Jen - Day 28

Last day of Phase II looked like this for me:

B - Almonds and walnuts
L - Miso soup
D - Veggie lasagna with eggplant "noodles"

Welcome to Phase III Monday!!

Jen - Day 26 & 27

Hi All -

Sorry for getting a day behind! Here's the rundown:

Friday
B - Berry/peach/red chard smoothie
L - Miso soup
D - Ginger-teriyaki salmon, sweet potato and braised greens
S - Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds

Today I was at a writing conference, with "provided" food. I didn't partake of anything that was optional. I was a little worried about lunch because it was a sit down, three-course service meal. Thankfully, I was able to stay all Phase II except for some grains in the vegetarian main course. Tomorrow they are providing a "surprise" lunch. It's not the kind of thing that you can say no to (again, round tables/function service), so I'm just hoping it will be a Phase II surprise!

Saturday
B - Two eggs, blackberries
L - Tomato/basil/mozzarella salad, grain puff with side of carrots and broccoli
D - Curry veggies (I know this is redundant, but we love it. So good) and seaweed salad
S - Carrots, apple, goat cheese

Hope you all have had a great day! Stay warm!
xo-j

Kim- Day 25

B - plain goat milk yogurt with blueberries, almonds & honey
L- omelet with spinach, turkey bacon & Swiss cheese
D- baked salmon with dill sauce, sweet potatoes (sauteed in coconut oil) & small field green salad
*love the sweet potatoes & I used a little of Annie's Woodstock dressing (my fav)
S - almonds

Stay warm & cozy this weekend & remember that the Lord loves spending time with you!
Kim

Melissa G. - Days 23 & 24

Hey guys - Getting ready to settle in for a long snowy winter weekend here in the WNC mtns.

Wednesday and Thursday day were the same with a smoothie for breakfast and lunch.

D - Eggs w/ turkey sausage, corn tortilla
S- grapes, apples, raw almonds

D- hamburger w/o a bun, onions, peppers, mushrooms and goat cheese, sweet potato fries
S- pop corn

Have a great weekend! Praying for you all!!

Jen - Day 25

Hey Guys -

You all are awesome. Thanks for sticking in for your health and for being honest when it is hard. The few days leading up to Phase III can seem long, b/c you are so ready to get to those grains! But hang tough... we are all doing so well and we are almost to the home stretch! Once we hit Phase III, things seem much less difficult and more do-able for the long term. That's why Jordan calls it "Phase III and Beyond!" I'm so proud of all of you and the way you are making so many seen and unseen health changes. Go team :)

B - Peach/raspberry/spinach smoothie
L - Carrots and lentils
D - Veggie curry
S - Cole slaw, a little bit of vegetable soup and some berries

Have a great Friday! Celebrate another successful week :)
xo-j

Brian - Day 25

Good Thursday...
B - 2 eggs and berry smoothie with spinach
L - small salad with carrots onion oil vin
S - vegetable soup, cole slaw, and berries
D - vegetable curry
Bye all!
B

Kim - Day 22, 23, & 24

Hey ya'll! Looks like you guys are doing great. Not sure why but I've had a little trouble the past couple of days. I have almost felt like giving up...but I will NOT! : )

Day 22
B -goat milk strawberry yogurt with walnuts
L - grilled greek chicken salad with fresh feta - greek dressing (ate half)
D- the rest of of greek salad
S- almonds

Day 23
B - plain goat milk yogurt with walnuts & blueberries
L- Chicken curry with veggies soup (I ate with a friend at an English Rest. The waitress told me that there were only veggie with the curry - rice was included so "nothing to do about it." : (
D - layered chili cheese dip, carrot sticks with some artichoke dip (girls brought to group)

Day 24
B - ricotta cheese with pineapple, almonds & a little honey
L- hamburger patty with cheese, lettuce & tomato, sweet potatoes
D - some garlic artichoke dip (oops...ate a few whole grain crackers)
S - almonds

Diane - Day 24

B - berry/kefir smoothie
S - almonds
L - tomato/basil soup, salad with a few slices of goat cheese
S - apple with almond butter
D - left over spaghetti over squash, salad, fruit

Have a good Thursday.......a snowy forecast for Friday in WNC!

Brian - 24

24 Days in...that has a nice ring to it.
B - berry peach spinach smoothie
L- spinach salad w egg red onion carrot kidney beans sunflower seeds oil vin
D- tomato sauce over broiled veggies

We woke up to a snowy NYC today...beautiful.
B

Jen - Day 24

Hi Team!

B - Peach/berry/spinach smoothie
L - Big salad with roasted red peppers, carrots, seeds and an egg
D - Mushroom and red pepper spaghetti sauce over broiled zucchini, squash and baby carrots
S - Apple

Hope you all have had a great Day 24!
xo-j

Cindy...

Hey all ;)

Had a good day..well sorta, but umm, I did well!!

Breakfast-2 boiled eggs and 2 turkey bacons
S-Smoothie with kefir and berries
L-Grapefruit and salad with chicken
S- Anthonys famous Beef Soup...with greenbeans, corn and pea...YUM YUM!!

Have a great night.....;o)

Alex Day 24

B - yogurt w/blueberries

L - lentils w/green salad

S - apple, green smoothie

D - ?

Diane - Days 22 and 23

We're still plugging.........and even trying so new things!

Monday
B - berry smoothie
S - almonds
L - salad, grilled chicken, grapes
D - vegetable soup
S - berries with almonds

Tuesday
B - berry smoothie
S - almonds
L - vegetable soup, celery with almond butter
Dinner - spaghetti sauce with ground beef over spaghetti squash (I could hardly tell it wasn't pasta!) with some goat cheese crumbles, tossed salad, fruit salad (cantelope, honey dew, strawberries, raspberries, blue berries)
S - almonds

20 minute work out both days

Day 22 - Melissa G

Hi all,

Still loving the new food choices. Love my organic coffee and goats milk is not as bad as it sounds!

B- Goats milk smoothie w/ greens
L- More smoothie
D- Talapia w/ lemon & dill, stir fried green beans w/ ginger & sesame
S- raw almonds, sunflower seeds and organic raisins
water ... lots and lots of it

Have a great hump day! Blessings to you all!!

Brian - Day 23

Hi Team! Good Tuesday for me...
B- same Berry smoothie as Jen...so good...can't taste the greens but they're there.
L- spinach salad with grilled chicken, red onion, carrot, kidney beans, broc, oil vin
S- a couple spoons of almond butter
D- stir fry veggies over lentils
...and a couple cups of tea to wash it all down.
B

Jen - Day 23

Can you guys believe we have made it to Day 23?! I hope you are all starting to feel the lifestyle developing... :) Here's my day:

B - Peach/Berry/Red Chard Smoothie made with Coconut Water
L - Leftover Chili
D - Stir-Fry Vegetables over Lentils
S - Carrots

Starting a true work out routine tomorrow! I'll keep you posted on the progress :)
G'night, All!

Cindy...

Hey ....

Sorry, I am not even sure what day it is!! Doing well, and pressing on toward trying to do what I really want to do..I have some set backs when I don't prepare so well..but all and all I love it and it feels so good to be doing this incredible change!!

Breakfast-Berry smoothie with almond butter
Snack-grapefruit
Lunch...taking a salad with me ;)

Have a great day everyone...so good to see YOU Joan :)

love and prayers for everyone!!! (((((hug)))))

Alex Days 18-22 & 23

Hi Everyone,

Sorry I've been off line for a bit! I've been doing great with the food with the exception of a couple of meals where I had some foods from Phase III before it was official...

Anyway, here's a start for today...(more later)

B - blueberries, almond butter, tea

L - Veggie soup w/Lentils

S - Almond butter

D - Veggie soup w/Lentils (again)!

Happy Tuesday!

Alex

Melissa G - Day 21

Hey everyone - hope you all had a great Monday. I had a great start to Makers and love the choices I'm allowed. I've been making menu's for the week and retraining my food thoughts to encompass Makers choices. I hope to have the hang of it by Friday!

B - Goats Milk Smoothie w. pomegranate juice and greens
L- More Smoothie
D- Pot Roast cooked all day in slow cooker w/ carrots, celery, onion and red potato
S- raw almonds, grapes

Exercised for 30 minutes doing Faithful Workouts (contemporary Christian music, scripture and resistance bands ... I was hurting this morning!) I like to change up my exercise choices and hopefully just putting exercise in my day will become routine.

Have a blessed and healthy Tuesday :) Praying for you all!

Brian - Day 22

We are in the 4th week, wow. Welcome to full Makers, Melissa....and so good to hear from Joan. I know there are others out there that are with us...spying on the blog :-)
Great day for me:
B - 3 eggs and apple with almond butter (and a little bit of Jen's smoothie)
L - leftover chili...just as good the secong time around
S - are you kidding, look at the size of my breakfast
D - Buffalo marinated artichoke hearts, sauteed broc, and spinach salad
Have a great week, Team Health.
B

Jen - Day 22

Hi All -

Welcome to Joan! Glad to see you pop up on here, and glad that all is going well. You are so right - this is not a "diet" in the traditional sense. We are all learning to incorporate the principles of health into an ongoing lifestyle... That's the only way we'll be able to get and stay healthy. We need to keep reminding ourselves of that. Good to hear from you on here!

Melissa, thanks for posting the recipe!! I can't wait to try it. (And I bet I won't be the only one.:) Welcome to full on Maker's. Sounds like the Daniel Fast was great!

