2012 Reflection

Hi Friends:

As I stood in the shower tonight I had so many different thoughts to go through my mind. Most of them were pertaining to the losses that I have experiences in my life during this year. (They did no feel good at all) During this year we lost our home, I lost a few friends, I lost a job, I lost my favorite aunt and overall I felt as tho I lost my independence. During this time I managed to keep a smile on my face and faith that everything will work itself out. What a year 2012 has been for me and my family~

Every circumstance has brought about an opportunity to learn and to gain strength from the pain. As I continue to increase the intensity of my weight loss journey I am excited. As I read through the various groups that I am a part in, all members agree that if you put your mind o accomplishing a juice fast then you will be successful. I am anticipating midnight so that I can have a glass of apple juice that I made during lunch today. I do so well when I prepare ahead of time for my meals. (juice)

So far I have lost 22 pounds while juicing and I am hoping that I can release another 25-30 pounds over the next thirty days. I feel as though I owe it to myself to turn the corner of healthy living for once and for all. Above I mentioned that my favorite aunt passed away, she was constantly concerned with her weight. She has periods that she would go up in weight, others when she would go down and some when she felt just right. I intend to dedicate my steps to seek healthy living to her..she has always inspired me to seek higher education.
With that thought I dove into research pertaining to methods to detox the body. One that I learned about is called juicing. I have been successful with a few fast during 2012. However, I think that I will be more successful if I implement additional methods. For instance, preparing juices during the night, also to have more vegetable juices during the earlier part of the fast as the detox method. Also, working out while juicing is an added incentive and assist with loosing the pounds and possibly toning the body.

It's 11:06p and my entire 2013 will be dedicate to a more healthy lifestyle prompted by the late Auntie Bett~

 Here is to the world's greatest aunt,looking forward to dedication and resiliency as I move into seeking a more healthy lifestyle.

2012 Memorable Moments~

Overweight Photos from 2007-2012

Friends:

I want to show these photos with you so that we can view where I started. Also, I will be looking at these photos to remind me of where I do NOT want to go back to. If you can relate I don't have a problem with you sharing your thoughts and your journey as well. It is nice to know that others are struggling with the same  addiction to food. I made a comment in a weight loss group that I am that, "I love food but it has used and abuse me". That is so true on so many levels, it is time for me to take my body back and to become comfortable in my own skin in whatever clothes that I am wearing. I don't think that I really take pride in my clothing because I don't like drawing attention to myself. I cannot stand the flabby arms that I have and I definitely cannot handle the cellulite legs that makes my stomach sick each time that I see them. However, I know that I have the power to change these features..so with your support, God's strength and my will power we will get through this journey of healthy living. I once heard that we all and have a bad and good aspect of ourselves. However, the one that has the most success is the one that we feed the most. Therefore, I intend to feed the good in and around me so that it can grow!


In a wedding and feeling stuffed-2011

Preparing to walk down the isle in rehearsal and I do not feel well at all as I am surrounded by several college friends,2011

 
Here I am prior to starting my first juicing journey, my weight on this date is 218, 2012.

Here I am running my non-profit organization always working to put a smile on the face of others, 2011.

Here I am with my organization, walking and raising awareness about Breast Cancer. We managed to raise a nice size donation for the Susan G. Komen foundation on this year,2010

Here I am on my second third time doing ZUMBA, I am quite sure that I am  230 pounds at the least here. My knees were killing me after this event, too much weight, 2010

Here I am in with my mother in law in Sunny South Florida..I am feeling so flabby on this picture, 2009

Here I am with the Queen of Sister Locks and all that I can see is my huge hips..2010

Here I am at a Breast cancer awareness walk in Miami, FL and I am not feeling very good about my appearance, 2010.

 

I could barely breath in those jeans, 2010.

Too many hips and I am not comfortable at all,2007.

Check out all of the clothes, I don't want to e see and I am so uncomfortable in my skin on this photo,2009.

Here is my wedding day, when I view this picture all that I can see is how large and undefined my arms are, 2007.

