Saturday, December 12, 2015

The Advent Wreath

Just put this all together from a local fabric store here in SJD, Mexico.  We light it tomorrow at The Gathering

It's not too late to make an Advent Wreath this year.   I did this with my family almost every year as my children were growing up.  We would take turns reading a devotion that was specific to that week and then we would light the appropriately colored candle.  On Christmas Day we would light the center candle which is the Christ candle.
  There are many sites available where you can find and download the information you need to learn the significance of each candle.  You can find the devotions and more so you can start this great family tradition.  It's fun and it will teach everyone the right way to prepare for Christmas.

To reach me you can email me at:  Donna@DonnaSchuller.com

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Giving Starts At Home





Giving Tuesday is today.  I'm not sure how many years we've been doing this but it's a great idea.   As I was watching a morning news/talk show this morning I heard a guest talk about ways to give back  Although most of her ideas were great there was one area she didn't even mention.  Loving others and giving back is so important and I feel strongly that giving begins in your own home, with your own family.  With this thought in mind here is my list of how to prioritize your giving on Giving Tuesday (and any day, really!)


~~Love and give to the one you're with.  If you aren't accustomed to taking time alone with your significant other, set aside a day, right now,  so you can really talk and be present.  As a busy woman and a Grandma I realize that there are sometimes days where I go without really "hearing" what my husband is saying.  I regularly need to be intentional and make a date day or date night where it's just the two of us alone.  The same goes for your children.  They are second only to your spouse.   Giving starts at home.

~~Offer your heart.  Extend one of your most valuable possessions to others in your family-your time.   Ask if you can pick a grandchild up at school.   Take a day off of work to take them to the beach or to the park.  I babysit my youngest grandson several times a week.  He keeps me grounded and focused on what it important-"and the greatest of these is love." 

~~Reach out to your (very) extended family.  Early last year I found out that my cousin's 11 year old daughter (my second cousin) had cancer.   Instead of focusing energy on strangers in need (there are plenty), I try to put her needs first.  She's my cousin, after all.  

~~Carry a bag of food in the trunk of your car.  The next time you see a homeless person or someone who is carrying a sign that says, "I'm hungry,"  hand them the bag of food.  You'll know right away if they really need it. 

~~Give some time to a local charity.  Even if it's just a day a month.   *Remember-shelters and other places that care for the needy are overrun with volunteers this time of the year and when January hits it's back to "business as usual" (as people flock to the gym!)  One solution might be to call today to schedule a time to volunteer beginning after the first of the year.   Ask the charity what they need.  Don't assume they need clothing when what they really need is basic food and/or hands to prepare it.
Helping children learn to read is a great way to volunteer.  

~~There are many international mission projects that are worthy of your time and money but if you have U.S. Veterans who are sleeping on your city streets it might be more important to focus on getting them in warm shelters.  Call your city and ask until you get an acceptable answer. 

~~Remember your church, place of worship, or other faith-based charities.  Mother Teresa once said that the most important needs of people are emotional ones. (paraphrase)  Remember how important your pastor's words of encouragement are.  Inspiring words of hope can change someone's outlook on life which has a direct impact on their family, their co-workers, the people they encounter on a day-to-day basis, and their world.  

~~Diversifying and giving a "little here and a little there" is a great idea.  The more you give the more rewarding your life will be.  Remember you can never out-give God.


*Join my husband and I on THE CALL which is coming up again on December 15th at 6pm PST.  Dial 530-881-1300 and key-in 642848# when prompted.  Join us every month only on the 15th at 6pm PST

For more information about our minstry click HERE. 

To reach me you can email me at:  Donna@DonnaSchuller.com 
If you need a pastor you can reach my husband at: Robert@RobertSchullerMinistries.org

