A 2017 Update: My Life and My Future

May 15, 2017 by beyondthebite4life Leave a Comment

Life has been ever changing since I moved to Nashville. I never thought I’d see the day I was so busy I’d hardly be able to post on here. However, after it being almost a month since my last recipe, I decided I owed all my faithful followers yet another personal update. Afterall, being able to serve and help ya’ll is one of the reasons why I went to culinary school in the first place, which is why this special story is one I think I should share. I first wrote those post many months back. However, with such a busy schedule and may new recipes to post, it got lost back in the drafts. Needless to say, it remains just as important as ever. That being said, If you are not one that is very interested in my personal life, then feel free to skip on over. Though I initially wrote it as part of my Chronic Lyme & Functional Fitness series, I decided it needed to stand on its own. So, without further ado, here is one of the main reasons why my life has gotten undoubtedly busier, better, and brighter than ever. Here is the story of how I met my fiancé.

Busier

I started culinary school the fall of 2015. Fast forward to May, 2017, and I am officially graduated and neck-deep in cooking for my new business, A Clean Slate. A great deal has changed in my life since the start of school, the beginning of last year’s spring semester being where much of that change began. April 5^th was the beginning of my spring semester, the first class being American Regional cuisine. The routine was the same as always. Get to school 20 minutes early, put my belongings in the locker room, put my neck tie and non-stick shoes on, high-tail it to the classroom, talk to the chef about getting a stool to sit on, get my apron and cap on, take my knives out, and line up for attendance. As always, about a quarter of the classmates were late, which is no surprise (me on the other hand, am way to type A to ever let that happen). As Chef went down the name list in alphabetical order, he got to letter “M” and paused…Robbie? or should I say Chef Mez? Where is he?” Two minutes later, the so-called “Chef Mez” came rushing in the door, all suited up in his uniform and ready to roll.

Better

Now, if there is one thing you should understand before I go any further, it is that going to an art institute means there are some, well, interesting people. Some of the classes I have been in have been a motley crew to say the least. So, when it’s the first day of class, the first thing we students do are, 1. look for familiar faces 2. naturally gravitate towards those that seem like they have their crap together (aka this means there is a lower likelihood you won’t be forced to clean their dishes while they sit in the corner and Snapchat), and 3. look around for any normal, attractive looking people. OK, maybe I’m just a bit conceited and number three isn’t true for everyone. But heck, I am at school, right? If there is an attractive person in my class that ends up being a bomb cook and is genuine inside and out, well, then it’s almost a done deal (just joking of course, or maybe not? I promise I’m not that shallow). So, with all that said, you can imagine where my mind went when the infamous “Chef Mez” walked into class. Of course, it truly was a rough day. I was emotionally drained, in pain, tired, my eyes were swollen, and I was just there to cook, all business, no time to mess around. It was game time folks. No nonsense. After lineup, the individuals at my table set up shop and we started cooking. I was focused as heck, with not much more thought about the mysterious “Chef Mez” over at the table to my far left. However, apparently the same could not be said on his end. The next day, my interest was peeked again. Not because Chef Mez was late (though he was, again, haha, but for legitimate reasons I must say), but because Chef kept mentioning how Robbie knew about the health benefits of certain foods we were using that week. “Robbie should know, this grain has good fiber and protein content.”Yeah, if you need to go the bathroom, this is where it’s at” Chef Mez joked. Of course, no female in the room really laughed at his potty joke. I on the other hand, couldn’t help but giggle because who are we kidding, bowel movements are a true gift from God when you battle a chronic illness (TMI? Oh well)

Brighter

As I said earlier, this man was very mysterious. He looked like he was always on a mission, was quick on his feet, and seemed like the type of person that, if something went wrong in the kitchen (or anywhere for that matter), could handle it. It was clear from the beginning he was a very capable person, not to mention an amazing chef. I could tell by his cooking style that he thought outside of the box, and as one who lives by this moto, it was very attractive. Add that to the dark complexion and muscles, and I was sold. Again, kidding, but you know what I’m saying. To be honest, I didn’t think of him as someone who would notice me, maybe because (despite my comments above), I wasn’t really in the mood. Finds out, this came across in my facial expressions greatly, a look later to be deemed my “blue steel” face.

My Life

Fast forward a week later, while I am browsing on my Beyond the Bite Instagram, I notice I have a few new followers, one being “chefmez.” I looked at his pictures and thought, man, this guy really looks familiar. Then it hit me, this has to be the guy from American Regional class. But is it? I honestly hadn’t thought too much about him since the ending of our class the past week. What did strike me though, was that somehow, he found my blog. If you know me personally, you know that two of the big keys to my heart are 1. lamb (of course, duh, it’s amazing) and 2. a guy actually takes the times to learn about my past and read my blog. Of course, he didn’t know this, but what truly caught my eye was the Bible verse in his IG profile. I also saw that he owned a gym and was big into fitness, which made all the previous comments by Chef tie together and finally make sense. I can’t deny I thought it was really neat that he, somehow, found my blog (not such a coincidence after all, I later found out). The next day, he messaged me, which began the very beginning of one of the most important, challenging, blessed, and amazing relationships of my life.

