SP Purification Program Day 21: The End...Or Just the Begining?

As excited as we were for this day to get here, we are just a little sad that the end has arrived...or has it?

When I asked my husband what food he wanted to introduce first, he said, " I don't think I what to add any. I'm still losing weight, my blood pressure is down..."

I was amazed. This was coming from a fan of glazed donuts and take out Chinese. He had also just WOW'd me at our 1st Christmas Meal on the new foods. I took what we could enjoy and we watched as everybody else at the table nearly exploded after dinner.

When everyone started unbuttoning their pants, yawning and heading for the couches, we were wondering why we had done that to ourselves SO MANY TIMES in the past???

Did We Miss Out?

We don't think so. We did miss the homemade cookies and candies his Aunt makes but I think we missed the tradition of them, more than eating them.

We didn't miss out on our family an enjoyed sharing our journey and the results with them.

We created our own traditions this year. Traditions that will last beyond us.

What Were The Results?

I started the program at 174 and ended at 163.4, I lost 2 1/2 inches in my waist. I have my follow-up appointment with my local doctor for additional internal progress!

My husband lost started at 243 and ended at 227! While we did not take his measurements, his is down one size in pants and is wearing shirts that have not been on in years. His blood pressure is down and he also is having tests runs to show internal results.

We walk away from this program, thinner, healthier, happier & educated.

We have opted to continue what we have learned through a post-purification eating habits. We are taking steps to increase our exercise and are eager to share this with our friends and family.

Our Hope For You

If you are reading this blog our prayer is that you are taking care of yourself. That you have found a great team to support you. That you are making strong food choices, have found clean water source...and your moving!

Wellness is a Choice! Choose it!

Kym & Dave Lamb

SP Purification Program Day 20: The Best Christmas Present

My husband did the Christmas Shopping today...and WANTED TO!

He was doing jumping jacks and running in place in the kitchen and asking how he could help me.

When we asked each other for our lists, we both decided that we really didn't want or need anything. We had already given each other the best gift ever by choosing to live well! We are turning back the clock with our decisions and looking forward to spending many, many more Christmas together.

My husband shared with me his blood pressure was down, I was puzzled because he hadn't been to the doctor to have it checked. He then told me that he had been checking it at a local store and it had come down 20 points.

I realized that he had been checking his blood pressure for some time, scared because he was approaching a dangerous level...

Next week he is having his vitals checked by a professional. What do you think they'll find?

When I asked my husband to do this with me, I thought it was just to support me. I found out the reason was so much bigger.

How Will We Survive The Holidays?

By changing old habits!

The reindeer poo I made for the kids is now organic, the treats I took for the Christmas party included a Fruit Christmas Tree and wrapped filled with turkey, ham, cheese. Instead of eating the candy my kids are getting as gifts we used it to decorate our gingerbread houses in our Annual Gingerbread contest.

Tomorrow will be have our first "none-traditional" holiday meal. Our family is respecting our diet and asked us to bring what we needed. We look forward to sharing our new lifestyle with them.

Are you holding on to habits because you like them? Need them? Or just never tried to change them?

Time for Change!

Kym


Here is today's intake journal:


Day 20 Intake Journal Entry:

What did you eat today?

Mixed Berries Shake
Steamed Broccoli
Yam with Cinnamon & Nutmeg
6oz Cod, 1/4 cup brown rice,Green Leaf Salad, carrots, broccoli, & cauliflower
Berry Shake

How are you feeling?
Looking forward to seeing family tomorrow and enjoying Christmas & New Year's having accomplished a huge task!

Did you experience any physical effects? A little heart burn after dinner??

Exercise:
Nope.

SP Purification Program Day 18 &19 : The Scale Is NOT my Enemy!

I finally broke the plateau today! YEAH! By only .2 but, I'll take it! After 5 days, I was wondering if I would ever start losing again??? But let me tell you, there are others that have had to gain weight to lose weight!? There are those that that lost barely anything...Does this mean the process was a failure? NO!

Why Your Doctor & Support Staff Is Key

The scale may NOT be my friend but my doctor is. The scale is a good tool to help you understand what is happening in your body. During this process, you have seen that I have contacted my doctor, contacted the support staff at purification support . I have asked for help with menus, dealing with symptoms and what to do to break the plateau.

This is our 1st time going through this process and we are not pro's. And we don't have to be...

You Are Only As Alone As You Choose To Be

Your clinician and Standard Process want success for you, but they can't do it without you!
It has taken a commitment on our part to complete this.
It will take a commitment on your part to do this! But name something that you wanted to achieve that didn't!

Looking Ahead - What Next?

Food Reintroduction: Gradually starting to eat foods that we have given up for 21 days and doing it in a way that doesn't shock our system.

