PEACE IN KNOWING

October 27, 2010Read: Romans 8

“No, in all these things we’ve been made more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” --Romans 8:37

Loretta and I don’t watch a lot of TV, but we have our share of shows, one of our favorites being The Apprentice. A couple months ago, we watched the season finale with millions of other devoted viewers. But unlike most weeks, Loretta sat uncharacteristically calm throughout the show. I, on the other hand, shifted in my seat and talked to the television. After almost two hours of nail-biting suspense, I began to be more intrigued with Loretta’s demeanor than I was Donald’s decision. Then it hit me. She checked the internet. She already knew who won.

So with about 10 minutes left in the show, I curiously asked, “Babe…um, so who won?” She got the biggest grin. She explained she just couldn’t stand the suspense, but because she knew the outcome, she was able to relax and enjoy the show.

As believers, the reality is, we’re Heaven bound. I say we do less shifting in our seats and be more like Loretta; enjoying the show of life as those who know who wins in the end.

–J.P.

5 WAYS TO SURVIVE THE HALLOWEEN SUGAR BINGE Avoid doing too much damage with these tips from PrayFit nutritionist Dana Angelo White

1. Say No To Super Sticky Taffy, gummies and other sticky candies can cement themselves to your teeth. This combo of stiff and sticky can damage teeth, cause cavities, and ruin orthodontic work, turning them into an expensive dental bill instead of a one-night treat.

2. Pass On Powdery Messes Sticks and packets filled with colored powders are tremendously popular with kids (and some adults!). They’re nothing but mouthfuls of colored sugar, which makes them among the worst for teeth — the tiny particles get into every nook and cranny! And you’ve got to wonder: are all those neon-colored artificial colors safe?

3. Forget About Full Sizes An average full-size candy bar will set you back 300 calories. “Fun size” bars come in closer to 80 calories per piece. Stick to mini bars and packages for built-in portion control.

4. Ditch the Dare-Devil Candy Excessively hot, sour, or bizarre-flavored candies (earwax-flavored jelly beans, anyone?) are more trick than treat. These types of extreme candies can be dangerous for the mouth, throat, stomach and digestive system.

5. Super-Sized Chewies Those super-sized gumballs, hard candies and gummies are notorious choking hazards. We suggest making them scarce, particularly if you have children.

Since giving out apples to trick-or-treaters will never be popular, try some of these healthier options: Chocolate or yogurt covered raisins Cocoa-dusted almonds Trail mix with chocolate chips (For the older kids) Sugar-free bubble gum

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition. Get the rest of her spook-tacular tips here.