Phew! What a week, and so far, not much light at the end of the tunnel. It's been a seriously tough week struggling to get this depression monkey off my back. At the moment I feel like I'm madly trying to tread water to keep my head above the waves, but each day something new seems to add another weight to my shoulders, and slowly drags me under.
I was just robotically cleaning the kitchen this morning mulling over my desire to just lie down and sleep for 10 years, when it came to me crystal clear - "what is the difference between now and a few weeks ago when I was living the high and happy life?" And the answer of course is "the gym". I know all the studies that have been done to say that the endorphins produced while excercising and the "psychological" benefits of "improving" oneself are incredibly beneficial, but if I hadn't seen it happen to myself, I doubt I would have believed it. 3 weeks is a long time to deprive yourself of something that has been such a strenghtening force in your life. I am happy and relieved to say that I was back at the gym this morning, and even after 1 session the rush afterwards was just amazing.
However, I think it will take my body a little longer to still get those "happy" hormones rushing around again, as I did crash down again a little later. It's so difficult to make others understand how debilitating it can be to feel depressed, esp if they have not experienced it themself. My husband constantly struggles with this issue and unfortunately is still having to learn the small things it takes to bring me back from the brink. I was sitting at the lights the other day, thinking "why not drive round the corner and get "accidentally" hit by another car? Then I could have a long rest in hosp and not have to be constantly bothered and frustrated by 4 kids and all those issues building up and wearing me down!" Of course, with my kids in the car with me, I knew I wouldn't follow through but, it wasn't so much that, that then I suddenly started thinking of how inconvenient it would be, that I didn't have the energy to go thru with it! Now, I am not making light of having these compulsions, but it is so typical of mothers to think "I would love to just disappear for a little while, but...... the washing isn't up-to-date, I doubt if my husband could put a dinner together with the 6 bits of dried up veges in the fridge and 1/2 tub of yoghurt & tomato sauce, so maybe I should pop out to Mrs Flannerys to grab a few things......and actually I was going to make spaghetti anyway, so while I'm out........." And in a few mins you have lost yourself to the practicalities of running a home and a family (and heaven forbid - a job as well) and by the grace of God, can be distracted from any other spontaneous folly.
I know there are less dramatic ways to achieve a little balance in one's life but I spose that is why it is a neurological issue for us - that when things are out of whack, it is awfully hard to get them back in shape by one's own self-effort. Usually it does take a few days of taking a back seat to life, getting encouragement from the people that do "understand", and trying to get through minute by minute without freaking out about the millions of things going wrong or purposefully thwarting you. Also, it pays to look at the external circumstances (for me -too big a build up stress, not enough time with my husband, not enough time spent doing what I enjoy (gym, socialising more at church, doing hobbies that give me a release (cooking, photos, organising)) and then there are of course the internal issues - what you fill your body with and what symptoms they give you. But prob the most important area is the spiritual circumstances - normally depressive periods instigate a desert time when devotions are sparse and half-hearted, and there is just a general mumble occasionally that passes as a prayer. I believe whole-heartedly in a compassionate and loving God who gracefully holds us in close at these times and completely "gets" the fact that things are tough and that soon we will be back in closer relationship with Him. I thank God that even though I feel alone and hard done by, He is still with me and protecting me and my family. Even when I rant and rave and get angry at Him, He waits, and when I kneel to confess and crave His closeness again - He is faithful to forgive and affirm. Thank you Lord.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Monday, April 12, 2010
Week 13 - Eek! My shorts are falling off!
Well, with 9kgs off I have begun to finally see some changes. I almost lost my shorts at the park yesterday and had to kick myself that I didn't put my belt on. I'd been putting them thru the dryer in the hope that they would shrink some but it doesn't seem to be doing the job. I also tried on some of my "skinny" pants and was quite happy with how they looked. It's made me want to go thru my clothes and get rid of a lot of the fat, baggy, elastic stuff left in there. Yes, there are still a couple of maternity jeans in there that I loved the shape of, but now I don't need to be so scared of finding normal ones again!
The last time I was this weight was for Wendy's wedding 2 1/2 yrs ago but I still think my body looks way different from back then as I was not doing any gym training.
I haven't seen my PT for over 2 weeks now and I was feeling pretty low about it but I've just been so sick that I just didn't want to rush in and overdo stuff too early and get laid low again. I did do heaps of walking in Melbourne and had one weights session at the hotel gym - which I thought was pretty successful considering I was on my own. It was funny that day because I was sooooooo tired and just wanted to collapse on the bed for the arvo - but I actually realised that it was because I wasn't excercising that I had no energy, so I really felt motivated to thrash it out. Did me the world of good.
However, now that I'm better, Georgie's gone away for the wkend and so I won't be back at it till next Wednesday! Aaaaagh! But got my act together and have been doing an abs workout every wnd night. I doubt I could do a good overall weights session myself so just focussing on an easy target so that my muscles are still "working". A bit of rest is good for them so that they can start activating on the fat around them, but I feel like when I'm not working out regularly, they might go stagnant, as will my weight. And I can't imagine anything holding me back from getting back at it on Wednesday.
The last time I was this weight was for Wendy's wedding 2 1/2 yrs ago but I still think my body looks way different from back then as I was not doing any gym training.
I haven't seen my PT for over 2 weeks now and I was feeling pretty low about it but I've just been so sick that I just didn't want to rush in and overdo stuff too early and get laid low again. I did do heaps of walking in Melbourne and had one weights session at the hotel gym - which I thought was pretty successful considering I was on my own. It was funny that day because I was sooooooo tired and just wanted to collapse on the bed for the arvo - but I actually realised that it was because I wasn't excercising that I had no energy, so I really felt motivated to thrash it out. Did me the world of good.
