Those things really need seat belts....
3.31.2013
Happy Easter from Dan & Jess
I may not be able to drive cars, but I'm one heck of a golf cart chauffeur :)
Those things really need seat belts....
Those things really need seat belts....
3.29.2013
Seattle
It has been absolutely stunning these days, sunny, warm; it's perfect. After another 12 hour sleep session, I feel back to normal. Woo hoo! These shots, and even more so the traveling, are exhausting on my body, but at the same time, in my most tired state, I'm giddy at the prospect of positive results. (It's better to believe than be a skeptic - what's the point in starting off with a bad attitude?) Now, with my ketogentic diet in full effect (tomorrow is a week) I am hammering Hermie from multiple fronts. He is under full attack. Bwahahahahahaahaha!!
I hope you all have a fabulous Easter weekend. I won't have any kids to watch on Easter egg hunts this year, but I'm imagining my friend's children with their squeals and excitement and it makes me giggle and smile. I'm glad I have a vivid imagination :)
More so than ever, I keep thinking about how lucky I am. I truly have no complaints and it feels calming. With each trial, I move forward, step by step, conquering life. Of course, I have bad days too, but that also helps make times like this even sweeter!
Hope you all are able to enjoy some sunshine. Bask in the glory of Spring. New beginnings. New life.
I hope you all have a fabulous Easter weekend. I won't have any kids to watch on Easter egg hunts this year, but I'm imagining my friend's children with their squeals and excitement and it makes me giggle and smile. I'm glad I have a vivid imagination :)
More so than ever, I keep thinking about how lucky I am. I truly have no complaints and it feels calming. With each trial, I move forward, step by step, conquering life. Of course, I have bad days too, but that also helps make times like this even sweeter!
Hope you all are able to enjoy some sunshine. Bask in the glory of Spring. New beginnings. New life.
3.27.2013
Back on Keto
Hi, I'm back among the living! I'm still exhausted, and trying to keep up, but no big deal.
The trip was great. Libbey and I flew in and went directly to the hotel. We put on our jammies and climbed into bed. We ordered food (thanks Nate & Miriam for the gift certificate) and rested. The next morning, we woke around noon (I think). We lounged around, then made our way out into the beautiful NYC streets. We stopped into my favorite little juice bar for a shot and juice and crossed the street to the appointment. We met with Dr NYC at 3:45 pm. I talked to him about the aura the morning after last month's shot and he was excited. He said that means the treatment is likely working. Sweet! I told him about the seizure that occurred a few weeks back, while I was sleeping - the one Danny watched - and he stopped what he was doing, swiveled his chair and softly said, "Because of stress?" I affirmed, and he brought up (for the second time in our meetings) the ketogenic diet. For those of you who have long read this blog, you're aware that I've tried to do the ketogenic diet, but it is so incredibly hard. I have never been able to stay on it for long periods of time. Anyway, Dr NYC and I revisited the concept because of its' doubled effect on astrocytomas and seizures.
After the shot, Libbey and I went back to the hotel and climbed back into bed. We watched TV and played Words With Friends on our phones in our respective beds...in my rush I forgot to pack my game board. Oops. And, yes, WWF is basically scrabble :)
I handled the achy-ness just fine. It was definitely necessary to be in bed. I didn't sleep well with the flu-like symptoms. It was nothing compared to the flight the next day though. If I had not been in a crowded plane, but instead home alone, I would have been spurting expletives under my breath and wincing for the entire 5+ hours. The only thing that helped was sparkling water over ice. The bubbles are distracting, and somehow always make me in turn, feel more bubbly. So if I don't feel well, the happy bubbles can take me from down in the dumps into a normal-ish place. I strongly believe that distractions are the best pain reliever. And, after the pain during the neurosurgical floor at UCLA, for me there is nothing more painful than brain surgery. Everything else is just effing annoying. The pain in my brain was excruciating. Pins and needles that had been heated over a fire, pang after pang, burn after burn. But with each continuing moment, I knew that the pain was coming from a place of healing. At one point it was hard for me to hold back tears, good thing Jet Blue has cable TV. Another distraction. No seizures though, not even an aura. The trip was a massive success.
Since getting home I have reinstituted the ketogenic diet as my lifestyle choice. I am hoping it will quell any brain tumor growth, and also eradicate my seizures. There is a good deal about the ketogenic diet slowing, stopping, and even shrinking astrocytomas. Crazy! And (I'm simplifying this), the diet can cause about 50% of seizure sufferers to become seizure free. That sounds good, too, doesn't it!
It is highly restrictive, but I've been doing it for five days so far, and I've been consistently in ketosis for four of them (I urinate on keto sticks to check my levels). If you're in ketosis, it means that your body is burning fat from your body as fuel. (If your levels get too high you'll burn muscle - that's why you have to eat so much fat.) It's very complicated, and that's the main reason why I haven't blogged. I've been researching for hours upon hours. I'm so intrigued by this concept, and I've learned so much! I have been researching the keto concept ever since I was diagnosed, but I always want to learn more. It has been very helpful learning from the diabetics out there on the internet (they use keto sticks to check their ketone levels to make sure they're okay). Also, weightlifters use the ketone concept to burn fat and gain muscle.
Here's the daily breakdown:
Carbs 20 grams
Protein 100 grams
Fat 140 grams
It's all based on my body weight, height, build, activity level, age, gender, and several other factors. For those who aren't familiar, I can imagine the diet sounds crazy. And it did to me too, but this is not junk science. Doctors have been using this diet (or a variation) for decades. It was first published in the 1920's to treat epilepsy. Over a month ago I stopped drinking coffee, along with alcohol, not to mention refined sugar. It has not been too difficult to eliminate my carbs. I've even gotten pretty good at playing with my random recipes. I feel great, too!
