Wholesome Bits

Paleo Chocolate Granola

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 20:00:00 +0000

This recipe has been a savior in our diet. We have been paleo for about a month now and one misses certain crunchy goodness in the morning. You see my husband lost a lot of weight a couple years ago and one of his main snacks was organic, low-fat granola. So when we decided to go paleo, normal granola went out the window. You don't understand the granola counseling we've had... withdrawal is a killer for some.

So I worked and tested and here, my friends, is the result and we were very, very pleased! Have you ever had Count Chocula?? Yea, it's like that, but a thousand times healthier for you.

This recipe is a tad "labor intensive" but it makes a good amount and oh, so worth it!

Paleo Chocolate Granola

1 cup raw almonds
3/4 cup raw pecans
1/4 cup raw pepitas plus 1/4 cup additional later
2 cup toasted coconut flakes
3 T coconut oil
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/2 t pumpkin pie spice
1/2 t coconut extract
1/4 t sea salt
1 oz dark chocolate (I used Trader Joe's)
raisins or dried cranberries

1. Soak the nuts (reserving the second 1/4 cup of pepitas for adding in later) in filtered water for at least an hour or overnight. Drain and dry on paper towels.
2. When completely dry, process the nut in a food process until they resemble uniformed-size oats.
3. When nuts are ready, put nuts in a large bowl.
4. Set oven at 350. Line baking sheet with foil and cover with cooking spray.
5. In a saucepan, add the oil, maple syrup, extract, spice and salt. Bring to a gentle boil then set aside and let cool slightly.
6. Pour sauce over prepared nuts and stir well. Spread mixture onto foiled pan.
7. Bake for approximately 35-45 minutes. Checking every 15 minutes and stirring. Nuts should be golden in color when done.
8. Let mixture cool for 10 minutes.
9. Process the chocolate in a food processor until it resembles large coffee grounds.
10. When nut mixture is slightly cooled and crunchy, add chocolate and mix. It will melt into the nut mixture. Let cool completely for 20 minutes.
11. Lightly toss in toasted coconut and raisins.

ENJOY!

Chasing After Unseen Glories

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 17:43:00 +0000

I am a believer in Jesus Christ. I have claimed him as my Lord and Savior. So if I acknowledge this truth to the world, shouldn't it be shown ... a lot? Not just on those good days when things are running seamlessly. No. Every day. Every hour. Every minute. Goodness, it's hard, I can tell you. We live in a sinful, "me-centered world" and yet we're expected to be blameless? Well, yes.

The word "humility" has been a repeating thought in my mind. It is the opposite of pride. So many times pride is the origin of many sins. It makes me think about the first act of sin, Eve wanting to be like God (pride) so she acted on it. Isn't this exactly what we do in a sense? Disobey to satisfy? Dishonor Him for our honor? What are our actions portraying? Humility or pride?

Sin is satisfying our inner-most desires and wants. It can also be seen as using all our energy to pull the world's attention on ourselves or accomplishments more than directing them all to Christ. I am guilty of this.

Humility is different. If we can just turn our attention on God, fully, we begin to shrink. And ultimately, if we continue in this pattern, our sin will shrink too. Where's your focus these days?

Humility sees God as our everything.

Humility fills us up with the goodness of Christ until there is nothing left of me.

Humility opens the door to the hearts of others and to the heart of God.

Humility places God first and everything else in its proper place.

Humility is the awareness of my complete brokenness. I have nothing to give and God has everything to offer.

Humility is chasing after unseen and insurmountable glories of heaven instead of temporary accolades on earth.

Humility is knowing I have nothing to prove to this world, but Christ crucified.

My prayer for you and me is that humility defines us. Day in and out. Each moment. Each circumstance. Each tear, struggle, ache and wound will result in a beautiful act of humility through you and me.

I want to change my little corner of the world. I want to make my life count for Him.

God blesses those who are humble,

for they will inherit the whole earth.

My Job, Learning Curves and How I Almost Quit...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:46:00 +0000

Recently I returned to work as a nurse after staying home for over a decade to raise our boys. My brain has been on constant "learning mode" the last several months as I have had to refresh my nursing skills and medical knowledge. "Learning curve" is a word I have used almost daily when I talk about my new job.

But ironically there is another job I'm working at lately. It's not a new one, but one with a learning curve that goes far beyond the nursing one. Many days I am frustrated and clueless of how it works... and I'm not catching on very well. A couple times I have just wanted to quit.

Today I stumbled on this quote from Francis Chan and it has broken me. Ultimately, I have allowed the stresses of life and even silly circumstances to dictate my behavior, in a negative way. Some days I could even say my love for others and God appears like it has dwindled down to not much of anything. This quote started as a blog post that was intended for my readers to get a "lesson"... but through many edits, tears and confessions... I know God placed this quote before me, for me.

I am simply to love.

Love should illuminate from every word I speak, every action I take. And not just when the moment feels right or when things are going my way. Not just when bank accounts are full or when life is in perfect order... not only then. But in times of hurt and disorder and despair. When I'm completely lonely, misunderstood or wrongfully accused. When no one cares to think of me or when I'm the one left out and unnoticed. Yes, even then, I'm suppose to be about love. Showing and doing it.

It's a full time, divine occupation.

This job of loving needs to be done when it feels uncomfortable and messy inside. You may know what I'm talking about. When things aren't done our way, we start to get that weird feeling that we know isn't right, but something in us doesn't want to stop it's momentum and we end up saying what feels perfectly justified - to us - regardless who gets hurt. That's pride and selfishness winning. Not love.

Clocking-out shouldn't be a choice with this job. Signing up for a quick get-away and retirement aren't healthy options.

But I'm slowly learning. Slowly.

I'm learning that real love isn't dependent on the circumstances going on around it. It supernaturally rises above. It stays on track regardless of the turbulent winds whipping all around it.

And it goes even deeper.

In 1 John 4:18 it says...

God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we’re free of worry on Judgment Day—our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life—fear of death, fear of judgment—is one not yet fully formed in love.

When I do things opposite of love it is tied to fear. If I can get to the point of understanding where I stand in God's view -- I am His daughter and am completely loved by Him -- I have nothing to fear. Those things that brought me fear, then anger or pain are seen differently now because when I am in Christ, all fears are gone. And when I can grasp and grow from that, I can then shrug off my angst and start to be love and do love.

Practicing real love starts from truly knowing Jesus and what He is about. His character is grace, mercy and abiding love for us, his children. We need to let this truth steep long into our souls. Once we understand how much he loves us regardless of our messes and inadequacies, we can turn around and do the same to the world around us.

This job of loving is continuous and will always be a learning curve for me. I'm grateful for a God who not only erases my sins, but also helps me erase the fears that blind me to what real love is.

Do you have fears that are hindering you to truly love like Christ? Ask God to help you identify and confess them and then move to a place of grace, mercy, and pure love.

Pacific Beach Peanut Butter Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 02:56:00 +0000

I absolutely love peanut butter. Not only do I love the taste, but I love getting a nice amount of protein from a "non" animal source... LOVE!