Monday, November 23, 2015

Eat Some Real Food For Thanksgiving

"Let food be your medicine, and medicine your food."  Hippocrates
          
         With Thanksgiving only 3 days away the holidays are officially upon us! Although 
         Thursday is a day for feasting and giving thanks it's important to remember that flu season and 
          New Year's resolutions are right around the corner too.  In order to keep your immune system
          in tip-top shape, go ahead and indulge in a bit of pumpkin pie but remember to eat some real 
          food too.  Not only will you feel better and strengthen your body against the flu you won't
          outgrow your clothes in the next six weeks either.                 
With a food system and dietary guidelines that promote obesity and actively prevents optimal health by restricting critical nutrients, is it any wonder Americans are struggling? If you're at all concerned about your health, nutrition is paramount, and you’re simply not going to get what you need from a boxed concoction of processed ingredients.
So, first and foremost, you have to realize that a healthy diet equates to fresh whole, preferably organic foods, and foods that have been minimally processed. I advise spending 90 percent of your food budget on whole foods, and only 10 percent (or less) on processed foods. If the food meets the following criteria, it would fall under the designation of "real food," which is the very foundation of good health:

  1. It's grown without pesticides and chemical fertilizers (organic foods fit this description, but so do some non-organic foods)
  2. It's not genetically engineered 
  3. It contains no added growth hormones, antibiotics, or other drugs
  4. It does not contain any artificial ingredients, including chemical preservatives
  5. It is fresh.  I prefer lettuce, kale, and other produce not in plastic bags.  Although they take a bit more prep time, they are cheaper and usually fresher.
  6. It did not come from a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO)
  7. It is grown with the laws of nature in mind (meaning animals are fed their native diets, not a mix of grains and animal byproducts, and have free-range access to the outdoors)
  8. It is grown in a sustainable way (using minimal amounts of water, protecting the soil from burnout, and turning animal wastes into natural fertilizers instead of environmental pollutants)

If you want to stay fit and keep healthy in body, mind and soul you must respect and honor your body by feeding it real food.  Real food is food that is closest to the way that God made it.  It is nutrient dense and thus more satiating than "fake" fast, processed food.  Once you start eating real food you will stop craving so much junk food and your waistline will show it too!   Remember...
 "Your body is the temple of the holy spirit"   1 Corinthians 6:19 

Have some fun on Thanksgiving. Eat "stuff" that's not on your normal daily menu.  Get back into good habits by Monday by resisting all that junk that comes to your office or is delivered to your house over the next several weeks.  Use discipline and restraint.  Your body, your mind, and your soul will be healthier for it and you'll be happier too. 

Join me and my husband, Dr. Robert A. Schuller on the 15th of each and every month at 6pm Pacific time for "The Call".    During our hour together we explore different topics from a Christian perspective and help pass along great information about body, mind, and soul health.  To access the call just dial 530-881-1300 The access code is 642848# * Make sure you call at 6pm Pacific time and only on the 15th of each month. 

To contact me email: donna@donnaschuller.com

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Monday, October 19, 2015

When Bad is Good

   The worst thing that happens to you may be the best thing for you if you don't let it get the best of you.  Will Rogers


 One of the earliest of my husband's seventeen books is titled, "What Happens to Good People When Bad Things Happen?" and I know that this title holds a question that we can still ask today.  The answer of course, "they become better people."  
The Bible tells us that the "rain falls on the just and the unjust" so why are some doubtful people so quick to blame God when something bad happens to them and when things are going great they refuse to thank God and give Him the credit?  It may be that it's just human nature and so much easier to find someone to hold responsible for unpleasantries or worse yet, terrible disasters- because we just have to find a reason or an explanation for things going bad.  
 What do we do when bad things happen to us?  We should pray more and we should seek wise counsel while realizing that we are only passing "through"our valley, not being dumped there.  We should only share with trusted confidants knowing that not everyone has our best interests at heart.  Proceeding with caution and faith while going through rough situations can make-or-break a day, a week, a month, a year, or a lifetime.  

 Re-framing is a very common practice for psychologists. It's basically taking a situation and looking at it a different way or trying to see the good in something bad.   I try to re-frame in my daily life.   I am also known as a "connector" so it's probably easier for me to see the whys and try to figure out how a challenging situation connects me to the future and helps me grow as a person.   Visualizing a positive outcome to a negative situation is called "faith" and it's really what has helped me through life.  Of course, it all starts with prayer and trust that God has got it all handled even when I don't!  I know I've said it before but if you have believed the statement, "God never gives you more than you can handle" I want to tell you again that it's not true!  He does give you more than you can handle but "God will not give you more than HE can handle."  Trust, Faith, Prayer, Assurance, and Hope are all words to ponder, practice, and hold on to.  This orientation in life can help turn your "bad" into "good." 

