Poor Man Soup

This past week I've had some sick kiddos to deal with.  Add some rainy weather to the mix and soup just sounded fantastic!  Growing up we had this often.  It's a versatile and easy meal.   My favorite way to prepare it is in the crock pot.   All the flavors and smells become amazing after a day in the crock pot!   Today though - I used just a pot since I was short on time.   

 Ingredients 

1 lb ground beef

3 potatos peeled and diced

small - medium package of frozen mixed veggies

1 box of stock

2 cans tomato sauce

1/2 tsp tyme

1/2 - 1 Tbs Parsley

3/4 tsp cardamom

2 bay leaves (remove after cooking)

Salt and Pepper to taste

 

Like I said, this is super easy and very versatile.  Don't like something?  leave it out!  Want something added?  Toss it in!  Use what you have in your house already! I start with browning the meat.  Recently I've been eating Bison or venison instead of beef.  today I used bison.   I put the entire box of vegetable stock, tomato sauce and potatoes into the pot.*  let cook for about 5 minutes then toss in the frozen veggies, meat, tyme, parsley, cardamom, and bay leaves.    Cook on high for about 15 minutes.   Eat while its hot!  Very quick, easy and delicious! 

I would love to hear what you thought if you made this! 

My Promise to You...or.... Because I Let it Happen

I'm reading the book Push by Chalene Johnson.  It's a goal setting, weight loss, personal life achievement type book.  Pretty good.  I'm on day 24.   She says to make a promise to people that you will achieve your goals.  So here is my goal to you - I WILL lose 70 lbs.   I need to be healthy for my family and for myself.  Currently - I can't stand the way I look.  I hate the way I feel in clothes.  Shopping for jeans is pure torture!  HELLLOOOO!  NOT EVERYONE LOOKS GOOD IN SKINNY JEANS!  I'm 5 feet tall and 186 lbs.  I do not need to be in the same aisle as skinny jeans!  I am short and frumpy.  I've got thights and a butt that require a back up signal.  Skinny jeans make me look like The Little Red Hen.  Come now...I don't need that. 

Aside from clothes shopping - the way I feel about myself is horrible.  Every sit up is a painful visual reminder of just how much I let myself go.  Can you believe this crap?  I LET myself get this way!  Did you read what I just wrote?  I. LET. MYSELF. GET. THIS. WAY.  Nobody forced me to eat an entire row of oreos.  No one forced me to eat french fries.  No one forced me to eat ice cream.  Despite my knowing how unhealthy it was for me, despite my growing size, despite my desperation to be healthier, I let it happen.    Some people tell me, "well, things happen."  Well, they do.  But you know what?  I didn't stop it. 
As I sit here typing, my little ones are fast asleep.  I wonder...what kind of example was I to them?  Well, today, a pretty darn good one!  Lots of outdoor activity at the zoo, healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner, and an afternoon work out.  That is the mom those kids deserve.  Healthy, fit, and happy.   That's the mom I WILL be.  And you know what?   I'm going to let myself get that way!

Is everyone giving up sugar for Lent?

Seems that way sometimes doesn't it?  I remember a time when I was working at walmart and I was discussing Lent with a customer.  I mentioned a friend who gave up sweets every year.  The woman got angry and stated that she hated when people did that because they were doing things for the wrong reason.  But are they? 



1 Corinthians 6:19-29- What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost [which is] in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (KJV)

Are we not to take care of our earthly bodies?  My body IS a temple.  Why is it such a bad thing for me to give up sugar?  I love sugar.  I am addicted to sugary foods.  My relationship with sweet foods is not healthy - clearly or I would not be here!  I need to take care of my body.  God gave me a body to do good, not be lazy and gluttonous.  I know that I will be tempted but you know what, knowing that I'm giving it up for GOD will hold me even more accountable.   Knowing that I can't have it because I gave it up for him will make me stronger.  I know I will be tempted (Peeps - speckled egg M&M's, ICE CREAM) but with God's help I know I can get through it.

So while some people may see giving up sugar as a stupid Lent tradition, I think it's wonderful.  When we give up sugar we begin to notice how God designed our bodies to work.  We will learn how it will make us feel.  I don't think God would see it as a bad thing. We are improving our bodies and minds.  I have no regrets or feelings of guilt for this choice of mine.  I am embracing this Lenten season with the help of God.  Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV)

What are your plans for lent?  Give up something?  Taking on something? Both?

