Confessions of a 10 Pound Loser - The Beginning

 I'm starting a new weight loss journey. 

Actually, scratch that. I've been on a weight loss "journey" for years. What I am starting is going to be more of a public sharing of the ups and downs of my experiences. 

My "journey" has had its good days and bad days. I've had more bad that good. I have all kinds of excuses. 

My hormones.

My non-existent metabolism.

White Castle.

Quarantine. 

The truth is that our troubles and challenges are far more nuanced and complicated than we understand. 

I've been fairly transparent about a few things in my life. Infertility. Chronic Illness. My fondness for murder mysteries and dislike of potty talk. 

I am not quite as chatty about my weight struggles. Mostly because I am so disappointed in myself. And I certainly don't feel good in my current body. 

I've been down this road before. I have been successful at weight loss. I have also been successful at losing and gaining the same 10 pounds a thousand times in my adult years. 

My mom encouraged me to talk more about what I know. What I don't know. How I'm doing. What I'm not doing. About weight loss, at least. She thought my own experiences would be encouraging for someone else. She also gave me the idea of what to call this particular series. 

"Confessions of a 10 pound Loser"

My mom is kind of awesome at jingles and catchy titles. 

My idea would have been more like "My Struggles with Losing Weight While Telling You All The Things You Wish You Never Asked." 

Kind of hard to make a interesting graphic with that one. 

So. Here I go. We'll talk more later. 

Weight Loss Fail

This post was sooo hard to write.

In fact, I have written it a few times in my head before deciding that perhaps I didn't need to write it at all.

Make sense?

I feel like I have failed. I'm ashamed of myself.

I've told you before that one of my best coping mechanisms is that I am able to ignore unpleasantness around me if need be. I have a "happy place" and I'm not afraid to use it.

Unfortunately, that ability to block out the nasties also makes me more likely to not confront certain things in my life that need confronting.

The "nasty" in my life for sometime has been my weight.

A few years ago, I lost almost 80 pounds.

80 pounds.

I had the world in my pocket and this sense that I had finally figured out the secrets of the universe.

Then I had a 6 month long plateau. This is not uncommon in an extreme weight loss journey. I switched up my diet and exercise routine.

And then I gained a few pounds back. I didn't sweat it because I had just started taking a hormonal supplement for irregular cycles.

And I gained a few more pounds. I didn't sweat it because my clothes still fit.

After all, I'd get this under control. I talked to the doctor about my suspicions that my thyroid medication was not as effective. But...my levels were hunky dorry and there wasn't any need to change my medication.

I gained some more weight.And slowly started to cover my eyes. I didn't have the energy to think about it. We are preparing for a huge change in our lives. A move. A change in ministry and position.

When we finally got to Indiana my health took a serious nose dive.

And at my initial doctors visit here in my new state I was forced to confront my reality.

My clothes didn't fit because I had gained most of the weight back.

My blood sugars were frighteningly high and uncontrolled.

My blood pressure was at stroke level.

I was puffy, swollen, fatigued and sick.

For whatever reason I was back to a place I never...ever...wanted to venture again.

I do have a few take-a-ways from my current situation.

I HAVE to be my own advocate and my biggest cheerleader.

I HAVE to move...even when I don't feel like my body can handle it.

I HAVE to take control of what I put in my body. Nobody is going to do it for me.

So this is where I am now. I have a plan and I'm sticking to it.

I am slowly adding more activity back into my day. If you deal with chronic illness you understand how difficult this is at times.

A dear friend from church and I are going to start taking water aerobic classes at the local high school a few times a week. I know from past experience how beneficial the water is for me.

I can't even begin to tell you what a blessing this is.

The Muffin and Josiah are going to take turns walking with me. Walking is generally not as beneficial for me because I have a hard time handling longer distances. It puts more stress on my joints. However, it is a "step" in the right direction.

You do see that I made a funny right there.

The doctors have already placed me on a low sodium and low carb diet. I have taken it a step further by eliminating some things that might be causing increased inflammation and insulin levels.

I'll share as I go. It's hard but I've been through worse.

There is part of me that is still just a tad rebellious.

Why can't I be like other people and eat a french fry every once in a while without it making me swell up like a toad?

Why isn't there just a magic pill/easy cure that I can implement? Why does this have to be SO STINKIN' HARD?

I have a few ideas on this which I will try and share as my journey continues.

But here is where you come in.

You are my accountability partners. I have be forthcoming in my struggles. My tendency is to brew a cup of tea and grab a book when things get tough....which is still a perfectly healthy thing to do.

Don't feel like you have to comment or even read every post I write on weight loss. I just need this public platform to keep myself accountable.

I have found I tend to only want to talk about weight loss when I am succeeding. It's much harder to admit you have failed.

So that's enough right now. I've laid it all out there.

It's time to go take a little walk.

10 Tips (for those Fluffy and Frugal gals)

Hi, my friends.

I thought I would share a helpful link with you today. It's actually a post I wrote for a blogger friend (Marcy from Ben and Me) sometime back.

She's given it a fresh picture and reposted it for the New Year.

It's got some good advice (if I do say so myself). Dare I say it's a must read for those of us who are eating healthy on a budget?

You can click on the banner below or here to read it. Plus, check out Marcy's blog. She is always encouraging.

Healthy Living (5 Days of Tips For Homeschooling Parents)

This week I'm bringing to you a whole lot of tips and tricks. Homeschooling is a special life and we need all the encouragement we can get. I love when I get practical advice and so I am passing some on to you. Take what you can use and tuck the rest of it in a nice little file called "maybe doesn't apply to me." 

