Here we go again.....

A different direction

2011-09-03T14:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm heading a different direction with my eating plan...I don't want to divulge the details until I see how successful I am! I am cutting out as much sugar and carbs as possible though, although not completely cutting them out. I have been successful in losing some weight in the last six weeks since Family Camp, so I'm still doing well, just looking to ramp it up while also finding an eating plan that I can live with.

So, my starting point: 144.4 pounds, 30% body fat

The body fat part bothers me more than the weight. In all other aspects, I'm 100% healthy as a horse. I'll let you know!

Day 2 underway

2011-07-27T15:24:00.000-07:00

I weighed in at 147.8 this morning, yay! I'm on Day 2 of the anti-bloat jumpstart of the Flat Belly Diet. I stuck to the plan yesterday, with the exception of coffee in the morning. I have to have coffee in the morning in order to avoid the caffeine withdrawls from not having soda throughout the day. I also worked out yesterday for the first time in a long, long time. I didn't do much, but I did do some weights and I walked and jogged one and a half miles. So far so good!

Down 4 pounds

2011-07-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

This week I've lost 4 pounds. I know that a lot of it is due to increasing my water intake and decreasing my caffeine and eating I did at camp, but I'm still happy about it! So, I'm at 148 today, which is definitely progress in the right direction. It's a relief to be under 150, actually. On Monday, Andy and I will start the Flat Belly Diet again, and I'll also start working out again. I'm looking forward to the benefits of working out, but to be honest, I'm really dreading actually doing it. Still, I just need to keep the end goal in mind!

Yes, it is that bad

2011-07-19T16:20:00.000-07:00

I've been kidding myself for the past year that my weight isn't that bad. Really, in the overall scheme of things, I'm not that overweight. Andy and I lost some weight around the holidays, because he had finally been put on meds for his high blood pressure. That was great for a couple of months, and then I got busy and didn't have time for meal planning, shopping, and cooking. So, I gained all the weight back of course. Still, I told myself it wasn't that big of a deal, I'm still not THAT big. Last week, the whole family spent the week up at Family Camp in Idyllwild. At the end of the week, the director showed a slideshow of the pictures he took of people throughout the week. After seeing myself in three or four pictures (do I really look like that from the side?), I was a little disgusted with myself. I decided I can't kid myself anymore, and I don't want to lie to myself anymore. I don't want to set unrealistic goals, I don't want to be a waif, and I don't want to obsess over food. Still, I have to do something. I'm going to restart the Flat Belly Diet, which is what I did in the winter. Of the different eating plans or diets I've done, this is my favorite by far. Now that our move is over, I'm also going to start working out again (we live closer to a nicer gym type facility). I'm going to take my measurements again as soon as I unpack whatever box my tape is in, but my weight today is 151, and I'm a size 8, fitting a little snugly. I'm putting that out there to share with you all, I hope that you are having much more success than I have been!

Down 3 lbs!!

2010-08-19T18:19:00.000-07:00

This morning I weighed myself and found that I had lost 3 lbs in 3 days. Yipee!!

Today I am way under my calories, but not too hungry. I get hungry, but it doesn't take much for me to feel full again. I made myself celery sticks with peanut butter and I was full after 1 and a half sticks. Made a healthy dinner and hated it, so after a few bites I quit eating it and warmed up meatballs from last night. At this point I am only at about 805 calories. I am way behind in my water for today. Only one glass. Need to do better tomorrow.

Wished that someone was doing this with me. :<( Oh well. At least I have it for myself to look back on. I am hoping to make my original goal from the beginning of the year of 10 lbs in 3 weeks.

2010-08-18T22:35:00.001-07:00

It's late and I 'm tired so gonna keep it brief. Still doing good. About 1130 Calories today.

Doing good!

2010-08-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

So, last night I did end up having some popcorn before bed and that added a whopping 60 calories to my final number putting me at 1076.

Today I ended at around 850. I know that is not enough, but I feel full. Eggs and oj for breakfast. Some cheese, wheat thins and an apple for lunch. Not sure on the wheat thins numbers, but since I am way under, I figure that I am still in the right range. I had a quarter cup of trail mix that I had sitting in a bowl so I would just grab a little pinch when i felt a craving coming on. No, I did not pick out the M&M's, to eat or avoid. :>) Dinner was a half of a tostada salad and I didn't eat any shell. We had dinner out with our community group, so I am happy that I made a healthy choice. I had to hold two cheese pizzas on my lap for the kids and then serve them up and, OHHH, they looked so good.

Gotta get the kids to bed. Two full days down and the worst I did was maybe about 10 m&Ms. Not sure about the wheat thins. need to look that up...

Back at it...again

2010-08-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

I haven't fallen asleep yet, so I can't say this with all certainty, but I made it through the day on the prism diet. I got through the store checking labels and putting lots of stuff back. I endured kids eating donut holes and resisted the cocoa puffs that are in the pantry. It got really hard around 6:00, but I am done eating for the day and logged 1016 calories and 4-5 glasses of water (lost count). I will take another one with me to bed. I still have a little time before bed, but I am pretty cure I can make it.

I have started this time around at 150 lbs. Looking back on an old food journal shows that I was at 146 lbs last August, so at least I haven't gained too much more. I am fatter though. I have lost all my muscle and put fat in it's place.

Hope and pray I can keep this up and get back to the weight I was a few years ago. I got down to 126 lbs. We'll see...

Gym Rat

2010-01-22T15:57:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to eat better since Tuesday. I haven't been perfect, but I have been watching calories and have cut back a lot on things. I would love to have a perfect week of eating. I'm sure I would see some weight lose then. I go to the gym about 4 times a week and am there anywhere from 45 min to 2 hours. I usually have about 45 minutes of cardio and the rest is a strength training class like yoga, pilates, muscle pump, etc... Today I had a private pilates class! I was the only one who showed up, so that was fun.

Off to go make turkey for dinner. Take care!

No running

2010-01-22T14:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm glad I went to the gym on Sunday, because it's the only day this week I've been able to go. I probably could have gone on Monday or Tuesday, but other tasks were calling to me. Since Tuesday it's been alternately snowing and raining and it's been a total mess. Since yesterday afternoon, it's been snow. We're at about three feet now of snow, and it's not supposed to stop until tomorrow morning. Woohoo! So, I haven't been able to do any running, but I have shoveled my driveway and decks for four days in a row now. Not quite the same cardio workout, but I think it definitely counts as some weightlifting! My arms are rubber and my stomach is killing me, but it has to be done. My husband wasn't able to come home Wednesday night, but he made it yesterday. He's been working overtime delivering sand to the local firestations so that people can get sandbags during all these flash floods we're having. I miss him, but I'm proud of him :) Exercise and nutrition can take a backseat for a week.

Beautiflul day!

2010-01-18T12:53:00.000-08:00

Hey there, It is such a beautiful day out today! I went to the gym and took the yoga class and then Matt and I took the kids for a run/walk. The big kids rode bikes and Nate was in the jog stroller. Matt and I mostly walked. I ran a bit, but it is so much harder on pavement. I had better do a little bit more of that. I need to start the 5K challenge. All in all we did 3.6 miles in about 55 minutes, so not too bad.

Food is still a big issue. I went to the store yesterday and in the checkout line there was a special of ding dongs...buy one get one free. Of course they ended up in my cart and the first box of 12 are already gone. The kids had 3 total. Guess who ate the remaining 9? Example...Jennie gets up, makes pancakes and eggs for everyone to eat but has a ding dong for herself. She then goes to yoga class, walks 3.6 miles and then comes home and...eats another ding dong. Gee...how come I don't see any changes??? It's so frustrating. The other food I am eating is pretty good, it's the additional bad stuff that is the problem.

Hope you all are doing better then me. I need to get the journal out. Maybe that will help. Gonna take a shower. Bye!

Rain, rain...

2010-01-18T09:38:00.000-08:00

I know, all of you in Washington are thinking "yeah, so?" We're suppposed to get anywhere between 10 inches of rain to 10 feet of snow this week, so I'm not sure how much running I'm going to be able to get in this week. Today it's just rain, so for that I'm thankful. I'm also thankful I don't live in a burn area for the first time in several years.

Yesterday I ran week 3, day 1 of c25k, and made plans with two friends to run a 5k in April. I found a run close to home, and it benefits a local Search and Rescue team who gets 50% of their funding from the event. I honestly haven't weighed myself in about two weeks, but judging by looking at my body, I could be doing better! The eating is the downfall, as it is for all of us. I'm good about cooking almost every night, it's a matter of what I'm cooking and how much butter is in it. It's an area I need to keep improving!

Since it's only raining today, I'll probably try to get to the gym again before snow hits. Good luck everyone!

I did it!

2010-01-15T19:56:00.000-08:00

Well, I didn't get to try to run the other day because I forgot my music and i new that I would need it to do any length of a run. Of course, it turned out I had the music all along. I just didn't look in all the right spots! I did bike 6 miles (about 30 Minutes), so I got some cardio in.

Today I made the whole 3.1 miles in 42 min. I only had to walk for a little two different times. Once at .83 and started running again at 1 mile and then again at 1.78 and then started running for the remainder of the time. I finished off with a sprint!

Afterwards I took the pilates course. I felt so bad for the people around me. I smelled so bad from the running! I don't usually smell like that! Yikes! So embarrassing. Anyway, I dripped sweat for just under 2 hours and then of course I came home and ruined it all (like always) by eating absolutley horribly! I bet I wold be down at least 5 lbs by now if I was eating healthy. It's so hard. I have cut back on the fast food a lot, so now I need to get the junk out of the house. I went to the store after the gym yesterday and got frozen pizzas, trail mix (the yummy kind!), raisenettes and other bad, yummy stuff.

OK. i gotta go. the kids call...

update

2010-01-12T21:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm still doing good at going to the gym. Not doing so good with the eating. I need to make more of an effort in that department. I actually might see results if I ate better! Tomorrow I am going to try to run/walk a whole 3.1 miles at the gym. My goal is just to finish it.

That's all folks!