Here's my day today:
B - Peach/berry/spinach smoothie made with coconut water
L - Leftover chili
D - Buffalo-marinated artichoke hearts, sauteed broccoli and small salad
S - Orange

Hope you all have had a great Monday...
xo-j

Kim - Day 20 & 21

Day 20
B - vanilla goat milk yogurt with strawberries & almonds
L - roast beef, corn, green beans, slaw & squash
D - roast beef & squash
S - almonds

Day 21
B - ricotta, strawberries, almonds with honey
L - Lentil soup & sm. spring mix salad
D - Baked chicken (like chicken parm. without bread crumbs) & spring mix salad
S- blueberry goat milk yogurt

Day 21

Hi Guys, Here I am popping up on day 21! forgiveme. I've had some challenges with kitchen use, but I've been doing pretty well overall. I've decided that if I keep the principals in mind as a way of living instead of "diet", I do better. My food choices are determined by this point of view. You are all an inspiration!

Diane - Day 19 - 21

The days are rolling along and this eating plan is becoming more routine and natural. I love how much better I feel which sure makes it easier to eat the right things. And I am noticing also that I am satisfied with less food than in the past, which is a good thing!

Friday

B - berry smoothie
L - salad, celery with almond butter
D - salad with salmon, garden vegetable pesto soup (Panera Bread and it was yummy!)
S - almonds

Saturday

B - berry smoothie
L - salad with grilled chicken and feta cheese
D - grilled steak (no hormones or junk), baked sweet potato, salad, steamed broccoli, fruit salad

Sunday

B - clementine
L - grilled chicken, salad, green beans, fruit salad
S - almonds
D - homemade veggie soup

Melissa G - Day 19 & 20

Hey team ... hope everyone had a great weekend. I must admit mine was wonderful food wise ... we ate red meat for the first time in 3 weeks on Sunday and it was a 1 1/2" thick organic filet cooked on the grill ... YUM-O!! I will also admit my tummy was happy, then a bit confused ... but I'm sure it will come around as I ease back into meat a few times a week!

The weekend was a mix of Daniel and Makers so we could finish up all unused groceries from the Daniel and go full on Makers as of today. I won't bore you w/ mixed menu details, but today will start all Makers Phase 2. Began w/ my smoothie w/ goats milk and keifer ...

Jen, here is the recipe for the yummy Chili I posted ... sweet and heat ... it's so good. Adjust as needed on beans according to what we can have on this phase, haven't checked it for where it would fall on the Makers Plan.

Chipolte-Kissed Bean and Sweet Potato Chili

1 tablespoon evoo, water or broth
1 med. yellow onion - chopped
1 med. red pepper - seeded/chopped
1 large garlic clove - minced
1 tablespoon chili powder - to taste
1 1/2 # sweet potatoes - peeled/cubed
14 1/2 oz. crushed tomatoes
15 oz. canned kidney beans - rinsed/drained
1 1/2 C. water
Salt - to taste
1 tablespoon canned chili peppers -- Chipolte in adobo sauce

In large skillet saute on, pepper & garlic in oil or substitutes, cover and cook until soft, about 5 min. Stir in chili powder and cook 30 seconds, add sweet potatoes and stir to coat w/ spices.
Transfer mixture to 4 - 6 quart slow cooker (crock pot or dutch oven) and add beans and tomatoes. Season w/ salt, cook on low for 6 - 8 hours.

Add chipoltes just before serving. *I take my chipolte peppers out of can and pulse in food processor, put in canning jar and keep in refrigerator to use in this and that*
**evoo = extra virgin olive oil

Jen and Brian - Days 20 & 21

Hey Team -

Hope everyone has had a great weekend. We missed blogging yesterday, so playing a little catch up here. Brian and I ate pretty much the same thing over the last two days, so I'll condense your reading and post for both of us ;)

Day 20
B -Berry smoothie with greens (plus two eggs for B)
L - Stir-fry veggies, sweet potato and miso soup
D - Black beans and corn

Day 21
B - Berry smoothie with greens (plus three eggs for B)
L - Miso soup
D - Veggie/bean chili (yummy - we'll be eating the leftover for a few days, too.)
S - Walnuts, apple with almond butter

Melissa, what is sweet potato chili? Sounds like an amazing combination of two of my favorite things!

Looking forward to a great week ahead. So proud of you all.
xo-j

Kim - Day 18 & 19

Day 18
B - ricotta cheese, stawberries, almonds & a little honey
L - grilled chicken, spring mix salad with egg, sunflower seeds, carrots, steamed brocolli
D- Chicken salad with spring mix almonds, eggs & cheese

Day 19
B - ricotta cheese, stawberries, almonds & a little honey - yummy
L - sm. grilled chicken salad with spring mix
D- baked white fish, 1 spicy chicken drumette, collards, mushrooms & onions (from Whole Foods)
S - almonds
Have a blessed Sabbath!
Kim

Day 18 - Melissa G.

Happy Weekend everyone ...

Yesterday was good .

B- Smoothie w/ greens
L- Broccoli Salad w/ grapes, apples, raisins
D- More Broccoli Salad - Sweet Potato Chili
S- Popcorn, Pumpkin seed granola w/ soy milk
water, water, water

Looking forward to joining in with the Makers Plan effective today. Finishing up w/ the Daniel Fast food in the house and shopping strictly for Makers, so today and tomorrow may be a mesh of both, but by Monday full on Makers. Happy Weekend!!

Brian- Day 19

Hey all!
B -peach and berry smoothie with greens
skipped lunch...grrrr
S - walnuts and almond butter
D - mixed vegetables with penang curry
Enjoy the weekend, Team.
B

Jen - Day 19

Glad the weekend is here again! :)

B - Berry/peach/spinach smoothie
L - Chipotle salad topped with grilled veggies, corn salsa and black beans
D - Mixed vegetables in penang curry
S - Small peach/almond butter smoothie

Hope you all have a great weekend. Celebrate the halfway point!! Woohoo!

Cindy Day 18 and 19

Hey team ;)

So sorry I didn't get here last night..had a good day yesterday and today, and I am not sure why I forgot to blog last night..but I have to say..this is one great journey :) I am loving this new way of eatting so much, the weight is coming off, and I am not strugglin too much!!

Today for ...

B-3 boiled eggs and a grapefruit
L-Salad with mixed greens and carrots and strawberries and grapes
S-Chicken salad and green tea :) yummmm

I can't remember yesterday, but it was about the same kind of food...lunch was just a grapefruit cause I didn't have time to grab anything more...rushing as usual ..it amazes me how little I am eatting some days, not even hungry but I eat just cause I feel like my body needs it...ha!! Good stuff of course!!

looking forward to a great weekend with maybe some fish tomorrow night..I love Salmon and Tilapia and Mahi Mahi...delish!!

Enjoy your weekend and I love hearing all these great idea..they give me new thoughts ;)

Diane - Day 18

Thursday

B - berry smoothie
S - almonds
L - salad, celery, almond butter
D - smoked turkey sausage w/peppers and onions, steamed broccoli, salad, berries w/almonds

overslept so no workout - gotta do better on this!

Have a good weekend everyone!

Brian - Day 18

Hi Team...a good Thursday for me...
B- almonds and an apple
L- grilled chicken salad w beets carrots avocado almonds red onion oil vin
D- cod w sweet potato and broc
Need sleep...woke up too early.
B

Jen - Day 18

Hey Team -

B - Peach/berry/rainbow chard smoothie
L - Walnuts and carrots
D - Small piece of baked cod, sweet potato and broccoli sauteed with sesame seeds
S - Strawberries with pumpkin seeds and a little agave nectar

Got in a good 50 minutes of cardio in the park today with Ryli. It was a beautiful day in New York City! Hope you all have had a great one.
xo-j

Kim - Day 18

B - blueberries, walnuts with a drizzle of honey
L - bowl of taco soup (beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, pintos, corn with mexi spices)
D - omelet with goat cheese & salsa (sm. amount of sour cream on top)
S - strawberries with almond butter (my favorite, too), a little honey & green mint tea

Raining all morning so I went to the Y to walk on the treadmill - still need to exercise more! : )

Diane - Day 17

I haven't added any phase 2 choices yet since things are working well but I probably will at least add some of the fruit soon.

Wednesday

B - berry smoothie
S - almonds
L - celery, strawberries, almond butter
D - grilled maihi maihi, salad, steamed broccoli

15 minute work out

Alex Days 16 & 17

B - Sunflower seed bread w/avocado slices

L - Large field green salad

D - Large field green salad & strawberry smoothie

Day 17

B - Grapefruit & Tea

L - Veggie soup w/lupine beans

D - Green juice, coconut broth soup, caesar salad

S - Apple

Melissa G - Day 17

Hey all ... glad to hear we're all doing so good! Amazing what success of others can do to your own journey!!

Yesterday was good, but busy as usual. Way more tired yesterday so I actually went to bed at 7:45 pm! Woke up refreshed today. Food wise went like this:

B - Smoothie w/ greens
L- V-8 Low Sodium
D- Mock Taco Salad w/ Veggie Chips
S- grapes, apples, p'nut butter (raw)

Have a great day ... lifting you all up, keep up the great work!

Brian - Day 17

Go Team!
B - berry smoothie w greens
L - salad w broc red onion goat cheese almonds sunflower seeds oil vin & black beans
S - strawberries with almond butter - my favorite
D - veggie stir fry over lentils
Bring on Thursday/Day18.
B

Cindy Day 17

Hey friends :)

Another great day..no slips at all..I am on a roll :)

B-Blackberry Smoothie with Almond butter Turkey Bacon and Grapefruit
L-Salad with mixed greens and chicken slices also a cup of fruit, grapes apples and strawberries
D-Turkey slices with mixed steamed veggies and sweet potatoe ...YUM!!

Did alot of walking too...love walking, but I need to walk at a faster pace I think!!

Night everyone, sweet dreams ;)

Kim - Day 17

B - blueberries, almonds, goat milk yogurt with honey
L - leftover chicken curry & small spring mix salad with almonds with tahini dressing
D- taco soup with cheese (no chips) : (

I was a little bad tonight. : ) One of the college girls brought some homemade dark choc. pretzel thing with peanuts...well, I ate a small one. Now I'm back on track...
Good night all!

