I'm down 15 lbs since I started my weight loss/get fit endeavor.
I've been living a paleo lifestyle for almost two months now and I'm absolutely converted.
I got a gym membership squared away, and finally started working out.
I've slept better the last couple nights than I ever have before.
Today marks 18 years that my dad has been gone, but it's okay, because I'm that much closer to seeing him again some day. Thank goodness for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Actually, we have Heavenly Father and the Savior to thank for that...but goodness comes into play as well. :)
Happy weekend, everyone! Specifically, happy General Conference weekend. :)
Friday, September 30, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
I love...
Cool days, wind blowing the bushes against the side of the house, rain coloring the sidewalk darker with each drop...all while smelling a pot of soup cooking on the stove.
Fall. Lovely Fall.
Fall. Lovely Fall.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
New moto
I saw this as a friend's facebook status. Couldn't have come at a better time. It's my new moto.
"Better to be hated than loved for what you're not."
Amen.
"Better to be hated than loved for what you're not."
Amen.
Oh heavenly deliciousness
The wonderful and super fun thing about living a Paleo lifestyle is the need and opportunity to experiement with cooking. Never before have I enjoyed cooking so much. Never before have I tried so many new recipes. Never before have I used so many different spices and veggies, spices and veggies I didn't know existed.
Yesterday I tried an extremely simple recipe. Beet chips. OH. MY. WORD. I want some right now, but I don't have more beets. :(
Here's the site I got the recipe from: http://www.myrealfoodlife.com/beet-chips/
I don't really like beets. I like beet greens (cut them off the beets, steam them up...they taste like cooked spinach, which I love) but I've never really liked beets.
I LOVE beet chips. Mmmmmmm. I guess baking them sucks out all the yuckiness but leaves in all the goodness. Gosh, I've been looking for some kind of paleo snack I could really love. Beet chips and guacamole it is!
Yesterday I tried an extremely simple recipe. Beet chips. OH. MY. WORD. I want some right now, but I don't have more beets. :(
Here's the site I got the recipe from: http://www.myrealfoodlife.com/beet-chips/
I don't really like beets. I like beet greens (cut them off the beets, steam them up...they taste like cooked spinach, which I love) but I've never really liked beets.
I LOVE beet chips. Mmmmmmm. I guess baking them sucks out all the yuckiness but leaves in all the goodness. Gosh, I've been looking for some kind of paleo snack I could really love. Beet chips and guacamole it is!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
When I die...
Will my only legacy be Amy Grant?
"I remember how much she loved Amy Grant." That may be the only thing people remember about me.
On the up side...whenever people hear about Amy Grant, they think of me. Which is kind of tender. :)
I must admit...the Sara Bareilles concert was a bit more exciting than the Amy Grant concert. BUT...that only matters if you go for excitement. :) You see, Sara is like a trip to Europe, but Amy is like coming home. And I've always been a home body...not so much of a traveler. :)
"I remember how much she loved Amy Grant." That may be the only thing people remember about me.
On the up side...whenever people hear about Amy Grant, they think of me. Which is kind of tender. :)
I must admit...the Sara Bareilles concert was a bit more exciting than the Amy Grant concert. BUT...that only matters if you go for excitement. :) You see, Sara is like a trip to Europe, but Amy is like coming home. And I've always been a home body...not so much of a traveler. :)
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Apology
I feel as though my blog posts as of late have been bitter, negative, and/or boring.
I'm sorry.
Let me explain the best way I know how. I can't and won't go into too much detail, but I'll try to explain.
Over the past couple of years I let my heart get really involved with a situation. Extremely involved. Anyone who knows me well knows that I allow my heart to get a little too involved in things/people too often. Like...I don't understand boundaries. I go overboard. That's what happened with this situation. I'm sorry if the word "situation" is vague, but it's about as far as I'm willing to go. I put a lot of energy, time, thought, TRUST, emotion and love into this situation.
This situation/experience made me think, feel and understand things in a completely different way. It kind of changed me. I saw things differently. Honestly...my views on certain topics have completely changed because of this experience/situation I invested in. Really, like I used to see things in a pink world...everything pink. And now, because of this situation, I see some things green, some things blue, some things yellow, some orange, some black...very little pink any more. Honestly...whole new colors have entered my world.
This is a good thing. And I believe the entire experience was inspired and needed. God knows me and knows what I needed...so He led me in that direction.
