Many people have asked me, "Don't you get tired of eating veggies?"
The short answer is: "Sometimes, yes."
But the full answer is that I only get tired of eating veggies if I make them the same way each time. And there are many more ways to make vegetables than just having a salad. One of our favorite ways to have a nice hot meal during these cold weather days is to make roasted vegetables. And roasting vegetables can seem hard and complicated, but it really doesn't need to be. So I thought I would share with you an easy way to have roasted vegetables, and it is yummy too.
One of the complicated parts of roasting is choosing which spices to use. Many people avoid the whole concept of roasting their own veggies, because of the fear of seasonings. But it doesn't have to be hard. There are many great products out there that have seasonings already selected, mixed and portioned for you. You just have to choose a company and product that you agree with the ingredients and additives. These spice combinations can come in the form of a spice bottle like Mrs. Dash seasonings. They can come in spice packets like the typical chili seasoning or taco seasoning packets. But they can also come in the form of ready to pour bottles, like salad dressings or marinade sauces. I use them all, but usually one at a time.
Next, we must choose the vegetables. This doesn't need to be tough either. Not everything must be fresh from the produce section. If you are going to roast the vegetables, then you are planning on cooking them. They don't need to start out raw. In fact, frozen may be better. It takes many chemicals and enhancements to make "fresh produce" stay fresh while they ship it across the country. And sometimes it isn't all that great when you taste it. Nor is the price very reasonable. But frozen veggies are usually flash frozen from a very fresh raw and ripe stage with fewer chemical additives. They stay frozen through travel and cost less to ship, so the prices are more reasonable. And they taste yummy.
So now I have my spice mix and my frozen bag of veggies. What's next? Notice, you have a huge variety of choices just in the first two steps. You can have many combinations with different spice packets and veggie varieties. The taste options are basically endless.
Now comes the roasting part. You can chose between crunchy, crisp or soft veggies. What I mean by that is, what kind of pan you use and how hot the oven is will determine how soft your veggies are in the end. You can take the same veggie and cook it different ways and get a different texture each time.
If you want soft veggies, then use a deeper pan and a lower temperature oven. When I say soft, I do not mean mush, but rather similar to a steamed texture. I use a cake pan and bake it at 350. You can also heap the veggies in the pan more, just leave yourself enough room to stir the veggies once in a while.
If you want crisp veggies, then use a sheet pan with enough space to spread the veggies in a single layer and bake them at a higher temperature. I use two sheet pans and bake them at 400. You will still want to turn the veggies a couple times during the baking process. And if you want the veggies crunchy, like chips, then you will bake them longer in this single layer format.
There are so many choices and so many options, how do you decide what to try? I would suggest you pick your favorites first. What is your favorite marinade sauce and your favorite cooked vegetable? I like roasted corn and just a bit of butter. It may sound too simple or easy, because it is. I put a whole bag of frozen corn in a cake pan and bake it at 350 degrees for about an hour. I stir it every 15 minutes and the last 15 minutes, I add a bit of vegan butter. Yum.
I also like crunchy broccoli and cauliflower in an Italian seasoning. So I take a bag of mixed broccoli and cauliflower pieces, put them in a mixing bowl or gallon size Ziploc bag, pour Italian dressing over them and mix until all the pieces are coated. I pour them onto a sheet pan, in a single layer, and put it in the oven at 400 degrees for about 45 minutes. I stir it every 15 minutes or so. And voila, yummy crunchy roasted broccoli and cauliflower.
When I go to the grocery store, I buy many different kinds of seasoning mixes and many bags of frozen veggies. We have roasted veggies every day and each day they are a completely different flavor and texture than the previous day. YUM!
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Hot Apple Cider
One of my favorite warm beverages during cold seasons is Hot Apple Cider. And when I say "cold," I mean that in two ways: temperature and health. It is chilly outside. The weather has turned cold and snowy. It is the perfect time of year to enjoy a warm beverage. But it is also a germ season. People are spreading cold germs and flu bugs through schools, churches, stores and restaurants, etc. Our bodies need an extra boost to stay healthy and thrive during this germy season. This Hot Apple Cider recipes works on both fronts to keep you nice and cozy warm, while keeping your body healthy, and it tastes good, too.
Ingredients:
- Apple Cider
- Orange Juice (preferably with pulp)
- Pumpkin Pie Spice
- (Optional: ginger, hot sauce, and honey)
I use a crock pot, so that this beverage can be cooking all day and ready whenever I (or my family) would like some. Also, it helps the house smell good and when company drops by for a visit, you have something to offer immediately. Win, Win!
I pour about a half gallon of cider into my crock pot so it fills my pot about 3/4 of the way full. Then I add the orange juice. If you want proportions, it is about 2 cups of orange juice to each half gallon of cider. Then I sprinkle in some pumpkin pie spice and stir until the spices no longer float on the top. Cover and let it warm.
I add the ginger, hot sauce and honey to individual cups. Just a dash of ground ginger, a drop or two of hot sauce (like Tabasco sauce) and a tablespoon of honey, and this beverages becomes a powerful boost to the body systems. It is soothing, calming, and empowering to your health.
If you are a fan of Apple Cider Vinegar, this is also a perfect beverage to add a dash of ACV to. The flavor blends perfectly and the health benefits are huge.
For those that want to make it look pretty: you can add a cinnamon stick, some whole cloves, and apple slices or orange slices. They will float in your crock pot and look very festive.
I hope you stay healthy, warm and cozy this season. Enjoy your cup of cider!
Ingredients:
- Apple Cider
- Orange Juice (preferably with pulp)
- Pumpkin Pie Spice
- (Optional: ginger, hot sauce, and honey)
I use a crock pot, so that this beverage can be cooking all day and ready whenever I (or my family) would like some. Also, it helps the house smell good and when company drops by for a visit, you have something to offer immediately. Win, Win!
I pour about a half gallon of cider into my crock pot so it fills my pot about 3/4 of the way full. Then I add the orange juice. If you want proportions, it is about 2 cups of orange juice to each half gallon of cider. Then I sprinkle in some pumpkin pie spice and stir until the spices no longer float on the top. Cover and let it warm.
I add the ginger, hot sauce and honey to individual cups. Just a dash of ground ginger, a drop or two of hot sauce (like Tabasco sauce) and a tablespoon of honey, and this beverages becomes a powerful boost to the body systems. It is soothing, calming, and empowering to your health.
If you are a fan of Apple Cider Vinegar, this is also a perfect beverage to add a dash of ACV to. The flavor blends perfectly and the health benefits are huge.
For those that want to make it look pretty: you can add a cinnamon stick, some whole cloves, and apple slices or orange slices. They will float in your crock pot and look very festive.
I hope you stay healthy, warm and cozy this season. Enjoy your cup of cider!
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
How I Use Juice In Our Menu
Over the past 2 years, I have become an avid juice drinker. But not just the bottled juice at the grocery store. In fact, I steer clear of those. The juice I drink is real homemade juice from the produce itself.
In July of 2012, I chose to do a Juice Fast. I drank only fresh real juice for 15 days. We bought a juice extractor and each week we would load up on real produce at the market. Then I'd juice fresh juice each day and drink it all day long. I found many recipes that I loved. And I found that my body, even in my obese unhealthy state, really responded to the fresh juice. I felt GREAT!
I like to try new recipes. I also like to shop at thrift stores. So it makes sense that I find many recipe books and interesting health books at thrift stores. Sometimes the books are filled with WONDERFUL information and ideas, other times, not so much. But one book that was very helpful to me was written by a doctor, talking about his analysis of how fresh fruits and vegetables help our bodies and what they do for our systems. From this book, I found many wonderful recipes and was able to invent some of my own.
