So, a few weeks ago....ok, OK. It was more than a month ago (man, time flies) I encouraged all of you to ask questions about our healthy living and then did a giveaway of some of my favorite cookbooks. I answered the winner's questions already. But more questions were asked and I've been meaning to answer them too. Today is the day.
About Me
- Annie
- Like all of you, I'm a number of things to a number of people...Navy wife, homeschooling mama, educated woman and aspiring writer. Read my thoughts on all of it here. Please feel free to leave your thoughts on all of it too!
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label health. Show all posts
Friday, December 2, 2011
Sunday, November 13, 2011
I'm Awesomer Now Than I Was Then :-)
So, about a year ago I read a post on Smrt Mama's blog about identifying things about ourselves that are positive, really showing ourselves a little love and admiration. I didn't do it a year ago. I wasn't ready. I did do it, though, last March. (If you're interested, here's the link to that post.) Smrt Mama's challenge was to identify five things each about my looks/body, my mind, and that I've accomplished without qualifying them with any sort of negative comment. I did pretty well in March...but I can do better now.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Answers, already!
So, if you're not following along with my fun...here's what's gone on recently...
Two posts ago I offered four cook books up in a giveaway. All you needed to do to enter was ask a question about healthy living! I know, not too tough! Then, I announced the winners and gave a little background on me and my primal life over the past few years. And that brings us to right now, when i promise to answer the winner's questions, and maybe a couple others!
1) Was is hard to get your kids to make the paleo jump?
Yes and no. I switched very quickly (although I've wavered on and off and haven't been super strict in the past with social gatherings) but I worked the kids into it much more slowly. At each step I've gotten a little (or a lot) of resistance. But within a few days or a week, all three usually get used to the changes and stop they're moaning and groaning.
I've only recently switched them to 100% paleo/primal foods. They are allowed to make their own decisions, for the most part, when at friends' houses or parties. Gracie almost immediately gets a tummy ache from eating gluten. The boys do sometimes but not all the time. They all act like different kids completely when they get their hands on sugar, and that includes breads that turn to sugar during digestion. It's amazing to me and makes it clear to me that a little diet change could go a long way in the vast majority of those ADHD cases out there. But that's just my opinion. And, no, I don't think it would "just be easier" to let them eat crap all the time so they don't get tummy aches after pizza and birthday cake! (Sorry, no one asked about that on my blog, but it is a comment I get from people quite often!)
Last year I did a Healthy Living Unit in our homeschool. It was great to teach the kids all about healthy living. They still refer to things they learned then, like getting enough sleep or finding "poisons" on labels in the supermarket. Jace, who is eight years old, is spending the night at a friend's house tomorrow night said to me today, "I'm going to try to eat right while I'm gone. I'll read the labels if I can. I know I can always have fruit." Sometimes he makes me so proud!
2) Did you get headaches when you switched? I heard that happens...
The only time I've gotten headaches in this process is after I get hooked on Mt. Dew again and have to detox from that crap! I didn't get headaches when removing all the sugar and gluten from our foods. However, while my bowels were healing from the abuse of gluten and got used to processing clean foods, I did have some loose stools and was fatigued for a while. Sometimes it's called the low-carb flu. After a week or two it passed, though, and I felt fine.
3) What is the best thing you've noticed about yourself that isn't related to the size of your clothes since you made the switch to Paleo?
There are two huge changes that jump to mind and I'm not sure which is better, so I'll name them both! First of all, I have so much more energy. Within weeks of starting to live primally that was noticeable and has only become more so since cleaning up my food intake even more and beginning to work out regularly. And secondly, my moods are so even now. I still get stressed out. I still get anxious. I even still get angry. But the extreme changes aren't what they used to be, and that's a good thing. I'm happier. I'm joyful.
4) How do you respond to people when they say, "Oh, you're on a diet?" Do you look at paleo/primal as a diet?
It depends on the person and the situation, but ideally I explain that we all have a "diet." The word simply means what we eat. My "diet" fills me with energy. If they're open to hearing more, I gladly tell them that my life is more than what I eat and so is being primal.
I don't consider living primal a diet, though. I consider it living.
5) Which book will give me info and help me build my personal cookbook?
Honestly, any of these would be a big help with ideas to build on! They're great. As for info...Paleo Comfort Foods, Make It Paleo, and Everyday Paleo all come with incredible intros - how to set up your kitchen, staples to have on hand, etc. Paleo Comfort Foods includes a great list of websites to give you more information (all the ones that anyone who's anyone in the paleo/primal world frequent). Make It Paleo has menu ideas for special occasions. And Everyday Paleo has a full 30 day menu with shopping lists! Any of these books would be great starts for someone just getting into this life.
So, that's it for now...you might remember I mentioned sleep being part of a healthy life...and it's time for me to hit the sack! I'll be back to answer more questions soon! Feel free to leave any other questions you have in the comments and I'll tackle them too...in time!
(2nd Round of answers)
Two posts ago I offered four cook books up in a giveaway. All you needed to do to enter was ask a question about healthy living! I know, not too tough! Then, I announced the winners and gave a little background on me and my primal life over the past few years. And that brings us to right now, when i promise to answer the winner's questions, and maybe a couple others!
1) Was is hard to get your kids to make the paleo jump?
Yes and no. I switched very quickly (although I've wavered on and off and haven't been super strict in the past with social gatherings) but I worked the kids into it much more slowly. At each step I've gotten a little (or a lot) of resistance. But within a few days or a week, all three usually get used to the changes and stop they're moaning and groaning.
I've only recently switched them to 100% paleo/primal foods. They are allowed to make their own decisions, for the most part, when at friends' houses or parties. Gracie almost immediately gets a tummy ache from eating gluten. The boys do sometimes but not all the time. They all act like different kids completely when they get their hands on sugar, and that includes breads that turn to sugar during digestion. It's amazing to me and makes it clear to me that a little diet change could go a long way in the vast majority of those ADHD cases out there. But that's just my opinion. And, no, I don't think it would "just be easier" to let them eat crap all the time so they don't get tummy aches after pizza and birthday cake! (Sorry, no one asked about that on my blog, but it is a comment I get from people quite often!)
Last year I did a Healthy Living Unit in our homeschool. It was great to teach the kids all about healthy living. They still refer to things they learned then, like getting enough sleep or finding "poisons" on labels in the supermarket. Jace, who is eight years old, is spending the night at a friend's house tomorrow night said to me today, "I'm going to try to eat right while I'm gone. I'll read the labels if I can. I know I can always have fruit." Sometimes he makes me so proud!
2) Did you get headaches when you switched? I heard that happens...
The only time I've gotten headaches in this process is after I get hooked on Mt. Dew again and have to detox from that crap! I didn't get headaches when removing all the sugar and gluten from our foods. However, while my bowels were healing from the abuse of gluten and got used to processing clean foods, I did have some loose stools and was fatigued for a while. Sometimes it's called the low-carb flu. After a week or two it passed, though, and I felt fine.
3) What is the best thing you've noticed about yourself that isn't related to the size of your clothes since you made the switch to Paleo?
There are two huge changes that jump to mind and I'm not sure which is better, so I'll name them both! First of all, I have so much more energy. Within weeks of starting to live primally that was noticeable and has only become more so since cleaning up my food intake even more and beginning to work out regularly. And secondly, my moods are so even now. I still get stressed out. I still get anxious. I even still get angry. But the extreme changes aren't what they used to be, and that's a good thing. I'm happier. I'm joyful.
4) How do you respond to people when they say, "Oh, you're on a diet?" Do you look at paleo/primal as a diet?
It depends on the person and the situation, but ideally I explain that we all have a "diet." The word simply means what we eat. My "diet" fills me with energy. If they're open to hearing more, I gladly tell them that my life is more than what I eat and so is being primal.
I don't consider living primal a diet, though. I consider it living.
5) Which book will give me info and help me build my personal cookbook?
Honestly, any of these would be a big help with ideas to build on! They're great. As for info...Paleo Comfort Foods, Make It Paleo, and Everyday Paleo all come with incredible intros - how to set up your kitchen, staples to have on hand, etc. Paleo Comfort Foods includes a great list of websites to give you more information (all the ones that anyone who's anyone in the paleo/primal world frequent). Make It Paleo has menu ideas for special occasions. And Everyday Paleo has a full 30 day menu with shopping lists! Any of these books would be great starts for someone just getting into this life.