So I was naturally overjoyed when I was asked to do a review on not one, but three kinds of peanut butter from Pacific Beach Peanut Butter company. I was asked to pick two "flavors" (yes, they have flavors!) of their 8 kinds of peanut butter and also was sent the organic unsalted to try as well. The two flavors I picked were a Touch of Caramel and White Chocolate.

{Organic, Unsalted}
This was not my favorite. It was nice and the texture was fine, but I do prefer salted peanut butter over unsalted... so that was my only issue with this particular peanut butter. And no artificial ingredients... that's always a plus! It spread nicely and wasn't too dry, but again, give me a little salt. Although I don't give this a great review, I do believe this particular one would be a great option for a recipe that calls for a nut butter or would absolutely fabulous in my Apple Pie Smoothie.

{Touch of Caramel}
I love the idea of caramel married to peanuts. This flavor was my first, hands down pick. Caramel is one of my favorite flavors. But before I even tasted this, I peeked on the back for the list of ingredients and found the dreaded word... "artificial". BOO. I went ahead and tasted it and must say the beginning "notes" were nice, but my taste buds can usually detect artificial anything... and the end "notes" detected it. Maybe it was mental. I don't know, but I was a tad disappointed.

{White Chocolate}
Now this was fun! Everything I thought it could be. Creamy, sweet and definitely has a nice taste of white chocolate. I did enjoy this one. But again, I cringed when I saw more "artificial" stuff on the back *insert sad face*.

My advice? Choose the organic salted! It would be perfect on bananas, apples, swirled in Greek yogurt or with just a spoon. I love simple and natural ingredients and that's what this kind will have. If you want to use it in baking recipes or my preference, smoothies, go for the unsalted. The other flavors that I would also recommend and without artificial ingredients are:

Chocolate Peanut Butter
Chocolate Raspberry Peanut Butter
CinnaYum Peanut Butter

Pacific Beach would like to offer you, my readers, a chance to try their peanut butter for free when you purchase one. From now until 4/15 if you purchase a jar you get one free. Add your chosen FREE jar to the cart along with the rest of your order for the discount to apply. Use OFFER CODE: blogger03 at check out to redeem your special offer.

www.pbpeanutbutter.com/

Natural Remedy for Croup {Plus an Easy Chest Rub Recipe}

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 19:57:00 +0000

I have been blessed with four, very healthy sons. Aside from the occasional, short-lived low-grade temp or common headache, my boys are rarely sick. Seriously... (knock-on-wood) we don't get the flu, strep or even the common cold. But there is one thing that all four of my children have gotten a time or two, usually at the change of seasons... CROUP.

For my kids, they can be completely fine and out of nowhere, the horrid barking sound comes in the wee hours of the night. It truly is a terrible thing to experience to see your child straining for a breath. Being a nurse still never prepares me for dealing with a croupy child.

In years past I did the "mainstream" treatments recommended by many. Take the child into a bathroom with hot shower running to breath in the moist air. If that doesn't work, take the child outside. If those don't work, a trip to the emergency room is usually needed. We've done that a time or two!

But thankfully as I've grown in my knowledge of all-natural health and wellness, I now have discovered "the best" remedy for croup... finish reading here.

Butternut Squash and Carrot Soup

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 02:51:00 +0000

Squash has never appealed to me. Summer, acorn, butternut. It just doesn't do it for me. Maybe it's from the mission's trip I took to Africa the summer of '95 where we at a huge squash casserole for dinner one night. I'm sure the goat's milk mixed in didn't help things, but still. Not a fan.

Until...

A friend of mine from college posted a picture on Instagram of a butternut squash soup... and it looked pretty good. She sent me the recipe and on to the weekly meal plan it went. In the produce section I tried to figure out which of the squashes looked best... well, actually all of the large, gangly nude-colored fruit didn't look the least bit attractive to me. But as I placed it in my cart, a feeling of pride rushed over me. Like, "Hey, look at me and my squash!"... "I'm making something really healthy this week." No one seemed to care.

The crazy fruit sat on my counter for a little while. I kept looking at it... sometimes touching it, but my excitement for the soup waned. I was intimidated by it. I had cooked with one before, but if I remember, it didn't turn out well. So I didn't have high hopes for this one either.

So the squash soup day came. I still wasn't excited. Even in fancy restaurants when the soup du jour is some kind of squash soup, I immediately dismiss trying it. But I was already committed so onward I went.

Needless to say, I loved it! This soup is very earthy, sweet, yet salty... just nice. Hope you take a risk and try it too!

Butternut Squash & Carrot Soup
adapted from About.com's Savory Butternut Squash & Carrot Soup

2 T olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cup carrots, diced
1 large butternut squash, peeled and diced
5 cups vegetable broth
3/4 cup almond milk, original (not sweetened)

1. Saute onions in olive oil for 5 minutes over medium-low heat. Add carrots and cook another 5 minutes.

2. Add squash and broth and stir. Cover and let simmer for 25 minutes until squash is soft.

3. With a large slotted spoon, gather the solid parts of the soup and add to food processor or blender. Blend until smooth. (You may add some of the broth if the mixture is too thick).

4. Pour pureed contents back into pot and add almond milk. Stir and heat through. Season with salt and pepper.

Optional: add plain greek yogurt for extra flavor.

Enjoy!

How To Love Your Husband... Dirty Toilets and All

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:05:00 +0000

I remember that day so vividly. It was a day of revelation for me. I was pregnant, homeschooling our two sons with a toddler under toe and trying to keep our house tidy for the sporadic showings we had while our little ranch was for sale. Life was so busy and my temper was unpredictable. You know that phrase, "If Momma ain't happy..."?? You know the rest... that was me.

This day in particular, I was cleaning a mess my hubby made. OK, let me just be honest, it was his toilet. At the time, we had two separate bathrooms. As I was on my knees, working up a sweat with my big belly in the way, my thoughts started down that dangerous spiral: from accusation to anger and from anger to bitterness. If you could take a peek into my mind, it would not have been pretty.

Why am I cleaning his mess? Can't he just do this one little thing? Doesn't he understand all that I do? He is so selfish. I don't deserve this. This is so unfair. I am so unappreciated.

And then out of the blue, like a gentle tap on the shoulder, I felt the unmistakable whisper of the Holy Spirit...

Finish reading here...

5 Easy Ways to Find Real Foods in Real Life

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 18:30:00 +0000

Eating real foods doesn't need to be complicated. Cooking meals from scratch is easily looked at as unusual nowadays. I think our society -- in terms of eating real foods -- has been swept over by the idea that food has to be fast and convenient. We should always try to make meal and food choices that will benefit us in the long run.

photo credit

We take great care and attention to our yards, cars and even our Pinterest boards. So why don't we take extra care of our bodies that God has entrusted us with? Healthy can be easy. It can be convenient and fast. I think it's the preparation and buying choices at the store that need more attention.

For the most part we know that real foods are those things that greet us in the produce area of the grocery store... that's a given. Those vibrant colors stand out and we know that they exude nutrients and life to our cells. Then sometimes it gets tricky as we wander through the other aisles.

Finish reading here for discover 5 easy facts in your quest to finding real foods.

Only the BEST Chicken Salad...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 21:44:00 +0000

When it comes to eating chicken salads, I tend to be quite picky. I'm a chicken-salad snob, you could say. I rarely ever eat it out because it just doesn't measure up... I know, I'm a snob.

