| | Costco | Cub Foods | Trader Joe’s | Fresh & Natural | Kowalski’s |
| UNREFINED OILS | | | | | |
| Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Unfiltered, 1 Ltr | 5.50 (cold-pressed, not organic) | | 5.49 (not Organic) | | |
| Organic Flaxseed Oil | | | | | |
| Organic Macadamia Nut Oil | | | | | |
| Organic Pumpkin Seed Oil | | | | | |
| Organic Toasted Sesame Oil | | | | | |
| Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, 14 oz | | | | 10.55 | |
| Organic Walnut Oil | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| VINEGARS | | | | | |
| Organic Balsamic Vinegar | | | | | |
| Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar | | | | | |
| Organic Red Wine Vinegar | | | | | |
| Organic Seasoned Brown Rice Vinegar | | | | | |
| Organic White Wine Vinegar | | | | | |
| Sherry Vinegar | | | | | |
| Ume Plum Vinegar | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| SALT & SALT SEASONINGS | | | | | |
| Herbamare | | | | | |
| Unrefined Sea Salt (Redmond’s RealSalt) | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| CONDIMENTS | | | | | |
| Organic Dijon Mustard | 4.59/60 oz (not organic or dijon) | | | | |
| Organic Ketchup, agave nectar sweetened | | | n/a | n/a | |
| Wasabi | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| NATURAL SWEETENERS | | | | | |
| Agave Nectar | | | | | |
| Medjool Dates | | | | | |
| Stevia, dry | | | 6.99/9.73 oz | 73.79/lb | |
| Stevia, liquid | | | n/a | 4.59-8.55 | |
| Unsweetened Apple Juice (NOT from concentrate) | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| HERBS & SPICES | | | | | |
| Bay Leaves | | | | | |
| Black Peppercorns, whole | 4.49/6.3 oz | | | | |
| Cardamom, whole | | | | | |
| Cayenne Pepper | | | | | |
| Chili Powder | | | | | |
| Chives, fresh | | 4.08 freeze-dried, glass btl) | | | |
| Cilantro, fresh | | | | | |
| Cinnamon, ground | 2.69 (10.7 oz) | | | | |
| Coriander, ground | | | | | |
| Cumin, ground | | | | | |
| Cumin, whole | | | | | |
| Curry Powder | | | | | |
| Garam Masala | | | | | |
| Garlic, powder | | | | | |
| Ginger, powder | | | | | |
| Italian Seasoning | | | | | |
| Mexican Seasoning | | | | | |
| Mint, fresh | | | 1.79 | | |
| Oregano, dried, 2.5 oz | 3.69 (organic) | | | | |
| Paprika, glass container | | 5.99 | | 4.29 | 5.19 |
| Parsley, fresh | 3.59 (dried, 2 oz) | | | | |
| Rosemary, dried | | | | | |
| Thyme, dried | | | | | |
| Tumeric | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| RAW NUTS & SEEDS | | | | | |
| Almonds, lb | 3.26 | | | 4.99 | |
| Brazil Nuts | | | | | |
| Cashews, 16 oz | 5.60 (salted) | | 5.99 | | |
| Cashews, roasted, unsalted, lb | | | 5.99 | | |
| Flax Seeds | 6.99/40 oz (fine milled) | | | | |
| Hazelnuts | | | | | |
| Macadamia | | | | | |
| Mixed Nuts | 6.00 (salted) | | | | |
| Peanuts | | | | | |
| Pecans, lb | 7.50 | | 9.98 | | |
| Pepitas/Pumpkin Seeds | | | 5.49 | | |
| Pine Nuts | 15.33 | | | | |
| Pistachio, lb | 9.85 (salted) | | | | |
| Sesame Seeds | | | | | |
| Sunflower Seeds | | | | | |
| Walnuts, lb | 4.53 | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| NUT & SEED BUTTERS | | | | | |
| Almond Butter | 5.79/26 oz | | | | |
| Apricot Jam, fruit juice sweetened??? (Bionaturae) | | | | | |
| Cashew Butter | | | | | |
