jw's check in

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Wed Jan 08, 2014 1:12 am

you warmin' up with soup, jw? Although I was completely confused how lentil soup takes several days?! really?

jw · Post by jw » Wed Jan 08, 2014 3:12 am

I am, automated! And it takes several days to eat it, not to cook it, LOL-- a pound of lentils makes a lot of soup!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Thu Jan 09, 2014 12:33 am

Oh!

Shows how little I know about cooking!

I saw you and finallyfull talking about red days on cold days! I have had a few weeks where I found myself LOADING up my plate. I definitely think it can be the cold and the dark, too. And, jw, you've had stress! Power outages, crazy kill-you-cold-enough weather, canceled work, cars to be dug out, work to be walked to unexpectedly....that's a lot to deal with while keeping habits solid.

jw · Post by jw » Thu Jan 09, 2014 1:53 am

Not at all, auto -- my wording was very unclear, when I said "working on" lentil soup for a few days! I taught myself to cook over many years, mostly because I like to eat so much, but also because I wanted to learn the mechanics of it -- it's very lab-like in many ways and once you learn a basic process, you can get creative and vary it.

It does feel as if this year is taking forever to get going -- every time I get up some momentum, there's another force of nature to deal with! But I heard today the temps are going up into the 50's this weekend . . . and I stuck with soup for lunch, a restaurant sub sandwich for dinner -- onward!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Thu Jan 09, 2014 2:11 am

I just had lentil soup for dinner! Out of a can, but it was still pretty delicious.

jw · Post by jw » Thu Jan 09, 2014 3:01 pm

Yay! Now, some math -- a pound of lentils costs $1.79, add a carrot, an onion, a potato and some seasonings and you will have enough thick lentil soup for 5-6 lunches (three hefty ladles full per serving).

An added incentive to learning to make lentil soup -- you can use the $$ you would have spent on that much canned soup (huge markup!) to buy that book from amazon!

edit: just trying to inspire you -- if I am too obnoxious, tell me to shut up!

oolala53 · Post by **oolala53** » Fri Jan 10, 2014 4:03 pm

I make some things from scratch, but I still gots my cans and frozen things. I consider it a treat to have refried beans from a can. (99cents)

(Did make an Iranian dish last week that has eggplant and yellow split peas as the base. Pretty cheap! I eat it any time of day. Just had almost the last of it on a rice tortilla for breakfast.) I felt chained to cooking almost all my own food for years. It's amazing how little I cook now, actually, esp. now that Costco chickens aren't as salty as they used to be. And the Ralphs has roasted turkey breast. The chickens are cheaper than what I could cook myself! For turkey, it's worth the premium to me. I've got the leftovers for each of those cut in servings in the freezer now. You've heard of 10-minute trainer? How about 10-minute dinner! Another reason I love NO S! I can go convenient or not.

And I'm pretty sure I spend a lot less than most Americans. And enjoy my food more.

Hope I'm not sounding too smug.

jw · Post by jw » Fri Jan 10, 2014 5:22 pm

Not smug at all, oolala -- I also loved refried beans from the can! And there are Indian packet meals I buy online that are fantastic, much better than what I could produce with the limited rural PA ingredient palette. But I love to cook, and most days I manage it. And I live in an area that considers Italian food daring and exotic -- so it's a good thing I am prepared to experiment in my kitchen. On more than one occasion, the supermarket checker, upon seeing my eggplant, has asked me what it was and what I did with it . . .

oolala53 · Post by **oolala53** » Fri Jan 10, 2014 5:39 pm

I keep Indian sauces in the cupboard ALL the time! 10-minute dinner, I'm telling you.

I hope this is not to risque but in Iran, the eggplants are not the squat fat ones we have here, but a little shorter than most I see and slimmer. Eggplant is definitely a euphemism such that an Iranian might say, "Is that an eggplant in your pocket, or are you just glad to see me?" The women would joke about it a fair amount. "Do you like eggplant?" they'd ask me, with a twinkle in their eyes.

So the idea of a clerk asking you what you would do with an eggplant...well.

jw · Post by jw » Fri Jan 10, 2014 11:08 pm

That's hilarious! I used to teach in Boston's Chinatown and the women there engaged in similar language hijinks with bananas . . . And actually, the eggplant in the Chinese markets was as you describe, paler purple, longer and thinner.

Did you live in Iran, oolala? I've known some delightful Iranian people but never traveled to that part of the world. I did room briefly with an Iranian girl -- she cooked a lovely rice dish with a golden crust on the bottom in a special cooker, I recall.

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Sat Jan 11, 2014 12:39 am

You guys are both sounding smug! You both know so much about world-wide eggplants that you can make double entendres about them; and you know so much about cooking that you can share international cuisine tips!

So jw I did ponder making my own lentil soup as I walked yesterday. I kept having trouble with the visualization of actually eating it..... I bet mine would taste horrible. I don't have a clue how to give soup true flavor. My turkey soup always tastes like water.

jw · Post by jw » Sat Jan 11, 2014 1:03 am

Oh dear! what can I say? vegetable-innuendo transcends language and culture? You, too, can join in!

Look for soup base, auto -- it's a paste that comes in beef, chicken and ham flavors in squat 16 oz jars. It's the fix-it for soups that are a little watery -- gives good, strong flavor, better than bouillon cubes. I use beef or ham flavor with legumes usually.

