A Raw Recovery

Well, hello there. I believe we have met…do you remember me?

Yes, I have dropped the ball within the blog-o-sphere but as always for good reasoning-life.

March was a crazy month. I traveled to Portland-twice. I spent an entire weekend being fed food and nutritional facts at OSU’s Spring Family Community Health Conference.

The very next day, I had to shoot my Group Power Assessment video. (I left a husband home with the kids for conference, so their was ZERO clean laundry for working out. I was left to film my video in a SALMON colored tank top…yes, you read that right. Sleep-deprived after the long weekend and covered in SALMON-colored sweat…they passed me.

(I think the assessment team probably felt sorry for me).

Next, I completed an Applied Nutrition workshop…

I started teaching MyPlate to the Second Graders at Ashton’s School. (Ashton included).

Then Sam spent the weekend in Portland for a CG Memorial for one of the crew members who died in the Mobile, AL crash.

The crew member, Thomas Cameron, was from Portland, OR. The air station sent a crew to conduct a flyover in his honor. Here are a couple pics Sam was able to capture …

It was such a tragedy. I can not phantom the pain their families are enduring. The crew was simply practicing a training flight, something that Sam and many of our friends’ husbands do on a weekly basis. It really hits home, and reminds you that our days are not guaranteed. The Lord will take us when he deems.

Even as I write this, I feel guilty over the way I have let my recent feelings affect my faith, health, and the family. In the past few weeks, I have been so homesick, sick of the PNW weather, tired, stressed, neglectful, ungrateful, insane, self-conscious…did I mention, insane? Just small everyday obstacles have kept me from honoring healthy boundaries and kept me in bondage.

But, the good thing about bondage, it reminds you to stop relying on yourself. I realize that that there is nothing I can do about sporadic obstacles, discouragement, negative people, my unwavering plateau, my home-sicknesses, the ever continual rain…I am weak.undisciplined and inconsistent. I have all the good intentions in the world, but once I get into my earthly flesh…the cards tumble. I rely on my husband, friends, and hobbies to keep me happy. It should never become someone else’s full time job to keep YOU happy. Regardless of the distance between family, the weather, poor dietary choices, missed workouts, or the perfect storm that resulted in spontaneous acne and stretch pants. I am guilty to all of the above.  It took me a long time to learn that in order to stop cycling around the drain to get my proporities straight…and I have to remind myself DAILY…

Spiritual health=mental health=physical health=emotional health= An unstoppable beast

When I turn it over to God, I am free to be me and care-free. An example, every morning I listen to a Joyce Meyer podcast on my I-pod. I do this when I’m crunching at the cardio or munching on my breakfast. My fellow morning gym attendees must think I have serious issues because I’m usually laughing, nodding, or fighting tears on the step-mill. Either way, I listen to her sermons every morning.  I have become so dependent on her sermons and my morning word that you can tell if I missed my morning time with God.

Signs to look for:

1. I dress like a Ninja to the gym: black parachute pants, black tank, and I don’t take off my shades until I pass the front desk (I work out at 5am when NO shades are needed.)

2. I get annoyed when Sam calls from work just to say, “I love You”… because I am “busy” (yep, I admit it).

3. I battle physical food temptations from lack of spiritual food

( “God, thanks for blessing me with trunks for legs and cellulite for additional security. Who cares if I can stand strong and healthy in the flesh? Who cares if my husband loves my curves?  I look like a tank….I hate my curves…I feel fat today… Where is the cereal? Chocolate? “)

4. I become overcome with my “to-do” list, battle where to start, and accomplish nothing

5. I wake excited at sun rise but surrender unto my pillow of bitterness come night fall

6. I worry about what other people’s opinions and judgements toward me

7. I may lose complete control of the entire day and never make it to the shower, gym, or even go outside.

Sometimes those days happen. Life gets busy, life gets harder, and if you see the signs its probably best to walk the other way…or tell me to get over myself.

This month, my plate became fully loaded. In July, I begin working with OSU full-time. I am also stepping  in to instruct Group Power for a fellow coastie/friend who is transferring. Sam is transferring to nights. Ashton will be out of school soon, and we are about to say good-bye to all of our friends in just a few short weeks.

Life is not slowing down, but I am pledging to just keep pressing on and maintain a good attitude. It is so hard to be away from our family. A simple doctors appointment makes for a DROP-IN day care leaving you panic-stricken and robbed 60 bucks! (true story).

My goal for our last year in Oregon is to survive the hard times, seek out the goodness during hard times, and enjoy my vacation here.  Oregon will always hold a special place in my heart. Moving here unearthed several revelations. I learned so much about myself, and although I am still not where I ought to be, I thank God that I am not where I once was.