However, now that I'm better, Georgie's gone away for the wkend and so I won't be back at it till next Wednesday! Aaaaagh! But got my act together and have been doing an abs workout every wnd night. I doubt I could do a good overall weights session myself so just focussing on an easy target so that my muscles are still "working". A bit of rest is good for them so that they can start activating on the fat around them, but I feel like when I'm not working out regularly, they might go stagnant, as will my weight. And I can't imagine anything holding me back from getting back at it on Wednesday.
This week's been rather haphazard in the feeding department seeing as the week started off with me so sick. I wavered between not wanting to eat, and just wanting some comfort food - buttered toast dripping with jam (and yes, i do believe one day I gave into that dream!). I found I was craving the bread the most - it really frustrates me how hard it is to avoid bread when my family eats it alllllllll the time. And what's more, I am pretty sure it's what aggravates my dandruff. Just wish that I could release that craving......
One night we had Thai again and then Thurs night we got a night out at a new Turkish restaurant - not too much that I couldn't eat and I was able to just have a little taste of everything so that I didn't overeat. Steamed fish, leg of lamb, greek salad, squid, and a little taste of baklava - mmmmmm.......I miss baklava!
The night before I'd actually made kofta for our dinner and the kids had loved eating it wrapped in pita bread with coleslaw.
Mediterranean Kofta (adapted from Coles mag):
500g beef mince and 500g lamb mince
3 garlic cloves crushed
3 tbsp chopped parsley
4 tsps ground cumin
2 tbsp ground allspice
2 eggs, beaten
S & P
Blend all in processor till smooth. Mould meat balls around skewers and then let rest in fridge for awhile. Cook in a little oil in pan, and brown on all sides.
I did a lovely coleslaw to go with it and it was enjoyed by all! And there was enough leftover for lunch the next day. I've been enjoying some nice big lunches - omelette and salad, leftovers, and today - sauteed kale (in garlic, ginger, chilli) with baked beans. I'm still coping quite well in the mornings with my coffee and fruit. The pink lady apples up here are absolutely gorgeous and they are my fruit of choice at the moment. Every time I start one, tho, the bubba tries to steal it and sometimes eats it all up and I miss out.
Today I made the spice muffins that I got in my Easter gift from younger sis - it was like a pkt mix with all the sep ingredients (except milk) indidvidually packaged and pre-measured. So I don't know all the details but I did substitute the 1/2 cup of caster sugar with some extra honey and 1/4 cup of coconut palm sugar. They were very tasty muffins with buckwheat flour and an amazing mix of spices (not sure which). I decided not to make the cream cheese icing for on top but instead I drizzled the hot muffins with honey. Delicious.
Now, I don't want this to drag out any longer but I must just bring you uptodate on my ankles. I had the x-ray and ultrasound done on Monday and saw the dr on Wed, who confirmed I had an inflamed achilles tendon in my left ankle, and a calceneal spur as well. Nothing too serious so the dr just recommended I have some work done on it by a physio (much to the disgust of my chiro) and because I have suffered with it for over 3 months I was given an EPC for 5 free sessions. My ankles have been quite OK lately (prob due to lack of gym work) so will let it relax for now and get the work done when I have a clearer schedule.
And so, will now see how the weekend goes and if the next kg will stay off and not surprise me by sneaking back on. Strength is what I need!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Week 12 - Marvellous Melbourne
So, the biggest relief when I finally got home was that yes, I'd only put on a kilo. I was pretty happy with how I'd managed the trip away and still can say that I really enjoyed myself. However, because I was a little lenient in some things, I had a headache or icky tummy nearly EVERY day. Didn't enjoy that part! And I came home with the most horrific flu that hit me especially hard. I feel like my immunity may have been a bit weakened by the change in routine (I didn't have a lot of my powders and vitamins that I normally take) and the climate was so much dryer (and I wasn't drinking enough water to compensate).
But, my first priority when I got into melbourne, was searching out some good snacks for me to carry round everywhere. We visited Vic Markets on Sat morning and altho it took a lot of looking, I finally discovered the Organics area. Their Red Delicious apples were the most AMAZING I'd ever tasted and were usually my morning snack each day - a real treat! Also, stocked up on pears, bananas, almonds, org apple juice, eggs, dried cranberries and a nashi! Yum, I'd forgotten how great they were - crisp like apples, taste like grapes, exquisite with a slice of vintage cheddar! While at the markets, I couldn't not try their sicilian donuts - golden puffy with sultanas inside - very naughty but enjoyable. I allowed myself to taste a little of things I normally wouldn't just so I didn't deprive myself into a massive decline. I love all the little bistros, boulangeries, delicatessans and patisseries in melbourne and wanted to feel like I'd had a little taste of Paris while there!
I enjoyed my coffees each morning and must admit that I was quite quickly back on my 2 a day seeing as there were so many amazing spots to stop and partake (Brunetti's being the fave of course). We had breaky there one morning and I took great pleasure in nibbling on the kids' croissants. I also gave in to a canoli and florentine on our way to the airport - delish but way too much in the end and made me quite ill on the flight home.
Lunches were pretty easy and I usually found enough salads to keep me happy. The nicest was probably at the Museum (such an excellent cafeteria) and was rocket, pumpkin, asparagus, fetta with a satay dressing - sounds strange but tasted great. And there was a delish spinach salad I had with garlic prawn satays at Hunky Dory in Pt Melbourne. And on our last day I was able to put together a terrific salad of leftovers - boiled eggs, toms & cukes (from BF's garden) with some grilled chicken.