My favorite morning juice, one that I still make quite often, is a citrus blend that we call Zesty Citrus Cleanse. The basic recipe is 2 Ruby Red Grapefruits, 1 Lemon, 1 Lime, and a bit of ginger. As I have posted in the past, I like to make things in bulk, so I actually buy a full bag of each kind of fruit, sometimes also adding oranges, and then juice it all at once. I store them in clean glass canning jars in my refrigerator. And I drink some for breakfast every day.
It is commonly known that when a person wakes up in the morning they need food within the first hour in order to jump start their metabolism. The Diet Center menu plan instructed people to start with lemon water each day. The Hallelujah Diet menu claims that fruit, especially citrus fruits, are a natural body cleanse that helps flush waste from your body. And many books suggest having fruit during the day, thus allowing you all day to burn of the extra sugar calories. All of these reasons, and probably a couple more, led me to the conclusion that starting each day with a citrus juice is a good idea.
For me, this morning juice is critical. I am not a morning person. I wake up groggy and usually later than I had hoped. I have things to do and I don't want to take time to eat. Also eating is a relaxation for me, so when I stop to eat I start to lose my momentum for the day. So it is better for me to not eat in the morning. But my body needs fuel and my health requires something sustaining. The best solution is fresh juice. It is real juice filled with vitamins, nutrients and healthy calories. It is premade and only requires a quick shake and a straw. It is portable and easy to sip while I am doing other things. And the Zesty Citrus Cleanse is a fabulous boost to my system and cleanse for my body. I can feel it working immediately and it feels GREAT!
What is your favorite breakfast meal to break your fast?
In July of 2012, I chose to do a Juice Fast. I drank only fresh real juice for 15 days. We bought a juice extractor and each week we would load up on real produce at the market. Then I'd juice fresh juice each day and drink it all day long. I found many recipes that I loved. And I found that my body, even in my obese unhealthy state, really responded to the fresh juice. I felt GREAT!
I like to try new recipes. I also like to shop at thrift stores. So it makes sense that I find many recipe books and interesting health books at thrift stores. Sometimes the books are filled with WONDERFUL information and ideas, other times, not so much. But one book that was very helpful to me was written by a doctor, talking about his analysis of how fresh fruits and vegetables help our bodies and what they do for our systems. From this book, I found many wonderful recipes and was able to invent some of my own.
My favorite morning juice, one that I still make quite often, is a citrus blend that we call Zesty Citrus Cleanse. The basic recipe is 2 Ruby Red Grapefruits, 1 Lemon, 1 Lime, and a bit of ginger. As I have posted in the past, I like to make things in bulk, so I actually buy a full bag of each kind of fruit, sometimes also adding oranges, and then juice it all at once. I store them in clean glass canning jars in my refrigerator. And I drink some for breakfast every day.
It is commonly known that when a person wakes up in the morning they need food within the first hour in order to jump start their metabolism. The Diet Center menu plan instructed people to start with lemon water each day. The Hallelujah Diet menu claims that fruit, especially citrus fruits, are a natural body cleanse that helps flush waste from your body. And many books suggest having fruit during the day, thus allowing you all day to burn of the extra sugar calories. All of these reasons, and probably a couple more, led me to the conclusion that starting each day with a citrus juice is a good idea.
For me, this morning juice is critical. I am not a morning person. I wake up groggy and usually later than I had hoped. I have things to do and I don't want to take time to eat. Also eating is a relaxation for me, so when I stop to eat I start to lose my momentum for the day. So it is better for me to not eat in the morning. But my body needs fuel and my health requires something sustaining. The best solution is fresh juice. It is real juice filled with vitamins, nutrients and healthy calories. It is premade and only requires a quick shake and a straw. It is portable and easy to sip while I am doing other things. And the Zesty Citrus Cleanse is a fabulous boost to my system and cleanse for my body. I can feel it working immediately and it feels GREAT!
What is your favorite breakfast meal to break your fast?
Monday, October 28, 2013
Baked Rice
I buy multiple different kinds of rice. Since we are gluten free, rice is a staple item in our menu. But the same kind of rice each time gets very old and common tasting. So we buy a different kinds of rice which gives us variety, while we are still eating a filling and yummy rice. It also gives us different nutrient values based on what kind of rice we choose. We have red rice, wild rice, brown rice, and occasionally white rice.
I bake rice in bulk. My family can eat about 6 cups of rice per meal. So I make somewhere between 10-12 cups each time I make rice. That allows us to eat one pan for dinner and still have leftovers to quickly reheat or add to other recipes easily.
So, you may wonder, how do you bake rice? Many people have been taught how to boil rice on the stove top. But it is true, you can bake rice. It is so easy and delicious, too.
Start by preheating your oven at 350 degrees. Also, lightly grease your baking dish. I use olive oil or safflower oil. Now measure out your rice and water. The ratio is still the same, 2 cups of water for every cup of dry rice. So when I make 12 cups of rice, I prepare 2 - 9x13 glass baking pans, putting 3 cups of rice and 6 cups of water in each. I put it in the oven and let it bake for about an hour. The rice is done when the water is absorbed.
I make my rice plain. I prefer to make the rice bland so that I can easily use the leftovers for other recipes. Plain rice can be added to soups, stews, salads, taco filling, stir fry, and eaten plain. We add all kinds of toppings to plain rice allowing each person to have it their own favorite way. Some of the toppings
we use include: gluten free soy sauce, nutritional yeast, salt and pepper, teriyaki sauce, curry, etc. It is extremely versatile, easy to make and very healthy!
What do you enjoying eating with your rice?
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
It's been 2 years? Wow! I'm Back!
A friend recently started a new blog and as we talked, I thought, "It has been a long time since I updated my blog." Come to find out, it has been over 2 years. YIKES! Sorry. But I'm back now.
It has been a wonderful 2 years and a crazy 2 years. We have made some major lifestyle changes and improvements towards health. I am excited to share it all with you! All about what I am learning and what I have experienced.
One major change is that our family is now vegan. We have stopped eating meat, fish, dairy, and most other animal products. Our exception is that we still use honey, but I am learning to use other sweeteners and nectars, so we will see if that changes in the future too. But, I digress, so yeah, we went vegan and we love it!
Also, we are currently transitioning to gluten free, no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives or other additives. We are doing our best to remove the chemicals out of our menu and out of our bodies. And sometime I will explain more of the reasons behind going gluten free.
We feel wonderful. The whole family has been changing our menu together. That has been a major benefit on this journey. And we are all noticing health benefits as we continue to transition to better eating and a healthier lifestyle. I am glad we can share our journey with you!
See you again real soon!
It has been a wonderful 2 years and a crazy 2 years. We have made some major lifestyle changes and improvements towards health. I am excited to share it all with you! All about what I am learning and what I have experienced.
One major change is that our family is now vegan. We have stopped eating meat, fish, dairy, and most other animal products. Our exception is that we still use honey, but I am learning to use other sweeteners and nectars, so we will see if that changes in the future too. But, I digress, so yeah, we went vegan and we love it!
Also, we are currently transitioning to gluten free, no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives or other additives. We are doing our best to remove the chemicals out of our menu and out of our bodies. And sometime I will explain more of the reasons behind going gluten free.
We feel wonderful. The whole family has been changing our menu together. That has been a major benefit on this journey. And we are all noticing health benefits as we continue to transition to better eating and a healthier lifestyle. I am glad we can share our journey with you!