There are several things that make the perfect chicken salad for me and they are...

First, it has to be chunky. No shredded chicken for me! I love chewing into each bite of chicken and the chunkier, the better! Next, it can't be too wet with mayo. I don't want a soupy chicken salad on my hands... literally! Just enough to bring all the ingredients together is perfect-o!

Last, but certainly not least... in a word: curry. It must have curry in it. Not the spicy green kind, but the sweet and mild yellow kind. My dear friend went to Uganda several years ago and had some meals prepared with a certain curry she loved. Time went by and she thought about how good that curry was and wished she could find what kind it was. {You could find us sitting in her kitchen talking for awhile about finding that curry, matter of fact.} Luckily for her AND me, she knew someone going back to Uganda and sure enough, they found the curry and brought her back some... pictured below. I now have a nice stash of it in my pantry and is by far my favorite spice on earth.

So without further adieu, my favorite chicken salad in the world... Curried Chicken Salad.

{ingredients}
2 cups of cooked, roughly chopped chicken (breast, preferably)
2 stalks of celery (use fresh celery, by the way), sliced
3/4 cup Craisins
1/4 cup all natural, chopped walnuts
3 heaping tablespoons of mayo with olive oil
2 teaspoons of yellow curry powder
2 tablespoons of sweet pickle juice (no pickles, just the juice!)

{directions}
Stir all together and serve on toast or over mixed greens.

What does your chicken salad have to have in it??

Where to Go From Here: Post Raw Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 20:07:00 +0000

So the day has arrived. Day 10. I seriously didn't think this day would come, did you?

So how did you do? Did you survive? I hope so. But even more than that, I hope you thrived!

One thing I learned (from many things) during this challenge was how little food I actually need in a day. I do know that I go to food when I'm bored or stressed. It's definitely a comfort thing for me. But through this time, I realized how much life going on around me and during these 10 days I was more involved in life. Food was not my focus.

photo credit

I am so happy with how my body responded to this challenge. Here are just a few things that changed over the last 10 days.

clearer skin
whiter sclera (white part of eye)
zero headaches (only on detox day!)
no brain fog; great ability to concentrate and finish tasks
zero moodiness
slept like a baby
woke refreshed
dropped some stubborn old pounds :)
more energy

So where do we go from here, my faithful raw foodies? Here are a few ideas for all of us.

1. Start slowly. Incorporate other foods in slowly very slowly. I can't stress this enough. For the first few days, keep raw foods in your diet. Maybe add in vegetable soup, salad with grilled chicken or yogurt with fresh fruit and granola on day one? I would not eat a lot of heavy foods (ie: high fat, sugary things... red meats, cakes, buttery things - I don't really recommend those at all, but particularly now). You digestive system will not respond well to junk, especially now. Seriously, we did this challenge to kick start us onto a better, vibrant you so don't throw that new you away! Your digestive system has been cleaned out more than likely during this challenge so don't dump garbage back into it!

2. Chew, chew chew! Digestion starts in the mouth. The more you chew the more nutrients will get absorbed before getting into your stomach. Make foods almost liquid before swallowing. This alleviates your body from working hard to digest and using energy you need for other things in your life. This is something all of us need to work on. We live in a super fast society. We need to learn to sit and slow down in many ways, eating is one!

3. Don't stop raw. Just because we're done does not mean we turn our backs on these glorious foods. They are full of life and nutrients and energy and so on. So try your best to keep them a constant thing in your daily lives. Even if it's an apple here, mango on a salad or a fun smoothie when you need a sweet thing.

4. Listen to your body. When you are satisfied NOT FULL, then stop. Who came up with the idea that we should stop eating when we're full? Can't we just be satisfied? Portions are one of my downfalls. I may be eating great things, but if I over indulge, what's the point? So eat to satisfy not to fill you up. Use small plates. Stop going back for more and don't use food as a crutch.

5. Don't beat yourself up if fall off the wagon! We are human. We have weaknesses and temptations. If you fall off the wagon, brush yourself off and start over and keep your goals in mind. Remember how great you felt during this challenge and move forward! Hey, if you survived this challenge, I know you have it in you!!!

6. Remember I'm here! That's why I started this blog, to encourage others to eat and live well. I'd love to help you figure out more of where to go from here if you need help! I'm just an email away!!

You did! I'm so proud of you! Thank you for taking this exciting journey with me. And meet me back, same place, same time next year!!!

I'd love to hear how your challenge went! Please leave me a comment with how this challenge was a help or positive thing for you! This will also help me as I prepare for another one next year :)

Apple Pie Smoothie

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:02:00 +0000

So today is Day 5 of my raw food challenge. I am amazed that I've made it this far. It hasn't been easy, but knowing I'm not alone makes this journey much easier. I love getting texts and messages from all of you. You have encouraged me and I couldn't have done this without all of you!!!

So this evening, I was going to make this yummy carrot and sweet potato soup... but when I opened my container of sweet potatoes, they were yucky. I was bummed so next on tap was to experiment with this smoothie and it worked... thankfully!!

This was quite filling with the almond butter and flax seeds.

Apple Pie Smoothie

2 large apples, any kind (I used my favorite, gala)
1 ripe banana
1 T almond butter
1/2 t. pumpkin pie spice
1-2 T ground flax seeds
3 Medjool (pitted) dates
2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
large glass of ice cubes
handful of spinach (optional)

Blend until smooth.
Enjoy...

Raw Food Recipe Links...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 04:55:00 +0000

Here is a list of recipe indexes from different sites. I hope this helps you while on the challenge.

The Rawtarian

This Rawsome Vegan Life

Julie's Raw Ambition

The Best of Raw Food

Really Raw Food

The Raw Chef

Ani Pyho

Sweetly Raw

Young on Raw Food

Rawified

Raw Desserts by Karolina Eleonora

Raw Detox :: Ugh!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Thu, 03 Jan 2013 15:48:00 +0000

If you are joining me for the raw food challenge, we are now on day 2. Which means our bodies are just now figuring out what is going on. It's not getting that huge cup of coffee with left-over Christmas creamers and lots of sugar. For me, it's not getting my usual egg fried in coconut oil and gluten-free cinnamon raisin bread. Boo!

Detox happens when you stop giving something to your body that it's use to. Then a process occurs of toxins and bacteria getting pulled out of cells and dumped into the bloodstream. Usually symptoms are different for each body. If you eat a fairly healthy diet, your symptoms may not be as severe as someone who is hopping in the drive-thru lanes a few times a week.

So today on day 2 your body may be achy. Headaches may be on tap. You also may have low energy levels. There is a possibility you may have a slight fever and chills. But don't fret because this is actually normal and good. It is a sign that what you did yesterday is effective and the good is taking over the bad. This will probably only last a day and then you will start to feel incredible which amazing energy, clear thoughts and a great mood.

So in the mean time, here's what you need to do.