I'm exhausted, so I'm headed to bed to read and hopefully sleep through the night. Dan's working nights for the next week or two, so our systems are completely off. I'm not being a very good sleeper :) Dan sleeps during the day, and I try to nap with him, or live quiet as a turtle.
Sweet dreams my friends. Here are two of my favorite pictures (not because they're pretty - they're definitely not - but I love what they signify to me).
Snow drifting down on Seattle in big fat fluffy flakes the morning after I arrived home. It felt like the weather was representing what was happening in my brain with the virus penetrating my tumor bed, melting any residual tumor with sneaky little virus cells.
The same day, three hours later. Sunshine.
The very next morning, for the first time this year (that I had seen), the beloved turtles were awake at Green Lake. They give me such peace and happiness each time I see them sunbathing. They always make me feel so alive and grateful.
After the shot, Libbey and I went back to the hotel and climbed back into bed. We watched TV and played Words With Friends on our phones in our respective beds...in my rush I forgot to pack my game board. Oops. And, yes, WWF is basically scrabble :)
I handled the achy-ness just fine. It was definitely necessary to be in bed. I didn't sleep well with the flu-like symptoms. It was nothing compared to the flight the next day though. If I had not been in a crowded plane, but instead home alone, I would have been spurting expletives under my breath and wincing for the entire 5+ hours. The only thing that helped was sparkling water over ice. The bubbles are distracting, and somehow always make me in turn, feel more bubbly. So if I don't feel well, the happy bubbles can take me from down in the dumps into a normal-ish place. I strongly believe that distractions are the best pain reliever. And, after the pain during the neurosurgical floor at UCLA, for me there is nothing more painful than brain surgery. Everything else is just effing annoying. The pain in my brain was excruciating. Pins and needles that had been heated over a fire, pang after pang, burn after burn. But with each continuing moment, I knew that the pain was coming from a place of healing. At one point it was hard for me to hold back tears, good thing Jet Blue has cable TV. Another distraction. No seizures though, not even an aura. The trip was a massive success.
Since getting home I have reinstituted the ketogenic diet as my lifestyle choice. I am hoping it will quell any brain tumor growth, and also eradicate my seizures. There is a good deal about the ketogenic diet slowing, stopping, and even shrinking astrocytomas. Crazy! And (I'm simplifying this), the diet can cause about 50% of seizure sufferers to become seizure free. That sounds good, too, doesn't it!
It is highly restrictive, but I've been doing it for five days so far, and I've been consistently in ketosis for four of them (I urinate on keto sticks to check my levels). If you're in ketosis, it means that your body is burning fat from your body as fuel. (If your levels get too high you'll burn muscle - that's why you have to eat so much fat.) It's very complicated, and that's the main reason why I haven't blogged. I've been researching for hours upon hours. I'm so intrigued by this concept, and I've learned so much! I have been researching the keto concept ever since I was diagnosed, but I always want to learn more. It has been very helpful learning from the diabetics out there on the internet (they use keto sticks to check their ketone levels to make sure they're okay). Also, weightlifters use the ketone concept to burn fat and gain muscle.
Here's the daily breakdown:
Carbs 20 grams
Protein 100 grams
Fat 140 grams
It's all based on my body weight, height, build, activity level, age, gender, and several other factors. For those who aren't familiar, I can imagine the diet sounds crazy. And it did to me too, but this is not junk science. Doctors have been using this diet (or a variation) for decades. It was first published in the 1920's to treat epilepsy. Over a month ago I stopped drinking coffee, along with alcohol, not to mention refined sugar. It has not been too difficult to eliminate my carbs. I've even gotten pretty good at playing with my random recipes. I feel great, too!
I'm exhausted, so I'm headed to bed to read and hopefully sleep through the night. Dan's working nights for the next week or two, so our systems are completely off. I'm not being a very good sleeper :) Dan sleeps during the day, and I try to nap with him, or live quiet as a turtle.
Sweet dreams my friends. Here are two of my favorite pictures (not because they're pretty - they're definitely not - but I love what they signify to me).
Snow drifting down on Seattle in big fat fluffy flakes the morning after I arrived home. It felt like the weather was representing what was happening in my brain with the virus penetrating my tumor bed, melting any residual tumor with sneaky little virus cells.
The same day, three hours later. Sunshine.
The very next morning, for the first time this year (that I had seen), the beloved turtles were awake at Green Lake. They give me such peace and happiness each time I see them sunbathing. They always make me feel so alive and grateful.
3.21.2013
Shot 3
I'm home. I'm safe. For the next 72 hours I'm on lockdown, Dan's orders. No technology (blogging, phone calls, emails, texting, etc.). Time to rest. Love you all!
3.20.2013
Shots Shots Shawttts
Wheat grass, then on to the NVD. Libbey is such a great sport. She's even sipping her cabbage, carrot, ginger, and chard juice. "Pretty much, it tastes like I'm drinking a salad. I've had a lot of worse tasting ginger things though," she said through her giggling dimples.
3.19.2013
We Made It!
PJs .....check!
Man vs Food .....check!
Libbey and I are safe and cozy in bed. The newcastle disease virus shot is at 3:45 pm tomorrow, and I'm excited, as always, to hit Hermie with a right hook! Adios squirmie.
Man vs Food .....check!
Libbey and I are safe and cozy in bed. The newcastle disease virus shot is at 3:45 pm tomorrow, and I'm excited, as always, to hit Hermie with a right hook! Adios squirmie.
