My Weightloss/health journey: How My Diagnosis Changed my life forever

Health and Fitness: The Next Level

My Journey To Health: How to Detox from Gluten Flairup

Nutritional Assesments: Antioxidant Assesment

My Journey to Health: How Exercise and Nutrition Are Helping Me

My Journey to Health: New Test Results and New Adventure

My Journey to Health: How I got Hypothyroidism, Goiter and an Autoimmune...

Obstacles: Sometimes They Are Just Detours

As many of you know we set out on our travels to go wherever the wind blows us. Our goal is to travel throughout the United States, but rarely does anything go according to plan. We stayed in Oceanside for a week at the harbor. Oceanside is one of our favorite places. You have the beach on one side and the harbor on the other which makes for smooth paddleboarding. We were sad to go but the harbor only allows a five day stay, even though we snuck in two extra nights.

Our next goal was to head towards Idaho but my doctors wanted to do more labs since I came back positive for autoimmune. So I caught up with my primary doctor who then sent me out for even more lab tests for my thyroid and allergies. I am waiting for results back from both my primary and rheumatoid specialist. On top of everything else a large portion of my tooth broke off so now I am forced to overcome one of my greatest fears: The dentist. I get nervous just thinking about the wonderful drilling about to take place. So between my health issues and family issues, a lot has been going on. But it only seems to distract from our plans of seeing the world.

I think that's how life is. You have dreams and aspirations but there are always obstacles. I think the point is to not give up, even when that's the easiest thing to do. I almost give up all the time. I catch myself at the end of myself and then something happens every time...I see a glimmer of hope. I feel my spirit jump inside me and say "This is not the end! Keep going!"

 I realized that I never started having health issues until I stayed in Hemet; a polluted city far from the beach. When we were living in Oceanside last year I was healthy. Leia and I would go on our walks and I wasn't exhausted. I even had extra energy to workout. But ever since I lived in Hemet for a few months my health has been faltering. Now I cannot make assumptions because I honestly do not know why I am in the state I am in, but I do know one thing. I am not supposed to be here, being tossed from doctor to doctor. This is not my destiny. If I have to give up on doctors I will because I would rather live life following my dreams and not feel perfect than stay home, bury my dreams and continue to be passed back and forth by doctors. That might sound crazy to some but that's how I chose to live my life. I would rather die living life to it's fullest.

One other thing that was keeping us from venturing our far again was that we needed new tires. We didn't think we would be able to get them for a while because they are very expensive. But unexpectedly we received some extra income and were able to buy two new tires. So where are we now? That actually changes day to day. Today it is Lake Elsinore, tomorrow it could be a casino parking lot. One thing I have learned is that I can only worry about today and troubles it may bring. One day at a time we take on challenges and it's not just us. You too face challenges that force you to either overcome your fears or give up. I urge us all, regardless of discouragement and circumstances, to continue on the path we were meant to be on. Only you know the path that is yours. All that matters is that you don't give up. To give up on our dreams is to lose ourselves. And we just can't afford that kind of loss.

Thank you for following us on our journey! Feel free to comment with your own encouragements and experiences. 
Don't forget to check out our new Episodes of RV Pirates on Youtube:
RV Pirates Episodes 1-4

Postpartum Depression: It's Real

I started writing this entry last week during a time of lows. I don't feel this way every day but I do sometimes. I was feeling overwhelmed and depressed. 

One thing I never wanted to admit was how much having a child has changed me. Some are great and wonderful changes, but some are not so great. Being pregnant, giving birth and breastfeeding are all very hormone driven. We wonder how our bodies can perform such great miracles. It's all in our hormones. They make it possible for us to become mothers. But they also come with their own side effects. I don't know how other women handle them, but I personally have a difficult time. The fact that I still have pregnancy hormones from breastfeeding has effected my emotions greatly. As much as I love my family and new addition, my feelings overwhelm me. I have every reason to be happy and full of joy. I am learning I am not the only mother who feels this way. One of of every eight mothers experience Postpartum Depression. 

Postpartum depression is a type of clinical depression which can affect women after childbirth. Symptoms may include sadness, low energy, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, reduced desire for sex, crying episodes, anxiety, and irritability. For some reason these symptoms are getting stronger. I thought they would go away with time. 

Other symptoms of postpartum depression include: 

• Sadness
• Hopelessness
• Low self-esteem
• Guilt
• A feeling of being overwhelmed
• Sleep and eating disturbances
• Inability to be comforted
• Exhaustion
• Emptiness
• Inability to experience pleasure from activities usually found enjoyable^[8]
• Social withdrawal
• Low or no energy
• Becoming easily frustrated
• Feeling inadequate in taking care of the baby
• Decreased sex drive
• Occasional or frequent anxiety 

If you know a new mother, be especially gentle and kind. Becoming a mother is life changing and can even be traumatic. Your mommy friends can use all the support and love you can give them. 

Bless a mommy today ❤️

Judgement: Why We All Do It

What does it mean to judge?

To form an opinion or estimation of after careful consideration

Everyone judges. We have to to a certain point. It is how we make decisions and form opinions. People can be defensive over judgements, but in reality, I have not met one person who doesn't judge. It is how we decide what we do with our lives and choices. At some degree, judgement is necessary. But judgement becomes another issue when we judge a human being and label them. To the degree to which we judge others we will also be judged which also explains why there is so much judgement. We judge, therefore we will be judged.

What happens when we judge another person?

If you have a judgement about a specific person I think those thoughts should be kept to yourself. I am talking about judgement, not facts or actual events that have taken place. Why should negative judgements be kept to our self? Because they will only hurt and break down that person's self worth. Plus, it's only your opinion of that person. It doesn't make it valid or true. I myself struggle with judgment as everyone does. It's so easy to stand on the sidelines and make assumptions of what we think and paste a label on it like that person is selfish, rude, broken, insecure, a bad person, etc. The biggest problem I have noticed when people judge and label is that many times it's not the case at all. We just are not close enough to the situation to get the full story or we don't know the person well enough so we make a judgment based on what we see.