When we started we listed foods that we swore we would hoard like pigs on day 22:

Dave: Bread, Coffee, Pancakes

Kym: Nuts, Dark Chocolate, Dried Fruit, Honey (which is being considered for addition to the plan.)
SO what are we craving:

Dave: Steamed Broccoli, salads

Kym: cucumbers, sweet potato fries (baked)

How Did This Happen?

We are listening to true body cravings, not food habits. We had foods that provided us emotional support, but destroyed out body. Now we crave foods that provide emotional support AND feed our body.

What Is The 1st Food We are reintroducing?

My husband REALLY misses his breakfasts so we are going to start with eggs, then 48 hours later...who knows.

It is IMPORTANT to realize that foods you had allergies you may not and visa verse, foods that you didn't have problems with, like the double cheeseburger and large french fries, may no longer agree with you!

We have chosen to continue eating a post-purification diet to continue weight loss. My husband has blood pressure and cholesterol issues we want to continue to resolve. I have adrenal items and sugar tendencies I want to stay on top of...we also have 3 beautiful children that we want to achieve tip top shape for.

Our oldest son doesn't feel alone in his restrictive diet (he has allergies to BHA, BHT, Nitrates, Nitrites and food coloring) because we are showing him that it can be done.

Just as his food choices are not options...they really are not for any of us.

Gas, upset stomach, headaches, antacids, aspirin...these are not part of a healthy lifestyle. My husband and I (Age 43 & 37) had decided that our symptoms were just part of aging. Do not lie to yourself. You can tell your self that feeling this way is part of your lifestyle choices, but don't convince yourself it is natural or "just the way it is!"


Here Are The Daily Intake Journals for the 18th & 19th:

What did you eat today?

Strawberry Banana Shake
Cucumbers (I was on the road today)
Blueberry/Strawberry Shake (extra shake today due to schedule demands)
3oz Chicken on Green Leaf Salad, balsamic vinegar
Radishes/Carrots
Berry Shake
6oz Cod/Green Leaf Salad, Oil & Vinegar
Strawberry Banana Shake (1/4 Banana)

How are you feeling?
Great. The training I received today helped me reinforce that what we are doing it so worth it!

Did you experience any physical effects? BM was little harder but expected it since my water intake had been low.


Exercise:
Nope.

19th What did you eat today?


Strawberry Banana Shake
Radishes
3oz chicken with olive oil & vinegar ( running this morning, but stopped to put in some protein.)
3oz Chicken on Green Leaf Salad, balsamic vinegar, radishes
6oz Salmon/ 1/2 cup brown rice, Oil & Vinegar
Strawberry Banana Shake (1/4 Banana)

How are you feeling?
I had lots to do...and LOTS of energy to do it! YEAH.

Did you experience any physical effects? Well earned exhaustion from a REALLY busy, but didn't feel guilty, mind needed it more that the body ;0)

Exercise:
Technically no...but I am sure if I was wearing a pedometer it would have qualified...

Just 2 days left!
Eat Well, Live Well, Love Well...Kym

SP Purification Program Day 17 : Apology to Green Vegetables

Dear Green Vegetables,

I am sorry I have avoided you. I apologize for enjoying the orange and white vegetables and leaving you out. I had no idea how truly good you are for me. I promise to make up for lost time...

Green Vegetables Need Love Too!

I have finally accepted the need to establish a relationship with green vegetables. After the struggles over the last few days I have reviewed my intake logs and increased all things green. I also did research today on Cruciferous Vegetables:

Vegetables of the family Brassicaceae (also called Cruciferae) are called Cruciferous vegetables. The vegetables are widely cultivated, with many genera, species, and cultivars being raised for food production such as cauliflower, cabbage, cress, bok choy, broccoli and similar green leaf vegetables. The family takes its alternate name (Cruciferae, New Latin for "cross-bearing") from the shape of their flowers, whose four petals resemble a cross. Source

I immediately marked the shopping list from my program guide with these jewels and was sure to stock up on them today. I have found increasing the intake relieved many of the symptoms from the last few days.

We are committing the last 4 days to getting to know our new Green Friends!


Day 17 Intake Journal

What did you eat today?

Strawberry Banana Shake
Green Leaf Salad with Cucumbers olive oil & vinegar
Blueberry/Strawberry Shake (extra shake today due to schedule demands)
Radishes/Carrots
Berry Shake
6oz Cod/Green Leaf Salad, Oil & Vinegar
Strawberry Banana Shake (1/4 Banana)

How are you feeling?

Energized, moving, humor
Did you experience any physical effects?

Dressed up for my daughter's play. Noticed my face an hands shrinking. Dress clothes fitting much loosed and my husband looks GREAT in a shirt he hasn't been able to wear for years!

Exercise:

None.

Tomorrow is my first out of the office challenge. Have to have all food prepared for everyone for a full day away. I am looking forward to it!

Dream Well!
Kym

SP Purification Program Day 15&16 : Finding Balance

My energy is back, my humor has recovered and even though the scale hasn't budged, I lost a few unneeded pounds from my fat head.