Kind of on the wagon

2010-01-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

It's been quiet on here! I am still trying to eat well. I have not been doing as good as I would like. I have been consistent with the gym. I took the weekend off and will be back tomorrow. I went four times last week. I haven't weighed myself yet, but will try to do so tomorrow. I have put it off because I haven't been eating as healthy as I should be. I am trying, though. Oatmeal for breakfast. Getting used to it. Snacked on carrots this afternoon. I did bake brownies for company yesterday and ate WAY too many. Bad, bad, bad. That's about all of my news for now.

I should go and help put kids to bed. Adios!!

Little setback??

2010-01-06T19:46:00.000-08:00

So, Matt and I have a video to watch tonight and I am hungry and I might have sort of kind of asked him to go get blizzards. Hmmm... that's ok, right? For the last three nights I have been eating oranges or celery with peanut butter or fat free popcorn as a night snack, so I don't feel horrible about it, but maybe a little guilty. I am planning on going to the gym in the morning for a muscle pump class and some treadmill. Another hurdle will be running errands tomorrow. I will be gone all day and lunch time might be a problem. I will let you know how I do. Goodnight!

Still going strong

2010-01-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

It's Wednesday and I am on day 4. Still doing pretty good. Taking a break from the gym today and will be back in there tomorrow. I haven't had fast food since Saturday and for me, this is a huge accomplishment! I did meet Matt for breakfast this morning, but since I am not a big breakfast person, I didn't eat much. Not much else is new, I guess. Anyone else out there?

Day three

2010-01-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

Today is day three of healthier eating and exercise. I have been eating a lot of fruits and veggies and running or taking classes at the gym. My whole body is hurting, but it will be worth it if I can see results. My problem is that I want to see instant results and get frustrated and want to quit right away. I will weigh myself at the end of the week and hopefully will get a lower number. More important than my weight is how I feel in my own skin. That's about it. Hope to hear from others out there as well.

Back on track, maybe

2009-12-22T22:06:00.001-08:00

I haven't redone my measurements since September, but thanks to Wii Fit, I do at least know how much I weigh (we do not own a scale). I hover between 132 and 134, so I'm at least lower, but not quite where I want to be yet. I do know that as I get closer, I keep feeling tempted to move my goal. I'd really like to be 120, but I think 125 would be ok. It really depends on the muscles and how I look. I have these fantasies of what I'd love to look like, but I'm not really sure how realistic it is. Not because I can't lose weight, but because of my bone and muscle structure. I'm not one of those skinny girls who has really little bones and gets really tiny. Even when I was thin and in great shape when I was younger, I never looked like that. I've always had meat on my bones and I build muscle mass easily. I think I need to find some pictures of some more healthy women who are a little more built for me to set my sights on, rather than the annoying bombardment of models in all the cute clothes that look horrible on me.

At any rate, Andy and I are headed back to the gym tomorrow morning. It's been about two months since I last went, and when I did, it was the first time I'd run a continuous mile without walking or stopping since I was in high school. I'd like to keep that momentum going, and maybe down the road even participate in some kind of 5K run or half marathon and actually run it. I said maybe. Maybe I'm just still on the high from watching The Biggest Loser.

Anyway, that's where I'm at. I'm not going to go crazy, because when I do, I do worse than when I just take a more laid back approach. So, step one, go back to the gym. When weather gets warmer (ie, May), I plan on taking the two older kids jogging with me several times a week to build up their stamina for soccer next year. That's the plan, and I'd love to hear how others are doing!

HELP!!

2009-11-17T14:42:00.000-08:00

I don't know about the rest of you, but I tried to get kind of dressed up last night and ended up with my whole closet in a pile on the floor because NOTHING FIT!!! I have got to do something, but I have no willpower! We are close to having the kitchen done, so I am going to try again. I think I am going to try to cut the sugar...again. Starting tomorrow, I will be on a new track and I will let you know how it goes. I will update my weight, too. I'm sure it has gone up. This is ridiculous! How did I do it before? I swore then, that I would never let myself get out of control again, and here I am...out of control!!! Just about all of the good junk food is gone (off the shelves and on my stomach) so I am going to try again. Wish me luck!

Are we done?

2009-09-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

I'm wondering if we're supposed to be posting "after" pictures now, or if we're continuing, or...?

Anyone, anyone, anyone...

Last week I only got to the gym one day, and the rest of the week was incredibly busy and stressful. On the upside, I got a new job. The downside of that of course is that my time is much more limited now because I have to start my training. I'm still going to try to fit in going to the gym and cooking a good dinner, but that's always a struggle with working, kids' school, kids' soccer, etc.

I did lose some weight over the past few weeks and I've seen some minor changes in my stomach and my legs, but I haven't taken any measurements yet. Let me know when to post my stats! I'm anxious to see how everyone else did too!

Doing better

2009-09-10T11:37:00.000-07:00

I've been getting back to the gym a little more regularly after my week off, and my eating has gotten back on track. I'm not being very restrictive, but I make sure that I cook healthy dinners and I'm not eating any fried food or fast food. I've been averaging burning about 330 calories per trip to the gym, so I know that's helping!

I hope you all are doing well! So far today I've eaten a bowl of corn flakes with some milk, a cup of coffee, some water, cream of potato soup and a small turkey sandwich with a Diet Coke for lunch. I even went to Costco yesterday and I didn't eat ANY of the free samples!!!

OK, where'd everyone go???

2009-09-10T08:37:00.000-07:00

I know that i am guilty also but, where the heck did everyone run off to?? is there anyone out there anymore?? i need to run alex up to the bus stop but believe me when i say... I WILL BE BACK!!

A little psychology and a lot of excuses

2009-09-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, so, it would seem that merely the knowledge that I CAN'T have something makes me want it all the more. I made it about three days before I full on rebelled. I started with a little cheating, then just went "forget it." I had some big time PMS this week which didn't help, and then yesterday I woke up feeling the beginnings of a bladder infection. I'm ok now, successfully fought off and all that, but I obviously wasn't going to the gym feeling like that. I've been eating better for the last few weeks and have been going to the gym. I had lost a couple of pounds by doing that, and I've been binging more since trying to diet than I did before I started. So, I'm out with the diet. However, I am still all about being more conscious of what I'm eating and the quantity I'm eating. I'm also all about getting back into the gym every day next week. I haven't given up on trying to lose weight or get healthier, just changing the way in which I'm trying to accomplish these goals. I cannot live without bread or soda, so there it is. Today I even had two slices of pizza and half of a doughnut, but we were also painting the church all day, so I cut myself some slack! I'll still keep you all updated as to what I'm eating, but it's probably going to be a lot worse than what all of you are eating :)

Day 5

2009-09-04T20:24:00.001-07:00

Well, I did pretty good today except for the stupid kid cookies. I thought I bought the nasty generic kind, but walmarts generic kind are pretty darn good!

oatmeal ~ 160
chili ~ ?? can't remember, but it wasn't bad. I had it figured out before, but the papers are packed with my kitchen stuff.
flat iron steak? don't know that either. Matt threw the wrapper away before I looked at the info.
too many cookies!!

I am not doing so hot. I hope the rest of you are doing better than me!

Have a great weekend.

Day 5's food journal

2009-09-04T15:53:00.000-07:00

Woke up in a total binge mood but managed to maintain some control over myself....

120 - kids cliff bar - cant seem to stay away from these :(
170 - 1 oz pistachios
60 - 1/2 oz beef jerky
70 - white chocolate lindt ball
0 - 32 oz diet coke
105 - 3 laughing cow cheese
130 - 14 rice crackers

I'll add the rest of my day later and total up those calories. Right now there is 180 calories in the form of a kilt lifter calling my name!

180 - kilt lifter
1/2 jerky
1/2 oz almonds
2 slices of pizza
120 - another of those cliff bars

7 mi walk through town and back (Garin checked his GPS, not 8 miles although my blisters say otherwise). Will total calories later but it aint gonna be pretty.

Wanting to snack.

2009-09-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

It's 2:15 on day 5 and I want to snack! I haven't blown it yet. I have had some of my pre portioned trail mix which isn't great because of the M&M's but that is all. I will write out the calories later. No gym today due to ankle owie. Too much running. Won't be able to hit the gym again until Monday.

Bye!

where has everyone been??

2009-09-04T11:44:00.001-07:00

good afternoon ladies! where is my support?? where has everyone gone?? i posted pic's w/ not getting even one comment!! sniff sniff.... maybe everyone left already for the long weekend?? going slow today (even with the sun shinning bright!) had my smoothie for breakfast and getting ready to figure out what to have for lunch... check in ltr!

before pics of Erica - blech! come on after pics!!

2009-09-03T19:39:00.002-07:00

Oops...

2009-09-03T19:39:00.001-07:00

OK, I totally blew it tonight. I have been so frustrated and bloated, that tonight I figured, "what the heck" and went and had breadsticks at target. I was full after two of the three, but did I stop? NO! Bad Jennie!! I even had a couple of kid cookies. I was doing so well today!! I even got Nate a happy meal and didn't even steal a fry!

Here's the run down:

1/2 packet of oatmeal (couldn't finish the whole bowl) ~ 80
balance bar after gym ~ 210
1 sugar free hard candy ~ 10
turkey sandwich ~ 200 (had a whole. should have just had a half)
2 kid cookies ~ 120 (WOW!!!! the little generic brand oreo type)
breadsticks ~ 140...each!!! AURGH!!! total ~ 480!!! Oh my...
2 or 3 more cookies as I walked by the table...oops. let's just say ~ 200

Grand total about 13oo calories. At least a burned a couple hundred off at the gym.

It's frustrating to feel like you are working so hard and not feel any results. Looking back to my food journal from February 23rd, I was 12 pounds lighter. Two days after starting, I was down two pounds and even wrote down that I felt skinnier already because the bloated feeling was gone from drinking pop. I think that is why I'm so discouraged this time. I feel just as huge and bloated.

Well, as Scarlett used to say...tomorrow is another day.

I hope you all had a better day than I did. Where are all the posts? It's so quiet!

Day four!!!

2009-09-03T19:16:00.000-07:00

Good evening ladies!

