Saying on track during the week is the easy part. Weekends are a bit harder depending on what is going on. This past weekend I felt the failure to stay on track. My stomach did NOT like what I had eaten and it told me so. Cramps cramps and more cramps! Then a breakthrough...yesterday, in the breakroom, there were cupcakes. I looked at them battling with my inner sugar lover but then I remembered the pain from the sugar and dairy over the weekend. Nope not doing that again. So body I got your message you don't like this stuff anymore.
On a brighter note, I lost another two pounds this past week. So I'm at 264. Ten pounds since I started Paleo and 45lbs since my my heaviest of 309. Ugh I hate that number and cannot believe I ever let myself be that. Believe me I hated it once I realized what I had done to myself. Today I walked to work, did a run/walk (c25k) and then another walk. By the end of the second walk this evening my legs weren't too happy with me but hey, that just says its working.
Anyway, food wise this next week I am trying to do some simple things for lunch, dinner and breakfast. budget wise the Paleo has not been cheap but this coming week I am planning some of the more simple recipes that we liked.
Beef and Broccoli- I'm adding some red bell pepper and onion for some more umph.
http://www.recipebest.com/2013/07/beef-with-broccoli.html
Paleo Baked chicken Tenders- Going to try and double this one for two nights worth of dinner (one of our faves)
http://www.allergyfreealaska.com/2013/04/15/easy-baked-paleo-chicken-tenders-with-honey-mustard-dipping-sauce/
Breaded Fish Sicks- This is a new one but we have almost all of the ingredients
http://www.elanaspantry.com/fish-sticks/
Also I am going to try something different for lunch (just to switch things up a bit)- tuna with half an avacado and a hard boiled egg. A different turn on tuna salad.
http://girlwholoveseverything.com/2012/05/04/spring-cinco-de-mayo/
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Weak Week
This past weekend was rough to say I cheated would be truth but maybe even an understatement. I paid for it though. Monday morning I was not feeling my best! Anyway, after weighing today I'm still at 266 maintaining is better than gaining. However that is not my goal. I could say I am going to try and up the activity this week but if I said try then I'd have an out. So, I'm going to up the activity this week and hopefully with better eating (no cheating) I will see some results on the scale next Wednesday.
I have been trying to find some easier (less expensive) meals for the menu this week and I haven't been that successful. I am going to try to go with some of what we already have and two new recipes. I found a blog that has almost daily updates and at least weekly recipes for Paleo dieters.
PaleOMG.com
I am excited to try a couple of the recipes she has on the site, and there are lots of them! She even posts recipes that use leftover ingredients. Here's a few I'd like to try (the first one is not on the menu this week due to cost).
http://paleomg.com/buffalo-chicken-pasta/
The pasta is actually spaghetti squash. It sounds really yummy, but the avacado oil is too pricey for our budget this week.
http://paleomg.com/cinnamon-banana-waffles/
I want to try and double this recipe and freeze some of the waffles for breakfast later in the week. I am getting a little tired of eggs every morning, even though the taste of the farm fresh eggs are so much better than the white eggs at the grocery store.
http://paleomg.com/quick-meal-friday-easy-mexican-salad/
easy and quick and will help curb the craving for mexican food...well kind of I still want some espinaca! taco salads are my staple, because they are so quick and easy to put together.
I will also be doing the African curry chicken again, since we still have some coconut milk I need to use up. I am going to try putting a little less coconut milk in it this time to see if it will come out a little less soupy. It was even better the next day after the spices sat. I am also going to have some chicken tenders set aside for the baked paleo chicken tenders we like so well. They are also super easy to make and really quick.
I have been trying to find some easier (less expensive) meals for the menu this week and I haven't been that successful. I am going to try to go with some of what we already have and two new recipes. I found a blog that has almost daily updates and at least weekly recipes for Paleo dieters.
PaleOMG.com
I am excited to try a couple of the recipes she has on the site, and there are lots of them! She even posts recipes that use leftover ingredients. Here's a few I'd like to try (the first one is not on the menu this week due to cost).
http://paleomg.com/buffalo-chicken-pasta/
The pasta is actually spaghetti squash. It sounds really yummy, but the avacado oil is too pricey for our budget this week.
http://paleomg.com/cinnamon-banana-waffles/
I want to try and double this recipe and freeze some of the waffles for breakfast later in the week. I am getting a little tired of eggs every morning, even though the taste of the farm fresh eggs are so much better than the white eggs at the grocery store.
http://paleomg.com/quick-meal-friday-easy-mexican-salad/
easy and quick and will help curb the craving for mexican food...well kind of I still want some espinaca! taco salads are my staple, because they are so quick and easy to put together.
I will also be doing the African curry chicken again, since we still have some coconut milk I need to use up. I am going to try putting a little less coconut milk in it this time to see if it will come out a little less soupy. It was even better the next day after the spices sat. I am also going to have some chicken tenders set aside for the baked paleo chicken tenders we like so well. They are also super easy to make and really quick.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Success and Menu
Well, its the start of week three on the low carb Paleo diet. I went to the doctor yesterday and she was happy that I had lost weight. According to the offical doctor scale I am down 7lbs, but my scale says 8lbs. Not too much difference. Some things I like about this diet: obviously the success I've had, I love to cook so I like the cooking part and there are subs for almost everything I would crave. Something I have discovered is that the fresh meat, fruits, veggies and even eggs taste so much better than the stuff you get at the grocery store.
