Last night we went for our second Cardio Kickboxing class at the YMCA. We spend an hour kicking, punching, sweating, and attempting to follow along. It gets confusing at time! It was a little more enjoyable than the week before. I don't love it, but I'm glad I went. Not sure I'm excited for next week, either. But, I'll be glad when I've done it, I'm sure. There is a lot of mind/body interaction and, that part, I definitely like. Our instructor is really great, so I end up looking forward to seeing her as well.
After, we went out for burritos at Dos Amigos. We had a coupon. ;) I couldn't finish the whole burrito. They are huge. Did eat the chips and salsa, though.
Was expecting to see the scale up this morning due to salty foods. I usually see a gain if we go out to eat.
I was down by .2 pounds. Not a big loss, but a loss, nevertheless. I'm happy with that.
Busy day out today. A rush in the morning to get schooling done. Drop off big kids for lessons and then a visit with friends with the younger children. I'm excited! I have this sweet friend that knows our food preferences and she's always so sweet to oblige us. She's planning to make a plant strong lunch for us!
Our friends and family don't need to be so accommodating, but I sure do recognize the blessing when they love on us in this way.
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Medival Feasting
The last two days found me in the kitchen. So, what's new about that, right?
This time I was taking orders from my oldest daughter as she led the way in hosting her first medieval feast. She planned this event all year, looking forward to her birthday. She worked hard to make the foods, the table, the decorations, and the events as close to authentic as possible.
We invited some of our favorite friends to enjoy the day with us. Their oldest son's birthday is the day before our daughter's so it was great fun to celebrate both of their days together.
Now, when I say we feasted, I mean it!! Good thing I was so busy serving I didn't have time to overly stuff myself.
It was an amazing day. I'll post some recipes for the foods soon. Right now I sorta ache from my back to my calves to my finger tips. All signs of an amazing day!
This time I was taking orders from my oldest daughter as she led the way in hosting her first medieval feast. She planned this event all year, looking forward to her birthday. She worked hard to make the foods, the table, the decorations, and the events as close to authentic as possible.
We invited some of our favorite friends to enjoy the day with us. Their oldest son's birthday is the day before our daughter's so it was great fun to celebrate both of their days together.
Now, when I say we feasted, I mean it!! Good thing I was so busy serving I didn't have time to overly stuff myself.
It was an amazing day. I'll post some recipes for the foods soon. Right now I sorta ache from my back to my calves to my finger tips. All signs of an amazing day!
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Another great Kitchen Day
I went into the day dreading the amount of work that was ahead of me. Yet, once I got going, I was full of energy and conquered The List.
Even with all that work I did today, (started about 8am and didn't stop until we ate dinner at about 7pm) I feel great. Maybe it was the lovely cup of coffee I enjoyed today. First cup we've brewed at home in months! It was delicious but maybe the caffeine has me a little over energized.
More likely, I'm just feeling great about how much I got done. That always gives me a boost of confidence and motivation.
Tomorrow we rest. So glad to have a fridge full of food prepped so I can enjoy some time with the Lord and family.
The Creamy Zucchini soup we had for lunch was great! Next time I double the recipe.
I used canned pumpkin in place of applesauce for my baked oatmeal. Hopefully, everyone will like the change instead of being upset that I messed with their favorite breakfast.
Today a good friend dropped off a 1/2 bushel bag filled with kale from her garden. They've had such an abundant harvest, they are ready to share. I am SO excited!! We're definitely going to be making kale chips now!
Even with all that work I did today, (started about 8am and didn't stop until we ate dinner at about 7pm) I feel great. Maybe it was the lovely cup of coffee I enjoyed today. First cup we've brewed at home in months! It was delicious but maybe the caffeine has me a little over energized.
More likely, I'm just feeling great about how much I got done. That always gives me a boost of confidence and motivation.
Tomorrow we rest. So glad to have a fridge full of food prepped so I can enjoy some time with the Lord and family.
Friday, September 27, 2013
Wowzers!!
After all that poor eating, I'm DOWN another pound!
Yesterday was a great day with great choices. I met a friend in the afternoon and we did a short hike with the children. Then we headed over to the apple orchard for some fun time. While our friends munched on ice cream, we sampled apples and cider and then the girls munched on their Kashi cereal while I sipped my herbal tea.
Then we zoomed home so I could fix dinner. We had friends over for a meal and they eat ETL!!! It was WONDERFUL cooking for people that know and WANT to eat this way. No explaining, no defending, no need to feel *weird*.
I made a giant stir-fry with veggies from the garden, fridge, and cabinet. Green beans, cabbage, peppers, onions, mushrooms, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, bean sprouts, Asian corn, and water chestnuts. I mixed it with a sauce made of pineapple juice, ginger, red pepper flakes, a tiny bit of bragg's aminos, water, and arrowroot powder.
On the table we also had brown rice, pineapple, and a melon salad.
Then came dessert. :)
My husband brought home a bag of freshly picked apples from my mother-in-law. I just knew something creative could be done with those. I peeked around at baked apple recipes on allrecipes.com and then went to work nutritizing one.
So, we cored the apples then sliced them in half. Mixed some frozen blueberries with cinnamon and vanilla. Fill the middle of the apples with the berry mixture. Bake at 350 for about 40-50 minutes. They were amazing!!!! Everyone loved them. The berries made this beautiful syrup that would be lovely over pancakes. :)
The best part, though, was having time to talk with someone using ETL and seeing her life change and feel better. We talked about how we see our physical bodies improving. We shared ideas for recipes. We made a plan to get together to build our meal binders. It is just so great to have a friend I can see face to face that embraces this lifestyle and *gets it*.
Yesterday was a great day with great choices. I met a friend in the afternoon and we did a short hike with the children. Then we headed over to the apple orchard for some fun time. While our friends munched on ice cream, we sampled apples and cider and then the girls munched on their Kashi cereal while I sipped my herbal tea.
Then we zoomed home so I could fix dinner. We had friends over for a meal and they eat ETL!!! It was WONDERFUL cooking for people that know and WANT to eat this way. No explaining, no defending, no need to feel *weird*.