Insanity

Doing the same thing over and over again expecting change.

I am facing patterns that I have repeated most of my life. I revisited a post earlier in this series Purification NOT Punishment! Where I shared with you that staying on the purification was punishment...and it is not, but it is important to remind yourself.

This weekend, I undercut my calories, doubled workouts, avoided green vegetables and wasn't getting enough water. Did I do it on purpose? No. Life placed demands and I was not prepared.

Balancing New and Old Habits Is Like Playing Tug-of-War With Yourself

Wrong Thinking: Nothing In = Reduction

Right Thinking: Hydration, Food as Fuel, Exercise = Wellness


Wrong Thinking: I have a plan that will always work.

Right Thinking: I will have to listen to my body and adjust regularly.


Wrong Thinking: I missed the mark, I quit.

Right Thinking: I missed the mark, I can adjust for the rest of he day.


When I started this process, I wanted everything detailed. I wanted the meals planned for the full 21 days. I wanted to know exactly what to expect and when to expect it. That is not possible. My body is not the same from hour to hour, let alone day to day. This process is teaching me body awareness, flexibility, creativity and giving me a drive to learn more. For ever answer I have, I have another question.

I had predetermined what success would look like...and I was so off the mark! I wanted a physical result, which I am getting...but I also received an internal drive as a bonus.

My husband and I have accomplished so much together in just 16 days. We are setting examples for our three children, friends, family and co-workers. We are communicating more than ever and I have my laugh back!

Day 15 & 16 Intake Journals

What did you eat today?

Skipped Morning Shake
Acorn Squash with nutmeg/allspice/cinnamon
3oz Cod w/ Lemon/ Broccoli
Slipped Afternoon Shake
Baked Mushroom, red pepper,zuccini,1/2 cup brown rice
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling? (Note: PH is 6.4, 6.6 Too Acidic)
Frustrated, Puzzled, Cloudy

Did you experience any physical effects?
I hurt, arm, chest and shoulder "ache". I am cold to the bone.

Exercise:
Had to avoid exercise due to the achenes.

Day 16

What did you eat today?

Strawberry, Banana Shake
Green Salad with cucumber, Vinaigrette Dressing
Blueberry Shake
Baked Chicken 4 oz/broccoli with lemon, salad with oil & vineagar
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Like we have a plan to adjust why we feel so bad.

Did you experience any physical effects?
PH was too low 5.8 but was back to normal by dinner and the acheness, cold & cloudiness is lifting.

Exercise:
Nothing formal. Danced for 30 minutes with the kids I teach.


I will not find balance in 21 days. What I have found is the desire to keep trying, knowing that a commitment to these changes is worth it.

Go and Be Well!

Kym

SP Purification Program Day 13 & 14 : Is The Party Over?

Lower Energy...No Weightloss...and Gas?

This weekend was a little frustrating for us. We increased our workouts but experienced less energy and no weightloss??? Plus the gas has returned.

Reviewing our log it seems that adding the protein isn't benefiting us. Dave has opted to take the protein back out and I am eliminating a shake. We are being careful to drink enough water and raw veggies. I know we are building muscle because our body shapes are changing but our bodies have stalled in the weightloss department.

We Are Not Getting Discouraged

Well, yes I am, but I am reminding myself that it didn't take 21 days to get where I am and it is not going to be corrected in 21 days! We could contact our Doctor for additional weightloss options, but since our goal is wellness and not weightloss, we are going to complete his cleanse without the introduction of additional supplements.


Here is my Daily Intake Journal for Day 13 & 14:

What did you eat today?

Blueberry, Strawberry, Banana Shake
Sweet Potato Fries
Green Salad with radishes, Vinaigrette Dressing, 3 oz chicken
Blueberry, Strawberry & banana Shake
Raw cucumber with MRs Dash, Cooked mushrooms,zuzccini, 3 oz Lime Cilantro Cod
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Saturday was bill day which makes me sad & frustrated. It reminds me how tight money is and how hard it is to eat right. We are sacrifing stuff for food. We know this is the right decision, but it is hard to tell out kids that.

Did you experience any physical effects?

More Gas, less energy.

Exercise:
P90X Stretch, P90X Kenpo


Here is my Daily Intake Journal for Day 14:

What did you eat today?

Blueberry, Strawberry, Banana Shake
Missed breakfast - was at church til 1:30p
Green Salad with broccoli, carrots, cucumber apple cider vinaigrette Dressing
Blueberry, Strawberry & banana Shake
Cooked mushrooms and onions, 1/2 cup brown rice
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Choosing Joyful - not because I am not frustrated but because we are making changes that are bigger than a momentary set back.

Did you experience any physical effects?

More tired.

Exercise:
P90X Stretch

The Purification Process will not solve all your problems.

It doesn't pay your bills, or make your kids listen...but it does help your body work better and since we know if our bodies work better or brains work better...it makes sense to me that when I care for my self I am better able to care for others.