I don't have much luck with turkey soup either -- all the flavor has gone into the gravy and skin, which I eat; the bones and lean meat aren't enough to get a good broth going.

oolala53 · Post by **oolala53** » Sat Jan 11, 2014 5:53 am

I did live in Iran. The golden crust is called tahdig, which means literally bottom of the pan. The cook parboils the rice, drains it, and puts it back in a pot to steam for 20 minutes to whenever. At the beginning of the steaming, she pours oil into one or two places in the rice, not mixing it in. The oil goes to the bottom and cooks the bottom layer into a crust. After it's done, she takes the lid off and inverts a plate over the pot, then turns it over. The crust is then on top. I didn't like it much but Iranians treasured getting a piece. When I make it, I put a flour tortilla on the bottom so that I don't lose much rice to the tahdig.

Rice cookers were just coming into vogue and Iranians loved them! And they are very picky about rice. I think the best rice in restaurants in America are in Indian and Persian restaurants. But I don't know how you do tahdig with them. If you put the oil in in the beginning, it seems it would just stay on the top.

I think lentil soup is easy. I don't know what it is about it but I always think it tastes pretty good just with carrot, onion, and a little salt. Maybe add a touch of oregano, as the Lebanese do. But then again, I think it's easy to make turkey broth, too. I put all the turkey carcass bones in a crockpot with just salt and cook away. MY dad did that every Friday after Thanksgiving. Maybe I'm a pushover.

I make turkey broth all year. And chicken, too. I keep bones in the freezer until I have enough.

However, I just realized I also often add something Persian! Dried lemons. They retain their round shape when they're dried, but are dark brown and very hard. You crack them and put them in. They add a wonderful tang.

jw · Post by jw » Sat Jan 11, 2014 11:59 am

I think that's the answer, oolala -- I just don't have enough bones! Turkey for one is usually just a breast and I only eat it once or twice a year, so I don't bother trying to save the bones.

And I agree, lentil soup always tastes good and doesn't need much in the way of flavorings.

jw · Post by jw » Sat Jan 11, 2014 12:07 pm

I finally dared to weigh after the holidays: up three pounds. Not the end of the world -- but it tells me I am walking a fine line with No S and my indulgences had better be pretty rare if I don't want to reverse all the gains I made over the last six months.

I skittered around for about two weeks -- but I feel I am settling in again now. This is my weekend to work -- no reception, though, so I'll have to think of a nice treat for this evening. Have a fun weekend, all!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Sat Jan 11, 2014 1:14 pm

OK, I am 80% sure I am going to try and make a lentil soup......
1lb lentils
carrots
onion
salt
oregano

jw · Post by jw » Sat Jan 11, 2014 1:32 pm

Go for it, auto! I can't wait to hear how it turns out!

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Sun Jan 12, 2014 6:01 pm

I live on Indian spices! If you want a good soup base, just start with coconut milk, add equal water, then add Indian spices and favorite veggies, some chicken for protein, then simmer until done, and walla, a gourmet meal.

jw · Post by jw » Sun Jan 12, 2014 6:08 pm

I make curries that way, chani -- delicious! I buy the Indian spices mail order -- coconut milk is available only at Wal-Mart in this rural area and I don't patronize them unless it's absolutely necessary. I'll have to look into another source!

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Sun Jan 12, 2014 6:22 pm

JW--sorry about the three lbs. I'm sure it'll come off plus more now that you're back on track.

Loving this discussion on soups. Chani, anything with coconut milk and I'm in. I have a great recipe for minestrone that's very flexible and no broth needed.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend JW!!

Linda

oolala53 · Post by **oolala53** » Sun Jan 12, 2014 8:20 pm

I've been wondering what to do with that can of coconut milk I have, but not enough to go look for recipes. Score!

jw · Post by jw » Mon Jan 13, 2014 12:15 pm

Linda, when you feel up to it, post your minestrone to the Soup 2014 thread on the main page. It's turning into a nice little collection! Love how we all inspire each other here -- right down to the can of coconut milk!

jw · Post by jw » Wed Jan 15, 2014 12:16 pm

Well, 2014 is finally gaining some momentum -- busy week, with the cancellations due to the holidays and then the weather all piling up this week! I feel firmly back in the No S groove again, though -- what a relief! All those S days made me wonder if I'd ever find my way back. . .

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Wed Jan 15, 2014 2:36 pm

glad to hear things are settling down, jw! I bet without the structure of NoS things might have felt even more crazy the last month or so!

Jonas Jonasson · Post by **Jonas Jonasson** » Fri Jan 17, 2014 8:16 am

Hi there, jw, thank you for the welcome on my thread.

I am still catching up but I have already discovered your brilliant soup thread. Thank you. Very inspiring (and exotic).

jw · Post by jw » Sun Jan 19, 2014 4:22 pm

Doc visit on Thursday -- I feel fine, but evidently my system is not processing calcium and Vitamin D as it should. They drew blood to test for thyroid, parathyroid, and celiac conditions, all of which run in the family and all of which could be the culprit. I really hope I don't have to start tinkering with my food . . .