Drink plenty of water to further the process of your body detoxifying itself. Aim for at least 2 quarts. The more you drink, the more you will speed up the detoxification process.
If you're a coffee drinker like me, switch to a lot of warm herbal teas to help get your water intake while giving you a little something sweet (stevia) at the same time.
Continue to eat raw foods. You may not feel hungry today, but keep aiding the process of putting in good. Soon your body will soon recognize what you're up to and get with the program too.
Rest when possible. Your body is going through quite a process. So if you can, lay low and rest. Doing activity won't hurt you, but listen to your body's signals and if you need to rest then do it!
Take a epsom salt bath. Magnesium sulfate is the main ingredient in epsom salt and there is research that proves that epsom salt bath's actually aid in the detoxification process. According to Discovery Fit and Health... Magnesium helps keep your bodily functions running smoothly, including some of the pathways that lead toxins right out of your body. Sulfate helps to strengthen the walls of your digestive tract so that it's easier to release toxins. As a compound, magnesium sulfate also raises the amount of digestive enzymes in the pancreas. The compound also helps in purifying and detoxifying your body of heavy metals. You can read more here.

So keep doing what you are doing. Don't give up. Today might be a hard day, but once you get past it, we will start to feel amazing! Hang in there, good things are on their way!

Let's Raw'k n' Roll!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 04:39:00 +0000

You will never achieve optimum health unless a portion of your diet comes from real, unadulterated food!

Today is the day! Are you ready to raw'k n' roll?

photo credit

I enjoyed some ice cream and a pizza casserole (gluten-free, mind you) last night as my "last supper". My stomach's churning as I type... it's like it knows I'm about to embark on something better than what just entered it.

I am so happy you decided to join me on this challenge. Let me just remind you of what you are about to do to your body or not going to be doing to your body during these next ten days. It's going to love you for it!

Cooking food causes chemical changes that create acidic toxins, including the carcinogens, mutagens and free-radicals associated with diseases like diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and cancer. Cooking also destroys the live enzymes that aid in digestion and health.
Enzymes are the power of life. They are living forces that conduct and direct every activity in your body. Enzymes digest or break down raw foods. Eating an enzyme-rich diet is thought to increase vitality and slow the aging process. Enzymes can even help repair our DNA.
One of the most important benefits of a raw food diet is that it is "alkaline forming." The standard American Diet (SAD) is an "acid-forming" diet, which leads to disease. Your body is actually sort of an alkaline battery, running on electrons. All life-giving chemical reactions only happen when electrons or energy flows between atoms. Raw foods contribute electrons/energy, and are called alkalizing.
Raw fruits and vegetables will increase the vitamins and micronutrients in your diet and you'll feel the difference immediately.
When you eat raw fruits and vegetables, you’re getting the benefits of their high water content, which helps to suppress appetite. People who switch to eating mostly raw foods often have an easier time controlling their weight.

Example shopping list for stocking a raw food kitchen:

1. Seeds - Such as pumpkin, sunflower, or chia seeds (seeds are more affordable than nuts)
2. Basic nuts - Such as almonds, walnuts or pecans (can usually substitute these for one another)
3. Creamy nuts - Such as cashews or macadamia nuts (creamy nuts are more expensive and should be used sparingly if you're on a budget)
4. Sea salt
5. Spices - Cinnamon, Italian spices, Cumin, Cayenne pepper, Curry powder (buy as needed)
6. Olive oil - Or another oil
7. Apple cider vinegar
8. Garlic
9. Flax seeds - Used as binding agents in many recipes to hold food together
10. A concentrated natural sweetener - Such as agave nectar or stevia
11. Nori rolls - Sheets of seaweed to make sushi-type rolls
12. Dates - Medjool are best, be sure to remove the pits (dates are used as natural sweeteners)
13. Bananas - Add creaminess and sweetness
14. Apples
15. Avocados
16. Lettuce
17. Tomatoes
18. Cucumbers
19. Onions
20. Your favourite fruits or vegetables - Such as fresh pineapple, kalamata olives, celery, kale, strawberries and/or grapes or whatever you like!

Ideas/recipes & videos:

Pineapple Strawberry Sorbet

How to make a green smoothie with any blender

Blackberry Lime Sorbet

Carrot and Ginger Dressing

Raw Food Salad Dressings

5 Easy Raw Salad Dressing Recipes

Fully Raw Kristina

What does it mean to be fully raw? FAQ

Enjoy this first day of the challenge. Don't let negative thoughts enter your mind. Don't let that little voice creep in and say, "You can't do this". You can do this even when your mind is saying you can't. It's a challenge because it's something that doesn't come natural. But I know you can do it, and down deep, you know you can do it too!

"Every disciplined effort is met with multiple reward."

Gearing Up :: Raw Food Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 06:02:00 +0000

As we prepare for our raw food challenge, if you're like me, the thought of even planning this challenge can be well, a challenge! But let's just agree to not make it complicated. It is only 10 days. If you can't do 10, go for 7... or 4 or 2. Don't be hard on yourself.

I am not a creative person so I most likely will do a lot of the same meals. My goal for you is to not get overwhelmed and then just give up.

I would encourage you to shoot for a lot of greens throughout your day. Realize that you may need to eat 2-3 bananas to get the equivalent calories of a normal snack. Four clementines and so on. Your salads for a meal need to BIG! At least double of what you would normally eat.

Here is a snippet of some raw eating ideas and pointers. More will come, don't worry. Questions email me here.

1. Buy in bulk. Raw foods are going to be lower in their caloric value than most cooked foods, so you will be eating a little more than normal. Plus the more you have sitting around, the more you won't be distracted and cheat... right?

2. Make sure you let your fruits ripen before eating. What you buy today may not be ready to eat just yet. So plan ahead.

3. I was bummed to find out that beans/legumes are not raw. So consider the following protein sources for this raw challenge. Most people need an average of 40-50 grams of protein a day. Foods that contain a good amount of protein are going to be found in green leafy vegetables, sprouts, nuts (make sure you are careful to watch your fat intake though!) and seeds like sunflower, chia, hemp and flax. These all are great sprinkled on salads or in your smoothies.

4. Learn to love bananas :) Bananas are cheap, convenient and filling. This will be my go-to snack.

5. So here is a little break down of what our day could look like.

wake up and have a warm cup of lemon water or herbal tea
for breakfast have a large bowl of a variety of fruits
mid morning, eat a few bananas or apples with a serving of nut butter
a green smoothie with hemp, chia or flax seeds might be good or a cool/warm soup
mid afternoon, clementines or carrot sticks and guacamole
dinner, a huge green salad... your choice of green -- romaine, kale, spinach, arugula
bedtime snack... berries

So you think we can do it? Yes, we can!

Here are some great links to help you get some meal ideas brewing!

Make your own sprouts here. So easy and fun to do! And I use cheese cloth because I don't have the screen lid. Still works just perfect. They are so good for you!

Raw hummus

Chocolate soft-serve ice cream

Raw lasagna rolls

Creamy apple-anise soup

Raw salted caramel dip

Raw coconut-ginger pudding

Raw spaghetti with marinara sauce

Raw kale salad

Here are some Rawmazing recipes!

Creamy coconut salad dressing

The best juice ever

10 Day Raw Food Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 21:53:00 +0000

I am embarking on a new venture. A raw food venture. This is something I have been wanting to do for a long time. I've been curious in wanting to see how it really affects my mind and body.