Last weekend I was at a fabulous women's event.  "Imagine" was held at Newport Church in Newport Beach, California and I was so impressed and blessed with one of the strong, reoccurring messages of the day, "Happily Ever After."   They even sold great-looking shirts with the slogan printed on them.  Happily Ever After is God's plan for our future. We all guess at what our future holds and sometimes it can be scary.  If we put our trust in the one who created us and keep on "praying like it all depends on God, and working like it all depends on us" we will live happier and healthier lives.  And we can be assured that others around us will benefit from our attitude and we will finish well. 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."     Proverbs 3:5,6

 If you'd like to listen to the podcast from our CALL please go to: RobertSchullerMinistries.podomatic.com 
 Our last call was with Dr. Paul Murray and he discusses his book, "Broken, Picking Up The Pieces After The Fall."

If you need help with anything you can contact me at:  Donna@SchullerMinistries.org

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

BeLove.World

Be LOVE logos CMYK
A Leading Ladies Unlimited Initiative
the pledge
Details coming soon.

www.HealthyFamilyHappyLife.org
Donna@DonnaSchuller.com

Thursday, September 10, 2015

How To Be REALLY Happy

Since the name of my website and my ministry is Healthy Family Happy Life I do a lot of thinking and writing about the subject of happiness.  Here’s a couple of thoughts from one of my favorite writers:



“The end (goal) of life is not human happiness; it is human growth. . Growth in character and achievement. Happiness is a by-product of that growth. The universe therefore had to be a semi-hard universe—it had to be sufficiently hard to sharpen our souls upon. Were their no disease, there would be no research to find remedies and thus no growth. No earthquakes then no improvements on buildings being built and no growth. No weeds in our gardens then no need to figure out how to get rid of them…no growth.

 
This was posted on a wall inside the Manila Times newspaper.


We have to be unfinished masters of an unfinished world. The world is imperfect so we can make the effort to perfect it. In finishing the unfinished we help finish ourselves.” (and pages later): “the goal of the individual as perfection of character and life is not to get to Heaven but to try to bring heaven to earth.” (later in the book) “The goal of human society, then, is the Kingdom of God on Earth. There are thus two goals which are really one-namely the perfected individual in a perfected society. ” 
E. Stanley Jones “Growing Spiritually"

If you want to find some mid-month encouragement and/or learn how to grow spiritually then one thing you can do is to join my husband and I for THE CALL on the 15th of every month at 6pm Pacific time.  Dial 530-881-1300 and key-in 642848#  We have a special surprise this month, September 15th, but join us any month.  Or you an go and listen to our previous CALLS on our podcast at RobertSchullerMinistries.podomatic.com


*Check back in soon for my series on manners, etiquette, and civility.  My friend and author, Julie Ann Ulcikas has been home taking care of her kids or traveling all summer but we are almost ready to post the exciting and helpful series of blogs!


 
  

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Fall Cleaning




Way back Wednesday!  I decided to post something from 5 years ago!  Enjoy!

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Eat Break-Fast!

 As a health coach I write about issues of health...total health meaning that of the body, the mind, and the soul.  Here's one regarding what you eat (or don't eat!)

For me and my family we have a habit of drinking a "green drink" every morning This drink is blended and filled with fresh green vegetables, a combination of healthy fats, (coconut or avocado are my go-to)  high-quality protein powder, water and ice cubes.   In addition I may or may not have an egg or two, either scrambled in coconut oil, poached, or made into an omelet containing more of the same healthy greens.  I am satisfied for hours because my body is getting real food and it is happy about that so I have no cravings and I begin the day energized and ready to face whatever comes my way.
Remember that breakfast can be called break-fast.   That's right....you are breaking an overnight fast.   Most likely you have not eaten all night and your insulin levels will be all out of sorts if you leave the house without adequate fuel.  In turn your stress hormones will be messed up and once this happens you are setting yourself up for a potential cascade of health issues in body, mind and soul.
Please eat breakfast!!
*join me for The Call this coming Saturday, August 15th at 6pm Pacific Time.  Dial 530-881-1300 and key-in 642848#  We will be interviewing Daniel Brigman, the founder of NuManna Foods. 

Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Watch Your Tongue!



 "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks"   Matthew 12:34
 
As a health coach, I try very hard to balance the issues of body, mind, and soul.  Learning to, and encouraging others to speak with honesty and kindness is an important piece in putting the whole health puzzle together so for the next few weeks I will be writing about manners, etiquette, basic civility, and healthy, constructive human behavior.  I just interviewed an expert on the subject, my friend Julie Ann Ulcickas, who has published a book, "Urbanity Fair, An Abbreviated Guide to Modern Manners" and I will begin writing about my time spent with her next time.  I know you will be inspired, informed, and helped in some way by her words and her simple yet profound advice.

According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, the word civility means polite, reasonable, and respectful behavior.  In my opinion, our society has swung so far in the other direction as I observe many individuals who do not exemplify the cited behaviors listed in the definition of the word.  It seems more and more people these days speak, write, and use their words as weapons, to break-down or even try to destroy another's reputation, sense of self-worth, or feelings of security.    As public figures for many years, I know that my family and I have been hurt by unkind and destructive written words, many of which are untrue.  Some have also been opinions of our work or our looks which are mean-spirited and not helpful in any way.  If you've had this happen to you or your family you may know what I'm talking about.

You've heard the saying, "sticks and stones can break my bones but words can never hurt me." In truth, often times the words that come out of our mouths can cut much deeper and injure much greater than most physical harm we may experience.




With the proliferation of the Internet and social media sites, it seems even easier for some individuals to sling angry, hurtful, thoughtless, and irresponsible words around.  Words they would rarely say to another person if they were face-to-face.  Words that are forever;  as if they published a book and had it registered with The Library Of Congress.  Angry, demeaning, unforgiving rhetoric posted on people's social media pages, "Tweeted out," text, or which are penned on any one of the numerous digital newspaper comment sites can do much to destroy someone's reputation, or even worse, can negatively affect their feelings of themselves to the point where we've even seen some young people tragically take their own life.   Those who criticize and put others down in such brutal ways do not embody emotional health themselves.  They attempt to "level the playing field" and they try to bring others down to their level by saying disparaging things to and about them.

How can we make a difference in this "playground of bullies?"  To begin with, we must model what it looks like to lift others up by speaking edifying words and showing kind and helpful deeds.   We need to teach and witness to them:  "A rising tide lifts all boats."  We must teach our children, our grandchildren, and other young people who are influenced by us that words are forever and once spoken or written are very difficult to take back.  Like squeezing-out a tube of toothpaste....so easy to come out but try putting the toothpaste back in the tube.
"Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."  Proverbs 12:18

Let's be part of a solution and demonstrate what it looks like for people to treat others with respect and love.  Let's start by only speaking and writing kind and polite words to one another.  The health of our communities, our state, our nation, and our world depends on it.



"But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words, you will be condemned."    Matthew 12:36-37  


If you'd like to reach me you can email me:  Donna@DonnaSchuller.com

Thursday, May 21, 2015

How Do We Say "Good-Bye?....On Death and Grief

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die."       Ecclesiastes 3: 1-2 

 I'm experienced at surviving loss.  My young, vibrant father died in a car accident when I was just thirteen,  he was only forty years old.  One day he was there, the next he was gone. From that day on my life was drastically changed,  I looked at the world through different lenses then most young teens. Although I have always cautioned myself against dwelling on the thought that anyone we love can be taken away at any time, this is a prevailing message forever imbedded in my mind.  
Being married to a pastor I have witnessed first-hand all kinds of grief and loss, the worst being:  parents tragically losing s a young child; the passing away of an adolescent, a young adult, or a spouse due to an accident;  those long, drawn-out illnesses which consume the heart and the soul of the surviving family until their loved-one finally succumbs to the illness or disease.  I have also seen the death of many marriages and this too is witnessing real grief.   I will ask the question again, "when is it ever easy to say good-bye?" A few years ago I wrote two different pieces on grief.  The first one right after I road-over my dog.  You can read it here.    The second piece I wrote was during my move out of our family home which you can read here.



Grieving publicly is difficult.  My husband was so overwhelmed he struggled to speak.



