tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40663196007315105182024-02-20T10:40:55.809-08:00iamLivengoodMaking the most of timeAllysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.comBlogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-2571266212364257192020-12-26T10:15:00.000-08:002020-12-26T10:15:25.553-08:00My Trip to Mayo: Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6kZl9EnpGU22Gpp3AINjfRlTF_Sa_PHLRK2x1iIbxBLdVs2AJCqKqA-7SwpFz-W9p_XUEjobzkauugawT9AlcB6zTspr4qxEUO4aTAxaB2FN3B4l2hxlY7OYnfN0PVr9JB2n4h-KtZvM/s300/My+Trip+to+Mayo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6kZl9EnpGU22Gpp3AINjfRlTF_Sa_PHLRK2x1iIbxBLdVs2AJCqKqA-7SwpFz-W9p_XUEjobzkauugawT9AlcB6zTspr4qxEUO4aTAxaB2FN3B4l2hxlY7OYnfN0PVr9JB2n4h-KtZvM/s0/My+Trip+to+Mayo.png" /></a></div><p>Mayo turned out to be just what we needed to settle on a treatment plan for the near-term. The trip was a whirlwind, full of appointments and tests, but also playing in the snow, our first hotel experience with the boys, and making memories. </p><p>In terms of testing, I was very pleased with the thorough approach each set of doctors took to dig deep into the outstanding questions. I'll admit, though - I felt like a rag doll by the end of the trip, having been poked and prodded seemingly 24/7. The turnaround time of results was phenomenal. If I had done even one of these tests through a local doctor, it would have taken days or weeks to find out the results. I would have had to schedule childcare and factor in drive time and wait time. At Mayo, with my parents there take care of the boys, the testing was so much smoother. For the blood tests, I received results in my online portal within 4 hours. The bigger tests took a day or two so the doctors could review and interpret the results. It was amazing! Here are some of the tests they performed:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>bone density</li><li>x-rays of spine and hips</li><li>abdominal ultrasound</li><li>CT of small bowel</li><li>MRI of liver</li><li>10 vials of blood</li><li>48 hours of fasting</li><li>colonoscopy</li></ul><p></p><p>Thankfully, we were able to return home after 6 days of testing and take the consultations virtually from the comfort of home. We really hoped we'd be able to leave sooner than expected, and that is just what happened. </p><p>I am SO thankful to my husband, who supports me in every step of this medical journey and took time off from work to be with me at the appointments and be with the boys while I underwent testing. We could not have managed this trip without my parents who made the (LONG) drive to Rochester, MN to help take care of the boys whenever Jacob and I went to appointments. Our time there seemed more like a vacation to the boys than a medical trip. They enjoyed building a snowman, playing with trucks outside at the biggest sandbox I've seen full of communal trucks, exploring a children's museum at the Apache Mall, and running around the Rochester Athletic Center playing miniature golf, air hockey, building towers, jumping on trampolines, and climbing towers. These activities truly made the trip possible with the boys!</p><p>The tests were draining, but the appointments were so informative, and the team approach from the doctors was critical to ensuring my treatment plan considers all necessary components. My three main issues are GI distress, high liver numbers, and osteoporosis. By seeing a GI doctor, a hepatologist, and an endocrinologist at Mayo, they coordinated care recommendations. For example, due to my low bone mineral density, I should not take Prednisone (ideally ever, but realistically as short as possible until treatment begins). The hepatologist was able to communicate the considerations for my liver with the GI doctor and made recommendations how we will monitor over the next year. He also advised against some tests GI my doctor here in TX wanted to perform due to their invasive nature and potential side effects. I'm so glad put a pause on treatment until after our trip to Mayo!</p><p>The ultimate diagnosis from Mayo is ulcerative pancolitis, which involves inflammation throughout the entire large intestine. There are many components, but that is the gist. It is an autoimmune disease, so any treatment path I take will involve immuno suppressants, which will lower my immunity. It will be very important for me to take care and avoid sickness. While it is scary to think about in the season of COVID, God is not a God of fear, and we will pray for protection.</p><p>More to come on this journey, but we appreciate your prayers as we make decisions each step of the way and trust for God to provide wisdom!</p>Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-47703381321499164442020-12-23T05:00:00.001-08:002020-12-23T05:00:05.886-08:00An Anthem for 2020: O Holy Night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABKJ8LntvPQmtKFiUMgov688NkmT5GFmc4oiFFb0_8bIMRPEcX4MXjunkpoc5DtqEXSmVM8fDWGHJtqtnpcwSjiKhkw0qa7AUOSdHWnnl_e7Irxj5t0dVg6FeiqdegXI1iK2A96XnQ_gV/s1654/O+Holy+Night.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1654" data-original-width="1654" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABKJ8LntvPQmtKFiUMgov688NkmT5GFmc4oiFFb0_8bIMRPEcX4MXjunkpoc5DtqEXSmVM8fDWGHJtqtnpcwSjiKhkw0qa7AUOSdHWnnl_e7Irxj5t0dVg6FeiqdegXI1iK2A96XnQ_gV/s320/O+Holy+Night.png" /></a></div><div><br /></div>At the end of this year 2020, I imagine there are many things people want to forget.<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Forget the pain, sickness, death, and hardship a year wrought with trouble brought every single one of us without exception.</li><li>Forget the anger with which we responded to people who didn't deserve it and weren't the root cause.</li><li>Forget the sadness we couldn't push away.</li><li>Forget the fear of each other that oppressed us with a pandemic sweeping across the <u>world</u>. Fear that kept us from gathering together and encouraging one another because what if we infected each other? Fear that was founded, on most occasions, but robbed us of the joy of community that is at the heart of humanity.</li><li>Forget the isolation of staying in our homes and not knowing when or if things would change.</li></ul></div><div>And yet, as Christmas approaches, the lyrics to one of my favorite carols brings me to tears with their relevance to more than one social event we have faced this year.</div><div><br /></div><div>"O holy night, the stars are brightly shining,</div><div>It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth;</div><div>Long lay the world in sin and error pining,</div><div>'Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.</div><div><b>A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices</b>,</div><div><b>For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn</b>;</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Fall on your knees</b>, Oh hear the angel voices!</div><div>O night divine! O night when Christ was born.</div><div>O night, O holy night, O night divine...</div><div><br /></div><div><b>He knows our need, To our weakness no stranger!</b></div><div>Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend.</div><div>Behold your King! Your King! Before Him lowly bend.</div><div><br /></div><div>Truly He taught us to love one another;</div><div>His law is Love and His gospel is Peace;</div><div><b>Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother,</b></div><div><b>And in His name all oppression shall cease.</b></div><div>Sweet hymns of joy in grateful Chorus raise we; </div><div>Let all within us praise His Holy name."</div><div><br /></div><div>Christ is the Lord, then ever, ever praise we.</div><div>His pow'r and glory, evermore proclaim!</div><div>His pow'r and glory, evermore proclaim!</div><div><br /></div><div>A song penned so many years ago yet so applicable to our year 2020. We <u>are</u> a "weary world." We <u>long</u> for a "new and glorious morn." May we "fall on our knees" as we realize our dependence on the God who saves us. He <u>knows</u> our needs, for He is no stranger to our weaknesses since Jesus came to earth and lived life as a man.</div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;">"For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=hebrews+4%3A15-16&version=ESV" target="_blank">Hebrews 4:15-16</a>).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">"But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+cor+12%3A9&version=ESV" target="_blank">2 Cor 12:9</a>).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">"Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. for we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans+8%3A26&version=ESV" target="_blank">Romans 8:26</a>).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">"Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His stripes we are healed" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=isaiah+53%3A4-5&version=ESV" target="_blank">Isaiah 53:4-5</a>).</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>May the words of this familiar carol settle more deeply in your soul this Christmas. </div><div>May we encourage each other and love each other in meaningful ways from respectful physical distances that hopefully do not distance our hearts from one another.</div><div>May we look to Jesus as our Ultimate Gift - the only One we need to survive all the trials and tribulations of life.</div><div>Amen.</div><p> </p><blockquote><div> </div></blockquote><blockquote><div> </div></blockquote>Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-65887348759580544232020-12-20T12:03:00.007-08:002020-12-26T10:14:46.008-08:00My Trip to Mayo: 2020 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvDfBYdzq24N9VaTzbdHQrWZLixsxA2_JNct6EdoEVwK5KMNlzSt9th_tjsZeJzdxy2kNwCdUu34mbM6-rg_m2eEQ03WilGTAdvyez0cK4oeRNgzQhCZAOub2liqSUXgq2lmiZPgA2AiX/s300/My+Trip+to+Mayo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvDfBYdzq24N9VaTzbdHQrWZLixsxA2_JNct6EdoEVwK5KMNlzSt9th_tjsZeJzdxy2kNwCdUu34mbM6-rg_m2eEQ03WilGTAdvyez0cK4oeRNgzQhCZAOub2liqSUXgq2lmiZPgA2AiX/s0/My+Trip+to+Mayo.png" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Oftentimes in life, there is not a clear answer, especially when it comes to health. </div><div>We are trained as students in the school systems to come up with the right answer on the other side of the math equation or produce the correct response for the years of the World Wars. We pass or fail the spelling bees and the answer is right or wrong on the SATs.</div><div><br /></div><div>On the other hand, as we progress into college, if we have the *right* professor, we are taught a very important lesson: We learn the rules and then we learn when it is appropriate to break them. This is a lesson my bassoon professor Will Roberts taught me. I studied bassoon with him and practiced hour after hour to get the fingerings and timing down to produce the perfect solo line...only to then be coached to make it my own - to add my "voice" and my "heart" to the melody. As a rule follower, it was a challenging assignment, but one I am grateful I learned.</div><div><br /></div><div>In this season of my life, I struggle with when to feel settled with an answer and when to dig deeper. With the health struggles I've faced these past 5 years, I've learned to ask more questions instead of simply accepting a diagnosis. Sometimes, my questions have led to positive strides and more answers, but sometimes they have delayed a course of action that would have helped if I'd accepted the guidance and started sooner. With each situation, it takes thought and research and prayer and community input. </div><div><br /></div><div>Most recently, a diagnosis I received did not feel right or complete. The consult with the doctor seemed to miss the mark. Maybe it was due to my lack of knowledge and understanding at the time or maybe it really did stop short of the root cause. Either way, I sought out a second opinion doctor. He agreed with my intuition - there was something deeper. After four months of additional testing, we still did not get to the root, and some additional symptoms progressed to a concerning level. </div><div><br /></div><div>After prayer and consultation with my husband and family, we decided to make a trip to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. At Mayo, I will meet with a number of specialists to look at how my unique set of symptoms (GI, liver, and bone) are all connected (most likely) and how we can determine the right course of treatment. As a mom with two small children, I became overwhelmed with the prospect of trying to find and meet with three (or more) different types of doctors in different practices where we live, each wanting to do labs and procedures and have follow-ups. And how would I get them to "come together" to figure out what is going on? The thought of calling all three offices back and forth to ask questions, get approvals, and coordinate treatment was beyond daunting. It is also very difficult to schedule appointments with little ones and naps and preschool and life. My family is beyond helpful with watching the boys so I can make as many appointments as I can work, but it became just too much.</div><div><br /></div><div>I completed a health questionnaire online for Mayo, and a doctor reviewed my information to see if I was a viable candidate for the program. Thankfully, I was accepted. We scheduled our visit to start on October 20, 2020. Mayo advises its patients to prepare for a 7-10 business day visit. It sounds long, but when I think about meeting with three or more doctors, having 2 or more days of labwork and imaging, and possibly undergoing a procedure like a colonoscopy while there, I think the time will go fast. </div><div><br /></div><div>We decided to take the boys and make it out to be a vacation for them (hey - they're 4 and 1, and this will be their first stay in a hotel room with an indoor pool in the lobby!). My brother-in-law did his residency at Mayo, so my sister-in-law gave us some wonderful ideas of activities to do with the kids. My parents graciously agreed to travel with us for the first half of the trip to be with the boys during my appointments so my husband can be there to support me and hear the guidance first-hand, and his parents plan to travel up for the second half of the trip, if needed. We are so thankful for the generous gift of their time, and our boys will LOVE spending their days with Grams and Pa and Nana and Papa. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've got my binder ready to go with all my medical records, and I'm finalizing packing all the food and goods we will need to start our extended stay. Thankfully our hotel room is an extended stay suite with a little kitchen, so I will be able to cook for us and my food sensitivities. There is much to think about, but the Lord is guiding each step.</div><div><br /></div><div>My prayer for this trip is for the doctors to take in all the information, see what they need to see in labwork and images, and come together to determine the best path forward. I want to be strong and healthy to enjoy life with my dear family. I pray this trip will result in some answers to questions that have left me sleepless at night and in discomfort and pain during the day. I pray for more clarity and fewer unanswered questions. I am thankful for this opportunity.</div>Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-86957035823864187892020-08-10T17:19:00.005-07:002020-08-10T17:19:47.942-07:00Choosing Spontaneity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuEb83mEurZW3C7vGIlltMrE4G_pMIrS1FOjnIKhvQQggIJrgYN1qiGa6WEyG_O4M9D6LKZpCjLKptydRPT5FHSqaw1vfK2sUN2kVyO9K1je3PJCeesCPMGBDs-LaDCz5cgUpGRutuAz4/s2048/Choosing+Spontaneity.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuEb83mEurZW3C7vGIlltMrE4G_pMIrS1FOjnIKhvQQggIJrgYN1qiGa6WEyG_O4M9D6LKZpCjLKptydRPT5FHSqaw1vfK2sUN2kVyO9K1je3PJCeesCPMGBDs-LaDCz5cgUpGRutuAz4/w262-h262/Choosing+Spontaneity.png" width="262" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Spontaneity is not my default. I’m a planner. I thrive on schedule and routine, and there is nothing wrong with either. I’ve actually had to give myself some grace for having this “bent” since I’ve heard negativity towards being a planner. Even many self-proclaimed Type A’s make self-deprecating statements about their plan-ful ways if they feel pressure.