This past week, I posted what I was going to be cooking for Jon and I for our dinners and I posted a recipe for almond flour muffins. Well, the taco salad hasn't been tried yet- I looked over the part that said it had to be cooked in the crock pot. No issue with the crock pot, we were just in a hurry that evening so I made something up by adding fresh tomatoes, onion some spices and one cup of salsa. Turned out really yummy. The other recipe I got to was the breaded chicken strips. Those were really yummy and we are going to keep that recipe to use another week. I haven't gotten to the chicken curry yet, we planned on it last night but it was really warm in the apartment so I didn't feel like standing over the hot stove for the time it takes to make it (about an hour). The almond flour muffins are a new favorite! I suggest doubling the recipe if you want a larger muffin and use blanched slivered almonds (hyvee has them by the lb for cheaper than buying them packaged) in a food processor or coffee grinder to make your own almond flour.
Here is the menu for this week:
http://www.thefreshdirection.com/2013/08/simple-burrito-bowls.html
I am going to add ground beef to this recipe, and take out the rice and beans so its Paleo.
http://www.recipebest.com/2013/07/beef-with-broccoli.html
Jon loves steak and he has asked to cook something this week, so I chose something I knew he would like. There isn't really a recipe for this one, just pictures (kind of annoying), but I think it will turn out yummy.
http://paleovsvegan.com/jasons-deli-style-taco-salad/
When I went back to this blog to get the link, I had to click on Paleo to get to this recipe. Again, it is not Paleo! However, the things that make it non-Paleo can be removed to make it Paleo. Beans, cheese, grains and dairy products are not allowed on the Paleo diet.
Of course I will be making more almond flour muffins, this time adding some blueberries to a few just to experiment.
This past week, I posted what I was going to be cooking for Jon and I for our dinners and I posted a recipe for almond flour muffins. Well, the taco salad hasn't been tried yet- I looked over the part that said it had to be cooked in the crock pot. No issue with the crock pot, we were just in a hurry that evening so I made something up by adding fresh tomatoes, onion some spices and one cup of salsa. Turned out really yummy. The other recipe I got to was the breaded chicken strips. Those were really yummy and we are going to keep that recipe to use another week. I haven't gotten to the chicken curry yet, we planned on it last night but it was really warm in the apartment so I didn't feel like standing over the hot stove for the time it takes to make it (about an hour). The almond flour muffins are a new favorite! I suggest doubling the recipe if you want a larger muffin and use blanched slivered almonds (hyvee has them by the lb for cheaper than buying them packaged) in a food processor or coffee grinder to make your own almond flour.
Here is the menu for this week:
http://www.thefreshdirection.com/2013/08/simple-burrito-bowls.html
I am going to add ground beef to this recipe, and take out the rice and beans so its Paleo.
http://www.recipebest.com/2013/07/beef-with-broccoli.html
Jon loves steak and he has asked to cook something this week, so I chose something I knew he would like. There isn't really a recipe for this one, just pictures (kind of annoying), but I think it will turn out yummy.
http://paleovsvegan.com/jasons-deli-style-taco-salad/
When I went back to this blog to get the link, I had to click on Paleo to get to this recipe. Again, it is not Paleo! However, the things that make it non-Paleo can be removed to make it Paleo. Beans, cheese, grains and dairy products are not allowed on the Paleo diet.
Of course I will be making more almond flour muffins, this time adding some blueberries to a few just to experiment.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Cooking Paleo - This Week's Meals
I'm going to try something new. Posting the meals (dinners) that we are having this week coming up. Its not easy temptation wise being on the Paleo Diet, but it is cooking wise. There are a TON of blogs and websites out there with recipes. You have to be careful though, because some have ingredients in them that are not Paleo-Approved. So I guess before entering into this diet, you have to do your research.
Meal 1. Easy Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
http://www.allergyfreealaska.com/2013/04/15/easy-baked-paleo-chicken-tenders-with-honey-mustard-dipping-sauce/
this recipe looks super simple and curbs a craving for chicken tenders (one of my favorites) it is also gluten-free and dairy free but not egg free! If you aren't on the Paleo, I would suggest adding baked sweet potato fries. Potatoes are not on the Paleo Diet so we won't be having them.
Meal 2. Semi-Paleo Taco Salad
http://paleoveganblog.wordpress.com/
This recipe is one I was talking about. It is advertised as Paleo friendly (you can make it that way) but it has Kidney Beans, Whole Grain Tortilla Chips, Sour Cream and Shredded Cheese on the ingredient list which are not Paleo-Approved ingredients. It is gluten-free, dairy-free and allergy-free.
