Thursday, January 5, 2012

Changes

Just like the nearly half of Americans, I too am making some changes for the New Year.  Last year, if you recalled, I made ten resolutions and stuck to just about 2 of them.  It wasn't that they were impractical goals, but my priorities changed in February when Forbes and I decided to plan a mission trip to Africa.

This year is similar.  Forbes and I are once again planning to travel to Africa this summer.  However, that still leaves 10 full months at home where change is not a bad thing. 

This year is also very different in many ways.  I am not preparing to run a marathon like I was at this time last year.  I have also resolved many of my disordered eating issues and feel much stronger and confident.  My marriage is wonderful and I am also in a strong, yet ever-growing, relationship with God.

While there will be many resolutions and goals over the next 12 months, I am weary of formally setting them out like I did last year, for fear of failure.  So for 2012 I am just calling them changes...some will be short term, some long term. 

The first change is to cut way back on sugar.  Many can relate to the overload of homemade goodies and rich and savory dishes around the holidays.  I indulged happily, but never felt that I over indulged.  I feel really great about the balance of fresh, wholesome foods and delicious desserts.  Despite this balance I still experienced sluggishness, sugar-crashes and even acne related to eating more sugar than usual.  So for just a few weeks I am going to focus on cutting back on sugar.  Here are some of the guidelines I will be using:
  • Eat more veggies!  I am aiming for at least 5 servings of vegetables a day.
  • Eat fruit for dessert instead of cookies and candy.
  • Eat less processed foods.  The processed foods that I do eat should be free of any artificial or natural sweeteners (i.e. cereal)
  • Limit alcohol intake (specifically wine)
  • No breads, pastas, rice, etc. made with white flour.  Whole grain only!
So what types of food am I eating these days...
Lots and lots of Green Monsters.

I'm packing in the veggies in anyway I can including homemade soups.
We are focused on eating simple, wholesome meals.  Stir-fry is one of our go-to favorites!
Lunches usually consist of leftover meals or large juices from Earthfare.  It makes me really want my own juicer!

How are you making changes for 2012? Tell me your secrets for cutting sugar from your diet!

No comments:

Post a Comment