A new practice I have come up with when I start to think judgmental thoughts is to first stop and back away from the situation and realize that I am only a spectator. There may be a factor I don't understand or a situation I have never been in before. As I was looking out of our RV window this morning something hit me as I was watching the waves. When you are on the beach watching the waves they don't look that big. When I didn't surf when I was pregnant I would watch my husband. The waves didn't look very big from shore but he would rush in telling me how strong they were, but I didn't understand because they looked small from my point of view. Then after I was able to go back out in the waves again I was literally overcome by the force of the waves. They were bashing me and throwing me around. Every wave I would catch the wave would shoot me under the water for seconds as a time. I felt like I was fighting this massive force. BUT when I was on the shore they looked like little baby waves.


It's so much different being a spectator than actually being in the situation. So before you rush your thoughts and are ready to label an individual, think. Are you in their shoes? Do you even know the person well enough to place judgement? If you do have a negative judgement of someone why not take a step forward to get to know them? Step off the shore and put your feet in the water. Walk a little closer to the situation. You might be surprised that things were not as they appeared on shore.

Photo Cred: Steven Huff Photography
Contact Steven for prints:
Estevenhuff@gmail.com
714-650-2555

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This One is For You, Poison

Recently Debbie, known as Poison in my earlier writings, has discovered my confessions of her. Of course she is not going to like what she saw. I am sure it is not going to make her feel good. But I didn't write for her or to her. She happens to be where a lot of my heartbreak first took place as a child and let me to you why.

The first few years she was married to my father we became very close. I loved her very much and always will because I am a lover and I did have good times with her. I enjoyed talking with her and playing with her since she was good at many things. I developed a strong need to please her. I don't know exactly where that came from. I started doing many things for her including pedis, foot massages, etc. But when I would get in trouble, no matter how small, no matter how big, I was exiled. She would refuse to talk to me and refuse my forgiveness that I would beg for everyday until I was forgiven. I never cried harder than when I was ignored and told I was not apart of the family.

A pattern started. My readers know of every treatment I received as a child so I will not go over that again. She is upset that I have spoken the truth, I presume, and it doesn't make her look good. I would be embarrassed too. God says that one day everything done in secret will come out into the light. Honestly, that's kind of scary because I know I have definitely done things in secret I am not proud of. Everyone has. But when the truth comes out we have two options: deny OR take responsibility. Do you know the character it takes for someone to stand up and say yes I did that?! I am not proud of it. I didn't realize it would hurt anyone. I am sorry. I swear If someone said that to me I would not even care about what evil they did. I would be hopping out of my shoes for joy that they finally took responsibility. That's really when the healing begins!

So Debbie, I will no longer cover up your identity since you didn't like the fake name I gave you. And since you have refused to talk to me for over ten years I guess this is how I will do it. I know you are hurting.  You need to understand we were all hurt and Dylan and I were not the adults. Our family broke and crumbled under our feet and it was broken long before I ran away. I had to leave. If I didn't you probably would've had bigger problems considering I had become depressed and suicidal. The burden I was put under was unreal. No child should have their spirit continuously crushed. Yes I did things wrong. I lied. I cheated. I stole. I did everything that would drive a parent nuts. But your punishments were not wisely chosen. You probably didn't understand the long term effects they would leave on my life. But somehow I must understand you were trying your best to be a mother to two children that were not yours (I'm trying to understand what your prospective could have been, but kind of hard without you telling me).

You did many good things as well, but for some reason the bad outweighed it because that's really all I remember now.  I would go to school and have to explain why my parents cut off my hair again. I would hear whispers behind me.."She looks like a boy!" How I was embarrassed for wearing the same clothes to school everyday and sometimes wasn't allowed to shower so my hair looked like a greasy mophead. You want me to tell the good things? I am waiting for the day when all this is put behind and EVERYONE is willing to make a step forward. If you do not learn to forgive, this part of your life will never heal and its not fair. It's not fair that Kaylee thinks I disappeared never to return. It's not fair that my father has to choose between his wife and his own children. This is not right! If you are a good woman and love my father you will allow forgiveness to take place. You will allow my father to come together with all his family members. I am open. I am so open. But if you insist on clinging to the past, I want no part. Ten years will turn to thirty and my poor father will be withered and old and will still have a broken family along with a broken heart.

 It is extremely unhealthy to still be upset over things that happened 10 years ago! I am not willing to be a part of the negativity. I cannot stress enough how unfair this is to my father that he has been made to chose one side. My father thinks the world of you and loves you very much. He loves Kaylee like his very own. He has welcomed your family. If anyone wronged him he would forgive them. Can you do the same for him? Can you show him love by allowing his heart to be full. He yearns for his family to be reunited and it is all in your hands.Don't let him miss out on his grandchild's life. Please think about the long run. What happens if something happens to my father? Will you hate me so much you cannot call and tell me?

I am sorry if you don't like my blog. That's okay. It has been the only way I was able to move on from the past. I would recommend anyone write a blog. It is very healing and is not directed at anyone. It is my story and no one is required to read it. I hope one day you are also able to move on from the past and receive healing. It's a wonderful feeling to let go, it really is. You almost feel like her spirit that's been weighed down by steel and iron can now fly!!!! What freedom forgiveness gives! What freedom truth gives! It is available for everyone. It just takes a personal choice. The love is there. It's always been there, but you have to pick it up.

Note to readers: Thank you for reading my story. If you would like to leave a comment please do so in the comment section below. If you leave them on Facebook they will get lost in Facebook.

Breastfeeding: It's Evolutionary

Breastfeeding, yes I am writing about breastfeeding AGAIN. It seems that a huge controversial issue in the mommy community is breastfeeding. For some reason women who do not breastfeed feel the need to explain to breastfeeding mothers why they don't do it. Honestly, it's your life and you do what you feel is best. Obviously you are doing what you "feel" is best. But let me tell you. I don't breastfeed because it's what "feels" best because really it doesn't feel that great. I have gotten scabs from breastfeeding and bled. Breastfeeding mothers still have to deal with tons of pregnancy hormones, not to mention Relaxin is still in the system until breastfeeding is concluded and stays in the system for up to six months after. So we still deal with our crazy selves like we did when we were pregnant.