I made a giant stir-fry with veggies from the garden, fridge, and cabinet. Green beans, cabbage, peppers, onions, mushrooms, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, bean sprouts, Asian corn, and water chestnuts. I mixed it with a sauce made of pineapple juice, ginger, red pepper flakes, a tiny bit of bragg's aminos, water, and arrowroot powder.
On the table we also had brown rice, pineapple, and a melon salad.
Then came dessert. :)
My husband brought home a bag of freshly picked apples from my mother-in-law. I just knew something creative could be done with those. I peeked around at baked apple recipes on allrecipes.com and then went to work nutritizing one.
So, we cored the apples then sliced them in half. Mixed some frozen blueberries with cinnamon and vanilla. Fill the middle of the apples with the berry mixture. Bake at 350 for about 40-50 minutes. They were amazing!!!! Everyone loved them. The berries made this beautiful syrup that would be lovely over pancakes. :)
The best part, though, was having time to talk with someone using ETL and seeing her life change and feel better. We talked about how we see our physical bodies improving. We shared ideas for recipes. We made a plan to get together to build our meal binders. It is just so great to have a friend I can see face to face that embraces this lifestyle and *gets it*.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Still Going
I'm not sure why I haven't gotten much blogging done. Life has been insanely busy, leaving me scrambling to keep up with food prep and basic life. I haven't had a whole lot of time to think, never mind write without interruption.
Stepped on the scale today and I was a little surprised to see the scale down. The last two weeks it hasn't moved hardly at all. Now, I haven't been completely faithful to the 6 week plan, but I have been more strict with myself. I thought I would have seen a bigger loss. Yet, any loss is welcome here. Last week was O week, and I think I had some issues seeing the scale move that week last month. It will be interesting to watch for that trend.
A few new things in the last couple of weeks:
1. We've found some new recipes for salad dressings that we're trying. The Southwestern Ranch is growing on me. Without a decent dressing, it's really hard to look forward to a salad for a meal.
2. I tried a really yummy vegetarian chili that we brought to dinner with friends. It was a hit with everyone.
3. I watched a very thought provoking talk, The Starch Solution, on youtube from Dr. McDougall on the benefits and importance of starch. So intriguing to learn and think on the science and history of how starch has sustained civilization and even fueled the strongest gladiators of all time.
I'm sure there are more new things I should and could be sharing. However, life has begun here and I am determined to get into my bible before any fires begin that need putting out.
I have NOT been exercising. Wonder what it's going to take to get me going again. I feel like I am crashed out after two weeks of solid running. Likely, it's an excuse, but I'm giving myself some time to rest and recover from a really stressful past couple of weeks.
Stepped on the scale today and I was a little surprised to see the scale down. The last two weeks it hasn't moved hardly at all. Now, I haven't been completely faithful to the 6 week plan, but I have been more strict with myself. I thought I would have seen a bigger loss. Yet, any loss is welcome here. Last week was O week, and I think I had some issues seeing the scale move that week last month. It will be interesting to watch for that trend.
A few new things in the last couple of weeks:
1. We've found some new recipes for salad dressings that we're trying. The Southwestern Ranch is growing on me. Without a decent dressing, it's really hard to look forward to a salad for a meal.
2. I tried a really yummy vegetarian chili that we brought to dinner with friends. It was a hit with everyone.
3. I watched a very thought provoking talk, The Starch Solution, on youtube from Dr. McDougall on the benefits and importance of starch. So intriguing to learn and think on the science and history of how starch has sustained civilization and even fueled the strongest gladiators of all time.
I'm sure there are more new things I should and could be sharing. However, life has begun here and I am determined to get into my bible before any fires begin that need putting out.
I have NOT been exercising. Wonder what it's going to take to get me going again. I feel like I am crashed out after two weeks of solid running. Likely, it's an excuse, but I'm giving myself some time to rest and recover from a really stressful past couple of weeks.
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Field Trip!
We headed down to Mass for a family field trip today. I'm beat!
I ate heavy on the grains today, but I still was able to pull of an ETL day of eating. I'm feeling right proud of myself for having put together a day's worth of meals while we were on the road.
Breakfast happened in the car so we could spend the morning packing and getting out the door early.
Orange-Berry muffins
hb eggs
bananas
walnut pieces
(fruit bowl for me and I had a muffin)
Lunch was served picnic style in the grass near the museum.
Taco salad wraps
apples
peanuts
carrot sticks
Dinner was eaten with friends at their house.
Peanut butter and all-fruit sandwiches
Cold Sloppy Corn Muffins
carrot sticks
a bit of taco salad that my friend prepared, I skipped the dressing :)
So, I had a lot of grains with the muffins, cornbread, Ezekiel bread, and rice tortilla at lunch. Still, they were nutritious grains and it made the day so much easier while we were out.
And, my "skinny skirt" that I've been wearing is getting looser. I can even spin it. :)
I ate heavy on the grains today, but I still was able to pull of an ETL day of eating. I'm feeling right proud of myself for having put together a day's worth of meals while we were on the road.
Breakfast happened in the car so we could spend the morning packing and getting out the door early.
Orange-Berry muffins
hb eggs
bananas
walnut pieces
(fruit bowl for me and I had a muffin)
Lunch was served picnic style in the grass near the museum.
Taco salad wraps
apples
peanuts
carrot sticks
Dinner was eaten with friends at their house.
Peanut butter and all-fruit sandwiches
Cold Sloppy Corn Muffins
carrot sticks
a bit of taco salad that my friend prepared, I skipped the dressing :)
So, I had a lot of grains with the muffins, cornbread, Ezekiel bread, and rice tortilla at lunch. Still, they were nutritious grains and it made the day so much easier while we were out.
And, my "skinny skirt" that I've been wearing is getting looser. I can even spin it. :)
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Good Kind of Tired
I have not updated in a long time. Every time I sit in front of my screen, I'm a little too tired for getting in all I want to type.
Quick Version:
Saturday I made some amazing black bean and corn empanadas. I used Bob's Red Mill gluten free all purpose baking flour and flax-egg to up the nutrition on the crust. They were incredibly good. I got a little crazy with the chipotle chili powder, but that's an easy fix for next time.