Jen - Day 17

Hey Guys -

Happy Day 17 to you all...

B - Berry/coconut milk / greens smoothie
L - Big salad with strawberries, side of black beans
D - Veggie stir-fry with lentils
S - Apple

Can't wait to hear how the day has been for all of you! Love and prayers :)
xo-j

Diane - Day 16

Another good day! Our pastor encouraged us to try fasting, or at least a partial fast day, so I did that yesterday. It was amazing that I really did not feel that hungry but I think it is different when it is a spiritual thing. My goal was to go from after dinner Monday night until dinner Tuesday night with only water (I did slip in a cup of coffee). I had to eat a little earlier because I was giving blood and didn't want to pass out, so I had a pre-dinner salad just before my appointment around 5. I believe the Maker's Diet encourages this also but I haven't read the specifics - must do that as I think there are health benefits to this as well.

D - salad with grilled salmon and broccoli/cheddar soup(probably stretched it a bit on the soup)
S - celery with almond butter
Lots of water!
20 minute aerobic exercise

Day 16 - Melissa G.

Hello everyone ... Happy Wednesday!

Yesterday I felt great and got much accomplished. My prayer is that the energy and motivation continue as the days turn into weeks. Had a full day and got in 30 minutes on elliptical and 15 minutes of floor/yoga work. Started a great Beth Moore Bible study last night. Feeling good physically, mentally and spiritually.

My day went like this food wise:

B- Smoothie w/ greens
L- Low Sodium V-8
D- Portabella Patty on ww tortilla, veggie chips
S- grapes, apples and p'nut butter
water, water, water

Have a great day. Praying for you all!

Brian - Day 16

Reading all your blogs makes me happy. Good bloggin' today. So happy with all the progress and success. Mom, I bet your lack of knee pain can be attributed to the "reduction of inflammation" that comes with phase one and overall healthy eating....more than just sugar, it comes from your overall reduction in preservatives, sugars, flours, and processed foods. that's good stuff....only 15 days. What's 15 days in the big picture? Think of the changes unseen, unfelt, & undetedcted.
B- peach and berry smoothie with greens - amazing
L- skipped...I hate it but I did...bad move.
D- chicken stir-fry with snow peas, bok choy, broc, green beans and other green vegetables
much love
B

Cindy - Day 16

Hello everyone ;)

Its been a really good day...didn't mess up at all..I was sooo proud of myself..not one slip!!

B-Grapefruit, 2 scrambled eggs and 2 turkey bacon
L-Salad with mixed greens and chicken salad on top..made a bit different but no mayo :)
S-Smoothie with strawberries and almond butter

I feel great and I am looking forward to another good day tomorrow!! Started a wonderful bible study tonight and I can't wait to dig into it..its a Beth Moore study and its going to be good!!

Night everyone!!

Jen - Day 16

Hey All -

The blog is looking full! That's good! :) We are all spurring each other on! Here's my day...

B - Peach/berry smoothie with greens
L - Big salad with broccoli, roasted red peppers, carrots, hard-boiled egg, and sunflower seeds
D - Soy-pomegranate glazed salmon, blueberry/mango/mixed greens salad
S - Apple

Goodnight all. As always, so proud of each and every one of you... and the community you are creating here.
xo-j

Kim - Day 14, 15, & 16

Hey Ya'll...just realized that i am a little behind...it's going well. I weighed on Day 15 & had lost betw. 5 - 7 lbs. since Day 1! Yay! Also, my tummy issues seemed to have subsided. Thank the Lord! I would appreciate your prayers for Wed. nights. I am beginning a Bible study with about 20 college girls called Outflow. (our entire church is doing the study together) It is a wonderful study. I just realized that Jen & Brian's pastor wrote a recommendation on the back of the study. : )

Day 14
B - blueberries, goat milk yogurt & honey
L- grilled fresco chicken/lemon & tomato slices on top, steamed brocolli & side spring mix salad
D-lentil soup & goat mozerella
S - almond butter & strawberries

Day 15
B - omelet with goat cheese, onion & zuchinni
L- blueberries, goat milk yogurt, almonds & honey
D- Thai Chicken curry (recipe in book) love it! spring mix salad with almond & goat cheese
S - strawberries & almond butter

Day 16
B - goat milk yogurt, blueberries, almonds & honey
L- salad with steak strips & a little blue cheese with vinaigrette
D - salad with romaine, cucumber, carrots, cheese & tomato & chicken salad
S- spoonful of almond butter with a little honey

A few years ago a nutritionist told me to stay away from a lot of cow's milk dairy. I love using the goat milk products but I think my system had to adjust to it again.

Diane - Day 15 (plus some)

I don't know why I can't seem to get around to posting these days! I apologize, but I am doing great with eating what I need to be. My pants are feeling a little looser even though I have only lost about 8 pounds, but the greatest part is that I haven't had pain in my knees. I noticed it especially walking down steps and am amazed that the pain is gone! I have been living with that for quite a while and it really is a blessing!! I'm wondering which of the things I am leaving off is making the difference - probably sugar.

Saturday
B - two eggs, turkey bacon, 1/2 grapefruit
L/D - roast beef, carrots, salad
S - herbal tea, berries and almonds

Sunday
B - 1/2 grapefruit
L - grilled hamburger patty, tomatoes, dill pickle, salad
D - chicken, steamed veggies (broccoli, carrots, celery, snow peas, pepper, onions), green beans, broccoli cole slaw, fresh berries with almonds

Monday
B - two eggs, turkey bacon, 1/2 grapefruit
L/D - grilled chicken, green beans, cooked carrots, salad, berries
S - almonds

Most days I have done my workout but did skip a few times......I'm trying to get back on track with that. It's so encouraging to hear everyone's comments and how well you are all doing. I'll try to do better with my daily reports. Phillip is doing well also and has lost at least 13 pounds. He has an occasional lapse but for the most part is staying on track. He's just not good with the posting!
God bless!

Melissa G - Day 15

Hi Guys - I'm so impressed with the foods I am seeing - they all sound like something right off a restaurant menu! How wonderful that is how we're eating, but we are eating like the true King of kings so it stands to reason the items all sound amazing. I keep telling everyone who is not familiar with this fast/diet we're doing that it is basically "what would Jesus eat?" Keep it up, your all an inspiration and your not even trying to be! Brian, I'm so proud of your exercise routine, and yes, Jen ... a long walk in the park w/ your sweet pup does count in my book! Alex, your inspring me to set my alarm even earlier for my quiet time alone w/ God. Thanks for the word. Love your humor and honesty, Cindy - you are doing just fine, my friend.

Yesterday was good and went like this ...
B - Fruit juice smoothie w/ greens
L- natural salt free peanut butter on ww/brown rice bread, grapes
D- ww pasta, salad w/ the works (onion, mush, broc, carrots, sesame seeds) w/ balsamic vinegar
S- frozen strawberry fruit pop

New ladies Bible study tonight! Can't wait to see what God has for me to hear. Have a blessed week and be so proud of how much you have accomplished! Praying for you!!

Brian - Day 15

First day of Phase two...love the new foods.
B - Berry Smoothie with an orange and greens
L - 2 chicken hot dogs and pickles
S - carrots
D - leftover veggie lasagna with black beans (just because) and side salad
Appears I lost about 5 pounds in phase one...more importantly I'm feeling better, sleeping better, not congested, and maybe looking better too. :-)
I want to step up the exercise and add some muscle over the next 25 days.
Go Team!
B

Cindy - Day 15

Hey everyone..sorry to be missing!!

I had a really good day, and stuck to it ...forgetting about beginning Phase 2...wow, so sorry!! I am ashamed!!

But I had a pretty good weekend, well sorta, I had a little set back on Friday, picked up and went on Saturday, and well..got to the Tea Party, and had to be tempted with the same cake as Melissa ;) oh my it was good..but I did MUCH better on Sunday..had a great day and stuck to it..so I will NOT mess up again..I swear!!

Today....

B-Berry Smoothie with almond butter..love that additive :) makes it soo yummy!!
S-Grapefruit
L-Chicken -grilled with mixed greens
S-Green tea
D- skipped it..wasn't hungry :) FOR REAL!!

on to tomorrow..with much encouragement...yippee..thank you for your prayers..I am pressing on and letting God be in control of what is stressing me..I will not take it back ;)

Love you!!

Jen - Day 15

Hey All -

How is Phase II treating you? :-) I have loved this first day of it. Here's the rundown:

B - Berry smoothie with an orange and greens
L - Apple
D - Leftover veggie (from last night's dinner), side of black beans and a small salad
S - Carrots

Exercise - Long walk in the park with Ryli. That has to count for something! :)
Alex, praying for your new morning goal. Good stuff. Melissa, you are the best! Such an encourager even when things are so hectic for you. Go team!

xo-j

Alex Day 13 & 14 & 15

Hi Guys,

Phase II is here! Yay. I've got to go get my book to see what foods I can add. How fun. Exercise has been good over past few days...African dance classes, yoga and cross-training classes at the gym.

Now, to exercise my spirit! So our message at church yesterday was about the importance of planning a dedicated time of prayer preferably in the morning...I've been needing a little nudge! So, I'm going to set a goal of sitting quietly each morning for 15 minutes and reading a page out of "God's Best Secrets"--(a book that I can't remember where I picked up). Each day has a short reading which is about 7 sentences long. Today was the first day of that and my reading for today was about the importance of praying w/out ceasing... How timely.

Here's my log for the last few days...

