December 20. 2010

Hi {!firstname_fix}

We had snow in Albuquerque this week. Snow on adobe is really lovely. And everyone appreciated all the moisture, although I must admit today was like March in Vermont - MUD. Everything is gray and brown, rather unlike Christmas. But the reindeer on my roof light up at dusk and prance through the night.

There will be no classes beginning Wednesday, December 22, 2010. We will be continuing the Holy Night class across the globe.

This class will begin Wednesday, December 29, 2010. Please click on the name of the class and it will take you to the registration page:

Addiction Amoeba: A New Look (2 weeks) is part of a new series on how the Addiction Amoeba can clobber us. So you have gotten the food steady and are ready to take a look at the other stuff - gambling, debt, shopping, work, money, sex, you name it. A tender look at the biochemistry of these and how doing the food is going to help all of them. I will share with you the wonderful process that we discovered last Fall during Euro Ranch.

Do not sign up for this class if you are just beginning the program, LOL. It is scary for newbies. But for you old timers who are ready for an incredible look at emotional sobriety, this is your class. And no, you don't have to give up everything!



The class schedule is online. Click here to see what is planned.

Please wait to sign up for classes until a week or two before, and 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 **


Doing the food is hardest at this time of year. Don't think of January 1, think your next choice.

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** Testimonial of the Week **


I'm just checking in as it's been a while and I want you to know I am still here and reading every word that is posted. I'm still taking a break from typing and trying to deal with my neck/shoulder/arm thing. I did have an MRI done which showed some disc problems. The doc wanted to do an injection in the spine but I'm just going to wait it out a bit more as I have gotten a lot better with rest from typing and therapy.

I did want to report in about my wonderful Thanksgiving in DC with my daughter and friends and how much being involved in this program has literally changed my life. It's hard to describe but I don't remember ever feeling so normal. The food was great, I didn't overdo it. I didn't have to do anything that I felt called attention to myself or raised any issue of any kind. I was happy to just "be." When food just becomes a joyful part of life without stress or drama, well, that's a blessing to me. I feel that I'm progressing through step 6 quietly and thoughtfully. I'm taking time to notice the changes. Changes being how fluid meal prep and planning have become. How I'm not always thinking about food. How my cravings for sugar and food are way down and my attraction to healthy living, much increased. I feel more like an "eat to live" kind of person than at any other time in my life and it is wonderful! Through working this program my unique biochemistry has and is continuing to heal. Who knew?!....lol.

Another huge change is how this has affected my relationship with with my 25 yr old daughter. She has been worried about me for a long while now. About my health and inability to walk and keep up and enjoy life. The last time I was in DC she literally stopped and cried on the street when I was unable to walk around too much and see things. I think it was at that point I got serious with RR and my recovery. Things were markedly different this time. We went every place that we wanted and I felt like I was the leader of the pack! I was joyful and energetic, filled with vim and vigor and the group actually had to keep up with me! This meant so much to my daughter, I cannot even express her happiness over the change in her mother.

The other thing I wanted to mention is that I am down 35 lbs since returning to RR in January. That's an average of about 3 lbs a month and I think that is a perfect way to lose weight. The great thing is that I didn't have to suffer or do anything special. I think through changing my biochemistry by doing the food, my body is naturally releasing the weight that it has held on to for so long.

I can't wait to see what 2011 will bring! :-)

Kathleen and all, if I haven't said it before, this program has given me a life and I expect more wonderful things to follow. For that please accept my deepest gratitude:)

Jan Misty

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** Radiant Ambassadors **


Over the summer I received an email from an eagle-eyed reader telling me about a video in which Potatoes not Prozac is recommended on YouTube.