So, that's it for now...you might remember I mentioned sleep being part of a healthy life...and it's time for me to hit the sack! I'll be back to answer more questions soon! Feel free to leave any other questions you have in the comments and I'll tackle them too...in time!
(2nd Round of answers)
Cook Book Winners and Some Background Details...
I know you've been eagerly awaiting the results of my cook book giveaway. Since you're on the edge of your seats, here are the winners...
Congratulations Jaime! Your copy of Everyday Paleo is on it's way!
Congratulations Carmel! I'll happily hand you your very own Make It Paleo soon!
Kelly, I put Paleo Comfort Foods in the mail for you today! Congratulations!
Congratulations Fawn! I hope you find lots of tasty ideas in Primal Blueprint: Quick & Easy Meals!
And a BIG thank you to everyone who asked a question! There were some wonderful questions and I'm excited to answer some! Let's start with a little background, that will actually answer some of your questions...
This is a picture of me before I heard about The Primal Blueprint, which happened in February 2010. I saw an interview with John Durant on The Colbert Report. (You can read about how I first dipped my toes in the water here, here, and here.) I've never really looked back, although I've gone back a few times! I love so many things about primal living and the benefits far outweigh the short-lived joy of a Butterfinger, so it really hasn't been that hard of a decision.
Here I am October of 2010. (Obviously it's October...we don't always dress up like this!) That's nine months since I'd first heard about this way of life. It's also after moving across the country, living with non-primal family for a month, attending a wedding, supporting my husband as he began a new position, and beginning to homeschool our kids.
This picture is me in April 2011. I was feeling pretty good and getting into a job that would use my brain again - in ways being a stay-at-home-mom just doesn't, which excited me! I was still eating almost completely primal, but the things that weren't primal, weren't good. I was "treating" the kids and I to a candy bar every week. I was drinking Mt. Dew daily, often more than one a day. And I wasn't working out in any regular way. Not formal working out, not playing (one of the rules of The Primal Blueprint).
This shot was taken in September 2011, after getting rid of the candy and pop and beginning Boot Camp Diva (about 2 months in). It was as part of Boot Camp that I learned about paleo. One of you asked what the difference between paleo and primal living is. I used to think that paleo was just the diet and primal blueprint covered all aspects of life. Now, I realize that there's not much difference at all. One difference is that paleo tends to not include dairy, but even Robb Wolf said in an interview that if dairy doesn't effect you adversely, then it can be acceptable. So, I might say that they're pretty much different sides of the same coin.
Both paleo and primal promote not only a paleolithic food plan, but also have a paleolithic perspective on moving, sleeping, exercising our brains and finding balance in our lives. Both are pretty outstanding!
So, that's my story...and I think that's all I'll stuff into this post. It's getting on the long side. I'll add some links with the answers to your questions soon!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Back with a Giveaway!
Two months! Holy cow! If you've followed my blog, you know I used to post almost daily...then it slowed down...then, apparently, it just about stopped! I can't believe it's been two months since I posted something on here! Wow.
Friday, July 15, 2011
My Life in Acronyms
Every profession has shorthand of one sort or another. Some are quite easily recognized, like Rx. Others leave you puzzling for just a little bit, until that light bulb goes off! Well, my professions have several acronyms that I didn't used to know or that used to mean something else to me. I have to admit that I feel a little sense of pride when I recognize a new one, or better yet...use it in a sentence!
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Mixing Hormones, Emotions, and Babies
I put myself out there in this blog a lot, I think. I risk judgment and ridicule because I think what I have to say might reach someone who needs to hear it. Yes, many of my posts are entertaining (I hope) or simply reviews of our homeschooling lives or silly things the kids do and say. But, on occasion, I write something that could be a bit controversial. Today might be one of those days.
I've thought about this post for a long time. It's a topic that I've mulled over in my mind for seven and a half years now. I wasn't sure how to write about it, though. I'm still not...but I'm going to give it a try. Recently there was a 4-month-old taken to the hospital and found to have been repeatedly abused by his mother (story here). This is one of those things that is easy to feel badly about, even get angry about, but to also let go of easily because it won't happen to you or me, right?
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Trying New Things
It's been a while since I've updated you on our adventure in primal living, but it's always on my mind. As part of my goal to be in 2011 I've been really paying attention to what I eat, drink, and do with my body. I want to be intentional about what I feed myself and my family and not just mindlessly through food on a plate. I want to be present with the kids when they're running and playing and laughing. I'm a work in progress.
At least I'm that, right? If I wasn't paying attention I probably wouldn't even be a work in progress, but whatever the opposite is.
So, what have we been doing? We've been getting out more. We've gone for several walks or hikes. I've found some local trails that are only a five or ten minute drive so that we can enjoy being outside, without having to worry about traffic or the tide coming in (or the kids running out into the tide!). Tyler really enjoys the "real trails" so that he can run free! We're up to about two and a half miles before Tyler asks to go home and Gracie complains that her feet hurt. I'm pretty excited about that. Jace, on the other hand, still wants to go further, and is going to have to wait for Dada on that. I don't think Gracie and Tyler are going to be ready for seven miles up and down a mountain anytime soon! But we're out and moving and that is a good thing.
We're also trying new things in the kitchen. We have our old favorites, like banana bread (made with almond flour), eggs and bacon, bison dogs, and such. But we also have a new favorite: meatza! The kids really enjoy that! Green smoothies are another item we've added to our repertoire. Jace and I really like them. Gracie says she does and then doesn't drink them and Tyler politely says, "Me get water?" Just last night we tried another new thing.
We were at a Super WalMart to pick up something for homeschooling and walked through the produce section to the register. Jace asked what something was, a red pummelo, and then if we could get it. I just wanted to get home and almost gave a quick "no" without even really considering his question. But I didn't. I stopped and and looked at it and said, "Sure, let's try it...maybe we'll find a new fruit we love!" So we got it. Jace did love it! I kept eating little pieces because I wasn't sure if I liked it or not. Gracie and Tyler decided quickly that they did not. But we all tried something new.
So, primal living is going well. And, one of my favorite benefits of primal living, I don't feel guilt about not always eating primally or staying in to relax and watch a movie when that's on the agenda. On the flip side, I really do enjoy the kids curiosity more and want to get out and about with them and try things I otherwise probably wouldn't.
At least I'm that, right? If I wasn't paying attention I probably wouldn't even be a work in progress, but whatever the opposite is.
So, what have we been doing? We've been getting out more. We've gone for several walks or hikes. I've found some local trails that are only a five or ten minute drive so that we can enjoy being outside, without having to worry about traffic or the tide coming in (or the kids running out into the tide!). Tyler really enjoys the "real trails" so that he can run free! We're up to about two and a half miles before Tyler asks to go home and Gracie complains that her feet hurt. I'm pretty excited about that. Jace, on the other hand, still wants to go further, and is going to have to wait for Dada on that. I don't think Gracie and Tyler are going to be ready for seven miles up and down a mountain anytime soon! But we're out and moving and that is a good thing.
We're also trying new things in the kitchen. We have our old favorites, like banana bread (made with almond flour), eggs and bacon, bison dogs, and such. But we also have a new favorite: meatza! The kids really enjoy that! Green smoothies are another item we've added to our repertoire. Jace and I really like them. Gracie says she does and then doesn't drink them and Tyler politely says, "Me get water?" Just last night we tried another new thing.
We were at a Super WalMart to pick up something for homeschooling and walked through the produce section to the register. Jace asked what something was, a red pummelo, and then if we could get it. I just wanted to get home and almost gave a quick "no" without even really considering his question. But I didn't. I stopped and and looked at it and said, "Sure, let's try it...maybe we'll find a new fruit we love!" So we got it. Jace did love it! I kept eating little pieces because I wasn't sure if I liked it or not. Gracie and Tyler decided quickly that they did not. But we all tried something new.
So, primal living is going well. And, one of my favorite benefits of primal living, I don't feel guilt about not always eating primally or staying in to relax and watch a movie when that's on the agenda. On the flip side, I really do enjoy the kids curiosity more and want to get out and about with them and try things I otherwise probably wouldn't.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Self-reflection and Thanks
Ladies, ladies...thank you so much for the pats on the back and the encouragement. I really don't think I'm a horrible mother. I do, however, think I have not-so-great moments. I'm human. What can I say?
