Category: Uncategorized

Like many others, I was stunned and sadden to hear about the sudden loss of a musical icon. I don’t disagree that it’s a tremendous tragedy–especially for her daughter, family, and friends. I can’t imagine how her loved ones are feeling.

However, a radio show got me thinking…

The DJ’s were talking about how Whitney’s untimely death has been in bright lights all over the media. It’s understandable, considering she was a vocal icon.

But what about the men and women who throw themselves in front of terrorists to protect our country? What about the everyday heroes living right next door? Do we hear about them?

Occasionally, yes.

Most often you just see a snapshot of them on a grid with other fallen heroes on the nightly news.

Then that’s it.

I don’t want to take away Whitney’s legacy, by any means.

But why the obsession?

In the past, she did a lot of humanitarian work–notoriously lending her voice to philanthropic galas and events. She has even created her own foundation for children who are sick and/or homeless–caring for and educating them. However, why are we holding her higher above our soldiers? Someone who has infamously abused drugs and alcohol for numerous years? I’m not trying to bash Whitney or down-play her tragedy–after all, I Will Always Love You is one of my all-time favorite songs…

But, it really irks me that people who are sacrificing their lives for others… people who cure illnesses… people who are completely selfless… are not getting the honor, recognition, or praise that they truly deserve.

Tell me, what is wrong with our society?

Does anyone else feel this way, too?

If you are what you eat, then I must be bananas. B-A-N-A-N-A-S. {i seriously cannot say ‘bananas’ without singing it a la Gwen Stefani} Any way… Emmy must be bananas, too, because this girl is o.b.s.e.s.s.e.d with the yellow fruit. If you try to take one away from her, she will go ape-shit. pun. intended. But seriously. This chick would eat bananas all day long if I let her. “Nana! Nana! Nana!” {Back when Emmy had a hard time pronouncing, “GG” I told my mom she should have named herself ‘Nana’ instead.}


But I digress.


Are we really what we eat?


I believe this to be so. & lately I’ve been putting more thought into what I put in my belly. & my daughter’s. But trying to eat healthier is easier said than done. For me, at least. I really wish there was such a thing as a Food Fairy, who would magically deliver healthy food to my fridge and tell me what meals to prepare. {In a perfect world, the Food Fairy would also do all the cooking for me, too!} I get overwhelmed with trying to eat perfectly healthy. There’s too much to remember: Nitrates are toxic. Organic fruits are a must. The bigger the difference between carbs and sugar, the better. {head explodes right about now}


Since I’d really like to keep my head intact, I’ve decided to focus on making one change at a time. Emmy and I went to Whole Foods last week and my goal was to make sure none of my deli picks had nitrates/nitrites, artificial coloring, and were not ‘mechanically separated’ (ew!gag!) While roaming the narrow aisles (seriously WF, you need to expand the width of your aisles!) I used what I already knew about making healthy choices, but didn’t beat myself up if I wasn’t the *perfect* health nut.


I love the people in WF’s though. They’re so much nicer than the folks at other marketplaces. Probably because they’re hyped up on organic superfoods & coconut water instead of toxic processed crap. & I know it may sound weird, but I truly believe Emmy loved being at WF’s. She was so chipper and friendly, smiling and laughing throughout the store. Plus, she L O V E D all the yummy samples.

It’s been over a week since I’ve decided to take baby steps to eating healthier, instead of trying to flip my entire kitchen upside-down, and I must say that it’s going well. Are there times when I don’t eat *perfectly*? Of course! But I don’t beat myself up about it any longer. If I did, I would drive myself bananas!

So what about you? Are you psycho cautious about what you eat? What tricks or tips have you learned to make eating healthier easier?

Loyally,
Katie

Written on January 10, 2011 while being hospitalized for Postpartum Depression:

A woman told me I look much better today. It feels good that people can notice. I’m definitely feeling better than I was yesterday. Yesterday was so scary. I met with my doctor today. Basically, she told me this is going to pass, but in the meantime I’m going to up the dosage on my medication. If the medicine seems to be working, then I’ll probably only be here two more days. If I’m not liking the medication then the doctor will change the meds, but it should prolong my stay.

I’m just trying to stay positive, which is pretty hard when you’re surrounded by depressed people. This morning was a little hard to get moving, but after getting dressed after breakfast, I was craving activity. Fortunately we were able to go to the gymnasium. And guess what? I played 3 on 3 basketball. B would be proud, and possibly a little jealous he missed it. Especially since he’s always trying to get me to play with him! I can’t wait to tell him.


The therapy here kind of sucks. Well, I’ve only been to one [group] session, but it wasn’t helpful. I’m here because of a hormonal issue–not abuse of any sorts. I just couldn’t really relate. Plus, I really would like to talk with someone about how to cope with the anxiety. And obviously, most importantly is to prevent the harmful thoughts. But I believe that will come with time… and meds.