Here is my graduation day with my Masters degree and when I view this photo I see a very fat round face, 2008.

Here I am in my friends wedding and I cannot stand the small head and big body look. I purposely put this picture on here to see how I don't want to be viewed by others,2011.

*No more of these hips, this fat face and those flabby arms..I am taking my body back~

Closing out 2012

Hi Friends:

I am sure that you all knew that I would be checking in at some point. This has been a rocky year with the on again and off again healthy lifestyle. I am so tired of being a motivator through words (I am a life coach). In 2013 I would like to motivate others through my actions. I would like women to see me and say wow..."you have lost so much weight, how did you do it". I am done as of today talking to others about the effects of juicing and how it could potentially serve as a preventative measure if given the opportunity.

Standing at 6'0, I know that being over two hundred pounds is over weight. No matter, how cute my face is and how tall I am to hide the weight..that is not cute nor is it healthy. Each time I walk to the shower during bath time and I view myself in the shower I become unhappy with what I see. I do not want a life filled with cellulite and hiding behind pants and tights. I am so thankful to women that wears shorts because they keep me saying, this year I will get into those shorts and wear them with pride. However, I know that I will not wear them with pride if my legs look like I've been in a car accident due to cellulite.

So, I have been reading and thinking while thinking and reading..The time is now..my first step to moving into this journey is to pray without ceasing. I know that I have not seen my body at 170 in such a long time that I would definitely need my creator to bring it back to me. Another thing that I will need is to love myself and to show my body how much I love it by massaging myself and brushing my skin as well as talking to my body.

While thinking, your mind wants you to do everything that others have used and been successful with. In my Oprah Winfrey voice, the one thing that I know to be true is..I need to find what will work for me and  not what works for others. Therefore, I have been mentally  been praying for a transformation in my life over the next 60 days. This has consisted of goals and planning to utilize a body and or food journal to get through these days ahead. I have noticed that the more time away from food, the less attached one becomes.

Therefore, my goal is to get into a zone that consist of less talking about my transformation and my plans ahead. My plan is to make make moves and to discuss them later. Rather than the other way around that I have done for many years. I come from a family of talkers..everyone likes to boast about the things that they have done or are in the process of doing. My dad once said, "Baby you walk the walk rather than talk the talk". This thought will stay in my head and I will not turn my dad into a lie. In fact, I will cause him to say, "she is still doing her thing".

One very important strategy that I have found that works with success is to plan ahead. During 2012, I did three juice fast: they consisted of (10 days) (15-30 days) and recently I did a (7) day fast. During all of these segments I was successful and I lost weight, however when I started eating I was not successful. I have tried a plant based diet, I have tried somewhat of a vegan diet, then I tried a meat-less diet. The goal this time around is to complete a fast as I have set out and then to acquire a coach by the name of Shelley Parris Williams from https://www.facebook.com/iNlifeConnection. I have spoken to her and I think that she has made a transformation in life that has afforded her the opportunity to help others to reach their  healthy living goals.

Over the next sixty days I will journal here and share with you my thoughts and circumstances during this journey. I plan to do a few videos and to provide information that has allowed me to make it throughout the day. I know that there will be days that I won't want to make it, but it is my hope that I can e lifted by a friend that is on the same journey.

During the past two days I have been going through photos that capture my gain at it's highest. Because I plan to put an end to the on again off again and to support others through their journey. Stay tuned..I will post those photos for your viewings.

Speak to you soon friends-
12-28-12
PJ

Work Birthday Lucheon

Hello Friends:

So, today was the November staff members birthday luncheon. We eat out each month in efforts to celebrate the birthdays during the month.
I use to get so much anxiety about eating out because I felt that mean that I would eat bad foods. Well, I have learned how to master eating out as healthy as possible. My meal today consisted of a glass of water and a Cobb salad. It was very tasty, cost effective and healthy at the same time. I would have taken a picture if I was not trying to look all professional in front of the Doctoral professors that joined us. How funny is that~

Anyway, today I have on a size twelve pants from JcPenny...WooHoo

That is absolutely amazing and exciting. I feel pretty comfortable also, I thought I may have discomfort. This makes me feel more motivated to continue on my clean eating path!!