Hypothyroidism, weightloss, disappointment, and success

I have hypothyroidism.  It sucks.  Energy draining, slow weight loss, hair loss, cold hands, tired...the list goes on.   I found out I was hypo about 10 years ago.  I had been putting on weight.  Being an avid gym rat this was unusual for me.  I was also feeling more and more tired - sleeping any chance I got.  Hours and hours of sleep without feeling rested.   I went from a healthy 110 lb 5 foot tall girl to 145 lbs, tired, and exhausted...within two months.  Despite my low calorie diet and running 2-3 miles during the week I was still gaining.  I finally saw my doctor and I was tested...I had something called hypothyroidism.   Fantastic. I cried.  I was happy to have an answer but also knew that I was going to have to deal with the for the rest of my life. 
My first question was, what exactly is hypothyroidism?  Your thyroid is a butterfly shaped gland that assists with hormones and metabolism.  When your thyroid is under-active (hypothyroid)  it is not producing enough hormones, therefore making your metabolism slow. I'm lucky in the sense that my is on the low end of the spectrum.  Some people develop far worse complications with an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto's.  Currently, there is no real cure.  Most of us with thyroid issues are on medications like synthroid or naturethroid.  Others may need to have their thyroid removed or partially removed.  Over all, I am lucky to only need medication.

My first medication was synthroid.  I had been on it for years.  Then I stumbled across the book Hypothyroid, Health, and Happiness by Steven F. Hotze, MD.  It has changed so much for me.  As I was reading it, I nearly came to tears because how I was feeling, was in that book.  Despite having normal labs, I still felt "off."  I honestly thought it was something I was going to have to live with for the rest of my life....and what I have been living with for the past 10 years.  In this book, Hotze really dives in and explains everything for you.  He is also a big advocate for desiccated thyroid medication.  It's something I had never quite thought about before.  I mean - why would I want to switch when my labs have been normal.  The more I read the more I wondered why I wouldn't.  I mean - the natural medications have been working for YEARS!  And here I was taking something synthetic.  So I talked to my doctor and he hesitantly agreed to switch me.
What a difference!  First thing I've noticed is that my brain fog is gone.  I'm starting to feel like the old me again.  My weightloss, although slow, is happening.  That is success in my opinion!  I'm actually feeling rested and happier.  Your thyroid is a funny thing.  Most people think it effects just your thyroid and metabolism.  It's so much more than that.  Energy levels, hair loss, depression, digestion, sleep, mood, libido.... the list goes on.  Today - yes, I have hypothyroidism.  Yes I'm overweight.  Yes I get more tired than usual.  But I am growing as a person.  I've learned to deal with this in a way that works for me.  Weightloss is happening, sleep is improving, energy is improving and I am happier.  While my weightloss my be slow and at times, disappointing, I will succeed.  I will not be controlled by my thyroid.  I will control my thyroid. 

Sources:
Hypothyroid, Health and Happiness by Steven F. Hotze, MD
http://thyroid.about.com

Losing the Baby Weight....

Let me start off by saying I'm VERY nervous!  The last time I did this journey, I dropped 35 lbs and ended up pregnant!  What a blessing in disguise!  Well, Squish is now 6 weeks old and growing like a weed. With Hot Rod, I did NOT work out.  I thought that breast feeding would magically make me lose all the weight I had gained.  It didn't work!  This time, I'm taking a more effective approach.  Healthy eating and exercising.  I started on Monday.  Today was day three.  I'm doing the Les Mills Pump program and truly loving it.
I have everything planned out but am a little nervous about a few weekends I will be out of town.  Also a little nervous about days off.  Do you ever take days off and find it hard to get back into it?  I think I will have to do something like yoga or go for a walk.  My biggest obstetrical though, will be working out on days when the boys are not wanting to cooperate.  Or when I'm so tired from staying up all night all I want to do is sleep.  I also hope that the days where the work outs are longer wont be too bad.  No matter what, I'm determined to do them.  I made a promise to myself to complete this program.  What choice do I have?  I want to be healthier, making excuses wont get me where I want to be!  Speaking of excuses....
Food will be another obstacle.  I can  always find an excuse to not eat healthy. "Not home"  "don't have anything healthy on me"  "this junk food will be easier..."  The list could go on.  Oh, you parents out there, do you ever use the "my child wanted to eat at this crappy restaurant with the amazing french fries" excuse?  Yup - can you say Chik Fil A?  #3, no pickles, waffle fries and a small chocolate shake.  It is my weakness.  Time to clean up the eating though!  Abs are made in the kitchen!  I'm going to start keeping track of my eating through Myfitnesspal.com.  If you'd like to follow me, feel free too!  You can find me under the name "CoachrosieT."    Want to keep me on my toes or cheer me?  Follow me on Instagram.  I'll post accountability, motivational, and status updates.   I am also under the name "coachrosiet."
So here's to a new journey.  One that certainly wont be easy but also one I'm not willing to let myself give up on.  Not doing this is not an option.  I want to do this for my boys.  I want my old body back.  I want to be confident!  Now, I'm off to catch some Zzzz's.  I'm tired! 

