Wednesday, December 24, 2008

May all your Holiday dreams come true

As I sit here relaxing for a few moments before I need to leave for church, I am reminded of how truly blessed I am. I celebrate the birth of Christ. I celebrate my life, filled with great joy. I celebrate my family who continue to love me, unconditionally. I celebrate my wonderful friends who help me get from one bumpy road to the next.

Much preparation has gone into Services of Celebration, dinners and great feasts! I hope you take a moment and smile. Think of me sitting here, not quite dressed; not really panicky; no voice even though I'm singing tonight; and as if none of this really mattered, I am happy! A calmness has come over me that is truly unexplainable and has left me filled with wonder.

Are you feeling at peace this evening? Whatever your belief is may you truly Celebrate the blessings in your life and find that calm still voice.

Love to all!

Til again,
Doll

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

A fly by post!

Hi everyone!

If you've ever wondered what I sound like here is your chance. Last week I was interviewed by Sheralee Faull of The Raw Divas You can find the interview in the latest edition of Health in High Heels. This is a free newsletter. I talk about music, my goals for the year and life in general. This interview is one of many that will introduce everyone to a number of us Raw Divas.

I'm so surprised that I'm not running around frantically getting ready for the big day on the 25Th. Basically what I have done is what is getting done. I'm relaxing and taking care of me. A good idea? I think so.

Well, I am off and running. Need to go and pick up a few groceries for me and my bunnies. lol


What are you doing today to take of you?

Enjoy the day.
Til again,
Doll

Saturday, December 20, 2008

The day after

I'm awake and ready to face the day. Great, isn't it?

I've been gluten and dairy free since Tuesday and already I'm feeling a bit brighter, happier, less sluggish and on top of my life. This is an amazing feeling. My challenge is to be gluten and dairy free for 2 weeks. My first thought was how the heck can I do this over Christmas but as I set out to make my plans I realized that the task is not impossible. Wow! I will face some temptation but not as big of a denial as I once thought.

I enjoyed a wonderful day yesterday. Met a dear friend for lunch; gave us time to catch up. We've both been so busy that just sitting and talking was a real treat. (Note to self: keep putting times like this in my calendar)

The evening was filled with such fun. We joined another couple at The Old Time Fiddlers Christmas Dinner. My food choices were made wisely and enjoyed! The music? Well, I love the toe tappin' fiddle music that is such a strong tradition in the Ottawa Valley. Had an opportunity to waltz and two-step with my honey and even did some line dancing. Boy it's been a long time since I've danced. Ask the muscles in my glutenous-maximus what they think of it today! lol A great time was had by all. The weather outside was definitely "frightful" but inside so "delightful". I didn't realize how much I needed the fun and laughter. There's been lots of both in my life lately. Nice to turn your head around once in a while!

Well, off to do what a music teacher does on Saturdays!

Til again,
Doll

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Getting ready and moving forward!

As I was responding to someone in The Raw Divas Powder Room Forum I realized that perhaps this would be good to add to my blog.

This is the post:

"Socializing is always tough for me. I found that if I go to an event with strengthened resolve to do the best for me then I can manage. If I go when I'm really tired or stressed then forget it. All well laid plans fly out the window.

So here's my strategy:

  • Drink a green smoothie before I go
  • Be sure that I'm rested
  • Keep my mind focused on the great people around me and the conversation
  • If asked about what I'm eating I smile and let them know that I'm enjoying my ..... salad or whatever I am eating and then let it go.

  • If I don't make a big production out of the whole thing that most friends and colleagues will just smile and go on with the conversation at hand.

  • As for things like alcohol etc. I'm finding it easier and easier to stay away from them. In my circles, people are just more aware then they used to be and generally make healthy choices."
Those are my thoughts today. I have a couple more engagements for the holiday season but nothing that is going to stress my body or my head. I'm taking care of me and boy does it feel good!

"All of this is easier said than done so I take it one day and one moment at a time. If I eat something not so great for me I move forward and make better decisions next time. Not the end of the world. "

My words to all:

Enjoy your days, your parties, dinners etc and remember that only you can drive your truck! You make the decisions that effect your life.

Til again,
Doll

Monday, December 15, 2008

For today!

