&WELL BEING

death by rejecting Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Mankind became a living soul from the very hand and breath of God in the beginning, so to love Him with all of our being is the essence of this second part of the love commandment. Loving Him with all of our mind makes more sense to us, unless we limit that to our brain only. In the New Testament, ‘mind’ most often refers to a person’s understanding, views, or opinions. The mind Biblically is simply our inner being, or the sum total of all our mental, emotional, and spiritual faculties, without drawing fine distinctions between them. Finally, we’re to love God with all our strength, and this doesn’t mean our muscles. Strength is the ability to let the past go and forgive. Strength is NOT responding when someone lies or gossips about you. Strength is about worshiping without fear and remaining faithful when life is caving in on you. Or praising God when all the lights go out. Strength is quiet but mighty. Strength is faith when you determine to push through instead of quit, and it’s developed through challenges more than exercise. The sooner we learn that the joy of the Lord IS our strength, the sooner we will increase our love for Him in this area. Spiritual muscles will benefit us far more than larger biceps.

Your heart, soul, mind, and strength are all you have to offer God. As we practice loving Him in these ways, there will come a time when we love Him more than we love ourselves. Such love is entire- my whole brain and my whole emotion and all of my strength and energy. All of me for all of Him. making the Triune God our first love will make loving our neighbor far easier. Nothing will be lacking in my ability to serve God and man where this kind of love prevails, because love never fails/ it is never rendered inoperative. As I learn to love God with all the powers of my inner being, my life will change for the better daily. org Church starts at10:00 am

Many people then and now stand in awe of Jesus’ words and actions but hesitate to give their lives to Him. God can handle all of your doubts and questions and fears. Since your eternal destiny hangs totally on what you do with Jesus, please own that you are a sinner, and invite Him to be your Lord and Savior. That is only the beginning of new life in Christ. As a totally satisfied ‘customer’ of the past 53 years, I can tell you I have never had a day of disappointment. Give God a chance to work His magic in your own life. It starts with Jesus.

Come join us at Abundant Life Church, 4380 Highway 66, east of I25 on the south side. Together we will walk with you on this faith journey. Check us out at www. alcworshipwarriors.

Do www.UnitedWay-Weld.org/LEAP

1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435)

Do Meaningful Social Connections Matter?

Ah, Valentine’s day. Not a day that I tend to celebrate specifically. I prefer the spontaneity of flowers, a special handwritten note or even some chocolate from my loved one(s) on any random day. Why do we have to designate a day to publicly demonstrate that you love someone? Frankly, frequent social connections including with your romantic partner; but also with family, friends, neighbors, or colleagues are so good for us!

One landmark study showed that lack of social connection is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure. (Science, 29 July 1988, Vol 241, Issue 4865). WOW. So why do meaningful social connections matter? They will make you live longer, impact your physical health, reduce stress, make you feel better about your life and yourself, and improve your habits.

By nature, we as human beings are inherently social. In terms of your health, it’s not about the number of social connections that you have but rather about the quality or how meaningful those connections are. If you want to reap the benefits of a happy and healthy life, it’s important to learn to cultivate your relationships to make them deeper and more satisfying, so that when you are faced with challenges (stress, growth, medical issues, change), you can turn to these people for support. The strongest social connections provide you with: z Appraisal - honest feedback and constructive criticism z Companionship - make you feel more socially accepted z Emotional support - people who nurture and motivate you to keep moving forward no matter how hard life gets z Useful information - information that helps you solve problems (accountants, lawyers, health coaches, etc. z Tangible support - resources, favors – for when you find yourself in a tight spot and you need someone to bail you out.

It’s difficult to get all of that from a single person. Who do you go to when you are in a “funk” for a pick me up? Who do you admire and talk to when you want to change your eating or exercise habits? Who do you call when you are totally stressed out from work? Who do you turn to when someone has “hurt” you? After any of those conversations, how much better do you feel? This is why establishing connections with different kinds of people is important. Try to belong to different groups, to volunteer in different ways. Perhaps you can get involved with a church, the neighborhood, a running group, a book club, a volunteer organization, etc.

When I coach my clients through weight loss, changing habits, dealing with stress it’s difficult to do that without considering the support or social connections they have. How are your social connections? Is this something you need to focus time towards? It’s not easy sometimes but as a coach, I can help you navigate that.

Lida Johnson, Certified Health Coach, Nutritionist, and Personal Trainer at Head-to-Toe Coaching. www. HeadToToeCoaching.com Lida@HeadToToeCoaching.com. 203.260.2880.

720-259-0444 vkupfner@superiorinsure.com

This independent business owner lost home and office in Marshall Fire Call for Quotes Today! https://gofund.me/57a05308

You Can Learn to Help Save a Life!