Easter day was magnificent! We visited a baptist church in Blackburn and what a glorious service it was - so joyful and the singing very uplifting. And lunch was a real feast. There was plenty of nibblies - hommous, cheeses, gherkins, veges, crackers - but I tried to hold back so I could really enjoy lunch. And what a lunch - slow cooked leg of lamb in the webber, the crispiest roast potatoes EVER, fresh made tzatziki, nice light salad, crunchy chicken wings, and bread. Wow, did we enjoy that feed. And we all had 2nds and 3rds ....... and didn't need any dinner! I did take some of their homegrown toms home with some basil and olive oil and had a very delish light salad. Nothing tastes as good as "healthy"!
And there was more feasts to be had at the br-in-law's with a big bbq, grilled eggplant, spinach salad, more chicken wings, potato bake and would you believe - tomato, mozzarella & basil salad too! I'm drooling just thinking about it all again! Unfortunately, there was pavlova as well but I managed just half a slice. I didn't feel the need for much chocolate but I did have a few little ones - the first 2 would be delicious but by the 3rd or 4th I was feeling ill and was able to easily end it there.
And on our last night there I also enjoyed a tremendous Eggplant Parmigiana at a Pub! And wasn't even tempted to partake in the amazing Brunetti's cake I'd bought to celebrate Ava's b'day with.
And that was Melbourne! It was a wonderful trip but there is a certain sense of relief at being back in a routine and being able to monitor my eating better again. Well, it won't be long before I blog again and update on how its going being back and being so sick..... so until then.
But, my first priority when I got into melbourne, was searching out some good snacks for me to carry round everywhere. We visited Vic Markets on Sat morning and altho it took a lot of looking, I finally discovered the Organics area. Their Red Delicious apples were the most AMAZING I'd ever tasted and were usually my morning snack each day - a real treat! Also, stocked up on pears, bananas, almonds, org apple juice, eggs, dried cranberries and a nashi! Yum, I'd forgotten how great they were - crisp like apples, taste like grapes, exquisite with a slice of vintage cheddar! While at the markets, I couldn't not try their sicilian donuts - golden puffy with sultanas inside - very naughty but enjoyable. I allowed myself to taste a little of things I normally wouldn't just so I didn't deprive myself into a massive decline. I love all the little bistros, boulangeries, delicatessans and patisseries in melbourne and wanted to feel like I'd had a little taste of Paris while there!
I enjoyed my coffees each morning and must admit that I was quite quickly back on my 2 a day seeing as there were so many amazing spots to stop and partake (Brunetti's being the fave of course). We had breaky there one morning and I took great pleasure in nibbling on the kids' croissants. I also gave in to a canoli and florentine on our way to the airport - delish but way too much in the end and made me quite ill on the flight home.
Lunches were pretty easy and I usually found enough salads to keep me happy. The nicest was probably at the Museum (such an excellent cafeteria) and was rocket, pumpkin, asparagus, fetta with a satay dressing - sounds strange but tasted great. And there was a delish spinach salad I had with garlic prawn satays at Hunky Dory in Pt Melbourne. And on our last day I was able to put together a terrific salad of leftovers - boiled eggs, toms & cukes (from BF's garden) with some grilled chicken.
Easter day was magnificent! We visited a baptist church in Blackburn and what a glorious service it was - so joyful and the singing very uplifting. And lunch was a real feast. There was plenty of nibblies - hommous, cheeses, gherkins, veges, crackers - but I tried to hold back so I could really enjoy lunch. And what a lunch - slow cooked leg of lamb in the webber, the crispiest roast potatoes EVER, fresh made tzatziki, nice light salad, crunchy chicken wings, and bread. Wow, did we enjoy that feed. And we all had 2nds and 3rds ....... and didn't need any dinner! I did take some of their homegrown toms home with some basil and olive oil and had a very delish light salad. Nothing tastes as good as "healthy"!
And there was more feasts to be had at the br-in-law's with a big bbq, grilled eggplant, spinach salad, more chicken wings, potato bake and would you believe - tomato, mozzarella & basil salad too! I'm drooling just thinking about it all again! Unfortunately, there was pavlova as well but I managed just half a slice. I didn't feel the need for much chocolate but I did have a few little ones - the first 2 would be delicious but by the 3rd or 4th I was feeling ill and was able to easily end it there.
And on our last night there I also enjoyed a tremendous Eggplant Parmigiana at a Pub! And wasn't even tempted to partake in the amazing Brunetti's cake I'd bought to celebrate Ava's b'day with.
And that was Melbourne! It was a wonderful trip but there is a certain sense of relief at being back in a routine and being able to monitor my eating better again. Well, it won't be long before I blog again and update on how its going being back and being so sick..... so until then.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Wk 11 - pt 2 - Happy Easter!
Well, it is that dreaded time of the month again and HANG ON - where was the PMT?????? I have not had my normal melt down this time and am so stoked (last thing I needed in all this chaos) and very thankful to God also. The only indication I can see from looking at the past few days was being a bit tearful on Sunday arvo - but that was only after discovering hubby had put my brand new Country Road silk top through the washing machine - sniff!
I have found the Lord placing some healthy reminders in front of me lately too. I am so thrilled at the progress I've made and how well I'm doing, but it so easy to rest on MY laurels, and think I'M great when what it really comes down to, is God showing me amazing grace and giving me unbelievable strength (when I let Him). I had to laugh at a verse on a bookmark I got in the mail with my "Insight for Living" newsletter (Chuck Swindoll) yesterday - "For physical training (or bodily discipline) is of some value, but Godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come", 1 Tim 4:8.