See you again real soon!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
My Journey Continues . . .
Hello again, I haven't forgotten you. I do apologize for being absent so extremely long. My journey toward health continues, and it is an uphill battle. How is yours?
So it has been 6 months since I have posted. In those 6 months I have continued to try to eat healthy and exercise, yet I have also continued to give into temptation and laziness. Not all the time, but enough to not make a dent in my health goals. So I continue to strive.
It is a new year, this is the time when we make new goals and try to restart our lives. Right? Well, I can't restart my life, because I am still facing the consequences of past struggles, emotional and physical obstacles and hurts that must be dealt with and overcome. So, I am not making resolutions this year. Instead I am "picking myself up by the boot straps" so to speak and continuing the journey before me.
My health has continued to degrade including some medical diagnoses that I am not satisfied to live with. Oh, don't get me wrong, I know the doctor has diagnosed me correctly, what I mean to say is that my health will not continue in this negative downward spiral if I can do anything about it.
I am continuing to learn about healthy, natural supplements, organic choices and benefits, and the lifestyle habits that plague us. So I hope to write more about these topics as the year progresses.
My journey continues and I hope your does too. Feel free to comment and let me know how your journey is progressing.
So it has been 6 months since I have posted. In those 6 months I have continued to try to eat healthy and exercise, yet I have also continued to give into temptation and laziness. Not all the time, but enough to not make a dent in my health goals. So I continue to strive.
It is a new year, this is the time when we make new goals and try to restart our lives. Right? Well, I can't restart my life, because I am still facing the consequences of past struggles, emotional and physical obstacles and hurts that must be dealt with and overcome. So, I am not making resolutions this year. Instead I am "picking myself up by the boot straps" so to speak and continuing the journey before me.
My health has continued to degrade including some medical diagnoses that I am not satisfied to live with. Oh, don't get me wrong, I know the doctor has diagnosed me correctly, what I mean to say is that my health will not continue in this negative downward spiral if I can do anything about it.
I am continuing to learn about healthy, natural supplements, organic choices and benefits, and the lifestyle habits that plague us. So I hope to write more about these topics as the year progresses.
My journey continues and I hope your does too. Feel free to comment and let me know how your journey is progressing.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Healing Our Hurts
It is amazing how being a parent can teach you things about God. Lately, I have been reflecting on my role of being God's child. Some of my best teaching lessons have occurred while trying to be a good parent to my own kids.
At this age, my kids think every twinge is an ouchie that must be treated. Every little poke needs a bandaid and every scratch needs a medicine. Every little discomfort needs to be smothered in kisses. And I love that my kiss can heal so many hurts. I fear the day that my kiss will no longer be enough.
This makes me wonder, Do I let God's kisses take away my hurts? Do I bring the little things to God and let Him sooth my ouchies?
Recently, one of my kids has been demanding comfort. Oh, it isn't angry tantrums so much as coming to me and purposefully pressing the wound into my lips rather than let me kiss it. This child will come for a hug and lunge at me rather than allow me to gently offer a hug. So we have been working on being gentle and not forcing things upon others, etc.
Today this child was hurt and came to me crying. I offered a hug and wiped the tears away. But since the child was crying, the nose was running. So my hug turned into an opportunity to wipe a messy nose against my shirt and arm. (It is true that being a mom, I get to deal with all kinds of bodily messes, and usually that is okay.) But today, I thought , "Ugh, here I offer a hug and kiss and instead I get yuckies all over me." Needless to say, the child and I had a bit of a conversation about healing the hurts and not getting mama gross.
Also, this got me thinking, When I come to God with my hurts, do I let Him heal them the way He knows is best or do I try to take advantage? When I'm hurting do I try to manipulate the situation or do I accept healing?
A fabulous book I have started reading, and based on the first two chapters I would recommend, "Healing for Damaged Emotions" by David Seamands. I look forward to reading the rest. We all have hurts throughout our entire lives and we need to heal.
May God bless you and heal all your ouchies! Have a great day!!
At this age, my kids think every twinge is an ouchie that must be treated. Every little poke needs a bandaid and every scratch needs a medicine. Every little discomfort needs to be smothered in kisses. And I love that my kiss can heal so many hurts. I fear the day that my kiss will no longer be enough.
This makes me wonder, Do I let God's kisses take away my hurts? Do I bring the little things to God and let Him sooth my ouchies?
Recently, one of my kids has been demanding comfort. Oh, it isn't angry tantrums so much as coming to me and purposefully pressing the wound into my lips rather than let me kiss it. This child will come for a hug and lunge at me rather than allow me to gently offer a hug. So we have been working on being gentle and not forcing things upon others, etc.
Today this child was hurt and came to me crying. I offered a hug and wiped the tears away. But since the child was crying, the nose was running. So my hug turned into an opportunity to wipe a messy nose against my shirt and arm. (It is true that being a mom, I get to deal with all kinds of bodily messes, and usually that is okay.) But today, I thought , "Ugh, here I offer a hug and kiss and instead I get yuckies all over me." Needless to say, the child and I had a bit of a conversation about healing the hurts and not getting mama gross.
Also, this got me thinking, When I come to God with my hurts, do I let Him heal them the way He knows is best or do I try to take advantage? When I'm hurting do I try to manipulate the situation or do I accept healing?
A fabulous book I have started reading, and based on the first two chapters I would recommend, "Healing for Damaged Emotions" by David Seamands. I look forward to reading the rest. We all have hurts throughout our entire lives and we need to heal.
May God bless you and heal all your ouchies! Have a great day!!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Procrastination
I have such a problem with Procrastination. I say I am going to do something, and I really mean it. I am going to do (fill in the blank). But I don't get around to it. Worse yet, if I commit to start a daily/regular task and then I procrastinate on starting the routine. Ugh!
So, I keep saying I am going to exercise regularly. And yes, it would be very good for me to do this task. Yet, I procrastinate. Why?
Possible Reasons:
Some people would say that 15 minutes is not a true workout. But at my level, it is. I will need to increase my workout ability and endurance. But it is a start.
What are you procrastinating? What are you going to do about it?
So, I keep saying I am going to exercise regularly. And yes, it would be very good for me to do this task. Yet, I procrastinate. Why?
Possible Reasons:
- I'm busy: Yep. I am busy. But perhaps not so busy that I can't work in some kind of exercise.
- I'm not in shape: Yeah, that is true. But of course, if I exercised then I would increase my "in shape-ness" and that excuse would no longer exist.
- My house is hot: True. But I have fans, so I really could have enough air moving to make it okay.
- I'm tired: Yes, but I probably would gain energy from exercising. At least that is what other people tell me.
- I'm scared: True, now we are getting somewhere. I am scared. Scared of failure. Scared of injury. Scared of embarrassment. etc.
- my list could go on and on.
Some people would say that 15 minutes is not a true workout. But at my level, it is. I will need to increase my workout ability and endurance. But it is a start.
What are you procrastinating? What are you going to do about it?
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Yummy Fruit Punch
Today, I made a Yummy Fruit Punch that was fairly healthy. You can judge for yourself.
Ingredients:
1 can of pineapple chunks in pineapple juice
12 ice cubes made with water
2 cups of vitamin fortified orange juice
7 up (as much as you desire knowing the health content)
Combine the pineapple chunks, pineapple juice and ice cubes in a blender. Add orange juice until well blended. Pour into pitcher/punch bowl and add 7up. Tastes delicious served cold. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
1 can of pineapple chunks in pineapple juice
12 ice cubes made with water
2 cups of vitamin fortified orange juice
7 up (as much as you desire knowing the health content)
Combine the pineapple chunks, pineapple juice and ice cubes in a blender. Add orange juice until well blended. Pour into pitcher/punch bowl and add 7up. Tastes delicious served cold. Enjoy!
