Category: health

Being open to let God work!

Today on The Morning Thing, we focused on Serendipity Day! We looked at it through a Christian lens as we know God works in incredible and surprising ways, and we came up with 8 things each of us can work on to be more open to this kind of God!

Recognizing and being open to a serendipitous God — one who moves in unexpected, surprising, and grace-filled ways — involves cultivating a mindset, a heart posture, and some daily practices that create space for divine presence in the ordinary and the unforeseen. 

Here are some of the best ways to open yourself to this: 

1. Practice Attentiveness 

  • Slow down: Serendipity is often missed in busyness. 
     
  • Cultivate a habit of noticing: small joys, coincidences, encounters, beauty, and nudges that may be divine in nature. 
     
  • Ask: “What is this moment trying to show me about God?” 
     

“Earth’s crammed with heaven, and every common bush afire with God; but only he who sees takes off his shoes.” 
— Elizabeth Barrett Browning 

2. Let Go of the Need for Control 

  • Be willing to release rigid expectations about how God “should” act. 
     
  • Stay open to mystery, ambiguity, and the unconventional. 
     
  • Recognize that interruptions may be invitations, and detours may be sacred. 
     

3. Cultivate Wonder and Curiosity 

  • Instead of seeking answers, seek encounter. 
     
  • Be curious: Why did that person come into my life? What is unfolding here? 
     
  • Welcome the unexpected with openness rather than fear. 
     

4. Engage in Reflective Prayer or Journaling 

  • Ask questions like: 
     
  • Where did I see God today? 
     
  • What surprised me? 
     
  • What felt like more than coincidence? 
     
  • Keep a “God of Surprises” journal. 
     

5. Trust in Divine Timing 

  • A serendipitous God is often a God of timing, not just outcomes. 
     
  • Learn to embrace delays, disruptions, and waiting as potentially sacred pauses. 
     

6. Surround Yourself with Stories of Serendipity 

  • Read scripture with a lens for divine surprise (e.g., Ruth meeting Boaz, Paul’s detour to Macedonia, Mary’s unexpected yes). 
     
  • Listen to the testimonies of others and how God met them unexpectedly. 
     

7. Be Willing to Act on Gentle Nudges 

  • When you feel prompted to reach out, speak up, help, pause — do it. 
     
  • Serendipity often requires participation. 
     

8. Hold Theology Loosely, Hold God Tightly 

  • God is not always confined to our doctrines or expectations. 
     
  • Stay rooted in God’s love and character, but allow the form of His movement to surprise you. 

To learn more about Serendipity Day, click HERE!

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WNZR talks with members of the TAC about the annual Color for a Cause Race!

We got to chat with several members of the Teen Advisory Counsel about their program and the upcoming Color Run! Their members tell us all about the TAC, why they are involved, and they highlight the fun event coming this weekend!

To learn more about the TAC or their Color Run, click HERE!

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Life Does Not Have an Easy Button!

However, it would make life a lot easier right?

Life hacks are basically clever tips or tricks that make everyday tasks easier and help you manage your time better. They’re all about making life run a little more smoothly.

On the Morning Thing Thursday, Eric shared a number of lifehacks that don’t require memorizing a Tik Tok, Reel or watching a 500 step video on YouTube. 😊

  • Use Binder Clips to Organize Cables

Clip them to the edge of your desk and thread cables through the metal arms to keep them tangle-free and within reach.

  • Put Wooden Spoon Over Boiling Pot

Placing a wooden spoon across a boiling pot prevents it from boiling over. The spoon breaks the surface tension and keeps the foam down

  • Dryer Sheets in Shoes or Luggage for Freshness

Slip a dryer sheet into your shoes, suitcase, or gym bag to keep them smelling fresh.

Click HERE for more life hacks!

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Spreading Positive Vibes on Good News Tuesday!

On The Morning Thing on WNZR Tuesday, co-host Eric Brown shared a series of uplifting, encouraging, and downright cool stories as part of our Good News Tuesday.

Throughout the morning, we brought you heartwarming and positive news stories designed to brighten your day and lift your spirits.

Sharing good news helps balance the often overwhelming stream of negative headlines, offering hope and reminding us that there is still kindness, progress, and joy in the world. It can inspire positive action, improve mental well-being, and foster a sense of community and resilience.