Is this you? 

I understand completely! 

Here is a truth bomb.

We all need to be just a little interested in living a healthier life. You might be someone who natural exudes health and wellness. Or you might be someone who needs to work a little harder at the whole “healthy vibe”.

If so…I feel your pain.

My journey to health has been a bit rocky. I can’t tell you how many bumps, valleys, roadblocks (you pick your metaphor) I have encountered.

However. I have had success. I have been able to change my life. Change my body.

Don’t get me wrong. It’s still a journey. Just this past year I gained weight back that I had previously lost. Something to do with a wonky hormone system and sluggish thyroid.

Anybody else deal with those kinds of issues?

Here is another truth bomb.

To be all we can be for our families we need to get a handle on things. I understand that it takes more effort when one is a homeschooling mama.

Life seems to rip and roar around us. It’s easy to just do the “easy” thing (which in my house could easily turn into Krispy Kreme).

My philosophy is just this.

Make small changes. It will change your life.

Don’t try and overhaul your lifestyle all at once. You will get overwhelmed and frustrated. It will just add to the crazy. And I should know.  

I am not going to share “everything I know” (which make take a post or two), but I do want to give you a few ways you can incorporate a healthy life with your homeschool family lifestyle.

1.       Start the day with water. Hydrate yourself. I also try and enjoy a warm cup of lemon tea. Your body needs all that lovely water.

2.       Plan your menu. Be prepared. Know what you are going to eat and when. You might need to take some extra time at the beginning of the week to prepare, but it will be worth it. You can even make it a family event. Put the littles to work washing veggies and filling storage baggies with snacks.  I think that sounds like a perfectly good Home Economics class to me.

3.       And speaking of your menu. It’s very tempting to get caught up in foods trends and fads. Do your research.  You can’t go wrong with eating real food. If there is something I want to make that requires a special ingredient I often check to see if there is something handier (and cheaper) I can substitute it with.

4.       Move. Park farther from the grocery store entrance. Take the stairs. You probably have heard this before, but mixing up your exercise works. If you HATE to exercise, experiment with different kinds of activity. Make exercise a family adventure. We do have a family membership to our local YMCA. Josiah and I also enjoy taking nature walks, playing Just Dance and I do some strength training using odds and ends of weights and rubber bands we’ve picked up at the Thrift Store.

I'm thinking we all need one of these! Looks like a good science project to me! Not sure what it does, but there has to be an adventure involved there somewhere! 

5.       Eat a healthy protein with every meal. I said “healthy”….somebody’s leftover corndog doesn’t count.

6.       Ever heard this one? Each breakfast like a King. Eat supper like a pauper. I’m not suggest you start serving porridge and a stale crust of bread for supper. Just don’t neglect that morning meal. You’ll pay for it later on.  Sometimes it’s tempting to rush through breakfast to get on with the day.  On days when we are home I like to make breakfast a special event. A fresh pot of tea, a batch of healthy muffins served on my pretty dishes.

7.       Sleep. Sleep. Sleep. Let’s face it. There are some of you who are just not in that season of life. I’m here to reassure you. Sleep will eventually come. Some of us (I’m not looking in anyone’s direction) just need to go to bed earlier.  

8.       Don’t keep junk food in the house if you struggle with stress eating (speaking from experience). The family won’t suffer. Nobody is going to turn you in to DFS for neglecting to by Cheetos.

9.       If you diet needs a major overhaul….try making over one meal a week.  For example, focus on breakfast the first week. Try steel cut oats and blueberries. Or make a healthy omelet with sautéed veggies. The next week add a healthy snack. After a few weeks, you will be cruising!  

10.   Knock out the excuses. We all have them. I have major orthopedic issues. My hips alone could light up a Lite Bright.  I have had to find activity I can still do. Next time you catch yourself making an excuse say to yourself…”but I can do…” and fill in the blank with something you can do!

11.   If you need to eat out go somewhere you know you can get a healthy option. For example, I know that I can get a small chili at Wendy’s that won’t compromise my healthy eating goals. When going with the family I like to look on the menu ahead of time so I can see what choices I have. That way I have a plan and won’t be lured into ordering the fried chicken and mashed potatoes once I get there.  

12.   Start right now. Don’t wait for a perfect opportunity to be healthier. It will never come. Be purposeful!

You will be amazed how small changes in your life will make a difference. This needs to be a family affair. You will undoubtedly run into some resistance with the family. I suggest you start with yourself and gradually start making over favorite family dishes and desserts if need be. I do fix a decadent dessert or a loaf of homemade bread on occasion. It’s not like I am completely disregarding some of those comfort foods. They are just not part of our everyday diet.

Another little note. I could do a whole series of posts on frugal dieting. It can be challenging. But, it’s not impossible. Become a smart shopper and savvy food connoisseur. 

We can do this! 

I am joining up with my blogging friends to bring you tips and advice all week long. Check out the blogs of these lovely ladies today!

Dawn @ Double O Farms
Dawn @ Guiding Light Homeschool
Debbie @ Debbie's Homeschool Corner
Desiree @ Our Homeschool Notebook
Diana @ Busy Homeschool Days
Diana @ Homeschool Review
Elyse @ Oiralinde: Eternal Song
Emilee @ Pea of Sweetness
Erin @ For Him and My Family
Jen @ Chestnut Grove Academy

A 100 Calorie Challenge (#takeabiteoutof2016)

I am hesitant to even ask you this question.

How you doing with your New Year's Resolutions?

We're in March now. Have you thrown in the towel? Are you still trucking along?

Did you know that Weight Loss ranks as the #1 New Year's Resolution with Americans?