My Future

Since meeting Robbie over a year ago, we have jumped many hurtles together, in both my life and his. His love for me and genuine care for me has shown through even since the beginning of our friendship. Though he has undoubtedly been blessed with charm and good looks, it was his work ethic and drive that initially caught my attention. My father has always been my standard for the men I choose in my life, and when I compare Robbie and him, they are astonishingly similar. He is a rock to me when I feel unstoppable, and on days when I feel like my body and its condition is going to be the death of me. He points me to the One that is higher than I, is my biggest inspiration in life, and continually pushes me to be the very best version of myself I could ever be. We’re both very passionate people, and for that reason we’ve always challenged each other in our weaknesses, both external and internal. Yet it is through this that we have grown as individuals and as a couple. It is easy to say that my love for this man stretches and grows with every day that passes, and I could not be more proud to call him my future husband.

Philippians 4:19 “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

Daily Dose of Encouragement: Heartbroken

March 13, 2017 by beyondthebite4life 5 Comments

DailyDoseEncouragement

Heartbroken, it’s the word that came to me as I sat in the isle seat on an airplane back home. Was I heartbroken? In a way, but certainly not the way one would automatically think of. Heartbroken looks different for everyone. While this word is typically associated with a disastrous relationship or “breakup,” I believe it is a term that can easily be applied to many of the emotions we experience throughout life (not just those attaining to broken relationships). In reality, experiencing heartbreak is inevitable one way or another. Whether it be brought on by physical, emotional, mental, or relational means, heartbreak is something we are bound to come across. For myself, it is throughout the many years of battling chronic Lyme Disease that I have seen heartbreak portrayed in various ways. Whether it be the sorrow of my parents over my own heal issues, or the distant look in a friend’s eyes as they personally grieve trials in their life, the brokenness was there. That being said, though heartbreak can be expressed outwardly through an expression, it is undoubtedly a hard, hallowing, and unshakable feeling that settles as a pit in the depths of your stomach. It is an incredibly strong emotion that can easily take over your entire being, paralyzing us in a state of depression, loneliness, vulnerability, hopelessness, and overall a seemingly unquenchable, incurable brokenness that radiates from within. You are left feeling utterly and completely broken, which, in turn, is exactly why they call it being “heart-broken.”

BustedHeart

More than likely you have experienced this feeling, or just maybe, you are going through a heart break right now as we speak. You’ve tried to let time do its work and heal your, however, nothing seems to help and you are unsure how to survive and keep persevering. Yet when the things of this world leave us broken, and when the situations, storms, and trials we face never seem to end, there is only One thing that can bring wholeness to our hearts that cry out for comfort and healing, and that is Christ. He came to save us, the broken, the helpless, the beaten down, the sinners living in a sin-filled world unable to escape inevitable pain, suffering, and yes, heartbreak. God knew we would feel this way, and He knew we would experience moments, months, or even years of brokenness. Because of this, He sent His son to be beaten and crucified on a cross so that our hearts could be healed. In fact, it was through this brokenness that God’s sacrificial love was poured out onto all man kind to give eternal salvation for those who believe. Overall, He knows your feelings, your thoughts, actions, hopes, dreams, and yes, even your heartbrokenness. He has been through it all. Even when it seems no one on earth can feel the pain inside your chest that is eating away at your soul, He knows, and He is there to be your greatest and only source of true comfort, peace, and healing. He promises to hear your crying and lift up your head when it seems there is no strength from within your soul to do so (Psalm 4). He will fill you with peace (Psalm 5), and when you are weary with groaning and have drenched your couch in tears (Psalm 6), He will hear you, deliver you (Psalm 7), and continue to always be your refuge (Psalm 9). For He is the helper of the fatherless (Psalm 10), a God who deals bountifully with the righteous (Psalm 13) and does not allow those who seek Him to be moved (Psalm 16). No matter how deep and dark the brokenness in your heart becomes, and when the snares of death seem to be caving in on all sides (Psalm 18), He is there to steady your heart. Yes, He will deliver you, for He delights in you (Psalm 18). He is there to be the one and only rock that will not fail you, be shaken, or waver when you experience these trials, for He is there to save His anointed with the saving strength of his right hand (Psalm 20). When your heart is like wax and melted within you and all of your strength dries up like dust (Psalm 22), the Lord will hide you from trouble and help you rise above (Psalm 27). He will take care of you and strengthen your heart. If you trust in Him, He will help you through the brokenness (Psalm 28). Though you may stumble, fall, and grow faint in the process, He will uphold you (Psalm 37), for the Lord “heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3)

Psalm 34:18-19 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”

Chronic Lyme & Culinary Arts: 2017 New Year’s Update

January 5, 2017 by beyondthebite4life 1 Comment

Hey ya’ll! It feels like centuries since I’ve been dable to give Beyond the Bite some love and attention. During the school semester, it is hard to keep up with writing new posts, sending out newsletters, and continually posting on all of the various social media channels. However, after two weeks away from home, and less than a week left for winter break, I decided it was time to give everyone a New Year’s update before all the craziness begins again.

