Some weeks are just more emotional than others. It's not always my state of mind I'm dealing with, but with others as well. The other day my mom asked me how much weight I'd lost and when I told her, she said nothing. Nothing! Not, "good job", "you look great", nope. And why? Because my mom loves with food. She probably feels that because I don't eat like I used to that I'm also rejecting her "love". So while I kind of had it figured out, it still bugged me.
I then received a message from a friend who felt I had pulled away from her. It bothered me, because this person hadn't contacted me either. I had lost my precious dog, was very vulnerable, and pulled away from everyone. It's just the way I deal, and truthfully, my friends should know that about me by now. I accept their goofy stuff. I guess I want to be loved and accepted too, goofy stuff and all.
I've also been dealing with a friendship that has been in danger for quite awhile, and trying to find a way to approach it. A natural "loner", I don't deal well with trusting people. I know it's a normal thing to be let down by people, but I still put the skids on when it comes to getting too close. The result? A very distant vibe from me, while on the inside, I just want the go-ahead to get close. Very goofy. I know. At least I admit it.
I'm attending a concert at a local fair this week. My niece will be opening for the main act. While that sounds pretty cool, I have never met her. I only know about her by reading about her in the paper. She's my brother's daughter. A daughter I never saw grow up, let alone sing for a huge crowd. A bit weird for me. Not sure how to process this yet.
Are you starting to maybe figure out why getting close is so foreign to me? I have lost people left and right my entire life through no fault of my own. That's what I know as "normal". When people get mad and want to step out of my life, I sometimes bristle up and let them. In fact, I'll help them to the door. Not good. A bit weird. Goofy.
At Nat's doctor's appointment, more x rays have been ordered for her spine and for her skull. She was born with a weird protrusion on her forehead, and while it's been harmless so far, I'm just covering my bases as a parent. Her spine is borderline severe, and in the future could require an extensive surgery, should we choose that route. It was a difficult conversation to have, and I felt at times the doctor was reprimanding me. After all, there are worse cases, he went on to tell me. I'm sorry. God didn't give me those cases. He gave me hers. That's the one I need to worry about, though I care about everyone's battle. Why do I need to feel guilty about that?
Her acne is still persisting, though we've spent hundreds of dollars on treatment. She is frustrated. We are frustrated. Yes, it's just acne, I know. But it's our battle. When your kid hurts, you hurt. It's just the way it is. While she's healthy, happy, and well adjusted, her emotions sometimes get the better of her too, and guess who is there? Mom. A mom who takes it all on. Hers. My mom. My friends. My sick brother. My disconnected family. Doctors. Bills. Life. Husband's job stress. Missing my dog. And on and on.
Though my emotions don't always dominate the whole day, I do spend a small amount of time each day telling God what's bugging me. I then move on about my day with a new strength. It doesn't take the pain away, but it provides just the emotional rescue I need.
Go ahead. Press "interesting". But I'm pressing "right on sista" today.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 29, 2011
Ahhh..the Joy of Parenting...
Parenting can be so backwards. For example, when my girls were little, they were always up way too early. At that time, I needed my sleep and never seemed to get enough. They kept me running all day, busy here, busy there, never seeming to want to just rest awhile. Now that they are older, and so am I, all they want to do is sleep and all I want to do is run run run! And believe me, I don't like to wait for them to get ready. At least when they were little, I picked out their clothes, dressed them, and stuck them in the car. Now its, "where is my i-pod?", "my hair-ugh!!", "Can I borrow your shoes?", "I can't find my shoes", and on and on until I am tempted to leave without them! Imagine showing up at the orthodonist by myself because my kids aren't ready. I know, it's foolish, but most points made by parents are based in something very smart. Most of them.
While I used to complain about all the messes they made with toys and books, now the messes are much more complex. Have you been in a tweenage girls bathroom lately? Ugh! And those bedrooms....how can they get so messy so fast? It used to take us minutes to pick up toys and books when they were toddlers. We're talking HOURS to clean some monumental messes now. While I'm sure their eyes were perfectly normal when they were 5, now they seem to roll back in their heads when they're asked to work. They think I don't see this strange dysfunction, but oh, I do. And I remember those rolly eyes when they ask ME for something.
And so the battles have begun. The tween vs. the teen. The duo against the parents. I knew it would happen eventually, and it's quite normal, I suppose. The newly found independence, the newly found knowledge...what to do with it all? Drive your parents crazy. That's what I say about all that hoopla. I warn them frequently, "Don't think I don't know what you're doing. I was once young too. I drove my parents crazy, and your dad was a real stinker to his. We can handle you, so just watch out!" And as usual, it's met with their usual response...
Eye roll. Snicker. And the classic retreat up to their rooms to once again conspire against the very life-givers who would give up their lives for them over and over.
Stinkers.
