Minus 40 pounds

It's official, I have lost 40 pounds since October 2010, when I began the B+ diet. I have to say it has been a challenge, difficult at times to be steadfast and consistent, but so rewarding and joyous when successful. I do feel AMAZING, but when in doubt, I go to the grocery store and pick up 4, 10 pound bags of potatoes and then I just stand there, holding the bags and think damn! Try it some time, you will really be surprised how much you've lost weight wise and jump for joy as I do. I have had many people remark about my transformation and wonder how I am doing it. Fact is, my friends, I am DOING it. That is the key. I can not wish myself healthy, I must do the work. But! You have to find what works for you, baby steps to change and know that once on this journey to wellness it is forever... It's not about denying yourself but about realizing positive ways to be well and happy. I have been on the road since 2004 when faced with my children's "other health impaired" issues, my mother becoming irreversibly ill. I noticed how unhealthy I truly was, body/mind/spirit. And notice that triangle, it's truly connected to our personal wellness and happiness.

I struggle with self-doubt, childhood trauma and body image issues, but I refuse to let it rule me, control me or block me. I accept the past, I can not change it. I live in the present and choose to be happy (someone hand me my rose colored glasses). I love to smile and laugh and these things are important to being well. I am happy with my accomplishments and am encouraged to continue no matter the challenge. I hope you do the same :o)

1. Find the food plan (cause I do not like the word diet) that works for you
1. Eat Right for your Blood Type
2. Raw/Whole foods (no/little processed foods)
3. 80/20 Flexitarian "Diet" mostly veggies, little meat
2. Find the exercise plan that works for you
1. Walking
2. Yoga
3. Tai Chi
4. Dance
3. Accountability (join a group)
1. My Fitness Pal (myfitnesspal.com)
2. This Blog (lol)
4. Support
1. Faith (for me, The Gods/Goddesses)
2. Family
3. Friends

Summer Salad #1

Vinegar Slaw

• Cole slaw mix - 1 bag
• Apple Cider Vinegar - 1/2 cup
• Organic Sugar - 1 tsp
• Sea Salt - 1 tsp
• Currey Powder (yellow) - 1 tsp
• Olive Oil - 4 tbsp
• Cucumber - 1 whole (chopped)
• Red Onion 1/4 cup (chopped)

Mix in a bowl, served chilled and enjoy.

So, Ursula what product do you use to keep your face moist?

I don't! I drink plenty of water. Skin moisture begins inside the body.. hydrate hydrate hydrate. Also avoid over-exposure to the elements like sun and wind. But for all you Sun worshippers here is some tasty homemade remedies from  Organic Body Care Recipes by Stephanie Tourles.

Aloe After-Sun Relief Spray
     1 cup aloe vera juice
     20 drops of lavender essential oil
     10 drops rosemary (chemotype verbenon) essential oil
Place all ingredients in storage container and shake well to blend before use. Refrigerate, use within 4-6 months. Spray on skin (for sunburn/windburn relief, all manner of skin irritations and bug bites)

Sunburn Relief Suggestions

• Add 2 cups apple cider vinegar to cool bath water and soak for 10-20 minutes
• Apply cold aloe vera gel directly to sunburn
• Apply cold, strong, regular black pekoe tea directly to sunburn with soaked cotton pads.
• Spray chilled lavender or chamomile hydrosol directly onto sunburn to relieve inflammation.

Enjoy the summer and stay cool

xox
Ursula