I Don't Want to Go...Why I Won't Continue Watching Doctor Who and Sherlock

I can't believe I chose that picture; I'm already crying and I haven't gotten to the sad stuff yet! If you know me personally (or follow me on Pinterest), you probably know that I [was] a Whovian/Sherlockian. However, due to unforseen circumstances, I have decided to leave those respective fandoms and I'm writing to explain why.

Not gonna lie, I kind of expected that reaction from you, Sherlock. Call me a Cyberman, call me Mycroft, but I'm not pleased with the "upgrades" that BBC has made to the most recent seasons of my two favorite shows.

I don't like those disappointed/angry faces!

Before I continue, I want to say upfront that the purpose of this post is not to bash either show or the beliefs of the writers and crew who produce them. My ultimate goal in life-or for this post, is not to defame Steven Moffat (brilliant writer of both shows). I am simply revealing, from a Biblical standpoint and mindset, the flaws that have come to my attention. Up to this point, I have thoroughly enjoyed both shows (I even have a "Time Lord" t-shirt and "Exploding TARDIS" mug) and unabashedly branded myself a Whovian and a Sherlockian.  

Really, John?! And you too, HedgeMartin?! Dang, you've all turned against me. Well, almost all...

*sobs* I'll miss you too, Doctor...

So, here's the underlying issue of both:
MORAL AMBIGUITY

In Doctor Who:
If you, the reader, has seen DW season 7 and beginning of 8, you probably know, off the bat, what (who) I'm talking about. For those of you unacquainted with the show, I am referring to a lesbian couple.

 I am not "homophobic". I am not afraid of homosexuals or LGBT.
 But this does not mean that I agree with their lifestyle. 

As a Christian, I believe that homosexuality is sinful. In the Old Testament, by God's law, homosexual behavior was punishable by death (Leviticus 20:13). But after Jesus payed the price of our sins by His death on the cross (thereby taking all the weight of humanity's sin upon Him and redeeming it), the "old" law was not rejected, but fulfilled. The fact that we live under Grace (God's forever acceptance of those who believe in and follow Him), does not mean that we can just do anything we want and still get our "ticket-into-heaven". One day, we will all stand before The Judge (God) and give an account of everything we've ever done. In addition to what is written in the New Testament, we can study the laws that God originally put in place to discern His heart and how He feels about things. I think He feels very strongly against an act of sin that was punishable by death, don't you agree?

You might be familiar with the very Christainese phrase, 
"Hate the sin, love the sinner"
While somewhat cliche, it's so true! I am not the judge of the world, God is. I don't want to shy away from people who wear their lifestyle on their sleeve, whatever it is (you know, unless they're a serial killer or something).

It's become clear to me more than ever that every form of media has an agenda.

Usually, it's an agenda to shout from the mountaintops their support of "Do what you want whenever you want; ditch consequences! That's a made-up word." In the media, "Chase your dreams" often translates to, "Pursue all the twisted desires of your heart regardless of motive or morals." I didn't notice it in BBC much until this year. Especially after watching "Deep Breath". Vastra and Jenny (the lesbian couple) must've said aloud, "we're married", or something to that effect, at least 20 times during the 70-minute episode. They had appeared in a few episodes of the previous two seasons, however, I had just brushed it off. But after my sister (whose Spiritual gift is Prophecy) watched the episode in which they kissed, God lifted the blinders for her. She came to me and explained how she felt the Lord speaking to her about the issue and that got me thinking. 

In Sherlock:

The same sort of issues popped up in this one with lines like, (John to Sherlock) "Do you have a boyfriend? Which is totally fine, by the way." And speculations within and without the show questioning the nature of John and Sherlock's relationship. And in this newest season,  Sherlock shrugged off the fact that he slept with and feigned affection for a woman simply to get information from her. They turned Irene Adler's character from being a thief in the original works, to being a bisexual prostitute who appeared to Sherlock nude (only the clever angles of the camera kept us from being entirely exposed). It's these red flags that popped up here and there (except for the Irene episode that I caution everyone away from if talking about the show), including Mary becoming pregnant with John before they were married, that I had been unintentionally ignoring. 