Care Enough to Care for Yourself,

Kym Lamb

SP Purification Program Day 12 : All In The Family

"What can you eat?" Mom said.
"Well, what are you making?" I asked.
"Roasted chicken, steamed broccoli and I made fresh beets with balsamic vinegar," Mom replied.
"We can do that!" I responded with joy

It Takes A Village

Having family and friends and co-workers willing to support your wellness change is invaluable.

Having my parents on board with our diet changes has meant so much! But it hasn't always been that way.

My mother is an amazing cook! We joke that the only reason my husband married me was because be saw how well my mother aged (did I mention she is beautiful too!) and loved her cooking! (I guess he was assuming these traits ran in the family...you know what happens when you assume?)

It wasn't uncommon for my mom to make a multi-course meal and include the after dessert Brandy 0r Grasshopper milkshake! We loved food and we loved spending time with family while we ate food. I used to know locations based on what restaurants were there and what was the best thing on the menu.

I thank my parents for these lovely memories and experiences and the sacrifices they made to give them to us.

My parents started making their wellness changes the last couple of months due to their own illnesses. Knowing that they support our changes and are trying to care for themselves gives us more reason to keep moving forward.

PS They do still spoil our kids, after all they are grandparents, but now mom chooses healthier ingredients for her chocolate chips and Dad doesn't bring orange tic-tacs every visit.

What We Know Now

It is time to find new family recreational activities. These changes are still new to us and part of the changes have included learning to step away from the table.
We started biking on the weekends and the kids and I make weekly bike trips to the library.
This purification has Dave and I working out daily.

We didn't realize how inactive we were...and the example we were setting for your children.

Here is my Daily Intake Journal for Day 12:

What did you eat today?

Blueberry, Strawberry Shake
Acorn squash with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, tea
Green Salad with radishes, 1/4 apple, Vinaigrette Dressing

Blueberry, Strawberry & banana Shake
6 oz Roasted Chicken, Broccoli, Beets (balsamic vinegar & pepper)
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Mellow. Enjoying watching the body changes and ability to stay with it.

Did you experience any physical effects? Neck & Back sore but had to spend too much time on PC. Seems we are more tired since we added meat back in.

Exercise:
P90X Stretch


Let your friends and family know your decision to be well. It helps you stay accountable, and maybe shows them they can do it too!

Be Well!

Kym

SP Purification Program Day11: Going Cold Turkey

A common response to my purification blog posts is:

" I could never go cold turkey!"

We didn't. This program is a another step in a process that started in April of this year. After I became ill (read the details here). After some detours, I was blessed to find doctors that were familiar with what was happening and had the tools to start the healing process.

The Purification Process

This was NOT step one for us. We have been adjusting our eating habits, finding places with healthy foods we trust, and cleaning our system with a supplement protocol from our doctor for a couple of months.

This process can aggravate the body. If your body is too toxic you may NOT be ready for it. You need to check with your doctor before starting this program. That is why you can not get the materials we use everywhere.

I do believe a purification program is important for everyone, there are simply too may toxins in our environment not to, BUT I think that when you do it is very individual. I also believe that being supported my a specialist while you are going through it is a must!

I have tried to go the self-diagnosis route with books, health food stores, internet research, and friends suggestions, while I did receive relief and benefits in some cases I have realized that seeking wise counsel is the route for me. (Not that my friends aren't wise, but it is not their passion or profession. Love you all!)

The Right Motivation

While I want to share our story and our solution, I do not want to motivate people to make the changes we did because of the emotion of our story, or because they think we have found the magic process. I want to motivate people to educate themselves to avoid having a story...I don't want you to watch your children suffer, I don't want you to suffer. It is sad that most of us will not take action until we "hit the brick wall".

It is unfortunate that many people will not discover that "choosing wellness is an easier option than navigating illness".

If you don't know where to start, here are my daily basics:

1) Clean Water
2) Healthy Food
3) Move More

If you don't drink water, start...If you haven't eaten vegetables since your parents made you, crunch away...If you can't remember how to exercise, bend over and touch your toes!

Here is my Daily Intake Journal for Day 11:

What did you eat today?

Blueberry, Strawberry & banana Shake
Carrots, radishes & tea
3 oz Baked chicken, 1/2 sweet potato
Blueberry, Strawberry & banana Shake
3 oz Baked Cod/lemon dill asparagus/1/2 cup brown rice
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Positive, more calm.

Did you experience any physical effects?

BM are back to regular, noticing joint popping while I am exercising. Little more tired tonight, had to motivate myself to work out.

Exercise:

P90X Stretch

PS For those that are weight conscious:

Dave is down 11 lbs as of this morning and I am down 8lbs.

Taking the easier path,

Kym

SP Purification Program Day10: Be Prepared

One of the lessons I am learning during this purification process...is to be prepared.

As a wife, mother, business owner and many other responsibilities, it is very easy to get engulfed in chaos. Rushing here...running there...putting out any fire along the way. I find that the structure of the program has lessened this stress.