While I used to complain about all the messes they made with toys and books, now the messes are much more complex. Have you been in a tweenage girls bathroom lately? Ugh! And those bedrooms....how can they get so messy so fast? It used to take us minutes to pick up toys and books when they were toddlers. We're talking HOURS to clean some monumental messes now. While I'm sure their eyes were perfectly normal when they were 5, now they seem to roll back in their heads when they're asked to work. They think I don't see this strange dysfunction, but oh, I do. And I remember those rolly eyes when they ask ME for something.
And so the battles have begun. The tween vs. the teen. The duo against the parents. I knew it would happen eventually, and it's quite normal, I suppose. The newly found independence, the newly found knowledge...what to do with it all? Drive your parents crazy. That's what I say about all that hoopla. I warn them frequently, "Don't think I don't know what you're doing. I was once young too. I drove my parents crazy, and your dad was a real stinker to his. We can handle you, so just watch out!" And as usual, it's met with their usual response...
Eye roll. Snicker. And the classic retreat up to their rooms to once again conspire against the very life-givers who would give up their lives for them over and over.
Stinkers.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Sweet Temptation
Are you bored with my food posts yet? Well, I don't blame you at all. Since my computer stopped letting me post pictures (mysteriously, I might add), it's just not as much fun to post about food or nature. And the nature around here is fantastic! I take lots of pictures and can post not one. Not happy!!
Yesterday we picked the raspberries and for the first time since planting them, I had enough for a pie!! I added a cup of blackberries (also a good crop this year)too. I made homemade crust (is there any other?) and sprinkled it with sugar, just like my Gram used to do on her raspberry pie. I even forked the edges just like grandma, instead of my usual "fluted" edge. I wish you could smell my kitchen right now! It's heavenly.
I come from a long line of pie bakers, and an even longer line of pie eaters. For my brother's birthday Monday night, mom baked up 3 different flavors of pie, including my brother's favorite, custard. It's funny how the siblings all have different flavors, and we don't care for each other's at all! So funny, and so effectively smart, I'd say. Tim, my 50 year old brother absolutely can't stand raspberry pie. Oooh...the seeds...so sour...ewwwe...can't stand it!! Mom doesn't like Lori's favorite, which is blueberry. In fact, mom doesn't like blueberries much at all! Dad's favorite is mincemeat, and no one touches it but Dad. See, smart!! Mom also makes Lori's second favorite, Pineapple cream, which is safe from me! Jeff...hmmm...does he even like pie? Oh, he's a strawberry cheesecake fan. That's not safe from any of us.
My favorite? It's a toss up between pumpkin, apple, blueberry, raspberry, cherry, lemon meringue, chocolate cream...um, you can see where I'm going with this!
Sweet temptation. That's the phrase of the day, as I try not to devour more than one small piece!
Yesterday we picked the raspberries and for the first time since planting them, I had enough for a pie!! I added a cup of blackberries (also a good crop this year)too. I made homemade crust (is there any other?) and sprinkled it with sugar, just like my Gram used to do on her raspberry pie. I even forked the edges just like grandma, instead of my usual "fluted" edge. I wish you could smell my kitchen right now! It's heavenly.
I come from a long line of pie bakers, and an even longer line of pie eaters. For my brother's birthday Monday night, mom baked up 3 different flavors of pie, including my brother's favorite, custard. It's funny how the siblings all have different flavors, and we don't care for each other's at all! So funny, and so effectively smart, I'd say. Tim, my 50 year old brother absolutely can't stand raspberry pie. Oooh...the seeds...so sour...ewwwe...can't stand it!! Mom doesn't like Lori's favorite, which is blueberry. In fact, mom doesn't like blueberries much at all! Dad's favorite is mincemeat, and no one touches it but Dad. See, smart!! Mom also makes Lori's second favorite, Pineapple cream, which is safe from me! Jeff...hmmm...does he even like pie? Oh, he's a strawberry cheesecake fan. That's not safe from any of us.
My favorite? It's a toss up between pumpkin, apple, blueberry, raspberry, cherry, lemon meringue, chocolate cream...um, you can see where I'm going with this!
Sweet temptation. That's the phrase of the day, as I try not to devour more than one small piece!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Life Cycle of a Diet....and other things
For me, dieting begins with some type of motivation. Usually it's bathing suit season, a New Year's resolution, a class reunion, or a lack of loose waistbands in your closet. Whatever the motivation, I'm just glad to have some!
When I started my diet, those first 4 days were torture! I was weaning myself away from sugar and carbs...2 things I thought I couldn't live without.
After about a week, I was doing well. I hadn't run out of food ideas, and because I was super hungry, everything healthy was a welcome meal.
After a month, still hanging in there, having formed a good set of habits, I was starting to feel a bit of fear that at any moment, I might binge like a maniac.
