It’s Chocolate Cupcake Day! Celebrate with The Morning Thing 10/18/16

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Chocolate Cupcake Day – 18th Oct, 2016

“I’ve never met a problem a proper cupcake couldn’t fix.”
― Sarah Ockler, Bittersweet

(From www.daysoftheyear.com) You know what’s better than a cake? Chocolate cake. You know what’s better than chocolate cake? A chocolate cupcake. That’s right, while we absolutely adore our cake, there’s a certain tug of delightful selfishness in a cake you can consume all to yourself, letting you revel in a little piece of gluttony. Chocolate Cupcake Day reminds us that sometimes it is more than acceptable to have a piece of confectionary delight that we simply don’t share with another, so find yourself a cupcake and make it disappear, just be sure it’s chocolate!

History of Chocolate Cupcake Day
Chocolate Cupcake Day was established to celebrate that most perfect form of the Cupcake, the Chocolate Cupcake. Cupcakes are called by many names throughout the world, our personal favorite would have to be the term “Fairy Cake” from the British. The origin of the cupcake seems to go back as far as 1796, where cakes cooked in small cups were first mentioned, and the actual term cupcake was first seen in Eliza Leslie’s cookbook.

So popular is the idea of a personal cake, a cake of diminutive size, that there have been many different variations on both the style and technique. The invention of the microwave has even created recipes that enable you to mix and cook a cupcake in less than five minutes! Talk about the perfect cake, is there anything better than unabashedly delicious instant gratification? We don’t think so!

Cupcakes are really all about the size of the end result, not the method of getting there, and Chocolate Cupcake Day tells you to indulge in every variation, as long as it contains chocolate!

How to celebrate Chocolate Cupcake Day
Indulge yourself in the most delicious of cupcakes, the chocolate cupcake when Chocolate Cupcake Day comes around. It should hardly require any encouragement to have you scarfing up all the delicious chocolate cupcakes you can find, and on Chocolate Cupcake Day, there is certainly nothing wrong with indulging in chocolate cupcakes at every meal!

Click HERE to see 50 of the BEST cupcake recipes! You will want to head to the kitchen and start baking (and eating) after reading these.

Our favorites:
S’mores Cupcakes

Snickers Chocolate Cupcakes

Salted Dark Chocolate Cupcakes

Chocolate Swirled Peanut Butter Blast Cupcakes

Mint Chocolate Andes Candy Cupcakes

 

 

It is National Boss’s Day! Join the celebration with The Morning Thing 10/17/16

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NATIONAL BOSS’S DAY  is a day when employees across the United States show appreciation and thankfulness to their bosses for being kind and fair throughout the year. National Boss’s Day usually falls on the 16th of October, but if 10/16 falls on a weekend, this day is celebrated on the closest working day.

HOW TO OBSERVE – Show your boss some appreciation and use #BossDay to post on social media.

HISTORY – National Boss’s Day, also known as National Boss Day or Bosses Day, is a holiday that began in 1958.  Patricia Bays Haroski worked as a secretary for State Farm Insurance Company in Deerfield, Illinois when she registered “National Boss’s Day” with the United States Chamber of Commerce.  She selected October 16 because it was her father’s birthday and at the time, he was also her employer! It was four years later, in 1962, that Illinois Governor, Otto Kerner, backed Haroski’s registration and officially proclaimed Boss’s day. In 1979, Hallmark Cards introduced Boss’s Day cards to their inventory. There are over 1,200 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day with National Day Calendar!

We also want to salute working Moms today. We know that it is difficult to find balance between the responsibilities at the office and the responsibilities at home. Kara Gorski is a blogger that shares a list of 19 simple rules to succeed as a working mother that will transform you day and your career. She shares famous quotes from Eleanor Roosevelt for each of these rules. Click HERE for the complete article.