The commitment to breastfeeding is enormous. Breastfeeding mothers get up throughout the night and feed their babies and then they do it all day. Which some mothers do with formula but I have heard that father's are more involved with formula feeding. We don't get a "break" for our husbands or other family members to feed them. Some women will say, especially those with zero experience, why don't you just pump? Well pumping is not the most effective way to build  solid supply. Possibly after the supply is built, maybe. But then you have cases like with my daughter who will not take other bottles or pacifiers.

My biggest pet peeve is when a woman goes out of her way to explain why she isn't breastfeeding when those are really just excuses. Almost every excuse I have heard I have experienced myself but I still do it. Just because a mother is successful at breastfeeding doesn't mean it was easier for her or came naturally. It is hard work for every mother. The difference between the two is that one mother didn't give up. And occasionally the woman who claims that she didn't produce any milk or had some kind of genetic malfunction. Breastfeeding mothers deal with feeding their babies no matter where they are, even if its in public. We can't leave our babies for long extended periods of time. We can't go out with the girls and get wasted. The fact that I do not get enough breaks actually makes me more stressed, but I am not doing it for me. I am doing it for my child. I am doing it because I want my baby to have the best chance at good health and nutrition as possible. I am not saying I am better than anyone because I breastfeed. I do not compare myself in that way.

Before formula was invented by marketing companies we had to breastfeed. There were no other options. There were no excuses. If you didn't feed your baby they died. Formula was first created to be given to infants who's mothers died in labor. It was not mainstream, Now formula is promoted everywhere even though everyone knows that breastmilk has been scientifically proven to be healthier for babies. How smart are the formula companies! They promote so well that they convince mothers to pay for nutrition even though breastmilk is completely free.

So if you chose to formula feed, please do not make up excuses for why you "couldn't" breastfeed. Own your decision and be proud of it. Because every excuse you name only makes you look like you know breastfeeding is best but you chose otherwise. Some mothers need to formula feed if the have to go back to work and for some reason chose not to pump. Many friends I have known who wanted to do exclusively breast pumping lost their supply within 3 months. It is not the best way to build milk supply.

As generations pass it is becoming more and more difficult for woman to breastfeed. Why is this? Well, many woman are choosing not to breastfeed. Have you ever heard the saying "use it or lose it"? It's evolutionary! If we do not use what we have, will will lose the ability. I bet in the next 50 years even fewer woman will be breastfeeding because the generations before did not. We will be the only species that feeds our babies another animals milk.

No more excuses ladies. Breastfeed or not, but own your decision.

On a side note I would like to address mothers who have tried to breastfeed. You breastfed! Congrats to you! It doesn't matter how long you breastfed for. This blog is not aimed towards women who tried their best to give their child breastmilk. Some women for physiological/biological reasons are unable to breastfeed.There is nothing ethically wrong with breastfeeding. I speak from a nutritional prospective.

Yerba Mate: A Healthy Caffienated Alternative to Coffee

Many of us are realizing the addictive effects of caffeine on the body. When we skip a day we develop migraines. The detox symptoms of caffeine are very similar to that of drug detox. I have experienced this first hand. But not all of us can go cold turkey and we actually love the temporary energy caffeine gives us. Coffee is one of the worst forms of caffeine we can have.

Side Effects of Caffeine

- Anxiety
- Heart Palpitations
- Poor Sleep
- Adrenal Fatigue
- High and low crashes
- Increases heartbeat
- Tense Muscles
- Physically Addictive
- Increased Blood pressure
- Reduced control of fine motor movements

But its not all bad. The problem with the positive benefits is that they are very temporary and leave your body needing more. Coffee is particularly harmful for individuals with anxiety, poor sleep habits, adrenal imbalance, hormone imbalance and those with heart and thyroid conditions.

So what is a good alternative?  
YERBA MATE!

Yerba Mate is a wonderful alternative to coffee that has the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. The caffeine in Yerba Mate has a slower release in the body and doesn't come with a crash. It gives you steady consistent energy throughout the day. I used to drink Mate while I worked at Teavana, a loose leaf tea shop. I was energized and I wasn't hungry while I worked. Yerba Mate is a bush from Argentina known as the "Super Model Tea" because it in fact does suppress the appetite. Drinking Mate is a great way to curb those sweet tooth cravings as well. 

Health Benefits from Yerba Mate

Vitamins: A, C, E, B1, B2, Niacin (B3), B5, B Complex
Minerals: Calcium, Manganese, Iron, Selenium, Potassium, Magnesium, Phosphorus
Additional Compounds: Fatty Acids, Chlorophyll, Flavonols, Polyphenols, Trace Minerals, Antioxidants, Pantothenic Acid and 15 Amino Acids.

The best way to drink Yerba Mate is in loose leaf form and brewed in a strainer or french press. Yerba Mate is ususally measured 1 1/2 teaspoons per 8 ounces of water. Pour the boiling water over the Mate and let steep for 5 minutes. I personally love making iced Mate by doubling the amount of tea used and brewing it a little longer. I then pour it over a cup full of ice. Try to use very minimal amounts of sugar. Some good sugars to use are brown rice syrup, Raw Grade B Maple Syrup or coconut sugar.

Where can Yerba Mate be found?

Teavana has a wide variety of Mate infusions. Yerba Mate can also be found at many online stores including Amazon. 

HAPPY DRINKING!

Providence and Peace

When were first started planning life on the road I was filled with excitement and fear. The fear was of the unknown, never knowing where we were going to end up or if our needs were going to be provided for. I am beside myself and thankful for the providence we have encountered on our ventures. 

We have never gone hungry. We have always had everything we need and sometimes our needs were met by other giving individuals. People have welcomed us into their homes and fed us. People have welcomed us around their campfire. It can be scary venturing off into the unknown but one thing I have learned is that the Lord always provides. And still I worry about our next destination or money. After all this time, after every single time we are provided for, I still worry. But I am learning. I am learning to relax and enjoy blessings from others. 

Thank you everyone who has provided for us while we have been on the road. We are thankful for your open and giving hearts and most of all, your friendship. To me this is living in faith, to go out into the unknown but believe everything will always be okay. Sometimes in order to learn and grow we have to step out of our comfort zone and learn to trust. Which in no way have I mastered. I used to be so afraid to venture out but the more I do, the less I fear.