Here I am almost 3 months in, and surprisingly, I haven't run out of meal ideas yet. I have been able to change up my usual green salad enough to make it interesting, and I don't mind drinking lots of water, but I must have lemons or limes to make it palatable for me. And lots of ice. Using pretty stemware makes me want to drink it more. Whatever works, right?
In the back of my mind, I still wonder if I can keep this up. While I'm not white-knuckling it as I have in the past, I don't think I trust myself enough yet. If a diet has a life cycle, I hope it's like that of a butterfly; reinventing itself into something better each time.
And now on to "other things". I want to share a recipe for one of my favorite rubs. I like it on chicken breast best, but you can put it on pork, shrimp, white-fleshed fish, scallops, and salmon.
Provencal Herb Rub:
1 Tablespoon fennel seed, crushed
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed
2 tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. ground dried orange peel (use a planer and do your own for best result)
2 T. dried basil
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
Mix it up and use as needed. I like to pan-sear the chicken in a bit of olive oil, then finish in a 350 oven, covered. You can pound the meat first, but it's not necessary. The combination of orange and fennel is amazing and so different from your usual boring seasoned salts!
Another favorite I forgot to mention is grilled polenta. You can make your own corn meal "mush" by following directions on the corn meal package, or you can purchase ready made polenta in a tube in the refrigerated section of the grocery store. Slice it up about 1/2" thick and grill a few minutes on each side until it has nice grill lines. I was blown away by the deliciousness of it, really! You can top it with salsa or black beans to make a meal out of it, but I like it plain with a little crushed salt on top.
Tonight I made jalapeno chicken with onions, garlic, and zucchini. It was quick and easy. I served it up over steamed cauliflower, and yes, it was yummy and carb-free!
The first three letters of die t can be daunting, but when you look at it as a life-giving cycle, it makes it that much more attainable. I'm losing my body, but gaining years, I hope! Who knew brownies were so lethal...geez! :)
When I started my diet, those first 4 days were torture! I was weaning myself away from sugar and carbs...2 things I thought I couldn't live without.
After about a week, I was doing well. I hadn't run out of food ideas, and because I was super hungry, everything healthy was a welcome meal.
After a month, still hanging in there, having formed a good set of habits, I was starting to feel a bit of fear that at any moment, I might binge like a maniac.
Here I am almost 3 months in, and surprisingly, I haven't run out of meal ideas yet. I have been able to change up my usual green salad enough to make it interesting, and I don't mind drinking lots of water, but I must have lemons or limes to make it palatable for me. And lots of ice. Using pretty stemware makes me want to drink it more. Whatever works, right?
In the back of my mind, I still wonder if I can keep this up. While I'm not white-knuckling it as I have in the past, I don't think I trust myself enough yet. If a diet has a life cycle, I hope it's like that of a butterfly; reinventing itself into something better each time.
And now on to "other things". I want to share a recipe for one of my favorite rubs. I like it on chicken breast best, but you can put it on pork, shrimp, white-fleshed fish, scallops, and salmon.
Provencal Herb Rub:
1 Tablespoon fennel seed, crushed
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed
2 tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. ground dried orange peel (use a planer and do your own for best result)
2 T. dried basil
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
Mix it up and use as needed. I like to pan-sear the chicken in a bit of olive oil, then finish in a 350 oven, covered. You can pound the meat first, but it's not necessary. The combination of orange and fennel is amazing and so different from your usual boring seasoned salts!
Another favorite I forgot to mention is grilled polenta. You can make your own corn meal "mush" by following directions on the corn meal package, or you can purchase ready made polenta in a tube in the refrigerated section of the grocery store. Slice it up about 1/2" thick and grill a few minutes on each side until it has nice grill lines. I was blown away by the deliciousness of it, really! You can top it with salsa or black beans to make a meal out of it, but I like it plain with a little crushed salt on top.
Tonight I made jalapeno chicken with onions, garlic, and zucchini. It was quick and easy. I served it up over steamed cauliflower, and yes, it was yummy and carb-free!
The first three letters of die t can be daunting, but when you look at it as a life-giving cycle, it makes it that much more attainable. I'm losing my body, but gaining years, I hope! Who knew brownies were so lethal...geez! :)
What Makes Us Tick Anyway?
I was having a conversation with a family member last week and a couple of words came up that described me. Regimented. Goody Goody. Now, it only described me in relation to what we were discussing. You know how that works, don't you? Haven't you ever been around someone who is so distinctly different than you that your traits just blare in comparison? Okay, you need an example, apparently.
I need to handle this topic a bit delicately, because I'm trying not to pass judgement, but different is different, not necessarily worse or better. Okay. So, the recent party we attended was full of lots of party activities that we don't engage in. Personally, my opinionated self thinks that we don't need beer at a teen's open house. Though I've seen it at more than I can count! So, yes, I seemed like a "regimented goody goody" when I shared that opinion with my family member. However, at a Bible study, I feel more like the rebel when I say something out of ignorance or lack of knowledge. It's all relative.