| Peanut Butter, unsalted | 5.49/54 oz (salted) | | 1.79 (salted) | 4.45 (salted) | |
| Sesame Tahini | | | | | |
| Sunflower Seed Butter | | | 3.99 | 6.85 | |
| | | | | | |
| WHOLE GRAINS | | | | | |
| Amaranth | | | | | |
| Basmati Rice, brown | 0.75 | | | | |
| Brown Rice, short grained | 1.08 (organic) | | | | |
| Brown Rice Pasta Fusilli, 16 oz | | | 1.99 | | |
| Brown Rice Pasta Spaghetti, 16 oz | | | 1.99 | | |
| Buckwheat Groats, lb | | | | 1.79 | |
| Buckwheat, noodles | | | | | |
| Jasmine Rice, brown | | | | | |
| Millet, lb | | | | 0.99 (organic) | |
| Quinoa, lb | 2.25 (organic) | | | 3.59 (organic) | |
| Quinoa, noodles | | | | | |
| Rolled Oats, thick | 6.89/10 lbs (instant) | 0.99 | | 1.49 | |
| Sprouted Grains | | | | | |
| Sweet Brown Rice | 0.80 | | | | |
| Teff (White, Red, Brown) | | | | | |
| Wild Rice | 2.96 | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| WHOLE GRAIN FLOURS | | | | | |
| Amaranth Flour | | | | | |
| Barley Flour, lb | | | | 1.29 | |
| Brown Rice Flour, 2 lbs | | | | 3.95 | |
| Buckwheat Flour, 22 oz | | | | | 4.69 |
| Millet Flour, 20 oz | | | | 4.95 | |
| Quinoa Flour | | | | | |
| Spelt Flour | | | | | |
| Tapioca Flour???, 20 oz | | | | 3.85 | |
| Teff Flour | | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| BEANS | | | | | |
| Garbanzo Beans, dried | | | | | |
| Garbanzo Beans, canned | | | 1.19 (organic) | | |
| Kidney Beans, dried | | | | | |
| Kidney Beans, canned | | | 1.19 (organic) | | |
| Lentils (Red, Green & French), dried | | | | | |
| Lentils (Red, Green & French), canned | | | | | |
| Pink Beans, dried | | | | | |
| Pink Beans, canned | | | | | |
| Pinto Beans, dried | | | | | |
| Pinto Beans, canned | | | | | |
| Split Peas (Yellow & Green) | | | | | |
| White Beans, dried | | | | | |
| White Beans, canned | | | 0.89 | | |
| | | | | | |
| ORGANIC CANNED TOMATO PRODUCTS | | | | | |
| Crushed Tomatoes | | | | | |
| Crushed Tomatoes, fire roasted | | | | | |
| Diced Tomatoes, 14.5 oz can | 0.97 | | | | |
| Diced Tomatoes, fire roasted | | | | | |
| Tomato Paste | | | | | |
| Tomato Sauce, 15 oz can | 0.58 | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| FRESH/FROZEN FRUITS & VEGETABLES | | | | | |
| Artichoke | | | 1.99 (can hearts) | | |
| Arugula, organic | | | | | |
| Apples, organics, 3 lbs | | 4.99 | | 4.99 | |
| Apples, organic, 2 lbs | | | 2.49 | | |
| Apricots, organic | | | | | |
| Asparagus | | | | | |
| Avocado, each | | | | 2.69 (organic) | |
| Baby Carrots, organic, lb | 0.91 | 1.99 | 1.69 | 1.99 | |
| Bananas, each | | | 0.19 | | |
| Beets | | | | | |
| Bell Peppers, organic, 2 | | 6.99 | 3.79 (not organic, 3) | 3.59/lb | |
| Blackberries, organic | | | | | |
| Blueberries, organic, fresh, 6 oz | | 2.99 | 3.49 | 5.69 | |
| Blueberries, organic, frozen, 12 oz | | | 3.99 | 2.79 (All-Natural, 10 oz) | |
| Bok Choy, organic | | | | | |
| Broccoli, head | | 3.99 (organic) | 2.99 (organic) | | |
| Brussel Sprouts | | | | | |
| Cabbage | | | | | |
| Cantaloupe | | | | | |
| Carrots, organic, lb | | | 0.89 | | |
| Cauliflower, head | | | 2.29 | | |
| Cauliflower, Frozen | | | | 2.39 | |
| Celery, organic | | 2.29 | | | 4.99 |
| Chard, organic | | | | | |
| Cherries, organic | | | 2.99 (not organic, frozen, 16 oz) | | |
| Coconut | | | | | |
| Cranberries | | | | | |
| Cucumbers, 2 | | 3.99 (organic) | 2.99 (organic) | | |