Oh, how true it is! And what a timely reminder - it would be so easy to turn this diet/excercise/self-control thing into an obsession but seriously, in eternal value - where would it help me???? I don't believe this is at all saying not to be concerned about training and disciplining your body - exactly the opposite in fact (it is of some value!) but on it's own or as my first priority, it will not be what benefits me the most in my present life and the life to come. However, I do believe that in controlling what enters my mouth and what I do with my body, it does directly affect the attitude I have for God - without all those chemical and artificial interruptions in my system, I am seeing more joy in my life and being able to appreciate God's goodness and His words for me. I understand I may not always feel this way, but I'm relishing in soaking in God at the moment, and in strengthening my faith now, while I can, and to hold me strong for when (undoubtedly) those harder times hit.
The other thing that has been heavy on my heart is how to "repay" God for all His goodness. Yes, I know His love is not conditional but I know if this is a 2-way relationship, I need to understand what my love response should be to my amazing Creator and Saviour. I came across this passage while killing time one morning before heading off to the gym:
Psalm 116
I love the Lord, for he heard my voice;
he heard my cry for mercy.
Because he turned his ear to me,
I will call on him as long as I live.
The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came upon me;
I was overcome by trouble and sorrow. (*I sure was!*)
Then I called on the name of the Lord: "O Lord, save me!"
The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.
The Lord protects the simplehearted; when I was in great need, he saved me.
Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.
For you O Lord have delivered my soul from death,
my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling,
that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
I believed; therefore I said, "I am greatly afflicted."
And in my dismay I said, "All men are liars".
How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me?
I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.
I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
O Lord, truly I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of your maidservant;
you have freed me from my chains.
I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the Lord.
I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people,
in the courts of the house of the Lord - in your midst, O Jerusalem.
Praise the Lord.
Now, I am no great expositor, but I firmly believe in the Lord putting things on your heart as you read. And being so grateful to God, for saving me and hearing my cry for mercy, I will make known the message of salvation to those I know, who don't know of it. And I will try to fulfill my vows to God to make my family my most important ministry as well.
And that is what I hope you will pray for me, that I will continue to share this with everyone, especially at this amazing time of the year. I feel heartbroken when remembering Good Friday, but nothing beats the joy, amazement and thankfulness in celebrating Easter Sunday and the fact that we worship a risen and living Lord, not a dead cement statue!
Have a wonderful Easter!
I have found the Lord placing some healthy reminders in front of me lately too. I am so thrilled at the progress I've made and how well I'm doing, but it so easy to rest on MY laurels, and think I'M great when what it really comes down to, is God showing me amazing grace and giving me unbelievable strength (when I let Him). I had to laugh at a verse on a bookmark I got in the mail with my "Insight for Living" newsletter (Chuck Swindoll) yesterday - "For physical training (or bodily discipline) is of some value, but Godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come", 1 Tim 4:8.
Oh, how true it is! And what a timely reminder - it would be so easy to turn this diet/excercise/self-control thing into an obsession but seriously, in eternal value - where would it help me???? I don't believe this is at all saying not to be concerned about training and disciplining your body - exactly the opposite in fact (it is of some value!) but on it's own or as my first priority, it will not be what benefits me the most in my present life and the life to come. However, I do believe that in controlling what enters my mouth and what I do with my body, it does directly affect the attitude I have for God - without all those chemical and artificial interruptions in my system, I am seeing more joy in my life and being able to appreciate God's goodness and His words for me. I understand I may not always feel this way, but I'm relishing in soaking in God at the moment, and in strengthening my faith now, while I can, and to hold me strong for when (undoubtedly) those harder times hit.
The other thing that has been heavy on my heart is how to "repay" God for all His goodness. Yes, I know His love is not conditional but I know if this is a 2-way relationship, I need to understand what my love response should be to my amazing Creator and Saviour. I came across this passage while killing time one morning before heading off to the gym:
Psalm 116
I love the Lord, for he heard my voice;
he heard my cry for mercy.
Because he turned his ear to me,
I will call on him as long as I live.
The cords of death entangled me, the anguish of the grave came upon me;
I was overcome by trouble and sorrow. (*I sure was!*)
Then I called on the name of the Lord: "O Lord, save me!"
The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.
The Lord protects the simplehearted; when I was in great need, he saved me.
Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.
For you O Lord have delivered my soul from death,
my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling,
that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
I believed; therefore I said, "I am greatly afflicted."
And in my dismay I said, "All men are liars".
How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me?
I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.
I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
O Lord, truly I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of your maidservant;
you have freed me from my chains.
I will sacrifice a thank offering to you and call on the name of the Lord.
I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people,
in the courts of the house of the Lord - in your midst, O Jerusalem.
Praise the Lord.
Now, I am no great expositor, but I firmly believe in the Lord putting things on your heart as you read. And being so grateful to God, for saving me and hearing my cry for mercy, I will make known the message of salvation to those I know, who don't know of it. And I will try to fulfill my vows to God to make my family my most important ministry as well.
And that is what I hope you will pray for me, that I will continue to share this with everyone, especially at this amazing time of the year. I feel heartbroken when remembering Good Friday, but nothing beats the joy, amazement and thankfulness in celebrating Easter Sunday and the fact that we worship a risen and living Lord, not a dead cement statue!
Have a wonderful Easter!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Wk 11 - Happy, happy, joy, joy!
It's only Tuesday but I'm still feeling cheerful. According to the calendar I should be starting the downward spiral to PMT hell but so far I've felt like I'm on holidays - not stressing about too much, looking forward to going about my jobs, not fussing too much about the ratbag children and feeling like skipping. I suppose it's the power of looking forward to something. It's only 3 sleeps till we go to Melbourne and I'm feeling quite organised. Maybe I need a few more days to get to that frantic "nothing will be ready in time" feeling. It also helped that my hubby did such an awesome job getting the housework and washing done on Sunday, that I was able to start the week with nary a dark cloud to be seen on the horizon!
