So.
It has been a few days.
Yes, I am no longer juice fasting.
There are lots of reasons I stopped. Perhaps the biggest ones were losing momentum and convenience. It’s a lot easier to eat an apple or a sandwich than to juice a meal.
I hope to get back on tomorrow, or at least do the two juice/one eaten meal process. The difficulty there is that when you eat one meal, it’s harder to stay away from eating at other times.
I’m still pretty pleased with my overall weight loss and general health. I’ve still got a long way to go with the weight, but I feel good overall.
If I could offer advice to others, try not to let others influence you once you make up your mind to do something. Later, K+
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Still Alive (Day 14 of 60)
I'm still alive.
Nancy and I talked about the juice fast and decided I needed to take a break for a couple of days as it was mentally trying.
I'm not doing the fast for immediate nor imminent health concerns simply for a reboot to good overall health. So, we decided it would be good to rest it for a couple of days simply to deal with cravings and make sure all my body's needs are met.
The funny thing is that though I didn't juice today, I missed it, terribly. I keep thinking about all the nutrients I'm missing out on by not juicing. In addition, I consider all the "nasty" that's going in my body that's doing me no good.
Sure macaroni and cheese tastes good, but it doesn't really offer many health benefits. (And hers tastes really good... she makes her own with three different cheeses, whole milk and a decent amount of butter!)The kids absolutely love it -- even Jesse, whom we think is lactose intolerant, so he can't have any more of it.
Anyway, my plan is to start on the juicing again in the morning; although, I'm going to a luncheon tomorrow and may eat what they offer. I'll just have to see.
I plan to make juicing the majority of my meals in a day and to "juice fast" for ten days before I allow myself another two day respite.
I hope to add weight training into my workout this week which should help with the body toning and weight loss.
That's all for now.
Later,
K+
Nancy and I talked about the juice fast and decided I needed to take a break for a couple of days as it was mentally trying.
I'm not doing the fast for immediate nor imminent health concerns simply for a reboot to good overall health. So, we decided it would be good to rest it for a couple of days simply to deal with cravings and make sure all my body's needs are met.
The funny thing is that though I didn't juice today, I missed it, terribly. I keep thinking about all the nutrients I'm missing out on by not juicing. In addition, I consider all the "nasty" that's going in my body that's doing me no good.
Sure macaroni and cheese tastes good, but it doesn't really offer many health benefits. (And hers tastes really good... she makes her own with three different cheeses, whole milk and a decent amount of butter!)The kids absolutely love it -- even Jesse, whom we think is lactose intolerant, so he can't have any more of it.
Anyway, my plan is to start on the juicing again in the morning; although, I'm going to a luncheon tomorrow and may eat what they offer. I'll just have to see.
I plan to make juicing the majority of my meals in a day and to "juice fast" for ten days before I allow myself another two day respite.
I hope to add weight training into my workout this week which should help with the body toning and weight loss.
That's all for now.
Later,
K+
Thursday, September 29, 2011
There Went the Self-Control! (Day 11 of 60)
The day became very difficult as I had doubts about the whole juice fast. Questions arose regarding protein and fats. After some research, I became fairly comfortable with the fast, except I kept questioning whether I was getting enough protein.
Finally, when I smelled Nancy warming up dinner (the neighbor’s pot roast), I snitched a sip of broth (and a tiny piece of meat and potato). It was okay, but not uber-fantastic as my mind had made me think it would be.
I talked with the wife about my “cheat”, and she suggested that I eat some nuts if I was overly concerned about the protein intake. I was and I did. I ate about one-half cup of roasted almonds. They were good, but it left me wanting more.
What she doesn’t know is that after putting the kids to bed, and finishing the dishes, I snitched a piece of that pizza she made a few nights ago and a few bites of the basil chicken pasta. They were divine.
I know. I’m a cheater.
I won’t cheat anymore today. Tomorrow, I’ll be back on the wagon and won’t cheat.
I think a big reason for the cheat was psychological. I started doubting myself and what I was doing. You really can’t play those mind games with yourself and succeed. This process is something I want to do to kick my body back into shape. The high nutrient content will actually help me lose that weight. I like Joe’s perspective (the man who made “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead”). He stated that like animals that store fat for the winter and shed it in the summer, we too do the same thing when we concentrate on a veggie/fruit diet without the fats and meats.
I’m not disgusted with myself for cheating. Perhaps I should be. Instead, I’m kind of relieved. I had a “splurge”. I don’t really want to do it again. It may mean I don’t lose any weight over night, but truthfully, I’ve been doing well on that front and if I work harder can get back into that mode.
I’m out for the night.
Later.
Finally, when I smelled Nancy warming up dinner (the neighbor’s pot roast), I snitched a sip of broth (and a tiny piece of meat and potato). It was okay, but not uber-fantastic as my mind had made me think it would be.
I talked with the wife about my “cheat”, and she suggested that I eat some nuts if I was overly concerned about the protein intake. I was and I did. I ate about one-half cup of roasted almonds. They were good, but it left me wanting more.
What she doesn’t know is that after putting the kids to bed, and finishing the dishes, I snitched a piece of that pizza she made a few nights ago and a few bites of the basil chicken pasta. They were divine.
I know. I’m a cheater.
I won’t cheat anymore today. Tomorrow, I’ll be back on the wagon and won’t cheat.
I think a big reason for the cheat was psychological. I started doubting myself and what I was doing. You really can’t play those mind games with yourself and succeed. This process is something I want to do to kick my body back into shape. The high nutrient content will actually help me lose that weight. I like Joe’s perspective (the man who made “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead”). He stated that like animals that store fat for the winter and shed it in the summer, we too do the same thing when we concentrate on a veggie/fruit diet without the fats and meats.
I’m not disgusted with myself for cheating. Perhaps I should be. Instead, I’m kind of relieved. I had a “splurge”. I don’t really want to do it again. It may mean I don’t lose any weight over night, but truthfully, I’ve been doing well on that front and if I work harder can get back into that mode.
I’m out for the night.
Later.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Self-Control (Day 10 of 60)
A lot of it is about self-denial. Ever since college, I’ve struggled with my own self-denial. I had an epiphany one day through no design of my own. After offending a friend, another friend helped me realize that my over-zealousness and personal ideals framed by a closed mindset and unloving approach born from my own sense of pride in self led to my offensive behavior and thinking.
Surely that was a bit obtuse. To say it more clearly, I thought I had everything figured out which was evidenced by my own values and will-power when reality was quite different. Reality is that love trumps all. Since then, I’ve been very relaxed in my approach to many things in life. Sometimes, I’ve been too relaxed. In truth, I rebelled from my own “self-denial”. It has taken me a score of years to get back to a personal place of self-control where I am able (albeit not necessarily happily) to deny myself a very basic desire – eating – to achieve a goal (healthy living). I don’t think I’m rebirthing those pride issues. Over the last decade especially I’ve had many a humbling moment.
The beauty of it all is that it seems as though God has brought me to a place of healing and strengthening. I know life is never “easy” and many trials and complications await – that’s the nature of life. For the moment, I believe God is providing balm, and I am unspeakably thankful.
Well, the juicing is part of this whole process. I’m slowly wiping away nearly two decades of poor physical management. In college, I did pretty well with maintaining my weight, but once I left and got a desk job, the tonnage began to coalesce. After marriage and kids, the fat did not stop. It actually increased more rapidly. Perhaps the stress of six children and a wife with a low income has caused a bit of that stress. I think that many other factors were more involved in making the stress.
Regardless, here I am now, working on getting rid of the physical reminders of the stressful past and looking joyously forward to a bright future.
Juices today:
Standard Morning Juice
Apples (3)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Yum.
Spinach Lunch Juice
Spinach (4 handfuls)
Carrots (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
It was alright. It wasn’t like drinking a collard green juice – eww.
Dinner Juice
Spinach (2 handfuls)
Carrot (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
Cabbage (2 leaves)
Apples (2)
Lime (1)
We’re getting low on varieties now. It’ll be pretty mundane for a couple of days with mostly similar juices.
Thank you for reading the blog.
Later,
K+
Surely that was a bit obtuse. To say it more clearly, I thought I had everything figured out which was evidenced by my own values and will-power when reality was quite different. Reality is that love trumps all. Since then, I’ve been very relaxed in my approach to many things in life. Sometimes, I’ve been too relaxed. In truth, I rebelled from my own “self-denial”. It has taken me a score of years to get back to a personal place of self-control where I am able (albeit not necessarily happily) to deny myself a very basic desire – eating – to achieve a goal (healthy living). I don’t think I’m rebirthing those pride issues. Over the last decade especially I’ve had many a humbling moment.
The beauty of it all is that it seems as though God has brought me to a place of healing and strengthening. I know life is never “easy” and many trials and complications await – that’s the nature of life. For the moment, I believe God is providing balm, and I am unspeakably thankful.
Well, the juicing is part of this whole process. I’m slowly wiping away nearly two decades of poor physical management. In college, I did pretty well with maintaining my weight, but once I left and got a desk job, the tonnage began to coalesce. After marriage and kids, the fat did not stop. It actually increased more rapidly. Perhaps the stress of six children and a wife with a low income has caused a bit of that stress. I think that many other factors were more involved in making the stress.
Regardless, here I am now, working on getting rid of the physical reminders of the stressful past and looking joyously forward to a bright future.
Juices today:
Standard Morning Juice
Apples (3)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Yum.
Spinach Lunch Juice
Spinach (4 handfuls)
Carrots (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
It was alright. It wasn’t like drinking a collard green juice – eww.
Dinner Juice
Spinach (2 handfuls)
Carrot (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
Cabbage (2 leaves)
Apples (2)
Lime (1)
We’re getting low on varieties now. It’ll be pretty mundane for a couple of days with mostly similar juices.
Thank you for reading the blog.
Later,
K+
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Hungry (Day 9 of 60)
I still want to eat so many things. The fast food is still calling as well as some other foods. The neighbor gave us a pot roast tonight – it smelled so good. She apparently cooked it with more pepper than Nancy normally does. I so want to try it. *sigh*
I’m looking forward to getting to a “proper” weight. Then I can actually begin to enjoy my food again. I’ll just have to watch my calories and maintain a decent exercise regimen. I don’t want to eat the “bad” foods often, but the draw to them right now is so strong. How annoying.
On the flip side, I’ve really enjoyed the spinach. I had it a couple of times today in my lunch and evening juices. It went really well.
So I got up, drank two cups of water, went on a walk with the eldest and then went to workout. After the workout, I juiced.
After Workout Juice
Empire Apples (3)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Red Grapes (about one and a half cups)
This juice was excellent. My only “complaint” was that it was a bit acidic and burned a little going down. I think I’m fighting off a cold or something as well. #3 had what amounted to about a 48 hours runny nose/low grade fever. Perhaps that’s trying to get me too. Although, I’m getting so many micronutrients, I don’t think it’s gonna work. *grin*
During the lunch hour, I went to my first area ecumenical pastor’s meeting. I was supposed to bring my own lunch, so I brought a Poland Spring lime-infused sparkling water. I showed up without a lunch, and straight-away someone offered me a half of a Subway sandwich. I had to decline. Then they started passing around the cookies. ARGH! I just passed them on.
I got home in the late afternoon and fixed a juice.
Late Afternoon Juice
Spinach (2 large handfuls)
Green Cabbage Leaves (2)
Empire Apples (2)
Carrot (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
Lemon (1)
Zucchini (one half large)
It tasted okay. The spinach does not have a bad flavor.
Anyway, after that I helped the wife by putting a chicken breast on to boil. When it was cooked she put it in the fridge, and we ran to Wal-Mart to get some things for #3, who had to go to dance.
After dance, I was able to fix myself a juice.
After Dance Juice
Spinach (1 large handful)
Carrot (1)
Empire Apples (2)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
This one was pretty good. The spinach kind of faded into the full flavor of the rest. I’d recommend this one. Truthfully, the fruit helps.
That’s it for now.