Day 13

B - Berry smoothie w/coconut oil & chia seed, almond butter, tea

L - Large green salad, sunflower & pumpkin seeds, avocado

S - Green lemonade, grapefruit

D - Tandoori swordfish, black lentils, veggie stew

Day 14

B - Berry smoothie, w/coconut oil & chia seed, almond butter, tea

S - Grapefruit

L - Baba ganoush, lentil soup, tahini, Carrots, strawberries, goat cheese

D - Tilapia, steamed broccoli, salad

Day 15

B - 1 Grapefruit, kale, red pepper, carrot soup

L - Field greens, grape tomatoes, red and black lentil stew

S - Green juice

D - More red and black lentil stew

Day 14 - Melissa G.

Hi guys ... Phase 2 anyone?!? Sounds great to me ... I'm still on the Daniel Fast for 7 more days then I get to join you and I'm excited as can be to begin that phase with you.

Yesterday looked like this for me ...

B - Smoothie w/ greens
L- Rice "burger" on ww tortilla w/ mango salsa & veggie chips
D- ww pasta w/ tomato sauce, mushrooms, onion, peppers & soy based Parmesan cheese, spelt bread "bruchetta"
S- almonds, grapes, pineapple, mango, strawberries and blueberries

Still trying to fit in exercise on a consistent routine instead of here and there. I am trying to find the time to put this practice into a routine so it doesn't get lost in everything else I have to accomplish in one day. Even fell behind in my Bible study this week and I'm starting yet another study w/ a ladies group @ Church. My heart is willing but my life is hectic ... praying for the best way to make it all happen for the greater good! Have a blessed day and be proud of all you have accomplished so far ... you're all doing so good and each one is an inspiration to me!! Thanks for sharing!

Brian - Day13&14

Woohoo. Great job, Team. Phase One is behind us.
Stay strong, keep pushing, but enjoy the new foods.
Excited to keep it going and step up the exercise.
B- Berry smoothie w spinach/swiss chard
L- snack of pickles almonds carrots and a spoon of almond buttr
D-spinach salad with mush onion carrots oil vin
Today
Brunch- 2 scrambled eggs, berries. and berry smoothie
S - almonds and 2 chicken hot dogs
D- vegetable lasagna YUM - eggplant/zuc/squash/red peppers/mushrooms/Tsauce/goat cheese/garlic (my new favorite)
Phase Two here we come.

Jen - Day 13

Hey Guys -

Well, we've made it to the last day of Phase I! Congrats! The hardest phase is almost behind us. So proud of you all. You have hung strong and seen the results. I am hearing some great stories. I'll keep the names anonymous but weight loss-wise I know of one team member who has lost over 13 pounds and two who have lost close to 10. Pretty great for 13 days! We are all feeling better, sleeping better, having more energy... And best of all, we've made it through the detox! We have made huge strides toward breaking addictions and bad habits. Where there have been slips, we've gotten right back up and on track - which is the key! Go team! Now, on to Phase II!!

Here's my day yesterday:

B - Berry smoothie w/ greens
L - 1/2 cucumber, carrots, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and dried cranberries
D - Big mixed green salad with marinated portabella mushrooms

I'm headed to the grocery store now to pick up apples, oranges, black beans, sweet potatoes, grapes, walnuts... You get the picture. Phase II here we come!

xo-j

Day 13 Melissa G.

I held out as long as I could for the birthday weekend, but fell short of denying myself some of the yummy cake. I didn't go overboard, but did have a small piece. Oh well, today is a new day.

Yesterday went like this:

B- Smoothie w/ greens
L- bean salad, bananas, grapes
D- tofu w/ red curry and rice & tom yum soup
S - pineapple, mango, grapes, melon, broccoli, celery ... oh, yeah, and the cake

In my humble defense the cake was all hand made and in the shape of a tea pot ... and no chocolate anywhere!!! The rest is going to the neighbors house ... today ... remove temptation.

Have a blessed Sunday!

Kim - Day 13

Hey Ya'll! I have struggle somewhat through this first phase with stomach issues. Also, I think I've only dropped a couple of pounds although my tummy feels flatter. How about you all...any weight loss?
B- 1 egg with onions
L- Tuna with Omega 3 mayo & spring mix salad with Tahini dressing
D- Beef filet with salad
I ate some whole grain bread with dinner because my stomach was really bothering me.
Love...Kim

Melissa G - Day 12

Happy Birthday to Emma!! Her morning started off w/ a pink chocolate donut ... while I made my smoothie! So far, so good :)

Yesterday was fine -

B- Fruit smoothie w/ greens
L- Chickpea Salad, Bananas, Grapes
D- ww pasta w/ tomatoes, mushrooms, onion and tofu, spelt "bruchetta"
S- Granola w/ vanilla soy milk, almonds, grapes, apples, pine apples
water, water, water, water

No exercise beyond my normal work day - sometimes that feels like more than enough. Think I'm fighting a head cold/sinus thing since I've woke up w/ a headache three days in a row. Other than that feeling fine and loving the way my body is responding to only good food. My Bible study is moving along and learning more each time I get into the word. Learning about the Holy Spirit as I have never learned before ... Blessings and prayers to you all ... have a great weekend!

Brian - Day 11&12

Hey all...tgif.
Sorry I didn't blog yesterday. All is well...sleeping great and feeling good.
Thurs
B - 2 eggs and berry smoothie
L - tomato basil soup and goat cheese salad
D - meatless/noodles spaghetti...veggies with tomato sauce
S - berries and almond butter
Today
B & L fast
S almonds and pickles
D - salmon with asparagus, broc/mushrooms, and side salad
Good night...sleep tight.
B

Jen - Day 12

Hi All -

Can't believe the weekend is here again already. We are rolling through the days :)

B - Berry/green smoothie with coconut milk
L - 1/2 cucumber, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, dried cranberries
D - Salmon, broccoli sauteed with mushrooms and onions, asparagus, salad

My exercise, still, has been lacking... but that is going to change next week.
Hope you all have a good weekend! (Happy birthday to your daughter, Melissa!) Stay strong!

xo-j

Cindy

Hey everyone!!

Just finished a pretty long day..and I didn't prepare myself so well..fell off a bit..but I will do better tomorrow!! Just a lot going on..and I am feeling overwhelmed rightnow..need some pretty big prayers PLEASE :)

Starting anew tomorrow...skipped dinner completely cause I did so bad :(

Love you all!! Night.......

Kim - Day 12

B - goat milk yogurt with blueberries, almonds & honey
L - sauteed chicken with salsa & lentils
D - spaghetti sauce over zuchinni with some mozerella goat cheese - Yum!
S- strawberries & almond butter

On treadmill at the Y today for 20 minutes or so... I am out of shape but determined to build back up! : )

Alex Days 10 & 11 & 12

Hi All,

Feeling great as well. Would like to be better about my water consumption. Need to step that part of it up! Here's my last few days...

Day 10

B - Grapefruit, berries smoothie w/coconut oil

L - Lupine beans, field greens, avocado

D - Kale, carrot, onion soup w/miso base

S - Green smoothie w/ lemon/lime juice

S - Almond butter & tahini

Day 11

B - grapefruit, strawberry smoothie w/coconut oil

L - Avocado, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, field greens, sunflower seed "bread"

D - Red lentil soup with carrots and celery, field greens

Day 12

B - Raw Almonds (Was on the go today and picked up a bag)

L- Sauteed eggplant and broccoli @ Chinese spot (forgot to be explicit about no sugar/corn starch when I ordered, so I did my best to avoid the sauce)

D - TBD

Melissa G - Day 11

Had a busy day yesterday, but stuck to it. I just took a big bag of good for me food so I wouldn't be tempted to get anything else out of convenience. It was hard being surrounded by Chick Fil A w/ a grumbling tummy at dinner time - even the Chick Fil A cow mascot was trying to get me to eat a combo, but I held strong and fast to the "fast"!

Yesterday went like this food wise:

B - Hot Whole Grain Cereal
L - Garbanzo Bean Salad, Banana & Grapes
D - WW Black Bean Taquitos w/ Chili
S - almonds, grapes
water, water, water, water, water ....

Along with yesterday the weekend is busy as well. My daughter's 8th Birthday celebration is a weekend long affair with sleep overs, tea parties, movies, family and friends ... and FOOD. Preparing myself for the temptations that will surround me. Have a great weekend ... praying for you all.

Kim- Day 11

B - Goat milk yogurt with blueberries, almonds & little honey
L- Thai chicken soup & small salad (carrots & romaine w/ some wasabi dressing
D- grilled tilapia with salsa chutney & steamed brocolli
S - tsp of almond butter with a drizzle of honey

Yes, I am sleeping great as well. Thanks for all the encouragement from everyone!
Kim

Jen - Day 11

Hey Guys,

We're almost through another week! So proud of you all. Here's my day today:

B - Berry smoothie with greens
L - Salad "medley" from Whole Foods bar - mixed green salad, Israeli salad and seaweed salad
D - Vegetable spaghetti - no meat, no noodles. Sauce, mushrooms and red peppers over squash, zucchini, red onion and carrots. Yummy :)
S - Pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and dried cranberries. Also, bowl of mixed berries with honey and almond slices

Have a great Friday!
xo-j

Diane - Day 10

I'm sleeping more restfully also - not waking during the night like I have been doing lately. I guess there are multiple benefits to eating healthier.........praise the Lord!!

B - berry smoothie
S - almonds
L - chicken salad on lettuce, celery with almond butter
D - beef stew with carrots , onions, peppers and celery, salad
S - fresh berries with almonds, herbal tea

Brian - Day 10

Yes, better sleep and more energy here too. Love it.
B - almonds
L - Turkey and steamed veggies with salad
D - baked cod w broc and lentils; and miso soup
Bye!
B

Cindy....

Sorry..not even sure why I didn't get here last night...my plate is over flowing..and I am losing my mind ;p

I had a great day yesterday..but I have so much to do today, I can't even remember what I had yesterday!!

