FORTIFY

FORTIFY:  to make strong and secure

Every year for quite a few years now, I have chosen a word to focus my goals on.  This year it's FORTIFY.  Basically, I have been wanting (Jeff, too) to make sure what is most important to us is strong and secure.

Last year I chose CHERISH.  That word sums up our year perfectly.  2010 was filled with happy memories we will cherish forever.  Disneyland was our highlight, of course, but Christmas and so many other great things added to our year being filled with memories to cherish.

This year is a year for making things strong and secure.  We have been working on our health, our food storage, our savings, our family, and basically - our future.

I'm excited for another year filled with happy memories and new goals to make us better people.

I'm In Love

It's pathetic how little I've written lately.  So, what do I decide to write about?  My Blackberry.  I'm in love.  It's my favorite cell phone so far.  I have owned two different Droids, and even with all their bells and whistles I prefer the simplicity of the Blackberry.  Of course it's still a smartphone and does all kinds of cool things like surf the web and interact with Facebook.  But, it seems I was meant for a Blackberry all along.  I prefer my cell phone to actually be a cell phone and not a little computer with a phone in it.  The Blackberry does it all for me.  It's my little organizer (aka .... my brain), my social network liaison, my source of entertainment, and place to show my "style" (I have found super cute accessories for it).  Jeff is already saying I fall into the "Crackberry" category (addicted like Crack to our Blackberries).  To that I say, "Whatever!"  LOL  Oh, gotta go... my phone is ringing.

Fave site www.crackberry.com

Bountiful Baskets

This was our first experience with Bountiful Baskets Co-op.  We did the "traditional basket" and I added on two pumpkins.  I wasn't sure what was included in the traditional basket so I didn't add on anything besides the two pumpkins.  I should have added the Mexican combo (a bunch of great veggies for making salsa) and the 30 lbs. of green beans to can.  I thought I might get that stuff already, and didn't realize they were add-ons.  I thought one pumpkin was included in the basket so I only ordered 2 more.  Since we didn't have time to carve pumpkins it turned out ok, and I'll bake these pumpkins for puree.  All this in the photo was fresh and local where possible.  They even have organic weeks where everything is organic.  The cost - $15 for a traditional basket, $3 extra per pumpkin. Not bad I think, and we sure have enjoyed the fresh produce.  http://www.bountifulbaskets.org/

VLCD 17 (Day 19)

The "apple day" did the trick!  I lost 4 pounds!  (Beware, bodily functions mentioned.)  Part of that was constipation and water.  The apples really cleaned me out.  I even felt different this morning.  Boy, you can sure tell when you retain water when doing this.  It's very interesting.

I feel normal now and not so distressed.  I am hoping tomorrow will bring my normal 1 pound weight loss, like usual.

I went visiting teaching today, and enjoyed visiting with these sisters.  It was nice to use a conference talk as my lesson.  I loved re-reading the talks, very inspiring.

GCBC Week 3

Sister Wixom's talk was a wonderful reminder to focus on my children and make sure to take advantage of every gospel teaching moment.

I loved this quote:

"The world will teach our children if we do not, and children are capable of learning all the world will teach them at a very young age. What we want them to know five years from now needs to be part of our conversation with them today. Teach them in every circumstance; let every dilemma, every consequence, every trial that they may face provide an opportunity to teach them how to hold on to gospel truths."

I know it is my responsibility to teach my children the gospel.  I am grateful for Church and that by taking them each Sunday I am giving them a gift to last a lifetime.  We have also been better about having Family Home Evening.  This effort and trying to pray and read scriptures more faithfully has also made a difference to the spirit in our home.

I can also testify to having dinner (at the dinner table) together as a family works miracles.  It has created such a wonderful feeling as we share our day with one another.  We share one thing we learned, and one way we served someone else.  I love to hear the kids' examples, and love reminding them of things they did to serve without realizing it.

At our last Family Home Evening we decided to do more activities as a family (the kids all felt we needed to do more).  One thing we decided was to "Spook" our ward members with treats and ringing their doorbell and running.  The kids LOVED it and it was so much fun.  Those little times together really make parenthood enjoyable.

GCBC Week 2 (a little late)

I am doing a little General Conference Study "Book Club" online.  Week One is on Elder Holland's talk "Because of Your Faith."  He is my favorite apostle and always seem to get choked up every time he speaks.

He spoke of his love and gratitude to every member's efforts in the Church.  He acknowledged all of our sacrifices and love for one another.  I was touched by his recognition of even the "smallest" callings and how grateful he is to every person who serves.

We do laugh at some of the silly things we do, like making casseroles and green Jell-O, but those things brighten the day of so many who are in need.  Those little acts of service always make a difference, especially when you don't have the strength to move forward.  I have appreciated those little things along the way, especially when having babies.  It meant so much to have someone bring a warm meal.