Quick Version:
Saturday I made some amazing black bean and corn empanadas. I used Bob's Red Mill gluten free all purpose baking flour and flax-egg to up the nutrition on the crust. They were incredibly good. I got a little crazy with the chipotle chili powder, but that's an easy fix for next time.
I was short on filling, so I mixed some chopped apple and blueberries to use up the extra dough.
They weren't a quick meal, but I was really happy to have them for our picnic lunch this weekend while we had some fun downtown at our local Hay Day. How's that for a yummy nutritarian lunch?
Today we visited with a dear friend. The grill was loaded with thick pork tenderloin steaks, veggie skewers, and we had a green salad and watermelon. It was so good! I did enjoy some of the pork and it was delicious. The little girls went all crazy asking for more and more "chicken". I have to say, though, as yummy as that meat was, those grilled mushrooms stole my heart. Boy, were they good!
I haven't weighed myself in a few days. I've just been too busy each morning getting life going to get in a work out or weigh-in. Tomorrow we'll see how the sat did me in. We did chomp on corn chips and salsa in the car on the way home for dinner. I'm sure that's going to set me back a bit.
I'm looking forward to the beginning of another new and great week. Hopefully my body will get a good sleep like last night and I'll have the energy I need to hit the ground running....like I need to do!!
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Better Day
Today I pushed myself out of that bed and got my morning 20 done, after I helped David get his juices ready. My weight was down a bit, thankfully.
We loaded up after an early lunch (soup for me) and went to an audition for my boys. We were there several hours, so I had them bring the double stroller. I took a couple girlies and lapped the building we were at so I could get in a bit of exercise while I was there. I also spent a good deal of time standing and talking with friends. Better than sitting, right?
This evening was "meat night" and we came home to a crock pot full of Chicken Taco Chili. It was a major success. I nutri-tized it when we got home, adding some greens, mushrooms, and onions. I put in one chicken breast (instead of three that the recipe called for) and put in a few cups of white northern beans to bulk it up. It will serve us for two meals. So, we did have our meat, but it was sparing. I've always been frugal with our meats, but this was a stellar performance in my book. :)
After dinner we walked up to the tennis courts. We got in some doubles, singles, and mostly chased balls. For a bit, I did some power walking lapping the courts so I could know I got in some decent movement for the evening. It was a gorgeous night.
We came home to bible time and now it's that glorious quiet as everyone that isn't in bed yet is reading or clicking away at the keys.
David joined us for dinner tonight. It's been almost 2 weeks since he did that. It was *really* nice to have him join us for a meal.
We loaded up after an early lunch (soup for me) and went to an audition for my boys. We were there several hours, so I had them bring the double stroller. I took a couple girlies and lapped the building we were at so I could get in a bit of exercise while I was there. I also spent a good deal of time standing and talking with friends. Better than sitting, right?
This evening was "meat night" and we came home to a crock pot full of Chicken Taco Chili. It was a major success. I nutri-tized it when we got home, adding some greens, mushrooms, and onions. I put in one chicken breast (instead of three that the recipe called for) and put in a few cups of white northern beans to bulk it up. It will serve us for two meals. So, we did have our meat, but it was sparing. I've always been frugal with our meats, but this was a stellar performance in my book. :)
After dinner we walked up to the tennis courts. We got in some doubles, singles, and mostly chased balls. For a bit, I did some power walking lapping the courts so I could know I got in some decent movement for the evening. It was a gorgeous night.
We came home to bible time and now it's that glorious quiet as everyone that isn't in bed yet is reading or clicking away at the keys.
David joined us for dinner tonight. It's been almost 2 weeks since he did that. It was *really* nice to have him join us for a meal.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Sunday, July 28, 2013
What happened to Saturday?? Oh yeah. I was buried in the kitchen. ;)
Spent yesterday cooking and prepping food. Tried some new recipes that all went over well. Chickpea Crispies, Cauliflower Poppers, BBQ Baked Beans, and a new twist on my Strawberry Spinach Salad.
I impressed myself by putting together an ETL picnic dinner to take to the lake in under 15 minutes with even less notice. ;)
Today we were gone the whole day for church, lunch with friends, and evening service. I brought along two Mexican Casseroles. One I made with ground beef and cheese and another was strictly beans and vegies. It was a new recipe and tasted wonderful! I resisted the brownies and coffee ice cream, even though it was super hard to do and super easy to justify it "just for Sunday". ;)
After church this evening there was a light dinner served. I filled my plate with fresh vegetables and fruit. I indulged a bit with a dairy based dip, but it was a small amount and I hadn't had a full serving of dairy yet this week. I'm good. :)
I'm finding this way of eating easier and easier to do. Passing some of those yummy bread sandwiches by tonight was a little tough. However, I know that once I meet my goal, I'll be able to plan ahead to enjoy treats like that. I just didn't want to use my meat for the week on cold cuts or other foods that weren't something I would REALLY love. ;)
Stepped on the scale yesterday and was down again. I'm only .4 pounds away from being under that 200 mark. But, when you think about the fact that my clothes weigh more than .4 pounds, I'm already there!! Under my clothes, that is. ;)
Feeling sleepy and ready to get some rest. Today was very busy for us all, so we'll be moving a little slow tomorrow. But, we have a house that needs tidying and a garden that needs tending, so resting well is in order.
Spent yesterday cooking and prepping food. Tried some new recipes that all went over well. Chickpea Crispies, Cauliflower Poppers, BBQ Baked Beans, and a new twist on my Strawberry Spinach Salad.
I impressed myself by putting together an ETL picnic dinner to take to the lake in under 15 minutes with even less notice. ;)
Today we were gone the whole day for church, lunch with friends, and evening service. I brought along two Mexican Casseroles. One I made with ground beef and cheese and another was strictly beans and vegies. It was a new recipe and tasted wonderful! I resisted the brownies and coffee ice cream, even though it was super hard to do and super easy to justify it "just for Sunday". ;)
After church this evening there was a light dinner served. I filled my plate with fresh vegetables and fruit. I indulged a bit with a dairy based dip, but it was a small amount and I hadn't had a full serving of dairy yet this week. I'm good. :)
I'm finding this way of eating easier and easier to do. Passing some of those yummy bread sandwiches by tonight was a little tough. However, I know that once I meet my goal, I'll be able to plan ahead to enjoy treats like that. I just didn't want to use my meat for the week on cold cuts or other foods that weren't something I would REALLY love. ;)
Stepped on the scale yesterday and was down again. I'm only .4 pounds away from being under that 200 mark. But, when you think about the fact that my clothes weigh more than .4 pounds, I'm already there!! Under my clothes, that is. ;)
Feeling sleepy and ready to get some rest. Today was very busy for us all, so we'll be moving a little slow tomorrow. But, we have a house that needs tidying and a garden that needs tending, so resting well is in order.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Today's Good Things:
Attended a church cookout today. Made great choices from what was available. Skipped the dogs and burgers!