Yest, I had to get my head around what to do food-wise without buying too many groceries and using up all the bits & pieces in the fridge and larder. And today, I went to work and have planned almost everything up to the last meal. Monday, I did my Soup of the Week, thanks to Notebook Magazine (great mag that!): Roasted Garlic, walnut and Zucchini Soup.
8 garlic cloves unpeeled
3 lge zucchini, sliced
1/4 olive oil
sea salt
2 med brown onions, chopped
1/2 leek, white part only, finely chopped
2 lge potatoes, cubed
1 ltr chicken/vege stock
2 tbs chopped toasted walnuts
Roast garlic and zucchini in hot oven drizzled with olive oil and salt, till golden (about 1/2 hr). Cool. Heat remaining oil in stockpot and add onion and leek and saute till soft. Add potatoes, salt, stock and simmer till potato is tender. Squeeze out cooked garlic into a blender jug, along with zucchini, walnuts and blend till combined. Add the potatoes and stock and blend till smooth.
It was quite a creamy soup and reminded me a bit of potato and leek soup. The flavour is gentle and it is very filling. I used half chook, half vege stock and also forgot to add the walnuts, so just sprinkled them on top.
One of my kids enjoyed having some for dinner but the rest were using up old sourdough bread in their toasted sangers. I was very unhungry after snacking on this and that, so spent the rest of the night on the water.
Today, I enjoyed my last 2 vegan pizza bases for lunch with some luscious bits of salad and tahini, and a little cheese on top. I enjoyed plenty of fruit during the arvo, including a great smoothee and then cooked up a big batch of spaghetti mince so that the kids could have spag bol tonight and there would be plenty left over for tacos tomorrow night. That was great as I got rid of a heap of odds and ends in the fridge including leftover salsa, passata and cannelini beans. I also made up a batch of apple and cranberry muffins to use up a few other bits.
2 small apples peeled & chopped
1/2 cup brown sugar (I used half brown, half palm)
2/3 cup plain flour
2/3 cup wholemeal flour (I used buckwheat flour)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp cinnamon
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 lge egg
1 cup skim milk
4 tbsp vege oil
Add sugar to apple and sit for 5 mins. Mix dry ingreds altogether and then add apple and cranberries to it and mix through. Whisk wet ingreds together and then add to dry. Stir till combined then fill a greased 12 hole muffin tray. Bake in mod oven for 20 - 25 mins.
Well, my muffin fiend child LOVED them and scoffed two straight off the bat, I quite enjoyed my taste although they weren't crumby muffins, more doughy - actually a little doughnutty.
I also had some fresh ricotta cheese that I needed to use up so I relished making some sweet baked ricotta in my mini loaf tins. I used 200g of fresh crumbly ricotta, and about 75g of smooth ricotta (out of a tub) and mixed it with 1 egg, 1 tsp of vanilla, 1/2 tsp cinnamon & 1 tbsp of honey. They were baked in the oven for about 20 mins, till golden on top and I am looking forward to having them drizzled with a little maple syrup and some toasted macadamias - the perfect dessert!
So while the kids ate their spaghetti, I used up some prawns in an a decadent red thai curry - saute onion, capsicum in vege oil, add curry paste and prawns and caramelise. Add small tin of coconut milk and simmer till prawns cooked thru. Serve over rice or bean sprouts and top with chopped coriander and basil - mmmmmmmmmm.
So there is a great sense of well-being as I sit here and dwell on the staisfying things achieved. I also got lots of little run-around jobs done and some packing as well, so I am HOPING this continues till we leave. Gym in the morning and another day to get as much done as possible.
Yest, I had to get my head around what to do food-wise without buying too many groceries and using up all the bits & pieces in the fridge and larder. And today, I went to work and have planned almost everything up to the last meal. Monday, I did my Soup of the Week, thanks to Notebook Magazine (great mag that!): Roasted Garlic, walnut and Zucchini Soup.
8 garlic cloves unpeeled
3 lge zucchini, sliced
1/4 olive oil
sea salt
2 med brown onions, chopped
1/2 leek, white part only, finely chopped
2 lge potatoes, cubed
1 ltr chicken/vege stock
2 tbs chopped toasted walnuts
Roast garlic and zucchini in hot oven drizzled with olive oil and salt, till golden (about 1/2 hr). Cool. Heat remaining oil in stockpot and add onion and leek and saute till soft. Add potatoes, salt, stock and simmer till potato is tender. Squeeze out cooked garlic into a blender jug, along with zucchini, walnuts and blend till combined. Add the potatoes and stock and blend till smooth.
It was quite a creamy soup and reminded me a bit of potato and leek soup. The flavour is gentle and it is very filling. I used half chook, half vege stock and also forgot to add the walnuts, so just sprinkled them on top.
One of my kids enjoyed having some for dinner but the rest were using up old sourdough bread in their toasted sangers. I was very unhungry after snacking on this and that, so spent the rest of the night on the water.
Today, I enjoyed my last 2 vegan pizza bases for lunch with some luscious bits of salad and tahini, and a little cheese on top. I enjoyed plenty of fruit during the arvo, including a great smoothee and then cooked up a big batch of spaghetti mince so that the kids could have spag bol tonight and there would be plenty left over for tacos tomorrow night. That was great as I got rid of a heap of odds and ends in the fridge including leftover salsa, passata and cannelini beans. I also made up a batch of apple and cranberry muffins to use up a few other bits.