2016 undoubtedly came with a lot of surprises, challenges, and blessings. As far as school goes, I successfully made it through all of my classes as an honor student, and just have 11 more weeks to go before I am an official graduate. This next and final quarter will consist of A La Carte, Capstone/Portfolio (a business class), and Art Culinaire. Outside of school, I have started to do quite a bit of catering with my boyfriend on the weekends, while I also am working on my own business concept for the near future. I also make personalized meal plans for individuals at my boyfriend’s gym, Fit Force, and hope to extend that service through my blog this year as well. Health wise I have seen slow, subtle, but undeniable progress in my body. I was able to connect with two Lyme doctors here in TN; Dr.Bernui and Dr.Kalb, both of which have been great resources amd support for me. I have continued doing the PK Protocol, though I am slowly putting the IV’s to an end, as I am persuing a new treatment for the two main issues that still arise on a daily basis; allergies and chronic infection. More specifically, Mast Cell Activation Disorder and a chronic yeast infection, both of which go hand and hand, and are ultimateley what we are striving to completely fix. While I have found both natural remedies and conventional medicine treatments to help keep symptoms somewhat at bay on a daily basis, healing the underlying cause is still a work in process. That being said, regular chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture significantly help me get through my weeks, especially when my immune system is being rebellious and decides it wants to flare. This past year I also did many series of BrainCore, a neurofeedback training therapy to regulate brain waves that have been altered throughout one’s lifetime. BrainCore therapy is used for a wide variety of symptoms and conditions, including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, PTSD, chronic pain, ADHD, and migraines. We focused mainly on sleep, and I am happy to say almost 12 months later, insomnia is no longer an issue. When I first moved to Nashville, TN more than a year ago, getting through a day was still very difficult. My personal schedule was still pretty regimented, as there was quite a bit that had to get done during the day for my body, simply to make it through. This began to lessen month by month as various treatments continued and I got more adjusted to living on my own. Looking back to January 2016 and comparing it to today as I write this, I see significant difference in my daily life, especially in what my body is able to handle. While afternoon naps are sometimes necessary, I am able to workout on a regular basis, hardly have to use my stool during culinary classes, am able to drive to all of my various medical related appointments, cook my own meals, and keep up with my social life, all without going backwards. Overall, While I could probably go on forever about the ups and downs that are my health, now it’s time to focus on the more exciting things about my life.

As the strength and vitality of my body has increased, so has the degree of which I am able to thrive in my daily life. It’s hard to start from January 2016 and list all of my accomplishments and all of the things that have taken place to put me where I am today. However, easily one of the biggest events was meeting my now boyfriend, Robbie, whom I met in culinary school and will be posting about in the near future. Meeting him expanded my culinary endeavors and introduced me to many people that I am now blessed to call my friends. In short, he is very hard working and challenges me in the best way possible, all while loving, caring, guiding, and supporting for me on both the very best days and the very worst days. I could probably go on for awhile, but for the sake of everyone reading this, let’s just say I am one lucky lady. Over the past year I’ve also made a number of personal accomplishments, including being a worker at the Nashville Food and Wine Festival, where I got to work along side some pretty awesome chefs, including Sean Brock (hence the silly picture above). If you are unsure of who this man is, go watch Mind of a Chef, like now. Over fall break I was also able to take my first non-family related road trip to Florida with my great friend Cera. We spent a few nights in Destin and soaked in as much salt and sun as possible. More importantly I was able to do half of the driving and felt completely fine after doing so. In fact, I got out of the car antsy and wanting to run a few laps around my friend’s house. Accomplishment? I think so.

Overall, the past year has been a whirlwind of events. Somedays I feel like I never stop moving and for these reasons, I have not been able to post on Beyond the Bite as much as I wish. Due to being so busy, I typically use my days off as ones for rest and recovery, as I have to be very careful not to overburden my body. However, despite all of this, you can be sure that I haven’t forgotten about ya’ll, and if anything, you are the ones who push me to keep moving forward towards my dreams, both in and outside of the kitchen. In the end, I hope this post helped everyone get a little glimpse into what life is currently like behind the scenes at Beyond the Bite, and served as encouragement for the rest of those battling life with a chronic illness. From day one, God has, and continues to be my ultimate source of strength, and He is able to do more in your life than you could ever imagine. So, stay hopeful my friends, keep those chins up, and stick around for some of the things I have in store for the new year.

Psalm 31:24 “Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the Lord.”

Chronic Lyme & Functional Fitness (Part 1)

July 9, 2016 by beyondthebite4life 2 Comments

CLFF

Since moving last fall, my body has had its ups and downs. However, despite all the inevitable setbacks, it has continued to move forward. It’s hard to tell in moment, however, when I look back, the process is quite obvious. One of the more recent subjects that I have been encouraged to write about and share with you is my fitness journey. More specifically, how I came to love and benefit from “functional fitness.” But first, I must back up the train and share my past years of experience with exercising and how it has brought me to where I am today. This series will be done in a few posts…so stay tuned!