It’s nice to know someone’s reading, so feel free to make a comment. Nice or informative comments are appreciated. Mean ones will probably get deleted.
Later,
K+
I’m looking forward to getting to a “proper” weight. Then I can actually begin to enjoy my food again. I’ll just have to watch my calories and maintain a decent exercise regimen. I don’t want to eat the “bad” foods often, but the draw to them right now is so strong. How annoying.
On the flip side, I’ve really enjoyed the spinach. I had it a couple of times today in my lunch and evening juices. It went really well.
So I got up, drank two cups of water, went on a walk with the eldest and then went to workout. After the workout, I juiced.
After Workout Juice
Empire Apples (3)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Red Grapes (about one and a half cups)
This juice was excellent. My only “complaint” was that it was a bit acidic and burned a little going down. I think I’m fighting off a cold or something as well. #3 had what amounted to about a 48 hours runny nose/low grade fever. Perhaps that’s trying to get me too. Although, I’m getting so many micronutrients, I don’t think it’s gonna work. *grin*
During the lunch hour, I went to my first area ecumenical pastor’s meeting. I was supposed to bring my own lunch, so I brought a Poland Spring lime-infused sparkling water. I showed up without a lunch, and straight-away someone offered me a half of a Subway sandwich. I had to decline. Then they started passing around the cookies. ARGH! I just passed them on.
I got home in the late afternoon and fixed a juice.
Late Afternoon Juice
Spinach (2 large handfuls)
Green Cabbage Leaves (2)
Empire Apples (2)
Carrot (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
Lemon (1)
Zucchini (one half large)
It tasted okay. The spinach does not have a bad flavor.
Anyway, after that I helped the wife by putting a chicken breast on to boil. When it was cooked she put it in the fridge, and we ran to Wal-Mart to get some things for #3, who had to go to dance.
After dance, I was able to fix myself a juice.
After Dance Juice
Spinach (1 large handful)
Carrot (1)
Empire Apples (2)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
This one was pretty good. The spinach kind of faded into the full flavor of the rest. I’d recommend this one. Truthfully, the fruit helps.
That’s it for now.
It’s nice to know someone’s reading, so feel free to make a comment. Nice or informative comments are appreciated. Mean ones will probably get deleted.
Later,
K+
Monday, September 26, 2011
Gettin' Stronger Every Day (Day 8 of 60)
When I was in Boy Scouts, my best friend came up with a recipe for bean chowder that we would often cook on campouts. Basically, it was a thin beef chili. It was marvelous. I remember enjoying it. Especially since that time, I’ve loved bean chowders, chili and stew.
Remember that roast beef my wife made last week (the night before she made the chili)? Well, she finally used the roast beef to prepare a stew. She added in a couple of tablespoons of left over mashed potatoes as well, to thicken up the broth. She prepared the stew in a crockpot.
It smelled simply superb – all day long.
I woke up tired and continued to be tired throughout the day. The juice perks me up usually, but I’ve just been ready to go back to bed. Now that I’m in the bed writing this post, I’m fairly alert; though I could probably go to sleep if I shut my eyes very long.
For years I have often wondered if I might have too much phlegm in my respiratory system. I can’t really explain it, except that whenever I’d take a very deep breath, I’d notice a little phlegm-ish rattle or something. It hasn’t bothered me for a few days. I breathe “easier” now.
Do not misunderstand. I asked my doctors about it and was always told it was absolutely nothing to worry about. Nothing ever showed up anywhere to be concerned – blood work, CT scans, X-rays, etc. Not that I made a huge deal over it or anything, but it was just one of those things that bothered me.
It seems to have disappeared recently. Now, it could be the change of environment (coming to the Northeast from the South), but I tend to think it has to do with the juice fast.
Anyway, enough anecdotal chatter, let me lay down my meals.
Morning Apples
Empire Apples (4)
That’s right… I had straight, fresh apple juice this morning. This was great. I cannot imagine having store bought apple juice when fresh juice is ready for the making.
For lunch, I had to scrounge as the veggies and fruits are getting low. By the way, I threw out the remainder of the collards. I just could not stand the thought of drinking that juice again.
What’s 4 Lunchtime Juice
Cabbage (4 leaves)
Carrots (4)
Celery (4 stalks)
Apples (2)
Zucchini (one half large)
I think keeping away from the collards made me think this juice tasted good. I’m not sure, but it was not all that bad.
I took the oldest two to Tae Kwon Do and then came home to smell that wonderful stew simmering in the crockpot.
Fortunately for me, the wife went to Sam’s Wholesale Club while I had the boys at TKD. She got me lots of produce.
Not Stew Juice
Spinach (2 large handfuls)
Carrot (1 large)
Sweet Potato (1)
Zucchini (one half)
Apples (2)
Lime (1)
Lemon (1)
Ginger (little bit)
She got me spinach. I’ve been avoiding it because it’s very high in oxalates which are very bad for kidneys. I figure though with this diet, I should be okay – lots of water, very healthy intake.
The juice tasted very good, and the spinach did not overpower the drink. I think I can deal with that! This juice caught me off guard by its sweetness and the way all the flavors melded. I’ll definitely have to do this one again.
I drank about three liters today.
I’m ready to sack out.
Night all. Or good morning, or whatever time of day it happens to be when you read this note.
Later,
K+
Remember that roast beef my wife made last week (the night before she made the chili)? Well, she finally used the roast beef to prepare a stew. She added in a couple of tablespoons of left over mashed potatoes as well, to thicken up the broth. She prepared the stew in a crockpot.
It smelled simply superb – all day long.
I woke up tired and continued to be tired throughout the day. The juice perks me up usually, but I’ve just been ready to go back to bed. Now that I’m in the bed writing this post, I’m fairly alert; though I could probably go to sleep if I shut my eyes very long.
For years I have often wondered if I might have too much phlegm in my respiratory system. I can’t really explain it, except that whenever I’d take a very deep breath, I’d notice a little phlegm-ish rattle or something. It hasn’t bothered me for a few days. I breathe “easier” now.
Do not misunderstand. I asked my doctors about it and was always told it was absolutely nothing to worry about. Nothing ever showed up anywhere to be concerned – blood work, CT scans, X-rays, etc. Not that I made a huge deal over it or anything, but it was just one of those things that bothered me.
It seems to have disappeared recently. Now, it could be the change of environment (coming to the Northeast from the South), but I tend to think it has to do with the juice fast.
Anyway, enough anecdotal chatter, let me lay down my meals.
Morning Apples
Empire Apples (4)
That’s right… I had straight, fresh apple juice this morning. This was great. I cannot imagine having store bought apple juice when fresh juice is ready for the making.
For lunch, I had to scrounge as the veggies and fruits are getting low. By the way, I threw out the remainder of the collards. I just could not stand the thought of drinking that juice again.
What’s 4 Lunchtime Juice
Cabbage (4 leaves)
Carrots (4)
Celery (4 stalks)
Apples (2)
Zucchini (one half large)
I think keeping away from the collards made me think this juice tasted good. I’m not sure, but it was not all that bad.
I took the oldest two to Tae Kwon Do and then came home to smell that wonderful stew simmering in the crockpot.
Fortunately for me, the wife went to Sam’s Wholesale Club while I had the boys at TKD. She got me lots of produce.
Not Stew Juice
Spinach (2 large handfuls)
Carrot (1 large)
Sweet Potato (1)
Zucchini (one half)
Apples (2)
Lime (1)
Lemon (1)
Ginger (little bit)
She got me spinach. I’ve been avoiding it because it’s very high in oxalates which are very bad for kidneys. I figure though with this diet, I should be okay – lots of water, very healthy intake.
The juice tasted very good, and the spinach did not overpower the drink. I think I can deal with that! This juice caught me off guard by its sweetness and the way all the flavors melded. I’ll definitely have to do this one again.
I drank about three liters today.
I’m ready to sack out.
Night all. Or good morning, or whatever time of day it happens to be when you read this note.
Later,
K+
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Give It a Shot (Day 7 of 60)
One more day down and I’m closer to finishing this fast.
It was a little easier today. I’m still getting “cravings” for fast foods especially – which is weird because at most I only get fast food once a week, but for the last couple of years, it has been more like twice a month. It’s those engineered foods with “addictive” ingredients – high fructose corn syrup, I suppose.
We watched a movie over the last few days recommended by some friends, “Forks over Knives”. It was pretty good, basically advocating a vegan-only diet. While I can obviously see the benefits of a high fruit/veggie diet, I don’t want to cut out my meat and dairy. I don’t mind severely limiting the intake, but I am really looking forward to the time when I am able to eat some more of those things I’m denying myself right now.
That’s the thing. I’m denying myself now because I’ve been so negligent in the past and allowed myself too much indulgence. This lesson is a good one.
Anyway, let’s get to the report.
I fasted this morning as it’s a Sunday. I did have a bit of bread with Holy Communion and a little wine. For my lunch, I had a nice little juice.
Sunday Brunch Juice
Empire Apples (4)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
I absolutely love these apples. I wish I could eat them because they have an incredible firmness.
My wife commented that I should juice my collards separately and take a shot of them before I drink my regular juice.
So I tried that tonight (3 large handfuls). Ooooo that was so nasty. Granted, I held my nose and didn’t notice it until after I swallowed the green juice. It actually burned a little bit.
I followed it with a decent juice.
Decent Dinner Juice
Carrot (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
Empire Apples (2)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
Zucchini (one-half large)
This one was a little hard to get down. The carrot didn’t mix well, but I drank it, and life goes on.
I’ll probably have more collard shots over the next couple of days just because it’s so good for me.
Nancy is very impressed with the weight loss so far and how I’m already showing some significant slimming in face and on the stomach. I’m pleased she’s seeing it.
I’m beginning to enjoy the whole juicing thing while I’m still pining for some good eats. This diet is a little hard, but I think it'll be well worth it.
You might want to think about trying it too, if only to gain some energy and healthier aspects.
At the "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead" site they offer lots of information -- not just about the 60 day fast -- but about shorter, more easily sustained dieting options. Regardless, it's a great thing to eat more veggies and fruits.
Give it a shot. ;)
Thank you again for your prayers and kind thoughts. Keep ‘em up, please.
Later,
K+
It was a little easier today. I’m still getting “cravings” for fast foods especially – which is weird because at most I only get fast food once a week, but for the last couple of years, it has been more like twice a month. It’s those engineered foods with “addictive” ingredients – high fructose corn syrup, I suppose.
We watched a movie over the last few days recommended by some friends, “Forks over Knives”. It was pretty good, basically advocating a vegan-only diet. While I can obviously see the benefits of a high fruit/veggie diet, I don’t want to cut out my meat and dairy. I don’t mind severely limiting the intake, but I am really looking forward to the time when I am able to eat some more of those things I’m denying myself right now.
That’s the thing. I’m denying myself now because I’ve been so negligent in the past and allowed myself too much indulgence. This lesson is a good one.
Anyway, let’s get to the report.
I fasted this morning as it’s a Sunday. I did have a bit of bread with Holy Communion and a little wine. For my lunch, I had a nice little juice.
Sunday Brunch Juice
Empire Apples (4)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
I absolutely love these apples. I wish I could eat them because they have an incredible firmness.
My wife commented that I should juice my collards separately and take a shot of them before I drink my regular juice.
So I tried that tonight (3 large handfuls). Ooooo that was so nasty. Granted, I held my nose and didn’t notice it until after I swallowed the green juice. It actually burned a little bit.
I followed it with a decent juice.
Decent Dinner Juice
Carrot (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
Empire Apples (2)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
Zucchini (one-half large)
This one was a little hard to get down. The carrot didn’t mix well, but I drank it, and life goes on.
I’ll probably have more collard shots over the next couple of days just because it’s so good for me.
Nancy is very impressed with the weight loss so far and how I’m already showing some significant slimming in face and on the stomach. I’m pleased she’s seeing it.
I’m beginning to enjoy the whole juicing thing while I’m still pining for some good eats. This diet is a little hard, but I think it'll be well worth it.