So i started the day off on another good note with a smoothie, hard boiled egg and coffee...

Jennie, thanks for coming over and taking pic's of me (even though i wasn't that happy with the way they turned out!!) I will get those posted as soon as i am done typing this! after jennie left for home, i ran up to grocery outlet and picked up some frozen fruit and craisins

I don't remember what i had for lunch but i am sure it consisted of a salad and other greens... :P

We had Alex's open house at school so I had another salad....

I don't think i have eaten enough because my head is pounding right now... i need sugar!!!

have a good evening!
Erica

Ugh! Day 4

2009-09-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

Guilty of late night snacking again last night. So, just for the record, add a childrens cliff bar and 1/2 oz of pistachios.

Today
0 - 64 oz DC - (I had an anxious day between job interview & dr's appt and DC is my vice)
120 - Lara Bar
70 - 1 oz original jerky
330 - 1 fajita pita
180 - kilt lifter

It's 5:00 now so the rest of my calories are yet to be determined
************************************************************
170 - 1 oz pistachios (I wish we'd hurry up and run out of those)
240 - protein bar
0 - 32 oz water

a 4.2 mile walk through Ferndale.

If I can get myself to stop eating tonight that puts me at 1110 for the day!

One more good note:
The doctors scale says Ive lost 4lbs since last week! That's not 4 lbs in 4 days, just 4 lbs since I was at the doctors last.

9 days until my three hour intro to vinyasa yoga class.

Time Magazine Article

2009-09-02T20:29:00.000-07:00

An article from Time Magazine: Why Exercise Wont Make you Thin

So day 3 was ok

2009-09-02T18:48:00.000-07:00

Still have a killer headache and am starting to think it's not the lack of caffeine. Maybe reducing my soda intake has left me needing more water? Duh, ya think? Will try to remedy it tomorrow though.

0 - 32 oz DC
210 -Lara Bar
30 - Carrot
190 - Chilli
120 - Cliff bar
500 - whole grain spaghetti noodles 5 oz
80 - sauce 1/2 cup
160 - meatballs-6
0 - 32 oz water

Total 1290...if I added right

Bad News
Somehow had a total brain fart on the spaghetti noodles. Had it in my head that I needed to measure out 5 oz? What was I thinking? No wonder it felt like such a gut bomb by time I was finished.
Good News
The pasta was whole grain and I got some water in today

....and that's all she wrote

No More Dairy

2009-09-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

I think I need to knock off the dairy, also. I have been using milk with my cereal and I feel so fat and bloated. I don't feel any better at all and I usually notice improvement by now when I am heating healthy. I usually don't have any milk, so I am hoping that is what is going on. It would be nice to feel better after so much exercise and healthy eating!

Finally Home...

2009-09-02T16:03:00.001-07:00

Busy day. Feels like they are all like that.

Got the kids to the bus by 7:30 and got back home to get ready for the gym and get Nathaniel ready. Loaded up the groceries and headed out after a bowl of cereal...again. :(- Ran for 30 minutes and did some weights, got a berry smoothie and headed to my parents. Oh, I also turned into McDonalds on accident. It was total auto pilot. I pulled in to the Fred Meyer lot to get gas and the next thing I new I was pulling into the drive through lane. I had to do some quick maneuvering to get my truck out of there and went to get the gas. Too funny!

Made chili, boiled eggs, did dishes that I brought from my bathtub, made little 160 calorie snack bags of trail mix (to avoid over eating) and watched 17 again while the baby napped. Had a bowl of chili and some trail mix (I know, not good, but not McDonalds!!) and loaded back up to get the kids from the bus. Now I need to get some things put away and get my kids to work on handwriting.

Hope you are all having a good day! I am going to have tuna for dinner...I think. My planning ahead never really works. :)

1st 1/2 of Day 3

2009-09-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

Last night ended horrible. Garin & I watched TV with an entire bag of pistachios and I'm sure I ate more than an ounce. So, add another 170 to yesterday. I hate late night snacking!

Today, so far so good. Lara Bar(210) & wendy's chilli (190) and of course my daily DC!

Bought a new bottle of essential oils for my smoothies and a book from Costco called The end of Over Eating. I find if I read health related articles while dieting I do better. Keeps me focused I guess. I'll let you know if it's any good :)

day three... the hardest so far!

2009-09-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

Good morning ladies! i think today is going to be the hardest day so far... my tummy is extra growly today wanting more bad than good - i need some extra encouragement from you ladies~ i can do this, it will be worth it in the end...i will look better in my clothes... i am beautiful...

thanks! it's just going to be hard today, i can already tell!

No oatmeal :(

2009-09-02T08:07:00.001-07:00

I went to go make oatmeal and I can' t even do that! I don't have any bowls that I can use for the microwave! Bake to cereal again. I really wanted oatmeal. So frustrating. It's hard to eat healthy with no kitchen.

End of day two....

2009-09-01T21:34:00.000-07:00

Good evening ladies, I survived day two of seriously cutting back and watching what i am stuffing in my face! I SURVIVED!!! WHOOO HOO HOOOOOOOOO!!!

Alex went for a walk with me (he rode his bike) and believe it or not, it felt great! I was supposed to walk w/ a neighbor this evening but she had a migraine. We plan to meet tomorrow afternoon to make up for today. For dinner i split a chicken breast with Alex and paired it w/ asparagus. it was really yummy! drank milk w/ dinner.

For a little treat to pass the time while watching the tube, I had raw almonds w/ craisins again while Rick popped popcorn-i hate him for doing that to me! he told me he was doing it for me! yeah right! he gave me the old maids to make up for it ( my fav ) so he is forgiven!

I came up here early to get some extra sleep so i better get to bed!
Thanks again everyone!
Erica

Day 2 totals

2009-09-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

Just so I'm keeping track there was 590 from this morning plus 175 (beer) + 100 (veggies) + 130 (Honey Mustard) + 35 (rice cake) + (100) Tuna w/ miracle whip

So that's 1130 for day 2

I think on PRISM women needed at least 1000 calories and no more than 1200 calories

Day two for Chris

2009-09-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

I did ok today, not quite as well as yesterday, but I was losing some motivation. I didn't make it to the gym today and I ate a little more "off-limits" stuff than I should have, but I had cramps and general ickiness feeling. You figure out why.

Breakfast consisted of oatmeal and coffee, then I had a turkey sandwich on wheat bread (I'm sorry, I had to do some bread. VERY limited food in the pantry and a very hungry Chris) and some leftover rice from last night, and a Diet Coke. Later for a snack I had a couple of crackers (low calorie and fat) and some carrots, as well as another Diet Coke. I had some water during Dono's soccer practice, then came home and made teriyaki stir fry with beef, green pepper, green onion, garlic, and some rice. I then two more Diet Cokes, sorry, followed by two chocolate chip cookies. All in all, not as good as yesterday, but I still feel pretty good about how I'm doing. I didn't drink as much water as usual, and had more soda, so I'll try to cut out that fourth Diet Coke again tomorrow and do more water. The soda and the bread are the hardest things for me to cut out.

On the upside, I got some money I was waiting for today so that I can actually buy a full amount of groceries for the house instead of the absolute bare minimum! Tomorrow I'm going to make a list and pick up some healthier options for snacking and desserts, since those are my biggest vices. Sounds like we're all off to a pretty good start!

Day Two Update

2009-09-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

Here is what I had today:

cereal ~ 230
1/2 turkey sandwhich (I know, I had bread, but I had to eat and I have no kitchen! I buy the Sara Lee 45 calories per slice) ~ 75
carrots ~ 30
baked potato ~ 270
balance bar ~ 210
water

I think that is all. I can't remember anything else. I'm trying to keep a journal, but it is downstairs and I'm not getting up. :)

Tomorrow I am hitting the gym and then going to my parents house to make chili and boil eggs. I love to snack on hard boiled eggs, but I don't like the yolk. I save it for Matt to have on salads.

Good luck everyone!

Calories

2009-09-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

I just read some of your posts....is there a calorie limit?

I need some more suggestions for breakfast foods! The original flavored instant oatmeal is approaching its limit...two days in a row is plenty! I know that some of you are making smoothies out of fruit....so is it okay to have fruit even with the natural sugar?

missing kidney

2009-09-01T18:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, didnt have the beer & carrots last night.

So today I went for the jerky again with my DC around 11:00 (250). Bag of baked lays with another 16oz of DC around 4:00 (120). Lara Bar around 6:00 (220) and most likely tuna on a rice cake for dinner with broccoli & carrots and maybe some more pistachios just cause I have them around and need more calories. Would like to get better at drinking water, having a healthier variety, exercise and vitamins but all in all not bad for day 2. Haven't been that hungry but the caffeine headaches are kill'n me! Pretty sad when going down to 32oz's a day is cutting back :)

On a better note I purchased a lindt white chocolate ball out of habit and managed to not only NOT eat it but I gave it away so I wouldn't be tempted later. Just so those of you who don't know me as well as Jennie understand, this is equivalent to giving away a kidney.

End of day one and doing good on day two so far!!

2009-09-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

For lunch yesterday I had a small tuna salad with balsamic vinegar. (YUMMO) For snack i had craisins and almonds. I ended yesterday on a great note with ONE chicken/black bean burrito with salsa and cheese. The hardest part of this is saying no to "treats" in the evening!!

So I started the day well again (very proud of myself!) with a fruit smoothie and coffee... woke up VERY hungry so I ate it willingly!

I was low on fruits and other things so I made a run to Fred Meyer to stock up a little bit - came home with banana's, plouts, strawberries and protein powder for my smoothies. picked up some chicken breasts and salad/spinach/carrots and broccoli

For lunch today i had another tuna salad minus the balsamic vinegar. the vinegar was a little overwhelming!!

Dinner is the hardest to plan for me! I can only do so much chicken!!

Jennie, if you want to come measure me Thursday that would be great!! morning works best for me!

Thank you for all of your positive posts! It is very helpful to know that there are others out there struggling like I am, that there are others kicking themselves for letting themselves get to this place yet again!!!

HUNGRY!!!

2009-09-01T13:03:00.001-07:00

I want to snack on something so badly!!! Maybe I'll break out the olives.