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Sun Jan 19, 2014 4:40 pm

Oh, sorry to hear that, jw! So is your bone density too low or something? How did they find out about your calcium/vitamin D processing problem?

I assume you already take a vitamin D supplement, especially in your chilly northern latitude this time of year!!! Brrrr.

oolala53 · Post by **oolala53** » Sun Jan 19, 2014 4:47 pm

Yeah, I'm curious how they figured that out, too.

jw · Post by jw » Sun Jan 19, 2014 6:48 pm

My bone density is quite low (I can think of a lot of reasons for that -- 25 years of smoking, high doses of prednisone recently among them) and I am resisting starting on medication because of a childhood history of bone lesions (apparently a side effect of the bone density meds). I went on prescription doses of Vitamin D about a year ago but still show up as deficient. My primary care doc doubled the D dose and prescribed a parathyroid scan -- but the endocrinologist said there were other potential causes, so they are screening for everything they can think of while they are at it. I have successfully avoided doctors for most of my adult life, so I am feeling a little perturbed about this . . . but so far it's really only the inconvenience of running around to appointments.

Thanks for your concern, auto and oolala!

eschano · Post by **eschano** » Mon Jan 20, 2014 12:22 pm

If that vitamin D deficiency isn't a good reason to book a sunny holiday, I don't know what is

jw · Post by jw » Mon Jan 20, 2014 1:06 pm

LOL, eschano! I have already booked and paid for my 2014 holiday -- but it's in August!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Mon Jan 20, 2014 3:25 pm

Sometimes tanning is actually prescribed by physicians for Vitamin D Deficiencies! I'm not kidding!

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Mon Jan 20, 2014 6:23 pm

Sorry JW! What a pain. :/ I hate going to the doctors too (Ironic I know) so understand your frustration.

Weirdly I've been hearing about a rise in vitD decencies even in the sunny states like AZ & Cali. I guess there's an overuse of sunscreen (go figure) so the recommendation is to spend a little bit of outdoor time without sunscreen.

Anyway I doubt they'll mess with your eating too much. They're might be an addition of things (milk?) rather than subtracting things which might be easier to handle? I'm also wondering if they'll recommend weight bearing exercise for the bone density?

Sorry I guess I'm not much help but wanted to give you my support. Please keep us updated and I hope everything works out okay.

Linda

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Mon Jan 20, 2014 6:40 pm

Sunshine is great for helping the Vit D to absorb. Hope you feel better soon!

jw · Post by jw » Mon Jan 20, 2014 11:44 pm

Thanks for the suggestions and support, ladies -- I wonder if artificial tanning in a booth has the same effect as sunshine? I've never done it, but there's a place just up the street from my office.

Luckily, I feel fine -- if I hadn't gone to the doc, I wouldn't even know about this! Vitamin D is the only "med" I take, along wit OTC calcium chews, so I guess I should consider myself fortunate.

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Tue Jan 21, 2014 6:13 am

I think tanning booths are not healthy. Real sun is the way to go. I sit in front of an open window next to a heater to get some rays. The good rays don't go through glass, I heard, so it's direct sun that you need. I've cleared up jaundice in newborns by putting them in 20 minutes of morning sun. The other cheap option is to buy a grow lamp for plants, and sit under that. It works, too. (20 minutes max at a time.)

jw · Post by jw » Tue Jan 21, 2014 9:14 am

That was my thought, Chani -- I've never trusted tanning booths. But real sun around here is pretty rare these days. All the more reason to get out in it when we do have it, I guess . . .

ZippaDee · Post by **ZippaDee** » Tue Jan 21, 2014 11:19 am

jw...thanks so much for popping into my thread and encouraging me! Means a lot!

Sorry to hear about the bone desity issue you are having. I hope you get it sorted out quickly and get everything back to where it needs to be. I'm a Michigander, so I understand the lack of sunshine issue this time of year. And if the sun does shine if we go out with all skin covered does that help?? hmmmm?

eschano · Post by **eschano** » Tue Jan 21, 2014 1:22 pm

JW, I don't think it has to be full-blown sunshine. I think being outside even if it's cloudy can up the Vitamin D as the sun will still fight through, even if much less obviously. So one more reason to get your urban ranger on

without sunscreen.

Commercial tanning booths definitely don't do the trick. You can use the ones they have in some hospitals (I used them to cure a benign sun-allergy when I was younger) although I think that real sun will always beat everything (eventually I moved to Haiti for other reasons for a while and that's where I got rid of the allergy for good).

jw · Post by jw » Tue Jan 21, 2014 8:18 pm

Real sun it is, then! And yes, ZippaDee, the next few days most of my skin will be covered up -- we're headed into sub-zero temps again.

I wish I could take a little mid-winter break in Haiti, eschano -- I had a number of Haitian colleagues and students in Cambridge, but I never made it there myself and fear that things are pretty desolate there still.

ZippaDee · Post by **ZippaDee** » Wed Jan 22, 2014 12:55 pm

It is currently 6 degrees here with a -7 wind chill. That's invigorating. Puts an extra spring in your step!

Have a great day!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Wed Jan 22, 2014 1:38 pm

More like an "extra SPRINT in your step!"

