tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54407458906829287902024-03-05T13:32:22.514-08:00Lauren Neumann My Mom thinks I'm funny: Healthy Living from a Nutritionist and soon-to-be MomLauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-11577487122662107772022-11-08T11:12:00.008-08:002022-11-08T11:19:40.321-08:00Getting Over The Flu<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlwFX5XzYlFHYYk4wtJ9V0NxtcxC9EKlGf1ykfyI2EyHiu7LO9wqhfTqyuuzu_FJgfyBqdm-8NF2N9UjQAfWnyylVMXVaazDOFYhHu7BcZi_dWYPJWVFvmMBECLomv6tYU50PLi6tnxbMaYWcSt-sLbXPD_rBXYNb_3CXNMZtQg4iH4WDUSIBTDjf/s1296/IMG_0731.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1296" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlwFX5XzYlFHYYk4wtJ9V0NxtcxC9EKlGf1ykfyI2EyHiu7LO9wqhfTqyuuzu_FJgfyBqdm-8NF2N9UjQAfWnyylVMXVaazDOFYhHu7BcZi_dWYPJWVFvmMBECLomv6tYU50PLi6tnxbMaYWcSt-sLbXPD_rBXYNb_3CXNMZtQg4iH4WDUSIBTDjf/w400-h299/IMG_0731.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span> </span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span> </span>10 days ago (yes, TEN) I came down with a stomach flu and am
only just starting to get better. This flue was miserable, Vomiting
relentlessly, traveling to urgent care, twice, and nearly making my way into
the ER for an IV. I was deeply dehydrated, cursed with a painful headache (the
kind that feels like your brain is floating in water) and couldn’t take anything
to aide the pain, since I was far too nauseated to eat anything.</p><p class="MsoNormal">*shudder*
Just writing about it is making me feel symptomatic. So, like I said, it was
miserable.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>10 days
later, I am no longer nauseous and my head isn’t hurting. I even made it into
work today, and I was simply THRILLED to talk to my office girlfriend and a
number of our favorite clients. It felt so damn good to talk, to laugh, and to
see the world around me! On the drive home tonight, I kept getting distracted by
the beautiful trees on the side of the freeway. *sigh* aren’t trees beautiful?
Suffice it to say, I had a really great day. Everything felt so good. What I
saw, touched, heard, and more, everything was just so sparkly today!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Home
now, I am noticing the exhaustion, a little sniffle in my nose and a teensy
scratch in my throat. Hopefully it won’t develop into anything, but it is a
clear indicator that my body is feeling it, and wondering why we didn’t just
sleep all day. I imagine that a night of solid rest, and another day or two of
“normal-ness” should be take me all the way back to normal. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">I have hardly moved in 10 days.
That’s certainly, not great. My blood stream and lymphatic system have both
suffered. The blood system, less so, as my body will pump blood whether or not
I physically move myself. The lymph system however, only moves, when you move.
The lymphatic system not only cleans up toxins, but also fuels our cells with
oxygen and nutrients. Pretty important stuff, and very important for our immune
system. This is why things like working up a sweat and generally, moving, is
highly recommended for immunity. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijt-fQ_af8hX08i67Hvo48pqMsF5b-ZJJwtkucx1550cVvyUUyzwi5-mlB4DhtSH4gY5evfYMtuvqo25gjYSAqSXfHwuplH_hSb8CZSgbLChezfpeWHRbeJa8oafhYwBAIXIGfgWoGAFn6-fBqrE09Hy8kqlrgRsGP8I9Fs3v-GNR1rNgTXdWICbWZ/s842/gym-5000169_960_720.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="842" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijt-fQ_af8hX08i67Hvo48pqMsF5b-ZJJwtkucx1550cVvyUUyzwi5-mlB4DhtSH4gY5evfYMtuvqo25gjYSAqSXfHwuplH_hSb8CZSgbLChezfpeWHRbeJa8oafhYwBAIXIGfgWoGAFn6-fBqrE09Hy8kqlrgRsGP8I9Fs3v-GNR1rNgTXdWICbWZ/w400-h343/gym-5000169_960_720.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And boy
am I feeling it. I can tell that I’m simply physically off, and that my body
isn’t moving or behaving quite right. While I know that I’m “better” I don’t feel
awesome, and the reality is that I’m simply taking time to recover from being
sick. When you’re a young kid and your lymph is all shiny and new, you get to
bounce back. But as you enter adulthood, and things aren’t as shiny as they
once were, you really have to stupor back to health. That said, I don’t like
feeling this way, and I’m ready to take it in my own hands to better this. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">I used to believe that colds and
flus are simply a part of life; just something you deal with each fall.
However, NOT THE CASE. One of the healthiest people I know, hasn’t had so much
as a cold in at least 12 years, and SHE HAS KIDS, which really just tells me
that she gets exposed regularly, but her immune system is so BALLER that she’s
not catching these bugs; or its just going in and out of her system with great
speed. So with that in mind, I have a goal: Build myself a shiny, powerful,
immune system. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For
years, I have felt like some after school special, reminding people that you
have an immune system to protect you. And better yet, your immunity is not
stagnant. It can get worse or better, depending on how we care for ourselves. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Below is a list of things I will be focusing on, while I
pursue this immune boosting mission:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->SWEAT, and sweat from cardio ~20-30 minutes, 3x a
week, and treat it like medicine that I cannot miss! The consistency is key.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->HYDRATE, I’m concerned that maybe I haven’t been
intaking those 8 glasses per day (a number which is somewhat arbitrary, but a
good rule of thumb) So that’s as simple as that<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->ZINC and VITAMIN C, I haven’t always been huge
on supplements, because I think it’s best to get vitamins from food, and while
that is “ideal” the reality is, that without a supplement I’m probably not
getting enough of either of those immune boosters. So, I’m sticking to those
vitamins. (I take other supplements, but maybe we can go through all that
another day!)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->SAUNA and/or MASSAGES Sauna and massage are both
GREAT for your lymphatic system, as I mentioned, caring for your lymph is
directly related to your immunity. So both of these are relaxing and luxurious
ways to boost your system. A regular massage and sauna routine can really do
wonders for your system, especially if you can find a masseuse who specializes
in lymphatic drainage. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->GREEN JUICE is such a great way to get in a
variety of fruits and vegetables, which provides you with a slew of vitamins
and minerals. While I’m not a huge fan or green smoothies (they can be a little
intense for my tummy), I do like green JUICE. It’s way sweeter and actually tastes
like a Juice versus a thick, green thing. Haha. If you prefer a smoothies, go
for it, you’ll get the same vitamins and minerals either way.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBKW04E9G2ZE3xxynJT2jxSOWHq6VLOTtCQUQYzPR3qx9ygF8xCdFjTfeaKu9iZPUFWlvfwDe75HSTGmIdDf0QYIhgC3QwTO3AM92tgOxaYjtUTvAF9K-GVLqwF8EOQBiBTeb_ZJGy_L5fEPpU3yZeAJhq37rBs3DrnDUBrvr67RFc-L-Cd9Jgp2j/s960/green-smoothie-2611410_960_720.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBKW04E9G2ZE3xxynJT2jxSOWHq6VLOTtCQUQYzPR3qx9ygF8xCdFjTfeaKu9iZPUFWlvfwDe75HSTGmIdDf0QYIhgC3QwTO3AM92tgOxaYjtUTvAF9K-GVLqwF8EOQBiBTeb_ZJGy_L5fEPpU3yZeAJhq37rBs3DrnDUBrvr67RFc-L-Cd9Jgp2j/w400-h225/green-smoothie-2611410_960_720.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span> </span>These five suggestions are certainly not all encompassing,
but they are pretty achievable, natural options, that will really help. Let me
know what you think! What is the easiest for you to implement? What is most
difficult, and why? <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>My favorite Green Juice Recipe<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">1 Bunch Spinach<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">3 Stalks Celery<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">½-1 small lemon (skin removed)<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">1 small fuji or granny smith apple<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Chop items as needed, depending on the mouth of your juicer,
and juice!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I love my juicer, this is the one I use:<b>
https://tinyurl.com/ywf29wa7</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEsKj9BBNTm0EfIXs1RgdGl8hzzTHcwUGl5lNs55rgpXjzvdqU37XdIq2ZHBYGMvhO_pJrE1YDUxcG5sf_1h--V5045wBGD9fx6hztpMqR0dPb0tg4wowmDWovluebEVTxJSyGkbHGsiXpC-NKrq_Vp1Iu990sMOQrd8mEEPgtdWdQSpP5WZyWrGk/s770/51VqqefyWmL._AC_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="770" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEsKj9BBNTm0EfIXs1RgdGl8hzzTHcwUGl5lNs55rgpXjzvdqU37XdIq2ZHBYGMvhO_pJrE1YDUxcG5sf_1h--V5045wBGD9fx6hztpMqR0dPb0tg4wowmDWovluebEVTxJSyGkbHGsiXpC-NKrq_Vp1Iu990sMOQrd8mEEPgtdWdQSpP5WZyWrGk/w400-h345/51VqqefyWmL._AC_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-76218931817194212242022-09-26T18:29:00.004-07:002022-09-26T18:29:54.382-07:00Preview of my new blog: DANGEROUS MOM aka "Dangerous Mom or a Fraud Already"<p><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 10pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span> <span> </span><span> </span></span>Today was littered with Mom
Panic. So much for being a dangerous Mom, for today anyway. Things started with
a phone call to the Canadian Insurance Advocate. We’ll call her Ginny. Ginny
was kind, prepared, and prompt. She asked if we had read through the paperwork
they had sent over in advance “No” I answered “We’re sort of behind on things”
I said, hating the words as they came out of my mouth. How could we already be
behind? We just needed to read an email for Chrissake.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“The plan we recommend, and
that plan that is most commonly selected, runs about $12,000…. For 60 days of
care.” <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Let’s pause here. In the ever-baffling
surrogate route that we have chosen, there are endless bits of To-Do’s that the
“traditional” parent doesn’t have to bother with. This is one of those
situations:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Because our Baby will be born in
Canada, we need to find a way to medically insure him, once born. And because
(as you may or may not know) your regular ol’ insurance from the states does
NOT apply to you or your infant child, outside of the states (aside from some
unique and expensive caveats for things like visiting the ER or urgent care
centers). So, while we will be purchasing some of that regular ‘ol insurance,
we additionally need to purchase a special insurance that will cover our boy, for
the first days/weeks of his life. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">AND, because we know we will
spend around a month in Canada, after he is born (this is because we have to
wait for his Canadian passport to arrive, so that we may all be allowed to exit
the country). This means, that 60 day coverage, will generously cover all the days
we plan to spend in Canada. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">So if you just did the math, our
friend Ginny is trying to charge us $12,000 for around one month of care (oh,
PS this insurance is only good in Canada, so once you leave, you’re off the plan).
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">So here I am, a “dangerous” Mom
being told things like “well, if your baby ends up in the ICU it’s a minimum of
$5,000 per day” and “you never know what could happen” and my mind is spinning.
She’s right! How could we possibly skimp on the insurance? This is our son’s LIFE,
my mind shrieks with nails on a chalkboard. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We thank Ginny for her time and
hang up. It was a three way call, and Eric stays on the phone “So, what do you
want to do?” I ask Eric “Plan 4 of course, Plan 1 is ridiculous.” Plan 4 is
only $3,000 less, not to say that I don’t want to save the money but like
*insert nails on a chalkboard* ITS OUR SON’S LIFE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We talk a bit more, and while
Eric is making so much sense, it’s too overwhelming for me to decide in that
momen. We decide to discuss it this evening.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I spend the rest of the morning
panic-shopping for baby items. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">TO: <a href="mailto:ERIC@gmail.com">ERIC@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">FROM: <a href="mailto:LAUREN@gmail.com">LAUREN@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">What do you think about this
dresser with changing table? Price is much better than the last one </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ascii-font-family: Garamond; mso-char-type: symbol-ext; mso-hansi-font-family: Garamond; mso-symbol-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">😊</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ascii-font-family: Garamond; mso-char-type: symbol-ext; mso-hansi-font-family: Garamond; mso-symbol-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">😊</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ascii-font-family: Garamond; mso-char-type: symbol-ext; mso-hansi-font-family: Garamond; mso-symbol-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">😊</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Want to buy now? Yes?<o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Next I
start looking for rockers, but realize you have to at least sit in them. And I
wonder if I should spend the rest of the day, at buy buy baby. Maybe just play
hookey and use the day to do the most important things for our baby. OF COURSE.
<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Instead of
heading to the store, I work up a string of panic texts, and send them to
Katelyn:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="background: aqua; mso-highlight: aqua;">I’m having baby panic.</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="background: aqua; mso-highlight: aqua;">I don’t think we should fly with the
baby</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="background: aqua; mso-highlight: aqua;">Since he won’t be vaccinated</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="background: aqua; mso-highlight: aqua;">And when does he even get vaccinated?
In Canada or US?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="background: aqua; mso-highlight: aqua;">AND WHO IS HIS DOCTOR?</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And just
like that, I’m onto the next panic. Searching for pediatricians within my
network. They’re all terrifying, of course, and I’m convinced our values don’t align.