3.17.2013
Lemo-eep
Sorry to continue on and on about lemons, but I'm on quite a kick. Although acidic, they are great at balancing out blood sugar levels, purifying your blood and maintaining a healthy ph balance (there's a belief in some circles that an alkaline diet reduces the occurrence of cancer). It's great for brain function (I guess there's a bunch of potassium in the juice), and it boosts your immune system. I'm mostly excited about the fact that it helps cure insomnia. Tonight, I think I'll count lemons instead of sheep.
There is so much information out there about the benefits of lemons and fresh lemon juice, it's pretty astounding, and really exciting. I always love finding new delicious ways to jumpstart or maintain my health. You can even use the juice to zap zits. No joke! And it evens out your skin tone. Just be careful because it also makes your skin more vulnerable to the sun.
It's lemon counting time for me, but before I go, I'll mention Dan's favorite green drink. I use a Vitamix by the way, and would use no other brand - it is THAT fantastic. I don't use protein powders, I haven't found one that didn't have at least one questionable ingredient. Also, I don't need any extra protein, I get lots and lots from my diet. Sorry I can't be of more help on that front.
My quantities are eyeballed, so feel free to tweak things. This is a batch that creates about 2.5 pints. I make this for both Dan and I on Sundays, his day off of the week.
3 c raw spinach
3-4 large leaves of raw kale (remove stem)
2 medium-large ripe bananas
2-3 cups of cold water
The mixture should be runny (if not, slowly add water). Fill two pint glasses, leaving just a little room. Add 1 tablespoon of orange flavored fish oil to each glass. Stir. Drink. Use the rest of the mixture for whoever is the hungriest. Dan said its the best green drink he's ever had, like a green orange julius. He doesn't even know there's fish oil in it :) insert evil laugh here: bwa-ha-ha!
Personally, I prefer the same drink, less one banana, but ill make it however I need to so that he enjoys it, and now that I added the extra banana, he actually wants to drink it. To me that's a huge success!
You can save your green drink, or lemon juice for later in the day if you'd like. I don't because I prefer it fresh, and am able to blend/juice on a whim because I'm always home. I wouldn't go more than a day, though, before drinking it. The sooner you drink it the fewer enzymes and nutrients disappear. Some breakdown and die within 15 minutes. And your green drink will separate, and that's less than appealing, but if you have time issues, or want to take it with you to work, just pop it into a cup with a lid and shake it before you drink it. Even if some of the nutrients and enzymes die, there will still be huge health benefits to drinking the drinks, so don't just give up. It's still, most likely, going to be the healthiest thing you could have while at the office.
PS Happy Saint Patty's Day! I made Dan and I our green drinks, and we did lemon shots to celebrate. Not the same shots I used to do, but just as fun!
There is so much information out there about the benefits of lemons and fresh lemon juice, it's pretty astounding, and really exciting. I always love finding new delicious ways to jumpstart or maintain my health. You can even use the juice to zap zits. No joke! And it evens out your skin tone. Just be careful because it also makes your skin more vulnerable to the sun.
It's lemon counting time for me, but before I go, I'll mention Dan's favorite green drink. I use a Vitamix by the way, and would use no other brand - it is THAT fantastic. I don't use protein powders, I haven't found one that didn't have at least one questionable ingredient. Also, I don't need any extra protein, I get lots and lots from my diet. Sorry I can't be of more help on that front.
My quantities are eyeballed, so feel free to tweak things. This is a batch that creates about 2.5 pints. I make this for both Dan and I on Sundays, his day off of the week.
3 c raw spinach
3-4 large leaves of raw kale (remove stem)
2 medium-large ripe bananas
2-3 cups of cold water
The mixture should be runny (if not, slowly add water). Fill two pint glasses, leaving just a little room. Add 1 tablespoon of orange flavored fish oil to each glass. Stir. Drink. Use the rest of the mixture for whoever is the hungriest. Dan said its the best green drink he's ever had, like a green orange julius. He doesn't even know there's fish oil in it :) insert evil laugh here: bwa-ha-ha!
Personally, I prefer the same drink, less one banana, but ill make it however I need to so that he enjoys it, and now that I added the extra banana, he actually wants to drink it. To me that's a huge success!
You can save your green drink, or lemon juice for later in the day if you'd like. I don't because I prefer it fresh, and am able to blend/juice on a whim because I'm always home. I wouldn't go more than a day, though, before drinking it. The sooner you drink it the fewer enzymes and nutrients disappear. Some breakdown and die within 15 minutes. And your green drink will separate, and that's less than appealing, but if you have time issues, or want to take it with you to work, just pop it into a cup with a lid and shake it before you drink it. Even if some of the nutrients and enzymes die, there will still be huge health benefits to drinking the drinks, so don't just give up. It's still, most likely, going to be the healthiest thing you could have while at the office.
PS Happy Saint Patty's Day! I made Dan and I our green drinks, and we did lemon shots to celebrate. Not the same shots I used to do, but just as fun!
Lemon Shots
I had a busy weekend perfecting my lemon shots. They're finally to the point where Dan will drink them. The trick is to mix equal parts pure fresh juiced lemon and refrigerated water (so it's nice and refreshing). Then sprinkle cayenne pepper on top. It's like drinking a shot of espresso, causing a burst of energy.
I'm also juicing lemons as I go, then pouring it into ice cube trays. Those cubes are great for glasses of water, or you can pop them into a tumbler, and place it in the fridge to thaw for a shot for later. For the record, I add the cayenne later, not on the tray.