This video by our beloved Skit Guys really hits the point home!



The morality of BBC (and the media in general; this post really applies to a lot of things) is dwindling away and I'm deeply saddened to see it go. But I wish to look inward more than outward. Where is my morality diminishing? I was shocked to find how much questionable content like fornication and language I have been allowing myself to shrug off because, "I would never do that" or simply scrunch up my nose and mutter, "I don't agree with that". But the more junk we allow ourselves to witness, the more we begin to accept it in our hearts, probably without noticing. I certainly didn't notice how apathetic I had become about what shows I watched until my younger sister gently took me by the hand and by confessing what she saw inside herself, lifted the blinders for me.

As much as I really enjoyed the shows in and of themselves, I can't, in good concience, continue to support a company (by watching on tv or buying products) that champions sinful behavior. I may or may not re-watch the episodes I know to be appropriate; still praying about that one. Certainly won't be plastering my name on the fandom bilboard for the world to see, that's for sure. I have cried a little bit over this decision; prayed a lot and turned the matter over and over in my mind. I really liked Peter Capaldi as the Doctor and I'm sure he'll do a bang-up job, but I can't continue to watch a show that could hurt my morals.

If you've been considering this matter already, I know you've seen the pros of watching either show. What I hope I have presented, after a lot of careful thought, are the cons that prick my conscience. The worst thing that could happen, is that any show with questionable morals could desensitize you. The goal should be to keep your conscience tender so that you can listen closely; movies and media without morals can cause a callous to form over your conscience. Thus, I encourage you to look at whatever your conundrum is, from each point of view; pros and cons. Pray about it and seek wisdom. I read this post to my parents, edited it then reread it to them several times before I posted it :) Don't ever do anything rash; deciding to join or leave a fandom is a big deal, even if you don't realize it. You're putting your stamp of approval on whatever that is and I can guarantee there are people looking up to you and following your example.

And as a token of my tears, I place this gif atop the grave of future unwatched episodes. May I rest in peace with my conscience intact.

Lookee!!! I learned how to add a GIF to my blog posts! I'm so proud of me...

Trim Healthy Waffles-Original Recipe

"Are you a fan of delicious flavor?"

~Shawn Spencer

Our family has just discovered the most amazing healthy living book EVER!!! 

Trim Healthy Mama (THM for short) has been such a blessing to our family! Pearl and Serene (2 Christian sisters from Australia) explain how to eat the way God created our bodies to and to have an overall healthy lifestyle. I'll be doing a book review shortly :) 

These are my Trim Healthy Mama Waffles! After a failed attempt to find one online or in the book, I decided to find and alter a Paleo recipe and give it a whirl. I found one HERE and changed almost everything in it to create the most delicious, decadent waffles you've ever tasted!!! For our family of 10, I do 2 double batches of this batter to feed us all but most likely, you won't need as much so I trimmed it down.

Please, feel free to pin this image. Clicking the image opens this page so everyone can make waffles!

The key to fluffy deliciousness is to whip the egg whites till they're stiff and don't slip around in the bowl...almost like meringues...exactly like meringues...they're meringues (just kidding)

These waffles fall into the "S" category because they utelize whole eggs, almond flour and butter. So slather on the buttah, Mama! You may use all almond flour but the combo of almond and flax makes it super fluffy and smooth!!! The kids can put syrup or honey on theirs but for you, Mama, butter and Polaner's All-Fruit Jelly are both acceptable and encouraged. You could even make a blueberry sauce with blueberries, stevia and a dash of salt and vanilla (yum!)