Breakfast today was grapefruit and 2 boiled eggs!! Yum!!

Gotta run...have a good day!!

Jen - Day 10

Hi Everyone -

Melissa, yes! I am totally noticing more restful sleep, too. It's blissful :) I remember that being a phenomenon every time we do 40 days. Our bodies aren't having to work as hard to break down complex carbohydrates (and who knows what else) during the night, so we sleep more peacefully. Gotta love that! Everyone else noticing the same?

Alex, thank you so so much for your thoughts/insights into going vegan! I will email you later today.

Here's how yesterday went:

B - Berry smoothie with greens
L - Big salad with hard boiled egg, carrots, peppers, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, red onion, goat cheese and dries cranberries (evoo and vinegar dressing)
D - Miso soup, baked cod, sauteed broccoli and lentils
S - Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds

Hope you all have a great day! Go team :)
xo-j

Day 10 - Melissa G.

Hello everyone ... I hope you are all enjoying how wonderful you are feeling. I'm finding my sleep is even more restful and my energy level is continuing to climb - which is good at my age! :)

Day 10, Wednesday, went like this:
B- Smoothie w/ fruit juice & greens
L - Chickpea salad & almonds & banana
D- ww ravioli filled w/ roasted red peppers & tofu w/ tomato/caper sauce
S - granola w/ soy milk
water, water, water, water

Praying for you all and praying for Haiti - all the residents and rescue workers! Blessings to you today, friends!!

Kim - Day 9 & 10

Tues. Day 9 -
B- goat's milk yogurt with blueberries, almonds & tsp. of honey
L-london broil, green beans & slaw
D-Sauteed chicken with salsa, spices & guacamole, sm. salad with spinach & carrots

Wed.- Day 10
B - fast
L- grilled roast beef & onions, green beans & side salad (not feeling well since - I went with my prayer group to Cracker Barrel - the beef was way too greasy. : ( Never again!
Snack later - goat's milk yogurt with blueberries, almonds & tsp. of honey

It's all about choices... & sometimes I learn the hard way. I need lots of protein in my diet because I struggle with anemia & blood sugar issues.
I want to eat for the glory of God!
"So then, whether you eat or drink or what ever you may do, do ALL for the honor & glory of God!" I Cor.10:31
Hope you all are having a great week! Kim

Diane - Days 8 and 9

Catching up again!!

Monday
B - berry smoothie
S - almonds
L - veggie soup
D - grilled chicken, turnip greens, cole slaw
S - cherries and strawberries with almond butter

20 minute workout

Tuesday
B - berry smoothie
S - almonds
L - veggie soup, celery with almond butter
D - beef patty, mixed veggies, salad
S - berries with almonds

Sounds like everyone is doing great......keep it up!

Melissa - Day 9

Hi everyone ... great job! So encouraging to know we're all on track!!! God is good and supplies all we need ... I find great joy in preparing my meals from His provision and not man's (like Wendy's or Subway!!!)

Yesterday went like this:

B - fruit juice smoothie w/ greens
L - more smoothie & a banana, almonds
D - finished up the veg. spinach lasagna w/ side of asparagus and a salad ** we did add a yummy soy based vegan mozzarella cheese blend on top!
S - granola w/ vanilla soy milk
water, water, water, water, water ...

Wii active for 30 minutes. Unlocked some new strength and yoga moves and I'm a hula hoop queen ... and my sides and belly are sore!!!

Lifting you all up today and every day ... Blessings to you and yours!!!

Brian - Day 9

Hi all! Busy day
Breakfast - 2 eggs and a grapefruit (reminds me of sunny FL everytime)
Lunch - griiled chicken salad w broc carr mush onion almonds oil vin
Snack - almonds
Dinner - Veggie stir fry over lentils with side salad
Best,
B

Alex Day 9

B - Green smoothie (celery, parsley, cucumber, pea & sunflower sprouts, lots of lime juice, water)

L - Lupine beans, avocado, field greens, strawberries

D - Lentil soup, cucumber and tomato salad w/tahini dressing

Jen, I've been vegan about 95% of the time for the past 2+ years and I really love it (i added fish on occasion after a strict year or so). With the Maker's this year, I decided to go crazy and try some eggs and that raw milk goat cheese just for fun, and both times I woke myself up coughing in the middle of the night and very congested the next day. It was a good lesson for me. I guess my body is so used to not having it that it is rejecting it. The cheese and eggs did taste quite good, though, but not worth losing sleep over :-). I left meat cold turkey and haven't looked back on that front. Cheese is a different story. I found some yummy nut cheeses that are nut (cashew, sunflower, pine) based. Being vegan (95% of the time) takes some planning, but it's worth it. Beware of the dogmatic ones out there as you continue to explore -- I have been guilty of it myself! Have you explored the "Raw vegan" side of things yet? Oh, that's a load of fun! I have some favorite vegan spots in NY if you're interested and haven't yet tried them!

Jen - Day 9

Hey Guys -

Great day today. Tried making my own green smoothie for the first time, as you'll see below. I am extremely vegan-curious right now (doing a lot of research/studying), so you will notice that we are eating a lot less meat/animal products. At this point, I am still having cheese and eggs, just in smaller quantities. Today is my 5th day without meat and, honestly, I am not missing it at all. Here's the day...

B - 2 eggs
L - Green smoothie (spinach, kale, parsley, lemon, lime, grapefruit)
D - Veggie stir-fry with lentils and a salad
S - Bowl of mixed berries with honey and almond slices. Also, raw sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries

Hope you guys have had a great day! Hard to believe that tomorrow is day 10 already!
xo-j

Cindy

Hey!!

It was an interesting..with snow and running..but I stuck to it :)

Breakfast: Mixed Berry Smoothie with Keifer and Turkey Bacon
Lunch: Salad with turkey slices and lots of yummy carrots
Dinner: Grilled Chicken with a salad
Snack: Carrots and almond butter...this is sooo good butter ;) Love it!!

Oh and some coffee too..had a big cup tonight..its cold and it was so HOT!! Lots of walking Hank too..love my sweet Hank ;)

Day 6 & 7 - Melissa G.

I had every intention of blogging yesterday, but life happened :)

Both days were pretty much the same exercise wise. Averaging about 30 minutes on the Wii doing all the fun "work out" things. I vow to put the elliptical in my plan, at least 3 x a week!

B- fruit juice smoothie w/ greens
L - ww/brown rice bread and almond butter
D - leftover veg. spinach lasagna & salad
S - fruit, nuts, soy milk
water, water, water, water .....

Feeling pretty good and staying on target for the Daniel fast. Looking forward to joining you food wise in two weeks as we journey on to day 40 Maker's style. Good job everyone ... I'm praying for us all!

Brian - Day 8

Let's do another week, Team.
B - almonds and carrots (on the run; missed the eggs and berries)
L - grilled chicken salad w broc mush carr onion oil vin
S - berries with a touch of honey - better than a dessert
D - salmon with spinach and green beans - yum
Have a great week!
B

Jen - Day 8

Hey Guys -

Great job on the blogging... it's really keeping everyone focused and on track :) Here's my day:

B - Goat kefir/blueberry/almond butter smoothie
L - Big salad with carrots/roasted red peppers/red onion/almonds/goat cheese
D - Salmon with sauteed spinach and green beans
S - Bowl of mixed berries topped with warm honey and almond slices

G'night. Hope you all have a great Tuesday!
xo-j

Cindy

Monday is over :) and Tuesday is close!! HA!

Did pretty good today...actually I did well!!

For Lunch-Spinich salad with turkey roll ups
Snack-almonds
Dinner-Beef Brisket, with mixed steamed veggies and spinich

Lots of water today..I will be up all night ;)

Sweet dreams!!

Kim - Day 8

B- 1 egg with some goat cheese
L- steak, steamed brocolli & carrots, small salad
D- spaghetti sauce with goat mozerella cheese & salad
S - strawberries, almond slices with a little honey

Diane - day 7

I survived the church pot luck with barely a glance at the dessert table......it sure felt good! God is good and has promised to help with our temptations if we will ask!

B - 1/2 grapefruit
L - vegetable soup, lettuce and tomatoes
S - almonds
Dinner - London broil, steamed spinach with mushrooms and goat cheese, salad
S - fresh berries with almonds, herbal tea
20 minute brisk walk at the lake (it had to be brisk 'cause it was freezing!!)

Alex Day 8

B - 2 eggs, raw sheep's milk cheese, grapefruit

L - Roasted veggie soup; large salad w/sunflower seeds, feta cheese, olives, cukes

D - Large salad w/anchovies and sardines

S - Strawberry smoothie

Cindy

Hey friends ...

So sorry I missed posting yesterday..had a wonderful day..and finally got on the scales..yippee..8 wonderful pound GONE :) sooo very encouraged!! thank you for your prayers!! I am running with this change!!

Did perfect yesterday..no messin up at all!!

B-Strawberry Smoothie and 2 pieces of Turkey Bacon
L-Hamburger pattie ..green beans..and tomatoe slices
S-almonds and carrots
D-Blueberry smoothie ( not even hungry :)

now for today...

B-Mixed berry Smoothie and turkey bacon

Woo-hoo....hope you all have a fabulous day...prayers going up!!!! ;)

Melissa - Day 7

Wow ... one full week ... congratulations to us all!

Feeling that headache again that won't go away and this old body went from screaming in detox to a mild whimper, so it is getting better each day. Trying to do some type of physical activity outside of work every day - yoga, Wii or elliptical. Just something is better than nothing!