I'm also grateful that the leaders of our church are praying for us.  I know I am blessed because the most spiritual people on this Earth, closest to God in his direction for us, are praying on my behalf.

Ding Dong Ditch

We did a little fun family activity tonight.  A little Halloween "Spooking", or Ding Dong Ditch with treats.  We've done this for a lot of years, but this time the kids were old enough to remember all going together to ring doorbells and run.  We made Rice Crispie treats with pumpkin candy corn on top, and Monster Cookies.  We have a few more runs to make tomorrow (it got too late).  Red (middle son) said, "Can we do this every night?!"  Too fun!

Monster Cookies

½ lb. butter or shortening

1 lb. brown sugar

2 cups white sugar

6 eggs

2 cups peanut butter

Cream together then add:

½ tsp. vanilla

1/3 cup corn syrup

12 oz. chocolate chips

Chopped walnuts (optional)

4 tsp. baking soda

9 cups oatmeal

1 lb. M&M’s

Mix well.  Make big cookies.  6-8 per cookie sheet.  Bake at 350 for 12-18 minutes.

Diet Dilemma

We were invited to a Mexican barbecue last night.  One of Buzz's (my oldest son) friends invited us to have dinner with his family.  They are a wonderful family, and we had been wanting to get together with them for a long time.  They are people we would love to fellowship, but mainly just wanted to create a stronger friendship with them since we both are happy our boys have found such a good friend in each other.

As we were on the phone with them, Buzz was concerned that we couldn't go since we were on our "diet."  I told him, just accept the invitation and everything will be ok.  I talked to a friend about our dilemma and she advised us against cheating, and suggested we bring our own food.  Since this family is a traditional Mexican family, we felt we'd be better off just being gracious and eat the food but go super small on any carb or sugar, and focus on the veggies and meat.

On the Menu -

Carne Asada

Grilled drumsticks (Mexican seasoning)

Spicy Sausages

Beans and Rice

Salad

Grilled Onions

Grilled Jalapeños

Guacamole

For dessert - cake & cheesecake

We were still nervous about what kind of ramifications this would have on the protocol.  Would this screw up everything we'd accomplished so far?

We went, and both ate less than we normally do.  We even ate dessert, but both had a hard time eating much of it.  We had a wonderful time with them, and are excited to grow this friendship.

So, we woke up this morning nervous to find what would be on the scale.  Jeff gained 2 pounds (not too bad).  Drum roll.... I didn't gain anything!  That's quite promising considering that's probably the outcome I'll have in the future after losing the weight.  I will probably be able to eat what I want (including a little dessert) and not gain weight - on occasion and with moderation.

We have decided to lower our calories today and drink tea and water all day, and just have a roast and veggies for dinner.  We are hoping that jumps us back into the good pattern we were in.

My Biggest Loser Experience

We can finally let the cat out of the bag!  We tried out for Biggest Loser.  My sister-in-law had tried out before and even made it on the show as an alternate and their first taping for Season 10.  Because she did not make it on the show they gave her a VIP pass to come back for Season 11 and get another interview by the casting directors (skipping to the front of the line).  They loved her but she needed a partner for Season 11.  She recruited Jeff while we vacationed together over the summer.  He was a hard sell even though he has always wanted to go on the show ever since he started watching it.  She really felt like they had a shot as a team.  

So, we all made plans to go to the casting call (mid-July) in Portland.  Jeff and Nikki got right in and had their interview.  During the interview they discovered Jeff had an overweight wife.  They seemed very interested in that but he told them I was not interested in being on the show.  They didn't feel like the interview was a slam dunk so Nikki recruited others just in case.  They had really wanted to pair her with another military wife.  Obviously they thought both Jeff and Nikki should be paired up differently.  

There was still time before casting calls were over and I could see Jeff's window of opportunity closing.  I decided to swallow my pride and get my buns down there for an interview.  I did not want Jeff to lose out on an opportunity like this, especially since he wanted it so bad.  I thought the whole idea of being on the show humiliating and torturous, but I was willing to do just about anything to help him on his quest to change himself - tv show and all.

I was able to zoom right in and instantly get an interview.  The casting director seemed to love hearing about my experiences (homebirth, busy mom, feeling like an ugly duckling in my family), and I felt that the interview went really well.  I was right.  I got a call that evening for on-camera interview for Jeff and I.  

Then the downturn happened.  Nikki saw her dreams falling apart as the show wanted us instead of her and Jeff.  She was crushed.  We all felt just awful.  She talked it out with her mom, and although was still having a really hard time, she knew the Lord had a plan for all of us.  That night and the next morning were very emotionally rocky for all 3 of us.  As we discussed our struggles and why were all here at this moment we realized this experience (good outcome or not) was a turning point.  We all wanted the same goal - to change our lives.  We discussed our different struggles and knew that whoever ended up on the show we'd support 100%.  Luckily Nikki was able to recruit a friend to be her partner and got her own on-camera interview.  Both our on-camera interviews went well, and were given "pink slips" to do our home videos and complete the paperwork and background check (lots of interview questions, legal stuff, and a bio).  

