Getting Back On Track

[sweetgoddess]

Ok, Melissa, Catherine, Linda, Walkin' On Water, ~Butterfly~, and anyone else who wants to jump in, heres a thread ( I hope I picked the right area for it) where we can help each other and discuss getting back on track with raw. Whatever that word means to us individually, it is all good.

Today is Day One for me ( again haha)
I spent yesterday in bed almost all day with my old head/neck/shoulder pain and nausea, which is what led me to raw in the first place.
Last time, raw completely got rid of it, much to my amazement after 17 years of it.
How soon we forget?
I got in quite the habit of excuses with moving, social engagements, staying at relatives etc.
Glad I have moved past that!
And so glad you are all here again.

Blessings~

[catherinethegreat]

hahaha Here we are again Sweetgoddess! we started on the same day and guess what date it is? July 10th. We started Raw the first time around on Jan 10th. HOW freaky cool is that!
Jerry is going to take a photo of me today so I can document this just like last time. same exact clothing as before! hahaha dejavu.
So count me in.

xoxoxox
*c

[sweetgoddess]

gracious you give me goosebumps. I just wrote dejavu in your thread. ha!

Truly, 6 months ago we joined here to the day, buddied up and started raw. I hadnt realized it. Hmmm coincidence? Oh that is freaky!
Good, I love your pics. I got brave and put up one I do not like, haha.

SO glad we are in this together again my friend!
Hope Melissa finds this thread.
And I hope you have the best day ever.
raw, raw, raw!!

[catherinethegreat]

ok - totally freaky and incredible I must say!

good to see askcassyfirst on here again and melissa and misslinda and all the others that have popped up.

hopefully they will join this thread too!

love you mucho!!!!!!!!!!!!

xoxoxo
*c

[twinyoga]

I'll chime in here since I'm back to raw. I bought Natalia Rose's book today and am looking forward to reading it.

Anyway, I've been all raw today and I am going to a party tonight but planning on eating only vegetables.

FYI, I am not going for 100% or doing a 30 day challenge. I am eating at least 80% and working very hard on finding my place with this lifestyle.

With that said, I got encouragement from my husband last night. Never expected it. And as that babies get older I'm thinking of a career change..something in the holistic nutrition route. So I'm my own guinea pig now!

Have a fun day!

[catherinethegreat]

good to see you here! And I'm not doing 100% either. I totally support you finding your own way with your food and lifestyle! I think this thread is for any of us who want to re-charge and re-start a commitment to ourselves in any manner we feel is best suited for us.
:)

[Jodi]

Could I possilby join you? I could use some support in getting myself back on track. I am not 100% raw either and have been struggling. I'd like to achieve at least 80%. :)




Jodi

[sweetgoddess]

Of course you can Jodi!

Welcome Debbie and Jodi.and Peanut ...its all good, its all great! The more the merrier and its all about support.

Have fun at your party Debbie and I am glad your beloved gave you unexpected encouragement. :)

[askcassyfirst]

I will certainly join in!

I am thrilled to share my own enthusiasm, as well as benefit from the joy and experiences of others as they find there way on the path of raw.

As many know I am high raw, have been so for 2+ years. Although I don't feel I particulary "fell off" the raw wagon recently, I did however fail to pay clear enough attention to the type and kind of raw foods I was consuming. Although I am not going to begin a 100% raw challenge at this time, I would like to keep my diet free of the sutle junk that tends to sneak back in when I am not keeping my focus on the prize...For me that means NO wheat, and assorted grains of a feather. Nor of the sprouted variety, unless juicing their greens. :) I also want to watch my intake of sweet fruits, ie: Pineapple and citris. I can tolerate bananas, but only in certain amounts.

I need to watch the sweet fruits due to a strong concern about candida. Between march and JUne I was consuming WAY too many, and the fungus returned, leading to skin breakouts, IBS and an extreme lack of mental clarity. See, for me eating raw can't be about sweet fruits and the 80-10-10 regime, and I know that too much fruit wrecks havoc on my constitution. I need grounging. I was a walking fuzz brain, and I believe it was partially that that affected me last month during a series of accidents. (Tripping and falling on some stairs, :eek: a car accident, :eek: etc.) Needless to say I am NOT perseverating on what happened during that time, except to remind myself that what I eat is so very much tied to how I feel, and act.

SO I welcome this thread, and others llike it. I will do my best to help inspire others to keep on track.

THank you all for coming back around too!

Cassy:)

[Melissa]

I'm so thrilled we're all here together in our little raw corner of
cyberspace ;)

Knowing we're here to support and check in with each other makes a huge difference...since most of us are doing raw alone w/out a local raw community.

That's one of my hot button issues...Not wanting to stand out or be bothersome b/c of special food needs. To bond with people and feel liked and feel like I fit in, I eat what they're eating. It's something from my childhood (my family didn't "fit in" and I was always the new kid in school with the weird lunch...no, not army brat, more of a hippie brat!) but I have to get over it and be okay about eating differently and being known as "the one who eats only raw" -- What do I care if people think I'm strange?! Who exactly am I trying to please?

Don't know if social pressure (or the way we create it internally) has been a problem for any of you...

~Melissa

[catherinethegreat]

melissa, I totally relate to the wanting to fit in thing. I do tha texact same thing. Don't want to be a bother. Don't want to stand out. Don't want to be "too much".

i noticed my boyfriend actually missed me eating differently then him! He liked that I had the will and urge to do such an extreme thing! Funny - i thought he would enjoy sharing pizza with me - but turns out he would rather I eat raw!

who knew.

anyhow - great to see you here!
*c

[Rawkinlocs]

I want to join in. I don't personally feel I've fallen off track because I've never said to myself, "I'm totally giving up on this raw-thing and going back to eating like I used to" BUT...I've been allowing myself to eat some stuff...not totally healthy stuff either. Last night our family had a beautiful "going away" gathering and lot's of friends and family were there. I ate just about everything that was prepared. Today, my 2-year old and I are detoxing (he has a runny nose and eyes; I just feel blah) but I don't have this unsatiable appetite for more cooked food. I've been eating oranges, drinking orange juice and I had a cup of nut milk and a couple of raw cookies and I'm good with that. I'm not sitting here saying, "BOY do I wish I had more of that food from last night!"

I just want to say that I support each and every one of you and I'm SO thrilled to see ALL of you coming back! It's like Alissa said yall...once you go raw...ya just can't stay away from it. At some point in time or another, we end up right back here! :D

Now all we gotta do is either hope for the return of or round up some of our REALLY "old" members and patriarchs of this board like:

Curtis, Kirk, Analeah, Joke, Thunderstorm, Kristi, Smasty, etc....

[Carolyn]

I'm around 90%, usually ... altho' I will admit that this weekend I've been more vegetarian than raw. (And I <GASP> got into some Krispy Kreme donuts!!! :eek: ) Not a good thing, I know. But I'll be back on track tomorrow. It's much easier to 'behave' at work than it is here with my family. Go figure!

But I'd love to join in ... I need all the help I can get ... especially around the blasted Krispy Kremes!!! :(

[Sweet lips]

I am here too, although I have been 100% raw for the past 14 days because I am fasting as a need -There are medications that have cause me some serious problems and thus the only way I know to be relieved of this, is by this method. Once the fast is completed, I am then doing the 30 day raw challenge with raw food and my only dehydrated stuff will be crackers.

How I can relate to each of you; having my body attacks this year have cause me some serious up and down rollercoaster rides and I do not want to live like that - it is so depressing to not have a great day, because I out stuff in my mouth as a result of how I felt. Nobody knows this trouble I have seen, felt and had and I want to change.

I spent 10 days with a family and their friends who eat from 75% to 100% , and it clicked to me, just how to proceed forward - now, mind you, I was not in my home, so I am gearing up for my change. I am 1/2 there and will be eating on or about July 26, so I am with you.

[twinyoga]

Personally, I think we make most of the pressure that we're feeling. For example, I was at a party tonight. And I kept thinking "are being looking at what's on my plate?". Of course they don't care. The only thing mentioned was by my husband asking if I was going to eat more than fruit...because he worries that I won't eat enough.

But sure enough, I started with fruit then had some raw veggies and then a couple bites of pasta (my only non raw food for the day) and was perfectly content. And I'll tell you that this party was all packaged frozen food! Blech.

Anyway, I enjoyed socializing and went on with the evening. So was there really a reason for me to be nervous? Nope.

[VeganVixen]

yes , Ive been mising the "originals" - vintage is in !!!!!


you were all such an inspiration when I first came , and still are
__________________


I can feel the RETURN OF THE RAWBIES POWER :)

[SedonaSun]

hahaha Here we are again Sweetgoddess! we started on the same day and guess what date it is? July 10th. We started Raw the first time around on Jan 10th. HOW freaky cool is that!


I guess I'm almost freaky cool because I started raw 6 months ago yesterday, on January 9th.

I was almost 100% for 3 solid months, then went out to sad dinner with hubby, then went out to more sad outings with family when his mother was here -- I didn't want to be the one to dictate where we went, so we went to sad restaurants and it's just not much fun ordering a salad in a Mexican restaurant, especially when the lettuce is shredded and they don't even offer salads to begin with.

I've been at least 50% raw probably for every day except maybe 2. I've had some all raw days, but mostly I'm raw for breakfast and lunch and then have baked potatoes or refried beans or something for dinner. So, mostly 75% or so? But the weight loss has stalled at that level :(

I just bought the Complete Book of Raw Food for a new persepective on recipes. Haven't made any out of it yet. Then I also bought, and am awaiting the arrival of some Boutenko books.

I even have ideas for sharing raw with more people, but I can't really do that if I'm not largely raw. I mean, I COULD, but it would be hypocritical.

I have gained some insights into the whole raw life journey at least. Hopefully they'll help me. But I'd like to hook up with all the rest of you's :)

[Rawmommie]

I'm here! I'm here! *waving arms frantically* :D

I went raw in November of last year and was 100% for two month and felt wonderful until I lost it on Christmas day. It seems that no matter how many times I recommit, I slip after about 4-5 day of 100%. I've gained a little weight back from eating cooked here and there and I just really want to be 100% without the slips. I guess I'm just an all or nothin kind of girl. ;) It seems to me that one slip just gives me cravings and leads to more slipping and when I stay 100% all the time I don't have those urges or problems.