My Breakfast!!

Hello Friends:

     So, I have totally committed myself to eating better and I have passed that down to my children and the way that I shop. Our snacks today consisted of, apples, bananas, walnuts. It is my goal totally implement healthy snacks in our home so that veggies and fruits becomes my children's favorite snacks. I was very excited when I heard my daughter ask for an apple for a snack and an egg white for breakfast. Oh wee...we are on our way and I am so glad about that!!

Below is a picture of my breakfast, to my surprise it was actually filling. Also, my entire family joined me at the gym today. My husband worked out very hard, he and I completed an extensive AB workout. I did ZUMBA and then I worked on my Abs for quite sometimes.

I am so excited about this life change prior to the new year~

 *Bananas, Almond Milk, Chia Seeds and Walnuts...Yummy

What is Bitter Melon

Read this information provided by a fellow facebook user.

My mom has had diabetes (aka "the sugars") for 20 years. When I put her on bitter melon, I noticed the change in her sugar levels INSTANTLY. It had gotten to the point of she was towards getting off of her insulin & pills quickly. I was surprised at the rapid rate it was helping with her glucose levels.
Health Benefits

Bitter Melon traditionally grows in tropical areas, including parts of the Amazon, east Africa, and the Caribbean, and is cultivated throughout South America and Asia as a food and medicine. It’s applications in traditional medicine span a long list of conditions including killing bacteria, viruses, and some cancer cells, reducing inflammation, and cleansing the blood. For a more complete listing of the variety of the herbal properties and ethnomedical uses of Bitter Melon.

Like most bitter-tasting foods, bitter melon stimulates digestion. While this can be helpful in people with sluggish digestion, dyspepsia, and constipation, it can sometimes make heartburn and ulcers worse. The fact that bitter melon is only a mild inflammation modulator, however, means that it rarely does have these negative effects, based on clinical experience and traditional reports.

The healing properties of Bitter Melon are becoming more widely accepted in the United States among natural health practitioners and even some allopathic medical doctors. Some particularly exciting research, appropriate to our contemporary moment, reflects the powerful insulin-lowering effects of Bitter Melon – it can be a very powerful anti-diabetic! Other studies on Bitter Melon have shown it to also be an effective treatment for HIV/AIDS. Other uses include treatment for viruses, the cold and flu, cancer and tumors, high cholesterol, and psoriasis. The main preparation methods for medicinal doses of bitter melon include capsules and tables, leaf and vine powders, tinctures, and even enemas.

At least 32 active chemicals have been identified in Bitter Melon so far, beta-sitosterol-d-glucoside, citrulline, GABA, lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. As for vitamins, Bitter Melon is chock full of them! Bitter Melons are rich in iron. They have twice the beta carotene of broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach, twice the potassium of bananas, and contain Vitamins A, C, B1 to B3, Phosphorus and good dietary fiber. Many claim that Bitter Melon’s bitterness comes from the high concentration of quinine it contains, however little documented evidence has supported this claim. Despite the lack of documentation, it is still regarded by Asians, as well as Panamanians and Columbians, as a valuable agent for preventing and treating malaria.

For those with a taste or tolerance for bitter flavor, a small melon can be eaten as food or up to 50 ml of fresh juice can be drunk per day. An option for those who do not care for the bitter taste are bitter melon tinctures, of which 5 ml is generally taken two to three times per day.

Excessively high doses of bitter melon juice can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Small children or anyone with hypoglycemia should not take bitter melon because this herb could theoretically trigger or worsen low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Furthermore, diabetics taking hypoglycemic drugs (such as chlorpropamide, glyburide, or phenformin) or insulin should use bitter melon only under medical supervision, as it may potentiate the effectiveness of the drugs and lead to severe hypoglycemia. Bitter Melon has also been found to have abortative properties; pregnant women should use consult a doctor before consuming it in excessive amounts.