But, just because something's inspired or right, doesn't mean we always make the right decisions with it. My boundaries dropped too far, I got too involved...and it ended badly.
Thus, my energy, time, thought, trust, emotion and love were all given back to me, very abruptly.
And it turned me a little bit bitter. Honestly. For better or for worse, I've changed a bit. I'm not as trusting, open or as nice as I once was. Probably more trusting, open and nice than some people...but not as much as my old self.
I am, however, finally at a healing point. I'm so much better than I was a year ago, that's for sure.
Anyway, if this post is a little too emo, I'm sorry. My sister calls me "emo." Apparently that's the "in" word for emotional...overly dramatic. I guess you could say I am emotional and, more often than not, overly dramatic. I don't feel a lot of in-betweens...mostly just highs and lows. But hey...it's me.
So, I'm sorry for my boring, negative bitter blog posts. I don't want to be a negative, bitter person. So, here's my attempt to start fresh. Will you accept my blog explanation/apology?
We all go through stuff, right? :)
I'm sorry.
Let me explain the best way I know how. I can't and won't go into too much detail, but I'll try to explain.
Over the past couple of years I let my heart get really involved with a situation. Extremely involved. Anyone who knows me well knows that I allow my heart to get a little too involved in things/people too often. Like...I don't understand boundaries. I go overboard. That's what happened with this situation. I'm sorry if the word "situation" is vague, but it's about as far as I'm willing to go. I put a lot of energy, time, thought, TRUST, emotion and love into this situation.
This situation/experience made me think, feel and understand things in a completely different way. It kind of changed me. I saw things differently. Honestly...my views on certain topics have completely changed because of this experience/situation I invested in. Really, like I used to see things in a pink world...everything pink. And now, because of this situation, I see some things green, some things blue, some things yellow, some orange, some black...very little pink any more. Honestly...whole new colors have entered my world.
This is a good thing. And I believe the entire experience was inspired and needed. God knows me and knows what I needed...so He led me in that direction.
But, just because something's inspired or right, doesn't mean we always make the right decisions with it. My boundaries dropped too far, I got too involved...and it ended badly.
Thus, my energy, time, thought, trust, emotion and love were all given back to me, very abruptly.
And it turned me a little bit bitter. Honestly. For better or for worse, I've changed a bit. I'm not as trusting, open or as nice as I once was. Probably more trusting, open and nice than some people...but not as much as my old self.
I am, however, finally at a healing point. I'm so much better than I was a year ago, that's for sure.
Anyway, if this post is a little too emo, I'm sorry. My sister calls me "emo." Apparently that's the "in" word for emotional...overly dramatic. I guess you could say I am emotional and, more often than not, overly dramatic. I don't feel a lot of in-betweens...mostly just highs and lows. But hey...it's me.
So, I'm sorry for my boring, negative bitter blog posts. I don't want to be a negative, bitter person. So, here's my attempt to start fresh. Will you accept my blog explanation/apology?
We all go through stuff, right? :)
Friday, September 9, 2011
New Blog
It's my health blog. It's called "Uh...Paleo? Yes."
You can find it at http://crystalnoelperryhealthyliving.blogspot.com/
Follow or don't follow. But it would be fun if you followed. :) Who knows...maybe I'll become extremely hot...and get famous...and make a book out of it...and then a movie. And then I'll start my own line of clothing...and perfume...and water bottles. ;)
Right.
You can find it at http://crystalnoelperryhealthyliving.blogspot.com/
Follow or don't follow. But it would be fun if you followed. :) Who knows...maybe I'll become extremely hot...and get famous...and make a book out of it...and then a movie. And then I'll start my own line of clothing...and perfume...and water bottles. ;)
Right.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Paleo or bust...
Bust a button on my pants...because they were getting so tight, that is. Ba-dum-ching. (Drum sound after stupid joke)
So, I did the 30-day paleo challenge.
What is paleo, you may ask. Let me tell you.
And I quote, from Robb Wolf's blog, writer of The Paleo Solution,
"•Lean proteins that support strong muscles, healthy bones and optimal immune function. Protein also makes you feel satisfied between meals.
•Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that have been shown to decrease the likelihood of developing a number of degenerative diseases including cancer, diabetes and neurological decline.
•Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, fish oil and grass-fed meat. Scientific research and epidemiological studies show that diets rich in Monounsaturated and Omega-3 fats dramatically reduce the instances of obesity, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and cognitive decline."