I know it's always at the top of my list every year. I've had some huge successes with weight loss, but have discovered it's a LIFELONG pursuit. Just be encouraged that you can do something everyday to help you reach your goal.

A few months ago, the Folks at Chobani came out with Simply 100 Crunch. I do enjoy a good yogurt and this one is made even more special by the added crunch.

My absolute favorite is the Strawberry Chocolate Truffle. It is Strawberry non-fat yogurt with a side of chocolate rice crisps, dark chocolate cookies and dried strawberries.

YUM!

Best of all it is only 100 calories. If you are like me and crave a little decadence (without all the calories) the Simply 100 Crunch is a perfect solution.

Because I tend to have a little "sinking spell" in the afternoon, this treat is what gets me through till suppertime. I can enjoy a sweet, chocolaty crunchy treat without all the guilt!

I've talked to you a lot about how to increase your activity through the day. Because I am limited in what I can do as far as exercise (a pesky car accident back in the 90's), I am always looking for ways to add just a little something extra to my day-to-day activities.

For one, I try and park just a  little farther out when going to the grocery story. I also like to do simple and quick exercises with a resistance band while I am watching TV.

Chobani was kind enough to give us all some fantastic ways to burn 100 calories.

I can burn 100 calories by shopping 38 minutes? I think that is doable!!

What about you? What can you add to your day to burn 100 calories?

Don't forget to check out Chobani's terrific line of yummy products. In fact, I think I spied a printable coupon on the Simply 100 Crunch page.

A BIG Thank You to Choabni for inviting me to share this product!

Shucky Dern: A Weight Loss Journal

AAAAHHHH!

Can you hear my frustration?

Here is basically the story.

Fluffy Girl looses a whole lot of weight.

Kinda Fluffy Girl stalls. Big time. Like for 1 year.

Kinda Fluffy Girl starts to gain some weight again and blames it on a number of things.

Vacation. Stress. Holidays. Stress. Vacation. Stress. Frozen Custard.

The number one enemy in Kinda Fluffy girl's battle is her Thyroid. Or so she thinks.

After all, she has strange itchy skin, thinning hair, weight gain, a swollen face, and extreme fatigue.

She vows to take control and take charge.

Kinda Fluffy Girl goes to her beloved doctor (who has been there through thick and thin) and is SURE that pesky thyroid is going to show its true colors via a blood test.

Kinda Fluffy Girl also discovers that she has gained a lot more weight that she had even admitted to herself.

Does she call herself Fluffy Girl once again?

And then. The vile blood test revealed that all of her levels were wonderful. Lovely. Perfect.

As if.

So what does (Kinda) Fluffy Girl do?

In the midst of this, (Kinda) Fluffy Girl as was gets a prescription for steroids because persistent itchiness all over her body. Her doctor warned her that her blood sugars might elevate during the course of the treatment.

Low and behold.

The perfect storm of a faulty insulin pen, a few cookies and the steroid elevated her blood sugar dangerously.

Nothing like a little blood sugar crisis to make one feel perfectly nifty.

(Kinda) Fluffy Girl is again reminded that she can't play around with her life and health. She needs to focus again on healthy proteins and beautiful vegetables. All calories are not created equal.

Don't you just love those wake up calls?

Mind tend to be a little dramatic. I could tell something was wrong this past week. On Wednesday night I took Josiah to dive practice. I worked out a little bit then went home and finished supper.

I felt horrible. My face was flushed, my head hurt and I felt like I was coming down with the flu.

The Muffin got up the next morning for work (around 5ish) and I got up with him. I soaked in the tub a little bit because I still felt bad. After he left for work I sat down and took my blood sugar. I should have taken it the night before.

My fasting blood sugar was almost 300.

I can't even imagine what it had been overnight.

Sometimes all I need is a good kick in the drawers to get my attention. Unfortunately, those kicks tend to be a bit dramatic. My last good kick involved a violent allergic reaction to a new insulin.

And while I can honestly say that for the most part I do pretty well with the whole healthy lifestyle thing....This episode motivated me to take a step back and take control of my health once again.

Are you experiencing something similar in your life? Do you wonder what it will take for you to completely get serious about your health?

Here is a bit of wisdom. The doctors don't have all the answers (surprise, surprise). Nobody is going to do it for you. There isn't a magic pill. There isn't a mystical formula that all the skinny people in the world have down, but aren't sharing. If there were I would know about it...I used to be one of those skinny people.

So my assignment for the week is to continue to record honestly all that I am putting in my mouth. What is right for some people might not be right for me. When I eat those good and healthy breakfasts I am setting myself up for a productive day. When I eat a balanced and nutritious lunch (not something quickly thrown into my mouth because I am in a hurry) I am providing my body with much needed energy. When I lovingly prepare a beautiful and delicious supper for my family I am showing my commitment to them for all of us to be fit and healthy. I am teaching my son to live well.

This week my assignment is to live thoughtfully and beautifully. Every step I take is one more step towards a leaner and healthy body.

What is so hard is that I feel shame. I am ashamed of myself. I realize that many things in life are beyond my control. This week I need to channel some of that into accountability and productivity.

So dear friends. It's a new day. If you have struggled with similar issues I encourage you to recommit yourself to being good to YOU.

The Curse of the Apple Pancakes: A Weight Loss Journal

It's been a pretty good week. 

I did fall off the wagon today, however.

Yesterday I made Josiah the most scrumptious apple pancakes. They smelled divine. 

He acted like I had just clipped his toenails and added them to his favorite batter. 

You would think I would have learned by now. He loves my pancake recipe so much...to add anything to it is to defile it. 