2 small apples peeled & chopped
1/2 cup brown sugar (I used half brown, half palm)
2/3 cup plain flour
2/3 cup wholemeal flour (I used buckwheat flour)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp cinnamon
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 lge egg
1 cup skim milk
4 tbsp vege oil
Add sugar to apple and sit for 5 mins. Mix dry ingreds altogether and then add apple and cranberries to it and mix through. Whisk wet ingreds together and then add to dry. Stir till combined then fill a greased 12 hole muffin tray. Bake in mod oven for 20 - 25 mins.
Well, my muffin fiend child LOVED them and scoffed two straight off the bat, I quite enjoyed my taste although they weren't crumby muffins, more doughy - actually a little doughnutty.
I also had some fresh ricotta cheese that I needed to use up so I relished making some sweet baked ricotta in my mini loaf tins. I used 200g of fresh crumbly ricotta, and about 75g of smooth ricotta (out of a tub) and mixed it with 1 egg, 1 tsp of vanilla, 1/2 tsp cinnamon & 1 tbsp of honey. They were baked in the oven for about 20 mins, till golden on top and I am looking forward to having them drizzled with a little maple syrup and some toasted macadamias - the perfect dessert!
So while the kids ate their spaghetti, I used up some prawns in an a decadent red thai curry - saute onion, capsicum in vege oil, add curry paste and prawns and caramelise. Add small tin of coconut milk and simmer till prawns cooked thru. Serve over rice or bean sprouts and top with chopped coriander and basil - mmmmmmmmmm.
So there is a great sense of well-being as I sit here and dwell on the staisfying things achieved. I also got lots of little run-around jobs done and some packing as well, so I am HOPING this continues till we leave. Gym in the morning and another day to get as much done as possible.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Wk 10 end
Well, it was Thai takeaway on Friday night and we tried out a new restaurant (highly acclaimed) just up on the Hwy near us. Oh man, it was AWESOME! Had a very delightful green chicken curry and a basil & chilli chicken stirfry. Did not regret a minute of that deliciousness. And felt OK afterwards too.
I had finally made it to the drs on Fri arvo too (to check my ankles) and I've been booked in to have an ultrasound and xray done on both, in 2 wks. The Dr tends to think its my achilles tendon and thinks there may be some calcifaction which may need a cortisone shot, depending on the extent. Will wait and see what it is for definite but thankfully there is no need to adjust my activity. Don't know what I'd do without the gym now! Had a great cardio session on Fri which is def my favourite day of the week. I'm really getting into the boxing, kicking and kneeing and it kills my abs, legs and shoulders but gives you such a rush. I love it whenever the PT remembers more of her Muay Thai to teach me. Don't take me on in a dark alley as I will kick your butt! (as if..........)
Was also chuffed at how much the doc praised all my progress - told her all about my diet changes and she was very supportive. She also signed my daughter's immunisation conscientious objection form without blinking an eyelid - its nice to find (I hope) someone a little more sympathetic than the usual aloof and obnoxious GP.
On Saturday I finally found some sugar-free, wholemeal & spelt hot cross buns at Mrs Flannerys that I could take home in good-conscious for the kids to have (yes, I snuck a half - but that was my lunch.........?) and they were not like massive rocks but almost as light as normal ones. And easily sweet enough with the dried fruit. The kids all had their lunch before we headed off to Brissy for a party. Had hardly eaten all day so hoped there was an OK selection to choose from. It was so nice to have a little break from the kids for awhile and relax and enjoy some good adult conversation. Confession 1: Yes, I had a glass and 1/2 of champagne - and yes, it was very enjoyable but I did have the runs a bit afterwards. But, I was surprised at how little it impacted me, it wasn't some awesome homecoming. However, I still don't really want to get back on the booze wagon as I really am not missing it and can do without all the candida impact as well as the calories.
So back to the food. I nibbled happily on a few bits of apple and cheese, steered clear of the sushi, but consumed a couple of rice paper rolls, had a chicken satay stick with some yoghurt dip, and then ended up (once again) chewing on some ciabatta bread (toasted tho). Was surprised at how much that grazing filled me up for the rest of the day. Confession 2: I also had 3 coffees in total that day. :-( Definately seems I am a social coffee drinker!
Back home and thought I would finish the day off with a nice salmon salad but no, ended up nibbling on kids' garlic pizza, and after hubby had gone to footy, finished off the last mouthful of Thai - hmmmmmmm....... once the resolve is weakened, the resolve is definately WEAKENED.
However, this is not a tale of doom and gloom, because Sunday was a marvellous triumph in not letting things snowball. I happily munched on bananas & pineapple in the morning when hungry, which was a little difficult as I was on sunday school at church. When I got home I was soooooo tired and starving so finally enjoyed that salad with the little leftover salmon, a whole avo, some fresh rocket from the org mkts that morning, slivers of red capsicum, crumbled fetta and a little olive oil & lemon juice. Yum, and very filling.
Had a treat in the arvo - a lovely pedicure where I actively consumed my water and planned dinner. Relished a coffee with my hubby in the arvo and felt really peppy as he'd got the house nice & clean which motivated me to keep on with the ironing and getting into the prep for our upcoming trip. Pear for all while I started dinner - Frittata. Sauteed onion, leftover bits of meat, & corn in a pan before whisking up 8 eggs with milk and then pouring over stuff in pan. Crumbled rest of fetta over top of the adults' size before putting in the oven to grill on top. Went easy on the stuff in the frittata as when my kids are feeling fussy, they are very FUSSY. So served lots of avo, cheese & capsicum on the side and it was one of the most peaceful meals we've had in a looooooong time. And yes, it was very tasty.
And the end of another week!
