CLOVER CLIFF RANCH BED & BREAKFAST RETREAT FOR ME AND MY HUNNY

PART OF MY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION WEEK has been to travel to the CLOVER CLIFF RANCH BED AND BREAKFAST outside of Elmdale, Kansas.  Looking at the time we will stay there as THERAPY FOR THE SOUL.  Our weary bodies and minds needed a break and here it was.  These images are off of their website.  I snagged them to share. 

On Wednesday, we journeyed to COUNCIL GROVE, Kansas for lunch at the HAY'S HOUSE.  I had a birthday HAMBARGER with French fries.  This was my bread and meat treat.  They serve up an old fashioned hamburger which I was craving.  I think if I eat something like this every once in awhile I can stay on the food program longer and then treat myself with a hardy burger.  This is the week that I am allowing myself to eat some MEAT and DESSERT.

Looked around in the Antique Store next to the restaurant and bought myself a sweet ring.  We visited another shoppe down the street in which we looked at architectural items.    

Drove over to the CLOVER CLIFF rolling into the parking lot in the afternoon to spend the night. We have stayed here over the years.  I think the first time was in 2018.  It is a fairy tale to me. Since it is my 70th birthday, I wanted to return to this relaxing atmosphere of this upscale Bed and Breakfast full of antiques in a mansion on the prairie with wide open spaces to admire.  

Unloaded the car and relaxed in our room.  Waiting for us for our supper was a cheese and fruit tray in the fridge which was ordered ahead of time by my Hunny.  4 different Cheeses🧀, 2 types of grapes🍇,🍓strawberries and 🫐blueberries, almonds with 🍫2 tiny chocolate bars and round candies.  We brought with us summer sausage and 3 types of crackers.  We've done this before so we dine in our bedroom away from the maddening crowd.  It was a simple meal, but delicious.

THEN the fun began.  WATER THERAPY.  Relaxed in the jetted tub with a colored light show as the tub's water rumbled.  Colored lights of red, blue, green, orange change in the water to add some interest to the Jacuzzi.  Since I like color, I liked the added feature.  I must have stayed in the tub an hour altogether.  First soaking in the tub for about 30 minutes without the bubbles then turning the rumbling jet streams on to the tune of 30 minutes.  It was very relaxing like a massage.  Can I get an AMEN?    

Fell asleep in the oversized bed in the LINCOLN SUITE.  Our favorite Bedroom at the B&B.  A loud wind storm blew in during the night with lightning and rain.  For an instant, I wondered if we should go downstairs for safety.  It wasn't tornadic, but it made me wonder because of the powerful wind hitting the windows.  We stayed in our room and I drifted back to sleep.  

Got up early to eat a gourmet Breakfast.  Pleasant.  We decided to drive over to COTTONWOOD FALLS afterwards to look at the historical houses and eat a salad at the GRAND CENTRAL HOTEL and GRILL.  Twas so hot out that walking was out of the question.  We were ready to return to our suite and have some Iced Tea. 

Walking around in this magnificent MANSION is relaxing and I adore the antiques.  Oh, so pretty.  So beautiful and stately.

Another night of sleeping in the LINCOLN SUITE before returning to small-town America to return to our reality of living in a small COTTAGE.  Breakfast will be served at 8:30 and I wonder what we will have.  Yesterday morning's meal was a miniature quiche, cherry pastry and an apple crisp with granola. Orange juice to drink.  What a nice time we have had.

I think I could live here.  grins.  The closest thing to a VACATION I CAN GET RIGHT NOW.

Inspired to decorate our tiny cottage.  Full of ideas to think about.  

Decorating our HOME inspires me that I can use some talent that God gave me to make a house a HOME.  TOO MUCH TIME as of late has been given to the political arena which bogs my mind, steals my energy and occupies my time.  Great political conversations I have had with my Husband, but I believe I'd rather turn this whirlwind of thought into a more productive world at HOME.  I can pray, but shouldn't worry.  Worry robs one of energy and gives a sense of doom.  God will deal with the details.

I believe I have better things to do 

instead of worrying especially for my birthday week,

~d

     

IF I CAN JUST COPY HER EXERCISES

I'VE GOT MY HAND WEIGHTS...now just do this.  COPY THESE MOVES and stay with it two to three times a week.

It would be a start.