I am very thankful that you all responded so quickly and with such certainty that my kids are in good hands. Here's a little bit of an email my dearest friend sent me after reading my confession:
And I like that I'm honest with the kids. I think it's a good thing that I can admit to them when I've made a mistake or when the strength of my yelling wasn't quite proportionate with the transgression they committed. I even think I'm getting better at letting go of the frustration and moving on to play Legos, read books, watch movies...have fun with the kids again. I have noticed how quickly the kids move past being in trouble and I'm making a conscious effort (being intentional in 2011) to do so as well.
I've always been honest with the kids about my emotions, which are many! They know that sometimes I don't want to read a book because I'm tired and sometimes its because I'm lazy and sometimes its because I'm annoyed. They also know that in five or ten minutes they can ask if I'm still feeling that way and I'm probably not and will likely read them a book. So, even when Scott's gone, I'm not "strong for them," as some people try to be. Instead, they know that I'm sad, that I miss him, and that crying about it sometimes is OK. It's perfectly acceptable to wear our "daddy" shirts and talk about him. It's also OK to have fun while he's gone and share those stories with him. And we're all in it together.
Lastly, I'm making an effort to get to sleep earlier. I'm currently trying to find the balance between a little kid-free me time after their bedtimes and the longer amount of time it takes me to actually get to sleep without Scott. It's a tricky balance. I am also over my cravings for Mt. Dew, which is spectacular to say. I know some of you thought I was being a little hard on myself for having this one little vice. But it wasn't little and it wasn't one. It was a daily habit (often more than one a day) in a diet that is reasonably healthy otherwise. And the cycle of caffeine, including the crash, was not something that I enjoyed. I much prefer healthy eating, adequate sleep, and stable moods. I'm sure the kids do too! So, we're well on our way to "back on track" with that!
OK, one more thing...
I didn't write yesterday's post to fish for parenting compliments. I like to be real. I am real. I want to put myself out there so other parents, spouses, whomever reads my writings know that they're not alone. We all shine sometimes and we all need a lot of polishing other times. Thank you for all rubbing you guys do! Hopefully I can help you put a little gleam in your armor when you need it too!
I am very thankful that you all responded so quickly and with such certainty that my kids are in good hands. Here's a little bit of an email my dearest friend sent me after reading my confession:
You want to know why you're a Super Mom? Because after you got done scolding your kids and making them pick up, you went upstairs and realized you'd perhaps vented a little misplaced frustration and realized that your kids are just being kids (and not bad ones), you cried because you're a Super Mom. Unsuper Moms don't realize those things. Unsuper Moms tromp upstairs and fume about their pain in the ass kids and absent husbands. If Unsuper Moms cry it's because they realize they can't off their offspring without being caught, and they're stuck with them for years to come, and it's only going to get worse. Super Moms accept hugs from their 5 yr olds and wonder if they're doing irreparable damage...which you're not. If your kids end up in therapy because of you, its going to be for something you do years from now....I can guarantee you haven't earned Unsuper-status yet and aren't going to any time soon. I'm betting on no parentally-earned therapy for your kids, period.I love that she doesn't discount the idea that I could do something in the future that will put my kids in therapy! Her support is laden with humor! However, I think I might agree with what she's getting at. I don't claim to be super anything, really, but I do think that there is something to realizing our mistakes. Even in the moments where I haven't known what to do with a certain parenting situation and I thought I might be at my wits end, I haven't wanted to give them up. I do love these three monkeys. I do love their father. It's a good thing.
And I like that I'm honest with the kids. I think it's a good thing that I can admit to them when I've made a mistake or when the strength of my yelling wasn't quite proportionate with the transgression they committed. I even think I'm getting better at letting go of the frustration and moving on to play Legos, read books, watch movies...have fun with the kids again. I have noticed how quickly the kids move past being in trouble and I'm making a conscious effort (being intentional in 2011) to do so as well.
I've always been honest with the kids about my emotions, which are many! They know that sometimes I don't want to read a book because I'm tired and sometimes its because I'm lazy and sometimes its because I'm annoyed. They also know that in five or ten minutes they can ask if I'm still feeling that way and I'm probably not and will likely read them a book. So, even when Scott's gone, I'm not "strong for them," as some people try to be. Instead, they know that I'm sad, that I miss him, and that crying about it sometimes is OK. It's perfectly acceptable to wear our "daddy" shirts and talk about him. It's also OK to have fun while he's gone and share those stories with him. And we're all in it together.
Lastly, I'm making an effort to get to sleep earlier. I'm currently trying to find the balance between a little kid-free me time after their bedtimes and the longer amount of time it takes me to actually get to sleep without Scott. It's a tricky balance. I am also over my cravings for Mt. Dew, which is spectacular to say. I know some of you thought I was being a little hard on myself for having this one little vice. But it wasn't little and it wasn't one. It was a daily habit (often more than one a day) in a diet that is reasonably healthy otherwise. And the cycle of caffeine, including the crash, was not something that I enjoyed. I much prefer healthy eating, adequate sleep, and stable moods. I'm sure the kids do too! So, we're well on our way to "back on track" with that!
OK, one more thing...
I didn't write yesterday's post to fish for parenting compliments. I like to be real. I am real. I want to put myself out there so other parents, spouses, whomever reads my writings know that they're not alone. We all shine sometimes and we all need a lot of polishing other times. Thank you for all rubbing you guys do! Hopefully I can help you put a little gleam in your armor when you need it too!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
One Word
Have you thought about one word to describe yourself? I've been asked in interviews to use one or two words to list my best and worst qualities. I've played a few version of the ice breaker when I needed to come up with one word to tell about me. Most recently though, I read a couple blog posts that got be thinking about one word that can serve as my motivation throughout the upcoming year.
Shauna and Courtney both talk about having a concept to guide us through the year rather than setting resolutions. I haven't set New Year's resolutions in years. Scott and I are talkers and planners. We're constantly setting goals, discussing progress, and adapting. So, I don't see the need to set certain goals at certain times. Reading their posts, though, got me thinking about a motto for my year.
In 2010 Courtney's theme word was connecting. Under that umbrella she worked on connecting with God, family and her blog followers too! She's chosen simplify for 2011. I think that's a beautiful word and a wonderful theme. I think she's going to have a great year creating space to focus on the connections she's worked on this year. I was tempted to use that concept as my own, but I think I'm going to do something a little different. After all, I think I'm in the process of complicating my life rather than simplifying it...maybe that'll be next year!
Shauna's new year will revolve around love, which I think is completely appropriate. I don't know Shauna personally, but I feel like her posts are ones that ooze goodness and caring. Whenever I read something on her blog I feel inspired. I look forward to reading more about her journey this coming year to love and "doing what I can do where I can do it with all my heart and being."
So, I started by reading these two posts. I put some consideration into it. And I cheated...I've always bent the rules a little with these one word games. It started way back in 4H camp when I had to come up with an adjective that started with the first letter of my name to introduce myself with. I was at the end of the circle and wasn't sure what I was going to say until it got to me and I came up with "All of the above Annie." I know, not one word at all. But fitting.
My theme for 2011 is also not one word. But it's the carrot I want to chase this year...I want to be.
It's a little word, although big on meaning. But because it's so little I figured I might be able to get away with adding a couple others.
Shauna and Courtney both talk about having a concept to guide us through the year rather than setting resolutions. I haven't set New Year's resolutions in years. Scott and I are talkers and planners. We're constantly setting goals, discussing progress, and adapting. So, I don't see the need to set certain goals at certain times. Reading their posts, though, got me thinking about a motto for my year.
In 2010 Courtney's theme word was connecting. Under that umbrella she worked on connecting with God, family and her blog followers too! She's chosen simplify for 2011. I think that's a beautiful word and a wonderful theme. I think she's going to have a great year creating space to focus on the connections she's worked on this year. I was tempted to use that concept as my own, but I think I'm going to do something a little different. After all, I think I'm in the process of complicating my life rather than simplifying it...maybe that'll be next year!
Shauna's new year will revolve around love, which I think is completely appropriate. I don't know Shauna personally, but I feel like her posts are ones that ooze goodness and caring. Whenever I read something on her blog I feel inspired. I look forward to reading more about her journey this coming year to love and "doing what I can do where I can do it with all my heart and being."