Meal 3. African Curried Chicken
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/African-Curry/Detail.aspx
I chose this recipe because it really does not have very many ingredients, and I love curry! Again, you could serve it over brown rice if you aren't on Paleo because rice is a grain and so is not Paleo-approved. Other than that it is gluten-free, dairy-free and allergy free.
I am also going to try some baking this week. I am looking for breakfast alternatives to eggs even though they last me until lunch, I am getting tired of them. since cereal and oats aren't an option on Paleo, I'm kind of limited on simple breakfasts. (if anyone has any ideas please feel free to let me know)
http://www.elanaspantry.com/ratio-rally-quick-breads/
This blog is an awesome place to find recipes for not just the Paleo Diet, but other diets as well. Her site is packed with yummy sounding (some are have long lists of ingredients) recipes. This simple almond flour muffin recipe could have blueberries or cranberries added for extra yumminess. I read on another blog (don't remember where) that you could get slivered blanched almonds at Trader Joes and put those into the food processor to make Almond Flour instead of buying it (its not cheap).
I'll be posting later on about how these recipes turned out, if you try them or any other Paleo-Friendly recipe let me know!
Meal 1. Easy Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
http://www.allergyfreealaska.com/2013/04/15/easy-baked-paleo-chicken-tenders-with-honey-mustard-dipping-sauce/
this recipe looks super simple and curbs a craving for chicken tenders (one of my favorites) it is also gluten-free and dairy free but not egg free! If you aren't on the Paleo, I would suggest adding baked sweet potato fries. Potatoes are not on the Paleo Diet so we won't be having them.
Meal 2. Semi-Paleo Taco Salad
http://paleoveganblog.wordpress.com/
This recipe is one I was talking about. It is advertised as Paleo friendly (you can make it that way) but it has Kidney Beans, Whole Grain Tortilla Chips, Sour Cream and Shredded Cheese on the ingredient list which are not Paleo-Approved ingredients. It is gluten-free, dairy-free and allergy-free.
Meal 3. African Curried Chicken
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/African-Curry/Detail.aspx
I chose this recipe because it really does not have very many ingredients, and I love curry! Again, you could serve it over brown rice if you aren't on Paleo because rice is a grain and so is not Paleo-approved. Other than that it is gluten-free, dairy-free and allergy free.
I am also going to try some baking this week. I am looking for breakfast alternatives to eggs even though they last me until lunch, I am getting tired of them. since cereal and oats aren't an option on Paleo, I'm kind of limited on simple breakfasts. (if anyone has any ideas please feel free to let me know)
http://www.elanaspantry.com/ratio-rally-quick-breads/
This blog is an awesome place to find recipes for not just the Paleo Diet, but other diets as well. Her site is packed with yummy sounding (some are have long lists of ingredients) recipes. This simple almond flour muffin recipe could have blueberries or cranberries added for extra yumminess. I read on another blog (don't remember where) that you could get slivered blanched almonds at Trader Joes and put those into the food processor to make Almond Flour instead of buying it (its not cheap).
I'll be posting later on about how these recipes turned out, if you try them or any other Paleo-Friendly recipe let me know!
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Paleo Perfection
As of this morning I have lost weight! I am so happy to be back on a losing trend, but the gaining was in my control the whole time. When I started back walking to work each day (since the weather cooled off) I was at 277. When I went to the doctor last week, I had already lost 2lbs and was at 275. This morning after a week of watching what I eat, walking to work and starting the Paleo Diet this past Monday I am at 270.
There are a lot of challenges ahead of me, the holidays being the biggest one. Not sure how I am going to deal with all of carb loaded, sugar loaded yummies that my family makes. I have found some alternatives on Pinterest, and found a way to keep the cost of Almond Flour down (making my own) but some things just aren't the same.
One thing I have loved about going Paleo is cooking. The flavor of the fresh produce and meat (the beef I got last Saturday) is so much better than the more expensive stuff at the grocery store. Jon said that he is going to join me on going Gluten-Free (just one part of the Paleo) after hearing the benefits on Dr OZ.
I have had some cramps and "Paleo Poop" issues but after doing some research, I found that it is normal when going on this type of diet with more meat and veggies and no processed foods.
So far, our favorite recipe has been a taco salad I found on a great blog. She has a ton of recipes for Paleo, Gluten-free and dairy-free. check it out!
http://www.elanaspantry.com/
more updates later, have a great week!
There are a lot of challenges ahead of me, the holidays being the biggest one. Not sure how I am going to deal with all of carb loaded, sugar loaded yummies that my family makes. I have found some alternatives on Pinterest, and found a way to keep the cost of Almond Flour down (making my own) but some things just aren't the same.
One thing I have loved about going Paleo is cooking. The flavor of the fresh produce and meat (the beef I got last Saturday) is so much better than the more expensive stuff at the grocery store. Jon said that he is going to join me on going Gluten-Free (just one part of the Paleo) after hearing the benefits on Dr OZ.
I have had some cramps and "Paleo Poop" issues but after doing some research, I found that it is normal when going on this type of diet with more meat and veggies and no processed foods.