Healthy Burgers
Just like pizza, Burgers are an American favorite. Usually they are filled with grease and fat, therefore they are unhealthy. Is it possible to make an American favorite burger that is healthy? Yep!!
Supplies:
Healthy hamburger buns (whole gran, gluten free, etc.)
Burger veggies (sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, lettuce or spinach, pickles, etc.)
Healthy sliced cheese (reduced fat, low sodium, etc.)
Your favorite burger condiments (ketchup, mustard, relish, etc)
And of course the Burger patty.
Make the Burgers with:
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained well.
1/2 green bell pepper
1/2 onion
3 cloves garlic, peeled
1 can whole kernel corn
2 eggs (or egg equivalent)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon cilantro
1 teaspoon hot sauce (or a dash of Tabasco sauce)
1 cup healthy cracker crumbs (whole grain, gluten free, etc.) Optional: replace cracker crumbs with brown rice)
Blend ingredients together. I used a food processor to blend all the ingredients except the cracker crumbs. I transferred the mixture into a bowl and added the cracker crumbs, mixing until thick. Add more crackers as needed, until the mixture can hold form.
You may want to grease your hands with olive oil before forming the patties. Then form the patties and place them on a baking sheet. Place the patties in the freezer (ideally overnight). Once the patties are firm, you may cook them.
You can bake them at 375 degrees F for 10-12 minutes on each side. I suggest greasing the baking sheet before baking them. They will brown and crisp, just like real burgers.
Or you can grill them for about 8 minutes on each side.
Assemble your burgers and enjoy! My whole family (adults, kids, vegetarians and meat lovers) all like these burgers!
Supplies:
Healthy hamburger buns (whole gran, gluten free, etc.)
Burger veggies (sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, lettuce or spinach, pickles, etc.)
Healthy sliced cheese (reduced fat, low sodium, etc.)
Your favorite burger condiments (ketchup, mustard, relish, etc)
And of course the Burger patty.
Make the Burgers with:
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained well.
1/2 green bell pepper
1/2 onion
3 cloves garlic, peeled
1 can whole kernel corn
2 eggs (or egg equivalent)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon cilantro
1 teaspoon hot sauce (or a dash of Tabasco sauce)
1 cup healthy cracker crumbs (whole grain, gluten free, etc.) Optional: replace cracker crumbs with brown rice)
Blend ingredients together. I used a food processor to blend all the ingredients except the cracker crumbs. I transferred the mixture into a bowl and added the cracker crumbs, mixing until thick. Add more crackers as needed, until the mixture can hold form.
You may want to grease your hands with olive oil before forming the patties. Then form the patties and place them on a baking sheet. Place the patties in the freezer (ideally overnight). Once the patties are firm, you may cook them.
You can bake them at 375 degrees F for 10-12 minutes on each side. I suggest greasing the baking sheet before baking them. They will brown and crisp, just like real burgers.
Or you can grill them for about 8 minutes on each side.
Assemble your burgers and enjoy! My whole family (adults, kids, vegetarians and meat lovers) all like these burgers!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Trust
This morning I was thinking about why I like reading fiction and one of the key aspects I like is escaping into another world. I like to mentally go into the imaginative situation and put myself in the role of the leading lady and main characters.
Lately I have been rereading a book called "A Stitch in Time." It is a compilation of 4 short books on related themes of falling in love during the pioneering "Old West" days. As I was reading, another reason for my love of fiction jumped off the page: I learn things about myself and life from the experiences of the fictional characters. That may seem absurd to some people. But I have had some amazing Christian role models who only lived in the pages of fiction.
Okay, some would read that part and think, "Oh how typically romantic." Others may think, "Ahhh, that is so perfect." And no doubt, these statements and many others are true.
But my thoughts were stuck on one phrase, "She didn't resist as he" She trusted him enough to let him do whatever he was planning. The book doesn't say that she wanted him to kiss her or that she expected him to kiss her. It says, they were having a misunderstanding and he reached for her. In a perfect romance the two characters trust each other and know each other so well that they react well in each situation and it goes "right."
But, I'm not as trusting. In a misunderstanding, if that person reached to give me a hug (not to mention, a kiss) I would automatically pull back and resist. I wouldn't even think about it, I would just react.
This fictional character thought she was being rejected for being ugly. She thought she was not good enough and not appealing enough. I would have felt hurt and maybe defensive, not trusting and compliant. Maybe that is just me.
The whole section brings to mind the topic of trust. Do we draw others to us and allow ourselves to be drawn toward others? Or do we isolate ourselves? And how healthy is that?
As I look toward physical health and healing, I find I must also seek emotional and mental healing. One area I need to heal is my ability to trust others. To live on the defensive, always alert to offense and hurt, it is a tense and frustrating way of life. It makes me an angry person who is always finding what I expect, hurt and offense. When what I really desire is goodness and peace, gentleness and love, joy and contentment. These can be found too, if I am alert to watch for them.
So today, I seek to trust others and look for the good in every situation.
Lately I have been rereading a book called "A Stitch in Time." It is a compilation of 4 short books on related themes of falling in love during the pioneering "Old West" days. As I was reading, another reason for my love of fiction jumped off the page: I learn things about myself and life from the experiences of the fictional characters. That may seem absurd to some people. But I have had some amazing Christian role models who only lived in the pages of fiction.
Taking her hands in his, he looked into her sweet, heart-shaped face. "I'm sorry I was such an idiot when you told me how you feel. To be honest, I've been struggling with the same emotion toward you."
Her wide eyes glistened. "I don't understand what you mean. Why struggle? Am I that repulsive?"
"Repulsive?" In a flash, he released her hands and slipped his arm around her waist. She didn't resist as he pulled her close and kissed her trembling lips.
Okay, some would read that part and think, "Oh how typically romantic." Others may think, "Ahhh, that is so perfect." And no doubt, these statements and many others are true.
But my thoughts were stuck on one phrase, "She didn't resist as he" She trusted him enough to let him do whatever he was planning. The book doesn't say that she wanted him to kiss her or that she expected him to kiss her. It says, they were having a misunderstanding and he reached for her. In a perfect romance the two characters trust each other and know each other so well that they react well in each situation and it goes "right."
But, I'm not as trusting. In a misunderstanding, if that person reached to give me a hug (not to mention, a kiss) I would automatically pull back and resist. I wouldn't even think about it, I would just react.
This fictional character thought she was being rejected for being ugly. She thought she was not good enough and not appealing enough. I would have felt hurt and maybe defensive, not trusting and compliant. Maybe that is just me.
The whole section brings to mind the topic of trust. Do we draw others to us and allow ourselves to be drawn toward others? Or do we isolate ourselves? And how healthy is that?
As I look toward physical health and healing, I find I must also seek emotional and mental healing. One area I need to heal is my ability to trust others. To live on the defensive, always alert to offense and hurt, it is a tense and frustrating way of life. It makes me an angry person who is always finding what I expect, hurt and offense. When what I really desire is goodness and peace, gentleness and love, joy and contentment. These can be found too, if I am alert to watch for them.
So today, I seek to trust others and look for the good in every situation.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Yummy Italian Sandwich Spread
So, last weekend I was experimenting with yummy ingredients and discovered a delicious sandwich spread.
In my food processor I combined fresh garlic, fresh basil, and fresh cilantro. I added olive oil, and a bit of salt and pepper. I put this mixture into a bowl and made sure the garlic was finely chopped. Then I added grated Parmesan and grated Romano cheeses. Viola, delicious spread.