19 Rules To Succeed As A Working Mother … thank you Eleanor Roosevelt.

Rule #1: Be confident. Don’t let your colleagues make you feel inferior. Prepare yourself well enough to wear your confidence boldly. As Eleanor said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

Rule #2: You won’t be able to control all the things – how other people act, decisions by colleagues and bosses. Mistakes will be made. What you can control instead is how you react to those things. So, show up with a calm and reasoned demeanor and do your absolute best. As Eleanor said, “You have to accept whatever reason comes, and the only important thing is that you meet it with the best you have to give.”

Rule #3: Your perspective is your lens. If something isn’t working for you, don’t sit around and complain about it to others in your office and at home. Change how you are looking at the issue and the attitude you are approaching it with, and the issue will be solved. As Eleanor said, “You can often change your circumstances by changing your attitude.

Rule #4: The only opinion that really matters is your own. Don’t spend a lot of time swirling around the water cooler or on the phone with other work-from-home moms bouncing around whether or not you should do something. You don’t need permission from people who you don’t need permission from. The one single person you absolutely need permission from is you. As Eleanor said, “Never allow a person to tell you no who doesn’t have the power to tell you yes.”

Rule #5: Get a plan. If you don’t know where you want to go at the office and in life with your people, what’s the point in going? Wishing for things to happen is wasteful. Instead, make it happen by knowing what your goals are and having a path to achieve them. As Eleanor said, “It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan.

Rule #6: You are strong. You will feel beat down. You will feel tired. You will not want to tuck your children in at night because you eyelids are closing. But, you are strong enough to choose with intention the life you want and then live it. As Eleanor said,“We do not have to become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes up, seeing it as not as dreadful as it appears, discovering that we have the strength to stare it down.” She also said, “With each new day comes new strength.”

Rule #7: Start. So many times, we are overwhelmed by the options and by simple uncertainty to the point of not being able to do anything. For years, I wanted to start a blog because I love to write and connect with women. Then one day I just started. And, here we are. Just start, the rest is easy. As Eleanor said, “It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.”

Rule #8: Oh yes, you can. Got, it? Yes, you can. As Eleanor said, “Nothing has ever been achieved by the person who says, ‘It can’t be done.’”

Rule #9: Be yourself. The greatest advantage you have in life is to just be you. Clients, bosses and colleagues will fall in love…with you. Your unique perspective and approach is your differentiator. So just be yourself. As Eleanor said, “You not only have a right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one.”

Rule #10: Trust yourself first. Know yourself. Spend time with yourself. Once you have that friendship down, all others will come naturally and be the highlight of your life. As Eleanor said, “Friendship with one’s self is all important, because without it one cannot be friends with anyone else in the world.”

Rule #11: Live your core values. Figure out what your core values are and work through life measuring your personal success against those.  As Eleanor said, “Have convictions. Be friendly. Stick to your beliefs as they stick to theirs. Work as hard as they do.”

Rule #12: Grow by embracing your fears. Oh, embracing our fears. So. Incredibly. Hard. But, the absolute only way you will ever become fearless. Know what shakes you and then find an opportunity to walk right through. Because, on the other side, you will find your true self. As Eleanor said, “I believe that anyone can conquer fear by doing the things he fears to do.

Rule #13: Delegate. Girlfriend, you are willing to do way to much yourself. Figure out what you can give away and to whom. If you aren’t sure how, use my CALM strategy (click here for the CALM). As Eleanor said, “It is not fair to ask of others what you are not willing to do yourself.”

Rule #14: Lead with ideas not with gossip. Y’all, I grew up in a small town where all we did was gossip. I love to gossip. It serves no one. Skip it and figure out ideas and solutions to discuss, instead. As Eleanor said, “You wouldn’t worry so much of what others think of you if you realized how seldom they do.” And also, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”

Rule #15: Go with your gut. You know that funny feeling you get sometimes that turns your tummy. Listen to it and don’t let your head argue with it. As Eleanor said, “Do what you feel in your heart to be right for you’ll be criticized anyway.”

Rule #16: Weigh best options. Do not act impulsively. Ponder dutifully and with pause, because every decision made at work and home ends up being your entire life. As Eleanor said, “I am who I am today because of the choices I made yesterday.”