Spent my time on my feet instead of just sitting after we ate. Stayed busy taking pics, running around for the little girls, and doing a bit of stretching while I kept an eye on the little ones.
Got our shopping done for the juice fast!
Today's Not So Good Things:
I gave in and had a sweet treat from the dessert table. I reasoned it away knowing we were fasting tomorrow. It was a small treat. Really, it's *okay* but I didn't NEED it, that's for sure.
Still dealing with some lingering *crab* in my attitude when we are dealing with stressful, get out the door, type moments in our days.
We are all shopped and ready to start our juice fast tomorrow. I feel like I'm not quite ready, but I guess we'll just jump in and see how it goes. We're using the 15 day Reboot that Joe Cross (of Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead fame) recommends. We've decided to skip the first 5 days of prep since we've been eating so close to a vegan diet these last few weeks. Tomorrow we begin the 15 day juicing fast. We'll see how we're doing at day 15 and make a decision on continuing from there. I am SO excited to see my husband take this on! I just know we are going to see great results and feel so much better doing this together.
Here's our shopping trip and my awesome job fitting all the juicing produce in ONE fridge. I am so thankful the Lord blessed us with two refrigerators in our home. Now the children have one for their menu this week and we have one for ours. :)
Attended a church cookout today. Made great choices from what was available. Skipped the dogs and burgers!
Spent my time on my feet instead of just sitting after we ate. Stayed busy taking pics, running around for the little girls, and doing a bit of stretching while I kept an eye on the little ones.
Got our shopping done for the juice fast!
Today's Not So Good Things:
I gave in and had a sweet treat from the dessert table. I reasoned it away knowing we were fasting tomorrow. It was a small treat. Really, it's *okay* but I didn't NEED it, that's for sure.
Still dealing with some lingering *crab* in my attitude when we are dealing with stressful, get out the door, type moments in our days.
We are all shopped and ready to start our juice fast tomorrow. I feel like I'm not quite ready, but I guess we'll just jump in and see how it goes. We're using the 15 day Reboot that Joe Cross (of Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead fame) recommends. We've decided to skip the first 5 days of prep since we've been eating so close to a vegan diet these last few weeks. Tomorrow we begin the 15 day juicing fast. We'll see how we're doing at day 15 and make a decision on continuing from there. I am SO excited to see my husband take this on! I just know we are going to see great results and feel so much better doing this together.
Here's our shopping trip and my awesome job fitting all the juicing produce in ONE fridge. I am so thankful the Lord blessed us with two refrigerators in our home. Now the children have one for their menu this week and we have one for ours. :)
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Daniel Fast - Day Fourteen
June 23, 2013
Day Fourteen
Today went well. It was tough at lunch. Instead of the burgers and hot dogs that my in-laws had planned to make, they served yummy rotisserie chicken and rice. Oh, how I've been longing for chicken! I could have easily resisted the burgers, but the chicken was One Tough Temptation.
I did it, though. :) We enjoyed our vegie skewers and corn on the cob. I figured out that I do NOT like eggplant. I'm pretty proud of myself for trying, though.
I also did great at church tonight. There was a party of sorts after the worship time with all manner of sweets, chips, and treats. Thankfully, I wasn't hungry at all after eating our peanut butter and all-fruit rice cakes at dinner. It wasn't a hard thing to resist. Especially when I could visit with friends, the gooey brownies faded from my memory.
What I did do today that left me really defeated was something I told myself I wouldn't do. I stepped on a scale. I haven't weighed myself since we were going to the YMCA. I don't know what I weighed going into this fast, so I have no frame of reference. I shouldn't care about the scale. I did not go on this fast as a weight loss tool. Yet, I can't help myself from wondering if eating this way would make an impact on my weight. I have been recording my food and I am under on calories almost every day. Surely, I should see some loss. Yet, how would I know??
The number I saw on the scale was NOT a pretty number. Not what I was hoping to see, that's for sure. Sigh. I don't know what I was hoping to see. But, two weeks on the Daniel Fast isn't going to get me to a pretty number. Now I know.
One cool thing I learned today is that I really like grilled cauliflower. Yum.
Day Fourteen
Today went well. It was tough at lunch. Instead of the burgers and hot dogs that my in-laws had planned to make, they served yummy rotisserie chicken and rice. Oh, how I've been longing for chicken! I could have easily resisted the burgers, but the chicken was One Tough Temptation.
I did it, though. :) We enjoyed our vegie skewers and corn on the cob. I figured out that I do NOT like eggplant. I'm pretty proud of myself for trying, though.
I also did great at church tonight. There was a party of sorts after the worship time with all manner of sweets, chips, and treats. Thankfully, I wasn't hungry at all after eating our peanut butter and all-fruit rice cakes at dinner. It wasn't a hard thing to resist. Especially when I could visit with friends, the gooey brownies faded from my memory.
What I did do today that left me really defeated was something I told myself I wouldn't do. I stepped on a scale. I haven't weighed myself since we were going to the YMCA. I don't know what I weighed going into this fast, so I have no frame of reference. I shouldn't care about the scale. I did not go on this fast as a weight loss tool. Yet, I can't help myself from wondering if eating this way would make an impact on my weight. I have been recording my food and I am under on calories almost every day. Surely, I should see some loss. Yet, how would I know??
The number I saw on the scale was NOT a pretty number. Not what I was hoping to see, that's for sure. Sigh. I don't know what I was hoping to see. But, two weeks on the Daniel Fast isn't going to get me to a pretty number. Now I know.