 ~d

HAPPY CAMPER, FEELING LIKE A PRINCESS and BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION CONTINUES

I HAVE MY MEDICARE PHYSICAL AND LABS OUT OF THE WAY. Praise the LORD.  Went like a breeze.  What a relief!  I fretted over the questions that would be asked such as when the nurse says three words and then 5 minutes later she has you repeat them back to her.  I was dreading it 6 weeks ago.  Shameful.  

BIKE, HONEY, BALL were my words and I REMEMBERED THEM!  I drew the analog clock with 7:15 on it.  I filled out the questionnaire.  I was weighed and blood pressure taken.  BP was super good for me at 126/72 and I thanked God over and over that it was as good as it was even after being nervous.    

I weighed less than a year ago!  PTL.  My blood pressure was excellent!  PTL. Only hic-cup was waiting for my turn in the LAB LOBBY.  This was the busiest I've ever seen this room. Afterwards we headed HOME for lunch and a nap.  I was very tired due to little sleep the night before.  'Everybody Loves Raymond' was binged watched.  I needed some laughter instead of drama from a movie.  

Most of my labs results were recorded in my health portal the same day.  Shocked me.  My LIPIDS were excellent and my A1c was excellent.  I weighed less and that made me a HAPPY CAMPER.  Happy happy Joy joy.  

Hubby's appointment was Wednesday and all went well for him as well.

NEXT WEEK we meet with our doctor to discuss our health.  I'll be working on my questions until then.  Truthfully, I'll be so glad when this is behind us.    

AS FOR FOOD...this is my BIRTHDAY WEEK sooooo I am having some desserts and bread. THEN, I'll climb back on the wagon and return to MINDFUL EATING and WALKING!  Yes-sir-ree-bob.  The journey continues.

OUR PLANS are in action for celebrating my 70th BIRTHDAY WEEK.  It's sinking in that I iz 70 big ones.  

🎂 The day before my 70th, we went to Abilene to eat a fried chicken dinner at the  Brookville.  

🎂 I was gifted a Tea Leaf Oval Platter with a 6 piece Tea Service Set from one of their Antique stores.  

🎂 On my actual birthday, I went for a one and 1/4 mile walk.  

🎂 Drove to Starbucks for a TRENTA UNSWEETENED ICED GREEN TEA and a cake-pop.  Just what I wanted.  HAPPY B-DAY TO ME.  

🎂 Two of my kids telephoned me and sang HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME.  One Facebook messaged.    

🎂My Mom called me.  Received some other cards.  

🎂 A lovely bracelet arrived from my oldest son, daughter-in-law and family.  

🎂Hubby had two large helium balloons tied to my dining chair.  Gave me a sweet card.  

🎂 The rest of the celebration continues later this week.  Hurray.

TONITE, we're sitting together in the same room.  Hubs is drawing and I'm blogging.  Nice time together without the TV on.  Just a fan blowing on our feet.  Tis quiet and I like this.  

I won't be walking long distances until this week-end.  I already know I won't.  I watered the porch plants and admired the delicate pink blossom on the large geranium.  It has another bloom heading out.  The soft pink coloring is lovely.  So delicate.  I have another galvanized container that I will fill with the two red geraniums that are on the porch hanging high.  When the temps do finally cool off then I'll hopefully transplant these two into one of those galvanized tubs.  My Geraniums will rest in the Dining room over the WINTER.  

I've been DAY DREAMING again about decorating.  I can see a finished Dining room, Living room and 2 Bedrooms.  Simple things that will clean up the inside of the COTTAGE.  I think I am getting geared up for success.  That is what it takes.    

I'm getting close to being caught up on the piles of paper and hubby is just about done with the linen closet.  Then we'll tear into the front bedroom.  Can't wait.  He's talking about what we need to do and I need him to talk.  I think we'll clear out the present TV room, paint the ceiling, fill in the area where two doors were before the walls were closed off, patch and paint the walls. Hang some crown molding.  Leave the present carpet in there.  It's in pretty good shape.  Maybe do something with the window treatment and call. it. good.  Move some bedroom furniture in there be done with it.  

The front bedroom will become the new TV room after the remodel.  I have to know that the house will be torn up and that's just the way it will be for a couple of months.  sigh.  It's going to get worse before it is better.  Dreaming about it.  After some furniture gets moved back into the new TV room, then the Living room AND Dining room can be painted, crown molding hung up, etc. and new window treatments hung then we will decide if the wood floor is suitable to live with or what to do next.  DREAM ON.