So, that's my goal. I've been 100% for the last week and plan to continue to do so. I did have a glass of wine the other night, but I don't think I'll do that again either, it just dehydrates me.

I don't see the path I have taken as failing, it's just been part of my raw journey. I would just like to get all the benefits of 100% again. :)

[*~Butterfly~*]

Hello, I'm here to join you all!

I started raw April 1st lasted a month, lost 18 pounds, and a pant size, then cheated here, and there, then EVERYWHERE! I lost control, still I did keep some raw foods in my daily routine, gained back 9 lbs. and then my knees started hurting again....all this weight on a shorter person really can kill the legs! I started Friday made lots of stuff to snack on and plan on sticking to raw. I feel so much better on it, and my hubby likes my moods on it so much more! :rolleyes:
I am not 100% more like 98% since I found out my fudge balls were made with roasted carob, that I bought from a local health food place....needless to say, I will be ordering raw carob on-line soon, since I have to have my fudge balls!!!
I plan on putting up a more recent picture of myself as soon as I get my butt in gear.
Anyway, glad to join the crew here...and keep on keepin' on! We can do it!!!!

[misslinda]

Yes Carmella we do need a place to gab and support each other---awesome thread :) :) It's funny how everyone is having similar experiences.

It's crazy b/c I was totally raw and started doing hot teas and boiled rice which was the extent of my nonrawness but I felt this void like I was giving up on my belief structure and despised my mother, family and friends "excitement" at me conforming to their ways !!! :mad: You gals have no idea how many times my mother, i and the accupunturist would argue back and forth about my eating habits !!!!

Everyone thinks I"m dieting !!!!! Yes, I"ve lost weight and yes I've been sick but by golly, I"m eating !!!!!!!!! Veganvixen...btw, you're pics are sooooooo adorable.

Rawmommie, I'm so mad at you for not making your presence known earlier. I remember how influential you were to all of us........so no more hiding. That goes for all of you too....................."I'M SO HAPPY TO SEE YOU ALL HERE !!!!!!!!!" :p :) :D :cool:
I'm a raw vegan

My family and friends are "liberal eaters"

I think I pretty much convinced my neighbor to convert to rawism. "Glenn if you've registered, HI !"



::sighs::
ML

[catherinethegreat]

REALLY GOOD TO SEE EVERYONE HERE!

sedonasun! You are freaky cool! always have been!

twinyoga - glad you had a good experience today out with others. It always is in our heads - more then it is a real thing isn't it!

And all of the others here - how exciting!

today I went to a housewarming and brought Alissa's strawberry banana pie ( but I make it with raspberries ) and it was a HUGE hit. ( as usual ) I'm known as the smoothy pie lady. All that was there for food was pita and guac and bacon and tomatos. Decided to make the pita sandwich - just didn't go over board. Felt good. Didn't have the other options there - cheese - hickory smoked almonds - starbursts - rootbeer - so I feel like I did well and didn't feel bad afterwards which is key for me.

Jerry is doing BBQ and I'm having my salmon which is on my plan and making my favorite kale salad tonight so I'm excited about that!!!!!!!

all in all a great day - July 10th has been. Noticing that my moods are leveling out - and I have more energy to get things done - more excitement about making subtle shifts in my business and moving out from under the muck and goooop.

I hope you all ahd a fabulous day as well and feel like you are on your way to living your best life ever!

[misslinda]

Hey Cath my love......would you mind posting that strawberry/ banana pie recipe in the "recipe" section so I can make it too???? :D

pretty pleez,
ML

[catherinethegreat]

of course misslinda - I'll do that right now....

xo
*c :D

[Ireland]

Ah, I'm getting all warm and fuzzy here. (Don't worry, not too warm as in cooked... :p )

Although it's not great that many of us have been struggling with raw, I feel like I've been on this deserted island and all of a sudden discovered there's other people here, just like me. We're not alone, Hail, Hail the gangs all here again! Yay!

Sheesh, you'd think I'd get it....after 21 days of 100% raw back in February (other than a teeny bit of Ranch Dressing every so often) I was able to get off the blood pressure meds I'd been on for almost 10 years. And I'm only 42. I felt good! And then, I let something get in my way and started back down the SAD road.

So, here I am again. Heavier, far less healthy, feeling like a fat, heavy, overgrown bump on a log. BUT, this bump ain't throwin' in the towel so easy! I too would like to find my way on this road to health and having all this incredible support again is such a cool idea.

For now, I'm gona shoot for 80% raw, 20% cooked, healthy vegan. Eventually 100% but for now, baby steps.

Take care Sisters (and Brothers) if you're joining us but I think it's all women so far, no?

Oh yah...GROUP HUG!!!!!! :rolleyes:

[misslinda]

Group hugs are fun! :p ;) :cool:

Shannon you're right, we're all crawling back on our knees. Is everyone going to journal their rawness???

[catherinethegreat]

yep _ i'm back to journaling again and I just posted 2 photos Jerry took of me just now in my journal area. I liked them both so I decided to be vain about it. Oy! I may get over it and take one of them out.

anyhow - go check it out.

and I'm so glad you are here Walkin'onWater BIG HUG TO YOU!!!!!!!

xo
*c

[*~Butterfly~*]

I love the warm fuzzies!!! {{{{{{{{{{{{{{GroupHugs}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
I am journaling, seems to help with keeping on track as well... ;)

Thank you Catherine for the Strawberry pie recipe...yummy...guess what I'm making tomorrow! ;) ;)

[sweetgoddess]

Shannon~hahaha at your signature line.
Catherine~ I am THRILLED you had such a grand day dearest. Your energy feels sooo good!

Rawmommie welcome back! Kelley you too, so nice to see you both.

Its so fun having this thread. Cherie, sweetlips, butterfly, debbie....well!

Sings......"Hail, Hail the gangs all here!"

I had a wonderful, healthy day for my first day back to raw. I feel light and oxygenated, which I have missed this past week.
I'll keep what I ate ietc in my journal, but I want to THANK you all for exciting and inspiring me throughout my day. What a blessing.
Merci!

xo

[calee]

Hi everyone,
I haven't participated very much on the board, but I've been keeping my raw journal since April 1st. I've done really well for my 100 days. But I know I'm going to need support soon, so I want to join in and give support to those of you who's journals inspired me to go raw in the 1st place. Thank you all for your journals!
I'm going to China on July 29th for 9 days. I'm told it will be impossible for me to eat raw there because of the bacteria on the foods. I know I can't drink the water there and friends have warned me that even washing fruit in bottled water, then peeling might not be good enough to keep me healthy. I'm very excited about my trip as I'm meeting my incredible 31 yr old son who lives in South Korea for this vacation week.
When I was eating high raw at the beginning of the year I did great. Then in March I ate more SAD food and had the worst 2 week detox which led me to 100%. I'm terrified of cooked food so this next month of letting go of 100% is going to be difficult for me. I'm going to slowly add in foods so that my system doesn't totally freak out and make me sick for my entire trip. And yes, I'm planning to take almond butter and flax crax and caramel coconut cookies and larabars and nuts to help me stay as high raw as possible. I have cookies and flax crax in the dehydrator as I type. I know they'll last in the fridge until it's time to go. I also need them for a trip to Cleveland next week for my parents Headstone unveiling at the cemetary.

I'm really scared that getting back to 100% the day I return will be hard for me as I'm definitely a compulsive eater! I'm going to be coming here looking for support and accountability. I find that my journal keeps me accountable as nothing else succeeds in doing.
So please let me join in here and be part of this incredible group!
lee

[*~Butterfly~*]

Catherine, your pic is beautiful! Glad to see you here again!

SweetGoddess glad you had a great day, one more step towards better health!

All, I am soooo excited about the little group we have going here....we can do it!!!!

:D :D :D :D :D

[sweetgoddess]

Lee~welcome, welcome. Have a fabulous trip to China, wow. We will be here for you before~and after. yeah for you.

Thank you ~Butterfly~ hey I saw you in my yard today!!! ;)

[*~Butterfly~*]

Calee,
Welcome!

Hmmmm...China...I am sure one day I will meet my future daughter there... ;)

Yeah, Raw might be hard, veggie dishes might be the only way to do it. :(
In doing my research of China, many people did go veggie there instead of meat eating because of the questionable types of meat lurking under the sauces. Ewwww.

Anyway, come join us....maybe there will be somebody who can think of a devious way for you to smuggle in some fruit and veggies to China. Heck, you can do some dehydrating, and bring some nuts as well...

[*~Butterfly~*]

Thank you ~Butterfly~ hey I saw you in my yard today!!! ;)

Yes, just poking around a little..... ;)

[misslinda]

Wow, Calee! one of my girlfriend's boyfriend just got back form China not to long ago to do research for his doctoral theisis. I was amazed and speechless at some of the accepted cultural practices that would be considered hazaradous here in terms of living in safe conditions...........I wish you a safe and healthy trip.

Be sure to stop by any chance you get!

luv,
ML :)

[sean lee]

I have just started going raw 100%[july 1]. on the 5th july went to a social dinner and ate some cooked food. The next day, had a headache and felt pretty bad with myself and started going raw that day and keeping it up. It's great, I am more sensitive to those around me and my emotions are much better.Goodbye to cooked food and I am not crying about it. Hard to miss something that is bad for you, spirit, soul and body.

[Jodi]

Hey..WalkinonWater....here is a group hug for you!



http://www.geocities.com/jmpatton74/icons/grouphug9.gif

[Jodi]

I am going to try and journal. I always have good intentions...start off with gusto...then fizzle out and stop writing in it.

But...I will give it a go! After all the crap I ate yesterday and how lousy I felt...I need to get serious.