So…here is to getting back on track…

with a better attitude and for maintaining balance on my plate…while I teach MyPlate.

I am so thankful that I am allowed to have bad days, but finally have the drive to bounce back from them.

Tip: On days when I just can not shake my funk, I focus on someone else. If I can’t love myself in order to like myself for that day, then I turn the spotlight onto someone else. For example, poor Sam has took some hits the passed few weeks when he gets home from work. Why? Because I miss my mom, friends, pre-baby body, smooth forehead,the sunshine, my freedom…you name it, and I have complained about it.

Yet, he always listened. He was always patient while I complained over the same stuff…over…and…over…again. He is an amazing person. I hope that I can obtain half the patience my husband displays because there will be such peace to be had. With his work ethic and patience, I could really grow and seek more opportunities.

Well, here’s to breaking my bloggie silence.

Have a good week,

Heather

Picture Source
The cupboards, freezer, and refrigerator are bone dry in the Haley home.  I was making out my grocery list, and I thought this would be a good opportunity to share some staples in my diet.

 (This is not an exhaustive list.  I modify what I choose to eat based on my activity level for that day and/or current goals).

Your hands make the best device for measuring if you do not have measuring tools or a food scale. Each meal should be 2 fists worth of food.

Portion Control: 1 fist protein + 1 fist carb and/or healthy fat = humming metabolism

*Unless we are talking fro-yo and then all bets are off

PROTEINS

4-6 oz

Anything that has a momma… and the fewer the legs the better

*Protein Shakes
Protein Bars (Total Cheat bc they are basically candy bars, IMO, lots of sugar alcohols which can be hard on the stomach)
*Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
*Tuna (water packed)
*Fish (I go with wild caught when I can get it)
Shrimp
Extra Lean Ground Beef or Ground Round (92-96%) (This is considered a cheat for me)
*Egg Whites or Eggs
Ribeye Steaks or Roast
Top Round Steaks or Roast (aka Stew Meat, London Broil, Stir Fry)
Top Sirloin (aka Sirloin Top Butt)
Beef Tenderloin (aka Filet, Filet Mignon)
Top Loin (NY Strip Steak)
Flank Steak (Sir Fry, Fajita)
Eye of Round (Cube Meat, Stew Meat, Bottom Round , 96% Lean Ground Round)
*Ground turkey, Turkey Breast Slices or cutlets (no deli cuts..unless Hormel Natural)

COMPLEX CARBS

4oz

Complex carbs are your friend. They should be the focal carbs in your diet…but earn them. Carbs are fuel. If you have a lazy day  of DVR planned then these aren’t necessarily needed. However, if working out, then add these pre/post workout for energy and recovery. Complex carbs are also easy on your blood sugar. They will help keep cravings at bay unlike simple carbs.

*Oatmeal (Old Fashioned or Quick Oats)…mmmmm!

*Brown Rice Tortilla Wraps (Food for Life brand- these are amazing, Gluten-free, and more filling than Whole Wheat)
*Sweet Potatoes
*Yams
Beans (pinto, black, kidney)
High Fiber Cereal (cereal is a cheat for me so I rarely buy it for myself)
Brown Rice

*Quinoa (amazingness in a bowl)

Cream of Wheat
Multigrain Hot Cereal

FIBROUS CARBS

1 cup

Stick to frozen or fresh (canned has too much sodium which will just make for bloating)

*Green Leafy Lettuce (Green Leaf, Red, Leaf, Romaine)
*Broccoli
*Asparagus
*String Beans
*Spinach
*Bell Peppers
*Brussels Sprouts
Cauliflower
*Cabbage
Celery
Cucumber
Eggplant
*Green or Red Pepper
*Green beans
*Onions
Pumpkin
Garlic
Tomatoes
*Zucchini

FRUIT

1 piece/ 1 cup

*Bananas (Post-workout and only fruit Ashton likes), apples, grapefruit, peaches, berries, lemons (flavors h2o, and decaf tea)

HEALTHY FATS

2 tbs per day

Natural Style Peanut Butter (if it has sugar or hydrogenated anything its not healthy) …I buy Adam’s (peanuts & salt) PB is a BIG temptation, so I try to limit it in the house.

Olive Oil or Safflower Oil
Nuts (peanuts, almonds)
Flaxseed Oil
Fish oil

DAIRY AND EGGS

Nonfat Greek Yogurt ( I like Chobani and Fage)
Eggs

Almond Milk (Blue Diamond unsweetened Vanilla)

Coconut Milk (great for fruit smoothies)

fat free cheese (cheat and very rare..only when I’m in a comfort food mood then I’ll throw it on my eggs or grilled cheese)

CONDIMENTS & SPICES

*Crystal Light Natural

*green and assorted teas…I love tea & coffee

Fat Free Mayonnaise

*Balsamic Vinegar

*cocoa powder

*sea salt

*stevia in the raw
*Salsa
*Frank’s Hot Sauce
*cinnamon
Mrs. Dash
Sugar Free Maple Syrup
*Mustard (all kinds)
Extracts (vanilla, almond, etc )
Low Sodium beef or chicken broth

*These items are pretty much what I tend to eat each week.