I had finally made it to the drs on Fri arvo too (to check my ankles) and I've been booked in to have an ultrasound and xray done on both, in 2 wks. The Dr tends to think its my achilles tendon and thinks there may be some calcifaction which may need a cortisone shot, depending on the extent. Will wait and see what it is for definite but thankfully there is no need to adjust my activity. Don't know what I'd do without the gym now! Had a great cardio session on Fri which is def my favourite day of the week. I'm really getting into the boxing, kicking and kneeing and it kills my abs, legs and shoulders but gives you such a rush. I love it whenever the PT remembers more of her Muay Thai to teach me. Don't take me on in a dark alley as I will kick your butt! (as if..........)
Was also chuffed at how much the doc praised all my progress - told her all about my diet changes and she was very supportive. She also signed my daughter's immunisation conscientious objection form without blinking an eyelid - its nice to find (I hope) someone a little more sympathetic than the usual aloof and obnoxious GP.
On Saturday I finally found some sugar-free, wholemeal & spelt hot cross buns at Mrs Flannerys that I could take home in good-conscious for the kids to have (yes, I snuck a half - but that was my lunch.........?) and they were not like massive rocks but almost as light as normal ones. And easily sweet enough with the dried fruit. The kids all had their lunch before we headed off to Brissy for a party. Had hardly eaten all day so hoped there was an OK selection to choose from. It was so nice to have a little break from the kids for awhile and relax and enjoy some good adult conversation. Confession 1: Yes, I had a glass and 1/2 of champagne - and yes, it was very enjoyable but I did have the runs a bit afterwards. But, I was surprised at how little it impacted me, it wasn't some awesome homecoming. However, I still don't really want to get back on the booze wagon as I really am not missing it and can do without all the candida impact as well as the calories.
So back to the food. I nibbled happily on a few bits of apple and cheese, steered clear of the sushi, but consumed a couple of rice paper rolls, had a chicken satay stick with some yoghurt dip, and then ended up (once again) chewing on some ciabatta bread (toasted tho). Was surprised at how much that grazing filled me up for the rest of the day. Confession 2: I also had 3 coffees in total that day. :-( Definately seems I am a social coffee drinker!
Back home and thought I would finish the day off with a nice salmon salad but no, ended up nibbling on kids' garlic pizza, and after hubby had gone to footy, finished off the last mouthful of Thai - hmmmmmmm....... once the resolve is weakened, the resolve is definately WEAKENED.
However, this is not a tale of doom and gloom, because Sunday was a marvellous triumph in not letting things snowball. I happily munched on bananas & pineapple in the morning when hungry, which was a little difficult as I was on sunday school at church. When I got home I was soooooo tired and starving so finally enjoyed that salad with the little leftover salmon, a whole avo, some fresh rocket from the org mkts that morning, slivers of red capsicum, crumbled fetta and a little olive oil & lemon juice. Yum, and very filling.
Had a treat in the arvo - a lovely pedicure where I actively consumed my water and planned dinner. Relished a coffee with my hubby in the arvo and felt really peppy as he'd got the house nice & clean which motivated me to keep on with the ironing and getting into the prep for our upcoming trip. Pear for all while I started dinner - Frittata. Sauteed onion, leftover bits of meat, & corn in a pan before whisking up 8 eggs with milk and then pouring over stuff in pan. Crumbled rest of fetta over top of the adults' size before putting in the oven to grill on top. Went easy on the stuff in the frittata as when my kids are feeling fussy, they are very FUSSY. So served lots of avo, cheese & capsicum on the side and it was one of the most peaceful meals we've had in a looooooong time. And yes, it was very tasty.
And the end of another week!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Week 10 - 8kgs!!!!!!!
Stoked to see I'd lost 8 kgs this morning. That was a big milestone for me, although I spose 10 kgs will be even better........
The week's been going well and was pleasantly surprised at how much better I felt by Tuesday, other than an occasional hacking cough, I felt great. I was so fired up for gym on Wednesday morning and so enjoyed being back, even tho I'd only missed 1 session. On Monday I really focussed on dosing up on all my minerals, & vitamins, lots of water and only eating when I was hungry. Monday I enjoyed a smoothee in the morning and had some raw vegan pizza bases topped with lots of crunchy salad for lunch (oops, that was after a honey sandwich while making the kids lunches) and then I experimented on some pikelets for the kids in the arvo using Buckwheat flour:
1 cup organic unbleached sr flour
3/4 cup buckwheat flour
1/4 cup coconut palm sugar
2 eggs whisked
1 cup milk
Mix dry, then add liquid till mixture same consistency of pouring cream. Add more milk if not liquid enough. Cook in melted butter in fry pan.
To me they were not as light and fluffy as normal but very similar to the wholemeal flour ones I used to make. Of course they are much better eaten straight away while still warm. I don't butter them (as I cook them in butter) but just spread with sugar free jam and a big dollop of cream, or with a drizzle of maple syrup. The kids enjoyed them as normal (and so did I - was such a wonderful comfort food while sick).
For dinner I was desp enough to delve into the freezer, and reheat some chicken patties and served them with salad for everyone. Easy enough. I then finished off my choc mousse with a dollop of cream and some chopped macadamias - again with the comfort food, but it is nice to have a little treat at the end of the day every once in a while.
Tuesday was feeling on top of the world and was nice to head to the shops for a little while to get a few jobs done, however, the kids had other ideas and came home feeling like I wanted to bang my head against the wall for awhile. I gave the kids baby muffins at the shop for m tea but kept to my water. Home, and i was happy to get stuck into a leftover corn wrap with salad and some steak left over, and then made another wrap using lettuce to fill up on. And at night I'd marinaded some chook legs in 1/2 cup of olive oil and a lemon thinly sliced. That was roasted at night along with a sweet potato bake and rocket salad - how delicious.
