The Challenge is Over!

Our family has ended the challenge! We staggered our endings based on some of us quitting and some of us sticking it out. I fell somewhere in the middle. My 10 yr old finished last night, completing all 5 days without cheating, complaining, or questioning.  This was definitely a moment of reaping the harvest for us as parents. I knew God was working in her heart and she understood the purpose of this challenge.

Now for the rest of us...who ended day 1-4. The first day, my 5 yr old struggled to swallow her "rice" breakfast. Then at church, she ate oreos because she is... 5. For the most part she ate the rice and beans day 1-4 but also added in some oatmeal and cereal. We did restrict any sweets, toppings, and extras. My 7 yr old also ate some oatmeal and cereal and chose beans (not much rice) for most of his meals. He ended up in the bathroom, alot! My oldest who tends to be the stickler for rules "justice for all,"sat down in front of me on day 3 and tearfully said, "I just can't do it anymore. I mean I could if I could just eat some chocolate in between." The sugar cravings definitely wore me down too. I told her that I understood and told her that it is her choice to finish.  She continued through day 4 but ate cereal and and chocolate milk. Yesterday, Jason and I finished on Day 4. We had a staff outing at Hershey Farms Buffet (planned a while ago) and we decided to eat! What a moment to treasure!

Overall, I do feel that we understood the purpose, felt very sad at times for the rest of the world, and appreciated what we have. My prayer for this whole week was that God would work in all of our hearts that we would understand the purpose. We would love to hear your stories. Post them here or email me at jensheaffer@lcbcmail.com .