What he does not know is that I have been adding stuff for years to his precious pancakes. 

Bahahahaha! 

This time, however, I felt like we could all be grown-ups and left the apples a little chunky. 

Anyhoo. Let's just say that there were a lot of pancakes left over. I gave into temptation this afternoon when my blood sugar bottomed out. 

MUST HAVE CARBS! 

Today I want to talk about something that I have started doing that I used to be soo faithful at. 

Writing down what I eat. 

I stopped because I was comfortable with my calorie intact/general healthiness of my meals. I have gotten away from it and I realized I needed to be accountable again.

What helped me quite a bit when I was in my weight loss desert (when I was struggling to lose anything and stay on track) was looking to see what people were successful at losing weight were eating. 

Let's be clear about this. 

All of us have different issues. I am extremely sensitive to certain foods (for example, apple pancakes make with white flour). I also have certain nutrition philosophies. 

But...I think that I need to be accountable to someone and you, my friends, are about the best somebodies I can think of. 

So. Starting next week I am going to start sharing not only what I am eating, but my exercise endeavors. I know first hand how it is to think, "I'm really not eating that poorly." Then. You start remembering the bite of the cake and the handful of peanuts and the extra sugar in your coffee. 

Also...please be in prayer with me about something. I have been long under the conclusion that my synthetic thyroid medication isn't working the magic I need it to. There have been some obvious symptoms that can't be ignored (as much as I am capable of that). I have a call out to my doctor's office to set up an appointment. 

I am praying that she will be open to other avenues of treatment for me and that I will find some relief. 

Thank you, my friends. Hope you have a wonderfully healthy week! 

Yay Me! A Weight Loss Journal

Is the first week of fall!  I'm excited. I don't like to see the onset of winter, but I love all the things that come with fall.

It has certainly motivated me to move a bit more this week. This week I want to share some of my accomplishments and then a few of my goals.

1. I had consistently good workouts at the Y. Even when I was tired.

2. Me and Josiah walked a mile! It was a big fat hairy deal for me.

3. I did some weight training.

4. I ate a good breakfast every single day.

5. I made sure I had plenty of water to drink.


Here are some goals.

1. No processed sugar...AT ALL! Shouldn't be a big deal, but there have been a few too peanut butter sandwiches in my diet. And I'm not talking about the natural peanut butter.

2. Continue my exercise throw down.

3. Add T-Tapp into my routine.

4. Make up some pre-made lunches for myself. Being pressed for time is most of my battle.

5. Ignore the snack station at Josiah's swim meet this weekend. I've heard talk of donuts on the premises.

I encourage you to pat yourself on the back for your accomplishments! Being self-defeating won't help you at all.

Make a few goals for yourself. Take one day at a time and share ideas and encouragement with a like-minded friend or family member.

A Weight Loss Journal: I'm Back in the Saddle Again

I'm saying it out loud.

I've gained almost 35 pounds of my 80 pound weight loss back.

Ding Dong it!

I have had some help. I had to start taking some medication that caused an increase in appetite and weight.

But then there was some stress eating and missed trips to the gym.

Let's not even talk about the Twinkies that came home with us from our trip to Indiana a few weeks ago.

Mostly, my body doesn't work right. Sometimes I deal with crazy food sensitivities. My thyroid is wonky and my hormones are just running amok.

I've really, really struggled with all of this. I've been discouraged, depressed and unmotivated.

My thoughts have been, "Why even try. Nothing I do works."

Some of you have been there. Maybe you are there.

I am ashamed. I feel like I have let myself down.

I never want to go back to what I was. I want to move forward and be a healthier version of myself. I want to stay around for The Muffin and Josiah. I want to look cute in my clothes.

The past few weeks for me has been a reevaluation of my goals. I have discovered that I have significant triggers and that, yes, it is harder for me to lose weight. But it's not impossible.

I've had to have some frank conversations with myself. Which is always interesting.

I'm kind of fruity.

Do you need to get back on the weight loss train? Or maybe you've never really taken the ride.

I think I have a few tips that might encourage you.

1.Take one meal at a time. We get so busy and wrapped up in day-to-day stuff. I have to remind myself that living healthy needs to be one of the top priorities in my life. Therefore, I have to consider each meal as if it is contributing to my ultimate goal. Because really it is!

2. Be deliberate about your movement. If you haven't been working out for a while don't immediately think that you can jump back on the treadmill for a an hour. Begin your routine again by adding just one healthy habit at a time. Park away from the door at the store. Use your hand weights for an easy workout while you are watching TV. Go on a walk with the family. You will eventually be conditioned to start adding in those more strenuous activities. Just be consistent.

3. Be prepared to have some frank conversations with yourself. I am the queen of excuses. Granted...most of them are pretty good ones. But I also have to take ownership for the things I have allowed to creep back in my life.

4. Take a good look at other areas in your life. Are they contributing to your health goals or are they a hindrance. Stress is a biggie for me and I have had plenty of it recently. My truth is that I am a stress eater. And while I thought I had put some of that behind me I have found that when pushed I am capable of reverting back to my old habits. I have had to recommit myself to finding healthy ways to combat my stress.

5. Make sure that there isn't an underlying medical issue. Sometimes we can be dealing with some sort of deficiency or maybe a reaction to a medication. I don't think my thyroid is functioning as well as it needs to be. And then there is the fact that half of the medications I am on can contribute to weight gain. I am going to have to have some heavy duty conversations with my doctor.