2nd 1/2 of day 1

2009-08-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

100 in misc calories + 220 Lara Bar + 170 pitascios + another 16 oz diet coke + the rest of my jerky 160 + the 340 from this morning puts me at 990 for the day.

"Well aint that sweet!", she says with a southern twang. I can have a beer with my carrots and still be under 1200.

Cheers

Didn't do too bad, considering...

2009-08-31T20:18:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I cheated a little this evening, but for me I did really well! This morning I had oatmeal and coffee with NO sugar, then I made myself a banana, blueberry, and rasberry smoothie. Just fruit and ice. I had soup and a Diet Coke for lunch, then pork chops, brown rice, corn, and a salad with Italian dressing for dinner, plus another Diet Coke. I indulged in one beer (friends brought them and I just didn't have the willpower!), and one small chocolate chip cookie. I drank my water throughout the day though, and I did the treadmill for 50 minutes this morning (high incline, 3.5 mph). So, I wasn't perfect, but I think that all in all, it was a good day!

I'm better now

2009-08-31T19:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the dismal post earlier today. I was a wreck. I am still tired, but know it just a normal, end of day tired. I was very good, but not perfect. Here is a rundown:

Organic raisen bran with flax seed
Applesauce
Baby carrots
Salad (while I watched everyone else have pizza @ Godfathers!)
Sm. handful of peanuts
Chili
100 calorie grasshopper cookies (I had bought a box last week and there are a couple left. I can't just through them away!!! I won't buy anymore, I promise!)
Water (probably not enough)

I did go to the gym this morning and did 26 minutes cardio (half running, half fast walk) and then some quick weights. I didn't have a ton of time since we were heading to the kids new school.
Tomorrow I hope to get to the gym again.

I hope you all had a great day. Erica, I can come over Wednesday morning if you want to do pictures. Or Thursday.

Goodnight ladies! And gentleman...if there are any out there! Wally? Are you joining us?

I'm going to die!!

2009-08-31T17:03:00.000-07:00

I am so tired that I can barely put two words together. We stopped on the way home to get some chicken to BBQ and Matt went to start the BBQ and there is no propane. I have been good all day and I really wanted some meat for dinner. I still have some frozen chili that I can warm up. Need to get some energy so I can look through the posts. Hope you all are feeling better than I am.

Jennie

So I'm all about rewarding myself when I eat healthy

2009-08-31T13:16:00.000-07:00

One of my staples when eating healthy is almonds. Not the salty / sugary flavored almonds but the raw almonds. They are so stink'n good for you and I think taste good, especially if you're loking for something with a little crunch. Costco by the way is the best place to buy raw almonds in bulk without breaking the bank. You can find them in the baking isle.

Anyway, an ounce is a serving which is about 23 almonds. Usually they are kept in a bag in my car, purse or pocket for emergencies or just to snack on but I just found the coolest little thing!!! It's a almond tin. It holds exactly one ounce and is only $2 bucks. Because my kids also eat almonds I've gotten one for everyone in the whole family. - Great for kids lunches too BTW - So here's a link if you're interested.....

http://www.gohands.com/almondsarein/estore/

Treat yourself to one....it's much less painful then the belly button peircing!

Day 1

2009-08-31T12:45:00.000-07:00

Well, for breakfast (or lunch depending on when you get up) I had my daily diet coke and some beef jerky. I know, not the breakfast of champions but I did limit myself to 16oz of DC and got the plain flavored beef jerky vs the teriyaki. That was 160 calories. Lunch, sante fe soup, another 180 calories. Exercise, that's funny, no, I don't exercise. Did do lots of stretching in an attempt to regain the range of motion I had in my youth and signed up for a beginning yoga class...does that count?

So far so good but the evenings are my weakness so deep breath and on with the rest of the day. Good luck ladies!

Day One for Chris

2009-08-31T07:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, so this morning I had some sugar free instant oatmeal (Safeway brand, flavored without the sugar, and only 100 calories!). I really wish we had Safeway out here...Anyway, I'm eating my oatmeal and I'm having coffee without any sugar in it. Ugh. Now I'm off to brush the girls' hair, take the kids to school, then I'm off to the gym to workout for an hour! Good luck everyone!

Day one!!

2009-08-31T07:39:00.001-07:00

It's 7:40 in the morning of Day one and I have not had anything unhealthy to eat. Well, ok, I have only been awake about 5 minutes, but it's me we're talking about !! Going to go have my healthy cereal for breakfast and figure out what we are going to do on this last day of summer vacation.

Good luck today, ladies!!

By the way, I am not seeing too many before pictures or posts up here! :)

Last night...

2009-08-30T20:54:00.001-07:00

I have had nothing but junk the last two days, the last year, but who's counting. :) Let's see...Fries, cookies, licorice, burgers, ice cream, fries, cookies, donuts, pop, mocha's, you get the picture! Now I am home waiting for Matt to bring me an Arby's sandwich and a blizzard. I am going to be so sick tomorrow that I won't have a choice but to eat healthy!!

I stopped at the store on the way home and picked up some things. I was going to boil eggs at Monica's but totally forgot and now I have no hard boiled eggs! :(

Well, I better go get unpacked. Can't wait for tomorrow...NOT!!!!

Christina's before pictures and measurements

2009-08-30T20:26:00.001-07:00

Here are my measurements:

height: 5'2"

weight: 136

upper arm: 12"

waist: 31.5"

hips: 39"

thigh: 22"

Ok, 10 pounds in 20 days, here we go!

Menu for August 31-Sept 6

2009-08-30T14:10:00.000-07:00

OK, so maybe if I write my menu down a few days, or even a week, at a time, that will help me stay on track. It will be kind of difficult since I don't have a kitchen, so I will need to be creative.

Monday Breakfast: Smoothie
Monday Lunch: ????
Monday Dinner: Chicken and brown rice

Tuesday Breakfast: Smoothie
Tuesday Lunch: Tuna fish
Tuesday Dinner: Salmon and broccoli

Wednesday Breakfast: Cereal - not cocoa puffs :(
Wednesday Lunch: Salad
Wednesday Dinner: Chili

Snacks: hard boiled eggs, carrots, olives, pickle spears, applesauce, nuts, grapes, rice cakes.

This is really hard trying to figure out what to eat! I can't even get past Wednesday. I had better go to the store on my home. Tomorrow nights post will be very interesting!!

Jennie's before pictures and measurements

2009-08-30T12:00:00.001-07:00

Here are the before pictures and measurements:

Height: 5'4"
Weight: 146 lbs
Upper Arm: 13"
Waist: 33"
Hips: 40"
Thighs: 22.5 "

I CAN NOT BELIEVE I AM DOING THIS PUBLICLY!!!

10 lbs in 3 weeks, here I come!!

Monica's before pictures 8/30/09

2009-08-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

Height 5-9
Weight 164.8...ouch
Arms 13'
Thighs 24'
Waist 33'
Hips 37''

Bulgur Breakfast Treat by Jean Johnson

2008-08-18T20:36:00.000-07:00

1 Cup Bulgur (medium grind)
2 Cups Water
1 tsp Honey
1 tsp Cinnamon
1 tsp Vanilla
1/2 Cup Walnuts
1/2 Cup Raisins
1 Apple (peeled and chopped)

Add bulgur to water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for ten minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Stir in remaining ingredients until well blended.

Cover with plastic wrap and refridgerate.

This dish can be served as a cold cereal with milk or re-heated for a hot hearty breakfast. It also goes well served with vanilla ice cream (unless your in phase 1 or 2. Sorry----no dessert!).

Add variety by using bananas, pineapple, dates, coconut, etc. in place of the apples.

Yeild: 4.5 Cups
Serving Size: 1/2 Cup
Calories per serving: 182

My first CSA experience

2008-08-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

For those of you that don't know,as I didn't just last week, CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. It's where those that do not have a garden can buy organic fruit and vegetables, picked the same day, from a local farm on a weekly basis. In turn our local farmers get supported and a network of community members become more self sufficient. The vendor we are trying out, FA Farms, offers two ways to shop his garden. You can pay for the 20 week season and each week get a box of assorted foods that are available that week or you can buy farm bucks that you can spend on specific foods. Of course everything is dependent on mother nature and the various things that can go right or wrong when farming.

Even though FA Farms is about half way through their season and even though Garin has started a small garden of our own, we decided to sign up and see how it goes.....

see if it ends up spoiling in the back of the fridge, or if we actually eat what we get

see if we are stuck with things we don't know what to do with, or if we rise to the challenge of getting familiar with new foods

see if we feel we are getting our moneys worth

Well, we went to the new Ferndale Farmers Market to meet Walter and Toni, our local farmers, and were able to pick up our first box of veggies. What you see in the picture is what was included minus some snap peas that were eaten on the way home and a bag of salad greens not shown in the picture. I feel we got way more organic produce than what the same $20 would have bought us at the grocery store. So far it's being consumed at a good pace although I did blanch and freeze the different varieties of string beans for later use. I'm also happy to say that putting out a little dip will get the kids to go crazy with whatever veggie they can use to consume it.

The way I see it this is a win win situation. I love knowing the food is pesticide free, fresh and that I'm able to meet the person who grew it. My next adventure is, once school starts up again, to ask how I can work to pay for some of my food in an effort to offset the cost of trying to eat healthier. I'll keep you posted.....

How to Germinate & Sprout Nuts, Beans & Seeds

2008-06-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

From The RAW 50 by Carol Alt

One of the reason raw foodists eat so many seeds, beans, and nuts is because they are not only versatile, but also veritable troves of nutrition. Valuable as they may be, Mother Nature has seen to it that they are tightly locked. Fortunately for us, releasing their enzyme inhibitors and freeing their nutrients is simply a matter of immersing them in water, which can be done by germinating or sprouting. Seeds and beans can be germinated, and given more time they can be sprouted. Nuts germinate, but most will not sprout.

Most raw foodists take germinating for granted - It is something they do routinely, and it is essentially a once and your done deal: you soak, walk away, then come back and after rinsing, you can now use what you soaked and what has germinating in your absence. Sprouting takes a little more time, but is still a fairly simple process.