Happy Shopping! Hopefully Trader Joe’s will be in my future this weekend.

Heather
 

Okay, so no, I am not one of those crazy cougar momma’s going after Justin Beaver…or any immortal without a pulse. (We prefer wizards to those sparkly vampires).

No, I am referring to my new job and its mascot. I am about to embark on a weekend conference, so I thought now would be perfect timing to introduce my newer addition in my life.

Through sacrifice and creativity, Sam and I surpassed out initial goal for me to stay-at-home with Lakelyn at least the first year. I missed the opportunity to stay home with Ashton; so I wanted to experience both sides to the spectrum.

In October of last year, I started to debate going back to school to work towards my Master’s Degree in Dietetics. Nutrition really interested me, and I was eager to learn more. I decided that before I committed to a second degree, I should gain some experience first. A part-time job or volunteer work seemed ideal, so I got busy on seeking an opportunity in this smaller town.

I applied at the local health food store where I am a regular consumer. I spent an entire day editing my resume and creating a cover letter. I was really hoping that me being a regular customer, my degree, and weight loss success would help me to be considered.  I got all dressed up, and nervously submitted my paperwork.  Needless to say…I did not get the job.

Crushed, I promised myself that I would not let it get me down either way.  During that time, I had been praying one consistent pray…”God unsettle me.”  I had grown lazy in seeking out his will. I was so comfortable in my current life that I was beginning to take things for granted.

I have learned and grown so much by taking out from my career to be with my child. I learned that I am a “hybrid housewife”…I am best when I can work outside and inside the home.

Anyways, so another sleepless night led me to my laptop where I randomly got on the newspaper’s classified section. I saw that Oregon State’s Extension Office needed a Nutritional Program Education Assistant…phew, a mouthful indeed. The job description sounded amazing. It entailed someone to teach sound nutritional eating and healthy living with a focus on lower income families. The application required the applicant to write an essay as to why they would be the ideal candidate for the position. Still ego-wounded from the health store rejection, I halfheartedly wrote out an essay.  Honestly, the thought of scoring a job with a university when a grocer rejected me seemed unfathomable…especially with a 3-year work hiatus.

A few weeks passed, and I heard nothing. One day while I was shopping at the other health food store, the manager began talking to me about needing additional weekend help. The hours were sporadic and highly inflexible for our family, but it was a job with nutrition. I went home, discussed it with Sam, printed my resume (again), loaded up the family, drove back to the health food store, and went inside to submit my resume…just to find that the manager had left. One of the employees asked if I wanted leave my resume; I declined for whatever reason.

Sam asked in the car, “Why didn’t you just leave it with them?”  I told him, “I have this feeling that I need to just wait.”  Three days later, I received a call for an interview for the OSU position. I was shocked, excited, and nervous. The interview required that I create my own nutritional educational handouts based on the USDA Dietary Guidelines. I had zero computer software, knowledge, and…wasn’t the food pyramid obsolete? Wasn’t it like, a plate now? Uh..oh…it was time to prepare.

The day of my interview, I prayed…aloud. When I crossed over into Myrtle Point, I just asked God to keep my mind clear and focused. I reminded myself that the kids were my number one gig, and how blessed I was already if God did not open this door. I walked into a room with five women. They were all so nice. A 3o-minute interview quickly turned into an hour. When I left, I recalled how much I missed stimulating adult conversations. The interview alone was a wonderful experience. I gave my testimony, teaching experiences, faith, and I let my true self take over.  I left with saying that if a more qualified candidate received the position that I would love to volunteer. They said I would know something if I was chosen in the following week.

I jumped in the car and called Sam.

Sam: How did it go?

Me: Awesome! There was no dead air. I kept them over an hour…Shoot! I went over to long. Do you think that goes against me?!

Sam: How much does it pay?

Me: Oh, I have no idea. I forgot to ask!

Sam: What do you mean you forgot to ask? )

I was home for roughly 30 minutes before I received the call offering me the position. I was so excited! It took almost 2 months before my background work was completed, but it was worth it. A declined grocer position turned into a teaching position with a university.