6. Give yourself GRACE! There have been many times that I have just beat myself up. I have been ashamed. Why can't I just get a handle on this. The truth is that some of this I need to leave to God. He can provide answers where I see none. He can provide strength and grace when I have none to give myself. My responsibility is to do what I know how to do; which is...eat real food, use sensible portions, move my body and just live!

Have you been here? Are you here right now? I suggest that we encourage one another.

Easter Dinner (healthified!)

In lieu of my Weight Loss Journal this week I am posting my plans for Easter Dinner. 

It's almost Easter! We here in the Ozarks can see things to bloom. This last weekend we saw my Dad's plum trees beginning their spring journey. This probably means more plum jelly canning for my parents, but we are always happy to enjoy their labors! 

I love that Spring speaks of things reborn and renewed. Easter is such a special time for a Christian. It is a time for Celebration!  Jesus said, “I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”  John 10:10

The picture at the top of this page is circa 2002. It is my Easter Dinner table. Josiah was just a baby and our guests were my parents, my little bro and sister and law and their twins. How in the world did we get everyone around that table?

We always celebrate the day with church and family. Easter Dinner is an important part of that time together.  This year is going to be extra special because we will be celebrating my Mom's birthday as well. I won't tell you how old she was but I will say that I turned 32 on my last birthday and she had me when she was 20. 

I realize that some of you are waiting for lightening to strike me where I sit. I turned 32 just recently just a few years back  more years than I care to admit.  

Family holidays are now a little bit more challenging now that I am on my weight loss journey. However, over the past few years I have found that there are plenty of yummy solutions to enjoying a healthy Easter Dinner. 

If you are worrying about how you are going to manage Easter Dinner I encourage you to start planning now. I've said it time and time again. You will have a harder time succeeding if you don't have a plan. 

I should probably apply the same philosophy to my laundry. 

Anyhoo. 

This is what our Easter Dinner is going to look like this year. My mom and I took a peek down in their Food basement this past weekend. They store all kinds of garden produce in a variety of forms. We are going to use quite a bit of their harvest.  I should also mention that I follow the Trim Healthy Mama eating principles. 

Prime Rib - I know! My Little Bro is providing the meat. In years past, we have enjoyed ham, pork loin and even Salmon. I am a big believer in using what you can find for a good deal. Even a Roasted Chicken is a tasty and special choice. 

Cheesy Spaghetti Squash  - This is my alternative to the Hash Brown Casserole.  We will fix a cheesy potato casserole to serve along side for all the kiddos and those who aren't watching their waist line.  It is also nice that my parents have a couple of big Spaghetti Squashes waiting to fixed up.They are what is left of my Dad's fall garden. 

Slow Cooker Green Beans - Another garden dish. I like to cook my beans with onion, chicken stock and just a little bit of ham. I will put these on before we leave for church in the morning. 

Corn on the Cob - Once again another treat from the garden. This corn has been wintering in the freezer. Some of our favorite family dishes involve corn. Instead of the creamy corn casserole we usually enjoy, we are just going to roast this corn and serve with a little butter salt and pepper. I won't be having much corn. I have to enjoy it in moderation. 

Pea Salad - This is my nephew's favorite. This recipe is a good copy of the 
way my mom makes it. Another family favorite is the Broccoli Salad. This recipe is similar to mine, but I don't include cheese or tomatoes. I do add nuts. It's the way I roll. 

It wouldn't be Easter without Deviled Eggs. 

We will also have a few loaves of fresh bread (made in the bread machine). Just because bread is pretty much poison for me doesn't mean everyone else can't enjoy it. If you need bread this your meal you might try out these gluten/grain free Biscuits. 

I have made it pretty clear that Dessert is always my downfall. This year my Mom requested a Coconut Cake for her birthday. I am not going to even pretend to make it healthier. This, however, doesn't mean that I am not going to fix up a few sweet treats that are on the lighter side. 

I am to please. 

This Light Lemon Cheesecake is perfect for a Spring Day. I am also going to make a lighter version of my favorite Blackberry Cobbler with Blackberry's from the garden. 

I have interesting story to tell about blackberry's from the garden. I wrote about it ages ago. In fact, it only has 4 views. Be a pal. Go read it. Poor little post. 

Here are a few more tips for a Healthier Easter Dinner. If you are part of an Easter Potluck bring a dish that you can enjoy. Stay away from the dessert table or make a small tasting plate. I like to bring fruit to enjoy. A vegetable tray is always good to have around for those of us who have the munchies. 

If you have a hard time staying away from those chocolate eggs considering buying instead a dark chocolate bar. The darker the better. I look for those marked 85% and above. 

So anybody have any wonderful Easter plans? 

A Weight Loss Journal: Spring!

It's time for my weekly Weight Loss update. Not that I'm really giving you any hard and fast numbers.

I'm that kind of girl.

It's now officially spring!

This past week was mostly good. I did have a cheat or two featuring ice cream. It is my kryptonite.

This week I want to share with you a couple of things.

I  have been exercising consistently and woosers! I'm paying for it. I hurt all over. Further evidence that I had dropped the ball...or the resistance band....take your pick.

Last night I did 40 minutes on the NuStep.

It is a recumbent crosstrainer. I would love to have one at home, but these things cost almost $4000. It's not exactly in the budget. Thankfully, the Y (both of them here in town) has the machine. If you struggle with joint issues this might be the machine for you. The recumbent bicycle is hard on my knees. The NuStep allows me to get in a good sweat without the impact on all of my cracked and broken bits. 

When I am in better shape I can do the treadmill. However, the NuStep also works out my arms. Which is always a good thing. 