</div><br />BUT, there is also nothing wrong with (and lots of joy in) being spontaneous! Getting married was the beginning of my journey towards spontaneity. My husband thrives on it, and he’s gradually nudged me in that direction. <br /><br />Now as a mom of 2 boys, I’m learning I have a choice: I can choose to create a schedule and develop routines that are *usually* helpful guides and allow spontaneity to be a source of excitement and joy OR I can be rigid and restrictive, oftentimes causing hurt feelings, disappointment, and unnecessary arguments.<br /><br />I CHOOSE spontaneity. I choose to go to the pool and get wet even though I just washed my hair. I choose sweating at the playground when I’d rather relax on the couch. I choose baking in the kitchen with my *helpers* when it would be 100x faster by myself (and way less fun). <br /><br />Lord, help me see moments of spontaneity as teachable moments...for me and for my children.Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-757613891428420092020-08-01T12:52:00.003-07:002020-08-01T12:52:23.042-07:00From Frustration to Faith: Trusting God with My Crohn’s Disease<span id="docs-internal-guid-c7ef3445-7fff-632b-40d4-9b1ba4b2a265"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLG9MpBIaJenEKC-7jkWIydjD1H6b2xpwc63htDVLvF6-OTV5eEbxIb0AQA0phspqIdHmfwesdp10mPiUH58Py5YmyIRbGr82xTE_lirCkb4yzD-BCx9fUOLMBUBeGuPpTLGya8lhgGgx/s2048/From+Frustration+to+Faith.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiLG9MpBIaJenEKC-7jkWIydjD1H6b2xpwc63htDVLvF6-OTV5eEbxIb0AQA0phspqIdHmfwesdp10mPiUH58Py5YmyIRbGr82xTE_lirCkb4yzD-BCx9fUOLMBUBeGuPpTLGya8lhgGgx/s640/From+Frustration+to+Faith.png" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><p></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you ever feel stuck? Does it seem as though you’re wandering in a wilderness with no escape?</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Many things in life can contribute to this feeling:</span></p><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Losing a job</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Losing a loved one</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Unanswered prayer</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Facing a chronic health condition</span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We all experience many different things in life, but oftentimes we can empathize with those around us facing trials.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My life hurdle in this season is facing Crohn’s disease. Before my diagnosis, I went through a myriad of medical tests and tried many approaches to alleviating my symptoms such as the MRT food sensitivity test, going dairy- and gluten-free, and cooking every meal from scratch. There is more to the story of how I arrived at the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, but I’ll save those details for another time.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">One of the challenges with Crohn’s disease is knowing what to eat. Every person is different. Some can handle cruciferous vegetables; some cannot. Some can tolerate dairy; some cannot. Some can eat nuts and seeds; some cannot. It feels like a game of Russian roulette because when you try certain foods, you have no idea whether they will go down without issue or cause a flare of your symptoms.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In the past few weeks, I’ve become discouraged. Currently, I quite literally eat the same foods every day (smoothie and bone broth for breakfast, pureed carrots or squash with fish for lunch, and steamed vegetables, chicken, and avocado for dinner). There is little variety in flavor or amount of food. Almost all my food is pureed, with the exception of soft proteins and greens that are steamed to mush. My inflammation rates are low according to bloodwork, but I still have symptoms almost daily.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I found myself complaining in my head (and sometimes aloud) about my daily menu, comparing what I can eat to what my family and friends eat. It just didn’t seem fair.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then I realized I sounded like the Israelites. God rescued them from slavery to the Egyptians, guided them safely across the Red Sea, and traveled with them day and night, yet they complained about what they did not have in the wilderness. I reached for my Bible and looked up Bible verses about God providing manna for the Israelites. Although I was familiar with the basics, a review of the details struck a chord with my current situation:</span></p><br /><ul style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;"><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Israelites grumbled against the Lord and wished they were back in slavery because the food was better (</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=exodus+16%3A3&version=ESV" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Exodus 16:3 ESV</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">God provided a solution that sustained their bodies in the wilderness (</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=exodus+16%3A4-5&version=ESV" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Exodus 16:4-5</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><p dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Israelites ate manna for 40 years until they “came to a habitable land” (</span><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=exodus+16%3A35&version=ESV" style="text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; text-decoration-line: underline; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Exodus 16:35</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">)</span></p></li></ul><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Wow. How I resonate with the Israelites. When I compare myself to others (or even to myself just a few years ago), I wish I was in a different situation. However, when I focus on the love of God and His provision in my life (loving family, food I can eat however limited, medical tests and treatment), my frustration morphs into faith. God continues to provide. Even if I must eat these same foods for 40 more years, my body will be nourished, and I can enjoy each day with my family, doing the work He has set in front of me for each season.</span></p><br /><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are faced with a limited list of foods your body tolerates due to food sensitivities, autoimmune disease, or any other limiting conditions, be encouraged. We can reach out to God - cry out to Him. He hears us. He may not intervene and change our situation, but He can comfort us and change our hearts and attitudes. May we trust in His faithfulness to provide what we need when we need it.</span></p><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwegkOzkns1vd3N2cSvkgHXJHMUdVsffxhSGm3MgxJlKuGTpUSVMf4Iy4s3P6oGF7oOsoAwhB0QknE_gzGBVT9KHIvDtOxuPIyJJUiXf3-HlzHAkrPkoPluQgqI2aymtON2I7SOoCyZfy4/s2048/Deuteronomy+7_9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwegkOzkns1vd3N2cSvkgHXJHMUdVsffxhSGm3MgxJlKuGTpUSVMf4Iy4s3P6oGF7oOsoAwhB0QknE_gzGBVT9KHIvDtOxuPIyJJUiXf3-HlzHAkrPkoPluQgqI2aymtON2I7SOoCyZfy4/w328-h328/Deuteronomy+7_9.png" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span>Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-85526549808217883832018-08-06T12:35:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:51:59.523-07:0060 days inTwo months seems like a short amount of time and a lifetime.<br />
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I remember feeling that way about summer break when I was in school. When I planned out the summer and imagined all the things I would enjoy and accomplish, it seemed my two-month break was never long enough. By summer's end, though, I felt like a different person - as though all the things I had experienced helped me emerge with a refreshed mindset, ready to tackle a new year with new challenges and dreams.<br />
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As I began #myleapjourney with the MRT test and the ImmunoCalm diet protocol, I was just focused on the next day. If I looked too far ahead, it was daunting and full of the unknown. One of the things that helped me through the overwhelm was making a weekly plan. I created a template with fields for supplements, meal planning, and ingredient tracking which then helped me with grocery shopping, knowing when to thaw meat/veggies from the freezer in the fridge, and identify the best times in the day to prep food (having a 2-year-old often requires flexibility and creativity to get meal prep done!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGaeX2SvzN-uaPaIaOi2LRExtRSp7bLIwyFRpBTMPKLR6SaZmOrOHG3hyPCl2BE-VkslUoUahOa8tSYrQLoRPmPvAPlJYTc2cQToJUnZPhiNydkQph3nnqQ7eVC5mJDyhzPsrBKfCxei8b/s1600/weekly+plan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="970" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGaeX2SvzN-uaPaIaOi2LRExtRSp7bLIwyFRpBTMPKLR6SaZmOrOHG3hyPCl2BE-VkslUoUahOa8tSYrQLoRPmPvAPlJYTc2cQToJUnZPhiNydkQph3nnqQ7eVC5mJDyhzPsrBKfCxei8b/s400/weekly+plan.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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I am also in the habit of using two food-tracking apps which help me identify any major deficiencies: Cronometer and mySymptoms. Both of these apps require daily entry of ingredient-level detail for all meals. It's a bit tedious but very helpful!<br />
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Cronometer has a whole-food database which tracks over 60+ micronutrients and supports specialized diets. With just a few taps of the screen, I can see my macronutrient ratios (fat, protein, carbs), and also make sure I'm getting enough micronutrients such as calcium, folate, iron, etc., and it shows me where the amounts of these nutrients come from in my food consumption that day. I usually key in what I'm going to eat a day ahead so I can make sure I'm prepared for the next day and know I'm getting enough of what my body needs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxl79W9DUe2e3BlN88fUUBxjPzyuYF5yR0zA0riUBI2KKPU3uLbqKw21PKSiVEwM1Q2GsUuJnuDBtRdIJd1r5wdJffsYc1BQxkadalfUR4aCZ5WXl5s0BFgULkAhYRCqccM11Ee7bFi0Vy/s1600/IMG-1849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="750" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxl79W9DUe2e3BlN88fUUBxjPzyuYF5yR0zA0riUBI2KKPU3uLbqKw21PKSiVEwM1Q2GsUuJnuDBtRdIJd1r5wdJffsYc1BQxkadalfUR4aCZ5WXl5s0BFgULkAhYRCqccM11Ee7bFi0Vy/s200/IMG-1849.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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The mySymptoms app was recommended by my dietitian as a way to track not only food but any symptoms I experience along the way. The symptom-tracking ultimately helps the user identify trends in how they feel based on what they've eaten. The trick here is making sure to focus on one new item at a time over the course of 2-3 days since symptoms can take a little while to appear at times.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmlb6CzLc_Zke5Y7N4dLZEG2cpVkYP5jG-srQ0ubprK-GGngl2RWdNk6Awbh1OdK67YIn8c-bkMvqb9DypSm82rJpnV3qGUTH-wfk9aU47vEu2_p7M7-LACSbvSyRcNJRpYL2miBGd-2T/s1600/IMG-1850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="750" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmlb6CzLc_Zke5Y7N4dLZEG2cpVkYP5jG-srQ0ubprK-GGngl2RWdNk6Awbh1OdK67YIn8c-bkMvqb9DypSm82rJpnV3qGUTH-wfk9aU47vEu2_p7M7-LACSbvSyRcNJRpYL2miBGd-2T/s200/IMG-1850.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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So back to the long and short of it. At this point, 60 days in, I would say 60 days sounds short but feels long. I can remember how I was eating before I started the protocol, and I remember how bad I felt and the severity of my symptoms. And yet I feel I've been eating according to the protocol for longer than 60 days. I've developed some systems and routines that help me get through and have refined some cooking processes that make food prep a shorter, more enjoyable process. I'll share some of these tips and tricks in another post.<br />
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Regarding my progress, it was slow at first - slower than the average - but I'm in a pretty good place right now. I can usually identify if a food is an issue for me (since some of my "green" - a.k.a. "non-reactive/allowed" - foods have been) and add it to my do-not-eat list. It's empowering to make those decisions for myself based on how I feel after eating a food. I used to just eat whatever sounded good/healthy/filling, but now I'm actually listening to my body. Sometimes it's disappointing, but I don't want to go back to the physical state I was in 60 days ago.<br />
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Next steps: I've got 30 more days on this rotation of "green" (non-reactive/allowed) foods. Then, I can begin testing foods that were not included in the MRT. I've got a list of foods I want to try such as plantains, sardines, acorn squash, pumpkin seeds, etc., so I'm looking forward to adding in some more diversity. I am supposed to wait closer to 6 months before trying any of my "yellow" (reactive) foods, so I will likely hold off until January 2019. I want to give my body plenty of time to heal...and I'll also need to decide which of those foods really are important to me to include in my regular diet. No sense adding something back in that I don't <u>really</u> care about if it has the potential to cause a flare.<br />
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Here's to the next 30 days in #myleapjourney!Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-29100321782502047002018-07-22T12:27:00.001-07:002018-09-15T09:50:17.778-07:00It's all about perspectiveHas anyone ever asked you: What is the one thing you would choose to eat if you had to eat it every day for the rest of your life? What's your answer?<br />
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In the past, I've probably joked about how I could eat half a loaf of bread at a time (no, seriously...I used to do that) or a mountain of cinnamon oatmeal with almond butter. </div>
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In response to this question, some people might name a dessert like fudge chocolate cake or a decadent treat like truffle mac & cheese. For others, it's a bag of potato chips or a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies.</div>
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These days, I'm not eating the things I would have listed years, even months, ago. I don't have that luxury if I want to feel well. But to be honest, I'm really enjoying what I <u>can</u> eat. There is freedom within the constrains of the ImmunoCalm protocol.<br />
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Isn't that true with life? For example, God provided the Ten Commandments and other laws to protect us - to not only remind us that we are imperfect and desperately need Him, but also to show us how fulfilling life can be within the context of the standards He has set for us. When we know what to stay away from because it will hurt us, it gives us freedom to enjoy His creation and live our lives to the full.<br />
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I realize more and more how fulfilling (and filling) it can be to eat whole, fresh foods. For example, it takes a little time to cut up a zucchini, but choosing a variety of techniques really helps. Here are three different takes on zucchini, spices, and a protein:</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqJBUVVuURl84SpxC5XKn4u3zFAB3cGuVFkbI1tdc5rLR7WYW24JOLq3zMfEX3bHNR5Dh8E7hzjvOGh_UMF8nCaYZy-7rrTjz2NcAzHllB-tHf1JEbZGbD_qw-e8LydEk4cEAa6PbGcjR/s1600/IMG-1546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqJBUVVuURl84SpxC5XKn4u3zFAB3cGuVFkbI1tdc5rLR7WYW24JOLq3zMfEX3bHNR5Dh8E7hzjvOGh_UMF8nCaYZy-7rrTjz2NcAzHllB-tHf1JEbZGbD_qw-e8LydEk4cEAa6PbGcjR/s320/IMG-1546.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed spiralized zucchini with steamed cod, sprinkled with turmeric</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlpYMyV3K6CQWwyd15GTEFQAIGDslkEw4spO3-KjN4HyJ1OuXWnVG_I_Xjb18ahTDICfuXUx29VlfsLTcq7G1tx9Q6zbfn-Xz68JnlS4ggBeO2yCxPMNyOxg6tH4xyxLIhPT4GyE4RyNp/s1600/IMG-1549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlpYMyV3K6CQWwyd15GTEFQAIGDslkEw4spO3-KjN4HyJ1OuXWnVG_I_Xjb18ahTDICfuXUx29VlfsLTcq7G1tx9Q6zbfn-Xz68JnlS4ggBeO2yCxPMNyOxg6tH4xyxLIhPT4GyE4RyNp/s320/IMG-1549.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coined zucchini roasted in coconut oil and sprinkled with turmeric,<br />