I know, I use this title a lot but for me it really is my life. I take each day and live for "today". Well, at least that's my plan. Some days I'm more successful than others.

“To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art.”
La Rochefoucauld

I read the quote above this morning and thought I'd share. I plucked it from the Green Smoothie Blog . Definitely gives a different perspective to my food and dining experience.

I used to think that eating out in public was the art. Not eating too much or too fast; ordering foods that others won't criticize. Now in steps the intelligent part! How smart am I too allow what others think of what I eat into my world? Do I really need opinion to rule my head or my heart? It's like what Nick quotes me often, " When arguing with the post, who is most intelligent, you or the post?" (author unknown) OK, so we all know the correct answer here.

So, for today, I will eat with intelligence and create the world around me (my food) a new art form.

Love to all
Til again,
Doll

Thursday, December 11, 2008

“What If Raw Food Isn’t Right For Me?”

“What If Raw Food Isn’t Right For Me?”

Posted using ShareThis


I question daily what I eat. Most folks who are looking at losing weight and getting healthy do this. Balance their meals, count calories, keep track of portions and portion sizes. What's been on my mind for a little more than 6 months now is this: "Do I continue eating RAW or do I cook dinner tonight?" What's good for me and my body? How much abuse can my body take ie additives, gluten, hidden sugars and on and on.... Get my drift?

I'm on a journey of education. I want to learn as much as I can about nutrition; what works for me and what doesn't. Even in the RAW food movement there is much controversy over different food items.

Am I a vegan? Not by a long shot. Vegetarian? Not quite there. I am limiting my red meat consumption to only once or twice a week. Partly due to budget issues but also I feel that my body doesn't really need what I once thought it did.

I'll continue to question, to search. The journey is long but it's life and I'm learning and having a blast!

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Green Smoothie Evidence!


OK I have proof! Proof of what? That I actually do drink these wonderful smoothies. You have to trust me. I really did drink all of it. What's left at the bottom I'll scoop out with a spoon.

This was a very special smoothie. Last night after the pot-luck at the church one of the lovely ladies offered me a bowl of fruit salad. Sweet. I told her it would go in my smoothie for breakfast.

That's exactly what I did. In this bowl was cut up honeydew, cantaloupe, red and green grapes. I added one small banana and a couple of handfuls of lettuce. (needed to make it green).

The Green Jugs are available from the Raw Divas (see my side bar) I really like using mine. Definitely have opportunities to talk about it when I'm out and about. From time to time I even use it for water. lol


Today was sort of a snow day for me. Yes, there's lots of the white fluffy stuff out there. Our driveway is now clear thanks to the neighbors and for Nick's hard working shovel. I think the shovel actually works really hard. Nick sends his energy into it and wow, the snow moves. lol

Food for today:

coffee 1 cup
a cup of vegetarian chili (I made this for last night's dinner)
1 home made dinner roll (made just like Grammie used to make)
1 full jug of green smoothie

1 spoonful of cookie dough that is now dehydrating

That's it so far. I'm planning on some clear veg. broth for my dinner and a salad.

Not a fully raw day but definitely a good one.

What's on your menu today??

til again,
Doll

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Let it snow! or not!!!


Ok, so it's snowing, again! What can I expect? I'm in Ottawa, in December. Of course it's going to snow. lol

Yesterday I had the pleasure of playing for the Goulbourn Jubilee Singers and the Junior Jubilees. The songs were beautiful and all had a great time.


This picture was taken from the side view of the front of the church. The flowers are beautiful. Each week there will be more added. The liturgical colour for advent is blue, thus the blue drape you see to the left.

As I said...a good time was had by all. Today, however, I'm feeling a little weary. Thanks to the kindness of Nick I am now the proud owner of a paraffin bath which came into good use this afternoon. My hands are so thankful for such a nice treatment! Thanks Nick!

I put a new profile picture on the blog (scroll down). I apologize for the graininess and hope to have another taken soon. I'm at the church at least 5 out of 7 days this time of year so many more photo ops.

I'm relaxing today and finding my feet (balance) once again. Tomorrow I'll head to the pool and enjoy the steam room and whirlpool after a good long swim. Perhaps even do a wee bit of shopping. No, not the Christmas gift kind, the...oh my I'm out of everything kind! Not my favorite pass time for sure.