It was 98 degrees today and difficult to be in.  I know it's for the best to stay in a cooler room and do other things that need done.

This old lady is going to take a soaking bath and go aweeeeee.  NO RUSH.  Tomorrow after Breakfast, I'll take a shower and shampoo my hair.  She needs a good shampooing.  Last time I trimmed my hair I cut layers into her and I like the layers.  I must have taken a good 4 inches off. Trying to get the honey blonde color on the tips of my hair to disappear and go ahead and embrace the grey that's taking over.

🚗🚗🚗🚗🚘🚗🚗🚗🚗 A long car ride is overdue.  Looking at all the different flowers and landscaping while living on the prairie should be uplifting to me seeing nature at her best. Calming effect.  Saying prayers for our country, family and friends, etc.  Do you need prayer? Let me know.

SO long for now and God bless you,

~d👸 

PRAISE THE LORD AND BE HAPPY!

I DON'T USUALLY WAKE TO A GRUMBLY STOMACH, but I did on the day that labs are to be done.  I woke up after being asleep and thought maybe it would be about 5 in the morning, but to my wondering eyes when I looked at the clock, it was 12:56.  I blinked and decided to put a load of dirty towels in the washing machine to wash and to rearrange the inside of the fridge.  A chilly experience.  grins.

Seeing the citrus fruit together in a crisper drawer in the fridge made me perk up.  It looks so PRETTAY.  There's something about me that wants a nicely arranged fridge.  ha.  I don't get it.  Naturally I am a natural born SLOB.  As a married lady, I have wanted my fridge to be clean and orderly.  I've been married 50 years and this hasn't let up.  Which is a good thing as I honestly cannot say I am that passionate about the other areas in my LIFE.  Pat myself on the back and be pleased.

While up early, early...I'll check facebook, read about the passing of John MacArthur on my birthday, see what's going on in the world, place the new Blue Willow dishes in the china cabinet, etc.  

I read about John MacArthur having issues for a few years.  He had surgeries and I do wonder if he had ate differently and took supplements like CO Q-10 if he would have recovered still be amongst us?  Perhaps he did.  Who's to say.  He's at peace now.

I am getting firmer and firmer about believing that the quality of the food we eat makes a huge difference toward having better health without taking synthetic meds.  Truly.  To help me with getting there, I have to return to taking APPLE CIDER VINEGAR, CEYLON CINNAMON and CO Q-10 before lunch to help with digestion and processing glucose since my pancreas and liver are overworked where they do not function efficiently.  I also am doing without highly processed foods and rarely have breads made of hybridized WHEAT, seed oils and added chemicals.  NO SODA OR COFFEE.  Drinking spring water.  Portion control.  Back to it.  

🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗🥗

My stomach NEVER feels empty when I wake up until the day I AM TO FAST for labs???  duh.  baahumbug.  I have to suffer through until after labs at 8 and a medicare physical at 8:20 THEN I can eat and will get a ICED GREEN TEA and possibly some breakfast.  I'll make it, but this is uncomfortable.  This is one of those times that I wish I could chow down on SUMTHUN to ease the completely empty pit.  I ate the last morsel of food around 8 last night so it surprises me that my stomach feels so empty.

I weigh in this morning! and can record my weight as I journey onward with this health walk.  PAUSE.  I'll see what I actually weigh in a few hours.  I best go get groomed and dressed for the day.  It's 3:44 in the morning as I type this.  I figure that if my labs aren't so great that I will accept it and forge ahead doing things healthier with MINDFUL EATING.  Deliberately taking charge of being a HEALTH NUT.

I've got a plan on making SIMPLE MEALS to see if weight reduction will take place.  Oh Lord, I hope so.

Breakfast will more than likely be a 4 eggs with cottage cheese blended in, avocado on the side and blueberries.  Maybe 2 strips of bacon.

Lunch and Supper both will be a at least 4 oz. of grass fed beef, turkey, bison, lamb, hormone-free chicken or legumes plus a half plate of grilled veggies and a small side salad of greens like lettuce or arugula and cherry tomatoes.  Always WATER.

Each day the meats will vary and so will the grilled veggies.  Sounds like a plan and I pray it works.  Walking will continue.

Praise the LORD and be HAPPY,

~d

THE START OF MY BIRTHDAY WEEK and THRIFTING!

