can you easily recognize your strengths as gifts? Join Heather and Deb as they chat with best selling author, Carol Tuttle, about her latest groundbreaking book, It’s Just My Nature! Find out what Energy Type you are, how to live in harmony with yourself first and then others, and just plain have more fun being you! Find out how to “be in your element” and love it.

Challenge: Examine your life – get to know the amazing unique person that you are. Use tools available to help you. Go to Carol Tuttle’s websites and see if it just might be Your Nature! Find out what Energy Type you are.

Recipe:
Le Chocolat French Toast
Next time you make French Toast add these 4 ingredients to the eggs and milk for a chocolate treat!

3 Tablespoons of Sugar or 4 packets of Splenda
2 Tablespoons of Cocoa
1/8 teaspoon of Salt
1/4 teaspoon of Cinnamon

HYPERLINK www.caroltuttle.com
HYPERLINK www.myenergyprofile.com

Books

It’s Just My Nature! by Carol Tuttle

Episode #012: “BUT” is Killing Your Relationships: Strengthen Communication and Understanding with Powerful Listening and Questions

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 15 May 2009 19:18:44 +0000

Deb and Heather teach you how to walk emotionally with others when they bring their problems to you. Learn the two words to avoid and the three magic words that will help people in your life feel listened to, understood, and supported. It’s that easy – in five words you can open up lines of communication that may have been shut down for years, deepen your relationship with loved ones AND show your support and confidence in their ability to find the solutions perfect for their own lives. Totally Win/Win!!!

Challenge of the Week: When anyone brings a problem to you this week, be most eloquent and respond with “Oh”, move on to “Hmmm” and end with “Wow”. See how much more understood everyone will feel in your presence. And remember: NO “Buts” about it and never ask “Why”.

Recipe: Chocolate Fondue – warm chocolate brings out the flavor even more!

For a really fast chocolate fix, break a bar of good quality chocolate into pieces and put into a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup (a small Pyrex bowl is great). Melt the chocolate completely, stirring periodically until it is smooth. You can dip strawberries, apple or banana chunks, cubes of pound cake, brownie chunks, pretzels, or marshmallows into the chocolate for an impromptu fondue.

Books:

I Don’t Have To Make Everything All Better, Gary and Joy Lundberg

Episode #011: What Do You Want to be When You Grow Up? Being a Woman Entrepreneur and Achieving Success in a Competitive World

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Sat, 02 May 2009 00:00:09 +0000

Women are taking the business world by storm as they become entrepreneurs and begin to share their expertise and knowledge with the world. Guest hosts Mieka Barlow and Natalie Erickson join Deb and Heather and share their secrets to success in their Xocai healthy chocolate business. Learn about how to be successful in business and life with the three c’s: Consistency, Confidence, Commitment. Start something new, or be motivated to keep your business going with this fun and lively discussion. Who knew healthy chocolate could be such fun…and yummy!

Challenge: What do you want to be when you grow up? Start daydreaming and really let it fly. No matter your age you can start something new. Maybe you start your novel, hug you kids a little more often, start meditation daily, or apply for that small business loan. They sky is the limit. Go for it today!

Resources: www.womeninchocolate.com, Xocai Chocolate

Episode #010: Are You a Control Freak? How to Allow Others to Own Their Problems and Increase Your Peace

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 22:18:50 +0000

Listen to Heather and Deb as they ask “Whose problem is it anyway?” Learn ways to keep the responsibility for the problems in life where they belong. You don’t have to be the Manager of the Universe – Customer Service Department. You can become a master validator instead. Now that’s a load we can all carry with style.

Challenge of the week: Be on the alert for any problem hand-offs this week. Become aware of times when others try to get you to take their problem and make it your own or better still – times when you are trying to horn in on someone else’s problem.

Recipe:

Fast Fudge

4 ounces cream cheese
2 cups powdered sugar
½ cup cocoa powder
½ cup chopped walnuts – optional

Mix ingredients in a Zip Loc baggie until well combined. Flatten out in bag. Chill for 1 hour in fridge. Eat and enjoy.