Meal Planning

In order to keep food in the house for 2 desperate meals, 3 times a day I started meal planning. I still visit the market a couple times a week because if the short shelf life of healthy food, but a half hour to hour pre-planning on Sunday and keeping the Supplement Checklist posted on the fridge (or in my husband's case on his desk) has been very effective for us.

Cutting the greens & vegetables in the morning for the day and making an extra shake in the morning has also worked well. I did not do the first week of the cleanse and found myself just not eating. I am not sure whether to say I was lazy, busy or just unprepared, but I know that NOT EATING does not work on this program.

Even though I work at home, my husband does not. I share this because some of you may think,"sure you can do it you don't have to leave your house."

Dave eats more raw vegetables and salads simply because he can not heat food at work. We do not use microwaves so he eats his 50% raw vegetables throughout the day with a large salad at lunch. He was really glad to add the chicken to that salad today.

Here is today's Intake Journal:

DAY 10 - Daily Intake Journal

What did you eat today?
***Worked through breakfast
Greens with 1/4 avocado, carrots & olive oil with balsamic vinegar
Blueberry & banana Shake - added gastro fiber to shake instead of taking capsules.
Cauliflower/Marinara Soup: This was a throgh together. Didn't like the taste of just the cauliflower soup so dumped in the left over marinara and several other seasonings.
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?

I like the changes in my body. Want to added more exercise to increase the change in thighs and waist.

Did you experience any physical effects?

BM have stopped being regular, body a little achey and sore from the adding daily exercise.

Exercise:

P90X Stretch (Dave did it with me! PS Real Me Do Stretch!)

We Are Half Way Done!

Choosing Wellness,
Kym

SP Purification Program Day 9: A Love Letter From My Husband

It Is All Worth It!

I could stop my purification today and feel as though I had succeeded. I received a love note from my husband today. (Don't blush honey! Other women understand the magnitude!) This is the first love note I have received since probably pre-wedding. My husband is not incredibly romantic (name a man with a full-time job, full time serve at church and 3 kids that is!) that is why this note was so special!

I didn't see improved relationships on the brochure when I signed up for this...but it should be there!

If you feel well...that rubs off onto others, it is contagious. This is a disease we want to spread!

Here is today's Daily Intake Journal:

DAY 9 - Daily Intake Journal

What did you eat today?

Banana Strawberry Shake (been cutting back on the amount of banana)
Carrots & Radishes, teas
Greens with cucumber & olive oil with balsamic vineagar
Blueberry & Blackberry Shake (ran out of strawberries)
Blueberry & Blackberry Shake (had an extra shake today because of late dinner & no poop)
Baked Portabella Mushrooms, 1/2 sweet potato
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Proud. We are achieving our goal! And my husband loves me......

Did you experience any physical effects?
light gas...did not put enough food & water in.

I had my 1st fall of the winter season. Normally this would take me down for a few days with pulled muscles in my neck and back and a bruised ego. I picked myself off and was shocked I didn't hurt. The yoga is paying off!

Check with the doctor that my progress on the laryngitis was good enough or if I needed to make any adjustments. All good...keep taking the Congeplex (PS When I say doctor, Dr. Wilging is a chiropractor who using nutritional support in his practice.)

Exercise:

1 hour Yoga (including yoga twists & throat chakras exercises). Thank you Carol Brown!

2nd Week Adjustments

Less Sweet Potatoes: While they are allowed on the diet. We need to eat more green veggies.

Don't slack on the water: I have gotten into a habit of hot tea because of the frigid weather, but I need to drink more water. ( I could tell you how I know this, but did I mention I didn't poop today! Listen to your body...)

Increase the Exercise: or start! My husband did not exercise before we started this. He shared with me that last, he started by doing chest presses off the wall. He would change the position of his hands to increase difficulty. He would push himself away from the wall and catch himself. This week he wants to add a workout.

Choose Wellness!
Kym

SPSP Purification Program Day 8: So, How Much Weight Have We Lost?

Weight is not our objective but...we know that some of our success will be gauged by how many pounds we shed.

As of Day 8:

Dave (My husband): Started at 243 is now 236
Me: Started 174 is now 169.4

I want to stop and tell my husband how proud I am of him! When I met my husband he was lean (160 lbs) he was a tennis player and avid golfer. Weight was the last thing on his mind. In fact he was smaller than I was when we met. I managed to put 60 lbs on him in the first 6 years! Talk about loving someone with food...now I love him by cooking the right food, now THAT is LOVE!

My Secret Tool

In my last blog I promised to provide you with my secret weapon in this process: A Cookbook!

Whether you are Christian or Edit Postsnot, do not let the title dissuade you from picking up this book.

Dave and I had the advantage of a couple months of healthy cooking practice BEFORE we started the purification. This book & the daily emails have helped me feel more equipped to handle the cooking portion of the process.