One cool thing I learned today is that I really like grilled cauliflower. Yum.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Wednesday, Feb 6th - quick check in
I'm too tired for a full write up.
I've read my day 8 and need to read my day 9. I'm keeping up with water and working on choosing the food vice I need to work on this week.
Super fun and active day. Headed to a friend's house to help her with some unpacking of boxes for an upcoming move into her home that was damaged by fire. Then we rushed through Sam's for a major quick shopping trip. Toting that big ol' cart was a workout!
Got home and headed out again with David for a full workout at the gym. Amazing how much that relaxes me. I feel so calm and ready to crash by the time we are done. Broke the 200 cal mark with my elliptical workout again.
So, I'm here. I'm working the plan. I'm just too tired from workin' it to write more tonight
YMCA scale said I was down to 208 tonight, so 1/2 a pound. It's something even though I spent the evening grumping about why the scale doesn't move more and faster for me. My husband replied to my grumping with some encouraging words.
"You are getting stronger and healthier. Even if the scale never changes, you are healthier than you were and I like that. I also really like seeing you at the gym with me when I'm there. I'm glad we're doing this and I'm proud of you for working so hard."
That's better than anything the scale could say to me. :)
I've read my day 8 and need to read my day 9. I'm keeping up with water and working on choosing the food vice I need to work on this week.
Super fun and active day. Headed to a friend's house to help her with some unpacking of boxes for an upcoming move into her home that was damaged by fire. Then we rushed through Sam's for a major quick shopping trip. Toting that big ol' cart was a workout!
Got home and headed out again with David for a full workout at the gym. Amazing how much that relaxes me. I feel so calm and ready to crash by the time we are done. Broke the 200 cal mark with my elliptical workout again.
So, I'm here. I'm working the plan. I'm just too tired from workin' it to write more tonight
YMCA scale said I was down to 208 tonight, so 1/2 a pound. It's something even though I spent the evening grumping about why the scale doesn't move more and faster for me. My husband replied to my grumping with some encouraging words.
"You are getting stronger and healthier. Even if the scale never changes, you are healthier than you were and I like that. I also really like seeing you at the gym with me when I'm there. I'm glad we're doing this and I'm proud of you for working so hard."
That's better than anything the scale could say to me. :)
Thursday, December 13, 2012
12/12/12 - Last Chance
Today is a unique day. The last day we'll ever be able to match a month/day/year for another 100 years. Guess I'll take this as a good sign to get back on track with my health and life goals. It feels like it's been 100 years ago that I was here. *rolls eyes*
This past fall I had my gall bladder out. The surgery went better than I expected and I was up and moving fairly normal by the second week. I can eat normally now with the exception of some foods that leave me feeling poorly. Most of those are foods I should avoid anyways.
That recovery season did a number on me emotionally, though. That and the sleep deprivation I am dealing with right now due to baby's poor habits has me in and out of some pretty dark emotional funks. The last few months has left me struggling to just do the next thing most days. Sleep deprivation is horrible, especially when you feel trapped by it. My husband has been working hard to help me get extra rest when possible, but it's a season that drives me to my knees. Or, at least it should.
I've gained weight, I can tell by the fit of my clothes. That's depressing enough. I find little time or motivation to exercise right now, feeling a bit overwhelmed by keeping up with schooling and housework. However, a good friend of mine and I are committing to putting our health in higher priority so that we can be better for our families. We've started an accountability time and have made some goals for ourselves. Mine are as follows:
>Taking supplements and vitamins daily (started St. John's Wort recently, 5 capsules to start and back off when I see improvement in mood)
>Better focus on nutrition and water intake (I desparately need to up my water intake)
>Add in exercise: I'm working on a walk with my son after lunch daily and a walk with my oldest daughter after dinner daily.
>Focus on daily bible reading, journaling, prayer time, and book reading - morning and evening
>Relationship building with certain family members
>Review and study Super Mom vs. Abiding Mom chart
It's been 2 weeks since I made that list. I've made some improvements in a few areas, but I have a long way to go. They are good goals. I'm embarrassed that they are so simple, yet so hard to meet right now. However, I need to just press on and I'm thankful to have something I'm aiming for at least.
This coming season, I just want to recapture the DESIRE I once had to take care of myself and CARE about how I feel and what direction I am heading. Right now I simply battle such a terrible feeling of complacency, it's causing real damage. I need to keep turning my heart to the Lord and growing in a greater sense of worship to Him so that I can see my heart change. I am learning, in bits and pieces, that each battle I face is truly a result of a crisis of worship I have in my life.
Please pray I would see the Lord at work and I would join Him in what He is doing in my life.
This past fall I had my gall bladder out. The surgery went better than I expected and I was up and moving fairly normal by the second week. I can eat normally now with the exception of some foods that leave me feeling poorly. Most of those are foods I should avoid anyways.
That recovery season did a number on me emotionally, though. That and the sleep deprivation I am dealing with right now due to baby's poor habits has me in and out of some pretty dark emotional funks. The last few months has left me struggling to just do the next thing most days. Sleep deprivation is horrible, especially when you feel trapped by it. My husband has been working hard to help me get extra rest when possible, but it's a season that drives me to my knees. Or, at least it should.
I've gained weight, I can tell by the fit of my clothes. That's depressing enough. I find little time or motivation to exercise right now, feeling a bit overwhelmed by keeping up with schooling and housework. However, a good friend of mine and I are committing to putting our health in higher priority so that we can be better for our families. We've started an accountability time and have made some goals for ourselves. Mine are as follows:
>Taking supplements and vitamins daily (started St. John's Wort recently, 5 capsules to start and back off when I see improvement in mood)
>Better focus on nutrition and water intake (I desparately need to up my water intake)
>Add in exercise: I'm working on a walk with my son after lunch daily and a walk with my oldest daughter after dinner daily.
>Focus on daily bible reading, journaling, prayer time, and book reading - morning and evening
>Relationship building with certain family members
>Review and study Super Mom vs. Abiding Mom chart
It's been 2 weeks since I made that list. I've made some improvements in a few areas, but I have a long way to go. They are good goals. I'm embarrassed that they are so simple, yet so hard to meet right now. However, I need to just press on and I'm thankful to have something I'm aiming for at least.