You might want to think about trying it too, if only to gain some energy and healthier aspects.
At the "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead" site they offer lots of information -- not just about the 60 day fast -- but about shorter, more easily sustained dieting options. Regardless, it's a great thing to eat more veggies and fruits.
Give it a shot. ;)
Thank you again for your prayers and kind thoughts. Keep ‘em up, please.
Later,
K+
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Flavor Yearnings (Day 6 of 60)
I’m actually a bit surprised day six is over.
It has been a pretty difficult road so far. I’ve got a long, long way to go. I’ve just finished one-tenth of this journey I’m taking.
Today started out well. I drank a liter of water before breakfast. Again, I had a fruit juice for breakfast. I used three of my last five apples for breakfast. It’s sad that they go by so quickly.
Saturday Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Plums (4)
It was a nice flavored drink. I enjoyed it.
For lunch, I used up my last two apples while putting in some collards. Man, those are tough to juice. They give very little juice, and they don’t taste so great.
Saturday Lunch Juice
Collards (3 large handfuls)
Cucumber (1)
Radishes (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Carrots (2)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
The fruits and veggies were all very pretty together -- red, green, yellow, orange. It didn’t taste absolutely horrible as I was expecting because of the collards. It did not taste great, but again, I think that’s just mostly due to the collards.
It’s kind of funny, because I really enjoy juicing kale. The collards just are not my favorite.
Since I ran out of apples, I had to go get more. Instead of running to Wally World or the local supermarket, I went down to the orchard located about half a mile from the house and picked a half bushel with a couple of the kids. We had a good time and got some great apples.
Now this orchard had two varieties I wanted to get I’d never tried before: Empire and Alcon. I had to try each, so I took a bite of each, chewed it up and spat it out – so as to maintain the whole “non-eating” thing.
The Empires are absolutely fantastic – possibly the best apples I’ve ever tried. I got twenty-one pounds. Oh yeah, baby.
Nancy made pizza for dinner. *sigh* And I found out after the fact that the crusts were probably the best she’s ever made. *sigh* I miss her cooking. And I really want to try some of those pizzas.
While they prepared and ate pizzas, I went to the gym. I figured it would be better to be out of the house than to have to smell and watch what they were doing. Of course, ESPN Gameday had lots of food commercials playing while I was working out on the elliptical. *sigh*
I came home and had my dinner juice. I meant to add a sweet potato into this mix, but I forgot.
Sat. Dindin Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
Cabbage (2 leaves)
Plums (5)
It was a pretty basic mixture. The cabbage though gave it a very distinct flavor. I think I do not like cabbage juice very much. I will make sure not to mix it with collards or tomatoes.
So, one thing I pondered on today was my love of certain foods that really shouldn’t be eaten. You know, those fast food items or really processed things we use in cooking – like Velveeta. As a rule I do not like it much, but it tastes so great in potatoes au gratin, some casseroles and especially as Rotel dip or on nachos. I think I figured out “why” I like it so much.
It (and several other “bad” items) actually DO taste good. Maybe they shouldn’t. Maybe they’ve been engineered to… but they do. And that’s okay. I figure after this fast, I can eat anything in moderation. Some things of course should be in very major moderation, but still, it’s okay to indulge once in a while.
Okay, it’s late again and time for me to say good night.
Later,
K+
It has been a pretty difficult road so far. I’ve got a long, long way to go. I’ve just finished one-tenth of this journey I’m taking.
Today started out well. I drank a liter of water before breakfast. Again, I had a fruit juice for breakfast. I used three of my last five apples for breakfast. It’s sad that they go by so quickly.
Saturday Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Plums (4)
It was a nice flavored drink. I enjoyed it.
For lunch, I used up my last two apples while putting in some collards. Man, those are tough to juice. They give very little juice, and they don’t taste so great.
Saturday Lunch Juice
Collards (3 large handfuls)
Cucumber (1)
Radishes (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Carrots (2)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
The fruits and veggies were all very pretty together -- red, green, yellow, orange. It didn’t taste absolutely horrible as I was expecting because of the collards. It did not taste great, but again, I think that’s just mostly due to the collards.
It’s kind of funny, because I really enjoy juicing kale. The collards just are not my favorite.
Since I ran out of apples, I had to go get more. Instead of running to Wally World or the local supermarket, I went down to the orchard located about half a mile from the house and picked a half bushel with a couple of the kids. We had a good time and got some great apples.
Now this orchard had two varieties I wanted to get I’d never tried before: Empire and Alcon. I had to try each, so I took a bite of each, chewed it up and spat it out – so as to maintain the whole “non-eating” thing.
The Empires are absolutely fantastic – possibly the best apples I’ve ever tried. I got twenty-one pounds. Oh yeah, baby.
Nancy made pizza for dinner. *sigh* And I found out after the fact that the crusts were probably the best she’s ever made. *sigh* I miss her cooking. And I really want to try some of those pizzas.
While they prepared and ate pizzas, I went to the gym. I figured it would be better to be out of the house than to have to smell and watch what they were doing. Of course, ESPN Gameday had lots of food commercials playing while I was working out on the elliptical. *sigh*
I came home and had my dinner juice. I meant to add a sweet potato into this mix, but I forgot.
Sat. Dindin Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
Cabbage (2 leaves)
Plums (5)
It was a pretty basic mixture. The cabbage though gave it a very distinct flavor. I think I do not like cabbage juice very much. I will make sure not to mix it with collards or tomatoes.
So, one thing I pondered on today was my love of certain foods that really shouldn’t be eaten. You know, those fast food items or really processed things we use in cooking – like Velveeta. As a rule I do not like it much, but it tastes so great in potatoes au gratin, some casseroles and especially as Rotel dip or on nachos. I think I figured out “why” I like it so much.
It (and several other “bad” items) actually DO taste good. Maybe they shouldn’t. Maybe they’ve been engineered to… but they do. And that’s okay. I figure after this fast, I can eat anything in moderation. Some things of course should be in very major moderation, but still, it’s okay to indulge once in a while.
Okay, it’s late again and time for me to say good night.
Later,
K+
Friday, September 23, 2011
The Rising Challenge (Day 5 of 60)
Another day down and I’m still finding it difficult.
Perhaps it was the leftovers of all those glorious meals from before: chili, hot chicken salad casserole, tacos, roast beef and mashed potatoes.
Maybe it was the freshly baked oatmeal pumpkin cookies that smelled oh, so very delicious.
And then there were all those commercials on the televisions at the gym extolling burgers, sandwiches or pizzas.
It can get rough when you’re juicing and hungry for “man food”. You know what I’m talking about… a big roast beef sandwich from Arby’s. Or perhaps a nice t-bone. Or maybe that spicy chicken sandwich from Wendy’s. So many tasty things.
But, I’m not eating that way right now. In fact, I’m not eating at all! I’m simply drinking juices.
As Joe says in “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead”, I made the choices years ago to eat things I shouldn’t have which caused my body to store fat. Now, I’m just letting my body use up the fat stores while I provide it with the proper nutrients.
Juice-fasting is not fun in and of itself. It’s got some really cool effects. I’m already past where I was when I left off the Reboot a month ago. I gained about nine pounds back which I figured was partly due to the nature of the food I was eating – meats and starches – as well as the fact that much of that food was fast food and convenience food.
It’s amazing to see the weight come off as quickly as it is.
It’s just very hard when everyone and everything else is screaming at me to eat what “tastes good” and “looks good.” Let me tell you… a cheeseburger looks a whole lot better right now than a cucumber, cabbage, carrot and apple juice.
But I digress from the norm here.
Let’s talk about the juicing.
Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
Simple, but good. In fact, it was one of the best juices I’ve had. The orange was very predominant, but the cuke added a subtlety that made it very nice.
Lunch Juice
Collards (2 c)
Cucumber (one-half large)
Lime (1)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Radishes (2)
I think I must hate collards. It was extremely difficult to start drinking this one, but I was able to manage.
Dinner Juice
Cabbage (3 leaves)
Cucumber (other half)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Carrots (2)
Lime (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
My ingredients are getting kind of boring, but I don’t have lots of money to spend on fun stuff. Someday, perhaps.
I nearly gave in tonight. We just realized that having to pay for the mortgage is going to be a serious hardship, and we can’t really afford it. It’ll be hard to keep up with the veggies and fruits needed to juice, but Nancy is committed to seeing me through this thing. She’s not ready to give up. I suppose I don’t need to either.
Plenty of water – three plus liters on the day – was consumed by yours truly. I also had about 6 ounces of coconut water before bed as my treat since I wasn’t eating the cookies. *sigh*
Day five down. Only fifty-five more to go!
Perhaps it was the leftovers of all those glorious meals from before: chili, hot chicken salad casserole, tacos, roast beef and mashed potatoes.
Maybe it was the freshly baked oatmeal pumpkin cookies that smelled oh, so very delicious.
And then there were all those commercials on the televisions at the gym extolling burgers, sandwiches or pizzas.
It can get rough when you’re juicing and hungry for “man food”. You know what I’m talking about… a big roast beef sandwich from Arby’s. Or perhaps a nice t-bone. Or maybe that spicy chicken sandwich from Wendy’s. So many tasty things.
But, I’m not eating that way right now. In fact, I’m not eating at all! I’m simply drinking juices.
As Joe says in “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead”, I made the choices years ago to eat things I shouldn’t have which caused my body to store fat. Now, I’m just letting my body use up the fat stores while I provide it with the proper nutrients.
Juice-fasting is not fun in and of itself. It’s got some really cool effects. I’m already past where I was when I left off the Reboot a month ago. I gained about nine pounds back which I figured was partly due to the nature of the food I was eating – meats and starches – as well as the fact that much of that food was fast food and convenience food.
It’s amazing to see the weight come off as quickly as it is.
It’s just very hard when everyone and everything else is screaming at me to eat what “tastes good” and “looks good.” Let me tell you… a cheeseburger looks a whole lot better right now than a cucumber, cabbage, carrot and apple juice.
But I digress from the norm here.
Let’s talk about the juicing.
Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Cucumber (1)
Simple, but good. In fact, it was one of the best juices I’ve had. The orange was very predominant, but the cuke added a subtlety that made it very nice.
Lunch Juice
Collards (2 c)
Cucumber (one-half large)
Lime (1)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Radishes (2)
I think I must hate collards. It was extremely difficult to start drinking this one, but I was able to manage.
Dinner Juice
Cabbage (3 leaves)
Cucumber (other half)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Carrots (2)
Lime (1)
Celery (2 stalks)
My ingredients are getting kind of boring, but I don’t have lots of money to spend on fun stuff. Someday, perhaps.
I nearly gave in tonight. We just realized that having to pay for the mortgage is going to be a serious hardship, and we can’t really afford it. It’ll be hard to keep up with the veggies and fruits needed to juice, but Nancy is committed to seeing me through this thing. She’s not ready to give up. I suppose I don’t need to either.
Plenty of water – three plus liters on the day – was consumed by yours truly. I also had about 6 ounces of coconut water before bed as my treat since I wasn’t eating the cookies. *sigh*
Day five down. Only fifty-five more to go!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Self-Denial Sucks (Day 4 of 60)
Trudging and tromping, I gather my strength of mind and body to step through yet another day of juice only.
How I am able to do this, I have no clue. So far, however, I am through four days of juicing only. It’s a lot harder this time. My second child had a birthday today. Nancy made cupcakes with an exquisite smelling and appearing cream cheese icing. She also made chili for lunch and hot chicken salad casserole for dinner – oh and homemade applesauce.
I drank juice.
I could feel sorry for myself and suppose I do somewhat, but most importantly, I need to look past the temporary and look forward to my goal – a healthy, slim body. Once I get to that better physical self, I can allow myself some indulgences and a greater enjoyment of eating again.
But until then, I must be vigilant.
“Constant vigilance!” As Mad Eye Moody always used to say.
