May 25, 2009

Hi {!firstname_fix}

We have finished up with Ranch. It was an extraordinary experience. Peaceful, thoughtful, connected and caring. We learned new things, met new people, and connected with the long tradition of our meeting in the late Spring. While the weather was cloudy, the spirits were not. I am still reeling a bit from the process and will take some time this week to write more for you.

This class will begin Wednesday, May 27, 2009. Please click on the name of the class you wish to join and it will take you to the registration page:

Getting Started With Limited Funds (1 week) is a special free class for those of you with limited funding who are trying to make do. Come hear some fun ideas to maintain your humor and find tasty and inexpensive solutions.

These classes will begin Wednesday, June 3, 2009. Please click on the name of the class you wish to join and it will take you to the registration page:

Using the Resources of the Community (1 week) is for those of you who are brand new and would like to find your way around town. Come sit on the top of our double-decker bus for a guided tour. And even if you are not brand new, this is a really fun class to reconnect with all the treats of the community.

Radiant Step 1 (1 week) is our foundation class to get you started. Learn all four parts of step 1 in a structured way. Learn how to progress through them with enjoyment. Let us support getting your program off to a fabulous start.

If you are on disability or low income (your household income is less that $1000 a month), you may take classes for free if you get certified. I have put the guidelines for certification on the class schedule page.

The class schedule is online. Click here to see what is planned. Please do not sign up for classes that are not yet scheduled.

A number of you have asked me how the classes work. Check the class list page for more information on this. And please go read the questions and answers before you write to me. If you have trouble getting through the process, write the tech forum.

Be sure to visit our Radiant Recovery website and Community Forum regularly.

Warmly,
Kathleen

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** Quote From Kathleen **


When you understand your sugar sensitivity, what has been an overwhelming mystery in your life becomes a fascinating journey in self-discovery.

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** Testimonial of the Week **


There are so many things that I am starting to identify and say "wow, so that WASN'T just me. It was me being Sugar Sensitive and actively eating sugar that created that behavior or feeling or thought in me!!"

Most of my life I have felt incredibly invisible. And that sense of self carries consequences to it. And so now I am curious...is this another SS quality when unhealed from SS? Feeling invisible to others?

Curious to hear your experiences.

Thanks, Hilda

Hi Hilda-

I used to feel like I didn't matter. Me, my thoughts, my feelings, my presence, my existence didn't matter to anyone. I was always both surprised and skeptical when someone appeared to value me. I think this relates to SS-low endorphins (feeling separated, disconnected). This feeling is going away. I still have wobbles, and even though at times this old feeling resurfaces, I'm getting better and better at recognizing it for what it is: untrue and SS-induced.

Mimssa

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** Radiant Ambassadors **


Diane has been having success talking about Radiant Recovery with various people. I thought it would be fun to would share her wonderful post about what she says:

"Each time is different really, depending on the circumstances. I listen and I look around (cuz that is just what I do, heh). One last week was when a woman was putting her items up on the conveyor behind mine and I noticed she had some items from the health food section ( this was my regular grocery store) such as soy milk, whole wheat pasta, organic peanut butter.

I thought ok, this is a person that wants to eat healthy, (while also noticing she had quite a few sweet things)..and excitedly noted to her ooooh, I haven't tried that pasta..it looks really good! She said yeah, it really is. I offered that I feel so much better when I eat whole grains, and asked if she finds that to be true too...and then we were talking. :) I shared about how there was a time when I wouldn't touch whole grains, and then I found a nutritional healing plan that improved my health so profoundly with including them that they have become a staple...pointing out my box of brown rice. I shared a few of the bigger conditions that have been healing for me and when she indicated that this sounded impressive I asked if she had ever heard of the book, Potatoes not Prozac. She said she hadn't and I said ohhh.. it's so terrific!!

I offered a little more about the biochemistry and offered her a card, which she thanked me for and started checking it out. I turned and handed one to the cashier saying you can have one too! with a little chuckle, and then proceeded to pay for my stuff and wished my new friends a great rest of the day.