surrounding ground, grassfed beef</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YrQdf4mQ6dR9uPhTIuvjfFBZNFnOFkGybMAJXsFEO0SNICcrLQ3Pnd826v-e3_IZsMOyh5KP4ZwGYJT1mZQ0Z3XsST7X3qnVhuGNxW2V4ntLKE8CSCWZWmmHSfLohqvT2DeLR9ZUYsX3/s1600/IMG-1569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YrQdf4mQ6dR9uPhTIuvjfFBZNFnOFkGybMAJXsFEO0SNICcrLQ3Pnd826v-e3_IZsMOyh5KP4ZwGYJT1mZQ0Z3XsST7X3qnVhuGNxW2V4ntLKE8CSCWZWmmHSfLohqvT2DeLR9ZUYsX3/s320/IMG-1569.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elongated, coined zucchini baked in a convection oven in coconut oil with <br />
basil and turmeric, surrounding ground lamb and basil meatballs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When faced with my current diet limitations, I find it's more exciting and delicious to change things up. This is *big* coming from someone who is such a creature of habit like myself. I typically thrive off routine and consistency. However, I think I would be much less successful on this protocol if I did the same thing for each meal in the rotation.<br />
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I'm learning so much from this experience! Feel free to comment if you have other ideas for how to prepare zucchini - I'd love to try something new.</div>
Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-39256350679054626222018-07-11T04:12:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:48:42.056-07:00When you can't eat breakfastIf 10 people were sitting in a diner ordering breakfast, I bet half of them would choose sweet and half would choose savory. Fruity oatmeal, nutty pancakes with maple syrup, a breakfast hash, or scrambled eggs with bacon. Or maybe something a little lighter like a hard-boiled egg and some tomato slices or even a small jar of overnight oats.<br />
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So what's a girl to do when she can't eat oatmeal, wheat (any gluten), potatoes, eggs, dairy or even almond milk?<br />
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This ImmunoCalm elimination diet approach has required much creativity when it comes to breakfast, and I simply do not have the options available to me to make a "normal" breakfast.<br />
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BUT, instead of getting frustrated, I chose to get cooking. Here are a few of my favorite breakfasts on rotation right now.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3p9BCbUg2AaQ1yhfn8zq8TPY-KTBpYcFfFj7LsmscFD301oakiUnJd5WzUl9re3FDxM8C7ufudPKF2H3XNAz_G7jhi1ugGy6LC3swfrZnqjOQSIteqOgKYRgWlfvhzgdFyUDQKf4EyE3e/s1600/IMG_E1164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3p9BCbUg2AaQ1yhfn8zq8TPY-KTBpYcFfFj7LsmscFD301oakiUnJd5WzUl9re3FDxM8C7ufudPKF2H3XNAz_G7jhi1ugGy6LC3swfrZnqjOQSIteqOgKYRgWlfvhzgdFyUDQKf4EyE3e/s320/IMG_E1164.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Turmeric coconut wrap from Thrive Market filled with sauteed peas<br />
red kidney beans, sprinkled with Redmond's real salt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These turmeric coconut wraps are a special treat (read: expensive), but they help liven up breakfast into something more than just a pile of sauteed veggies. There's nothing wrong with sauteed veggies - it's what I'm surviving on! - but when you have them three times a day, a yellow wrap makes you feel fancy.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinsBuW8VCdTrUl3LvGdkmWFNIQpkb4DC5PcxcTfQbZeE5hfSmoOnvQ7SjU6c3G9dWilP08QetxNCTmrDfMi2LFJfkQ_JT160m5QpskzotCFWB-goyFg4yJYwXUwLOo5SEROjMI9fsmA_DD/s1600/IMG_E1379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinsBuW8VCdTrUl3LvGdkmWFNIQpkb4DC5PcxcTfQbZeE5hfSmoOnvQ7SjU6c3G9dWilP08QetxNCTmrDfMi2LFJfkQ_JT160m5QpskzotCFWB-goyFg4yJYwXUwLOo5SEROjMI9fsmA_DD/s320/IMG_E1379.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed spinach along with boiled carrots and celery leftovers from<br />
making homemade bone broth (the texture and rich taste was amazing),<br />
topped with wild pink salmon from Costco.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Homemade bone broth was a major win in my book, especially with these delicious leftover carrots and celery sticks. I'll be adding more to my next batch!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWT5ZEHagwrOlnNb9QuKTEi3gmw2F4NE4QLvobUOIMPOoI4vYKQ_LfzeNlxnPEFljCKZdq7pax-_58szZL5-M2NmbRad9nPtJkbU2M8hp7I1eOSsjqLU46D0RlpmcZIn1fT8gZJo-axxk/s1600/IMG_E1393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWT5ZEHagwrOlnNb9QuKTEi3gmw2F4NE4QLvobUOIMPOoI4vYKQ_LfzeNlxnPEFljCKZdq7pax-_58szZL5-M2NmbRad9nPtJkbU2M8hp7I1eOSsjqLU46D0RlpmcZIn1fT8gZJo-axxk/s320/IMG_E1393.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grass fed beef patty atop green beans sauteed in coconut oil</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Many days, breakfast is green and brown (green beans or green peas or spinach topped with ground beef or ground lamb, or sometimes the occasional white fish like cod or tilapia).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsW3kJkuWMIsGSMdJMuhsKW7sh8HSCRdgpEeLjepzlOCynxcCDF6OtvqB9rZFerH25GEk8dRZWxsbA5YDMYGI2vswgR3TZJpFxckHuUhaK1v6lSBlXIkucoeLP4f_YF2aZEPOEh7aUZoB/s1600/IMG_E1153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsW3kJkuWMIsGSMdJMuhsKW7sh8HSCRdgpEeLjepzlOCynxcCDF6OtvqB9rZFerH25GEk8dRZWxsbA5YDMYGI2vswgR3TZJpFxckHuUhaK1v6lSBlXIkucoeLP4f_YF2aZEPOEh7aUZoB/s320/IMG_E1153.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brussels sprouts sauteed in olive oil with a side of tilapia,<br />
sprinkled with lemon juice and Redmond's real salt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This picture shows two ingredients I am now questioning. I think I may be sensitive to brussels sprouts or at least to this many of them at once. I've taken them out of my diet and may try adding back in a small portion in a little while, but for now I'm enjoying not having tummy pain.<br />
<br />
Tilapia. So...I've been informed tilapia is not really a fish. That statement in general made me skeptical; however, there is concern about tilapia from China and what they feed on. I'm still researching but for now, I'll lay off the tilapia and focus on cod (found a great deal at Sprouts recently) and wild salmon.<br />
<br />
To wrap it up, I'm learning not to put meals in a proverbial box. Breakfast doesn't have to be sweet or savory or "normal" - it can be leftovers, something fresh, a salad, a meat patty...whatever fuels you for the start of your day!Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-89309684755453211392018-07-07T05:00:00.000-07:002018-07-07T05:00:14.020-07:00What I ate todayThese types of posts are always interesting - to see what someone really eats in a day. I will make a disclaimer and say my portions are often bigger than what is shown (if there is more in the skillet than will fit on the plate or in the bowl), but the pictures show the complete range of foods I ate in one day. I may do a few of these, but let's just start with one.<br />
<br />
My goals each day are to subscribe strictly to my ImmunoCalm protocol in terms of allowed foods and seasonings, eat enough protein, fat, and carbohydrates in proportion, and find a way to enjoy what I'm eating.<br />
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For me, I try to savor each process:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>preparing the food</li>
<li>taking a picture of the food</li>
<li>consuming the food </li>
</ul>
<br />
Sometimes this means waking up earlier to get food prep done or working on it during our son's naptime or when I could have some downtime in the evening, but it's worth it for me to find a way to enjoy the limited list of foods.<br />
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<b>Breakfast</b>: Today was a full bowl of ground lamb and basil meatballs atop a bed of green beans sauteed in the fat from the lamb. I have found using the meat fat to saute is one of the most flavorful ways to prepare vegetables! This is a new discovery for me - and probably one I would have balked at just months ago. Our society has shunned the word "fat" so much it leaves a bad taste in one's mouth (pun intended), but I'm learning so much about the importance of fat as fuel and brain function. This breakfast was delicious!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBCRt9qAsBpIsH1D1TzymjocOZVw1l5kG3MQjs29V4sW8iJMvb1vZw6LMtSXJVSCur58jzDrIbrA4n52Bi_jGpEJzir67HP2iHqzlrQ-ZQDBxw8614M1LrsSelbKmGHIOKMD9AfF3eN5e/s1600/IMG-1282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBCRt9qAsBpIsH1D1TzymjocOZVw1l5kG3MQjs29V4sW8iJMvb1vZw6LMtSXJVSCur58jzDrIbrA4n52Bi_jGpEJzir67HP2iHqzlrQ-ZQDBxw8614M1LrsSelbKmGHIOKMD9AfF3eN5e/s320/IMG-1282.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Lunch</b>: Leftover roasted chicken and oven roasted zucchini with coconut oil and Redmond's real salt. <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Not shown: A whole tray of zucchini "coins" roasted until almost crispy. I ate two whole zucchini with this meal.</span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tPeZWqTeBxcfia-rkUxtjnaric6TEjPJXpMgtGO5uKUUhOqFbqg2c7zS2ZeQLgu54U6HRr695T51MAoavq-TmAoW_EIcLMWfyLSusqx_SObo1vJGQQ96jpEujsr5oGAjq0FwOdreVIbE/s1600/IMG-1368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tPeZWqTeBxcfia-rkUxtjnaric6TEjPJXpMgtGO5uKUUhOqFbqg2c7zS2ZeQLgu54U6HRr695T51MAoavq-TmAoW_EIcLMWfyLSusqx_SObo1vJGQQ96jpEujsr5oGAjq0FwOdreVIbE/s320/IMG-1368.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Snack</b>: Organic, sprouted quinoa. Since my diagnosis of gluten sensitivity, I've learned a lot about grains in general. <a href="http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-health/sprouted-grains-are-they-a-healthy-choice/" target="_blank">Here</a> is a link to some information regarding why sprouted quinoa is more beneficial than conventional quinoa, including improved digestibility and nutritional availability.<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: I prepared enough quinoa for my snack this afternoon plus my snack tonight at the same time and put a bowl in the refrigerator for after dinner. </span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmMK7OU0QZU5VxvtC43IBdRL-gtdYcQJUd-iUefXCQfXAOqSRTlN-mFiPdCYECEBdCj2x6MfxrBK7Y6731Ie7eTBEVYfpRbeA8Ya-5jnmgMg_R7MbHetF9pU7_oa-kcJ3Ing-6xzwampmi/s1600/IMG_E1120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmMK7OU0QZU5VxvtC43IBdRL-gtdYcQJUd-iUefXCQfXAOqSRTlN-mFiPdCYECEBdCj2x6MfxrBK7Y6731Ie7eTBEVYfpRbeA8Ya-5jnmgMg_R7MbHetF9pU7_oa-kcJ3Ing-6xzwampmi/s320/IMG_E1120.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Dinner</b>: Roasted bok choy and green beans (with olive oil and Redmond's real salt) with lemon and garlic sauteed shrimp.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrMIC4vmziFycYD7Bpf98ZweFD-pkOeoXhlUqqF1E4_5NhntG8ri0hnvP1T5bRPzU7B7-8KLYtS0lXcCiZvgxQ8mo5gMXp_GcRQXaruAIB0iNWdP3_4ZdKczJ0DkJXpSQh_4WmJhqsc0zW/s1600/IMG-1372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrMIC4vmziFycYD7Bpf98ZweFD-pkOeoXhlUqqF1E4_5NhntG8ri0hnvP1T5bRPzU7B7-8KLYtS0lXcCiZvgxQ8mo5gMXp_GcRQXaruAIB0iNWdP3_4ZdKczJ0DkJXpSQh_4WmJhqsc0zW/s320/IMG-1372.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Snack</b>: Banana, blueberry, and Malk's pecan milk smoothie, organic pecan pieces from Nuts.com, and more sprouted quinoa.<br />
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Over the years, I've developed a habit of snacking at night, so my body really wants to sleep on a full stomach. Plus, with this elimination diet plan, I have to be careful to make sure I eat enough, so a top-off snack at night is always on the menu. What better way to end the day than with a cool, refreshing smoothie?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrydPAQhbYlFDA3Z03ivRQn2zuFLE1gitRyj8n8KwRJt27rWjhGimqtnP-lpB2E-CVy5yM3JmnKQminEECqLHZW14LoJomhf2zoluudkMnqIUjOtzRVuC-CFa6nrw-5OD7kozDFkhA3avv/s1600/IMG-1374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrydPAQhbYlFDA3Z03ivRQn2zuFLE1gitRyj8n8KwRJt27rWjhGimqtnP-lpB2E-CVy5yM3JmnKQminEECqLHZW14LoJomhf2zoluudkMnqIUjOtzRVuC-CFa6nrw-5OD7kozDFkhA3avv/s320/IMG-1374.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I hope you've enjoyed seeing a day-in-the-life on this ImmunoCalm protocol. Each protocol is unique to the person and their sensitivities, and my understanding is that our sensitivities can change over time. My hope is to get to a point of more diverse food inclusion and then a good regimen of rotating foods so I don't develop new sensitivities and can enjoy a wide spectrum of foods!Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-45330520419863115702018-07-05T04:41:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:47:03.492-07:00I'm not monkey-ing aroundGUESS what ingredient I get to test out now? Bananas! Although I'll eat them fresh in a pinch, my favorite way to consume bananas is in a smoothie. Years and years ago, I decided I just didn't like the texture of smoothies with fresh banana and ice - the ice was always just too crunchy (maybe it was a cheap blender?). I tried freezing the bananas and not using ice, and voila! The perfect smoothie texture. So needless to say, I'm super-excited to have my smoothies again. My goal, as with other foods at this point, is to mostly have bananas (read: smoothies) every other day.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25cNxyvzxrckFNtVmgz1RWzp6AtUbJWqcnQh0kvgKW_VyczSyEXAeIDOQRzoEjioNWcu4gzIvoejqZCFuthpZHm0N9bMIJC7V_DdnYoqOsOmYbyO84MXIpUCGS0vX_9RYXkUagG6u297p/s1600/IMG_E1149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25cNxyvzxrckFNtVmgz1RWzp6AtUbJWqcnQh0kvgKW_VyczSyEXAeIDOQRzoEjioNWcu4gzIvoejqZCFuthpZHm0N9bMIJC7V_DdnYoqOsOmYbyO84MXIpUCGS0vX_9RYXkUagG6u297p/s320/IMG_E1149.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frozen banana, strawberry, and coconut milk smoothie,<br />
along with homemade coconut cookies and organic pistachios from nuts.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That smoothie hit the SPOT!<br />
<br />
Confession time: Much of the time, I eat WAY more than pictured. For example, this lovely plate below...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPPeEyMvzHPaIsio7pZq7xq0BVMo2ZDvAvooqIOK3uRErIxJuD6xa8b7IIiVkPH4T5JEGZ0OFsilcSbDb8XGOKeuz0aGUtOEqYjZHJiaftvdRio3IoModTzjJahIt8kbynI56xyL7_NyM/s1600/IMG_E1134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPPeEyMvzHPaIsio7pZq7xq0BVMo2ZDvAvooqIOK3uRErIxJuD6xa8b7IIiVkPH4T5JEGZ0OFsilcSbDb8XGOKeuz0aGUtOEqYjZHJiaftvdRio3IoModTzjJahIt8kbynI56xyL7_NyM/s320/IMG_E1134.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thrive Market turmeric coconut wrap with Edison Grainery's <br />
red kidney beans and steamed green peas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
...was followed by finishing off the skillet.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHasnykujS9pYlzLWoMHsDi26D7w_wpXN6fFSC_dY4uMUOHEXN8SVM2OG4sAa4f033ZBTYc2qCHglay1i2gjeEiS33T1Z-lNbyYXkaGaj68sX6nNYOeTSWYRO8FhzpS2lVWR_Yz6xTRiQ7/s1600/IMG_E1137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHasnykujS9pYlzLWoMHsDi26D7w_wpXN6fFSC_dY4uMUOHEXN8SVM2OG4sAa4f033ZBTYc2qCHglay1i2gjeEiS33T1Z-lNbyYXkaGaj68sX6nNYOeTSWYRO8FhzpS2lVWR_Yz6xTRiQ7/s320/IMG_E1137.JPG" width="248" /></a></div>
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How else is a girl going to get full?<br />
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Also, one thing I've definitely been learning throughout this process is that breakfast does not mean we have to eat typical "breakfast foods." The above two pictures were my breakfast one day. Since I cannot eat wheat, oats, dairy, or eggs...I've basically wiped most "breakfast-y" foods off the list. It's actually kind of fun to get the skillet sizzling in the morning to caramelize brussels sprouts or steam peas. A change, but a good one.<br />