Because it is winter in Ohio, I am sure we are eating less raw fruits & vegetables as we would in the summer. This book includes vegetarian meals that are delicious. (Note: Some recipes to have to be modified to match certain parts of the diet, like using vegetable both instead of chicken,or removing the wheat flour as thickening.)

This Is A Great Time To Educate Yourself!

I had done a great deal of reading over the last few months, but I find the information sticking so much better now because I am applying my knowledge with every meal. I think Dave would agree that since he is fully engaged he has become much more aware of how nutrition affects his body.

Other People Notice Too

If you are someone, like me, who does nothing unless you can "knock of 2 (or 200) birds with one stone" - your actions will cause a ripple affect...with your family, friends, co-workers, the clerk at the grocery.

People will ask you what has changed because your energy and increased joy will be contagious!

My husband has learned to enjoy answering questions from his co-workers about what he is eating and why. What is in that shake? Why are you taking those capsules? Why are you SMILING?

You will find that these conversations will also become a motivator to KEEP IT UP!

Because I work from home, I do miss this benefit of the working environment...that is why I share with you!
Mommies

I wanted to take a moment to share a few frustrations you will be feeling while you do this process:

1) You will realize how many times you lick your fingers clean.
2) You will be frustrated with the amount of food that is going to waste. (Which is good because it is NOT going to your Waist!)
3) Cooking double meals is hard.
4) Your husband will most likely lose more weight and faster.
5) You will feel overwhelmed by adding this to your already busy schedule.


Your family and your family's future generations will THANK YOU for making life changes. We are managers of our families. We have the ability to condition and recondition. We are catalysts!

Go Live Well!
Kym

PS Here is today's Daily Intake Journal

DAY 7 - Daily Intake Journal

What did you eat today?

Banana Strawberry Shake (this has become Dave's favorite shake)
Cucumbers & Green Tea
Green Leaf Salad with Radishes, 1/4 cup apples, olive oil & Balsamic Vineagar
Banana Strawberry Shake
Garlic Green Beans, 1/4 cup sweet potato, salad with olive oil & vinegar
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Regaining momentum today. Made (4) meals tonight, found some new recipes that I wanted to try

Did you experience any physical effects?
Voice is recovering. Seeing changes in body shape - specifically thighs.

Exercise:

1 hour P90X Stretch

***We had been saving our fruit for our shakes,but found out apple is delicious in changing the texture & flavor of our salads!

SP Purification Program Day 6 & 7: Surviving The Weekend

Reconditioning

Day 5 post I started discussing how this process is changing what is"normal" for us.

Weekends are our time to splurge. I make brownies & mini apple pies. (I do want to mention that they are from scratch with the best ingredients possible) We have big breakfasts and snack throughout the day. This WAS the norm.

This weekend we kept active. I handle the cooking to keepKym Lamb my husband out of the kitchen to avoid temptation. Being in the kitchen is not an issue for me. (If you are doing this with a partner, and I suggest that you do, be sure to communicate what tasks you can and can not handle.) I do, however, have a problem with dishes...my husband doesn't ;0)

Communication Problem A Blessing?

I spent Saturday & Sunday with laryngitis, (Note: I did contact my doctor to be sure staying on the cleanse was ok.) No fever, no pain...strangely enough I still had energy...just NO voice!But it was a blessing! I tend to be the "Manager" of the house and verbal expressing myself is a key element of that job...Talk about RECONDITIONING! My children found out that I can still get my point across without speaking and I found out...I talk a lot! Seriously, the simple change of directions in our house made everyone more attentive to each other and my actions became far more important than my words. (And don't tell my family, but I kinda enjoyed being quiet and observing them all.)

OK. Stop Talking And Give Me The DEETS!

For those just wanting the details here are the Intake Journals Day 6 & 7:

DAY 6 - Daily Intake Journal

What did you eat today?

Banana Berry Shake (been cutting back on the amount of fruit)
Yam with cinnamon & nutmeg
Romaine Salad with broccoli, carrots,cucumber - Dressing: olive oil & vinegar
Banana Berry Shake
Acorn Squash- butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
Puzzled? I know I should be feeling sicker, but I don't just no voice?

Did you experience any physical effects?

Laryngitis. (Still taking Congeplex)

Exercise:

Holding off until tomorrow.



DAY 7 - Daily Intake Journal

What did you eat today?

Banana Strawberry Shake (been cutting back on the amount of banana)
Spaghetti Squash with onion power,cumin & pepper
Guacamole with carrots
Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce ("What Would Jesus Eat" Cookbook)
Romaine Salad with broccoli, carrots,cucumber - Dressing: olive oil & vinegar
Banana Strawberry Shake
Ginger Carrots & brown rice - This was the 1st meal I could not stomach. Somehow I messed up the rice and the texture was more than I could do. I replaced my rice with a small romaine salad.
Banana Strawberry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?
More tired today and a little irritable this afternoon. (Note: it was my husband's weekend to run sound at church and the kids were ready to get back to school.) I also started craving sweets tonight and found it harder to cook the kids meals!