Breakfast Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Kiwi (1)
Cucumber (1 garden)
This was a very nice mix. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I had some more coconut water today – about a cup worth. I didn’t measure, just poured some out of the liter I bought yesterday.
I could not find kale at the grocery store! So, instead, I picked up some cabbage and collard greens. Generally speaking, I hate collards unless they’ve been cooked for hours in bacon grease and garlic. Ooo yea, a lot to look forward to for lunch today….
Green (Collard) Lunch Juice
Collard Greens (2 large handfuls of chopped)
Green Cabbage (3 leaves)
Cucumber (1)
Yellow Squash (1)
Rashes (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
Not my favorite juice, but I did drink it and survive. The collards did not have a completely deleterious effect on the juice. I somehow came close to enjoying the beverage. I know – shocker!
On the day, I had about three and a half liters of water today. Woohoo!
I already mentioned the casserole for dinner. I decided to have a fruit juice so as to not feel too self-pitying.
Non Casserole Dinner Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Navel Orange (1)
Pluot (1)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
It was very similar to last night’s juice. I enjoyed it.
Before going to bed, I had some hot herbal tea – my usual, Mexican Sweet Chili.
I’m off to bed for the night. Have a good one.
K+
How I am able to do this, I have no clue. So far, however, I am through four days of juicing only. It’s a lot harder this time. My second child had a birthday today. Nancy made cupcakes with an exquisite smelling and appearing cream cheese icing. She also made chili for lunch and hot chicken salad casserole for dinner – oh and homemade applesauce.
I drank juice.
I could feel sorry for myself and suppose I do somewhat, but most importantly, I need to look past the temporary and look forward to my goal – a healthy, slim body. Once I get to that better physical self, I can allow myself some indulgences and a greater enjoyment of eating again.
But until then, I must be vigilant.
“Constant vigilance!” As Mad Eye Moody always used to say.
Breakfast Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Kiwi (1)
Cucumber (1 garden)
This was a very nice mix. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I had some more coconut water today – about a cup worth. I didn’t measure, just poured some out of the liter I bought yesterday.
I could not find kale at the grocery store! So, instead, I picked up some cabbage and collard greens. Generally speaking, I hate collards unless they’ve been cooked for hours in bacon grease and garlic. Ooo yea, a lot to look forward to for lunch today….
Green (Collard) Lunch Juice
Collard Greens (2 large handfuls of chopped)
Green Cabbage (3 leaves)
Cucumber (1)
Yellow Squash (1)
Rashes (2)
Celery (2 stalks)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
Not my favorite juice, but I did drink it and survive. The collards did not have a completely deleterious effect on the juice. I somehow came close to enjoying the beverage. I know – shocker!
On the day, I had about three and a half liters of water today. Woohoo!
I already mentioned the casserole for dinner. I decided to have a fruit juice so as to not feel too self-pitying.
Non Casserole Dinner Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Navel Orange (1)
Pluot (1)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
It was very similar to last night’s juice. I enjoyed it.
Before going to bed, I had some hot herbal tea – my usual, Mexican Sweet Chili.
I’m off to bed for the night. Have a good one.
K+
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
It Continues (Day 3 of 60)
I nearly forgot to do this blogging thing today.
Wow. What a day. It wasn’t easy getting through today either.
The wife bailed on me today. She’s got so much going on with the kids and the house and the other house that she just can’t seem to slow down enough to do the juicing thing. When she’s hungry, she wants to put something in her tummy. I get it. I’ve been there. Heck, I want to do that right now. I am not sure how I’m not eating something, except that our bedroom is downstairs and the kitchen is upstairs.
I drank about three and a half liters of water today which is good for my kidneys. Since I started juicing I have had no trouble with kidney stones. (Knocking very loudly on wood right now.) I think the water and the micronutrients have actually helped a lot. Let’s hope things keep clear with no kidney stones.
Anyways (that’s how they say anyway up here in New York), I had to run around and do some errands this morning so that I didn’t get my morning juice until around 11 a.m. I was quite hungry by that time and ready to eat something. I didn’t, thank goodness.
Late Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
I pretty much love my fruit juices. This one was just fine.
I stayed away from the family, working in my home office until about 2, when I had my lunch juice. I am running out of veggies so I had to be semi-creative.
Semi-Creative Lunch Juice
Romaine Lettuce (2 large handfuls of chopped)
Radishes (2)
Yellow Squash (1)
Celery (about 5 stalks)
Tomato (1)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
Honestly, I really am not a fan of tomato juice. Something about it makes me wince. This juice was not terrible, but the tomato juice really bothered me today. I’m sure it was fantastic for my body with all that lycopene and other wonderful nutrients, but I didn’t enjoy the flavor.
While out earlier, I purchased a liter of coconut water. If you’re not familiar with young Thai coconuts and their water, look them up on the internet now – well, finish the blog post first. Young Thai coconuts are apparently simply fantastic for your body, and the water from the fruit is excellent. It isn’t the easiest thing in the world to drink at first, but it’s got a reasonably good flavor and is quite refreshing. So I drank about a cup of it around 4 p.m. when I was getting desperate for more food.
I had a late dinner with the family. They all had homemade tacos with salsa, sour cream and guacamole.
I had a juice. Since I was juicing and was quite jealous of what the family has been eating the last few nights, I went the selfish route and had a totally fruit juice.
Totally Fruit Dinner Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (one and a half)
Pluot (1)
The juice was good and plentiful with all the apples.
By the way, have I mentioned we now live in New York and have apple orchards all around. Oh yeah, baby. I told Nancy I thought I might be turning into an apple. Yum yum yum.
So, I had a liter of mandarin orange flavored fizzy water – these are “all natural”, non-caloric drinks that claim to be all water with natural flavorings. I’m considering dropping the flavored ones out of a concern they may have other things in them I don’t want to add to my body.
Oh wait. I did sort of cheat today. This evening, while out with the kids at Tae Kwon Do, I chewed some gum – Orbit, peppermint. I really enjoy their gum, and as I was hungry and extremely bored, I felt justified.
So, that’s it for the day. Have a good night’s rest, or a blessed day, whichever comes first.
Don’t forget to look up young Thai coconuts.
Later,
K+
Wow. What a day. It wasn’t easy getting through today either.
The wife bailed on me today. She’s got so much going on with the kids and the house and the other house that she just can’t seem to slow down enough to do the juicing thing. When she’s hungry, she wants to put something in her tummy. I get it. I’ve been there. Heck, I want to do that right now. I am not sure how I’m not eating something, except that our bedroom is downstairs and the kitchen is upstairs.
I drank about three and a half liters of water today which is good for my kidneys. Since I started juicing I have had no trouble with kidney stones. (Knocking very loudly on wood right now.) I think the water and the micronutrients have actually helped a lot. Let’s hope things keep clear with no kidney stones.
Anyways (that’s how they say anyway up here in New York), I had to run around and do some errands this morning so that I didn’t get my morning juice until around 11 a.m. I was quite hungry by that time and ready to eat something. I didn’t, thank goodness.
Late Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Orange (1)
Lime (1)
I pretty much love my fruit juices. This one was just fine.
I stayed away from the family, working in my home office until about 2, when I had my lunch juice. I am running out of veggies so I had to be semi-creative.
Semi-Creative Lunch Juice
Romaine Lettuce (2 large handfuls of chopped)
Radishes (2)
Yellow Squash (1)
Celery (about 5 stalks)
Tomato (1)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
Honestly, I really am not a fan of tomato juice. Something about it makes me wince. This juice was not terrible, but the tomato juice really bothered me today. I’m sure it was fantastic for my body with all that lycopene and other wonderful nutrients, but I didn’t enjoy the flavor.
While out earlier, I purchased a liter of coconut water. If you’re not familiar with young Thai coconuts and their water, look them up on the internet now – well, finish the blog post first. Young Thai coconuts are apparently simply fantastic for your body, and the water from the fruit is excellent. It isn’t the easiest thing in the world to drink at first, but it’s got a reasonably good flavor and is quite refreshing. So I drank about a cup of it around 4 p.m. when I was getting desperate for more food.
I had a late dinner with the family. They all had homemade tacos with salsa, sour cream and guacamole.
I had a juice. Since I was juicing and was quite jealous of what the family has been eating the last few nights, I went the selfish route and had a totally fruit juice.
Totally Fruit Dinner Juice
Macintosh Apples (4)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (one and a half)
Pluot (1)
The juice was good and plentiful with all the apples.
By the way, have I mentioned we now live in New York and have apple orchards all around. Oh yeah, baby. I told Nancy I thought I might be turning into an apple. Yum yum yum.
So, I had a liter of mandarin orange flavored fizzy water – these are “all natural”, non-caloric drinks that claim to be all water with natural flavorings. I’m considering dropping the flavored ones out of a concern they may have other things in them I don’t want to add to my body.
Oh wait. I did sort of cheat today. This evening, while out with the kids at Tae Kwon Do, I chewed some gum – Orbit, peppermint. I really enjoy their gum, and as I was hungry and extremely bored, I felt justified.
So, that’s it for the day. Have a good night’s rest, or a blessed day, whichever comes first.
Don’t forget to look up young Thai coconuts.
Later,
K+
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Sips and Smells (Day 2 of 60)
I’m through my second day of the juice fast.
The hardest part is simply not eating. I guess that’d be obvious, but it’s so prevalent. I mean I can’t snack or snitch a bite of food – Nancy made roast beef with mashed potatoes for dinner tonight. I was seriously thinking I could consider the juices from the roast beef as “juice-fasting”, but figured that would be cheating. And I could have really enjoyed a tiny finger of potatoes. Nope. No eating.
I began the morning with a couple of cups of water.
For breakfast, I had a morning juice similar to yesterday, but I had to make more as Nancy wanted to juice with me.
NY Morning Juice for Two
Macintosh Apples (6)
Orange (1)
Pluot (1)
Lemon (1)
It was a nice mixture.
I had another couple of cups of water (1 liter down).
For lunch I had a veggie/fruit juice blend again. It wasn’t as bad as yesterday.
NY Lunch Juice
Kale (6 leaves)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Carrot (1)
Celery stalks (2)
Yellow Squash (1)
Radishes (2)
Tomato (1)
Kiwi (1)
Lime (1)
Again, it wasn’t too bad. Still, it was a little difficult to get down, but I managed.
I was able to get out to the gym as well and drink another liter of water.
Dinner was okay. It was really difficult to smell the roast and see those potatoes and not eat them, but somehow I managed. It’s easier if I spend time smelling the food and not eating it. As the flavor (and much of the enjoyment) of food comes from its smell, I think it actually helps to smell it and deny myself the eating of it – I still get to smell it and pretend I’m eating it.
I sat with the family at dinner and had a conversation while they ate that tempting, scrumptious looking beef roast, and I sipped my juice.
NY Dinner Juice to Counter Beef Roast
Sweet Potato (1)
Celery stalks (3)
Radishes (3)
Macintosh Apples (3)
Lemon (1)
Cucumber (one-half large)
Zucchini (1)
It tasted pretty good. It wasn’t as good as some of the fruit juices, but it was hearty and enjoyable. In fact, the two oldest boys tried it, with the oldest drinking about one entire ounce (or maybe two). Nancy (the wife) had about four ounces of my concoction. They all said it was at least tolerable.
I then took the oldest girl to hip-hop/ballet class. She loves it, and I got to do some work while there. Also, I drank a twenty ounce lemon-flavored Perrier. As a young man, I used to make fun of people that drank Perrier. Nowadays, I really enjoy seltzer water – we call it all “fizzy water” at home.
After I got home, I helped Nan with the dishes. After we put the kids to bed we both had some herbal tea. I had my usual Mexican Sweet Chili Tea from Yogi Tea. Yum Yum.
It’s way late, and the baby’s crying. I’m gonna sign off now. Enjoy your night/day.
God bless you.