So far, our favorite recipe has been a taco salad I found on a great blog. She has a ton of recipes for Paleo, Gluten-free and dairy-free. check it out!
http://www.elanaspantry.com/
more updates later, have a great week!
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Struggles Abound...New Diet?
I'm super horrible at keeping up with this thing. But I was thinking about it as I went into my doctor's appointment this morning. I have gained weight...and my doctor wants me to try something new. So, I will be counting carbs and starting the Paleo Diet. Its basically the Daniel Fast with meat. I'm still doing some research on recipes and what I can/cannot eat. Even before starting this I have dropped pop to just one or two servings a week, having mostly water to drink especially at work.
I have been struggling with it all lately, and I'm hoping this new start make the difference. I'm looking at joining a gym, there's a 24 hour fitness near us that has classes that fit my schedule. However, starting it is a bit expensive so we'd have to save up for it.
I am looking forward to cooler weather so I can walk to work in the mornings instead of getting a ride because its too hot. My schedule will be changing soon, so I'll be starting my walk even earlier.
I have been struggling with it all lately, and I'm hoping this new start make the difference. I'm looking at joining a gym, there's a 24 hour fitness near us that has classes that fit my schedule. However, starting it is a bit expensive so we'd have to save up for it.
I am looking forward to cooler weather so I can walk to work in the mornings instead of getting a ride because its too hot. My schedule will be changing soon, so I'll be starting my walk even earlier.
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Running this Race isn't Easy
Ok. So my goal is to loose 10 pounds by the time we leave on vacation and to continue my healthy lifestyle changes while on vacation. Tonight I started the Couch to 5K program, and I finished about 3/4 of the first day. If you aren't familiar with it, C25K take you from a couch potato to a runner by starting out switching from a brisk walk to a jog and taking you to the 5K in 6 weeks.
I've ran before, but I've never done it this way switching between jogging and walking. it seemed like as soon as my heart rate was back down it was time to jog again. I walked up to the club house (the last little bit was in a jog) and did the walk/jog combo for 10 minutes. (takes me 5 minutes to walk up to the club house) after that, I walked out to the first sign on the sidewalk and jogged to the next sign, then walked to the next sign, jogged...and I repeated it until I got to the end of the sidewalk. I was going back and forth in my head about walking and not jogging anymore but by the time I got to the next spot to jog I was ready.
I know that 10 lbs in about 4 weeks is a lot, but I know that by cutting out certain foods and walking or swimming in addition to the C25K program will help me get rid of what I have gained.
I have come this far in my journey and I will not go back. I refuse.
If you have any comments please leave them here below, on Facebook or Twitter.
Recipes for lunches, quick easy dinners and breakfast suggestions are appreciated. Pretty much eating on the daniel fast with chicken. (no bread, very little sugar, water to drink, veggies, fruits, very little dairy, boneless skinless chicken breast)
I've ran before, but I've never done it this way switching between jogging and walking. it seemed like as soon as my heart rate was back down it was time to jog again. I walked up to the club house (the last little bit was in a jog) and did the walk/jog combo for 10 minutes. (takes me 5 minutes to walk up to the club house) after that, I walked out to the first sign on the sidewalk and jogged to the next sign, then walked to the next sign, jogged...and I repeated it until I got to the end of the sidewalk. I was going back and forth in my head about walking and not jogging anymore but by the time I got to the next spot to jog I was ready.
I know that 10 lbs in about 4 weeks is a lot, but I know that by cutting out certain foods and walking or swimming in addition to the C25K program will help me get rid of what I have gained.
I have come this far in my journey and I will not go back. I refuse.
If you have any comments please leave them here below, on Facebook or Twitter.
Recipes for lunches, quick easy dinners and breakfast suggestions are appreciated. Pretty much eating on the daniel fast with chicken. (no bread, very little sugar, water to drink, veggies, fruits, very little dairy, boneless skinless chicken breast)
Monday, April 22, 2013
Slacking...Is there a connection between working out and eating better?
Ok, so here's my big confession. I've gained about 10lbs and I am no where near happy with myself. Setbacks are setbacks, but this is just pure laziness. I have been walking to work, depending on the weather of course (and the random offer of a ride) but its not enough. We have been eating out way too much and I think that is part of it.
Here is my question: Do you think activity level is related to a want to eating better?
Here is what I am thinking; that yes, it can be related. I think that if you have the discipline enough to go to the gym every day (working out in general), you probably have the same discipline to eat healthier.
In the past, when I was going to the gym every day I found myself eating better. So, the previous statement was true in my case. I also found that the phentermine worked better for me.
When I stopped going, my eating went downhill. As did my blog...I haven't been writing nearly as often.
So, I've made a small goal for myself. In addition to walking to work, I want to start working out in the morning again, weather at home with a video or routine or at the gym walking on the treadmill and weights. I also want to decrease my calorie intake (any suggestions on a number to start with?) and decrease the carb/sugar intake.
My plan for breakfast is to continue the natural pb on no sugar wheat tortilla or Ezekiel bread. Another option since berries are coming back into season are the smoothies I loved last summer...adding some no sugar pb added for protien.