By NatureGirl215

Healthy Tips

Hi Friends:

I have subscribed to Hungry For Change, here are 8 Simple Tips that they provided in their newsletter.  They provide dynamic health tips and television documentaries to help you and I fight this battle of clean eating. 

8 Simple Tips For Healthy Blood Sugar Levels Blood sugar imbalances are associated with various symptoms and health problems. Discover 8 simple tips for promoting healthy blood sugar levels this holiday season.   Featured DVD: Fresh - New Thinking About What We're Eating! Fresh the film is a celebration of the real food movement, providing a shift in thinking about what we're eating. A must see documentary that offers a truly inspiring and empowering insight into sustainable food systems. The Wait Is Over - Food Matters Free Screening Now Live! For the next 9 days, until November 30, our first film Food Matters will be available to watch online for FREE! You can also take advantage of the amazing discounts on all of the Food Matters products that will be available during this event! Cauliflower Mash - The Ultimate Thanksgiving Side Enjoy this delicious and nutritious side dish from the Food Matters recipe book as an alternative to mashed potato. It's super simple and tastes delicious.   Walking Barefoot Might Be An Essential Element Of Good Health Research has shown that the simple pleasure of barefoot walking offers significant benefits in improving numerous health conditions in as little as 30 minutes of barefoot time a day. In good health, James & Laurentine Producers 'Hungry For Change' & 'Food Matters' www.FoodMatters.tv www.HungryForChange.tv enquiries@foodmatters.tv

Post Thanksgiving

Hello Friends:

So, it didn't take me very long to learn that my belly did not agree with the beautiful dinner that my husband cooked. He made greens, Mac and Cheese, yams, dressing, Turkey. The one thing that I've learned most about eating healthy is that there is a need to listen to your belly. My belly told me less than five mins after eating a small dish of those items that it was not good for me. I had two separate thoughts about my body's response, one: I felt bad for my husband and two I was glad that my body was kicking it out and not allowing it to live on my insides.

Today, my body told me that I was wanted, juice and tea. So, I have already made two jars of green juice for the day. I hope that it allows my belly to settle down as it still feels sort of upset. After I made me juice, I went into the kitchen to see my eight year old enjoying a sip. Of course, I don't have all of the items to make a healthy balanced juice so I used what were in the refrigerator. That consist of: Spinach, Pineapples, Oranges and apples. Yes, that was a sweet juice that quenched me thirst and gave me a sugar high.  Needless to say, I will be making a grocery run today so that I am stocked with the correct food that provides the correct results.

Wising everyone a Happy Black Friday and a Happy Spy Saturday. I will be home with my children relaxing and watching documentaries on clean eating.. This is the life :)

Here is Miss Nichole grabbing her a sip of my juice...She said, this sure taste great Mom. 

Clean Eating

Here are a few more pictures of my clean eating...Woop Woo~

This is my new style and I am so excited about this sort of thing going into my system. The only downfall to eating so clean is that when my finances are low it is hard to keep up with purchasing these items. I hope that one day foods that are healthy can come down in price. That is my only frustration!

Weigh in on Last Day!!

Hi Friends,

I forgot to post my ending weight when I finished my most recent eight day juice fast. My apologies, I have posted below my weight at the close of Day 8.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Hi Friends:

I wanted to tell all of my friends, Happy Thanksgiving and I wanted to let you see that we can prepare a healthy entree for friends when they come over to celebrate this special day with us.

Enjoy your Turkey Day!!

How am I living

Hi Friends:

So I ended my fast on November 8th...things have been going well for me and I can actually see how clean eating allows you to feel light and keeps your bowels regular. It brings about an awareness of your body that is amazing, I can actually tell when I've eaten something bad.

I wonder can anyone agree wit that? I have swamped myself with all sorts of healthy eating blogs and facebook groups. Boy does that help with conviction as well as motivation. I really do like that I can look online and get some motivation any time of the day or night.