So, I started by reading these two posts. I put some consideration into it. And I cheated...I've always bent the rules a little with these one word games. It started way back in 4H camp when I had to come up with an adjective that started with the first letter of my name to introduce myself with. I was at the end of the circle and wasn't sure what I was going to say until it got to me and I came up with "All of the above Annie." I know, not one word at all. But fitting.
My theme for 2011 is also not one word. But it's the carrot I want to chase this year...I want to be.
be
It's a little word, although big on meaning. But because it's so little I figured I might be able to get away with adding a couple others.
be present
be intentional
And those will be the focus of my 2011. I'm not 100% sure what that's going to look like yet. I do know, though, that it'll involve less time on facebook and in front of the television. I know it will involve exploring my faith more. I know it will involve focusing on the moments that pass quickly. Priorities will be determined and life will be lived. That's what I know for now.
In 2011, I will be.
What about you?
Will you love, connect, simplify, engage, organize, enjoy, hope, teach, learn, follow, shine, or maybe...be?
What about you?
Will you love, connect, simplify, engage, organize, enjoy, hope, teach, learn, follow, shine, or maybe...be?
Sunday, November 21, 2010
A Few Changes
So, I've been playing with my blog design. You may have noticed. Maybe not. Either way, let me tell you about the changes I've made. Basically I removed some of the links from the side bar and added them in my new pages at the top. Directly under the blog's title you see four little tabs that say will bring you to different places here at Live it. Love it (or not). Write about it.
"Home" will bring you to the most current posts.
"Our Navy Life" gives a little blurb about our lives as a Navy family. I haven't put any links on there yet. I'm still deciding what ones I want to add.
"Homeschooling" provides you with a short story about how and why we homeschool. Those of you who know me are likely surprised that it's such a short story! I figured I was writing pages and pages on here, so readers could always find out more if they wanted. Or they could ask! It also includes links to other blogs about homeschooling and to the unit reviews I've posted on here.
"Living Healthy" tells you a little about primal living and lists several other sites that can help you live primally, mind, body, and spirit.
I hope you enjoy the little differences. To some it may not seem like much. I'm obviously not an expert in the world of technology. I am excited, though, to have made a few little improvements. Let me know what you think.
"Home" will bring you to the most current posts.
"Our Navy Life" gives a little blurb about our lives as a Navy family. I haven't put any links on there yet. I'm still deciding what ones I want to add.
"Homeschooling" provides you with a short story about how and why we homeschool. Those of you who know me are likely surprised that it's such a short story! I figured I was writing pages and pages on here, so readers could always find out more if they wanted. Or they could ask! It also includes links to other blogs about homeschooling and to the unit reviews I've posted on here.
"Living Healthy" tells you a little about primal living and lists several other sites that can help you live primally, mind, body, and spirit.
I hope you enjoy the little differences. To some it may not seem like much. I'm obviously not an expert in the world of technology. I am excited, though, to have made a few little improvements. Let me know what you think.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Back on The Juice...But Trying to Kick It!
Mt. Dew. It's not good for you. I'm pretty sure there's nothing in that bottle that my body likes, aside from the taste. I really do like the way it tastes! And lately, I've been using the caffeine boost like I did in my pre-primal days. When I drink it my stomach churns a little. After all, my diet is pretty sugar free. But it keeps my eyes open when they need to be.
(sigh)
Today I didn't drink any. I also didn't shower, put on real clothes, or leave the house (except to take some recycling out). But I didn't drink any Mt. Dew. I did, however, try some tea. About an hour after I drank it I fell asleep on the couch watching TV with the kids. Later I noticed that the tea I drank was caffeine free...that's not helpful!
Another problem I have with caffeine is that I'm tired so I drink it, then I come down off that high and I'm even more tired. It's a nasty little cycle.
(sigh)
So, I'm using my blog as a confessional to get this all off my chest and as a sounding board to work out my feelings about this drug of choice. In the end, I'll probably still drink it from time to time. (And maybe one or two of you will let me know that it's OK to be weak sometimes.) But, I'm trying very hard not to get back on the juice in the same way I used to...many moons ago it ran through my veins.
So, thanks for hearing me out and letting me publicly work through my vices.
And now I'm going to bed...night everyone!
(sigh)
Today I didn't drink any. I also didn't shower, put on real clothes, or leave the house (except to take some recycling out). But I didn't drink any Mt. Dew. I did, however, try some tea. About an hour after I drank it I fell asleep on the couch watching TV with the kids. Later I noticed that the tea I drank was caffeine free...that's not helpful!
Another problem I have with caffeine is that I'm tired so I drink it, then I come down off that high and I'm even more tired. It's a nasty little cycle.
(sigh)
So, I'm using my blog as a confessional to get this all off my chest and as a sounding board to work out my feelings about this drug of choice. In the end, I'll probably still drink it from time to time. (And maybe one or two of you will let me know that it's OK to be weak sometimes.) But, I'm trying very hard not to get back on the juice in the same way I used to...many moons ago it ran through my veins.
So, thanks for hearing me out and letting me publicly work through my vices.
And now I'm going to bed...night everyone!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Day Book (October 7th)
Outside my window...The wind is picking up after a beautiful fall morning in the 60's. The clouds are coming in and we'll likely get some rain in a while.
I am thinking...about homeschooling, marriage, parenting...the things that are on my mind every day.
I am thankful for...the quiet reassurance of my faith, good friends, and kids playing nicely together right now.
From the learning rooms...we're about to do some math and then make a messy squirrel feast to hang outside later.
From the kitchen...the dishes await.
I am wearing...a teal turtle neck and jeans. My feet are bare and my hair is braided. And I actually have jewelry on today, a necklace Gracie made me and simple pearl studs.
I am creating...a warm and calm place for my family and friends, and ample opportunities to listen to every one's stories.
I am going...slowly today.
I am reading...God's Little Devotional Book, Paganism: An Introduction to Earth-Centered Religions, and any number of blogs on homeschooling.
I am hoping...to continue the day in the same vein it's been in, quiet instruction by me...children ready to listen, no arguing and plenty of fun.
I am hearing...my wooden wind chimes outside, Jace and Gracie playing in the bedroom, traffic on the highway.
Around the house...there are many little things to be done.
One of my favorite things...is being connected.
A few plans for the rest of the week: Tomorrow we're headed to the library and to do a little shopping to finish a package for Uncle Nick (my brother-in-law). Then we have friends coming tomorrow night and Saturday my cousin and his wife will be visiting for lunch.
Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
Living a simple life is something that could be incredibly enriching. I enjoyed this exercise. If you'd like to, you can take part in it as well: Check out the simple woman's daybook and see what other women have to say this fall.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Primal Successes
A few months back I was watching some silly news/comedy show that Scott put on and found myself interested in a story about a guy who was playing all over New York City. I tip-toed my way over to Mark Sisson's site and have been making changes ever since.
I started with the way I was eating and I also began playing with my kids more. (Right now I'm neglecting them and the dishes for the sake of this post...but they don't seem to mind. There's a lot of giggling going on in the other room! From the kids, not the dishes...they're just waiting patiently for attention.) It's been about eight months now and we're still working on things.
I'm chalking up "working on things" as a success in primal living. Why? Because I haven't given up. I've thought about it, but not because it's not working...I'm definitely healthier, feel better, have more energy, am more active...things are going well, in my opinion.
Now, in the opinion of my family members...well, then you might find some different answers. With all the changes that we've gone through in the last several months, changing their diets (pretty drastically) hasn't always gone over well. But I've realized recently that even as a family we're having success in living primally.
Right now we're in the midst of a 30-Day Challenge that Mark is running. There's a contest every day and one of the recent ones is to take a picture of your groceries. Here's ours for the week...
Don't you love my totally cute posers? Well, I do, and shopping with them has helped me realize that a lot really has changed with my quest to make our family primal, and in turn, healthier and happier. Jace reads the ingredient list before picking up anything off the shelf. They get excited by fruits and vegetables. They still don't always eat them once their home...but good things come to those who wait, right?
We also walk more and play more. They're not as hungry as quickly. They don't know this, however, and it's pretty funny! If they can see a clock then they're hungry at all our old regular eating times. If they don't know what time it is they'll play and be happy for at least an hour longer than our old normal! They usually notice that it's past lunch time by then and are suddenly ravenous-in their heads!