Lunches for the past week or so have been Smart Ones, they were on sale...but that won't last long due to cost. Any suggestions?
Dinner is taken care of unless we're in a hurry. I have several recipes that I can make ahead of time, but most aren't car-friendly.
My goal is to loose the 10lbs I have gained in the next month, and even more before we go on vacation in July.
Here is my question: Do you think activity level is related to a want to eating better?
Here is what I am thinking; that yes, it can be related. I think that if you have the discipline enough to go to the gym every day (working out in general), you probably have the same discipline to eat healthier.
In the past, when I was going to the gym every day I found myself eating better. So, the previous statement was true in my case. I also found that the phentermine worked better for me.
When I stopped going, my eating went downhill. As did my blog...I haven't been writing nearly as often.
So, I've made a small goal for myself. In addition to walking to work, I want to start working out in the morning again, weather at home with a video or routine or at the gym walking on the treadmill and weights. I also want to decrease my calorie intake (any suggestions on a number to start with?) and decrease the carb/sugar intake.
My plan for breakfast is to continue the natural pb on no sugar wheat tortilla or Ezekiel bread. Another option since berries are coming back into season are the smoothies I loved last summer...adding some no sugar pb added for protien.
Lunches for the past week or so have been Smart Ones, they were on sale...but that won't last long due to cost. Any suggestions?
Dinner is taken care of unless we're in a hurry. I have several recipes that I can make ahead of time, but most aren't car-friendly.
My goal is to loose the 10lbs I have gained in the next month, and even more before we go on vacation in July.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Conversations with Myself
It seems like I have one every day. The other day I yelled at myself. "I WILL NOT GO BACK!" My eating and lack of exercise has caught up with me.
However, as I sit here I find lots of energy despite a sleepy morning. I f you don't follow me much on Facebook or Twitter, I am walking to work. Well, this was second day. Jon and I are trying to sell my 2003 Cavalier to help pay down some debt. So, it's a commitment and a sacrifice at the same time.
What I do miss is walking at metro during my lunch. I don't go until 2 so I eat while working and so I would walk. I'm still walking with my work friend occasionally, when our schedules match up. I am really looking forward to when I have a warm Saturday free to walk at the zoo or the botanical gardens.
Anyway- thought I'd update since I hadn't posted for awhile. Have a wonderful Easter weekend.
However, as I sit here I find lots of energy despite a sleepy morning. I f you don't follow me much on Facebook or Twitter, I am walking to work. Well, this was second day. Jon and I are trying to sell my 2003 Cavalier to help pay down some debt. So, it's a commitment and a sacrifice at the same time.
What I do miss is walking at metro during my lunch. I don't go until 2 so I eat while working and so I would walk. I'm still walking with my work friend occasionally, when our schedules match up. I am really looking forward to when I have a warm Saturday free to walk at the zoo or the botanical gardens.
Anyway- thought I'd update since I hadn't posted for awhile. Have a wonderful Easter weekend.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Still Working On It
Well, here I am again with an idea hoping to keep myself motivated. I went to the doctor this past week and I gained weight. My own scale says differently, but the doctor's scale is what counts. This week I am going to be working on weening myself off sugar and bread. Yeah, its going to be tough. Yes I am going to need prayer and encouragement. I REFUSE to go back to where I was two years ago.
My cousin took pictures while we were visiting family, and looking at them this morning I could tell in my face that I had gained weight. I am mad at myself for slipping back into old habits that caused me to gain all the weight that I did. My gym buddy is currently relaxing in Florida, so I'm on my own in the exercising.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Healthy eating, Healthy reading
This week has been rough. My eating hasn't been the best but I did go to the gym with Amanda three days straight. Thursday and Friday had me at work until late because of a staff meeting and volunteering for a Down Syndrome Guild event that NEEC was hosting. I don't say it enough, I love where I work.
Today the plan is to have a much needed date night and some grocery shopping. I have to thank Hayley Woods for the wonderful Chicken Enchilada recipe, we're taking it for a second spin this week (it was on week one but we were on the fast so I made it this past week). I am also re-visiting the tex-mex chili recipe I got from the Daniel Fast book. Its full of veggies and I put it over brown rice.
With the month of January half way over, I am looking forward to February and the a couple of events in that month. First, a Teghtmeyer family date at Oklahoma Joe's BBQ and then a Super Bowl party with some great friends that we don't get to spend much time with. I really missed being at the first week of 40 days in the word, but I am really looking forward to week 2. I have been keeping up with the devotional this week and really felt God speaking to me about His plan for our diet.
My weight hasn't changed, but I have a new reason to keep up the work. Jon and I are planning a vacation with my parents. We are either going to Tennessee or Pagosa Springs, CO. Either way there will be hiking, and I love hiking in the mountains! This would be the first trip to the mountains with my SLR camera, so expect lots of pictures.
Speaking of pictures, I have a few progress pics to post.
The first two are from the summer, the other two I took last week.