In the past six weeks I have lost my father-in-law Robert H. Schuller;  a good friend, and our first
marriage counselor, Dr. Frank Freed;  and most recently, one of my mentors and pastors,  David Grubbs.  Are they "lost" or am I the one who is more lost because they are no longer here?  I think the later.

Death is such a natural part of life and as a Christian I believe in the afterlife.  If we are committed to our belief  then why do we still experience such sadness and grief when saying "good-bye" to those we care about?
If you are a normal, healthy person you should be able to travel through a variety of emotions which will not threaten your security as a person of faith or do anything to separate you from the love of God.  And remember grief has a season of it's own and cannot be assigned a time to "get through."


Rarely a private moment in our family's events.


Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her 1969 book “On Death and Dying" came up with what we now consider a standard description on the stages of grief.  These stages are what a healthy individual should progress through in order to finally accept the loss of a loved-one.  And by the way, they can also be applied to any loss: that of a job, a marriage, or anything which has caused us pain.

1. Denial and Isolation

The first reaction to learning of terminal illness or death of a cherished loved one is to deny the reality of the situation. It is a normal reaction to rationalize overwhelming emotions. It is a defense mechanism that buffers the immediate shock. We block out the words and hide from the facts. This is a temporary response that carries us through the first wave of pain. 

2. Anger

As the masking effects of denial and isolation begin to wear, reality and its pain re-emerge. We are not ready. The intense emotion is deflected from our vulnerable core, redirected and expressed instead as anger. The anger may be aimed at inanimate objects, complete strangers, friends or family. Anger may be directed at our dying or deceased loved one. Rationally, we know the person is not to be blamed. Emotionally, however, we may resent the person for causing us pain or for leaving us. We feel guilty for being angry, and this makes us more angry.

3. Bargaining

The normal reaction to feelings of helplessness and vulnerability is often a need to regain control–
  • If only we had sought medical attention sooner…
  • If only we got a second opinion from another doctor…
  • If only we had tried to be a better person toward them…
Secretly, we may make a deal with God in an attempt to postpone the inevitable. This is a weaker line of defense to protect us from the painful reality.

4. Depression

Two types of depression are associated with mourning. The first one is a reaction to practical implications relating to the loss. Sadness and regret predominate this type of depression. We worry about the costs and burial. We worry that, in our grief, we have spent less time with others that depend on us. This phase may be eased by simple clarification and reassurance. We may need a bit of helpful cooperation and a few kind words. The second type of depression is more subtle and, in a sense, perhaps more private. It is our quiet preparation to separate and to bid our loved one farewell.

5. Acceptance

Reaching this stage of mourning is a gift not afforded to everyone. Death may be sudden and unexpected or we may never see beyond our anger or denial. It is not necessarily a mark of bravery to resist the inevitable and to deny ourselves the opportunity to make our peace. This phase is marked by withdrawal and calm. This is not a period of happiness and must be distinguished from depression.
Loved ones that are terminally ill or aging appear to go through a final period of withdrawal. This is by no means a suggestion that they are aware of their own impending death or such, only that physical decline may be sufficient to produce a similar response. Their behavior implies that it is natural to reach a stage at which social interaction is limited. The dignity and grace shown by our dying loved ones may well be their last gift to us.  

In closing I'd like to suggest some things not to say to someone who has recently lost a loved-one: "He (or she) is in a better place." "You must be relieved that their suffering is over and they are now with Jesus." "You'll be okay, just hang-on to the happy memories." "You're strong so just hang in there." "You are so lucky to have experienced such a great marriage for all those years." "Pray about your loss and God will help you."  Any derivative of any of the above statements are not okay to say to someone who is grieving!
The only things you should say are: "I am praying for you."  "Can I do anything to help you?" "I am here for you." "This must be so very difficult."  "I love you."
 We are the ones who can be uncomfortable when people are grieving. When using words know that less is more.  Do not be offended if your friend does not respond to your wanting to help.  Everyone grieves differently and remember...the stages listed above each have a season of their own and should not be rushed through.

 "Where, O death, is your victory?  Where, O death, is your sting?"     1 Corinthians 15: 55-56
   


 If you need help "getting through what you are going through" please reach-out to someone who can help.  My husband can be reached at:  Robert@RobertSchullerMinistries.org
I can be reached at: Donna@DonnaSchuller.com






Friday, May 1, 2015

Got Health For Mother's Day?