See why we're not to compare ourselves to others? It sets us up to be at risk of behaving like chameleons; people who just transform to their environment to please someone else. I guess I'd rather appear to be a regimented goody goody than a phony. I guess I'd rather feel like a rebel than think I know it all. Being genuine to yourself won't make you popular. I tell my kids this all the time! So while I stick out like a sore thumb at most large family gatherings, probably getting labeled something pollyannish, I don't really care anymore! I am who I am, and I go home happy about that! More importantly, I love and laugh with those members of the family; I just don't like what they do. Some of them don't like what I "do" either, but I'm letting God work on them.
So, how do you survive in a world/family/workplace that opposes your core self? Flip it around....how can they best survive you? Can we mix well with others and keep our judgements at bay? Is it easier said than done? All the Scripture in the world won't help us with this is we don't change our heart attitudes about these things. How can members of the same family be so distinctly different? What makes us tick anyway? I know Who makes me tick. I just don't know the "what" yet!
Galatians 6:4 says this:
"Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load."
And of course, Matthew 7:1-5 says it all:
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother,'Let me take the speck out of your eye', when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye."
Whew....lots to think about today!
I need to handle this topic a bit delicately, because I'm trying not to pass judgement, but different is different, not necessarily worse or better. Okay. So, the recent party we attended was full of lots of party activities that we don't engage in. Personally, my opinionated self thinks that we don't need beer at a teen's open house. Though I've seen it at more than I can count! So, yes, I seemed like a "regimented goody goody" when I shared that opinion with my family member. However, at a Bible study, I feel more like the rebel when I say something out of ignorance or lack of knowledge. It's all relative.
See why we're not to compare ourselves to others? It sets us up to be at risk of behaving like chameleons; people who just transform to their environment to please someone else. I guess I'd rather appear to be a regimented goody goody than a phony. I guess I'd rather feel like a rebel than think I know it all. Being genuine to yourself won't make you popular. I tell my kids this all the time! So while I stick out like a sore thumb at most large family gatherings, probably getting labeled something pollyannish, I don't really care anymore! I am who I am, and I go home happy about that! More importantly, I love and laugh with those members of the family; I just don't like what they do. Some of them don't like what I "do" either, but I'm letting God work on them.
So, how do you survive in a world/family/workplace that opposes your core self? Flip it around....how can they best survive you? Can we mix well with others and keep our judgements at bay? Is it easier said than done? All the Scripture in the world won't help us with this is we don't change our heart attitudes about these things. How can members of the same family be so distinctly different? What makes us tick anyway? I know Who makes me tick. I just don't know the "what" yet!
Galatians 6:4 says this:
"Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load."
And of course, Matthew 7:1-5 says it all:
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother,'Let me take the speck out of your eye', when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye."
Whew....lots to think about today!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Spicing it up- Slimming it Down
As I mentioned awhile ago, our family has been more conscious of the way we eat. Not that we were terrible eaters before, mind you. We both love to cook and try new recipes, adding our own twists to them. Sometimes that means the dish turns out a little more fattening/flavorful! Dieting often suppresses a good cook, I think. You get used to using fat for flavor, I guess. We've always used many different spices and ingredients, so now we just use them in a more healthy way. It still tastes good too!
Some of the things we're doing with food lately:
*Grilling every vegetable under the sun! Some of our faves: butternut squash, asparagus, onions, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers of all kinds, and the rare potato. Just rub on a little olive oil, some sea salt and a little pepper. Good to go! If you can't grill, use your oven and roast those babies. It's the only way to eat fresh beets at our house! Also try brussels sprouts in the oven. You may decide to like them!
*Marinades, rubs, and brines: we use a lot of fresh lime juice, balsamic vinegar, garlic, baby! fennel, fresh herbs from the garden, including basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, dill, cilantro, parsley, sage...yum. We experiment with different combinations, slap it on the grill, and it never disappoints! We are also fans of red pepper flakes and all things spicy. This helps add flavor. Food should never bore you!
*Eliminating red meats and adding in chicken breast, fish, especially salmon, shrimp, and ground turkey. I have made turkey into chili, turkey "steaks", which taste like Thanksgiving thanks to sage, mexican turkey burgers, all without buns! We love to marinate and skewer chicken strips, flavor them asian style, BBQ style, or whatever mood we're in.
*Vegetables make up about half of our plate at meal time, and this includes lunch too. We flavor veggies with a olive oil, butter flavored spray, lemon juice, or just spices. Chili powder on broccoli is pretty good! Sometimes a meal is a salad with a simple dressing with a little protein added, such as tuna, chicken or boiled egg. Having our garden has helped us to enjoy veggies even more. We also visit the Farmer's Market once a week to replenish our supply!