I'm also juicing lemons as I go, then pouring it into ice cube trays. Those cubes are great for glasses of water, or you can pop them into a tumbler, and place it in the fridge to thaw for a shot for later. For the record, I add the cayenne later, not on the tray.
3.14.2013
Repenting
I was a very bad girl. I walked to PCC yesterday in the mist with Emma, we were on a hunt for healthy snacks, and a few regular groceries to keep the house running smoothly. As I was walking up and down the isle, I spotted a deal on LÄRABARS...my favorite plant based sweet treat. (I think the main ingredient is prunes.) Do you remember me mentioning my weakness for delicious things? That I have no self control? Well, I've been so good lately, and I really thought I could handle it, so I bought six bars for Dan's lunches. Dan has a sweet tooth like me, so I was trying to tempt him toward a healthy snack and away from peanut butter cups. Anyway, Emma and I walked home happily, as I sipped on MY treat, multi-green kombucha (I swear it's delicious).
When I made my way to the kitchen and unpacked the bags, I put the bars into Dan's snack area, but within a few hours I could hear Lara, telling me how delicious her bars are. I ATE THREE OF THEM. Back to back. In my defense, they're small. But still! That's what I mean about not being trustworthy. It's embarrassing. When Dan got home from class I had to tell him what I did, and beg him to put the rest of the bars in his lunch bag. I can not be trusted. I have no self control. God they were good though :) Yummy!
I repented with a fresh kale juice this morning though. I guess that's something :)
(I would include the recipe, but it should never be repeated. I drank it though. Because I was a bad girl.)
By the way, how did I not remember that kale is from the brassica family? So great to fight brain cancer! I'm slacking. I was Googling the benefits of kale juice and was reminded (I usually add it to my smoothies in the morning too). Anyway, all in all, I'm not freaking out about the coconut cream pie, chocolate chip cookie dough, or chocolate coconut chew it was so delicious, soooooo good. That's the worst thing I've eaten in two weeks. Not bad. But still, I am reminded, I can't have it in the house. I'll be relishing the flavor of those three bars for awhile though. Fond memories :)
When I made my way to the kitchen and unpacked the bags, I put the bars into Dan's snack area, but within a few hours I could hear Lara, telling me how delicious her bars are. I ATE THREE OF THEM. Back to back. In my defense, they're small. But still! That's what I mean about not being trustworthy. It's embarrassing. When Dan got home from class I had to tell him what I did, and beg him to put the rest of the bars in his lunch bag. I can not be trusted. I have no self control. God they were good though :) Yummy!
I repented with a fresh kale juice this morning though. I guess that's something :)
(I would include the recipe, but it should never be repeated. I drank it though. Because I was a bad girl.)
By the way, how did I not remember that kale is from the brassica family? So great to fight brain cancer! I'm slacking. I was Googling the benefits of kale juice and was reminded (I usually add it to my smoothies in the morning too). Anyway, all in all, I'm not freaking out about the coconut cream pie, chocolate chip cookie dough, or chocolate coconut chew it was so delicious, soooooo good. That's the worst thing I've eaten in two weeks. Not bad. But still, I am reminded, I can't have it in the house. I'll be relishing the flavor of those three bars for awhile though. Fond memories :)
3.13.2013
Lemons of Love
In one week I get my third shot. Holy cow, this is happening fast!! Only five more shots this year :) I wish I felt better and could actually enjoy the amazingness that is NYC. There's so much to do and see - and people to visit. I learned a lot though, about pushing myself. My buddy Libbey is coming with me this time, and we're planning on lazing around in the hotel room, relaxing, working on a puzzle and she doesn't know it, but I'm bringing my board game of Words With Friends. Slumber party! Packing should be easy...PJs and slippers. I'm excited! We will have a blast, but at the same time I'm frustrated that I have to be careful. I hate that I'm prone to seizures, and that they're induced by stress. Stupid stress.
Doorbell.....
Look what my mother-in-law sent me!!! Wooo hooooo! Organic lemons!! Sweeeeeeet. I wish I lived next door so I could make her lemon shots just to see her face :) If you know Linda, you would be laughing right now, just picturing her laughing at me. Her giggle is fantastically contagious. And she'll eat whatever I make her, but let's just say it's not her favorite food :)
I am so excited for these shots, even though they're taxing on my body. I can't believe I'm able to do this. What a crazy opportunity. I can't say this enough, thank you for the donations! We have also been very fortunate that Dan's work is incredibly busy. He has been working 72 hour weeks, and will continue to do so until at least June. Above his 72 hour work week, he also travels for class once a week after work, and doesn't make it home until around 10:00 p.m. Danny works so, so hard, and I appreciate him very much - and I want everyone to know how amazing he is (as if you didn't already know) :) I worry about his health, though, a lot. He is so wonderful, never complaining, and I've been cooking, and cleaning and doing everything that I can to support him, but it sucks to not only not have a job to contribute, but also be the financial burden. STUPID CANCER! Ugh.
Doorbell.....
Look what my mother-in-law sent me!!! Wooo hooooo! Organic lemons!! Sweeeeeeet. I wish I lived next door so I could make her lemon shots just to see her face :) If you know Linda, you would be laughing right now, just picturing her laughing at me. Her giggle is fantastically contagious. And she'll eat whatever I make her, but let's just say it's not her favorite food :)
I am so excited for these shots, even though they're taxing on my body. I can't believe I'm able to do this. What a crazy opportunity. I can't say this enough, thank you for the donations! We have also been very fortunate that Dan's work is incredibly busy. He has been working 72 hour weeks, and will continue to do so until at least June. Above his 72 hour work week, he also travels for class once a week after work, and doesn't make it home until around 10:00 p.m. Danny works so, so hard, and I appreciate him very much - and I want everyone to know how amazing he is (as if you didn't already know) :) I worry about his health, though, a lot. He is so wonderful, never complaining, and I've been cooking, and cleaning and doing everything that I can to support him, but it sucks to not only not have a job to contribute, but also be the financial burden. STUPID CANCER! Ugh.