I spread some on Italian bread, added sliced tomato, spinach leaves, sliced onion, and a slice of provolone cheese. Mmmm, vegetarian goodness.
This would also taste delicious with precooked chicken pieces, especially if the chicken is also seasoned with Italian seasonings. It would probably also taste good with Italian cold cut meats, (salami, peperoni, sliced ham, etc.) though I haven't tried it yet.
My family loved every bite. I served these sandwiches with fresh baby carrots and fresh sliced apples. My husband said, "Why go to Panera when you can have this at home?" Of course, I'm not convinced that they really taste as good as Panera, but I certainly enjoyed my meal and I hope you do too. Let me know what you think, okay?
In my food processor I combined fresh garlic, fresh basil, and fresh cilantro. I added olive oil, and a bit of salt and pepper. I put this mixture into a bowl and made sure the garlic was finely chopped. Then I added grated Parmesan and grated Romano cheeses. Viola, delicious spread.
I spread some on Italian bread, added sliced tomato, spinach leaves, sliced onion, and a slice of provolone cheese. Mmmm, vegetarian goodness.
This would also taste delicious with precooked chicken pieces, especially if the chicken is also seasoned with Italian seasonings. It would probably also taste good with Italian cold cut meats, (salami, peperoni, sliced ham, etc.) though I haven't tried it yet.
My family loved every bite. I served these sandwiches with fresh baby carrots and fresh sliced apples. My husband said, "Why go to Panera when you can have this at home?" Of course, I'm not convinced that they really taste as good as Panera, but I certainly enjoyed my meal and I hope you do too. Let me know what you think, okay?
Healthy Pizza
Can pizza be healthy and yummy? I say, Absolutely!
Start with a healthy pizza crust. It could be made from scratch or bought in the store. We recently used 100 % whole wheat crusts premade. But in the past I have been able to make my own using my preferred flour (whole wheat, gluten free, organic, etc.) add some yeast, a bit of water and olive oil, maybe a pinch of sugar (especially to activate the yeast) and some favorite spices. Voila! Healthy pizza crust!
Next, I omit pizza sauce. Instead I use a bit of olive oil or an olive oil spread like Smart Balance (from the butter section of the grocery store). I spread on the olive oil, fairly lightly.
Then I sprinkle my Italian spices. Fresh is always better where spices are concerned. Common Italian spices include Basil, Cilantro, Oregano, Garlic, Red Pepper or Cayenne Pepper (as desired), Parsley, maybe some Rosemary or Coriander, etc.
Then I add fresh veggies. Real veggies. You are welcome to slice and dice as much as you like. The reason I sometimes use big chunks of veggies is it is easier to cut and easier to pick off should my company not want to eat a particular veggie. However, my family prefers to have the veggies tiny for delicious flavor in every bite. We add tomatoes, green peppers, onion, etc.
Then we add cheese. I try to use low fat cheese and reduced salt cheese. Typical Italian pizza cheeses include: Mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, Provolone, etc.
At this point, you have a wonderful vegetarian pizza that will taste delicious.
However, for the meat lover, feel free to add meat as you desire. I have added bits of chicken, peperoni, precooked sausage, precooked ground beef, salami, ham, etc. I usually put meat on top so that everyone knows that particular pizza has meat. However, if you desire to add cheese on top of the meat, that is certainly okay with me. In fact, if you have a healthy cheese, you could add two layers. Make it as you prefer, just keep in mind the olive oil and cheese contain the most of the fat content.
Also, if you would like a stuffed crust pizza, prior to adding any toppings, you can stretch the pizza crust about one to two inches over the edges of the pan, place string cheese along the pans edge and roll the crust over the cheese, pressing the crust down to seal the inner edge.
Bake in a 450 degree oven for about 15 minutes. I tend to check my pizza and rotate it, etc. The cooking time will vary based on the pizza thickness.
Yummy! Enjoy!
Start with a healthy pizza crust. It could be made from scratch or bought in the store. We recently used 100 % whole wheat crusts premade. But in the past I have been able to make my own using my preferred flour (whole wheat, gluten free, organic, etc.) add some yeast, a bit of water and olive oil, maybe a pinch of sugar (especially to activate the yeast) and some favorite spices. Voila! Healthy pizza crust!
Next, I omit pizza sauce. Instead I use a bit of olive oil or an olive oil spread like Smart Balance (from the butter section of the grocery store). I spread on the olive oil, fairly lightly.
Then I sprinkle my Italian spices. Fresh is always better where spices are concerned. Common Italian spices include Basil, Cilantro, Oregano, Garlic, Red Pepper or Cayenne Pepper (as desired), Parsley, maybe some Rosemary or Coriander, etc.
Then I add fresh veggies. Real veggies. You are welcome to slice and dice as much as you like. The reason I sometimes use big chunks of veggies is it is easier to cut and easier to pick off should my company not want to eat a particular veggie. However, my family prefers to have the veggies tiny for delicious flavor in every bite. We add tomatoes, green peppers, onion, etc.
Then we add cheese. I try to use low fat cheese and reduced salt cheese. Typical Italian pizza cheeses include: Mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, Provolone, etc.
At this point, you have a wonderful vegetarian pizza that will taste delicious.
However, for the meat lover, feel free to add meat as you desire. I have added bits of chicken, peperoni, precooked sausage, precooked ground beef, salami, ham, etc. I usually put meat on top so that everyone knows that particular pizza has meat. However, if you desire to add cheese on top of the meat, that is certainly okay with me. In fact, if you have a healthy cheese, you could add two layers. Make it as you prefer, just keep in mind the olive oil and cheese contain the most of the fat content.
Also, if you would like a stuffed crust pizza, prior to adding any toppings, you can stretch the pizza crust about one to two inches over the edges of the pan, place string cheese along the pans edge and roll the crust over the cheese, pressing the crust down to seal the inner edge.
Bake in a 450 degree oven for about 15 minutes. I tend to check my pizza and rotate it, etc. The cooking time will vary based on the pizza thickness.
Yummy! Enjoy!
Water
We live in a society that drinks everything except water. When I walk through the grocery store, I see fruit juice, vegetable juice, juice cocktail blends, juice boxes, juice pouches, flavor koolaid pouches, soda pop cans, soda pop bottles, soda pop 2 liters, soda pop 3 liters, beer, wine, wine coolers, coffee, tea, hot cocoa, iced tea, lemonade, koolaid mix, premade koolaid, etc. I could keep going. We are surrounded by water alternatives.
Also, we are told that our tap water is not good enough. Which truly, some towns that is true. But some places the water is just fine and delicious. For those who decide water is a good beverage, we have water choices too. Advertising for individual bottles, gallon jugs, 3 gallon jugs, 5 gallon jugs, mini kid-size bottles, bottles with twist off caps, bottles with sports caps, bottles with snap up lids, reusable bottles, self-filtering bottles, self-filtering pitchers, etc. Yikes! What an industry.
I even saw a kid size mini water bottle with a child proof cap. Guess what, the cap didn't come off. At all. Not a bit. They advertised that the bottle would be kid proof. Yep, it was. It was also a complete waste of money since it only held 8 oz and could not be refilled. What makes it worse, is that little bottle of water cost the same amount of money as a 2 liter bottle of soda pop. Ugh!
So, why water?
Well, there is something unique about water. It is refreshing. It is necessary to live. It replenishes our bodies. It is filling. And when not surrounded by other water alternatives, pure water can actually taste delicious.