I'd love to have companions on this venture. Come on, you can anything for 10 days! I will be here for you every step of the way.

To be clear, I am a complete novice in the area of eating a complete raw diet over any span of time. I have done a green smoothie challenge, but that was having a green smoothie just once a day... that's quite easy if you ask me. But this is 10 days... of every meal.. raw.

So first, let's answer some questions.

1. Why a raw food challenge? In a word... enzymes. Plant-based foods have live enzymes that nourish our bodies' cells. Enzymes fuel our bodies to health. Amazing health. Cooking foods above 118 degrees kills those lovely enzymes that our bodies are craving.

2. What can't I eat? Packaged foods. Cooked meats. Breads, cakes, crackers. Dairy. Refined sugars.

3. What can I eat? Unlimited fruits and veggies. Non-roasted nuts and seeds. Nut butters. Dried fruit. Plant-based milks -- almond, hemp and coconut. Olives and olive oil. Vinegars. Coconut butter and coconut oil. Since wine is fermented at low temperatures, it is indeed an acceptable companion within raw food guidelines.

4. What can I drink? I would recommend only water and herbal teas. If you want to drink your morning coffee, I have no problem with that, just don't add dairy creamers or sugar instead use almond or coconut milk and stevia or honey.

5. What benefits is there for me if I decide to take this crazy challenge??? Going raw, you can expect extraordinary health benefits - abundant energy and vitality, possible weight loss, balanced emotions, clear mind and optimal health. There are incredible testimonies of people curing themselves of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, even AIDS with a raw lifestyle. You will look and feel truly healthy, happy and alive by giving your body everything it needs. Since we are only doing a 10-day challenge, there will definitely be great benefits, but keep in mind it may take months or even years to reverse some diseases that some raw foodies experience.

The raw path has been used to improve: allergies, arthritis, asthma, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes, digestion issues, diverticulitis, fibromyalgia, poor immunity, menstrual problems, psoriasis, and hormonal imbalances. No prepackaged food can compare with the life force of raw food.

Like I said, I am a complete novice at eating raw... as terrible as that sounds. We should know and be so comfortable with eating fresh fruits and veggies all the time, but I'm not. So be patient with me. I will provide as much information as I can and research info if we have questions.

I will be here for you every step of the way to answer questions and encourage you. I will be posting recipes in the next couple days to get you started. I would recommend start the first couple days with lots of fruit like you like and are comfortable with and salads for dinner. I will have recipes for some cooler/warm soups as well.

We can do this. Our bodies will be in love with this new venture. It might resist what we're doing at first, but will quickly figure out that what we are doing is amazing and so beneficial.

This starts on January 2. Hope to have you on board!

Warning... I am not a medical doctor. If you are not sure that your health is suitable for this challenge, please refrain. If your health is optimal and you are hoping to kickstart a healthier you, then please come along.

The first couple days on any challenge of where your normal foods that you consume are taken out, you will most likely have symptoms associated with withdrawal called "die off". Toxins are being pulled from your body's cells and you may/may not have "flu-like" symptoms such as headache, fatigue, irritability and poor concentration. This is normal. By drinking large amounts of water, this will aid in decreasing those symptoms (in my experience).

Stay tuned... there is more to come! If you're in, can you send me an email here letting me know... thanks!

my favorite things {2012} -- for her

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 03:21:00 +0000

I hesitated writing this post in lieu of the tragedy that happened last week in our nation. I mean why post silly, material stuff when lives were taken and families are experiencing such despair and grief?

So even now as I post this, my heart is heavy. I can't imagine the pain mommies (and daddies and brothers and sisters...) are experiencing even now. My prayers are with those families.

But because I am a little on the OCD side... I can't leave off where I started.

Go to these links to catch the other favorite things for him and kids.

1. Sonoma ankle boots. If you've been debating whether you can follow the trend with this "booties"... I say, "Go for it!". These booties have a suede upper and contrasting wrapped buckle accent that are super stylish and comfy. Price $29.

2. Maybelline Baby Lips. No more basic lip balm. This formula renews, protects and moisturizes for a full 8 hours. After 1 week, lips are visibly renewed. Comes in 6 shades. I love this stuff and will never be without it! Price $3.

3. American Eagle touchpoint gloves. So in love with these. If you have a smartphone these are necessary in the cold. Made of soft-knit yarn with ribbed cuffs. Super cute and soft. $16.

4. Solid buckle hip belt. Every girl needs something pink. I love this thin belt especially if it's being worn with jeans and a cardigan. Price only $5.
5. Pandora silver ring. This beautiful ring has it all, in my opinion. Silver, a little 14-karat gold and mother of pearl. So delicate, yet stands out. Price $180. 6. OPI Avojuice skin quenchers lotion. These silken lotions are filled with smooth, rich moisturizers plus nourishing avocado and healing aloe extracts. Your skin will drink up the goodness. I'm loving the mango scent! Price $7. 7. Grace and Lace leg warmers. My favorite style/color is the Lacey Lou graphite open-work leg warmers with ivory knit lace trim and buttons. So adorable to peek out from under your boots. Love! Price $34. 8. Natural Life "Go with the flow" iphone case. I love this squishy iphone case. Mine has been dropped several times and it's all good with this thick case. Such a sweet little whale on front too and a quote that fits my life as a very busy mom. I purchased mine at Francesca's for $18. 9. Tippy Thai linen tote/purse. This gorgeous bag is made from 100% linen. I love it's unique and beautiful texture, giving you a different feeling from other fabrics. This everyday bag is sturdy and big enough to hold lots of your essentials. Price $47. 10. Aveda comforting tea bags. Steep yourself in comfort - wherever or whenever - with our soothing herbal infusion of licorice root and peppermint, in convenient tea bags. Calm your senses, promoting a sense of well-being. Price $17.
11. American Eagle sequin cropped cardigan. Add a little flash with this super cute and trendy cardigan. This can be dressed up or down. And I am loving this pink. Perfect for a holiday party. Price $70.
12. Nine West Love Fury perfume. This scent is soft, fresh and fruity. Definitely not overpowering or harsh. Hoping it's under the tree for me! Price -- incredibly cheap at Wal-Mart -- $20!!
13. Anthropologie Homegrown monogram mug. These mugs are perfection. Whimsical and monogrammed just for you! Perfect for anyone and comes in a variety of prints for each letter. Price $8.

my favorite things {twenty-twelve}... for kids

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 21:17:00 +0000

When it comes to buying gifts for my kids, I tend to go slightly away from mainstream toys. I think of things that they will really like which means it isn't always found in the ToysRUs flier. Gifts for them don't necessarily have to come in the form of toys either. Things for their room, practical things and books are great choices as well. Seek out their interests and things that excite them and go from there.

Here are some great 2012 gifts I adore for kids...

1. Hot Hugs Hottie stuffed animals {I love love this little lamb!}. A minute in the microwave, and the removable tummy of natural grain will give lasting warmth and release the subtle fragrance of pure lavender essential oil. With a new friend so hot and huggable, your little one will never want to put it down. Price $25.