Where it All Began

My experience with fitness has varied throughout the years. Growing up, I was extremely athletic, always involved in sports and very active. My goal was to be the strongest, fastest, and best of my kind. I took training very seriously and worked out 5-6 days a week. However, once the effects of chronic Lyme started to kick butt in my body, preforming how I once did slowly became more and more difficult. No longer could I make it through a lacrosse game without my feet and ankles aching with pain. Going for a run became a battle against extreme hip and knee pain that left me lying in bed unable to move. Once I hit the “brick wall” in the summer of 2011, not only did the pain increase all throughout my body, but utter weakness and fatigue also took over. In the span of one day, I lost the ability to do what I loved most – preform. In the months to come, my body declined rapidly. I went from being “buff” and able to beat my brother in an arm wrestle, to not able to lift my head off a pillow. My body mass declined significantly, quickly losing weight due to a variety of complications that had built up over the years from the undiagnosed Lyme. I almost felt as if I had lost my identity. One day I could walk, talk, run, and play with my friends and family. The next, I could do nothing of the sort. It was a difficult reality to swallow. Looking in the mirror I did not recognize myself. I was frail, pale, with eyes that turned from a lively blue to dark and hallow.

Skinny

Keeping the Flame Alive

Despite how quickly my body was declining, my interest and love for the human body only grew. It was during these rough years of being bed ridden, in and out of doctors and various hospitals, that I spent my days researching the science behind the human body, food, and many other subjects a long those lines. From all of the past years of being so healthy, I knew what my body was capable of. I knew I would get back to working out, and continually dreamed of the day I’d be back on the tennis court or lifting weights. I never lost this scene in my head. I was adamant, and I believe that is why I am here to talk to you about where I am with my fitness today. Dreaming has been key to my healing, even when the dreams seemed near impossible. However, I continued to dream, believing that if I did it enough they would come true. While the strong fire that once was my health had diminished into a small flame, that flame still flickered, causing the eagerness to reach my full physical potential and optimal health only grow over time.

Starting Over

After the first year or so of trying to figure out what was wrong with my body, a couple of my doctors challenged me to try to walk around a little bit each day. I started with walking up and down the driveway with my mom, around the perimeter of our house, and eventually, the treadmill, which was a big feat in and of itself. For Christmas one year, my parents got me a yoga DVD and mat, which I was able to do a couple times a week. Stretching and walking a little bit each day became my “workout.” While it wasn’t a lot for a regular person, I was moving forward towards my goal of being the strong girl I used to be. Once I got bored of the yoga videos, I pushed myself to add some simple Pilates mat work back into my routine. My aunt is a fantastic Pilates instructor out in Colorado, and she helped me put together a few movements that I could start trying on the reformer.

Progress

Easy Does it

When doing any type of exercise with a body that is battling a chronic illness, one must be overly attentive to how they feel when preforming. Chronic fatigue and pain were too conditions I inevitably faced day in and day out, therefore causing my recovery time after doing anything as simple as a 1 mile walk, to be significantly longer than a healthy human being. It was, and still is, incredibly easy to over-do it. In order to avoid being back in bed, unable to recover, and moving backwards in my health, I must always take extreme precautions. No one in their right mind wants to move backwards, especially when the few steps made forward have been incredibly difficult to do. However, because movement helps my overall body pain significantly, I choose to move even when I don’t necessarily want too.

Three Steps Forward Two Steps Back

Despite being persistent in my daily movement therapy, there were still inevitable set backs in my health. At one point, despite being only 110 pounds, I could run 6 miles without ever feeling any detrimental physical effects. Yet after coming back from vacation one year, parasites and yeast completely took over my body, making my typical mat Pilates routine completely impossible to preform. One week I felt like I could conquer the world, the next I lied in bed discouraged and battling another new symptom due to yet another unknown condition I had developed. All this time I continued my studies in the realm of the human body, which included completing the Primal Blueprint Certification. This course gave me an in-depth, scientific explanation of how human beings were made to exercise and move, the detrimental effects of conventional exercise methods, and ultimately how to gain strength starting from nothing. It was during this time my family also became immersed in their local cross fit gym. Being the exercise lover that I am, I told myself that “one day, I will join them at the gym.”

Turning Tables

Four whole years after my bodies initial breakdown, I did what I told myself I would one day do. I went to CrossFit. The coach knew where I was coming from physically and was very attentive to my every need. With years of innumerable treatments behind me, I was finally feeling stronger. For about three months, I attended the CrossFit gym once a week, modifying the workouts as needed, and making sure to take ample time to rest and recover afterwards. It was fun, and I could not have been more excited. However, as most of my past experiences with changing my workouts, it did not last for long, but this time, for good reasons. October of 2015 I moved out of my parents house to Nashville, TN. The move was rough, especially for the first 5-6 months, as learning to live on my own was physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. The strength that I had once gained and put towards going to CrossFit had to be used in other areas of life, such as driving, keeping house, and going to school. At the time, I didn’t see how these things could drain me of all the stamina my body once had. However, I was reminded time and time again by family and friends that moving and getting acclimated in a new city is exhausting for anyone, even those that are completely healthy. I took my daily walks, did mat Pilates at home, and went to a reformer Pilates class once every Saturday morning. Much like the years before, I kept moving even when I didn’t want too.

A New Chapter

Since the beginning of 2016, my strength has slowly started to return back to where it was prior to moving. This is partially due to finally becoming used to my surroundings, while also receiving more treatment, and overall simply being blessed by the all mighty hands of God. Though I was doing good in my fitness, I started to get in a rut of my typical walking and Pilates routine. I had hit a plateau. Yet little did I know that walking into my first class of American Regional cuisine at school would change all of that and more.