Also, Male or Female? I’d prefer a woman of course, but we are having a boy
after all, so maybe he’d like a man? <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I’m
hungry now. It’s been hours of this nonsense. I go to the fridge and take out
last night’s pad thai. I sit at the dining table, in silence. Eating cold
noodles from a plastic container. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Garamond",serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And I ask:
Am I a dangerous Mom? Or just a helicopter mom in sheep’s clothing? But most of
all…… WHO IS HIS PEDIATRICIAN? HOW WILL WE GET HIM HOME FROM CANADA? WHICH INSURANCE
IS RIGHT? DID ERIC ORDER THAT DRESSER I WANT?<o:p></o:p></span></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-33187468847100146932022-02-28T12:05:00.000-08:002022-02-28T12:05:25.316-08:00Meal Swaps for increased Veggie Intake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgv7Q9PnMjSagJHhVQX24schWshGxu5U84vbW8wtk-Umh8I8-14weJ9Ml9Pj-zrZ9svHCnVNTi4ILoIlruDpjdIe7EiQdtEMSLXqjY8XabPPo0SQnkCFRl1EFIweaHfL8R7PQj1Iub7k_Fa2vhkHYwpPg4pggOa3FAvV-B-zVc7RPH7RaEpw5VfB58M=s1080" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgv7Q9PnMjSagJHhVQX24schWshGxu5U84vbW8wtk-Umh8I8-14weJ9Ml9Pj-zrZ9svHCnVNTi4ILoIlruDpjdIe7EiQdtEMSLXqjY8XabPPo0SQnkCFRl1EFIweaHfL8R7PQj1Iub7k_Fa2vhkHYwpPg4pggOa3FAvV-B-zVc7RPH7RaEpw5VfB58M=w391-h391" width="391" /></a></div><p>I'm always on the lookout for ways to sneak more vegetables and fruits into my diet. Yep, just like a kiddo, I sometimes have to trick myself. And for me, the easiest meal to do so, is lunch. </p><p>I'm a big breakfast girl and dinner is something I look forward to all day (is that normal? I digress.) So lunch is my main girl, when it comes to sneaking in a boatload of nutrition. Not that I don't try to have fruits and/or veggies at all my meals, just that Lunch is the biggest boost. For you, dinner or breakfast may be the easiest. You have to test it out on yourself to find out. </p><p><b>So how do I do it? I have three easy go-to's when I'm ready for lunch:</b></p><p>1. Salads (of course)</p><p>2. Soups (homemade, veggie heavy soups)</p><p>3. Smoothies (these make a great lunch, especially when you're busy/on the go)</p><p>If you know you're going to have one of these three for every lunch, it makes decision making so much easier:<br /></p><p>A. You aren't restricted to one option. You have choices still. (I hate feeling like all I can eat is salad! But sometimes, I do enjoy choosing a salad.... the freedom makes a difference, I promise). </p><p>B. If you are in a less than ideal situation (let's say you're at a work lunch or your team is ordering take out) you know exactly what you have to choose from, so you don't have to sweat the whole menu.</p><p>C. Each option comes with a wide range of flavors and styles. So again, you have plenty of freedom to grow your repertoire. </p><p>D. Even if you aren't eating the MOST IDEAL option at each and every lunch (Let's say you have a ceasar salad with dressing, croutons, cheese, the whole shabang) you know you are still taking in a heap of veggies, no matter how you split it! And it will even out naturally, so long as you are brining in variety to your lunches (Ok, so if you have a giant caesar salad every day, without variety, that could become problematic.. but if you only do it here and there, it's not something worth worrying about). <br /></p><p>Below are some of my personal favorites from the smoothie, soup, and salad variety...Enjoy!</p><p><b><a href="https://mysolluna.com/2012/01/23/dharmas-kale-salad-recipe/">Dharma Kale Salad by Kimberly Snyder </a></b>- This is great because it uses kale, which is a "tougher" lettuce, so it will keep in the fridge, after being dressed, for a few days. Add a bit of protein on top (ideas: cooked chicken, canned tuna, hard boiled egg or two, nuts/seeds, etc) and you've got a full meal!</p><p><a href="https://laurenanntaylor.blogspot.com/2022/02/recipe-comforting-veggie-stew.html"><b>Comforting Veggie Soup by Yours Truly </b></a>- Loaded with Veggies and flavor. This simple recipe packs a healthy punch of flavor that will surprise you. Sometimes, if I'm extra hungry, I like to slice up an organic chicken sausage, heat it in the microwave for a minute, and toss it into my soup. However, this veggie soup is hearty enough to stand alone.</p><p><b><a href="http://laurenanntaylor.blogspot.com/2020/04/my-perfect-go-to-smoothie.html">"Perfect" Pineapple Smoothie by Yours Truly</a></b> - If you haven't had a smoothie with pineapple before, you're missing out! Give this one a go, it can convince even the smoothie-non-believers (like my Dad, who admitted that this one is delicious!)</p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good </strike>great Health,</p><p style="text-align: center;">xx Lauren</p><p><br /></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-71453526900209375882022-02-28T11:49:00.003-08:002022-02-28T11:49:19.671-08:00Recipe: Comforting Veggie Stew<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCny7h6zc_L7CqdVLqcSoagTJuBC1ZaO7J_UFwW3gTTGnUWOesv-DHqMXS52pGwpOLmnUjGDtMea1LVCOa51HPeKfE6wGjJGdqSrJl5xZfet28Q5rpOaCKUU4vknzKY-MgK1B1ZwzLaOJubIEYti4Be-S-3n9ybtteLpDnB1ebYER9IeVPJ-52Va4S=s1011" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1011" data-original-width="768" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCny7h6zc_L7CqdVLqcSoagTJuBC1ZaO7J_UFwW3gTTGnUWOesv-DHqMXS52pGwpOLmnUjGDtMea1LVCOa51HPeKfE6wGjJGdqSrJl5xZfet28Q5rpOaCKUU4vknzKY-MgK1B1ZwzLaOJubIEYti4Be-S-3n9ybtteLpDnB1ebYER9IeVPJ-52Va4S=w318-h419" width="318" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Ingredients:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 Tablespoon olive or coconut oil</li><li>1 Medium White Onion, diced</li><li>3 Medium Carrots, diced</li><li>5 Small Potatoes, chopped</li><li>3 Medium Celery Stalks, sliced finely</li><li>3 Garlic Cloves, minced</li><li>1 teaspoon dried thyme</li><li>1 teaspoon dried rosemary</li><li>1 teaspoon dried oregano</li><li>1.5 teaspoons sea salt</li><li>1/2 teaspoon black pepper</li><li>1/3 teaspoon nutmeg</li><li>1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika</li><li>1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes</li><li>3-4 1/2 Cups Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth to make it Vegan)</li><li>2 1/3 Cups Frozen Peas</li><li>1/2 Cup coconut Milk</li><li>2 Tablespoons Cornstarch</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Directions: </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Heat oil over medium heat in a large stock pot, add the onion and saute for 2-4 minutes, stirring frequently.</li><li>Add Carrots, potatoes, celery, garlic, and all herbs and spices. Saute for another minute and then add 3-4 cups broth (depending on how "soupy" you like it.</li><li>Bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, then add frozen peas and cook for 15 more minutes, or until veggies and peas are softened.</li><li>In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with coconut milk and whisk together.</li><li>Pour milk mixture into the stew, add 1/2 cup broth and let simmer for 3-4 minutes.</li><li>Taste and adjust seasonings. Add S+P to taste. You can blend half of the soup in a blender to make it creamier (or use immersion blender to the amount of blending that you like!)</li></ol></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-88195483521689687572021-11-28T12:16:00.010-08:002021-11-28T12:31:29.783-08:00PRINTABLE: Diagram for a Balanced Meal<p> Download the below image for a B/W 8.5x11" printable version of the Balanced Meal Diagram.</p><p>Tape this sucker to your fridge for a healthy reminder at every meal!</p><p> If you prefer to print in color, head over to the <a href="https://laurenanntaylor.blogspot.com/2021/11/diagram-for-balanced-meal.html">original post.</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibpOFTzl0872Oz544Ed4-BBDHWzruOFNvzbwJU-6s0fKLP0TVy3KXYiWmZEg3yPqADMdK7ILPpA9Gj1u8e812nZ3r6J5O9FyM8CFvu8SK_uPneiSkZdfQickGgKQ1eMghHUf9H3MRjuC4/s2000/Printable+Balanced+Meal+%25288.5+x+11+in%2529.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1545" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibpOFTzl0872Oz544Ed4-BBDHWzruOFNvzbwJU-6s0fKLP0TVy3KXYiWmZEg3yPqADMdK7ILPpA9Gj1u8e812nZ3r6J5O9FyM8CFvu8SK_uPneiSkZdfQickGgKQ1eMghHUf9H3MRjuC4/s16000/Printable+Balanced+Meal+%25288.5+x+11+in%2529.png" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;">Xx, Lauren</p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-21350285749446208342021-11-28T09:23:00.003-08:002021-11-28T12:31:56.236-08:00Diagram For a Balanced Meal<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EWWOsp9JhOalpDuaA-rwmOmmr4qskxO1DnvCKrLA5Yo05Tuao0aP0S3u4PAuWOb4Nv3hRwPZv6LK9OYG-yaw02jZU9e2mrKjAf0eIjCUfD6gtsUXx4JAvoJBrMkAYgU3izqdZcU3gtY/s1080/Balanced+Meal.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EWWOsp9JhOalpDuaA-rwmOmmr4qskxO1DnvCKrLA5Yo05Tuao0aP0S3u4PAuWOb4Nv3hRwPZv6LK9OYG-yaw02jZU9e2mrKjAf0eIjCUfD6gtsUXx4JAvoJBrMkAYgU3izqdZcU3gtY/w466-h466/Balanced+Meal.png" width="466" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">Follow this formula to thrive at each meal.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">1/2 Plate: Non-Starchy Vegetables - These are your veggies, like leafy greens, cucumbers, bell pepper, celery, carrots, you name it. If you'd put it on a salad, raw, it's probably a non-starchy vegetable.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">1/4 Plate: Starchy Vegetables - Think Sweet Potatoes, beets, Squash, and more.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">1/4 Plate: Protein - I recommend Humanely Raised and Organic animal products like poultry, eggs, fish, or red meat. There are many vegan options for proteins as well, things like lentils and beans, but you need to be careful with these options, since they are actually half protein and half starchy carb, so you have to figure out the proper balance for your plate between the two macronutrients. For Example, a Vegan plate could look like 1/2 plate: beans over quinoa and 1/2 plate: Big Green Salad/Non-Starchy Vegetables.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">1-2 Tablespoons Fats: Fats get such a bad rap because we've been taught for years that if we eat fat, we get fat! But it couldn't be further from the truth. Fats are absolutely key to a balanced meal, as fats are what keep us fuller, longer. They keep us satisfied until our next meal and keep us from unnecessary snacking in between. Of course, I recommend good fats (think Olive Oil, Organic Butter, Coconut Oil, and more) not bad fats (think trans fats, the things fried foods are made from, canola oils, and so on). Bad fats operate differently than good fats. Bad fats age us, and do not satisfy us the way good fats do. So yes, you should still avoid those bad fats! But make the good fats your friend (because they are!)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">A balanced plate like this, at each meal, will keep you satisfied longer, will load you up with nutrients, and will also balance your blood sugar levels. Which, BTW, blood sugar regulation is important for all of us, not just diabetics. Proper blood sugar regulation keeps us steady, emotionally, physically, and mentally. Because proper blood sugar regulation, regulates our hormones. Steady hormones = happy healthy body. Out of sync hormones = Mood Swings, Cravings, and more physical chaos.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">Questions? DM me @_laurenneumann</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;">Xx, Lauren</span></div><br /> <p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-82567718241582960062021-11-28T09:19:00.003-08:002021-11-28T12:32:10.076-08:00Favorite Chopped Salad<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nn37MqgRKJaGXWcdciVJCXiGsJ4sYxz5dkiY0wV6bz5aZ7d9prcebT3gVKb8hfK3ciOfuFqsdU5_xkV7nqBZ5y3PzPcbcTulg-9s2iq02rVx_yFTTInZJhP9uI2h9kIG8sDrPJ3JGF4/s1512/2222233333.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nn37MqgRKJaGXWcdciVJCXiGsJ4sYxz5dkiY0wV6bz5aZ7d9prcebT3gVKb8hfK3ciOfuFqsdU5_xkV7nqBZ5y3PzPcbcTulg-9s2iq02rVx_yFTTInZJhP9uI2h9kIG8sDrPJ3JGF4/w400-h400/2222233333.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;">I'm a huge fan of chopped salads, for a few reasons:</span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. They stay crisp for days, and the flavor gets richer day after day.</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">2. If I'm honest... I don't really like leafy greens! As a nutritionist, I feel like an imposter for saying that... but, I can't lie to myself. So chopped salads are a great way to get in a wide variety of vegetables/nutrients and easily replace those leafy greens. Cabbage especially is a fabulous substitute, Cabbage is an exceptionally healthy food. It has an outstanding nutrient profile and is especially high in vitamins C and K.</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">3. Chopped Salads are an easy addition to your Sunday batch cooking (which for me anyway, is key to my diet! If I don't prep foods on Sunday, my diet takes a significant dive during the week.</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">Below is my go-to Chopped Salad Recipe:</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Ingredients:</b></div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">3-4 Celery Stalks, Diced</div></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">1 Cucumber, Diced</div></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">1 Bell Pepper (Red, Yellow, or Orange), Diced</div></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 Red Cabbage, Diced</div></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 Cup Organic Italian Salad Dressing</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Directions:</b></div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">Place Vegetables in a Large Mixing Bowl. Pour Dressing Over and toss.</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">Enjoy!</div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small; text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">Lasts 3-5 days in the fridge.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Xx, Lauren</div></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-90468706376784036952021-03-25T10:34:00.003-07:002021-03-25T10:40:00.679-07:00Day 35: IVF, Tomorrow We Harvest<p> As with most of my blogging endeavours, I had intended to post more often, but alas, here we are 20 days since my last post. It's crazy I haven't updated in so long, since it feels like everything has happened, and also nothing has happened. </p><p>Here's a summary of what you missed:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>5 Ultrasounds</li><li>Endless blood draws</li><li>Constant bloating, thanks to my (now) GIANT OVARIES filled with eggs and fluid</li><li>Painful, yet relieving, Gas</li><li>AND Painful trips to the bathroom, all thanks to the aforementioned, giant ovaries</li><li>Intense sugar cravings</li><li>Hormonal Cry-Fests</li><li>Emergency trips to McDonalds for McFlurry's</li><li>Regretting, for 3 days, the size of McFlurry I ordered, as it was not large enough to satisfy me, and the 32 monster-follicles inside me</li><li>Snapping at Eric for "looking at me"</li><li>A desperate need to sleep, paired with massive insomnia</li><li>Yelling "Potato!" every time Eric injected me. Apparently, it's my safe word. </li><li>Yellow and Purple bruising all over my tummy (the needles don't hurt to much, but the liquid burns like a knife)</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0nl18p6ewTu8nYPV1nL2yA1tJRYk6SAfFhr81qnP5tki9Bbh5RePqUiN1EluKlQ_TuPxnZ187Bhjuxj6tG2EmxkXalyUe4M819gd8OP2Cj2gCqkFPyLYiLmw4ICqg6tIgQWcpMKPWNo/s2048/IMG_5537+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0nl18p6ewTu8nYPV1nL2yA1tJRYk6SAfFhr81qnP5tki9Bbh5RePqUiN1EluKlQ_TuPxnZ187Bhjuxj6tG2EmxkXalyUe4M819gd8OP2Cj2gCqkFPyLYiLmw4ICqg6tIgQWcpMKPWNo/w462-h346/IMG_5537+%25281%2529.jpg" width="462" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tum Tum, Day 32</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I can't stop thinking "Why didn't I know any of this?" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The clinic we went through has been an absolute waste with regard to patient care. I won't get into it too much as I don't want to get all worked up and upset, again. But man, I've never felt so much that I was part of a churn-and-burn business. Every time I walk in there, it's abundantly clear that I'm just a number, and my feelings are not even on the bottom of their list. Not what I had hoped for, but alas, we will soon have frozen embryos and will ultimately receive, precisely what we came for. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Beyond the clinic, I keep wondering why women don't share their experiences, more. Yes, a lot of it is kind of gross, but like... nothing I wouldn't say out loud to a group of women anywhere, anytime. It's like when I turned 30 and a bunch of facial hair showed up over night. I was so offended that no one told me this was coming. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I keep thinking about Amy Schumer's Pregnancy documentary. There's a part where she expresses how offended she is, that no one told her the truth about pregnancy. When I first watched it, I thought "she's going through a lot, she's extra emotional." But now her words echo like gospel in my mind. She's SO RIGHT. I mean, if this is what it's like to simply carry eggs, what in God's Name is pregnancy like? I mean, the weight of these eggs and surrounding fluid, alone, are causing so much ligament pain around and in my pelvic floor, that all I could do last night was crawl around on all fours, and sit on a heat pad, in hopes of farting enough so that I could make enough room to BREATHE again. I'm constantly catching myself taking these huge breaths because I'm just not getting enough oxygen, the eggs are taking up too much real estate! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So then, what on earth does a 9 month baby do to you? let alone 8 months, 7 months, and so on....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm not trying to get any sympathy from pregnant women. Let's be clear about that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm only trying to understand why none of you are screaming from the hilltops?? I mean, if I knew that the reason I was in pain, was due to an actual, living baby inside of me, I <u>may</u> stop complaining so much. Like, how GD cool would it be to have my baby, inside me?! and yet, the pain it <u>must </u>ensue....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My Mom gave birth to me without any drugs. She's a GD warrior. She went to war for me, and poor thing... I still came out a mess...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Kidding! I love you Mom, and I'm the most special Angel in the whole world, I know I know.... tell it to my ex-boyfriends. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Speaking of Angels: Eric. He is my sweet sweet man Angel. He's been cooking, cleaning, and generally looking the other way whenever my mood flares. He's a dream. And he had those shots down pat. Kind of lucked out having a Doctor partner who like, actually knows how to give a shot. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If the tables had been turned, it would have been me, screaming, and stabbing him all over....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMSjSTy_a2yMzngeZi4CJlBPQ9reBF8-TAwxB58TNAlYpqa8QYhba7lj-jwNgJPGJdtUYLtNWW5pEXcGHYAVqKyqgSNVNJICC6EJbiTkt0ou0IQH8DOXWCDILf8bjEyYYhRoyEF9tJNY/s2048/IMG_5500.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMSjSTy_a2yMzngeZi4CJlBPQ9reBF8-TAwxB58TNAlYpqa8QYhba7lj-jwNgJPGJdtUYLtNWW5pEXcGHYAVqKyqgSNVNJICC6EJbiTkt0ou0IQH8DOXWCDILf8bjEyYYhRoyEF9tJNY/w326-h435/IMG_5500.jpg" width="326" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tomorrow morning cannot come soon enough. At 7:15am, we arrive at the fertility clinic and by 8am, they'll be knocking me out to perform the harvest. Eric will carry my lame-ass home where I look forward to taking only the best pain pills, and sleeping. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The truth of this whole thing is that I've felt awful for weeks. The hormonal pills made me irritable and a little depressed, and the weeks of injections that followed, have left me feeling exhausted, sick, and in pain all over. - However, if you are not someone that suffers from chronic pain, like me, you probably won't find yourself in so much pain. (That part feels unique to my situation.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I didn't work at all yesterday, and now I'm out for the rest of the week. Last week wasn't my most productive week, either. Doing anything, is difficult. The fact that I had the energy to write this today, was a very pleasant surprise. But if you reach out to me later today, I'll be passed out on the sofa while Grey's Anatomy Season 5 streams in the background.... I'm doing my best here, people. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you have questions about IVF or Surrogacy? Reach Out! It's confusing and difficult, and the resources that "should" be helpful, likely won't be. I'm here to support anyone who wants it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hang in there, friends.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Xx, Lauren + Her Eggs</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-9414318657022518742021-02-28T12:05:00.003-08:002021-02-28T12:11:48.697-08:00Days 7-12: IVF "I feel like killing people today"<p> The past week has been nothing short of a roller coaster. Tears one day, Joy the next, Irritability in between, it's all over the place. When I wake up in the morning, I have no clue how I'm going to feel. You could say that every day is like a box of chocolates....</p><p>Eric has been so patient. I know this isn't easy for him, but he is doing his best to listen to me, and I'm doing my best to let him know exactly where I'm at, emotionally. From one moment to the next, it can change, so I have removed all expectations of him "knowing" how I feel, and instead I am simply announcing it. </p><p>For example, yesterday (Saturday) I mostly lived on the sofa. At one point, upon making my way to the kitchen for some snacks, I saw Eric in our bedroom, watching YouTube videos on his phone (ostensibly hiding from me). I told him I felt crummy and he was all "oh, ok.."<i> to which I could sense his fear</i>, so I told him that I'd love to spend time with him on the sofa and that I "promise not to bite." "Oh, ok, got it." he said. Pleased with the clarification. </p><p>It's not ideal, but we are finding out way through the weeks. </p><p>More than anything, I've found myself easily irritated. Everything manages to annoy me. Mostly people. And it's nothing special, really, it's just that, if you cross my path, I'll probably develop a reason to find you irritating. </p><p>The other night I texted my Mom a quick update, as she's been checking in with me often:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCFdKF979y9OKxUQiJo1fv1bJj1DZrwD4rbew_n0HzWObDwSR_KB-rzVmuhBcjQ3PqwzENVTZF-LVZCz-tMIGP0Judm3cysfTdOMdWw8B5ikGcDQDntquIoYoNqhoRkRPUAok7waK8uE/s2048/IMG_5369.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1152" height="543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCFdKF979y9OKxUQiJo1fv1bJj1DZrwD4rbew_n0HzWObDwSR_KB-rzVmuhBcjQ3PqwzENVTZF-LVZCz-tMIGP0Judm3cysfTdOMdWw8B5ikGcDQDntquIoYoNqhoRkRPUAok7waK8uE/w305-h543/IMG_5369.PNG" width="305" /></a></div><p>She asked if I wanted to call her for support and I told her absolutely not. That I didn't want to subject her to my mood/murder-streak. She understood that text was her best bet. But after some back and forth, even texting grew annoying. All I could do was put on a movie and do my very best to not talk to or text with, anyone.</p><p>Good news is, I haven't actually killed anyone, or even harmed anyone (physically, anyway) so that feels like a win. On to the next day(s). Stay tuned.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Xx, Lauren</p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-45746467496299323422021-02-22T17:59:00.012-08:002021-02-23T12:39:09.666-08:00Day 6: IVF - I feel nauseous<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-XqXr4Gg_n3hc0Z6SZWGKFiBk2rksuzPqcRzMbKZTXDC2p92WbO7A_XSTMoE2q9MYmd_c3ZSVhOamIvKl228jnFhZ8Eni_77G-zJqOZ4hOTVJR4fO1szzbcNOGeD59aufWILNNc39qwQ/s1920/close-up-1853400_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-XqXr4Gg_n3hc0Z6SZWGKFiBk2rksuzPqcRzMbKZTXDC2p92WbO7A_XSTMoE2q9MYmd_c3ZSVhOamIvKl228jnFhZ8Eni_77G-zJqOZ4hOTVJR4fO1szzbcNOGeD59aufWILNNc39qwQ/w514-h342/close-up-1853400_1920.jpg" width="514" /></a></div><b>Nausea. </b><p></p><p>It's a side effect for practically any medication you can think of. Even if it's not listed on the bottle as a side effect, there's still a good chance that nausea could come your way. </p><p><b>As in my case.</b></p><p>I was so nauseous this morning that I spent much of it lying on my bathroom floor. A silver mixing bowl laid next to me, at the ready, should I need to vomit and poop at the same time... In the bowl's reflection I saw my miserable face, and thought "I'm sorry this is happening" as well as "you look like hell" and the classic, "You can't remember the last time you cleaned this floor, can you?" Nope, no I couldn't. </p><p>Eventually, when the waves of nausea subsided, I peeled myself off the floor and crawled into the shower. Once I had myself pulled together, I drove to work, and arrived something like 20 minutes late to a meeting I was supposed to run.... <br /><br /></p><p><u>Side Note</u>: It's always so awkward when stomach issues make you late. What was I supposed to say, <i>"Sorry I'm late, I had the poops!"?????</i></p><p>In this case, I opted for saying nothing, and thankfully, nobody asked. </p><p>On my drive to said meeting, I called my Dad, and when we were only a couple minutes into the call, I got short with him over something completely benign. To which he replied, "So... how are those hormones doing? <i>"Damnit"</i>, I thought "<i>he caught me."</i></p><p>"Oh, I don't know" I said "I mean, it's hard to tell if it's the hormones, or if I'm just generally a grumpy hag." </p><p>"Honey, you're taking a bunch of hormones, of course you feel like a grumpy hag." he kindly replied.</p><p>Ah, my Dad. He gets me.</p><p>I will say that in defense of the birth control I'm taking, I have also been testing a new (non-narcotic) medication for my back pain. So that, plus my usual roundup of pills, has me taking a lot more than usual; meaning, as far as the nausea is concerned, it's hard to say what exactly is causing it. Is it <i>this </i>or <i>that? </i>Or all of them together? Hard to say.</p><p>But that's where things are at. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm feeling quite nauseous again this evening, and need to go find a nice bathroom floor to lie on.</p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-56002058042687653852021-02-20T09:53:00.004-08:002021-02-23T12:30:41.854-08:00Day 3: IVFDay 3 was pretty normal until the evening when I was hit with a swarm of illogical feelings. Everything made me feel bummed out and the phrase, "this is only temporary" spun through head, at warp speed.<div><br /></div><div>By the time Eric and I got into bed, I unloaded an emotional performance of which, I found even myself wondering "What the hell am I talking about?" Because, as words came out, I realized how out of touch I was. It's amazing how, when emotions take over, something can make so much sense in your head, but the moment you give it life, it's just a big mess. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've always been extremely sensitive (mood-wise) to hormonal birth control, and that's what I'm on right now. I have to take it for three-weeks so that our fertility doctor will be able to pinpoint exactly when and where my eggs are at. Timing is paramount to the IVF process, and this series of birth control will direct us into the next step... *cringe* the daily injections (which begin next month).</div><div><br /></div><div>So there I was on Day 3, with hormones munching on my mind and shoving me into an emotional prison.</div><div><br /></div><div>Poor, poor Eric.... So many more days of this ahead....</div><div><br /></div><div>On the bright side today, day 4, is showing promise. Eric and I went to the gym this morning, and now I'm sitting here, sipping a giant cup of coffee, while Eric cooks us breakfast (eggs and turkey bacon). </div><div><br /></div><div><strike>Pray for me</strike>. Pray for Eric. Better yet, just mail him bottles of whiskey. He's gonna need it. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Xx, Lauren </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-78855123051586609282021-02-18T18:04:00.011-08:002021-02-28T12:19:04.890-08:00The IVF+Surrogacy Journey Begins<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkIE352FhyphenhyphenYbRxivldxcq5pyZ3Be494LGwG88VNrC9BnaYKwqy3mDKdagPn2Fwqay1hb8Dq5B3zobk6wAe4OVlPXatBcDhVn-MsfrK8PdgJFxmaw4uhtg63FwrPACszAwAsO-DSj12KQ/s2048/IMG_5315.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzkIE352FhyphenhyphenYbRxivldxcq5pyZ3Be494LGwG88VNrC9BnaYKwqy3mDKdagPn2Fwqay1hb8Dq5B3zobk6wAe4OVlPXatBcDhVn-MsfrK8PdgJFxmaw4uhtg63FwrPACszAwAsO-DSj12KQ/w592-h444/IMG_5315.jpg" width="592" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Yesterday, was day one of medications on the IVF journey.</p><p>Let me back up already, we are not going through IVF because we have fertility issues, we are going through IVF because this is the process required to have my eggs harvested and later, put in another woman, so that I don't have to physically carry them.</p><p>As much as I've talked about this process, it still sounds weird to type it up..."Put <i>my eggs?</i> in another... <i>woman?</i>".. There really is nothing natural or familiar, about what we are doing. But, it's the only way for us to have our own children, so here we go...</p><p>Backing up a bit further, I want to say that I am intimately aware of how sensitive and difficult the process of choosing to have children (or not) and the process of how you choose to do it (or not), is extremely personal. To anyone reading this who is on a different journey and/or making different choices than me, I have nothing but empathy and respect for you. Everything I'm here to say is only my story. My choices are not judgements against you, or anyone else. I also want to say that I am fully aware of the great privilege I have to be taking the surrogacy journey. And above all, I am positively overwhelmed with gratitude that at the end of this long, bumpy road, Eric and I will be meeting our (bloodline, DNA, and all) baby. </p><p>That being said, surrogacy comes with its own slew of difficulties, and I want to be honest about that. There's so much I did not know, going into this, and the internet (as well as Amazon Books) is fully lacking honest, first-hand stories of what this is like. That, paired with my overwhelm of feelings and utter need to journal, has led me here. I want to share my story because I know others will walk it. I want to share my story because it's not just this day, the day that the hormones began, that is the start of this journey. My story of wondering how I will have children, started 20 years ago when a major operation left me asking, for the very first time, "will I be able to carry?"