As a family, we aren't eating 100% primal, which is fine. Mark suggests eating at least 80% and I'd say we're pretty close to that. We're doing well with the non-food primal rules too...getting our rest, moving slowly and frequently, lifting things, sprinting sometimes. So, I'd say things aer going pretty well on the primal front. Wouldn't you?
(And, just in case you were wondering what's in our groceries picture, here's the meal plan for the week:
Breakfast/Lunch (interchangeable) - primal cereal with almond milk, 100% juice for the kids, water for me, Tyler and Gracie still like toast with (100% fruit) jelly -OR- eggs (scrambled with cheese for the kids, sunny side up for me with spinach), bacon, avocado, fruit
Snacks - fruit, kefir smoothies
Dinner -
Tuesday - Parmesan and garlic crusted cod, carrots, and broccoli
Wednesday -primal pancakes and sausage with fruit
Thursday - tacos (kids will have flour tortillas Scott and I will have salads, but we're trying something new...provolone crisp shells)
Friday - Scott and I are going out (if he doesn't have to work) TBA
Saturday - ham bone soup with spinach bread and onion crisps (both are primal even though neither sounds like it!)
Sunday - chicken, salad, acorn squash
Monday - leftovers or if there aren't any, freezer schtuff
And now you know!)
I started with the way I was eating and I also began playing with my kids more. (Right now I'm neglecting them and the dishes for the sake of this post...but they don't seem to mind. There's a lot of giggling going on in the other room! From the kids, not the dishes...they're just waiting patiently for attention.) It's been about eight months now and we're still working on things.
I'm chalking up "working on things" as a success in primal living. Why? Because I haven't given up. I've thought about it, but not because it's not working...I'm definitely healthier, feel better, have more energy, am more active...things are going well, in my opinion.
Now, in the opinion of my family members...well, then you might find some different answers. With all the changes that we've gone through in the last several months, changing their diets (pretty drastically) hasn't always gone over well. But I've realized recently that even as a family we're having success in living primally.
Right now we're in the midst of a 30-Day Challenge that Mark is running. There's a contest every day and one of the recent ones is to take a picture of your groceries. Here's ours for the week...
Don't you love my totally cute posers? Well, I do, and shopping with them has helped me realize that a lot really has changed with my quest to make our family primal, and in turn, healthier and happier. Jace reads the ingredient list before picking up anything off the shelf. They get excited by fruits and vegetables. They still don't always eat them once their home...but good things come to those who wait, right?
We also walk more and play more. They're not as hungry as quickly. They don't know this, however, and it's pretty funny! If they can see a clock then they're hungry at all our old regular eating times. If they don't know what time it is they'll play and be happy for at least an hour longer than our old normal! They usually notice that it's past lunch time by then and are suddenly ravenous-in their heads!
As a family, we aren't eating 100% primal, which is fine. Mark suggests eating at least 80% and I'd say we're pretty close to that. We're doing well with the non-food primal rules too...getting our rest, moving slowly and frequently, lifting things, sprinting sometimes. So, I'd say things aer going pretty well on the primal front. Wouldn't you?
(And, just in case you were wondering what's in our groceries picture, here's the meal plan for the week:
Breakfast/Lunch (interchangeable) - primal cereal with almond milk, 100% juice for the kids, water for me, Tyler and Gracie still like toast with (100% fruit) jelly -OR- eggs (scrambled with cheese for the kids, sunny side up for me with spinach), bacon, avocado, fruit
Snacks - fruit, kefir smoothies
Dinner -
Tuesday - Parmesan and garlic crusted cod, carrots, and broccoli
Wednesday -primal pancakes and sausage with fruit
Thursday - tacos (kids will have flour tortillas Scott and I will have salads, but we're trying something new...provolone crisp shells)
Friday - Scott and I are going out (if he doesn't have to work) TBA
Saturday - ham bone soup with spinach bread and onion crisps (both are primal even though neither sounds like it!)
Sunday - chicken, salad, acorn squash
Monday - leftovers or if there aren't any, freezer schtuff
And now you know!)
Friday, August 27, 2010
Healthy Living: Food, Fitness, and FUN!!!
Every one needs to learn about living healthy, right? They need to learn about what makes a well-balanced meal and how to get great abs, right? Well, something like that...
Our healthy living unit encompassed quite a bit more...and I don't think we covered ab workouts at all.
Our book list:
The Primal Blueprint: Reprogram your genes for effortless weight loss, vibrant health, and boundless energy. by Mark Sisson
The Omnivore's Dilemma: The secrets behind what you eat by Michael Pollan, adapted by Richie Chevat - Young Reader's Edition
The Primal Blueprint Cookbook by Mark Sisson with Jennifer Meier
The Quest to Digest by Mark K. Corcoran
What we did:
We started by using Mark Sisson's Primal Food Pyramid and 10 Primal Blueprint Laws (the laws are written slightly differently on the poster, but they're basically the same as you see on the web site). We started here because I'm living a primal life and wish my family to do so as well. Also, the 10 laws cover healthy living...from food...to fitness....to fun! So, there's really no better place to start.
By the way, Jace quickly questioned that if Mark Sisson isn't the president...how does he get to make laws? I let him know that he wouldn't go to jail for not following the Primal Blueprint Laws, he just wouldn't be living as healthy as he could be.
We focused on eating healthy for the first week (PB law #1). We talked about what foods are good for our bodies and what ones are not. We defined poisonous foods (PB law #2) as not only ones that can kill us or make us very sick, but also ones that don't get digested easily in our bodies or make our bodies react in unpleasant ways.
Here's a chart from The Omnivore's Dilemma that we used to talk about corn (not a vegetable) and all the places it has inserted itself in our lives.
At the suggestion of a forum member (you can join the conversation too, if you want) we did a supermarket search for poisonous things! (Thanks jqbancroft!) The kids had a great time learning why some of the foods they thought were good aren't so good for them!
Jace and Gracie plan and cook a meal a week with me. In light of what they learned they chose healthier options to make these last two weeks. Hopefully that trend continues. We also made aprons to wear when making our fabulously healthy meals!
Gracie did help guide the fabric eventually, but she never got quite good enough to sew on her own...at 5 years old, I think that's OK! In a year or two she'll be altering all her clothes, don't worry!
No, Tyler doesn't do much cooking, but in light of how adorable he looks in his apron and chef's hat, can you blame me for stitching him up one too?
We've been taking walks (PB law #3) several times a week all together, as part of our schooling, and one or more of them usually walk with me in the evenings too. During this unit we talked about moving frequently at a slow pace, why sunlight is important (PB law #8), and foraging. We even got enough berries for a tasty crumble. (Thanks yESiCan!)
Another of the Primal Blueprint Laws is to get adequate sleep (PB law #6). This is something I've always believed in, the kids...not so much. But, put it in a list of rules, that someone else wrote, and the kids are all over it. There was one day Gracie woke up early and was miserable. I told her she needed to take a nap and she started to cry and whine.
"Gracie, remember we all need adequate sleep?"
Gracie sadly nods her head, tears running down her face, boogers too.
"What does adequate mean?"
"Enough."
"And you didn't get enough sleep last night, did you?"
Gracie shakes her head and, with her sleeve, wipes her face.
"So, taking a nap will help you get adequate sleep, won't it."
"Yes."
Brilliant!
We talked about taking care of our teeth and looked at our teeth prints, seeing the two different kinds of teeth omnivores have. We read about digestion and then simulated it...
A banana was our food. We put in on a plate and smashed it with fork (chewing). It slid through a snack baggie with the ends cut off (esophagus) into a sandwich bag (stomach).
The kids got to churn it in the baggies. It then went into panty hose (the small intestine) where they squeezed it down into a paper cup (large intestine and rectum). The water and pulp that squeezed out symbolized the nutrient we absorb into our bodies. We then cut a whole in the bottom of the cup to expel our waste. That was their favorite part!
We've used our brains (PB law #10) in all sorts of ways...we've been creative, traditionally intellectual, played games and listened to music. We have talked about the fitness laws (PB laws #3, 4, and 5) and practiced some over the past two weeks...with plans to do more this next week. (Next week is going to be a sort of vacation for us. We aren't starting a new unit and are taking a couple days completely off to play! But we'll still be doing math, writing letters, and practicing vocab on a few of the days. Anyway....)