Book: I Don’t Have To Make Everything All Better, Gary and Joy Lundberg

Making Love Work, Barbara DeAngelis

Love and Logic, Jim Fay

“The Mexican”, movie with Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts

Episode #009: Vacations Can Improve Your Sex Life! Why You Should Vacation Often and How to Afford It on Any Budget

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:27:31 +0000

Vacations are vital to your health and emotional well-being and you are worth it! Stop waiting and start balancing work and play–vacation now! Learn how to take care of yourself with vacations and time to relax and unwind. Special guest Travel Guru Leslie Knecht shares her favorite tips on affordable travel.

Challenge: Set up a travel account, sign up for travel websites, make a travel vision board and PICK A DATE!

References: citydeals.com, cruise.com, google.com to look for coupon codes, marriott.com, southwest.com -download the ding deals, about.com, AAA card

Episode #008: Are YOU on Today’s To-Do List? Take Care of Yourself Without Guilt

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 21:18:58 +0000

Do you fit everyone into your schedule – except you? Remember the oxygen mask instructions on the airplane – put your mask on first before you help someone traveling with you. Why? You are no good to anyone passed in the seat next to them! You can’t pour from an empty pitcher. God never meant for you not to get any of your own birthday cake. He’s watching with great interest to see how you enjoy the blessings he creates for you every day – blessing for you, not just blessings to channel through you to others. Just for you. Time for you, solitude to enjoy being born to this fabulous life.

Challenge of the week: Plan and carry out a 10-15 mini-vacation just for you several days this week. Observe how your day goes. The unexamined life is not worth living. Examine yours today!

Recipe:

Personal Mug Triple Chocolate Cake 123 Calories and 2 Weight Watcher Points

2 TBSP Pillsbury Moist Supreme Reduced Sugar Devil’s Food Cake Mix
2 TBSP Cool Whip Free, thawed
1 TBSP FatFree Vanilla Yogurt
1 TBSP FatFree Sugar Free Chocolate Syrup

Stir Cool Whip and ½ the syrup and place in the freezer. In a mug sprayed with cooking spray, mix cake mix and yogurt until smooth. Microwave on high for 1 minute. Cool for 5 minutes. Spread chocolate mixture from freezer on cake and drizzle the rest of the syrup on top. ENJOY!!

Episode #007: Multi-tasking is Making You Crazy. How to Restore Serenity to Your Life.

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:45:58 +0000

As a woman you play many roles each day. It is easy to feel overwhelmed and lose yourself in the attempt to juggle them all. How do you balance all your many roles, and is it even possible? Is balance in life a myth, or can we achieve peace? Learn specific ways to add depth to your time and enjoy the simple and stolen moments of happiness. Join your host Heather as she shares ideas about how to take back your power and find that elusive balance in your life.

Challenge: Today concentrate slowly on completing one task at a time, every hour of the day, until the day is over. You will gain the inner peace that comes from living fully in the present moment. I promise you will accomplish all you set out to do and need to do with much more ease, efficiency, pleasure, and satisfaction when you merge mind, body, and spirit with the task at hand.

Recipe: Yum Yum Brownie Muffins-Hungry Girl Cookbook (Listen to the show to get the recipe)

References: The 5 Laws That Determine All of Life’s Outcomes, Flylady.com, Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy

Episode #006 – Design a Nurturing Home in a Crazy World: Tips to Keeping Your Sanity as a Mother

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 20:07:34 +0000

Children. Kids. Our little ones. Whether young or grown, they will always be our babies. We love them, would give our lives for them, but being a parent sure isn’t an easy task! Join host Carolyn as she shares parenting ideas and strategies to keep yourself from losing it in those difficult moments and to nurture your children’s spiritual needs. As women and mothers we have power inside our homes to create the world… through our children. Focus on the positive in your children and praise the good they do each day. You are raising our world’ future leaders and we have the power to bless our little ones with the tools they need to be people of character.

