The Well of Strength

      This last week has been a celebration of connection. After 21 days of daily blogging with the O.M.I. Life; I was ready to connect with myself, friends, family and choose to disconnect from electronics. Packing up the laptop was refreshing and I appreciated the change. 
      Hosting a Thanksgiving Brunch was a great start. I made as many good food choices as I could to create food that was gluten-free, dairy-free, corn-free and sugar-free. While not every delicious food I made fit into these guidelines (pumpkin cheesecake, mini-pecan pies and stuffing); the waffles, mini-donuts, potatoes and turkey did. I felt powerful and proud; thankful that I found my way; supporting what my body needs. 
      And yet, (as with any journey worthy of change) there are times when the little voice of negative self-talk comes in or I find myself struggling with the social aspect these choices. 
      My diet is very specific and I know there are others out there making similar dietary choices. We share a journey that isn't paved and can sometimes feel limiting and overwhelming.
      There are others in my circle that support me - they just "get it". Even if they aren't on the same dietary guidelines, they see that what I'm doing - I'm all in and they notice the beauty this is creating in my life - I'm grateful!
      And then there are others who question what I'm doing and these choices. No, it's not the typical choices and no it's not always easy to understand how these foody-food choices affected my headaches, back pain or weight. With gentle support, I remind myself that not even 3 months ago I was in the darkness and that when the questions, judgments and doubts sneak in; it's my reminder to reconnect to my well of strength. To take time to walk to my empty pail and dip into the waters of compassion; replenishing myself as I continue to be a trailblazing leader and shining my light for the world to see. Reminding myself that we all awaken to ideas, hopes and dreams on at our own pace and that through having compassionate support the questions are doors waiting to be opened.

A Day To Celebrate 21/60

Sparkle Cleanse Day 21 - Treat Yo Self Day 60

6 Steps to Sparkle

Inspired by Kris Carr., (2011) Crazy Sexy Diet. CT: Globe Pequot Press

1. Inspiration: You did it! Yeah! I'm giving you another standing ovation - really - and jumping up and down, too. As you go forward, remember that the Crazy Sexy Diet doesn't have to be all or nothing. Do what you can to stick with an alkaline plant-based diet, feed your soul as well as your body, and pay attention to your inner needs. Write a personal mission statement and let it be your guide. No matter where you are, it will always bring you home. Keep it short and powerful so you remember so you remember it always. Place it on your altar. See it, feel it, be it.
   Kris' Mission Statement:
   I commit my life to the pursuit of peace. Peace beings with my physical and mental well-being, it extends to my plate, guides all my relationships, personal and business transactions, and decisions. People can't give me happiness; they can only share in my already present happiness stemming from peace.  
2. Focus: Live in the present, expect the future.
3. Prayer: Knowing I am glorious just as I am, help me face the future with intention, integrity, instinct, and excitement.
4. Affirmation: I am the embodiment of success today! I am a champion.
5. Body Movin': Ninety-minute deep tissue massage. You deserve it.
6. Tip: You've changed your diet, moved you patootie, unclogged your body, prayed Crazy Sexy style, affirmed like a warrior, acknowledged what you love, tapped into the hot spring of gratitude, and possibly even added a pinch of witchcraft "just in case". But what if for some stinking reason you still don't believe in your fabulosity? Well, I got one more trick for ya, act as if. Fake it till you make it. Attitude Olympians have used this training method for generations. Before long you will acknowledge and accept your royalty, without apology. Remember, we successfully manifest our dreams when the feelings behind our intentions are in alignment. Acting as if teaches us to believe in ourselves and never settle for less. When negative, nihilistic thoughts  come up, we immediately correct and replace them with positive visualizations and affirmations. "I am sick, weak, and ugly," becomes "I love my body, I am healthy and strong and absolutely stunning." Try on your new confidence until it fits - and go forward. 
   I love you! Thanks for taking the ride with me, I'm really honored you did it! 

My Reflection:

      Today’s a celebration! 60 days with the Treat Yo Self Cleanse and 21 days with the added Sparkle. The amount of joy, anxiety and contemplation that went into this cleanse was a fine tuning fork. I knew things would come up and I knew I’d deal with them to the best of my ability. I didn’t however know exactly how it would turn out or how I’d make it through. I followed my heart and danced with my intuition. And when I danced, I floated in the clouds and when I stumbled I crawled through the mud. I did it all and have come out of it with this renewed purpose: To feed myself and my family better! This was one of my favorite phrases from my Vision Board (although to be honest they are all pretty fantastic).

      When I started this cleanse, I had a deadline in place. I’m not sure if I thought, “Oh and at the end of it, I’ll get to have everything that I couldn’t eat, back into my life.” But I also didn’t prepare myself for “What if I like this so much, feel so much better and choose to continue making these choices around food?”