K+
The hardest part is simply not eating. I guess that’d be obvious, but it’s so prevalent. I mean I can’t snack or snitch a bite of food – Nancy made roast beef with mashed potatoes for dinner tonight. I was seriously thinking I could consider the juices from the roast beef as “juice-fasting”, but figured that would be cheating. And I could have really enjoyed a tiny finger of potatoes. Nope. No eating.
I began the morning with a couple of cups of water.
For breakfast, I had a morning juice similar to yesterday, but I had to make more as Nancy wanted to juice with me.
NY Morning Juice for Two
Macintosh Apples (6)
Orange (1)
Pluot (1)
Lemon (1)
It was a nice mixture.
I had another couple of cups of water (1 liter down).
For lunch I had a veggie/fruit juice blend again. It wasn’t as bad as yesterday.
NY Lunch Juice
Kale (6 leaves)
Macintosh Apples (2)
Carrot (1)
Celery stalks (2)
Yellow Squash (1)
Radishes (2)
Tomato (1)
Kiwi (1)
Lime (1)
Again, it wasn’t too bad. Still, it was a little difficult to get down, but I managed.
I was able to get out to the gym as well and drink another liter of water.
Dinner was okay. It was really difficult to smell the roast and see those potatoes and not eat them, but somehow I managed. It’s easier if I spend time smelling the food and not eating it. As the flavor (and much of the enjoyment) of food comes from its smell, I think it actually helps to smell it and deny myself the eating of it – I still get to smell it and pretend I’m eating it.
I sat with the family at dinner and had a conversation while they ate that tempting, scrumptious looking beef roast, and I sipped my juice.
NY Dinner Juice to Counter Beef Roast
Sweet Potato (1)
Celery stalks (3)
Radishes (3)
Macintosh Apples (3)
Lemon (1)
Cucumber (one-half large)
Zucchini (1)
It tasted pretty good. It wasn’t as good as some of the fruit juices, but it was hearty and enjoyable. In fact, the two oldest boys tried it, with the oldest drinking about one entire ounce (or maybe two). Nancy (the wife) had about four ounces of my concoction. They all said it was at least tolerable.
I then took the oldest girl to hip-hop/ballet class. She loves it, and I got to do some work while there. Also, I drank a twenty ounce lemon-flavored Perrier. As a young man, I used to make fun of people that drank Perrier. Nowadays, I really enjoy seltzer water – we call it all “fizzy water” at home.
After I got home, I helped Nan with the dishes. After we put the kids to bed we both had some herbal tea. I had my usual Mexican Sweet Chili Tea from Yogi Tea. Yum Yum.
It’s way late, and the baby’s crying. I’m gonna sign off now. Enjoy your night/day.
God bless you.
K+
Monday, September 19, 2011
Sixty Day Juice Fast: Day One (1 of 60) "Starting Again"
Well, I am doing it again, or at least attempting to, but I'm doing it bigger.
I did not do much juicing for about three weeks and allowed myself to eat junky foods. It’s amazing that whole food addiction/lust thing. It comes back so quickly and so easily. When before chicken nuggets sounded so unappealing, by the end of my trip to New York, they actually sounded (and tasted!) pretty good.
What’s interesting to me is how quickly my taste buds went back to favoring the processed nasty food rather than preferring the wholesome, healthy, natural foods I had been eating for nearly three weeks when I ended my reboot.
So, here I sit with some of the weight back and not feeling so great now. My blood pressure seems to be back up a bit, and my ankle that was broken so many years ago is causing me lots of pain. I forgot to mention before, that it didn’t bother me while I was juicing.
I’ve been wanting to juice again since we got to New York, but things have made it difficult. Hurricanes, power outages, flooding in neighboring areas, lack of familiarity with the area, etc. have all played parts. The biggest factor though has been my lack of self-determination.
Well, I am determined now. And I have decided, with the welcome support of my wife to do the sixty day juice fast – beginning today.
I drank two cups of water this morning, then had a juice. I try to keep morning juices to fruits.
NY Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Granny Smith Apple (1)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Pluot (1)
The wonderful thing about New York this time of year is the apples. Oh my goodness! They are all over the place, and I’ve never been to an orchard before (at least not in my adult life or that I can remember.) We’ve been apple picking a couple of times already, and I am so happy to have these little gifts from God.
Apples (and fruit in general to tell the truth) are so amazing. These little fruits that just grow on these trees for us to pick and eat that are packed with incredible nutrients that help us be fit and strong. Oh yes, I love it!
Anyway, I had breakfast, took care of some email for church and then took off to get a desk for my office. I wound up purchasing a desk via Craigslist from someone in Queensbury. I had never heard of Queensbury before moving up here. Google maps is an incredible resource for getting around, and it helped me on this trip.
On the way up, I purchased a “Naked” fruit juice. I had not had one before, but I thought it sounded amenable to the diet, and I was so tired of drinking water – another two cups down before this drink by the way. I had a “Reduced Calorie Tropical” juice. It was very good, low in calories, and had coconut juice in it. Yummy.
After I got home with my newly acquired desk, I fixed myself a lunch juice. I must admit, I was not looking forward to this part of the juicing. I have not been enjoying my veggie juices lately, but I endeavored to drink my draught and steer towards a healthier life.
NY Lunch Juice
Kale (6 leaves)
Carrots (2)
Celery stalks (2)
Radishes (3)
Ginger (little bit)
Yellow Squash (1 small)
Tomato (one-half)
Cauliflower (1 cup)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
Macintosh Apples (2)
To be honest, this juice smelled like dog poop. However, it turned out to be pretty good; although, I held my nose at first but eventually had no problem with it. I think the smell came from the cauliflower.
I went to the gym after working for a couple of hours. I really love my membership with Planet Fitness. It was very easy to transfer my membership from Montgomery, and they have very reasonable pricing. If you’re looking for a gym, check them out. The one here is open twenty-four hours a day Monday through Thursday and then some variant hours for the weekend.
At this point, I’ve got one more liter of water down (makes two liters now).
I took some water with me to the oldest three kids’ new Tae Kwon Do class. They seemed to enjoy it, and I was able to get some work done in addition to making some new contacts in Schenectady.
So for dinner, the family had spaghetti. I love my wife’s spaghetti. I really do. It was kind of hard. I thought about juicing the spaghetti sauce, but figured that would be a bad idea. So, I just fixed myself a juice.
NY Dinner Juice
Zucchini (1 small)
Cucumber (one-half large)
Radishes (2)
Carrots (3)
Celery stalks (2)
Macintosh apples (2)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
I enjoyed this juice more; although it wasn’t perfect.
Well, there you have it. My first blog in what I hope to be a sixty day journey towards re-forging my body and mind into a better, fitter state.
I appreciate your thoughts and prayers while I’m doing this more intense “reboot”. Thank you.
I did not do much juicing for about three weeks and allowed myself to eat junky foods. It’s amazing that whole food addiction/lust thing. It comes back so quickly and so easily. When before chicken nuggets sounded so unappealing, by the end of my trip to New York, they actually sounded (and tasted!) pretty good.
What’s interesting to me is how quickly my taste buds went back to favoring the processed nasty food rather than preferring the wholesome, healthy, natural foods I had been eating for nearly three weeks when I ended my reboot.
So, here I sit with some of the weight back and not feeling so great now. My blood pressure seems to be back up a bit, and my ankle that was broken so many years ago is causing me lots of pain. I forgot to mention before, that it didn’t bother me while I was juicing.
I’ve been wanting to juice again since we got to New York, but things have made it difficult. Hurricanes, power outages, flooding in neighboring areas, lack of familiarity with the area, etc. have all played parts. The biggest factor though has been my lack of self-determination.
Well, I am determined now. And I have decided, with the welcome support of my wife to do the sixty day juice fast – beginning today.
I drank two cups of water this morning, then had a juice. I try to keep morning juices to fruits.
NY Morning Juice
Macintosh Apples (3)
Granny Smith Apple (1)
Navel Orange (1)
Lime (1)
Pluot (1)
The wonderful thing about New York this time of year is the apples. Oh my goodness! They are all over the place, and I’ve never been to an orchard before (at least not in my adult life or that I can remember.) We’ve been apple picking a couple of times already, and I am so happy to have these little gifts from God.
Apples (and fruit in general to tell the truth) are so amazing. These little fruits that just grow on these trees for us to pick and eat that are packed with incredible nutrients that help us be fit and strong. Oh yes, I love it!
Anyway, I had breakfast, took care of some email for church and then took off to get a desk for my office. I wound up purchasing a desk via Craigslist from someone in Queensbury. I had never heard of Queensbury before moving up here. Google maps is an incredible resource for getting around, and it helped me on this trip.
On the way up, I purchased a “Naked” fruit juice. I had not had one before, but I thought it sounded amenable to the diet, and I was so tired of drinking water – another two cups down before this drink by the way. I had a “Reduced Calorie Tropical” juice. It was very good, low in calories, and had coconut juice in it. Yummy.
After I got home with my newly acquired desk, I fixed myself a lunch juice. I must admit, I was not looking forward to this part of the juicing. I have not been enjoying my veggie juices lately, but I endeavored to drink my draught and steer towards a healthier life.
NY Lunch Juice
Kale (6 leaves)
Carrots (2)
Celery stalks (2)
Radishes (3)
Ginger (little bit)
Yellow Squash (1 small)
Tomato (one-half)
Cauliflower (1 cup)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
Macintosh Apples (2)
To be honest, this juice smelled like dog poop. However, it turned out to be pretty good; although, I held my nose at first but eventually had no problem with it. I think the smell came from the cauliflower.
I went to the gym after working for a couple of hours. I really love my membership with Planet Fitness. It was very easy to transfer my membership from Montgomery, and they have very reasonable pricing. If you’re looking for a gym, check them out. The one here is open twenty-four hours a day Monday through Thursday and then some variant hours for the weekend.
At this point, I’ve got one more liter of water down (makes two liters now).
I took some water with me to the oldest three kids’ new Tae Kwon Do class. They seemed to enjoy it, and I was able to get some work done in addition to making some new contacts in Schenectady.
So for dinner, the family had spaghetti. I love my wife’s spaghetti. I really do. It was kind of hard. I thought about juicing the spaghetti sauce, but figured that would be a bad idea. So, I just fixed myself a juice.
NY Dinner Juice
Zucchini (1 small)
Cucumber (one-half large)
Radishes (2)
Carrots (3)
Celery stalks (2)
Macintosh apples (2)
Lemon (1)
Lime (1)
I enjoyed this juice more; although it wasn’t perfect.
Well, there you have it. My first blog in what I hope to be a sixty day journey towards re-forging my body and mind into a better, fitter state.
I appreciate your thoughts and prayers while I’m doing this more intense “reboot”. Thank you.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Day Eighteen: Travelling and Eating
Oh my word!
What a trip! And we’ve still got one more day!
This blog is about my dieting journey, so I’ll stick with it, but my goodness what a time we’ve had!
Okay, first observation… it is very, very difficult (not impossible) to find good options of veggies and fruits (especially the fruits) on the road. Yes, there are occasional fresh fruit and veggie stands, but they are way too hard to find. And grocery stores carry fresh produce, but I am in shock because I can’t find one!
We’re staying in Harrisburg, PA tonight, and I can’t find a grocery store within about a mile radius of our hotel. I didn’t have time to go searching beyond this perimeter. I even stopped in a “Mexican Grocery” to find some fresh fruit or veggies. I almost laughed. They had some scallions, limes, jicama and avocado. I almost wanted to ask where the mariachis were but chose not.
For breakfast I was blessed to have some apples and an orange from our hotel’s breakfast offerings which I juiced. The rest of the day wasn’t so great. I had a couple of chocolates on the road because they were there and I haven’t had any chocolate candy in about four weeks, well since Tuesday – but four weeks before that! I liked it, but it wasn’t all that special.
For lunch, I ate a Subway sandwich – 6 inch honey oat bread with roasted chicken (toasted). I added tomato, cucumber, green pepper, lettuce and spinach with some chipotle southwest sauce (as my decadence). I love the heat. I added a bag of jalapeno Kettle chips and a liter of water. It was a delightful meal and had a few veggies, but I’m starting to miss my fruit/veggie/juice fast.