Pros

• Allows me to pick my work hours & work from home –no child care for Lakelyn & amazing for a military schedule
• Learning/ gaining experience about nutrition/healthy living
• Using my teaching degree
• Working with lower-income families/pregnant teens & single mothers—paying it forward
• Working under a Registered Dietician (insight on earning that second degree)
• Spreading/Sharing tips on living a better life through diet
• Cindy, my amazing partner who knows everything about computers, lesson planning, marriage, parenting, I have already learned so much from her!
• The first week on the job, I was given a lap top, new desk, and I am spending an entire weekend in Portland for the Spring Health Conference–free!
• I will have been employed by a University for potential dietetic programs/nutritional opportunities in the future

Cons

Because the program is federally funded, I have to follow certain income/geographic mandates. This can be tricky when trying to create events and programs. I have gotten several fun ideas already, but I need loopholes to make it work. It would be so much easier if this could be lifted especially since everyone could benefit from a nutritional presentation. However, it is federally funded-without that, the position would not exist.

Therefore, there you have it! That is my new job briefly. I am currently working with the elementary schools, but I intend to teach the young mother’s group in the near future. (I am so flipping’ excited to teach them!)

This weekend I will be at the conference learning the ins-and-outs of the position and university. I will also be sleeping soundly, shopping, working out at a gym…, and missing my family dearly.

I will be back later to post about how I travel sans family.

-Heather

Question: Have you ever had one door close only to allow another to re-open?

The Fountain of Youth…I found it and I am eager to share!

I have gotten messages inquiring what my diet and fitness regime resembles. Since I have limited time to respond due to this…

I thought I could reach out through the blog.

(Remember: I am not licensed, credentialed, or an expert. I speak clearly from my own trial and error and what works for me very well may not work for your body or goals).

There are too many areas to cover for one post, so I am going to cover them by order of importance. Well…what I feel is most important. There are 6 steps to weight loss/healthy living/beast mode…whatever stage you are within these remain the same, but may need to be modified to your lifestyle.

6 steps to Success

1. Hydration

2.Diet

3. Diet

4. Exercise

5. Sleep

6. Supplements.

The Biggest Loser’s, Bob Harper, (also an Austin Peay alumni) believes that Diet is the first step…I disagree.  Just like me to go against the expert, right?

I disagree because in my experience dehydration has altered my dietary needs especially when training to meet a goal or attempting to lose weight. There have been many times when I have mistaken thirst for hunger or reached for a mid-afternoon pick-me up when all I needed was some h2o.

The question is…How much should you drink?

Well, we all know that 8 glasses is advised but I look at that as a “starting” point. If you have trouble sneaking water in then this is a good goal to aim. For someone who already has a preexisting relationship with Aqua then you need to amp it up.

I drink….

1- 1 1/2 gallons per day.

Yes, that is a lot of water and it did not happen like this overnight. I had to gradually increase my intake and learn the tricks of the trade.

For example, in the beginning I bought lots of bottled water. The problem?  My water intake grew but my grocery budget did not.

Then I decided to make the switch to a Brita to save some cash…and the planet, of course.

Yeah, that worked until I had a baby. Then I was so annoyed with refilling the pitcher that most days I would skimp out on water just because I would forget to refill…or pull it out of the frig. Goodbye Brita…hello tap.

(Gasp!) I know some are reading this thinking, “Ew, she drinks from the tap! That is so unsanitary.” Well, I am happy to report that I have not grown horns or various limbs thus far, just definition.  I believe it’s better to drink an abundance of unfiltered than a bottle of filtered alongside soda, sports or energy drinks. Just my opinion.

Next, I started using water bottles thinking this would keep me accountable and prone to take in more water…fail.

Once again, I was annoyed with the refilling process.

So, I dropped the etiquette and went back to my Southern roots…drinking straight from the jug.

It is quite appalling to some. Like my new boss. She is a Registered Dietician, holds a Master’s in Public Health, and is a refined New Yorker  who wears heels to the office everyday. She is great, but twice she has caught me somewhat unprofessional.

First, she came into my office when I was sprawled in the middle of the floor, lying on my belly, sipping hot tea and planning curricula.Ha-ha!  Her face was priceless.

“Why-y-y-y aren’t you at your desk?”

Answers that popped into my mind…stiff, trapped, unproductive, butt’s asleep, crowded…you get it, right? I just work better when I can spread out, relax, etc. I blurted, “Uh, my legs were beginning to hurt.”  Two days later, I had a brand new foot rest for my desk. Hahaha! I guess the days of working on my belly are over.

The next offense was my water jug. She came back into my office (this time I was at my desk) and inquired about the foot stool. As we were talking, I withdrew my gallon jug for a long “swig”…..

“Well, you’re just going to drink straight from the jug, aren’t you?!” she asked.

(We have a water tank in the front where you can get tiny Dixie cups of water…  I was going like 100 times the first week on the job. It was hysterical. They probably thought I was a crazy Dixie cup hoarder.  Once I got comfortable, I smuggled in my massive jug).