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Here is another savory breakfast I've enjoyed:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMmLfixp98WJASoNq31Zsbm6rhbIL6KA1nQ-SbEfPQ6ll1Jbww7_R1CjRiWsWXinnwux3TWdDdziLQ_bzMKI-E_xBjLCRF-UyYcwpJmQmhjaKwKf_huEv5_Ak3bmMvgk_m0FD1fYqhUXsg/s1600/IMG_1113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMmLfixp98WJASoNq31Zsbm6rhbIL6KA1nQ-SbEfPQ6ll1Jbww7_R1CjRiWsWXinnwux3TWdDdziLQ_bzMKI-E_xBjLCRF-UyYcwpJmQmhjaKwKf_huEv5_Ak3bmMvgk_m0FD1fYqhUXsg/s320/IMG_1113.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed spinach and mushrooms with Edison Grainery's red kidney beans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Okay, here is one of my favorite nighttime snacks: sprouted quinoa, fresh organic fruit, and organic walnuts.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqjdkPOPidVXxOUFLM6_XH-e3gP5biepFBAS7iAuBrfBZXqVwEQoO6n1fO16E72kMhIQAq9DH-w9nk1yybTSB97lkrOrZgM8rDhRBaWfS9Xx63L_AAbb7OFFztyc1b5JTjGVXJ7iIEW5-/s1600/IMG_E1096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjqjdkPOPidVXxOUFLM6_XH-e3gP5biepFBAS7iAuBrfBZXqVwEQoO6n1fO16E72kMhIQAq9DH-w9nk1yybTSB97lkrOrZgM8rDhRBaWfS9Xx63L_AAbb7OFFztyc1b5JTjGVXJ7iIEW5-/s320/IMG_E1096.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">truRoots sprouted quinoa, nuts.com organic walnuts,<br />
and organic strawberries and blueberries</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is what helps me sleep well at night. I used to eat 1-2 cups of oatmeal at night, along with a smoothie and a Quest bar, so my body is used to going to bed full. On the nights when I have quinoa, fruit, and nuts, I go to bed quite satisfied.<br />
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Last on the list for today is lemon basil zoodles and grass fed beef. No fancy sauces (since my ingredients are so limited), but these fresh, high-quality foods don't need much! Seriously, a little lemon juice goes a long way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih00winaiQIW7NzyA3GOKaReRGXabi8iLXli6Mva-MSqQMXkMlOqEglWsstvn9EAqmTNERtE1jlJhAcnjMoN1N5NsnrDK0l8dl86FK5gCO_RBTcRURg5Yb6VhyphenhyphenYmaQL57t8RYj8DECeIqd/s1600/IMG_1166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih00winaiQIW7NzyA3GOKaReRGXabi8iLXli6Mva-MSqQMXkMlOqEglWsstvn9EAqmTNERtE1jlJhAcnjMoN1N5NsnrDK0l8dl86FK5gCO_RBTcRURg5Yb6VhyphenhyphenYmaQL57t8RYj8DECeIqd/s320/IMG_1166.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy eating and hopefully happy digestion!Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-40717451487790815262018-07-03T07:00:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:45:11.432-07:00Time for something new!Something(s) old, something new. As I continue down the path with these ingredients, I will say it makes shopping a whole lot simpler - I know exactly what I need to get! The trouble sometimes is not getting enough to fill up on. Also, one thing I'm struggling with mentally is the whole idea of rotation and the research saying intolerances often develop when we eat something too often <u><b>or</b></u> in too large of quantities. Although not required, I'm trying to rotate the few ingredients I have in a two-day schedule, but that means I end up eating very large quantities of each item on that day in order to get enough to eat. I'm still pondering this balance...which I hope will be remedied once I've got a wider range of foods.<br />
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<b>Peas</b>. Do you like them? I've usually been <i>meh</i> about peas. I would eat them if they were served to me, but I wouldn't order them. Since they are now one of my main vegetables, I'm learning to appreciate them. I found a crispy roasted peas recipe and tried it for the first few days. It's decent and adds a little bit of texture, but even after cooking for 45-50 minutes, I never really got *<b>crispy</b>* peas. At this point, I've decided to save the cooking time (and electricity) and just steam them on the stovetop with a little salt. They're fine (there's that word again!).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BONw-biXsHeiANuMycVoeZWblv9qXzL9qhhcrYiT50iKq1b5LRwpNlTWZIHaKWNpPyCBDNxpaM6vEdDn2tMMvc5l0vwUGYHvbRZxm620EHN1UUCnVzaYlhamS914Jz1AqL1nKIOAY6jM/s1600/IMG_0833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BONw-biXsHeiANuMycVoeZWblv9qXzL9qhhcrYiT50iKq1b5LRwpNlTWZIHaKWNpPyCBDNxpaM6vEdDn2tMMvc5l0vwUGYHvbRZxm620EHN1UUCnVzaYlhamS914Jz1AqL1nKIOAY6jM/s320/IMG_0833.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground lamb with basil nestled into crispy roasted peas with turmeric and salt.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Strawberries!</b> I'm so glad they are on my green list. Just before I started the ImmunoCalm protocol, I discovered a great recipe for homemade strawberry vinaigrette (I'd been struggling to find a good GF salad dressing that wasn't $$$ and figured I should try to make some on my own). For this diet, I did have to substitute white vinegar for the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup for the small amount of honey, AND I had to leave out the black pepper, BUT it is yummy and makes eating salad a very good option!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjni1yvPbbuh8xL9O3ry4QdgrVnnCRV1CPZYAgBCEneLaIJXaVK7weB9wUQtEnccP8P_DYVTO0fDCzs2ANnnge718kxRxJ5hWIpKYXyR2SM1vTM5ngMUF39WZh03WZ4dUi2bMLesvOOK3as/s1600/IMG_1111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjni1yvPbbuh8xL9O3ry4QdgrVnnCRV1CPZYAgBCEneLaIJXaVK7weB9wUQtEnccP8P_DYVTO0fDCzs2ANnnge718kxRxJ5hWIpKYXyR2SM1vTM5ngMUF39WZh03WZ4dUi2bMLesvOOK3as/s320/IMG_1111.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spinach salad with shredded chicken, homemade strawberry vinaigrette, and lemon juice.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Brussels sprouts</b>, anyone? Over the past year and a half or so, I've come to tolerate and then really like brussels sprouts - the frozen ones, specifically. I still haven't found great success with fresh ones, but thawing frozen ones and then sauteing in olive oil with salt until caramelized or roasting in the oven works great!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdBjV1OBTVMmJD5IhmiebeBBKieamFRT9GQFv8xn9NuMzaQqBnn5rKnVbB6mJZvn1nu8VC7pLH5Yyjprzt0FS_Jhd0NiHe0EQHq68u1uXwa-_4AXC3sfNkUxIypUd_iqJJGfkKGiZx8LI/s1600/IMG_E1153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdBjV1OBTVMmJD5IhmiebeBBKieamFRT9GQFv8xn9NuMzaQqBnn5rKnVbB6mJZvn1nu8VC7pLH5Yyjprzt0FS_Jhd0NiHe0EQHq68u1uXwa-_4AXC3sfNkUxIypUd_iqJJGfkKGiZx8LI/s320/IMG_E1153.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed tilapia with caramelized brussels sprouts and lemon juice.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
NEW INGREDIENT! Can I just say how much I adore roasted carrots? I have my friend Michele to thank for my now two-year obsession with these sweet orange delights. When roasted until soft and juicy, they seriously become vegetable candy. I have to be really careful with these, though. They came in middle of the road in my green foods list, and I do NOT want them to turn into yellows, so I'm making sure to not have them every day. Oh, but the days I do have them...are just delightful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2mCMSpjRhDKy8Tjp5ioBxt3jY0CZTLbg7oIYv0fMY-fw-aPp1Vm01mNLVlWHk7bCBsPg74xxvankKFFWAuuByIU4KFJlKjtyC5eFifKKNLT0RRu3182dt9q49PRCFTKRgl1VSy3S3JLX/s1600/IMG_E1145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2mCMSpjRhDKy8Tjp5ioBxt3jY0CZTLbg7oIYv0fMY-fw-aPp1Vm01mNLVlWHk7bCBsPg74xxvankKFFWAuuByIU4KFJlKjtyC5eFifKKNLT0RRu3182dt9q49PRCFTKRgl1VSy3S3JLX/s320/IMG_E1145.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hang in there with me to see what ingredients come up next!Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-1132455436677219102018-07-01T07:00:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:43:40.804-07:00Making progressWelcome back! At this point in the ImmunoCalm diet protocol, I've become a bit more familiar with my allowed ingredients and started having fun with presentation. I find when the food looks good, it tastes good! It's fun imagining what to do with these few ingredients and how to make them palatable. It has been said many people feel noticeably better after the first 7-10 days on the very limited diet, so I'm determined to stick to it.<br />
<br />
Up first is a partial-win meal. Just before I started the diet, I'd begun a quest to conquer making my own hummus with a little mini-prep food processor. I had made a bit of progress and was starting to feel comfortable experimenting when I received the test results and had to set chickpeas aside for awhile.<br />
<br />
Well, red kidney beans are red kidney beans. I don't know if you can roast them like chickpeas (maybe I should try that?), but I wondered if I could make them into some type of hummus. Seeing as how I couldn't have tahini or garlic, that made it tricky. I decided to try just kidney beans, olive oil, lemon juice, and a little salt.<br />
<br />
The verdict?<br />
<br />
It was fine! I use that word intentionally. My scale for taste goes something like this:<br />
<br />
can't stand it --> if I <i>have</i> to --> decent --> fine --> pretty good --> more, please --> amazing!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tObBSh3fCBd4cOt5nCzrlv8VQ6GSwcKkDck8qh_CSeaKo0duaFzjj03Gyc2wf5FyKzzft_AjPybYQ-QQXHFJf_Er_LTLUI4vcLLoKcFqbp36x_74IuxRHiuXdh1qZK_S9MeKICwMlPUy/s1600/IMG_0898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tObBSh3fCBd4cOt5nCzrlv8VQ6GSwcKkDck8qh_CSeaKo0duaFzjj03Gyc2wf5FyKzzft_AjPybYQ-QQXHFJf_Er_LTLUI4vcLLoKcFqbp36x_74IuxRHiuXdh1qZK_S9MeKICwMlPUy/s320/IMG_0898.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spinach salad with red kidney bean hummus and homemade strawberry vinaigrette<br />
Baked cod with a dash of salt on a bed of spinach </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Moving on, with the styrofoam taste and texture from the Wrapioca starting to grate on me, I was mildly interested when I heard about coconut wraps. Historically, I've never been a coconut fan. I faintly remember trying shredded coconut on some cupcake or other treat as a kid and firmly decided I did NOT like the taste or texture. When I was pregnant with our son, I tolerated the scent of coconut oil as a stretch mark preventing "lotion," but still didn't consume it.<br />
<br />
In the past year or so, I dabbled a little with it in baking. I don't bake much (when we got married, my husband asked me to never bake so he wouldn't be tempted - suited me!). Then, when I faced the MRT results and my ImmunoCalm protocol options, I decided I should be an adult and give coconut (oil, milk, etc.) a try.<br />
<br />
Gratefully, I've come to appreciate most of the options I've tried: virgin, expeller-pressed coconut oil (for baking) as well as organic, refined coconut oil (for roasting), coconut milk, coconut water, and now these turmeric coconut <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/thrive-market-organic-turmeric-coconut-wraps" target="_blank">wraps</a> from Thrive Market. They make eating a ton of veggies and beans for breakfast a bit more fun, and they hold together very well!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZEFFvwZNyrU3VFGqm1JwjU_Nyv95BXguyk8AB1cEemj5l7_m8BfYxLK8-o26SOhP01AzD9nPKhj_aSaUMpWoZzr9x6ETQ48qbo8uEezYOxGLHyWudHdxiP21vYLwFtJbVdQ8RUtYi42M/s1600/IMG_0976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZEFFvwZNyrU3VFGqm1JwjU_Nyv95BXguyk8AB1cEemj5l7_m8BfYxLK8-o26SOhP01AzD9nPKhj_aSaUMpWoZzr9x6ETQ48qbo8uEezYOxGLHyWudHdxiP21vYLwFtJbVdQ8RUtYi42M/s320/IMG_0976.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thrive Market turmeric coconut wrap, sauteed zucchini, and red kidney beans.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another ingredient I didn't have much experience with -- I'd maybe eaten it once or twice -- was bok choy. I wasn't really sure <i>how</i> to use it. I'd seen recipes for stir fries that call for bok choy, but I definitely can't make a stir fry right now with my limited ingredients (what's a stir fry without some coconut aminos and GF teriyaki sauce??). I came across a recipe for roasted bok choy, and decided to give it a try. To my delight, the leaves got super crispy and the stems were palatable with a little oil and salt. My 2-yr-old son even snagged some leaves and told me they remind him of kale chips (which he really likes). So, bok choy was a winner!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjI1Cs2KIWTgrEmmbvTBJgpMmXhl-Pwsq0c04B2jIwotJsnkCj5A5h1uLmx3CnPwfcAemCyV-7Wc4BrKhlZYMkxz0p27qHEOdW5YlNd8jgJusDZTiBKsjAgMMT7Pw2221T4OQs4Lylbsh/s1600/IMG_1001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjI1Cs2KIWTgrEmmbvTBJgpMmXhl-Pwsq0c04B2jIwotJsnkCj5A5h1uLmx3CnPwfcAemCyV-7Wc4BrKhlZYMkxz0p27qHEOdW5YlNd8jgJusDZTiBKsjAgMMT7Pw2221T4OQs4Lylbsh/s320/IMG_1001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sauteed shrimp and roasted bok choy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This process is getting more fun! Admittedly, there are meals and even days when I'm stumped on ideas and tired of spending so much time brainstorming meals and preparing ingredients, but then I just allow myself to repeat a meal from two days ago so I can take a mental break. I also use meal prep time to listen to some of my favorite podcasts like Christian Parenting, Just Enjoy Health, Parenting on Purpose, Risen Motherhood, God Centered Mom, Focus on the Family, Well-Fed Women, Balanced Bites, and the Healthy Moms Podcast.<br />
<br />
Come back next time to see what became of these ingredients: green peas, strawberries, brussels sprouts, and a mystery food...Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-13709162933536037932018-06-29T03:26:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:40:29.462-07:00Time to get creativeWhen I face a challenge, I find it best to 1) pray, 2) stay hopeful, 3) get creative.<br />
<br />
If you read the last post, I bet you're not salivating from reading the list of ingredients I had to work with for the first part of this elimination diet...BUT I think you may change your mind after consuming with your eyes some of the meals I've eaten along the way. It's taken time, thought, and some research, but I'm settling into a new normal (albeit ever-changing as I start adding in new foods every three days or so).<br />
<br />
As a reminder, here are some of the ingredients I had to work with:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGz8gjBJy6UlUudx5Yf3yVARdGgmhA2BpX9eUCOIx1LhPaPZuinvggd6or6r9WSA2Z-V-wocc8UboP9yqZptHgH6NeilXufPVjNfPAUvNbRz2Qs3QWo_2bGRULsP-PmPzGidzeEzwwO6e3/s1600/first+10+days.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="785" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGz8gjBJy6UlUudx5Yf3yVARdGgmhA2BpX9eUCOIx1LhPaPZuinvggd6or6r9WSA2Z-V-wocc8UboP9yqZptHgH6NeilXufPVjNfPAUvNbRz2Qs3QWo_2bGRULsP-PmPzGidzeEzwwO6e3/s640/first+10+days.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Let's get real here: not everything tasted good or looked good! I'll share the good and the bad. Let's start with...a real bad one:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE7tQgn3h4lRO4_JiAd-oxhq9zzeuX4-SOV6U2SHq6vwqU5NJQXMGjBbmTO2Kov9PUBUZYkVv2-4wgsoRRga9ON5I9uB67FBZbz4hvc6-BwxzHTNKlQftUY66qY796jnGJBO99OLiWxaIl/s1600/bad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE7tQgn3h4lRO4_JiAd-oxhq9zzeuX4-SOV6U2SHq6vwqU5NJQXMGjBbmTO2Kov9PUBUZYkVv2-4wgsoRRga9ON5I9uB67FBZbz4hvc6-BwxzHTNKlQftUY66qY796jnGJBO99OLiWxaIl/s200/bad.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
Looks like styrofoam and beans, doesn't it? So, I've actually NEVER tried tapioca before...EVER. I came across a product called Wrapioca on Thrive Market (it was a free add-on), and it claimed you could use these tapioca+water pearls to make a wrap by heating them in a dry skillet. Unfortunately, I never figured out how to get the Wrapioca to wrap and ended up making more of a styrofoam textured (and tasting) tostada (after this picture, of course, which was a complete cooking fail).<br />
<br />
So...it can only get better, right?<br />
<br />