We featured a variety of these inspiring stories all morning long to bring encouragement and a smile to your face:

🧠 Wisdom Teeth and Stem Cells – Who Knew?
Turns out those pesky wisdom teeth we all dread might be way more useful than we thought. Researchers in Spain have discovered that the soft center inside wisdom teeth—called dental pulp—contains powerful stem cells that could one day help heal bones, hearts, and even brain tissue. These cells can actually turn into neuron-like cells that show electrical activity, similar to real brain cells. Scientists are even testing them in mice with heart issues, and early results look promising. And the best part? Since over 10 million wisdom teeth are pulled each year, collecting them could be as easy as tossing them in a vial and sending them off to a lab. So before you toss yours in the trash, you might want to think twice—they could be your body’s future backup plan.

🎓 Small Town, Big Scholarships
In Swanville, Minnesota—a tiny town of just 328 people—graduation means more than just a diploma. Every single year for the past 30 years, the whole town has chipped in to raise money for scholarships for its seniors. Think chili cookoffs, bingo nights, bake sales—you name it. What started as a $166 gift back in the day just hit new heights: This year, one lucky grad walked away with $5,000. That’s a whole semester of college, right there. It’s more than just money—it’s about making sure their kids know they’re supported, wherever life takes them. In Swanville, it’s clear: once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog.

🥾 Detention? Let’s Take a Hike
At Morse High School in Maine, detention looks a little different. Forget sitting in a classroom staring at the wall—here, misbehaving students can choose “hiking detention.” That’s right. If you skip class or mouth off to a teacher, you might find yourself lacing up your boots and heading into the woods. School counselor Leslie Trundy came up with the idea after an outdoor ed conference, and now it’s a hit. Students say the walking clears their heads and helps them think straight. Not everyone’s sold—some parents think it’s too soft—but the kids are showing up, breathing fresh air, and maybe even learning a thing or two. Sounds like a win.

Click HERE for more POSITIVE stories from the Good News Network!

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Today is World Chocolate Day! Let’s celebrate!

Do you love chocolate? 🙂 WE DO!
Today, we celebrated the history of this sweet treat and shared some tips on how to make your chocolate habit healthier.

The history of chocolate goes back around 2,500 years. The Aztecs loved their newly discovered liquid chocolate. Cocoa seeds even acted as a form of currency.
Chocolate took a turn and went sweet in a 16th Century Europe.

Cadbury began in England by 1868. And then 25 years later Milton S. Hershey, purchased chocolate processing equipment at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, he is now one of the biggest and world-known chocolate creators in the world.

Click HERE to see a more complete history of Chocolate and some fun facts to share with other chocolate lovers.

Did you know that chocolate can be good for you? We found 10 Ways to Make Your Chocolate Habit Healthier from AARP. Click HERE to access the full article. You should be intentional about your choices, but hey! Let’s eat some chocolate and feel good about it!

1. Pay attention to ingredients

2. Look for at least 70 percent cocoa or cacao

3. Be aware of good — and bad — additions

4. Opt for lower sugar

5. Seek out higher fiber

6. Pay attention to serving sizes

7. Know the buzzwords

8. Consider the origin of your chocolate

9. Learn to love dark chocolate

10. Go beyond the bar

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What are you making for the 4th of July?

Tomorrow is Independence Day! Are you looking for something to take to your picnic? Or family reunion?

The Morning Thing crew found 6 easy and festive recipes that are perfect for your 4th of July. These are simple to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and full of summer flavor! Check them out!

If you try one of these recipes, let us know what your family thinks and share their reviews. Email us at wnzr@mvnu.edu Also, send us a picture! 🙂

Have a wonderful 4th of July!

1. Red, White & Blue Fruit Skewers

Ingredients:

  • Strawberries (halved)
  • Blueberries
  • Marshmallows (or banana slices)
  • Wooden skewers

Instructions:
Thread strawberries, blueberries, and marshmallows onto skewers in a red-white-blue pattern. Serve chilled for a refreshing and patriotic snack.

🌭 2. Grilled Hot Dog Bar

Ingredients:

  • Hot dogs & buns
  • Assorted toppings: ketchup, mustard, relish, diced onions, sauerkraut, shredded cheese, chili

Instructions:
Grill hot dogs until heated through and lightly charred. Set up a toppings bar so guests can customize their own!

🥔 3. Easy Ranch Potato Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs baby red potatoes (boiled & quartered)
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients together and chill for at least 1 hour. Garnish with extra green onions or bacon bits if desired.

🍔 4. Mini Cheeseburger Sliders

Ingredients:

  • Slider buns
  • Ground beef patties (small)
  • Cheese slices
  • Pickles, ketchup, mustard

Instructions:
Grill or pan-cook small beef patties. Assemble with cheese and toppings on slider buns. Serve warm with toothpicks to hold together.

🍉 5. Watermelon Feta Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups cubed watermelon
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:
Toss watermelon with feta and mint. Drizzle with lime juice and chill before serving.