I hope you'll try the recipe and comment on your success and advice! I make these waffles at least once and sometimes twice a week, we love them so much! I hope you enjoy :)

Trim Healthy Waffles {S}

By McKenna Rosen

Makes Approx. 12 Waffles

Ingredients

6 Egg Yolks

6 Egg Whites

1/4 C. Unsweetened Almond Milk

1/2 C. Almond Flour

1/2 C. Flax Flour

1/2 t. Salt

1/4 C. Melted Butter

2 t. Vanilla

2 T. Truvia

1 T. Cinnamon

1 t. Nutmeg

Bacon Grease or Coconut Oil (for greasing the iron)

Optional: 1 C. Blueberries

Instructions
1. Preheat Waffle Iron
2. Whisk Egg Yolks and Milk
3. Add Almond+Flax Flour and Salt. Whisk.
4. Add Melted Butter. Whisk.
5. Add Vanilla, Stevia, Cinnamon and Nutmeg (Optional Blueberries). Whisk.
6. Whisk Egg Whites until they form stiff peaks. (This is best done in a KitchenAid or with a hand-held mixer)

7. Fold Egg Whites into batter in 3 parts.

This is what the batter looks like after the egg whites have been added.

8. Scoop 1/3 c. Batter into preheated, greased iron.
9. Cook until golden-brown and scrumptious! Enjoy!

Help spread the word about my Waffles and, who knows? Maybe Pearl and Serene will start making it for their families!

Tips for Increasing Productivity in Your Home

A few days ago, I posted a question on my Facebook page. It said, "I've been pondering the concept of PRODUCTIVITY and I'm going to be doing a blog post about it. Does anyone have any thoughts on how to increase productivity in the home? One of the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman was that she was extremely productive and did 'not eat the bread of idleness'. What are some practical ways you kick laziness in the proverbial pants?"
I got some incredible answers! The overwhelming response seems to be that lists are the best way to go. It helps you set a goal and keep a clear focus in mind so you don't get distracted. So...

Tip #1: Make and Keep Lists

Dawn L. said, "For me, I have to have a running to do list. I tend to start to do something and then get sidetracked with something else. If I have a list, then I can finish the first task before going on to another one."

Ella C. said, "If you make a list you can see what's going to take longest, what's most important, what can be done first and what you can start and get going while you move on to something else. For instance, putting in a load of laundry, then putting dinner in the crock pot or in the oven to roast, then loading the dishwasher and starting it. All those things are going and don't need your attention, so you can then focus on the next most important thing. Whatever you don't get done today should go on the top of tomorrow's list."

This is a great point! If we're to find ways to be the most productive we can, so as to bring the most glory to God with the time that we are given, this is a great place to start! Make a binder that's dedicated exclusively to lists. Categorize, if you feel so inclined, and make tabs for "Daily", "Weekly", "Monthly", "Sewing", "Grocery", "Music", etc. Whatever your days and weeks are filled with, there's a list for every task and jurisdiction! If you don't get it done today, get it done tomorrow and don't allow yourself to be distracted.
My mom suggests adding to your list things you accomplished that weren't originally written down so you can see on paper that you really are getting things done!

Tip #2: Find Ways to Motivate Yourself

Personally, I am not incredibly self-motivated. I get distracted easily and if the task at hand doesn't suit my fancy, I tend to avoid it. In fact, I procrastinated on this post for almost a week! But, when I am motivated, I'm a powerhouse who gets everything done down to the polishing and waxing! Find your weak spots and counter-attack with a motivator. For example, if you (like me) have a tough time getting out of bed in the morning, do something to entice yourself out; prepare the teapot the night before and turn it on once you're awake or keep a robe by your bed that you can wrap up in it once you're on your feet. Set a spot at the table with your Bible and notebook so you can drink your tea while you're filled with the Word before others are awake! If you clean the kitchen best if there's some upbeat music on, bring the iPod in! 
Or, if you have enjoyable, relaxing things on your list like reading, sewing or writing, don't allow yourself the pleasure until your less savory tasks are completed :) I'm sure there are so many more ways and only you know how you tick, so once you identify where you tend to stumble most, find a way to turn it into an advantage!