I hope so! Here is a winner meal with the red kidney beans:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-5_zYJoOGEzK59uh8mL1Laizsp1NnOJJChUywpHCqnZBmPd3qikMsGnBe17huh75XshMex7fjXDG_Bq6-YFW4JdGfaIwQ_GpLClwqiGADOM6dsHXgAke5DYnwE8zRiDapSBoDvgybHOO/s1600/IMG_0831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-5_zYJoOGEzK59uh8mL1Laizsp1NnOJJChUywpHCqnZBmPd3qikMsGnBe17huh75XshMex7fjXDG_Bq6-YFW4JdGfaIwQ_GpLClwqiGADOM6dsHXgAke5DYnwE8zRiDapSBoDvgybHOO/s320/IMG_0831.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed zoodles with red kidney beans, a drizzle of olive oil, and a dash of salt.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Ready for another visually-challenged meal?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRT4UO2fGSckqvipY6opgUqLDqsnbIsFdjOeUTb4aTJub7thiIJWuJxwzIHgB6IqoYihjESeID3PmfGtJnVRdhyHEjAu3KjpR9n7eOdeEGToe0uK6bawb4utPWc2v8d8AO9zLBFVt3kiYk/s1600/IMG_0749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRT4UO2fGSckqvipY6opgUqLDqsnbIsFdjOeUTb4aTJub7thiIJWuJxwzIHgB6IqoYihjESeID3PmfGtJnVRdhyHEjAu3KjpR9n7eOdeEGToe0uK6bawb4utPWc2v8d8AO9zLBFVt3kiYk/s320/IMG_0749.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground lamb and basil meatballs with steamed zucchini and a dash of salt.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This one tasted better than the styrofoam and beans, and I had an idea in my mind I ended up using later (stay tuned for a future post...), but it is definitely still lacking in presentation. At this point, though, all that mattered was I could stomach the food!<br />
<br />
Here is an improved lamb meatball meal:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcQbTouj8i5wKGbnXcRC2jnq3k_hJh1ZzRd9KAqd683FWu37qR6ljvO_dG4sMDe2ZvPoKHZneFkYhiycpilehH-nSjJEbigZcirGh-b9suzrSuWGF4dKSsr_DLxwgIWzI8OLJv154J-CE/s1600/IMG_E0954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcQbTouj8i5wKGbnXcRC2jnq3k_hJh1ZzRd9KAqd683FWu37qR6ljvO_dG4sMDe2ZvPoKHZneFkYhiycpilehH-nSjJEbigZcirGh-b9suzrSuWGF4dKSsr_DLxwgIWzI8OLJv154J-CE/s320/IMG_E0954.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground lamb and basil meatballs on a bed of lettuce cushioned by sprouted quinoa <br />
and sauteed mushrooms (I was able to add mushrooms in after the initial 7ish days).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This one was a feast to both my eyes and my stomach!<br />
<br />
By this point, do you think you could make do with kidney beans, ground lamb, quinoa, and zucchini? It's possible, and I'm living proof!<br />
<br />
Next up? Cod, green beans, bok choy, a *coconut* wrap (much improvement over the Wrapioca), and a few more ingredients. Stay tuned!<br />
<br />Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-70826782436153596972018-06-27T03:57:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:38:45.579-07:00Rotation, rotation, rotationPicking back up where I left off...<br />
<br />
<div>
Thankfully, there are a number of "green" foods I enjoy. It's not an incredibly broad mix (120 foods and 30 chemicals tested is not really all that many when you see the list), but it is do-able. The lab provided me with a 4-week diet (which Susan later split into two, thankfully allowing me a bit more variety) which started with a strict, limited diet for the first 7-10 days, followed by gradual, systematic reintroduction of all the green foods. The goal is for me to ultimately test all the green foods once I've calmed my system down with the strict 7-10 day limited diet and wind up with a reasonable long-term <b>*rotation</b> diet of green foods. After 3-6 months, I can attempt to add back in untested items and some of the yellow items and see how my body responds.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>*Rotation</b>. This word stuck out to me big time in the literature I received along with my results. I don't know about you, but <b><i>I am a creature of habit</i></b>. I've always had my go-to meals and snacks, eating the same thing at the same restaurants and the same snack routine at night. Easy to plan, easy to shop for, easy to prepare. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
According to research from doctors who specialize in treating food sensitivities, patients often unknowingly eat their reactive foods at almost every meal, which is why they are always sick! Doctors also noticed that some food sensitive patients develop <i>new</i> sensitivities if they eat non-reactive (i.e. "green" list) foods too often. <b><i>What's a girl to DO?</i></b></div>
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<div>
Well, in order to prevent new sensitivities from developing, doctors came up with a method of limiting exposure to the same foods while still providing a balanced, varied diet. Hello, rotation diet. Although research is still mixed, it seems the best results are experienced when we follow a three-day rotation diet. Basically, I received a chart with all my green foods split out among three days with the goal of not eating the same food two days in a row. Below is a picture of the original rotation diet I received.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4PXaZVjvLSiHch0cQppYKcBDEKvc5JvYV7c4s1Nb35tsrzAbpJvwXDR6bPwhHTzAEh-pBJ8DTSWml7PUP_InufCjcjDpwiw1L-n3fECkaTuo9Spd1YSTlT6IF-6hLzBiSeRwsy22UQEP/s1600/rotation+diet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4PXaZVjvLSiHch0cQppYKcBDEKvc5JvYV7c4s1Nb35tsrzAbpJvwXDR6bPwhHTzAEh-pBJ8DTSWml7PUP_InufCjcjDpwiw1L-n3fECkaTuo9Spd1YSTlT6IF-6hLzBiSeRwsy22UQEP/s320/rotation+diet.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The problem with this plan is the testing center did not incorporate that I am gluten free and dairy free due to the other tests, so I need to rework the plan with those things in mind. </div>
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But first, I need to make it through the 7-10 day limited diet and then reintroduce all the green foods I <i style="font-weight: bold;">can</i> eat, which will take almost 4 months. This is where it gets fun. I'm going to show you some of the meals I came up with using the limited ingredients I was given for the first part of the diet plan. Here's a teaser list of ingredients, and I'll let your imagination run wild with possibilities (haha) then come back next time and show you what I came up with. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGz8gjBJy6UlUudx5Yf3yVARdGgmhA2BpX9eUCOIx1LhPaPZuinvggd6or6r9WSA2Z-V-wocc8UboP9yqZptHgH6NeilXufPVjNfPAUvNbRz2Qs3QWo_2bGRULsP-PmPzGidzeEzwwO6e3/s1600/first+10+days.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="785" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGz8gjBJy6UlUudx5Yf3yVARdGgmhA2BpX9eUCOIx1LhPaPZuinvggd6or6r9WSA2Z-V-wocc8UboP9yqZptHgH6NeilXufPVjNfPAUvNbRz2Qs3QWo_2bGRULsP-PmPzGidzeEzwwO6e3/s640/first+10+days.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-77001915414157537172018-06-25T11:48:00.000-07:002018-09-15T09:36:29.980-07:00MRT test resultsOkay, I'm back...refreshed and ready to share the results of my MRT test. After receiving the results, I worked with Susan Linke, a Certified LEAP Therapist (CLT). Check out the videos on her <a href="http://susanlinke.com/" target="_blank">website</a> where she describes food sensitivities, testing, and the healing diet protocol. I've included a few of her <a href="http://susanlinke.com/portfolio/leap/gallery/labs/" target="_blank">notes</a> below since she articulates so clearly.<br />
<ul>
<li>60-80% of your immune system is in your gut. Your immune system is as unique as a fingerprint, and what it determines is “friend or foe” is different than anyone else’s. You can have an immune reaction to just about anything except salt, baking soda or carbonated water. You can react to “healthy” foods like salmon, apples, cinnamon, vanilla, bell peppers, celery and even olive (oil). You can even react to chemicals – naturally occurring chemicals like solanine (found in potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers, etc), or stabilizers like guar gum, carrageenan or laboratory produced chemicals like BHA and BHT added to cereals, nitrites added to lunchmeats, citric acid, etc.</li>
<li>Food sensitivities have unique characteristics such as delayed reactions and dose dependency. For example, although some reactions occur shortly after consumption, you can also react to a food 72-96 hours after eating it, often making it hard to establish cause and effect. In addition, unlike allergies, food sensitivities are dose dependent. For example, you might eat 1/2 cup of strawberries and feel fine, but if you ate 1 cup you might not.</li>
<li><b><i>What is LEAP?</i></b> LEAP stands for Lifestyle, Eating, And Performance. It is an effective protocol that combines the Mediator Release Test (MRT) with the skills of a Certified LEAP Therapist to produce a patient-specific anti-inflammatory diet designed to lower inflammation, and by doing so, reduce or eliminate your symptoms.</li>
<li><b><i>What is MRT?</i></b> The patented Mediator Release Test (MRT) is a blood test that measures your immune reaction to 120 foods and 30 chemicals. We use those results to identify a safe list of foods to eat that will not trigger inflammation, so your symptoms can improve.</li>
<li>Most patients experience significant improvement within the first 10 days on the program. Symptoms then continue improving during the next 4-6 weeks.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Super-interesting, right? I had NO idea our bodies were so very unique and complex. God created us in His image, and yet made each of us unique... but learning this information gave me a whole new level of understanding how differently we were all created. I thought I ate a pretty healthy diet, and I did...but perhaps not the best diet for <i style="font-weight: bold;">me</i>. </div>
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Some of my favorite foods I consumed frequently, if not daily, included:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>sweet potatoes smothered in almond butter</li>
<li>sweet potatoes or butternut squash with coconut oil and cinnamon</li>
<li>raw almonds</li>
<li>almond milk</li>
<li>avocados (I like them even just straight out of the skin!)</li>
<li>roasted cauliflower</li>
<li>honey balsamic roasted cabbage</li>
<li>scrambled or hard boiled eggs</li>
<li>kale chips or kale salad</li>
<li>fresh pineapple</li>
</ul>
<div>
Guess what foods showed up as reactive/inflammatory on my MRT test? (<i>see foods highlighted in yellow and red below</i>)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSmo1NJIJ-wmgEIZqFtE3FkA1fR0NjIFp2fEq2fiscKURIhDzCUn-SJ0jJ2e45IjUjodqWTToJipHD3InrzA00FAbA3pS3JrKd7v8Zzg0D4Nd7I9_CcBlCdCDMmnI4kJUWsO95n1DkPvm/s1600/MRT+Results+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSmo1NJIJ-wmgEIZqFtE3FkA1fR0NjIFp2fEq2fiscKURIhDzCUn-SJ0jJ2e45IjUjodqWTToJipHD3InrzA00FAbA3pS3JrKd7v8Zzg0D4Nd7I9_CcBlCdCDMmnI4kJUWsO95n1DkPvm/s320/MRT+Results+3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Depressing, right? Yes and no, I guess. It was so hard to think of giving all these foods up without knowing whether I could ever have them again, and yet it gave me hope to think I might feel better if I did. My goal in all of this testing is to figure out how to be the best "me" God created me to be so I can serve Him and my family.</div>
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<div>
The results came back in categories of chemicals, beans/legumes/nuts/seeds, vegetables, fruits, flavor enhancers (spices, etc.), seafood, dairy, grains, meats/poultry, and miscellaneous with the following three reaction types:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Green: lowest degree of reactivity</li>
<li>Yellow: reactive/inflammatory (must be strictly avoided)</li>
<li>Red: highly reactive/inflammatory (must be strictly avoided)</li>
</ul>
<div>
Here are my fruit results just to show how the results are displayed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYy1Ji66B-DIb87V9n8HFmTGvVpz8dfn5zrzJuu4qQFpk9n3AQ900ZicpbQ5jPGoIuxeqeFcCv18IMAimRzbcfc3av855isjUAyOoPyyrUH5CJpvFzDr6ryFw1t9MMLr7brNQkF_Mm31_W/s1600/fruits.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="409" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYy1Ji66B-DIb87V9n8HFmTGvVpz8dfn5zrzJuu4qQFpk9n3AQ900ZicpbQ5jPGoIuxeqeFcCv18IMAimRzbcfc3av855isjUAyOoPyyrUH5CJpvFzDr6ryFw1t9MMLr7brNQkF_Mm31_W/s320/fruits.png" width="292" /></a></div>
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Within each of these three categories, there was also a spectrum of results. So within the green category, I could have anywhere between 0.0 - 1.9 degree of reactivity. This means the higher the green number, the closer it is to becoming a yellow, reactive, inflammatory food for me and the lower the number, the safer it is.</div>
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Okay, that's enough information for now. I will share more specifics about the diet in a future post. For now, happy eating!</div>
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Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-77456000989315508692018-06-23T07:14:00.000-07:002018-06-23T07:14:38.014-07:00It was timeHave you ever convinced yourself you're not sick when there really <b><i>is</i> </b>something wrong? You make excuses:<br />
<ol>
<li>I probably ate something unsettling - I'll feel better in a few hours.</li>
<li>Yeah, I don't feel good, but I can't go to the doctor because...(work, busy, finances, don't like needles, afraid there actually IS something wrong, etc.).</li>
<li>Maybe other people feel the same way, and I need to just tough it out.</li>
</ol>
<div>
It's easy for me to list the excuses because I've made them all. I can't even pinpoint the time when I started experiencing discomfort because it was a subtle, slow, downhill slide. All I know is the symptoms increased to a point where I could not brush them aside any longer. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
In January of this year, I finally decided it was time to take action. I reached out to a friend of mine who is a P.A., and she recommended a G.I. doctor. Being a fairly meticulous note-keeper, I gathered all of my notes on symptoms, along with medical history, and prepared for my first appointment.</div>
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<br /></div>
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While I could sit here and type out a wordy dissertation on all the events that occurred between the first appointment and today, I think it makes the most sense to list the highlights - for your sanity and mine.</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>11 vials of blood to test for celiac disease and other levels</li>
<li>2 fat malabsorption tests</li>
<li>Endoscopy and colonoscopy</li>
<li>Bone density test</li>
<li>Parasite test</li>
<li>EnteroLab test for gluten, casein, soy, and egg sensitivities</li>
<li>Breath test for SIBO</li>
<li>MRT blood test for food sensitivities</li>
</ul>
<div>
Curious about the results? Here we go...</div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><b>Test:</b> blood tests for celiac disease and other levels<br /><b>Results:</b> high liver and kidney numbers; negative celiac blood panel</li>
<li><b>Test:</b> fat malabsorption<br /><b>Results:</b> 2.5x normal</li>
<li><b>Tests:</b> endoscopy and colonoscopy<br /><b>Results:</b> no significant abnormalities but indications for further testing</li>
<li><b>Test:</b> bone density<br /><b>Results:</b> osteoporosis (ongoing from early college)</li>
<li><b>Test:</b> parasites<br /><b>Results:</b> negative</li>
<li><b>Test:</b> EnteroLab test for gluten, casein, soy, and egg sensitivities<br /><b>Results:</b> non-celiac gluten sensitivity (G.I. doctor said the gluten results were high enough to say "celiac" if it makes things easier), and sensitivities to casein, soy, <b><i>and</i> </b>egg.</li>
<li><b>Test:</b> breath test for SIBO<br /><b>Result:</b> negative</li>
<li><b>Test:</b> MRT blood test for food sensitivities<br /><b>Results:</b> sensitivities to so many foods I eat on a regular basis</li>
</ul>
<div>
It's overwhelming, isn't it? I think it's time to take a break - just typing it all out is exhausting! I'll come back and go into more depth on the MRT test results and how they have changed my life so far.</div>
</div>
Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-83911625364206083602017-05-12T13:29:00.001-07:002017-05-12T13:29:57.698-07:00Just like that!<div class="tr_bq" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSZML4eTqTShCE9-Zvvmq9QLsjZaDz4UkTrznfR93aV57tdYNwWuEAcTdPYBq6kNiq4HxVF8MYv3B-7hmCe10mbIm0H1xlnNZZiDAl7q9RxZiCWVXqV2EcQYoru0Kan9FYCe1HAQERFNN/s1600/months1-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSZML4eTqTShCE9-Zvvmq9QLsjZaDz4UkTrznfR93aV57tdYNwWuEAcTdPYBq6kNiq4HxVF8MYv3B-7hmCe10mbIm0H1xlnNZZiDAl7q9RxZiCWVXqV2EcQYoru0Kan9FYCe1HAQERFNN/s200/months1-6.JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHRJpMAcIEMCKhzI_JoXp4IwinNk9ULdyGf_hZrExUrqTLQpkHhD4ViF-VKamA6KzVt9sms917lMMdOrUhPET_TQGtqVxcUQJsaYR1N_EJGS1oBtCeMCmraZEKLoxc3RZSxmHIU4kGDbL/s1600/months7-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHRJpMAcIEMCKhzI_JoXp4IwinNk9ULdyGf_hZrExUrqTLQpkHhD4ViF-VKamA6KzVt9sms917lMMdOrUhPET_TQGtqVxcUQJsaYR1N_EJGS1oBtCeMCmraZEKLoxc3RZSxmHIU4kGDbL/s200/months7-12.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