TURNING 70 ISN'T SO BAD???  NOT TO BE A DEBBIE DOWNER...but I had to look at life realistically.  Just because you want a nice day may not be what others deal out to you.  How we react might get in the way.

We had the week planned out and there was a serious change in the plans, but it's all good.  On Sunday, we decided to go to Abilene for the day so we could ride the train for free.  The Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad.  We were not considered a family because we didn't have any children with us so when we got there, we would have to pay full fee to ride.  We decided that we will ride the train on a different day when it's not so hot out and not so many little tykes would be on board.

We started the day out getting up early so we could go to Abilene.  I watered my porch plants before loading up in the car to leave dressed comfortably for the trip.  Twas already steaming hot outside with high humidity. We had a 11 o'clock reservation at the BROOKVILLE in Abilene.  I was to have fried chicken and Husband Chicken Fried Steak.

We arrived in Abilene early, so we drove around looking at the lovely large and stately historical houses.  At 11 we entered the Brookville Restaurant to eat because we had an 11 o'clock reservation.  No problems.  We were on time and were led to the dining room where we were seated at a small table with a tablecloth so wrinkled it ruffled my feathers.  I was taken aback and surprised at how tacky this was for a classy joint.  

We've dined at the BROOKVILLE before, but this was the first time the tablecloths were so wrinkled.  I looked about the room at all the tablecloths to see they were badly, and I do mean badly, wrinkled.  I'm nit picking.  

They were clean, but terribly wrinkled for a high dollar restaurant that's suppose to have a eloquent upscale presentation.  For as much as one pays to eat at this restaurant, this surprised me.  What's going on?  Because I'm turning 70, I guess I deserve to be somewhat of a critique.  AND criticize I did.  Under my breath.  Not to be a snob, but it was unprofessional.  Not to be ungrateful, but this neglect to detail isn't proper in a nice restaurant.      

Sitting down at the table, we were asked what we wanted to drink.  The appetizers were served.  Nice atmosphere and good service so far.  The gorgeous chandeliers that hung in the dining room needed the light bulbs changed out, as 3 or 4 bulbs were burnt out of each large chandy.  No toilet paper in the bathroom.  Someone is falling down on the job. 

As we were enjoying our appetizers and iced tea chatting about our plans for the day, an older woman approached our table and began scolding us that reservations didn't start until 11:30!  11:30?  Then why were we given a 11 o'clock reservation, seated, given our drinks and appetizers?  Because we had a 11 o'clock reservation.  We hadn't barged in demanding to be seated.  Excuse me.  

The one taking the reservations should have been the one to be talked to, not us who were guest already dining.  I had wondered if she wanted us to leave because it wasn't 11:30 yet.  

Mark this one up to experience and let it go.  Not a big deal.

She wasn't the one to seat us, but I believe she was the HOSTESS.  When my husband phoned for reservations the day before, he was given a 11 o'clock reservation and our food ticket that was placed on the table when being seated had 11 o'clock written on it.

If there was a hiccup on the reservation time then visit with the one that took the reservations and works at the BROOKVILLE not the diners with a 11 o'clock reservation.  I believe that nothing should have been said to us if there were no problems with the reservations as we were already being served and already eating.

Coleslaw, a few pieces of sliced baked apple, a few sliced peaches, and pickle chips were served as appetizers on a white plate.  The creamy coleslaw was delicious as I remember it being.  I have the recipe.  As the Family Style Meal was brought to our table, I was served 4 small pieces of fried chicken and my Husband was given a chicken fried steak.  I asked for a take home box ahead of time for leftover chicken because I knew I could not eat all 4 pieces.   

Small bowls of mashed potatoes, gravy, cream style corn, 4 tiny dinner rolls were served.  The gravy and mashed potatoes were rather good.  The cream style corn was out of this world delicious and I have this recipe as well.  The dinner rolls were lacking because they were too heavy, dense and lacked flavor and the fried chicken wasn't the best, but I didn't go hungry.  The iced tea was weak, but the dessert was creamy ice-cream.  I had about a half of cup of ice-cream. This was good.  

I kept the meal well controlled and didn't starve. Small everything.  SMALL portions.

When paying the bill, this same Hostess offered some candy to my Husband and said to him, "Well, don't take them all!"  Thank you, I won't.  Makes me chuckle now that I am HOME.