For now I'll pick up my knitting and take care of me.

Love to all til again
Doll

Sunday, November 30, 2008

End of the year and new beginning!

This may sound strange to some but yesterday was new year's eve in the Christian church calendar making today, 1st Sunday in Advent, New Year's Day!! What a great time to start over!

I'll repeat that: "WHAT A GREAT TIME TO START OVER!" Blue is the liturgical colour for Advent so expect to see me use a lot of it. (besides, it's my favorite!)

Actually, the start of a new day, any day, is good to re-affirm and/or start again.

What really needs changing is my head and how I think and perceive of things in and around my life.

I've been concerned a number of times this past year that I had/have become obsessed with making my goals; realizing my dreams as pertains to my health and body. There were times when that's all I could think of. What I'm eating; when I'm eating. Should I? Should I not? Did I exercise enough today? Did I take my vitamins? How will this make me feel? What if I don't succeed? What will everyone say or think about me?

All this is crazy making!! What I've learned this year is that if left unchecked I really could become ill with the whole process that's meant to make me well. Head games...that's all it is.

So for the first month of this new year I'm looking at my life through different glasses. Not rose coloured but multi-coloured with ever changing hues, purposes and expectations.

I know what's good for me and what is not the best. I know what makes me happy. I know what gives me energy.

My new journey will take a different road. The map is coming together. I know there will still be bumps and variations but this year...NO GUILT. No, this does not mean I can do and eat anything I want! What it does mean is that I no longer am allowed to beat myself up over my perceived failures.

My life is NON-NEGOTIABLE! Will there be changes? For sure. My life is about building consistency and ritual (read habitual). I function well when I know when, how, where, and why. This does not chain me to any one thing. Rather, frees me to be creative in all areas of my life.

Ok, so I have a jump on the NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION thing but for me, why wait?

Are you looking to a new month, new year, new goals? Why wait until the calendar changes? Make the changes you want now! That's the band wagon I'm hoppin' on board. Join me.

hugs
til again
Doll

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

A new day...and more snow!

I'm finding it difficult to accept the fact that winter weather is part of the norm around here now. I'm not a big fan of snow, cold temps or short days. I much prefer sunshine, time in the water and fresh produce from the garden.

So, I'll meet my days half way! I'll go to the pool as often as I can; turn on my full spectrum lights to simulate the bright sunshine; grow my sprouts and wheat grass. All this and pretend that it's really spring at least.

I don't like to wish away any part of the year. Each month has it's merits. Right?

So for now I sit thankful for all the blessings that come to me each day. I delight in the beauty of the white fluffy stuff in the air and the newness of the fresh blanket of snow on the ground.

This week:

I've planned my food really well and purchased the appropriate groceries to back up the plan. Guess that would be step #2. lol

step #1: plan menus
step #2: purchase groceries

step #3: follow through and eat what was purchased.

Nothing bothers me like tossing food that has gone bad due to neglect. Even if I had all the riches in the world this would still be a problem for me. Don't get me wrong...I don't have the $$$ to toss into the trash so being good about this is imperative...non-negotiable.

That's it! My word for the week:

NON-NEGOTIABLE

These are things that are done. Period. No falling on one side of the fence or the other...

So for today:

My kitchen is closed at 8pm. NON-NEGOTIABLE!

My life; my decision.

Until again

Doll
....continuing on this great journey.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

As life goes on....

Tuesday seems to be my blogging day. Who'd have thunk it!?

Never mind. Today is Tuesday and here I am one more time.

Food today has been really good.

Fruit smoothie
grapes
salad with 1/2 avocado
taboulie salad (home made)
decaf coffee

Not too bad for me. I have the rest of the day's food planned. Some veggie soup, raw crackers, more salad and some brocolli. My goal is to close the fridge at home at 8pm tonight and end the late night snacking.

On my grocery list:

bananas!

Off to head back to some teaching.

Enjoy all that the day has to offer. I give my personal thanks to all those in the world who have lost loved ones to conflicts and to those who continue to strive for a better world.