Rule #17: Be wise. I ended up getting a lot of degrees in college, even a Ph.D. And, while I gained a lot of knowledge, the wisdom I gained simply from experiences and friends along the way have served me far greater in life. Be wise, not just smart. As Eleanor said, “Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living; the other helps you make a life.”

Rule #18: Push the limits. That’s how we grow. If someone tells you no, perhaps there is a way around that no, so long as it serves your core values and your integrity. Go ahead, dip your toe in that water.  As Eleanor said, “A woman is like a tea bag. You can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” 

Rule #19: Make happiness a priority. Your decisions and actions should be ones that bring you joy in life, otherwise what’s the point of living it? Your happiness should be embedded in every choice and move you make, from the little to the big. Happiness will be your constant companion if you make it a simple priority. As Eleanor said,“Happiness is not a goal, it is a by-product.”

It’s time for WEEKEND FUN! The Morning Thing 10/14/16

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Do you have some FREE time this weekend? The Big Blue Crew has some free time this weekend and we are EXCITED!
We found some fun, inexpensive ways to have FUN this weekend. Check out the list from www.wisebread.com
Click HERE for 47 ideas (or see them below)!

For our Morning Thing Fave 5, we shared what we would do with a FREE weekend.
Click HERE to hear from Marcy Rinehart, Jenna Potts, Kelsey Bryte, Andy Krolik and Dan Monnin.

1. Go to the Park

You can take your family or go with a friend. Swing on the swings like when you were a kid.

2. Watch the Sunset

Find a great spot in your community to catch the sunset. We have a lake by our house that offers some great views!

3. Pack a Picnic Lunch

Throw a picnic lunch together and find a shady spot to enjoy the day with your loved ones.

4. Play Board Games

Bring out the old favorites like Monopoly or Scrabble, or find new board games to play. (See also: Board Games That Make You Think)

5. Play Card Games

Invite a few friends over and have a card night.

6. Do a Road Rally With Friends

Get some friends together and go on a mobile scavenger hunt. The first one back with all things on the list wins! Losers have to buy dessert.

7. Go on a Digital Scavenger Hunt

Make it a digital scavenger hunt. Think of some creative, hilarious pictures you could take with people in the community, or check out this list forscavenger hunt ideas.

8. Throw a B.Y.O.E. Party

This stands of Bring Your Own Everything. Guests are encouraged to bring food and drinks to share. Or, check this post out for more frugal party ideas.

9. Have a Bonfire or Campfire in Your Backyard

Make s’mores and play campfire games.

10. Get Ice Cream

Hit up your local ice cream shop and indulge in your favorite dish! Our local Dairy Queen is located right on the lake, which ties in perfect with #2!

(Wise Bread Pick: Lello Gelato Junior Ice Cream Maker at Amazon)

11. Make a Romantic Dinner

Plan a romantic, candlelight dinner for your spouse or loved one. Romance need not be expensive! (See also: Romance on a Dime)

12. Grill Something New

Try a new grilling recipe. Recently I tried chicken breast stuffed with cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, basil, and tomatoes! Mmmm!

13. Go to the Museum or Zoo

Many times a local museum will have free or discount days. Zoos are fairly inexpensive if you pack your own lunch and avoid the unnecessary extras.

14. Scan Your Old Photographs

Take the weekend to go through your old photos and scan them into a digital file. You can even create digital scrapbooks! (See also: Save Memories With Cloud Computing)

15. Pretend You’re a Tourist in Your Community

Most folks rarely visit their own city’s tourist attractions. Take a weekend be a tourist in your own town.

16. Organize a Neighborhood Cleanup

Get friends and neighbors together to go and clean up a city block. Here are six steps to organizing your own neighborhood cleanup.

17. Go to the Farmers Market

Communities will usually have farmers markets on the weekends where you can get locally grown produce. The food is fresh and delicious! Here’s a savvy guide to farmers markets.

18. Pick Strawberries or Other Fruit

Find a “U-Pick” spot to gather some fresh strawberries, blueberries, or other fruit and then…

19. Bake a Pie

Use the freshly picked fruit to bake a homemade pie! (Need help with thepie crust?)

20. Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen or Homeless Shelter

Organizations like these are always looking for volunteers. This will be one of the most rewarding things you could do this weekend and can possibly make a difference on your resume! (See also: Translating Volunteer Experiences to Workplace Credentials)

21. Invite Your Neighbors Over

With today’s busy pace, it seems harder to get to know our neighbors.Invite them over for dinner or dessert and make an effort to know more about them.

22. Go Fishing

Grab the poles, find a pond, and cast those lines!

23. Go to the Beach

Hit the sandy shores for a little rest and relaxation. Just don’t forget to protect your skin!

24. Go to the Library

There are many benefits your local library has to offer besides just books. You can rent movies, page through magazines, or surf the net.

25. Host a Classic Movie Marathon

Invite friends over for a movie marathon featuring all the classics you remember from when you were growing up. Or, host a money movie marathon!

26. Rearrange the Furniture in Your House

My wife and I did this last weekend. I love the new look and feel of our living room now! Rearranging furniture doesn’t cost anything and adds a new flair to your place.

27. Write Out Your Bucket List and Pick One to Do

Brainstorm ideas for all the things you want to do in life, and pick one to do this weekend.

28. Put Together a Jigsaw Puzzle

When is the last time you put together a puzzle? Find one you like and get to it.

29. Volunteer to Babysit for Someone Who “Needs a Break”

I know many parents who would love for someone to offer a chance to take a break from the busyness of life. Many single parents hardly ever get a chance to get out and unwind.

30. Clean Out Your Closet and Donate to a Thrift Store

Go through your closets and declutter. Find items you can donate to your local Goodwill or another thrift shop.

31. Watch for Shooting Stars

Go on a star-gazing adventure. Grab a blanket and head to a park to lay and watch the stars. Here’s a meteor shower calendar to help.

32. Go on a Bike Ride

Bike to a location you’ve never been to before. Or, bring your bike to a town or city you’re unfamiliar with and create your own bike tour. Just be safe on your bike! (See also: Bicycle Safety in the City)

33. Take a Free Online Class

There are plenty of free online classes you could take to improve your skills in a certain area. Try your hand at investment classes if that interests you!

34. Write Out Your Life Plan

This one will take some thought but will be well worth it. Here’s a great resource from Michael Hyatt for helping you think through your life plan.

35. Set Three New Goals for Yourself

Related to the life plan is setting three new goals you’d like to accomplish in the new six to twelve months…and write them down!

36. Find a Community Play to Attend

Many local communities offer inexpensive theater productions.

37. Help Someone in Need

Lend a helping hand to a neighbor, co-worker, or friend.

38. Buy Food for the Homeless and Listen to Their Stories

It’s not always wise to give money to a homeless person, but you can buy food. Listen to their stories, and if possible, direct them to an organization that can help.

39. Go Bowling

Get some friends together and have a blast at the lanes!

40. Visit Garage Sales and Look for Deals

Take a friend or two, grab breakfast, and then hit the local garage sales to scan for deals.

41. Tour the Local Fire or Police Station and Thank Them for Their Service

A simple gesture can really mean a lot to the men and women who serve us on a daily basis!

42. Visit a Local Nursing Home and Engage With the Residents

Many elderly folks have great tales to tell. Listen to their stories and see what you can learn from them.

43. Plant a Garden

You can make a garden box or even an herb garden if you don’t have much room. (See also: Small Space Garden Ideas)

44. Go Dancing

Grab a few friends, put those dancing shoes on, and hit the local club.

45. Walk Through the Craft Store and Start an Art Project

Take your spouse or loved one to a craft store and each purchase a few crafts for a creative project. Or start a pine cone project!

46. Host a “Minute to Win It” Party

Invite a few friends over and challenge each other with some creative games based on the hit TV show.

47. Write a Letter to a Family Member You Haven’t Talked to in a While

When is the last time you sat down and wrote a letter? There’s something magical and nostalgic about the written word on paper. Send a letter to someone you haven’t talked to in a while and tell them how much you love them.