Did you experience any physical effects?
I was cold today. But it is winter in Ohio so that is not a shock!

Laryngitis still but it is relenting...

Exercise:

1 hour P90X Stretch


One full week done! 1/3 of the way there!

Be Well,
Kym

PS. The next post I will reveal my life line tool!

SP SP Purification Program Day 5: Purification NOT Punishment!

Did you think I stopped? Quit the cleanse? Nope!

One of the best side effects of the purification process is energy....And when I have energy sitting behind a PC is not my idea of fun. My job keeps me on the PC a good deal of the time so when the work is done, it takes a pretty important reason to get me back on it. I also take technology breaks on the weekends.


Sharing This With You Is Important

I'm not going to spit out the statistics that you already know about diabetes, heart disease, cancer...my own family history seems to dictate a pretty ugly aging process including diabetes, heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's. If my future illness weren't overwhelming enough, the last 5 years of my life seem to indicate that I am adding my own "unique" health issues to the mix!


So, What Does Your Future Have In Store?

Nothing. I know, your saying what? In the last paragraph I just told you of all the ways my body will break, but what I said is the ways my body could break! The steps I am taking today are to help my body run at its best for as long as it can...and I am focused on what I can do, instead of fear about what might happen to me.


Purification NOT Punishment!

I was speaking with one of my doctors yesterday and explained that my mind set has been a catalyst to the changes I am experiencing. Standard Process is a great product, but it is still just a product. I had to decide to put it in my mouth, I had to decide that I wanted the salad and not the brownies (organic) I made for the kids.

I am not only purifying my body, I am purifying my mind. If "purifying" feels to ethereal to you, maybe a better word is reconditioning.

Example: My husband has now lost 10lbs in 10 days. He has reconditioned his thinking that if I make these simple choices, I am receiving the benefits of taking of weight I have been trying to get off for years.

Other benefits my husband has mentioned are:
Better Sleep
Lots of Energy
Increased sense of smell & hearing
Easier to put his belt in the loop
Nice to be able to wipe easier
His co-workers noticing there is something different
The Wedding Ring is Too Big
He is almost in his goal pants!
Plus the only gas in the house is coming from the kids!


Day 5 Intake Journal

What did you eat today?

Berry Blast Shake
Yams & Tea
Banana Berry Shake
Garlic Lentil Soup
Guacamole with carrots & celery
Curried Mushrooms (Onion, mushrooms, onions) brown rice
Blue Berry BlackBerry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?

Tired? Cold is finally taking hold and I have not been getting enough sleep, the extra energy made me think I could sleep less...bad idea

Did you experience any physical effects?

Runny nose has turned into cold & laryngitis. Taking Congeplex to help body recover. (Spoke with Dr. Wilging for protocol) Gargled with salt water.

Exercise:
No.

On to day 6!

Live well!
Kym

SP Purification Program Day 4: Did She Just Say POOP?

POOP, BM, Waste

Call it whatever you like, but this blog post is about a purification process...and while the subject of POOP may not interest you? It is a key part of removing toxins from the body.

During the process you can expect 1-3 bowel movements each day. If not, it is a good indication that you are not drinking enough water.

Just like a new parent that counts BM's and wet diapers to gauge infant health, we can do the same.

I will NOT share my personal details in this area other than to say things are working. Not overworking...if you are concerned about that. In fact it is a more pleasant experience since we discovered Gastro-Fiber. My husband works in "Cubicle Land" where bathroom restrictions controlled and he has not had any issues. (Again, I say blessings for working from home.)

Is Your Urine Clear? You can't talk about 2 without talking about 1

It should be. Dark colored urine is another indication of dehydration. And obviously if you are increasing your water intake...your "output" will also increase.

Keeping the plumbing flowing is key to whole body health.

CongePlex Is My Friend

My "sinus thing" turned out to be a cold. I contacted by local doctor (Thank you - Scot Wilging) for guidance and I have started taking a SP supplement called Congeplex to help my body battle the cold. I do not need to stop the program.

Interestingly enough, I do not have the aches and pains I usually get with the cold and I am not exhausted. My nose is running, my lips are chapped and as of this post I am losing my voice but I don't hurt? I'll keep an eye open for any changes.

New Jewelry: A Purification Benefit?

I saw my husband’s wedding ring on the bathroom counter and returned it to him assuming he forgot it when he washed his hands.

"It's too big. It slips off my hand and I flung it in the sink last time I washed my hands," My husband told me.

YEAH!!!! Another sign the plan is working. I will gladly resize or replace this ring at the end of these 21 days. Have I mentioned how proud I am of my husband for doing this! My health has little meaning if my partner is not around...

PS Honey, my ring is spinning too!

DAY 4 - Daily Intake Journal

What did you eat today?