And just like that...it's been one year!<br />
<br />
I never knew so much could happen in a year - so many emotions (LOVE, joy, sadness, elation, pain, gratitude, anxiety), so many experiences. I could never articulate it all, but I must find some way to preserve these memories. And so I write...<br />
<br /><blockquote>
<b>HE KNOWS ME. </b>Looking into the eyes of my son and seeing recognition and love is one of the most beautiful experiences in all my life. There's a song by Audrey Assad called "<a href="https://youtu.be/cYVVEe7kJ2w" target="_blank">Known</a>" where she likens the way God knows us to the way a mother knows her baby's face. How comforting that God knows me so intimately...and I can only somewhat grasp it by the minutes and hours I've spent staring at my sweet James, taking in every inch of him.</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>RESEARCH. </b>New parenthood can be such a battlefield of the mind. You want to believe you'll "know" your child and what is best for him or her. Then, when you doubt, you think it might be good to research, but you read conflicting things online. So you ask your pediatrician, but even their advice doesn't always seem right. PRAY. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT.</b> It is SO fun to teach James new skills. Once he reached about 9 months, he really started interacting with us and his environment so much more. He is a very thoughtful person, considering moves before he makes them (which makes this Mama <u>very</u> happy). He's already in the habit of furrowing his brow as he ponders what move to make next or tries to figure something out. Sometimes his lack of sleep can all be summed up in a clear mental leap (like when he learned to say "Ba, bah, bah" or stand up in his crib, etc.). He always loses sleep when he's gaining a new ability. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>TIME. </b>I had no idea that time could seem so different. On days of little sleep, time dragged on. When you've got a screaming baby in the car seat and miles to go, minutes seem like an eternity (and then there is the question of whether or not you want them to cry themselves to sleep or if that will just mean minutes of driving around aimlessly to aid a car nap). On the other hand, when you finally get your baby down for a nap, 45 minutes goes by in a SNAP! You learn to accomplish chores in half the time it used to take. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>BABY-WEARING IS A LIFESAVER!</b> At first, he didn't like it very much when he had to face me, but once his neck was strong enough, facing outwards was a win! We struggled with a lot of spit-up, and ultimately figured out the best thing to do was wear James in the baby carrier for 15-20 minutes after every feeding to minimize the milk loss. Initially, it was a daunting proposition - he was nursing 7-8 times a day! However, it quickly became routine, and James learned to really enjoy the carrier, and we still use it. Wearing James in the carrier is not only great for chores around the house but also for going on walks outside. He feels close to me and safe, yet he can move his legs around and have some mobility. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>NAPS.</b> James didn't nap on his own until he was about 5 months old. And there are still times he doesn't nap well. BUT, he takes at least one a day. They are so good for us both. Whether I nap or get things done around the house, it is such a great time to clear my mind, refresh, and gear up for the rest of the day. And I LOVE to pick him up from naps. If he's happy, I treasure the excitement in his eyes. If he is upset/sad, I soak up the snuggles. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>CAR RIDES.</b> Woah. I haven't yet experienced a forward-facing carseat, but I can tell you the backwards facing ones sometimes make it really hard to comfort a crying baby. Our car has become a treasure trove of toys. Here's the trick I've learned: Let him start with 2-3 toys and keep the rest up front with me. He inevitably drops or throws a toy on the ground, so I just keep cycling them back to him! When there is someone else in the car, it helps a lot. One person drives, the other person plays with James. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>BREASTMILK IS LIKE GOLD.</b> Whoever said "Don't cry over spilled milk" never spilled breastmilk. I didn't spill it...but I didn't get the freezer door shut on my stash of over 300 oz and lost every drop. It was devastating. I was probably as upset as I've ever been (except for maybe one other occasion). It felt like part of me died. I'd worked so hard to pump and save the milk for James. I had kept waking up in the middle of the night to pump when I could have been sleeping.After I calmed down some, I realized a few things: 1) God gave my body the ability to create the milk before, and He could do it again, 2) James was healthy and happy and growing, 3) I am not in control!</blockquote>
<div>
<br />God is teaching me many things in life through becoming a mother. There is much else to say, but I will save it for another time.<br />There's that word again: "Time." It is short and long. Soak up and praise God through every special moment and pray through every challenging one.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-28930042479301039292016-12-16T13:43:00.001-08:002016-12-16T13:44:03.185-08:00The Journey<div>This journey of motherhood continues to open doors in my heart, plant seeds in my soul, wreak havoc on my selfishness, and drive me to my knees before the Lord.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>My heart has never known such joy as seeing my son's eyes light up when I enter a room. It has never soared quite so high as when he reaches out for me or nuzzles his smooth cheek in my neck. Never before has it been so tugged by soulful cries in the middle of the night.</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>My soul is a new garden in which experience is planting seeds of wisdom for days to come:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Patience</li>
<li>Perseverance</li>
<li>Persistence</li>
</ul>
<div><br></div>
</div>
<div>I am facing my selfishness everyday and constantly battling against it:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Choosing to soothe my son over hiding under the covers</li>
<li>Washing hair is now a once or twice per week luxury</li>
<li>I cannot keep everything clean and tidy </li>
<li>I can't always finish everything I start when there is someone more important who needs my attention</li>
<li>Adult conversation is often choppy and interrupted</li>
<li>Finishing a book is a monumental task</li>
<li>Eating warm food with utensils is a special treat for me</li>
</ul>
<div><br></div>
</div>
<div>I come before the Lord as I struggle with anxieties:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>His health (does <insert symptom> mean he is sick?)</li>
<li>Am I doing something wrong? Not doing something I should?</li>
<li>Do I know enough to teach him the right things at the right times?</li>
</ul>
<div><br></div>
<div>I thank God for a loving, patient, FUN husband who is my partner in this journey. And we could not be more thankful for family who love our son passionately and help us so much with caring for him and making sure we take care of ourselves! We are so thankful!</div>
<div><br></div>
<div>May God continue His work on me in this motherhood journey.</div>
<div></div>
</div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-7561700126046526772016-08-29T14:07:00.001-07:002016-08-29T14:07:50.061-07:00What I've Learned in Four MonthsOur little man is four months old! Here are a few things I've learned these past precious weeks:<br />
<div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>God gives energy to the weak, tired mama</li>
<li>God's design for creating life from two of the smallest pieces of two people is simply incredible</li>
<li>I know more than I think I know and way less than I think I know</li>
<li>It is so sweet to be able to calm and soothe a crying baby</li>
<li>It is heart-wrenching not to be able to calm and soothe a crying baby</li>
<li>Feeling his hand wrap around my finger warms my heart</li>
<li>Every new mama learns the value of being ambidextrous </li>
<li>Food that does not need to be heated, skinned, cut, or unwrapped is a must for a nursing mama</li>
<li>You can have a pile of clean burp cloths one minute and be down to the last one in the blink of an eye</li>
<li>Wait to put on your clothes for "going out in public" until immediately prior to leaving or you will just have to change again anyway</li>
<li>Don't wake a sleeping baby</li>
<li>It is possible for your heart to beat outside your body...and be held in your arms</li>
<li>Watching your husband become a dad is quite possibly one of the most endearing things you will ever see him do</li>
<li>A baby can only fill his diaper once...and as soon as you change it, he's probably ready to fill it again</li>
<li>ALWAYS carry extra diapers, wipes, and trash bags</li>
<li>Living life in two hour pockets between feedings brings value to a 2-min shower, a 5-min meal, and a 7-min grocery store trip</li>
<li>Wet laundry inevitably sits in the washer for 4 hours before you remember (or are able) to move it to the dryer </li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
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<div>
Sweet Baby Boy, I love you so much. I selfishly pray for your health and safety but boldly pray for you to have the strength and courage to face the future with God as your guide.<br />
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Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-49729869049149058102016-06-05T18:58:00.001-07:002016-06-05T18:59:38.002-07:00Baby B's Birth Story (Part 3)(...continued from <a href="http://www.iamlivengood.com/2016/06/baby-bs-birth-story-part-2.html" target="_blank">Part 2</a>)<br />
<br />
<b>6:40pm</b> Christy performed another cervical check, and I was finally dilated to 7cm. She was about to go off shift but called my OB to discuss the next course of action. The proposal was to restart the Pitocin at 1 unit and gradually increase while monitoring. When Christy left the room, Jacob and I discussed what <b><i>we </i></b>thought was best and agreed that we would try 1 unit but really wanted to hold out and not bump up to 2 units without ample monitoring of how my body responded. We were in no rush! We talked about the peace of God which transcends all understanding (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+4:7" target="_blank">Phil 4:7</a>). It was so helpful to recall Scripture and remind ourselves that God was in control regardless of the circumstances. I was so thankful to Jacob for bringing that verse to mind, as it was important for me to step out of the chaos mentally and remind myself of the Truth.<br />
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<b>7:00pm</b> Christy introduced me to our new nurse, Liz, who would be with us through the night.<br />
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<b>7:30pm</b> Liz restarted my Pitocin drip at 1 unit, and the contractions started back. Baby B responded favorably (for awhile).<br />
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<b>9:00pm</b> Liz explained that she had to reduce the Pitocin level to .5 units due to hospital protocol because the contractions were lasting too long again (around 90 seconds). We weren’t at the 3-4 minute duration that led to the previous scare, but the contractions were getting too long. She said we’d do another cervical exam at 9:30pm. We maintained the Pitocin at .5 units, and the contractions evened out. Liz could not believe the level was so low and still working!<br />
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<b>9:30pm</b> The cervical exam proved that I was 100% effaced, ~9cm dilated, and +1 station. Since we knew Baby B could not tolerate me lying on my right side or getting up to sit on the ball, we moved me to a position that had me sitting up a little straighter (albeit still on my left side) in hopes of helping him move further down the birth canal on his own. Liz left to update the OB but told me to tell her when I started feeling the urge to push or really strong downward pressure (how was I supposed to feel the urge to push when my whole torso and upper legs were numb?!). The OB advised Liz to perform another cervical exam around 11:15-30 or when Baby B’s stats ramped up to show he was ready to make his entrance, so we waited some more. Another popsicle (grape) and more ice chips...<br />
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<b>11:15pm</b> Liz came in and performed another cervical exam when she saw Baby B’s heart rate drop noticeably, the timing between contractions get shorter, and the intensity of contractions increase. Finally, I was 10cm dilated(!).<br />
<br />
Time to <b>*practice*</b> push. Okay, *practice* pushing = real pushing in my book. We used three contractions in a row to practice pushing with three pushes per contraction. With the first one, I seriously felt like I was doing nothing even though I was trying. In fact, I felt like I was trying to try, I looked at Liz for some kind of reassurance that SOMETHING was happening. She coached me through the three contractions, and we got Baby B’s head to crown. Then....Liz told me to stop while she called the OB.<br />
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STOP?! While he was right there ready to come out?! Wow…I don’t know that I will ever be able to articulate what <b><i>that </i></b>felt like!<br />
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<b>11:48pm</b> The OB arrived and prepared for delivery, checking the table of tools a nurse had set up. There were a bunch of tools I hoped she wouldn't have to use (forceps, vacuum, etc.), and then there were the scissors. We had discussed beforehand that Jacob would cut the cord, so she handed him the scissors - so cool!<br />
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And then, we waited. And waited. Annnndddd waited. We had to wait for another contraction, and of course it took forever.<br />
<br />
<b>11:58...11:59…</b><br />
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<b>12:00am</b> It was time! I used this next contraction to start pushing, Four pushes, and our son James came out at 12:02am on 5/4/16, weighing 7 lbs. 8 oz. and measuring 19 1/2”. He was beautiful and perfect, covered in a thin layer of <a href="http://www.parentingweekly.com/pregnancy/fetal-development/vernix-and-lanugo.htm" target="_blank">vernix</a> and announcing himself with a cry that was music to my ears.<br />
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The rest of the events unfolded really fast. James was placed on my chest almost immediately after birth, and I was overcome with emotion. I was laughing and crying, and I just could not believe he was finally here! In my arms!<br />
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In the meantime, I had asked to see my placenta, so once it was delivered, the OB held it up for me. (I had to confirm with Jacob whether or not the doctor needed me to push another time, but he said she was able to just guide it out without any additional pushing.) What an incredible organ! Created specifically to provide nutrients for James. It was his lifeline! And it was HUGE! (Yes, we did get a picture, and no, I’m not going to post it out of respect for those of you with weak stomachs.)<br />
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The OB informed me that I had a second degree tear - completely normal and nothing to worry about. She stitched me up, and congratulated me on a smooth and quick delivery.<br />
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While I was being tended to, Jacob went over to the warming station with James for his Apgar test, footprinting, etc. James rocked a 9 on the Apgar!<br />
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Then, the nurse brought him back to me, and I tried nursing him for first time - what a foreign experience, and yet...it came naturally! I was able to get a little bit of colostrum in him before they wheeled him off to the nursery for a bit more cleaning up and testing.<br />