Hopefully these ideas are enough to get you started on a fun, cheap, and rewarding weekend!

What cheap, fun things are you planning to do this weekend?

Keep romance alive – send a text to your sweetheart today! The Morning Thing 10/13/16

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Want to keep romance alive in your relationship? In your marriage? You have to make a concentrated effort to tell your special someone how much they mean to you. Your words are powerful. Let’s all agree to spread love through uplifting, positive communication!

The bible gives us a clear definition of love in 1 Corinthians 13 (New International Version).
13 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

The Morning Thing team wants to help you out. We compiled a list of 40 text messages that you can send to your sweetheart. (Don’t forget to add in the heart emoji)!

  1. Of all the people in all the world, I’m honored to be the one who gets to do life with you.

  2. Today’s been a rough day, but thinking of you makes it so much better.

  3. I know I can be stubborn sometimes.  Thank you for your kindness even in difficult moments.

  4. You make my heart happy.

  5. I am so glad I get to come home to you.  Can’t wait to see you later today!

  6. I love you, no matter what.

  7. No matter how you feel about yourself today, remember this: There’s at least one person on this earth who knows how awesome you are.  Love you!

  8. What can I do to make your day easier? Let me know what to do- I want to help.

  9. Thanks for being patient with me.

  10. I admire your ability to _____________. That is so important to our family. Just wanted you to know that.

  11. In case I haven’t told you, you’ve helped me be a better person in this world.  I am ever grateful.

  12. I am just so glad you’re in my life.

  13. Remember when we started this life together? Even if we knew then what we know now…I’d do it all over again.

  14. Thanks for hearing me out.  I love that you really listen to me.

  15. If I could drop what I’m doing right now to be with you, I’d do it in a heartbeat. Love you!

  16. I love quality time with you.  When can I take you on a date?

  17. Just wanted you to know that you are on my mind today.

  18. I’m your #1 fan.

  19. We have made some great memories together. I’m looking forward to making more.

  20. Even though I may not say it often enough, I really appreciate the ways you help with the house.  Thank you!

  21. If there were more people like you in this world, it would be a better place.

  22. Sweetheart, you inspire me to be a better version of myself.

  23. I’m glad we are on the same team in life.

  24. Words aren’t enough to tell you how wonderful you are.

  25. Is there anything I can do to support you today?  Let me know how I can help you out.

  26. Thanks for teaching me _____________.  I am grateful for all the learning I do with you.

  27. I’m looking forward to having some time alone with you soon. When are you free this week?

  28. You bring so much happiness into my life.

  29. You have really helped me grow by _________. Thank you.

  30. I was just thinking of you today and it made me smile.

  31. If you ever need a listening ear, I’m here for you.

  32. I believe in you.

  33. If you asked me again today, even after all we’ve been through, I’d still say, “I do!”

  34. I really love the ways you show affection. Thanks for ________.

  35. You are so good at __________.  Seriously- WOW.

  36. I’m still so glad we’re in this adventure together.

  37. Every day I love you more.

  38. I love seeing you happy.  Your smile warms my heart.

  39. We’ve weathered so many changes in our life together.  Thanks for sticking with me.

  40. I love you.

(Picture of Rachel and Andrew Yoder, MVNU Class of 2014, Former DJs at WNZR)

It is Face your Fears Day. What are you afraid of? The Morning Thing 10/11/16

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Spiders? Clowns? Speaking in public? Heights? What are you afraid of?
Face Your Fears Day gives you the chance to stand up to your fears, overcome them, and to seize the day.

The Morning Thing shared some ways to handle fear. Rebecca Barlow Jordan shares 5 ways to handle irrational fear on www.crosswalk.com
1. Cry Out to Jesus
The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe (Proverbs 18:10, NIV). The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry,” (Psalm 34:15, NIV). I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears (Psalm 34:4, NIV).

2. Cling to God’s Word
The unfolding of your words gives light (Psalm 119:130, NIV). Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path (Psalm 119:105, NIV).