This coming season, I just want to recapture the DESIRE I once had to take care of myself and CARE about how I feel and what direction I am heading. Right now I simply battle such a terrible feeling of complacency, it's causing real damage. I need to keep turning my heart to the Lord and growing in a greater sense of worship to Him so that I can see my heart change. I am learning, in bits and pieces, that each battle I face is truly a result of a crisis of worship I have in my life.
Please pray I would see the Lord at work and I would join Him in what He is doing in my life.
Monday, July 16, 2012
Monday July 16, 2012
Today's Good Things:
Visit with friends for the day
Coffee with more friends tonight
Lovely drive by myself this evening
Baby was a dream today while we were visiting
Ate well, skipped the eating out at Sam's and came home to our beans waiting for us in the crockpot. Great choice over pizza at Sam's that I can't eat anyways. :)
Today's Not So Good Things:
Couldn't find time to get in any exercise. Too much running.
Munched on pretzels and animal crackers on the way home. White flour = Bad. But, Hungry won out.
Had a great day. Such a wonderful day. So loved visiting with friends today. I've missed them all so much. I've missed getting out so much. I've missed having just a teeny bit of time alone so much. And I missed my baby so much, so was thrilled to snuggle her when I got home. :)
Still thinking more and more about my gall bladder. Hoping to get in some calls this week so I can get an appointment with a doc. Praying about whether I keep working on dealing with this diet-wise or just have it removed. I have a constant sore ache every day in my ribs. I really don't want to spend the next year or whatever in pain and struggling just to have it needing to be removed later. Seems a waste of my time and energy where it's needed so many other places. Prayer for wisdom are so appreciated.
Otherwise, feeling great! Looking forward to our first day of Math Week tomorrow. Looking forward to enjoying some learning time with my kiddos, tackling our chores and then, hopefully, treating everyone to a shopping trip for new school supplies. We all love when school supplies are on sale.
I'm dreaming of an early morning walk before everyone is awake. I feel like I'm too ambitious to think I'll be able to open my eyes that much so early in the morning. But, it would be SO lovely. We'll see how the night goes for Kindred before I can know for sure.
Visit with friends for the day
Coffee with more friends tonight
Lovely drive by myself this evening
Baby was a dream today while we were visiting
Ate well, skipped the eating out at Sam's and came home to our beans waiting for us in the crockpot. Great choice over pizza at Sam's that I can't eat anyways. :)
Today's Not So Good Things:
Couldn't find time to get in any exercise. Too much running.
Munched on pretzels and animal crackers on the way home. White flour = Bad. But, Hungry won out.
Had a great day. Such a wonderful day. So loved visiting with friends today. I've missed them all so much. I've missed getting out so much. I've missed having just a teeny bit of time alone so much. And I missed my baby so much, so was thrilled to snuggle her when I got home. :)
Still thinking more and more about my gall bladder. Hoping to get in some calls this week so I can get an appointment with a doc. Praying about whether I keep working on dealing with this diet-wise or just have it removed. I have a constant sore ache every day in my ribs. I really don't want to spend the next year or whatever in pain and struggling just to have it needing to be removed later. Seems a waste of my time and energy where it's needed so many other places. Prayer for wisdom are so appreciated.
Otherwise, feeling great! Looking forward to our first day of Math Week tomorrow. Looking forward to enjoying some learning time with my kiddos, tackling our chores and then, hopefully, treating everyone to a shopping trip for new school supplies. We all love when school supplies are on sale.
I'm dreaming of an early morning walk before everyone is awake. I feel like I'm too ambitious to think I'll be able to open my eyes that much so early in the morning. But, it would be SO lovely. We'll see how the night goes for Kindred before I can know for sure.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Holiday week- July 4th
Lots of friends and cookouts and activity. It made it hard to be wise with my choices and I saw an embarrassing lack of will power on my part. It's like will power is a muscle. Once you haven't used it for a while it grows very weak.
I'm feeling bloated and sluggish. My nights with baby have been very difficult, so I keep thinking its the lack of sleep. But, my food choices have been rather lazy and I think that's a big factor as well. The last two days have been better. I'm focusing on fruits and vegies to clean my system out a bit. I'm also learning and trying to make some kind of plan for eating to get my gall bladder healthy. It's still creating some pain and issues so I guess the Lord finally found the perfect way to get me to let go of the pizza, chips, and ice cream that I've always enjoyed with my husband. So far, I've found that my greek yogurt with frozen fruit replaces the ice cream well. Peanuts and even carrot sticks give me something to crunch in place of the chips. But, my pizza. I'm just going to miss pizza so much.
Slept in long today, thanks to my wonderful husband. Had a large apple for breakfast. I'm still getting used to the fact that I can eat so much fruit now and first thing in the day. The GD diet had my brain wired a different direction, so when I reach for a piece of fruit, I tend to feel like it's a bad choice. Reprogramming.
Off to enjoy lunch with the fam and hopefully get a house project done for the day.
I'm feeling bloated and sluggish. My nights with baby have been very difficult, so I keep thinking its the lack of sleep. But, my food choices have been rather lazy and I think that's a big factor as well. The last two days have been better. I'm focusing on fruits and vegies to clean my system out a bit. I'm also learning and trying to make some kind of plan for eating to get my gall bladder healthy. It's still creating some pain and issues so I guess the Lord finally found the perfect way to get me to let go of the pizza, chips, and ice cream that I've always enjoyed with my husband. So far, I've found that my greek yogurt with frozen fruit replaces the ice cream well. Peanuts and even carrot sticks give me something to crunch in place of the chips. But, my pizza. I'm just going to miss pizza so much.
Slept in long today, thanks to my wonderful husband. Had a large apple for breakfast. I'm still getting used to the fact that I can eat so much fruit now and first thing in the day. The GD diet had my brain wired a different direction, so when I reach for a piece of fruit, I tend to feel like it's a bad choice. Reprogramming.
Off to enjoy lunch with the fam and hopefully get a house project done for the day.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Friday February 3, 2012
I. Am. Exhausted.
We went on a great field trip today with some of our dearest friends. We had such a great time.