| Eggplant | | | | | |
| Fennel | | | | | |
| Figs, fresh | | | | | |
| Garlic, cloves | | | 1.49 (organic) | | |
| Ginger, fresh | | | | | |
| Grapes, organic | | | | | |
| Honeydew | | | | | |
| Jicama | | | | | |
| Kale, organic, 10 oz | | | 2.29 (not organic) | | |
| Kiwi | | | | | |
| Kohlrabi | | | | | |
| Leek | | | | | |
| Lemon (organic, if using zest), lb | | | 1.99 (organic) | | |
| Lime (organic, if using zest) | | | | | |
| Mango | | | | | |
| Mushrooms, organic | | 3.99 | n/a | 4.59 | 4.49 |
| Nectarines, organic | | | | | |
| Okra | | | | | |
| Onion, each | | | 0.69 | | |
| Oranges, organic, 4 lbs | | | 3.99 | | |
| Parsnip | | | | | |
| Peaches, organic | | | | | |
| Pears, organic 3 lbs | | 4.99 | .79 (each) | | |
| Peas | | | | | |
| Pineapple | | | | | |
| Plums | | | | | |
| Potatoes, organic, 5 lbs | | 5.99 | 3.99 | 4.39 | |
| Pumpkin | | | | 3.15 (can, organic) | 3.49 (can, organic) |
| Raddichio | | | | | |
| Radish | | | | | |
| Raspberries, organic | | 4.99 | | | |
| Romaine, organic, head | 3.79/6 heads | | 2.69/3, organic | 4.99 | |
| Rutabega | | | | | |
| Scallion | | 1.99 (organic) | n/a | | |
| Shallots | | | 0.99 | | |
| Spaghetti Squash | | | | | |
| Spinach, organic | 3.99/lb | | 6.64/lb | | |
| Spring Mix, organic | 4.49/lb | | 6.64/lb | | |
| Strawberries, organic, lb | 2.50 | 5.99 | 2.99 | | |
| String Beans | $5.99 (organic, frzn, 5 lbs) | | | | |
| Sweet Potatoes, 3 lbs | | | 3.99 (organic) | | |
| Tangerines, organic | | | | | |
| Turnip | | | | | |
| Yam | | | | | |
| Yellow Squash | | | | | |
| Watermelon | | | | | |
| Winter Squash | | | | | |
| Zucchini, organic, lb | | 3.99 | 2.99 | 1.39 | 2.49 |
| | | | | | |
| MILKS/DAIRY | | | | | |
| Almond Milk, unsweetened, 1/2 gallon | | 3.19 | 2.99 (TJ’s) | 4.49 | 3.89 |
| Butter, organic | 6.89 (salted, 2 lbs) | | | | |
| Cheese, grated, parmesan | 7.39/24 oz | | | | |
| Cheese, organic, block | | 5.09 | | | |
| Cheese, organic, shredded, 6 oz | | | | 5.29 | 4.39 |
| Cheese, organic, string, per oz | 0.18 (not organic) | | 0.55 | | |
| Coconut Milk (regular), canned | | | | | |
| Cottage Cheese, whole milk, organic, lb | | 4.84 | n/a | 5.75 | |
| Cream (regular or half&half), organic, 32 oz | 2.99 | | 2.79 | | 4.49 |
| Eggs, organic, dozen | 2.86 | 4.49 | 3.99 | | 4.59 |
| Feta Crumbles, organic | | | 2.49 (not organic) | 3.49 (not organic) | |
| Goat Cheese | | 4.79 | 2.49 | | |
| Hemp Milk | | | | | |
| Kefir | 9.99 (12/8 oz btls) | | | | |
| Rice Milk | | | | | |
| Whole Milk, organic, gallon | 7.13 | 5.59 | 5.99 | 6.99 | 5.99 |
| Yogurt, organic | 3.99/4 lbs | | | | |
| Yogurt, plain, Greek, 32 oz (Chobani) | 10.18 (12/6 oz cups) | | n/a | | 5.99 |
| Yogurt, plain, Greek, lb | 2.90 | | | 6.09 | |
| | | | | | |
| ORGANIC DRIED-FRUIT | | | | | |
| Apples | 12.99/20 pk (freeze-dried) | | | | |
| Apricots | | | | | |
| Cherries, unsweetened | | | | | |
| Cranberries, fruit juice sweetened | | | | | |
| Figs | | | | | |
| Goji Berries | | | | | |
| Pears | | | | | |
| Prunes/Plums | | | | | |
| Raisins, sun-dried | 7.29/72 oz (not sun-dried) | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| SPECIALTY ITEMS | | | | | |
| Capers | | | | | |