Now here’s the interesting part. We are on a trip. We are moving from Montgomery, Alabama to Albany, New York (well, near there anyway). We’ve been pushing ourselves for the last several days to get the stuff packed, loaded, sent and the house cleaned. We stayed up driving until 2 a.m. last night, and had a really rough time of it.
I’ll write that story on my other blog.
But here’s the second major issue. The rest of the family is sick. Some of them have actually started vomiting (while I’m driving the minivan!) The others (now including my wife) simply feel nauseated, tired and feverish. Ooo boy!
I feel fine. Well, I have. I’m starting to feel a little nauseated myself, but I think it’s primarily due to the fact that I’ve been neglecting my fruits and veggies and have eaten cra#()$*( for meals. For dinner tonight I went searching for that grocery store I mentioned, but when I couldn’t find it, I should have opted for a salad, even from Mickey D’s. Instead, I got a chicken ranch quesadilla from Moe’s Southwest Grill, which in the Montgomery area is fantastic.
Not so much in Pennsylvania. It probably did not help that I showed up ten minutes prior to close, but the food was almost not edible. Overly salty, greasy and surprisingly bland. I had actually been sad that I’d not be eating at Moe’s again for a long time as we left Alabama. Now, I couldn’t care less.
Anyway, I think this dependence on subpar food is actually affecting my health. I think I’d rather not eat at all than eat this junk. If I can’t find good food, I’m going to try and not eat anything – except at certain times when I’ve decided before hand that I’m gonna take a break and eat the “bad stuff”.
Ah, yes… the diet in general! I forgot to mention what my plans are. I will continue as I had previously thought and just eat as healthy as I can (without too much trial if at all possible) until next week (I think Sunday?) Then I will begin the 15 day standard Reboot again. I think I’ll follow this 20 day plan for a while until I reach my optimal weight (which will be a while).
I may modify it. I look back and realize I enjoyed the juicing and with my office based in my home may be able to juice more easily and for a longer period of time. Perhaps I can do a fifteen day juice fast. That would be intriguing.
Alright, later friends. God bless each of you.
Please keep us in your prayers as we travel. We have only one day left, but if it’s anything like the last two, it’ll be quite an interesting day!
What a trip! And we’ve still got one more day!
This blog is about my dieting journey, so I’ll stick with it, but my goodness what a time we’ve had!
Okay, first observation… it is very, very difficult (not impossible) to find good options of veggies and fruits (especially the fruits) on the road. Yes, there are occasional fresh fruit and veggie stands, but they are way too hard to find. And grocery stores carry fresh produce, but I am in shock because I can’t find one!
We’re staying in Harrisburg, PA tonight, and I can’t find a grocery store within about a mile radius of our hotel. I didn’t have time to go searching beyond this perimeter. I even stopped in a “Mexican Grocery” to find some fresh fruit or veggies. I almost laughed. They had some scallions, limes, jicama and avocado. I almost wanted to ask where the mariachis were but chose not.
For breakfast I was blessed to have some apples and an orange from our hotel’s breakfast offerings which I juiced. The rest of the day wasn’t so great. I had a couple of chocolates on the road because they were there and I haven’t had any chocolate candy in about four weeks, well since Tuesday – but four weeks before that! I liked it, but it wasn’t all that special.
For lunch, I ate a Subway sandwich – 6 inch honey oat bread with roasted chicken (toasted). I added tomato, cucumber, green pepper, lettuce and spinach with some chipotle southwest sauce (as my decadence). I love the heat. I added a bag of jalapeno Kettle chips and a liter of water. It was a delightful meal and had a few veggies, but I’m starting to miss my fruit/veggie/juice fast.
Now here’s the interesting part. We are on a trip. We are moving from Montgomery, Alabama to Albany, New York (well, near there anyway). We’ve been pushing ourselves for the last several days to get the stuff packed, loaded, sent and the house cleaned. We stayed up driving until 2 a.m. last night, and had a really rough time of it.
I’ll write that story on my other blog.
But here’s the second major issue. The rest of the family is sick. Some of them have actually started vomiting (while I’m driving the minivan!) The others (now including my wife) simply feel nauseated, tired and feverish. Ooo boy!
I feel fine. Well, I have. I’m starting to feel a little nauseated myself, but I think it’s primarily due to the fact that I’ve been neglecting my fruits and veggies and have eaten cra#()$*( for meals. For dinner tonight I went searching for that grocery store I mentioned, but when I couldn’t find it, I should have opted for a salad, even from Mickey D’s. Instead, I got a chicken ranch quesadilla from Moe’s Southwest Grill, which in the Montgomery area is fantastic.
Not so much in Pennsylvania. It probably did not help that I showed up ten minutes prior to close, but the food was almost not edible. Overly salty, greasy and surprisingly bland. I had actually been sad that I’d not be eating at Moe’s again for a long time as we left Alabama. Now, I couldn’t care less.
Anyway, I think this dependence on subpar food is actually affecting my health. I think I’d rather not eat at all than eat this junk. If I can’t find good food, I’m going to try and not eat anything – except at certain times when I’ve decided before hand that I’m gonna take a break and eat the “bad stuff”.
Ah, yes… the diet in general! I forgot to mention what my plans are. I will continue as I had previously thought and just eat as healthy as I can (without too much trial if at all possible) until next week (I think Sunday?) Then I will begin the 15 day standard Reboot again. I think I’ll follow this 20 day plan for a while until I reach my optimal weight (which will be a while).
I may modify it. I look back and realize I enjoyed the juicing and with my office based in my home may be able to juice more easily and for a longer period of time. Perhaps I can do a fifteen day juice fast. That would be intriguing.
Alright, later friends. God bless each of you.
Please keep us in your prayers as we travel. We have only one day left, but if it’s anything like the last two, it’ll be quite an interesting day!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Day Fourteen: I Got An A+!
Fourteen days… that’s two weeks of this new “diet” thing.
It all began because of watching “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead”. What an incredible promise the movie seems to make. If you eat fresh fruits and veggies, particularly through juicing, you can see some dramatic life changes. Chronic illnesses can lessen or even go into remission. Your mental state can get clearer. You can lose fat and become healthier. You can lower your blood pressure.
While I don’t suffer from a chronic illness, I have been struggling with a high level of fatigue and the every present battle of the bulge. Also, recently, I had checked (on a lark) my blood pressure fairly regularly, and started getting scared. At one point, it was at or near 160/99. Granted, at the time, I was enduring large amounts of work-related stress, but I could not attribute that level of pressure simply to stress.
After two weeks of the Reboot (and a week of preparation), I have lost nearly twenty pounds, reduced my fatigue and shockingly to me, my blood pressure this evening was 116/68. That seems to me to be incredible. What a blessing this diet has been!
I woke this morning for church, and I don’t eat before I receive Holy Communion on Sundays. So, I went to church a little scared. I knew that we’d be having a wonderful covered dish supper following the service and doubted there would be anything there for me to eat.
Fortuitously, someone brought fresh fruits and my wonderful wife steamed some sugar snap peas.
Today was my last day serving as rector (i.e. head priest/pastor) of my little church in Montgomery. It was a sad and sweet day for me and my family. We will miss our friends from here so much, but the opportunity I have now is truly an answer to prayer, and we are all very excited about the move.
Anyway, for dinner tonight my darling wife browned some great smelling taco-seasoned ground deer meat and prepared some Rotel dip (made with Velveeta). It truly smelled incredible. Honestly, I got a little angry about the whole thing. I had a hard enough time not snarfing the fried chicken, cheesecake and cocktail shrimp at the luncheon. These tacos were simply punishment.
And I nearly broke.
I persevered with the strong assistance of my wife, who reminded me of how I really didn’t want to mess up since I had only one day left. I agreed and fixed myself a juice.
Not A Taco or Cheesy Rotel Dip Juice
GS apple (1)
Lemon (1)
Cucumber (1)
Zucchini (1)
Celery (5 stalks)
Ginger (little bit)
Navel Orange (1)
This mixture was probably the mildest and best tasting of all the “veggie” juices I’ve made through this journey. The orange added a nice touch to the whole thing. I’ve still got some left and may have it for breakfast.
Perhaps if you’ve got high blood pressure, you might consider trying this kind of a diet. I know it seems a little radical, but it becomes pretty easy/natural/sane after a few days. I look forward to my meats, nuts and breads. At the same time, I don’t want to leave this train of health and wellness. I’ve got to figure out the best way to incorporate a broader diet into my life while still retaining the juicing and more “fresh” eating.
I’ll be mining the website at the Reboot site for more information. You might want to give them a shot yourself.
By the way, I’ve mentioned on Facebook that I’d like to hear from you if you’ve been reading the blog. Is this something you’d like to continue to read? I will probably continue after day fifteen to share on the blog my dieting ventures, but it would be nice to get some positive feedback.
Thanks!
It all began because of watching “Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead”. What an incredible promise the movie seems to make. If you eat fresh fruits and veggies, particularly through juicing, you can see some dramatic life changes. Chronic illnesses can lessen or even go into remission. Your mental state can get clearer. You can lose fat and become healthier. You can lower your blood pressure.
While I don’t suffer from a chronic illness, I have been struggling with a high level of fatigue and the every present battle of the bulge. Also, recently, I had checked (on a lark) my blood pressure fairly regularly, and started getting scared. At one point, it was at or near 160/99. Granted, at the time, I was enduring large amounts of work-related stress, but I could not attribute that level of pressure simply to stress.
After two weeks of the Reboot (and a week of preparation), I have lost nearly twenty pounds, reduced my fatigue and shockingly to me, my blood pressure this evening was 116/68. That seems to me to be incredible. What a blessing this diet has been!
I woke this morning for church, and I don’t eat before I receive Holy Communion on Sundays. So, I went to church a little scared. I knew that we’d be having a wonderful covered dish supper following the service and doubted there would be anything there for me to eat.
Fortuitously, someone brought fresh fruits and my wonderful wife steamed some sugar snap peas.
Today was my last day serving as rector (i.e. head priest/pastor) of my little church in Montgomery. It was a sad and sweet day for me and my family. We will miss our friends from here so much, but the opportunity I have now is truly an answer to prayer, and we are all very excited about the move.
Anyway, for dinner tonight my darling wife browned some great smelling taco-seasoned ground deer meat and prepared some Rotel dip (made with Velveeta). It truly smelled incredible. Honestly, I got a little angry about the whole thing. I had a hard enough time not snarfing the fried chicken, cheesecake and cocktail shrimp at the luncheon. These tacos were simply punishment.
And I nearly broke.
I persevered with the strong assistance of my wife, who reminded me of how I really didn’t want to mess up since I had only one day left. I agreed and fixed myself a juice.
Not A Taco or Cheesy Rotel Dip Juice
GS apple (1)
Lemon (1)
Cucumber (1)
Zucchini (1)
Celery (5 stalks)
Ginger (little bit)
Navel Orange (1)
This mixture was probably the mildest and best tasting of all the “veggie” juices I’ve made through this journey. The orange added a nice touch to the whole thing. I’ve still got some left and may have it for breakfast.
Perhaps if you’ve got high blood pressure, you might consider trying this kind of a diet. I know it seems a little radical, but it becomes pretty easy/natural/sane after a few days. I look forward to my meats, nuts and breads. At the same time, I don’t want to leave this train of health and wellness. I’ve got to figure out the best way to incorporate a broader diet into my life while still retaining the juicing and more “fresh” eating.
I’ll be mining the website at the Reboot site for more information. You might want to give them a shot yourself.
By the way, I’ve mentioned on Facebook that I’d like to hear from you if you’ve been reading the blog. Is this something you’d like to continue to read? I will probably continue after day fifteen to share on the blog my dieting ventures, but it would be nice to get some positive feedback.
Thanks!
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Day Thirteen: Tomorrow's the Big Test
Okay, okay…. I missed a day blogging, but I was a good boy with the eating. At least, I think I was.