2. Kindle Fire with Fisher Price Kid-Tough Apptivity Case. Unlimited access to books, games, apps and movies. Vibrant color on the 7" LCD screen and built-in WiFi. The case will protect the tablet and extend it's life when in younger hands. Price around $140. (Right now on Amazon, the Kindle Fire is $25 off and the case was free too when you put 'FIREMOMS' in the promo code).

3. Discoveroo Bright Fruit Music Instrument. The easy, fun-looking shapes and textures of this adorable music kit is a big hit with the little ones. Apple xylophone, lemon maraca, lime and melon castanets and pear guiro come packaged in a handy wooden crate for easy storage. Made of plantation tea wood and ply. Price $40.

4. Lego Friends City Park Cafe. Build a hip hangout for the LEGO® Friends with a side of fresh-baked fun! The City Park Café is the coolest place to hang out in Heartlake City, where the Friends meet for sweet treats and cold shakes in the sun! Price $30.

5. The North Face boys Vestamatic Triclimate Jacket. Keep boys warm while they build blue ribbon kickers in this hyper-versatile, four-in-one snowsports jacket. With four ways to sports this ski/snowboard dynamo, this jacket/vest combo creates a super versatile barrier for winter. Price $185. (fyi...We saw this coat at a North Face outlet for a fraction of this price).

6. The Classic Green Bean Bag. What kid should be without a comfy bean bag in their room? The Classic Bean Bag has been everyone's favorite chair for over 40 years! Updated with bright solids and fashion forward prints. Trendy and comfortable seating that's great for all ages. Price $30.

7. National Geographic magazine for kids. Give a child a new way to explore the world. Two different magazines specifically for ages 3-6 and 6-14. Price $15.

8. Homemade Playdough. Not every gift you get a kid has to be bought. Why not make something they will enjoy for a long time and at a very low cost? This is an easy, step-by-step way to make your own playdough with easy ways to store and package it. Price... super cheap!

9. CAKE Stitches little girl's half apron. This is my dear friends' Etsy store full of her cute sewing creations for kids (boys too!). I am loving the little girl's strawberry half apron. The ruffle and waistband are in a coordinating red and white polka dot. The apron attaches with velcro at the right side of the waistline, camouflaged by a layered matching flower. Check out all the pics and imagine your little one in it! Truly encourages independence and role play. Price $18.

10. Melissa and Doug shopping cart. To market, to market...Take your shopping list and your teddy bear and get ready to shop! Our durable metal shopping cart looks just like those in real stores! Sturdy metal construction includes pivoting front wheels and a folding seat so your child and their favorite companion can navigate the aisles in style! Price $37.

11. Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids. If you have the adult version, you know this is going to be incredible for kids. Devotions written as if Jesus is speaking directly to a child's heart. Based on her original Jesus Calling, this version has been adapted in a language and fashion that kids and tweens can relate to their everyday lives. Price $11.

What are some of your all-time favorite kids' gifts?

For my favorite {for him} gifts go here.

my favorite things {twenty-twelve} :: for him

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 21:03:00 +0000

It's that time of year. Many of you have your Christmas shopping about covered. But I'm here for those of you who still need to purchase gifts OR just want to grab something really cool for yourself! I have enjoyed jotting down my favorite things over the year. I hope you think they're great too.

Now to clarify, these items may not be brand new in 2012, but items I have discovered and think are wonderful gift choices. This also doesn't necessarily mean I have all of them in my possession... I'm not that rich!

This will be the first of three posts... Men/Miscellaneous, Kids and Women.

So without further adieu...

My Favorite Things of 2012

{for him}

1. Olloclip iPhone camera lens. Compatible with the iPhone 4, 4S, 5, and the 4th generation iPod touch. The Olloclip is a quick-connect lens system that includes fisheye, wide-angle, and macro lenses in a tiny and convenient package. Price $70

2. Ugg Brockman. A classic lace-up sneaker saunters, casually, towards the upscale. Price $130

3. The Bag of Holding messenger bag. This is a large canvas messenger bag that is so much bigger inside than you think. The main compartment is padded and big enough for a 17" laptop. Price $42

4. Kindle Paperwhite. The world's most advanced e-reader. Unlike a backlit tablet display, Kindle Paperwhite guides light towards the surface of the e-ink display from above so that the light never shines directly towards your eyes, allowing you to read comfortably without eye strain. Also has a an 8-week battery life. Price $119

5. Cuisinart Griddler. The Cuisinart Griddler brings the art of grilling indoors, ensuring that meal prep can be manly even in cold, inclement weather. It also doubles as a griddle and panini press. Price $80

6. Bacon floss. What guy wouldn't love some of this in his stocking?

7. Old Navy men's regular fit chambray shirt. Trendy with the button-flap chest pockets and a color that any man would look great in!

8. Men's Admiral blazer from Gap. This is a sharp and sleek wool blazer that has a hip slim fit. For the best look, dress it down with jeans.

9. Krave Jerkey. Krave Jerky is a healthy, anytime snack. For athletes, outdoor recreationalists or anyone on-the-go. It presents all the benefits of meat, at its healthiest. Jerky is naturally loaded with protein, while the drying process both removes most of the fat and results in fewer carbohydrates.

10. ImagineNations map wall art. Add some beauty and serenity to your world with these vintage-themed world maps. They are eco-friendly maps printed on heavyweight 100% recycled stock with all water-based inks.

11. {My super-hip hubby's recommendation for the men's list...} The Black Keys El Camino CD. The Black Keys is a two-man duo comprising singer/guitarist Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney, both of whom were in their early twenties when the band debuted. Hailing from Akron, OH, they harnessed a close-to-the-bone, raw blues-rock sound on the album, whole sole instruments were Auerbach's guitar, Carney's drums, and the occasional organ.

3 Surprising Things I Hate About Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:36:00 +0000

OK, "hate" is a strong word, I know. I'm not a scrooge... I do love Christmas. But as I've grown and been stretched in my faith, things get easier to see past that sometimes mask the true focus of Christmas. And it leaves me unsettled.

credit

Here are 3 things I hate about Christmas and how Jesus calls me to respond.

{Busyness}
December just started and if you're like me, you already have your Christmas to-do list in full swing. I can already feel my body running down just thinking about it. Target runs, thousands of lights waiting to be put up, endless baking to do, buying more decorations because you realized you don't have enough as your friend who just posted on Facebook. Some things start off innocent and good, but then become our focus and we get weary in trying do it all.

Jesus calls... "Remember that your ultimate goal is living close to Me, being responsive to My initiatives. I can communicate with you most readily when your mind is uncluttered and turned toward Me. Seek My face continually through out this day. Let my presence bring order to your thoughts, infusing Peace into your entire being".

{Materialism}
You know what I get so bummed out about in our society? We can't even enjoy one holiday without the other one showing up months before it needs to. Here's a blurb from USAToday,

"Retailers are putting out a little bit of holiday stuff earlier each year," says Mike Gatti of the National Retail Federation's marketing division. "They know a substantial number of consumers will pick out Christmas tree ornaments even as they're picking out Halloween pumpkins."

Everywhere you go, we're bombarded with buying and satisfying those little empty spots in our hearts we all have. Trying to fill and fill so we "think" we'll be happy. These temptations are all around us.