Psalm 55:22 “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”

Culinary Arts and Chronic Lyme: A Letter to All My Fighters (Part 2)

June 4, 2016 by beyondthebite4life 4 Comments

IMG_5650 (1)

Anyone with an autoimmune disease, especially those battling chronic Lyme, know the saying”oh but you look so good” all too well. If you are like myself, you’ve come to master that saying well. As some of you might know, last fall I moved out of my parents house, to a completely different state, which is where I also began going to culinary school (see part 1). I’ll admit the transition was pretty brutal the first four months, and while I am finally getting used to living on my own and taking care of myself 100%, there still are inevitable setbacks. When these moments arise, whether it be in the form of feeling of being run over by a MAC truck, battling an extra cold or flu, or simply not being able to function correctly, there are many negative thoughts that can all too easily dominate any chronically ill individual’s mind. Today I wanted to share a few thoughts of my own for other guys and gals facing similar circumstances (i.e. a letter to all my fighters).

Facing the Unknown

You’re away from home, with no one but yourself to take care of you. You’ve made new friends at school, but they typically only see you on a “good day.” Even if it isn’t a good day, you still put on a happy face and power through, because, well, that’s what we, those with chronic illnesses, do best – keeping on keeping on, even when keeping on is seemingly impossible. If you are lucky, these individuals can actually grasp that the word “chronic” means that you battle physical struggles day in and day out. Of course, most of your acquaintances have no idea of your condition, and that is fine, as you do not want anyone to think you are using it as an advantage in school or any other area of life. However, what happens when a tiny set back goes from one lousy day, into an entire lousy week, or even month? The very thought is almost debilitating, as the individuals that you thought were your support system may very well vanish like everyone else did in your past years of being sick. Most college students are able to live life to the fullest and many don’t always understand why you do the things you do. However, we must remind ourselves that we cannot hide behind who we wish to be (completely healthy and acting like all of the guys and gals around us), rather we must embrace everything that our hardships have molded us into (strong, courageous, and bold inside and out). You’re never asking too much by seeing if a friend will help you drive somewhere, cook a meal, or simply be with you. A true friend would be willing to do this and more. Always surround yourself with people that recognize your inner strength yet build you up in your weakness.

It Takes Fire To Make Good Steel

Another fact that I have constantly tried to remind myself in the past seven months of living on my own is that, setbacks are setbacks, but rarely do they last forever. I know, it sure as heck doesn’t feel like that at the moment. If anything, it feels as though the entire world is falling apart and you are meeting your final doom. Yet I’ve experienced my fair share of these bumps in the road during the past 5+ years of being sick, and if anything, I’ve come to accept that from every so called “set back,” there is an even greater breakthrough. Whether it be self-growth and strengthening or even for the growth and strength of those around you, setbacks have a purpose. They’re lonely and painful, but sometimes I find myself thinking that yes, they are almost necessary to keep us humble and grateful for the full health that we are slowly but surely making our way towards.

Breakdowns are Breakthroughs

Bottom line, college with a chronic illness can be, and is, really hard. Just remember, your support system is not gone, they are still there for your 100 percent, even though you are away from home. If you are like me, this includes your family and God, but it could also be a counselor or a good friend from back home. Remember, having a setback doesn’t make you any less of a person. Being so weak you cannot get up off the couch doesn’t mean you’re a failure and this whole college thing is a waste. And never forget to pass up opportunities and practice saying “no,” because yes, your body is top priority, and while doing this is certainly easier said than done, we must never forget it. If you need to breakdown, breakdown, and let it all out, but just remember these breakdowns are simply breakthroughs. Setbacks will come, but they too shall pass.

Closing Thoughts

Just because you are a college student, doesn’t make the struggle any less real. Everything; the pain, fatigue, weakness, food allergies, etc…they are all still there. Going to college doesn’t make these things mysteriously disappear, and if anything, can be magnified due to being surrounded by many who do not experience them on a daily basis. Yet we must not let this get us down. Hear me when I say to stay strong, take care of yourself, and when you’ve hit a brick wall and there is no strength left in your bones, don’t become afraid. Stay steady, be patient with yourself, rest ad nourish your body even more than normal. If you cannot physically do this, try and find someone who is willing too. Asking the question of whether or not they are willing to help may not be comfortable, as this is typically the last thing we want to do. However, you may just find a great companion in doing so. And as one last note to all you ladies living out in the world while battling a chronic illness, remember, keep your chin up day in and day out, never loose your self worth, never lower yourself because you are different or “complicated.” You are worth so much more than anything that your external self might do to make you believe otherwise. Remember that there ARE other individuals out there like yourself ~ acting OK, looking OK, but not truly being OK on the inside. Yet there is One who is higher and mightier than all you will face, and He knows your every step. You are not alone.

Proverbs 18:10 “The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Chronic Lyme & Culinary Arts (Part 1)

May 16, 2016 by beyondthebite4life 10 Comments

Hello everyone!

If you have been following my blog prior to 2016, you will probably notice that my blog posts are a bit, well, not as consistent, which is why I am sharing today’s post.