I really enjoy these friendly and fun little (quick) exchanges which are pretty relaxed and more casual. It's so neat, as before doing the program I really wasn't one to strike up jovial conversations with strangers, while I really enjoy it now.

This weekend I had 2 occasions to run to the store to pick up a couple of things, and had similar exchanges. The really fun part this time is I was able to grab a copy of First magazine off the checkout rack and refer to Kat's article to add to the exchange! In both cases several people within hearing range checked it out. The cashier said she was going to get one, and as I was walking away I heard a bagger ask her what we had been talking about. :)

I might need to go back and pick something else up today. Heh."



Come join us if you are excited about spreading the news.

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** Radiant Kitchen **




I thought I'd share my list of non-refrigerated back-ups just in case it helps someone else down the road! This is what I'm going shopping for today to take with us on my daughter's 3-day retreat.

Protein
  • Jerky (beef, buffalo, turkey)
  • Cheese (various med-hard to hard)
  • Peanut Butter (won't need refrigerate over just a few days)
  • Almonds
  • Cashews
  • Maybe some hard boiled eggs and/or ham in a cooler for the first day
Veggies
  • Avocado (will eat the first two meals)
  • Carrot Sticks
  • Red Bell Pepper (sliced)
  • Celery (for PB and raisins!)
  • Sauerkraut (home-fermented; will easily keep three days out of the fridge)
Browns
  • Corn Tortillas
  • Whole Wheat Sourdough Bread
  • Maybe some (soaked) oatmeal in a cooler for the first day
"Sweets"
  • Yogurt (the Greek yogurt and homemade yogurt I use won't need refrigeration over 2-3 days; they'll just nicely ferment more, eventually converting all the lactose to probiotic goodness!) (trust me; I've done it before; not dead yet! :) )
  • Raw honey
  • Raisins (just enough for my snacks - this is the only thing I don't want to bring "more than enough" of)
  • Apples
  • Jam (for the first day)
Other
  • Plastic spoons and knife
I wish I could think up some more browns, but since my body tells me in no uncertain terms that I can't have bread that isn't soured or oats that aren't soaked or processed cereal, I'm kinda limited. Almost anything else I'd eat would have to be cooked and/or refrigerated. Ideas welcomed!

I thought about broccoli and grape tomatoes to expand the veggie list, but I can't make myself eat more than 3 of each when raw, which isn't enough.

Take care!
Joselyn

For more great program-friendly recipes, check out these great cookbooks in the store.


Radiant Recovery
Cookbook

Naomi's Nutritious and
Delicious Cookbook
Sheila's
Kitchen Recipes

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** Your Last Diet - More Than What You Think **


I had an interesting experience at the doctor recently. I went in to discuss the option of being tested for low thyroid. I explained that I wanted to add another piece into my weight-loss program. So he nodded, agreed and then at the end of our time, he gave me a sample of some new wonder supplement for weight loss that *cuts cravings and curbs your appetite.* I looked at him and said, *Are you not getting what I am saying? I don't have cravings and my appetite is not an issue.* I was actually furious. This is an intelligent and thoughtful man who has not a clue about what being sugar sensitive means or what weight loss is about.

I will do some education, but not when I am paying for the time, LOL. However, it did nudge me into offering the Obesity Myth class again in two weeks. If you have EVER experienced this energetic, join YLD and hear the truth. Come to the class and find out the real scoop. And come learn what we are forging as an alternative that works and is fun.

If you are not a YLD member, come and join us. Click here if you are ready to change your life or just have some plain ol' fun!

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** Radiant Recovery® Store **

David manages the Radiant Recovery® Store. He is also Kathleen's oldest son.


All right, we have all the stuff back from ranch and in the shed waiting for your orders. It may take me a few days to catch up, but Casey is here to help.

