HungerBlog

Friday, November 20, 2009

Opportunities to Share

By Joyce Jones I just wanted to share about how God has worked in my life this week regarding food challenge. Tuesday, 5:30 pm my husband and I get a flu shot. Nurse asks me "where is hubby taking you to eat tonight. Opportunity to share. Wednesday...still fasting and concerned what my friend would be eating for lunch. I was concerned that I would "give in" to my hunger after smelling her delicious lunch. Friend comes in with diet drink..no... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:18 PM | 0 comments

Opportunities to Share

Friday, November 20, 2009

Change of Heart

By Steve Hendricks When Bob said he was going to do a Series about World Hunger I thought...Really? A series?? I was not looking forward to it at all. I did experience a small heart change after the first message. It probably helped that my teenage daughter (who has a desire to do a mission trip to Africa) was sitting beside me and elbowing me throughout the message.....hmmm, maybe it was a rib change instead of a heart change. Anyway, I was acutally quite inspired to do the... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 1:05 PM | 3 comments

Change of Heart

Friday, November 20, 2009

I Have Now Experienced . . .

By Jon Lamkin In response to Bob’s request to a few comments about what I have learned about this experience: As I mentioned in an earlier post, by the end of this challenge, I would have live for 10,170 days, and for 99.508% of those days I have been satisfied and had any food at my disposal. Only now can I say that I have now experienced Hunger for the first time in my life. To experience hunger for the first time in my life, I now understand what it is... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 1:02 PM | 1 comments

I Have Now Experienced

Friday, November 20, 2009

We Did It! Don't Give Up!

By Susan Mudd We did it! I have just returned from breakfast at Wild Eggs –now before you say anything, you need to know that we attend Saturday service so we actually started our hunger challenge on Sunday. Don’t give up – you’re so close! You will not believe how the flavor of whatever you eat tomorrow will burst in your mouth. When I started the challenge I really didn’t think I could make it the full five days – thankfully my husband was supportive... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 1:00 PM | 1 comments

We Did It - Dont Give Up

Friday, November 20, 2009

Home Stretch

By Mark Arsenault Wow!!! Day 5… Last night was easier since we cooked some fresh rice and added a bit of fish…. Now we’re all down the home stretch….YEAH!! This challenge has been eye-opening…I learned a LOT: 5. I eat way too much than I need 4. I like getting rid of the sugar and preservatives, I feel better throughout the day 3. I can easily lose weight by cutting portion size, eliminating sweets and not... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:58 PM | 0 comments

Home Stretch

Friday, November 20, 2009

We Made It!

By Kelly Parrish We’ve made it to the last day! Only two more cups of rice and beans to choke down! I have to admit that I didn’t know what, if any, impact this hunger week would have on me. I am so glad that I forced my way through it. I often stand before a full pantry and whine that I have nothing to fix for dinner. I am beginning to get a glimpse into the difference between needs and wants. I am learning that as a Christian that is exactly... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:55 PM | 1 comments

We Made It

Friday, November 20, 2009

Your Cheats

By Eddie Ormerod I am curious if anyone was 100% honest and didn't cheat at all this week. I mean they ate cream of wheat or oatmeal for breakfast and bland rice and black beans for lunch and dinner. I know I cheated a little. Please post your cheats under the comments section. Mon: Honest meals, no cheats Tues: Small cup of McAllister's sweet tea and 2 small thin mints with wife at hospital. CW for breakfast, no lunch, B&R dinner Wed: (At... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:52 PM | 1 comments

Your Cheats

Friday, November 20, 2009

Looking for 50 People

By Tom Black I was thinking this morning about how thankful I am. Mostly thankful that the food challenge ends today. That just doesn’t seem like the right attitude, so here is my proposal. How about we extend the challenge for 5 more days? That takes us through Wednesday (still in time for Thanksgiving). I am looking for 50 people to join me. Any takers??? Tom Black Guest Director Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:00 AM | 4 comments

Looking for 50 People

Friday, November 20, 2009

Happy Friday!

By Karen Gorski Well, I have never been happier to see a Friday!!! Cannot wait until midnight! I have 2 chocolate chip cookies from Qdoba that I am placing on my nightstand so that I can inhale them the minute the clock strikes midnight! Thank you, Bob Cherry, for presenting us with this challenge…I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to stick it out, but I have, and it has given me the opportunity to realize how blessed I am. Thank you , Lord, for the food on... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:58 AM | 0 comments

Happy Friday

Friday, November 20, 2009

Hardest Day Yet

By Pat Wingfield Thursday is my off day from work and proved to be my hardest day yet but I hung tough and made it despite some temptations. My son Tyler almost took a nose dive at school however so I made him eat something. I am proud of him for accepting the challenge but he just did not have the fat reserves that dad has. I have now lost 8 lbs. and folks are saying you should stay on that diet. I think not, Outback steakhouse may be calling me Sat. Pat Wingfield... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:55 AM | 1 comments

Hardest Day Yet

Friday, November 20, 2009

Day 5 - Request from Bob

By Bob Cherry Day 5---and I am feeling better today than I have all week. If and when you post your blog today would you please consider writing a sentence or two about what you have learned through this 5 day challenge and how it has impacted you and your family. I would love to hear your thoughts! I am looking forward to seeing all of you this weekend as we participate in the World Vision Ethiopia Marketplace. I’m anxious to see what God is going... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:52 AM | 2 comments