I posted a few pics of my new favorite breakfast that I would not have ever that would make me happy. I have decreased my meat intake so much and I have almost stepped away from bread and white flour completely  One step at a time, but I do want to make more healthy choices wit my eating.  As I have mentioned in the past, planning in advanced and shopping inside of a whole food grocery store has been very beneficial to me.

Oatmeals with apples, this is NOT my style..Guess what, it was so good and I was totally amazed. This has become quick and simple to make so that I can also start the day off with breakfast. Every morning I make breakfast for my two children and my husband and there is usually not enough time to make me anything. Lately, I have been able to enjoy breakfast as well and that has really made me happy.

Enjoy your day friends!!

More Info from Michelle Tess

Here is additional information about juicing that will be helpful for many.

Here are some documentaries I recommend to get you motivated to start the change: 

 

1. Food, Inc.

Looks into the industrial production of the food we eat, food labelling laws, Monsanto and organic farm practices. 

2. Food Matters

This documentary looks further into the food we eat and how consuming nutritious food could prevent diseases and treat a range of health conditions. It includes some inspiring speakers, such as David Wolfe and Charlotte Gerson.

3. Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead

Fellow Aussie Joe Cross changes his life through juicing. Although many do not agree with his extreme approach, I believe it's great motivation just to see how powerful juicing can be.

4. The Gerson Miracle

Looks at the Gerson Therapy and how this helps to treat cancer. It's an amazing movie that really makes you think about cancer and the conventional therapies being used in hospitals.

Like many, after watching these movies, I had the following thoughts;

• What can I do, I am only one person?
• There is so much to change! If I change I want to do it properly!
• Changing to an organic lifestyle will cost too much.

Remember that one change is better than none at all. Vote with your money and support local farmers and organizations striving to do the right thing for the world.

 

If you've already changed to a cleaner lifestyle: Congratulations! The best thing we can do is to share our story! Educate one person; share the information you found most inspiring and helpful to keep the ripple effect going.

First Steps to Juicing

#1 Watch Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead

#2 If you have health problems, please visit with your physician about your desire to juice



Here is additional information from Michelle Tess:

Why should I juice?

 

Juicing is an easy way to get your recommended fruit and (especially) vegetable intake. Few people would eat carrots, beets, celery, spinach, pomegranate and apple (my big RED juice) within their day, so this is a great way to not only have the nutrients from the vegetables and fruits, but it's also so much easier for your body to absorb all of the goodness.

 

Another question I often get asked is, why not just eat it?

 

The first thing I say is, well, do you eat all of this? Generally, the answer is no. Juicing allows you to experiment with a wide range of food not typically eaten at the dinner table. Also, juicing essentially pre-digests the fruit/vegetables for you allowing the nutrients to be absorbed much easier. When juicing beetroot, I have never noticed red in my stool (unlike when I eat it). The nutrients stay within my body and don't get flushed down the toilet with the fiber.

 

What juicer do I buy?

 

Well the answer to this depends on many things like budget, space, why you are juicing, etc. 

Juicers can be broken down as follows;

 

Centrifugal: These are commonly seen at Juice bars and use a high-speed rotating blade to cut the fruits and vegetables. This action oxidizes the juice, which alters the nutrients left in the liquid you drink. Centrifugal juicers are generally priced lower, but extract less juice from the pulp compared to other juicers mentioned below.

 

Single & Double Auger Juicers, Masticating & Cold Press: These juicers crush or squeeze the juice out of the fruits and vegetable at a much slower rate than the centrifugal juicer. 

This means there is less oxidization and more nutrients are extracted. If nutritious juice is what you are after, I'd recommend these types over the centrifugal juicer.

 

Personally, when I first started juicing, I looked at the prices and thought, how can I spend so much money on another appliance? If you are a first time juicer, I suggest buying a Single or Double Auger, Masticating or Cold Press Juicer that is as close to or within your budget. Use this juicer and work out whether or not you are committed to juicing long-term before forking out for a better and therefore more expensive juicer. I initially got a $300 juicer and used it so much, it wore out/died within six months . . . for me my new juicer is well worth the investment.

What to Juice?