Jodi

[UltrasonicRaw]

i think the reason i have yet to form a journal is because i just am not to 100 percent yet, after reading so many journals and what a lot of people have posted in this thread, i guess that is not entirely the point of journaling. it is like i had a revelation that i actually HAVE been doing my own 30 day challenge because every day i wake up with my raw plan and most of the time i complete it, sometimes i have a bump or two, but i feel my overall outlook is raw. it is the first time since becoming vegetarian that i see clearly how i WANT to eat. basically, if i had been journaling all this time, my journal would look like most everyone elses. ups and downs but always improving.

i think the attraction to raw for me was first weight loss and second health....maybe that was what is tripping me up. i have lost about four pounds in two months eating this way and excercising, i find i look better, feel better...its amazing. i just fear beating myself up over any slip ups...because although i truly believe 100 percent raw is in my future, right now i am navigating through my day to day life and through all the recipes etc. i absolutely know a completely raw day feels like i am in transition TOWARD something and then a cooked meal will stop that process. i can feel the weight coming off and then wham, my metabolism just hits the wall. strangest thing!!! i can really see why alissa says 100 percent gets you buzzing.

so, really raw is about fixing up my very unhealthy vegetarian diet and becoming more healthy rather than just focusing on the weight loss. also, i think it is refreshing to hear others are feeling good at any raw percentage...that is what my experience is currently. i think i take two steps forward and one step back...but am constantly improving and moving forward! some days it feels totally natural to eat this way, and others i am disorganized. i think that is the key: disorganized. being organized with lots of choices makes raw easier.

ok, enough rambling. i love to read everyones journals. they are the best thing about this forum for me.

[Melissa]

Hi Team!

I'm on Day Two of Master Cleanse and just loving everything about it so far. My house is quiet...make that silent...with my family away this week and it's like my own private healing sanctuary. I'm running low on lemons though...and I'm also using Grade A syrup for now since I didn't have the other on hand (Does this really matter? I'll go looking for Grade B at the health food store later today.)

Cassy, nice to "see" you again! I'm going to start a thread today about parasite cleansing questions. I have the ParaGone product and am thinking of starting it. Any input appreciated as always.

How's everyone doing?
Sending raw food angels to guide you!
~M.

[Jodi]

I'm doing well today so far. Glad to hear your MasterCleanse is going well, Melissa. I'm not sure I could do that.

I had raw oatmeal for breakfast. I'm really growing to love raw oatmeal. Especially with organic raisens thrown in!

Jodi

[sweetgoddess]

Good morning and welcome to Sean and Jodi!!

Way to go Melissa! I am so glad for you that your house is your sanctuary this week.

I just had banana flax crackers with raw honey and almond butter for breakfast after doing yoga and I am off to work in a few ( gardener for a resort-lots of exercise and sunshine) but wanted to wish everyone getting Back on Track a wonderfully, energizing, beautiful day. :)
Bless~*~

[elaina]

Hi this thread is great..I definately need to get back on track...can I join you guys?? I am on the Rawfood Detox Diet, which advocates a little cooked..(I have been having my last meal steamed...veggies) Really need the help of commraderie, to help pull me through!!

[misslinda]

Good morning peoples !!!!! ::yawning out of sleep::

Best wishes on this MONDAY for all of us & LET THE GOOD TIMES BEGIN !!!


:) :p ;) :D :eek:

[askcassyfirst]

Happy Monday everyone. Those of us on the central west coast of FL made it through the weekend tropical cyclone (hurricane :) ) without a scratch, so I am greatful. Thoughts and wishes being sent to those in the panhandle and Alabama.

I started my day with a nice raw fiber bar, and some digestive supplements.

Now, if I could only drop the half cup of coffee from my regime...It is one of the things that keeps me from being even higher raw! Arg. Well, I will write more on that in my journal, rather than complaining here.

Thanks for everyone's smiling face on this monday morning. I must get back to work, lots to do, so I will chat either at lunch, or after work...Have a chiro apt tonight, so it might be late.


Cassy :)

[sweetgoddess]

elaina~welcome! Jump right in. :)

[catherinethegreat]

Last night I was exhausted and falling asleep around 9:45pm. That is not my usual but I listened to it and jsut went to bed. And I got up late too. Hmph.
How odd. I'm sure it has to do with what I ate - but it was so much healthier then usual.

anyhow - I'm yawning my way into the office today.

Elaina - YES - OF COURSE - you are welcome here!!!!! Glad you found this thread. It's not about being like everyone else - it's about finding your own plan and having all of us support you in that. I am eating some cooked and steamed things too as per my doctor's advice to transition. So for me I need support just doing what he says because I am all or nothing and inbetween is hard for me....but somehow it's been easier since I decided to re-connect with this forum.

[sweetgoddess]

rah rah Catherine! Good morning beloved. I am sleepy today too.
Have the best sleepy day ever then! ;)

[Randolyn]

Great thread for me today! Good to know I am not alone. Wow how terrible I felt yesterday! Reminded me so much of when I used to drink alot. I felt so hungover :( I had been basically raw (not 100%) for a month or so and then at my son's 5th b-day party I ate some really nasty, salty food and even ate some cake which I never do I don't even like cake LOL. It all sure didn't taste as good as I remember? Wow what an effect. My face swelled up and I just in general felt awful. I am still recovering, but better today.

[Rawmommie]

Ok, no more hiding! You are going to be sorry though, you obviously forgot how I can ramble! :p

I need to get my act together and get Alissa's book. I need to try some recipes, but they have to be without nuts b/c my fibro symptoms come back when I eat too many nuts.

Our air conditioning broke and we haven't had the $ to fix it, but after we do I'm gonna order Alissa's book b/c the recipes just sound 100 times better than many of the recipes I've seen. :yum:

My mom, sister, and the cousins are coming today and I've got sandwich stuff for them. They are pretty understanding about the way I eat. I'm sorry you have stuggled with people fighting you MissLinda. It's YOUR BODY and you are doing something good for it!

I'll stop ramlin now. You asked for it! :rolleyes:

[lallen13]

Wow, this is just what I needed. Is this a subtle kick in the pants? I know this is right for me but it is so eay to just slip backwards and then wonder how you got there.
I started in January with the 30 day challenge and came from a SAD meat eating diet. It has been a struggle but so worth it.
I need accountability! I have none at home. I live in a small town where beef rules. This is the only place I don't feel weird. Thanks for all the support I feel here. I too will start journaling again. It tends to keep me honest with myself. This is a rededication from me. :)

[Jodi]

Oh my gosh...I think I've died and gone to heaven. I made up Alissa's Pesto mushrooms last night and put them in the dehydrator this morning so they would be ready for lunch.

These things are soooo good! I could eat this whole batch with no problem! I did tweak the recipe a bit as I didn't have enough basil, but I just subed spinach. I think I like it as it is with less basil.

I am going to have some serious garlic breath when I go back to work! :p

Jodi

[elaina]

Thanks you guys..I really need the extra help of friends right now, really going through alot of 'stuff' in my personal life...I know this group will be a great support group, thanks so much for including me!! I am so glad that others are eating a little cooked as well. Right now, I feel that I just need the extra comfort of it, plus, I don't want to detox so fast either...I am so thankful for all the wonderful people on this board, and love the fact of how positive everyone is and so helpful!!

[twinyoga]

How's everyone doing? I'm having a fun day. The kids are napping now and I just did some volunteer work (via the computer) and cleaned up my cleaning supplies (does that make sense?) and now just resting till the kids wake up from their nap.

I slept well last night though I felt some detox right at bedtime. I wrote down what I've eaten on my journal. I read about 3/4 of The Raw Diet Detox Book and am really pleased with it. It even talks about good "almost" raw foods for your family to eat (and kids!).

So how is everyone else? I hope no one is putting too much pressure on themselves! Enjoy. I'd be happy to hear how you all are today.

Calee: Have you thought about having steamed vegetables while in China? Sure it's not raw, but it's pretty darn close and probably a bit safer to eat.

Elaina: I'm also following the detox book. I agree very much with her raw way of life and I feel great. It's a good reference for me and I feel much more confident about my "raw" choices. I'm between a level 2 and 3. PM me if you want to chat about it.

[*~Butterfly~*]

Hiya Debbie!

All is well here! This is day 4 for me, no SAD food here, not even tempted (Hubby's idea of cooking lately had been peanut butter and jelly-thank goodness) !
I was supposed to go to Applebee's on Wednesday with a bunch of co-workers, but I just can't do it yet....I have will power, but I think all the different smells might get to me!

WB Rawmommie!

Jodie: I haven't made the Pesto Mushrooms yet, I just might have to try them this weekend.

lallen: I totally agree with the journaling keeping you honest...welcome back to raw!

How is everyone else doing?

Welcome to the new folks joining us!

[Melissa]

Hi everyone,
How did your "back on track" day go? Remember to be kind to yourselves and take those baby steps. Just don't give up!

My day (Master Cleanse Day Two) was pretty good, with a few challenges but I'm overcoming 'em. Yay me! (Challenges, in brief: detox fatigue plus a rude mother-in-law, two triggers that typically make me RUN to stuff my face, so double-yay, I'm sticking to my fast.)

How's this for funny...I printed out the new index to Alissa's book and I'm just amazed at how MANY fantastic raw things there are to eat. Everything sounds so good! That's what being on a fast also does for me...Helps me to wake up again to the beautiful diversity of raw foods, which I somehow lose track of when I'm eating SAD crap. I start telling myself "There's nothing raw I'm in the mood for" and "How can I cope with such deprivation?" which--I've decided--are the lies my inner cooked-food-addict is whispering to me to get me to crack.

I hope this doesn't sound too wacky! But I remember this happening last time I fasted. I just start feeling so alive to real food again. Even watering my son's veggie garden tonight (normally his job but he's away) I became almost moved to tears by the sight of the ripening tomatoes! So luscious. I'm not tempted to eat them now, but I'm excited that all this good food awaits me when I return to eating...and am 100% raw again for good.

Going to check on a few of your journals now (I'm not journaling until I get back from my trip next week)

You all inspire me! Love, Melissa
p.s. Cassy, are you okay after that string of accidents? Hope so.

[askcassyfirst]

Hey, everyone. Had a great day, despite a bit of panic & anxiety due to caffiene, which I wrote about in my journal. Had some nice strawberries just now, and plan to go relax...Thanks for the motivation everyone!