“Umm, yeah, it holds me accountable to finish off my daily gallon.”  She just grinned. I think she likes me. I hope she does because I like her, a lot!

Anyways, jug drinking works because…

1. Visual Reminder

2. No refilling

3. Accessible

4. No hassle of multiple h2o bottles

5. Much cheaper to purchase

An easy way to start a courtship with water is to remember…

“Eight by 8″….shoot to drink 8 glasses by 8pm. Once you are in a committed relationship increase and modify to your lifestyle.

Here is how I get in my gallon and then some…

• In the A.M. “before” coffee or breakfast. (Your body has went hours without water and coffee aids in dehydration).  My rule: I will not allow myself coffee or breakfast until I have drank 16 ounces- one tall glass. I knock it out and then move on to the good stuff…coffee.
• 16 ounces with every meal
• 8 ounces within an hour
• Occasional Crystal Light..a girl’s got to have flavor every now and again
• Pre/During/Post workout

I normally have half of my gallon gone my lunch, but that is also with working out.

Try to decrease before dinner, so you aren’t waking up all night to use the bathroom.

Wonders of Water

Energizes  (3pm for me!)

Clears skin

Curbs hunger & Cravings.

Detox. Detox. Detox. (Pants feel snug from too many treats, salt, beer..?) Drink a gallon of water, drop the bloat, and your pants will magically fit again. I swear water makes everything tighter, lighter, and toned.

That’s it.  I’m off to get ready for a date with the husband. Now, go drink some water.

Good Night,

Heather

Question: How do you fit water into your day? Any tips you can share with me?

ps- Be prepared, you will go to the bathroom a million times per day…but you will also…lose weight, have better skin, be more energized, rid toxins, and I find my headaches are usually due to kids dehydration. Good luck!

P.D.A catch your attention? Yeah, all groping aside, who doesn’t appreciate the occasional public smooch? However, I think our P.D.A may differ…hold that thought.

The Haley home has been in overdrive the past few weeks hence the delayed post. Lots of changes have taken place.

We celebrated a very low-key 2nd birthday…

we are still recovering from last year’s ONE-derland…

(Alice and her Mad-hatter of a brother)

in which one toddler’s present added to the family…

Allow me to introduce Octavius “Chip” Haley. We stole the names from Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast. Every girls first Disney true loves-except me, I was more for Sleeping Beauty. There is something special about three fairies trying to bake a Birthday cake without magic. <3

Anyways, I also started my new job with Oregon State University’s Nutrition Education Program. I am going to write another post about the position and description. I will say that I have only been employed for 3 weeks, and I have loved and learned from each day.

I also started team teaching Group Power classes at the gym.

Add that to my “me” workouts,  parenting, wifely-hood, a new job, dog owner, and trying to rid a pacifier from a sleepless toddler while soon embarking potty training…and yep, I’m feeling a little crazed. Crazed does not work well for me at this point in my life. I need to save that for when the kids are torturing us through adolescence.

These changes and obstacles come with a series of emotions-fatigue, joy, stress, contentment, bitter-sweetness, anxiety, fear, lack of confidence, doubt…etc…etc. These emotions are usually what drive people to their emotional addictions. This is when the smoker takes the long drag from his “stashed” cigarettes, the vowed “cash-only” retrieves her credit card for the “justified” sale, the endorphin enthusiast executes one too many “on” days, and the restricted stop eating while the indulgent mediate on the sugary goodness. One word-addicts.

Face it, humans (especially women-sorry, girls) are emotional creatures and most of us are addicted to something. Personally, I do not feel that one addiction is greater than another. Whether your drug of choice is food, retail, social networking, money, chemical dependence, alcohol, or gossip, in the end they remain the same.   They all serve to feed short-lived needs.  This need/addiction cycle is caused by emotional emptiness. Sorry if I offended you; but just the same as coffee and cigarettes, if you find yourself continually  “needing” them to get through your day then agree that I may be on to something!

Back to my point, my life is changing and with that comes mixed emotions and loads of fear. Last year when life took a turn, I had a project to keep straight forward. Between my marathon and training, I was able to stay focused and motivated.

I crossed that finish line, and I am needing motivation for what’s next. I need a project. I have turned my life and decisions over to faith, but God knows that I am still weak. He knows the equation all too well…

change+lack of control= emotional addiction (aka…emotional/ mindless eating)

Since God is graciously greedy and wants to be our only addiction, he once again is pushing me out of my comfort zone. Clarity came to me in Safeway’s  frozen food aisle. I was debating how to hide Sam’s love affair for processed chicken.