What are you afraid of? Leap out of your comfort zone and discover a part of yourself you never knew.

On the Road Again...to Queen Creek!

This last week has been nothing but travels! This can prove to be a bit of a challenge when your baby only likes to stay in her car seat no longer than an hour. But the awesome part about RVing is that she doesn't have to stay there. I am able to take her out, feed her, change her and hold her while we drive. I can even move around, prepare meals and go to the bathroom! So much different from when I had to follow my husband in the car. Our tow dolly was well worth the money and we actually save some not buying gas for the car too!

On Saturday we left Fort Mohave and headed to the Grand Canyon! I have never been before and I had no idea what to expect. I was definitely filled with excitement. I can't wait until Leia gets older and I can tell her we took her to the Grand Canyon. We were kind of on a schedule though so we didn't take our time. We have to be back in California for my doctors appointment. When we finally arrived I couldn't wait to find the overlook. I cannot explain the anticipation I felt even walking towards it knowing I was about to see something incredible. Then, there is was, in all of it's beauty... the Grand Canyon. Pictures do not show the true beauty of this canyon. I was in awe, completely speechless. We took our photos and browsed a few more areas. We needed to head back and get back on the road to make it to Queen Creek where my sister in law lives with her family.

On our way back we stumbled upon an adventure! We found Bedrock! Yes I am talking about the Flintstones! It was actually an RV park that was converted into Bedrock. They have a little town in the back where everything is made just like it was in the TV show. We had such a blast running around and showing Leia everything. Everything was made of stone and rock. They even had the little cars where you use your legs to move around. We wish we had known about this place because we would've stayed there. It was only $17 a night.

We arrived back at our RV, which we parked at a Walmart. We took the car to the Grand Canyon. I threw together some gluten free organic macaroni and cheese with Tuna and we headed back out. After many steep hills we arrived at Amber's house around 12 am. It was nice to already be there, but leaving the next morning would've been a better option for getting sleep. We were up while Leia was taking her long stretch of sleep so when we went to bed she kept waking up and then wanted to get up at 5am. Let's just say I wasn't feeling so good the next day. Live and learn. As for the rest of our time we are catching up with family members we rarely see.

Thanks for coming along with me on our journey! Below are YouTube links to our first three episodes of RV Pirates. If you like be sure to subscribe. I also would love some feedback from our viewers. Thank you!

RV Pirates
Episode 1: The Beginning
Episode 2: Arizona Bound
Episode 3: Adventures at Lake Mohave

The Health Insurance Delimma

For the last year, my family has had health insurance through my husband's employer. They were taking out hundreds every month, but it was still manageable. Recently the prices have risen to over $1,000 for our family! This is insane! We do not qualify for any special aid because of my husband's income. But with all the taxes that are taken out and bills there is not much of a surplus left. Especially not for $1,000 worth of health insurance. Honestly, I would love to up and leave America. It is not the land of the free and I'm definitly not proud of our health care system. The leadership is making life more and more difficult. The "poor" are taken care of by the government but what about the rest of us scraping by. They only reason we could afford our newer RV is because it was an awesome deal, we saved, we used our tax return and withdrew money from our 401 k. So no, I am not happy about the people leading our country down the toilet. Healthcare is a necessity. We shouldn't be broke from it. What happens to those who can't afford it? They spend their entire lives ill because they can't afford proper care. This is not right. In this country it actually pays off to make less because then you qualify for government aid and health insurance, but if you make above the qualifications they take more making you poor. The more you make, the more they take.

I did my research and the most affordable plan for us is actually not having health insurance at all, for our family anyway. Even with the new heath care tax, it is less expensive for us to pay the tax and pay for our own healthcare out of pocket. You might say what about vaccines and pediatrician visits? We will be paying cash for those too. We refuse to pay thousands of dollars in health insurance and a deductibles and co-pays. I would much rather see a holistic doctor that is going to work with me to achieve optimal health. This is not for everyone, but it is for our family.

What Is Your Body Telling You?

Since I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, goiter and autoimmune disease I have been asking myself why and what could have caused these problems. I am constantly seeking answers. As I look back into my childhood I see many red flags. My diagnosis was made recently but I have been suffering from symptoms for years but never realized it. My recent diagnosis is just the problem full grown, but there were always signs before. When I was a child I was extremely skinny. I couldn't put on weight no matter how much I ate. My step mother even attempted to feed me three large meals a day followed by Ensure nutritional drinks afterwards. I would end up throwing it all up. I was so thin you could see my rib cage and bones. Here is one of the only pictures I have from middle school. I'm not sure it really shows my frame though. I was much worse in elementary school. I didn't get over 100lbs until I graduated high school and I was 5'6.

 People would tell me that they could see my bone structure. I wish I had a better picture to show here, but I have little to none childhood photos. When I was in middle school I started experiencing stomach problems. My stomach would be so upset even at a young age that I would need to make up excuses to leave class to go to the bathroom. At twelve years old I was diagnosed with depression. My stomach disorder only became worse as I got older. By the age of twenty I had a colonoscopy and endoscopy where they found inflammation in my colon and labeled it Bacterial Colitis. I was advised to take Imodium daily to keep me out of the bathroom. I took Imodium every day until I became pregnant with my daughter.

The more I learn about hypothyroidism and autoimmune disorders, I realize that everything is connected. Inflammation in the body causes many problems in the body that affect the digestive system, nervous system and even the brain. Everything in the body is interconnected. Nothing can be isolated. The reason why I have had so many health problems over the years is because there is an underline cause. Autoimmune disease and hypothyroidism are not the cause. They are symptoms of a greater problem yet to be found. Most people who have physical health problems also have mental health problems as well because every system in the body affects each other. This can manifest in depression, anxiety, etc. The brain and thyroid are responsible for hormone balance. If there is constant inflammation in the body, you can bet your emotions and hormones are not going to balanced either.