I usually play a game when dining out.  I talk about what OUR FAMILY STYLE RESTAURANT would serve if we had one.   

OUR RESTAURANT would serve up an appetizer plate with sweet pickles, black and green olives maybe celery sticks.  Then a small dinner salad would be served.  Dinner biscuits with real butter as well.  The Family Style Meal would follow with cottage cheese, green beans, cream style corn, creamy coleslaw, baked honey carrots, mashed potatoes with gravy, thinly sliced cucumber and onion salad!  AND OF COURSE the chicken dish.  There'd be a children's plate with an all beef hot dog or corndog with macaroni 'n cheese.  Dessert would be gooey brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream.  Iced tea, water, finishing the meal off with hot coffee or hot tea.  Whaalah served on beautiful Blue Willow Dishes.  Crisp white table clothes and napkins on sturdy tables with comfortable chairs.  Fresh cut flowers in crystal vases on the tables with classical music playing quietly in the background.  The waiters would be in all black clothing and shinny shoes.  Sounds like a winner to me.  Hello somebody.  

AFTER LUNCH is when we found out that the train rides were not free.  We went downtown to the Dollar Store for some Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies.  I had the jitters and thought these would calm what was going on with digestion.  Onto two Antique Stores to tique.  

It was in the second shoppe that I found an Antique Alfred Maekin Copper Tea Leaf Pattern, Ironstone China Oval Platter.

Just what I was looking for priced just right.  My Tea Leaf collection is slowly growing.  I picked it up placing it in the shopping cart.  Hubby found a pair of Cabala jeans that unzip into shorts and then I came across a Tea Service that I could not do without.  It was a 6 piece Tea service with oversized serving tray.  My heart said YES and it was priced so low, I couldn't believe it.  The tray alone usually goes for $150.oo and up.  This set had a coffee server, tea server, creamer, sugar and tea caddy plus the serving tray.  All pieces were for $49.oo.  $49.oo!!!  

When checking out, the clerk said this was 20% OFF coming to $39.20.  OH HEAVENS...I felt blessed.  All of this for under $40.  Unbelievable.  I will be polishing it and when I do, I'll smile really big. 

Happy shopper.

AND THEN WE DROVE HOME, unloaded and rested.  Supper would be left over Brookville fried chicken, potatoes, and baked beans.  Gosh it was good.  Great day and the week is just starting.

Blessings,

~d

SEVENTY YEARS OLD

I MADE IT!  Today I am a 70 year old woman.

~d

 

HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT A THYROID

LOSING WEIGHT WITHOUT A THYROID IS HARDER THAN HARD.  The truth of the matter is it is a delicate situation that your doctors may not communicate with you about how to lose weight.  They may say to Diet and exercise.  Period without telling you what foods to eat that are healthy for you.  Let me be the one to tell you, THE DIET has to be just so-so and exercise included even when exhausted.  There are certain foods that you must eat and some to avoid.  Plain and simple. 

BEST to eat grass-fed beef such as beef, bison and lamb, wild caught fish, hormone free chicken.  Organic vegetables and fruit.  One slice whole grain bread at breakfast. 

Mind over matter has to kick in and the cheerleading will have to come from within you.  Make them be in force.  ACTIVATE.  You have got to EXERCISE and you have got to eat differently.  Properly take your meds and know what foods to avoid that will cause the meds not to be absorbed.