In comparison to the water alternatives, water ends up tasting boring and bland. But even the best water alternative is found lacking on a hot summer day when you've been walking in the heat and sweating, that is when the refreshing taste of a nice cool glass of ice water is wholly satisfying.
Our bodies require water. We don't require tea or soda pop. Some of our bodies complain without our usual coffee, I understand. But all those beverages are body "wants" the only liquid "need" is water. And in my experience, if I am drinking all 8 cups of water, I find I have had enough beverage that I don't really need soda pop or lemonade, etc.
I still crave flavor. So I sometimes I try to convince myself that those other beverages contain water as an ingredient so they must be good enough or even better that just plain water. But in truth, I know I should be drinking pure water.
And I kid myself into not drinking enough water, by saying it would make me use the bathroom more. Blah, blah, blah. Well, it might make me use the bathroom. But guess what, that may be a whole lot more healthy for me. Ya know?
So, do we need water? Yes.
Can other beverages fill the need? Let's not lie to ourselves. No, not really.
How much pure water should I drink? As much as possible.
A simple tip: make it fun. Have a cool cup or fun straw. Store a pitcher in the fridge with pure water that is cool and ready to enjoy.
Another tip:
Since our bodies are made up of mostly water, and water is filling: if we start each meal with a glass of water, we can meet a basic life need and eat less food. Double bonus.
So I suggest we take a minute to get a fun glass from the cupboard, fill it with an ice cube or two and pour in some fresh water. Relax, take a breather, and enjoy the refreshing moment.
Also, we are told that our tap water is not good enough. Which truly, some towns that is true. But some places the water is just fine and delicious. For those who decide water is a good beverage, we have water choices too. Advertising for individual bottles, gallon jugs, 3 gallon jugs, 5 gallon jugs, mini kid-size bottles, bottles with twist off caps, bottles with sports caps, bottles with snap up lids, reusable bottles, self-filtering bottles, self-filtering pitchers, etc. Yikes! What an industry.
I even saw a kid size mini water bottle with a child proof cap. Guess what, the cap didn't come off. At all. Not a bit. They advertised that the bottle would be kid proof. Yep, it was. It was also a complete waste of money since it only held 8 oz and could not be refilled. What makes it worse, is that little bottle of water cost the same amount of money as a 2 liter bottle of soda pop. Ugh!
So, why water?
Well, there is something unique about water. It is refreshing. It is necessary to live. It replenishes our bodies. It is filling. And when not surrounded by other water alternatives, pure water can actually taste delicious.
In comparison to the water alternatives, water ends up tasting boring and bland. But even the best water alternative is found lacking on a hot summer day when you've been walking in the heat and sweating, that is when the refreshing taste of a nice cool glass of ice water is wholly satisfying.
Our bodies require water. We don't require tea or soda pop. Some of our bodies complain without our usual coffee, I understand. But all those beverages are body "wants" the only liquid "need" is water. And in my experience, if I am drinking all 8 cups of water, I find I have had enough beverage that I don't really need soda pop or lemonade, etc.
I still crave flavor. So I sometimes I try to convince myself that those other beverages contain water as an ingredient so they must be good enough or even better that just plain water. But in truth, I know I should be drinking pure water.
And I kid myself into not drinking enough water, by saying it would make me use the bathroom more. Blah, blah, blah. Well, it might make me use the bathroom. But guess what, that may be a whole lot more healthy for me. Ya know?
So, do we need water? Yes.
Can other beverages fill the need? Let's not lie to ourselves. No, not really.
How much pure water should I drink? As much as possible.
A simple tip: make it fun. Have a cool cup or fun straw. Store a pitcher in the fridge with pure water that is cool and ready to enjoy.
Another tip:
Since our bodies are made up of mostly water, and water is filling: if we start each meal with a glass of water, we can meet a basic life need and eat less food. Double bonus.
So I suggest we take a minute to get a fun glass from the cupboard, fill it with an ice cube or two and pour in some fresh water. Relax, take a breather, and enjoy the refreshing moment.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
What's new
So today I watched the new show, Losing it with Jillian Michaels. WOW! I may already be addicted and it has only aired one episode. Clearly, I have issues.
So anyway, a couple things I picked up on while watching the first episode include: little issues never dealt with grow into HUGE issues, fixing the outside physical body doesn't fix the inside issues, and with the right kind of small healing whole body healing can come.
So, what does this mean for you and me?
In my mind, it means, "Oh crap, I have to deal with my issues!" I'm not too happy about that. I mean, I know we all have issues. And somehow I believe we are all supposed to be working on our issues. And it is definitely easier to say, "that person needs to deal with his/her issues." But, really, do I have to deal with my issues? Really? That is hard. Can't I just justify them and somehow blame others for my problems? I'm much more comfortable with that idea.
So, I not only need to eat healthier and sweat like crazy working out, I also need to go through an emotional and mental overhaul. I could say, fix the eating and exercise problems first, but that may not fix me in the long run. So, I need to get to the heart of the issue. I need to face reality.
Why am I unhealthy? And what am I going to do about it?
Those are tough questions. But I guess if I really hate being unhealthy and if I really want life change, I better get answering.
Someone once said, something to the effect of, insanity is when you keep doing what you did and expect different results.
Another someone, somewhere long ago, told me about a mama eagle. She builds her nest with briers and sticks, but then fills it with soft fluff. When the eggs are whole, they are kept warm in the fluff. They are cushioned soft and comfy. When the eggs hatch and babies emerge, the warmth and comfort are still necessary. But eventually the tiny eagles are ready to learn to fly, but the nest is so comfy they don't want to leave. They don't want the challenge. They don't want anything different than the false bliss they already feel. So the Mama Eagle takes out the fluff, She pecks away so much fluff that finally the tiny eagles are only surrounded by prickly briers and sticks. They endure enough discomfort and enough pain, that they finally decide it is time for change. And they learn to fly. They soar.
Can you imagine a life of health? Can you picture what that would mean for you? I picture clothes shopping based on style rather than size. I picture going up a flight of stairs and not being winded, but rather being able to carry on a normal conversation. I imagine being comfortable sitting in theater seats, walking in between church pews, walking in a crowded hallway, and not feeling squished. Or going on a family hike or bike ride all afternoon and not being exhausted.
Is it worth it? Is your picture of health worth the sacrifices and hard work it will take to achieve your dream? Mine are. I hope I can remember that when the going gets tough.
So anyway, a couple things I picked up on while watching the first episode include: little issues never dealt with grow into HUGE issues, fixing the outside physical body doesn't fix the inside issues, and with the right kind of small healing whole body healing can come.
So, what does this mean for you and me?
In my mind, it means, "Oh crap, I have to deal with my issues!" I'm not too happy about that. I mean, I know we all have issues. And somehow I believe we are all supposed to be working on our issues. And it is definitely easier to say, "that person needs to deal with his/her issues." But, really, do I have to deal with my issues? Really? That is hard. Can't I just justify them and somehow blame others for my problems? I'm much more comfortable with that idea.
So, I not only need to eat healthier and sweat like crazy working out, I also need to go through an emotional and mental overhaul. I could say, fix the eating and exercise problems first, but that may not fix me in the long run. So, I need to get to the heart of the issue. I need to face reality.
Why am I unhealthy? And what am I going to do about it?
Those are tough questions. But I guess if I really hate being unhealthy and if I really want life change, I better get answering.
Someone once said, something to the effect of, insanity is when you keep doing what you did and expect different results.