Cassy

ps. Melissa, I am ok after the accidents...No serious damage, just a major case of whiplash and strain, and I am seeing a chiro three times a week, getting lots of massages, and overall am WAY more in tune to what is going on around me. Most of May I was so "in the clouds" that it was normal for me to drive down a wrong street, or miss my turn on the way to work. I know you all don't know me that well, so please don't take this as my ego speaking, but honestly, I consider myself a fairy bright person normally! But for about a MOnth I was a walking candida factory! I couldn't get my thoughts clear, or anything. But, once I started the fungal cleanse, and dropped off the daily pineapple, I began to mend...THank you for asking. :)

[Jodi]

I had a good day today...sounds like everyone else has as well! I stayed about 80% raw which is very good for me. Sorry to hear the month of may was bad, Cassy. Does not sound like fun at all.

Wednesday I'm making the 45 minute drive to a nearby town that has bigger grocery stores so i can stock up on organic produce. I try to get there at least once a month.

Hope everyone has a good day tomorrow!

Jodi

[sweetgoddess]

Hello Team!

ummm Debbie do i have to clean my cleaning supplies? ;)

So nice to see your self-tossing salad again Cassy.

Melissa, way to go on another fast day.

I felt terrible today and had to leave work early due to mucous pressure in my head and resulting headache.
lovely detox and I know its the coffee with flavored creamer I had for the last 2 weeks.
so I slept and slept hard.
So nice to come boohoo to the team..lol

Wheres Cat at?!

I really enjoy coming on here and seeing how everyones days went for them.
Have a gorgeous evening everyone :)

Blessings~

[misslinda]

LOL PEOPLES!!!!!

I went to the health food store today where I consult with one of their best "supplements/products" associates..........my symptoms are troubling and mysterious to him as it has been to me, my family and my doctors! So we get talking about diet and he asks me what I've been eating. I started back about a year ago...........

"I was 80-90% raw & vegetarian doing only soy and egg whites.......then I became a raw foodist with struggles in between when I started...........I've gone back to raw as of a few days ago....."

This is when his eyes lit up and grew BIG.

"Ahhhhh no wonder.......your eating RAW! blah balhbalh he goes on.

He is an avid advocate of TCM and auyverdic medecine.

I rolled my eyes at him and smiled--I"m not changing my ways and he began going into theory about the whole dampness, warmth of the body etc etc etc..........as I walked off he whispered to me with glarring eyes "Something to think about." :p

You know, I was so tempted to give in and freak out like maybe I was doing something bad to myself. What if I wake up feeling worse in my health??? I quickly diverted what I have been doing and this is what it has come down to.......I have eaten mostly raw no more than 3 days ago and already having BM's and less of all the symptoms I was having !!!

What a RAWSOME day !!!!!!


luv,
ML

[catherinethegreat]

Loved reading how everyone's day went today.

I just got back from a business owners meeting. I shared for the first time what is going on with my business and it was very hard for me to be that open - but it was VERY important for me to do that. I made some connections after the meeting as a result - and now have a mentor who is going to guide me through the steps to getting my business where it needs to be which is so great.

The meeting had cookies and coffee and other snacky things and it was a knee jerk reaction to want to do that - when everyone else is. But I didn't. phew. Today 100% raw. I can tell my knees don't like it. so I will adjust it tomorrow.

I made an appointment to get my teeth worked on. The dentist....are you sitting down.....works in Tiajuana mexico. yep. He was recommended by my amazing natropathic doc up here in LA and he even goes to him. Says he is totally on top of all the latest ways to deal with teeth in a very whole body wellness way - aware of using dental dams, and all of that....he is as good if not better then the top dentists in LA but he charges a third of the cost.
So in 2 weeks I'm heading for the border. I'm bringing someone with me - hopefully Jerry if he can get the day off...or some other burley man.
I know that will help my current health situation emensely so I'm excited and totally freaked out.

I went to taste of the goddess today and the owner invited me to showcase my photogrpahy and sell it at the cafe's one year anniversary celebration on July 30th. This is great! A good way for people in the Raw foods community to meet me and see my wrok and network. What a nice gift that is! And I got to bring home some raw foods and dessert items so I can enjoy them here which is so great.

I found out that my first employer in the wedding industry and his wife ( who I have only met once very briefly this year ) are bad mouthing me to other people. lucky for me the wife met a friend someone for the first time and after a few moments of conversation starting talking badly about me and my photography work. This person - happens to be a friend of mine - I don't know if she knows this or not. But I was shocked to find this out. She doesn't even know me.

Wed. Night I signed up to go to a huge dinner of 50 photographers. I don't know anyone so I'm excited to meet them....then I find out that the people I DO know are - those photographers that talk about me.
I'm totally freaked out. They all know them and respect them ( a lot of people hate him too though because he is so arrogant )
the reason for this long story is because - it's a dinner.
It is already triggering my insecurities to even show up - let alone to sit there and eat at an italian restuarant with a bunch of intimidating photographers that I don't know.
I'm VERY bad with going to new places and meeting new people. I like to feel I'm in control and will avoid things like this unless someone is going with me. Trouble is - no one is or can. So I am going in alone - meeting new people who are intimidating to me - in front of another guy and his wife who think I'm a piece of you know what. Lovely.
Not sure I can deal or feel confident in this arena - but also want support to go and to eat a salad and not care what that guy thinks or says because I may just meet some other nice people at the other end of the table.
50 people and I'm concentrating on 2.

that's it for now. I'm going to go read the 4 agreements again and remember to not take anything personally.

got to get back to my spirtual practice. Not doing that has proven to be a real detriment to my health....along with eating poorly.

thanks for letting me share all of that.

I'm all over the place tonight.

[Texicalian]

Catherine - Congrats! that's so wonderful that taste of the goddess is going to exhibit your photographs! Way to go!

When I look at the photos on your website, I am amazed at how you not only capture the light (and I'm sure the photos are much better in person!), but also how you capture the soul and essence of the people in the photographs (and the humor as well). You could not do that if you did not have that within yourself. I know it's sometimes hard to look past the debris and see the truth, but I hope you can. The people who are badmouthing you may be so full of debris themselves that they can't see the truth. It always hurts when someone speaks badly of us and it is so true that there may be 9 positives but that 1 negative is what we take to heart. Go to that dinner and enjoy yourself. Let the joy that is within you and your photographs shine. Then their pettiness can't touch you. I'll be sending warm thoughts your way! Lori

[misslinda]

Cath, what a day for you !

I would love to see your work............


You're right--out of fifty people, concentrating on two--- is so not worth your time. You're a photographer/artist and never let petty people discourage you. Do what you do best.........your beautiful smile,presence and vibrant personality besides, you can kill them with your kindness and that would really make them flip :p ;) and prove even more that you are an awesome person and photographer!!!


luv,
ML

[catherinethegreat]

that was a fabulous pep talk from both of you!
Sorry to take up the space here on this thread for me me me ! ( and not exactly food related....)

I appreciate your point of view and see how it's a waste of energy to care. And to remember that one of the reasons people hire me is because of my radiant personality! I need to bring that to the dinner! Hopefully I will remember that.

Thanks so much for the feedback about my work too! Nice to hear your insights. I forget that it really is about connecting with people and being open to sense when the next emotion will be expressed. SO true. Thanks Lori!
And Thanks ML.
Can I just take you all with me to the dinner?

*c

[Jodi]

Good morning! Catherine, I just wanted to add as well that your photos are amazing. I wish I lived closer to you...my hubby and I have never had professional pics done of us and have been wanting too.

Our prayers have been answered here in Indiana! We are getting rain. RAIN! We have been in such a serious drought. All the farmers crops have just been burning up in the fields. Thanks to Hurricane Dennis...we are getting rain. It's suppose to rain al day today and tonight. And so far it's a nice steady rain. Exactly what we need. I am not sure it's going to be enough to save the crops...but, it will surely help a bit. I know some of the local farmers are saying it's too late...but, we'll see!


Jodi

[sweetgoddess]

Wow, Catherine, CONGRATS on such an exciting happening for you at Taste of the Goddess. You so deserve that my friend and I am just thrilled for you.I wish I could be there in person to admire your work and get your autograph!
Oh wait, I already have it phew. WOnder how much I can sell it for now on Ebay???

Yeah again that you are going to the dentist in Mexico. I'll come with! Oh ya!
I am so happy that is happening for you also.

Now on to the gossips. :rolleyes: I think you are such a brave woman Catherine, I truly do. Braver than you realize. So, I know you can go to this dinner and make it through something we all have ( except Chris haha), and that is fear of other's judgement.
If you werent any good, if you werent competition, if they didnt feel threatened by your brilliant talent-they wouldnt even remember your name, let alone have anything to say about you.
You are an incredible, REAL, fabulous artist--I say go threaten the pants off them!
Can Jerry go with?
Just think while you are there, eating your living salad that will burst some of its lovely, living energy into your next photograph, how they cant help being nasty all clogged up with sugar and lard and flour and....oh I'm not being nice am I? well too bad for them.
ALso, I think that has everything to do with food really, because its the very hard moments like thos that seem to cause a lot of us to lose our focus. SO I am very glad you shared Cat, my preciousssss. ( heehee)

One last thing~ I see 2 incredible events manifesting in your life, with the dentist and your work at Taste of the Goddess, and one "negative thing" with your competition badmouthing you.
Let the incredible win!
I am practically dancing I am so thrilled for you.
Love you
Carmel

[misslinda]

MORNING FORM BLUE SKIES @ 6:56 AM IN SUNNY WASHINGTON !!!!!! :p


:) Good morning everyone since i can't remember names and enjoy your raw delights and delicatessans!


Glad you are feeling better Cath and best wishes at the dinner!

[catherinethegreat]

wow - good to wake up to a bunch of gals being so loving to you! What a way to start my day! Thanks for the feedback! I forget to pay attention to the good things,,,I focus so much on the negative sometimes!

Today I read the first agreement in Migeul Ruiz's book

Be impeccable with your word
speak with integrity
say only what you mean
avoid using the word to speak against yourself or gossip about others
use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

That is a mouthful to think about!!!!

Anyhow - everyone have a wonderful day today!!!!

I appreciate all of you so much!

xoxoxox
*c

[calee]

Catherine,
Thanks for posting those words. What a wonderful thing to think about as I get ready for work.