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Wed Jan 22, 2014 5:20 pm

Okay not trying to make anyone feel badly but it's 79 today here. Just a heads up in case anyone needs motivation to plan a lil spontaneous trip! â˜ºï¸

jw · Post by jw » Wed Jan 22, 2014 5:48 pm

Whoa, ZippaDee -- we were -4 this morning when I left the house -- but lots of sunshine today, there's a three inch square area around my eyebrows that will be soaking it in!

clarebear · Post by **clarebear** » Fri Jan 24, 2014 10:05 am

thanks for stopping by my thread JW

I'll be back again regularly soon

ZippaDee · Post by **ZippaDee** » Sat Jan 25, 2014 2:20 am

Even crazier out there today eh? Whoa. You won't even want to leave your three inch square at your eyebrows uncovered today. Stay safe!

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Mon Jan 27, 2014 4:10 pm

Hope it warms up soon for ya!

jw · Post by jw » Mon Jan 27, 2014 7:17 pm

Thanks, Linda! Windchills of -30 today -- and a rare, delightful arctic effect, we all woke up to find big cylindrical snowballs everywhere, rolled by the wind! The snowy equivalent of crop circles! I dug out the car -- again -- but they haven't cleared my street yet, so I am not going anywhere . . .

I am not going in to my office until the temperature eases in any case -- it only has a space heater and that won't cut it. So I am working from home, the kitchen is just a step away -- so far, so good!

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Tue Jan 28, 2014 3:17 am

Crazy weather! I know it sounds crazy but I'm a little jealous. It rarely gets cold enough here to get make one want to light a fire and get cozy.

Great job sticking to your meals today!

Linda

ZippaDee · Post by **ZippaDee** » Tue Jan 28, 2014 2:57 pm

Hope you are staying warm!! We haven't been to school since Thursday. Right now the temp is -12 with a wind chill of -31. Hard to wrap myind around those numbers. Too cold for us to go out and play. Are you home again today? Take care.

jw · Post by jw » Tue Jan 28, 2014 4:24 pm

Thanks for looking in, ZippaDee -- yes, I am still home, similar temps to yours here. If I do go in to the office, it will just be to gather things I can work on at home . . . Do you know, it's actually warmer in the Arctic circle right now?! What a wild ride this winter has been so far!

However -- big bowl of chili warming and another loaf of bread set to rise! You stay warm, too!

jw · Post by jw » Tue Jan 28, 2014 4:31 pm

Linda, I get it, I also quite like the adventure aspect of it -- just got off the phone with a friend who moved here from California recently. She's completely bummed out, doesn't believe it that this is exceptionally harsh, thinks she's made a terrible mistake! By the end of the week, things should warm up some -- and meanwhile, we carry on!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Wed Jan 29, 2014 1:44 am

Oh, that poor woman--she must be suffering "climate shock" (and maybe a little "culture shock"?)

jw, I bet your chili is delicious!

ZippaDee · Post by **ZippaDee** » Wed Jan 29, 2014 12:07 pm

Oh my goodness that poor California soul! This is NOT the norm! I too enjoy the adventure aspect of this weather.

No school again today. Hubby back to work though. He has been home the past two days. The kids and I may venture out to see my oldest daughter, who lives about 12 miles away. We haven't left the house since sunday morning.

Have a great day!!

jw · Post by jw » Wed Jan 29, 2014 12:18 pm

Yes, my friend from California is in shock -- she wanted four seasons, not the tundra!
The chili was based on Over43's Bowl of Red soup, auto -- I added navy beans and chopped onion and pepper and it's great comfort food!

It's -8 this morning, windchill -15 or so, gradually warming up but not warm enough to sit in an unheated office with a little space heater. They finally cleared my street yesterday, so I may venture out -- Like you, ZippaDee, I haven't been out since Friday except to shovel the walk and dig out the car. Going a little stir crazy!

jw · Post by jw » Fri Jan 31, 2014 1:36 pm

22 F this morning and it feels like spring! Back at work, I find that
I got so much done at home this week, I was able to finish all my office work by 8:15 am today!

I am thinking about expanding No S into other areas, as auto has been doing so successfully. My areas of improvement would be:

--regular housekeeping instead of sporadic bursts of clean-freak energy when I can't stand the clutter; and

--No Electronics -- for me! I realized when I was working from home, I spend 5 hours a day on the computer for work purposes, and then I usually watch a netflix movie in the evening -- and in between, I check email, check facebook, check No S, check the weather, check the news . . . it's become my default thing to do. I can't eliminate it completely since it's part of my job, and also my only source of news, entertainment, etc., but I would like to get a handle on it . . .

For this coming week, I am thinking beef barley soup -- inspired by chani8's menu -- and maybe a whole wheat variation on the artisan bread. Hope everybody has a great S weekend!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Sat Feb 01, 2014 12:49 am

Hi jw! Good luck with both of your new tentative habits. I think those are both great ones to work on. In fact, your post inspired me to post a little about both of these things on my own thread.

I will follow your system-making with great interest!

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Sat Feb 01, 2014 6:28 am

Excited to see how your new habits develop.

I'm sure you've heard it mentioned before on this board but flylady is a great system. I found her book easier to navigate than her website if you're interested. For the first time in my life my house is spotless!

Have a great weekend!

Linda

jw · Post by jw » Sat Feb 01, 2014 1:23 pm

Thanks, Auto and Linda! You are always so encouraging!