Last year I moved out of my parents house. That in and of itself was a huge step, especially since the effects of chronic Lyme Disease still rule day in and day out. However, I did it anyway, as sometimes you just have to take risks and be uncomfortable for awhile in order to move forward in life. That being said, not only did I move out, but I also transferred from doing online college to going to an actual institute – The Art Institute of Nashville.

As you may have noticed, it is a great passion of mine to reach others through food. Yet it is an even greater passion to be able to reach individuals who battle health issues like myself, through the healing power of food. This has caused a great desire to have my own business someday that combines both food and functional medicine to treat individuals. While I have gone back and forth about attending medical school, or something a long those lines, it still isn’t something I am sure my body could handle, so culinary school it was.

I get a lot of questions from readers and followers on my Instagram of how in the world I attend culinary school while eating according to the Autoimmune Protocol and (or) keto. Well, for starters, I don’t eat lot of the food I make. This may seem really odd to some of you, however, throughout the years I have learned how to create dishes without actually tasting them. Therefore, it’s not really something I worry about, and it hasn’t let me down yet. Of course, I can taste some of the things I make, depending on the nature of the course. In my fundamentals class, a lot of the dishes were based off of classic French dishes. Not much wheat flour was used, and I would cook with olive oil or butter any chance I could. Ultimately, I didn’t go into school expecting any of the classes to be making food I can eat (though sometimes I get lucky), and while they do have my disability papers on file, I typically just let the classmates I am cooking with know if I cannot take the risk of making a certain dish. More times than not, everyone is very kind and willing to accommodate me. If anything, being around foods that I cannot eat has helped me break the strong stigma or fear that can all too easily grow when you are allergic and (or) have inflammatory reactions to innumerable foods. Being at school and around individuals from all walks of life has also reminded me that everyone has their own story of past or present battles. It can be easy to feel like an outcast when dealing with a chronic illness, however, I have come to realize that the scars of many individuals I pass in the halls are just as invisible. Never let the pains of today stop you from getting up and following your dreams tomorrow. There is always hope on a new horizon.

Overall, the main reason I am posting this quick little update is so that you all know that I haven’t given up on blogging. Quite the contrary. You all have, and remain my biggest motivation. When I wake up in the morning and feel as though attending a four hour kitchen class is merely impossible, I think of you. While it is no lie that cooking is a passion of mine, it is serving all of you that gives my passion purpose. So, while I may not post as many articles or recipes during this busy point in my life, just know that at the end of the day, I am becoming a chef so that I can serve all of you in more ways than simply posting recipes. Thank you all for the continuing support, I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for you all.

Psalm 147:11 “the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.”

Understanding Loved Ones That Battle Chronic Illness

April 3, 2016 by beyondthebite4life 4 Comments

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Sometimes we are tired of being tough.

Always putting on a good face can be tiring in and of itself. Add in never ending symptoms and sometimes we just need to breakdown. Not only that, but we need to know from our friends and family that having a melt down doesn’t make us any less of a fighter. We need someone to catch us when we fall, acknowledge how much it truly takes out of us to persevere through each day, and ultimately help build us back up so that we can keep on keeping on.

Verbally asking for help can be harder than keeping our mouths shut.

Being a burden to those around us is something we can’t help but hate. The last thing we want to do is bring inconvenience into your life. Yet sometimes we simply can’t do it all on our own, and finding the courage to express this weakness to others can leave us feeling very vulnerable. If you are willing to help, never underestimate the meaning behind our seemingly simple “thank you.” It contains more gratitude, gratefulness, and appreciation than you may ever be able to fully grasp. We mean it with our entire being.

We need you there most when we express it the least.

We don’t want to tell you, but sometimes we are in desperate need of company. It can be easy to shut down and go inward, however, this quietness only means we need you there more. Much like asking for help, telling others that we need them to simply be with us, especially those who are busy with everyday life, can be truly so difficult. If we are not expressing our emotions or seem aloof, it is only because we are hurting and need you that much more.

Being alone can make things worse, not better.

Depending on our personality, being by ourselves to work through things can be quite helpful. On the flipside, spending too much time alone, especially during a really rough day, can be just as harmful. The more we are alone, the more we can wallow in the scary unknown of our future. Ultimately, the problems we are facing do not have a quick fix, making distraction or simply the presence of another loving human being, the best to combat the deep loneliness that so easily can take over.

Your presence is stronger than words.

While empathetic words can be quite comforting, they are in passing, and typically it is your presence that speaks louder than words. We simply need to know that someone is there. They don’t have to have all the answer, say all the right things, or even necessarily do anything. We just need you there, and we need to not have to explain why.

We are not proud of the bad days.

All we want is to be self-sufficient, independent, able to function steadily with setbacks. We can see the frustration cross your face when we have off days. We just want to make them go away. We just want to be completely better. Yet these days are inevitable, and just because we have come to accept this doesn’t mean we enjoy it. If we come off as annoyed or ornery, please do not take it personally, it is only because we are trying to inwardly work through this setback and not affect our overall demeanor. We didn’t mean it, we love you with all of our hearts.

Revelation 22:12 “Jesus said, “Behold, I am coming soon!””