This morning I started off my day with T-Tapp.   I've talked about T-Tapp before. It is a wellness workout that is truly unique. I have lost major inches using the Basic Workout DVD. Don't be deceived by what looks like "harmless stretching." You will be moving parts that you didn't know you have. I have been struggling with some aches and pains...I really need a good chiropractor pop. T-Tapp helps work all that out. It has also helped with some unfortunate posture issues. 

On Saturday, my mom and I took a drive to a Mennoite bulk grocery store. If you have never visited one I recommend you make a trip. Especially, if you are looking for some good healthy basics. 

I can usually get:

Oats (I get the old-fashioned)

Flax Meal (make sure you get the meal! I like the golden meal the best)

Dry Beans (they generally have a good selection)

Baking powder or Baking soda

Specialty flours (almond or coconut flours are usually the same price as in the health food store, but rye and whole wheat is a good deal)

All sorts of spices and herbs

Flavorings 

Popcorn (last time I got some beautiful tiny popcorn...I can't remember the name, but we really enjoyed it)

Chicken Bullion (I get the kind without MSG)

There is so much more to be had, but I stick with things that I cook with frequently. 

This time around I got a huge bag of oats, flax meal, some lovely smoked paprika and a knife. I love looking around the store. They have so many interesting things to see. 

This week my meal plan is based around chicken. I know! I didn't post one, but there was laundry to be done! 

I found a good deal on chicken breasts and then found 2 rotisserie chickens in the deli for 2.49 a piece. Yay! I put one in the freezer. It's a good thing my guys like chikin'. 

Spring is here and I am looking forward to enjoying the fruits of my Dad's labors. He is the gardener extraordinaire. As it we are still eating from last year's bounty. I have a baked pumpkin oatmeal I am getting ready to mix up using pumpkin from his garden. I'll try and remember to share! 

In the meantime, keep moving and enjoy your week!

A Weight Loss Journal: All About Breakfast

If you currently not a breakfast eater...get ready for me to fuss at you a little bit. I realize that many of you just aren't ready to eat the minute your feet hit the floor in the morning.

I get it.

This is the deal. Your body needs that fuel in the morning to set the stage for the rest of the day. I also find if I don't have enough protein in the morning I am more likely to make unwise choices towards the end of the day. Think of breakfast as the building blocks of your day. Your body needs that energy and all those vitamins and minerals that begin with breakfast.

So you can guess that I am not promoting enjoying a donut or bowl of sugary cereal for breakfast. In fact, I don't do well with cold cereal at all for breakfast. I find that it doesn't give me the healthy boost I need.

As promised, I am sharing with you some of my favorite breakfast choices. If you were expecting to find 30 ways to eat eggs in this post be prepared to be disappointed.

I'm not a fan of the egg. The Muffin and Josiah both love eggs. Eggs happen to be a really terrific choice for weight loss efforts.  I enjoy my eggs more as a sidekick to the main event. I like chopped eggs in a cobb salad or scrambled in a stirfry.

Just another little thought before I share my favorite breakfast ideas. When I first started my successful weight loss journey I ate the same thing for breakfast. Every. Single. Day. I enjoyed my overnight Refrigerator Oatmeal (recipe link below). I had terrific results with that tactic... up to point. Eventually, my body got used to my routines and needed surprising. I had a weight loss plateau to rival all other weight loss plateaus.

Now I tend to choice my breakfast choices based on what kind of time I have and what kinds of meals I had the day before. For example, if I had a carb rich evening meal the night before I will eat a breakfast that is low carb. Because I allow myself a cheat (or two) over the weekends, my Monday morning breakfast choice is always something that will help detox my system just a bit.

Here are my favs.  The star of all my breakfast choices is protein.

1. I love the ease and deliciousness of a muffin in a mug. This yummy Cinnamon Roll muffin uses almond flour. I use flax meal interchangeably. It is cheaper. I also use a whole egg.

2. One of my favorite breakfasts "evah" is to take one of those muffin a mug recipes and make a waffle! It lets me have my waffle fix and not feel guilty about all the extra calories and carbs. I do use a sugar free syrup. My guys love waffles. In fact, we usually have waffles every Friday morning. I generally make up a batch of traditional waffles (except I use 1/2 wheat flour and add some flax meal) for the boys. I just make up one waffle for myself using the muffin in a mug recipe. It takes just a few minutes.

3. For an easy breakfast I use Ezekiel Bread. Ezekiel bread has been a terrific addition to my diet plan. It is much pricier than traditional bread so I had to make room for it in my grocery budget. It only takes a minute to toast it up. I like to smear it with the lite Happy Farms cheese wedges from Aldi's. If I have a sweet craving I use fruit preserves (absolutely no added sugars) or for a savory breakfast I use turkey breast sandwich meat as my filler. If I eat my toast with fruit preserves I make sure I include some yogurt as well.

4. I really love Oatmeal. Did you know that Oatmeal has enough protein by itself for a complete meal? A great recipe is my Overnight Oatmeal. Some folks (some folks like my Momma) have trouble with the texture of this oatmeal. I personally love it. This recipe for a Slow Cooker Apple Oatmeal is divine. I use a sugar substitute and almond milk. I have found that this is a really good company dish. I make a oatmeal "bar" with nuts, raisins, sliced fruits and lots of other goodies. Because it is cheap I don't have to worry about running out.

5. Some days there only time for a quick bite. I find that keeping yogurt on hand is key. Don't chow down on just any yogurt. Some of them have enormous amounts of sugar. My favorites are either plain Greek yogurt with sliced strawberries or the Triple Zero Greek Yogurt (Dannon Okios).  Triple Zero contains no artificial sweeteners and lots of protein.