We got some new products from Nordic naturals for your kids:
A wonderful vitamin called Nordic Berries
And some great little fish oil products...Omega 3 Fishies
Kathleen went to a conference last month and heard an incredible presentation about the impact of a single multivitamin on children's mental status. They did a very large study of a group of kids who were in an alternative school for acting out. The ONLY intervention was giving them a daily multivitamin. At the end of the study, the kids getting the multi had an increase in their IQ ratings of 15 points. This is simply unheard of. She was so impressed with these data, I know she is going to write about it. But she asked me to carry this product now. It tastes great and I think your kids will love them. My daughter sure does.

Please send questions and suggestions. I love hearing from you and truly want to help you do your program better.

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** Our Online Groups **


The Radiant Depression group is all about support for the person who is depressed and trying to work Kathleen's 7-step program of recovery from sugar addiction. Many of us have struggled with severe depression for years without any hope of finding an end to it. But through doing the food we have found that hope returning and have found light where before there was only darkness.

Some of us are taking anti-depressants while doing the food, so we talk about how the two are compatible and we also share about getting through the tough spots together, with support from each other. If you are feeling depressed please come join us. There is hope.

Or come to the group page to find the one that will best support your program: http://www.radiantrecovery.com/list_serves.htm


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** Sometimes It Is The Little Things **
Kathleen DesMaisons, Ph.D.



We ask people what has changed since they started the program. I think you will love this list as much as I do.