We've done lots of playing (PB law #7), both inside and out. We created a Grok Kit for our van, a set of fitness goodies to stay in the van in case we find ourselves with time and a place to play. (Thanks tbow!) This coming week we're meeting up with some (hopefully) new friends on Wednesday to celebrate not-back-to school day for us (the local public schools start that day). We're going to the zoo on Thursday to see some old friends, and the animals too!
So, the only law I haven't mentioned yet is PB law #9 - avoid stupid mistakes. We discussed this on the first day but haven't talked about it much since then. That was almost two weeks ago. Yesterday Jace said, "Mama, I'm a little worried now that we know the primal blueprint laws."
"Why?" I asked.
"Because I like to go to Luki's house and ride his 3-wheeler." (Luki is the boy down the road who has a tricycle-style bike...it's sized for bigger kids, though, not toddlers.)
"What does that have to do with the primal blueprint laws?"
"One of them says to avoid stupid mistakes."
Jace is such a clever boy. It was a good opportunity to talk about wearing a helmet but still having fun. Getting scratches, bumps, and bruises is acceptable. Breaking your leg on a stunt you know is not bright...that might be considered a stupid mistake.
It's been a great two weeks and there's more food, fitness, and fun to be had!!!
Our healthy living unit encompassed quite a bit more...and I don't think we covered ab workouts at all.
Our book list:
The Primal Blueprint: Reprogram your genes for effortless weight loss, vibrant health, and boundless energy. by Mark Sisson
The Omnivore's Dilemma: The secrets behind what you eat by Michael Pollan, adapted by Richie Chevat - Young Reader's Edition
The Primal Blueprint Cookbook by Mark Sisson with Jennifer Meier
The Quest to Digest by Mark K. Corcoran
What we did:
We started by using Mark Sisson's Primal Food Pyramid and 10 Primal Blueprint Laws (the laws are written slightly differently on the poster, but they're basically the same as you see on the web site). We started here because I'm living a primal life and wish my family to do so as well. Also, the 10 laws cover healthy living...from food...to fitness....to fun! So, there's really no better place to start.
By the way, Jace quickly questioned that if Mark Sisson isn't the president...how does he get to make laws? I let him know that he wouldn't go to jail for not following the Primal Blueprint Laws, he just wouldn't be living as healthy as he could be.
We focused on eating healthy for the first week (PB law #1). We talked about what foods are good for our bodies and what ones are not. We defined poisonous foods (PB law #2) as not only ones that can kill us or make us very sick, but also ones that don't get digested easily in our bodies or make our bodies react in unpleasant ways.
Here's a chart from The Omnivore's Dilemma that we used to talk about corn (not a vegetable) and all the places it has inserted itself in our lives.
At the suggestion of a forum member (you can join the conversation too, if you want) we did a supermarket search for poisonous things! (Thanks jqbancroft!) The kids had a great time learning why some of the foods they thought were good aren't so good for them!
Jace and Gracie plan and cook a meal a week with me. In light of what they learned they chose healthier options to make these last two weeks. Hopefully that trend continues. We also made aprons to wear when making our fabulously healthy meals!
Gracie did help guide the fabric eventually, but she never got quite good enough to sew on her own...at 5 years old, I think that's OK! In a year or two she'll be altering all her clothes, don't worry!No, Tyler doesn't do much cooking, but in light of how adorable he looks in his apron and chef's hat, can you blame me for stitching him up one too?
We've been taking walks (PB law #3) several times a week all together, as part of our schooling, and one or more of them usually walk with me in the evenings too. During this unit we talked about moving frequently at a slow pace, why sunlight is important (PB law #8), and foraging. We even got enough berries for a tasty crumble. (Thanks yESiCan!)
Another of the Primal Blueprint Laws is to get adequate sleep (PB law #6). This is something I've always believed in, the kids...not so much. But, put it in a list of rules, that someone else wrote, and the kids are all over it. There was one day Gracie woke up early and was miserable. I told her she needed to take a nap and she started to cry and whine.
"Gracie, remember we all need adequate sleep?"
Gracie sadly nods her head, tears running down her face, boogers too.
"What does adequate mean?"
"Enough."
"And you didn't get enough sleep last night, did you?"
Gracie shakes her head and, with her sleeve, wipes her face.
"So, taking a nap will help you get adequate sleep, won't it."
"Yes."
Brilliant!
We talked about taking care of our teeth and looked at our teeth prints, seeing the two different kinds of teeth omnivores have. We read about digestion and then simulated it...
A banana was our food. We put in on a plate and smashed it with fork (chewing). It slid through a snack baggie with the ends cut off (esophagus) into a sandwich bag (stomach).
The kids got to churn it in the baggies. It then went into panty hose (the small intestine) where they squeezed it down into a paper cup (large intestine and rectum). The water and pulp that squeezed out symbolized the nutrient we absorb into our bodies. We then cut a whole in the bottom of the cup to expel our waste. That was their favorite part!
We've used our brains (PB law #10) in all sorts of ways...we've been creative, traditionally intellectual, played games and listened to music. We have talked about the fitness laws (PB laws #3, 4, and 5) and practiced some over the past two weeks...with plans to do more this next week. (Next week is going to be a sort of vacation for us. We aren't starting a new unit and are taking a couple days completely off to play! But we'll still be doing math, writing letters, and practicing vocab on a few of the days. Anyway....)
We've done lots of playing (PB law #7), both inside and out. We created a Grok Kit for our van, a set of fitness goodies to stay in the van in case we find ourselves with time and a place to play. (Thanks tbow!) This coming week we're meeting up with some (hopefully) new friends on Wednesday to celebrate not-back-to school day for us (the local public schools start that day). We're going to the zoo on Thursday to see some old friends, and the animals too!
So, the only law I haven't mentioned yet is PB law #9 - avoid stupid mistakes. We discussed this on the first day but haven't talked about it much since then. That was almost two weeks ago. Yesterday Jace said, "Mama, I'm a little worried now that we know the primal blueprint laws."
"Why?" I asked.
"Because I like to go to Luki's house and ride his 3-wheeler." (Luki is the boy down the road who has a tricycle-style bike...it's sized for bigger kids, though, not toddlers.)
"What does that have to do with the primal blueprint laws?"
"One of them says to avoid stupid mistakes."
Jace is such a clever boy. It was a good opportunity to talk about wearing a helmet but still having fun. Getting scratches, bumps, and bruises is acceptable. Breaking your leg on a stunt you know is not bright...that might be considered a stupid mistake.
It's been a great two weeks and there's more food, fitness, and fun to be had!!!
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
A Day in the Life
It's a good life...the one I lead. I have my moments when I wonder how things have gotten to this point. This point being whatever frustrates me at the time. Overall, though, it's a good life.
Let's take today, for example. The boys slept in and Gracie and I got a little one-on-one cuddle time before breakfast. That rarely happens. If Tyler sees anyone near me, he has to get nearer.
After breakfast we got ready to go grocery shopping. While Jace was putting his sneakers on, I had the chance to explain the saying "behind the eight ball" to him. You see, I hadn't gotten the load of laundry in that I wanted to nor had I gotten the dishes cleaned off the counter. So, when we got home I was going to have all of that to do and groceries to put away. I think he got it...and I'm sure I'll hear him use it correctly soon enough.
We got to the store and were discussing which cart would be best for us today. (The commissary, military grocery store, has three different versions.) Jace took a drink of his water and told me he thought he was going to throw up, "Blaaaahhhh." Well, at least he warned me. I let a bagger know so it could get cleaned up and we came back home.
In no particular order I did the following things:
By the end of the day Jace was feeling better, sitting up and reading, and I made a trip to the commissary with Gracie to got groceries for the week...the ones Scott hadn't so lovingly brought home without complaint.
I have a wonderful little family and everyone is (relatively) healthy and happy. What more could a mama ask for on any given day in her life?
Let's take today, for example. The boys slept in and Gracie and I got a little one-on-one cuddle time before breakfast. That rarely happens. If Tyler sees anyone near me, he has to get nearer.
After breakfast we got ready to go grocery shopping. While Jace was putting his sneakers on, I had the chance to explain the saying "behind the eight ball" to him. You see, I hadn't gotten the load of laundry in that I wanted to nor had I gotten the dishes cleaned off the counter. So, when we got home I was going to have all of that to do and groceries to put away. I think he got it...and I'm sure I'll hear him use it correctly soon enough.