I watched the video and sure enough Kathleen's latest book is flashed in front of the camera about 1.30 minutes in, and shortly afterwards, Kathleen is even quoted - yay! It's not all about Radiant Recovery, but you might like to check out the video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11IQYaHAONs

Oh, and the video has been viewed almost 40,000 times so far - think of that audience - how many people will have now heard of Potatoes not Prozac? That's some pretty impressive advertising :) What if some of us made our own videos of, say, our favorite shake recipes and then posted them to YouTube? Or how about a book review or your tips on food planning for the holidays?

I'm going to have a play around - does anyone fancy joining me? (grin)

Selena
selenas@blueyonder.co.uk

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

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** How I Found Radiant Recovery **


Hi, I’m Irene from southern Louisiana . I’ve known I have a problem with sugar for quite a while and have struggled though all kinds of self-guided attempts to be ‘sugar free’. I’ve also struggled with years of depression while on medication. I saw a reference to the Potatoes Not Prozac book in an e-mailing from Beliefnet. Just reading the description of the book told me that this was the answer to my prayers! Long story short, I’m reading the book, starting step one, and hoping to discover more about the world of support on the website.

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** Radiant Recovery® Store **


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

In keeping with the theme of the kitchen this week, let's take a look at great stuff for breakfast:

Hot Cereals - Cream of Buckwheat, Rice Farina and Grits - are all on sale for 40% off.

Add a flavoring. Kathleen puts an olive oil spout in a large bottle of the vanilla flavoring and uses it on her Cream of Buckwheat (COB).

Order some Restore and make *power milk* to add to your favorite cereal. Add power milk to your decaf coffee for a quick on-the-go option.

Get a wonderful Radiant Recovery MUG to remind yourself of how much the program means to you. These mugs have the new logo on them and have a great feel to them. Kathleen asked me to put these on special for this newsletter, so I will be offering them at 30% off. They are usually $7.49 but will be $5.25 for this one-time offer.

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

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** Happenings on Facebook **


Radiant Recovery® International | Promote Your Page Too


Well.....we've now grown to over 600 likes!! How kewl is that! I am thinking that since the newsletter goes out to many, many thousands of people, it would be fun for you to come see what we are doing there.

People love hearing more about what is happening. Check out the testimonials. They are really fun to read. If you have one to add, let me know.

Come find us on Facebook at

http://www.Facebook.com/RadiantRecovery and join the fun!.



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** Radiant Kitchen **


Pumpkin, Buckwheat, Blueberry Breakfast


Ingredients:

  • 2-1/2 cups milk (I use oatmilk)
  • dash of cinnamon
  • dash of freshly ground nutmeg
  • dash of dried lemon peel
  • dash salt
  • splash of maple flavoring (alcohol-free)
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 jar baby-food pumpkin
  • 1/2 cup Cream of Buckwheat
  • 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
Directions:

Combine the first 8 ingredients in saucepan and cook over medium heat, bringing to a boil, stirring constantly. Slowly stir in the Cream of Buckwheat and cook on medium-low heat about 8 minutes, stirring often. Add blueberries, cover and let stand another 5 minutes. Stir to blend.

Made a tasty breakfast - enjoy! I'm thinking this would also be good with finely chopped apple rather than the blueberries for something different.



For more great program-friendly recipes, check out our cookbook in the store.


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** Radiant Conversations **


My oh my was that last discussion about the steps fun. I am actually going to post it as an article in a few weeks. I am just floored at what happens when we have that kind of dialogue. I thought it would make sense to really encourage those of you who have not joined YLD to do so. You do not have to be on step 7 or step 2, you do not have to want to do weight loss. If you just want to be part of a vital and dynamic conversation about what the program is and why it works so well, this is a great option.

If you are not a YLD member, come and join us. Click here if you want to be a part of the latest and greatest or just have some plain ol' fun!

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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 the 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's 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 lie 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 and 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 with 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 without 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 look forward to my warm oatmeal every morning.
  • 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.
  • I 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 than 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 September 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.
Emily shares a recipe.
Tina tells us what's happening on Facebook.


©2010 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/