| Sun-Dried Tomatoes, sulfur dioxide free (Mediterranean Organic) | 7.99 (not organic)/32 oz | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| OTHER ITEMS | | | | | |
| Almond Extract, non-alcoholic/glycerine | | | | | |
| Arrowroot, 2.5 oz, glass container??? | | | | 6.59/lb | 7.29 |
| Carob Powder, raw | | | | | |
| Cocoa Powder, organic, raw??? | | | | | |
| Guar Gum, 8 oz | | | | 4.75 | |
| Kudzu Powder | | | | | |
| Lemon Flavoring (Simply Organic) | | | | | |
| Vanilla Extract, organic, non-alcoholic/glycerine | | | | | |
| Whey Protein | | | | | |
| Yeast | 3.99 (32 oz) | | | | |
| | | | | | |
| HORMONE-FREE, GRASS-FED MEATS | | | | | |
| Bacon, organic | | | n/a | 4.69 (turkey) | |
| Beef, ground, lb | 4.33 (not grass-fed) | | 5.99 | 6.99 (not grass-fed) | 4.99 |
| Beef, steak, lb | | | n/a | 9.99 | 9.99 |
| Chicken, breasts, lb | 6.49 | n/a | 6.99 (not grass-fed) | 5.49 | 5.99 |
| Ham | | | | | |
| Pork Chop | | | | | |
| Turkey | | | | | |
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Are You Paying Too Much for Groceries?
Awhile back I told you I was working on doing a price comparison chart for a bunch of different grocery stores in the Twin Cities area. I wanted to make sure I wasn't paying too much for groceries. I had an idea in my head on what the results would be, but I was shocked on certain things! While I wasn't able to price out every item at every store, I think I got enough information to make an informed consumer decision on where I'll shop from now on! When reading this information, keep in mind that these prices can change from week to week (all prices shown were seen within a week or two of each other) and from location to location. Please let me know if you have any questions! Happy Grocery Shopping! (P.S. Another store you can price out is Whole Foods, but there isn't one close to us, or at least not in an area that we go to very often.) Lastly, sorry for the formatting...I can't figure out how to get the gridlines to show up in the Numbers program on my Mac. :( Hopefully, you can still all read this ok.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Less Talk, More Recipes!
A quick update: I had a week with 3 "high" readings, so off to the Endocronologist I went. To sum it up, he said he didn't care if I was gaining weight, he cared if the baby was. He also said my A1C test was excellent & that my "high's" weren't too concerning. So, off he sent me with the understanding that I'd still see the Diabetes Educators every couple weeks & we'd go from there. The midwife was REALLY happy to get this report (and so was I)! However, last week I had 5 "high" readings. I got in with the Diabetes Educator this week & we made some adjustments to my diet (adding MORE food - I feel like a stuffed pig!) and rearranging when & how many carbs I eat in 1 sitting. As it stands right now, I've had 2 "high" readings this week. Very frustrating. I'm nervous to see what the midwife will say next week. Please keep us in your prayers. Remember: if I need to go on insulin, I don't get a waterbirth & I have to find an OBGYN/can no longer see the midwives.
Now onto the yummy recipes I've been eating!!!
These crackers were soooo yummy! If you want Angela's original recipe, click on the link under the picture. Otherwise, here was my version (mine are more crumbly, because they were gluten-free)...