 

Use your imagination! You can juice pretty much any fruit or vegetable, but try to keep it 75% vegetable to 25% fruit. If you do have a centrifugal juicer, extracting juice from greens can sometimes be an issue.

 

My 3 Favorite Juices!

You can be as imaginative as you want. For me these are a joy to drink and I LOVE the vibrancy of the juice!

 

1. Big RED: Beetroot, Carrot, Celery, Apple & Pomegranate.

2. Yummy Carrot: Carrots, Apple, Ginger, Turmeric & Lemon.

3. Greenie: Kale, Spinach, Cucumber, Celery & Apple.

 

If the taste of the juice isn't sweet enough to your palette initially, try juicing some stevia or things like cucumber, beetroot and carrot, which can make the juices easier to drink for a newbie.

Enjoy!!

Day 8

Hello Friends:

I am on day 8 and this is my last day of juicing. It has been a great week and today I am feeling amazing, my energy level is high and my body feels light.

My weight loss was good, however the true challenge is going to be to eat-clean for the rest of my life. My game plan is to juice during the first week of December and then in January to do a very BIG juice fast that which you will be coming along with me. Hopefully, I will have a few brave friends that are willing to take that journey with me.

Overall, I am pleased with my results this time and I will be in touch with you all over the next few weeks.

Here is today's Breakfast and Lunch, I have had a great juicy week.

Here is my end weight, I am very glad that I took this mini-journey. The best is yet to come!!

Day One and Day Two

Hi Friends:

I am placing a picture of me from Day 1 as well as the scale of my start weight. Of course tomorrow I will do my measurements again to show the results of just one week of juicing. I am excited to share that information with you.

         
                  Here is the scale shot from Day One. I will post a shot tomorrow from Week One.

Here is a picture of me from Day 2, I am hoping to show you a picture on Day 9 that will reflect a week from this picture.I dislike my arms, so I am hoping that I have some inches off of them.  Let's take a look at my fat face and hope that we can see some changes after a week. 

I hope that you enjoy this picture..

Enjoy your Day,
PJ

Cheers

Hello Friends:

I am wishing everyone a happy and healthy day. As I read through Dr. Furhman's book, Eat to live I am learning so much. However, I still have apprehension about where do I go from here. For instance, I plan to put more fiber in my kids meal, how do I go about doing that...

Also, I would like for us to do a way with bread, flour and processed foods. How are we going to transition into that, I am excited and nervous all in one.

Have a great day Mates!!

PJ

Dropping Pants

Hello Friends:

One thing that I dislike about the weight dropping process is that you start to look worst before looking better. I mean worst in your close because you are sagging so badly. Friends start to laugh and make fun also about your clothes. I am wondering how far should you get down before you start to purchase pants that may fit a little better. I cannot be in front of my class looking like saggy sue!!

Let me share that I put on my pants today and I am sagging so bad, I don't like the way that looks. I will show you a picture of my pants from the bottom.

Check it out-you can barely see my shoes, how interesting is that. I am 6'0 so my shoes are expected to always show, I am struggling with keeping my pants up today.

I am having a thankful day!

PJ

Day 7

Hello Friends:

Let me apologize for not blogging but once I reached my home I have been so sleepy lately. Of course I had a burst of energy so I have been getting up every morning and going to the gym.  That makes me feel so amazing when I can go to the gym and break a sweat-TRUE SATISFACTION!!

Last night was the presidential election and I was feeling so overwhelmed with emotions. I actually wanted to eat some food, because my nerves were shot.

My honey went to the kitchen and came back with this beautiful drink. Of course it was sweet and just what the doctor ordered. I wonder whether he realized that he actually saved me from sabotaging my fast. As I mentioned before, I am not quite sure how long I am going for, but I need to at least make it for one week. (Tomorrow will make one week)

Overall, I am feeling well and really happy that I have been able to make it this long.  I will continue to post pictures so that you are aware of my progress.

I think I will break my fast on Sunday so that I can start a fresh week eating foods that are healthy for me.