Thanks!

[misslinda]

YES! Those were great words to go by Cath! Thanks a million :)


luv,
ml

[catherinethegreat]

I just got this from a spiritual teacher of mine. Coincidence? I think not!
Thought you would enjoy this too.....





To me, a life of happiness is the most precious gift I will ever receive. I am grateful to know that my happiness rests in how I am in the world, how I react to the opportunities and challenges life presents, and how I purposefully create each moment I am given on this earth. My life is devoted to Romancing My Soul.

Here are 10 ways that I balance the all of who I am - the physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental being that makes up Barbara Simon. I offer these as a guide so that you too may create ways to Romance Your Soul.


1. Listen more than I speak
2. Forgive without expectations of being forgiven
3. Yoga and exercise
4. Immerse myself in nature as often as possible
5. Value BEing over doing
6. Appreciate time spent with others
7. Take personal responsibility
8. Remain present in this moment, and the next, and the next ...
9. Cherish difference and all forms of life
10. Allow my soul unlimited forms of creative _expression



"An ounce of practice is worth ten tons of theory." - Swami Vishnu-devananda

[Carolyn]

Hey Cassy!

So glad to see y'all made it thru the storm ok! My heart was breaking for the Pensacola area ... they don't need any more storms to hit up there! :( After a slight brush of Charley last year, followed by two direct slams of Frances and Jeanne, I'm just cringing anytime I see another storm form. No more, please!!! My home still isn't completely repaired from last year! :(

Anyway, glad to hear you got thru without any problems! :)

Carolyn



Happy Monday everyone. Those of us on the central west coast of FL made it through the weekend tropical cyclone (hurricane :) ) without a scratch, so I am greatful. Thoughts and wishes being sent to those in the panhandle and Alabama.
Cassy :)

[jennplas]

Hi all,
I just couldnt help but add something in regards to your situation catherine. i can just imagine how hard it must be , especially when you know how you are being truthful and how you dont deserve that treatment. Just pretend you would be the person listening to them babble negatively about someone else... how would that make you feel? I would feel pretty miserable... i would not like to be in the presence of those bad mouthers. they are digging their own grave, when all you are doing is being yourself and truthful and not hurtful. People respect people like you. I don't think a bad mouther can be respected... respect is something you have to earn. sometimes it doesnt happen right away... but in the end, you will have nothing to feel bad about.. :) you will have been all you can be! and that's what counts!

stay positive and stay strong ... when you go to the event, let your confidence shine! be proud to be you and be proud of what you can accomplish. your work is absolutely fabulous! thanks for sharing it with us.

jennP

[Rawmommie]

What wonderful inspiration to wake up to Catherine! I love this thread. :)

[sweetgoddess]

Catherine I like them all except number 7. hahaha ;)

Thank you...i love this and will carry it with me today.


my happiness rests in how I am in the world, how I react to the opportunities and challenges life presents, and how I purposefully create each moment I am given on this earth
love to you!

[twinyoga]

I'm a slightly bad girl by not taking the time to read everyone's messages today. But I'm a bit tired and just taking a moment to post today (maybe I'll have more time later tonight).

Actually, I had some raw chocolate and raw honey to give me an energy boost about an hour ago. It's not easy raising twins! And they didn't want to nap today.

All I want to share is that I really have a much different outlook on raw these days and I'm enjoying it more than ever. I'm not an all or nothing girl and I'm just playing with how it all works and it's fun. I'm keeping a positive outlook on it and not dwelling on it. When it's time to eat, I go for something raw.

It's actually quite refreshing. I kind of am thinking that I'm pretty confident with it right now and I want all of you to feel the same! No one should be stressed over this.

Have a good day. I'm going to lie down for 30 minutes (unless a baby wakes up!)

[*~Butterfly~*]

Debbie, you and I are thinking quite the same on this journey, I feel oh so more confident this time around, I'm not dwelling on what I can't eat, but on what delicious thing can I shovel in first! ;) I have always loved fruits and veggies, and nuts...

This just feels right. :)

Well, my day was great! Have been raw for 5 days now, and feel fantastic!


Catherine, thank you for the spiritual uplift, those words are something everyone should live by, unfortunately not everyone does. :(

[askcassyfirst]

Hello all. THis will be a quick one tonight. I have a MAJOR detox headache from dropping the caffiene...I celebrate the feeling, as it means I am letting go of this ridiculous habit that has had me chained up again for the last few months...but, that doesn't mean it doesn't pain me. :eek: :(

However, aside from that I am doing well today. My day was crazy busy at work, so I had little time to think about the head pain... :)

I ate a nice bit of blueberries for breakfast, and a salad for lunch, so I am doing great. I am wanting some strawberries, and will likely have them at dinner. I know I need lots of fiber to absorb the toxins that are cleansing right now. That will HOPEFULLY reduce the yucky feeling, at least that is what fiber is supposed to do. I think I am cranky too! LOL!

Just looking at the computer hurts, and since I have been in front of one all day, I am allowing myself to take the night off from journaling. Forgive me :) Glad to see everyone else is doing well though...

Cassy:)
PS. I will ditto this on my journal entry, so if it looks familar, that is why.

[misslinda]

Debbie: Thank you for saying that you feel comfortable and confident with your raw lifestyle. Any "balance" we can absorb and learn from is greatly appreciated! :)

Cassy: Enjoy your rest and the benefits of you detox headache ;)


Today I'll be making bluebery cheesecake and the mock salmon for the first time!!!!! I would love to cater a nice mock "seafood" dinner with raw wine for my friends--that would be rawesome ;)

[sweetgoddess]

Ah Cassy, I too have a major detox mucous headache, also from giving up caffiene. Funny I only drank it for about 5 weeks so I wasnt expecting this at all. Thought it needed to be built up but that just shows me, that little bit did hurt.

I woke from a nap, pained, cranky, and begged my husband to bring me a cappacino. He did not, and gave me a beautiful pep talk about how I know what detox is like, how I am when I get past it, how much he respects my resolve and admires me....at first I was saying shut up ( ooops) but then my heart melted and I felt inspired by his words.
And so I made it through a rough moment with his love. Bless him.

Hope you and I feel better tomorrow.

Debbie, glad you're doing so well...Butterfly you also, that is fabulous.

Linda, enjoy your dinner, sounds lovely!

[*~Butterfly~*]

Cassy and SweetGoddess...detox is tough, I am hoping you both are feel better soon....rest, rest, rest....

misslinda, let me know how the blueberry cheesecake turns out, I have been eyeing that recipe....

I am hoping everyone had a wonderful raw day, have a restful night...I am going to watch Hide & Seek(eek!) and cuddle with hubby.... ;)

G'night all!

[pfc]

Ahhh.... the caffeine detox....
When I quit reg coffee in college it took two weeks of two hour naps every afternoon and almost two weeks of headaches for my body to shake it. I am extremely sensitive to it now, I can't drink it at all and can feel it affect my system right away. When I did drink regular I used to have friends ask if I'd had coffee before they'd agree to spend time with me. (Yikes!).
For many years after that I still dabbled in regular when I thought I 'needed' it, and it would take a mere 3 days of reg coffee in a row to have me hooked again and get a detox headache. I believe we become more and more sensitive as we get cleaner and cleaner...

[twinyoga]

So glad I've never been a caffeine/coffee person. I think the detox is lingering but not unbearable. This is when I'm glad I've had good eating habits for a while!

Butterfly, glad we're on the same path. It's nice to share.

I think everyone is doing great. I have a great salad waiting for me right now and I'm going to watch Sex in the City re-runs. Goodnight.

[askcassyfirst]

Hurrah, the pain is over! I agree Carmel, it is wild that even a few weeks back on the coffee train, can cause such a gross withdrawl symtom! My history with coffee was heavy in college, and through the first few years of marriage. (It was a social thing, as my friends and I would hang at coffee shops to study, chat, etc.) I quit when I went raw in '03, and then had a few relapses with it in between. It is one of thse things that I don't equate with "cheating on raw" which is why it is such an issue for me. I know how bad it is for me, but I have found all sorts of excuses to use!

I started back up drinking coffee in April while on a family holiday, and since then I have had about a half to a cup each day...I don't use sugar, I just like the bitter warmth, and the occassional bit of organic dairy. So, it was really a surprise to feel such a strong reaction when I stopped.

But, I did the best thing I know in such situations: I went to bed. I arrived home at 6:30, popped into the shower, changed for bed, and immediatly went to sleep. I woke at 4:30am, but decided to skip yoga and went back to sleep again. It is now 8am, and I am not feeling much of anything...This is great!

I do have a distinct pressure feeling in my liver gallbladder area, as I took my liver detox support supplements this morning, but I hope that is my liver neutralizing the caffeine that is still in my blood...Hurrah!

So, I am having some no-caffiene tea this morning, as a means of not upsetting my warm beverage ritual, but other than that, no desire for coffee. Hip-hip-hurrah!

Long day ahead of me today at work, but I have my containers of berries, carrots and salad to hold me through, and a raw fiber bar for my breakfast. Yum!

Caio for now,
Cassy:)

[sweetgoddess]

Yeah Cassy! Good for you.
Yesterday I felt so horrible and slept a lot too. Not that I want you to suffer or anything, haha, but I thought of you, knowing you were going through it also and that was helpful.

I make my husbands coffee for him in the mornings before he goes to work, and what an enticing smell, now that was hard. But I did it. I have taken to guzzling water as soon as I wake up, to the point of fullness and that helps too.

ANyways, I slept so good last night, and this mornig when I woke up, I WAS WIDE AWAKE! Yeah! No grogginess or grouchiness. I feel wonderful today.

I'm proud of us both for making it through such a big challenge. Now on to the next one!

Hopeeveryone on this thread has a beautifully, blessed day. :)

[misslinda]

Right on for you gals sticking with it HOORAY !!!! I can imagine what that headache must be like. Carmella--Chris is such a rawesome husband. Whoever my future husband will be, will have to put up a good fight if I ever had a craving :eek: :mad: ;)

Y'all (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

I fudged that cheesecake recipe---well I didn't have coconut oil and I wanted to make it anyways. The filling came out runny and the crust came out choppy since I put a few other kinds of nuts b/c I didn't have enough almonds. Thos are dehydrating into cookies instead. Although the banana pecan ice cream came out FABULOUS I didn't put any pecans b/c I like just the plain creamy texture by itself.