Here's the deal. My sister and bro-in-law have been preaching paleo for quite a while now. "It's amazing," they'd say. "It's the only way," I'd hear. "Paleo isn't just about weight loss...it's about living healthy, avoiding disease, feeling good in your skin." Yeah yeah yeah... It wasn't that I didn't believe what they were saying, it's just that I didn't care.
Well, I listen to podcasts these days. LOTS and LOTS of podcasts. And I started listening to health podcasts. Lots of research and evidence points to paleo as a smart, good way of eating. Most kids with any form of autism are directed to the paleo style of eating...while doctors may not refer to it as paleo, it's the same style (cut out gluten and dairy.) Many obese people with severe diabetes are also directed toward the same eating habits (low carb and processed sugars...high veggies and meat). As I listened to these podcasts and heard all of the great effects...weight loss, clear skin, less mood swings, better sleep, less stomach issues...I decided it was about time I tried it.
The 30-day challenge: to live the paleo lifestyle as strictly as possible, for 30 days and see how you feel at the end of it.
Yesterday was my 30th day. I feel great. I've lost about about 10 pounds, sleep better, and feel cleaner. By cleaner...well...I just feel lighter and cleaner and a bit more energetic. I'm sure as I continue, I'll see even more results.
I've heard many arguments against paleo. Especially from Latter-day Saints. I am a Latter-day Saint. Here's the argument. "Wheat is in the Word of Wisdom. Paleo excludes wheat. I cannot condone a lifestyle that goes against the Word of Wisdom" To this I have several things to say. Which is why I've decided to start a different blog. My paleo blog. I'm going to call it "The Mormon Paleo" and it's going to track my progress, and my opinion on the lastest health news...along with my explanations of how paleo does fit into the Word of Wisdom.
I respect people's views and opinions. I don't think everyone has to live a paleo lifestyle to be healthy or lose weight. I'm not obsessed with it, and I don't look down on people who choose different eating habits or ways of pursuing healthy bodies. I just know that I've tested the 30-day challenge, and I feel wonderful. So, if you're curious to know my views on the latest health issues...or my journey on trying to make paleo an everyday lifestyle change and not just a diet craze...or how paleo isn't breaking the Word of Wisdom...please stay tuned. I'll be announcing the new address shortly. :)
So, I did the 30-day paleo challenge.
What is paleo, you may ask. Let me tell you.
And I quote, from Robb Wolf's blog, writer of The Paleo Solution,
"•Lean proteins that support strong muscles, healthy bones and optimal immune function. Protein also makes you feel satisfied between meals.
•Fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that have been shown to decrease the likelihood of developing a number of degenerative diseases including cancer, diabetes and neurological decline.
•Healthy fats from nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, fish oil and grass-fed meat. Scientific research and epidemiological studies show that diets rich in Monounsaturated and Omega-3 fats dramatically reduce the instances of obesity, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and cognitive decline."
Here's the deal. My sister and bro-in-law have been preaching paleo for quite a while now. "It's amazing," they'd say. "It's the only way," I'd hear. "Paleo isn't just about weight loss...it's about living healthy, avoiding disease, feeling good in your skin." Yeah yeah yeah... It wasn't that I didn't believe what they were saying, it's just that I didn't care.
Well, I listen to podcasts these days. LOTS and LOTS of podcasts. And I started listening to health podcasts. Lots of research and evidence points to paleo as a smart, good way of eating. Most kids with any form of autism are directed to the paleo style of eating...while doctors may not refer to it as paleo, it's the same style (cut out gluten and dairy.) Many obese people with severe diabetes are also directed toward the same eating habits (low carb and processed sugars...high veggies and meat). As I listened to these podcasts and heard all of the great effects...weight loss, clear skin, less mood swings, better sleep, less stomach issues...I decided it was about time I tried it.
The 30-day challenge: to live the paleo lifestyle as strictly as possible, for 30 days and see how you feel at the end of it.
Yesterday was my 30th day. I feel great. I've lost about about 10 pounds, sleep better, and feel cleaner. By cleaner...well...I just feel lighter and cleaner and a bit more energetic. I'm sure as I continue, I'll see even more results.
I've heard many arguments against paleo. Especially from Latter-day Saints. I am a Latter-day Saint. Here's the argument. "Wheat is in the Word of Wisdom. Paleo excludes wheat. I cannot condone a lifestyle that goes against the Word of Wisdom" To this I have several things to say. Which is why I've decided to start a different blog. My paleo blog. I'm going to call it "The Mormon Paleo" and it's going to track my progress, and my opinion on the lastest health news...along with my explanations of how paleo does fit into the Word of Wisdom.