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Now it was time to get me unhooked from all the machines and take me down to the postpartum wing. Liz unhooked the catheter and epidural and asked me if I needed to use the restroom. I couldn’t tell, but she said I needed to try. She and Jacob led me to the toilet (with a measuring bowl in it - lovely) and turned on sink water to help. She said that if I didn’t use the restroom, I’d have to get another catheter (NOT what I wanted to hear). So, I determined that I would and took my precious time.<br />
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It took about 5 minutes, but I was able to go! When I stood up, I got really dizzy, so Liz tried to use my IV line to inject more fluids. Unfortunately, the line had rolled out of my vein, so the drip caused searing pain as it released into my arm. I cried out and she stopped the drip. Another nurse ran and brought back apple juice to help get me some electrolytes/sugar. I gulped the carton, got in the wheelchair, and we proceeded down the hall to the postpartum wing.<br />
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The next two days were full of joy and love, beeping monitors and feeding little James, pictures and lullabies, little sleep and taking care of my own recovery as well. But those are stories for another day!<br />
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Praise God for His gift of life and protection for little James! My heart is full.<br />
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<br />Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-29449923036788089872016-06-04T09:27:00.000-07:002016-06-05T19:02:26.366-07:00Baby B's Birth Story (Part 2)(...continued from <a href="http://www.iamlivengood.com/2016/06/baby-bs-birth-story-part-1.html?spref=fb" target="_blank">Part 1</a>...)<br />
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<b>6:45am</b> My first grape popsicle (YUM!). When in labor at a hospital, moma are not allowed to eat food or even drink water in order to avoid the risk of aspiration in the event that surgery is required. I paced myself on popsicles and ice chips throughout the day to "treat "myself and have something to look forward to. Who would've ever thought that popsicles and ice chips would be considered treats!?! When you aren't allowed to eat or drink anything else for 21 hours…<br />
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<b>7:00am</b> Shift change! My new L&D nurse named Christy came in and introduced herself. I liked her from the get-go, and she proved to be a calm voice of reason throughout the day.<br />
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At my 38-week appointment, I had been diagnosed as <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/group-b-strep/home/ovc-20200548" target="_blank">Group B Strep</a> positive. This meant that it was very important for me to get antibiotics in my system prior to delivery. I received my first dose of Ampicillin at 7:00am and would receive additional doses every four hours.<br />
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<b>7:05am</b> I made my first trek to the bathroom. It was even more challenging to use the bathroom in the hospital because not only did I have the crutches, but I also had all of the cords and wires that I was hooked up to for monitoring. <br />
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When I returned from the restroom and the nurses tried to hook back up the monitors for the baby and my contractions, they had a difficult time finding Baby B's heartbeat and when they did, it was pretty low. Christy tried to seem matter-of-fact and calm, but I could tell the situation caused some concern. She said because of my movement, there was a chance that Baby B possibly moved onto and compressed the umbilical cord. She put me on oxygen and moved me around so Baby B would move too. His heart rate went back up, and Christy said this could happen several times during labor. As long as he responded, all would be well!<br />
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<b>9:15am</b> Christy came in and said she wanted to move me to a new room. I was technically still in a triage room, and she wanted to get me into a bigger L&D room. Once I got there, she asked me if I thought I could tolerate getting on my hands and knees on the bed for 20 min to help Baby B have room to move the umbilical cord if it was stuck around his neck. At that point, I wasn't really feeling much pain, so I tried it and ended up in that position for about 30 minutes.<br />
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<b>10:05am</b> After making my second bathroom visit, it was time to sit on a birthing ball for awhile. A few months ago, I purchased a medicine grade exercise ball due to my pre-existing hip and back condition, and it served wonderfully as a birthing ball as well. I rocked back-and-forth, bounced lightly up-and-down, and did some circular hip movements. We finally started to see some labor progress.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warm towels were SO nice in the freezing hospital room!</td></tr>
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<b>11:15am</b> <i><dun-dun-dun></i> Time for another cervical exam. This one was super painful for some reason, and I had a difficult time not crying. Christy told me that my cervix was pointing backwards, so she had to move around a lot to find it. When she finally did locate it, I was dilated to a 3. Seven and a half hours, and I was a 3...<br />
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Progress is progress, right?<br />
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<b>11:35am</b> Apparently, it was time to help things along a little bit. Christy explained that my OB wanted to start a Pitocin drip at 2 units to increase the regularity of contractions, which at this point were erratic and not very strong. Also, my OB requested the Group B Strep antibiotic (Ampicillin) be administered every 6 hrs instead of every 4 hrs, so the next dose would be at 1pm. The goal was to get two full doses in me prior to delivery.<br />
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<b>12:30pm</b> Still on the ball, I chatted with Jacob and saved (haha) popsicle number two: cherry. The Pitocin was increased to 4 units, which made the contractions much stronger and more frequent. My OB stopped by to check on me in person and said everything looked good. She did encourage me not to wait too long to request an epidural. I really wanted to wait it out until I was at least dilated to 4 cm because I didn't want the epidural to slow down the birthing process too much too soon. The contractions were definitely getting stronger but I thought I could handle it for a little longer…<br />
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<b>1:15pm</b> OK, OK. The contractions were really strong at this point. I looked over at Jacob between contractions and told him that I would not be able to handle the next contraction without crying. It was time to request the epidural. <br />
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<b>2:00pm</b> Oh. My. Gosh. The contractions hurt so bad! I definitely waited too long to request the epidural, and it was taking the anesthesiologist <i><b>sooooo</b></i> long to get there. Finally, she arrived to administer the epidural, and Christy turned off the Pitocin temporarily. I was in so much pain that I could not sit up and had to crawl onto the bed in the fetal position. The anesthesiologist said this position was not ideal for epidurals but that she would do her best (eek!). I was worried because I had heard of women having back issues after receiving a poorly administered epidural, and I wanted to be in the most optimal position possible, but I basically did not have a choice at this point because the contractions were so prolonged and intense. The difficulty of putting in the epidural caused some stress on Baby B, so additional monitoring was done before the Pitocin was restarted. <br />
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<b>2:15pm</b> Ahhh....relief. My body succumbed to the numbing agent, and I slowly relaxed. Christy had promised not to do another cervical exam (after the last painful one) until the epidural kicked in. The result: I was dilated to a 4, effaced 75-80%, Baby B’s head was at station -1, and the extreme pain was likely related to his movement down into my pelvis and some rotation during the process. Sitting on the birthing ball had indeed helped!<br />
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<b>4:30pm</b> With the Pitocin back on, we soon realized that it was causing me to have less than ideal contractions. At one point, I had a 3-4 min contraction (yes, you read that right) with no let up. This led to an immediate cascade of events that was truly alarming. Christy moved me to lay on my right side to see if we could get the contraction to stop, but Baby B’s heart rate dropped to ~60. I was moved as quickly as possible to the hands and knees position to hopefully relieve any pressure on the umbilical cord, followed by an unsuccessful attempt at an internal monitor. The room filled with additional nursing staff as well as an OR doctor. I was distraught and turned immediately to prayer for Baby B’s safety. Although I was barely aware of what was happening around me, I did hear the OR doctor and bits and pieces of a conversation about the level of tolerance for Baby B’s slowed heart rate and if/when we might need to head down to the OR for a caesarean. I had hoped to deliver vaginally but ultimately wanted whatever was best for our son. <br />
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The nursing staff administered Terbutaline to stop all contractions (<b><u>NOTE:</u></b> This drug made me super-shaky.) and stopped the Pitocin drip completely. Finally, we saw an increase in Baby B’s heart rate after a few minutes, and the level of activity in the room calmed down a notch. I proceeded to nap for hour or so, and the team monitored Baby B’s heart rate.<br />
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Time for some ice chips.<br />
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<b><i>(To be continued...)</i></b></div>
Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-12873299730603608192016-06-02T15:53:00.000-07:002016-06-05T19:02:50.489-07:00Baby B's Birth Story (Part 1)This is the story of our firstborn son’s labor and delivery. We affectionately called him Baby B during the entire pregnancy.<br />
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At 39w2d, I had been experiencing contractions for two weeks. That’s right: <b><i>two weeks</i></b>! These were not the typical Braxton Hicks “practice” contractions but they also weren’t full-on, painful labor contractions. Over the phone, my OB’s nurse calmly (and perhaps with a little sarcasm) explained to me, the first-time mom, that the contractions fitting the infamous 5-1-1 bill (go to the hospital when your contractions are five minutes apart, lasting for one minute each, and have been occurring at that rate for one hour) would be painful.<br />
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Okay, let’s get some perspective on the word “pain.” As a former athlete who has shattered her left wrist in seven places, dislocated her shoulder twice, broken both feet and her elbow in one graceful fall...in Olive Garden...on a date (a story for another time), and is currently experiencing chronic pain that began a year and a half ago, I’ve got a pretty high pain tolerance. What if my pain threshold is different than the norm? What if I don’t know what they mean by “pain” and actually end up having Baby B at home because I don’t make it to the hospital in time?<br />
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When I went in for my 37-week appointment, the OB monitored my “contractions” and with a look of surprise came to me saying I really was having <i style="font-weight: bold;">real</i> contractions. Feeling somewhat justified, I waited for next steps...but the advice remained the same: wait until the contractions were painful. The alternative two signs of true labor would be bleeding or my water breaking.<br />
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I was disappointed, to say the least, and still worried I wouldn't be able to distinguish “painful” from not-painful contractions. So, I started fervently praying that my water would break so there would be no doubt when I needed to go to the hospital. It turns out only approximately 15% of women actually experience their bag of waters breaking on its own at the start of labor. For most, the doctor has to break the bag manually after labor begins (with either “painful” contractions or induction). It was a very specific prayer, but I prayed it regularly: at mealtime, before I went to bed, every hour in the middle of the night when I woke up to go to the bathroom because Baby B was apparently squeezing my bladder in utero, etc.<br />
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The OB also said that I was 90% effaced and 1 cm dilated (see <a href="http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/symptoms-and-solutions/dilation-and-effacement.aspx" target="_blank">here</a> for definitions), so I felt like I was at a really good point and hoped to go into labor soon.<br />
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The last two weeks before Baby B arrived were the toughest. He was positioned well: head down, facing my spine, and deep in my pelvis. This last piece - being deep in my pelvis - led to heightened hip/back pain on top of my pre-existing pain and ultimately put me on crutches because I could no longer support my own weight on the left side of my body without excruciating pain. While it was ALL worth it, I simply could not wait to go into labor, and my prayers became even more intense.<br />
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When there was no visible progress made by my 38-week appointment, I was deeply discouraged. At this point, I was hardly able to hobble to the bathroom on the crutches and had my heart set on hearing the magic words “Go to the hospital - you’re in labor!” The OB had actually said on two occasions now that there was only a 50/50 chance I would even make it to see her at my next appointment but more likely at the hospital...in labor. I held it together while the doctor was in the room but fell apart when she stepped out. I <b><i>SO</i></b> wanted to meet our little guy but I also wanted him to come on his own, in his own time, as naturally as possible. More waiting lay ahead.<br />
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The night before my 39-week appointment, my prayer was answered in the wee hours of the morning. I was awakened by the ever-present, hourly need to use the restroom and grabbed my robe when I got out of bed. As I put on the robe, reached for my crutches, and hobbled my first step, the robe swished against my left leg...and felt wet. I took another step with the same result. Surprised, I finished the 10-step hobble to the bathroom and (without going into too much detail) discovered a very obvious clear fluid drip...my water had broken! Praise the Lord!<br />
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Below is a time-stamped outline of the events that transpired.<br />
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<b>3:45am</b> My water broke - hallelujah! Since we are currently living with my parents while trying to sell our house after moving back to TX, I woke up my mom to get some initial confirmation on my water breaking (since her water broke with my sister and me). We were both fairly confident that is what had happened. Excited, I woke Jacob up, called the after hours line at the OB’s office to confirm I should go to the hospital, and we got things together to leave. <br />