So what's the underlying cause? Where's the root of the problem? It's something that I have always done. It's something that I have had since I was a child. When I was a child I did not eat healthy. My meals were highly processed. Cereal and fruit rolls every morning. Processed nitrate filled lunches. Almost every meal I had was comprised of gluten. Now that I have started my path to a gluten free life I have already noticed a number of symptoms disappearing. BUT I accidentally have gluten sometimes. Gluten is sometimes in foods that you would never guess, like imitation crab meat. I was eating sushi thinking I was eating gluten free! Then my symptoms would peak in the next 24 hours. Since I have gone gluten free, except for a few accidents, my stomach has completely calmed down. I still notice bloating but I do not need to run to the bathroom often, nor do I need Imodium anymore. I wonder to myself, why didn't any doctor suggest a gluten free diet? That's because doctors are not educated in nutrition, therefore they are not going to recommend nutritional changes over prescribing prescriptions. I appreciate doctors for their practice and lab tests, but I do not agree with their treatment methods, at least the ones given to me. What if I have been gluten intolerant my entire life and I am just finding out now? Better late than never I guess. I know others who didn't find out until after their 50's!

If you have constant health problems or infections often, something deeper is going on in your body. Your body is in inflammation. Your immune system is fighting. What is it fighting is the question. Are you putting something into your body that your body cannot handle? Are you overweight? Are you underweight? Do you have constant headaches and other ailments? Do you skin rashes or eczema? Look for red flags. Don't ignore the signs your body is trying to tell you and wait until you have full blown health conditions. Taking prescription medication does not cure. It acts as a band aid. I am ripping off my band aid and I am going to find the root cause of my illness. It may take me years, months, days...either way I will find it.

There was a time in my life where I didn't think I could live or function without my anti-anxiety medications and my Imodium. I no longer take those medications. The only medication I take now is Levothyroxin, which is a thyroid hormone. When I have been gluten free completely for at least 3 months I will reassess my state to see if I still need it. I functioned without it before, I believe if I give my body the tools to heal, it will. I haven't only gone gluten free though. Health is multifaceted. It needs to be approached from multiple angles. This means eating the right foods; foods high in antioxidants and unprocessed foods. Good supplements are also very important because they fill in the gaps where you are missing nutrition. I have also quit having sugar as often, but in reality I shouldn't be having any added sugars. Alcohol is used in moderation. All of these things affect optimal health levels. What we eat actually affects gene expression. That's why health conditions can be genetic. If we change the way we eat, we can change the health of future generations. I also incorporate herbs and essential oils into my diet for their healing properties.

I share my journey with you so that you can see how important your health is and that no doctor can fix you as well as you can. They are great tools, but the real power lies in your hands. Be empowered.

For Nutritional Therapy comment below or contact me @ i.am.davison69@gmail.com
www.RVPirates.com
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Life Off The Grid

We tried to obtain the whole "American  Dream" at one time. You know where you make payments on cars and a house and everything else and you are buried in credit card debt. When we first were married we were looking at houses to buy. That seemed like the next logical step, but we really couldn't afford anything expensive. Every house we tried to buy fell through for some reason or another. That's how we ended up renting a run down back house for $900 a month. California prices are absolutely ridiculous. You spend all your time working to pay for things you can't really enjoy, unless you enjoy sitting in your house.

When we first started RVing, my husband thought it would be just for trips, but I wanted out of where we were so I packed everything in the RV. We ended up loving our own little special space together and being able to move whenever we felt like it. We just couldn't picture ourselves in one place and maybe that's why we never found one.

People talk about their dreams. They say one day I will go here and there. One day when I have money I will do this or that. We don't have a lot of money. We are not anywhere near upper class. All we have done is set our priorities on what we want. As of right now we are not paying rent and haven't been for the last week or so. We pay for gas to get from place to place, but no rent. We don't even have an electricity bill because we installed solar panels. We are now even able to use our outlets. When we need water we fill up our tanks. When they are full we have to find a dump station. The fridge runs of off propane which lasts about a month. Our microwave runs off of solar power now too.  Most of our big bills come from our car payment, cell phone, food and a few other things. We could have more money if I got a stable job but then we would be stuck in one place and really wouldn't be able to enjoy that extra money. I do have a job, but not in the traditional sense. I use and sell doTERRA essential oils and I make skincare products when people order them. I also write my blog, as you can see. I do consider that work even though it doesn't bring in any money yet. It keeps me focused. 

To live on the road, all you really need to do is establish a way to make money from anywhere. The internet and new technology has made this very possible. "Where there is a will, there is a way." My husband had a will to work remotely. He wanted it bad and he made it happen. He used to work at an office desk five days a week.

Right now we are camped at Lake Mohave in Nevada. My husband is able to work from his computer here as well. I don't know scientifically speaking how nature affects mood but it does. I have felt wonderful out here the whole time. Much better than I did in Hemet. As I look out at the lake I see ducks swimming and diving. The ripples in the water roll on to the shore. I hear birds constantly chirping and conversing with one another. This morning I saw multiple butterflies playing together. This is life. This is peace. If we live too fast we don't even notice beauty any more. I feel like anyone could have this if they wanted it, but most don't. They say they do, but they can't leave behind the malls, the Starbucks, the extra paid hours. Don't get me wrong. Those things I enjoy too, but sometimes being without them is important to learn and grow. We get stuck in the hustle and bustle of life and neglect our emotional health.

STEPS TO LIVING OFF THE GRID

1.   Find a way to work for your boss remotely or start your own online business

2. Sell all your belongings and buy a travel vehicle. 

3. Install solar panels for free electricity 

4. Cut ties to anything holding you back

5. Pay off debt with money from selling belongings

6. Simplify your life completely 

7. Find someone with the same vision and marry them, LOL jk!

8. Map out places to stay for free and move often 

9. Be mindful of your finances

10. Make friends in different places; if you have a business, network through friends

Last but not least, do not fear! It may seem scary venturing out into the unknown but it is there you will find yourself and will learn to fear nothing. 

Our First Venture In Newer RV

The months of waiting finally came to an end and we were getting ready to embark on a new adventure in our lives as a family. We stayed in Hemet for four months, saved up for a newer RV and were ready to hit the road!