With the attention drawn to what happened on the field during a recent NFL game, and the actions taken to save the life of a player, taking CPR classes is again in the spotlight. Crews in Cincinnati utilized CPR and used a Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to restore the player’s vital signs within minutes, which saved his life. Getting help to someone in distress immediately can make all the difference. Mountain View Fire Rescue is proud to offer in-person classes where instructors give in-depth lessons on the emergency life-saving procedure and will also show how the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is used. We have classes both on weeknights and on the weekends to better fit a busy schedule. Below is a list of our CPR/AED and CPR/AED + First Aid class times and dates, plus a link where you can sign up, to learn how to save a life!

Saturday 2/4/2023 CPR/AED 9:30AM-12:00PM or 12:30PM-3:00PM

Wednesday 2/8/2023 CPR/AED 6:00PM-8:30PM

Saturday 2/11/2023 or Saturday 3/11/2023 for CPR/AED & First Aid 9:30AM-4:00PM www.mvfpd.org/cpr-first-aid-classes

The Pride of the Glens Open House

The Pride of the Glens invites you to our open house at the new Community Center Friday, February 3rd from 3pm-6pm to celebrate our new community space at 209 4th St. Unit B in Dacono!

Coalition Leaders are filling up the calendar with free classes and services for community members in Dacono! Zumba anyone? Learn to sew, gather with friends to play cards or come to a monthly family movie night! 2nd “2oosdays” at 2 is a monthly drop-in for anyone wanting to connect with information about services or resources like the Area Agency on Aging, 60+ Ride, Habitat’s Critical Home Repair Program or others! Creating Shared Community Space was identified as a priority in the coalition’s work plan last fall. St. Vrain Habitat for Humanity began leasing the space and provides organizational support, resource development and technical assistance to the group. The resident-led coalition, the Pride of the Glens has inspired community building and collective action improving the quality of life for residents in the Glens neighborhood for the past four years.

Their first project was landscaping the berm and installing new benches at Clem Dufour Park in 2018. Since then, they advocated with CDOT to improve the pedestrian crosswalks at Hwy 52, installed the “Glens of Dacono” gateway stone, host semi-annual free dumpster days, partnered with the small-business owners to rehab the Dacono commercial parking lot and host educational and social programming for the community. Pride of the Glens includes over 60 diverse residents and a leadership team who meets monthly.

Interpreting, childcare and home cooked meals allow for all residents to participate fully and in their first language, either English or Spanish. Sharyl McCune, a resident leader shared that “coalition members all care deeply about family and community. Just because we don’t speak the same language doesn’t mean we don’t feel the same way!”

The coalition’s leadership and projects are guided by their vision, “proud to live in a quiet, friendly community where all our dreams can come true” and values; Community, Communication, Fun, Inclusivity, Service, Peace & Commitment. St. Vrain Habitat has completed 14 new construction builds and 27 Critical Home Repairs in the Glens of Dacono and is currently hiring a Part-Time Coalition Coordinator. For more information or to share ideas for programs and resources, please reach out to the Neighborhood Revitalization Manager, Krystal Winship Erazo at 720-899-0893 or kwinshiperazo@stvrainhabitat.org or visit stvrainhabitat.org

Alternative Medicine: Winter

One of the foundations of Chinese Medical theory is the concept of human beings living their lives in harmony with the seasons. Each season corresponds to specific organs and tissues and their function within the human body. Since we are now deep into Winter, I would like to share thoughts relating to this cold, quiet season.

Winter is a time for rest. Just as the trees and plants are dormant and conserving their energy for renewal in springtime, so should we as human beings. If we have a current exercise program, this would be the time to slow down a bit. Quiet, reflective exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga, t’ai chi, and pilates are great for winter. These types of activities offer “quiet time” for our minds while strengthening and stretching our muscles.

According to Traditional Chinese Medical theory, Winter corresponds to the element, Water. Water makes up two thirds of the weight of an adult. Water assists in carrying nutrients in the blood, and helps to rid our bodies of toxins. And, water is incredibly adaptable, it fits into any shape provided, no matter what the temperature, which reflects the emotions associated with the Water element of “going with the flow” and courage/fear. The organs associated with the Water element are the Kidneys and Bladder.