The Three Degrees of Exercise for Cancer Treatment (guest blogger)

I was recently contacted by Melanie Bowen  regarding an article she had written.  With cancer effecting so many people, I couldn't turn it down!  Melanie is currently a Master's student with a passion that stems from her grandmother's cancer diagnosis. She often highlights the great benefits of alternative nutritional, emotional, and physical treatments on those diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness.  To read more from Melanie, visit her blog for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. In her spare time, you can find Melanie trying new vegan recipes, on her yoga mat, or spending time with her family.  

I highly recommend you visiting her blog.  There is so much more information.  Without further ado.... Here is melanie's article!  Thanks again Melanie! 

The Three Degrees of Exercise for Cancer Treatment

In each stage of cancer treatment and recovery, exercise plays an important role in replenishing the body with nutrients, oxygen and eliminating the waste products of metabolism. Numerous Studies on exercise and cancer have identified the enormous benefits that deep breathing, stretching and aerobic exercise can provide. To gain the benefits of exercise safely, consult your physician on your exercise plan of care.

Beginner – Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises are a great way for patients looking to begin a regular exercise routine. It is a simple activity that should not leave you breathless and can be done practically anywhere. Deep breathing prevents the collapsing of air sacs in the lungs and promotes the exchange of oxygen in the blood. For certain cancer patients, such as those with a prognosis of mesothelioma, respiratory function may be impaired making strenuous activities more difficult. Due to this complication, breathing exercises are an ideal place to start.

Incorporating deep breathing is vital to ensure the body cells are supplied with adequate oxygen for healing, normal function and eliminating waste products. Breathe in slowly through the nose until the maximum amount of lung volume is achieved. Slowly exhale via pursed lips until the lungs are sufficiently empty. By doing so, patients will strengthen their lung function which will improve blood flow and circulation, and overall quality of life.

Moderate – Yoga

For those who are recovering and regaining strength, taking on moderate exercise such as yoga is the next important step of the healing process. This level of activity may be described as breaking a sweat after about ten minutes of motion and being able to converse without being out of breath.

Yoga is being recognized and acknowledged the medical community. In fact, numerous studies have suggested the benefits of yoga for cancer patients. These benefits include decreased fatigue, improved blood flow and circulation, improved flexibility, mood, and sleep. Yoga programs are now offered by cancer centers as an supplement to traditional cancer therapies. There are many different variations of yoga such as, power yoga, kundalini yoga, bikram yoga, and tibetan yoga, some of which that may be more suitable than others.

Advanced – Weight Lifting

In the later stages of recovery, advanced exercises such as weight training, are important for you to regain muscle mass, strength and stamina. This level of exercise will result in rapid and deep breathing, a sweat after a few minutes and eventually a light sweat as the body adjusts to the level of activity. Medical interventions and long periods of inactivity can atrophy muscles and decrease endurance. Prostate, stomach and cancer of the head and neck frequently reduce the amount of skeletal muscle. The National Cancer Institute recommends that survivors use strengthening exercises to restore the muscle loss.

Weight lifting has seen some promising results in the breast cancer community. Many women experience lymphedema or swelling of the arms, due to a build of lymph, after surgery. Studies have shown that women who engage in weight training can reap many benefits, including alleviating lymphedema. Even after you have received a clean bill of health, staying physically fit and maintaining a healthy body should always remain a clear and constant goal.

Exercise for All Stages of Cancer Recovery

Exercise can help heal, regain strength and improve endurance in all stages of cancer recovery. Exercise should not be viewed as an activity that only fit people engage in. Regular physical activity has shown benefits for even those recently diagnosed, in treatment, or in recovery. It is important you consult a physician when employing any exercise into a plan of care. Maximize the benefits of a high-quality life with the benefits of exercise.