Picture Me Rollin’ – An Update With Chronic Lyme by Andrew Hurley

March 14, 2016 by beyondthebite4life 8 Comments

Picture Me Rollin’

Back in September, I wrote an article chronicling my experience with Lyme Disease so far. I couldn’t believe the outpouring of support I received. I had the privilege to encourage people I’d never met, reconnect with some old friends, and raise awareness of the disease. Once the endorsement deals, fan mail, and sweet, sweet royalty checks stopped pouring in, I hit what we call in the business a “rough patch.” The thing about a “rough patch” when you’re dealing with Lyme Disease is that it can be pretty damn rough. This particular time around my whole brain felt inflamed – I had trouble thinking of which word I wanted to use. I was getting irritable with friends and family. I felt like isolating because my personality felt dull and uninteresting. I knew that these were just symptoms of an infection that had temporarily flared up for some reason, but that didn’t make it much easier to deal with. I panicked to think I was losing progress – something I hadn’t had to come to terms with in over a year. I had just come off the best summer in recent memory where I was spending time with friends and living what I would consider a fairly “back to normal” life. I was planning for the future, I was starting a podcast… I was having fun. But late September brought this intense and significant setback, so I ended up making the decision to spend the winter at my parent’s home in Florida to give myself a chance to regroup, recharge, and decide which direction to head in next. Since I’ve been down here, I’ve been thinking quite a bit about “setbacks” – those related to Lyme and those that are not. Two saying popped into my mind.

“If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.”

“Two men are at different heights on a ladder. Which one is better off? Whichever man is still climbing.”

Every time I think I have a handle on becoming well, a monkey wrench seems to find its way into my plans. But without fail these “setbacks” reveal truth. This time around it’s been another class on letting go of what I can’t control, taking bold ownership of what I can control, and appreciating life happening around me. What’s that saying about learning how to “dance in the rain?” Oh no, somebody stop me with these quotes before I quite literally turn into a hacky Hallmark card.

A Troubled Track

It’s hard to explain, but I get embarrassed when I’m not doing well health-wise. People I’m close with can tell when I’m struggling. I’m not as talkative. Not as quick with a joke. Not as interested in what they’re telling me. I’ll tell ya, NOTHING is as bad as that look that someone I’m close with gives me that goes along with a question like, “You haven’t been feeling well lately, huh?” That look in their eyes is BRUTAL. A mix of helplessness, pity, and sympathy. It’s a real cocktail of sadness. (Cocktail of Sadness… good band name? Or great band name?) It honestly breaks my heart and makes me feel like I’m back at square one. But I’ve come to understand two things about that look recently. The first thing is that people give me that look because they love me. If only everyone should be so lucky as to have people who truly care for me. Waterworks, table for one!

The second thing is that I am nowhere near square one anymore. You have to know a little bit about Lyme Disease to understand the next thought, but Lyme is like an onion. Just because I’ve busted through another layer of the disease and feel awful right now doesn’t mean I haven’t made enormous physical, mental, and spiritual progress. I have. I just need to constantly remind myself of that. Especially when people ask me how I’m doing and I have to honestly say, “not great.” By the way, stop asking me if Lyme is possible to ever get better from. It is. Or asking me when I’ll get better. Workin’ on it. Thanks! Bye! Seeya never!

Real Juice. Drink it Up

I’m sitting here writing this from a community called The Villages near Lady Lake in Florida. Go ahead, give The Villages a Google. Are you seeing a lot of golf carts? Visors? Old white people? That would be because it is a retirement community. A strapping, young twenty-five year old in a retirement community voluntarily? Not exactly living life to the fullest. I came down here with the hopes of feeling better. A few months away from the land of “It’s so cold my brain actually physically hurts in my head” (Boston) seemed like it would help solve my immediate problem of this setback. But I don’t feel physically any better than I did when I got down here 2 months ago. I tried a medication for treatment that I had high hopes for that didn’t pan out. And I’d be lying if I said that wasn’t kind of devastating. That being said, my experience over the years has given me the perspective to look for what to be thankful for over the past few months and how to be hopeful about the future. In years past, I don’t think I would have noticed these treasures or even known where to look.

I’ve taken ownership of the improvement of my health and am no longer a bystander, but an active participant
I have a clear strategy moving forward for my health
I have an upcoming appointment with a renowned Lyme expert who I will be seeing as a patient moving forward
I’ve grown to rely on God for everything (last, but certainly not least)

That is the same God who sent me down a path that I would not have chosen on my own 5 years ago, but it is a path that I am eternally grateful for. More than ever I have a purpose and clear ideas of what I want my life to look like when this disease is in the rear mirror. And, folks, I don’t think you can put a price on that. (Sorry for saying “folks.” The old people keep rubbing off on me.)

Finishing This Fight

I’ve recently come to the conclusion of why Lyme Disease is so hard to get better from. It’s not just because it attacks every organ in your body. It’s not just because many doctors deny it’s chronic existance. It’s not just because it can steal your very mind from out of your head. It’s because it takes years of relentless effort to work towards healing not only your body, but your mind and spirit as well.