The Kidneys are the storehouse for our “vital Energy,” or Jing, which is passed on to us from our parents. It is thought that while we cannot change this constitutional essence, we can preserve it through lifestyle choices. The adrenal glands sit on top of the kidneys and assist in the fight or flight response. Each time the Kidneys need to respond to fearful or stressful situations, we dip into this “vital essence” reserve. Emotionally, the balanced picture for the Water element and a healthy Kidney relates to inner strength, self confidence, and excellent follow through. This person has a strong will and is not discouraged by difficulties and obstacles. Some physical manifestations of Kidney energy weakness include pain of the low back, legs and knees. The Urinary Bladder collects the contaminated fluids and lets it go appropriately. It is flexible enough to hold a large amount of fluid without too much discomfort. The key to understanding the Bladder is adaptability, control and self-mastery. A healthy Bladder relates to a person’s confidence and ability to know themselves in familiar and unfamiliar situations.

According to Chinese Medical theory, the Water element also corresponds to bone, bone marrow and teeth. As we travel deeper into the body we know that bone gives us structure for a solid foundation. The strength, density and form of the bones depend upon the health of the Kidneys. Today, many people are concerned about the condition of their bones and calcium intake. There are many foods to choose from that are calcium rich, and interestingly enough, at the top of this list are foods that come from water: seaweeds. For instance, three and onehalf ounces of Hijiki, Wakame, Kelp or Kombu provide 1,400 to 800mg of calcium. Almonds provide 233, parsley 203, garbonzo beans 150, quinoa grain 141, black and pinto beans 135, yogurt 121 and milk 119 mg calcium (Healing with Whole Foods, by Paul Pitchford).

It is also believed that the salty flavor enters the Kidney and Bladder. It is important to ingest a reasonable amount of salt, since an excess amount can injure these organs. All salt comes from the sea, but refined salt is processed in such a way that the minerals are leached out. Sea salt is typically slightly grey and will be in the form of a powder, granule or larger crystals than table salt. Whole sea salt has a mineral profile most similar to that of our blood.

The goal for winter is to have no goals, but rather, store up ideas and plans for use in spring, and do as little as possible. It is important to get plenty of rest, try slower, more meditative exercises, drink plenty of clean water and eat warm, nourishing foods like soups and stews. I hope you enjoy this winter season, and please take care!

Daisy Lear, MSOM, Dipl.Ac., L.Ac., practices Chinese medicine & acupuncture at 19411 Ute Hwy | Longmont, CO 80503. Her phone number is 303.587.3557, her email is daisylear@gmail.com or visit website at daisylear.com. She is a Healthcare Provider for CIGNA and Aetna. She is the Director of Acupuncture for Veterans and their Families also and you can learn more at www.daisylear.com

Mindset Is Key When Sticking to Your Fitness Goals

When you read this article, it will be about 4-5 weeks into the New Year. It’s around this time when a lot of people start to lose the motivation they had at the start of the year when it comes to improving their health and working on their fitness goals. To help get past this point, it’s all about mindset.

At the start of 2023, you may have reflected on the past year thinking about what goals you achieved or did not achieve. Why some things went better than expected and why other things didn’t happen at all or were difficult. Hopefully you learn something from the good and the bad. Learn from those experiences and move on to create new and better ones.

quote “The definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results.” thinking. We have to choose to change.

When your thinking changes, your behavior follows. That is the beginning to a path of success. Even if you didn’t start yet, today is a new day. It’s time for change and a fresh start!

Time For Change Fitness Group Classes, or my Mobile or Virtual Personal Training Sessions might be just the change you need to improve your health and work on your fitness goals. My programs are easy to follow, and designed with interval training using full-body workouts to turn on your after-burn. This will increase your metabolism and help you burn calories long after your workout is over.

If you need help getting started on your health and fitness goals, it’s not too late. Contact Tracy Rewerts, NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist at www. TimeForChangePersonalTraining.com or

To my twins..

Happy 21st Birthday, Makenzie and Marissa Parker

We are proud of each one of you girls. You both bring joy and some heartaches. LOL We will also love and be here for you.

Love, Mom and Dad

Happy 7th birthday, CoCo!

Mom & Dad love you so much, honey!!

Happy 11th birthday, Lukey!

We love you very much!

Mom & Dad

Happy 4th birthday to Hearth Rae!

You are a light to this world and bring smiles to every room. We love your imagination and you’re such a joy for life. The kindness, love, and thoughtfulness you exude is inspiring for all. May the Lord bless you and keep you, sweet girl!

BRIDES, when you purchase your gorgeous wedding dress now through – March 31st on your rst visit to DWB mention this Ad and receive a complimentary Bride Sweater (retail value $63.00)

FREE

Announcements. Send one high resolution photo with birthday message in subject line to carbonvalley@ gmail.com by the 15th of each month.

I would like to thank the Firestone police officer that stopped and finished shoveling my sidewalk during the first snowstorm. As a senior citizen it really made my day that she was willing to take the time and energy to do a much better job than I was doing and get me out of the cold.