But, with all that walking and standing and driving, I can barely move. My back is killing me. My legs are sore. My feet are aching. My head is hurting. Just everywhere is ouch.
My morning was off. We were so rushed getting out the door that I completely forgot to test after breakfast. My after lunch number was great, though. My fasting was still a little high. We'll see tomorrow what number I get and if I'll need to up my insulin or not.
I'm having a hard time remembering to test 1 hour after eating since I was used to 2 hours. I'll get it, though. I have to be up super early tomorrow. I so wish I could just go to bed now, but I need to keep myself awake to eat and take my shot. Bah.
We went on a great field trip today with some of our dearest friends. We had such a great time.
But, with all that walking and standing and driving, I can barely move. My back is killing me. My legs are sore. My feet are aching. My head is hurting. Just everywhere is ouch.
My morning was off. We were so rushed getting out the door that I completely forgot to test after breakfast. My after lunch number was great, though. My fasting was still a little high. We'll see tomorrow what number I get and if I'll need to up my insulin or not.
I'm having a hard time remembering to test 1 hour after eating since I was used to 2 hours. I'll get it, though. I have to be up super early tomorrow. I so wish I could just go to bed now, but I need to keep myself awake to eat and take my shot. Bah.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
New Year 2012
We celebrated the New Year with friends. Lots of food, lots of treats, lots of not so good food.
I did pretty well. I allowed myself some treats, but balanced it with adequate protein and worked to keep my portions appropriate. I ate in a somewhat timely manner and didn't suffer one bit by skipping the sweets. :)
I feel good about having enjoyed our celebration with friends, even when it did revolved a bit around food. They were super supportive and I didn't feel deprived at all. Eating well can also be enjoyable and I'm glad I'm learning that.
The new year brings the challenge to leave the old behind and embrace the new challenges, promises, and goals ahead of me. I'm praying the Lord helps me work on my activity level, making exercise enjoyable instead of the chore that it always is in my mind. I know that my mind can be renewed in this way, and I even saw it happening last year as I worked so hard. So many new things happening, starting tomorrow with our schedule, budget, and lifestyle. I pray I can stay focused on including those things that are most beneficial to our family physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. They are all connected, so one can't really be done without the other.
I did pretty well. I allowed myself some treats, but balanced it with adequate protein and worked to keep my portions appropriate. I ate in a somewhat timely manner and didn't suffer one bit by skipping the sweets. :)
I feel good about having enjoyed our celebration with friends, even when it did revolved a bit around food. They were super supportive and I didn't feel deprived at all. Eating well can also be enjoyable and I'm glad I'm learning that.
The new year brings the challenge to leave the old behind and embrace the new challenges, promises, and goals ahead of me. I'm praying the Lord helps me work on my activity level, making exercise enjoyable instead of the chore that it always is in my mind. I know that my mind can be renewed in this way, and I even saw it happening last year as I worked so hard. So many new things happening, starting tomorrow with our schedule, budget, and lifestyle. I pray I can stay focused on including those things that are most beneficial to our family physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. They are all connected, so one can't really be done without the other.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Monday November 14, 2011
Today's Good Things:
Dressed, bible and journal this morning
Stayed vertical most of the day
Helped with making dinner!
Made some good choices for snacks and meals
Met a good friend for coffee/tea tonight. (it's been too long since I've been able to do that!)
Today's Not So Good Things:
Caved and had a donut
Super slow and crabby day for the whole clan. :(
Couldn't stay focused and motivated this morning
Today was a very difficult Monday. Everyone was slow moving, unmotivated, distractable and crabby. One is sick, so feeling extra whiney. Another was over tired from the weekend, so basically no self-control. And this Momma was about as impatient as she can get. And I did it. I caved in to my stress and ate a donut as an escape. What a dumb thing to do. Of course, I didn't escape anything. I didn't actually FEEL better. (though, that moment the chocolate hits your taste buds...mmmm...ahem.) I likely made my ability to deal with the stresses less effective. Sigh.
But, it's done and we move on, right? Tomorrow I have a Plan of Attack to get us off to a better start, complete with family exercise. I know we could all use the fresh air and activity to give us a better handle on our day.
I enjoyed a lovely evening out with a friend tonight. I've been staying home from my weekly night out with friends because I've been feeling so awful. But, tonight was lovely and I'm so grateful I was able to go again. I've missed the break and the wonderful friendships I'm blessed to have. The break has already left me feeling refreshed and more willing to face the day tomorrow. It' amazing what a little change of scenery and some uplifting conversation can do for a person.
Praying for a better report for tomorrow!
Dressed, bible and journal this morning
Stayed vertical most of the day
Helped with making dinner!
Made some good choices for snacks and meals
Met a good friend for coffee/tea tonight. (it's been too long since I've been able to do that!)
Today's Not So Good Things:
Caved and had a donut
Super slow and crabby day for the whole clan. :(
Couldn't stay focused and motivated this morning
Today was a very difficult Monday. Everyone was slow moving, unmotivated, distractable and crabby. One is sick, so feeling extra whiney. Another was over tired from the weekend, so basically no self-control. And this Momma was about as impatient as she can get. And I did it. I caved in to my stress and ate a donut as an escape. What a dumb thing to do. Of course, I didn't escape anything. I didn't actually FEEL better. (though, that moment the chocolate hits your taste buds...mmmm...ahem.) I likely made my ability to deal with the stresses less effective. Sigh.
But, it's done and we move on, right? Tomorrow I have a Plan of Attack to get us off to a better start, complete with family exercise. I know we could all use the fresh air and activity to give us a better handle on our day.
I enjoyed a lovely evening out with a friend tonight. I've been staying home from my weekly night out with friends because I've been feeling so awful. But, tonight was lovely and I'm so grateful I was able to go again. I've missed the break and the wonderful friendships I'm blessed to have. The break has already left me feeling refreshed and more willing to face the day tomorrow. It' amazing what a little change of scenery and some uplifting conversation can do for a person.
Praying for a better report for tomorrow!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Monday July 18, 2011
Today's Good Things:
Morning and evening walk (at least 3 miles total)
Good choices for meals, lovely salad from the garden for dinner!