Day 5 - Request from Bob

Friday, November 20, 2009

Blind Side

By Chris Booth As of 12:01am Friday (late night/morning) I have officially met the 5 Day Hunger Challenge. I went to a midnight movie tonight and watched "The Blind Side." It's a true story and I love to see those come to life on the big screen. But as I was eating my popcorn and gulping my extra large Diet Coke, I had this weird feeling. But this wasn't the first time I had felt this. It's kind of odd. On Monday, I... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:48 AM | 0 comments

Blind Side

Friday, November 20, 2009

Failed

By Bill & Sarah Jenkins Today I failed. We were doing really good until tonight. This week I have been sick and I was having mid-terms at school. I was complaining that my throat is swollen and I can't eat any more beans and rice. I need my chicken soup. Then my mind went back to what the minister said, "These kids don't have choices". I thought just this one time. I ate my chicken soup and then the commercial came on the T.V. for the hungry children. ... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:42 AM | 0 comments

Failed

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Not Hungry

By Eddie Ormerod I made some boxed rice for dinner. The rice had a pack of seasoning with it. I boiled the rice and added about 2 tablespoons of the seasoning to the pot. I also made a pot of minute rice. I mixed the two together. I made canned black beans and drained the broth. I ate every bit and now 2 hours later I'm not a bit hungry. Maybe my stomach is shrinking or my brain has given up on telling me to eat more. My wife didn't eat her rice. She thinks I'm crazy for liking the... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:17 PM | 2 comments

Not Hungry

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Brought us Closer

By Abbie (and Adam) Springer Part of my job description is to provide lunches for offices, so I had already "altered" my plans for Monday and Tuesday by eating smaller portions of the meals I had to pick from (turkey sandwiches - which sounds AWESOME right about now). But kudos to those who have eaten beans and rice for every lunch and dinner this week. So I just have to say WOW - what an experience. It's day four, and it's been tough -... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:00 PM | 1 comments

Brought Us Closer

Thursday, November 19, 2009

One More Day

By Joyce Jones It's Thursday night and I keep thinking, only one more day. I haven't liked this way of living. I'm tired of being hungry,complaining, grumpy, not sleeping well and "tooting" way too much. And then I think about our "village" in Ethiopia and I know I will make it because I really want to buy something Sunday morning. Joyce Jones Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 7:56 PM | 0 comments

One More Day

Thursday, November 19, 2009

No Leftovers for Dog

By Joy Strange End of day four and we've almost made it. Our dog routinely sets under the table and waits for a crumb to drop. Not this week, she's decided she is eating better than we are. I look forward to Sunday to buy with the money we've saved, something that will make a difference in anothers life. Joy Strange Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 7:50 PM | 1 comments

No Leftovers for Dog

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Food Photographer Going Nuts

By Dean Lavenson After spending so much time reading what everyone has contributed to the hunger blog, I decided to finally sit down and write one my self. I've appreciated the advice given by so many of you, even the person who encouraged us to concentrate on work to help take our mind off of food. Just one problem: I'm a food photographer. Yesterday we shot cookies and today it's fried chicken with mash potatoes and... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 7:46 PM | 0 comments

Photographer Going Nuts

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Better Neighbor

By Kristen Thurman I have to admit I was about ready to give up on the challenge this afternoon. I was really feeling sick to my stomach and dizzy. I was getting very frustrated because all I wanted to do was eat. But of course God had a different plan for me. I work at a Neighborhood Place which is a social service agency here in Louisville. We are a Dare to Care food site and of course right when I was having these feelings of wanting to give up I was asked... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 7:42 PM | 3 comments

Better Neighbor

Thursday, November 19, 2009

M&M Black Beans

By Logan Murphy Well, well, well – it is day 4 of the hunger challenge and I decided to eat a civilized meal by using a knife and fork to eat my tortilla. Ah – the joys of making the usual 2-minute snack last 5-minutes. As lunchtime progressed I noticed that the whiteout on my desk would be perfect for painting a little white “m” on my black beans. How beautiful!! I now had a dessert plate of m&m’s!!! A lesson I have learned this week is how much I am... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:27 PM | 1 comments

M and M Black Beans

Thursday, November 19, 2009

No More Beans

By James Moylan I feel grateful to have the means When this is over There will be no more BEANS. James J. Moylan Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:25 PM | 0 comments

No More Beans

Thursday, November 19, 2009

No Longer Hungry

By James Neumann No problem anymore! My headache that drug me down on Monday and Tuesday has receded. I am no longer hungry. I get occasional urges for snacks at night, but other than that doing well. Our small group got together last night and ate our rice and beans together and it was nice to get away from routine and just get our minds off of food. The most important thing one of the guys in my Men’s group pointed out yesterday after Men’s Fraternity... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:39 PM | 0 comments

No Longer Hungry

Thursday, November 19, 2009

No Fear

By Richard White Day 4 and all is well. Slight headache, stomach growl a little grumpy...blah, blah, blah. One thing that is impossible for me to comprehend is the amount of FEAR that must be present for those faced with starvation. I knew this exercise was temporary and have even planned my next “real” meal. No FEAR of when my hunger will cease. I knew there would be 3 meals yesterday, today and tomorrow. No FEAR if I would eat each... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:34 PM | 1 comments