3.12.2013
Chicken Broth
I did end up making broth from the chicken bones on Saturday. It was so easy! I took the whole carcass and put it in a great big pot, along with the drippings from the roast.
You cover the carcass with water and boil it.
Some websites say 1.5 hours, others say 3 hours. I decided to go with 3.5 hours of boiling, and I'm telling you it was the easiest thing to clean the meat off the bones. They didn't say either way, the sites that I referenced, but I covered my broth as it boiled.
I used a slatted spoon to pull the bones out of the pot. I placed all the meat on one dish (really sift through it - there are some very small bones), and the bones/cartilage/skin in another. When I got to the point where there was stuff floating around, I placed a mesh strainer over another large pot and strained the rest of the broth. Done! I ended up with about two cups of meat, it was crazy!
I divided the broth into one pot for dinner with the remaining chicken, and the second half, I placed in a container to freeze. You will want to season the broth with whatever you'd like, whenever you use it, but it's all so easy! I tossed some things from my fridge, a celery heart & leaves, some kale, shiitake mushrooms, chives, carrots, cayenne & fresh cracked pepper and a dash or two of finely ground sea salt. Done.
I'm sorry to say I don't have any vegan cookie recipes. I haven't baked in ages. I don't trust myself around sugar - unless it's as an exfoliant. Just thinking about it makes me want a cookie, though. Yum!! I'm such a suggestible person when it comes to food. That's why we don't have anything deliciously naughty in our home. Veggies, meats, nuts and cheese get old very quickly. Can't really binge on those things :)
My favorite part of making chicken broth.....
 |
| See what I meant about all that meat? |
You cover the carcass with water and boil it.
 |
| This is the carcass after just having added water |
Some websites say 1.5 hours, others say 3 hours. I decided to go with 3.5 hours of boiling, and I'm telling you it was the easiest thing to clean the meat off the bones. They didn't say either way, the sites that I referenced, but I covered my broth as it boiled.
 |
| You know it's ready when it's a milky color |
I used a slatted spoon to pull the bones out of the pot. I placed all the meat on one dish (really sift through it - there are some very small bones), and the bones/cartilage/skin in another. When I got to the point where there was stuff floating around, I placed a mesh strainer over another large pot and strained the rest of the broth. Done! I ended up with about two cups of meat, it was crazy!
 |
| That's a lot of broth & a lot of meat |
I divided the broth into one pot for dinner with the remaining chicken, and the second half, I placed in a container to freeze. You will want to season the broth with whatever you'd like, whenever you use it, but it's all so easy! I tossed some things from my fridge, a celery heart & leaves, some kale, shiitake mushrooms, chives, carrots, cayenne & fresh cracked pepper and a dash or two of finely ground sea salt. Done.
I'm sorry to say I don't have any vegan cookie recipes. I haven't baked in ages. I don't trust myself around sugar - unless it's as an exfoliant. Just thinking about it makes me want a cookie, though. Yum!! I'm such a suggestible person when it comes to food. That's why we don't have anything deliciously naughty in our home. Veggies, meats, nuts and cheese get old very quickly. Can't really binge on those things :)
My favorite part of making chicken broth.....
 |
| I'll never tell what I wished for... |
3.09.2013
Roasted Chicken Recipe
I've been nesting these past few days, cooking up a storm and ferociously cleaning. It's no surprise, really, the sun has been poking out lately and the sun is rising at 6:00 am - for me, the amount of sunlight during the day is directly related to energy levels :) The good thing about Seattle, is that we see the sun and immediately get to doing something. The sun is like an 'on' button. It's also driving me crazy, causing a deep itch to plant my dahlia tubers - I won't, I know it's waaaay too soon, but man, this is a serious challenge in patience.
I have another fun recipe, it's my take on a roasted chicken. It's crazy easy, too. Only five ingredients.
I need to mention, although I don't state it each time (although I probably should) we only purchase grass fed free range organic meat (everything - beef, chicken, lamb, etc.), buying from farms/butchers that we know of and trust. We can't control every piece of meat that we put in our mouths, like eating at a friend's house or something, but as for our household, I figure the price is worth the value. Animals are naturally supposed to eat grass, not corn. Animals that eat grass are much higher in omega-3 fats instead of the corn fed which are high in omega-6. It's just a personal preference, not only for the nutritional properties, but also for humane reasons. I've mentioned this before, but I want to eat happy, healthy animals that have had fun in the fields before they came to my kitchen. Maybe it's morbid, but I like to think that it's supportive to their lifestyle. As far as livestock, those guys are the lucky ones. I guess I didn't really need to mention the whole thing, but if it makes even one person consider a switch, I'd be pretty excited. :)
So, onto the recipe......
Jess's Lemon Garlic Pesto Roasted Chicken
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken
1 large lemon
3 tbsp fresh ground dried garlic (pure is best - no salt)
2 tbsp fresh ground pepper
4 tbsp pesto
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Remove the innards of the chicken. (Some people cook them up for their dog. I didn't. I didn't want to risk any 'accidents' if you know what I mean.) Rinse the whole chicken, and cut any loose hanging skin around the hole (I don't know what to call that area). Cut the lemon in half. Mix the garlic powder and ground pepper in a small dish.