🍰 6. No-Bake Berry Icebox Cake

Ingredients:

  • 1 box graham crackers
  • 2 cups whipped topping
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries
  • 1 cup blueberries

Instructions:
Layer graham crackers, whipped topping, and berries in a 9×13 dish. Repeat layers. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight to set.

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Are you ready for some Family Fun this 4th of July?

The Morning Thing is here to help!

Check out these FUN Ideas for some Family Fun this Independence Day!

🎆 Outdoor Activities

  1. Watch a Fireworks Show – Find a local display or do a small, safe one at home.
  2. Backyard BBQ or Picnic – Grill out classic American favorites.
  3. Decorate Bikes for a Parade – Host a mini neighborhood bike parade.
  4. Play Lawn Games – Cornhole, horseshoes, sack races, or a water balloon toss.
  5. Go to a Local Festival – Many towns host 4th of July events with food and games.
  6. Camp Out in the Backyard – Stargaze, tell stories, and enjoy s’mores.
  7. Host a Water Day – Sprinklers, slip n’ slide, kiddie pools, or a water balloon fight.

🎨 Creative Fun

  1. DIY T-Shirts or Tie-Dye – Use red, white, and blue to make festive shirts.
  2. Patriotic Face Painting – Stars, stripes, and sparkles!
  3. Make 4th of July Crafts – Flags, pinwheels, or paper fireworks.
  4. Decorate the Yard or House – Let the kids help with flags and streamers.

🍓 Food-Focused Fun

  1. Bake Patriotic Treats – Star-shaped cookies, flag fruit pizza, or red/white/blue Jello cups.
  2. Create a Hot Dog or Ice Cream Bar – Let everyone build their own.
  3. Make Homemade Lemonade or Snow Cones – Perfect for hot weather.

🧠 Quiet or Indoor Options

  1. Watch an Independence Day-Themed Movie – Ideas: National Treasure, The Sandlot, or Liberty’s Kids for younger viewers.
  2. Read Books About America – Great for young kids to learn about history.
  3. Play Patriotic Music and Sing Along – Teach classic American songs.

🏃‍♂️ Get Moving

  1. Do a Family Walk or Bike Ride – Explore a park or trail.
  2. Join a Fun Run or Parade – Many towns host family-friendly events.
  3. Scavenger Hunt with a Red, White & Blue Theme – Use household or nature items.

Want to know WHERE and WHEN to see fireworks this year?
Thanks to Knox Pages for this very informative list of Fireworks Displays and events happening around the Knox County Area! Click HERE to see their list of events for the 4th of July Weekend.

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Are you taking care of yourself?

On The Morning Thing today, we highlighted self-care! We shared some great insights from Focus On The Family about what self care actually is. Then we jumped into some tips on how to uphold your self-care from the Positivity Blog! They are both great reads that are sure to help you wind down this summer!

To learn more about self care, click HERE!

If you want to see the tips, click HERE!

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National Real Food Day!

Today on The Morning Thing, we celebrated National Real Food Day by sharing many food related topics! Including what National Real Food Day is, Real Food vs Fake Food, and some foods you’ve probably been storing wrong in your house.

What is it?

We talked a little bit about what it is, the history behind it, as well as how to celebrate it!

For more on that, click HERE!

Real Food vs Fake Food

Real Foods (Whole, Natural, Minimally Processed)

· Fresh fruits (apples, bananas, berries, oranges)

· Fresh vegetables (spinach, carrots, broccoli, tomatoes)

· Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats)

· Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds)

· Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)

· Fresh meat, poultry, fish (unprocessed cuts)

· Eggs (preferably free-range or organic)

· Dairy (plain milk, plain yogurt, cheese with minimal ingredients)

· Natural oils (olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil)

· Fresh herbs and spices

· Water

—

Fake Foods (Highly Processed, Artificial, or Industrial)

· Soda and sugary soft drinks

· Packaged snacks (chips, cheese puffs, snack cakes)

· Instant noodles or ramen with seasoning packets

· Processed meats (hot dogs, some deli meats, chicken nuggets)

· Artificial sweeteners and sugar substitutes

· Candy bars and chocolate with added chemicals and fillers

· Fast food burgers and fries

· Frozen meals with preservatives and additives

· Highly refined baked goods (white bread with preservatives, packaged cakes)

· Margarine and hydrogenated oils (trans fats)

· Artificial flavorings, colorings, and preservatives

· Energy drinks and powdered drink mixes

Foods you’ve been storing wrong!

Finally we talked about some of the foods we all have and how you may be storing them all wrong! This will help you make your food last longer.

To view that list, click HERE!

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