Sincerely, Sherry

Lousberg

Happy 1st Birthday to our precious Linaya Michelle.

You are a very special little girl, can’t wait to celebrate with you & watch you grow.

Love, Nana aka Christina, Pops aka Jason, Auntie Marissa & Auntie Makenzie.

Happy 8th Birthday!

John, our tap dancing cowboy, celebrated on January 15!

You are full of surprises and talents.

We love you so, so much.

You Can Be A Storyteller!

Happy 9th Birthday Aubrie!!! Thank you for bringing so much sunshine to the world!!!

Hope this year brings you lots of blessings!!

Love Mom, Dad, Bella, and Andrew!

The St Vrain Valley Storytellers bring stories to life for kids in the St. Vrain Valley School district, Kindergarten through 5th grade. Our volunteers – mostly older adults - share the rich oral tradition of tales that teach and enchant, tales we tell (rather than read.) How can you become a St. Vrain Valley Storyteller? Attend four 3-hour training classes held in Longmont. The first of our 4 training sessions is February 28. Following the training, new tellers get to observe an experienced teller in a school classroom. When fully trained, we offer support to place our tellers in classrooms. For details on this exciting Storytelling opportunity, please contact Marianne Balin (mbalinhome@gmail.com).

February 11 is 211 Day in Colorado

February 11 (2/11) is 211 Day in Colorado. As 211 Colorado was founded in 2002, this is the 20th time that 211 Day has been celebrated as a community reminder of the need for 211 Colorado.

“211 Colorado is a critical resource for Colorado families, be they facing an everyday disaster like job loss or accident or illness or if they are caught up in a natural disaster like a flood or wildfire,” noted Lyle SmithGraybeal, chief operating officer with United Way of Weld County and the 211 Colorado Collaborative vice-chair. “Whatever the difficulty, be it personal or community-wide, 211 Colorado is ready to assist.”

Ben’s recent call to 211 Colorado represents a common story of help provided. Ben had been out of work and struggling to afford food. He learned from a friend that he may be eligible for ongoing food benefits, but had not asked for help before and wasn’t sure what was available. The 211 Colorado SNAP navigator took Ben’s information and uploaded his application into the online benefits system. The navigator then found Ben two nearby food pantries that he could make use of while waiting for a determination of eligibility.

With seven partnering organizations and four contact centers statewide, anyone can make use of 211 Colorado via phone (dial 2-1-1), text (send zip code to 898-211) or at the www.211Colorado.org website. The service is available in English, Spanish and other languages.

“Each year 211 Colorado makes around 16,000 referrals to resources throughout Weld County and the seven other northeast Colorado counties,” noted Margie Martinez, the 211 Colorado @ UWWC coordinator. Visit www.211Colorado.org

Event Calendar

☐Platteville Lions Club BINGO

Friday, Feb. 24th. Open at 5:30pm. Starts at 7pm. Platteville Community Center at 508 Reynolds Avenue. $12 for all games, cash only please. Daubers for sale. Concessions sold by the Boy Scouts. Proceeds go to the Valley High School youth wrestling club

☐Interfaith Quilters of Longmont will celebrate the 37th Annual Quilt Sale on March 3rd (4-8p) and 4th (9a-3p).

$2 entry fee. First Lutheran Church, 803 Third Avenue in Longmont, Colorado. The proceeds benefit the O.U.R. Center and the Safe Shelter of the Saint Vrain Valley. Interfaith Quilters of Longmont gather most Mondays, 9a-2p at First Lutheran Church. Bring your lunch. More info at www.interfaithquilters.org our email is interfaithquilts@gmail.com

☐Coffee with Christ of every month 8-9a. Inquire at coffeewithchrist2023@gmail.com location and info. For Christian women, all denominations to join a group where we women can sharpen each other. Bring your favorite mug-we provide the coffee!

☐Firestone’s 2023 Events Need Sponsors More info email firestoneco.gov. or www.firestoneco.gov/events

☐CV Rotary BINGO Saturday, Feb. 25 - $1,000 Total Cash Payout! United Power Bldg., 9586 E. I-25 Frontage Rd. Doors open at 6p, games start 7p. For more info www.carbonvalleyrotary.org

☐Patriot’s Tea Feb. 11

Carbon Valley Chapter, National Society

Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). Kris Scott presents the Good Citizen’s and American History Essay contest winners. Coal Ridge Middle School and Frederick High School student winners will be recognized! Nelda Pennington shares interesting stories of our chapter’s patriots. For info email CarbonValleyChapterNSDAR@gmail.com