No Fear

Thursday, November 19, 2009

10 Things I've Learned

By Brian Karst It's Thursday afternoon, I just finished my lunch of rice and beans. What I have learned this week: 1. My 8 year old daughter is very grumpy when she doesn't get an afternoon snack. 2. My wife had a harder time keeping the 8 year old on track than I, probably because she had to live with her at snack time. 3. A 17 year old girl who is recovering from the flu and is battling anemia is not a good candidate for this diet at this time, no matter... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:29 PM | 2 comments

10 Things Ive Learned

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Something to Think About

By Jon Lamkin I am 27 years old, almost 28. If I analyze the days that I have lived up until now, that totals to 10,167 days. If I look at that and realize that at the end of this, I will have lived for 10,170 days so far. The 5 days that I am giving up the food I would usually eat is only .0492% of the days I have lived on this earth. So, for the other 99.9508% of the life I have led so far, I have had food on my table, and more importantly ANYTHING I would want to eat. With that... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:25 PM | 1 comments

Something to Think About

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Having Hard Time Today

By Pamela Rivera Here we are day 4. I can hardly eat the rice and beans. My husband knows I'm having a hard time today. Just this morning, I think he has called me 3 times to see what I was doing. However, I've lost 4.5 pounds as of this morning. That is pretty cool. Now if I could only keep it up. Nathaniel and Christian have been cheating however. Last week they both made $15.00 helping their grandfather with some yard work. This... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:21 PM | 0 comments

Having Hard Time Today

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Look at this Pic - I was good!

By Ben Idle These were on the counter outside of my office when I came in this morning, but I was good! Ben Idle Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:47 AM | 1 comments

Look at this Pic

Thursday, November 19, 2009

I Want to Cheat

By Kristy Brown I'm reading the blog while I'm eating my rice and beans for lunch. I'm getting ready to go to a work event and they are serving Mark's feed store- one of my favorites!! It's going to be hard to pass it up!! I really really wanted to cheat for this, but my husband is really sticking to this and it's motivating me to do the same. He's the reason I'm not cheating at lunch today. My daughter said this morning "just 2 more days of oatmeal for breakfast, right... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:44 AM | 0 comments

I Want to Cheat

Thursday, November 19, 2009

I Quit!

By Kristin Ormerod So, last night I decided to quit. I struggled and cried but didn't think I could continue. My husband said if I quit then he would quit too. I kept thinking, it is all up to me. So my kids and I went out to eat. All the way I felt very guilty. When we got back home I knew that I should not have stopped. So, I called my husband at work and told him that we just cheated but are back on track. We can do this. It is two more... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:42 AM | 1 comments

I Quit

Thursday, November 19, 2009

NECC Staff Office Video During 5-Day Challenge

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Sleep It Off

By Joseph Anderson, II Day 3 Bloggin - Growing WeaknessesHad oatmeal in the morning after feeling that I really met the Lord through the study of His word! Reading plan had 2 Corinthians 11-13, Paul wrote about his trials...11:27 & 12:10 lept off the page. Must've read it 3 or 4 times. Then re-read Proverbs 16 (don't know why) where verse 16 burned a hole in me! I've read it more than twice since joining Northeast. A sense of peace and joy took hold for the rest of... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 10:03 AM | 0 comments

Sleep It Off

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Adrenaline vs. Hunger

By Eddie Ormerod Just got home from the fire house. We had a fire last night. That means I'll be pumped with adrenaline for a couple of days. I don't feel a bit hungry. I plan on sleeping for a while then see what happens later. I was concerned about me eating the Zatarin's red beans and rice yesterday at work but I did it to help me have some energy in case I had to work. Well no more guilt since I did have to work last night. If I didn't have the 2 apples and the flavored beans and rice I... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 10:02 AM | 3 comments

Adrenaline vs Hunger

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Shallow Snobby Food Preference

By Ronnie Cordrey OK, so I have found my attitude a bit questionable at times this week. It has truly been a challenge for me to honestly pray, “God, thank you for providing this plain oatmeal, rice, and beans for me” (I almost just vomited just thinking of eating beans & rice again in a few hours). So here I was this morning … trying to do my devotions. My prayer was very short, I was not really into my Bible reading, and then I picked up The Hole in our Gospel... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:36 AM | 1 comments

Shallow Snobby Food Pref

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Dirty Dishes

By Eddie Ormerod There's a church sign by my house. It reads:Thank God for your dirty dishes. At least you have food. Eddie Ormerod Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:58 AM | 0 comments

Dirty Dishes

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Counting Down

By Vicki Cherry Day 4: not fun passing up “goodies”…stomach growls…the countdown has begun…at least for me. Ethiopians don’t have a countdown. The commentary for my devotions this morning were from I Peter 4:1…Peter makes it very clear that when life is easy there is danger of drifting into a state of mind which accepts every blessing in life as if it were owed to us. Did I like reading that? No, but it gives me strength to go on today with this … I’m... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:56 AM | 1 comments

Counting Down

Thursday, November 19, 2009

I Do Not Like Rice & Beans

By Dan Watkins Dr. Suess was on the right track with the green eggs and ham thing. He should have added rice and beans to the list. We tried to spice it up with a little curry and some chicken, and had green beans on the side. That got us through day 3. OK. I had a roll too. But that's kind of like a tortilla. Right? Then I cheated. At 8:30, I decided an ice cream drumstick had to have some rice or bean content. Most of it ended up... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:54 AM | 2 comments