Til again,
Doll

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Tired Tuesday

I woke up fatigued this morning. I had a restless night filled with bad dreams and tears. This is not overly strange for me but more the pattern of my life when I'm filled with anxiety and fears. I know where this is coming from and start each daily with positive intention and love.

"Sharing our apprehensions with other people can make our fears less overwhelming because we are not letting them grow inside of us as pent up emotions." This is from the Daily Om which you can read here.

I have these articles delivered to my in-box daily and often don't read them but for some reason today I was drawn to it. No coincidences...right?

For this day: I am strong, purposeful and healthy.

Til again,
Doll

Monday, November 3, 2008

November

Well, the year is creeping by and with only 2 months left I find myself redefining my weight loss goals and my focus. This has been a long year of trial and, dare I say, error. Mostly each day has brought new opportunities for growth both on the inside of my body and in my spirit.

Rehearsals are calling me to practice, prepare, and participate. My 3 "p"s for the week!

Off I go!!!!

Sunday, October 19, 2008

For today

To say I'm struggling would be less than accurate. I'm believing that some of my issues are running way deeper than I could ever have imagined.

To say I'm ready to give up would be not accurate either. On any give day, at any given time, yes, I'm ready to just let it be. (It being all my daily issues)

To say that I'm on the road to recovery, once more, not accurate. Guess that depends on which road I'm on..now, tomorrow...whenever.

The issues:

1. food
my body's response to food
my head's ideas about food
my life....and food!

2. exercise
my body's response to lack of exercise
my head's ideas about exercise
my life....and exercise!

3. spirituality
my body's response to the spirit in action
my head's ideas about the spirit
my life....and the spirit within me

All three are big, life changing areas of anyone's life, mine included!
With super human strength I can tackle it all. (go SuperWoman).
With my every day strength I can tackle some of it. (go Doll)
With the very centre of my strength I can tackle one area. (this is reality)

So here's the big question: How do I achieve all three and feel a unity of body, mind and soul?

Words of wisdom kindly accepted.


Til I'm moved to write again....

Doll

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Nick's special Day.

As Sundays go this one was really great! A special day of worship and rehearsals topped off with a great dinner at The Table . Not a raw dinner but definitely vegetarian. Both Nick and I love the food there and since we went at 4pm it was not busy. We went as part of Nick's birthday celebration. I finished at rehearsal at 3:30 and down town we journeyed.

We have many favorite places to eat but The Table is one of those places where I can go and not be tempted by all the favs. of fast or bar food. I did enjoy a small piece of pumpkin pecan cheese cake...oh my. This was definitely a treat for me.

The first part of the day was raw: banana and watermelon AND 2 raw crackers.

I'll add that a wee bit of chocolate cake topped off the day.

Nick was sung to, received a couple of gifts and will spend the evening with a gorgeous woman by his side. (that would be me lol) What more can anyone ask for?

My week begins tomorrow with a day off. I will relax, spin, knit and perhaps go to the pool. Some candles and soft music will sooth my busy mind. There will be a fire in the wood stove to give the home a nice warm feel.

Want to join me?

til again,
Doll

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Before I go to sleep....


A few thoughts.....

Some times my melancholy takes hold of me and I appear to sink. What generally happens is that I become blue in spirit but then quite creative. I often end up re-constructing some aspect of my life during these times. I could say they are times of distress but that's probably not true. More often than not it just a matter of fatigue; possibly reminiscent of times when, as a child, I was homesick.

I was never really homesick for the house or the surroundings but for my Dad. I would be surrounded by friends, good friends and family but if my Dad wasn't with me there was an emptiness that would come over me. My blue times; my tiredness; my hunger for the one person who gave unconditional love came and went as days do.

Days like today my feelings are more related to my fatigue than to me missing my Dad. I have a wonderful man in my life who gives unconditionally of himself, his time and his love for me. Do I still miss my Dad? Of course but the thoughts are different now. (I'll share more of this later)

The real ticket here is what to do as I reach out of the mire. I try many things...walking, spinning, mindless distraction with tv and games but what really hits the pit of my stomach and pulls me out is the music. Currently I'm listening to the "SPA" channel on cable...pipes, flutes, soft, soothing. This type of music is good for me to relax and prepare for bed. On the opposite side of the spectrum not so good if I'm terribly sad.