It's been nearly a year since I published my book, "Healthy Family, Happy Life" yet I'm still so surprised that many people assume that what I mean by being healthy only includes eating right and exercising.  During my book interviews some hosts even joke to the point of self-deprecation before they introduce me while they explain how they need to lose weight,  try to justify why they recently gave up their gym membership , or confess they ate too much at a party the night before! 
Although a good diet and regular physical activity is definitely a part of overall health, it surely is not the end-all.
 In my practice, when I coach an individual the first thing I do is I evaluate all areas of their health.  Some of my initial questions might include: "What do you do for a living and do you like your job? Are you married?  Do you have children?  Is your home life peaceful and satisfying?  What is your spiritual life like? If you parents are living, what is your relationship like with them? What does your typical day look like? What time do you go to bed? When do you wake-up?  What do you eat upon rising?"   In order for me to assess a person's physical health I need to try to envision the entire picture of the whole person, their habits and their daily living conditions.   In fact, I have found that most people who say they need to lose weight haul around a huge load of emotional and/or spiritual baggage.  In most cases their excess pounds will be shed naturally, over time,  once the other issues have been sorted-out.
  My book does include some helpful hints on eating right and exercise but it also features chapters on the importance of being honest;  why goal setting is important;  practicing positive thinking for a better life;   how to get through tough times;  and the significance of loving yourself, others, and God.

Christina (8 mos. pregnant w/Christian, Me (Donna) , My mom (Lanelle)

In honor of  Mother's Day I decided to remind you of the timeless messages included in my book, and after all, I dedicated this book to my mother!  Since last year my (then) pregnant daughter, Christina, who was featured on the back of my book, has given birth to and is raising a healthy baby boy who is turning one on May 15th! I have so much respect for the way my daughter is raising Christian although making the right health choices for his overall well-being are not always the easiest ones to make.  For one, she makes all of his food and she only prepares that which is chemical-free and non-GMO.  She has not yet given him any dairy or wheat and she is still breast-feeding a few times a day.  He is 100% medicine and drug-free since birth, has a regular nap and bedtime routine, is beginning to learn what "no no" means, and they surround him with the love of family and friends on a regular basis.  My subtitle, "what healthy families learn from healthy moms" is now impacting four generations and it's such a blessing for me to see it all played-out thus far. 

Christian, 11mos with his mommy, Christina. 

For the month of May I am offering you a signed book for $12.99, including shipping costs.  They make great gifts for anyone who is trying to adopt a healthier life-style; physically, emotionally, or spiritually.  It's a great book for young and old because it's never too late to start living healthier!  I am also offering specials for my private telephone coaching services.  Contact me at Donna@DonnaSchuller.com if you are interested in either.

Remember to join me for "The Call" on May 15th.  Dial 530-881-1300 from any phone.  Key-in 642848# for access.

Sunday, April 12, 2015

The Health Risks of Sitting


 **Remember to join us for "The Call" on Wednesday, April 15th (or the 15th of each month)  Dial 530-881-1300 and key-in 642848#   We will talk about "new beginnings."

Most of us who fly a lot have heard of "deep vein thrombosis" which can occur in certain at-risk individuals who don't get up and move around during a long flight.  But did you know that there are many more health risks associated with a sedentary life-style and with sitting for long periods during the day, even when you aren't airborne?

I've always advocated taking the stairs instead of an elevator (when practical), settling for that parking spot that's maybe a bit further away from your destination and walking a little further,  getting outside for a walk whenever you can, disciplining yourself to go to the gym, swim in a pool, play tennis, or any other sports activity that gets your body moving for 30-60 minutes or longer several days a week.  This post is to encourage you to just stand up and move around a bit!

I viewed this great video from TedEd and it explains in great detail why it is so important for you to get up from your desk or from wherever you may be sitting (right now!) every thirty minutes.  Your health depends on it so get up and move!