Today the plan is to have a much needed date night and some grocery shopping. I have to thank Hayley Woods for the wonderful Chicken Enchilada recipe, we're taking it for a second spin this week (it was on week one but we were on the fast so I made it this past week). I am also re-visiting the tex-mex chili recipe I got from the Daniel Fast book. Its full of veggies and I put it over brown rice.
With the month of January half way over, I am looking forward to February and the a couple of events in that month. First, a Teghtmeyer family date at Oklahoma Joe's BBQ and then a Super Bowl party with some great friends that we don't get to spend much time with. I really missed being at the first week of 40 days in the word, but I am really looking forward to week 2. I have been keeping up with the devotional this week and really felt God speaking to me about His plan for our diet.
My weight hasn't changed, but I have a new reason to keep up the work. Jon and I are planning a vacation with my parents. We are either going to Tennessee or Pagosa Springs, CO. Either way there will be hiking, and I love hiking in the mountains! This would be the first trip to the mountains with my SLR camera, so expect lots of pictures.
Speaking of pictures, I have a few progress pics to post.
The first two are from the summer, the other two I took last week.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Using God's Word as a Guide
I found a devotional on my Bible app on my phone that is geared towards food. I knew that there have been several books out there that give insight into what scripture says about eating, but I never picked one up. I have learned so far that food can be an idol in our lives. Food can be enjoyed but the primary purpose for food is fuel for our bodies.
As one that has struggled with over eating, emotional eating and even just eating when I'm bored God is really speaking to me about my health and weight through these scriptures. Adding this to what I learned while on the Daniel Fast, I feel like I have a whole new approach to eating. What I eat and how I eat affects my body and how I feel through the day.
I have cut pop down to one serving a day (soda stream has less calories and sugar than regular pop), increased the amount of fruit, veggies and while grains in my diet and decreased the amount of sugar and fatty foods. I am also going to the gym in my complex's club house with my friend/co-worker, Amanda. We are going to start a devotional time with each other while we are stretching after our workout.
No change in my weight, but I am feeling great.
As one that has struggled with over eating, emotional eating and even just eating when I'm bored God is really speaking to me about my health and weight through these scriptures. Adding this to what I learned while on the Daniel Fast, I feel like I have a whole new approach to eating. What I eat and how I eat affects my body and how I feel through the day.
I have cut pop down to one serving a day (soda stream has less calories and sugar than regular pop), increased the amount of fruit, veggies and while grains in my diet and decreased the amount of sugar and fatty foods. I am also going to the gym in my complex's club house with my friend/co-worker, Amanda. We are going to start a devotional time with each other while we are stretching after our workout.
No change in my weight, but I am feeling great.
Friday, January 11, 2013
What I've Learned
as far as eating healthy from the Daniel Fast-
1. How to incorporate more veggies and fruits into my daily diet- small snacks, side dishes, in the main dish
2. Cutting out bread and sugar is not as hard as I thought- whole wheat tortillas make a great substitution for bread in sandwiches. Lots of things have sugar in them, even many corn tortillas have dextrose (sugar).
3. hunger pains can be a need for water- while on the fast there were times that I was hungry or though I was hungry. Instead of eating I drank water (this happened at work a lot) and drinking water seemed to help stave off the hunger pain. (they were minor pains and NOT accompanied by a headache)
4. I don't need pop or other similar drinks to help me get through the day- I had my first diet coke last night, and it tasted good, but I think I am going to stick to water and an occasional pop made from our Soda stream machine (less sugar, less calories)
eating healthy is easier than you may think. check out my friend's Let's Eat Healthy Blog, its complete with recipes and grocery lists.
http://thewackywoods.blogspot.com/
Thank you everyone for your prayers and support while Jon and I have been on this fast. We have made a commitment to each other to continue eating a somewhat Daniel Fast diet, as we enter into the 40 Days in the Word study with our church and small group.
1. How to incorporate more veggies and fruits into my daily diet- small snacks, side dishes, in the main dish
2. Cutting out bread and sugar is not as hard as I thought- whole wheat tortillas make a great substitution for bread in sandwiches. Lots of things have sugar in them, even many corn tortillas have dextrose (sugar).
3. hunger pains can be a need for water- while on the fast there were times that I was hungry or though I was hungry. Instead of eating I drank water (this happened at work a lot) and drinking water seemed to help stave off the hunger pain. (they were minor pains and NOT accompanied by a headache)
4. I don't need pop or other similar drinks to help me get through the day- I had my first diet coke last night, and it tasted good, but I think I am going to stick to water and an occasional pop made from our Soda stream machine (less sugar, less calories)
eating healthy is easier than you may think. check out my friend's Let's Eat Healthy Blog, its complete with recipes and grocery lists.
http://thewackywoods.blogspot.com/
Thank you everyone for your prayers and support while Jon and I have been on this fast. We have made a commitment to each other to continue eating a somewhat Daniel Fast diet, as we enter into the 40 Days in the Word study with our church and small group.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Days 8, 9, 10
Well, Wednesday night was rough but I was glad to be able to see friends and Andrea's family and remember her. I was so grateful to all the people who stood in line for an hour or more to give them support. Yesterday was even worse, but grieving is something we need to do. I felt so blessed that Andrea's Noni (her grandma), mother-in-law and step-dad all invited Jon and I to stay and eat with them. I knew that there would not be any Daniel Fast approved foods there but I felt lead to break our fast out of respect for the family and for Andrea. I was careful of what I ate, and how much. I am not sure what to do now. I thank all of you for your advice when I posted Tuesday. I felt so blessed to have so much support.