</p><p>There's so much to my story, and I know the same is true for every single person who walks through the doors of a fertility clinic. This is not to say that intended parents who have kids naturally (or in any other way), do not have a story, they do, simply that those are different stories than the one I'm about to tell.</p><p>My struggle may be better than yours. <br />My struggle may be worse than yours.<br />This is just one story. <br />It's my Story... it's...our Story... because I am not walking this alone, Eric is right here with me.</p><p>Fertility is a business. Let's start there. It's not a charity, and it's far from the compassionate playground you might expect. It's only through my repeated calls and messages to the clinic, that the medical assistant finally got on the phone with us to explain what medications need to be taken, when, and how. Which, for the injections, all they sent us was the link to a <b>YouTube Video(!)</b>, from which we are expected to teach ourselves how.</p><p>Additionally, we have only met with our doctor twice. Once, when we were first considering their clinic, so that call was more of a sales pitch, and then a second call, to explain the risks of the egg removal procedure. A call during which, we tried asking additional questions and he said "no, no, that's not what this call is for. You'll need to connect with my medical assistant for those questions."</p><p>Ok, now I'm irritated. I think that's enough for today. Since I'm not able to have even a sip of wine during this process, I need to exit here and maybe bury myself in a bucket of ice cream or something right now.. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Xx, Lauren</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-77963867297513021522020-11-08T17:28:00.010-08:002021-02-23T12:38:23.977-08:00Sourcing High Quality Foods on a Budget: Why and How<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal">When eating for optimal health, it is important that we
source high quality, sustainable, and ideally local, food. In addition, the way
that we prepare these foods also impacts our nutrient absorption. Attention
must be paid to both sourcing and preparation. But why? And how? And
additionally, how can one do this, without breaking the bank? <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">See the answers to these questions, and more, below.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8A-fRsbGXlm13M16-NxtneSiAkUahOvHfS90Td3EYAjUY9YqavzKFZnn-R8fNquzh7IvgfqdtciKu8Re_KYd_pCkwS9ILrxn9IF5v0UujLDFFkS3CuKwx-F5OiOddbppMMJL_tJSkFlM/s1920/grapes-690230_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8A-fRsbGXlm13M16-NxtneSiAkUahOvHfS90Td3EYAjUY9YqavzKFZnn-R8fNquzh7IvgfqdtciKu8Re_KYd_pCkwS9ILrxn9IF5v0UujLDFFkS3CuKwx-F5OiOddbppMMJL_tJSkFlM/w488-h325/grapes-690230_1920.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Quality:<br /></b><br />
When Choosing Organic Vs. Conventional (aka foods that are not organic) there
are a variety of factors to consider. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Conventional plant foods are frequently sprayed with toxic
chemicals, including synthetic fertilizers, fungicides, pesticides, herbicides,
insecticides, which make the skin, dangerous to eat. In addition, the plant
food itself is grown without proper nutrients, thus making the food far less
nutrient dense than its organic counterpart. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Conventional Animal products are frequently malnourished
(being fed a diet that is not natural to their species, for example cows that
are fed corn instead of grass from a pasture), this makes their meat far less
nutrient dense than their organic counterpart, which was given a proper diet
full of vitamins and minerals. In addition, the poor diets (and horrific living
conditions) make the animals sick, so industrial farms pump their “product”
full of antibiotics to combat the inevitable disease, and additionally pump
these animals with hormones to make them grow fast, and big. Keep in mind that everything
the animal eats, you too will consume. So not only will you intake deficient
nutrients, but hormones and antibiotics, which are harmful to your system.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjig4PjMN2otE6g1YTd7em9EeX021BZjjvz1pbctjnJ4_xH9Z21AyIsAT3-W7ZppOfLLbh2YDu59DNLNb-WKeYbAY1bjN8xWhCmB_WwjeH_uLDtGX2NsIcQCBkmKTarwUkteBSiUcjfE5M/s1920/yorkshire-2900064_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1279" data-original-width="1920" height="415" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjig4PjMN2otE6g1YTd7em9EeX021BZjjvz1pbctjnJ4_xH9Z21AyIsAT3-W7ZppOfLLbh2YDu59DNLNb-WKeYbAY1bjN8xWhCmB_WwjeH_uLDtGX2NsIcQCBkmKTarwUkteBSiUcjfE5M/w623-h415/yorkshire-2900064_1920.jpg" width="623" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Sustainability: <br /></b><br />
When Choosing to purchase from an Industrial/Conventional Farm (their products
of which are what we most commonly find in supermarkets) vs. Local Farms there
are four key considerations:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 38.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]--><u>Protecting our Environment for future
generations</u>: Industrial farms pollute waterways, waste water, heavily
contribute to greenhouse gas production, and use carcinogenic synthetic
agricultural inputs. Choosing to purchase from local, sustainable farms, does
the opposite. They work to retain water, mitigate methane production, and use
only naturally derived agricultural inputs as a method of pest management.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 38.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]--><u>Providing Economic profit/fair wages for
farmers: </u>Industrial Farm workers are living in poverty and suffering
devastating health effects from the pesticides they are forced to use to
produce the demanded product. The greatest beneficiaries to industrial farms
are not the farmers, but “Multinational Agribusiness corporations, processed
food product manufacturers, and ultimately big pharma, all benefit from the
production of cheap, easy food.” (Nutritional Therapy Association {NTA} 2020)<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">1</span>. The beneficiaries are not interested
in a good product, as local sustainable farmers are, they are only interested
in big profits, and whatever it takes to achieve them.<u><o:p></o:p></u></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 38.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]--><u>Supporting Social and Economic Welfare</u>:
With the vast majority of profit going to big companies, we are no longer
supporting our communities. We are putting all our money in the hands of people
and corporations that have no interest in our health. This causes us to no
longer connect with our community, and the people who grow our food. We become
more and more isolated and distanced from the source of our meals. In addition,
this profit-focused model, is rapidly causing the removal of proper nutrients
from our food. Supporting farmers who care about their community, their
product, and the health of those around them, creates healthier, happier lives,
and stronger communities. <u><o:p></o:p></u></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 38.25pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]--><u>Supporting the Welfare of Animals and Livestock</u>:
The deeply inhumane treatment of animals and livestock is truly to difficult to
even put into words. Suffice it to say, animals and livestock, grown on industrial
farms, are trapped in cages, tortured, made sick, and ultimately slaughtered in
horrific ways. You don’t have to be Vegan to care about animals and livestock. Choosing
to instead consume animals and livestock that were raised in their natural environment,
outside on a pasture, where they could roam and live a full life, until it is
time for a truly humane end, is a huge difference from what industrial farms
have to offer. The reality is that you can love animals, and still eat meat.
You don’t have to choose one or the other, you simply have to choose to purchase
meat from farms with only the highest of standards for animal welfare.
Typically, these are local and sustainable farms. <u><o:p></o:p></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Properly Preparing Foods for Optimal Nutrient Density:<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are a variety of foods that increase in nutrient density,
when prepared in very specific ways. Below I address the two basic methods of
soaking and sprouting.</p></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawpIQJxwSf5mXuPazECRxnCDJ4R2qb0KV_IrjTQw62yC7m1LMhZg9nYRfPC8GTx48s8uJNYGBFHwps08Dgyr3UaVM88zGu5rMi4IbUNvdqV4IRCNQ1wcTeOyGCUWUd04_LYDac8tcglU/s1920/kidney-beans-390717_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1279" data-original-width="1920" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawpIQJxwSf5mXuPazECRxnCDJ4R2qb0KV_IrjTQw62yC7m1LMhZg9nYRfPC8GTx48s8uJNYGBFHwps08Dgyr3UaVM88zGu5rMi4IbUNvdqV4IRCNQ1wcTeOyGCUWUd04_LYDac8tcglU/w539-h359/kidney-beans-390717_1920.jpg" width="539" /></a></div><div><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Soaking: <o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u>Ideal For:</u> Whole Grains, Pulses (aka dry beans and
lentils), Nuts and Seeds<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u>Benefits:</u> Soaking Reduces the Phytate in these foods.
Phytate is an anti-nutrient that inhibits the absorption and many minerals. Reducing
the phytate through soaking, helps make minerals more bioavailable and may make
the foods easier to digest.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u>Note:</u> Soaking time will vary from one food to the
next, a quick google search will answer most basic questions on sprouting. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Sprouting:</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u>Ideal For:</u> Whole Grains, Pulses, and Nuts<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u>Benefits:</u> This is simply another way to reduce phytate
as well as lectins, in these foods. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u>How to Sprout, According to NTA (2020)</u><u><span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 107%;">2</span>:<o:p></o:p></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""YJNUVH+Calibri-Light",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: YJNUVH+Calibri-Light;">1. Soak the grains or pulses in cool
water for 8 to 12 hours, using 3-parts water to 1-part grain or pulse. Pour
them into a fine-mesh sieve, drain them and rinse them well. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""YJNUVH+Calibri-Light",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: YJNUVH+Calibri-Light;">2. Place them into a mason jar and
cover with a sprouting lid or piece of muslin secured with a rubber band.
Arrange the jar so it is tilted at a 45-degree angle inside a bowl or over a
sink so any excess water can drip out. Two to three times a day, rinse the
pulses or grains, dumping any water that collected in the bowl. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""YJNUVH+Calibri-Light",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: YJNUVH+Calibri-Light;">3. Within 2 to 5 days (depending on
the grain or pulse), you will begin to see tiny little sprouts form. They are
ready to use as soon as the tiny sprout barely emerges, allowing them to sprout
for longer can lead to subpar culinary results, particularly in baking.</span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>So How do I afford the best quality foods, on a budget?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">First things first, I want to say that our diets are all
about <u>progress, not perfection</u>. Even just a small change here or there
can have a huge impact on your health, and our planet. With that said, I’ve
listed below a few simple, and affordable ways, that you can begin making these
changes to your diet in an effort to consume better-quality (in every sense of
the word) foods.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHI4QNbxqddmIR63Epz-QSKWSLeG74hoTif5ZU1P4MdGpgeI8RWRoTAbQYvfD04-LGrLkgqex-aiixbwrbMijhBIRcZfT0HOsFVjoTFG4EYrw3bmdag8qGX5Rd397PljhdaOv6tPZZp6Y/s1920/beetroot-687251_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="411" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHI4QNbxqddmIR63Epz-QSKWSLeG74hoTif5ZU1P4MdGpgeI8RWRoTAbQYvfD04-LGrLkgqex-aiixbwrbMijhBIRcZfT0HOsFVjoTFG4EYrw3bmdag8qGX5Rd397PljhdaOv6tPZZp6Y/w617-h411/beetroot-687251_1920.jpg" width="617" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Purchase dry beans and lentils instead of
canned. Soak, Sprout, and cook them. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) –
This allows you to purchase seasonal, fresh fruits and vegetables, from a local
farm, in advance of harvest. Typically CSA’s have competitive pricing, and it
will have you eating seasonal, fresh foods, in a snap. Harvest Boxes are
shipped out or available for pick up every week or few (depending on the CSA). <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Shop for Organic Fruits and Vegetables based on
the “Dirty Dozen,” a guide that can be found at <a href="https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php"><b>EWG.org</b> </a>where they update
annually the “dirtiest” conventional foods, based on pesticide and chemical use. Do your best to always purchase
the dirty dozen, as organic, and you can feel better about purchasing
conventional fruits and veggies off the list. While they still won’t have the
same amount of nutrients as their organic counterpart, you at least know you aren’t
ingesting so many chemicals. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Eat less meat. I’m not saying you have to cut it out! But
I am saying, that if you increase your load of veggies, health fats, and
complex carbs in exchange for meat, you will save. Instead of an 8oz. steak,
try eating 4oz and save the rest for another day. Maybe you’ll surprise
yourself and it will work, maybe it won’t, but it’s sure worth a shot. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Shop your local farmer’s market. Surely this is
where you will find the best local foods. Shop around for the best price and get
to know the farmers/vendors. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle"><o:p> </o:p></p><p align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center;">Wishing
You <s>good</s> Great Health,<o:p></o:p></p><p align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center;"><o:p> </o:p></p><p align="center" class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: center;">Lauren<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>References</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="ssgja"><b>1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></b></span><!--[endif]--><span class="ssgja">Nutritional Therapy Association. (2020). Culinary Wellness,