Unless they state otherwise, the recipes in this book assume that you are germinating all seeds, beans, and nuts

Remeber to use only dried, raw, and preferably organic seeds, and nuts. Roasted, canned, jarred, or otherwise processed products (which, by definition, are cooked) will not germinate.

Germinating, Step by Step

To begin the germination process, rinse the beans, nuts, or seeds; place them in a glass bowl or jar with under an inch of purified water; and soak them at room temperature for the amount of time indicated (see separate post for germinating & sprouting times). Cover the glass jar or bowl with cheesecloth or a stocking to keep the bugs out.

After they have soaked for the appropriate amount of time, rinse and drain the germinated beans, nuts, or seeds with purified water a couple of times. They are now ready to eat or use in any recipe. They can also be dehydrated after germination for use in foods such as granola.

The one, two, three of sprouting

To turn germinated seeds or beans into sprouts

Put the germinated beans or seeds, such as chickpeas or almonds, in a sprouting container or bowl, making sure that they are well drained and well ventilated. Again, cover the container's open end with a fine mesh stocking or cheesecloth.
Set the sprouting container on your counter and allow the beans or seeds to sprout for the required time (see separate post for germinating & sprouting times).
Rinse the sprouted nuts or seeds with purified water a couple of times for good measure, and drain well.

You can either eat your sprouts right away or store them for up to 5 or 6 days - after that point they are likely to become bitter. Always store sprouts in an airtight (not vacuum-sealed) container in your refrigerator.

RAW Lemon Cookies

2008-06-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

I used less lemon than it called for and was glad I did. The cashews, agave and coconut are a great base for any flavor so if you try this I would encouraging experimentation. I hope it wasnt a mistake to bring these to our meeting last week; I think I just had to prove to myself that RAW could be fun as well as healthy :)

Makes 12 small tart, chewy lemon macaroons type cookies
.
Ingredients

* 1 cup cashews, soaked for 4 hours
* zest of 1 lemon
* ½ cup fresh lemon juice, (approximately 2 lemons)
* 1 cup dry shredded unsweetened coconut
* ¼ cup agave

Preparation

1. Process cashews in food processor until they are pasty in consistency.
2. Mix in all other ingredients.
3. Place 1 tablespoon cookie dollops on a dehydrator sheet.
4. Dehydrate for approximately 12 hours at 105°F (could also dehydrate at 115°F for 8-10 hours with similar result).
5. Enjoy!

Sweetener Substitutions

2008-06-28T13:22:00.000-07:00

This list gives amounts for replacing dry granulated sugar in any recipe....

Agave nectar: replace 1 cup sugar with 1/2 cup agave nectar and reduce liquids by 1/4 cup

Brown Rice Syrup: replace 1 cup sugar with 1 to 1 1/4 cups brown rice syrup and reduce liquids by 1/4 cup

Honey: replace 1 cup sugar with 1/2 cup honey and reduce liquids by 1/4 cup

Maple Syrup: replace 1 cup sugar with 1/2 cup maple syrup and reduce liquids by 1/4 cup

Molasses: replace 1 cup sugar with 1/2 cup molasses - no need to reduce liquids

Stevia: replace 1 cup suagr with 1 teaspoon dry stevia - no need to reduce liquids

Notes from Vegetarian Journal Sept/Oct 1999

2008-06-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Grains are the seed bearing fruits of grasses. An inedible husk, also called chaff, is the outermost layer of the grain. When this is removed the resulting product is sometimes labeled "groats" or "berries".

"Steel cut" or "cracked" grains have been cut into smaller bits so they cook faster.

Grain flakes or rolled grains are sliced and then flattened between rollers.

Grain meal has been ground to a gritty consistency

Bolted meal has been sifted to remove bran but not the germ

De germinated meal has had both bran and germ removed.

Grits have been steamed and soaked, have had both hulls and germs removed and have been cut using rollers

All grains are low in fat and contain no cholesterol - Low in sodium (unless salt is added)

Whole grain protects against cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity.

Notes from Amazing Grains by Jeanne Saltzman

2008-06-13T09:51:00.000-07:00

Botanically, "grain" covers around 8000 species of grasses - although we do not eat all of them.

In most cookbooks the term "grain" does not refer exclusively to the grass family - Quinoa, amaranth, wild rice & buckwheat are sometimes called "pseudocereals". They act like grain but are from a different botanical families.

Grain has always had a reputation of being a spiritual food

Grains - whole grains are living foods

Whole grains are valued for carbohydrate, protein, vitamins, minerals, natural fat and fiber - when these are all eaten together they work in balance. ( A refined grain does not have all the nutrients to assist the starch to nurture the body)

Variety
Variety is key to good health - if we vary our diet with many different grains instead of always relying on corn and wheat we are much less apt to develop sensitivity or allergy to the corn and wheat.

Cooking Methods
Preliminary treatments such as dry raosting, sauteing and soaking affect flavor and texture of the grain.

Long Grains
Long grains come out dry, light and fluffy. Short grains are sticky, heavy and chewy if you stick to the most common method of cooking grain (steeping) can change texture in preliminary treatments (dry roasting, sauteing and soaking) The most influential factor in controlling texture with grain is temperature

Combining cold liquid with raw grain can result in heavy, sticky & chewy texture
Hot liquid with hot grain creates a light, fluffy and individual temperature
Hot liquid with cold grain or cold liquid with hot grains makes a somewhat chewy yet individual (not sticky) texture

Cook beans and grains separately to insure beans are well cooked.

5 flavors can be detected by our taste buds; bitter, sweet, sour, salty & pungent. To fix an overpowering flavor in a sauce for a grain......
too bitter - add a sweet or salty flavor
too sour - add a salty sweet or pungent flavor
too salty - add a bitter or sweet flavor
too pungent - add a salty, bitter or sweet ingredient

Do not use vinegar or lemon on greens until just before serving (they will turn a bright green veggie to a drab yellow-brown) So, if your grain has an acidic dressing on it add your greens to it at the last minute.

Notes from Whole Grains Everyday Everyway by Lorna Sass

2008-06-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

What is a whole grain?
A kernel of whole grain is comprised of 3 edible parts, the bran, the germ & the endosperm. Some grains have a 4th part, the hull or husk which is an inedible protective covering.

Read the label
Just because the label says "7 grain" or "9 grain" the bread may include flour from those grains but it may not include any of the bran or germ from whole grains.

Whole grains are living foods
heat, light and air are the enemies. Grains can become rancid if not stored properly. Refrigerate whole grains in tightly sealed containers (or freeze them)

When cooking whole grains be flexible
If the grain is still not soft enough but has absorbed all the liquid you may need to add more liquid. Or, maybe the grain is soft enough and you have to drain a bit of the excess liquid. Because of the variation it is usually easier to cook the grain then prepare the recipe. The grain will take the seasoning better at this point.

Whole Grain Flours
Whole grain flours contain particles of the fiber and mineral rich bran and the vitamin and oil rich germ. They require special care because the oil is prone to rancidity. Opt for stone ground when it is available. Stone grinding creates minimal heat so it preserves more of the nutritional value of the germ; especially heat sensitive vitamin E. Vitamin E acts as an antioxident keeping the flour fresh longer. Refrigerate your whole grain flour.

Whole Wheat Pastry Flour
WW pastry flour is lighter than whole wheat flour because it contains less protein and therfore less gluten. Try whole grain spelt flour in quick breads because it reacts very much like all purpose flour. It makes a good base for moist cakes and delicate cookies.

Use spelt flour in your favorite recipe

equal exchange spelt for all purpose
increase baking powder by 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon per cup of flour
Include 1/4 teaspoon or so baking soda plus an acid such as buttermilk to create additional leavening action
Increase the liquid by 1 tablespoon per cup of flour

Kale Chips

2008-06-12T22:31:00.000-07:00

1 bunch of black kale (the narrow curly or wrinkly leaves work best)
1/2 tbsp coconut oil (depending on the size of the Kale bunch)

A garnish. I like salty, cheesy, garlicky flavors. I currently use Parma! Vegan parmesan: available in 2 flavors, plain or chipolte cayenne in the refrigerated section at the Food Co-Op. The 2nd is mildly spicy in my opinion. Garlic gold nuggets is also available in the spice section at the Food Co-Op.

You can also use fresh, grated parmesan or romano cheese which was part of the original recipe I learned.

Directions

Set oven at lowest temperature (my warm setting is 180 degrees and works well or perhaps use dehydrator, I haven't tried that)

Place coconut oil in a measuring cup and place in a warm oven until it is liquid. (It should be ready by the time you have the kale cleaned and cut)

Wash, dry and slice kale into bite sized strips. Cut out any heavy stems (bottom half)

Place cut kale in a salad bowl. Drizzle with coconut oil and toss thoroughly so that all leaves, including most of the back are lightly glistening with the oil.

Add your garnish and toss some more. Then lay out on a cookie sheet. I add more garnish on top at this point.

Place in warmed oven. It is usually ready in an hour or so. Check from time to time to see if it is crisp. It works best to have a single layer of kale, otherwise the top dries before the rest and may get overdone. Store at room temperature. I generally leave top open (as it is gone within a day or two)

Joyce's Whole Wheat Bread Recipe

2008-06-12T22:24:00.000-07:00

1 Tablespoon yeast
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon sugar

Combine: 2 1/2 hot water & 3 cups whole wheat flour

Add: 1 Tablespoon salt, 1/3 cup oil & honey - mix well

add: 1 cup flour to mixture
add: yeast mix & 2-3 cups more flour

Stir 10 minutes

oil counter and divide into 2 loaves

cover and let rise 35 minutes

Bake 350 for 40 minutes

Black Bean & Sweet Potato Burritos

2008-06-12T22:01:00.000-07:00

A Recipe provided to us by Flo....