The Power of Raw!
ml :)

[solarliving]

Hey girls,

I noticed some of you have stopped drinking coffee? I need some serious help with this one. I actually have stopped twice in the past for a couple of months each time, but then somehow start the habit all over again. My boyfriend gets the coffee machine ready before we go to bed and when we wake up the coffee is already brewed. Talk about effortless. Everyday I say, "tommorrow I will have tea." but this never happens. I know what coffee is doing to me. I know that if I can make it throught the first week I will have more energy, I just can't seem to do it. Please if you have any suggestions, I would love to hear them.

Thanks,

Angelique

[catherinethegreat]

Cassy and Sweetgoddess - so glad to hear you made it through the rain! What a huge accomplishment! Thanks for charing your process here.

This morning I'm feeling very different. Went to my toltec class last night( my toltec teacher wrote that letter I posted here yesterday )
boy was it inspiring and enlightening.

One thing I wanted to share here based on my previous posts is this:

Anyone who keeps showing up in your life over and over again - and is some one who just drives you nuts - or pushes your buttons or you have any sort of reaction to - is called a "petty tyrant". This person is actually an angel. And gives you a huge opportunity for growth. You have an opportunity to see what it is about yourself that is being relfected by this person, and what it reminds you of from your past so you can clean up any unfinished business there as well. So when you see this person again and again you can be certain it is god who is bringing them to you again to give you the gift that you need to learn.
This shift in perception is amazing for me. I really don't have any fears about seeing that guy tonight at the dinner. I feel gratitude and love towards him. He has taught me so much. Nothing he does or says has anything to do with me - it's his dream - his point of view. Unless I agree with what he thinks or says on a deeper level - there is no reason for me to be in reaction.
Since I have always felt uncomfortable with people talking behind others backs and being petty like that - it pushes my buttons and reminds me of junior high and how isolating it can feel to have the "popular crowd" push you around with their mean words. This is what it brings up for me...but when I realized this - it all disappeared. The smoke lifted. And I feel free.
I'm excited to go to the dinner tonight and hold the place of love of and for myself. That is all I need to do.
Thanks you all for listening to this process!!!! It's been an interesting little situation for me that was a huge gift.
xoxox
*c

[sweetgoddess]

Well, I understand. I make my husbands coffee every morning and even pour it for him ( i like to pamper him)
So what I had to do was first take a long, hard look at what coffee does to my body and why it is so toxic and then picture it that way. Also, as soon as I woke up I grabbed a big jug of water and drank, drank, drank to the point of fullness. I would have the jug of water in my hand while he had his coffee.

I think, like most things, you have to really want to do it, and know exactly WHY you want to do it.
Also, as soon as I wake, I go sit in a chair and close my eyes and call it what you will ( pray, meditate, contemplate, visualize), I would picture my day raw and coffeeless, I would picture the weeks ahead filled with clarity and energy and then ask for Divine Guidance to have the strength to accomplish this. Then I would bless the day ahead. All this before dealing with the coffee temptation.
I am so glad its gone!
Soon you will be waking up with clarity and energy! You can do it!

Blessings~

[sweetgoddess]

Catherine, good morning gorgeous.

And WOW. What a coincidence you had that class the day before the dinner ;)
That is amazing insight. Your dinner is tonight! I wish you lots of fun and connecting and will be there with you in spirit glaring at all the angels...oops did I say that?
Seriously though, that is a beautiful perspective that I hope I can remember and draw on in related experiences. Thank you for sharing what you learn with us. That class sounds fabulous and I am glad to hear you are looking forward to tonights dinner.
I celebrate the beauty of you my friend.

Have the best day and the best dinner EVER!
Love ya...

[twinyoga]

Just a quick hello for the day. Life with the twins these days are crazy! But I'm loving it while eating well.

Started the day with a nice swim (while the kids played in a babysitting room...it's the best thing for them!).

Anybody have some good before bedtime rituals to help me unwind? I so need good sleep these days and I just can't seem to relax when I'm in bed and not sleeping so well. I'd love to hear any advice.

Have a good day.

[solarliving]

Thanks sweetgoddess, Your post about coffee is inspiring. I especially like the meditation part. I am setting my intention on drinking some herbal tea tommorrow morning. Let me know if you notice any benefits after being done with coffee for a while.


Thnkxs again,

Angelique

[Jodi]

Just wanted to pop in and say hello. I'm not having as good a day today as the last couple. We traveled to a nearby town to do some grocery shopping and went out for lunch. Eating out is soooooo hard. For me, it's almost impossible to remain raw.

But, I did buy a lot of organic fruits and veggies!


Jodi

[sweetgoddess]

Hey Jodi, hang in there, its no big deal....enjoy all those lovely fruits and veggies, and way to go for moving right along. :)

Debbie, I sometimes have a hot bath, or read a book in bed until drowsy, or contemplate/meditate, and listen to a cd of chanting softly in the background while I fall asleep.These things all help me to relax, then again~ I dont have little twins! That keeps a certain part of you always aware and with one ear open, so I can empathise it would be hard to shut all that down to sleep. Maybe one of those ideas might suit you? Good luck.


Angelique ( love that name) well today already I notice one benefit-I actually woke up! I mean wide awake. Nothing needed to soothe me into this "reality"
ALso, I fell asleep instantly last night and slept deep and hard. Love it.

Cassy~how is your day going, and how is your head?

Catherine, cant wait to hear how your dinner went. Hugs for you.

Linda, how did your cookies turn out?

Today is being fabulous for me. I feel great and energetic and thrilled. I crave fruit a lot, yum. Also, the resort I garden for just called me and hired me to look after their website, so that is great.
Makes me wonder why I stopped raw before. Oh ya, I remember..lol

Have a beautiful afternoon/evening.

[*~Butterfly~*]

Hello all!

Well today has been uneventful, work was great, co-workers were going out afterwards, I steered clear of that one-they are non-raw party animals. ;) I have had juicey nectarines all day long....just something that I really wanted today, I guess....

Carmel and Cassy, glad you are both feeling better! Detox sucks....
I never got into everyday coffee drinking, but I would have a Starbuck's frappachino treat every once in a blue moon, but have never needed it.

Jodi...one slip does not mean disaster... ;) Onward and and raw-ward...

Have a pleasant eve all!

[Jodi]

Hi guys, I did slip today...more then once. But, i'll get back on track tomorrow. One thing I bought at the store was a nice box of Clementines. I love Clementines. Those will be my snack of choice for the next couple of days.

[askcassyfirst]

Today I am feeling MUCH better. Sleeping for for 10+ hours got me through the worst of it. Was a little sluggish midday, and a tiny headache returned for about an hour this evening, but it is gone now.

I had some lovely strawberries for supper. Yum.

I also got lovely news from my chiro this evening!!!! I can exercise and begin running again! I can even start back on weight training, albeit much lower weights. I am thrilled. THis has been a hard month since the accident not being able to go out to jog. It was one of the things I had looked forward to when we moved to this new area, with the house. There is a lovely path all along the bay. My wreck was the day after we signed out lease...so, this is great news, and so beginning tomorrow I will be back on the road again! (we got in too late to go tonight)

JOdi~no worries, just keep trecking along. It is a process.

Debbie~I like to read a bit before I fall asleep...something dry will knock me out quickly, something engaging will help me relax.

Angelique~You can do it with the coffee. I quit cold turkey this time, having not had too much to detox (withdrawl appears to have lasted 24 hours, that is al) Last time, I was REALLY addicted, and had to cut back in stages...I went from 16 oz to 12 to 8 to 6 and then three days of half decaf and then finally dropped it off. THat was actually easier in terms of the letting go, but the withdrawl sluggishness lasted for weeks, as my adrenals were sapped. I plan to do a lot of bvitamins this week to perk my system back up. (I take a food based vitamin, but you can also get bvitamins easily from food sources as well.)

Cat~wonderful outlook you have developed! Your dinner will go fabulously. Indeed, we all learn the most from those who force us to evaluate ourselves.

Butterfly~ NEctarines sound yummy. THey are my hubby's fav fruit! Enjoy!

Till manana all,

Cassy:)

[catherinethegreat]

Well......

It went fabulously!!!

I really was able to shift my point of view by looking at it as if they were angels and I ahd no real energy towards them - positive or negative. It was AMAZING. I said hello to them with a GENUINE smile and didn't feel much of anything! We tended to not be in the same part of the room ever - but when we were - I just didn't really care! It was no biggy. At the end of the night I was walking around the room to say good bye to all the people I had met and said goodbye to these two as well. It felt so good to not have it be a big deal. ( obviously it WAS a big deal for a few days but talking about it on here was SO HELPFUL!!!! )
I am so proud of myself for going!
And for doing a lot of work up to that point to get in a place that was neutral.

Also - One of my all time favorite photographers was there and I was able to go up to him and talk with him for quite a while and we are going to meet at his studio and I may get a chance to work with him and study under him.
THAT is a HUGE gift.

Met TONS of nice friendly people - and that really was wonderful too.

refrained from eating the pasta and the dessert too! Ate a little cooked meat and that is on my list of ok food so I did GREAT.

THANK YOU EVERY ONE FOR POINTING ME IN THE DIRECTION OF LOVE INSTEAD OF FEAR!!!!!!! GREAT LESSONS FOR ME THIS WEEK.
YAY YAY YAY YAYAYAYAYAYAY! :D :p :rolleyes: :eek: :o :) ;)

[askcassyfirst]

Cat~ That is Fantastic!

Hello everyone. Another Thursday morning. I am sitting eating strawberries, and meaning to get to work. Hope everyone has a lovely day.

I didn't eat much last night, just as I thought would happen. Today I have had the berries and a raw fiber bar. Now I feel like a ball of air. I think it is the strawberries. I am sure of it. Blueberries don't do this...

I will check in later.