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<b>4:30am</b> We arrived at the hospital. In my excited but definitely still preggo-minded state, I confirmed the L&D floor with the security guard downstairs (who can remember little details like <i style="font-weight: bold;">that</i> at a time like <i style="font-weight: bold;">this</i>?), and we headed to the second floor. When we got to the L&D registration desk, I received some sympathy glances from the nurses since I was hobbling in on crutches, but I also got the “Awww, it’s a first time mom who thinks her water has broken” response when I provided my information. A nurse took me back to a triage room, handed me a gown, and told me to get changed while she gathered a few items.<br />
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Once I was changed, another nurse came in and explained that she was going to test my fluid to ensure my water had truly broken. She pulled out a piece of green litmus-type paper and explained that when it came in contact with the fluid, the paper would change to a bright blue if it was amniotic fluid (the result of a broken bag of waters) or would not change color if my water hadn’t broken. She barely touched the paper to the fluid, and it turned bright blue - confirmation! I was relieved that we were in it for the long haul, knowing we wouldn’t leave the hospital until Baby B was born.<br />
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The next step was for the nurse to perform a cervical exam to confirm my current state of effacement and dilation. While trying to perform the exam, the nurse said she actually could not find my cervix… Which meant that she went to get another nurse to try.<br />
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Let's just say that having two cervical exams back to back is not fun.<br />
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Anyway, the second nurse was able to find it and determined that I was 1 to 2 cm dilated and 50% effaced. This was not what I had expected because my OB had been telling me I was 90% effaced for two weeks. However, I have learned that because cervical exams are a little bit opinion-based, the results can be different from person-to-person. The nurse did say that the baby’s head was so low she didn't know how I was able to walk. I felt a little bit more justified in using the crutches for the past two weeks!<br />
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<b><i>(As Paul Harvey always said, stayed tuned for “the REST of the story…”)</i></b>Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-14234281027389858602016-04-24T16:18:00.000-07:002016-04-24T16:18:28.435-07:00A good reminderHave you ever just needed someone to snap you out of your current mindset or limited perspective? Sometimes we know it and fight it; other times, we don't even realize it!<br />
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Can I just say right now that there are SO many resources out there about pregnancy? So. Many. I went through a time period in the first trimester where I tried to absorb everything I could get my hands on. Then, I realized that I was reading too much. Thinking too much. *Worrying* too much. The plethora of information was overwhelming and causing some anxiety.<br />
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So, I stepped back for a bit. Shifted my focus. Got into a better mindset.<br />
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Later in the second trimester and during the third trimester, with a better mindset in tow, I tiptoed back into doing a little bit of research (because goodness knows this baby is coming!). My perspective was that knowledge could help prepare me not to be anxious - the opposite of how I'd approached knowledge previously. My goal was to learn a few things about labor and delivery so that *IF* one of those situations comes up in my own L&D, I wouldn't be as anxious in the moment because I would have heard of them before and seen how they could be addressed. Instead of having a pessimistic outlook (thinking "this <b style="font-style: italic; text-decoration: underline;">is</b> going to happen to me, I just know it"), my aim was to have a realistic/positive outlook (thinking "this <b><u><i>might </i></u></b>happen to me, and if it does, I'm going to take it in stride").<br />
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The approach has worked for the most part...up until last week. At my latest doctor's appointment on Wednesday, I was clearly progressing towards labor (ladies, just imagine some positive stats), and the doctor gave me a 50/50 chance of making to this Wednesday's appointment without going into labor beforehand. One of the positive stats was that she tracked fairly regular contractions. I had called in two days before the appointment about the contractions because they were occurring with some regularity and were pretty strong. When I called and spoke to the nurse, I got the impression that she thought "Awww...first time mom thinks she's having contractions at the 37-week point." I was told to call back if the contractions got painful, my water broke, etc., and otherwise they would see me on Wednesday. So, I felt a little justified when the monitor at the appointment confirmed the contractions. The doctor still said I should wait to officially track the contractions until they hurt and sent me on my way with the expectation that she might see me before this coming Wednesday.<br />
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Let's just say the contractions have lasted the whole week. Here's my concern: I'm an athlete. Or, at least I was in my school days, and I like to think I stay decently active. Anyways, I've dislocated a shoulder twice, hyper-extended a knee, shattered a wrist in 7 places, and broken both feet and an elbow in one fall (that one's a story for another day...). So I'm a little worried that I have a high pain tolerance and that when the doctor says I should start tracking contractions when they are painful...will I know when?<br />
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This week, I've been really looking into other mother's birth stories and progressions: Did their water break? Did they have the typical contractions that got to 5-1-1 before they went into the hospital? Well, it turns out, only around 15% of women's water breaks on its own - the rest have it broken at the hospital during labor. And I know a number of women who did not have the typical contraction situation (or didn't even go into labor and had to be induced). Ack!<br />
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Unfortunately, I've allowed these differences and questions to fog my mind and cause doubt and concern. Even last night, Jacob and I sat on the couch and counted the contractions for an hour, and they occurred with a 6-min frequency, lasting about 1-min each. BUT THEY DIDN'T *HURT*. What does that mean? I called the on-call physician, and she echoed my doctor: Until they hurt, I <u>probably</u> don't need to grab my hospital bag. She did say I could go to the hospital for monitoring or wait them out until morning. We decided to wait.<br />
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Back to the purpose of this post. This afternoon,a friend texted me to check in on how I am feeling. I relayed the latest update to her, and she told me that her water broke with all three of her pregnancies. Then, she said something simple and profound - exactly what I needed:<br />
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"Isn't it amazing how we all have different experiences in bringing life into this world?"<br />
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Before I really had time to think, I responded "Yes - I think it forces us to place our trust in God more. There is no one formula!"<br />
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And then I sat there and let the thought wash over me. My words made sense, but am I living them? Am I trusting God in the midst of the unknown? Maybe in some moments of the day, but there have definitely been moments of frustration and uncertainty where I should have turned to God first.<br />
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With a renewed perspective, I go into the night and this week casting my anxieties on my Father because He cares for me (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Peter+5:7&version=NIV" target="_blank">1 Peter 5:7</a>). We will see what tomorrow brings.<br />
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<br />Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-35682700666529849832016-03-30T15:20:00.000-07:002016-04-07T13:14:46.335-07:00How many life events can I pack into a year and a half?So many emotions and thoughts fill my mind and heart as I consider the past year and a half. A few people have commented recently that there is no way we could squeeze more major life events into such a short amount of time. When I stop to think about it, we sure have lived a whirlwind since August of 2014. I decided to create a timeline of major events to help me put into perspective the things that have tugged at my emotions at times and made me feel more vulnerable than usual.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*My grandfather actually passed away while we were on our honeymoon, so add death in the family to the list.</td></tr>
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I’ve found myself quicker to tear up and become anxious at times, and I get frustrated because that is not typical Allyson. BUT, when I think about all of the big changes we’ve been through, I’ve decided to give myself a little grace. My desire is to turn to the Lord when I feel overwhelmed (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians+4%3A6-9&version=NIV" target="_blank">Phil 4:6-9</a>), and it’s been so helpful for people I love remind me of His faithfulness when my perspective gets clouded. <br />
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As I review the timeline and consider all that has happened, I am reminded of the Lord’s faithfulness:<br />
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<ul>
<li>At 28 years old, my longest prayed prayer was finally answered through an unexpected meeting in Colorado Springs at a Focus on the Family conference that I attended by myself: I met my future husband. I have seen (and I’m sure will continue to see as the years go by) so many different small prayers about my husband answered in Jacob’s past and his character. We see how God prepared us for each other at times when we found ourselves wondering what the future held.</li>
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<li>Moving to Kansas after our marriage and proposing a work-from-home situation to my boss gave me an opportunity to prove I could be just as productive remotely in a typically non-remote role, which paved the way for me to continue being able to work remotely as I struggle with constant, daily pain while we wait for an opportunity to address the issue once our son arrives. I don’t know if I would have been allowed to work remotely due to the pain if I had not already worked from home when we moved to Kansas.</li>
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<li>Jacob passed the CFA and God paved the way for us to move to Texas right at the beginning of the pregnancy. The opportunity to experience this pregnancy with my family has been so special, and it’s been such a lifesaver with having regular physical therapy and other doctor’s appointments to have extra help.</li>
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I’ve also recognized the need to begin releasing our son to the Lord even before he joins us in person. I’ve caught myself thinking “As soon as he is born, I won’t have to worry anymore about each sharp pain or discomfort of pregnancy because I’ll be able to see him and know he’s alright.” But his birth will begin a new process of lifting him up to the Lord. I can only work to be a good steward of the opportunity God has given me to mother my son, but I cannot protect him from all harm or know where he is all the time (when he’s older), etc. What I can rely on is the fact that God knows my sweet little boy more intimately than I ever will.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"For you created my inmost being;<br />
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.<br />
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;<br />
your works are wonderful,<br />
I know that full well.<br />
My frame was not hidden from you<br />
when I was made in the secret place,<br />
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.<br />
Your eyes saw my unformed body;<br />
all the days ordained for me were written in your book<br />
before one of them came to be" (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+139%3A13-16&version=NIV" target="_blank">Psalm 139:13-16</a>)</blockquote>
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How incredible to read that God knows my son’s frame even as it is still being woven together inside of me. He knows exactly when he was conceived. He knows what organs formed and when. He knows when the eyelashes came in and when he started to be able to hear my voice. He knows the exact time and date of my son’s birth. <br />
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How can I not trust Him, the Creator?<br />
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And so my prayer is that I will turn to Him in the moments I feel overwhelmed and ask Him to “search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm+139%3A23-24&version=NIV" target="_blank">Psalm 139:23-24</a>).</div>
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Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4066319600731510518.post-76611613843930788372016-03-17T08:19:00.000-07:002016-03-17T08:19:01.369-07:00When is he/He coming?A few days ago, a really intriguing analogy popped into my head, and I’ve been marinating in it like a good, juicy chicken dish. At 32 weeks pregnant, I know the best thing for Baby B is to keep cooking until 40 weeks; however, I’ve heard enough real-life stories recently to know a few things:<br /><br /><ul>
<li>Babies don’t know there are American Academy of Pediatric (AAP) rules/standards/odds for when they should arrive</li>
<li>Babies don’t tell you when they are coming</li>
<li>The third trimester pretty much means anything goes</li>
</ul>
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The third trimester also means I’ve got a heavy case of nesting going on. There are all sorts of preparations to make:<br /><br /><ul>
<li>Assembling furniture</li>
<li>Organizing clothes</li>
<li>Stacking diapers</li>
<li>Figuring out “systems” for how to organize baby stuff (although I’m sure all these “systems” will be subject to change once our little man appears on the scene and teaches us a lesson or two!)</li>
</ul>
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<br />As I think about the fact that 1) I have no idea when he will arrive, and 2) we are busy making preparations so we will be ready, I am reminded of the second coming of Christ. <br /><br /><ul>
<li>Only the Father knows when He will return (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+24%3A36&version=NIV" target="_blank">Matthew 24:36</a>) </li>
<li>We are advised to “keep watch” and “be alert” because we do not know when He will come (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+24%3A42&version=NIV" target="_blank">Matthew 24:42</a>; <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+13%3A32-33&version=NIV" target="_blank">Mark 13:32-33</a>) </li>
<li>We should devote ourselves to prayer with an attitude of thanksgiving (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+4%3A2&version=NIV" target="_blank">Colossians 4:2</a>)</li>
<li>We must prepare for His return, intentionally putting on faith and hope and encouraging each other (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Thessalonians+5%3A1-11&version=NIV" target="_blank">1 Thessalonians 5:1-11</a>)</li>
</ul>
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<br />Am I preparing my heart for Christ’s return like I’m preparing for the arrival of Baby B? They are both imminent, although I *feel* more connected to Baby B since he is physically inside of me, moving around. And yet, isn’t the Holy Spirit inside of me, stirring me to action? <br /><br /> I’ve got more thinking to do about this analogy, but it’s captured my attention!</div>
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Allysonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553845025252634639noreply@blogger.com0