Salty Sweet Gluten-Free Crackers
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| 31 weeks; Total Weight Gained: (-2 lbs) |
| Angela's Homemade "Wheat" Thins |
Salty Sweet Gluten-Free Crackers
Yields: approx 64 crackers
2.5 oz Barley Flour
2.5 oz Brown Rice Flour
pinch Stevia Extract
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
1/4 tsp Paprika
4 T organic Butter
1/4 c + 2 T Water (plus a bit more if dough is too dry)
1/4 tsp Vanilla Extract
Preheat oven to 400F. Spray baking sheets with non-stick spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flours, stevia, paprika, salt). Cut in butter into the flour mixture with a fork, until crumbly. In a small bowl, mix together the water & vanilla and then pour into the flour & butter mixture. Stir or knead until it comes together. If it appears too dry, add a touch more water, but you don't want it sticky. Split the dough in half. On a floured surface, roll out half the dough very thin (1/16th inch). Using a pizza cutter or pastry cutter, cut into whatever shape crackers you want. Using a spatula, place the crackers on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the other half of the dough. You can sprinkle on more salt or add sesame seeds, but I don't think they need it. Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching closely. Rotate pan halfway through baking to ensure even baking. Cool completely. Store in an air-tight container.
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We used those nummy crackers to create this nummy chicken recipe!
| Chicken Fried Chicken |
This was soooo delicious that I ate too much and it sent my blood-sugar rising. Oops! For the original recipe, click on the link under the picture. For my gluten-free version, see below...
Gluten-Free Chicken Fried Chicken
Yields: 3 servings
15 Salty Sweet Gluten-Free Crackers (see above)
1 T Barley Flour
1 T Brown Rice Flour
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
1/4 tsp fresh Ground Black Pepper
1 organic Egg
2 T EVOO
3 skinless, boneless, hormone-free, grass-fed Chicken Breasts
Place crackers in a large resealable plastic bag; seal bag & crush crackers until they are coarse crumbs. Add flours, salt & pepper to bag & mix well. Beat egg in a shallow dish or bowl; heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. One by one, dredge chicken pieces in beaten egg, then place in bag with the crumb mixture. Seal bag & shake to coat. Reduce heat to medium & cook coated chicken in skillet for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently, until golden brown and juices run clear.
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Remember this?
| Flatbread "Pizza" |
The recipe for the flatbread itself is below, but to make the pizza simply take a piece of flatbread, spread on organic Tomato Paste, then spread on Trader Joe's White Bean & Garlic Hummus (or hummus of your choice), then load on the organic Spinach! Yum!
Flat Bread Original Recipe seen in "Recipes for the Endometriosis Diet" by Carolyn Levett
Yields: 8 pieces flat bread
3/4 c Brown Rice Flour
3/4 c Barley Flour
2 T Arrowroot Powder
1.5 tsp Baking Powder (see below for a Corn-Free Baking Powder Recipe)
1 tsp Caraway Seeds (optional)
1/4 tsp salt
2 T EVOO
pinch Stevia Extract (optional)
1 organic Egg (optional)
1/2 c organic Milk (or milk substitute)
Preheat oven to 350F. Mix dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Add oil, stevia, egg and milk to flour mixture. Start with a little less than 1/2 c liquid, and add more until you get a stiff batter. If egg and/or sweetener is omitted, you may need to add a little more liquid. Transfer dough to a greased baking sheet and shape into a flat round shape 1 to 1.5" thick. Baked about 25 minutes. Cut the bread into 8 wedge-shaped pieces. Remove from baking sheet & cool on a wire rack.
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All baking powder contains cornstarch. If you're sensitive to all things corn, like me, this is a good alternative. Super easy to make & keeps well.
Corn-Free Baking Powder Original recipe seen in "The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook" by Alissa Segersten & Tom Malterre, MS, CN
Yields: 3/4 c
1/4 c Baking Soda
1/2 c Cream of Tartar
1/2 c Arrowroot Powder
Place all ingredients into a glass jar & shake well. Store in a cool, dry place.
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| Katey's Vegan Notella |
I made this for my Mama as her Mother's Day present. It's not as sweet as the store-bought Nutella, but you can always add more sweetener. To see the recipe, click on the link under the picture.
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With the weather FINALLY being nice in MN, we've been grilling a lot of burgers! And what goes best with burgers? You got it - Fries! These fries are to die for!
Oven Fries Original Recipe seen in "The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook" by Alissa Segersten & Tom Malterre, MS, CN
4 medium organic Russet Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes
1/2 c EVOO
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
freshly ground Black Pepper
Optional Spices:
1/2 tsp Turmeric
1-2 tsp Garlic Powder
1 T Paprika
Preheat oven to 425F. Scrub potatoes well & remove any eyes or discolored areas. Leave the peels on. Cut into wedges and place into a large bowl. Sprinkle with olive oil & sea salt & freshly ground black pepper; toss to coat. Add optional spices if desired. (We've made this recipe a couple times. The first time, we didn't use the Turmeric & the second time we did... both times were delish!) Arrange potatoes in a single layer in a 9x13" pan. Bake until golden & fork tender, about 30 minutes.