Do Not Like Rice Beans

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Curious - Alchohol Users

By Mark Parrish Was reflecting this morning on this challenge and I started thinking of all of the people I work with that have struggles with alcohol and chemical dependency. I was wondering what those who are daily or “almost” daily drinkers of alcohol have chosen to do. That would be particularly tough and would require some Phillippians 4:13 kind of strength. I’m curious… Mark Parrish Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:50 AM | 1 comments

Curious

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Travel with Job

By Jeff Johnson I travel quite a bit with my job – last week I happened to be home all week, but not this week – the week of the Food Challenge. My first thought was – there’s no way-not while I’m on the road, but as I sat through the sermon on Sunday I just had the tug at my heart (that could’ve been my wife elbowing me though….just kidding). I really feel as though God wanted me to do this while I was away from my family this week – just to have a better understanding of what... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:43 AM | 2 comments

Travel with Job

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Go Isabella!

By Delilah Browner-Guinn My 11 year old daughter - make that 12 year old daughter as of yesterday has been doing this challenge. (my husband and I are on special diets and so is her brother) I honestly didn't think she would stick to the challenge and I wasn't going to let her take the containers of rice & beans home from church on Sunday. I finally gave in. I met her at school on her birthday Tuesday (she is at her dad's on Mon & Tuesdays) and was surprised... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:41 AM | 2 comments

Go Isabella

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Whine with Dinner

By Sue Rueff Day 1... Not too bad...not too hungry but everything is so bland...Yuck...could barely finish the portions....tortillas? ....I hate tortillas, I'm skipping that....whine/whine /whine...but at least I don't have to figure out what we are having for dinner for the next 5 days.. Day 2...Really?....ONLY day 2...not so much fun having rice and beans for lunch....what if I become a major gas machine and have to leave every place where I could encounter another... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:35 AM | 1 comments

Whine with Dinner

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Biggest Diet Coke Ever Friday!

By Tonya Johnson It's the end of Day Two in our house. So far my biggest challenge has been my 7 year old daughter who claimed on Day One after missing one snack she was scared she would 'starve to death' (and in her 7 year old mind she was serious). What a great lead in to a conversation about "why" we are doing this challenge. Day Two has changed her completely. She has risen to the challenge and is now ready to be snack free and eat most of the... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:11 PM | 2 comments

Biggest Diet Coke Ever

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Move Over Medical Condition!

By Erin Mann I suffer from hypoglycemia so I knew from the start that this challenge would be harder on me than most and somewhat dangerous if I was not careful. In the beginning I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it and the idea of such a challenge sounded fun. I like a good challenge and I’ve always been a fan of proving that I can conquer anything despite my hypoglycemia. God never lets things like blood sugar get in His way, why should I? However, as the week... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:07 PM | 2 comments

Move Over Medical Condition

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Calling in Sick

By Paul Martel 11/19/09 is a day of dread. I thank Mr. Cherry for not making us do this over a weekend. BUT did he have the cunning and foresight to recognize that most companies will be hosting a Thanksgiving Celebration this week. I'm contemplating calling in sick. I can't bear to list the food that will be in every office, cubicle, meeting room and lounge in the building tomorrow. Loved Matt/Ronnie's Top 10... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:03 PM | 1 comments

Calling in Sick

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Bob's First Headache

By Bob Cherry Okay….it’s 4:30 in the afternoon and I’ve got a headache. My first one! I’m trying to study and get ready for next weekends sermon but I’m having a hard time staying focused. If only I could have an apple or a banana or even a diet coke! But I’m in this for the long run---so I’m going to stay strong and not cave in! I can’t imagine feeling this way day in and day out! Bob Cherry Senior Pastor Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 4:56 PM | 1 comments

Bobs Headache

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Bake Sale at Work

By Karen Black OF COURSE THEY WOULD PICK THIS WEEK TO HAVE A BAKE SALE AT WORK FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR! But did you know if you smell a brownie while you eat beans, it kind of tastes like a brownie?! Karen Black Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:35 PM | 0 comments

Bake Sale at Work

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

My Neighbor

By Steven Humphreys Day 3…Hump day…headaches are easing up. No wonder as a country we're so obese. My goodness at what we consume and how often. Bob, you again have taught us a valuable lesson. I was really wagging my finger at the kids and I too have learned. We must reach out to others. The money we saved this week on food is all going towards My Neighbor. Steven L Humphreys Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:33 PM | 0 comments

My Neighborg

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

I Miss Pepsi & Ice Cream

By Wendy Cole I am so glad that today is Wednesday. That means that our 5 days of starvation is almost over. It, honestly, hasn’t been that hard for me. I rarely eat breakfast because I’m so busy getting the kids off to school, and then welcoming the other children in to my home who I care for during the day . . . so I eat twice as much (breakfast and lunch) around 11. That’s okay. Right? I miss Pepsi . . . and I really miss (I want to cry) my ice... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:28 PM | 1 comments

Miss Pepsi and Ice Cream

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Saturday: D-Day

By Joseph Anderson II Day 2 - Began this day with being hungry, but not hungry at the same time. Only after the oatmeal (and coffee..) was I hungry. Re-evaluated the challenge, cause it didn't feel like I was doing it right. The portions we have felt like they were satisfying enough. Still not sure if I'm doing it right. I was eager to see the Hunger Blog to see how other Christ Followers experiences are going. I was encouraged by other blogger's... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:22 PM | 0 comments