As a newly labeled “Nutrition Educator” the last thing I wanted was for a student to see my cart of frozen and battered miscellaneous chicken parts. It wasn’t until a “hangry” (hungry=angry=hangry) toddler’s cries forced me to quickly collect the rest of Sam’s foods and bolt to the closest cashier lacking discretion. I maneuvered the race-car cart with Enredi speed. As I was placing the breaded patties, cereals, sodas, cookies, and yogurts on the conveyor belt, one thought overtook my brain…P.D.A.

Public Display of Affection…that is what I was doing, right? I was publicly purchasing what he enjoyed because I love him and therefore showing him affection, right? Yes…but not quite. You could look at it that way, but because I analyze EVERYTHING, it has more meaning for me.

It was more of a prayer reply. Indeed, He spoke to me through a BOGO Tyson Chicken Patty sale.

Let me explain. That morning I poured over this…

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

and this…

Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
      Philippians 3:13-14

After reading these passages and wondering what I was not “getting,” I simply asked that my mind stay clear for answers. I had been complaining to Sam that I recently felt like a hamster on the wheel of life. I was running and running but getting nowhere. But these two passages jolted me into reality with 3 messages… This is what I wrote in my journal.

1. It doesn’t matter how hard I run on my “wheel” because it’s just a life sprint. The endurance portion is eternal and now is when I should be training for an eternity, not a short-lived sprint. Slow down, be patient, and focus on selfless service.

2. I have to keep faith that God is pushing his way and will onto me-even if I don’t understand or agree. Even if I wonder through all the training, obstacles, cycles, career changes, health, healing, and two children-God, are you sure you have the right girl?

3. The war is won by defeating daily battles. Stay disciplined and keep the course. Stop focusing on the length of the journey. I will never make heads-or-tails if I don’t do what has to be done-mundane or extraordinaire.  And what has to be done now is the grocery shopping.

That is what led me to Safeway…that is where my cart adopted junky temptations…and a conveyor belt of divided health and processed foods is where God spoke to my food weaknesses and reminded me that I was strong enough for “our” nourishment and to overcome my better half’s diet.  He spoke wisdom, while I immaturely fretted over a intercom price discrepancy. “Price check on Double Stuffed Oreos for the “Nutrition Educator.” If caught, would I be viewed a hypocrite or human?

P.D.A…that thought lingered in my mind until the patties were nestled in our freezer…P.D.A.

This is what I got from HIM and that acronym.

“Just as you have shown your husband’s diet…show me some P.D.A.”

That is my project for this year. Practicing more P.D.A. in hopes to transform my mind and body.

Patience.

• I have none-period. This will be gained through tons of prayer and distraction because I am a visual person seeking quick results. I have never been patient; but I know without this key factor, I will never be a free hamster. I will stay on the wheel or circle the mountain forever.

Discipline.

• A disciplined diet will be another focus. I want to really zone into my eating habits and strengthen my ability to rely on other methods for emotional outlets.

Accountability/Attitude

• I am planning to use the blog to document my training, struggles, and any experiences that I might gain. It is my hope that through writing and seeing picture results, that I may stay the course. I also may need an attitude check from time to time…when I’m feeling nutty and hankering for the nut butter or coaxing a comfort bite from a grilled cheese.

My efforts have been shallow. If I want to gain lifelong endurance then I have to start winning some daily battles. I have to dig deeper than training for the 26 miles that allowed me to recover with a succulent bakery brownie. I have to stop being so emotionally edible. It’s time to trade the shallows for an engulfment of meaning.

I think for 2012...I am the project. I am my own goal. I have no idea where perseverance and struggle will lead me. The only thing I know is what is pressing down on my heart. To finally break through my comfort zones to unearth my capabilities, strip away my struggles,  and train for eternity endurance. I have a purpose and a service to fulfill in this life. In order to stay the path, I need motivation.

So…for the next 12 weeks I am committing myself to my own transformation project. Just like the marathon training, I am breaking it down into a training plan. I am aiming to transform myself and face any struggles that may occur WITHOUT emotional addictions. P.D.A…

I have enlisted training help from friends, a coach, and have a customized diet plan to slay the cravings. (Who am I kidding, it is going to slay me…see, there goes that attitude!) I also purchased a 12-week daily log to journal workouts, nutrition, and additional notes.

Stay tuned for Project P.D.A… I believe it will be a great transformation series for myself and A Raw Recovery.

I’m already feeling a little “pumped” over it…

Sorry for being long winded. I guess I had a lot to say after a month hiatus.

Good Night,

Heather

fight like a beast and gain your greatness.

After taking a hiatus from self-blogging, Sam pushed me to finally leap. My hands are shaking too much to type an actual post today, so I’m going to throw this out there to introduce my blog and its purpose.With sweaty palms and a racing heart, I am needing a run to clear my head. Adrenaline alone may carry me straight to OZ where hopefully I can persuade the lion to share a bit of his courage…

I did vow to pursue life beast-like, right?! …Right!