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This dish is soooooo yummy & the surprise flavor of lemon from the dressing MAKES this dish! Enjoy!
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Original Recipe seen in "The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook" by Alissa Segersten & Tom Malterre, MS, CN
2 cups dry Quinoa
3.5 cups Water
1/4 tsp Sea Salt
2-3 c cooked White Beans, or 1-2 cans
2 medium Carrots, chopped
1 can Artichoke Hearts, cut into quarters
1/2 c chopped Sun-Dried Tomatoes
4 c fresh Baby Spinach leaves
1/2 c fresh Basil, chopped
1/2 c Pumpkin Seeds
Dressing:
1/3 c EVOO
3 T Red Wine Vinegar
4 T freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
2 cloves Garlic, crushed
2 tsp Lemon Zest
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
Rinse the dry quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under warm running water. Place rinsed quinoa into a medium saucepan with the water and sea salt. Cover and bring to a boil, then turn heat to a low simmer and cook for about 20 minutes. Remove pot from heat & let quinoa cool in the pot. Toast the pumpkin seeds by placing them into a small skillet and heating them over medium heat. Keep them moving in the pan until you hear a "pop" and they are slightly golden. Remove from pan and let cool in a small bowl. Place cooled quinoa into a large bowl. Add the cooked white beans, chopped carrots, cut artichoke hearts, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, chopped basil, and toasted pumpkin seeds. To make the dressing, place all ingredients into a small bowl and whisk together. Pour the dressing over the quinoa salad and mix thoroughly with a large spoon.
Quick & Easy Meal Ideas
Monday, May 9, 2011
Fun Stuff!
FAITH
Right now, our current church is doing a series titled, "The Knot" and it's all about marriage, though you don't have to be married for it to be relevant. I'd highly recommend listening to the sermons. They have been the best sermons I've heard at this church thus far!
Here are the challenges:
Week 1 - What were some of your expectations you came into marriage with? Ask your spouse how you can better serve him/her. Post in the comments section what you learned!
Week 2 - Find out something new about your spouse. Post in the comments section what you learned!
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As I approach the birthing event of our 2nd daughter, I've started to have a few fears about trusting my body to do what it's supposed to do for natural childbirth to be successful. When you've dealt with infertility, endometriosis, thyroid issues, PCOS, gestational diabetes, etc, it's hard to trust that your body won't let you down again. But, our God never fails! At church this weekend, here's a few quotes from some of the worship songs that spoke DIRECTLY to this issue for me...
"Our God is Stronger, God you are higher than any other...And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us? And if our God is with us, then what can stand against us?" ~Our God, Chris Tomlin
"Take me as you find me, all my fears and failures, fill my life again...Now I surrender...He can move the mountains...He rose & conquered the grave..." ~Mighty to Save, Hillsong
And finally...
Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. ~2 Corinthians 12:9a, NLT
FAMILY
For Mother's Day, I wanted to go to my very favorite festival that comes to MN only once a year ~ The Festival of Nations! This festival includes all kinds of entertainment from playing instruments and music to dances from all around the world. There's a cafe with over 35 different country booths! There's a bazaar that you can walk through and purchase things from the different countries (but beware, last year I bought stuff from the India booth then later discovered it said "made in China" on it!). And finally, there's exhibits and demonstrations featuring things from each of those countries. It truly is so one of my favorite things! Here are some picture highlights...
After the festival, (3-4 hours was long enough for this pregnant body! I was having contractions all day long walking around so much!) we went back home for a little snooze (the 3rd trimester tiredness seems to be returning). After our snooze, we decided to take advantage of a special going on at a restaurant for a company that I used to work for in the catering department.
Truth be told, I don't care to promote this company too often, because frankly, they suck at knowing how to treat their employees. But this special was too good to pass up! And besides, the one thing they DO get right is their food! It's amazing!
It was my kind of Mother's Day! How did you celebrate Mother's Day?
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The past week I've been running around like a chicken with my head cut off, trying to prepare for my DD's dance pictures.