My unplanned HBAC

Friday morning was like every other morning.  My son came in around 6:45 and snuggled for a bit.  He eventually told me it was time to get up and eat.  No problemo.  I was feeling FAB-U-LOUS! As I was hopping out of bed, I felt something "pop."  I thought it was weird but whatever.  I went to the bathroom but felt like I still had to go.  I did a little bit and wondered - that couldn't be my water could it?  I wasn't feeling any pain and I had an appointment with my midwife in a few hours so knew I'd just discuss it with her.   In the meantime, I had a chinchilla cage to clean!  I quickly made a shake for breakfast and got to work. Unfortunately, I had to stop a dozen times so that I could use the restroom - and quickly realized my pants were pretty wet.  So I changed and started doing some laundry.  Around this time I started feeling some contractions but they weren't breathtaking or anything so I kept going.   At 9:00, we headed to the midwifes place.  
I've always taken my son with me.  Even though he is two, I felt it was important for him to be as involved as possible with the coming of the new baby.  He really enjoyed hearing the babies heart beat and looked forward to doing so whenever we went.   Well, when I explained to Heather (my midwife) what was going on she wanted to check me out and make sure it was my water breaking and nothing more serious.  Just as I figured, it was my water breaking.  What was a surprise was that I was already 4 centimeters dilated!  With my son I was in agony at this point!  Now, I was casually walking about, pausing for contractions, and moving on.  From here the plan was to go to the chiropractor and then go for a walk. 
10:30  we were at the chiropractor.   Dr. Gregg adjusted me and wished me well.   Then we headed home and it was like a light switch.  No longer was I the pregnant friendly goddess about to have an angelic labor.   Oh no... I was horrid.  Snappy and cranky, I just wanted to be alone in the shower.   This is where things got intense.  Mike wanted to call our doula, Lindsey, but I said no.  It was her sons birthday and I didn't want to interrupt.   Another 10 minutes goes by and I'm in agony.  The shower isn't helping, a bath isn't helping and Mike is giving me no choice and sends Lindsey a message to come over.   During this time I give up on the water and head to the other, MUCH smaller bathroom and sit backwards on the toilet.
This provides little, if any relief.  I'm begging for an epi because it hurts so bad.  Mike tells me no, I didn't want one.  I just sat here wondering "if it is this bad this early - how can I possibly go until I'm in full labor?"  Well, Lindsey comes in and calmes me down and helps me through the next contraction.  Mike takes Rod to my parents house.  While he's gone (it felt like FOREVER) my contractions came so fast and then I felt it....The ring of fire.   I though" ...noooo....this can't be it....already?"  My next thought was "I fell in to a burning ring of fire...."  no joke.  Not sure why that song popped into my head but it helped get me through the next couple of contractions.  I didn't think I was close because who thinks of stupid stuff like that when they are about to deliver?
Apparently I do.  I told Lindsey I felt like pushing.  Mike wasn't back yet but she said it was time to go.  I tried to stand and said I couldn't.  There was no way I could move, there was so much pressure!   Lindsey tried to get me to move again...saying "we deliver here or at the hospital"   I told her it would be here because this baby was coming.  It was the coolest thing.  I could actually feel the baby moving down.  I felt something happening and reached in between my legs.  I COULD FEEL HIS HEAD!   I told Lindsey and at this time Mike walked in.  She asked Mike if he could feel the head.  He reached down and said yes.  She immediately instructed Mike to grab some towels and call 911.   I had another contraction, partially stood and pushed out his head.  Immediate relief!  I thought he was out but Lindsey said to keep pushing.  A few more and pushes and he was out! Next thing I know, the paramedics were here and I was in complete shock.  I couldn't believe I just pushed out my baby!  I felt EVERYTHING.  It was probably the scariest most euphoric feeling I've ever had. Very cool!
We ended up declining the ambulance ride and instead went to the Midwifes clinic.  Baby and I were checked out.  I had a 2nd degree tear but that is NOTHING compared to a c section!  I was also given an amazing herbal bath that I loved! We were home by 7:00.  Felt good not to be tied up in a hospital and to be home with my little family!
All in all, it took less than 6 hours.  I didn't even get a chance to call my photographer.  I'm bummed about that but am glad that my doula and I took some pictures.  Yup - I took pictures.  right after the baby was born, in all my glory - I took some pictures of Mike cutting the cord!  We didn't get these with Rod so it was important to get them now!  :)   Our second son, Holden, was born healthy, beautiful and happy.  :)  It was an amazing experience and I would do it all over again!  <3  My family is perfect!