Yesterday looked like this food wise:
B - Hot Brown Rice Cereal
L - You guessed it ... Chili & Salad! We just keep adding to the Chili here and there to keep it interesting ;)
D - Veg. lasagna w/ no cheese ... tofu, spinach, veggies, tomatoes and fresh basil w/ ww pasta ... very yummy
S - fruits and nuts ... water, water, water

Loving my Bible study - have weekly phone lecture w/ the writer (my fabulous sister in law) and we're getting into the word nice and deep. I love to see how God connects the dots for us from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Prayer going up for each of you ... have a blessed Monday!

Brian - Day 7

One full week down...
Brunch - two poached eggs over spinach with field greens
Snack - smoothie and almonds
Dinner - leftover Vegetable Lasagna - just as good the second time around...eggplant/zuc/mushroom lasagna w/goat cheese and basil
Keep up the good work...I mean eating.
B

Jen - Day 7

Hey All -

B - Strawberries and almond butter
L - Goat cheese/roasted red pepper/mushroom omelet and a salad
D - The rest of our veggie lasagna :) yummy (How did yours turn out, Melissa?)
S - Small smoothie, carrots, bowl of berries with honey

Looking forward to the week ahead!

Alex - I've been looking for the same thing. Worked through My Utmost for His Highest with the accompanying scripture last year. It's a great, structured devotional, if you've never used it. Haven't found a "plan" yet this year. Will let you what I come across...

xo-j

Day 6 & 7

Hey ya'll! Got Hali safely to Atlanta airport & she made it to Simi Valley last night! : )

Day 6 B- strawberries & almonds
L & D - chicken with onions, peppers & mushrooms, sauteed green beans & collards
(got lost in Atlanta looking for Whole Foods in Atlanta - finally found it around 3 p.m. so my meal was eaten at 3 p.m. - thus I combined)
S - hand full of almonds

Day 7 -B - 2 eggs cooked in coconut oil
L - Spicy chinese chicken, green beans & garlic, mushrooms, brocolli
D- strawberries, blueberries, & sliced almonds with goat milk yogurt plus tsp. of honey

Alex Day 7

B - 2 eggs & green smoothie

L - Indian buffet - spinach (w/out the potatoes), sambar soup & salad

S - Green smoothie

D - Raw sheep's milk cheese & salad

S - Rooibos tea w/coconut milk and raw honey

Happy Sunday! I would like to get a more consistent morning and evening prayer time/routine going...i.e. reading the Bible --maybe Psalms or Proverbs...or something. Anyone have any disciplines that work for them?

Blessings to all.

Day 6 - Melissa G.

Hey everyone ... I just love reading the positive blogs, it keeps me going ;) Thanks so much for sharing ideas! Love trying new things you post.

Yesterday was good and looked a little bit like this ...
B - Fruit smoothie w/ greens & a bit of almond milk
L - More chili ( I think it actually grows as we eat our way through the pot ... feels like we've been eating it for a week!)
D - sauteed marinated tofu w. spinach, mush. & onion, black eye peas, baked new potatoes
we put together the veggie lasagna and will have it tonight. Glad the recipe sparked a new favorite for Brian and Jen!
S - fruit and nuts and as always ... water, water, water

No work out, just played Wii w/ the family for a while ... sometimes life its self seems like all the workout I need. Praying for you all on this beautiful, but cold Sunday .... :)

Brian - Day 6

Hey Team!
Hope all is well and healthy.
My meals were the same as Jen's today. (see below)
Our Lasagna creation was amazing...thanks for the inspiration, Melissa and Jere.
:-)
I'm hearing some exciting weight loss numbers out there...but I'll let the achievers update with the specifics.
B

Jen - Day 6

Hey Guys -

Sounds like the weekend is going well so far :). So, let me begin with dinner last night. As you saw in Brian's post, we went to an Asian restaurant - had a great stir-fry dish of bok choy, Chinese broccoli, string beans and mushrooms. Also had a late night smoothie as a snack. For today -

B - Two poached eggs and bowl of mixed berries
L - Kefir/berry/almond butter/flax/honey/goatein/coconut oil smoothie
D - For dinner, we decided to step out and create something new. We made a spinach/mushroom/red pepper lasagna with eggplant and zucchini "noodles" and goat cheese. So good! And easy to make. I think we've found a new favorite!
S - Cherries, pickles, goat cheese

Have a great Sunday, Team! Keep on keepin' on :)
xo-j

Cindy Day 6

Hey all :)

Sorry I skipped yesterday...didn't mean to, just had a brain lapse! All went well yesterday and I stayed home all day, due to SNOW :) and didn't do anything bad..yipppee!!

Today has been a run run day..and still I did well!! Really enjoying this diet alot!!

B Blueberry Smoothie and 2 slices of Turkey Bacon...YUM!
D Grilled Salmon...SUPER YUM...salad with oil and vinager and Brocolli.. no cheese...ate out at O'Charlies and it was sooo yummy!! Saved up all day for it...not even a snack!!

Night all...had a super good day...no headaches or body aches or fatique either..so encouraged!!!

Hugs and Prayers!!

Diane - Days 4, 5 and 6

Sorry I got behind with my posting but have been on track with my eating! I've had a few headaches but nothing too bad on the detox. It does seem to be getting a little easier and I'm not feeling too much tempation to eat things that aren't on the plan. I also seem to be satisfied with smaller portions and think I have lost a few pounds. It is especially encouraging to read all your comments and to know we are doing this together!

Thursday
B - kefir and berries smoothis
S - almonds
L - tomato basil soup (Earth Fare), celery with almond butter
D - chicken thighs, asparagus, salad
20 minute aerobic workout

Friday
B - egg, turkey bacon, 1/2 grapefruit
L - celery with almond butter
D - grilled hamburger patty, salad, fresh berries with almonds

Saturday
B - egg, turkey bacon 1/2 grapefruit
D - chicken stock soup, carrots with almond butter, a couple of slices of goat cheese
S - fresh berries with almonds

Have a good weekend! We are having a pot luck dinner after church so pray that we won't be tempted with the dessert table!

Day 5 & 6 So Far

Day 5

B - Veggie soup w/miso base

L - Salad with lupine beans, avocado, green smoothie

D - lentil soup

Day 6 (so far)

B - Green smoothie

Tea w/coco milk and tsp raw honey

L - Lentil soup, avocado,

Cauliflower and jicama slaw

S - GOL Superseed smoothie

D - Going somewhere Maker's friendly!

Exercise: Headed to West African Dance class now... maybe you'll be able to hear the drums!

Day 5 and feeling fine!

Hey all ... Glad to see all the successful stores so far ... great menu ideas! Proud of Brian eating out in an Asian restaurant and sticking to the plan. I don't think I could tempt myself and go out to eat ... yet! The smells would get to me!!

Day 5 went something like this:
B - Steel cut Oatmeal w/ soy milk and cinnamon
L - Smoothie w/ greens
D - More of the Yummy Chili and spelt bread topped w/ a hummus/tofu spread
S - Almonds, grapes, banana, apples, raw broccoli
water, water ....

Took hubby (Jere) to natural food store w/ me so he could help pick out things for us to eat. We're trying spinach lasagna w/ ww pasta, soy cheese/tofu and lots of vegetables.
It wasn't his idea to do this, but I'm blessed he is such a willing and helpful participant.

Worked out for 40 minutes of Wii - yoga, hula, boxing, step
All in all, I feel great and love the feeling of success ... love the time I make to spend in the word ... you're right when you say it becomes routine. Blessings to you all!

Brian - Day 5

Good Friday...
B Berry smoothie
L fresh sliced turkey & goat cheese
S cherries and more smoothie
D Asian restaurant - mushrooms, snow peas, bok choy, and broccoli (no rice)
No workout...I'm working too much...but I will this weekend.
Stay strong.
:-)
B

Kim - Day 5

I felt achy & tired this morning but better by afternoon. Yay!

B- strawberries, blueberries, almonds with a drizzle of honey
L-chicken, salad & tomato soup - & mint green tea
D- chili & salad
S- strawberries & almond butter

Traveling to Atlanta tomorrow to take Hali to airport...not sure what I will eat yet. I am ready to have somewhat of a routine. : )

Jen - Day 5

Hi All -

Wanted to touch base with you before the weekend! Congratulations on making it through a full 5 day week of Phase I. Stay strong this weekend - it is easier to get tempted when you are out of routine. So, prepare in advance to stay on course! Remember, "nothing tastes as good as healthy feels!" So proud of you all!

I'll give you my day so far and then report on tonight's dinner with tomorrow's post. We are meeting Will and Erin (part of the 40 day team!) at a Phase I-friendly restaurant in just a bit.

B - Goat Kefir/berry/flax/almond butter smoothie
L - Two scrambled eggs
S - Cherries and carrots with almond butter

Looking forward to hearing from you all over the weekend. Go team!
xo-j

PS - Alex, thanks for the head's up on the "new" bean. I'm going to try to find some. Kim, so glad Hali is taking Maker's back with her! Give her a big hug for me. Melissa, love the sound of the devotional you are doing. Is it available in stores?

Alex - Days 3 & 4

Hey Everyone,

I'm happy to be back from a fog of major detox fatigue on Wed. night and flu symptoms yesterday morning. I know I stuck to the plan on Wed, but I don't remember the details. Exercised yesterday but was very low energy. I'm looking forward to getting over the hump! :-).

Here's what I had yesterday...

B - Tea w/milk & honey

green smoothie w/lots of lemon juice

strawberries & almond butter

L - Large spinach salad w/lupine beans, avocado, tahini dressing, sunflower seeds**

S - Unsweetened coconut milk with GOL Super Seed

D - Salad w/lentils, sprouts, grilled artichokes

**Lupine beans are not technically on the plan (not mentioned in any phase), but their nutritional profile is such that it would compare to lentils which are included in phase 1. As far as I know, they are pretty to new to the US but have been used in the Middle East for centuries. One cup of lupine beans has 220 calories, 22 grams of protein, 38 grams of dietary fiber, and 32 grams of carbs. One cup of lentils has 240 calories, 18 grams of protein, 16 grams of dietary fiber, 40 grams of carbs.