I weighed myself yesterday morning and found that my long awaited goal had been reached. I am now at 259 lbs. 50 lbs lost in a little over a year.
I have learned so much while being on this fast, not just growing spiritually but about eating more healthy foods and how abstaining from certain things (ie processed food, sugar) can help with energy and weight loss.
I weighed myself yesterday morning and found that my long awaited goal had been reached. I am now at 259 lbs. 50 lbs lost in a little over a year.
I have learned so much while being on this fast, not just growing spiritually but about eating more healthy foods and how abstaining from certain things (ie processed food, sugar) can help with energy and weight loss.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Day Seven- Late Again
Well, I never said this was going to be perfect. I am really struggling with temptation in the form of food. No, I have not cheated and neither has Jon. We are in need of some prayer though because both of us are experiencing some issues as far as health. Jon is having trouble focusing at work, which isn't like him. I am having some dizzy spells and major aches when I normally have no problem. We have been eating plenty of protein between beans and natural peanut butter. We are praying about cutting our 21 days to 10 days if these problems continue. (advice?)
Yesterday I went to the gym with Amanda (having someone to go with really helps!). We are still eating on the veggie tex mex chili I made the other day, over brown rice it is super yummy. Send me a message if you would like the recipe. I think this experience has given me a different outlook on healthy eating. Its not just about how much you eat but what you eat and using your food for energy during the day. I have found that even after I get home I still have the energy to go workout and even after that I am able to stay up and get things done (not that it actually happens).
Yesterday I went to the gym with Amanda (having someone to go with really helps!). We are still eating on the veggie tex mex chili I made the other day, over brown rice it is super yummy. Send me a message if you would like the recipe. I think this experience has given me a different outlook on healthy eating. Its not just about how much you eat but what you eat and using your food for energy during the day. I have found that even after I get home I still have the energy to go workout and even after that I am able to stay up and get things done (not that it actually happens).
Monday, January 7, 2013
Day Six (a little late)
This one is late, but I was busy yesterday! Between volunteering in the nursery and a wonderful message at church, then a quick lunch (Chipotle), and a GREAT evening with the Teghtmeyers I was pooped when we got home.
Chipotle is really the only cheaper place that Jon and I can get something to eat that is on the Daniel Fast (if anyone else knows of somewhere reasonable please let me know!) With the brown rice, black beans, mild salsa, corn salsa, guacamole and lettuce all on three corn tortillas (not fried), it fills us up quickly. We also had mexican for dinner, with the Teghtmeyers.
I have to admit, all of the goodies were very tempting, especially Aunt Melinda's Red Velvet Cake Trifle. Red Velvet is my favorite, and instead of breaking the fast and eating some, my Dad graciously let me sniff his. Don't you want to eat it now? I was asked. No, that's all I needed, and it smelled wonderful.
Other than food, I really enjoyed catching up with my aunts, uncles and cousins, and of course playing with the little ones! (some of whom aren't very little anymore)
Chipotle is really the only cheaper place that Jon and I can get something to eat that is on the Daniel Fast (if anyone else knows of somewhere reasonable please let me know!) With the brown rice, black beans, mild salsa, corn salsa, guacamole and lettuce all on three corn tortillas (not fried), it fills us up quickly. We also had mexican for dinner, with the Teghtmeyers.
I have to admit, all of the goodies were very tempting, especially Aunt Melinda's Red Velvet Cake Trifle. Red Velvet is my favorite, and instead of breaking the fast and eating some, my Dad graciously let me sniff his. Don't you want to eat it now? I was asked. No, that's all I needed, and it smelled wonderful.
Other than food, I really enjoyed catching up with my aunts, uncles and cousins, and of course playing with the little ones! (some of whom aren't very little anymore)
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Day Five
Two more days until the one week mark, and 1/3 done. Last night I had a really hard time battling temptation, but I made it through thanks to some prayer and my wonderful husband not letting me give in. yay for natural peanut butter, a banana and whole wheat tortillas. That cured my sweet tooth, but not my meat craving. by meat I mean pizza with everything.
This morning, I went to the movies and with my $4.50 bottle of water (I know its really stupid buying a bottle of water at the movies) I resisted popcorn and soda. I decided not to go back to the movies until after the fast, even though I REALLY want to see Le Miz.
I haven't gone back to the gym since Wednesday, no excuses. I need to get back in the habit but its the getting back and staying back that's the hard part.
This morning, I went to the movies and with my $4.50 bottle of water (I know its really stupid buying a bottle of water at the movies) I resisted popcorn and soda. I decided not to go back to the movies until after the fast, even though I REALLY want to see Le Miz.