Saturday D Day

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Never Thought I Would Make It This Far

By Valerie Wood Making it through Day 1 was one of the hardest things I've done for a long time. I never imagined that I could hang on this long. Now that I am half way through, I have some hope. The afternoons and evenings are the worst for me. After this week, it will be a long time before I eat either beans or rice again, Good luck to all of you following this hunger challenge. Hang in there. It sure makes me appreciate what I have. ... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:17 PM | 1 comments

Never Thought

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

:06 Seconds Statistic

By Beth Thomas Last night, after thanking God for the food that we were about to eat, my five year old looked up and said, "I hope none of us die in 6 seconds from hunger." That "6 seconds" statistic has stuck with him for two weeks and he has shared it with friends, family and even some strangers. This hunger challenge has presented an incredible opportunity to talk to people about hunger, faith and our church. I have even shared the hunger blog with some of my friends... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:14 PM | 0 comments

06 Second Statistic

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

For All the Kids

Abby Wilder Elementary Associate Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 1:56 PM | 0 comments

For all the Kids

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Gratitude

By Beth Searcy Nicole Nordeman - Gratitude I keep hearing this song in my head today. . .especially this verse, so I thought I’d share. Daily bread, give us daily bread Bless our bodies, keep our children fed Fill our cups, then fill them up again tonight Wrap us up and warm us through Tucked away beneath our sturdy roofs Let us slumber safe from danger's view this time Or maybe not, not today Maybe You'll provide in other ways And if that's the case . .... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:30 PM | 1 comments

Gratitude

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Top 10 Ways to Know if You're Cheating

Top 10 Ways to know if you’re cheating on the Food Challenge, by Matt “I lost 10 pounds already” McFarren & Ronnie “I’m hungry” Cordrey (& other contributing staff who wish to be named anonymous) #10 You actually gained weight this week #9 Your food actually has flavor #8 Your pet is missing #7 You have fresh McDonald’s wrappers in your car #6 Your “1 cup of coffee” just happens to be in your 84 oz. Big Gulp #5 You’re in a good mood & not irritable #4 You find... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:22 PM | 4 comments

Top 10 Cheating Reasons

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Changed Birthday Parties

By Karen Steinrock Our whole family is doing the challenge. My 6 yr. old son did not like the oatmeal without sugar and by the second day he only ate his tortilla. Needless to say he became very hungry. At 6:00 this morning he came to our room crying he should have eaten more food last night. He truly thought he was starving to death. I fixed him oatmeal (with brown sugar) and he ate while I held him. We talked about how blessed we are that we don't have... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:11 PM | 0 comments

Changed Birthday Parties

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Wanting Waffles!

By Joseph Anderson II Day 1 - I was flooded with feelings being in day 1 of the challenge: excitement, eagerness, anxiety (to see how the Lord will use the challenge by the end of day 5). Since the service to introduce this challenge I was excited. With the challenge I saw the opportunity to really trust in the Lord to bless our family in our time of trial financially. 1 income, 1 vehicle, child on the way...long list of things that have brought me to a point of complete... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:12 AM | 0 comments

Wanting Waffles

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Deer Meat

By Mark Arsenault Day 3 - Saw a deer last night while driving home ..... I started salivating!! For a split second I wanted to speed up and......well, you know....a man needs meat!! Day One.....I cleaned out my container of beans and rice in the usual way, with a fork, then rinsed it out Day Two.....I made sure I got every single morsel of rice and bean (or part thereof) out of the container and onto my plate Day Three....I licked the entire container clean! Hope... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:06 AM | 3 comments

Deer Meat

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Energy Level

By Eddie Ormerod Well it's day 3. Cream of Wheat this morning along with a cup of coffee. At the firehouse today. I'm a little worried about my energy level. I bought a box of Zatarin's red beans and rice. I plan on eating half of the box for lunch and the other half for dinner. I bought 2 apples for an energy boost throughout the day since I am at work and who knows what will happen. I can't no longer eat the rice and beans without flavor. I'm doing the Zatarin's today and probably Moe's... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:02 AM | 0 comments

Energy Level

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Bug in Oatmeal

By Susan Mudd I found a packet of oatmeal in the back of my pantry so I thought, "Great! I'll take it for my breakfast and have it at work!". I've learned to delay breakfast as long as possible during this challenge. So at 11:15 I decide it's time time. I fixed my oatmeal and noticed a tiny brown thing in it, which upon closer inspection turned out to be a little bug! I actually considered scooping it out and eating the oatmeal - hey it was dead and I am... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:00 AM | 0 comments

Bug in Oatmeal

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Lost 4 Pounds

By Pat Wingfield I have had a lot of headaches and I pop in an Aleve or two but as I did I thought about those children who have no Aleves to relieve there pains. I have lost 4lbs. so far which is great for me because I can afford to lose some lbs. but again it took my thoughts to those who are starving and don't have the extra lbs. to lose. We are so blessed and I realize it more each day we do without. Pat Wingfield Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:47 AM | 0 comments

Lost 4 Pounds

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Midnight Friday!