I was trying to remember the name of the flylady resource, Linda -- thanks for reminding me! I've signed up for the emails to see what it's all about. Why reinvent the wheel, eh?

And auto, thanks for the thoughtful post on your page. I shop and take care of laundry on weekends, too. Since I don't have kids, my house is usually pretty orderly (on the surface!) -- but I have too much stuff for the space and cleaning is haphazard because if there's something more fun to do, that always wins. Being cooped up for days and having the sun pour in at unaccustomed angles, I saw that the place really could do with an overhaul! And instead of a frantic, get-'er-done spring cleaning, it might be better to establish a painless routine . . .

As for the No Electronics -- I think it will free up the time I need to keep order in the house! I wake early every day -- I don't really need to get on the computer until I get to work at 8:00 a.m. And I'd like to quit electronics after dinner -- I think in strange, small ways, it interferes with my sleep. I hope to work out the particulars this weekend.

Thanks again for your support, ladies!

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Sun Feb 02, 2014 6:12 pm

Sounds like some healthy goals, jw! You've got my support!

jw · Post by jw » Mon Feb 03, 2014 3:29 pm

I think I am going to like the flylady baby steps approach -- keep your sink clean and do 15 minutes a day of targeted decluttering. I can do that! I have even found an online timer . . .
which brings me to the second goal, scaling back on electronics use. When I tried to stay computer-free this morning, I realized I didn't know what the weather forecast was or even what time it was without a computer. Also, I use the computer cd player to play calming music for the dogs when I leave the house. And once it was turned on, I did the whole morning routine, news, weather, emails, facebook posts . . . I have to give this more thought. So many of my basics are online! I don't have any devices, just a desktop, so maybe the strategy should be to limit the time sitting at the monitor? Hmmm.

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Mon Feb 03, 2014 3:41 pm

I find it helpful to stand at the computer rather than sit. Studies show that standing (at computer) is better for burning sugar and calories. I do it because it's just easier to walk away from the computer.

I'm glad that you're figuring out a method of cleaning that works for you.

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Mon Feb 03, 2014 4:44 pm

Glad you're giving fly lady a try. I really like it but modify it a bit. I do the separate days for different tasks--mon-desk day, wens-deep cleaning, fri-errands etc. I try to do the zones but only get around to it once in awhile. My habits of cleaning the kitchen before bed, and my morning routine of throwing in a load of laundry, and emptying the dishwasher have really paid off!

As far as electronics I love my iPad & phone and don't really have a problem with my high usage. I guess you have to ask yourself why you want to limit electronics. If it's because you feel like you should be doing more of other things like reading, hobbies etc then I'd say it's just a matter if balancing it. Figure out how much time you'd like to spend on those other things and figure out if there's time left to budget in computer time. 20 or 30 mins a day?

If it's more if a philosophical issue. That you just don't like the idea of interacting with electronics everyday then could you find a clock radio that gives the weather too? Or listen to the weather on the radio or something? That way you could limit your usage to the weekends maybe?

Just some ideas but I'm sure you'll figure out what works best for you!

GL
Linda

jw · Post by jw » Mon Feb 03, 2014 8:36 pm

I love the idea of standing, chani -- that's something to pursue! I have a work table in my studio at work that is good for standing, but nothing at home.

Linda, what a good question! No, I don't have a philosophical issue -- and my work requires quite a lot of computer use. I guess I think too big a percentage of my free time is getting sucked into the computer and other things (reading, walking, painting, housekeeping, etc.) are not getting done. In some ways, I have created my own monster -- I simplified and got rid of tv and radio and use the computer for all those functions, but now I am complaining about how much time I am on the computer! I do think figuring out some kind of time budget and then sticking to it is probably the answer, as you suggest.

eschano · Post by **eschano** » Tue Feb 04, 2014 10:52 am

chani8 wrote:I do it because it's just easier to walk away from the computer.

I love it! Two birds with one stone!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Tue Feb 04, 2014 4:06 pm

The philosophical part of it for me is big. I have this image of myself as intellectual, enjoying concentration on one subject, thinking deeply, etc. And the internet simply ends that depth. It is fun and thought-provoking, but in the past few months I have been reading less on my ipad and more of real books, and I am so glad to have gone back. I read longer, I read more attentively, and perhaps best of all, my kids see me reading a BOOK, rather than just glued to a SCREEN. A subtle difference, but significant in its impact (I believe).

jw · Post by jw » Tue Feb 04, 2014 4:46 pm

auto, I have to agree that reading online can't replace old-fashioned book reading! I skim online for information or entertainment or shopping, much as I used to do when I subscribed to a lot of magazines -- but when I want to really immerse myself in something serious, I want the book in my hand. In fact, somebody gave me a kindle months ago, which I have yet to activate! But I don't have any philosophical objection to using technology when it serves my purposes.

In a different vein -- my blood tests have come back: my parathyroid and thyroid are fine, but I test positive for celiac disease and that has probably caused calcium loss or non-absorption over my whole life (except when I was on Atkins!) So it seems I may have to do some tinkering with my food after all. Back to low carb/gluten-free . . . which I quite enjoyed, but I also enjoyed this new bread-baking kick! Oh well . . . until I actually see the gastroenterologist, I won't make any big changes.