I haven't gone back to the gym since Wednesday, no excuses. I need to get back in the habit but its the getting back and staying back that's the hard part.
Friday, January 4, 2013
Day Four
Well, I didn't go to the gym last night but I did go grocery shopping with Jon. Walking around the grocery store counts for something doesn't it? I am doing better than I was yesterday as far as sadness, but I know Andrea is in heaven and with her creator and that makes me feel all the better. Something I have discovered in prayer is that I have a hard time giving things over completely to God. I initially had a really hard time understanding why this happened to such a wonderful person, but God brings good out of everything and i know He will use Andrea's death to His glory in some way.
I also found a new love in breakfast. Muesli. Specifically Bob's Red Mill Country Style Muesli. The whole grains, walnuts, almonds, dates, raisins and other yummy things make it taste like there's a ton of sugar in it...but there is not.
More good news, I have lost the weight that I gained over the holidays. I am now back to 260lbs. I had gone up to 265 at one point over the holidays between the rich food and not being active, but I am now rid of that and cannot wait to be able to say that my total is 50lbs. I have one lb left to go for that goal!
I also found a new love in breakfast. Muesli. Specifically Bob's Red Mill Country Style Muesli. The whole grains, walnuts, almonds, dates, raisins and other yummy things make it taste like there's a ton of sugar in it...but there is not.
More good news, I have lost the weight that I gained over the holidays. I am now back to 260lbs. I had gone up to 265 at one point over the holidays between the rich food and not being active, but I am now rid of that and cannot wait to be able to say that my total is 50lbs. I have one lb left to go for that goal!
Day Three
I don't even know to begin. My oldest, dearest friend passed away yesterday. She was 27 years old, and was on the same journey I am for as long as we've been friends. In memory of her I am continuing my journey, she always supported me. I know she is in heaven with our savior.
My memories of her will keep me going, especially the one when I saw her in the hospital after she had her precious baby girl. The beaming joy on her face when she held that little bundle was unlike anything I had ever seen on her before. She was a great mommy, wife, sister, daughter and friend.
I have kept myself busy today, at work and now here at home. Jon and I are going grocery shopping and after we get home I'm going straight to the gym with Amanda.
My memories of her will keep me going, especially the one when I saw her in the hospital after she had her precious baby girl. The beaming joy on her face when she held that little bundle was unlike anything I had ever seen on her before. She was a great mommy, wife, sister, daughter and friend.
I have kept myself busy today, at work and now here at home. Jon and I are going grocery shopping and after we get home I'm going straight to the gym with Amanda.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Day Two.
So far so good! Last night we went to Granny and Pa's house to visit and play cards, Jon and I both resisted the goodies temptation. However, I did bring home some of my cousin Robin's yummy fudge to have after our fast. I have to admit that I really wanted one of those sugar cookies in the break room today, but after a co-worker gave me a sniff of her cookie (like its a drug or something) I was fine.
I went to the gym with Amanda this evening, 20 minutes on the treadmill and weight work on my arms. my legs were screaming at me after 10 minutes but I knew that was because I hadn't been in a long time. I am hoping to keep it up 4 days each week and jump-starting my weight loss again.
I went to the gym with Amanda this evening, 20 minutes on the treadmill and weight work on my arms. my legs were screaming at me after 10 minutes but I knew that was because I hadn't been in a long time. I am hoping to keep it up 4 days each week and jump-starting my weight loss again.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Day One.
Today is the first day of our 21 day fast. So far so good, apple pie oatmeal with unsweetened almond milk for breakfast two bananas and 1/2 cup brown rice with probably a cup of salsa (I didn't measure) for lunch. In the book, Daniel Fast, there is a devotional at the end of the book one for each day of the fast. I read it and found myself in deep thought about my goals for my fast.
The hardest part is going to be abstaining from the yummy foods at the Teghtmeyer family gathering this coming weekend. I think what will help is going to be focusing on being with my family and holding my cousin Cassy's new baby girl. These are the times I wish I lived closer! Something I didn't anticipate during the fast was the cost of the food. I am going to really have to buckle down and do some major meal planning during these 21 days.
One of my goals today was to not sit in front of the tv all day. That I can honestly say has been successful. Between cooking, cleaning up my mess in the kitchen and starting my first sewing project, I watched maybe an hour in total and that was mostly the rose bowl.
So far so good, please keep us in your prayers as we go through this spiritual journey.
The hardest part is going to be abstaining from the yummy foods at the Teghtmeyer family gathering this coming weekend. I think what will help is going to be focusing on being with my family and holding my cousin Cassy's new baby girl. These are the times I wish I lived closer! Something I didn't anticipate during the fast was the cost of the food. I am going to really have to buckle down and do some major meal planning during these 21 days.
One of my goals today was to not sit in front of the tv all day. That I can honestly say has been successful. Between cooking, cleaning up my mess in the kitchen and starting my first sewing project, I watched maybe an hour in total and that was mostly the rose bowl.
So far so good, please keep us in your prayers as we go through this spiritual journey.
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