1) Taking your thyroid meds on an empty stomach about the same time each morning with 4 to 8 ounces of spring water is a must. 
2) No dairy, grapefruit, soy, or walnuts with the morning meal.  These interfere with absorption of meds.
3) All supplements including other medications should not be taken before a 4 hour window of time has passed from when you took your thyroid meds.  Whaahlaah.
4) Be sure you are taking the correct dose of medication. 
5) Stay hydrated.  Drink lemon water throughout the day.  For medicinal purposes drink GREEN TEA either hot or cold.
6) Don't starve.  Do your best to keep your blood sugar stable.  3 meals a day with breakfast having some toast, protein, fruit and healthy fat.  Lunch and Supper should be 4 oz. of meat or fish with a small side salad of lettuce with tomato and half a plate of grilled or baked vegetables.  Avoid sugars, bread except one slice of whole grain at breakfast, pasta, rice and cakes.
7) Let protein, vegetables, healthy fats like olive oil and avocados be your friend.
8) EXERCISE to the tune of what you will stay with and not get sidetracked.  Mine is walking.  A little exercise that you are consistent with is far better for you than overkill that you do occasionally.
9) WEIGH YOURSELF ONCE A WEEK.  Such as on Monday mornings and record weight reading.  Don't let it get you down.  Rejoice that you are eating well taking good care of yourself.
10) Stay on top of what your Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D levels are.  It's very common to have deficiencies when you do not have a thyroid.  Just because you are taking thyroid meds does not mean your body will absorb these vitamins. 
11) DE-STRESS AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.  Handle life with prayer, talking, good nutrition, exercise, hobbies and rest.  Care for others, love yourself in a positive way and live life as best you can.  Give GOD the glory.
12) Get at least 6 to 8 hours of rest per sleep cycle a day.  Sleep in a dark, cool room with no EMF (electric magnetic field) or radio frequencies nearby.  No phones, computers, or televisions near by.  Some say no screen time at least 30 to 60 minutes before going to sleep.
13) Take at least 20 minutes to eat a meal.
14) Throughly chew each bite of food slowly rotating food within your mouth so all the teeth make contact with the food then swallow.  Take your time.  This is not a race to see who can finish their plateful of food first.  It needs to be a dining experience, not a hog fest.

Eliminating CARBS such as bread, crackers, pasta, rice, candy and cakes are the new norm.  Sugar overload be gone.  Bump up the skinny veggies, small amount of fruit at breakfast, skip the sugars including diet soda.  Drink as little of caffeinated beverages as possible.  No more than a cup of coffee at breakfast if you have to have coffee.  Some green tea throughout the day.  Sorry, but this is the way it is.

Everything you eat or drink turns to sugar in the human body and the body will decide how to burn it up for energy.  Over loading with carbs will overwork your liver.  If you happen to be insulin resistant, there will be a battle going on for the use of the sugar which will be glucose.  The sugar that doesn't get used properly will turn to fat in your body.  Stored glucose turns to FAT.  Hello.  This is not what you want.

Carbs are glucose boosters which turn to FAT and you do not want this when wanting to lose weight.  Your TSH needs to be at your optimal number.  When it is within the TSH range box, this is not necessarily your optimal number.  The doc will more than likely be pleased that you are within the TSH box, but this doesn't mean you are well.  Optimal TSH is a 2, not a 4 or anything else.  Many endocrinologist believe they have done their job if your TSH is within the box range and will not investigate into what might be other causes for felling rotten.  Sorry, but the truth be known you have to doctor yourself.  You'll have to have an active part in this.  Just taking one pill a day is not all there is to this weight lose fiasco and you have to be proactive in this journey.  The SECRET to losing weight with no thyroid is in getting your diet healthier.  This will make you healthier.

ALL THE BEST ALWAYS.  God loves you.  Remember that you are loved by an everlasting love.  Nobody else may love you, but you have GOD so you are NOT alone or completely unloved.  Let HIM nourish you and embrace health.

~d

WEIGH-IN

HERE'S THE WEEK-END.  PTL.  This is the wk-end before I turn 70.  I'm preparing for my big day, a medical appointment and some time to celebrate my special milestone.  I will simply have a cake pop on my actual birthday and an iced tea, because the next day is a weigh-in at the docs.  whah.

WEIGH DOWN LINGO.  

I have three days before the weigh-in so I am holding true to a caloric reduction diet.  Unless some weight comes off between now and then, I will be weighing in only 10 pounds lighter then what was recorded the year before for the physical.  Actually since February, I have lost 20 pounds, because during the year I had gained 10 so I will actually be 20 pounds lighter!  20 pounds for me is a significant loss.

If I can continue reducing then, praise GOD.  I'd love to lose 3 more pounds before the weigh-in.  SHALL SEE.

How will I do this?  Walking and morphing into my diet plan.  When I skip Breakfast then I am fasting where the first meal comes between 11 and noon.  Otherwise,  Breakfast should be 2 eggs, toast with avocado, fresh fruit and turkey bacon.  Of course water to drink.  Lunch is chicken breast, side salad and green beans.  Supper will be steak, salad and broccoli.  Very simple meals for the day.

Sunday meals will be similar except the meats will be turkey and fish.  On Monday the day before my doc appt.  I will eat similar, but have a protein drink for supper and on Tuesday weigh-in, I will be fasting because I am suppose to.  On Wednesday, I will allow a larger meal for lunch where supper will be cheese, crackers, fruit and summer sausage.  Thursday will be lighter eating except steak and potato will be allowed.  Friday will be lighter eating.  AND SO ON.  Lighter eating and walking.  Game plan on.