Happy Friday!

Day 4 ... and I'm sore!

Hi everyone,

Day 4 went well, but I am really feeling the detox symptoms mixed with exercise soreness. I'm almost embarrassed to say the elliptical was fine, but the Wii has really got me hurting in places I didn't think I could hurt! I have to stick with it ... but feeling flu'ish and tired I haven't exercised in two days outside of my normal work activity.

Food wise things are good. Yesterday went a little something like this:

B - Fruit Juice Smoothie w/ greens
L - more smoothie ... almonds, grapes, banana
D - Vegan Chili w/ Tofu - YUMMY!!! "fake bruchetta" w/ spelt bread topped w/ basil tofu spread and sprouts
S - apple/cinnamon granola w/ vanilla soy milk
all the fruit I can get my hands on and water, water, water ....

The Bible study I am doing along with this is called "Yours for the Taking ... Choosing to live the abundant life" ... and it's a wonderful tool to go with this diet/fast. Along with the blog it's good accountability and keeps me in the word. Praying for you all!

Cindy Day 4 ;)

Hey all!! ((((((hugs))))))

Doing pretty good..the day went well and I felt alot of weakness today..headache when I woke up and then just like I couldn't really function too well...like I was in a fog and couldn't snap out of it..weird huh...feeling GREAT tonight..its weird how it comes and goes..but a big relief is NO headache tonight..yippee :)

The kids are doing ok..they are ready to quit but I am trying to encourage them to keep going with it!! I don't know....

B Kefir smoothie with mixed berries and turkey bacon
S Carrots with almond butter YUM!!
L Spinich salad with Turkey and goat cheese and vin/oil
S Almonds
D Chili (wendys) and left over salad from Anthony!! I fell off a little here, cause we finished basketball practice and I just couldn't decide where to go ...cause I had the dog with us in the car and I didn't want to leave him :( ...so we settled for Wendys!!

Ok..going to bed now...I am beat and I am so hoping this snow does something..I want a day or 2 at home!!!

Night everyone...thank you so much for the prayers...they are what keeps me going!!

Brian - Day 4

Reading my dad's post just made my day. :-) proud of you, Pop.
I had my first major temptation today....watched my co-workers eat pizza (the good New York stuff)...but thanks to you guys, it wasn't too hard to decline and eat lettuce instead. Thanks, Team.
B - 2 eggs and bowl of berries (yum)
L - lettuce with oil vinegar
S - cherries and sliced turkey
D - broiled cod w/ lentils and roasted veggies (yum)
I need to step up the workouts too...and I will.
Happy Friday!
B

Kim - Day 4

Today was Isaiah's birthday (my youngest). I took cupcakes to his school & made sure that I didn't lick the icing off my fingers. : )
B - almonds, blueberries & strawberries with a little honey
L - salad with chicken salad, eggs, carrots
D- hibachi steak & veggies (zuchini, onions, broccoli & mushrooms), sm. salad
Dinner was at the Japanese Steak House - no rice for me. : (

By the way, Jen - Hali bought the Maker's Diet book to take back to Cali. on Sat. yay!

Jen - Day 4

Hey Ya'll -

Welcome to our new bloggers! I love the team atmosphere :) Rock'n and roll'n and getting healthy togther! How are you guys feeling today? I think my worst detox day may have actually been yesterday. I'm feeling the upswing.

B - 2 scrambled eggs (w/coconut oil), bowl of strawberries/blueberries/almond slices/kefir
L - Big mixed green salad topped with goat cheese, turkey bacon, carrots, and red onion, small blueberry/kefir smoothie
D - Broiled cod, roasted squash/zucchini/broccoli, and lentils
S - Sliced turkey and goat cheese roll ups, pickles, cherries

No real exercise today. That has been my downfall. Need to get moving! (Somebody hold me accountable!)
Can't wait to hear how your day has been!
Keep on keeping on!
xo-j

Phillip-Day 4

4 breakfast: i had 8 oz smothie 4lunch tomato soup@ celery sticks with almondbutter 4 supper chicken asparagus @ salad with water 2 drink !

Diane - day 3

As we brace for possibly another snowstorm here, I am staying strong and determined to follow the plan to improved health. I'll sure be glad when all the Christmas goodies are gone from our office! Phillip is also doing well but hasn't yet figured out the blog post. I'll try to help him with that very soon.

Breakfast - 2 eggs with turkey bacon and 1/2 grapefruit
Snack - celry with almond butter
Lunch - salad with sliced turkey and goat cheese
Dinner - grilled Mahai Mahai, asparagus and collard greens
20 minute aerobic workout

It is so good to know we are not going through this alone. Your prayers are helping and I love the posts. Keep up the good work..........one day at a time!!

Hello All,

My husband, Will, and I (Erin) have done well the past few days. I've had to make some alterations but Will has stayed on track. Sorry we haven't blogged, you are all doing so well, it is great to see!!

We will be sure to get on here more and let you know how we are doing. Today, we are getting ready to have eggs and turkey bacon with smoothies. Yum.

Not sure what the rest of the day holds. Keep on going everyone!!

Erin

Melissa - Day 3

Starting to feel the stirrings of detox. Headache and body aches and general all over aches ... but it is nothing compared to the suffering Jesus endured to give us eternal life!!!

So, my day 3 went something like this:
B - fruit juice smoothie w/ greens
L - more smoothie and some grapes w/ almonds
D - tofu w/ spinach, mushrooms and onions
S - almonds, pumpkin seed granola w/ soy milk, grapes, banana, brown rice/ww bread
water, water, water, water, water, water, water, etc;

Chili is on for tonight since I didn't get it made last night ... looking for filling meals to keep Jere (my husband) on track. His detox symptoms are worse!

Started a wonderful Bible study my incredible sister in law wrote. Can't wait to see what God has to say to me and thought this would be the perfect time to get into her study and His word.

Praying for you all ... love the posts ... love the accountability!

Brian - Day 3

Hey everyone!
Feelin' good.
B - 2 eggs and bowl of berries
L - sliced turkey and goat cheese roll-ups
S - pickle slices; cherries; carrots
D - chicken cutlets cooked with red peppers, salad, and spinach
Exercise - pushups and situps.
Onward Team.
B

Hey friends...all is good here!!

I can so tell I am detoxing too..its the yucky headache and the blahs..but its all good and I feel good too..just knowing all the good nutrients going into my body makes me smile ;)

B-smoothie with kefir and all the berries!!
S-1/2 grapefruit
L-spinich salad with turkey and goat cheese
S-almonds
D-Mahai Mahai (sp) Collard greens and green beans ( out to eat with mom and dad at Flat Rock) I even resisted the bread and cookies ;) I was so proud!! oh and Mom did too!!

Night everyone..I am so excited about this diet...praying for you all!! Love you!!

Jen - Day 3

Hey hey!

Hope everyone has had a splendid Day 3 :). Taking a cue from Alex's shorthand, here's my day -

B - 2 eggs, 2 slices of turkey bacon and bowl of blue/straw/black/raspberries/almond slices
L - Kefir/mixed berry/flax/almond butter smoothie (hate to be redundant, but I love these)
D - Sauteed chicken tenders with roasted red peppers/red onions, spinach, lentils and small salad with goat cheese and oil/vinegar
S - Carrots, cherries

I am already starting to feel the detox too. It's so much easier to deal with when you remember that it's for such a greater purpose! Can't wait to hear how Day 3 was for you all!

xo-j

Kim - Day 3

Hi all! Thanks, Jen for the comments. I don't know if I detoxing already or just sheer exhaustion from the past 4 days...I may be getting too old to hang with 18-25 year olds. haha

Breakfast - 1 scrambled egg in butter
Lunch - roast beef with mushrooms & onions, coleslaw, green beans & turnip greens (all small portions)
Dinner - lentil soup & grilled chicken salad with tomatoes, egg, goat cheese, & balsamic dressing
Snack - 2 strawberries with almond butter & cup of herbal tea

Thanks again for getting us going & the encouragement - Jen! It's going to be great!

Alex Day 2

Hi Everyone,

I'm feeling pretty good.

Here's the skinny on yesterday...

B - Almond butter and 2 tsp raw honey w/tea

L - Sea veggie soup with lentils and sprouts

D - Lentil soup, greek salad and baba ganoush w/tahini

S - grapefruit

Yesterday I was tired and low energy-- detoxing already! The other side of detox is indeed much more blissful.

Alex

Diane - Day 2

It's going great so far - I feel good and am determined even though the junk food is still surrounding me here at work!

Breakfast - 2 eggs, turkey bacon and 1/2 grapefruit
Snack - almonds
Lunch - salad with some left over steak, celry with almond butter
Dinner - baked fish, steamed veggies, salad, fresh berries with almonds
20 minute aerobic workout first thing

Wednesday Note from Jen

Hey All -

Thanks for the great reports on Day 2 so far!

Just a note - you may notice one or two bloggers listing some foods that are outside the Maker's boundaries. These are the guys that are doing the Daniel fast through North Asheville Baptist Church and then transitioning to Maker's on Day 21. Be praying for the Daniel fast participants - you may see some more varied foods that they get to eat at this point, but over all the Daniel fast is much tougher... and I'm sure well worth it!

I'm going to shoot you guys an email on detoxing today, so be on the lookout. The next three or four days will be the toughest of the whole 40, so let's stick together and stay strong :)

Glad to be in this with all of you!
xo-j

PS - Kim, welcome to the blog! For those of you who don't know, Kim is my cousin. She lives in Greenwood, SC. For Day 1 and Day 2 of the plan, she was in an Atlanta convention center at a Passion Conference... along with thousands of teenagers. Not the easiest place to start Maker's!