While I’m running, please feel free to check out my space and leave a comment. I apologize in advance for any technical glitches for I am not computer savvy just yet. My blog is also in the beginning stages, so my pages are still incomplete. They will be published sooner than later.

A little scripture that helped me for today’s reveal…

1 Peter 3:13-14
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.”

Here’s to a good week!

Heather

Today passed in a blur.

Last night, I spent over an hour on the phone booking a flight for a traveling brother and non-tech savvy mother.  The flight was booked so that my brother could say good-bye to our dying grandmother. (The woman who damn near raised us due to my mom having to work so much). Although she loved all of her grandchildren equally, she shared a special relationship with my brother. They were one in the same. He was her everything, and he needed to be home with her.

Ten minutes after I booked the flight, after I said aloud, “He is coming home,” she died. He has no idea of her passing. I had to lie to him. I had to lie to save my brother. He will be crushed. He will be pissed at me, but he will be in my family’s safety rather than a random street in Cali when he is delivered the news. I am so thankful that he is landing in Nashville as I type this. I hope that he will understand why I withheld the truth.

I have been in Oregon for 3 years. Within those 3 years, I have lost 3 very dear people in my life.  Today I have no words, so I leave you with a wordless Wednesday to narrate my day.

Hello, there! Whoa, it has been happening in the Haley home the past 24 hours. Sam had overnight duty yesterday which left me to care for the kids solo style, and it started out…a little rough…

I tossed until 11pm, gave up and watched QVC until 3am, and arrived at the gym by 5:30 am. Stupid. I had a severe stomachache. I think some Gluten snuck into my mouth from my previous Mexican luncheon. It is almost impossible to not get a little Gluten in your diet in the beginning stages. Maybe it was just my stomach telling me to stop eating out- point taken. What is wrong with the above photo? Obviously it is time to clear out the medicine chest. ) yuck!

Needless to say, I walked the treadmill for 30 minutes before deciding my stomach was not going to partake in an endorphin party. The start on Insanity was put on hold until today, but that’s okay because I had already completed the Fit Test.

So, today was Day 2 of my 60 day Insanity Journey.

        You can read more about the program from my “detailed” post on my fitness page. (Coming Soon!)

Anyways, I survived 40 minutes of max intervals and felt so much better afterward!Morning cardio gives me the kick that I need to conquer my day. It’s amazing how exercise really does determine how I approach the start of my day.

Today was really mellow in our house-for a duty day. Lakelyn only colored on the floor once, so that was a feat. Duty days are about surviving and keeping the kids busy until bedtime. In the past, I tried to go above and beyond whether it be with household chores or outdoor events; but now I am okay with cuddling down with a movie, crafting, or taking the kids to browse the toy aisles. We are pretty content with just chillin’ while Dad’s away.

Eats for the day: (cupboards are bone dry so I had to be creative).

Breakfast: A plant-based protein smoothie…

This was my first try at plant protein, This type is non-flavored, so it will taste like whatever you add within it. I added…

1c frozen blueberries

1c vanilla coconut milk

1/4c pomegrante

ice. blend…GAG!

I was not a fan. My <3 still belongs to Whey, but I choked it down because I’m just cheap hardcore like that. I can’t wait until I’m off my elimination diet, which will be tomorrow, FYI!

Lunch: Egg/Veggie Scramble

1/2c GF Oats

Dinner: Baked Chicken Breast

Pan seared sweet potatoes & green beans

Dessert: Baked Pumpkin Pudding

Can Pumpkin Puree (not the Easy Pie type…the good for you kind)

2 eggs

1c brown sugar

1/2c GF Baking Flour (Topping)

2TBS cinnamon

1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice

1 tsp Clove

3 TBS pecans

Bake at 375 for 30 minutes.

Pudding.

Topping Sprinkle.

Done.

Meh. Good, but not great. If you are hankering for some holiday pumpkin without the added calories then this will do the job.

I paired it up with this…

This is from the basket that we won from the CG Christmas party. It was okay, but I have never been a huge fan of Hazelnut. I’m more of a Carmel or Chocolate girl. But, it was free; so I tried it out.

Now that we are watered and fed, it is time for a swim in the tub following an early bedtime for this girl.

I’m planning on trying out a different gym tomorrow morning. It is a little further away, so I’m setting my alarm for 4:45!!

I have my insurance laid out and ready to pull me out of bed.
I really need to invest in more workout tops! Which reminds me, a Christmas list will be posted soon along with more fitness pages.  See ya tomorrow!

Good Night,

Heather

Sundays are usually pretty lax in our home. I reserve Sunday as my rest day from working out. We typically eat crock pot eats, leftovers, or take-out. Today the husband chose the latter, so we loaded the kids up and went out for the afternoon.