PLANS FOR THE DAY.  Good 'ole paperwork!!!  I still am working on it.  LAUNDRY and reading allowed.  Tis the life.

The linen closet is in the works.  Can't wait for the completion.

May we have a blessed week-end.  Becoming 70 is on the horizon.  I believe I am ready to embrace the era of 70.  It has been odd how hitting 70 has affected me.  Absolutely ODD.  

AND WE'RE OFF,

~d  

REMODELING COTTAGE BATHROOM SPACE

 LINEN CLOSET 
COMING TOGETHER

THE LINEN CLOSET IN OUR BATHROOM is making progress.  Soon it will be full of towels and toiletries!  A completion.  BATHROOM  D O N E.

Wonderful sensation,

~d

INNER HEALING ON THURSDAY

inner healing

TODAY WAS DEDICATED TO INNER HEALING.  This meant intense dialogue with my Husband.  I n t e n s e.  I cannot always put my feelings into words or explain in-depth of my soul in the human language.  The words are not there.  I can't even form them at times.  I'm slow to piece the words together.  I know I'm not alone in this challenge.

The extremely, hurtful disappointments in life I have had sometimes come rushing back with PTSD that weigh heavily on me.  When the thing that has caused pain in the past, is still in the picture of the present then it hasn't been successfully dealt with.  IT'S A TRIGGER.  That "THING" that shouldn't be in the picture at all has to be crucified so healing takes place.  If you are continually returning to the destructive place that causes more dysfunction, then another episode of horror will be created.  If the offensive party simply says, sorry, but returns to what has caused the pain in the first place then saying sorry isn't correcting or fixing the injury.  Healing will not take place. 

Being the object targeted by the offender is hellish.  Not getting my point of view across to the offender because the offender ignores my feelings as if I have none and uses me as their personal scapegoat, becomes a battlefield not only of the mind, but also erodes the harmony of the home.  A TOXIC environment.  It causes additional pain when being ignored because the offender's moral code is wayward and treats me as if I have no value or importance.

THIS THERAPY SESSION on a HOT Summer's day and I do think of it as a therapy session, was exhausting.  Explosive, but not threatening.  The evening is calmer and I'm looking for this day to be over.  We made progress with the healing that sorely needed to take place.  pause. 

  🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗🦃🥗

We're getting ready to fix a well balanced supper that is healthy and fit for our physical needs.  Turkey Patties with sugar-free catsup, small lettuce salad with tomatoes from the garden and corn on the cob.  Water to drink.

I have studied up and read a variety of articles and watched videos about how to eat and what to eat.  I am on a caloric reduction food program to where I record what I eat.  In order to lose 1 pound a week I have to have a calorie deficit of 500 calories a day.  500 calories x 7 days = 3500 calories which equals a pound lost.

Sounds simple enough.  Can it be?  It has to be.  At present, I believe when I weigh in at the doctor's appointment next week, I will weigh less than I did at last year's physical.  This is part of my goal. 

Hopefully, I'll return to walking in the morning which will help with my weight loss and well being.  Because of what happened onWednesday, I will scale back to 5 laps which will be a 1 and 1/4 mile.  I'll do this for a few days and then bump the milage to 1 and 1/2 mile.

Simplification is key to weight loss.  

When it comes to FOOD:  Basically breakfast, lunch and supper will be the same formula each day with no snacks.  Until I reach my goal weight, I plan on not adding any extras unless it's a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, company, holiday and then I'll hop on the wagon again after the treat for simplicity again.  The formula will remain basically the same.   

IN A NUTSHELL:
Breakfast: Protein, fat, fruit, and grain.
Lunch: 4 oz. protein and vegetables.
Supper: 4 oz of protein and vegetables.

Breakfast such as 2 eggs, avocado toast, 2 slices of turkey bacon and some fresh fruit.  Water.

Lunch will be a 4 oz. chicken breast, small side salad of lettuce, tomatoes and some grilled veggies like carrot sticks.  Water.

Supper will be 4 oz. of fish, a side salad and some grilled veggies like asparagus.  Water.  

Next day.  Same breakfast. 
Lunch will be 4 oz. of turkey, small side salad and grilled veggies of corn on the cob. 
Supper will be 4 oz. of beef, side salad, grilled veggies like broccoli and water.