3. Cast Your Cares (and Fears) on Him
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you (Psalm 55:22, NIV).
When I am afraid, I put my trust in you (Psalm 56:3, NIV). They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord (Psalm 112:7, NIV).

4. Confess Your Inability and God’s Ability to Remove Those Fears
I can do all this through him who gives me strength(Philippians 4:13, NIV).
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me (Psalm 23:4, NIV). So do not fear, for I am with you’ do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10, NIV). Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9, NIV).

5. Call a trusted friend or Christian counselor to intercede for you
Pray for one another that you may be healed. The prayer of a godly person is powerful. It makes things happen (James 5:16, NIRV). Be not afraid of sudden fear(Proverbs 3:25, KJV).

Click HERE to read the entire article.

Bible Verses About Fear – Read scriptures that can guide and encourage you on topics relating to fear, such as fear and anxiety, fear of love, fear of the unknown and fear of death. Read verses from the Holy Bible about fear in relation to God, Jesus Christ, and the Christian faith. From www.biblestudytools.com

  • Isaiah 35:4

    4 say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.”
  • John 14:27

    27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
  • Joshua 1:9

    9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
  • Matthew 6:34

    34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
  • Isaiah 43:1

    1 But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
  • Psalm 23:4

    4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
  • Psalm 34:4

    4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
  • Psalm 94:19

    19 When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.
  • Romans 8:38-39

    38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
  • Psalm 27:1

    1 The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?
  • 1 Peter 5:6-7

    6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
  • Psalm 118:6

    6 The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?
  • 2 Timothy 1:7

    7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
  • Psalm 115:11

    11 You who fear him, trust in the LORD— he is their help and shield.
  • Psalm 103:17

    17 But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children’s children—
  • Psalm 112:1

    1 Praise the LORD.Blessed are those who fear the LORD, who find great delight in his commands.
  • Deuteronomy 31:6

    6 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
  • 1 Chronicles 28:20

    20 David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished.
  • Psalm 56:3-4

    3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. 4 In God, whose word I praise— in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?
  • Isaiah 41:10

    10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
  • Isaiah 41:13

    13 For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.
  • Isaiah 54:4

    4 “Do not be afraid; you will not be put to shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated. You will forget the shame of your youth and remember no more the reproach of your widowhood.
  • Matthew 10:28

    28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
  • Romans 8:15

    15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”
  • 1 Corinthians 16:13

    13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.
  • Hebrews 13:5-6

    5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” 6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
  • 1 Peter 3:13-14

    13 Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats ; do not be frightened.”
  • 1 John 4:18

    18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

Make a Difference Monday – a focus on Operation Christmas Child. The Morning Thing 10/10/16

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The Morning Thing and Afternoon Drive teams have declared today as Make a Difference Monday! Today we are focusing on the ministry of Operation Christmas Child.

Did you know?

  • Operation Christmas Child is right around the corner! Donate your shoebox gifts this November at one of 565 drop-off locations in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, or West Virginia.
  • Find the drop-off location nearest you at org/occ. Click on “Drop-Off Locations” to search by your City or Zip Code.
  • National Collection Week is November 14 -21 – less than 6 weeks away!
  • Connect with Operation Christmas Child volunteers and hear inspiring stories at local events this season. Check out our events page at org/occ.  Click on “Serving with OCC” then “Local Events & Offices.”
  • The gift doesn’t end with the shoebox. After receiving a shoebox gift, children have the opportunity to join over 1.2 million children who have enrolled in The Greatest Journey, a dynamic, 12-lesson Bible study course guiding them through what it means to faithfully follow Jesus Christ. To learn more, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ and click on “Disciple Children.”
  • To find out more about what Operation Christmas Child is doing around the world and more ways you can get involved, visit us on Instagram at @operationchristmaschild.
  • Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has delivered gift-filled shoeboxes to more than 135 million children in more than 150 countries and territories.
  • Volunteers in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and West Virginia hope to pack enough shoebox gifts in 2016 to reach another 985,000 children! That means that each drop-off location needs to collect 1,744 boxes (within our 4 state area).
  • YOUR shoebox makes a difference!