Lunch was tricky because I still have 3 days left on my elimination diet. We tried Mexican since I could either go with a salad or corn tortillas. I ordered a cup of black bean soup to steer clear of the chips and salsa.

They served beastly portions, so I ate my appetizer for lunch and had my Ranchero Salad sent in a box for dinner.

Ranchero Salad-Romaine, Tomato, Grilled Chicken, Avocado, and Black Beans. I held the cheese and sauces, and it was still good.

After lunch we headed out to use some free gift cards. Every year Sears holds a Heroes at Home Gift Registry. This program is funded by consumer donations and all the proceeds go toward gift cards for military families. This is our third year to register and we were blessed to receive it again!

It could not have come at a better time because our coffee maker left this world after 3 devoted years.                                (White: Old Kenmore. RIP.  Black: New Morning B.F.F)

After much debate, I learned that the Colombian bean and me have commitment issues. He wanted to take our relationship to the next level with a Keurig, but I could not commit. He just offered too many options for a black coffee gal. I don’t want to have a rendezvous with flavored coffee again. It doesn’t sit well on my hips.

So, being a creature of habit, I went with another Kenmore. This time I went sleek and black. The Kenmore toaster will be replaced next if I go GF.

After shopping and lunch, we headed back home for Lake’s nap and a little boy bonding…

Sam taught Ashton how to swing the club out back, and then the two spent the day on the greens. Sam is already talking about getting him his own little set of clubs for his birthday. Hmm…I wonder, future Tiger Woods or Happy Gilmore?

I spent the afternoon creating and ordering our Christmas cards. In the past, I spent too much time searching the best deals and the very best card. It was exhausting and stressful(which in  my opinion isn’t worth it unless it’s free).  We went the one hour route this year.   It was quick, cheap, cute, and now it’s checked off my list. Yay!

Once the boys returned, I finished the Christmas cards and warmed the lunch leftovers for dinner. (We all saved some beastly portions for dinner). No photo since it was just a repeat.

After dinner we bundled up and went to see the Christmas lights at Shore Acres Gardens.

The first stop was this little number with a random “pirate” stopping for a photo-op.

Lakelyn preferred the “bud-er-fie”

The kids stopped and made their Christmas wishes.

(Looking at this, I’m guessing that Lakelyn pleaded for a mullet trim!!)

The display was beautiful, only five bucks, and located five miles from our house.

A few twinkled sights:

(Does this make any other Gluten-Free-rs want some cereal? )

A random palm tree that reminds me of warm East Coast beaches.

It was a fun hour to share with the kids and a great closure to the weekend.

I’m off to bed to take the gym by storm tomorrow. Insanity post coming tomorrow.

Good Night,

Heather

Well, hello there! Happy Saturday. We are being lazy in the Haley home today…like Disney DVDS and p.j.’s lazy.

This morning I woke up starving from a night of dancing, so I feasted like a beast!

Beast Breakfast: Egg Wrap with 1/4c Quinoa  (I added a yolk today!)

1c pomegranate. banana. and pecans.

                                        The Quinoa gave me a boost for a 4-mile run, too.

Last night was the annual Coast Guard Christmas party. They hold it every year at the local casino. It is pretty nice and located on the bay. Here’s a video from inside the casino. It doesn’t show the banquet hall we were in, but the locals in this video were too hilarious not to include.

New Year’s Eve at The Mill Casino

A few highlights from the party…

We ditched our jeans and ponytails for a more polished look. I have some h.a.w.t. friends.

Polished Pals- Me. Corinne (center). Gaby (right).

We feasted like gluttons on Prime Rib…we even shared with friends.

                                                             The husband and Joe.

The chefs hooked me up with a gluten-free/dairy-free/chocolate-free dessert. Good…

but better in the nude. Clearly the girl beside me wasn’t impressed.

We won a prize!

Last year we went home empty handed but not this year! Our sweet little bin included : Peppermint Hot Cocoa. Hazelnut Coffee. Biscotti cookies. Holiday teas. 2 coffee mugs. 2 throw blankets.

(Sam swears it was “rigged” because everyone knows about our love affair with the Colombian bean.)

Rigged or not, we got a prize so I was happy.

Everyone showed more P.D.A. than ever!

In more than one way…

I pulled at my dress 5,05468454574 X’s! . What should I have used? Isn’t there a tape for that?

And best of all,

we danced…

and danced…

even those husbands who claim they will never dance.

It was…a night to remember. I tried to soak up every minute with my friends who are scheduled to transfer next year. I’m so thankful to have them for one more holiday season.

Now, time to cook dinner and cuddle up with the family for The Grinch.

Good Night,

Heather