Need some mid-month encouragement?  Join me and my husband on "The Call" this coming Wednesday, April 15th at 6pm Pacific time.  Dial 530-881-1300 and key-in 642848#  

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me."  Phil 4:13



To reach me you can email: Donna@DonnaSchuller.com


Thursday, April 9, 2015

Goal #8-Breathe

**Join my husband, Robert Schuller and me for "The Call" which is coming up again on April 15th at 6pm Pacific time.  Dial 530-881-1300 and key-in 642848# (you can click on my page "The Call" to learn more)

  breathe


 I am finally coming to the end of my series on "Healthy Goals for 2015!" By now I hope that you are well into the "new" year and on your way to a better version of yourself than you ever imagined possible.  Here is what I've written about in the last three-plus months. You can read all of them by simply going back to my home page and scrolling down to "older posts." 

1)    Be curious-new studies show why asking questions or learning something new is good for you.
2)    Be generous-how giving back promotes long-life and a sense of purpose.
3)    Be grateful-learn to concentrate on what all you do have.  Being aware of things around you.
4)    Be healthy-helpful tips for being all you can be in body, mind, and spirit.
5)    Be present-when you are with a person be with them.  Also... "digital detox."
6)    Be intentional-how to schedule and make time for those you love and the things you want to do.
7)    Be you-authenticity is the way to go, even when it's difficult to fit-in to popular culture.
8)    Breathe-discover ways to decrease your stress levels with proper breath.

One of the first things I do when I find out one of my clients is having trouble sleeping is to help coach them in proper diaphragmatic breathing. * Remember that insomnia is epidemic in our society...over 80 million people in the USA alone have trouble either going to sleep or staying asleep each night.   I've written before on the importance of healthy, correct breathing because most of us exist  by taking shallow or uneven breaths which can result in all kinds of physical, emotional and spiritual health issues.  Here's a bit about proper breathing here if you want to read more.  If you are interested in learning more practical tips for healthy living or in purchasing my book, "Healthy Family, Happy Life," at Donna@DonnaSchuller.com


... raise roses in the rose city volunteers from the portland rose societyI'm sure that you are familiar with the saying, "stop and smell the roses."  And "yes", I actually do this each time I walk by a blooming rose bush because it is just too tempting!  For one, I get such pleasure discovering that there are actually still roses in people's yards that are very, very fragrant.
 The real message intended in taking a few seconds out of your busyness just to enjoy the fragrances, sounds, and sights around you is this:  once you become more aware of and acknowledge the beauty all around, you will become more grateful and more in touch with who you really are.
My daughter Christina BeachBabeFitness.com ended her Saturday morning Yoga class this past week by reading the following:

Sunday, April 5, 2015

Funeral Services for
The Rev. Dr. Robert Harold Schuller

Reverend Dr. Robert Harold Schuller

GARDEN GROVE CALIFORNIA - Donna M. Schuller for Rev. Dr. Robert Anthony Schuller

The Rev. Dr. Robert Harold Schuller will be laid to rest on April 20th at 10am at Christ Cathedral.  This will be a public funeral.

"A great man deserves to have a great send-off!" - Donna Schuller

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Goals To Live By-#7 Be Authentic



“You become. It takes a long time. That’s why it doesn’t happen often to people who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in your joints and very shabby.
But these things don’t matter at all, because once you are Real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.”   Margery Williams

Being authentic is one of the hardest things to do.  Most everyone of us seeks approval of some kind.   I grew up as a "people pleaser"and just when I began to recover I married a pastor and I suddenly became "too good or not good enough: had too much money or not enough;  drove too nice a car, wore too nice of clothes,  exercised too much," and the list goes on and on!  Just ask a pastor's wife sometime.  To make matters even worse I took full responsibility when people got angry and decided to leave the church!  I remember writing letters of apology and feeling like somehow I could have stopped their departures if only I had tried harder..  Wow!  I'm so glad I survived those years.
 Life and it's choices are tough but knowing who you are,  what you stand for, and ultimately who you belong to is important for your overall health;  emotionally, spiritually, and physically.   I like the saying, "if you don't stand for something you will fall for anything."