Jesus calls... "Come to Me with your gaping emptiness, knowing that in Me you are complete. As you rest quietly in My presence, My light within you grows brighter and brighter. Facing the emptiness inside you is simply the prelude to being fulled with My fullness".

{Pressure to be Perfect}
How many commercials do we have to watch during this season to feel completely inadequate? Or a failure? Not many for me. I can't get my husband the brand new Lexus with the big red bow... fail! I won't be happily making crafts every day when my children are home on vacation.... fail! I won't have a cute little apron baking goodies while my husband walks in from work... fail!

Let's admit we just can't live up to the standards set around us. What kind of world do those people live in?? Not mine, that's for sure. Let's be smart to know those perfect people we see in the commercials aren't real. And just tell yourself now... you cannot possibly complete all those things you pinned on your "Christmas" Pinterest board.

Jesus calls... "The world exerts a downward pull on your thoughts. Stay in continual communication with Me whenever you walk through the wastelands of this world. I am the culmination of all your hopes and desires. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last; who is and was and is to come".

I love Christmas because of Who came.
I love Christmas because it reminds me of Jesus' second return.
I love Christmas because it means time with my family.
I love Christmas because I love giving.
I love Christmas because it reminds me of the greatest gift I have... salvation.

All "Jesus Call" excerpts were taken from "Jesus Calling; Devotions for Every Day of the Year" by Sarah Young.

Being Thankful Even When It Hurts

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 15:05:00 +0000

As we approach this season of thankfulness, I find myself in awe of God's goodness to me. I have so much to be thankful for in my life. There's my wonderful husband, my healthy, strong sons, God and his Word, friends and family, food, shelter and so on. I truly am blessed.

Photo credit

But at this time, it is evident that people are hurting. Just in my small circle of relationships, people are experiencing pain, loss and hardship. How do we then respond to those hurting?

To the sweet friend who is struggling with an uncontrollable son...

To the girl who recently lost her job and is now experiencing financial burdens...

To the women who are unable to conceive and so desperately want a child...

To the man who is living paycheck to paycheck, trying to pay child support while only seeing his children 4 days a month...

To the dear friend who will encounter the anniversary date of losing her baby girl this month 7 years ago...

What do we say then?

God is still on the throne.
Read Revelation 4. If we as believers lose sight of Christ on the throne, life becomes very sketchy and it almost becomes more about us than Him. Remember that thrones are places of authority, power and majesty. I love this reminder from Mark Driscoll, pastor of Mars Hill Church...

"When you see Jesus seated on his Throne, that’s why he is here; he’s a King who’s ruling over all of creation, which is his Kingdom. He is a judge who renders us all as sinful and guilty, he’s also a Priest who gets off of his Throne and dies for our sin to forgive us and mediates between us and the Father. And he’s a great warrior through whose death on the cross, Satan, sin and death have been conquered and we have victory."

So through tumultuous times we can be assured that our God is infinitely in control.

We should model our outlook on thankfulness by Christ's example.
Let's look at His example in Luke 22...

"Then he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. Then he said, 'Take this and share it among yourselves. For I will not drink wine again until the Kingdom of God has come'. He took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, 'This is my body, which is given for you. Do this to remember me.'"

Jesus said these words just a short time before he knowingly would be mocked, beaten, and eventually murdered. And yet being aware of all of this, he still gave thanks. This does not undermine the hard circumstances we may face in life, but how reassuring is it to know that since Jesus found it in him to give thanks at such a horrible time, we certainly can too.

"There was majesty in the misery... glory in the shame". --- Spurgeon

As Christians we should be familiar with suffering.

I find so much comfort in knowing since Christ suffered while on this earth I will too being his child (Romans 8:17). If I am not being molded, pressed in some way in this life maybe I should evaluate my standing as a child of God.

If I were to look back on my life, I can see those times of suffering as beneficial to my growth as a believer.

But I remember questioning...

why the Lord did not let me get accepted into a certain college...

why I had such a colicky baby...

why my husband didn't get that certain job 8 years ago...

But honestly, I can say to each of those circumstances, I am so thankful for those times of hardship. I stopped relying on myself and had to lean solely on the Lord to pull me through. Looking back, I am thankful for how He used those times to show me...

I found my sweet husband at the other college I ended up at.

I developed a maturity, patience and compassion for my hurting baby I never had in me before.

I realized it wasn't the right time and that rejection would later show to be a huge blessing in disguise.

Even in your pain, still find it in you to praise Him.

You may not have the words to utter how you feel. You may not be able to even pray a thought-out prayer. But you can praise Him still in your pain.

Because Christ suffered too.

Because Christ was thankful in His pain.

Because He is still on the throne.

"The Lord has given and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord."

This Man...

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 14:29:00 +0000

This man has been in my life for 29 years. We met in Mrs. Crawford's class in third grade. I guess he left love notes in my desk... I didn't remember. I was too distracted trying to impress a boy named Adam.

This man tried to break his arm that same year after I feel off the monkey bars and broke my arm. He told me he cried when he heard they were taking me to the hospital.

This man asked me to be his girlfriend in high school, junior year. I agreed. He was a cute soccer player, why not? It didn't last long. I remember crying in a white, square pillow with a bunch of lace on it when I got home from school. I was hurt, but the story doesn't end there.

This man ended up at the same college I did. He was crazy. He played tricks on me and my roommate. I felt like a sister. I admittedly tried to avoid him at times because I knew he was gonna do something to me.

This man grew up. He grew in the Lord. He had a sweet sense about him. He held the door for me. We went out. I remember wearing a pink wool coat. It was our junior year in college. I felt safe with him. He was funny. He bought me scratch-off lottery tickets. We lost.

This man took me to a park one spring day. He asked me to marry him. I agreed. I knew I never wanted to spend one day a part from him. I found ways to spend more time with him... I never avoided him. We married 8 months later... on this day. I love November 2nd. Whether it's raining or shining... I love this day.

This man has loved me when I'm irrational. He has forgiven me when I didn't deserve to be. His touch has always been kind. He thinks of me first. I never felt less than what a blessed wife should feel like. He has never raised his voice in anger to me. He shares. He never criticizes. He forgets my shortcomings.

This man has been there for the births of our four sons. He has raised them to be smart, kind men. He is a true example to them of a godly father on earth. He challenges them to be wise. To make good decisions. To love their mom. He practices what he teaches in parenting.

This man is the most perfect gift I could ever receive.

I love November 2nd. Whether it's raining or shining... I love this day.

Wholesome Flourless Chocolate-Chip Balls

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 28 Sep 2012 22:55:00 +0000

Eventually everyone has a sweet tooth, right? I am a salty-type eater. I prefer anything with salt over a dessert type food. But even for me, there are times when I just need something sweet. But then my body hates gluten. So then what???

THIS.....

Flourless Chocolate Chip Balls.... heaven in a little bite!

{ ingredients }

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup all natural peanut butter

1/3 cup raw honey

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or more if they just so happen to fall in!)

1/4 cup raw, slivered almonds, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract

1 teaspoon of coconut oil

couple pinches of salt

{ directions }

1. throw all ingredients into a medium-sized bowl and mix until all ingredients are blended together.