Banana Berry Shake (been cutting back on the amount of fruit)
Lightly sautéed sweet potatoes, salad with Balsamic Vinegar & Oil Dressing, carrots & radishes
Banana Berry Shake
Garlic Lentil Soup
Banana Berry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?

Very positive! (Even with a cold) We are enjoying the new meals; I am learning new ways to cook. (My daughter enjoyed the soup and no complaints from my husband.) I did NOT eat enough vegetables today...need to visit the market. (Note to self: buy a lot more vegetables next week.)

Did you experience any physical effects?

Runny Nose, Dry Lips, Laryngitis and I think my skin is starting to clear up!!!

Exercise:

My nose is running...Can that count?

Making Adjustments

I am finding some of my tendencies are to miss breakfast , since the shake fill me up, but I have to work on having more food handy.

I am a social media specialist and virtual assistant so I do not move once I sit down to do client work. This process is not just changing my eating habits but is making me aware of poor work habits (no moving) and relational habits (eating as a family event).

I am also thinking about increasing my shakes. I drink 3 a day, but my husband uses the 5 and has seen more removal results (sorry if you thought we were done with the poop conversation).

One Final Uncomfortable Conversation

Men, you may want to leave this post now. (Hint: Topic is Menstruation.)

Ladies,

One item I didn't even think to plan, when we decided to do this cleanse, was avoiding my period...I am glad I didn't. It has been the least amount discomfort I have had. After my third child my PMS had increased greatly.

Matter of fact...it almost "snuck" up on me this week. No back pains, no headaches, no emotional chaos and no bloating.

Enjoy your day and Be Well!

Kym

SP Purification Program Day 3

Just the Facts Ma'am

For those here for the Cliff notes:

• The Scale is a Tool NOT An Enemy
• Heating Temperatures are IMPORTANT to preserving nutrients
• SPAGHETTI SQUASH IS GREAT!
• Cramming Water is BAD
• I Broke My Diet
  

The Scale is a Tool NOT An Enemy

So, last we spoke I was purchasing a scale. An item I specifically have not had in my home ever! I had one growing up, and since I was "waistline challenged" it was NOT my friend. I am not sure if this purchase will stay in the house after the purification, but for now it will help us track our progress. (Note: Our goal is health, any weight-loss is strictly "organic icing on the organic cake")

The Magic number for today is 172.4 - Yes ladies, I just admitted out loud my weight.

By the way, I also bought a tape measure so let's be brutally honest:

Waist: 32 1/2"
Hips: 41"
Thigh: 24 1/4"

Heating Temperatures are IMPORTANT to Preserving Nutrients

We were more careful today to use low temperatures when sauteing or baking food. It takes longer BUT preserves the quality of the food.

We are trying to buy mostly organic food, but with cost and limited availability we need to get as much out of what we use.

SPAGHETTI SQUASH IS GREAT!

Another tool I am using are daily emails. This is a fairly new tool. It sends you updates of how you may be feeling, what to expect, tools, tips and recipes.

I have only been cooking organically for a few months now and need assistance in creating yummy food in order to keep my husband from bailing! I had never seen this vegetable and was pleasantly surprised at the unique texture and ability of this vegetable to take on the flavor of the spices. We tried it with savory flavors (Garlic, Oregano, Parsley and sweet (cinnamon & nutmeg), YUM!

Cramming Water is BAD

I was not as diligent with my water today. I started noticing dry mouth and lips and in an effort to "make up" for not drinking enough I downed (2) 10oz bottles after my evening shake...UGH!!!

You can not "make up" for missed water, just know better tomorrow! My gut was full, a feeling I not fond of to begin with, and I wasn't sure I was going to get to keep my last shake...

The feeling reminded me of what the blender does when I am making my shakes and I don't add enough liquid...just as soon as you do all the glop on the top flops to the bottom! OK lesson learned.

PS A friend of my did this and said the hard part for her was drinking the thick shakes. I verified with a rep and it is ok to add water to make it thinner.

I Broke My Diet

I must confess that we broke our diet for communion, I think the bread pinch and grape juice drizzle is outweighed by its benefits.

Below is the Day 3 Intake Journal Entry for those interested.

Looking forward to Day 4!

Be Well,
Kym


DAY 3

What did you eat today?

Citrus Blend Shake
Small Sweet Potato with Cinnamon & Nutmeg
Lightly Sauteed Zuccinni & onions with lemon, raw radishes
Banana Berry Shake
Spaghetti Squash with savory & sweet toppings
Banana Berry Shake
Green Tea
Water

How are you feeling?

I feel very confident. My husband's support has made a world of difference. My emotions are well maintained and I think I actually experiencing more JOY!

Did you experience any physical effects?

What I thought was sinus is turning into a cold. Checking with Doc in the morning for treatment during purification. No fever, just runny nose and dry mouth

Exercise:

None. Unless chasing after a 5 year old all day counts.