2 teaspoons canola oil
1 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
3/4 cup vegetable broth or reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced (3 cups)
1 can (14 1/2 ounce) mild green chile seasoned diced tomatoes
1 can (15 1/2 ounce) black bean, drained and rinsed
3/4 cup frozen corn
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
8 - 8 inch whole wheat tortillas or wraps
1 cup shredded pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream

Preheat the oven 325 F
Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion & cook, stirring often, until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the garlic, cumin and oregano. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, 10 to 20 seconds. Add the broth and sweet potato. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, beans and corn. Return to a simmer. Cover and cook until the sweet potato is tender, 5 to 10 minutes longer. Mash about 1/4 of the vegetable mixture with a potato masher. Stir the mashed and unmashed portions together. Stir in the lime juice, cilantro, and pepper.
Meanwhile, enclose the wraps in aluminum foil and heat in oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
To serve, spoon about 2/3 cup of the sweet potato filling down center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with about 2 tablespoons cheese. Fold in edges of wrap, then fold 1side over filling and wrap up the burrito. Serve with sour cream for dipping. One serving is 1 wrap, 2/3 cup filling, 2 tablespoons shredded cheese, and 1 tablespoon sour cream.

Per serving: 262 calories, 14 g protein, 35 g carb, 15 g fiber, 10 g total fat, 4 g saturated fat, 21 g cholesterol, 784 mg sodium

Tip: To heat individual wraps or flour tortillas in the microwave, place 1 wrap between 2 paper towels and microwave on high for 10 to 12 seconds.

Group walking picture

2008-05-15T21:56:00.000-07:00

We've talked about walking as a group for so long that I cant believe we finally got to try it out. We met at the church and Glenn lead the way to the business park on Atwood. I know I enjoyed getting out of our usual 4 walls and spending some time in the sunshine with an amazing group of people. I hope you all were blessed in some way. Thanks to everyone for participating!
-Monica

Group Picture

2008-05-08T11:26:00.000-07:00

I love this photo! If you weren't present for the photo then don't you worry; we'll try again sometime this summer. And here you thought you were off the hook. :)

Stacking the odds in our favor

2008-01-21T18:15:00.000-08:00

This is the way our freezer looks after Monica has been cooking all day, 5 hours to be exact. Over 50 portioned containers with known calorie counts. Santa fe soup, Zucchini meal, Black bean chicken casserole, Chili Verde and crust less broccoli & feta quiche filling our freezer.

By no means do we do this because we are experts at eating right or anything of the sort. Whether it is society, having kids, both? I don't know, but we are apparently trained to want fast food.

We are most definitely weak and if these guys weren't readily available in our freezer then we would be just that much closer to going out and eating something that is quick, probably heavily processed, and certainly not real good for our health.

We are just weak ole humans who need to stack the odds to make up for our lack of will power.

Super Size Me

2008-01-17T11:04:00.001-08:00

In response to the 2004 documentary Super Size Me a new Raw for 30 days film is coming out which will document the journey of five Americans subsisting on a standard American junk food diet and all suffering from Adult Onset Type II Diabetes. They undergo a radical 30-day raw food diet and lifestyle change in hope of reversing or reducing their insulin dependence.

The film will show the eating habits that led to the development of this disease and will posit an alternative approach to living and eating, one in which foods can heal and hold the potential to reverse Diabetes.

Should be interesting........

Please use approved receptacles

2008-01-14T06:01:00.000-08:00

Certainly a key ingredient to the PRISM program is discarding sugar laden foods such as donuts and their rectangular, sometime maple covered, bar counterparts.

But please use approved trash receptacles. PRISM is a green program.

Bucking the trend in 2008

2008-01-10T05:48:00.000-08:00

This is a cross post from my alter ego's site. Monica and I were both a little amazed, but not surprised. She was also a little hurt that she has to special order tall sizes even while new plus size sections are popping up.

Walking through Fred Meyers yesterday my wife realized we were in the junior plus size section. I thought plus size was the territory of Big & Tall or Lane Bryant. When did kids get a plus size section? I guess it follows from the supersize trend in America. Well bucking that trend is one of this year’s resolutions in the Wally household. Thankfully, we are continuing an effort rather than starting the tough road today.
Last year we embarked on a journey to change the way we view and consume food. Our goal; eat to live rather than live to eat. For us eating to live entails limiting refined sugar, refined flours, process foods in general and of course no gluttony. We and several friends have been pretty successful with this goal over the last 6-7 months, but it can still be a struggle for us from time to time. For our sake and the sake of our children, we pray for God’s continued assistance in 2008.

Happy New Year and may God bless you in all your efforts!

Prism on artificial sweeteners

2008-01-09T20:30:00.000-08:00

In video #7, which we watched at the 1/3/08 meeting, happy hostess Shawna Marie spoke about artificial sweeteners. Being the lawless group leaders that we are, we have stolen the text and are presenting it here mostly for Phyllis' enjoyment. :)

....Now we need to address artificial sweeteners. Most of the low cal and diet foods we think will help us loose weight, contain artificial sweeteners. New studies show that foods and beverages containing artificial sweeteners may actually work against weight loss by increasing hunger and your cravings for sweets. These fake sweeteners can decrease your levels of serotonin, the brain chemical that hears the “I’m full, don’t eat anymore” message from your stomach. At the same time these sweeteners trigger the insulin response which reduces fat burning and increases fat making. According to Dr. Julian Whittaker….

“Artificial sweeteners play a significant role in our current weight problems. Far from helping us loose weight, aspartame has been proven to increase appetite, especially cravings for sweets. Imagine “diet” products that help you pack on extra pounds! And aspartame’s downside doesn’t end with weight gain: This sweetener is associated with multiple health problems. The most common adverse reactions attributed to aspartame are headaches, dizziness, attention difficulties, memory loss, slurred speech and vision problems. This cluster of symptoms has become so common that it is actually referred to as “aspartame disease.”
What about multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis, depression and other mood disorders? I have reviewed scores of documented cases mistakenly diagnosed with one of these conditions, only to have all signs of disease completely vanish after getting off aspartame.
Aspartame is comprised of two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Aspartic acid acts as an “excitatory neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger in the brain, stimulating neurons to fire. Problems can arise when aspartic acid is out of balance with inhibitory amino acids that calm things down. Phenylalanine also easily enters the brain, where it is transformed into neurotransmitters that can further interfere with normal brain function. This is likely the reason why aspartame lowers the threshold for seizures, mood disorders, and other nervous system problems. This altered brain chemistry may also be responsible for the addictive nature of aspartame. Some patients report that getting off diet soda takes more willpower than giving up cigarettes!”

Dr. Whittaker recommends that you don’t trade one bad habit for another by switching to sugar laden drinks and sweets. Avoid most bottles or canned sodas, teas and juices all together. If they don’t contain an artificial sweetener they’re loaded with some kind of sugar. Your beverage of choice should be water. Try perking it up with a slice of lemon, sparkling water, diluted fruit juice and homemade herbal ice tea flavored with the herbal sweetener Stevia are other options. If you haven’t already done so you must begin to wean yourself from any products containing artificial sweeteners.

Black Bean Chicken Casserole

2008-01-09T11:46:00.000-08:00

Prep: 25 min Bake: 35 min Yield: 10 servings

1 large onion, chopped
1 large green pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp canola oil
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 salsa
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp pepper
2 cans (15 oz ea) black beans, rinsed & drained
3 cups cubed cooked chicken breast
8 corn tortillas
1 1/2 cups (6 oz) shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blend, divided

In a large saucepan saute the onion, green pepper & garlic in oil until tender. Stir in the tomatoes, salsa, cumin, salt, oregano & pepper. Add beans & chicken; heat through.
Spread a third of the mixture into a 13x9x2 baking dish coated with non-stick cooking spray. Layer with four tortillas, a third of the mixture & 1 cup cheese. Repeat with remaining tortillas & chicken mixture.
Cover & bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes or until heated through. Uncover, sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake 8-10 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

1 serving equals 283 calories

Spinach Feta chicken rolls

2008-01-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

Prep: 25 min Bake: 45 min Yield: 6 servings

1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (not packed in oil)
1 cup boiling water
1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1 cup feta cheese
4 green onions, thinly sliced
1/4 cup greek olives, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
6 boneless chicken breast halfs (6 oz each)
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper

Place tomatoes in a small bowl; add boiling water. Let stand for 5 minutes. In another bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, onions & garlic. Drain & chop tomatoes; add spinach mixture.
Flatten chicken to 1/4 inch thickness; sprinkle with salt & pepper. Spread spinach mixture over chicken. Roll up & secure with toothpicks. Place in a 12x9x2 baking dish coated with non-stick cooking spray.
Cover & bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Uncover; bake 15-20 minutes longer or until a meat thermometer reads 170. Discard toothpicks.

1 stuffed chicken breast half equals 272 calories

Santa Fe Soup

2008-01-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

1 cup cubed cheddar cheese
1 lb ground beef, cooked
1 1/3 cup corn
15 oz kidney beans, not drained
14 oz can diced tomatoes w/ green chilies
14 oz can stewed tomatoes
2 Tablespoons of taco seasoning

Cook on stove or 3 hours in crock pot

303 calories per cup

Salsa Verde Chile w/ Chicken

2008-01-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

Dissolve: 4 chicken bouillon cubes in 1 cup boiling water. Add three more cups water.

Cut: 5 whole chicken breasts into bite size pieces.

Brown & cook: chicken in a small amount of bouillon broth in a very large frying pan in two batches.

Drain & Rinse: 2 cans of black beans
2 cans great northern (or other white) beans.

Place in large kettle: 16 oz pkg frozen corn
16 oz jar La Victoria Thick & Chunky Salsa Verde
all above ingredients (bouillon, chicken, beans)

Simmer: a few minutes to combine flavors

170 calories per cup

Note from Jean: A small can of sliced olives and a few chives or green onions make the dish even more attractive.

Balsamic & Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower

2008-01-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

8 cups 1 inch thick sliced cauliflower florets (about 1 large head)
2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
¼ teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese

1. Preheat oven to 450
2. Toss cauliflower, oil, marjoram, salt and pepper. Roast on a large rimmed baking sheet until starting to soften and brown on the bottom, 15 to 20 minutes. Toss the cauliflower with vinegar and sprinkle with cheese. Return to the oven and roast until the cheese is melted and any moisture has evaporated, 5 to 10 minutes more.

