Deven on the monkey bars, and Mommy's Food Experiment

Deven has loved the monkey bars since he was able to reach them (what kid doesn't?!?) and has talked about them incessantly when we discuss his school or a nearby park.


Yesterday at the park, however, I noticed that he wasn't just hanging on the first-bar that he could touch - rather he can now swing from 1 bar to the next like a, well, a monkey! Rohan, not to be left out, can slide and climb with the best of 'em, too. And just in case you think the house is full of peace, Deven gave Rohan a not-so-playful bite this morning when Rohan didn't share the etch-a-sketch magnet. Sigh.
At least I have 'em both enjoying the mini lacrosse sticks I got Deven for his 3rd birthday. :)


MOMMY'S FOOD EXPERIMENT

I've been feeling rather tired for the past few months, and have previously taken the steps of writing down what I eat, seeing a nutritionist and an acupuncturist (my lower back has ached since having the boys); and talking to friends about various "cleanses." So far, I've learned that
- I don't eat particularly well (not particularly horribly either, but not great)
- I don't sleep enough (shocking, with 2 kids, I know)
- I'm too stressed (duh...who isn't these days?)

So, I decided on an experiment that I'm starting today. It's called the Quantum Wellness Cleanse by Kathy Freston, and it was recommended to me by a friend who I saw on it at work (who said he felt great while he did it). Basically, it's a slight diet modification that shouldn't be too hard - no counting portions or calories. It requires that I eat whatever I want, EXCEPT

Sugar (any added types)

Animal products (including meat, fish, dairy & eggs)

Gluten (insidious plant-based product found in tons of processed foods)

Alcohol (oh, gosh!)

Caffeine (shouldn't be too hard as I wasn't doing much to start. But wait...chocolate has caffeine...)

Since it's basically a vegan diet, I figured I can do it for 21 days (according to the author Ms. Freston, you'll feel a little bit of withdrawal at first, but then start feeling better in a few days). So far this morning, I've eaten a big bowl of oatmeal w/soymilk, and a glass of soymilk with protein powder. I like all the things you CAN eat on this 'cleanse' (more on that later) so I'm excited.