      So I sat with the unknown, because that is all it truly was, something intangible, unexplainable and looming. I want to be bold and willing - to anything to say yes to transformation and healing. To say no to the negative self talk that tries to override this feeling. So none the less I felt as if I was grieving this weekend. I spent so much time with my Vision Board and letter to myself. While they were beautiful, I now see what I was avoiding making peace with the end of this cleanse. I was sad to see a daily inspiration, motivation and purpose fade.  

      I was also wondering if all the changes I've made would stick after the cleanse; concerned that I'd lose this connection with my ability to choose. It was as if a long-lost friend with amazing strength and beauty and I had reconnected. We hung out for several weeks and now that I reached the end of the cleanse was packing up to move on only to leave me alone; without guidance and intention of the added Sparkle I had during the last 21 days.
       And now I know, that I will keep finding more ways to support myself and that I will never lose the connection I've found. And that I will eagerly embrace the new things I will create. 

Almost Over, But Never Done

Sparkle Cleanse Day 20 - Treat Yo Self Day 59

6 Steps to Sparkle

Inspired by Kris Carr., (2011) Crazy Sexy Diet. CT: Globe Pequot Press

1. Inspiration:  You are awesome! So how do you feel as the end approaches?Are you excited? Nervous? Inspired? Write about it. Take stock of how far you've come. Notice the lines in your script that you've successfully rewritten. Perhaps a few still need editing/ You're near the finish line and it's time for a final push.
2. Focus: Build a Crazy Sexy posse. Create your won sassy support group. Motivate one another, buddy up, pinkie-swear, and help one another stay on track. It's so much easier to continue this wild ride when you have a pal or two.
3. Prayer: May the right people come together to create the most supportive posse imaginable.
4. Affirmation: I attract supportive and motivating friendships into my life. We love and respect one another. We hold ourselves accountable.
5. Body Movin': Dry brush and use coconut oil on your body after your shower. If you feel like twinkling, check out Simply Diving Botanicals "You Glow Girl" glitter butter. Here are some of the ingredients: glitter (duh!), essential oils, vitamin E, aloe, avocado and shea oil, unconditional love and gratitude.
6. Tip: Be a Spirulina Ballerina! Spirulina: a blue-green algae, is a good source of B12 and iron, as well as a complete protein. This magic green powder builds immunity, helps protect your live and is good for digestion. 

My Reflection:

      Today was spent reflecting and in the moment I found that my blog was needing a little attention. Adding Sparkle to the Treat Yo Self Cleanse has by far been a true pleasure. I've given myself permission to let today be spent in reflection of the almost over feeling as I approach the final day of the cleanse. I greet tomorrow with both eagerness and anxiousness. What's next? The specifics matter less, it's trusting that I've made the right choices for my body and I am grateful.

Letter to Myself

Sparkle Cleanse Day 19 - Treat Yo Self Day 58

6 Steps to Sparkle

Inspired by Kris Carr., (2011) Crazy Sexy Diet. CT: Globe Pequot Press

1. Inspiration: Since we're in the home stretch, we're gonna do something a little different today. Sure, I want you to eat well, affirm, pray and move. But this assignment - one of my favorite creative writing exercises - takes enormous focus. Write a letter to yourself, but from the perspective of you ten years from now. In it describe how well everything has turned out after ten years. Start your letter with the following words: "You'll never believe what happened!" Put in as many details as you can - where you live, what you look like, how you feel, and what you're doing. Then, share the letter with a friend - that's right - and read it out loud. 

My Reflection:

      I spent a lot of time today with myself and my Vision Board. It took an amazing amount of energy and I treated myself to explore it, especially with today only having a single Inspirational focus for the Treat Yo Self Cleanse. And my letter, well that took just as much time and energy and I keep wanting to rewrite it to find the perfect words for my 40 year old self. And then I realized, that whatever I say, it will be exactly what I need to hear.
   
Dear Jan,
      You'll never believe what happened. Remember when you did that life changing Treat Yo Self Cleanse 10 years ago? Remember how wonderfully connected it felt and the amount of joy and healing this created was a foundation for greatness. These changes made way for feelings and transforming the delicate relationship with food. Saying "I'm proud of you" only skims the surface of the well of untapped amazement discovered. Choosing to release emotional holds and find support beyond food was a momentous experience - it's something that I still reflect on fondly and cherish daily. 
      The willingness to use new ingredients in baked items has transformed the way I live today. Friends and family have enjoyed these sweet treats and express love and support as I continue to create healthier, tastier and beautiful treats. All the cooking you explored was simply inspired - the many delicious dishes has fed many joyous tummy's.
      And Jan, this body thanks you! It's healed and feels so much better! The energy is contagious and there are so many activities that get this Body Movin'. Not only has the body weight transformed, it's lighter and happier. Oh, and those skinny jeans look great.
      I'm so proud of you! 
Love, Jan

