Finally, a New Normal

I'm celebrating a momentous anniversary this month -- though not my wedding anniversary, which will be 34 years this August (actually quite momentous, now that I think about it). May 29 marks my one year as the sole host of Mid-Morning. And what a year it's been!

Twelve months later and this new normal has finally settled in and made itself at home in my life. Can I get an amen? Counselor Dr. David Hawkins says it generally takes about 18 months for any dramatic change to feel normal. I credit my being ahead of the curve to an extra measure of God's kindness...and boy, am I grateful. I'll share more details about the eventful year on the May 29th Mid-Morning. I'll be praising and thanking God -- which pleases and blesses God -- for His many MM gifts and graces, and then opening the phones, e-mail and Facebook for you to do the same.

While reading through the April issues of the magazines I reference for show ideas and resources, I came across a website called The Daily Grommet. The site, created by Jules Pieri, is an online marketplace that, every day at noon, launches one inventive consumer product or service. We hope to feature Jules on an upcoming "Spots and Spotlights.

While checking out the site, I saw a shirt that I knew my soon-to-be nine-year-old nephew would love. It's from the Mouth Man line. In a sentence, the creatures featured on the shirts come alive when the wearer folds his arms. Dalton loved his! Check them out at The Daily Grommet.

Tuesday, fitness trainer Kerri Zurbuch and registered dietitian Zonya Foco shared tips for getting kids moving and eating to nourish their growing bodies. Both women have the degrees and experience to qualify them as experts, but what makes them even more believable is the fact they're moms themselves. Their advice is kid-tested, practical and do-able. They understand it can be challenging to get kids to put down their Game Boys and go outside or to choose fruit over chips (which, by the way, they believe kids can have both, with the chips being eaten in moderation). Catch their interview on the MM archive, and visit Zonya's website for lots of yummy, easy-to-make, and nutritious, free recipes.

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 13, so Friday's MM is all about moms. What's the best advice your mom ever gave you? Why do you admire her? What have you learned from her? Call, e-mail or Facebook us, May 11, beginning at 10. We'll draw one name from everyone who participates, and send the winner's mother a stunning Mother's Day bouquet. And if we draw your name and the mother you're honoring has passed away, we'll send the bouquet to you, so you can remember, cherish and celebrate your mom on Mother's Day 2012.

Carry Psalm 16:8 with you into the week:

I am ever mindful of the Lord's presence;
He is at my right hand;
I will never be shaken.

This is the truest reality, standing above whatever reality you experience.

Believe it and embrace it!