We shall see,

PJ

Day 4

Hello:

My day has been amazing, I had a large protion of water and I have been feelign energetic. As of now, I am feeling achy, emotional and my headache is trying to come through. While I am looking forward to a long-term of happiness, the short sure does become frustrating at times.

My group of dynamic individuals that are juicing are so supportive, it seems like they say the right things at the right time. I absolutely love being apart, but there are times when you wonder can I really do this. However, I promised that I would take things one day at a time and I will do that.

I have already made my juices for tomorrow as I have a long day ahead of myself. I will arrive to work at 9a and I don't get to leave until 10p. I think that I have made enough juice and I plan to drink lots of water. I am hoping that I could get some movement in my belly as it takes so long for me to really get moving. That bothers me, so I am not really detoxing at this phase-through my eyes. I am just drinking juice and water-I want some of this waste to come out so that I can feel true relief in my belly.

As I mentioned earlier I am emotional, no food and a whole lot of emotions/feelings that cannot be suppressed. Thanks for listening friends, wishing you a fantastic night!

PJ

Day 3

Hello Friends:

Day 3 has ended for me, it started off with a LARGE, painful headache. I have been very nervous since I started the juice fast about going to the Dallas Mavericks football game...I made it-I had a bottle of water and I sipped it when I felt the need and I did not break. I am so excited, I felt a little week when my husband sat down with the french fries on his tray...OMG I am so weak for french fries. (I made it)

As of now, I came home and had a cup of tea. I am drinking water and reading posts from my fellow juicers. I am so excited that I made it through day 3 and now entering day 4. My game plan is to implement a workout in my schedule tomorrow, then find times and days that I will also implement workouts during the week.

Day 3, JUICING-stamped-SUCCESSFUL~

Night Night,
PJ

Day 2

Hello:

I am wrapping up this day at 10:43p on a Friday night. I have made my juice for tomorrow and had a large portion of water today. The purpose for making juice for tomorrow is to keep myself motivated and moving forward during this journey. I have a lot to do and I want to ensure that I don't  forget to have my juice prepared.

My Symptoms: My body is hurting badly, my throat is draining, my head is throbbing and my belly is actually bubbling. It is not a usual thing for my stomach to have that bubble feeling so early. I did think about the food that my family was having tonight-on Friday's we eat out for family night. I weathered the storm and continued to read Dr. Furhman's book, great information.

 Overall, today has been well, I stayed busy while working so I didn't have too many temptations. My job ordered lunch from a health food place, so I was looking at those salads and practically drooling down my shirt. I am so glad that I made it-I am still taking things one day at a time and trying to stay positive.

So far my combinations consist of: Kale, Celery, Cucumbers, Carrots, Romaine, Spinach, Apples, Oranges. I am loving that I have chosen this combination for night.  It is deinftaley working for me~

I am wishing everyone a great night-

PJ

Ending Day 1

DAY ONE IS OVER~

As I conclude this night, my body is feeling is achy, my head is hurting and the light is killing my eyes. I am not sure that my body should be aching so early during my fast...but it is.

Tonight my family ate some Chicken Express and I did very well during that time. I didn't feel tempted and I simply sipped on my juice and thought happy thoughts. One important goal of mine is to take things one day at a time. As I conclude tonight I want to say today was a good day, I felt very encouraged and focused on a new begining for my life.

I want so bad to take control over my life-I would like to have a weekly workout regimine and to totally shy away from bad foods. (Candy, Sodas, Ice Cream & Cookies) Yum....noooooo

Currently, I am reading Dr. Furhmans book, Eat to Live..I am excited about the knowledge that he is providing to everyone that wants to eat and live in a healthy manner.

Below is a copy of my measurements-As I conclude tonight I would like to wish everyone a peaceful night!

Measurements:

Weight- 204.6
Chest-37
Waist-38 1/2
Hips-46
Wrist-6 1/2
Forearm-11

Heart & Soul Magazine

Friends:

I thought that I would share this Tid-Bit from the Heart & Soul magazine

The bottom line is NO MATTER WHAT-we must keep pushing towards the finish line. Even if we need to start over several times, the key is to NEVER give up!!