First, I went to 3 different locations looking for the specific type and color of tights that needed to be worn. They weren't at any of the 3 stores. So, I ended up calling the studio and making sure they would have an extra pair on hand that we could purchase.
Second, I attempted to a trial-run on DD's make-up. The first attempt didn't go over so well...she threw a fit, started to cry and wouldn't let me do it. What little girl doesn't want to wear makeup?! The second attempt (after I told her she HAD to wear makeup or should couldn't dance anymore...how pathetic is that?!) didn't go much better. The makeup was too light. The third attempt, the makeup turned out perfect!
Lastly, the hair. Ugh, the hair. My DD has stick-straight, fine hair that won't hold curl...just like her Mama. :) Again, it took 3 attempts...
Attempt 1: Dry to Damp Hair, Rolled in Different Sized Rollers, No Product Used, Wore Overnight
Attempt 2: Very Wet Hair, Rolled in Smallest Rollers Only, Used Hairspray, Wore Overnight
Final Attempt: Towel-Dried Hair, Used L.A. Locks Curl Gel, Rolled in Twice the Amount of Smallest Rollers Taking Smaller Sections of Hair, Used Aquanet about 4 Times Total, Wore Almost 24 Hours
Final Hair and Makeup:
And it all was worth it! Look at how beautiful she is!
FOOD/FITNESS
This week was filled with Dr's appointments and yummy food that's been doing an awesome job of keeping my blood sugars in check! I'll do a feature post tomorrow with all the goodies, so watch for that!
FUN
Lastly, for fun, I'll leave you with a song from one my favorite bands! Enjoy!
Right now, our current church is doing a series titled, "The Knot" and it's all about marriage, though you don't have to be married for it to be relevant. I'd highly recommend listening to the sermons. They have been the best sermons I've heard at this church thus far!
Here are the challenges:
Week 1 - What were some of your expectations you came into marriage with? Ask your spouse how you can better serve him/her. Post in the comments section what you learned!
Week 2 - Find out something new about your spouse. Post in the comments section what you learned!
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As I approach the birthing event of our 2nd daughter, I've started to have a few fears about trusting my body to do what it's supposed to do for natural childbirth to be successful. When you've dealt with infertility, endometriosis, thyroid issues, PCOS, gestational diabetes, etc, it's hard to trust that your body won't let you down again. But, our God never fails! At church this weekend, here's a few quotes from some of the worship songs that spoke DIRECTLY to this issue for me...
"Our God is Stronger, God you are higher than any other...And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us? And if our God is with us, then what can stand against us?" ~Our God, Chris Tomlin
"Take me as you find me, all my fears and failures, fill my life again...Now I surrender...He can move the mountains...He rose & conquered the grave..." ~Mighty to Save, Hillsong
And finally...
Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. ~2 Corinthians 12:9a, NLT
FAMILY
| 30 weeks Total Weight Gained: (-3 lbs) |
For Mother's Day, I wanted to go to my very favorite festival that comes to MN only once a year ~ The Festival of Nations! This festival includes all kinds of entertainment from playing instruments and music to dances from all around the world. There's a cafe with over 35 different country booths! There's a bazaar that you can walk through and purchase things from the different countries (but beware, last year I bought stuff from the India booth then later discovered it said "made in China" on it!). And finally, there's exhibits and demonstrations featuring things from each of those countries. It truly is so one of my favorite things! Here are some picture highlights...
| Hawaiian Dancers |
| Indian Dancers |
| Irish Dancers |
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| My Lunch! Mediterranean Salad (Egypt) - Amazing! Bison Burger (Indian American) - No flavor; disappointed Young Coconut feat Coconut Juice inside - Fantastic! |
| My DD and I sporting our Indian Bindi's |
After the festival, (3-4 hours was long enough for this pregnant body! I was having contractions all day long walking around so much!) we went back home for a little snooze (the 3rd trimester tiredness seems to be returning). After our snooze, we decided to take advantage of a special going on at a restaurant for a company that I used to work for in the catering department.
Truth be told, I don't care to promote this company too often, because frankly, they suck at knowing how to treat their employees. But this special was too good to pass up! And besides, the one thing they DO get right is their food! It's amazing!
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| Mixed Greens Salad: Yum! Sandwich: All-Natural Chicken, Fresh Mozzerella, Tomato, Sicilian Onions, Aioli on Piccolo Onion Focaccia: To Die For! |
It was my kind of Mother's Day! How did you celebrate Mother's Day?