Here are the drop-off locations near us:

Mount Vernon, OH – Faith Baptist Church

8764 Martinsburg Road
Mount Vernon, OH 43050

Mon Nov 14 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Tue Nov 15 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Wed Nov 16 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Thu Nov 17 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Fri Nov 18 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat Nov 19 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Sun Nov 20 2016: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Mon Nov 21 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Mount Vernon, OH – Brandon Baptist Church

13513 Sycamore Road
Mount Vernon, OH 43050

Mon Nov 14 2016: 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Tue Nov 15 2016: 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Wed Nov 16 2016: 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Thu Nov 17 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Fri Nov 18 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Sat Nov 19 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Sun Nov 20 2016: 1 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Mon Nov 21 2016: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m

Fredericktown, OH – NewLife Community Church

9955 State Route 95 W
Fredericktown, OH 43019

Mon Nov 14 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Tue Nov 15 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Wed Nov 16 2016: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Thu Nov 17 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Fri Nov 18 2016: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Sat Nov 19 2016: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Sun Nov 20 2016: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Mon Nov 21 2016: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Utica, OH – Grace Pointe Community Church

892 Columbus Road E
Utica, OH 43080

Mon Nov 14 2016: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Tue Nov 15 2016: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wed Nov 16 2016: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Thu Nov 17 2016: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fri Nov 18 2016: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Sat Nov 19 2016: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Sun Nov 20 2016: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Mon Nov 21 2016: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Johnstown, OH – Johnstown Independant Baptist Church

7397 Johnstown Alexandria Road
Johnstown, OH 43031

Mon Nov 14 2016: 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Tue Nov 15 2016: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Wed Nov 16 2016: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Thu Nov 17 2016: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Fri Nov 18 2016: 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat Nov 19 2016: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sun Nov 20 2016: 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Mon Nov 21 2016: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Starting Point Week on The Morning Thing – 10/3/16 – 10/7/16

starting-point

All this week, The Morning Thing focused on a local ministry in Knox County – Starting Point. http://knoxstartingpoint.com/

People just like you, have been finding their starting point by discovering the information & answers they need, without judgment.
Whether you’re learning about relationships, facing an unexpected pregnancy, or dealing with a past abortion,
…it’s a journey.
On every journey there’s a starting point.
At Starting Point, they provide pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, parenting classes, abortion recovery and sexual risk avoidance education. Every service they provide is provided at no cost to those we serve.

Starting Point has been serving the Knox County community since 1989; providing a starting point and walking the journey with you.

Starting Point is here for you. You’re not alone!

This week, we talked to several staff members at Starting Point.
Kassandra Baker, Starting Point Executive Director

 

Kim White, Ultrasound Services Director and Nurse Manager

 

Diana Wetzel, Client Services Director

 

Diane Henwood, Development Director

 

You can make an Impact on Lives for generations – join WNZR for Starting Point’s Walk

Starting Point’s Walk is coming this Saturday, October 8th! Join the WNZR team and support Starting Point’s outreach to women and men facing unexpected pregnancies.

Pick up a pledge form and create your own team! Ask your friends and family members to support you in the walk. Pledge forms are available at your local church or at the Starting Point office at 11 Woodlake Trail – just off Yauger Road in Mount Vernon.

Or you can call the business office, Monday through Thursday at 740-393-5074 and they will mail you a form. NEW this year – create your own online WALK page by visitng bit.ly/StartingPointWALK. Invite your friends to sponsor you through email, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

If you can’t walk on that day, pledge your support to WNZR’s team. Call 740-392-9090 and ask for Marcy. Your pledge will help us reach a goal of $1,000 dollars for our team! Or email wnzr@mvnu.edu, tell us your name, address, phone number and the amount you want to pledge for WNZR’s Team! Our WNZR Team includes: Marcy Rinehart and Kelsey Bryte from The Morning Thing and Joe Rinehart and Jessica Wells from The Afternoon Drive!

Starting Point’s Walk is this Saturday, October 8th at 10am. Registration is at 9:30.