LET'S GO~

PJ

Fall-Day 1

Day One:

As of now, 2:35p on Thursday in Ft. Worth, TX- I am starting to become somewhat hungry. I have to 22 oz of Cucumbers, Kale, Carrots, (2) Green Apples & Red Apples. It is very good, outside of the earthly taste that I get from the kale. My neck is hurting a bit, but I am sure that it's not the juicing effect at this time. Also, my stomach is feeling sort of spoiled or empty. I am starting to think that is a mental thing because I am sure that I am not starving, it's way too soon for that.

My game plan this time around is to take things one day at a time and to try to have my meals prepared prior to the next day. I think that takes away from time and the thought of eating/engaging in meals. Additionally, I think it is important to surround myself with other friends that are juicing during this time as well. I think that we can support each other in a manner that no one else can. I am looking forward to having a great juice this evening to top things off.

Here is a photo of my breakfast, lunch and a partial snack before getting my dinner juice.

I am wishing everyone a fantastic day, I am sure that you will be hearing from me more regularly now that I am juicing. I absolutely LOVE my Cyber friends.

-PJ

Round Three

Hello Friends:

So, I am sure that all of you are tired of me starting and stopping my eating process. Guess what, I am also and I definitely know that my husband is completely tired of it. Well today is November 1st and I have committed to juice fasting. I have not committed to an end date because I am looking for that clarity and I know the skies the limits once I get there. Anyway, I have joined my group on Facebook and we check in all day about our feelings and more. I am grateful for this group, it's nice to be affiliated with individuals that feel exactly where you are during each stage.

I am happy to be on the right track as of right now, I will be looking for your support as I take on this journey once again.

I will do my measurements this evening and post them so that we can see where I am and where I end up. It's time to make a change for sure.

Enjoy your day my juicy friends!!

The Addition of Proper Nutrition to Complement Your Cancer Treatment

Many cancer patients are not even aware that healthy eating can benefit them in more ways than one.  A nutritious diet is a good option for just about anyone.  Whether you are a cancer patient, currently in remission, or are simply looking to live healthier overall, a healthy diet can help aid you in your journey.  The benefits of eating nutritious meals and foods are practically endless.  After speaking with your doctor, you may find that these foods are a fantastic option for you and your current state of health.

Healthy foods have many benefits when they are consumed on a daily basis.  The vitamins and nutrients found in healthier and raw foods, such as veggies and fruits, can help to give the body more energy.  Being a cancer patient, you probably know how nice it would be to have a little bit more energy throughout the day.  You can easily achieve this by just changing your diet.  It is important to remember that eating one apple is not going to change the way you feel.  Your new healthier diet needs to be something that you stick to for years to come in order to benefit most from it.

Eating more nutritious meals can also benefit you by improving your mood and sense of well-being.  Vitamins are often necessary for all functions in the body.  This also relates to how a person feels and whether or not they are depressed.  Vitamin deficiencies can cause mood swings and depression in individuals who have them.  The best way to get your daily vitamins is to eat healthier foods that contain them.  You can easily do this by eating more fruits and fresh vegetables each day.  Try to revolve each meal and snack around healthier options that are available to you.

Your new diet needs to be discussed with your doctor before you make any major changes.  There is a good chance that your doctor already has you on a relatively strict diet that you need to follow.  The best thing for you to do would be to speak with your healthcare professional and tell them that you really want to begin eating healthier.  From there, the two of you will be able to set a meal and snack plan that revolves around your new lifestyle.  Most doctors encourage healthy eating and will be happy to help you with this.

It is amazing to see just how much of an impact your food can make in your life.  You go from eating processed junk food and having no energy to eating fresh and organic produce that basically brings you back to life.  If you are seeking alternative treatments for mesothelioma or are undergoing radiation therapy, the food you eat can and will make a difference in your life.  Be sure to speak with a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your diet.  From there, you will be able to begin living a healthier and more energetic life each day.

Thanks for taking the time to educate yourself,

JM