And yesterday we were off to the park for a picnic in the morning with friends. I brought with a dip I'd made the day before thanks to Giada again! Spinach & Cannelini Bean dip:
1 bag of organic baby spinach
1 clove of garlic crushed
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 can cannelini beans
1 tbsp lemon juice
olive oil to add
Sautee spinach in pan with oil & garlic till wilted, then add to beans in food processor, along with lemon and puree till smooth. Add oil till smooth consistency and season to taste. When I do it next I think I would add some chilli to the saute as well.
I brought this along with carrot & celery sticks and some snowpeas to snack on, and really enjoyed it. Lots of water too. I didn't need lunch till much later and got all excited at doing an omelette with yummy rocket salad on the side. Didn't need anything through the arvo but relished dinner - dukkah coated salmon fillets with a great corn, avo & green bean salsa. Only blanched the green beans so they were still nice and crunchy, and also added chopped red capsicum, some coriander, and a little red onion and green shallot. If the kids hadn't been eating it (and they didn't really enjoy it anyway) I would have added some chilli and more lemon juice.
And as I was out of potatoes, I got Luke to pick up a "small" serve of hot chips which everyone shared at the end (after they'd finished the better part of the meal!). Still trying to give the kids their fruit beforehand but finding that's not going so well with the littlies as they are too distracted. Just need to have more types of fruit on hand to keep them happy.
The week's been going well and was pleasantly surprised at how much better I felt by Tuesday, other than an occasional hacking cough, I felt great. I was so fired up for gym on Wednesday morning and so enjoyed being back, even tho I'd only missed 1 session. On Monday I really focussed on dosing up on all my minerals, & vitamins, lots of water and only eating when I was hungry. Monday I enjoyed a smoothee in the morning and had some raw vegan pizza bases topped with lots of crunchy salad for lunch (oops, that was after a honey sandwich while making the kids lunches) and then I experimented on some pikelets for the kids in the arvo using Buckwheat flour:
1 cup organic unbleached sr flour
3/4 cup buckwheat flour
1/4 cup coconut palm sugar
2 eggs whisked
1 cup milk
Mix dry, then add liquid till mixture same consistency of pouring cream. Add more milk if not liquid enough. Cook in melted butter in fry pan.
To me they were not as light and fluffy as normal but very similar to the wholemeal flour ones I used to make. Of course they are much better eaten straight away while still warm. I don't butter them (as I cook them in butter) but just spread with sugar free jam and a big dollop of cream, or with a drizzle of maple syrup. The kids enjoyed them as normal (and so did I - was such a wonderful comfort food while sick).
For dinner I was desp enough to delve into the freezer, and reheat some chicken patties and served them with salad for everyone. Easy enough. I then finished off my choc mousse with a dollop of cream and some chopped macadamias - again with the comfort food, but it is nice to have a little treat at the end of the day every once in a while.
Tuesday was feeling on top of the world and was nice to head to the shops for a little while to get a few jobs done, however, the kids had other ideas and came home feeling like I wanted to bang my head against the wall for awhile. I gave the kids baby muffins at the shop for m tea but kept to my water. Home, and i was happy to get stuck into a leftover corn wrap with salad and some steak left over, and then made another wrap using lettuce to fill up on. And at night I'd marinaded some chook legs in 1/2 cup of olive oil and a lemon thinly sliced. That was roasted at night along with a sweet potato bake and rocket salad - how delicious.
And yesterday we were off to the park for a picnic in the morning with friends. I brought with a dip I'd made the day before thanks to Giada again! Spinach & Cannelini Bean dip:
1 bag of organic baby spinach
1 clove of garlic crushed
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 can cannelini beans
1 tbsp lemon juice
olive oil to add
Sautee spinach in pan with oil & garlic till wilted, then add to beans in food processor, along with lemon and puree till smooth. Add oil till smooth consistency and season to taste. When I do it next I think I would add some chilli to the saute as well.
I brought this along with carrot & celery sticks and some snowpeas to snack on, and really enjoyed it. Lots of water too. I didn't need lunch till much later and got all excited at doing an omelette with yummy rocket salad on the side. Didn't need anything through the arvo but relished dinner - dukkah coated salmon fillets with a great corn, avo & green bean salsa. Only blanched the green beans so they were still nice and crunchy, and also added chopped red capsicum, some coriander, and a little red onion and green shallot. If the kids hadn't been eating it (and they didn't really enjoy it anyway) I would have added some chilli and more lemon juice.
And as I was out of potatoes, I got Luke to pick up a "small" serve of hot chips which everyone shared at the end (after they'd finished the better part of the meal!). Still trying to give the kids their fruit beforehand but finding that's not going so well with the littlies as they are too distracted. Just need to have more types of fruit on hand to keep them happy.
Oh, and the dandruff has made a reappearance - bummer! However, not getting too dismayed as I have just swapped to an organic s'poo & cond, and apparently it can react with your scalp as it heals from all the other junk you've had on your head before. Most s'poos just "coat" your hair, not actually nourish your hair so finally decided to make the switch. Now to get rid of the proactiv - would be interested to hear what anyone else uses as a "natural" skin cleanser.
Must also mention that I am pretty happy with Neways products I've been trying and if anyone needs anything I can order it in. They have a lot of great safe cleaning chemicals and a wonderful range of personal products too that do not have any of the dangerous stuff in their. I am using their Radiance toothpast and the Eliminator mouthwash which I have also used as a gargle while sick - and it really helped as it is anti-bacterial. Will let you know other products I use and how useful they are. Anyway, must be smoothee time again!
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