There are exciting NEW prizes for 2016! – Collect $250 dollars in pledges and you will receive a Starting Point T-Shirt. – Collect $500 dollars in pledges and you will receive a Glass Starting Point Water Bottle and T-Shirt. – Collect $1,000 dollars in pledges and you will receive a Starting Point Hoodie, Glass Water Bottle and T-Shirt.

Your dollars make a HUGE difference! Your support will help Starting Point continue to offer the following services, FREE…

– Pregnancy Tests and Verifications – Limited OB Ultrasounds – Accurate information on all options

– Abortion and Pregnancy loss recovery

– Healthy relationship coaching

– Parenting Classes – Community Referrals – Abortion Recovery: “Mended Hearts”, providing individual and small group support for those struggling with past decisions – Spiritual Support – Trustworthy, non-judgmental support at NO cost

Join WNZR and make an impact on lives that will last for generations. Support Starting Point’s 2016 Walk this Saturday, October 8th!

Frequently asked questions:

Do I have to collect the money? – NO, you do NOT – Turn in your sponsor sheet at the walk or mail it in, Starting Point will do the rest! – If sponsors give you money, mark them paid and turn it in at the walk.

How far do I have to walk? – The walk is a short, easy distance…not a marathon. – Everyone can participate. – Sponsors give a set amount, not a per mile pledge.

How much can I raise? – There’s no limit! – Ask everyone – 9 out of 10 say yes! – Reach the minimum amount for a FREE T-shirt!

What if I can’t be there that day? – No problem! Walk on your own. – Mail the form to Starting Point, 11 Woodlake Trail, Mount Vernon or drop it off at the office.

What if it rains? – Bring an umbrella. – Bring the form to Starting Point on the day of the walk and walk on your own later.

How do I ask someone to sponsor me and who will do it? – Ask everyone, “Will you sponsor me?” – Family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, mail, email, social network…. – Don’t forget to ask previous sponsors.

Your support will help!

Knox Starting Point helps to provide accurate information and compassionate assistance to women, babies and men. They offer comprehensive, positive alternatives to abortion.

Starting Point serves an average of 350-400 women and men each year with their confidential services. These visits provide a tremendous outreach opportunity within our community. Congratulations to the ministry for celebrating 27 years of serving our community.

Starting Point – Get Information, Get Answers, Start Here.

What do you LOVE about Fall? The Morning Thing 10/4/16

fall

This morning, we talked about the things we LOVE about Fall.
– Pumpkin Spice flavor in everything! Coffee, muffins, donuts, yummy!
– Amazing colors in nature.
– Sweaters. We love pulling out our favorite sweaters from storage.
– Football.
– Apple Picking and eating. 🙂
– Hoodie season. It has to be one of the most comfortable pieces of clothing.
– Flannel Fridays! Wear your flannel shirts proudly.
– Jumping in leaves – a GREAT stress reliever.
– Daylight Savings Time – getting an extra hour of sleep! (It happens Sunday 11/6)
– Pretty Instagram pictures. We love seeing the artistic looks with all the fall colors and beautiful sunsets.
– Dressing your pets up in costumes. Make sure you come to WNZR’s DOGtoberfest Parade this Friday. Click HERE for more details.

Click HERE for 24 more things about fall that will put a smile on your face.

 

WNZR supports Knox Starting Point

starting-point-logo

All this week, The Morning Thing is sharing information about Starting Point – a wonderful Christian ministry that we support here at WNZR. We are sharing details about their upcoming Walk and how you can support WNZR’s Walk Team!

Today, we talked with Kassandra Baker, Executive Director of Knox Starting Point.
Click HERE to hear this conversation about who Starting Point is, the services that they provide and how you can support the ministry.

Tune in tomorrow during the 8am hour to hear from Diana Wetzel, Client Services Director.

You can support the WNZR Team in Starting Point’s WALK this Saturday. Call 740-392-9090 now to pledge your support. Click HERE for more details on the WALK on how to participate.
Click HERE to find out more about Starting Point.

Starting Point:
Get Information
Get Answers
Start Here.

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