*Breakfast consists of yogurt and fresh fruit, such as blueberries, peaches, strawberries, raspberries, or apples. I still love my doctored up oatmeal, but I now eat only a half cup of it without my precious brown sugar! I have green tea with every meal and dark chocolate as a treat. Egg white omelets are good when you add red peppers, onions, and just a smidge of cheese. Use cooking spray or a little olive oil in the pan.
*Breads, pastas,rice, and potatoes are a rare visitor, though we do eat whole wheat pastas once in awhile, sweet potatoes, and thinly sliced bread. It's considered a treat. With diabetes, you watch carbs, so we keep this in mind when meal planning.
You may be wondering, where is dessert in all of this? Truthfully, when you're eating a balanced meal with lots to digest, you don't crave that sugar high as much! I know. I'm a self-professed brownie hog, and I'm doing fine without it. If we want something sweet, we'll have fruit, frozen yogurt, or a half cup of ice cream. I also have a caramel truffle flavored tea...haven't tried that just yet. Dessert can also be a half cup or so of dry cereal, such as multi grain cheerios or cinnamon chex, 2 of my favorites. It gives the feeling of snacking, but not all the calories.
Another question we get is, "What about the kids?" Well, we've always believed that taking junk food away from your kids is not depriving them! They still get some snacks and ice cream, normal things kids like, but not in excess, which is the way it should be whether you diet or not. Our kids eat the way we do, only adding in the necessary carbs to help them grow up healthy. They are great eaters, and for that, I am so thankful!
Exercise has also been a big addition, and we've found it more fun when it's not "exercise". We walk around our "block", bike the rail trail, or swim in the pool. I have started doing water aerobics in the pool while Steve swims. It helps with my chronic back pain, and helps Steve to decompress after a stressful day! Thank God for that pool! I say it every day.
All of these changes have resulted in a good amount of weight loss, it's true, but more importantly, we feel better about our health in general and the habits we are instilling in our girls.
So how do we stick with it from here? Good question. Now that Steve is a diabetic, one thing I've started saying to people is this, "We're co-diabetics". Kind of like when we were done having children, I used to say, "We're both unable to have kids" instead of revealing which one "can't". Sharing the burden or responsibility for me gives me a great sense of teamwork, and the inspiration to keep going. Steve has no choice but to stay on the right track. So, neither do I! In marriage, you go through things AS ONE. It's our theory, and it works.
So, while I didn't share recipes here as intended (Sorry "A"), I guess I felt more compelled to share our "tricks". You don't have a monthly fee, and you don't have to weigh in!!
Some of the things we're doing with food lately:
*Grilling every vegetable under the sun! Some of our faves: butternut squash, asparagus, onions, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers of all kinds, and the rare potato. Just rub on a little olive oil, some sea salt and a little pepper. Good to go! If you can't grill, use your oven and roast those babies. It's the only way to eat fresh beets at our house! Also try brussels sprouts in the oven. You may decide to like them!
*Marinades, rubs, and brines: we use a lot of fresh lime juice, balsamic vinegar, garlic, baby! fennel, fresh herbs from the garden, including basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, dill, cilantro, parsley, sage...yum. We experiment with different combinations, slap it on the grill, and it never disappoints! We are also fans of red pepper flakes and all things spicy. This helps add flavor. Food should never bore you!
*Eliminating red meats and adding in chicken breast, fish, especially salmon, shrimp, and ground turkey. I have made turkey into chili, turkey "steaks", which taste like Thanksgiving thanks to sage, mexican turkey burgers, all without buns! We love to marinate and skewer chicken strips, flavor them asian style, BBQ style, or whatever mood we're in.
*Vegetables make up about half of our plate at meal time, and this includes lunch too. We flavor veggies with a olive oil, butter flavored spray, lemon juice, or just spices. Chili powder on broccoli is pretty good! Sometimes a meal is a salad with a simple dressing with a little protein added, such as tuna, chicken or boiled egg. Having our garden has helped us to enjoy veggies even more. We also visit the Farmer's Market once a week to replenish our supply!
*Breakfast consists of yogurt and fresh fruit, such as blueberries, peaches, strawberries, raspberries, or apples. I still love my doctored up oatmeal, but I now eat only a half cup of it without my precious brown sugar! I have green tea with every meal and dark chocolate as a treat. Egg white omelets are good when you add red peppers, onions, and just a smidge of cheese. Use cooking spray or a little olive oil in the pan.
*Breads, pastas,rice, and potatoes are a rare visitor, though we do eat whole wheat pastas once in awhile, sweet potatoes, and thinly sliced bread. It's considered a treat. With diabetes, you watch carbs, so we keep this in mind when meal planning.