Although our on-camera interview was a success, we were emotional basket cases through most of it.  The whole weekend brought up lots of emotions.  Jeff was truly perfect for the show because his heart was in it.  I had to admit the whole thing scared me, but I'd do anything for him, including showing my fat on national television.  They were concerned I didn't weigh enough, but in the end we still got the go-ahead.

We spent the next week doing our video.  Although we had fun with the kids, it was pure torture being on camera.  It made me sick to see myself on video, especially since I hide as much as I can in photos.  Plus, they want you to video yourself eating, playing around, and as modestly exposed as you can get to truly see your fat on camera.  Yuck!  It was awful.  We sighed a huge sigh of relief when that was mailed off and over with.

Then we played the waiting game.  Three months we waited.  Since Nikki had experience with this before, she understood the basic timeline for things.  She emailed the casting company for an update and found out she and her partner didn't make the show.  She suggested we do the same - so I sent an email as well.  It took them 3 days to get back to me, but finally we got the "we're sorry and thank you for participating" email.

It was quite the roller coaster ride.  After that emotional weekend Jeff and I both made the decision to change  no matter how hard.  Those 3 months were torture since we wanted to start our weight loss plan right then.  We held off since we didn't want to lose weight if we actually made the show (especially me, since even losing a little might make me "not big enough" for Biggest Loser).  Nikki too, doesn't seem big enough for the show, but evidently how big you are doesn't automatically make you a good candidate.  They want "story" and personality along with weight.  

The journey was long, and I'm relieved we didn't make it.  I'm sad for Jeff though.  He wanted it so bad.  I'm glad it's all over now, and we both decided we'd never do it again.  It was too emotionally draining, and horrible having to stay fat in order to make the show.  Jeff is dealing with his demons slowly and painfully as we pursue our new course.  I'm doing fine with the changes, and fully resolved in sticking with our weight loss plan.  I think because food isn't as "mental" with me as it is Jeff, I'm having an easier time.  I have PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome), so weight and metabolism are all interwoven in a different set of problems for me.  I've always thought of it as a curse, but in a lot of ways I'm blessed.  Once on a course that works I am able to change pretty easily.  When weight isn't related to a health problem it's 10 times harder to overcome.  Either way, we are fully committed to getting healthy together.  We are a team no matter what.  Biggest Loser or not!

My Goal for Next Fall

I want to run (not just walk) the 5K during the Women's Fitness Celebration next fall!  I have been wanting to do this for awhile, but couldn't due to my lack of consistent exercise last year.  Since weight loss is already moving along, I want to add this goal to my exercise plans.

I found this blog post helpful for ideas on beginning. (Mormon Mommy Blogs)
http://mormonmommyblogs.blogspot.com/2010/10/5-steps-to-your-first-5k.html  (below)

5 Steps to Your First 5KFor many of us the fitness goals we made at the beginning of the year got thrown out the window months ago.  With the vacations, summer camps, and other activities it is difficult to find time for a regular workout routine during the summer.  As the kids go back to school in the fall many people find it easier to stick to a structured schedule. 

Autumn is my favorite time of year to run!  It doesn't have the snow and freezing temperatures of winter, the allergies of spring, and the unmerciful heat of summer.  Those fall days when all you need is a long sleeve t-shirt or lightweight jacket are perfect for running! 

It's time to plan your first 5k (3.1 miles)!

Scared?  Don't be!  


Here are 5 steps to your first 5k:

1. Commit yourself.  Find a 5k in your area.  If you are brand new to running, pick one that is about 3-4 months away.  Turkey Trots on Thanksgiving morning are a perfect way to justify all the food you're going to eat that day anyway!  Once you have a solid deadline, and a financial commitment, you're more likely to follow through with your goal.  Besides, entry fees for races usually get higher the closer you get to the race day.
2. Pick a training plan.  There are a lot of beginning running programs online.  Like here, here, or here.  The day after your long run should be a rest day, so if it shows your long runs on Sunday, shift the whole schedule over one day so your hard runs are on Saturday making Sunday your rest day.  Many people when they first start running start out too fast and too hard and burn out.  Using a training plan will help you stay on track so you don't get injured.
3. Find a buddy.  Get some friends or family to do it with you.  If you have friends who already run ask them if they want to run the race with you.  The more people around you who are participating in the race the more people you have to talk to and compare war stories about training.  Many races even offer kids races on the same day for your younger kids to enjoy.  After hours of sweating together you'll bond with people in a way you didn't know you were missing!
4. Get some basic gear.  If you can, spend the money to get a good pair of running shoes.  Remember that a good pair of running shoes will run you about $100, but is much cheaper than paying for an injury.  If you can only buy one piece of equipment THIS IS IT!  Don't just go to your local department store, you want to find a running store.  Somewhere that will watch you run (I know you feel like a dork, I'm sure they've seen worse) and has a 30 day trial/return policy.  Tell them you're new and they are usually more than happy to help you!  It is much more comfortable to run in technical (wicking) fabric than cotton.  Many places like Target or Walmart sell cheap cute stuff, but you can often also find used items at a thrift store.
5. Be proud of your accomplishment!  When the race is over you're allowed to brag a little bit.  Don't ever say it's "just" a 5k.  You finished something that a lot of people haven't!  Wear that dorky looking race t-shirt for the rest of the day!  Every runner remembers their first 5k and will be thrilled for you.  Post that picture of you suffering mid stride on your blog (trust me, running pictures are never pretty, just get over it now).