  • I don't have to go into the handicap stall in the public restrooms.
  • I can fit into almost any booth at restaurants.
  • I am no longer defensive about my eating habits.
  • I enjoy smells differently.
  • I have more energy.
  • I am able to love.
  • I feel God closer than ever.
  • I have lots of new friends.
  • I eat food for fuel.
  • I celebrate the real meaning of the holiday.
  • Just yesterday, I noticed that I have collar-bones.
  • I smile.
  • I wear two sizes smaller in shorts.
  • I love my husband unconditionally now.
  • I really LIKE looking at flowers.
  • I enjoy my granddaughter more every day.
  • The sunsets are more magnificent than ever.
  • I am able to listen in church with a calm understanding.
  • I appreciate the air.
  • I have been able to forgive.
  • I don't have swelling in my ankles and legs anymore.
  • My dogs don't aggravate me anymore.
  • I don't smother when I lay down.
  • My triple chin is now a double.
  • I marvel at the whole Creation.
  • I can think clearly.
  • I am not embarrassed to swim in front of anyone.
  • I no longer need a seat belt extender.
  • I only weigh when I feel a loss.
  • I thirst for knowledge and actually seek it.
  • I have let go of some of my perfectionism.
  • I no longer HAVE to have sugar after each meal.
  • I read EVERY food label.
  • I no longer beat myself up for a mistake, but go on learn about it.
  • I WANT to grow old.
  • I care more deeply for other people.
  • I get a pedicure now and then. (used to be a big hangup)
  • Negative control is not as strong as it used to be.
  • I crave those cool evenings relaxing in my porch swing.
  • I can fit in most wheelchairs.
  • I don't have to have the largest hospital gown anymore.
  • The birds chirping have become quite beautiful.
  • I love eating "YLD Healthy Foods".
  • I have become ONE with my local health food store.
  • I am proud to answer "those questions" about my food plan.
  • I love knowing that this programs works.
  • I love helping my family understand about fuel for their bodies.
  • I can hardly wait until the Christmas Season.
  • I look at professionals w/admiration, instead of a threat.(huge hangup)
  • I care about my fingernails.
  • I am much more organized in my housekeeping.
  • I park farther from the store.
  • I hum a lot.
  • I WANT to exercise.
  • I have learned it is ok to set goals.
  • I no longer consider myself on a diet, but I am on a LIFE PLAN.
  • The sun seems brighter.
  • I can ASK for help without the guilt.
  • I can see my feet when I stand or lie down.
  • I no longer expect myself to fail with my weight loss.
  • I can tie my shoes with out cutting off my oxygen supply.
  • I can also tie my shoes in the middle of my shoe instead of to the side.
  • I can say "no".
  • I crave green things and feel good about it!
  • I like cottage cheese.
  • Fresh air makes me feel alive.
  • I can cut my own toenails.
  • I can wear a smaller bra size.... smaller panties too.
  • I have so much more energy.
  • I have less PMS.
  • I don't worry about what people think about me.
  • I don't feel helpless anymore. Even if things are not going my way or I have a slip, I know that I can help myself.
  • Cinnamon is delicious without sugar.
  • Corn is sweet.
  • I wake up in the morning now (no more "10 snooze" mornings!).
  • I don't hide "forbidden food" all over the house anymore.
  • I don't sneak the wrappers out of the house so my husband doesn't see the evidence of last night's binge anymore.
  • I wear shorts because I like my legs even though they haven't made it to their full recovery yet.
  • I can fall asleep when I go to bed.
  • I can play with my children after dinner since I no longer feel comatose from eating huge white meals.
  • I feel *whole*, steady and real.
  • I feel.
  • I'm just plain happy and I can't put my finger on it.
  • Things that would have freaked me out before don't anymore.
  • Three months ago my protein was in my ice cream, wasn't it?
  • I've figured out that this is about life changes, not just about food.
  • I realize my life has more out of whack in it than just food".
  • After fighting exercise and the journal so long, they have become incredibly important to me. Feel frantic if I've left my journal home.
  • The journal is my home.
  • am a size smaller but have only lost a few pounds.
  • The "girls" (my chest) are a size smaller.
  • I love shopping at the health food store. Shoppers are so much nicer there than at sugar stores.
  • I've gotten used to packing two meals a day.
  • I am very slowly gaining confidence in handling the feelings that the bingeing covered. Feelings really won't kill me, they do pass and generally teach me something. Sometimes the journal helps me catch feelings before I binge them temporarily away.
  • I have finally taken responsibility for my own life after feeling abandoned by others.
  • I no longer feel suicidal about turning 50 this Nov. Sometimes I feel that my life is just starting.
  • I have reduced my anti-depressants by 25% in agreement with my doctor.
  • I don't feel dirty, worthless and physically ill from bingeing nearly as much.
  • My office no longer does doughnut runs every afternoon. The communal chocolate drawer is gone. I don't miss either.
  • My food slips are more often portion explosions that sugar/white binges.
  • I think my fist is shrinking. (HA!)
  • I have returned to my art hobby and am having a blast.
  • I'm not afraid of going to a family reunion this Sept much heavier than the last reunion.
  • I don't go shopping now unless I really NEED something. I think I used to go shopping to feel better (raise by BE's).
  • My PMS symptoms have almost vanished.
  • I actually enjoy wearing pants with a zipper.
  • My migraines are gone - along with much of my fibromyalgia pain.
  • I don't feel like I'm hanging on to life with my fingertips any more - I have a much firmer grasp - and it's good!!!
  • I've gone through really tough times and had the clarity of mind to make wise and thoughtful decisions.
  • I don't apologize for making my food needs known - I've gotten REALLY good in restaurants (remember how Meg Ryan ordered in the movie "When Harry met Sally"?)
  • I have reduced the amount of alcohol easily and don't crave it like I used to.



Here are the folks who are helping put the newsletter together:

Gretel, our webmaster, puts it all together.
David runs the Radiant Recovery® Store.
Selena provides the weekly Ambassadors column.
The banner photograph is by Patti Holden.


©2009 Kathleen DesMaisons. All rights reserved. You are free to use or transmit this article to your ezine or website as long as you leave the content unaltered, use this attribution: "By Kathleen DesMaisons, Ph.D. of Radiant Recovery®", and notify kathleen@radiantrecovery.com of the location. Please visit the Radiant Recovery® website at http://www.radiantrecovery.com for additional resources on sugar sensitivity and healing addiction.

You are getting the weekly newsletter from Radiant Recovery® in response to your signup. A copy of this newsletter may also be found posted on the web at http://www. radiantrecovery.com/weeklynewsletter.htm.