Part 1 - Student Guide, p. 6 [PDF Document]. Retrieved From: https://nta.brightspace.com/d2l/le/content/10545/viewContent/115022/View
<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span class="ssgja"><b>2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></b></span><span class="ssgja">Nutritional Therapy Association. (2020). Culinary Wellness,
Part 1 - Student Guide, p. 126 [PDF Document]. Retrieved From: <a href="https://nta.brightspace.com/d2l/le/content/10545/viewContent/115022/View">https://nta.brightspace.com/d2l/le/content/10545/viewContent/115022/View</a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><b>3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></b><!--[endif]--><span class="ssgja">Environmental Working Group. (2020) Dirty
Dozen. Retrieved from: <a href="https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php">https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php</a>
</span><o:p></o:p></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-73444991339030869122020-10-01T09:05:00.010-07:002020-10-01T09:07:39.220-07:00The Modern Diet: How we got it so Screwed Up<p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">If the modern diet is so screwed up, then why do we do it? And how did we get here? There are 6 major milestones in human history that mark the very big steps we took in the decline of the standard diet. See what those milestones are (and what the heck happened) in the Images below. Understanding where we come from, can help us make educated decisions toward bettering ourselves. As much as these slides may make you feel that you have trapped you into eating the way that you do, please know that <b>all of us</b> possess the skills necessary to make choices and be mindful about our diets. I don't care who you are, <b>you have the power</b> to take control of your health and make healthier choices than you may have been taught. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBviMgcIDtDwdzVgF47E1l6rTxVu0lVRvBFKoBGb7QNlLIlteyzIIOVKYkP6qA6TEwyahb4VBry1DUXKSZ7_HG6UZQkmHWu-vVQeqnA67T6Hm0nD_Qs0EkkjFvd7girXo7_CnrP-bsN7Q/s1080/1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBviMgcIDtDwdzVgF47E1l6rTxVu0lVRvBFKoBGb7QNlLIlteyzIIOVKYkP6qA6TEwyahb4VBry1DUXKSZ7_HG6UZQkmHWu-vVQeqnA67T6Hm0nD_Qs0EkkjFvd7girXo7_CnrP-bsN7Q/w387-h387/1.png" width="387" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcdnphVf7bYBLo_43WGbS_hFDuCxx0H0q2c1RpLWLCE3rzU_Os7x1XR4O4StSs4SSJ5xlwLtoJFXMFqX5ewLSi_cZgaGBnHc1JaPK0WYRu2dVipsOLjKkKQeMtPEu7m7ve-MqVhXeCo0/s1080/2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUcdnphVf7bYBLo_43WGbS_hFDuCxx0H0q2c1RpLWLCE3rzU_Os7x1XR4O4StSs4SSJ5xlwLtoJFXMFqX5ewLSi_cZgaGBnHc1JaPK0WYRu2dVipsOLjKkKQeMtPEu7m7ve-MqVhXeCo0/w377-h377/2.png" width="377" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmYyfzy-xK4RVSm8MIoM0iH7QIRoPN9zmKi16OUYG9NV2rquamyc-Acxxx8MAOZ2M0R25AtrkIy-ZQG93sMblUQo6qAc7mY5o5MCr11a5gdRqNER58MIrdk8Ni1ktl2Si1FuapH-gzP0/s1080/3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwmYyfzy-xK4RVSm8MIoM0iH7QIRoPN9zmKi16OUYG9NV2rquamyc-Acxxx8MAOZ2M0R25AtrkIy-ZQG93sMblUQo6qAc7mY5o5MCr11a5gdRqNER58MIrdk8Ni1ktl2Si1FuapH-gzP0/w382-h382/3.png" width="382" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFg7P7_5YRnFiAJyCvYzcw9s5kSAuCPsSek1MCUFvdxsmnzY4-l-2Cruw5nzS6zq94n4PQGY8zuMZxf6uzruVZobrtyDE4m7sCL7c0y2348GGolyMhAr8Uaz8iWKYVcE7HjALrgXXBDXw/s1080/4.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFg7P7_5YRnFiAJyCvYzcw9s5kSAuCPsSek1MCUFvdxsmnzY4-l-2Cruw5nzS6zq94n4PQGY8zuMZxf6uzruVZobrtyDE4m7sCL7c0y2348GGolyMhAr8Uaz8iWKYVcE7HjALrgXXBDXw/w392-h392/4.png" width="392" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbFMWRz2MyvIX3eVL-XqDhlZdshrrWQ3Hnd304rfT8TWSoaibzeLAje5vQTSxX1bEiOArVMMUddrPXygMGxoDmsT0MHVJ6S-b69zCwaoW0JIioSZlVeW6o7-M822_nX75Z3Gyp5S7abE/s1080/5.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbFMWRz2MyvIX3eVL-XqDhlZdshrrWQ3Hnd304rfT8TWSoaibzeLAje5vQTSxX1bEiOArVMMUddrPXygMGxoDmsT0MHVJ6S-b69zCwaoW0JIioSZlVeW6o7-M822_nX75Z3Gyp5S7abE/w382-h382/5.png" width="382" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9XU4DawL3ZJFLykTTHiWRiPgyt-bmuVq118nMbC1Q06srNT_Abf0SyqYJ_u9AgWZPm-ppwSkVKlSBwzAX9BEiyMc_lM5R3hfKmGlghUpZbNltSRSibvtyRWUtkR15_guDbn_XzuRgGY/s1080/6.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb9XU4DawL3ZJFLykTTHiWRiPgyt-bmuVq118nMbC1Q06srNT_Abf0SyqYJ_u9AgWZPm-ppwSkVKlSBwzAX9BEiyMc_lM5R3hfKmGlghUpZbNltSRSibvtyRWUtkR15_guDbn_XzuRgGY/w384-h384/6.png" width="384" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69Q3kjtxoHbEh1BC39Hspg5Pqnm8Jc907Bg9ummbiPJfikVT-zL_wXgqgbn-2P9BxWKBLxBdY1dtIiziIOzIpf1Qm57XR2CJi_myDntyS-dDlqqkNM1ae2jy_cXOPjsLfnLHo6HeVePE/s1080/7.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69Q3kjtxoHbEh1BC39Hspg5Pqnm8Jc907Bg9ummbiPJfikVT-zL_wXgqgbn-2P9BxWKBLxBdY1dtIiziIOzIpf1Qm57XR2CJi_myDntyS-dDlqqkNM1ae2jy_cXOPjsLfnLHo6HeVePE/w395-h395/7.png" width="395" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>Good </strike>Great Health,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Xx Lauren</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-53204349356701782782020-09-27T09:20:00.007-07:002020-09-27T09:52:08.000-07:00Free Download: Grocery ListI have a love-hate relationship with grocery shopping. Some weeks, I take my time wandering the aisles, exploring new products, and eventually landing in the produce section, where I take my time feeling each vegetable and smelling each fruit for peak ripeness. <div><br /></div><div>Other weeks, I pull in like a bat out of hell and run through the aisles, hoping to get in and out as fast as I possibly can, because I can't possibly stand spending an extra second in that place. </div><div><br /></div><div>Either way, I always get it done so that I can do my Sunday meal prep. The Sunday Meal Prep is an <u>absolute key</u> to the success of my health, so missing a Sunday grocery trip is NOT an option. </div><div><br /></div><div>To help make the shopping a little more bearable, I developed a grocery list template that keeps me organized, focused, and actually interested in writing a list. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can download that template here:</div><div><br /></div>
<iframe height="480" src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EsXlwb9JnUUBfonVmp78n5hlXH4jCsaT/preview" width="640"></iframe><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good </strike>great health,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Xx Lauren</div>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-55555352206628970292020-09-20T14:54:00.004-07:002020-09-20T14:55:34.326-07:00On-The-Go Squash Soup (DF, GF, SF, Vegan, Paleo)<p> In keeping with my On-The-Go Soups Trend (click to see <a href="http://laurenanntaylor.blogspot.com/2020/08/on-go-tomato-soup-gf-sf-df-vegan-paleo.html" target="_blank"><b>Tomato</b></a> and <b><a href="http://laurenanntaylor.blogspot.com/2020/08/on-go-cauliflower-soup-gf-sf-df-vegan.html" target="_blank">Cauliflower Soups</a></b>) I've developed a new blended squash soup that is giving me all kinds of Autumn vibes. This soup is Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Sugar Free , Vegan, Paleo, and simply delicious. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it goes in the comments below!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNp1UgdCN9E57cvNMtCasnqE1XDpdkcimzk25hbaAj3iys3-UtbHA8p3QvU82OTX6_lHMHTds-QhrXQLcztcX4CeG-FAwer9MlCkh6ZJJSqmXgsTsbKsUFIy-1OnnEKw3vOq5Jo13rNnU/s2048/Squash+Soup.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNp1UgdCN9E57cvNMtCasnqE1XDpdkcimzk25hbaAj3iys3-UtbHA8p3QvU82OTX6_lHMHTds-QhrXQLcztcX4CeG-FAwer9MlCkh6ZJJSqmXgsTsbKsUFIy-1OnnEKw3vOq5Jo13rNnU/w423-h318/Squash+Soup.jpg" width="423" /></a></div><p><b>Ingredients</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 Large Squash (Butternut Squash is a great option, but I had a giant Yellow Zucchini on hand when making this, so that's what I used and it turned out just as well)</li><li>1 Shallot</li><li>1-2 Tablespoon Coconut Oil</li><li>3-6 Cloves Garlic</li><li>Salt and Pepper</li><li>1 Teaspoon Dried Basil</li><li>1.5 Teaspoon Dried Thyme</li><li>1.5 Teaspoon Dried Rosemary</li><li>32oz Veggie or Chicken Broth (I used Chicken)</li><li>1.5 Tablespoon Butter</li></ul><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Chop up the squash into approx 1" cubes and Slice up shallot. </li><li>Toss squash, shallot, herbs, S+P, and Coconut Oil in a mixing bowl.</li><li>Bake on cookie sheet, lined with parchment paper, at 400 degrees, until fork tender (time will vary depending on type of squash - start with 30 minutes and then check it in 5 minute increments from there, until it is easily pierced with a fork).</li><li>Take Squash in batches and blend in blender until you've reach your preferred consistency. <u>Tip:</u> Adding a little broth to the blender can help things blend up more easily.</li><li>Add Blended Squash to soup pot, pour in Broth, add in butter, and heat on medium low. </li><li>Once heated through, taste and add S+P as needed. </li></ul><div style="text-align: center;">In <strike>good</strike> great health,</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Xx, Lauren</div><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-38020393002848381342020-09-08T18:43:00.004-07:002020-09-08T18:45:36.067-07:00Lauren's Roasted Sweet Potatoes (SF, DF, GF, Paleo, Vegan)<p>Sweet potatoes are easily one of my favorite foods. They're nutrient dense, simple to cook, and make a brightly colored addition to any dish. While I have a few ways of cooking sweet potatoes, the recipe below is my favorite. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktHEwLyiW9GhryM11f9VGGT6y7jCXlmQtcvqA5PrRozGecFJi36wU8jMueZG-N0VEwQbE_vam6zHgHWMMvxuHLEvkueLU59fiTUTQ-dNQQPqLu0uvlVaEZjJ-s-RvwxDhjmpg7RGX5qE/s2048/IMG_3725.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgktHEwLyiW9GhryM11f9VGGT6y7jCXlmQtcvqA5PrRozGecFJi36wU8jMueZG-N0VEwQbE_vam6zHgHWMMvxuHLEvkueLU59fiTUTQ-dNQQPqLu0uvlVaEZjJ-s-RvwxDhjmpg7RGX5qE/w500-h375/IMG_3725.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><p><b>Lauren's Roasted Sweet Potatoes</b></p><p><b>Ingredients</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>2 Large, or 3 Medium Sweet Potatoes</li><li>Yellow Mustard</li><li>1 Heaping Tablespoon Coconut Oil</li><li>1/2 - 1 Tablespoon Paprika</li><li>1/2 - 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder</li><li>Salt and Pepper</li></ul><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Clean and slice your sweet potatoes into either rounds, or half rounds (pictured above)</li><li>In a mixing bowl, place chopped potatoes - then top with coconut oil, healthy drizzle of mustard (shown below) healthy sprinkling of paprika and garlic powder (I typically eyeball it, but the measurements listed above are approximate), and Salt and Pepper. </li><li>Use your hands to mix the ingredients together, this is easiest since the coconut oil needs to be massaged into the potatoes, and you also get a feel for the seasonings. You're going for a a slightly gritty feeling on your hands, that's how you know it's seasoned right. </li><li>Line baking sheet with parchment paper and place potatoes evenly across the sheet.</li><li>Bake on top shelf at 400 degrees for 40 minutes</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0y3aGhq3TH7R4nE2ChwzUipXavm2detYLUp_lkxdrH3dvxHZ4q6KXLlZOfdNAxI7RfSikafUf3tmoB0OyQFFd4vHLOJW60yyyhXs3rCQFlD0luGUMJaVRlIKeLXPBX1kdHHKfw-yjCGs/s2048/IMG_3724.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0y3aGhq3TH7R4nE2ChwzUipXavm2detYLUp_lkxdrH3dvxHZ4q6KXLlZOfdNAxI7RfSikafUf3tmoB0OyQFFd4vHLOJW60yyyhXs3rCQFlD0luGUMJaVRlIKeLXPBX1kdHHKfw-yjCGs/w375-h500/IMG_3724.jpg" width="375" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBkbezbe5jFxS7SypUQWpxjG9C8okg_Gqi3Ds8VyvOJB5HZjbWYc6GT0cCKTiZ78MXzVsF9hKYTqCdw0OsXcacG2TPFDGpaxvy61g_i9LotnJnyC01JXRYW1bazjjoKHwYHLcoIaqIwsI/s1607/IMG_3656+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1607" data-original-width="1512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBkbezbe5jFxS7SypUQWpxjG9C8okg_Gqi3Ds8VyvOJB5HZjbWYc6GT0cCKTiZ78MXzVsF9hKYTqCdw0OsXcacG2TPFDGpaxvy61g_i9LotnJnyC01JXRYW1bazjjoKHwYHLcoIaqIwsI/w376-h400/IMG_3656+%25281%2529.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good </strike>great health,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Xx Lauren</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div></div><p></p><p><br /></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-80111978123348903822020-09-03T15:45:00.004-07:002020-09-08T18:45:55.772-07:00Rainbow Quinoa Salad (SF, DF, GF, Vegan)<p> I LOVE THIS RECIPE. It's simple, fresh, and chock full of whole ingredients: from veggies to proteins, and very a very good dose of healthy fat. It's so nourishing, plus it's gorgeous and every time I make it, I get loads compliments. Give this one a try, and you'll be a winner with any crowd. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTZTT90gF3xf50JINmetAM2SpExl-eCJ65wwaFVUSp9vBtUfmDHtlEqe1YEH4FRdFfKblNJRBU3MTtDV9MfTFOiFKg6gy-3Oe5ANmedBFF5UH5QOZsk9j8_W9nTsTfksw9aKjpuhlDNs/s2048/IMG_3643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1881" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTZTT90gF3xf50JINmetAM2SpExl-eCJ65wwaFVUSp9vBtUfmDHtlEqe1YEH4FRdFfKblNJRBU3MTtDV9MfTFOiFKg6gy-3Oe5ANmedBFF5UH5QOZsk9j8_W9nTsTfksw9aKjpuhlDNs/w460-h500/IMG_3643.jpg" width="460" /></a></div><p><b>Ingredients</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 Cup uncooked Quinoa (I prefer white quinoa in this dish, but any style will do)</li><li>2 Cups water</li><li>1 Can (15 oz) Garbanzo Beans</li><li>1 Cucumber</li><li>1 Bell Pepper (any color but green)</li><li>1 Small Red Onion</li><li>1 Cup Finely Chopped Parsley</li><li>1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil</li><li>1/4 Cup Lemon Juice</li><li>1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (may substitute with Red Wine Vinegar, if you prefer)</li><li>4 Cloves Garlic, Minced</li><li>Salt and Pepper</li></ul><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Cook the quinoa according to the packaging/type of quinoa you are using.</li><li>Chop and Dice all vegetables, drain and rinse garbanzo beans, place these ingredients in a large mixing bowl</li><li>In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic and salt, whisk well.</li><li>Once Quinoa is cool, pour in mixing bowl with the vegetables and beans. </li><li>Pour dressing over the mixture and toss well.</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good</strike> great health,</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lauren</div><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-65776864868980499362020-09-03T15:34:00.002-07:002020-09-03T15:34:42.860-07:00Favorite Chicken Marinade (SF, DF, GF, Paleo)<p>This chicken marinade has been one of my favorite go-to's during the Candida Diet (today is day 39/90!) It's SO SIMPLE and better yet, it's delicious. Give it a try and let me know how it goes in the comments below!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeydBm3RVWVZaA8PPqQOp2FXIhhQkDkiQy3_zSJoekqIySrMc-D9J2GKCwLOABXHjTpFmQOdy37GM8FqV3DYs1_8ukBRbdlCZQrx-AqM4VEPMAJ3toWTeamIb-tVSqp_O3_s1Tr_go8U/s2048/IMG_3656.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1926" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeydBm3RVWVZaA8PPqQOp2FXIhhQkDkiQy3_zSJoekqIySrMc-D9J2GKCwLOABXHjTpFmQOdy37GM8FqV3DYs1_8ukBRbdlCZQrx-AqM4VEPMAJ3toWTeamIb-tVSqp_O3_s1Tr_go8U/w376-h400/IMG_3656.