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The past week I've been running around like a chicken with my head cut off, trying to prepare for my DD's dance pictures.
First, I went to 3 different locations looking for the specific type and color of tights that needed to be worn. They weren't at any of the 3 stores. So, I ended up calling the studio and making sure they would have an extra pair on hand that we could purchase.
Second, I attempted to a trial-run on DD's make-up. The first attempt didn't go over so well...she threw a fit, started to cry and wouldn't let me do it. What little girl doesn't want to wear makeup?! The second attempt (after I told her she HAD to wear makeup or should couldn't dance anymore...how pathetic is that?!) didn't go much better. The makeup was too light. The third attempt, the makeup turned out perfect!
Lastly, the hair. Ugh, the hair. My DD has stick-straight, fine hair that won't hold curl...just like her Mama. :) Again, it took 3 attempts...
Attempt 1: Dry to Damp Hair, Rolled in Different Sized Rollers, No Product Used, Wore Overnight
Attempt 2: Very Wet Hair, Rolled in Smallest Rollers Only, Used Hairspray, Wore Overnight
Final Attempt: Towel-Dried Hair, Used L.A. Locks Curl Gel, Rolled in Twice the Amount of Smallest Rollers Taking Smaller Sections of Hair, Used Aquanet about 4 Times Total, Wore Almost 24 Hours
Final Hair and Makeup:
And it all was worth it! Look at how beautiful she is!
| Jazz: Rubber Ducky |
| Tap: Goodship Lollipop (DD on Right) |
FOOD/FITNESS
This week was filled with Dr's appointments and yummy food that's been doing an awesome job of keeping my blood sugars in check! I'll do a feature post tomorrow with all the goodies, so watch for that!
FUN
Lastly, for fun, I'll leave you with a song from one my favorite bands! Enjoy!
Monday, May 2, 2011
Rotten Attitude, Rotten Food
FAITH
Isn't it amazing that when you don't seem to have time for God, your life starts to fall apart? Everything feels so incredibly hard? And all your efforts towards what you think is the right path seem to NOT go that way? That's been my experience as of late. BUT... God is such a good God. I have an app on Facebook that's called something like, "What God wants you to know today". Wouldn't you know, this is the one I received, just after getting my 3rd "high" blood sugar reading for the week (My midwife appointment is tomorrow, so we'll find out what exactly that means for my birth plan)...
On this day, God wants you to know
... that all is well. What could you not accept, if you but knew that everything that happens, all events, past, present, and to come, are gently planned by One Whose only purpose is your good?
Isn't it amazing that when you don't seem to have time for God, your life starts to fall apart? Everything feels so incredibly hard? And all your efforts towards what you think is the right path seem to NOT go that way? That's been my experience as of late. BUT... God is such a good God. I have an app on Facebook that's called something like, "What God wants you to know today". Wouldn't you know, this is the one I received, just after getting my 3rd "high" blood sugar reading for the week (My midwife appointment is tomorrow, so we'll find out what exactly that means for my birth plan)...
On this day, God wants you to know
... that all is well. What could you not accept, if you but knew that everything that happens, all events, past, present, and to come, are gently planned by One Whose only purpose is your good?
I sooo needed to hear this lately. Thank you God for always meeting me right where I am at. Help me learn to Trust You.
FAMILY
Feeling pretty good! I irritated my sciatic again today, from lifting groceries. LOL!

29 weeks pregnant
Total Weight Gained: (-2 lb)
Total Weight Gained: (-2 lb)
FITNESS/FOOD/FINANCES
I'm on a hunt. I'm currently in research mode for the best grocery store in our area. Now that I've pretty much cut out all processed foods, I'll be buying virtually the same things each week (for the most part). So, instead of driving to 4 different grocery stores to get what I need, I decided to start researching who has the overall best prices for what I typically will buy. I've started a spreadsheet and once I gather all my info, I'll be posting it on my blog, so watch for that!
We've also been on another hunt... something rotten in our fridge. We threw out the broccoli, but that wasn't it. We smelled the cauliflower a couple times, but didn't think that was it. Today, I cooked up the cauliflower, took one bite and spit it out! Yuck! My whole house still smells like rotten cauliflower. I think I'll be buying frozen cauliflower for awhile...
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