Cassy :)

[Melissa]

I just wanted to check in and let you know I'm reading all these posts and feeling INSPIRED...Aaah! You folks are very positive, uplifting company, do you know that? So many people are stuck in their addictions with no consciousness and/or willingness to change. So stuck in fear rather than love, as you said Cat...That's it exactly. It's good to know we have a place full of like-minded strivers who "get" our journey.

My update: I ended my four day fast yesterday with watermelon in the morning, sesame milk in the afternoon, and a little bit of raw sauerkraut in the evening. This morning, more watermelon so far. It's hot and muggy here and the watermelon is all I feel like eating!

I made some flax crackers overnight in the dehy and they came out nicely. I'm proud of myself for getting ready for my long weekend away by stocking up on crackers to bring along. I'm also heading to the store to buy more fruit.

Going LIGHT on nuts and avos, which kept my weight at a plateau last time around.

A realization to share: I've decided to do the 30 day challenge again when I get back BECAUSE...here's the epiphany...my life is going to be one 30 day challenge after another. Or 30 day celebration. 30 day evolution. Every month is an opportunity to explore the raw transformation more deeply.

"See" you all when I get back and start journaling (and posting here) again.
Love,
Melissa

[*~Butterfly~*]

Mellissa, Congrats on the four day fast. Have a fun and safe trip. ;)

Catherine, I am so glad the dinner went well. Took me a long time to realize my energy is best not used on negative people, & I am a much happier person now for that. :D

I hope all is well with everyone! I missed all your messages...
I had another great day yesterday at 100%. Lots of nectarines, hubby is now hooked on them as well-yay! I bought 4 lbs of cherries and 3 pounds of plums (which I got for free, because they rang up the wrong price!) Hubby bought me a watermelon and grapes to snack on-he is really trying to help me out-he is such a love. I made DH dinner yesterday, and didn't even have the urge to taste-a BIG step for me!

I will report in later and check in on you guys.... ;)

BTW 1 week 100%-no cheats! Down 9 pounds! WooHooo!! I am putting the scale away till the end of the challenge.

[Jodi]

It's so nice and inspiring to read everyone's entries here! I had a pretty good day yesterday....stayed about 85% raw which is excellent for me! Our local county fair begins today and with my husbands restaurant having a booth there, we will be spending a lot of time at it. I need to plan ahead and take plenty of pocket snacks for myself to keep me from being tempted by county fair food. There is NOTHING raw at a county fair!


Jodi

[askcassyfirst]

Hey everyone. Wanted to let everyone know that I plan to take weekends off from posting on the boards. Need to spend time with the loving hubby and all...:)

So, Have a lovely rawsome weekend! See you all monday.

Cassy :)
PS. I may post to my journal if I have the time...

[Rawmommie]

Catherine! I'm so glad it went so well! It sounds like you handled it perfectly and with gracefullness and love. :)

Angelique, I gave it up a few months ago and then last week had some b/c it was rainy and cool and I just really wanted it. Sigh. It was hard to not have it again and again after that! I sleep better, my skin is clearer, I'm not as crabby when I'm off the coffee. You can do it!

Jodi, hang in there! We're rooting for you. I usually end up having the salad dressing when I eat out, but being broke has helped with that! :rolleyes:

Cassy, have a great weekend with your family.

Debbie, I have 3 kids, so I know it's hard to wind down before bed sometimes. I usually read to them and it relaxes me also. I take lots of baths too in the evening.

I feel WONDERFUL!!! I feel like I'm past my 4-5 day slip period and my cravings are gone. I feel clear headed and clean and refreshed. I forgot how much even just a little cooked food effected how I felt. Busy weekend swimming with the kids and reading Harry Potter! I'll check in sometime though! :D

[*~Butterfly~*]

Jodi, bring lots of nuts and seeds, maybe dates....an apple or 2, raisins, bananas? Have a lovely time....

Cassy have a wonderful weekend with your hubby... ;)

Karen, YES! Harry Potter!! Patiently waiting for that 6th book to FINALLY come out! Glad your feeling rawsome! Have a fun weekend!

[Rawmommie]

~Butterfly~ congrats on making it through dinner with no tastes! My DH has been really great too about picking me up fresh fruit or vegi's when he runs to the store on the weekends. It helps to have someone right there supporting you. :)

Melissa, have a great trip! IKWYM about the watermelon, I've been going through those things like crazy lately! They are perfect on hot days, especially when you have no AC! :eek:

Misslinda, how did those cookies come out? I haven't used my dehydrator in months. Its put away and probably will stay that way until the winter months when the produce is gross.

[sweetgoddess]

Good morning lovely folk. I just finished catching up with all your posts. What lovely energy here.

Catherine~ I have been wondering about your dinner. I am so thrilled for you about your fave photographer, and also your perspective, wow. I just cant get over the timing of your class, change in perspective and dinner. Amazing.
I am very proud of you for going and enjoying yourself. You are so brave and very much an inspiration.
Big hugs! :) :D

Cassy so glad you are feeling better. Enjoy your weekend with your honey.

Melissa, congrats on completeing your fast and on being prepared for your upcoming weekend. I wish you lots of fun. 30 day celebration~love that.
CELEBRATE!

Butterfly, wow you are doing wonderfully. Way to go. Keep inspiring us, would ya? :D

Jodi, have fun at the fair. I thought fairs had parsley, sage, rosemary and tyhme? ha Great that your thinking ahead and preparing. I need to do more of that!

Rawmommie, I am so glad you are feeling wonderful and energetic. You need that with 3 kids I would imagine! Yeah for you!

I am on day 6 and feeling wonderfully energetic also. My sleep is starting to change again, like last time on raw and I am loving it. My husband is being so encouraging. Last night he took me to the health food store and then the grocers and stocked me back up. He asks me everyday how raw is going and told me he really admires me and that I am making him think of changes.

I did pop 3 small potato chips in my mouth yesterday before I snapped myself out of the mindless trance and got some strawberries. I am so glad I caught myself there.

Tomorrow Is Harry Potter day! My daughter wants us all to stay up until midnight tonight to go to the store and get it. How cute :D

Have a lovely day everyone!

[twinyoga]

Hi everyone. I never got on the computer yesterday.

I had a complete nervous breakdown re: the lack of sleep accumulating, detox, and raising twins! I lost it at about 7pm yesterday and just cried. It was quite a site because the twins were having their daily tantrums (they both wanted to sit on my lap at the same time), I was crying and my husband was on the fun listening to all of us crying (during his drive home...with bananas that he picked up for me). Can you picture this at all?

But my husband and I had a wonderful talk last night and that eased up a lot of tension, I had a nice conversation with my yoga teacher, and I called my holistic doctor for some advice on the sleeping and acheing muscles.

With all that said, today I'm stronger and I'm still a good 90-95% raw for over a week now!

I made gazpacho for tonight and bought some young coconuts to make a raw ice cream.

I can't believe I've been doing the raw thing for over a week. Yeah, I feel detox...I think it's more emotional than physical. The only physical complaint is that I get some heartburn. I'm surprised because I'm really good with food combinations. Can heartburn be detox? I think I heard it could be.

Hugs and kisses.

[catherinethegreat]

WOW debbie - sounds like so much to handle all at once! Glad you were able to cry and get it all out. It was probably a reief to get it out! Sounds like you ahve a supportive husband too - and that is so wonderful. I hope you ahve a great weekend!

Just a quick check in for me. I've been doing great - just extremely busy getting ready for a huge networking meeting on Monday night. I am creating a display of my work so that hundreds of coordinators can get an idea of who I am. It's been exciting to create the display...just totally consuming.

Food has been good - all raw plus what the doctor wants me to eat -
last night I had a few bites of Jerry's dinner - which is not on the plan. And that is it. all the rest I've been eating great. Feel good.

hope you all enjoy your weekend.
xo
*c

[twinyoga]

Did anyone notice my typo? I wrote my husband was on the fun...I meant on the phone. Made me laugh.

Still feel like I'm about to have a nervous breakdown. Can I blame it on detox?!

I'm going to go take a nap...since the babies are napping. Nightynight.

[sweetgoddess]

Wow Debbie, big hugs to you.
Crying is detox! I can imagine all you store up with 2 little ones like that that then needs to be released. I am glad you let it out-its necessary. You have to give so much, be so aware of and often put yourself aside, 24 hrs a day, so it is no wonder your detox will be strongly emotional. I am glad you have a support group with your husband, yoga teacher and holistic Dr. And us! You are a wonderful mom. :)

Catherine, glad to hear how wonderfully you're doing. You will do great at the networking meeting! I love your photos and am sure your work will speak for itself.

Have a wonderful weekend all.

Blessings~

[Jodi]

Hi everyone...my day is going well. Tomorrow is my food prep day. I have found part of my day on Sundays is preparing my foods for the week. Today is lazy day! I've been crocheting an afghan and am determined to finish it.

Debbie...I meant to give this to you when I read your post earlier. It's a group hug from everyone:




http://www.afpix.com/newposticons/purrpaw4.gif


Later!

Jodi

[twinyoga]

Thanks for the group hug!

I slept so well last night! It was great. Now I'm making my shopping list for the week. I like to go grocery shopping on Sunday or Monday mornings.

I'm eating out a bit today but still planning on things like gazpacho and salads.

Everyone have a good day.

[catherinethegreat]

is it sunday already?
WOW

hope everyone is having a fantastic weekend.

It's been all work for me. No end in sight for weeks! I need a hammok!

Yesterday I went to breakfast with Jerry and didn't have anything that is in my plan. eggs, with all the fixins - and a decaf soy latte although I am convinced it was NOT decaf!

I ate half of it - brought the rest home and finished it for dinner
in between lunch and dinner I ate a peach.

so basically I had one meal

my day yesterday was a bit of a nightmare because Jerry and I got in a pretty significant fight that really rocked me emotionally. I noticed when we started to fight - it was at the restuarant at breakfast and I started shovelling the food into my mouth - didn't even taste it. I started to realize what I was doing - and made msyelf stop. I was literally making myself ill from eating so much.
It happened again at dinner because we finished talking then - and I was just staring at my plate shovelling the food in.
It was amazing to see myself do this. To have that awareness.
But it non of it was fun that is for sure.