Makes 4 servings, about 1 cup each

Per serving: 149 calories; 10 g fat (3 g sat, 6 g mono); 7 mg cholesterol; 10 g carbohydrate; 7 g protein; 4 g fiber; 364 mg sodium

Zucchini Supper

2008-01-09T11:04:00.000-08:00

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
½ pound reduced fat bulk pork sausage
1 large onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
2 cups cubed day-old whole wheat bread
½ cup fat free milk
1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour (I used whole wheat flour)
4 cups chopped zucchini
¾ pound reduced-fat process cheese (Velveeta), cubed (I used reduced-fat cheddar)
1 can (10 ¾ ounces) reduced-fat, reduced-sodium condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
¾ cup egg substitute
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon rubbed sage
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon pepper

In an Dutch oven, cook the beef, sausage, onion, carrot and celery over medium heat until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are crisp-tender. Meanwhile, in a small bowl combine bread cubes and milk; set aside

Remove meat mixture from the heat; drain. Stir in flour until blended. Stir in bread mixture and remaining ingredients.

Transfer to a 13x9x2 baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray. Cover and bake at 350 for 40-45 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads 160. Uncover and stir. Bake 8-12 minutes longer or until golden brown.

Nutrition Facts: 1 1/3 cup equals 373 calories, 17 g fat (7 saturated fat), 80 mg cholesterol, 1,119 mg sodium, 21 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 34 g protein.

Calories listed above are for the recipe as it was written in Light & Tasty Magazine, February 08. Using turkey meat and possibly less of it could further reduce the calories.

A new Oil

2007-10-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

For years, olive oil has been the "gold standard" when it comes to healthy cooking oils. And it's still a far better choice than most oils out there. But now there's a new oil that's making research news. It's macadamia nut oil, and given its immense health benefits, Dr. Williams firmly believes you're going to be hearing a lot more about it.

The big news is that macadamia nut oil has even more of the "good" monounsaturated fats than olive oil. In fact, it tops the list at 80% monounsaturated fats. Remember, monounsaturated fats are the heart-healthy fats that help promote cardiovascular health, and they're cholesterol-free. Plus, macadamia nut oil is the only significant natural source of palmitoleic acid, which supports overall cardiovascular health.

Macadamia nuts also contain a healthy balance of essential fatty acids (EFAs). These include the omega-3s, which support optimal cardiovascular health and mental functioning—and the omega-6s, which support the immune system.

You've probably seen macadamia nuts at the grocery store, and chances are they were grown in Hawaii. In fact, most people associate macadamia nuts with Hawaii, but they actually originated in Australia. And there's quite a difference between the Australian variety and typical Hawaiian macadamias. The Australian nuts are sweeter, slightly nutty, and have a unique depth of flavor. The quality of the macadamia nut makes a difference in the oil.

Hawaiian macadamia nut oil is usually highly refined, and virtually void of color and flavor. But the Australian variety has a rich yellow color and a nutty, buttery flavor. Dr. Williams found that the macadamia nut oils in Kenya and South Africa are just as rich in flavor, and health-giving benefits, as the Australian variety.

After much searching, Dr. Williams discovered a company that put together a delicious blend of macadamia nut oils that's packed with healthy fats for your heart, brain, and immune system. It's called Amarante Macadamia Nut Oil, and the quality and flavor are outstanding.

The macadamia nut oils that Amarante produces come from Australia, Kenya, and South Africa. Only the top-grade nuts are used and oils are extracted at a low temperature. This is important because it protects the quality, taste, and health-giving benefits. Plus, all of the oil Amarante produces is unrefined, which makes it the most beneficial and flavorful macadamia nut oil you can get.

The reason some of the less healthy oils, like canola oil, are so popular is that they have a high "smoke point." This means they don't smoke or burn at higher temperatures, which makes them suitable for cooking, or frying, at high temperatures. What's nice about macadamia nut oil is that it also has a high smoke point. Extra virgin olive only has a smoke point of 325ºF, by comparison macadamia nut oil has a smoke point of 410ºF—making it versatile enough to cook, sauté, bake or stir-fry with.

Plus, it can also be used without heating. Simply add it to your salads, pasta, and other recipes. And you can use a spray bottle to mist foods with Amarante oil. It's great on baking pans (to avoid sticking). To make it easy for you to try Amarante Macadamia Nut Oil, Dr. Williams asked Mountain Home Nutritionals to make it available to you at a special price. Order 6 bottles and you'll save $10. Click here to place your secure online order. Or call 1-888-887-8262 and ask for code 109687

Contributed by Bob Hong

Something missing?

2007-09-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

We've certainly heard more than a few times that processed foods probably won't contain all the nutritional value that they had originally, but what about the healthy organic foods? Do they contain what you expect? I ran across a New York Times article that casts a little doubt.

Kids who go organic for breakfast may be missing out on their vitamins.
Since the 1940’s, commercial cereal companies have been adding vitamins to their flakes, puffs and O’s in order to replace nutrients stripped away during the manufacturing process. But the main appeal of organic cereals is that they’re made with only natural, organically grown ingredients free of additives, including artificial preservatives and colors — and often, vitamins.

If we have been practicing what Jayne Benkendorf preached, then we would already know this from reading labels. I just love running into stories that reinforce what we are doing. Some day the rest of the world might catch up to Prism.

Words of Wisdom

2007-09-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

John Boyle O'Reilly:

"How shall I a habit break?
As you did that habit make.
As you gathered, you must lose;
As you yielded, now refuse.
Thread by thread, the strands we twist,
Till they bind us neck and wrist.
Thread by thread, the patient hand,
Must untwine ere free we stand."

I like this quote in regards to unhealthy habits of eating, self sabatoge, etc. PRISM is all about diving deeper than our outward appearances and in doing that we are asked to deal with bad habits. Easier said then done but something worthy of striving for non the less. Actually........ not just worthy, but necessary in order for this to be a lifelong change.

Deadly Weapons

2007-09-06T20:43:00.000-07:00

Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God's glory.
1 CORINTHIANS 10:31

Disregard for the physical aspect of life can greatly contribute to spiritual dryness. This means that a certain amount of discipline must be introduced into our lives. But what kind of discipline?

Firstly, we need discipline in what and how much we eat. Every meal should be a sacrament offered on the altar of fitter and finer living. Doctors tell us that excess food - as well as too little food - destroys brain power. What is in the stomach often determines what is in the head.

Scripture says, "the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking" (Rm 14:17). But it is not a contradiction of that verse to say that often our food and drink determine our fitness for the kingdom of God.

Seneca, in an exaggerated statement made for the sake of emphasis, said, "Man does not die: he kills himself."Dr. R. L. Greene, a professor of chemistry and a specialist in nutrition, says, "The most deadly weapons used by man in committing suicide are the knife, fork, and spoon."

You may be repelled at the idea of committing suicide - and so you should be - but you may well be contributing to your death by choosing wrong ways of eating.

We need discipline also to ensure that we get at least the minimum amount of vitamins. Vitamins are necessary to vitality; they are God's gift to us. The divine Chemist has designed our bodies to work in a certain way. And if we ignore His prescription for health, we reduce our physical effectiveness, which can also reduce our spiritual effectiveness.

Daily Prayer

O Father, help me recognize that physical vitality contributes to spiritual vitality. May I respect the body You have given me and pay attention to the laws of health that You have built into the universe. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Thanks Penny for sharing this timely devotion!

Lentil Soup with Brown Rice

2007-09-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

This recipe is out of the Sonoma Diet Cookbook. Pg 41

3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
6 cloves garlic, minces (1 tbsp)
8 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
½ cup long grain brown rice
2 cups chopped tomato
¾ cup dry brown lentils, rinsed & drained
1 tbsp chopped fresh Thyme
1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
1 tbsp lemon juice
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp finely shredded Asiago Cheese

1. In a 4 qt dutch oven heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook about 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in broth and uncooked brown rice. Bring to a boiling; reduce heat. Simmer uncovered, for 10 minutes. Stir in tomato and lentils. Return to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer about 30 minutes more or until rice and lentils are tender
2. Stir in thyme, oregano, lemon juice, and pepper. Top individual servings with asiago cheese and, if desired thyme sprigs and/or oregano leaves.

1 cup serving has 257 calories

An Easy Omega Source!

2007-09-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

Hello transforming people!!! Phase Three Prism people know that my husband just decided to eat the Prism way about two weeks ago! He has extremely high blood pressure and cholesterol. I am so glad that he decided to change!!!

In Week Five and Six we received a great Prism handout of "Essential Fatty Acids and Beneficial Oils". I re-read it and discovered that many of my husband's cravings were due to a need for essential fatty acids which are Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9's. I also wanted a more natural way to be sure to get these great Omegas.

These Omegas moisturize the skin, nourish listless hair, and will help you say good-bye to brittle nails. They also lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart attack, protect arteries, help burn fat and help the body decrease fat production. They are also very helpful for people with high blood pressure and diabetes!

Nuts and seeds have been the easy answer!!! It is a tasty way to add Omegas into our daily food list!!! Two things to remember are that the nuts and seeds must be raw and they do their best work if eaten in the morning or earlier in the day. They can be found at the Fred Meyer Nutrition Center and probably at the Co-op.

The following has been very useful to us and perhaps for you, too.

Omega-3
Raw walnut 1/2 = 12 calories

Raw Brazil nut 1 = 23 calories

Raw pumpkin seeds 1/8 ounce = 20 calories

Omega-6
Raw pistachio nut 1 = 12 calories

Raw pine nuts 1 teaspoon = 17 calories

Raw sunflower seeds 1/8 ounce = 20 calories

Omega-9
Raw almonds 1 = 6 calories

Raw cashews 1 teaspoon = 31 calories

Raw shelled peanuts 1/2 teaspoon = 1/8 ounce = 22 calories

I combine one or so of the nuts or seeds from each Omega group a day and alternate the choices every day.

We are transforming!!!

Crustless Feta & Cheddar Quiche

2007-08-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

* This recipe would be for Phase 2 or higher since there is a little whole wheat flour in the recipe.

Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
4 beaten eggs
1/3 cup whole wheat pastry flour
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp chopped fresh dillweed, thyme, or mint
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/8 tsp kosher salt
1 1/2 cups low fat cottage cheese (12 ounces)
1 - 10 ounce package frozen chopped broccoli, cooked & drained
1 cup crumbled feta cheese (4 ounces)
1 cup shredded reduced fat cheddar cheese (4 ounces)

preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9 inch pie plate with cooking spray
In a medium bowl combine eggs, pastry flour, garlic, dillweed, pepper, and kosher salt. Stir in cottage cheese, broccoli, feta, and cheddar. Spoon into the pie prepared plate.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Makes 8 servings at 188 calories per serving. Great for a ready to go breakfast.

The Crazy Makers

2007-08-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Carol Simontacchi is the guest speaker for weeks 2 and 12. She is also my favorite speaker within the PRISM program. The Crazy Makers, How the food industry is destroying our brains and harming our children, is just one of several books she has written. It came in the mail this past week and I wanted to share a page out of it. It says when we reach our 20's our bodies may be done growing but they are never dormant. We are a dynamic organism, constantly changing, constantly repairing, and never the same one minute to the next. To better explain let me quote from the book.

If you could see your body as it really is, you would never see it the same way twice. Ninety-eight percent of the atoms in your body were not there a year ago. The skeleton that seems so solid was not there three months ago. The configuration of the bone cells remains somewhat constant, but atoms of all kinds pass freely back and forth through the cell walls, and by that means you acquire a new skeleton every three months.

The skin is new every month. You have a new stomach lining every four days, with the actual surface cells that contact food being renewed every five minutes. The cells in the liver turn over very slowly, but new atoms still flow through them, like water in a river course, making a new liver every six weeks. Even within the brain, whose cells are not replaced once they die, the content of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and so on is totally different today from a year ago.

Just a small excerpt from the book but for me it reinforces the importance of what we put into our bodies. We need the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, healthy oils, etc. They all work together and I'm embarrassed at what I considered food before learning from the PRISM program. I praise God for our complex bodies, capable of so much when given a chance!

Best fruits

2007-08-26T07:06:00.000-07:00

And their father Israel said unto them, If it must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:
(Genesis 43:11 KJV)

Almonds were an essential part of my Phase I & II. Even though they are relatively high in calories, they seemed to work great as a ready snack. I guess it shouldn't have surprised me to find that they were also praised in the Bible. I also found them praised in a NewsWeek article Up Close & edible: Almonds.

Almonds are chock-full of essential nutrients. “It’s a perfect nature’s package,” says registered dietician Dr. Connie Gutterson, author of “The Sonoma Diet.”

Almonds are also a great source of natural protein. A handful of almonds—about 23 nuts or 1 ounce—contains about as much protein as an egg, or an ounce of fish or chicken.

Rebels with a Cause

2007-08-22T21:27:00.001-07:00

I had an epiphany today after hearing yet another story in a long line of stories about childhood obesity, childhood diabetes, and just today reading about undiagnosed hypertension among our youth. The epiphany? We are rebels! The twenty or so of us in our two groups have chosen to rebel against the unhealthy momentum growing in our society. We are cool and we are getting healthy. We are like James Dean, only not dead! We are like early Christians in Rome, only not dead. We are like rebels, only we're not just like rebels; we are rebels!

Link to Anti-Estrogen diet article

2007-08-08T08:35:00.000-07:00

Glenn shared an article with Monday's group about how estrogen in our diets effects our health. Here is a link to the article The Anti-Estrogen Diet Could Change Your Life that was on Newsmax only a few days ago. This may not be common knowledge, but it isn't uncommon knowledge either. I've read and heard about estrogen sources and estrogen effects before, so for me this article was just another stick to hit me over the head with. A few more sticks up side the head and I might quit drinking soy milk in favor of the real stuff!

Also, a new Phase I group will be starting this Thursday and I think Monica said that there were 8 or 10 people. I guess there isn't a shortage of people who could eat better.

Just rambling on

2007-07-26T05:36:00.000-07:00

I've been spending a bit of time reading around on the subject of refined sugar, refined flour and carbs in general. The skeptic in me, sometime referred to as the great deceiver, has me always thinking about whether or not PRISM is a fad diet that will come crashing to an end sometime in the near future.

I keep finding though, that the path we are on seems to be right in sync with what most nutritionists and doctors are saying. But, papers I have read online as well as my doctor himself also seem to think that the biggest pitfall with programs like PRISM is that people don't have the strength to stick with it long enough to retrain their bodies about how and what to eat. I guess this is where I think our group lends itself to success. We are not relying just on ourselves for strength. I would have quit by now if that were the case! No, we rely on the strength of ourselves and our group, but primarily we rely on God's immeasurable strength. Lucky for us He joined the group.

OK, well, that was a bunch of words I didn't plan on typing. I really just wanted to share this doctor's blog. He seems to encompass most of the things we are learning about in PRISM.

We should be eating what the Lord has provided. - We should strive to eat, as often as possible, the food that comes out of the ground, as fruit of the earth. The less that man has altered it, the better it will be for us. I cheer inside when I observe that refreshments served at Church functions include a wholesome vegetable tray or fruit plate, rather than the typical brownies and cookies.

Our journey toward more vibrant health has brought us to a point where we are starting to listen more carefully to our bodies. The results have—usually—been positive, except when we hear but fail to heed what our bodies are telling us. King Benjamin taught: “Now, if you believe all these things, see that ye do them.”

As you're racing to find out more about King Benjamin, make sure you grab your Book of Mormon and not your Bible. Brother Dr. Stanley Gardner or Dr. Brother Stanley Gardner appears to be Mormon with a leaning towards Eastern medicine/religion, but overall I find that he maintains a God centered perspective on health. I wonder if recalling that little piece of LDS trivia is why God delivered baby Garin to a Mormon home? Remember this post is titled "Just rambling on"

There are lots good of articles to be found at his blog, but here are links to a few I really liked. He even references our old friend Dr. Udi-do in one of his articles. :)

EATING: Gourmet, or Gluttony?

Alternatives to Traditional Medicine

CARBOHYDRATES: HEROES OR VILLAINS?

DIABETES: Critical Information You Should Know

Phase 1 Successes

2007-07-15T18:34:00.000-07:00

Our Ferndale group completed Phase 1 of the PRISM guidelines this past July 10th. There are 9 people in our group following the weight loss guidelines and 2-3 additional support people that attend either to watch the videos or support someone on their journey. I'm happy to report that our group lost well over 100 pounds and inches. Because not everyone chose to weigh and/or measure themselves I calculated an average using the information I did have. On average we lost 17 pounds and 17 inches each. Other comments I've received throughout phase 1 include:

I feel great
Food Taste better
I've lost 1 - 2 dress sizes
My blood pressure medication has been reduced by half
My blood sugar levels are well within normal; no early morning peaks
I've gained a closer walk with God

If you know someone in our group please congratulate them on their success. It's a strict, tough program and everyone has worked really hard to get where they are.

Simplified version of yesterday's post

2007-07-05T20:50:00.000-07:00

I'm reasonably sure that God didn't put me on this earth to eat, so I should spend my time here doing what He wants, rather than looking for more food.

Sustenance

2007-07-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

So far the PRISM program has been very good for me physically. My blood pressure has gone way down, I am thinner and I generally feel great, but I am at a point that I can't seem to shake the idea that this is a temporary thing. It hasn't settled yet that I won't ever be eating the same way I used to. I have to admit that I haven't kept up on the readings on a daily basis. I play more of a catch up game a few times a week. I really want this program to be successful so I rededicated myself to doing the program the way it is laid out; reading everyday not just do every day's readings!

Today's reading starts with a verse which I've seen a few times already.

The good man eats to live, while the evil man lives to eat.
(Proverbs 13:25 The Living Bible)

A bent that I have is that I can't read a verse without wanting to read the verses before and after, or looking at what words were chosen, or looking at different translation, so I can really understand what we are supposed to learn. So I read and here is what I found.

I think PRISM chose the Living Bible translation because it is a bit more polished on the theme of eating to live vs. living to eat. While I don't find anything really wrong with the translation I do feel that it implies that the evil man can be satisfied by eating or that it is just the focus of an evil mans desire. Like it is just a choice to do this or that. After reading a few other translations I find that the message seems to be more of being satisfied by God both physically and spiritually when we choose Him or to go on with our life always in want or hunger if we don't chose His path.

The righteous eat to their hearts' content,
but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.
(Proverbs 13:25 NIV)

The righteous eateth to the satisfying of his soul:
but the belly of the wicked shall want.
(Proverbs 13:25 KJV)

The righteous have enough to eat,
but the wicked are always hungry.
(Proverbs 13:25 GNB)

The righteous eats to the satisfying of his appetite,
but the belly of the wicked shall lack.
(Proverbs 13:25 LITV)

An appetite for good brings much satisfaction,
but the belly of the wicked always wants more.
(Proverbs 13:25 MSG)

So I read that no matter how much I eat, I will never be satisfied because the hole I am trying to fill is not in my stomach, it is in my soul. Feed my soul and my stomach will no longer hunger. Amazing how God and his Word are so timely. Food may sustain my body on this earth, but God is the real longterm sustenance.

For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.
(1 Timothy 4:8) KJV

Broccoli Casserole

2007-06-25T21:02:00.000-07:00

Here's the recipe for tonights snack, broccoli Casserole.

4 oz low fat Cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup cooked long grain brown rice
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup skim milk
1 tbsp butter
2 (10 oz.) package frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
1 tsp Celtic sea salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 2 quart casserole with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. In 3 quart sauce pan combine all ingredients, except broccoli and Celtic sea salt and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until cheese and butter are melted. Add broccoli and Celtic sea salt and cook, stirring frequently, until broccoli is heated, about 2 minutes. Turn into sprayed casserole and bake until mixture is heated throughout and broccoli is tender, about 30 minutes.

Makes 4 servings at 221 calories and 8.2 grams fat each.