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Tue Feb 04, 2014 6:55 pm

Wow! That is huge news, jw! Oh my goodness, that is a lot of years of you probably feeling sub-par and never knowing why!

Wow, wow, wow!!

Well, it's good to know, but I can see that you might have to mourn the loss of good ole' fashion wheat flour.

This is where all of our marvelous cooks can come in and suggest lots of fun wheat-flour substitutes. I'm sure this could just be another great step in your journey.

Keep us posted!

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Tue Feb 04, 2014 7:31 pm

Sorry to hear about the celiac stuff.

You've got my support for gluten free. The reason I'm trying to make sourdough bread (for the times I do eat bread) is because supposedly those with gluten problems can handle sourdough if it ferments long enough. So maybe, hopefully, you'll be able to eat sourdough, too.

I learned a lot from Atkins, but maybe look up Paleo or Primal Blueprint, as they're more fun, healthier, less processed, and allow way more carbs.

jw · Post by jw » Wed Feb 05, 2014 1:40 am

Thanks, auto and chani -- I actually followed a variety of low carb diets for several years, including paleo, and did well on them. I didn't buy any of the low-carb processed stuff, just stuck to protein and veg. That's the plan again.

Looking back, the only time I really had symptoms was when I lived in Germany -- land of bread and beer! The penny drops . . .

jw · Post by jw » Wed Feb 05, 2014 7:16 pm

Well, I can't get an appointment with the gastroenterologist until June, so I think maybe I had better rethink the kinds of foods I eat before then.

I've never been big on pasta, so that's no sacrifice, but my bread will be a real loss. I am finishing the current loaf (she said defiantly!) Soups will be more limited, with no barley, no noodles, no croutons -- but I can always do rice or potatoes or quinoa. No porridge (an occasional treat at best). And a lot of sweets will also be off the table . . . but fruit- or milk-based desserts should still be OK. I'm basically going back to a modified low carb regimen, I guess. The bright spot is, No S will adapt to these restrictions -- after all, it's not about what I eat, but when/how much.

Given all these unexpected routine changes, I think I will not tamper with my electronics habits just now (the better to obsess online about celiac symptoms and gluten-free recipes!) I am keeping up with the 15-minute cleaning bursts, though -- that is perfect!

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Wed Feb 05, 2014 8:23 pm

Yep, google it out. You'll figure out what to do! Sounds like you already know so much.

jw · Post by jw » Wed Feb 05, 2014 8:30 pm

chani, it runs in the family -- and I have had other autoimmune problems and avoided wheat for some time, just never really followed through on a diagnosis. I had no big reaction to the artisan bread, so I was hoping I was wrong! Are you also gluten-sensitive? If your tip about sourdough turns out to work, I will be so happy!

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Wed Feb 05, 2014 8:37 pm

Oh boy JW crazy news! That has to be tough to swallow so to speak but if it helps turn around your health issues then it's great you discovered this.

I think there's a big difference between changing what you eat for health reasons rather than elusive weight goals. Especially with something so definitely related to eating. It's pretty clear cut that you need to be gluten-free if you do have celiacs.

Luckily there are so many more gluten-free options now. A ton of books too. I'm sure you can find a way to still make tasty, satisfying foods. I do think you're smart to wait on the electronics habit right now.

Good luck with everything!

Linda

jw · Post by jw » Thu Feb 06, 2014 11:26 am

Thanks, Linda! I emailed my brother in Australia and he said something very similar, also encouraging -- that it's a good time to find this out, with all the gluten-free options available now. He has struggled with celiac-like symptoms for over 20 years, but has never actually been diagnosed. He said now that gluten-free eating is trendy, his life is much easier!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Thu Feb 06, 2014 2:32 pm

Lol it sure is trendy now. That's funny, but helpful, in your case!

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Fri Feb 07, 2014 12:10 pm

The thing with sourdough is the longer it ferments, the better. So it needs to be homemade.

I had an absorption problem with iron, and I dont digest food well. Plus I have gallstone issues. It's all tied together, I think.

I eat gluten free by default, except for my yes s days. Just started adding barley the wonder food, with no problems.

Chewing slowly helps so much.

Typing with one hand slows down my brain, too. LOL

r.jean · Post by **r.jean** » Fri Feb 07, 2014 1:40 pm

My mother was diagnosed with celiac disease back when no one had a clue what it was and few people knew the word gluten. She also suffered with symptoms her entire life and was finally diagnosed as an adult, in her 30's if I recall correctly. It was much harder to manage then because labels did not give the information that they do now. Dear mom passed this fall at 80, but we probably will still make many of our dishes gluten free out of habit. The only item that was never quite the same was bread. It is hard to get a good and easy substitute for good old wheat based bread. Mom generally bought hers at specialty stores and brought her own bread to gatherings. She belonged to a support group that was very helpful to her for recipes and information on products and other support. Too bad it did not exist when she was first diagnosed.

By the way Outback Steakhouse and Applebee's were our favorite places to go out with mom. Both have separate gluten free menus and the servers and cooks are trained to be very helpful. This may not be true everywhere, but it is true locally.

jw · Post by jw » Fri Feb 07, 2014 2:00 pm

Chani, I used to make sourdough when I first moved to PA and was unemployed for a while -- it was tangy and good! But I had a heavily grain-based diet at the time and developed skin problems, so I never went back to it.