2. Place the two halves of the lemon inside the, um, 'cavity'? I wanted to say bum, but cavity is probably more appropriate ;)
3. Take a tablespoon of pesto and spread it under the skin of one breast, then do the same thing to the other breast. Use the remaining two tablespoons of pesto and spread it all over the chicken (top, and legs - don't get too low on the sides or it will just drip off while cooking).
4. Shake/sprinkle/spread the garlic and pepper seasoning all over the chicken. Cover the chicken with aluminum, making a tent so that the two don't touch. I move the oven rack down one wrung, so it's just below the middle, then place the little bird into the heated oven. Cook it covered in the 375 degree heat for 80 minutes. Then remove the aluminum foil and put the chicken back in the oven for 20 more minutes - that makes the skin crunchy.
5. Eat. Yummy!!!
I'm not great at cleaning the meat off of bones, but for the first time I don't have to feel bad about it because I'm making my own broth with the bones and drippings. We'll see how it goes :) I'm excited to have a homemade broth to keep in the freezer for an easy dinner in a pinch - just toss in some veggies at the last minute. My own broth? Who am I turning into? An adult? Jeez.
One more thing. You might notice that I didn't include any butter, olive oil, or salt. I promise, you won't even notice. If you have fresh ground garlic (We're lucky because we have a huge organic bulk section at PCC.), the flavor is so delicious and flavorful, you won't miss the salt.
I have another fun recipe, it's my take on a roasted chicken. It's crazy easy, too. Only five ingredients.
I need to mention, although I don't state it each time (although I probably should) we only purchase grass fed free range organic meat (everything - beef, chicken, lamb, etc.), buying from farms/butchers that we know of and trust. We can't control every piece of meat that we put in our mouths, like eating at a friend's house or something, but as for our household, I figure the price is worth the value. Animals are naturally supposed to eat grass, not corn. Animals that eat grass are much higher in omega-3 fats instead of the corn fed which are high in omega-6. It's just a personal preference, not only for the nutritional properties, but also for humane reasons. I've mentioned this before, but I want to eat happy, healthy animals that have had fun in the fields before they came to my kitchen. Maybe it's morbid, but I like to think that it's supportive to their lifestyle. As far as livestock, those guys are the lucky ones. I guess I didn't really need to mention the whole thing, but if it makes even one person consider a switch, I'd be pretty excited. :)
So, onto the recipe......
Jess's Lemon Garlic Pesto Roasted Chicken
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken
1 large lemon
3 tbsp fresh ground dried garlic (pure is best - no salt)
2 tbsp fresh ground pepper
4 tbsp pesto
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Remove the innards of the chicken. (Some people cook them up for their dog. I didn't. I didn't want to risk any 'accidents' if you know what I mean.) Rinse the whole chicken, and cut any loose hanging skin around the hole (I don't know what to call that area). Cut the lemon in half. Mix the garlic powder and ground pepper in a small dish.
2. Place the two halves of the lemon inside the, um, 'cavity'? I wanted to say bum, but cavity is probably more appropriate ;)
3. Take a tablespoon of pesto and spread it under the skin of one breast, then do the same thing to the other breast. Use the remaining two tablespoons of pesto and spread it all over the chicken (top, and legs - don't get too low on the sides or it will just drip off while cooking).
4. Shake/sprinkle/spread the garlic and pepper seasoning all over the chicken. Cover the chicken with aluminum, making a tent so that the two don't touch. I move the oven rack down one wrung, so it's just below the middle, then place the little bird into the heated oven. Cook it covered in the 375 degree heat for 80 minutes. Then remove the aluminum foil and put the chicken back in the oven for 20 more minutes - that makes the skin crunchy.
5. Eat. Yummy!!!
I'm not great at cleaning the meat off of bones, but for the first time I don't have to feel bad about it because I'm making my own broth with the bones and drippings. We'll see how it goes :) I'm excited to have a homemade broth to keep in the freezer for an easy dinner in a pinch - just toss in some veggies at the last minute. My own broth? Who am I turning into? An adult? Jeez.
One more thing. You might notice that I didn't include any butter, olive oil, or salt. I promise, you won't even notice. If you have fresh ground garlic (We're lucky because we have a huge organic bulk section at PCC.), the flavor is so delicious and flavorful, you won't miss the salt.
3.08.2013
Updated Green Smoothie
I am finally perfecting my green drink. It's so good, tasting pretty leafy, but it's like drinking two large salads. THAT's pretty convenient! :) I really recommend purchasing a Vitamix (if you don't already have one). Ok....here we go....
1 peeled banana (as ripe as you like it - the greener the less the sweet)
2 large handfuls of spinach (stuff it down in there)
2 large handfuls of kale (deveined)
2/3 of a pint glass of water
Blend until everything is liquid.
Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (full of protein, omega-3 fats, alpha lipoic acid, fiber and much much more, but for the best absorption into the body it needs to be ground...hence the Vitamix) to the blender (pour into the middle and away from the side and you won't have to scrape the sides as much) and blend everything until you can't see any shells.
Pour the mixture into a large glass and add one tablespoon of lemon flavored fish oil to your glass and stir with a spoon. (There is also orange flavored fish oil which is a delicious substitute if you don't prefer lemon.) Now it's ready to drink. Personally, I chug the drink right in front of the sink then immediately wash my glass, the utensils, and the blender. This is not a concoction that should sit in dishes/blenders. When I make the same drink for Dan I add 1/2 a cup of plain yogurt and an extra banana (and I stuff a little extra kale to compensate).