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><p><b>Ingredients</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1/4 Cup Coconut Aminos (I like the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Bragg-Liquid-Natural-Alternative-32-Ounce/dp/B001EQ4Y4W/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=braggs+aminos&qid=1599171970&sr=8-3" target="_blank">Bragg's Brand</a>)*</li><li>1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil</li><li>Juice of 1 Lemon</li><li>1 Tablespoon Dried Oregano</li><li>1 Tablespoon Dried Rosemary</li><li>1 Teaspoon Garlic Salt</li><li>2 Pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs<br /></li></ul><div>*If you eat gluten, soy sauce is a perfect substitute</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Combine all ingredients in a large Zip Loc bag and allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of four hours, but overnight is ideal. </li><li>Once Marinated: Bake thighs at 400 degrees for 30 minutes (or until completely cooked through).</li><li>Let rest for a few minutes before serving.</li></ul><div style="text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good</strike> great health,</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lauren</div><p></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-6516447352442786552020-08-27T16:02:00.006-07:002020-09-01T14:46:50.257-07:00On-The-Go Tomato Soup (GF, SF, DF, Vegan, Paleo)<p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> In my last post I shared how difficult it can be to find dishes that are easily eaten on the go, while you are on the Candida Diet (or whole 30, or paleo, or keto, etc, etc...). Which is why, I'm in love with blended soups lately; they are so simple to batch cook and drink/eat through the week for lunches. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">This On-The-Go Tomato Soup is a favorite of mine and great for any season. See the recipe below:</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7Ee2ROUgltGaTnIx6UEqpHeQIf_O_yVDPX0K7ClE8qNAR9HnG6G7ETAb_et7-q5PxbluGDIUR_IVOzJ4Vkd1h7_pM2YANCr420aJzNmPXgp53LfdCaoEzaQWEDv3j6hlPskv2uMqh54/s640/tomato+soup.jpg" width="640" /></span></div><p><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Ingredients</span></b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">2 tablespoons coconut oil</span></span></li><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1/2-1 tablespoons Dried Thyme (I eyeball it)</span></span></li><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1 medium onion, diced</span></span></li><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">4 garlic cloves, diced</span></span></li><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">2 tablespoons tomato paste</span></span></li><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes</span></span></li><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">1/3 cup canned coconut milk (the thick stuff, not the thin milk from a carton)</span></span></li><li><span style="letter-spacing: -0.15px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Salt + Pepper</span></span></li></ul><b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Directions</span></b><p></p><p style="border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: -0.15px; margin: 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><ul style="font-size: 15px; text-align: left;"><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Melt coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add thyme, onion and garlic. Season with salt. Sweat the onions until soft and translucent (approx 10-12 minutes). </span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Add the tomato paste and continue cooking, stirring often, until the paste begins to caramelize in spots and begin to stick to the pan (approx 5 minutes)</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Add can of tomatoes with juices and 4 cups of water. Increase heat to high and bring to a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium and let simmer for 45 minutes. </span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Remove soup from heat and working in small batches (typically 2-3 batches) purée soup in blender until smooth.</span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Pour blended soup back into pot and add coconut milk. </span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Taste soup and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. Optional to add additional coconut milk.</span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 15px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQ9UPXjKcCm7_VBV7G_kg_ErwC66G_tQw38EKYct7qwDawZYNchrOAoNikxOednG0rP3Hpx8D771e6q5xwIkorAfJURpFyCJW0azjcnCFJeSyNI8OQXFuDW2q3-u5mCVYB4VwA0mfukE/s2048/IMG_3513.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQ9UPXjKcCm7_VBV7G_kg_ErwC66G_tQw38EKYct7qwDawZYNchrOAoNikxOednG0rP3Hpx8D771e6q5xwIkorAfJURpFyCJW0azjcnCFJeSyNI8OQXFuDW2q3-u5mCVYB4VwA0mfukE/s640/IMG_3513.jpg" /></span></a></div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">on the go with my Tomato Soup!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><p></p><div style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Recommended Serving Containers</span></b></div><div><div style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.6px;"><ul><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Wide Mouth Mason Jar, 16 oz. - <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ball-Wide-Mouth-Mason-capacity/dp/B07RZVPM35/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=mason+jar+wide+mouth&qid=1598119069&sr=8-2" style="margin: 0px; text-decoration-line: none;">Click here </a></b></span></li><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Mason Jar lids - <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Canning-Leak-Proof-Storage-Lemonade-Included/dp/B07K16D1ZN/ref=sr_1_11?dchild=1&keywords=mason+jar+wide+mouth+lids&qid=1598119096&sr=8-11" style="margin: 0px; text-decoration-line: none;">Click here</a></b></span></li></ul></div></div><p style="background-color: #fbf9f4; border: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #333333; font-family: karla, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: -0.15px; margin: 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></p>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-32990103054227049152020-08-22T11:00:00.005-07:002020-08-22T11:02:47.915-07:00On-The-Go Cauliflower Soup (GF, SF, DF, Vegan, Paleo)The Candida Diet I'm currently following has left me with very limited On-The-Go food options. I'm regularly eating large salads, proteins, and veggies, which all require fork and knife. So when I get busy at work, it's either take time out of my busy day to eat, or just go hungry. Neither of which are a great options; especially when I'm driving (which I do a lot for work).<div><br /><div>That said, I've discovered blended soups as a fantastic on-the-go option.</div><div><br /></div><div>This soup is not only easy for on-the-go, but it's a simple and quick thing to batch cook on Sundays, thus giving you a week full of soup. </div><div><br /></div><div>I will say that cauliflower soup alone, doesn't hold me over. But toss in serving of almonds, some chopped up raw veggies, and maybe a green apple, and you have an entire candida-diet-approved, whole-foods, on-the-go lunch, in a snap. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>On-The-Go Cauliflower Soup (GF, SF, DF, Vegan, Paleo)</u></b></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNY440Xe7L4xG259JL_F6j7QgkmER_IDIpXJ0r_zsYnbwmf7ANMn4VNh-6fzUjkiVsMIhbSldpujcPNISb7NeLj7K732fTuufTnQ2JfwrpyJD3ucbD4K-akXn_m6mkHOOTMJltAAfP8yY/s2048/IMG_3382.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNY440Xe7L4xG259JL_F6j7QgkmER_IDIpXJ0r_zsYnbwmf7ANMn4VNh-6fzUjkiVsMIhbSldpujcPNISb7NeLj7K732fTuufTnQ2JfwrpyJD3ucbD4K-akXn_m6mkHOOTMJltAAfP8yY/s640/IMG_3382.jpg" /></a></div><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Ingredients</b></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>1 head cauliflower, chopped into 1-inch pieces</div><div>1 yellow onion, diced</div><div>1-2 Tablespoons Coconut Oil</div><div>Salt and Pepper</div><div>1 Tablespoon dried rosemary</div><div>1 Tablespoon dried thyme</div><div>4 cups vegetable broth</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>In a large stock pot, place chipped cauliflower, diced onion, coconut oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Cook over medium heat to mix all the flavors together for a few minutes.</li><li>Pour in Vegetable broth, plus enough water to cover the veggies. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until you can easily pierce cauliflower with a fork.</li><li>In batches, transfer soup to blender and blend until creamy. Taste for seasoning, adding more salt and pepper as needed.</li></ul><div><b>Recommended Serving Containers</b></div></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Wide Mouth Mason Jar, 16 oz. - <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ball-Wide-Mouth-Mason-capacity/dp/B07RZVPM35/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=mason+jar+wide+mouth&qid=1598119069&sr=8-2">Click here </a></b></li><li>Mason Jar lids - <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Canning-Leak-Proof-Storage-Lemonade-Included/dp/B07K16D1ZN/ref=sr_1_11?dchild=1&keywords=mason+jar+wide+mouth+lids&qid=1598119096&sr=8-11">Click here</a></b></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9Zg4q4CzkSNJB1b20uozcE5gYTaupbgFu23T3ThX2uuLvRfwWhrAOUtqkc8DwBveFNpIPFsOnaJTckVHpMjy9nx-37UByupkR38y0nnJLYIq_swhny7mZAiwOrEIpeRklEOWsDoyubI/s2048/IMG_3419.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9Zg4q4CzkSNJB1b20uozcE5gYTaupbgFu23T3ThX2uuLvRfwWhrAOUtqkc8DwBveFNpIPFsOnaJTckVHpMjy9nx-37UByupkR38y0nnJLYIq_swhny7mZAiwOrEIpeRklEOWsDoyubI/s640/IMG_3419.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good</strike> great health,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lauren</div><div><br /></div></div>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-55371572536983070672020-08-05T07:20:00.010-07:002020-08-05T07:22:14.347-07:00Vegan PestoThis super simple Pesto recipe is not only Vegan, it's also candida-diet/candida-cleanse approved. Sunday night I stirred it in with some grilled chicken and zucchini noodles (aka Zoodles) and it was d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s. Honestly, it had me wondering why pesto needs any cheese at all.<div><div><br /></div><div>See The Recipe Below!<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSgFf5bC3Lv-P5YGkgZeeayOTXOQd0rvlrJ_LFPxbeqSC7-6PK7RhabdL5xJMOh6IQ5b9TmkvFNSW3CeCP3GhaHLW9XDvop1lHY-fhXnA8nZc8zUH2Jf_FQkYLMLNsri9ifXALX1zqPw/s2048/Screenshot+2020-08-05+at+7.03.52+AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1226" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSgFf5bC3Lv-P5YGkgZeeayOTXOQd0rvlrJ_LFPxbeqSC7-6PK7RhabdL5xJMOh6IQ5b9TmkvFNSW3CeCP3GhaHLW9XDvop1lHY-fhXnA8nZc8zUH2Jf_FQkYLMLNsri9ifXALX1zqPw/s640/Screenshot+2020-08-05+at+7.03.52+AM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font size="2"><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" target="_blank">via Instagram</a></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Vegan Pesto</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Ingredients</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>2 garlic cloves, chopped</li><li>2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed</li><li>1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted</li><li>1/2 cup olive oil</li><li>2 teaspoons lemon juice</li><li>salt to taste</li></ul><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Toast your pine nuts in a pan, just a quick splash around in a hot pan should do the trick.</li><li>Put all ingredients in a blender and blend.</li><li>Taste, add more salt, taste, add more salt... etc... until it tastes just right. You may also want to adjust the flavor with a splash more lemon. Both the salt and the lemon really run the flavor-show.</li></ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsQe1OPFo72kYdsuUxUt0rSxWqwAXgm9BcZklqM3vB4FM_Z2LsIq7hxNjJxJMdJ0cwnb0tW7PyoFl6OMjlhplZyFWXYxEsP1MGAlrYS7J1e_aXEuiQ10AubM1pT7RougxzuQi0haJfB4/s2048/IMG_3255.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsQe1OPFo72kYdsuUxUt0rSxWqwAXgm9BcZklqM3vB4FM_Z2LsIq7hxNjJxJMdJ0cwnb0tW7PyoFl6OMjlhplZyFWXYxEsP1MGAlrYS7J1e_aXEuiQ10AubM1pT7RougxzuQi0haJfB4/w384-h512/IMG_3255.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good</strike> great health,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lauren</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-34417385618410921902020-08-02T14:33:00.007-07:002020-08-02T20:03:53.376-07:00The Candida Diet: What it is & How I'm doing it<div style="text-align: center;"><i>*I am not a doctor. These are my opinions.*</i></div><div><br /></div>I've been curious about Candida for years. It's a word that gets thrown around in the health & wellness community often, but is never fully explained. And if you try googling it, you get a slew of confusing information that doesn't really add up. <div><br /></div><div>This summer, I decided it was time to do my own research, and figure this out for myself. So I picked up <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Candida-Cure-Program-Balance-Restore/dp/0062688499/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=The+candida+Cure&qid=1596402931&sr=8-3">Dr. Ann Boroch's Book "The Candida Cure"</a></b> and dove in.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1247" data-original-width="1242" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiHI4iW_6-8GXUkqpChDlWhIaEXN653rgzOjp_B2NtOiBK7kaiNN_qEphCJyszbERZ8Y17tTjG_YH6B3xvr2ehej4xdg4EsX0eYwa3KN_tTo8Bv28JBowDbz0COB2458yQipIIR9RAYHw/w510-h512/Screenshot+2020-08-02+at+2.19.00+PM.png" width="510" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Upon completing the book (and purchasing her <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Candida-Cure-Cookbook-Delicious-Vitality/dp/0977344665/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=The+candida+Cure&qid=1596404111&sr=8-4">Candida Cure Cookbook</a></b>) I started the diet, and began posting about it all over <b><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" target="_blank">my instagram.</a> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Since then, I've received a few questions about the diet, so lets hit them here:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>What is Candida?</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Candida is yeast/fungus that naturally lives in all our bodies and is completely harmless when our gut is in optimal health (aka Gastrointestinal Tract aka GI Tract). The yeast is intended to exist in harmony with the other bacteria in your GI tract, on your mucous membranes, and on your skin. However, when your gut is out of balance, this harmony breaks down and Candida breaks out. Candida is what's called an "opportunistic pathogen" meaning that it will spread through your body, find any areas of weakness, and grow. Since we all have our own individual areas of weakness, Candida will present differently from one person to the next. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>For example:</u> Lets say you have a history of depression and your friend has a history of psoriasis. You both could have the same amount of overgrowth, yet yours would show up as a bout of depression and theirs would show up as a breakout on their skin. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Isn't Candida just another name for a Yeast Infection?</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">No, nope, no.