Challenge: Register for the FREE parentwithpurpose.com reading program for your younger children (under age 8). Go home this week and find ways to shower your children and spouse with love. Tell them you love them, acknowledge the good they do, and give a bit more positive praise.

References: parentwithpurpose.com free reading program, The Power of Positive Parenting by Dr. Glenn Latham

Episode #005: Ignite the Fire in Your Empty Nest and Find the Joy in Life Now

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:00:35 +0000

If you are not yet, one day you’ll be an “Empty Nester”. Tune in as Deb shares her experience of renegotiating marriage after the kids are grown. Listen as the hosts talk about ways to prepare now by getting better acquainted with yourself, your partner, your interests and hobbies, and deciding to embrace whatever season of life you find yourself in right now.

Challenge: Write a letter to your husband or partner telling him all the wonderful things he does to make your life better. Really think outside the box and include everything you can to be grateful for about your spouse. Then give it to your partner and watch the sparks fly!

Recipe: 1 Minute Mug Brownies

Spray the inside of a mug with cooking spray.

Combine well in mug:

2 TBSP Fat Free Brownie Mix

4 TBSP Water

Cook on high for 1 minute in microwave.

Let cool.

Top with Fat Free Caramel or Chocolate Syrup and Cool Whip.

References: Bonds that Make us Free by C. Terry Warner

Episode #004: Men are Simple-Love is Tough: How Simple Changes Can Renew Your Relationships

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 20:33:44 +0000

Find the joy in your relationships with the men in your life when you come to realize the power you have to change your attitude and your camera lens on life. Learn how to stop feeling like a victim and choose the happiness that is in front of you.

Challenge: Fill your basket with the Easter Eggs of life, and look for the good things your partner does. Choose the life you are living and find the power that comes with that choice.

References: ‘The Proper Care and Feeding of Husbands’ and ‘Woman Power’ by Dr. Laura Schlessinger, Landmark Education

Episode #003: Create Your Life with Power and Excitement

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00:57 +0000

Is there life after “I DO”? Is your life today the way you pictured it would be 10 years ago? If you feel like you’re caught in Ground Hog Day and life seems to have lost its excitement, listen to Heather’s story of forgetting to make life plans beyond her wedding day. You were born to create throughout your life in all stages. Hear ideas for discovering your talents and gifts and using them creatively every day.

Challenge – Try something different – create a beautiful space. Create a smile, make a small difference. Create something that didn’t exist before.

References – “Happiness, Your Heritage” by Dieter Uchtdorf
My Podcast Alley feed! {pca-c9256b49e0ae94d33c5ee6006c2f05e7}

Episode #002: Myths and Urban Legends of New Year’s Resolutions

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 22:21:51 +0000

Don’t make the kind of resolutions this year that 30 percent of us break by the end of January. Listen and learn how to make the doable kind like: go to a movie once a week, gain weight, eat more ice cream, have friends over every month. Hear Carolyn’s story of losing herself in the “perfect life” and finding herself again as she creates a life of joy not perfection.

Challenge: Choose something significant to do for yourself each day for at least 15 minutes to create the life you envision. These may be things like writing, playing piano, going for a walk, meditating. Evaluate each night how well you did—but don’t beat yourself up if you only got in 5 minutes or none at all. Your goal is to take action! Start today!

Episode #001: Meet The Powerhouse Women of Confessions and Chocolate

info@spongenetworks.com (Sponge Networks) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 17:37:40 +0000

Welcome to C&C. Hear the hilarious story of how Confessions and Chocolate was named and meet the hosts, Deb, Carolyn, and Heather. Listen to Deb White’s inspiring story. Laugh and cry with us about her struggles and triumphs with weight-loss and how she discovered the power within, and how you can too.

Challenge: Who are you, really? Write down WHO YOU ARE. You can not identify yourself in relationship to another person (ie: I am Bobby’s Mom). Really explore who you are—this can be very revealing and help you define who you want to become.