Amy Nelson is a running mom with a cycling husband and two boys. I know I have pictures of me suffering mid-stride, but I couldn't find one to share.  So here is a picture of me dreading the suffering that is about to start.  

Conference Meme

I really tried hard to listen and take from conference as much as I could.  I'm joining Stephanie (Jeff's cousin) in her General Conference Book Club this time in order to heed the Prophet's council (I planned on doing this anyway, but it's fun to do it with others).

See here http://diapersanddivinity.com/2010/09/30/behold-a-blog-stuff-extravaganza/ for the questions and reasons I'm joining in on this meme.

General Conference Highlights, October 2010:

1. Who were your three favorite speakers?  Jeffrey R. Holland (my favorite apostle), Our Prophet Thomas S. Monson, and Mervyn B. Arnold (the cow story ~ keeping the commandments keep us from spiritual and temporal death)

2. Favorite talk?  It's hard to choose, but the Prophet's talk was so filled with things that resonated with me, I guess I'd have to choose it.  But, Elder Holland's talk made me cry, and Elder Arnold's cow story totally hit home.

3. Favorite hymn sung during Conference?  Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd  (it's a favorite)

4. Who wore the best tie?  Didn't pay attention to ties.

5. Do you think conference had a “theme”?  Saturday seemed to be "Obedience."  Sunday seemed to be "Faith."  This is hard to pin down, though, since I got so much more out of it than just these topics.

6. Share a few of your favorite quotes (paraphrasing is fine).

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. ~ Leonardo da Vinci

The Lord is voting for me, Satan is voting against me, so it's my vote that counts. ~ Boyd K. Packer

Give thanks for what you have, and miracles will follow. ~ Thomas S. Monson

We can lift ourselves and others when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thoughts. ~ Thomas S. Monson

A prayerful life is the key to possessing gratitude. ~ Thomas S. Monson

Blackberries read in church make green bishops blue. ~ Gerrit W. Gong

7. Something that made you smile during conference.  Sister's Gong's gift of bread to the missionaries, and the response, "Keep me in mind if things don't work out with Brother Gong."  (said to the missionary president's wife)

8. Any evidence that your children paid attention?  Yes!  They were listening toward the end and when we forced them to sit and listen.  They even sang along to some of the songs, along with really getting into I Am a Child of God.

9. If you had to give a talk in General Conference (don’t faint, this is hypothetical), what do you think you’d speak about?  Obedience (food storage, daily scriptures and prayer, visiting teaching ~ all things I'm working on)

10. What are some of your post-conference goals?  Be more grateful and record it regularly, study the conference talks, "don't be a cow!" (see #1) 

Cleansing & Starting Fresh

I didn't really plan it, but starting the Hcg diet has fallen exactly on General Conference weekend. I had my two fat loading days Thursday and Friday. They were quite difficult, surprisingly. I felt sick all day eating like that. I now start the day with my herbal tea and listening to the talks. I'm cleansing my body in a way, and cleansing my spirit at the same time. It feels wonderful.

Jeffrey R. Holland spoke, and like usual spoke to my soul. He is my favorite apostle. He often speaks to mothers, and the lowly in in heart. I always feel appreciated when he speaks, and feel the Lord guides his words to make every single member of the Church feel they have worth.

I won't give my starting weight yet, but I will report my progress as I go. Jeff is doing this with me, and he is scared to go down so many calories. When I look at the amount of food at each meal, it seems perfect for me, but in the end I'm sure I will feel a decrease in what I eat. I think giving up the late night eating will be the biggest difference. That's when I crave the most. I'm actually excited. I want to finally kick this weight off, and ready to go back to what is normal for me.

I'm sure I will have more thoughts as the weekend progresses. So many new things to think about as I embark on this change, and grateful for the spiritual upliftment of this weekend.