I had some white potatoes roasted in the oven covered in a little olive oil with some garlic pepper on them – also had some of my new favorite “sweet potato fries”. They’re filling and good for me!
I don’t remember all I had yesterday, so I won’t go into it.
This morning, I got up, drank my two cups of water and eventually had a late juice for breakfast. It was nice with two oranges, a GS apple and some grapes. A rainbow of color! Orange, Green and Red, yea, baby!
For lunch, I ate another sweet potato as fries. Mmm hmmm. Yum yum yum.
For dinner I had another acorn squash with portabello mushroom filling, leftover from last night. Very tasty. I also had a fresh salad with romaine lettuce, celery, carrot, cucumber, GS apple (chopped) and blackberries. I ran out of olive oil – we’re moving and not buying much of anything, so we don’t have to move it – so I couldn’t make a salad dressing. I used Bragg’s on the salad. It wasn’t bad. Also had a coconut water with dinner. That was nice.
Tomorrow should be a very interesting day, as the church is having a covered dish supper “in my honor” since this is my last Sunday. The food there should all be fantastic and probably none of it will be okay for me to eat on this diet. I’ve got to make sure no one is offended if I don’t eat the food they bring. They’re all very lovely people.
What’s interesting is that the desire to consume “food” seems to be purely mental. I don’t mean the desire to eat when I’m hungry, but those compelling to eat a candy bar or a bite of the leftover steak from last night, etc. I guess I’ve been a “grazer” for a long time and simply look to fill my mouth with what sounds good, regardless of hunger or need.
It is a real change refraining from consuming any calories unless my body needs them, such as at meal times. I’m truly having a hard time not juicing – not that I love the juice that much. Honestly, sometimes I’d rather just throw it out and run down the street to any fast food joint and pick up a chicken sandwich or a hamburger, but I don’t “need” to right now. I’m afraid that might change once I start eating “regular” food again.
I can see the allure for juicing for sixty days, as I’ve lost a good amount of weight in these last thirteen days (i.e. 10+). It’s not like I’m ignoring the real needs of my body – except possibly for proteins. The fruits and vegetables I’ve been eating have become my “friends” like never before (what am I to do, because before is a preposition and I don’t want to end my sentence with it… I guess this suffices.)
Anyway, I am not really looking “forward” to the veggies and fruits as much as I’m simply content to have them as my staples for meals. Meat would be great. Breads, grains and nuts would be fantastic – I really want some pistachios; however, I don’t need the meats and other foods to feel sustained or healthy. It’s an eye opener and shocker.
That’s all for now. I’m tired and need to prepare more for tomorrow’s service.
Nighty night.
I had some white potatoes roasted in the oven covered in a little olive oil with some garlic pepper on them – also had some of my new favorite “sweet potato fries”. They’re filling and good for me!
I don’t remember all I had yesterday, so I won’t go into it.
This morning, I got up, drank my two cups of water and eventually had a late juice for breakfast. It was nice with two oranges, a GS apple and some grapes. A rainbow of color! Orange, Green and Red, yea, baby!
For lunch, I ate another sweet potato as fries. Mmm hmmm. Yum yum yum.
For dinner I had another acorn squash with portabello mushroom filling, leftover from last night. Very tasty. I also had a fresh salad with romaine lettuce, celery, carrot, cucumber, GS apple (chopped) and blackberries. I ran out of olive oil – we’re moving and not buying much of anything, so we don’t have to move it – so I couldn’t make a salad dressing. I used Bragg’s on the salad. It wasn’t bad. Also had a coconut water with dinner. That was nice.
Tomorrow should be a very interesting day, as the church is having a covered dish supper “in my honor” since this is my last Sunday. The food there should all be fantastic and probably none of it will be okay for me to eat on this diet. I’ve got to make sure no one is offended if I don’t eat the food they bring. They’re all very lovely people.
What’s interesting is that the desire to consume “food” seems to be purely mental. I don’t mean the desire to eat when I’m hungry, but those compelling to eat a candy bar or a bite of the leftover steak from last night, etc. I guess I’ve been a “grazer” for a long time and simply look to fill my mouth with what sounds good, regardless of hunger or need.
It is a real change refraining from consuming any calories unless my body needs them, such as at meal times. I’m truly having a hard time not juicing – not that I love the juice that much. Honestly, sometimes I’d rather just throw it out and run down the street to any fast food joint and pick up a chicken sandwich or a hamburger, but I don’t “need” to right now. I’m afraid that might change once I start eating “regular” food again.
I can see the allure for juicing for sixty days, as I’ve lost a good amount of weight in these last thirteen days (i.e. 10+). It’s not like I’m ignoring the real needs of my body – except possibly for proteins. The fruits and vegetables I’ve been eating have become my “friends” like never before (what am I to do, because before is a preposition and I don’t want to end my sentence with it… I guess this suffices.)
Anyway, I am not really looking “forward” to the veggies and fruits as much as I’m simply content to have them as my staples for meals. Meat would be great. Breads, grains and nuts would be fantastic – I really want some pistachios; however, I don’t need the meats and other foods to feel sustained or healthy. It’s an eye opener and shocker.
That’s all for now. I’m tired and need to prepare more for tomorrow’s service.
Nighty night.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Day Eleven: Be Careful What You Eat
Eating is kind of weird now. I haven’t done it in five days. I might have made a mistake in my dinner.
But before I go there…
This morning, I had a smoothie, banana, strawberries, blueberries and mango. It was nice, but I was still just drinking my food.
For lunch I had an apple and a cup of baby carrots. It was okay. Nothing major.
I juiced in the late afternoon.
Late Afternoon Juice
Yellow Squash (1)
Cucumber (1)
Granny Smith Apple (1)
Carrots (3)
Celery (4)
Ginger (just a little bit)
It was a fairly pleasant juice.
For dinner, I fixed myself some of those sweet potato fries like I had last week. Oh yeah, they were good. My wife likes them so much I had to make some for her too! They were quite filling, and I was glad to get to eat them.
I went out late to bring Holy Communion to a lovely lady living in an assisted living community so I didn’t have time to eat more for dinner – I had planned to eat a salad.
At about 9 p.m., I fixed another smoothie, just strawberries, banana and a fresh peach.
As I was drinking it, I got really sick to my stomach and had to take care of business. I think that the sweet potato might have been a bad choice to add to my diet on my first day back on solid foods.
Lesson learned.
But before I go there…
This morning, I had a smoothie, banana, strawberries, blueberries and mango. It was nice, but I was still just drinking my food.
For lunch I had an apple and a cup of baby carrots. It was okay. Nothing major.
I juiced in the late afternoon.
Late Afternoon Juice
Yellow Squash (1)
Cucumber (1)
Granny Smith Apple (1)
Carrots (3)
Celery (4)
Ginger (just a little bit)
It was a fairly pleasant juice.
For dinner, I fixed myself some of those sweet potato fries like I had last week. Oh yeah, they were good. My wife likes them so much I had to make some for her too! They were quite filling, and I was glad to get to eat them.
I went out late to bring Holy Communion to a lovely lady living in an assisted living community so I didn’t have time to eat more for dinner – I had planned to eat a salad.
At about 9 p.m., I fixed another smoothie, just strawberries, banana and a fresh peach.
As I was drinking it, I got really sick to my stomach and had to take care of business. I think that the sweet potato might have been a bad choice to add to my diet on my first day back on solid foods.
Lesson learned.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Day Ten: Thinking Different(ly)?
I made it through day ten! Woohoo!
It was kind of a rough day, at least from a food consumption angle. I had hot water (no lemon left!) this morning followed by two cups of water.
The I made a nice morning juice. Yesterday, the grape juice overpowered the drink and made me a little nauseous. Today I used grapes again, but added a secret ingredient – oranges! Yumdiddlyumptious.
Yummdiddlyumptious Juice
Navel Oranges (2)
Grapes (2 c)
Granny Smith Apple (2 small)
So, I didn’t have many veggies for my lunch juice until my wife got back from Costco. I didn’t have time to juice though, as I had to run off to a meeting. It was a great meeting, by the way. Good friends and acquaintances from the city – a local group of pastors meets each month to pray for one another and the city, in hopes of unity, spiritual, racial, temporal, etc. It’s a blessed group of individuals, striving to honor God’s call to honor Christ’s prayer in John 17, that we all “may be one”.
Anyway, they always have lunch at the meeting. I stayed for lunch, but didn’t partake. It was a nice one too, lasagna. Mmm….
Strangely, I didn’t miss it so much. I guess I’ve gotten to a point where my stomach has shrunk and doesn’t crave as much food. It’s rather nice actually. I think I’m approaching a point where food isn’t as important psychologically.
Don’t get me wrong. Tonight I want a nice beef roast with gravy made from the drippings and smothering some butter-laden mashed potatoes. Oh yeah, that’d be nice.
The thing is… I don’t think I could handle it. It sounds too heavy and would probably make me sick. I am fully intending to have one of those Artisan Ranch Chicken Sandwiches from Wendy’s though as soon as possible; however, I’ve told the wife, she’s gonna have to split it with me because I’m sure I won’t be able to eat the whole thing.
Anyway, back to the Reboot dialogue: I didn’t have lunch, but I drank a coconut juice/water around 2 p.m. I am not all that hungry throughout the day. If I think about it and concentrate on food, I feel a bit hungry, but overall, it’s not bothering me (right now!).
I got home after work and fixed myself a nice mostly veggie juice. I had to experiment a little as I’m out of kale now. I used a yellow squash this time. Not bad at all.
Mostly Veggie Juice
Yellow Squash (1)
Cucumber (1 small)
Granny Smith Apples (2)
Carrots (4)
Celery (5 stalks)
Ginger (a small amount – about the size of a nickel)
I drank about three liters of water (give or take a cup).
Tomorrow I return to eating. Truthfully, I am not that “excited” about it. I mean, I’ll be glad to save the time and not have to juice, but I’ve gotten to a point where eating isn’t necessary. I wouldn’t mind juicing a little longer, but I think with the move coming up, it would be best for me to transition to a primarily “eating” diet with juicing just once (or twice) a day.
I have seen some really good weight loss, but it’s not showing all that much. That’s okay. While I want the weight to go away, I think the most important thing is to get my mind somewhere else in regards to food. If I can continue to adjust my thinking when it comes to food and putting it in its proper place, then I think this whole experience will have been well-worth it.
Signing out.
krbj+
It was kind of a rough day, at least from a food consumption angle. I had hot water (no lemon left!) this morning followed by two cups of water.
The I made a nice morning juice. Yesterday, the grape juice overpowered the drink and made me a little nauseous. Today I used grapes again, but added a secret ingredient – oranges! Yumdiddlyumptious.
Yummdiddlyumptious Juice
Navel Oranges (2)
Grapes (2 c)
Granny Smith Apple (2 small)
So, I didn’t have many veggies for my lunch juice until my wife got back from Costco. I didn’t have time to juice though, as I had to run off to a meeting. It was a great meeting, by the way. Good friends and acquaintances from the city – a local group of pastors meets each month to pray for one another and the city, in hopes of unity, spiritual, racial, temporal, etc. It’s a blessed group of individuals, striving to honor God’s call to honor Christ’s prayer in John 17, that we all “may be one”.
Anyway, they always have lunch at the meeting. I stayed for lunch, but didn’t partake. It was a nice one too, lasagna. Mmm….
Strangely, I didn’t miss it so much. I guess I’ve gotten to a point where my stomach has shrunk and doesn’t crave as much food. It’s rather nice actually. I think I’m approaching a point where food isn’t as important psychologically.
Don’t get me wrong. Tonight I want a nice beef roast with gravy made from the drippings and smothering some butter-laden mashed potatoes. Oh yeah, that’d be nice.
The thing is… I don’t think I could handle it. It sounds too heavy and would probably make me sick. I am fully intending to have one of those Artisan Ranch Chicken Sandwiches from Wendy’s though as soon as possible; however, I’ve told the wife, she’s gonna have to split it with me because I’m sure I won’t be able to eat the whole thing.