Vision Board

Sparkle Cleanse Day 18 - Treat Yo Self Day 57

6 Steps to Sparkle

Inspired by Kris Carr., (2011) Crazy Sexy Diet. CT: Globe Pequot Press

1. Inspiration: Vision boards help focus our intentions so that we can manifest our desires. I bow to the universal wizardry that is my vision board! If you don't already have one, today is a great time to start one. If you do have a vision board, renovate it. Imbue it with love and reverence, keep it alive and active, and know that it containers major mojo. It's not enough to post stuff and then sit on your sofa and do nothing. Plot and plan your attack! 
2. Focus: Creativity! Your tools = scissors, magazines clippings, prayers, quotes, love letters to yourself, glue and poster board or thumb tacks and cord board, and imagination. Let yourself be free to explore anything you desire. Lock your inner editor in the bathroom; she's a damn pain in the patootie. When you've created your board, place it where you'll constantly see it. Your vision board doesn't want you to shrink like a violet: it wants you to explode like a thunderous stallion!
3. Prayer: Wipe my eyes. Help me see the prosperity and grab the opportunity.
4. Affirmation: What I wish for is on its way.
5. Body Movin': Belly dance, go to zumba class, take up fencing or tae kwan do. Shake it up. Oh, and are you flossing? A healthy mouth = a healthy body.
6. Tip: Be French. Yes, you read that right. French women eat small portions. They don't supersize their lives. Leave room for creativity (and Frenchness) by leaving room in your tummy. Eat slowly, know when you're full, and then close up shop.

My Reflection:

      My creativity is buzzing about the Vision Board I will create. I've pulled out magazines and will start clipping tonight. I took a lot of time with this and am so thrilled. As I carefully selected and placed each word, each phrase, each image on the vision board; my heart was delighted in the resounding themes of self-confidence, eating healthy and having children. I love my board!

Pizza and Papa

Sparkle Cleanse Day 17 - Treat Yo Self Day 56

6 Steps to Sparkle

Inspired by Kris Carr., (2011) Crazy Sexy Diet. CT: Globe Pequot Press

1. Inspiration: One of the things I learned on my journey with the little c is that I am my own best friend. And guess what? So are you! When you get to know and respect yourself you are never alone, no matter how hard it gets and how dark it seems. Never forget that, okay? Life is testy. Obstacles are par for the course. Pat yourself on the back! Take pride in how far you've come. You rock! 
2. Focus: Now's a good time to ask your best friend (you!):
   

   • What needs more attention in your life?

   • What's one thing you could take off your plate that would allow you more time?
   • What loving words about yourself would your best friend tell you?

   Write those encouraging words on your bathroom mirror in red lipstick.   
3. Prayer: Obstacles are opportunities in disguise - let me know them when I see them.
4. Affirmation: I accept and love myself as I am. I believe in me.
5. Body Movin': Get a haircut, invest in some new duds, be Madonna and reinvent yourself. By now you've probably lost a few pounds, your skin looks dewy and youthful, and your attitude shines. Get a style to match the magic.
6. Tip: Give yourself a belly rub. Your pooper will thank you. Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet on the floor. Apply moderate pressure and slowly rub in a circular clockwise motion. Start on your right side, then work across your belly (under your rib cage) and down your left side. Repeat several times. If you're having trouble with trapped gas, try using a hot-water bottle atop your tum tum. 

My Reflection:

      Today was the first day that I had pizza - thank you Pizza Luce for my first piece of pizza in over 60 days. Not only was it tasty, it met my primary dietary requirements: gluten-free, and dairy-free for my Treat Yo Self Cleanse. I was thankful and enjoyed each bite! This dinner was not just about pizza - it was the first time my papa and I shared space in nearly a year. 

      In the moments leading up to our dinner, excitement and anxiety surged through my blood. As I walked from work to Pizza Luce, I listened to P!nk's "Crystal Ball". 

"Love just needs a witness and a little forgiveness

And a halo of patience and a less sporadic pace

And I'm learning to be brave in my beautiful mistakes

Oh, I've felt that fire and I, I've been burned

But I wouldn't trade the pain for what I've learned "

Love just needs a witness and a little forgiveness And a halo of patience and a less sporadic pace And I'm learning to be brave in my beautiful mistakes

Read more: PINK - CRYSTAL BALL LYRICS

Love just needs a witness and a little forgiveness And a halo of patience and a less sporadic pace And I'm learning to be brave in my beautiful mistakes

Read more: PINK - CRYSTAL BALL LYRICS

      As I walked into the space I was greeted with a welcoming hug. I became relaxed as the moments passed and knew that I would be my best friend by supporting myself; being truthful and sharing love with my papa. As our dinner progressed our spirits danced in a truthful and loving way - it was a moment to treasure.
      Our dinner was lovely and my heart was overflowing with joy. I was thankful that I followed my heart and intuition, while supporting the parts of myself that were anxiety ridden. While I have yet to see my mother and my papa continues to encourage me to do so - I said, I'll be ready, when I'm ready. And I'm ok with that.

Love just needs a witness and a little forgiveness And a halo of patience and a less sporadic pace And I'm learning to be brave in my beautiful mistakes

Read more: PINK - CRYSTAL BALL LYRICS