You may be wondering, where is dessert in all of this? Truthfully, when you're eating a balanced meal with lots to digest, you don't crave that sugar high as much! I know. I'm a self-professed brownie hog, and I'm doing fine without it. If we want something sweet, we'll have fruit, frozen yogurt, or a half cup of ice cream. I also have a caramel truffle flavored tea...haven't tried that just yet. Dessert can also be a half cup or so of dry cereal, such as multi grain cheerios or cinnamon chex, 2 of my favorites. It gives the feeling of snacking, but not all the calories.
Another question we get is, "What about the kids?" Well, we've always believed that taking junk food away from your kids is not depriving them! They still get some snacks and ice cream, normal things kids like, but not in excess, which is the way it should be whether you diet or not. Our kids eat the way we do, only adding in the necessary carbs to help them grow up healthy. They are great eaters, and for that, I am so thankful!
Exercise has also been a big addition, and we've found it more fun when it's not "exercise". We walk around our "block", bike the rail trail, or swim in the pool. I have started doing water aerobics in the pool while Steve swims. It helps with my chronic back pain, and helps Steve to decompress after a stressful day! Thank God for that pool! I say it every day.
All of these changes have resulted in a good amount of weight loss, it's true, but more importantly, we feel better about our health in general and the habits we are instilling in our girls.
So how do we stick with it from here? Good question. Now that Steve is a diabetic, one thing I've started saying to people is this, "We're co-diabetics". Kind of like when we were done having children, I used to say, "We're both unable to have kids" instead of revealing which one "can't". Sharing the burden or responsibility for me gives me a great sense of teamwork, and the inspiration to keep going. Steve has no choice but to stay on the right track. So, neither do I! In marriage, you go through things AS ONE. It's our theory, and it works.
So, while I didn't share recipes here as intended (Sorry "A"), I guess I felt more compelled to share our "tricks". You don't have a monthly fee, and you don't have to weigh in!!
Cupcaked Out
On Wednesday I spent the day at my sister's house, decorating and preparing for her stepson Travis's open house. We spent 6 hours transforming the walk out basement into a beach! So fun! She also lives on a lake, so the actual beach was just steps away. It was a record hot day, but we had fun, sweating like pigs all the while. The girls were a huge help, making all of Travis's signs and helping wherever they were needed. All in all, it was a great girl day with my mom, sister, and daughters.
On Thursday, I started baking the 96 cupcakes for the beach party. Four flavors, 24 each. No big deal. Again, my daughters spent the day with me in the kitchen, chatting while I mixed up batch after batch, drooling over the luscious smell in the house.
On Friday, it was serious decorating day for these cupcakes. While my sister asked for a simple design: brightly colored with sprinkles, I had to put my own touch on it. I wanted them to really fit in with the party, so I planned 4 different beach designs, doing 6 of each flavor in each design. It actually went well, again, with help from my girls, who cut fruit stripe gum into surfboards, and decorated Teddy Grahams with bikinis and swim trunks. The girls suggested maybe some shark fins and missing legs, of course. So tempting for me, although I played it cool and all, "oh, we can't do that for the party" snicker snicker. I would do it in a heartbeat!!
The cupcakes took about 7 hours to decorate, then another hour cleaning up the kitchen. Long day!
On Saturday, those cupcakes made the ride over and to their place on the dessert table. Lori (sister) absolutely loved them! The place looked great, the food was nearly ready, and the teens were ready to party. It was a Mexican buffet, need I say more? We ate everything and had absolutely no guilt at all! That's a party. We had fun watching the teens play on the jet ski and just relaxing while the party went smoothly. Ahhhh....
The story ends with one problem. Most of those cute little cupcakes were not eaten! There were so many other yummy desserts (peanut butter cake, who can compete?), homemade ice cream sandwiches, candies, etc... that my cupcakes were just for looks in the end! I sort of jokingly said, "you'll know where we live, because there will be a trail of cupcakes from Farwell to our house!" It got a laugh, but I seriously considered that. Shocking, I know.
Oh well. They had the right effect, and sometimes that just has to be enough in the end.
Now we're on to celebrating my brother's 50th birthday on Monday. I gave a suggestion of everyone giving him 50 of something. Hmmm...cupcakes anyone??
On Thursday, I started baking the 96 cupcakes for the beach party. Four flavors, 24 each. No big deal. Again, my daughters spent the day with me in the kitchen, chatting while I mixed up batch after batch, drooling over the luscious smell in the house.
On Friday, it was serious decorating day for these cupcakes. While my sister asked for a simple design: brightly colored with sprinkles, I had to put my own touch on it. I wanted them to really fit in with the party, so I planned 4 different beach designs, doing 6 of each flavor in each design. It actually went well, again, with help from my girls, who cut fruit stripe gum into surfboards, and decorated Teddy Grahams with bikinis and swim trunks. The girls suggested maybe some shark fins and missing legs, of course. So tempting for me, although I played it cool and all, "oh, we can't do that for the party" snicker snicker. I would do it in a heartbeat!!