R. Jean, thanks for that encouragement! I am 62 and just diagnosed! But several siblings have issues with wheat and/or milk and one has been diagnosed with celiac/leaky gut syndrome. The medical community is becoming more aware, I guess -- this was part of a battery of routine tests to determine why I wasn't absorbing vitamin D!

I agree about the GF bread . . . it's a pale substitute for the real thing! The funny thing is, if I could choose my own food as a child, I never chose milk or bread or pasta or oatmeal -- had a strong aversion to those things, and was taught to get used to them because I wouldn't be healthy without them!

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Sat Feb 08, 2014 7:53 pm

It's so interesting about your food choices as a kid. I was thinking about my own preferences as a child recently. I loved veggies, except the way my mother cooked them (microwaved). Salad bars were awesome. What kind of foods did you like to eat?

Btw, my sourdough came out very tangy this time. The kids were a little shocked by it. I thought I could've won an award for sourest sourdough. Took three days of raising to get that tang! lol

jw · Post by jw » Sat Feb 08, 2014 9:44 pm

LOL, chani, yes, sourdough can get pretty ripe!

As a child, I liked all cooked vegetables, except for lima beans -- fruit, of course, and most meat. Potatoes. I liked pie but not cake (more fruit and fat, less flour!) -- my birthday meant a pumpkin pie! Of the breakfast cereals, I usually chose rice-based ones (Rice Krispies, Rice Chex). If I had been left to my own devices, I wonder if I would have naturally chosen the diet that my body needed? Maybe so! Score one for Intuitive Eating!

What I can't understand is, why am I borderline obese? I thought people with celiac disease were bone-thin?

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Sat Feb 08, 2014 9:45 pm

I think there's a lot to be said for our food preferences as children, before we think too much about what we "should" or "shouldn't" like. For example, my first son loves milk, my second doesn't. I've often wondered if his body knows it won't sit well with him, or something like that.

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Sun Feb 09, 2014 5:50 am

Maybe celiac people get thin *after* they cut out all the foods that bother them. Some people swear that low carbers burn calories more efficiently so they can eat as much as they want and not gain. I've not tested that theory.

jw · Post by jw » Sun Feb 09, 2014 2:20 pm

Auto, I agree! Your son's body knows exactly what it wants.
And chani, I am continuing to research and I guess there is quite a high incidence of weight problems among celiacs -- because we don't absorb the nutrients we need, we just keep eating -- and storing the excess! The thin, waiflike stereotype is out of date.

There is a LOT of info out there, fortunately -- and I am finding that a lot of what is in my cupboard is destined to become food pantry donation or dog food. They sure loved the beef barley soup I had made last week . . .

Happy S Days, all! More snow here, my car is ploughed in -- so I am thinking about homemade chocolate bark, with butter or coconut oil, cocoa, and walnuts.

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Sun Feb 09, 2014 2:59 pm

jw and chani, interesting about the weight gain connection. Jw, have you read Wheat Belly? That was my first exposure to the idea that gluten problems can lead to weight gain (rather than, as you pointed out, the traditional idea that all celiacs are underweight).

jw · Post by jw » Sun Feb 09, 2014 3:06 pm

I have not -- but it's a title that keeps coming up, along with "Grain Brain!" Heading right over to amazon . . . thanks!

Tessytwinkle · Post by **Tessytwinkle** » Thu Feb 13, 2014 7:58 am

Dear JW. I am so sorry to read about your health problems. I understand very well I think the challenges that face you food wise. I am very allergic to some foods especially milk. I think so much of my weight problems lie in food intolerances and allergies. When I eat really well and safely my body settles and feels so much calmer. When I eat badly weight piles on. And I do not mean badly for everyone I just mean eat badly for my body which is oftrn not even fattening foods.
I have lovely recipe for gluten free lemon cake. Let me know if you would like it.
The only thing I can assure you is that as your food habits change to address your condition you should start to feel so much better in yourself. I hope you feel that way soon

jw · Post by jw » Thu Feb 13, 2014 11:27 am

Thanks, Tessie --I have also not tolerated milk well, though it's not as strong as an allergy. Same with wheat. Part of the problem is, I have only little nuisance symptoms, nothing clear-cut and obvious to tell me of the damage inside, and now osteoporosis is established.

I am sorry to hear about your arthritis, too. You suspected as much a few months ago, and now at least you can address it head on. I stopped eating the offending foods exactly a week ago, and I can already feel a difference in my joints. I'd love your recipe, if you'd like to share it!

I'm trying to move forward as usual -- so far, so good!

jw · Post by jw » Thu Feb 13, 2014 12:32 pm

Strange social fail yesterday -- I am on a music festival committee that meets in participating venues. Yesterday six of us met in a local restaurant/club at dinner time and I felt obligated to order something, even though I had had my meals for the day. So, chalk up a red bowl of chili!

eschano · Post by **eschano** » Thu Feb 13, 2014 1:56 pm

Sounds hilarious. Did you enjoy it? Social fails seem to be the topic of the week.