Anyway, back to the Reboot dialogue: I didn’t have lunch, but I drank a coconut juice/water around 2 p.m. I am not all that hungry throughout the day. If I think about it and concentrate on food, I feel a bit hungry, but overall, it’s not bothering me (right now!).
I got home after work and fixed myself a nice mostly veggie juice. I had to experiment a little as I’m out of kale now. I used a yellow squash this time. Not bad at all.
Mostly Veggie Juice
Yellow Squash (1)
Cucumber (1 small)
Granny Smith Apples (2)
Carrots (4)
Celery (5 stalks)
Ginger (a small amount – about the size of a nickel)
I drank about three liters of water (give or take a cup).
Tomorrow I return to eating. Truthfully, I am not that “excited” about it. I mean, I’ll be glad to save the time and not have to juice, but I’ve gotten to a point where eating isn’t necessary. I wouldn’t mind juicing a little longer, but I think with the move coming up, it would be best for me to transition to a primarily “eating” diet with juicing just once (or twice) a day.
I have seen some really good weight loss, but it’s not showing all that much. That’s okay. While I want the weight to go away, I think the most important thing is to get my mind somewhere else in regards to food. If I can continue to adjust my thinking when it comes to food and putting it in its proper place, then I think this whole experience will have been well-worth it.
Signing out.
krbj+
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Day Nine: Almost Through The Hard Part
Wow. I can’t believe I’ve made it this far. Nine days down. I woke up very tired. I drank a cup of hot water with lemon juice from a quarter lemon and two cups of cool water.
This morning’s juice was really good, but also really strong. Lots of grapes gave it a wonderful flavor, but it was almost overpowering.
Morning Grape Juice
Red Grapes (2 cups)
Granny Smith Apple (2 small)
Pear (1)
Lemon (one half)
I’m about to run out of my staples for veggies, and I used up a few at lunch today.
Green Lunch Juice
Kale (about 6 ounces)
Cucumber (1 small)
Celery (4 stalks)
Carrots (3)
Granny Smith Apples (2 small)
Ginger (a little bit)
Radishes (2)
Yellow Onion (about one eighth)
I had a hard time drinking it, but I made it through.
At work I had a liter of water (bringing me up to two on the day). I drank a two cups earlier after working outside for about thirty minutes.
The family had pizza for dinner again. Man, I miss pizza. They had Oreos for dessert. Sheeesh.
My mind craves these foods, but my body could care less, for the most part. I’m really wanting that Asiago Ranch (Spicy) Chicken Sandwich from Wendy’s, but I can endure. I’m starting to think about the post-fifteen day Reboot. I think I’ll continue the veggie and fruit thing for breakfast and another meal while allowing the other stuff for another meal (lunch or dinner) for about five days, then I think I’ll start the standard Reboot again. I really enjoy seeing the weight loss and clearer thinking that seems to be a part of this micronutrient boost.
After smelling the pizzas, I decided I had to juice or I might cave. I’m nearly out of veggies, so I had to improvise. This one was a little different.
Interesting Dinner Juice
Zucchini (1)
Sugar Snap Peas (1 c)
Tomato (1)
Granny Smith Apple (1)
Carrots (3)
Celery (5 stalks)
Radishes (3)
This juice was close to the worst so far. The zucchini wasn’t bad, it just didn’t provide any flavor – though it did give a good amount of juice. The peas didn’t juice well, so I got chunks of snap peas in the juice, and the radishes gave it a bite. Not repeating this recipe.
I’ve got to get to sleep.
Later.
This morning’s juice was really good, but also really strong. Lots of grapes gave it a wonderful flavor, but it was almost overpowering.
Morning Grape Juice
Red Grapes (2 cups)
Granny Smith Apple (2 small)
Pear (1)
Lemon (one half)
I’m about to run out of my staples for veggies, and I used up a few at lunch today.
Green Lunch Juice
Kale (about 6 ounces)
Cucumber (1 small)
Celery (4 stalks)
Carrots (3)
Granny Smith Apples (2 small)
Ginger (a little bit)
Radishes (2)
Yellow Onion (about one eighth)
I had a hard time drinking it, but I made it through.
At work I had a liter of water (bringing me up to two on the day). I drank a two cups earlier after working outside for about thirty minutes.
The family had pizza for dinner again. Man, I miss pizza. They had Oreos for dessert. Sheeesh.
My mind craves these foods, but my body could care less, for the most part. I’m really wanting that Asiago Ranch (Spicy) Chicken Sandwich from Wendy’s, but I can endure. I’m starting to think about the post-fifteen day Reboot. I think I’ll continue the veggie and fruit thing for breakfast and another meal while allowing the other stuff for another meal (lunch or dinner) for about five days, then I think I’ll start the standard Reboot again. I really enjoy seeing the weight loss and clearer thinking that seems to be a part of this micronutrient boost.
After smelling the pizzas, I decided I had to juice or I might cave. I’m nearly out of veggies, so I had to improvise. This one was a little different.
Interesting Dinner Juice
Zucchini (1)
Sugar Snap Peas (1 c)
Tomato (1)
Granny Smith Apple (1)
Carrots (3)
Celery (5 stalks)
Radishes (3)
This juice was close to the worst so far. The zucchini wasn’t bad, it just didn’t provide any flavor – though it did give a good amount of juice. The peas didn’t juice well, so I got chunks of snap peas in the juice, and the radishes gave it a bite. Not repeating this recipe.
I’ve got to get to sleep.
Later.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Day Eight: Hardest Day Yet
Today has been the hardest of the reboot days, by far!
It’s the third day of five for exclusive juicing, and I really crave some substantial food. Funny thing is that most of the food I’m desiring is generally really unhealthy food. I know there are healthy versions of most of what I’m wanting, but I’m mainly imagining fast foods. You know… fried foods like fried chicken or even friend chicken sandwiches (like Wendy’s wonderful Spicy Chicken Sandwich, or their new version with Asiago cheese and bacon!) Decadent. Really, all that grease and fat is just not good for the body in regular doses. Perhaps as a “splurge” once a month, but it should definitely be moderated.
Regardless, that’s the kind of food that’s on my mind.
I’ve been very lethargic today. I figure I’m not getting enough calories. Doubtless, I’ve not been getting my usual amounts of calories, and I’ve seen a great deal of weight loss over the last eight days (almost ten pounds). I’ll be able to consume more calories, or at least have more food filling my stomach in a few days to make me feel a little more satisfied.
Now let me clarify. I have not been feeling hungry as much as I’ve been craving food. I desire to eat and consume those foods I’ve previously deemed “good”. I am sure that any of the foods I’ve been thinking of would most likely make me sick now because they are so rich and full of not-so-good-for-me things.
The juices have given me plenty of energy along with “filling me up.” It’s just that I’ve grown up “eating” to supplement more than hunger, and I’m missing some of the comfort of food. Hmm… perhaps that’s why we call it “Comfort Food”.
Anyway, I didn’t juice until the late morning. I had two cups of water after I awoke, but had to get out and run errands without time to juice.
Late Morning Juice
Navel Orange (1)
Pears (2)
Granny Smith Apple (1 large)
Cherries (about 1 cup)
Cucumber
I love to eat cucumbers. The addition of it to the juice seems to help mute the somewhat overpowering sweetness of the fruits. It’s a good solid drink.
As the juice was late morning and I had to be out of the house for several hours, I went by the health food store and bought a coconut juice which I drank around 1 p.m.
My early evening juice was a nice change. I took some ideas from the Reboot website and put this one together.
Early Evening Juice
Sweet Potato (1)
Carrots (2)
Celery (4 stalks)
Red Pepper (one half)
Ginger (just a little)
Granny Smith Apple (1 large)
Lemon (1)
This was actually a very hearty juice. I enjoyed it. The sweet potato added a nice under-current of a flavor. I think I’d like to use one again.
I took a nap while the family ate dinner. I couldn’t stand to be around them eating tonight. It was “Taco Night”. I so desperately want a tortilla with ground beef, cheese and salsa. My mouth is watering thinking about that wonderful little treat.
When I got up, I drank some more water (2.5 liters on the day) and fixed another juice.
Main Dinner Juice
Kale (about 6 ounces)
Cabbage (6+ leaves)
Celery (6 stalks)
Carrots (2)
Granny Smith Apples (2 small)
Pear (1)
Nothing amazing about this juice seemed to strike me. It still had a surprising back bite from something. I didn’t miss the radish or ginger; although I’m sure they would have given it an interesting character.
I recognize that I only want those other foods because I have positive emotional attachments to them, not because I’m hungry. It’s gonna be a long road ahead to change my thinking from eating from desire to eating out of necessity. This diet’s incredibly helpful with that road.
May you be blessed.
It’s the third day of five for exclusive juicing, and I really crave some substantial food. Funny thing is that most of the food I’m desiring is generally really unhealthy food. I know there are healthy versions of most of what I’m wanting, but I’m mainly imagining fast foods. You know… fried foods like fried chicken or even friend chicken sandwiches (like Wendy’s wonderful Spicy Chicken Sandwich, or their new version with Asiago cheese and bacon!) Decadent. Really, all that grease and fat is just not good for the body in regular doses. Perhaps as a “splurge” once a month, but it should definitely be moderated.
Regardless, that’s the kind of food that’s on my mind.
I’ve been very lethargic today. I figure I’m not getting enough calories. Doubtless, I’ve not been getting my usual amounts of calories, and I’ve seen a great deal of weight loss over the last eight days (almost ten pounds). I’ll be able to consume more calories, or at least have more food filling my stomach in a few days to make me feel a little more satisfied.
Now let me clarify. I have not been feeling hungry as much as I’ve been craving food. I desire to eat and consume those foods I’ve previously deemed “good”. I am sure that any of the foods I’ve been thinking of would most likely make me sick now because they are so rich and full of not-so-good-for-me things.
The juices have given me plenty of energy along with “filling me up.” It’s just that I’ve grown up “eating” to supplement more than hunger, and I’m missing some of the comfort of food. Hmm… perhaps that’s why we call it “Comfort Food”.
Anyway, I didn’t juice until the late morning. I had two cups of water after I awoke, but had to get out and run errands without time to juice.
Late Morning Juice
Navel Orange (1)
Pears (2)
Granny Smith Apple (1 large)
Cherries (about 1 cup)
Cucumber
I love to eat cucumbers. The addition of it to the juice seems to help mute the somewhat overpowering sweetness of the fruits. It’s a good solid drink.
As the juice was late morning and I had to be out of the house for several hours, I went by the health food store and bought a coconut juice which I drank around 1 p.m.
My early evening juice was a nice change. I took some ideas from the Reboot website and put this one together.
Early Evening Juice
Sweet Potato (1)
Carrots (2)
Celery (4 stalks)
Red Pepper (one half)
Ginger (just a little)
Granny Smith Apple (1 large)
Lemon (1)
This was actually a very hearty juice. I enjoyed it. The sweet potato added a nice under-current of a flavor. I think I’d like to use one again.
I took a nap while the family ate dinner. I couldn’t stand to be around them eating tonight. It was “Taco Night”. I so desperately want a tortilla with ground beef, cheese and salsa. My mouth is watering thinking about that wonderful little treat.
When I got up, I drank some more water (2.5 liters on the day) and fixed another juice.
Main Dinner Juice
Kale (about 6 ounces)
Cabbage (6+ leaves)
Celery (6 stalks)
Carrots (2)
Granny Smith Apples (2 small)
Pear (1)
Nothing amazing about this juice seemed to strike me. It still had a surprising back bite from something. I didn’t miss the radish or ginger; although I’m sure they would have given it an interesting character.
I recognize that I only want those other foods because I have positive emotional attachments to them, not because I’m hungry. It’s gonna be a long road ahead to change my thinking from eating from desire to eating out of necessity. This diet’s incredibly helpful with that road.
May you be blessed.
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