Last Saturday we left Hemet and headed for our first stop, Arizona. I was anxious, anxious because this was our first time taking the new RV out and anxious excited to start something new. Thankfully we had no problems getting out to Arizona. The drive out was much different that the previous ones. Normally, I would've followed my husband in the car with our daughter, which is extremely stressful because she only sleeps for a little bit and fusses the rest of the time because she's bored and hates being in her car seat for long periods of time. This time we were able to buy a tow dolly so that we could tow our car behind. Leia did sleep for a while on the way, but she started her normal fussing of boredom. I was able to get up and move around the RV. This was very convenient for feeding Leia, changing her and going to the bathroom. For the first time we didn't have to stop to use the bathroom. So I really like the new setup. I was even able to clean up around while we were moving. Hooray for multitasking!

The awesome thing about getting out of California is FREEDOM! California has so many rules and regulations for EVERYTHING! In California you cannot park anywhere you want without getting into trouble. In Arizona we just pulled up next to our cousins and that's been our spot the last few days. We do plan on later moving to the lake for a few days. In our last motor home it was difficult to dry camp for a long period of time because our tanks were smaller and we had to run the generator a lot to use electricity. Now since we have solar panels, most of our electricity comes from the sun. We aren't plugged in to anything! We can watch TV, use lights and charge our phones all on solar power. No electricity bill either. The only time we need to run the generator is when we are using the microwave/convection oven and the air conditioning. The heater and refrigerator run off of propane. Solar panels make a huge difference and are definitely worth the investment. Where we are parked we can also have one of our slide outs out.

It was a great first Easter with Leia. We celebrated with my husband's family and played Easter Olympics. So far this trip is proving to be very fun and freeing! Going wherever the wind blows us, where ever the road takes us.

The Importance of Raising Healthier Children Now

Today's generation of children are what I call the "Processed Foods Generation". They eat fast food, processed foods, chips, sodas, candy, sugar-loaded coffee and much more. For whatever reason, whether parents are gone working long hours or just don't care, they are feeding their children pre-made foods that are unnatural or harmful for children. Some people say children are resilient and overcome anything. This is not true concerning diet and nutrition. What we feed our children now, what we teach them about nutrition, is creating a foundation for their lives. When we give our children non stop processed foods, we are setting them up for an unhealthy lifestyle. We are the adults and we are responsible for our children's health until they are of age to make wise decisions. If you don't think that the processed foods diet is affecting children, look at the statistics:


- The percentage of overweight children in the United States is growing at an alarming rate, with 1 out of 3 kids now considered overweight or obese.

-  Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years

-  Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. In a population-based sample of 5- to 17-year-olds, 70% of obese youth had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease

-  Children and adolescents who are obese are likely to be obese as adults and are therefore more at risk for adult health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, several types of cancer, and osteoarthritis. One study showed that children who became obese as early as age 2 were more likely to be obese as adults.


It's not just obesity. More and more children are being diagnosed with disorders that could easily be prevented through better nutrition. Children are being diagnosed with high, low blood pressure, pre diabetes, hypothyroidism, ADHD, etc. These conditions  can be managed through better health and nutrition. One way to tell if your child could benefit from a lifestyle change is if they are getting infections frequently. Feeding your child too much sugar feeds the "bad bacteria" in their gut, causing frequent infections. Giving them antibiotics often creates havoc in the body, killing "good bacteria" that help keep us healthy. What we feed our children will manifest in some way, whether it be disease or a healthy lifestyle.


How can we raise healthier children?


- Limit processed foods

- Cook from home and I don't mean microwaveable meals

- Cook fresh foods like chicken and vegetables

- Limit breaded and fried items

- Prepare fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, veggies with hummus as snacks

- Only eat fast food when absolutely necessary and chose healthy options

- Avoid candy and daily deserts

- Avoid sodas, artificial sweeteners, fake fruit snacks

- Try to make your child's lunches instead of getting them cafeteria food

- Avoid packaged juices, unless there is no added sugar

- Absolutely NO CAFFEINE or coffee. Caffeine creates hormonal imbalances and adrenal issues. Kids have enough energy on their own. Caffeine can also cause them to have poor sleep cycles. Caffeine is highly addictive. Most people suffer withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking caffeine.

- A good rule of thumb is to feed your children the colors of the rainbow everyday. This will ensure they are getting a wide variety of vitamins and antioxidants. For example, Apples, Tomatoes, Oranges, Sweet potatoes, bananas, squash, spinach, kale, peas, blueberries, dried grapes, etc. There are many ways to make healthy nutritious food delicious. 

What happens when we feed our children eat too much processed food?

Processed food is called anti-nutritious. It robs the body of nutrition. It doesn't give the body what it needs to function at it's optimal level. Think of processed foods as thieves who steal nutrition from the body. This is where chronic disease creeps in.

Instead of ice cream for desert why not try making a homemade smoothie with dark chocolate almond milk and some fruit blended together. Children need real food for breakfast like eggs and oatmeal with fruit, not sugar loaded cereals, pop tarts, donuts or pastries. Reserve these foods for special occasions. If we feed our children crap, that's how they are going to feel.


We are shaping the next generation. Take the time to cook for your children and invest in their health. It will make a huge difference in the long run. What we are teaching our children now is going to shape the rest of their lives. Our children's health is in OUR hands.

For more Nutritional Therapy or guidance making meal plans, contact me @ i.am.davison69@gmail.com

What's Next For The Davisons

When we first arrived in Hemet, CA we decided to only stay until April. This would allow us enough time to save money for a newer RV, which we were able to do in January. Now has come the time where we are getting ready to venture off into the unknown.

Though Hemet doesn't have the kindest people, we still had a lot of good experiences. I got to see my mom a lot, along with other family members. I highly recommend the RV park we stayed at, Casa Del Sol. We met a lot of friendly Canadians and the staff is really helpful. Some of our favorite features were the double jacuzzi and heated pool, which was perfect for Leia. I did enjoy being near shopping centers. Before we were in the middle of no where and going grocery shopping was quite the task. They also have a gym! Too bad I didn't use it much, haha. O, ya! I can't forgot about the time we almost burnt down the park because we sent off a Chinese lantern that was ripped and got stuck in the palm trees! Thankfully it eventually detached. Good times...


So what's next?