2. allow to chill for 30 minutes.

3. once chilled, form into small balls.

4. store in airtight container and enjoy!

Postpartum Depression: 5 Ways to Beat the Baby Blues–Naturally

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Thu, 06 Sep 2012 14:10:00 +0000

It caught me off guard. Coming from out of nowhere. I felt alone. Helpless. Hurt and worst, feeling I had no hope.

These are the emotions that came when I experienced postpartum depression (PPD).

My first three pregnancies were all followed by PPD. I was fearful of ever becoming pregnant again because of this. But, by God’s grace with our fourth child, I was free of depression.

Read how I fought PPD on my guest post over at The Humbled Homemaker here.

32 Pounds and Counting: My Husband's Weight Loss Story

noreply@blogger.com (Jenna) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 19:16:00 +0000

I have waited many months to write this post. Well, come to think about it, maybe it's been more like years. I started this journey of desiring a healthy family many years ago. But as you may know, you can't always convince others to hop on board with you... right away, that is!

Let me start by saying, my husband is a very, very humble man. He is not super thrilled I am dedicating a post about something he has accomplished. When I interviewed him for this, he first gave credit to God for giving him the grace to carry out all of this.

Two years ago he started working from home as an editor. It has been a very high stress, high-intense job that requires him sitting at a computer for 8 or more hours a day. And as most people can attest that with a stressful job comes stress-induced eating. He knew the weight had come on, but finding the time and energy to put into losing the weight, just wasn't in him at the time.

As the new year was approaching in 2011, he prayed about losing weight. With having a family and a stressful job, adding a new eating and exercise regimen wasn't something he was totally pumped about, but he started anyway and quietly determined he was going to succeed. (Here's an article he read awhile ago that may have had something to do with some of his success... read here or watch the TED talk here).

As I've talked before about losing weight, being healthy is key... not so much the numbers. Focus on eating well. Eat real foods that provide powerful nutrients to make your body work and feel better. Brian has truly focused on putting the right things into his body. Everything counts!

I am so happy to share our interview with you today.

{What motivated you to want to lose weight?}

Brian: It was a combination. First, I am working from home and became very sedentary. I was slowly gaining weight and with the stress of my job, I knew I wasn't healthy. I also struggled with stomach aches daily. I usually felt bad after I ate and also woke up every morning with pains in my stomach.

{When did you start this journey and how much have you lost?}

Brian: I started in January of this year and have lost 32 pounds.

{So what overall changes have you seen or felt after losing this weight?}

Brian: First of all, my clothes fit better... well, actually, they don't fit :) I am the same size I was in high school and that is a great feeling. I just feel healthier. My stomach aches are almost gone. I have more energy and never have that bloated feeling. Also, a weird fact, I use to have a small exterior cyst by my ribs for several years.... it is completely gone.

{So, tell us... how did you do it???}

Brian: Well, I have tried many diets in the past, but by God's grace, this one stuck. I really don't feel like it is a diet. The secret has been not starving myself, but actually eating all day. I just have disciplined myself to eat better foods. I found foods that were healthy that I really liked.

We don't eat red meat or pork, at all. We eat a lot of rice and beans and some lean meats like chicken and fish a couple times a week. Jenna (me) is gluten-free so I have obviously cut way back on my wheat intake, but do treat myself with pretzel thins (and yes, I count out the correct serving size). I do not eat cheeses, butter or sauces of any kind.

The one thing that I eat every day, several times throughout the day is low-fat GRANOLA. It has to be under 3 grams of fat and high in fiber. I eat it with low-fat Greek yogurt or will just grab some handfuls here and there when I need to munch on something. I don't know what it is about granola, but I feel it has been a part of my success.

There's his granola at top (so kiddies won't steal) with his measuring cup!

I have stopped fast food altogether. There is really nothing that I want to eat there anymore.

The other thing that I cut back on is diet pop. I use to live on it. I would drink about three, 20-ounce bottles a day. Now I just drink water and will have a pop only on special occasions.

{Give me a glimpse of specifically what you eat and when, on a normal day.}

Brian: First thing in the morning, I start with a small -- portion controlled -- (he actually measures it out exactly) bowl of low-fat granola with skim milk and blueberries. I never skip breakfast. I still have my morning coffee. I use a low-fat creamer with a little stevia -- there are just some things you can't give up.

Around 11 a.m. I come up from my office and have a piece of gluten-free cinnamon raisin bread, toasted. Then around 1 p.m., Jenna makes lunch for us. Usually we have an ethnic-type lunch. A Chipotle-type burrito bowl... brown rice and beans and a lot of hot sauce. Other times we'll have a salad with a lot of veggies and a light, balsamic dressing. We usually add some type of beans or hard-boiled egg for protein.

Later in the afternoon, I'll snack on (serving size appropriate) nuts or Greek yogurt and granola. I also like low-fat cottage cheese with raw honey. Gala apples with salt are another favorite. Whatever it is, it's low-fat, real food.

For dinner, it's always gluten-free and either meatless or chicken or fish. My all time favorite dinner is fish tacos with raw cabbage, fresh salsa and corn tortillas. We also love to grill local veggies or have corn on the cob and fresh tomatoes and cucumbers for dinner.

{What about exercise?}

Brian: I didn't start exercising until about 4 months after I started the eating plan and by that point I had already lost 20+ pounds. I have lost additional pounds since exercising. (So food choices play a HUGE part in your weight loss!)

I switch up what I do, but need to mix it up again because what I'm doing is getting boring. I exercise about 5-6 times a week. Three days I do a cardio, fat-burning video (30 minutes) and the other days I do a light run usually about 2 1/2 miles.

{What about when you travel or are away from home... how do you do it?}

Brian: I really don't stray from my normal eating since it has gotten me this far. I look for fresh fruit, salads, nuts and granola in airports and will run into grocery stores to get those foods instead of fast food. Small yogurt containers with granola make for an easy breakfast. If I must eat out, I will find a sub place and eat a vegetarian on whole wheat bread or a wrap... again, with no cheese or sauces.

{What other things would you like to tell the readers?}

Brian: I do drink a lot of water throughout the day. I do not take any supplements, but I do take a psyllium/fiber powder mixed with water everyday. This just helps to keep things "moving" well.

Do not starve yourself. Just make sure it is healthy and low in fat.

Lastly, "forcing your body to do what it doesn't naturally want to do (exercising and eating right) feels a ton better than eating bad, not exercising and being fat."

So that's it. I am so thankful for his journey to health. He has truly challenged me to eat better -- mostly by watching my portions -- and now I am trying to exercise more regularly as well. I hope you are challenged too!

I didn't include all the things Brian likes to eat or snack on in the interview portion of this post, but here are some links to some of his favorite foods (and mine, too!).

Trader Joe's Low-Fat Almond Granola

Trader Joe's Vanilla Meringues

Cascadian Farms Cinnamon-Raisin Granola

Udi's Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Fage Total 0% Greek Yogurt with Fruit

Pretzel Crisps

Kind Bars

Also, with no links:
Aldi items:
fat-free fudgsicles
cinnamon-raisin granola cereal
blueberries
grapes
low-fat cottage cheese
almonds
raisins
black beans
fresh salsa