The cupcakes took about 7 hours to decorate, then another hour cleaning up the kitchen. Long day!
On Saturday, those cupcakes made the ride over and to their place on the dessert table. Lori (sister) absolutely loved them! The place looked great, the food was nearly ready, and the teens were ready to party. It was a Mexican buffet, need I say more? We ate everything and had absolutely no guilt at all! That's a party. We had fun watching the teens play on the jet ski and just relaxing while the party went smoothly. Ahhhh....
The story ends with one problem. Most of those cute little cupcakes were not eaten! There were so many other yummy desserts (peanut butter cake, who can compete?), homemade ice cream sandwiches, candies, etc... that my cupcakes were just for looks in the end! I sort of jokingly said, "you'll know where we live, because there will be a trail of cupcakes from Farwell to our house!" It got a laugh, but I seriously considered that. Shocking, I know.
Oh well. They had the right effect, and sometimes that just has to be enough in the end.
Now we're on to celebrating my brother's 50th birthday on Monday. I gave a suggestion of everyone giving him 50 of something. Hmmm...cupcakes anyone??
Monday, July 18, 2011
A Good Life
Hi! Yup, I'm still here, just taking a little time off lately. Not only that, but my computer connection has become my nemesis, taking nearly 25 minutes just to get to this point today. Not good. It certainly discourages me from blogging, web surfing, and email. It stirs my temper...just a bit. I'm trying to be patient....just for you, my friends. It's a stretch for this impatient girl.
We've been enjoying the pool so much these super hot days! The water has been very warm and inviting. So warm and inviting that we jumped back in at 9:30 last night. The girls told us they weren't coming in, so Steve and I got in alone. Next thing you know...here they come jumping in the pool. We turned on the crazy disco ball fountain light thing for a little extra party in the pool. Good stuff.
I've noticed it's been a more laid back summer for us this year, though we've had some busy times. A friend asked me, "what have you been doing this summer?" I paused, and it took me awhile to answer. I think it came out as something like, "just trying to enjoy it before it's over." Kind of a vague answer, but it's true!
We've spent a lot of time at home, which is fine for now. We've had several fires on the patio, sitting out there late into the night listening to the crickets, coyotes, birds, and the radio. Yes, the radio. We've picked berries and zucchini, and are anxiously awaiting the rest of the garden's gifts.
Last week I gave myself a scrapbook challenge and completed a page a day, plus three purse-shaped chipboard books for my girls and a friend of Serena's. After each project, I texted a photo of it to my friend Patty, who gave me lots of feedback. She then began texting her layouts back, so it actually felt like I had someone to scrap with for a change! It was fun getting my supplies back out and creating in my own little mess. I caught up on some of my DVR events, and did a little laundry. Nothing earth-shattering, but it's my little corner of heaven.
The diet is going well and I've lost 23 pounds as of this writing. After learning that Steve is a diabetic (runs in the family), he has lost over 30 pounds so far! The most important thing is that his sugar is now normal and hopefully he will not need insulin. We have been able to keep each other motivated and have been cooking many new things using lots of fresh veggies. Maybe I'll share about that later on.
So, that's about it for this good life of mine. While we all have negative things we could share, none of those things will make you feel any better, so why not think about the good things in life a little more often? Well, except for my internet connection, of course.
I hope you're having a good summer and an even better life!!
We've been enjoying the pool so much these super hot days! The water has been very warm and inviting. So warm and inviting that we jumped back in at 9:30 last night. The girls told us they weren't coming in, so Steve and I got in alone. Next thing you know...here they come jumping in the pool. We turned on the crazy disco ball fountain light thing for a little extra party in the pool. Good stuff.
I've noticed it's been a more laid back summer for us this year, though we've had some busy times. A friend asked me, "what have you been doing this summer?" I paused, and it took me awhile to answer. I think it came out as something like, "just trying to enjoy it before it's over." Kind of a vague answer, but it's true!
We've spent a lot of time at home, which is fine for now. We've had several fires on the patio, sitting out there late into the night listening to the crickets, coyotes, birds, and the radio. Yes, the radio. We've picked berries and zucchini, and are anxiously awaiting the rest of the garden's gifts.
Last week I gave myself a scrapbook challenge and completed a page a day, plus three purse-shaped chipboard books for my girls and a friend of Serena's. After each project, I texted a photo of it to my friend Patty, who gave me lots of feedback. She then began texting her layouts back, so it actually felt like I had someone to scrap with for a change! It was fun getting my supplies back out and creating in my own little mess. I caught up on some of my DVR events, and did a little laundry. Nothing earth-shattering, but it's my little corner of heaven.
The diet is going well and I've lost 23 pounds as of this writing. After learning that Steve is a diabetic (runs in the family), he has lost over 30 pounds so far! The most important thing is that his sugar is now normal and hopefully he will not need insulin. We have been able to keep each other motivated and have been cooking many new things using lots of fresh veggies. Maybe I'll share about that later on.