Another someone, somewhere long ago, told me about a mama eagle. She builds her nest with briers and sticks, but then fills it with soft fluff. When the eggs are whole, they are kept warm in the fluff. They are cushioned soft and comfy. When the eggs hatch and babies emerge, the warmth and comfort are still necessary. But eventually the tiny eagles are ready to learn to fly, but the nest is so comfy they don't want to leave. They don't want the challenge. They don't want anything different than the false bliss they already feel. So the Mama Eagle takes out the fluff, She pecks away so much fluff that finally the tiny eagles are only surrounded by prickly briers and sticks. They endure enough discomfort and enough pain, that they finally decide it is time for change. And they learn to fly. They soar.
Can you imagine a life of health? Can you picture what that would mean for you? I picture clothes shopping based on style rather than size. I picture going up a flight of stairs and not being winded, but rather being able to carry on a normal conversation. I imagine being comfortable sitting in theater seats, walking in between church pews, walking in a crowded hallway, and not feeling squished. Or going on a family hike or bike ride all afternoon and not being exhausted.
Is it worth it? Is your picture of health worth the sacrifices and hard work it will take to achieve your dream? Mine are. I hope I can remember that when the going gets tough.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
The Journey Continues
This past few weeks I have been contemplating the cause of my unhealthy state. Most of us are not born unhealthy, we became unhealthy by choices we make or choices made for us. So, eventually we must ask, what happened?
In my case, I was quite healthy as a young child, but something changed during my 9th and 10th years. I cannot pinpoint exactly the cause. For years I blamed one incident of sexual abuse, as the culprit. But recently, I have realized that is not true. It was easy to blame that trauma for everything that went wrong in my life, but the truth is many factors lead to this situation.
One factor, for me personally, has been all the things people said to me that hurt. I realized food is a comfort, so when people hurt me, instead of confronting them, letting it go, or forgiving them, I internalized it and allowed it to hurt me, really hurt me deeply.
People can be so mean, and we all need to deal with it. I dealt with it by comforting myself with food. Now, I need to choose a better solution. (In truth, I'm not sure what that is yet.)
How do you handle your hurts?
In my case, I was quite healthy as a young child, but something changed during my 9th and 10th years. I cannot pinpoint exactly the cause. For years I blamed one incident of sexual abuse, as the culprit. But recently, I have realized that is not true. It was easy to blame that trauma for everything that went wrong in my life, but the truth is many factors lead to this situation.
One factor, for me personally, has been all the things people said to me that hurt. I realized food is a comfort, so when people hurt me, instead of confronting them, letting it go, or forgiving them, I internalized it and allowed it to hurt me, really hurt me deeply.
People can be so mean, and we all need to deal with it. I dealt with it by comforting myself with food. Now, I need to choose a better solution. (In truth, I'm not sure what that is yet.)
How do you handle your hurts?
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Biggest Loser Thoughts
It is Tuesday, for me that is Biggest Loser Day. I don't watch many reality shows. Now don't get me wrong, I watch plenty of shows, just not reality shows. But a few seasons ago, I got hooked to Biggest Loser, and I really enjoy it.
Some things I like about the show include:
Of the other reality show episodes I have viewed (which I admit are few) I have watched a lot of game playing. People seem willing to do just about anything for money. Thankfully, Biggest Loser contestants seem willing to help each other and encourage one another rather than play the game. (Not all the contestants, but most)
Also, this show has a real purpose. It isn't lust or greed, but health. And the trainers give real advice, the guests help encourage and give helpful tips toward accomplishing these health goals and staying healthy after the show is done.
The producers/creators seem to really care about the contestants and their health. I have watched as they brought previous contestants back onto the show in an effort to continue helping them. The challenges are hard, but they are ultimately trying to help the health journey.
And I could continue giving reasons for why I watch this show and why I find it motivational. But the gist of it is, I like it and I empathize.
So, something I notice each season is this unhealthy trend: (Let me know if you can empathize with this)
The first episode airs and I totally empathize. I see what contestants are similar size to myself. I see the videos of them eating or trying on clothes, or trying to fit into a chair or car, etc. I totally know what it feels like because it is the life I live each day. And I get motivated, I think to myself, "If they are going to do this, I'm doing it with them." And for a few weeks, I am totally with them. I don't exercise quite as much, and I don't have the benefit of Bob or Jillian, the Biggest Loser Kitchen or the 24 hrs Fitness Gymn, or the life without distractions, but "so what, if they can do it, I can do it." Right?
Then, at some point during the season, as I am cheering them on, and being hopeful about my own weight loss journey, at some point I become a viewer. No longer am I thinking, "I can do it." I'm thinking, "YAY! Go for it, They can do it." Why did I switch from I to They?
Okay, so in the back of my brain, I am still hoping I can do it too. But I certainly won't be succeeding as fast as they are. I certainly won't be near my goal weight by the time the finale airs. What happened?
Well, life happened. I was distracted. I didn't work hard enough. I didn't put 100% effort into it. I didn't have the challenges and the competition. I didn't see that yellow line looming each week or the fear of being sent home prematurely. So, I lived my life, trying to make small adjustments in a positive direction.
Yes, I will make it. But it will not be before this season is done. In fact, it may take a few more full seasons before I reach my goal. But I will continue on my journey.
And as I continue at an at-home pace, I enjoy watching them lose massive amounts of weight each week, succeed in extreme challenges, and give me tips and motivation along the way.
Anybody relate?
Some things I like about the show include:
Of the other reality show episodes I have viewed (which I admit are few) I have watched a lot of game playing. People seem willing to do just about anything for money. Thankfully, Biggest Loser contestants seem willing to help each other and encourage one another rather than play the game. (Not all the contestants, but most)
Also, this show has a real purpose. It isn't lust or greed, but health. And the trainers give real advice, the guests help encourage and give helpful tips toward accomplishing these health goals and staying healthy after the show is done.
The producers/creators seem to really care about the contestants and their health. I have watched as they brought previous contestants back onto the show in an effort to continue helping them. The challenges are hard, but they are ultimately trying to help the health journey.
And I could continue giving reasons for why I watch this show and why I find it motivational. But the gist of it is, I like it and I empathize.
So, something I notice each season is this unhealthy trend: (Let me know if you can empathize with this)
The first episode airs and I totally empathize. I see what contestants are similar size to myself. I see the videos of them eating or trying on clothes, or trying to fit into a chair or car, etc. I totally know what it feels like because it is the life I live each day. And I get motivated, I think to myself, "If they are going to do this, I'm doing it with them." And for a few weeks, I am totally with them. I don't exercise quite as much, and I don't have the benefit of Bob or Jillian, the Biggest Loser Kitchen or the 24 hrs Fitness Gymn, or the life without distractions, but "so what, if they can do it, I can do it." Right?
Then, at some point during the season, as I am cheering them on, and being hopeful about my own weight loss journey, at some point I become a viewer. No longer am I thinking, "I can do it." I'm thinking, "YAY! Go for it, They can do it." Why did I switch from I to They?
Okay, so in the back of my brain, I am still hoping I can do it too. But I certainly won't be succeeding as fast as they are. I certainly won't be near my goal weight by the time the finale airs. What happened?
Well, life happened. I was distracted. I didn't work hard enough. I didn't put 100% effort into it. I didn't have the challenges and the competition. I didn't see that yellow line looming each week or the fear of being sent home prematurely. So, I lived my life, trying to make small adjustments in a positive direction.
Yes, I will make it. But it will not be before this season is done. In fact, it may take a few more full seasons before I reach my goal. But I will continue on my journey.
And as I continue at an at-home pace, I enjoy watching them lose massive amounts of weight each week, succeed in extreme challenges, and give me tips and motivation along the way.