I love juicing veggies, but blended drinks are my favorite because they include all of the fiber which keeps me full for hours. The juicing is delicious but I feel bad wasting so much of the plant. I've fallen in love with a new shot, though, and it's best juiced. You juice a few fresh lemons, a bit of ginger, and once it's been poured into a small glass (like a shot glass or equivalent), tap some cayenne pepper on top. I have started craving my lemon ginger shot like crazy these days. I'm going to need to find bulk organic lemons soon.
1 peeled banana (as ripe as you like it - the greener the less the sweet)
2 large handfuls of spinach (stuff it down in there)
2 large handfuls of kale (deveined)
2/3 of a pint glass of water
Blend until everything is liquid.
Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds (full of protein, omega-3 fats, alpha lipoic acid, fiber and much much more, but for the best absorption into the body it needs to be ground...hence the Vitamix) to the blender (pour into the middle and away from the side and you won't have to scrape the sides as much) and blend everything until you can't see any shells.
Pour the mixture into a large glass and add one tablespoon of lemon flavored fish oil to your glass and stir with a spoon. (There is also orange flavored fish oil which is a delicious substitute if you don't prefer lemon.) Now it's ready to drink. Personally, I chug the drink right in front of the sink then immediately wash my glass, the utensils, and the blender. This is not a concoction that should sit in dishes/blenders. When I make the same drink for Dan I add 1/2 a cup of plain yogurt and an extra banana (and I stuff a little extra kale to compensate).
I love juicing veggies, but blended drinks are my favorite because they include all of the fiber which keeps me full for hours. The juicing is delicious but I feel bad wasting so much of the plant. I've fallen in love with a new shot, though, and it's best juiced. You juice a few fresh lemons, a bit of ginger, and once it's been poured into a small glass (like a shot glass or equivalent), tap some cayenne pepper on top. I have started craving my lemon ginger shot like crazy these days. I'm going to need to find bulk organic lemons soon.
 |
| Yellow flags of Spring are popping up all over :) Yay!! |
3.04.2013
Service With a Smile & a Hug
This is such a cute story! Thanks mom, for sending it. Definitely a day brightener.
No Fear No Sidelines
Yesterday was Dan's 35th birthday. We woke up to a gorgeous sunny spring day, almost as if the day was meant for him :) I quickly got to chopping veggies and food processing my super special spicy spinach and basil humus. I packed our fruits, and veggies, our picnic basket and blanket, and peeled Dan off the couch - no time for killing zombies. We grabbed our folding camp chairs and Emma and we were off to Golden Gardens.
It was hot by Seattle standards. People, birds, dogs and squirrels were playing, lounging, laughing, and soaking up as much vitamin D as we could manage. To feel the sun on my face was truly glorious! There are weeks at a time (or longer) that we don't get that pleasure. My cold, cold bones were giddy.
We only lasted about 30 minutes before the first raindrops started. We packed up, headed home and enlisted Eric & Laura to celebrate an indoor picnic on the couch. We turned Skyfall into a five hour movie, it was hilarious and perfect.
It was nice visiting with friends that we've known for so long. There's no need for pomp. In fact you don't even need jeans, just sweats :) After the movie as we were catching up, Laura shared a story about a friend from high school, a teammate from volleyball, who had epilepsy. Apparently, she would sometimes seize in the middle of games. I was blown away! I have been living in fear of seizures. It was as if a seizure was the end of my world as I know it. After this last seizure, I had been feeling like my soul is trapped in an unreliable, faulty physical body. I've been very sad, wondering if my life will be boring, if I will be relegated to second rate sleepy activities. I was not born to sit. I was not born to live in fear. Hearing from Laura that when her teammate had a seizure it wasn't that big of a deal, that they all knew what to do, how to handle it, and that it didn't mean that she had to sit on the sidelines, literally sparked a flame in my heart. I physically sat up straight, started smiling, and felt like those 10 pesky pounds had evaporated from my frame. I mean, think about it - who wants to live on the sidelines? What's the fun in that? I want to be out kicking ass with the team! When people have seizures, almost none of them need medical help (unless there is a rare accident or special circumstance). I've had medical attention for my first one because I was driving and I didn't understand what had happened. Then the second time, again, I was confused. We now know exactly what to do.
Last Monday night when I had my seizure, Dan gently woke me up and told me what happened. Then I rolled over and went back to bed. What I need from my friends is to not be afraid. And, if you are afraid, that is okay, but just talk to me and I'll make sure you won't have to be alone with me. I am very careful to not push my limits, but this is not an exact science - there is so much that we don't know about what causes seizures. You can do everything and still be surprised with an episode.
I do not want to make my friends uncomfortable, but I also do not want to sit at home. I want to live. After this last week when my girlfriend suggested I should stay home from the run and pub crawl, then I had a seizure, I wondered if my physical state was deteriorating. I worried that my good days might behind me, that things would decline with further seizures. I was terrified that my life was going to be riddled with exhaustion and less and less invites from friends. A double whammy. Laura's story perked me right up! All I need to hear is that one person persevered, then I'm inspired and I want to join them in conquering the world!
It's nice to have a new perspective on the same situation. I can't tell you enough how relieved I feel. Even though I'm not drinking coffee, or alcohol - or eating sweets (other than fruit & 70%+ dark chocolate) - I still want to see my friends. I can still hang out at a bar for an hour, or meet up for desert, and I'll have a tea or a sparkling water, then I'll go home and rest. I believe I can have the best of both worlds.