We got to the store and were discussing which cart would be best for us today. (The commissary, military grocery store, has three different versions.) Jace took a drink of his water and told me he thought he was going to throw up, "Blaaaahhhh." Well, at least he warned me. I let a bagger know so it could get cleaned up and we came back home.
In no particular order I did the following things:
- put in a load of laundry, including Jace's vomit spattered pants
- got Tyler and Gracie a drink of juice
- found Tom and Jerry on TV
- called Scott to ask if he could get a few things for dinner
- called to reschedule an appointment I had today that I was planning on taking the kids to
- emptied the bathroom garbage can into the larger, kitchen one so Jace had a puke bucket
- did a load of dishes by hand
By the end of the day Jace was feeling better, sitting up and reading, and I made a trip to the commissary with Gracie to got groceries for the week...the ones Scott hadn't so lovingly brought home without complaint.
I have a wonderful little family and everyone is (relatively) healthy and happy. What more could a mama ask for on any given day in her life?
Monday, August 16, 2010
Little Reminders
Today we started our healthy living unit. I'm really excited about it and I have a lot I want the kids to learn. This morning, it took an hour to go over the 10 Primal Blueprint Laws...an hour! My lesson plan had that task taking maybe ten minutes. OK, let's be honest. I don't have formal lesson plans. However, I do think about what I want to fit in in a day. There were other things I wanted to do this morning.
With that in mind, you might imagine that I was a little annoyed. The kids kept interrupting me, sometimes raising their hands (which I find adorable!) and sometimes just jumping up out of their seats. I asked them a few times to stop and listen, but they couldn't seem to do that. I was getting more and more frustrated...
...but then I calmed down. I realized that they weren't being obnoxious. They were excited. They wanted to pipe in with what they knew about eating healthy, fitness, and cavemen. I want them to be excited about it. I want them to learn from me about fitness and food, and have fun doing it! And we're homsechooling...if I don't get to something...no big deal.
Thank goodness I heard that inner voice that reminded me of those things. Instead of me shutting them down and having them write "I will eat broccoli and like it" a few dozen times, we laughed, visited, and learned. Hopefully.
It's great to remember, whether homeschooling or not, that kids learn and love best when given the freedom to do so and when they're guided by someone just as excited as they are.
With that in mind, you might imagine that I was a little annoyed. The kids kept interrupting me, sometimes raising their hands (which I find adorable!) and sometimes just jumping up out of their seats. I asked them a few times to stop and listen, but they couldn't seem to do that. I was getting more and more frustrated...
...but then I calmed down. I realized that they weren't being obnoxious. They were excited. They wanted to pipe in with what they knew about eating healthy, fitness, and cavemen. I want them to be excited about it. I want them to learn from me about fitness and food, and have fun doing it! And we're homsechooling...if I don't get to something...no big deal.
Thank goodness I heard that inner voice that reminded me of those things. Instead of me shutting them down and having them write "I will eat broccoli and like it" a few dozen times, we laughed, visited, and learned. Hopefully.
It's great to remember, whether homeschooling or not, that kids learn and love best when given the freedom to do so and when they're guided by someone just as excited as they are.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Doing Better
I'm sure I'm not alone in wanting the best for my family. Mothers are notorious, though, for leaving themselves out of the equation when seeking what's better for their kids, husbands, parents, neighbors...you get the idea. I'm no exception. I often put others before me.
It's hard to put my needs first for a few reasons. First of all, I don't whine and cry as much as the kids. If I need a nap I don't make that crystal clear by busting into tears at the drop of a hat, even if I might feel like doing just that! Secondly, there's only so much money and time to go around. It's easier for me to wear jeans that are almost threadbare for another month when the kids have outgrown theirs, along with their shoes, shirts, underwear, socks...you get the idea. Putting #1 in the second position if pretty easy to do.
Lately, I've been trying to feed us better. I figured that serving healthier meals would benefit all of us, even me! And it does. But it's also discouraging. I get a little down on myself when I hear how gross and disgusting everything I make is. I know Jace and Gracie are culinary experts, but they think they are, perhaps from watching a bit much of Top Chef and Last Food Network Star! (Actually, Gracie's pretty funny sometimes. "Mama, what I like about this is the way it looks. What I don't like is the way it tastes. Maybe next time you could add some sugar?") They get to me, though, even when I know they shouldn't. Even when I like what I've created. They get to me.
And I want to do even better than I am with food. I want to invest in grass-fed beef. I want fresh veggies. I looked into joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) and decided not to this year. The most local one (less than a mile down the road!) costs a little more than I feel I can put into eating healthier right now. I hate saying that. Now I'm not even putting the kids needs in front of mine. I'm putting the budget in front of everyone's. Reality sucks sometimes, if you'll excuse my potty mouth.
There are things I am doing though, things both Scott and I are doing to make our lives and our kids' lives better. He is riding his bike to and from work. He's enjoying it and feeling great. He even commented last night that he thinks a 20 minute bike ride is more decompressing than the 35 minute car commute he used to have in Georgia. I don't doubt it for a second. I'm thrilled for him.
We're also taking the kids to the pool twice a week. Hopefully they'll learn to swim along the way, but at the very least we're having fantastic family fun! I've started going to the gym and using the parent's room once a week. It's a room with an area at the front for the kids to play, read, or watch TV. I can use a treadmill, bike, elliptical machine, rowing machine, or pull our a mat for stretching or floor exercises. We're also walking. Before tonight we'd been walking every so often. Starting tonight, I'm going to be walking daily. Period. Not for weight loss, although if that happened it would be a total bonus! I'm walking for fitness, to strengthen the muscles in my back after visiting the chiropractor. (More on that in a minute.) I'm planning on including daily walks in our homeschool schedule as well. I wanted to do some sort of fitness during the days, and now that I have to walk...they might as well join in, right?
So, the chiropractor. I know that not everyone thinks chiropractics is legit. But to me it makes perfect sense. If the body is in it's best alignment, it'll be a more healthy body. I used to go pretty regularly when we lived here in Washington before. After moving to Georgia I stopped going and made tons of excuses why it wasn't important to return. However, I've been having a lot of pain and a horrible time sleeping the last couple weeks. So, I went in for a check up. I got x-rays and an exam and tonight Scott went with me to see how "jacked up" I truly am. That's how he lovingly refers to me. As it turns out, I'm decently jacked up. Not completely beyond repair, but enough that I am quite relieved that I went in sooner rather than later.
Starting tonight I am getting frequent adjustments to work my way toward being less jacked up. After each adjustment I'm supposed to take a walk and ice my back and neck. I feel like an athlete or something cool like that! I did those two things tonight, like a good patient. And it occurred to me while walking, that I'm doing something for me and it's something that has a significant cost. Part of me wants to run and hide, put the money into savings, and pretend that my back will fix itself. But it won't. And I won't. Because a bigger part of me is proud that I'm taking care of myself. Happy that I'm setting a good example for the kids. Relieved and thrilled that I have unwavering support from my incredible husband. (When the doctor asked if we had any questions about the x-rays Scott said, "No, I knew she was jacked up." See? Completely supportive.)
So, in the end, we're eating as healthy as we can for now. Whether the kids actually eat the food given to them or not, they're being served real food. And we're incorporating fit living into our social family time and homeschooling. Maybe I can stop thinking about what we're not doing and realize we are doing better than we were. And doing better is doing the best for my family.
It's hard to put my needs first for a few reasons. First of all, I don't whine and cry as much as the kids. If I need a nap I don't make that crystal clear by busting into tears at the drop of a hat, even if I might feel like doing just that! Secondly, there's only so much money and time to go around. It's easier for me to wear jeans that are almost threadbare for another month when the kids have outgrown theirs, along with their shoes, shirts, underwear, socks...you get the idea. Putting #1 in the second position if pretty easy to do.
Lately, I've been trying to feed us better. I figured that serving healthier meals would benefit all of us, even me! And it does. But it's also discouraging. I get a little down on myself when I hear how gross and disgusting everything I make is. I know Jace and Gracie are culinary experts, but they think they are, perhaps from watching a bit much of Top Chef and Last Food Network Star! (Actually, Gracie's pretty funny sometimes. "Mama, what I like about this is the way it looks. What I don't like is the way it tastes. Maybe next time you could add some sugar?") They get to me, though, even when I know they shouldn't. Even when I like what I've created. They get to me.