So, that's about it for this good life of mine. While we all have negative things we could share, none of those things will make you feel any better, so why not think about the good things in life a little more often? Well, except for my internet connection, of course.
I hope you're having a good summer and an even better life!!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Summertime...and the living is busy
Have you missed me? Well, that's okay if you didn't! I hope it means you're enjoying your summer instead of being on your computer (or phone)too much. I can't say I've missed blogging, because I just enjoyed having Steve home for a week! Although it was not the best time for us to try to get away, we did the old familiar "staycay", as annoying as the word is. Since putting in the pool, we feel like we're already on vacation whenever we step out onto the deck. We still have some finishing to do to make it safe for others to swim. The composite decking we are putting in is causing some grief, so at the time, the girls are "walking the plank" to get in the pool. Hopefully that is temporary! We are really anxious to share our pool with family and friends!
We attended my nephew's wedding on Saturday. He married his longtime high school sweetheart, another "Jamie", although with an "e" at the end of her name, unlike mine! Anytime there is a family gathering of exes, steps, and etcetera, it's a bit stressful, but things seemed to stay pretty neutral. For that I'm happy....so tired of drama! Not sure I want to share much here, but I did approach my "long lost" brother at the reception. I hadn't seen him since 1994 when I married Steve. Long story short, we shared a hello, a few details of our lives, and I encouraged him to "not be a stranger". We'll see.....like I said, not much I want to share at this time. I've stopped getting my hopes up based on past results.
Now you're saying, "That's so weird...dysfunctional....odd...sad...etc..", but these types of family situations have been my "normal" since I could walk. I don't know what "normal" is as it pertains to family. All I know is that my girls will not have the same fate as me! The cycle stops right here in our home. While I came from dysfunction, dysfunction is NOT who I am!! Sometimes I feel that way, but I know it's just a feeling and not the truth. I won't be wearing that badge anytime soon.
We are planning some getaways, and will hopefully be able to enjoy them. It seems our summer gets really planned out before we can plan our own fun. Between open houses, weddings, and some business travel, I never know when we will get away! I have become VERY protective of our weekends, trying to leave opportunities open. Some of our best trips have been impulsive, unplanned ones. Maybe because hubby sometimes needs some convincing to put the saw, lawnmower, hammer down!! :)Life is so short when you're 41, ya know?? I'm halfway done already!
With the girls getting older, I sometimes feel this frenetic need to go all the places we want to go before they don't want to go anymore! It's a crazy feeling I never had when they were little. It's like I'm trying to cram it all in. Ugh...so not fun. Maybe it's my desperate need to stop time. Yeah, I'm going with that one.
So, before time gets away from you, go have some fun. Sure, fulfill all your summer obligations (reunions...ugh..sorry, but ugh..), but make time for your family, whoever that is!
Happy Summer!
We attended my nephew's wedding on Saturday. He married his longtime high school sweetheart, another "Jamie", although with an "e" at the end of her name, unlike mine! Anytime there is a family gathering of exes, steps, and etcetera, it's a bit stressful, but things seemed to stay pretty neutral. For that I'm happy....so tired of drama! Not sure I want to share much here, but I did approach my "long lost" brother at the reception. I hadn't seen him since 1994 when I married Steve. Long story short, we shared a hello, a few details of our lives, and I encouraged him to "not be a stranger". We'll see.....like I said, not much I want to share at this time. I've stopped getting my hopes up based on past results.
Now you're saying, "That's so weird...dysfunctional....odd...sad...etc..", but these types of family situations have been my "normal" since I could walk. I don't know what "normal" is as it pertains to family. All I know is that my girls will not have the same fate as me! The cycle stops right here in our home. While I came from dysfunction, dysfunction is NOT who I am!! Sometimes I feel that way, but I know it's just a feeling and not the truth. I won't be wearing that badge anytime soon.
We are planning some getaways, and will hopefully be able to enjoy them. It seems our summer gets really planned out before we can plan our own fun. Between open houses, weddings, and some business travel, I never know when we will get away! I have become VERY protective of our weekends, trying to leave opportunities open. Some of our best trips have been impulsive, unplanned ones. Maybe because hubby sometimes needs some convincing to put the saw, lawnmower, hammer down!! :)Life is so short when you're 41, ya know?? I'm halfway done already!
With the girls getting older, I sometimes feel this frenetic need to go all the places we want to go before they don't want to go anymore! It's a crazy feeling I never had when they were little. It's like I'm trying to cram it all in. Ugh...so not fun. Maybe it's my desperate need to stop time. Yeah, I'm going with that one.
So, before time gets away from you, go have some fun. Sure, fulfill all your summer obligations (reunions...ugh..sorry, but ugh..), but make time for your family, whoever that is!
Happy Summer!