It was hot by Seattle standards. People, birds, dogs and squirrels were playing, lounging, laughing, and soaking up as much vitamin D as we could manage. To feel the sun on my face was truly glorious! There are weeks at a time (or longer) that we don't get that pleasure. My cold, cold bones were giddy.
 |
| Thank you for the picnic basket Meghan & Sean! |
 |
| Thanks for the blanket Mary & Kevin! |
 |
| We were doing great until the massive grey cloud started creeping in... |
We only lasted about 30 minutes before the first raindrops started. We packed up, headed home and enlisted Eric & Laura to celebrate an indoor picnic on the couch. We turned Skyfall into a five hour movie, it was hilarious and perfect.
It was nice visiting with friends that we've known for so long. There's no need for pomp. In fact you don't even need jeans, just sweats :) After the movie as we were catching up, Laura shared a story about a friend from high school, a teammate from volleyball, who had epilepsy. Apparently, she would sometimes seize in the middle of games. I was blown away! I have been living in fear of seizures. It was as if a seizure was the end of my world as I know it. After this last seizure, I had been feeling like my soul is trapped in an unreliable, faulty physical body. I've been very sad, wondering if my life will be boring, if I will be relegated to second rate sleepy activities. I was not born to sit. I was not born to live in fear. Hearing from Laura that when her teammate had a seizure it wasn't that big of a deal, that they all knew what to do, how to handle it, and that it didn't mean that she had to sit on the sidelines, literally sparked a flame in my heart. I physically sat up straight, started smiling, and felt like those 10 pesky pounds had evaporated from my frame. I mean, think about it - who wants to live on the sidelines? What's the fun in that? I want to be out kicking ass with the team! When people have seizures, almost none of them need medical help (unless there is a rare accident or special circumstance). I've had medical attention for my first one because I was driving and I didn't understand what had happened. Then the second time, again, I was confused. We now know exactly what to do.
Last Monday night when I had my seizure, Dan gently woke me up and told me what happened. Then I rolled over and went back to bed. What I need from my friends is to not be afraid. And, if you are afraid, that is okay, but just talk to me and I'll make sure you won't have to be alone with me. I am very careful to not push my limits, but this is not an exact science - there is so much that we don't know about what causes seizures. You can do everything and still be surprised with an episode.
I do not want to make my friends uncomfortable, but I also do not want to sit at home. I want to live. After this last week when my girlfriend suggested I should stay home from the run and pub crawl, then I had a seizure, I wondered if my physical state was deteriorating. I worried that my good days might behind me, that things would decline with further seizures. I was terrified that my life was going to be riddled with exhaustion and less and less invites from friends. A double whammy. Laura's story perked me right up! All I need to hear is that one person persevered, then I'm inspired and I want to join them in conquering the world!
It's nice to have a new perspective on the same situation. I can't tell you enough how relieved I feel. Even though I'm not drinking coffee, or alcohol - or eating sweets (other than fruit & 70%+ dark chocolate) - I still want to see my friends. I can still hang out at a bar for an hour, or meet up for desert, and I'll have a tea or a sparkling water, then I'll go home and rest. I believe I can have the best of both worlds.
3.02.2013
3.01.2013
Down Then Up
Ok, better news, Dr Liau pulled my MRI for a second review after I had my seizure (she just emailed again to clarify). She believes there is just a very, very small change in the tumor resection area, and it could be due to the Newcastle Disease virus shot which I received 11 days before my MRI.
Danny and I are using this as a wake up call. We're taking time to rest, and revamp our diet to really focus on low inflammation foods (feel free to post any yummy recipes!). I'm also trying to integrate as many low inflammation supplements throughout the day as well.
We feel very relieved, but nervous too. Living with brain cancer is stressful. One day you're just trying to live your life, and have fun with your friends, the next you're faced with radiation and everything that entails. Each time they look at my brain I worry, and lately, I haven't been feeling great anyway.
I need to stop trying to be social, and just focus on healing. It's hard though, I never want to miss out. But when dealing with cancer, you don't get to do what you want or live like you want. You just have to be happy living.
Below is a picture of a local raccoon that walked with my dad, Emma and I down to Green Lake a couple of days ago. We're pretty sure he was deaf and blind....and I'm positive he's adorable.
Danny and I are using this as a wake up call. We're taking time to rest, and revamp our diet to really focus on low inflammation foods (feel free to post any yummy recipes!). I'm also trying to integrate as many low inflammation supplements throughout the day as well.
We feel very relieved, but nervous too. Living with brain cancer is stressful. One day you're just trying to live your life, and have fun with your friends, the next you're faced with radiation and everything that entails. Each time they look at my brain I worry, and lately, I haven't been feeling great anyway.
I need to stop trying to be social, and just focus on healing. It's hard though, I never want to miss out. But when dealing with cancer, you don't get to do what you want or live like you want. You just have to be happy living.
Below is a picture of a local raccoon that walked with my dad, Emma and I down to Green Lake a couple of days ago. We're pretty sure he was deaf and blind....and I'm positive he's adorable.
Bigger Fish To Fry
We got the MRI results from UCLA's tumor board. At first we received a phone call from Dr Liau's office stating everything looks great and we won't need to get an MRI for 6 months. Then we got a personal email 10 minutes later from Dr Liau with the bad news. There is increased T2 Flair, and an area of concern. They want me to do an MRI in two months and if the results aren't positive they will recommend radiation. If I have any more seizures I am to see a neuro-oncologist and begin anti-seizure medication.
I'm not sure how the wires got crossed, but don't really care either way, it doesn't change the truth. Today was a complete roller coaster and it's only 3:19 pm.
I'm not sure how the wires got crossed, but don't really care either way, it doesn't change the truth. Today was a complete roller coaster and it's only 3:19 pm.
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