By Pamela Rivera Okay so day 3, and we are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. My husband and I have even joked about staying up until midnight Friday to eat. For our family this challenge has been most difficult after the kids come home from school. My 2 middle school students are use to eating a snack after school. They are almost angry once they are home and can't eat anything. My 5 year old is doing a little better. He is not eating... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:14 AM | 0 comments

Midnight Friday

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Coveting Thy Neighbor's Cart

By Susan Mudd I went to the grocery tonight to get more beans and rice and found myself coveting my neighbor’s cart. It’s really better to stay out of the stores. I do like how easy it is to fix dinner and packing lunches is a breeze! The best part about the challenge is knowing that we are going to change the future for a community in Ethiopia. I think our own futures will be impacted as well. Susan Mudd Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:11 AM | 0 comments

Coveting Neighbor

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Yankee Noodle Edamame Beans

By Jennifer Simpson So, I was out yesterday doing some "shopping errands" with a friend. I had my rice/beans cooling on an ice pack in a cooler in the car unsure of where my lunchtime would land. We're at Oxmoor...so I just decided we would go to Yankee Noodle..they have rice, right?! Well, I did get a small bowl of rice, glass of water, and they have this appetizer/side dish item called steamed edamame beans (aka Soy Beans). They look like big pea pods. Well.....I shove... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:05 AM | 1 comments

Yankee Noodle

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Day Three

By Bob Cherry Well, so far so good! Since I’m not a coffee man, I have not been hit with the caffeine headaches. Last night around 9:00 I got really hungry and started thinking “If I want, I can walk into the kitchen, open up the pantry and eat whatever I want.” But I didn’t. Sure makes me wonder what it would be like to go to bed hungry and not have a kitchen or pantry to raid! I would hate it! And yet children/adults experience this... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 9:02 AM | 0 comments

Day Three Hunger Blog

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Getting Lean

By Mike Mack The Body of Christ Is Getting Lean Day 2...I've enjoyed reading through the blogs and comments today. Wow, we're engaged in this aren't we? These blog posts demonstrate the Body of Christ in action. We are encouraging one another, spurring each other on, praying for each other, bearing each others burdens.... When the Body of Christ works together as one, lean and strong, we really can make an impact on our world! These blogs are a high-tech way of "being the church," but... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:20 AM | 0 comments

Getting Lean

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

God's Sense of Humor

By Megan Huffine Today I was facing a rough day at UofL and my eyes were getting extremely heavy from a lack of caffeine. I got out my dollar and was going to "cheat" with a little bottle of Diet Mountain Dew. First off, the machine would not take my dollar. This did not help the irritable side of my hunger. Finally it took my dollar and I pressed my beloved Diet Mountain Dew. I laughed out loud when instead of soda in the tray, it was WATER. I get the... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 7:05 PM | 2 comments

Gods Sense of Humor

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Naked Burrito

By Kristy Brown I feel like it's going ok so far. I am struggling with my 4 year old daughter who is crying that she's "starving" all the time. My husband and I decided to give in a little and let her have a cup of apple sauce last night. This morning she cried, "Mommy, I just don't like the oatmeal, I don't want to eat it." But to my surprise, when I went downstairs this morning, there she was, sitting at her little table eating her oatmeal (ok with a touch of... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 7:01 PM | 1 comments

Naked Burrito

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Challenge On!

By Sarah Hyland Well…….my original thoughts about this whole rice and beans thing was: I don't think I'll participate in the food part, but will be happy to donate money toward the county we're sponsoring in Ethiopia. Then Bob said, "The easy way out is to just write a check". This tugged at my heart until close friends voiced their opinion that there is no way (including this exercise) that we could ever truly know the kind of hunger the third... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:58 PM | 3 comments

Challenge On

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Growling Stomach

By Brenda Duschke It's only been 48 hours and my stomach is growling so loud that I jump every time I hear it. My head is pounding so hard from the migraine headache that came on yesterday that I can't hardly see. And it's just been 24 hours! I just can't imagine having to live like this 24 hours a day, 7 days a weeks. My heart just cries for these people. I had to break down and eat a little something to ease the head but I'm getting back on board first thing in the... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:54 PM | 1 comments

Growling Stomach

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Adding Spices?

By Eddie Ormerod I just had my rice and beans tonight. The last bit almost came back up. I even added about a tablespoon of homemade salsa. Is everybody eating the rice and beans without any flavor? Last night I ate them without anything extra. I thought about going to Qdoba or getting the Zatarin's red beans and rice but didn't know if I would be cheating. Eddie Ormerod Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:49 PM | 6 comments

Adding Spices

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Neighbor Brings Cookies

By Debbie Patton Day one was not so bad for breakfast and lunch but when I got home from work and could not have my regular snack , then the hunger really set in. Then to top it all off my neighbor was in a baking mood and sent over a bag full of homemade cookies and brownies. I really went nuts then. I am committed to this challenge and have thanked God many times for blessing me in so many ways. Day 2 has been a little easier, but feeling the hunger. This challenge has been... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:29 PM | 1 comments

Neighbor Brings Cookies

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Empty Feeling

By Melissa, Alicia and Nikki Edds My kids and I have decided to participate in the Hunger Challenge for as long as we can. They are actually eating a "normal" lunch because beans and rice are difficult to send to school in a lunch box! Last night we talked about the "empty feeling" in our stomachs and how it would feel to go to bed each night with that feeling. On top of that-not knowing what would be available to eat in the morning-praying "Give us this day our... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 6:16 PM | 1 comments

