Week 2: Pushing My Way Through!

I made this delicious concoction this weekend with leftover chicken.  It reminded me of MN and all of the yummy wild-rice hot dishes(do you say hot dish or casserole?) I ate growing up.  I sauteed celery, onion, garlic, carrots, and slivered almonds.  I added the chicken, a can of Amy's Mushroom Soup, and then added the cooked wild rice.  I let it simmer to mix the flavors and served it up alongside some steamed broccoli - it hit the spot!  Mmmmmm healthy comfort.
 After working outside in the garden, and cleaning the house yesterday - I was in the mood for something light for dinner.  I made a tuna salad with celery, and cranberries and served it up in a rice tortilla.Well, it's been 2 weeks my friends.  2 weeks of clean, allergen free eating.  I was really tired this past week - and I struggled with some serious cravings for chocolate and bread.  However, the desire to push forward prevailed!  I even passed up the MANY samples of baked goods at the Farmer's Market this weekend.  People really don't understand when I say I am eating no sugar that I mean NO sugar.  No, not a sample of anything that contains sugar, dairy, or flour - it's not like I'll never taste those things again in my life, but right now - NO THANKS!  Week 2 Summary:~Hydration - I'd say this is the best thing I've done for myself so far.  People(myself included) seriously underestimate how dehydrated they really are.  I always started my day with coffee, and lots of it.  Starting my day with 30oz. of water is making SUCH a difference in how I feel as well as my energy first thing.  Don't underestimate the simple things...~Mood - overall I feel much more consistent feelings of positivity and hope.  When I am caught up in the daily obsession of what sugary, carb I'm eating next - I feel tired, anxiety, stress, shame, and hopeless.  In just two weeks, I feel so much more pride in how I am choosing to take care of myself.  How I am eating right now aligns so much more closely with who I am, and who I am meant to be.~Cravings - Even though I had a couple of days with cravings, I am amazed at how manageable they really are.  They pass - and they are NOTHING like when I am caught up in the cycle of eating them when they are actually physical.  For the most part these cravings are emotional - so like emotions, they change.
In the (Vita)mix this morning:-2 cups Spinach-1 banana-1/2 cup blueberries-1/2 cup raspberries-1 scoop protein powder-1 Tbsp almond butter-1 cup almond milk
Have a great Monday!  It's sunny and going to be in the 80's here again - woo hoo!!