Day 3.  Breakfast will be Scottish Oatmeal with almond milk, cinnamon, sliced almonds and blueberries. 
Lunch will be 4 oz. fish, salad, grilled veggies like green beans. 
Supper will be 4 oz. turkey, salad, veggies like zucchini and water.

Day 4.  Breakfast repeat. 
Lunch 4 oz. beef, salad, mixed veggies, water. 
Supper chicken, salad, mixed veggies, water.

As for the protein drinks I bought, I might sneak one in for a hunger saver if I'm struggling.

Well, I have kicked this diet thing around and around.  I continue to walk, pray and eat.  Naps are permitted.

THURSDAY has been recorded as a day of healing.  Giving simplicity a chance.

Until next time...

BLESSINGS,

~d🌸

MIDDLE OF THE WEEK WEDNESDAY

WEDNESDAY.  Middle of the week ALREADY!  

SLEPT WELL LAST NIGHT and woke early so I could walk in the cool of the day.  Weighing myself in the mornings after using the toilet.  Getting groomed and dressed to take off for my morning walk needs to be a routine to follow.      

Temps were 73 with sun shinny weather.  Absolutely all blue skies with no clouds.  No chem-trails at all.  

This time I was alone at the track and could pray out loud.  Each step I took moved me forward to completing 8 laps around the track.  I figured I could do this in 50 minutes.  50 minutes of constant motion is a victory in itself for me.  No back or hip pain.  

I started out walking on the outside lap that has the number 8 painted on it and with each lap I walked, I used the numbers to help me keep track of how many more laps I had to go.  With the completion of a lap, I'd step over into the next lane with a different number on it.  By the time I was walking in lap 3, I was dreading that I still had 3 laps to go. When I was walking on the lane with 2 painted on it, I was having to talk to myself to not give up because I really wanted to.  Looking at how far I had already walked helped.  See how many laps you've walked already?  Keep going, kiddo.

When I crossed over the finish line completing all 8 laps, I was heated up, week and hobbled to the car to cool off.  Water awaited me and I gave a loud sigh, but cheered myself on that I walked 2 miles!  Decided to drive the car about town to help with cooling off and when I did, I was starting to see spots before my eyes.  I didn't feel light headed, but the spots were getting bigger.  Drove HOME and went inside to sit by the fan.  I never did get light headed, but something odd was happening.  Checked my blood pressure and found that it was way low.  Not like me to have low blood pressure.

The spots were getting larger and then I felt like I could pass out.  Oops.  I laid down after eating an orange, taking some salt with water.  It took 4 hours before my BP returned to normal.  

NAP TIME and waking with a still low BP.  Skipped taking my BP meds on purpose in hopes the BP would rise.

I have never had issues with low blood pressure.  I've struggled with high, not low.  Not sure what to think.  

ANYWHO, I'll be watching my BP the rest of the day.  I wondered if having a liquid diet for a day wasn't enough calories for me or what.  Change of plans and I'll eat a small bowl of chili today and drink some green tea.  People are not designed to live on so few of calories to function.  The protein drinks equaled 800 calories which is extremely low.  I had 5 drinks yesterday instead of 6.  

1200 calories is considered low enough.  My liquid diet for a week will be changed to something else, which is just as good since the Premier Protein is loaded with weird chemicals.  I may have been having a reaction to the chemicals.

GREEN SALADS are healthier for me so I will return to the healthier option.  Tonight, I will fix a large green salad for us with lettuce, spinach, celery, green apple, green peppers, olives, grape tomatoes, sprinkle of nuts, and pineapple slices.  May add some shredded chicken for protein.   

If nothing else, I have to be flexible when it comes to my health journey.  

ON THE HOME FRONT: I made huge headway on the pile of paper.  All have been stapled.  Now to categorize the articles and put them away.  THEN I will open the bedroom door and start taking things out of there and see if I can do something with the items.  By the end of July, the room should be cluttered free.  We may start remodeling in there.  The ceiling needs to be replaced, painted, trim sanded and painted, a corner closet ripped out, floor to ceiling book shelves built and painted, do something with the wood floor, hang different window treatments.  I'll be going with white paint for the pre-existing paneling that's there.  The room should be done by THANKSGIVING.  

Pray so,

~d

1950s, How to be a Housewife