Ditching the soda
Oh, and some good time in the pool yesterday! (just throwing that in because I'm so glad I did it. ;-) )
Today's Not So Good Things:
Caved in to my sweet craving at snack time :(
I met with my friends for our coffee night tonight. It was lovely, as we ended the evening with a great paced walk that lasted about an hour. I also skipped the coffee and had a bottle of water. I haven't been drinking enough, so that was a good choice. (Especially since I had already had plenty-o-decaf already today.)
Cycle started today and I feel so much better. The last few days have been yucky and a little up in the air wondering just what to think about a 38 day cycle. ;-) All the tests were bfn's, but, I admit, I was starting to wonder. So, I have another month (or longer!) to keep working at getting stronger, wiser, and more faithful in my choices to honor the Lord with my body.
Would you believe I forgot all about my weigh-in this morning? I was so occupied with starting my day that I completely forgot. I have no idea what to expect, as I saw a huge drop after my cycle ended last month. But, when am I not afraid to step on that blasted scale, right? I guess I'll give her a go tomorrow and see how bad it is. I definitely feel bloated and like I've gained a good 10lbs in the last few weeks. Sigh.
Either way, I'm going to keep up my momentum for the week. I'm going to work on logging tomorrow as well as keeping up with my early morning walk. I'd love to get in a swim tomorrow too, since the day promises to be a hot one. (though I don't get in all that much swimming with so many little ones to watch ;-) ) I've been fighting some insomnia the last few nights, so I hope that doesn't leave me to worn out to get up and going in the early morning.
Morning and evening walk (at least 3 miles total)
Good choices for meals, lovely salad from the garden for dinner!
Ditching the soda
Oh, and some good time in the pool yesterday! (just throwing that in because I'm so glad I did it. ;-) )
Today's Not So Good Things:
Caved in to my sweet craving at snack time :(
I met with my friends for our coffee night tonight. It was lovely, as we ended the evening with a great paced walk that lasted about an hour. I also skipped the coffee and had a bottle of water. I haven't been drinking enough, so that was a good choice. (Especially since I had already had plenty-o-decaf already today.)
Cycle started today and I feel so much better. The last few days have been yucky and a little up in the air wondering just what to think about a 38 day cycle. ;-) All the tests were bfn's, but, I admit, I was starting to wonder. So, I have another month (or longer!) to keep working at getting stronger, wiser, and more faithful in my choices to honor the Lord with my body.
Would you believe I forgot all about my weigh-in this morning? I was so occupied with starting my day that I completely forgot. I have no idea what to expect, as I saw a huge drop after my cycle ended last month. But, when am I not afraid to step on that blasted scale, right? I guess I'll give her a go tomorrow and see how bad it is. I definitely feel bloated and like I've gained a good 10lbs in the last few weeks. Sigh.
Either way, I'm going to keep up my momentum for the week. I'm going to work on logging tomorrow as well as keeping up with my early morning walk. I'd love to get in a swim tomorrow too, since the day promises to be a hot one. (though I don't get in all that much swimming with so many little ones to watch ;-) ) I've been fighting some insomnia the last few nights, so I hope that doesn't leave me to worn out to get up and going in the early morning.
Friday, July 8, 2011
The Vacation Challenge
We just got home from a 12 day whirlwind road trip. 11 states, 3500 miles. That's a ton of driving, visiting, touring, eating on the quick, and...sigh...sitting.
I started out really well. I was being ever so careful with my food choices, trying hard not to indulge in the Munch Your Way Down The Highway tradition. The first couple of days I made sure to get out for walks before we started the next stretch of driving or sitting to visit with far away family and friends. However, as the trip got busier and our stops got shorter, much of that ceased. By the time we were making our mad dash home, I was crunchin' the chips with the best of them. *blush*
However, I still believe I did *much* better than I have in previous times. We didn't stop at as many of our favorite eating places on this trip. We often find ourselves eating our way along as a part of making memories. We did still enjoy some unique favorites, like U.P. pasties, cinnamon raisin biscuits from Hardees, and Arby's roast beef sandwiches. I even deterred us from ordering fries and filling in with carrot sticks and apple slices with our Roast Beef Delights. :-) We skipped some others and I made sure our meals eaten from the camper featured greens as often as possible. We guzzled plenty of water, though my fiber is down right now, so I'll be working on that. I did cave and get the pop tarts and cold cereal that everyone loves for vacation, but generally we snacked on peanut butter celery sticks and fruit for our sweet treats. I'm wishing we had been able to make more time for active touring at our destinations. We got in some swimming, a bit of walking, but not as much hiking as I had hoped. It was tough to do it while visiting with others and fitting in so much in so little time.
Overall, I'm pleased with how we did. We still have a lot of room for improvement, but I am clearly making better choices as a way of life. Even vacation life. :-)
I started out really well. I was being ever so careful with my food choices, trying hard not to indulge in the Munch Your Way Down The Highway tradition. The first couple of days I made sure to get out for walks before we started the next stretch of driving or sitting to visit with far away family and friends. However, as the trip got busier and our stops got shorter, much of that ceased. By the time we were making our mad dash home, I was crunchin' the chips with the best of them. *blush*
However, I still believe I did *much* better than I have in previous times. We didn't stop at as many of our favorite eating places on this trip. We often find ourselves eating our way along as a part of making memories. We did still enjoy some unique favorites, like U.P. pasties, cinnamon raisin biscuits from Hardees, and Arby's roast beef sandwiches. I even deterred us from ordering fries and filling in with carrot sticks and apple slices with our Roast Beef Delights. :-) We skipped some others and I made sure our meals eaten from the camper featured greens as often as possible. We guzzled plenty of water, though my fiber is down right now, so I'll be working on that. I did cave and get the pop tarts and cold cereal that everyone loves for vacation, but generally we snacked on peanut butter celery sticks and fruit for our sweet treats. I'm wishing we had been able to make more time for active touring at our destinations. We got in some swimming, a bit of walking, but not as much hiking as I had hoped. It was tough to do it while visiting with others and fitting in so much in so little time.
Overall, I'm pleased with how we did. We still have a lot of room for improvement, but I am clearly making better choices as a way of life. Even vacation life. :-)
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