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That said, if you have, or recently had, a yeast infection, you can be sure that you have Candida overgrowth (AKA Candidiasis). Same goes for Athlete's Foot and Toe Fungus. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Candida is misunderstood, and is only related with yeast infections because that is typically the only time you hear the term pop up (in the western world, anyway).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That said, there are a multitude of symptoms that indicate you may have Candidiasis. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Symptoms of Candidiasis</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Weight Gain, Obesity</li><li>Increased Belly Fat</li><li>High Carbs-, Sugar-, and/or Alcohol-Cravings</li><li>Cravings for dairy and sour foods</li><li>Indigestion, acid reflux</li><li>Bloating, gas</li><li>IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)</li><li>Hypoglycemia</li><li>Thyroid dysfunction</li><li>Oral thrush</li><li>Constipation</li><li>Diarrhea</li><li>PMS</li><li>Headaches, Migraines</li><li>Sleep Problems</li><li>Night Sweats</li><li>Lack of Concentration</li><li>Mood Swings</li><li>Increased Irritability</li><li>High Anxiety</li><li>Memory Problems</li><li>Brain Fog, Confusion</li><li>Sense of Floating</li><li>Depression</li><li>Chronic Fatigue</li><li>Muscle Weakness</li><li>Irregular Heartbeat</li><li>Cold Hands & Feet</li><li>Allergies</li><li>Acne</li><li>Eczema</li><li>Dandruff</li><li>Frequent Infections</li><li>Asthma, Persistent Cough</li><li>Itching, Runny Nose/Sinus Inflammation</li><li>Ear Pain/Itching</li><li>Chronic Joint Pain</li><li>Fungal Infections (yeast infection, athletes foot, toe fungus)</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Wait, that's like every symptom. How do I know for sure if I have it?</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">A. Yes, it is like, every symptom. Candidiasis is believed to be at the root of most diseases, and these smaller symptoms are simply indicators and warning signs. While many of us have just gotten used to our daily aches, pains, and anxieties, we don't have to live this way! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">B. Unfortunately, there is no way to know for sure that you do or do not have it. There aren't any tests you can take, and the only way to know, is to do the candida cleanse and see if you feel better. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In my opinion, nearly everyone living in the western world (and probably beyond) suffers from this. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="960" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVFqsL0Bft4vBHaMNzDu4HTwZSwsv4eW8A92Qrm1v1eysE-iJd6IAxWjQWeszFJfXIAX-DUToiQZ-RhX5yfXw7YC8AUZhjcM8JL6I-ZFq-DB8xdK1CsfnnYjq-XmmfuwTr6sZFPrymbO8/w410-h259/colorful-1331934_960_720.png" width="410" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Where does this overgrowth of Candida come from? </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yeast overgrowth is simply a result of microbial imbalances in your gut. So the question really is, how do our guts get so out of balance? Here's how:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Diets high in refined sugars</li><li>Diets high in carbohydrates (namely the processed ones)</li><li>Diets high in dairy</li><li>Diets high in Alcohol</li><li>Diets high in processed foods</li><li>Antibiotics*</li><li>Steroids</li><li>Birth control Pills</li><li>Estrogen replacement Therapy</li><li>Heavy Metals (we ingest a lot more than you might think)</li><li>and of course, Chronic Stress.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: left;">*Antibiotics in particular are a huge culprit, and really deserve their own category when discussing gut health. This is because Antibiotics (while hugely useful when you are in <u>dire </u>need) kill both good and bad bacteria in your GI tract. It's so much so, that it can take only one prescription (say, during childhood even) to disrupt your gut and set off this "fire" in your body. Over time, lifestyle choices like, drinking too much or eating a few too many sweets, only fuel the situation. And even if you have miraculously avoided taking antibiotics at any point in your life, I'll bet you've eaten animal products, like meat or poultry, that came from animals which were pumped full of antibiotics during their very short life. Unless you only eat antibiotic- andy hormone-free animal products, then your gut has been exposed. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF09I4PSg8ji7Tc8bFIzkKgFAOQ_AzGoafQJJWQQmdwvhWMf4O0lIa2MYHCD0TD6jBJAUSAT87cpfOEoKRiUgJOzuQ6rwMmyL20xeYV_4cGAdsHKAnvMzdSHA425YFtuJ2v4YM7gFNh8E/w328-h328/drug-bottle-1674888_960_720.png" width="328" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I know for me that I had many antibiotics as a child (for things like strep throat and a number of ear infections) and a few years back, as an adult, I went through a series of antibiotics and steroids, which caused my health to decline overall.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Ok so maybe you think you have this...</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you're ready to make a big commitment and really fight to better your health, then the Candida Cleanse is a great choice for you. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For me, I have had so many bouts of long-lasting colds, periods of depression, and overall pain-causing inflammation in my body, that has gone on for far too long. So I decided I was ready to make the change, not matter what it took. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now that I'm about a week in, I will say that this diet is not for the half-hearted. You have to be <u>all-in</u>, and committed to your <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPYeCltXpxw" target="_blank">why</a></b>, or else you won't make it. And for those of you who aren't sure that you're all-in (after I detail the diet below) I am including a sort of "candida-light" diet, that you may try instead. No judgement here, friends. You need to do what's right for you, and what feels manageable in your life, today. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Candida Diet </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The whole idea here is to starve the yeast, so you will be cutting some things (like, most fruits) that are otherwise healthy, but you can't have simply because they fuel the yeast-fire. Keep in mind that this is only 90 days and not a lifetime. In the same breath, it is important to note that because you are starving the yeast, its really, <u>really</u> important that you do not cheat. Every time you cheat, you are feeding the yeast, and taking two steps back on all the hard work you put in. While we can't be perfect all the time, it's important to keep this in mind when you are deciding if you want to taste that bit of cake, or not. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="421" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnJA-b3Ouu_UinOO66uhSXYzWQtaGaCfSe7CTPJDuSRVduWVexwlyY2kbJ8LsIBL6_y02Ehi7G-Fn8vX8lJHLXOv32fYcFHkCJSVXPHqeFhu-6roDVUYBm8oo4I5eOkMnlNgWQqdu0Uw/s0/IMG_6526.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font size="2">I recently had to pass up on THIS cake! SMH. #committed</font></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The Diet:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Length: </b>90 Days</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>What you Can't eat:</b> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Alcohol</li><li>Caffeine</li><li>Gluten</li><li>Dairy</li><li>Yeast</li><li>Sugar (including most fruits) </li><li>Fermented Foods (yes, these are usually fabulous for your gut, but they fuel fire, once the fire is in motion, so you have to cut them during this time)</li><li><b>Selected Animal Protein</b>: Bacon, Hot Dogs, Pork, Processed meats, sausage, canned seafood</li><li><b>Grains:</b> Essentially anything processed or with gluten, ie: Breads, Ceareals, Corn, Crackers, Oats, White Flour, Whole wheat</li><li><b>Vegetables:</b> Corn, Mushrooms, Potatoes, Peas</li><li><b>Nuts and Seeds:</b> Cashes, Peanuts (Peanut Butter), Pistachios</li><li><b>Oils:</b> Canola, corn, peanut, soy oil, etc. </li><li><b>Dairy:</b> Essentially all dairy</li><li><b>Fruits:</b> Nearly All fruits, will list the ones you can have on "what you can eat" list</li><li><b>Condiments: </b>Jams, Jellies, Ketchup, etc (use your best judgement).. all vinegars exceptt raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar and unsweetened rice vinegar</li></ul><div><b>What you Can eat:</b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>Animal Protein: </b>Beef, Bison, Lamb (no more than 4oz serving per week), Chicken, Duck, Turkey, Eggs, Fish, Turkey Bacon*</li><ul><li>*All Animal Protein must be hormone- and antibiotic-free</li></ul><li><b>Grains:</b> Brown Rice, Brown Rice Cakes and Crackers, Brown Rice GF Pasta (limit 1x/week), Quinoa, wild rice, Some breads (gluten-, yeast-, sugar-, and dairy free</li><li><b>Vegetables:</b> All vegetables except Corn, Mushrooms, Potatoes, Peas. Endless amounts, except limit any sweet potatoes, yams, or squash to 3x/week</li><li><b>Beans and Legumes: </b>Allowed, but limited to 2x/week max</li><li><b>Nuts and Seeds: </b>All except Cashews, Peanuts, and Pistachios</li><li><b>Oils: </b>(Cold Pressed Only) Coconut, Olive, Avocado, etc.</li><li><b>Dairy: </b>Limited amounts of Butter and Ghee are allowed (hormone- and antibiotic-free)</li><li><b>Fruits:</b> Green Apples, Avocado, Blackberries, Blubetties, Cranberries, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, olives, raspberris, strawberries, coconut flesh - Limit to approx 1 serving or 1 cup per day (except for avocado and olives)</li><li><b>Condiments: </b>Apple Cider Vinegar, Braggs Liquid Aminos, Coconut Aminos, Fresh Herbs, Kelp Flakes, Spices, </li><li><b>Beverages: </b>Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar Drinks, Herbal Teas, White Tea (caffeinated is ok, only with white tea), Unsweetend almond, coconut, and hemp milk. </li><li><b>Sweeteners: </b>Stevia, Xylitol</li><li><b>Misc: </b>Cacao Powder, Dill Pickles (made without vinegar), Gums/mints (sweetened with stevia or xylitol), Salsa (without sugar or vinegar) </li></ul><div>More than anything, this diet is intended to be heavily plant based. So if you decide to just eat Quinoa and Green apples for 90 days, you aren;t going to see results. Below is what your diet should look like, overall: </div></div><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: normal; margin: 9.75pt 0in; mso-outline-level: 2;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b>60% Vegetables</b></li><li><b>
20% Animal Protein</b></li><li><b>
15% GF Whole Grains</b></li><li><b>
5% Fruit, Nuts, Seeds, Beans (1-2x/wk
max)</b></li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFW4jNqmFdreaPVkFYVQaQNlxGzyxXftKTzz4eDfkw6bP1HybFDWmeRJs_IOC0y1OL9mGP3L6FLs7O_Q7ldQmidQPNOw668A2nwSoWPTYPSkcDKCzPZDvSdmlOcU3dlOOExSvi_U0tMmU/w307-h410/IMG_3194.jpg" width="307" /></a></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>The book <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Candida-Cure-Program-Balance-Restore/dp/0062688499/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=The+candida+Cure&qid=1596402931&sr=8-3" target="_blank">"The Candida Cure" by Dr. Ann Boroch</a></b>, dives even further into the food lists, as well as some other tidbits about the diet, that are helpful to read if you're getting serious about this. In addition, there is a series of vitamins that are recommended to take while you are doing the diet, which will help sort of supercharge your whole experience. I'm not going to list them all here, but again if you are serious about this, please give <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Candida-Cure-Program-Balance-Restore/dp/0062688499/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=The+candida+Cure&qid=1596402931&sr=8-3" target="_blank">her book</a></b> a read, so you may gain a thorough understanding of the cleanse.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Lauren's Candida-Light Diet</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Please note that the suggestion below is something that will not kill off your candida, but it will cut down on inflammation, which should leave you feeling similar benefits.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Length: </b>30 Days</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What you Can't Eat: </b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Gluten</li><li>Processed Sugar (all fruits are allowed)</li><li>Alcohol</li><li>Dairy (except for some antibiotic- and hormone- free butter and/or ghee)</li></ul><div><b>What you Can Eat:</b></div></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Everything else! </div><div><br /></div><div>If you have questions, please leave them in the comments below! Or if you don't want to post publicly, feel free to DM me on Instagram <b><a href="www.instagram.com/bylaurentaylor" target="_blank">@ByLaurenTaylor</a></b></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wishing you <strike>good</strike> great health,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lauren</div><p></p></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-9709790600971178582020-06-26T15:20:00.005-07:002021-02-23T12:34:14.356-08:00Our Story<font face="inherit">The wedding planning is officially under way. We've set a date, location, photographer, and wedding party. Incredibly, despite all that (and the fact that we're still around 400 days away) I already feel behind. The pressure from all the brides who have had to postpone their weddings from this year, due to covid, until next year, is making every single vendor in town an extra hot commodity. So the pressure is on to get things locked down now, or forever lose our minds. </font><div><font face="inherit"><br /></font></div><div><font face="inherit">So, we are chipping away at this. Or rather, I'm chipping away and then telling Eric how much we're spending... but it's a chipping away nonetheless.</font></div><div><font face="inherit"><br /></font></div><div><font face="inherit">Our wedding website is also officially up, and while it lacks much information at this point, I did take the time to write our story. Today, I'm sharing the story here and if you'd like to check out the wedding site, click here: <span style="background-color: white;"><b><a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/lauren-taylor-and-eric-neumann-aug-2021" target="_blank">theknot.com/neumanntaylor </a></b></span></font></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><font face="inherit"><br /></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><font face="inherit">Our Story</font></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><font face="inherit"><br /></font></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">As a product of our generation, Eric and I met through an app. Bumble, to be exact.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">After a few messages back and forth we set a date and met at Paymaster Lounge for a glass of whiskey. Walking into the date I saw a man with the most gorgeous arms, sitting out front in a white T-shirt and jeans. It was a good sign, I thought.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">Eric says that he truly felt time freeze, as I walked up... that everything stopped for just a moment...