Empty Feeling

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Confession

By Diane Ogle Picture this . . . Monday night . . . first day of the Hunger Challenge . . . around 8:30 PM . . . my mind was focused on how hungry I was. I tried to put it out of my mind . . but nooooooooooooo . . . I WAS hungry! I called my son to ask how he and his family were doing . . . he, too, was hungry. I told him “Okay . . I get the picture . . hunger hurts. I think I can stop now and commit to buying a goat on... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 5:59 PM | 3 comments

Confession

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Shrinking Stomach

By Paul Martel It's 5pm day 2 and I'm hungrier than I was this time yesterday. Curious how loud my stomach will be by Friday. Looking forward to seeing how far my shrinking stomach opens my eyes and heart. Paul Martel Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 4:09 PM | 0 comments

Shrinking Stomach

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Caffeine Headache & Grumpy

By Lisa Campbell Day 2- right after a yummy tortilla “snack” (left over from lunch) The first day was the worst so far. Determined to not give into the 1 cup of coffee- I experienced the ever-worsening caffeine headache. This challenge affected my mood- am I the only one who has been grumpy? Today was better- coffee helped. I did find myself preoccupied with how my 10 year old daughter was doing- worrying that she was starving- talking to others has been helpful- my... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 3:53 PM | 1 comments

Caffeine Headache Grumpy

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Challenge(d)

By Mark Parrish As a marriage and family therapist and trained listener I have relied heavily on regular caffeine through my daily Mountain Dews. The headache is beginning today. I’m fighting through. I have the 5 day challenge and the rice and bean bowls on my desk in plain view for all to see. It has definitely added to my conversations with others and have already received emails asking about it. God is good! Stay strong everyone! Mark... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 3:49 PM | 0 comments

Challenged

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Hypoglycemic Adjusts

Tara McKinley I knew from the start that this would be more of a physical than a mental struggle for me. I am hypoglycemic and used to eating 4 or 5 smaller meals every few hours instead of 3 big meals. One day one, the stretch between breakfast and lunch was definitely the hardest, mentally and physically—I had a terrible headache, was light-headed on and off, and one co-worker noticed that I was being unusually short with people. When I got home, I raided my... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 3:45 PM | 0 comments

Hypoglycemic Adjusts

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Add Beano or Gas X

By Steven Humphreys Ok, I lost two pounds day one. My right arm has teeth marks on it from gnawing on it. Bob forgot to add Beano or Gas X to the diet. Had an a-ha moment with the kids, on feeling this hungry all the time and discussed the significance of repeating the Lord's prayer and actually meaning "give me food please God"… Steven L Humphreys Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 3:33 PM | 0 comments

Add Beano or Gas X

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

$800,000 of Food and Can't Eat

By James Neumann Wow I have had a headache for two days, I never realized how much my body craves caffeine. I will never underestimate food again, it has been the lion share of my thoughts for the past two days. I am so thankful for living in a country that has food readily available and pray for those who go without it. I work in a grocery store and have been walking around $800,0000 worth of food for ten hours a day. I never realized how good we have it as... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 3:28 PM | 0 comments

800000 Food

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Thanksgiving Dinner During Challenge

By Sara Hayden A friend and I are doing here at our elementary school. Yesterday, we were gung ho! Today – not so much. Thursday the cafeteria is serving up Thanksgiving dinner and the PTA is supplying us with an abundance of pies for “pie day.” Do pie pieces freeze okay? However, every time I think about what I am doing this week, I think of what God gave up for us and this seems so small and trivial. This is a really interesting... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:40 PM | 0 comments

Thanksgiving Dinner

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Man, Can't Wait for Dinner

By Eddie Ormerod Well it's day two and I don't feel that bad. Yesterday I had about a cup of Cream of Wheat for breakfast and 1/2 of my container of beans for lunch. I had all of my rice, the rest of my beans and about six pieces of chicken for dinner. It was a big pile of food. However, as everybody knows, you're always hungry 30 minutes after eating rice. Today I had Cream of Wheat for breakfast again and didn't eat lunch. I was thinking about taking the kids out because my wife is... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:36 PM | 0 comments

Man Cant Wait for Dinner

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

It's Been Difficult

By Jenni Aberli This has been difficult. I hated being hungry before and now just the thought of knowing that I'm going to be hungry makes me think of food all of the time (even when I'm not really hungry yet). I've had to cheat a little, but have tried to pretty much stick with the diet and serving sizes. I'm so sick of rice and tortillas. What I miss most is the flavors of food. How horrible to have no choice in how much and what you eat! Jenni Aberli... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:34 PM | 1 comments

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Can't Live on Beans & Rice

By Karen Black I think my family must be smarter than the average bear…..we figured out real quick that we can’t live on just beans and rice ……and don’t want anyone else to have to do that! By 4:00, my daughter called saying “I can’t do this Mom”….I would have to agree. I don’t want ANY children to feel the grumbling in their tummies like I am…..only after DAY 1. Karen Black Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:25 PM | 0 comments

Cant Live on Beans Rice

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

48 Day Food Challenge

By Mark Arsenault You're not as hungry as these guys.... Yesterday I came across this cool, classic true story of survival. Captain Bligh's crew, who upon being mutineered from their ship The Bounty in the 1700's in the middle of the Pacific, sailed nearly 4,000 miles in the open ocean, during the stormy season, with enough food for 5 days. They had 19 men cramped into an open, 23 ft. long boat designed to only go from the mother ship to shore and back.... When they... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:21 PM | 0 comments