Day 2

Mornings are my only quiet time to blog, so I will be writing about yesterday today! So far, so good on the Daniel Fast/Makers Diet plan ... heading into day 3 and all is well.

B - Pomegranate smoothie w/ whole greens
L - More smoothie
D - Black Bean Soup & Whole Wheat Tortilla w/ Chipolte Hummus
S- grapes, apples, bananas, almonds, pumpkin seed granola w/ soy milk
... oh, and water, water, water all day

Making an all veggie chili w/ tofu to simmer all day for dinner tonight ...

Exercise was 40 minutes of Wii fit - yoga, hula hoop, boxing, step ...

Love the accountability and so glad we're all doing great. Praying for everyone here ...

Day 2

Hey everyone!!

Lookin good :)

Sorry I didn't check in last night..I was a grump and I was not in a pretty mood, ha!!

Today was much better..

Breakfast...All three of us had smoothies, with Kefir and mixed berries...YUM!! And 2 slices of Turkey bacon...very filling!!

Lunch..Fresh Spinich salad with almonds and Turkey slices!! and some strawberries!!

Dinner...Rainbow Trout ( Rob cooked) oh my it was good!! Mixed veggies and brocolli too..fresh yummlicious spinich salad and for dessert...Mixed berries with almond slivers!!! YUM!!

Doing great..thanks to you all!! I love it!!

Night!!

Kim - Day 1 & 2

I've been in Atlanta for 4 days so it was a little difficult to even have time to eat! I think I'm getting a little old to hang with college kids! However...it was an amazing 4 days.

Jan.4 (day 1) - Breakfast - strawberries & almond butter
Lunch - spinach salad with carrots, brocolli, eggs, chicken & balsamic dressing
Dinner - a few almonds & sunflower seeds (lame)

Jan.5 (day 2)- Breakfast - strawberries & almond butter
Lunch - salad, 2 small pieces of steak (Olive Garden) didn't eat the pasta -
stuffed mushrooms (I'm not sure what was in the stuffing -ate 2) : (
Dinner - strawberries & almond butter

Jen - Day 2

Hi Guys -

How has everyone's day 2 been? I've had a great one. Here's the scoop -

Breakfast - Goat kefir/blueberry/flax oil/almond butter smoothie
Lunch - 2 scrambled eggs and bowl of rasp, black and blueberries with almond butter
Snack - Goat cheese slices
Dinner - Veggie spaghetti with turkey meat sauce (sliced zucchini, squash, carrots, mushrooms and red onion instead of noodles)

Love the accountability. Can't wait to hear how you all are doing! Have a great day 3!
xo-j

Brian - Day 2

Hello Team Health!
Day two down...
Breakfast - two eggs
Lunch - fresh spinach salad w grilled chicken, egg, mushrooms, red onion, almonds, oil/vinegar
Snack - almonds
Dinner - Spaghetti with Ground Turkey Tomato Sauce & mushrooms (sliced squash/zucc/carrots instead of noodles - so much better than strands of flour)
Stay strong through the detox days ahead...you may feel tired but push through as increased energy lies ahead.
I'm less congested already...praise.
BH

Day 1

Off to a good start and so happy to be on track for better health:

Breakfast - boiled egg, turkey bacon and 1/2 grapefruit
Snack - almonds
Lunch - salad with sliced turkey
Snack - cherries
Dinner - grilled steak, green beans, salad; fresh berries for dessert
Lots of water and herbal tea to help warm me up on a cold night
20 minute aerobic exercise to start the day

Have a blessed day!

Day 1

Hi Everyone,

I'm happy to be on this journey with y'all. I was in the supermarket shopping and when I wanted to pick up some stuff --oranges, apples, coconut ice cream -- and realized they weren't on the plan...yet! Happy to have accountability and looking forward to the three-fold --spiritual, physical, mental -- lightness that comes with this lifestyle.

B - Miso soup w/kelp noodles and red onions

S - Veggie juice w/chlorella & spirulina

L - Sunflower seeds, almonds, field greens w/lemon dressing

D - Roasted asparagus, roasted carrots

S - Grapefruit w/stevia

So, this is probably less than what a normal day will look like for me. I ate quite a bit over the holidays and am still feeling the effects of it! Thank God for new beginnings. :-)

Brian - Day 1

Hi all! One Day down...more excited than ever to do this. Thankful to be sharing this with all of you 'accountability buddies'.
Breakfast - Berry smoothie (same as Jen's)...so good; gotta love those antioxidants in berries
Lunch - Sliced turkey with goat cheese and mustard (who needs bread?)
Snack - carrots and strawberries with almond butter
Dinner - salmon, broccoli w/ sliced almonds, and salad w/ goat cheese (oil & vinegar)
Exercise - 3 miles on treadmill and weights ("hurt so good")
Lots of water and hot tea to drink.
Sleep good all!
B

Jen - Day 1

Hey All!

Sounds like we are off to a strong start! I'm glad you all are having a good Day 1! Can't wait to hear from those who haven't been able to post yet. Go team :)

Feels so good to get started. Here's my day:

Breakfast - Smoothie with kefir, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, flax seed oil, almond butter (fresh pressed - so good!), goatein
Lunch - Miso soup, carrots, goat cheese
Dinner - Salmon filet, sauteed broccoli with almond slices, field green salad with goat cheese
Snack - Deli fresh turkey slices, strawberries with almond butter
Exercise - 30 minutes pilates/combo workout

Praying for and pulling for you all!! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to post them here!
xo-j

Day 1 - Melissa G.

Hi everyone ... I'm Melissa and I'm so excited to begin this journey with you. I have decided to take on the Daniel Fast and moph into the Maker's Diet after 21 days. I had already decided to go with the Maker's, then our Church announced a church wide/supported Daniel Fast. Instead of struggling with the decision of which one to do I prayed and am going with my spirit hearing "Go for it - do them both!" I will pray for each one of you daily and I am encouraged by what I've read so far.

Today has been great as I began with a smoothie loaded with fruit and greens. I took fruit and nuts with me to eat as my day progressed and have had nothing but water to drink. We're planning on tofu and veggies for dinner. My husband is on the first leg of the journey with me and I hope to keep him going with the Maker's Diet for the full 40. As of now I'm just impressed he's up to 21 days! I also put in 30 minutes of cardio on my elliptical and some yoga stretches before I began my day of work and Mommyhood.

One thing I did notice today is how much I felt God with me today as I prayed for discipline during the hunger. God wants us to call on Him for every little detail of our lives and the hunger pangs were a wonderful chance to have a talk with my God ... and He did take care of me! One day at a time ...

Monday ...the morning went well!!

Hey guys..well the morning went really well!!! The kids woke up to Smoothies and Turkey bacon ;) and they loved it!! Packed their lunches with Salads and Turkey roll-ups and lots of fruit berries and goats cheese and almonds..they were off with a pep in their step and I am too!! Woo- Hoo..can't wait to hear all about you day...prayers going up for you all!!!!

Love you!!

Cindys ready .....;)

Hey everyone!! I am Cindy and I am ready to get started!! Just home from the grocery store and I am thrilled to begin this journey again!! I have Jarrod and Mallory who are joining me also and we are all eager to begin!!

• Thank you so much Brian and Jen for getting all this great info together for us and your encouragement means so much..I know we can do this!!
• Can't wait to have lots of sharing time together with you all!!

Lots of prayers going up for you all!! Blessings!

Brian is ready

Hi all! It's Brian...I'm ready and excited. I can't think of a better wait to start the year/decade than eating biblically and re-realizing how what I eat is highly connected to how I feel/perform. My goals for the 40 Day Journey are...less congestion, increased energy, clearer skin, and the loss of a few pounds. It never ceases to amaze me how proper eating affects my sleep, mood, and energy. Excited to get started. Glad you've decided to take the journey...it won't always be easy but you'll be glad you did. Here's to the breaking of old and creating of new habits. -BH

It's 2010... If not now, when?

Welcome to a new decade of health! Over the next 40 days, the Maker's Diet is going to help you attain your ideal body weight, boost your immune system, have abundant energy, improve your physical appearance, reduce stress and improve your digestion.

By deciding to take part in this journey, you have made an important decision for your health and well-being. Remember though - the next 40 days are just the beginning. Honoring God by treating your body like a temple is a challenge that never ends.

Two keys to success with any new health plan are:

1) Staying aware of EVERYTHING you eat by keeping a record and
2) Having other people around who will hold you accountable

This blog is intended to give you a community/tool that will serve both purposes. Think of this as your online journal. Log on every day to record what you've eaten and what you've done for exercise. By doing so, you will be keeping a log of your own process and, at the same time, upholding your accountability to all of us on the journey with you.

Since we have committed to revolutionizing our health together over the next 40 days, we are a team. As each one of us completes each day successfully and shares that victory on the blog, we will all be encouraged. I can't ask you more earnestly - Don't neglect this part of the process! It helps you and everyone else more than you can imagine. Don't feel like you have to take a lot of time writing witty commentary (though you can if you'd like!); just check in and give a quick list of your food/exercise for the day.

As of this posting, there are 15 people gearing up for the kick-off on January 4th. You'll meet them all shortly. When the cravings kick in early on, remember that you have this team of people staying strong with you. When you start feeling better and seeing success, remember the people celebrating with you. Stay plugged in - it makes the journey easier and the success sweeter.

We all know that nothing matches God's wisdom concerning what's best for our bodies. Let's start honoring him with the choices we make each and every day. If we stand strong in our commitment to ourselves and to each other, we will all find ourselves at the end of these 40 days feeling and looking better than ever before... and well into a new lifestyle that will keep us healthy and vibrant for decades to come.

Excited about taking this journey with you!
Jen