</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">The date however, left something to be desired.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">Eric ordered a Kale salad (at a dive bar, mind you) and spent the date talking about how he likes to exercise and hasn’t had a drink in 3 months. I thought that, while he was clearly a very together and handsome man (a DOCTOR, no less {said in a Jewish Mother’s accent – “a DOC-TAH!”}) I just wasn’t feeling a spark, as I popped down a few tater tots and watched him eat salad.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">Eric later told me that he wasn’t impressed with my lack of direction and affinity for fried foods. As he had asked me on the date “what are you looking for from online dating?” and I said “I don’t know, whatever comes my way?” (I was 30 and a bit jaded. Fully prepared to live alone the rest of my life, since serious relationships with men, had proven to be a waste of time) and when I asked him “what about you, what are you looking for?” he said “a wife and kids.” (UH OK, P-S-Y-C-H-O)</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">We parted ways after maybe an hour, and I figured I would never hear from him. (But Eric says that he felt something was there, that night).</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">Less than a week later, Eric messaged me to see if I was downtown (he knew I was out, working on some design projects in the area) but by the time I got his message, I had already made my way to a client’s house in the ‘burbs. Nevertheless he said, “I have a gift for you” and shot me a picture of Roses with a bottle of Jameson. He then texted “I was hoping I could get you to go to a summer concert with me.”</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">It was August, and prime time for an outdoor concert.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">I emphatically said yes. In that moment, I could tell that this was a man who, if it worked out, would treat me very well.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">When the night of the date came, it was one of those perfect summer nights that would stay warm well past midnight. Eric insisted on picking me up and we made our way to Revolution Hall. The concert itself was on the rooftop and it was gorgeous. We stood up there and had whiskey after whiskey as we watched the sun set.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilu5GgYu_Uf52LJV-Jj9-zf39XlfB42jXTy66eW6M9RjU9Od5yoG2yedqBwJpvQAoLmM8CG4BuQv6R11T4gWarWv7VGoQwBun8BE7dSv8xS2YlVmVeBWvXQ4APaZS9ZPzIY3XVpW1AFAQ/s1936/IMG_4644.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="inherit"><img border="0" data-original-height="1936" data-original-width="1452" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilu5GgYu_Uf52LJV-Jj9-zf39XlfB42jXTy66eW6M9RjU9Od5yoG2yedqBwJpvQAoLmM8CG4BuQv6R11T4gWarWv7VGoQwBun8BE7dSv8xS2YlVmVeBWvXQ4APaZS9ZPzIY3XVpW1AFAQ/w375-h500/IMG_4644.JPG" width="375" /></font></a></div><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">Talking to him, there was a brief moment where I thought “am I falling in love right now?” and then I thought “nahhh, no way” as I stared at his profile, while the sunset danced on his face. And to tell the truth, I don’t know what band we saw that night. We hardly paid attention, we were too busy learning one another.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">After the concert, we grabbed some food and then headed back to my place to investigate that bottle of whiskey he had given me.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">The night is fuzzy, but I remember feeling like a kid. We couldn’t stop laughing and talking as we sipped whiskey on my sofa, all the windows open, a summer breeze pouring in. Drunken bliss.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">I eventually tired, and upon remembering that I had work the next day, I told Eric I was going to bed.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">He said “Ok, you go to bed, I’m going to stay up and drink more whiskey.”</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">I laughed at him and demanded he sleep with me.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">And by sleep, I actually mean sleep. There was absolutely zero funny business this night. And the fact that I wanted Eric to sleep over was huge. I felt incredibly safe with him; I knew that I could sleep in a bed with him, and he wouldn’t touch me, unless I asked him to.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">In the morning, we awoke fully dressed, with pounding headaches.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">I barely made it to work and was a complete disaster the entire day. Which, by the end of, I was texting Eric to see if he wanted to see me again.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">I believe his answer was “YES!” and just a few hours later, I was on his couch, eating Thai Take Out and watching the movie La La Land.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">It was another hot night, with all the windows open and summer breeze pouring in over us.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">We went on dating here and there for a few more weeks, and then… it almost ended.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">It became apparent early on, that Eric and I are opposites, in so many ways. And after 4 weeks, I was seriously concerned that he couldn’t keep up with me, emotionally. So I texted him one morning before work and sent the “we need to talk” message.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">Eric called me right away.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">The sound of his voice made me feel that I was making a mistake, but I continued with my explanation on why I thought we should end things now.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">Eric was patient, kind, and understanding, as he listened and kindly disagreed completely.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">I told him that I was wondering if I was making a mistake, ending things. And somehow we agreed that I would take 24 hours to decide how I felt.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">At the end of the day, I called him, and we talked more. He told me how he’d done some research on our personality types, and that he felt we could make it work, and that he wanted to do the work, with me.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">By the next day, I had decided that this wasn’t the end of our story. When he came over that night, and held me in his arms, I knew with every cell in my body, that I had made the right choice.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">We have been together since...</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">When I think back on that day, I wonder how I could have been so wrong. It almost scares me that I could have made such a stupid decision. It's true that I am more emotional than Eric, but he is my steady rock, and I can't imagine us any other way.</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"><font face="inherit">So when Eric proposed on Christmas day 2019, at my parents home in Bend, I emphatically said “yes.”</font></p><p style="border-color: rgb(226, 232, 240); border-style: solid; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: inherit; letter-spacing: 0.25px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1.5rem 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBByK7_NOp1oLi1mTmFZNdKcPSoWk7dreK521CYszyzjUZa7YvX2dMzmyOTeCxV4a6cgX1jm44VMGNvKDooWUPUcusOLoYKV3pdjQtRHikohSb0ewvfGaPmIuadhZjqvGghn64LdM7B_I/s1440/0DFA739C-42B3-4762-AB81-0F47C7CEACCB+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="inherit"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBByK7_NOp1oLi1mTmFZNdKcPSoWk7dreK521CYszyzjUZa7YvX2dMzmyOTeCxV4a6cgX1jm44VMGNvKDooWUPUcusOLoYKV3pdjQtRHikohSb0ewvfGaPmIuadhZjqvGghn64LdM7B_I/w500-h500/0DFA739C-42B3-4762-AB81-0F47C7CEACCB+%25281%2529.JPG" width="500" /></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="inherit"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="inherit">Wishing you<strike> good</strike> great health,</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="inherit">Lauren</font></div><font face="inherit" style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></font><p></p></div>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5440745890682928790.post-62677346756549316082020-06-23T09:51:00.001-07:002020-06-23T09:52:24.845-07:00Yes, You Should Try Cauliflower Pizza (+Recipe)Cutting Gluten out of my diet has been, without a doubt, the most effective dietary change I have made for myself. And it's no wonder, since gluten is one of the top four most inflammatory ingredients. <div><font color="#f7cb4d"><br /></font></div><div> The Top Four being...<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Alcohol</li><li>Processed Sugar </li><li>Dairy</li><li>Gluten<br /></li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>I do my best to limit the others (especially dairy) but as of yet, I haven't achieved the super-status of cutting them all out. </div><div><br /></div><div>For now, my body is reacting well to removal of gluten. My body looks different and feels better. I didn't have any weight loss with it, but that wasn't my goal. That said, we are all individuals with individual reactions, as well as individual reasons for choosing what we do and do not put in our bodies. So your experience may be different. </div><div><br /></div><div>I do "cheat" from time to time. Like if I'm visiting home and my Mom serves me pasta, or if we go to a nice restaurant and sourdough bread show up...you better believe I'm having a slice. </div><div><br /></div><div>But that's one of the cool things about gluten. You CAN cheat. Gluten is only <i>really</i> bad for you, when it's built up up in your system. It's the day after day, of bread and pasta (and all the other goodies) that create this sort of, gluey substance, that hangs out in your body and causes inflammation.* </div><div><br /></div><div>So, if you typically have gluten eliminated from your meals, then you won't have any of the gluey build up hanging out in your body. Meaning: if you toss in a slice of bread from time to time, it will easily slide in and out of your system, without getting stuck.*</div><div><br /></div><div>All that said, there are gluten-filled-foods that I miss. And one of them, is Pizza. </div><div><br /></div><div>So when I started hearing about Cauliflower pizza crust, I tuned in. And when it cropped up at Trader Joes for $3.99, you know I bought it. </div><div><br /></div><div>And you know what, it's good! No, it's not pizza dough. But it is a deliciously crusty vessel on which you may load with all your favorite pizza toppings. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Simple Vegan Cauliflower Pizza</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Ingredients</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>1 Pre-Made Frozen Pizza Crust </div><div>1 Jar Pizza Sauce (or in a pinch, you can use a jar of marinara sauce)</div><div>Sliced Veggies of your choosing</div><div>Shredded Vegan Cheese (I like using <b><a href="https://daiyafoods.com/our-foods/shreds/mozzarella-cutting-board-shreds/">Daiya Mozarella </a></b>- it's sold in most grocery stores)</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1Vaqhrw4_O8P4eKmvZp-ual-3EY4RtwAaKNIQ36vxPL927HM-X3UQAKSN459V2DcDm8QZsRIVK3-n4UQGQOoSGiFEhFygWwg4saddq4u-kltxsUnTUXNvtDnSfbIC8vYH1e5YVGA-po/s500/daiya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI1Vaqhrw4_O8P4eKmvZp-ual-3EY4RtwAaKNIQ36vxPL927HM-X3UQAKSN459V2DcDm8QZsRIVK3-n4UQGQOoSGiFEhFygWwg4saddq4u-kltxsUnTUXNvtDnSfbIC8vYH1e5YVGA-po/s320/daiya.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Follow the instructions on the pre-made crust. If you're using the Trader Joes Brand as I prefer, this means: <i>Preheat oven to 450 degrees, Bake on a pan for 10-12 minutes, flip and bake other side for 10-12 minutes. After the crust is fully cooked then you head to your toppings..<br /><br /></i></li><li>Spoon on the Pizza or Marinara sauce <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9y7OYDe2TjtWGQCeYLJqnu38ISgiY_6wb5gAQ3PTAW8sSffrKv3nUIxrZjVYNKadv-_lUBqDL4Hsuvztsf3yAtc19IwbrrtRM3J3NEIO_HZnj_NcbjjQV2AveUI66YlM5-MJRxb5u1eE/s3123/2020-04-29_20-16-58_788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3123" data-original-width="3008" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9y7OYDe2TjtWGQCeYLJqnu38ISgiY_6wb5gAQ3PTAW8sSffrKv3nUIxrZjVYNKadv-_lUBqDL4Hsuvztsf3yAtc19IwbrrtRM3J3NEIO_HZnj_NcbjjQV2AveUI66YlM5-MJRxb5u1eE/w385-h400/2020-04-29_20-16-58_788.jpg" width="385" /></a><br /><br /></div></li><li>Sprinkle the "Cheese"<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixl0cVzKmlKlEcVled1_8wAvSpqsV0ZVa7jzPtzc9oa_SNT1L4vPhHQcTGd7ndX63FmC2nSwHYNKagrnglgXKbkw55zC8EKL6ja5aJ7RcSAJFShcglCmYQUAJyRYmCdXXlAvVT_Cu-rm8/s3047/2020-04-29_20-18-20_987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3047" data-original-width="3006" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixl0cVzKmlKlEcVled1_8wAvSpqsV0ZVa7jzPtzc9oa_SNT1L4vPhHQcTGd7ndX63FmC2nSwHYNKagrnglgXKbkw55zC8EKL6ja5aJ7RcSAJFShcglCmYQUAJyRYmCdXXlAvVT_Cu-rm8/w395-h400/2020-04-29_20-18-20_987.jpg" width="395" /></a><br /><br /></div></li><li>Slice and place veggies, then top with a little more "cheese"<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4n-uH8Kd7EjpDvGqfzjtqmomTN_o9aMxGxMJcP8TI8RJ3sNxs02sXAXVrEmwtmWbLolUWMJiXc_h6p5SJ-uruSByYak6jcfcPNxyuDTl1q7U6tknjktOSsrljJmoxH4t_N9KWWeazOY/s3109/2020-04-29_20-21-24_301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3109" data-original-width="2999" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil4n-uH8Kd7EjpDvGqfzjtqmomTN_o9aMxGxMJcP8TI8RJ3sNxs02sXAXVrEmwtmWbLolUWMJiXc_h6p5SJ-uruSByYak6jcfcPNxyuDTl1q7U6tknjktOSsrljJmoxH4t_N9KWWeazOY/w386-h400/2020-04-29_20-21-24_301.jpg" width="386" /></a><br /><br /></div></li><li>Broil for 4-5 minutes<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ei6eTcDELqoR28rfTcsLvS2emx_2kA6GcJNcxYdy4nfXGwHQKxrhx0HWLrSV_0NGDMow8eaZbbYeB8BAQbyZ1F0GoQKHvYouR321hjUFeOgxnz24AoQl9K_z_H6bvpdky_Nm-UG-LXs/s3209/2020-04-29_20-44-15_257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3209" data-original-width="3007" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ei6eTcDELqoR28rfTcsLvS2emx_2kA6GcJNcxYdy4nfXGwHQKxrhx0HWLrSV_0NGDMow8eaZbbYeB8BAQbyZ1F0GoQKHvYouR321hjUFeOgxnz24AoQl9K_z_H6bvpdky_Nm-UG-LXs/w375-h400/2020-04-29_20-44-15_257.jpg" width="375" /></a></div></li></ol></div><div><br /></div><div><font face="inherit" size="2"><i>*If you believe you have a true gluten allergy and/or suffer from Celiac Disease, please know that my suggestions are intended for people who do not suffer from this condition. Please consult your physician, as these l<span style="background-color: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87);">aissez-faire</span> rules do not apply to you.</i></font></div><div><font face="inherit" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="inherit">Wishing you <strike>good </strike>great health,</font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="inherit"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="inherit">Lauren </font></div><div><br /><br /></div></div>Lauren Taylorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16812452016871791945noreply@blogger.com0