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Thu Feb 13, 2014 2:00 pm

jw, one week with no gluten and you are feeling better in your joints? That is awesome!!! It makes me think of so many people that have joint pain that could at least give gluten-free a try. My husband, for one! And his mom has terrible joint problems and has struggled with her weight for decades....yet she appears to eat quite normally. Interesting. I've heard and read about this phenomenon (joint pain and gluten link)--indeed, I teach on it!

But it is different, and very powerful, to hear you mention it!

jw · Post by jw » Thu Feb 13, 2014 6:22 pm

eschano, I did -- both the chili and the meeting! It's an Indie Music Festival, now in its 7th year, and I am the token establishment person on the committee -- everybody else is 30-ish and "alternative" in one way or another -- they are very fun people!

auto, I have noticed this before when I lapsed from low carb at Christmas time, then went back on the wagon. Arthritis was a holiday ailment that cleared up when the Christmas goodies were gone. I thought sugar was the culprit, but I guess it was wheat!

It's certainly worth a try for your husband and M-I-L -- though my mother was not willing to give up anything. She identifies so strongly with her personal likes and dislikes that she can't imagine not eating bread, no matter how many aches she has!

lpearlmom · Post by **lpearlmom** » Fri Feb 14, 2014 6:09 am

Indie festival--how fun! Your fail doesn't sound too bad. I think we a lot of us love this diet because we don't have to forgo social situations while were on it. Sometimes the importance of connecting socially is more important than staying green. People have been breaking bread for centuries for a reason, right?

Anyway, glad your new eating plan seems to be having you fel better already. So worth it!

Linda

eschano · Post by **eschano** » Fri Feb 14, 2014 10:11 am

jw wrote: and I am the token establishment person on the committee

Haha, love that!

As you know, I do believe in "fail-worthy" treats as long as you keep them to one or two per month instead of extra S days only not planned. I think we should all aim for over 80% compliance and that's usually enough, although it's great to have better months in between.

Tessytwinkle · Post by **Tessytwinkle** » Fri Feb 14, 2014 11:36 am

Hi JW. Here is my favourite gluten free lemon cake ( could be orange if you prefer)
2 lemons unwaxed
6 eggs, 7oz (200gms) caster sugar, 9oz (250 gms) ground almonds.
Wash the lemons, put whole lemons in pan and cover with water. Bring to boil and cook gently till very tender ( about 40mins). Leave to cool
Drain lemons. Open and remove pips. Then purÃ©e all the lemon until smoothish
Whisk the eggs and the sugar together for about 5 mins until very pale and thick. Whisk in the lemon purÃ©e. Then fold in ground almonds with metal spoon.
Pour mixture in to 20cm (8inch) tin and bake at 150c/300f/ gas mark 2 until cocktail stick inserted in Middle comes out clean. Takes over 1 hour. If starts to get too brown cover with grease proof paper. Cool cake in the tin. Then turn out carefully
I dust with icing sugar.
This is luscious cake but also bit sharp not very very sweet. Very moist I love it. I hope you enjoy it.
Your joints will feel better each week I am sure. And the loss of some gluten foods will be easily compensated for as you feel better. Having bad allergies has made me think more carefully about my food, read the labels ( often astonishing what is put in foods!!) and it has ultimately made me a more imaginative cook I think!
Have a good day. Tessy

jw · Post by jw » Fri Feb 14, 2014 11:54 am

Well, what do you know -- my red day seems to have nudged the scale down! I am finally back at my pre-holiday low weight, 210 lbs (starting weight was 230).

That cake sounds fantastic, Tessie! I have been snowbound for a while (walking to work, auto!), but as soon as I can get the car back on the road to shop for ingredients, I will give it a try!

automatedeating · Post by **automatedeating** » Fri Feb 14, 2014 1:30 pm

yay for getting to your pre-holiday weight!

And yay for walking to work.

jw · Post by jw » Sun Feb 16, 2014 2:39 am

Beef, rice and red beans (and green pepper and tomato) go into the soup today -- haven't cooked with rice for ages and made way too much the other day, so -- into the new soup with it! It tastes like stuffed peppers.

All I wanted when it came to S-es was banana slices with chocolate syrup. Totally satisfying while I figure out a substitute for all those gluten-y cakes. Couldn't find almond flour, Tessie, so your lemon cake is on hold, but I made beautiful cranberry pancakes this morning with chickpea flour. So far, this is a liveable way of eating!

Hope everyone has some nice treats lined up for the weekend!

osoniye · Post by **osoniye** » Sun Feb 16, 2014 5:35 am

Hi jw,
Congrats on getting down to pre-holiday weight. Mid-Feb you're already ahead of a large part of the population who creep up a few # at holiday time and then it accumulates every year.
Your soup sounds yummy! It puts me to thinking about what other casserole type things could be deconstructed and made as soup!
Would you be willing to share your recipe for cranberry pancakes made with chickpea flour? And is the flour you use made from raw chic peas? (I live overseas and they have both kinds, raw and that made from dry roasted chick peas, so just wondering.)

chani8 · Post by **chani8** » Sun Feb 16, 2014 7:31 am

Excellent on getting down to pre-holiday weight. That's the way to do the holidays!

I had chickpea flour in my closet for so long that I finally donated it. To think I could've had cranberry pancakes.

Hope you're enjoying your Yes S days!