6. Another easy Breakfast choice is the Bulletproof Coffee. Simply take a cup of coffee (8-12 ounces), a Tablespoon of Coconut Oil, sweetener to taste, 1/2 a scoop of whey protein powder (use one that doesn't have a,lot of sugar. Just whirl it up in your blender. I also will add a dash of salt and vanilla extract (or some other yummy flavor). You will be surprised how far this drink take you.

7. Monday mornings are always a good morning for a smoothie. They provide a good detox for my weekend cheat and are an easy way to get everything I need to start the day in one whack. This Green Smoothie is easy peasy. I usually add a little flax meal and/or chia seeds. Sometimes the whey protein isn't in my budget. I just add an extra cup of cottage cheese. I buy cottage cheese weekly at Aldi's. If a Green Smoothie isn't exactly what I am craving I choose another kind of smoothie. The Dashing Dish has lots and lots of delicious smoothie/shake recipes. This Girl Scout Cookie Samoa Shake is delish. Again. I just use extra cottage cheese if I don't have any protein powder.

8. So I told you I wasn't an egg fan. I'm not, but it doesn't mean I avoid them altogether. I just reinterpret them. When I lived at home my mom often made delicious zucchini fritters especially during the summer when we had a bumper crop of zucchini. This Zucchini Fritter recipe is a good one that meets my dietary goals. I also enjoy a good hash. I can't fix it with my first choice; a white potato. If you, too, enjoy a good hash take a poke around the internet for some good healthy hash recipes. I am planning on having some leftover corned beef after St. Patrick's Day on Tuesday so this hash will be one of our morning breakfast meals.

Hopefully, I've given you some good ideas. I would suggest you start trying out different recipes. Maybe try something different at least once a week. Then begin building your recipe list of favorites. What do you like to serve for company? What choices are good for busy and chaotic mornings? Can any of your favorites be made ahead of time and frozen?

Make breakfast a habit. I think overtime you will begin to see a difference in your overall health and weight loss efforts.

A Weight Loss Journal: Setting Goals

So I'm just a little late with my weekly weight loss journal update.

I finished up my no-sugar February. It honestly got easier as time went on. I am not used to eating a whole lot of sugar anyway..I am diabetic. But I had thrown my good sense to the wind (or at least the North Pole) and had overindulged during Christmas.

We are talking sugar cookies. And cake. And sugar cookies. And pie. And some more sugar cookies. Not to mention the Christmas Crack I made.

Sometimes I'm not too bright for a smart girl.

Take for instance this past Monday. Josiah had swim team practice and I had a few errands to run beforehand. We stopped off at Target with just 20 minutes or so before I needed to get him to practice. I was sinking fast and needed some quick energy to make it through a workout I had planned during practice.

That quick energy came in the form of a Lindt's Salted Caramel Chocolate Bar.

I ate the whole stinkin' thing.

By the time I dropped Josiah off at the front door of the Y, found a place to park and walked inside I could barely put one foot in front of the other.

Talk about a sugar crash. Instead of my workout, I sat inside the pool area in somewhat of a lethargic coma.

I don't know if it is coincidental, but this week I have had two fairly nasty migraines.

I truly believe that to be successful to any healthy lifestyle journey you have to have a lifestyle change. You also have to dole out plenty of moderation. I am not planning on never having another piece of birthday cake or frozen custard treat from my favorite stop. But I also think that perhaps it was too soon for me to partake in a whole stinkin' chocolate bar!

How do you move on from an 'oops' or a 'hiccup' in your diet plan? The beauty of having a healthy lifestyle is that the majority of my choices are good ones. This leaves me room for a few indulgences now and then.

A few years ago, I would have been defeated by seemingly lack of will power. I would have decided that I had failed. Now I recognize that success is just the next good choice and those small indulgences are only that. They don't define me.

I can tell you that my no-sugar-challenge has been terrific for many number of reasons. I was reminded again that I am capable of self-control. I am not at the whim of my cravings. I also have been energized by effectiveness of a good goal.

So I decided I am once again going to establish some healthy living goals for myself. I would recommend this little practice for anyone who wants to make over their life.

This next week:

1. I want to exercise at least 4 days. Not for four days...mind you. But on four days.

You get my point.

2. I am going to take more time with my personal care. My nails look atrocious. And I won't even tell you how many days I wore the same yoga pants this week.

3. This week I am finally going to weigh myself. It's time. I have had the handy excuse of needing batteries for my scale. Between all of the electronics and remotes in this house I am fairly sure somebody has a stash of batteries somewhere.

My fear has been becoming overwhelmed and discouraged by the scale. It can become an obsession with me. I also realize that I need to know where I'm headed. I need to know if what I am doing is working. I can't depend on saggy spundies forever (per last week's update).

Here is just a bit of advice about goal making.

Sometimes when we recognize that we need a lifestyle overhaul we get drastic.

You know what I mean. We try the latest detox or juicing fast. We start with a workout plan that even the Arnold would approve off (don't tell me you don't know about Arnold Schwarzenegger's body building days).  We fill our refrigerators with fresh veggies and almond milk. We stock up on all the supplements recommended by the latest health guru.

We go after it. Hard.

By the second week we are so exhausted by the detox that we can't even begin to think about that workout plan. The veggies are going rotten and at least one of those supplements is causing a belly cake (or is it all that kale?).

All those things aren't bad in themselves. They just need to be eased into. Instead of making over your lifestyle in one fell swoop, why don't you choose one thing to do this week?

Instead of the mad workout schedule try walking around the block.

Instead of  making over your entire menu try making over one meal at a time. For example, this week work on having a healthy breakfast every day.