Originally we were going to go to Arizona first and then travel the rest of the United States, but we have had a few hiccups. With my recent autoimmune diagnosis, I am being referred to a Rheumatoid Specialist which will be in Menifee, CA. Therefore we cannot go on our grand adventure yet. The plan is to leave this weekend for Arizona to visit family. Then we will come back for my appointment at the end of April. All I really need to find out is which autoimmune disorder I have so that I know how to change my diet and lifestyle according to it. That's really all I can do considering there are no cures for autoimmune disorders.

I know that life never really goes as planned, but I am still disappointed that my own health issues are holding us back for the time being. Especially since I am only 25 years old. I would have expected this in my 60's. I have always believed that nothing should hold you back from your dreams and goals, but what do you do when you feel like you have no choice? Surrender your will? I remember when I used to judge people who always talked about something being wrong with them. I would think, "You hypochondriac, there's nothing wrong with you!" But now look at me! I am now the one complaining of my fatigue and many ailments. There's a lesson in judgement for you...when you judge others, you will be judged as well. I see it all the time. It's kind of like a scientific law, haha. In another sense it could be described as karma. Whatever you put out there, you will get back.

We really do not know our next steps and that's okay. Life has a way of figuring itself out. For now, we walk by faith and hope. Faith in what we do not see, hope in what we believe. I am just thankful that I have a family to travel the ups and downs of life with.

Meet My Friend Job

Yesterday I was asking why. Today I don't need to know why. Today I remembered a man named Job (pronounced like Jobe). This man was put to the ultimate test. Let me give you a little introduction about my friend Job.

Job is described as a man of integrity. A blameless man who was devoted to God and to doing good. One day in the Heavenly realms, The Accuser, also known as Satan, came to God and made conversation. Satan had roamed the whole earth and saw that Job was indeed blameless before God. God pointed that out to him. Satan quickly doubted Job's goodness and told God that he is only faithful to him because he is blessed. But God knew and believed in Job's righteousness. Satan asked for permission to bring hardships upon Job to test him. God granted him his request.

Satan afflicted Job with a miserable disease that gave him sores all over his body. All of his offspring were taken by death. He lost all of his prosperity. Job's wife even taunted him, "Will you curse God now?!" Everyone was waiting for Job to blame God for his sufferings. Even Job's friends told him he must have greatly sinned for God to punish him in such a way. Job could find no encouragement from those around him. But Job still didn't renounce God. He did though, ask him why. In short, God revealed to him, who is a man to question his creator. God had always had Job's best interest. Even though Job had lost everything, including his health, this was not the end of the story.

In Job's suffering, he never blamed God, instead he praised him:

“I came naked from my mother’s womb,
and I will be naked when I leave.
The LORD gave me what I had,
and the LORD has taken it away.
Praise the name of the LORD!”

To make a very long story short, Job was eventually healed and given back much more than he lost. He was given new offspring. He was given even more prosperity than he had before. Satan was put to shame. He thought Job would only be faithful to God if he was being blessed, but that was not the case.

Whether you believe these words to be true or not, they illustrate a wonderful story that any person could relate to because we have all experienced suffering. We have all been tested and have had good things ripped from our hands. The real test is, what are we going to do about it? How is our attitude going to be? Are you going to blame God for anything bad that happens to you or will you ask yourself, "What can I learn from my suffering?" Though you may not know or understand, there is purpose to all suffering. And if you are faithful and keep enduring, I am sure you will be blessed with much more than you lost.

What I Always took for Granted

Before I got pregnant with my daughter I was full of energy. I would do tons of physical activities with my husband and stay up all night having a good time. Everything seemed so easy and now I realize I took so many things for granted.

Ever since my daughter was born I have been declining in health and energy. I wonder to myself how this happened? I was in great health before. How did I end up with hypothyroidism caused by an autoimmune disease? Me? An autoimmune disease? Where did it come from? I know the easy answer is genetics since my mother also has hypothyroidism and hashimotos. But I never had the symptoms until after I gave birth. I wonder to myself often," What did I do wrong? Did I cause this on myself? Was my diet really that bad?" The lack of sleep I have been having is not making things better. Every single day I feel sick. My hands, wrists and knees hurt. I can't remember anything. I'm so exhausted I cannot keep up. I have dizzy spells where I cannot get up. If I do I feel like I'm going to fall over. 

I want to be the energetic person I used to be. I don't understand why this sudden illness has taken over my life. My daughter deserves a mother at her best and I'm barely hanging on. 

The only thing I can think of left to change is my sleeping habits, which will not improve until Leia sleeps better. I look fine and I try to keep it together. I try to be positive and know things can only be worse. But feeling sick everyday isn't living. 

I'm 25 years old. I'm not giving up yet.

So, to those who still have their health, energy and stamina, take care of your bodies. You never know how long you will be healthy for. If you want to be healthy in 20 years, start taking care of yourself today. My diet was the worst ever when I pregnant. I don't think my poor diet and sugar addiction helped my condition. Don't take for granted the little things. Those are the things that enrich our lives. Invest in your health, because you are worth it. 

Forgiveness: Easier Said Than Done

When I was 15 years old I started praying. I had a lot to pray about considering my family had fallen apart and I had to start over with my mother who I hadn't seen in six years. Back then I prayed everyday for my dad and his wife. I prayed for my stepsister who I had left behind. I prayed that one day they would be healed of all hurt and one day there would be reconciliation. I believe in God like I believe in the wind. I may not see the wind, but I see how it affects everything around it. I can see the wind rustle through the trees and feel it blow my hair against me cheek. God is always there and always working, even if we do not see it. It may take years for prayers to be answered but they are never forgotten.


Over ten years ago I prayed for reconciliation for my family.  Over the years my father has started talking to me more and more. I have never been content with it. I have always wanted us to grow closer to be what we once were as a family. It has been difficult though. I am sure he must have been hurt when I left for good and started living with my mother. I am sure he was hurt by all the rumors that were spread about my disappearance. The last couple years I have started talking to him and seeing him a couple times a year. This is huge improvement. I was even separated from my younger brother for a few years and that was mended as well.

I can only understand the position my father must have been in, torn between his wife who he made a commitment to for life and his own children. I talk a lot about forgiveness like it is something easy to do, but when the opportunity comes will I really be able to forgive? Will I ever be able to forgive Poison for things that happened over ten years ago? Yes, their were horrible things done, but there were also some good times. When family wrongs you what do you do? I preach about how family should always be there no matter what, but can I follow my own words? To forgive as Christ forgives is a miracle. It truly is. Think about someone close to you abusing you or hurting you beyond measure and one day that person comes to you and asks for forgiveness. What would you do?