Today I have enjoyed teaching, enjoyed baking, finished some sock yarn and listened to the soft rain. The day has been good; filled with love and many blessings. Regardless of my mood I always remember....this day is a gift!

So for today my music for the soul: something rich with strings and soft, heart-like beating. A time to relax, enjoy and reflect.

And tomorrow????


til again
Doll

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Where did the summer go?

I know people often ask this question but this year I mean it i! Where were the hot, humid days; the sleepless nights due to the heat; the moments you count until you can plunge into the pool or lake? Don't get me wrong the summer was wonderful for me. The garden thrived and offered us many great veggies and some beautiful flowers. The pool was inviting and was my main source of exercise; going in some days 2 or 3 times during the day. The days were cooler and many days with some rain. Guess just not typical for this area. For us in Stittsville...fewer storms! That's a major bonus for me.

I'm sitting here holding a beautiful grey bunny we just named "Babs" She has a really nice barred colouring that I love. Much of the time she sits on my lap and is quite affectionate. (I'll post more about our rabbitry later)


This week in RAWville:

Made a re-commitment to my journey this week. I've purchased some really nice fruits and veggies and have been staying as green as possible. My food cravings (addictions) are to be broken. This is not easy for me but necessary. I choose to live a long and healthy life!

I had some major issues with my back yesterday. Not sure what I did but again, I'm determined not to let this get in the way of what I want and need to do. My life continues bad back or not. The pain is much less today and I know once I get moving it will loosen up even more. I'm really missing the swimming so Nick and I will look into renewing our memberships at the local pool for the winter.

Even though the sun is still hiding I have a lone sunflower smiling at me this morning to cheer my day.

Sending you sunshine and flowers today!

til again
Doll

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Fun, frolic and fall!


I met up with the "Raw Divas" at the "Simply Raw" Food Festival in Ottawa this weekend. I love meeting new friends.

In the picture: Amy, Me, Tera! Does it look like I was having fun? You betcha!


The afternoon (I wasn't able to spend the day) was filled with lots and lots of information, great speakers,and raw prepared dishes to try. A positive event that I thoroughly enjoyed!

My journey on the raw food path has been up and down hill and around many bends. I'm very excited to be able to learn as much as I can as I explore what my body is really telling me.

What I've learned so far:

  • I need to be kind to myself
  • Guilt free living is possible (when it comes to food)
  • Listening to my body is very important
  • I continue to love watermelon and blueberries
  • traditional meals still call to me but no longer taste as pleasing as they once did
I'm sure there is much more but I will ponder this more.

The rest of today is for me. Sunday afternoons and Mondays are my days to just be me. That is exactly what I plan to do. If I feel like walking or swimming I will...if not...that's ok as well.

Do you have a plan for your day?

Listen to your heart..hear the quiet conversations that the heart shares in each beat....

til again,

Doll

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Look at me! Someone gives me a challenge, any challenge and I jump on board!!!! I had so much fun doing this. Read down the blog from the link to hear all about it!


Today is Sunday...so 1/2 day working then 1/2 day for me to relax and enjoy my life.

I had some friends over for lunch after church and we're heading out for dinner at another friends house! Wow...didn't know I was a party hopper eh?

Enjoy the gift that is today!

Big hugs
Doll

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

mid-August

Well, almost half-way through the month and I realized I haven't posted here in a while. Life has been in the way...at least in the way of my creativity.

Food: mostly raw fruits and veggies

Still holding on to: ice cream, pizza, assorted sweets, salt

Gave up for good: coffee!

I've begun work with a personal trainer at the gym. This is to help me with my "form" with the weights etc so that I don't hurt myself. Since my back problems mid-June I've been very careful with my exercise.

The swimming is going well except for the cooler temps. Really hard to get much heat from a solar collector when the sun isn't shining. lol

I started swimming 8 lengths then moved on to 16. I was challenged to give myself a goal one night and did 32. This week I managed 40! I've done the calculations. I need 100 laps to swim 1 mile. This is my goal by the end of the summer.

So

Sunshine? Where are you dear sunshine? lol


til again
Doll