Instead of taking a whole cocktail of the latest miracle supplements just try one. Even a good multi-vitamin can work wonders. In fact, I take a prenatal vitamin daily. And no. I'm not expecting anyone. It just has something my body seems to be lacking.

Next week I want to talk about some of my favorite healthy breakfast ideas. I will also give you an update on my goals for the week.

A Weight Loss Journal: The Challenge

It has been Fo'Evah since I posted a Weight Loss update.

No excuses!

I've been doing pretty good. As you know I have decided to ignore my scale for now. I tend to get a little too friendly with the scale (can we say 'obsessive'?).

I do have a few good indicators that I'm moving down in the right direction.

I have some saggy spundies. And that, my friends, is about as good as it gets.

I have also had a different kind of victory. I have been practically sugar free since Christmas. In fact, I haven't had any sugar AT ALL the whole month of February. Don't get me wrong. I have used sugar substitutes. I'm not that crazy. It's amazing, however, how conscience I have been about everything I have been tempted to put in my mouth.

The Muffin bought me pearls for Valentine's Day.

Yes, girls. That's my man. He didn't even wave a chocolate bar in my direction. I have a cute story to tell. My Dad bought my momma a box of chocolates. That. My friends. Is just. Plain. Odd.

I don't think I remember him ever buying her chocolates. A power tool, maybe.

Anyhoo. When he presented said chocolates to her he said, "I know you have fat issues."

Oops. He probably should have rephrased that.

The truth is that she is watching her weight. She is 4'11 and weighs next to nothing, but had put on a few holiday pounds she wanted to shed.

For such a smart man....

This past weekend my niece (who was feeling really sorry for me) tried to pass me a piece of chocolate under the table. I assured her that I was doing just fine without it and that it was better for me to keep my commitment to a "No Sugar February."

I'm not so sure I would have been able to resist the same over at the beginning at the month.

So here is your challenge. Is there something that you can't live without that might not be so healthy?

Bread? Pop? Sugar? Candy?

You might be surprised what you can live without.

A Show and Tell (from the kitchen): A Weight Loss Post

It's that time of the week where I dish on how my weight loss journey is going.

Josiah and I have had the sniffles. His sniffles have been decidedly more severe than my sniffles. My workouts haven't been there, but I have to say I've had a great week otherwise.

In fact, some of my fluffy jeans are baggy this week. Love it when the fluffy jeans are baggy! There is always good news/bad news with this sort of thing. The good news is that I'm losing weight. The bad news is I always lose weight in my hinnie first. I don't have much of one to begin with. This means I have a hard time keeping my britches up!

My friend has a name for all of us folks with a less than ample hinnie. Apparently, we are to be known as "The Buttless Wonders."

I know! I need to tell my momma something. I did not come up with this one! It has hardly barely never left my mouth! We were not allowed to say the "B" word (butt) when I was growing up. It was considered 'tacky.'

Moving on.

Just this morning I went through my kitchen and took a few pictures of some of my favorite things in my kitchen that are helping in this "the battle of the bulge."

We will just call it my 'show and tell.'

1. Oikos Triple Zero Greek Yogurt. This is my new favorite friend. There is a ton of protein in it and it is only sweetened with stevia. You've got to check the labels. Yogurt is notoriously sneaky for adding in sugars. Just read the ingredients.

2. Several weeks ago I read this article. It talks about 4 hormones that might be interfering with weight loss. I am one hormonal mess. I understand! He spoke my language. Anyhoo. I did a little research and bought some Natural Calm. I have been having a few teaspoons a day. My blood sugars have been so low I am going to have to reduce the little bit of insulin I take at night. I have had increased energy. Which means I can get into all kinds of nonsense!

3. Okay. So not the most appetizing picture in the world.

This one is a little better. This is my Thrifty Gal's Salsa. I make a whole batch of it up at a time and keep it in the fridge. My favorite way to eat it is with some beans and rice. It has just enough spice and heat to make my taste buds sing. Not that I've ever heard my taste buds sing.

4. Another terrifically appetizing photo. This, my friends, is a bag of frozen strawberries from my Daddy's garden. I take a few of these and whip them up in my food processor with a little bit of cottage cheese. Unbelievable. It tastes like ice cream. And considering one of my biggest cheats is ice cream...I need all the help I can get in that department.

5. I try and have a cup of hot tea before I go to bed. It helps with the nighttime munchies. This kind is one I got around Christmas, obviously. It really taste a little like a cookie. I'm not mad at it.

6. I really think you have to know where some of your triggers lie. I love pasta. I love spaghetti. I love making spaghetti. I might use a pasta called Dreamfields once a week. But, spaghetti squash is a terrific alternative to my pastaholic tendencies. For one, I don't have to limit my portion to a minuscule amount. Another weakness of mine is the potato. However, the potato doesn't love me. It spikes my blood sugars. Enter...The Spaghetti Squash. I know you are thinking, "potato=spaghetti squash?" You just have to try this recipe. It takes care of some of those hashbrown casserole cravings. I will talk about cauliflower another time. I also like spaghetti squash with just a little bit of butter or olive oil, salt and pepper and Parmesan cheese.

7. This is so not a healthy diet food. There are probably things in this that I should have. However. a little sweet and creamy goes a long way with me. It is sugar free so it won't spike my blood sugars. I put a little bit of this in my coffee in the morning and I think I'm getting something special. I'm an easy girl to please. There are always new flavors to try. And I'm ready and willing to try all of them.

So that is my 'show and tell' for this week. I have so many more things that I have incorporated into my lifestyle. And that's what it has to be. We can do this!