As I write this I admit there are days I struggle with my greying hair, my aging skin and body.  I color my hair to keep it blonde, wear a bit of make-up, and aim to exercise at least five days a week. I want to wear stylish clothes and I try to keep up with some of the latest trends.
 I grew-up in a society that rewards beauty and youth, especially here in Orange County California which is also geographically close to Hollywood.  In addition my mother was a professional model and when I was very young she got me involved in modeling too.  When I was a teenager I was a homecoming princess and I was entered in and won two beauty pageants a couple of years later.  I've spent plenty of hours in front of cameras and/or on "stage."  Needless to say there was a lot of attention placed on looks for as long as I can remember. 
 Fortunately I'm working on maturing into a person who (on most days) knows that I am a child of God and since He doesn't care about outside appearances,  or what people think about me, neither should I.  Being a grandmother has helped me with this too.  My purpose and focus in life has changed and it's awesome!

To "Be Authentic" here is what I strive to be:
-Loving
-Accepting
-Honest 
-Humble
-Compassionate
Some days I fail miserably but I set my goals and execute a "personal inventory check-up" when I am missing the mark. I am also quick to admit when I am wrong and I don't have trouble apologizing, remembering that it is not always my fault (the pastor's wife guilt stuff rearing it's ugly head).


“All people are like grass,
and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field.

The grass withers and the flowers fall,
because the breath of the Lord blows on them.
Surely the people are grass.

The grass withers and the flowers fall,
but the word of our God endures forever.”       Isaiah 40:6-8 

 Being authentic and real means you are willing to take some risks and step-out in faith and trust that being true to who you are won't always be well-received by others.
 What do you struggle with or want to be?  I would love to read your comments. 



Need help or do you want to contact me?  You can email me at Donna@DonnaSchuller.com

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Goals To Live By-#6, "Be Intentional"



 For an update on my father-in-law Dr. Robert H. Schuller click here


This is a body, mind, and soul health site and as such I try to balance my writings as they focus on each part of our being.   My philosophy for living is to encourage people to do the best they can to balance all three aspects of health because they are all interconnected.     In order to stay healthy it's important to schedule and make time for the people you love and the things you want to do.

Today's goal to live by is to "be intentional."  It's surprising how many people I talk to say something like, "oh I would do (----fill-in the blank---) if I had enough time in the day."  In some ways I think that this is just a "cop-out."   We all have just twenty four hours or 1440 minutes in one day.  That's 168 hours or 10,080 minutes a week.  It's tough figuring out what to do with that time, especially since most of us are pulled in this way and that and it's not easy to schedule things that we want to do because there is so much we have to do!   As I write I can't help but think about the fantastic song from the Broadway musical "Rent" titled  "Seasons Of Love."  Following are a few of the lyrics. If you don't know the tune it's worth Googling them and you can also hear the rest of the song.

 "525,600 minutes, 525,000 moments so dear.
525,600 minutes - how do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights, in cups of coffee.
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.
In 525,600 minutes - how do you measure a year in the life?
How about love? How about love? How
about love? Measure in love.
Seasons of love....."


In my last post I talked about "Being Present" 
I hope that today's short message will keep you thinking about the last one as well.

Today is the second week of Lent and I am trying to meditate each day on the goodness of God and on all of my blessings.  It takes some discipline to read a short devotional first thing each morning as I allow a message of faith, hope,  and love to penetrate my heart and my whole being.  I have had to be intentional with this morning routine and it has paid off in so many ways.

No matter what you want to accomplish in this year, this month, this week, this day, this hour, or this minute...it takes intention and commitment.

 Maybe you need to eat better, exercise more, call your kids or your parents more, be more helpful to others, check-in with friends more often, pray and meditate more, or just take better care of your own body, mind, and soul.    In order to do this you will need to make a plan and then stick to it.  Just as you schedule (and hopefully keep) most of your appointments at work, for getting your hair cut or you nails done, seeing your doctor, or going out to lunch.  Things typically don't just "fall into place" unless you spend some time and energy making them happen.  

We measure our life in love so do all you can to help yourself and help others. Walk in love... intentionally with perseverance.  

"And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.  
Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
Collosians 3:14, 15

** Join me for "The Call" on March 15th at 6pm Pacific Time.  Dial 530-881-1300 and key-in 642848#  We will interview former U.S. Congressman and U.N. Representative Mark Siljander about his book, "A Deadly Misunderstanding" which addresses the Christian-Islam global conflicts.  

To contact me you can email:  Donna@DonnaSchuller.com