48 Day Food Challenge

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Don't Care for Rice & Beans

By Sandy Sundheimer For someone who doesn't care for rice or beans, this is a challenge!! I have slipped once and am very hungry at times. But the idea of helping a county in Ethiopia and thinking of what a difference a large church like Northeast can make in the lives of the people there pushes me on! Very exciting to be a part of such a program! Sandy Sundheimer Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:15 PM | 0 comments

Dont Care for Rice Beans

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

So Far So Good

By Pat Wingfield So far so good. The neatest thing has been educating the people at my work about what we are doing and why. One lady was so moved she is joining us in the 5 day challenge. God is good. Pat Wingfield Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:04 PM | 0 comments

So Far So Good

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Rule Follower

By Sheila Arnold My son (4 yrs old) and I are doing well so far on the rice and beans. Although he doesn’t really like the beans he is eating some of it. I don’t like beans either so I am just eating rice with one small bite of chicken. When I told him about it he became excited and wanted to follow every rule. When I said he could have grits or oatmeal with no butter or sugar for breakfast he immediately asked if the kids in Africa area able to eat it. He has been great at... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 2:00 PM | 2 comments

Rule Follower

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Needed Encouragement

By Steve Hendricks It is day 2, 1:30pm and I am hungry. I am having a hard time concentrating on work (due to hunger pains) so thought I would check the blog for some encouragement. How easy it would be to get a snack bar and a coke from the fridge right now! As I fight to give in to my physical hunger, I take some encouragement from hearing from Northeast members who are doing the same. I really believe the best way to fully experience Christ is . . . with others. One of the best... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 1:30 PM | 0 comments

Needed Encouragement

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Hunger in America

By John Ballard Tuesday morning is here and the hunger has set in more than I could have imagined. As I sat down to my little bowl of oatmeal, I opened the paper to see an article in the Courier-Journal titled “More Americans going hungry, new report says”. The article had some staggering statistics. For example, “49 million Americans lack dependable access to adequate food. 17 million children, more than one in five were living in households in which food ran... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:09 PM | 0 comments

Hunger in America

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Turning down offers

By Veronica Johnson The food part and slight hunger haven’t really been a problem for me. I’m still trying to go to the gym after my small dinner, but my workout consists of strength training and very low impact cardio. But I feel like the biggest change is adjusting what I’m doing during the week. It seems like I’ve had so many offers for lunch dates and going to dinner with friends, and even was offered to go to the UK basketball game!! But I’ve had to... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:51 AM | 1 comments

Offers

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Opened Eyes

By Cora Kramer This challenge has really opened my eyes! I have tried to stay on the straight path and not eat anything but rice and beans, but I have slipped a few times. Satan is really messing with my head. He’ll do that . . find where you are weak and attack. I have learned that I’m weak. I always thought I was full of will power. As it turns out, I’m not. I cannot image being hungry ALL the time! My heart really goes... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 11:14 AM | 1 comments

Opened Eyes

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Tired of beans and rice yet?

Abby Wilder Elementary Associate Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 10:52 AM | 8 comments

Tired of Beans Rice

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

I'm in!

By Jeremy Christ I asked both of my children who would like to participate in the Northeast food challenge. My "Rough and Tumble" 5-year old boy said he wanted to help. Take a look at him below! It's amazing what our children understand at such a young age. I'm very proud of him! Jeremy Christ Northeast Member Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 10:19 AM | 3 comments

Im In

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

It's going to be a long week

By Beth Searcy It's going to be a long week - the hunger is definitely present as is the boredom with the same foods . . . and the cravings for things sweet and/or salty! But the unexpected difficulty is seeing our girls be hungry. They are 10 and 8 and have bravely agreed to the challenge. We left the decision up to them, and after listening to the two sermons on Hunger, they were very committed to accepting the challenge along with Mom and Dad. After our small dinner last... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 10:02 AM | 2 comments

Long Week

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Day Two

By Bob Cherry I was thrilled this past weekend to see so many hands being raised in regards to the 5-Day Food Challenge. Makes me proud of Northeast! Sunday night Vicki and I went to Outback to celebrate her birthday---and we treated it like it was our last meal. HA! I had oatmeal this morning---and I actually like oatmeal--so no big deal. Lunch was fine as well as we enjoyed the rice/beans/tortilla. But for dinner I was not thrilled to eat the small plate of... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:37 AM | 8 comments

Day Two Hunger Blog

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Day One

By Randy Gordon So, how are you doing with the food challenge? Already I am noticing some “challenges” to the challenge. For one, I would not recommend that you go to Qdoba for your rice and beans. The price is right, only $1.25 (so I saved dramatically over my normal lunch expenditure), but I ordered a small cup of rice and beans. The lady in front of me ordered a Queso Burrito with steak, corn salsa, verde salsa, sour cream, cheese, etc. And then there’s my little cup of rice and... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 8:28 AM | 2 comments

Day One Hunger Blog

Monday, January 01, 1900

Feel Like A Million Bucks

By Mark Arsenault Day 4 : I woke up feeling like a million bucks….I think our bodies are rejoicing as we rid ourselves of all those preservatives and sugar we’re so used to….there HAS to be a major benefit to that…. Last night while watching TV we had to change the channel a million times to avoid all the food commercials….no wonder we have a weight problem in the US!! I have a question….Since I need to lose weight anyway (4 lbs. so far, 15 more to go) what diet can I... Read More

Posted by melody.murphy@necchurch.org at 12:00 AM | 1 comments

Million Bucks