Tip #3: Don't Forget the Big Picture!!! 

Felicia B. said, "Agree with all of the above [suggestions for list-making] so I will not repeat. Just want to add that on that list you make sure there is time with kids, spouse, friends and most important God. Which is not typically something you check off but something you learn to weave into all the daily demands. Try not to get too much self-worth out of earthly accomplishments and forget about the eternal ones..." 

Kerri B. said, "I am a big list maker, too. I really try to remember why I'm doing what I'm doing. I'm serving God by doing what He's called me to do. Right now, that's being a full-time wife and mom. So, every load of laundry, every meal, every lesson taught and every toilet scrubbed is serving Him through serving my family. This way of thinking helps me stay focused and just makes doing all these (some unpleasant) things easier. When I'm joyful, I'm more productive. A nice chocolate stash helps, too ;)"

I am so blessed to be surrounded by such wise and godly women! All of these ladies are my friends and I learn so much from them! As we strive to fulfill our calling as God-honoring, faithful daughters, mothers and wives at home, it's imperative that we don't forget the "Big Picture". There will be days where EVERYTHING on our list gets done and days where NOTHING gets done. We can't weep over the little things that get left behind in favor of family. We can't forget that little brothers are more important than clean dishes, Bible time is more important than a sewing project and hugs and cuddles are much more important than vacuuming! So, when we make our lists and motivate ourselves and try to get things done, we can't leave out the most important things. The things that matter. The things that last. 

 ...She looks for wool and flax
And works with her hands in delight.
 She is like merchant ships;
She brings her food from afar.
 She rises also while it is still night
And gives food to her household
And portions to her maidens...
 She girds herself with strength
And makes her arms strong.
 She senses that her gain is good;
Her lamp does not go out at night.
19 She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hands grasp the spindle...
 Strength and dignity are her clothing,
And she smiles at the future.
 She opens her mouth in wisdom,
And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
27 She looks well to the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness...
 Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
 Give her the product of her hands,
And let her works praise her in the gates.

Proverbs 31:13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, 30 NASB  

Cheese-less Cheesy Popcorn Recipe

I'm sure that title sounds like an oxymoron, but it's not. This recipe was created by yours truly, a popcorn connoisseur. It works best with "Whirley-Pop" or air popper popcorn; as long as it's homemade. This recipe doesn't call for cheese, but tastes completely cheesy! The secret ingredient is Nutritional Yeast. You can find it at most health-food stores and it's not very expensive at all. This won't work with regular yeast, but there is some magical quality to the stuff that makes your taste buds sigh, "Cheese..." What you're provided is a delicious, buttery, no-nonsense popcorn that is truly addictive! I am NOT exaggerating!

 

Just kidding! I would never let my popcorn spill!

 

Cheese-less Cheesy Popcorn

Makes a double-batch to fill a large bowl

Ingredients

1 Cup Organic Popcorn Kernels

2 Tablespoons Coconut Oil

1/2-1 Cup Butter

1 1/2 Tablespoons Salt

1/2 Cup Nutritional Yeast

An Appetite

 

Method

Make up your popcorn 1/2 cup at a time in either a Whirley-Pop or an air popper. The Coconut Oil is for if you're using a Whirley-Pop or a knock-off Whirley-Pop that ultimately works just as well.

Once the popcorn is all popped and in a large bowl, melt the butter. It's up to you how much to use. 1/2 cup will sparsely butter the popcorn and 1 cup will make your fingers shiny when you pick up a handful. This all depends upon your personal butter preferences. Toss the popcorn with the salt then add the butter. Gently mix that in, using a spatula or your hands. Finally, add the Nutritional Yeast. Mix it up until thoroughly combined. Make sure none of the Yeast falls to the bottom of the bowl. Now might be a good time to say something about the Godly virtue of Self-Control. I promise, it'll be hard to control your portions, so get the family together for a snack or you will end up eating the entire bowl by yourself! But doesn't that look tantalizing?!