I respect people's views and opinions. I don't think everyone has to live a paleo lifestyle to be healthy or lose weight. I'm not obsessed with it, and I don't look down on people who choose different eating habits or ways of pursuing healthy bodies. I just know that I've tested the 30-day challenge, and I feel wonderful. So, if you're curious to know my views on the latest health issues...or my journey on trying to make paleo an everyday lifestyle change and not just a diet craze...or how paleo isn't breaking the Word of Wisdom...please stay tuned. I'll be announcing the new address shortly. :)
Monday, September 5, 2011
Reflection and hope
Who is that girl I see, staring straight back at me?
Why is my reflection someone I don't know know?
Somehow I cannot hide who I am, thought I try.
When will my reflection show who I am inside?
I love Mulan. Good movie.
I've been reflecting a lot this summer. I've done a ton of fun things, and I plan on spending some time uploading pictures from the events of my good summer.
I love my niece, Perry. I love my sister and bro-in law and the good parents they are. I love my mom and the wonderful Grandma she is. I love every aspect of this new little being in our lives.
One thing I've been feeling, however, is like a failure. A failure at life. It's hard not to compare myself to everyone around me. And, I suppose you can say I've been comparing. I'm usually not one to get jealous. And I can still say, I'm not jealous. Jealousy, to me, seems like a feeling of wishing I could have what someone else has but can't have it, and because of that, not wanting the "someone else" to have it. That's not what I feel at all. What I feel is failure. I love...absolutely LOVE that the people in my life are succeeding at everything they do. I really do love that. And I don't even necessarily want what other people have. Honestly...not sure I'm ready for a kid. Honestly...not sure I'm ready for an intense career.
What I am ready for is a direction. A purpose. I have no direction...and no purpose. I don't love where I'm at.
I'm finally making progression toward something. I'm applying to a graduate program in D.C. I'm hoping with all my heart and soul that I get accepted, because it's honestly the only thing that's excited me in the least. Every other so-called "plan" I've come up with just isn't making my heart happy or putting my mind at peace. But this D.C. prospect is. It makes me feel peace. So, I hope so much it's the right thing and works. It's the only program I've felt good about...and I've looked at TONS of programs.
So, here's to hope. I'm so tired of feeling like I'm a failure at life. I'm so tired of living day to day without a purpose. I need a direction. I'm trying to make it happen. Let's all hope together.
H--High Confidence
O--Optimism
P--Patient Perseverance
E--Enthusiasm
I will hope.
Why is my reflection someone I don't know know?
Somehow I cannot hide who I am, thought I try.
When will my reflection show who I am inside?
I love Mulan. Good movie.
I've been reflecting a lot this summer. I've done a ton of fun things, and I plan on spending some time uploading pictures from the events of my good summer.
I love my niece, Perry. I love my sister and bro-in law and the good parents they are. I love my mom and the wonderful Grandma she is. I love every aspect of this new little being in our lives.
One thing I've been feeling, however, is like a failure. A failure at life. It's hard not to compare myself to everyone around me. And, I suppose you can say I've been comparing. I'm usually not one to get jealous. And I can still say, I'm not jealous. Jealousy, to me, seems like a feeling of wishing I could have what someone else has but can't have it, and because of that, not wanting the "someone else" to have it. That's not what I feel at all. What I feel is failure. I love...absolutely LOVE that the people in my life are succeeding at everything they do. I really do love that. And I don't even necessarily want what other people have. Honestly...not sure I'm ready for a kid. Honestly...not sure I'm ready for an intense career.
What I am ready for is a direction. A purpose. I have no direction...and no purpose. I don't love where I'm at.
I'm finally making progression toward something. I'm applying to a graduate program in D.C. I'm hoping with all my heart and soul that I get accepted, because it's honestly the only thing that's excited me in the least. Every other so-called "plan" I've come up with just isn't making my heart happy or putting my mind at peace. But this D.C. prospect is. It makes me feel peace. So, I hope so much it's the right thing and works. It's the only program I've felt good about...and I've looked at TONS of programs.
So, here's to hope. I'm so tired of feeling like I'm a failure at life. I'm so tired of living day to day without a purpose. I need a direction. I'm trying to make it happen. Let's all hope together.
H--High Confidence
O--Optimism
P--Patient Perseverance
E--Enthusiasm
I will hope.
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