And I want to do even better than I am with food. I want to invest in grass-fed beef. I want fresh veggies. I looked into joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) and decided not to this year. The most local one (less than a mile down the road!) costs a little more than I feel I can put into eating healthier right now. I hate saying that. Now I'm not even putting the kids needs in front of mine. I'm putting the budget in front of everyone's. Reality sucks sometimes, if you'll excuse my potty mouth.
There are things I am doing though, things both Scott and I are doing to make our lives and our kids' lives better. He is riding his bike to and from work. He's enjoying it and feeling great. He even commented last night that he thinks a 20 minute bike ride is more decompressing than the 35 minute car commute he used to have in Georgia. I don't doubt it for a second. I'm thrilled for him.
We're also taking the kids to the pool twice a week. Hopefully they'll learn to swim along the way, but at the very least we're having fantastic family fun! I've started going to the gym and using the parent's room once a week. It's a room with an area at the front for the kids to play, read, or watch TV. I can use a treadmill, bike, elliptical machine, rowing machine, or pull our a mat for stretching or floor exercises. We're also walking. Before tonight we'd been walking every so often. Starting tonight, I'm going to be walking daily. Period. Not for weight loss, although if that happened it would be a total bonus! I'm walking for fitness, to strengthen the muscles in my back after visiting the chiropractor. (More on that in a minute.) I'm planning on including daily walks in our homeschool schedule as well. I wanted to do some sort of fitness during the days, and now that I have to walk...they might as well join in, right?
So, the chiropractor. I know that not everyone thinks chiropractics is legit. But to me it makes perfect sense. If the body is in it's best alignment, it'll be a more healthy body. I used to go pretty regularly when we lived here in Washington before. After moving to Georgia I stopped going and made tons of excuses why it wasn't important to return. However, I've been having a lot of pain and a horrible time sleeping the last couple weeks. So, I went in for a check up. I got x-rays and an exam and tonight Scott went with me to see how "jacked up" I truly am. That's how he lovingly refers to me. As it turns out, I'm decently jacked up. Not completely beyond repair, but enough that I am quite relieved that I went in sooner rather than later.
Starting tonight I am getting frequent adjustments to work my way toward being less jacked up. After each adjustment I'm supposed to take a walk and ice my back and neck. I feel like an athlete or something cool like that! I did those two things tonight, like a good patient. And it occurred to me while walking, that I'm doing something for me and it's something that has a significant cost. Part of me wants to run and hide, put the money into savings, and pretend that my back will fix itself. But it won't. And I won't. Because a bigger part of me is proud that I'm taking care of myself. Happy that I'm setting a good example for the kids. Relieved and thrilled that I have unwavering support from my incredible husband. (When the doctor asked if we had any questions about the x-rays Scott said, "No, I knew she was jacked up." See? Completely supportive.)
So, in the end, we're eating as healthy as we can for now. Whether the kids actually eat the food given to them or not, they're being served real food. And we're incorporating fit living into our social family time and homeschooling. Maybe I can stop thinking about what we're not doing and realize we are doing better than we were. And doing better is doing the best for my family.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Not Me! Monday...Last Days Home
If you're not familiar with MckMama...go check out her blog! She's a bundle of energy fueled by faith and passion and her stories evoke every emotion. She covers a variety of topics so there's something for everyone....including her weekly Not Me! Monday posts.
What is Not Me! Monday? Well, it's a carnival of fun where we have permission to deny anything we're willing to (not) admit to the world! So, join in or get a laugh at everyone else's expense!
As for me...well, the week is off to in interesting start. Yesterday while I was sweeping and mopping I apparently stepped on some shards of glass from several months ago. That was the last time I broke anything. After finding that it's painful to walk with glass in your foot I didn't sit for the vast majority of the afternoon and evening. I didn't stick scotch tape, duct tape, and glue on my foot. I certainly did not put a slice of bacon on my foot. I'm not still wondering how I'm going to remove the last stubborn pieces. And, in light of all this, I'm not considering giving away all my clear glass and purchasing only colored glass from here on out so that it can be seen! Nor am I thinking about boycotting sweeping and mopping...obviously this is a sign that I shouldn't be cleaning, right?
Today I didn't run to Wally World for printer ink only to find that I purchased the wrong ink. I'm not going to go back to WalMart this afternoon to return the incorrect cartridge and get the right one. I live half an hour from WalMart...I wouldn't go there twice in the same day!
I haven't fed my children pancakes three times in the past week. If I had I would have a good reason...like we need to get rid of the syrup and pancake mix.
I'm not feeling overwhelmed by moving. I'm not sad to leave Georgia. I'm not excited to go on an exhausting road trip. I'm not going to be so very thankful to land on Grandma and Grandpa's door step in a few weeks.
In all honesty, this week and next are going to be full of things to deny! No doubt about it. I'm not sure if or when I'll take the time to report back on here, though...so be patient with me. And in the meantime, there are plenty of other denials to enjoy over at MckMama's!
What is Not Me! Monday? Well, it's a carnival of fun where we have permission to deny anything we're willing to (not) admit to the world! So, join in or get a laugh at everyone else's expense!
As for me...well, the week is off to in interesting start. Yesterday while I was sweeping and mopping I apparently stepped on some shards of glass from several months ago. That was the last time I broke anything. After finding that it's painful to walk with glass in your foot I didn't sit for the vast majority of the afternoon and evening. I didn't stick scotch tape, duct tape, and glue on my foot. I certainly did not put a slice of bacon on my foot. I'm not still wondering how I'm going to remove the last stubborn pieces. And, in light of all this, I'm not considering giving away all my clear glass and purchasing only colored glass from here on out so that it can be seen! Nor am I thinking about boycotting sweeping and mopping...obviously this is a sign that I shouldn't be cleaning, right?
Today I didn't run to Wally World for printer ink only to find that I purchased the wrong ink. I'm not going to go back to WalMart this afternoon to return the incorrect cartridge and get the right one. I live half an hour from WalMart...I wouldn't go there twice in the same day!
I haven't fed my children pancakes three times in the past week. If I had I would have a good reason...like we need to get rid of the syrup and pancake mix.
I'm not feeling overwhelmed by moving. I'm not sad to leave Georgia. I'm not excited to go on an exhausting road trip. I'm not going to be so very thankful to land on Grandma and Grandpa's door step in a few weeks.
In all honesty, this week and next are going to be full of things to deny! No doubt about it. I'm not sure if or when I'll take the time to report back on here, though...so be patient with me. And in the meantime, there are plenty of other denials to enjoy over at MckMama's!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Out Of My League
(Mama) "You should really try to eat more veggies."
(Gracie) "I eat carrots! And avocados...those are good for you, right?"
"Well, yes, but there are a lot of foods that are healthier and will help you grow bigger and stronger."
(Gracie and her friend Madeline who is only 2 months younger.)
"But you tell everyone that I'm already tall. And I'm strong. Look at my muscles. (Shows me those almost-5-year-old guns.) And I'm flexible. Today I practiced stretching and I could reach past one ball to where the other ball was. That's how stretchy I am! And I can put my leg behind my head. Plus I had peaches and potatoes for lunch."
"Did you eat them?" (I know that Scott is rolling his eyes and shaking his head that Gracie was putting her leg behind her head at preschool, but I chose to ignore that in hopes that it would go away and stay focused on the battle at hand.)
"I tried the potatoes, but I didn't like them."
"So, you haven't actually eaten any veggies today?"
"No, but I'm already big and strong."
"True, but eating veggies will not only help you get even bigger and stronger, but will also help your brain grow and think well."
Jace pipes in. "I don't eat all my veggies and I already have a big brain. And it's going to stop growing* next month anyway. So it can't get any bigger. And I think pretty big already, don't you think so, Mama?"
(Jace in an outfit fit to protect him against any flying things while he plays outside.)
"Well...yes." And I took a bit of my veggies.
*I thought I'd written about this already and was going to link you to that post for explanation, but now I can't find it! So, I'll explain here. Jace learned in his book about the human brain (because every 1st grader should have one of those!) that the brain reaches full size at age seven, which is how old he turns next month. When he first read this he was very concerned, until I assured him that he would still be able to learn plenty, but that the size of his brain wouldn't get larger...he'd just have more stuff written on the pages of the notebook kept in there. I didn't actually use the notebook thing...he wouldn't have fallen for it anyway! I'm out of my league!
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