I totally know that I eat to comfort myself and THAT was a huge example for me of how I was sort of hiding my emotions by shovelling food in. Not allowing myself to feel exposed - vulnerable.

Rough day...

[Rawmommie]

Catherine, I'm sorry you had such a rough day! Just jump right back on plan and you will feel better! :)

Debbie, blame it on detox!! Although when my boys were young (13 mo apart, similar to twins) I cried a lot and I wasn't eating raw or detoxing! ;) Eating raw will make you feel so much calmer and capable of dealing with the craziness of life (or twins) so hang in there!

I'm feeling great! Eating a lot, but I'm ok with that. It's been almost 2 weeks since I had a slip and I feel so confident this time that I can stay 100% like I did last winter. I can't believe I ever slipped in the first place, but it seems that when you do, it's even harder to fight cravings and rationalization.

Anway, hope everyone is having a nice weekend. :)

[*~Butterfly~*]

Hello fair Maidens and Lads (are there any Lads?)

Had a wonderful day today at the Bristol Renaissance Faire, walked and walked and walked...didn't eat because everything was either pickled, cooked, or fried....I drank LOTS of water though...and it was sooooo hot I didn't even want to eat anything. 98 degrees! ugh!
I will have a large green smoothie this eve.

Yesterday I was a little sick...too many cherries in the morning, makes a sicky Butterfly....beforehand had some other fresh fruits, though.

Hope all is well with everyone!

[Jodi]

Ah, the Bristol Faire. I have fond memories...use to work there! Haven't been there in a couple of years. Are Dirk and Guido still performing? You sure picked a hot day to go.

Some good friends of ours used to have a blacksmith shop there and we would help them during the summer. I remember working there one weekend when the temperature hit 104. And I was in full costume...thought I was going to die! Our friends sold their shop so we don't work there anymore, but I do miss it. It was loads of fun.

Now I want to go!!!!!!!!



Jodi

[*~Butterfly~*]

Jodi,

I didn't see Dirk & Guido, but they might still be there....
Yeah, it wasn't crowded at all. And this was the second weekend it was on...there were rumors that there wasn't going to be a Faire this year, because the production is giving most of their money to the California and New York Faire....a lot of season pass holders were angry about the faire being shortend and such.

We did see the Wishing Well Wenches...very funny.
I try to go every year at least once, but they really have hiked up the prices...$18.50!!!! Luckily those buy one get one free passes come in handy....

May I ask Jodi where you are located in Indiana? My in-laws are in Siver Lake (south of Warsaw) and love it (a lot different than their hometown of Mundelien, IL)...we get out there once a month....it's so relaxing. I would love to live out that way, although I love WI, I like Indiana with all their little town fests, rummages and such. Always a small town feel no matter where you go and how big the city.

Take care...

[misslinda]

Ahhhhhh........reading your posts (Jodi & Butterfly) made me feel like you were sitting on the front porch,on a hot summer day and talkg about the good ole days. The kind of feeling that gets me relaxed :)



I'm so back on track ya'll and it's a one way ticket! CHOO CHOO (Oki, now i'm thinkin fo Revvell and Sharon) :p :p

[Jodi]

Hey, Butterfly...I live in Rensselaer, Indiana, which is about 45 minutes north of Lafayette. I am originally from Hebron, Indiana. After I married ,hubby and I moved to Lansing, Illinois, where we lived for 18 years. Year and a half ago we moved here where all of my family now lives. My brother owns the busiest restaurant here (well, there really is only a couple of restaurants) and my hubby is one of the managers. I love living here...hated Lansing. Don't know how I survived living there for 18 years. Far cry from small-town Indiana. I think Warsaw is east of here, but I'm not sure how far.

And as for Bristol...I can't believe they are charging 18.50 for tickets now! That's outrageous! You mentioned they had problems and were not sure it was opening. When we worked there, they had problems then and each year there were questions on whether it was going to open. There has always been management problems there. One reason my friends sold their shop is because the rent for the land the shops sit on had gotten so expensive. Makes it hard for the little vendors.

We haven't been there in a couple of years. My favorite acts were always Dirk and Guido and The Minstrals of Mayhem.

Misslinda....it would be wonderful to have you guys over and sit out on my porch. Too bad we all live so far apart!!!!!!! I have a big porch..except it's so hot today, not sure I want to sit out on it. I'm a wimp in the heat.

Jodi

[sweetgoddess]

Awwww, that fair sounds right up my alley. Wish it was right up my alley so I could go.
Ugh on the heat though. It was so cold where I live we had to light a fire to warm the house this morning. Amazing.

Cat I send you tons of love and hugs and hope you can nurture yourself even though your busy. Hang in there darling. Cool on the awareness.

Quiet weekend. We went to the store Saturday night at midnight so my daughter could get the Harry Potter book the second it was released. It was so cute. She's already finished it, sheesh.

I am craving sugar, sugar, sugar...chocolate and cappacinos etc. Good thing there is no chocolate in the middle of the forest! It amazes me though how singleminded I can get when I want something. Yikes.
date nut torte to the rescue!

Have a lovely evening ladies!

[misslinda]

Carmella !

Did you get the results from the test your daughter took for Johns Hopkins???? How is Chris doing with the palsy bell?

When I get better, Victoria and I are going to drive up to see you ! :)

[sweetgoddess]

Hey sweet Linda lassie. Yes, we got the scores from Laura's Johns Hopkins testing. Amazing child. She scored in the top 30% nationwide and was honored at a ceremony at St Martins College in Tacoma with an award from Johns Hopkins. She is now an alumni for life and a part of their Center for Talented Youth, and this entitles her to attend their summer residential programs as well as take long-distance courses from the university-uhh she just turned 11 last week.

It freaked me out a wee bit I must say, they were trying to recruit us at the college. Shes still my baby, sheesh! lol. SO Proud of her though.

Chris' bells palsy has not completely healed yet, it remains a wee bit, but you cant really tell. He can though as it makes his eye water when he eats, things like that.

Thanks for asking! You have a good memory. And I would LOVE to see you gals, what fun. Hopefully my hubby wont get jealous of Victoria's new bike..lol

How is your neck these days Linda?

Hope everyoe is having a lovely, healthy evening.
Many Blessings~

[askcassyfirst]

MOnday, Monday.

Hello, good morning all! Had my little excitement this morning, as my alarm code, (or my memory of my alarm code) did not work...I tore through the building, looking for someone else to help. Luckily, someone from IT was here, so they did the code. Not before the bells and whistles sent my heart a flutter though!

RIght now I am thrilled that i am off caffiene, because with my heart racing as it was, I probably would have passed out!

Had a good weekend, didn't eat a whole lot (trying to let my system heal from the gallbladder issue.) I did eat some mashed potatoes :( but that was cause we were at a resaurant, and I couldn't stomach a salad with a bothered tummy...They went down ok, but I am sure there was MSG in them, as they tasted TOO good. KNow what I mean?

Today I am doing mostly fruit, but I also have a baked yam...me and my yams...


Hope everyone enjoying the weekend, Rawk-on!

Cassy :)

[twinyoga]

Doing good today. Fruit all morning and a new salad combination for lunch (very yummy) with a little chocolate and a lara bar for dessert. Now I'm going for a nap.

Talked to my holistic doctor regarding my anxiety. He doesn't think it's emotional detox...thinks it's just the craziness of my life. I'm picking up some vitamins and minerals that he wants me to take to help me focus and get some balance. Also made sure that I was getting protein and fats (which I am through nuts, eggs, and grains, oils and avocadoes) for grounding.

Glad everyone else is doing ok.
Debbie

[Melissa]

Hi all,
Back from my long weekend trip (to Ithaca, NY and then Niagara Falls, Ontario) and the best I can say is I did the best I could while on the road. I made flax crackers in advance and brought along some produce (fruit, avos and tomatoes) but I got tired of (and bloated from) the crackers really fast and w/out refrigeration most of the produce went bad fast and was tossed. (I had to toss two avos--you KNOW that hurt!)

We ate in the cafe of Wegmans supermarket a couple times and I resorted to (or gave in to) cooked vegan fare, such as baked herbed tofu, brown rice and steamed veggies (okay, vegan apple crisp too)...The real clincher was the coffee yesterday. I had so much driving to do and just felt I needed the caffeine drug to pop my eyes wide awake. Got home safely but man, did I have the jitters and felt like hell today.

Have any of you broken the "coffee on the road" habit? I NEVER drink it otherwise. Tomorrow I'll go food shopping and get back into my full-on raw excitement here...I'm thinking about sushi and spring roll ideas, raw of course. Got an idea for spring roll wrapper...I'll let you know how it works.

I'll try to write in my journal tomorrow and get that going again. I'm a bit disappointed I wasn't raw on the road this time, but it's a learning experience...Does anybody have tips for traveling raw, esp. with a non-raw family?

Love,
Melissa

[sweetgoddess]

Welcome back Melissa. Glad you had a safe trip and I think you did pretty darned good for being out of your environment for an extended period of time.
I havent travelled raw, so cant help you there.

HI Cassy, the yam addict. ;) Alarms and loud noises get me in a tither too. So glad for you you let go of the coffee. :)

Debbie, glad to hear you have a good holistic Dr to consult with. You are a beautiful Mommy!

Yesterday I went out with only a banana, did a lot of physical labor , was starving and out later than I planned and ate cooked food. So not prepared enough and I knew it within an hour. I am going to have to adopt Catherines thing of carrying a small stocked cooler with me.
Found a way nicer place to live, on 3 acres, loaded with raspberry bushes, all remodelled with tons of space for gardens. Very excited. We move on the 29th, so packing yet again.

Huckleberries are in season here and grow wild everywhere. SO SO yummy.
I may get out later and fight the bears for them.

Hope everyone has a lovely and blessed day.
Warmly~
Carmel

[twinyoga]

My daily "check-in".

Hi. Taking my supplements and hoping it will all help very soon. I'm taking Min-tran, RNA, B complex and a multi-mineral. Can go into details if anyone is interested.

Eating all raw still and no huge problems. Anyway, the kids are just playing in their cribs right now, I can hear them and I'm going to go entertain them a bit. Their Great Grandma is on her way over here to help me play with them. She's the best. I love seeing the different generations!