I think I have wronged many in my day, whether I meant to or not. If I ever want forgiveness for my wrongdoings I must learn to forgive others as well and not just talk about it.
There is a story that comes to mind. Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, asks Jesus how many times he should forgive his brother. Peter knowing the nature of man and how often he betrays another. He was probably hoping for a number, like after 10 times and then you no longer need to offer forgiveness. But he didn't.

"Then Peter came up and said to him, 'Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?' Jesus said to him, 'I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven (Matthew 18:21-35 )."

This tells me that forgiveness should be given whenever it is needed. If I ever want to see those around me healed and reunited, I must learn to forgive those who have hurt me the most, not knowing if they will do it again.
.

Hypothyroidism Without Lifestyle Change

As some of you may know who follow my blog, I developed hypothyroidism after I had my daughter, who is now 8.5 months old. When I was diagnosed I changed my lifestyle practically right away by using natural medicine(essential oils) and altering my diet. I decreased my sugar intake, went gluten-free, got on a daily vitamin regimen and started using essential oils on my thyroid and my goiter. I saw results very fast and lost over 10lbs in a month. The size of my goiter also decreased dramatically. With all this being said I was curious to know what type of difference others notice who only take the thyroid hormone.

My mother was diagnosed with hypothyroidism about seven years ago. More recently she found out she also has Hashimotos, an autoimmune disease. When she was diagnosed with hypothyroidism she started taking the thyroid hormone, but she didn't alter her lifestyle. I wanted to know about her experience with hypothyroidism because she didn't start changing her lifestyle until she found out she had Hashimotos. I asked her about how her life was when she was diagnosed and how medication affected her. This is what she said:

"Before I was diagnosed I was fat and exhausted. No matter how much I slept which was a lot, I never felt rested. I was dieting, doing Weight Watchers and going to the gym religiously and still gaining weight."

She found a new doctor who rigorously tested her thyroid. He confirmed that she had hypothyroidism. After her dose was made perfect she started to feel a difference.

"I felt like a new person but never lost the weight. I felt good for a long time."

She experienced more energy, but as time passed she noticed her symptoms starting to come back. Why is this? Taking the thyroid hormone doesn't cure hypothyroidism. Most people who take thyroid hormones still have many of the symptoms. When medication is used it doesn't cure or treat the problem. It treats the symptoms, but the health issue is still there. In order to really change one's health, the root of the problem needs to be found and addressed. 

Since my mother started changing her lifestyle she has lost over ten stubborn pounds. She is still on her path to recovery but I am excited for the new changes happening in her life and health. She went gluten free as well. She is also eats a diet low on carbs and sugar and high on healthy fats and protein.

There are a lot of people out there taking the thyroid hormone but still experiencing symptoms and struggling with weightloss. Maybe now is the time for a lifestyle change. I know how hard it can be to change your lifestyle. I used to eat whatever I wanted, especially when I was pregnant. I used to drink whatever I wanted and not be affected. But now everything has been affecting me. Especially now that I also have an autoimmune disease. I know that I am going to have to give up a lot more than gluten if I want to put this baby into remission. Honestly, it's not fun being on a strict diet, especially when you see others around you indulging. But it's worth it. A tasty burger and fries lasts five minutes, but the results of a healthy lifestyle can last a lifetime.

Have you had any similar experiences?

A Reason For Suffering

Why do good people suffer?
Why does anyone suffer?

One of the biggest debates I have heard is why does suffering exist and if there was a God, why would he allow suffering?

My answer may not satisfy some, but it satisfies me so here goes.

I consider myself a "good" person. By "good" I mean that I try to do good. I try to do the right thing. I try to love others and to be kind. Does that mean I always am? No. Just because I try to do good does that mean nothing bad is never going to happen to me? No. On the contrary, some of the kindest people in the world have undergone years and years of suffering.

My suffering began as a child. I have known physical and emotional abuse. I have been taunted by my peers. I have been rejected by those I love. I have been financially unstable to the point where I ate potatoes, cheese and tortillas everyday because it was cheap and filling. Many of you who have followed my blog from the beginning know of my sufferings as a child. I don't complain about them. I actually praise them because they have made me stronger. My sufferings have shaped my character and made me the person I am today. Suffering teaches never to take anyone for granted because I know what it is like to be without my loved ones.

My mother has suffered tremendously in her life.  From failed marriages to alcoholism to losing her children. When I look at her past I don't even know how she made it. But she is stronger than ever now. She has become one of the strongest people I know and one of the kindest. She cares about the sufferings of others because she has been there.

My husband has also endured many sufferings as well. He lost his mother to cancer and helped raise his younger brother and sister. All these people who have suffered greatly have come out on the other end with a compassionate heart.

It is not God who causes our suffering. He has given all mankind free will and with free will comes suffering because we are affected by the actions of those around us. BUT God is able to use our sufferings to mold us into a more compassionate and loving people if we let him. If we suffer and blame God we have learned nothing and are still immature in our faith. Instead of fighting the sufferings, we can learn to embrace them. I have never had nothing good come out of suffering. I can see the good in all of it. That's why I never regret my sufferings. Without them I might have become a spoiled heartless woman who only cares for herself. Suffering humbles the soul.

When I was fifteen years old I went through some of my toughest times. I was in foster care, found my mother after six years, lost contact with my father and brother, moved to a new town and I had no friends. These days I wept often. Here are some words that got me through some of my toughest times.

Romans 5:3-5 

"More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us."

1 Peter 5:10

"And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you."

James 1:2-4

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Revelation 21:4 

"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Psalm 34:19 

"Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all"

Maybe you are suffering right now and don't know why. Maybe you are going through a difficult time. Maybe you are angry with God concerning your present situation. Remember he gave you free choice and free will to live your life. You are not alone in your struggle and good will come out of it. If you don't see the good now, it'll come later. Be strong. Never give up. Be passionate. Love others. Follow your heart. Do good as much as you can regardless of the evil that is done to you.