Anybody relate?
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Obstacle - Time
I do not have enough hours in the day. And what makes it worse, is that my physical unhealth, makes the hours I do have not effective. I can be busy for an hour doing physical tasks like laundry, dishes, sweeping, etc. But then I have to sit and rest, cause my body is exhausted. So how can I change the situation?
My time is divided between:
Okay, so I already have plenty to keep me busy. And I am sure healthy people have the same or similar time obligations. So, how does a person make time for exercise?
I have heard that once a person is healthy, he/she has more energy and can be more efficient with time usage. I have been told that if health and exercise is a priority then it will replace certain areas and become a new hobby. That would be great, except I can't see where it would fit, unless I give up what relaxation I do have (but can I do that? ugh!)
So I am struggling: where can I find the time to exercise? Or am I really struggling with fear of making life changes and time is a convenient excuse?
What works for you?
My time is divided between:
- God Time (Church activities, Bible Study activities, doing Bible study homework, etc.)
- Kid Time (Home school activities, feeding, tending, teaching, disciplining, etc.)
- Spouse Time (talking, making decisions, trying to have a date now and then, etc.)
- Household Manager Time (cooking, cleaning, organizing, picking up, running errands, etc.)
- Self Time (Blogging, Facebook, sewing, maybe reading, a bit of Relaxation)
- General Care Time (sleeping, eating, going to the bathroom, etc.)
- Misc. Time (driving to and fro, waiting for others, etc.)
Okay, so I already have plenty to keep me busy. And I am sure healthy people have the same or similar time obligations. So, how does a person make time for exercise?
I have heard that once a person is healthy, he/she has more energy and can be more efficient with time usage. I have been told that if health and exercise is a priority then it will replace certain areas and become a new hobby. That would be great, except I can't see where it would fit, unless I give up what relaxation I do have (but can I do that? ugh!)
So I am struggling: where can I find the time to exercise? Or am I really struggling with fear of making life changes and time is a convenient excuse?
What works for you?
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Veggies - Yum?
Can vegetables taste good?
I am finding out the answer is: Yes!
Recently, with the Spring air and cheaper produce prices, we have been buying more veggies. Two weeks now, when we are at the grocery store in the produce section, I have paused to look around and ask, "What other veggies can I buy?" Wow, what a question!
We chose baby carrots, green cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, green peppers, yellow peppers, red peppers, orange peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, onion, lettuce, etc. I also chose a healthy veggie dip/dressing. The cauliflower and broccoli will be used for broccoli and cheese soup later this week. The lettuce will be combined with other veggies in a delicious salad. And the onion will be used for sauteing and other cooking. But most of the fresh veggies were chosen for munching on raw, fresh veggies.
We got home and unloaded groceries. I then began slicing and cleaning veggies to be placed into Ziploc bags. So handy to grab and go or snack on throughout the day. They are cleaned, portioned and ready to eat. Fresh and delicious!
I also prepare fruit bags. This week I prepped grapes and apples. The grapes were taken off the stems and washed, them put in bags. The apples were washed and sliced, then put in bags along with a lemon slice (to keep the slices fresh and not brown). Surprisingly, my kids loved the idea of eating these food from a bag rather than having a whole apple or a bunch of grapes. So, YAY! again.
The produce tastes fresh, clean, and vibrant, with a natural combination of sweet and sour. I am surprised, but I am actually liking it all. The mix of colors and flavors, look good and taste gourmet. Plus the health is high and the calories are low. The produce is satisfying and doesn't cause a sour or stuffed stomach feeling. Amazingly, I love it.
The test will be, can I eat this way for a long period of time without getting tired of the flavors? Can our budget continue to afford these items? What will change as the seasons change? Etc.
I'll keep you posted. But for right now, this seems to be a Great!
I am finding out the answer is: Yes!
Recently, with the Spring air and cheaper produce prices, we have been buying more veggies. Two weeks now, when we are at the grocery store in the produce section, I have paused to look around and ask, "What other veggies can I buy?" Wow, what a question!
We chose baby carrots, green cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, green peppers, yellow peppers, red peppers, orange peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, onion, lettuce, etc. I also chose a healthy veggie dip/dressing. The cauliflower and broccoli will be used for broccoli and cheese soup later this week. The lettuce will be combined with other veggies in a delicious salad. And the onion will be used for sauteing and other cooking. But most of the fresh veggies were chosen for munching on raw, fresh veggies.
We got home and unloaded groceries. I then began slicing and cleaning veggies to be placed into Ziploc bags. So handy to grab and go or snack on throughout the day. They are cleaned, portioned and ready to eat. Fresh and delicious!
I also prepare fruit bags. This week I prepped grapes and apples. The grapes were taken off the stems and washed, them put in bags. The apples were washed and sliced, then put in bags along with a lemon slice (to keep the slices fresh and not brown). Surprisingly, my kids loved the idea of eating these food from a bag rather than having a whole apple or a bunch of grapes. So, YAY! again.
The produce tastes fresh, clean, and vibrant, with a natural combination of sweet and sour. I am surprised, but I am actually liking it all. The mix of colors and flavors, look good and taste gourmet. Plus the health is high and the calories are low. The produce is satisfying and doesn't cause a sour or stuffed stomach feeling. Amazingly, I love it.
The test will be, can I eat this way for a long period of time without getting tired of the flavors? Can our budget continue to afford these items? What will change as the seasons change? Etc.
I'll keep you posted. But for right now, this seems to be a Great!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Is it Possible?
Today, I watched an episode of the Biggest Loser and they were talking about pushing limits, breaking barriers, and doing what you think is impossible. They also talked about weight loss being a huge mental battle, that even if the weight comes off, a person who is not healed mentally and emotionally will just put the weight back on. And they talked about putting yourself first.
So I am debating:
I am realizing:
I want:
So I am debating:
- Is it selfish to make time to exercise?
- Is it selfish to make sure to eat the right things?
- What caused my unhealthy lifestyle? And can I fix it?
- What are my limits? Do I have what it takes to break them and push myself?
I am realizing:
- It effects my whole family that I am unhealthy. It will help the whole family if I can make the right changes to improve. That is not selfish.
- I am an example. Will I be a good example of healthy eating and fitness? Or a bad example of poor choices? I know what I want.
- So what is keeping me from taking action?
- Is it fear? Fear of failure. Fear of others and what they may say. Fear of not fitting in with the crowd. Fear of being proven wrong and admitting past mistakes.
- Is it shame? Shame for all the poor choices. Shame for not wanting the situation to get this bad. Shame that it is such a struggle to fight temptation and force yourself to work hard.
- Is it lack of self-worth? Belief that maybe you and I shouldn't have good health. Belief that healthy people are speaking lies or deluding themselves. Belief that since all this other bad stuff has happened, life can't be changed.
- Is it laziness? Giving in to temptation. Giving into the ease of sitting around doing very little. It is hard. It hurts. Expecting life to improve on it's own without your effort or involvement.
- Is it excuses? Maybe God planned my life to be this way. Maybe I'm supposed to be unhealthy for some divine purpose. It is my parent's fault for teaching me bad habits and not motivating me. It must be my husband and kids, if they did like I asked, then my life wouldn't be so stressful. If life worked the way it was supposed to, then I wouldn't be this way.
- Or maybe it is something else.
I want:
- to become a health nut (even though I have been internally judged them. I need to become like them.)
- to overcome obstacles. I need to prove it to myself. I can succeed.
- to be a good example and live life to the best of my ability.
- to be proud of myself and my accomplishments.
- to make my dreams come true.
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