That might sounds like an exaggeration, but let’s break that sentence down. In many cases, it takes years to actually figure out you have Lyme Disease because so many doctors misdiagnose the problem. You then have to work to heal your body through tons of research and trial & error treatment. This takes a huge emotional toll on you as your life is totally disrupted, and it is proven that dealing with emotional baggage is a huge indicator of whether or not people get well.

Also, go ahead and read the comments on any article written about Lyme online. It will be filled with people denying its existence and telling others to “get over it.” Realizing that I have the mental strength required to keep climbing despite all of those factors has been nothing less transformative.

When I received my diagnosis of Lyme Disease in early 2014, I felt relieved in a sense. I had validation. I didn’t have to search for answers anymore. All I had to do was take the pills that someone prescribed to me and I would get better (or so I was led to believe).

But this past setback caused me to dig deep. It caused me to become my own advocate. I’ve become my own librarian too, sifting through the overload of Lyme information that can overwhelm anyone who has ever taken a look online.

A few months ago over the summer I was feeling great compared to years past… probably around 75-80% of what it feels like to be healthy. If not for this setback I might have stayed content at 80%, but now I know that when I am completely healthy again, I will astound myself with what I can accomplish. Over the summer, I was even lucky enough to get a tiny peek at what that will look and feel like some day to be at full speed.

A Handful of Quiet

Sometimes people ask what they can do for me. I used to respond by saying, “Oh, I don’t think there really is too much you can do!” I’ve changed my answer to that question. I want you to picture my future with me.

Picture me healthy and strong.

Picture me fulfilling a years-long goal of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Picture me married to an amazing woman who challenges me every day.

Picture me coaching my kid’s T-ball team.

Picture me helping others climb out of similar dark places I’ve been.

Picture me refusing to shut up about all that Jesus has done for me.

And in the more immediate future, if you could also picture me on the next flight out of Florida, that would be great too. I think it’s time to rejoin people born after the roaring twenties.

-Hurlz

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Essential Oils for Detoxing the Body

February 22, 2016 by beyondthebite4life 2 Comments

Amber-Glass-Bottles-Essential-Dropper

The term “detox” can seem rather mainstream, however, for those with health conditions, keeping the body cleansed of toxins is key to living. Therefore, I thought there would be no better topic for the new year than how to use essential oils to naturally detox the body (see part 1 of my essential oil series here). There are various organs that must work properly in order for detoxing to be effective. In today’s post, I will be addressing the spleen, liver, pancreas, lymphatic system, skin, colon, and blood, all major systems in the body that are responsible for proper detoxification. You will notice that many of the oils are the same for each organ, which is great as it makes purchasing these oils a lot less complicated and pricey.

Kidneys

The kidneys are a pair of organs in the body located in the back of the abdomen cavity that help filter toxins from the blood, which then creates urine and is excreted from the body. It is important to keep this organ system at optimal function, as kidney stones or infection can occur. Kidneys are also a key component of hormone production. Overall, essential oils that have been shown to be beneficial to the kidneys include lemongrass, thyme, calamus, juniper, grapefruit, and geranium.

Spleen

The spleen is an organ located in the upper lefthand corner of the abdomen, right off of the stomach. This organ is key to having healthy blood cells, as much like the kidneys, filters blood, stores white blood cells, and recycles red blood cells. The spleen is also an important component of fighting certain bacteria that are harmful to the body, as it is part of the lymphatic system. Essential oils that have been shown to be beneficial for the spleen include marjoram and laurel.

PicMonkey Collage

Colon

While all of the organs mentioned in today’s post are certainly vital for optimal health, the colon is easily one of the biggest detox pathways in the body, as it spans over 5 feet long. Not only does your colon pull nutrients from ingested food to use throughout the body, but it is full of bacteria needed for proper function. However, when the colon becomes compromised for any number of reasons, the loss of proper elimination can cause an insufficient amount of cleansing. Essential oils that have been shown to especially help the liver include sedum, dill, rosemary, caraway, sage, geranium, German chamomile, and thyme.

PicMonkey Collage

Liver

Much like the spleen, the liver has there responsibility of filtering the bodies blood. It also produces bile, the substance released by the gallbladder in the presence of fat, while also storing glycogen for energy, various other vitamins and minerals, and metabolizing fats and protein. Overall, the liver has many jobs, including the breakdown of toxic substances, bacteria, viruses, and anything else harmful that enters into the body. Essential oils that help detox the liver include sedum, and cranium, while dill, German chamomile, rosemary, thyme, goldenrod, and caraway are also helpful. For livers that have been damaged to the point of cirrhosis, frankincense and myrrh are the most helpful to help with this condition. Oils especially used for cleansing purposes include clove, helichrysum, geranium, and German chamomile.

Lymphatic

The lymphatic system resides just underneath the skin where it acts as a subset of our circulatory system, purifying our blood, regulating fluid retention, stimulating digestion, and various other mechanisms to keep the body clean and supported. Unlike the blood, which flows all around, the lymphatic system flows upward, and is only stimulated through movement. That being said, a sluggish lymph can cause a great variety of symptoms, anything from the flu, to anemia, infections, and more. Oils that help support the lymphatic system include cypress, sage, and sandalwood. Lemon and lime are great for cleansing the lymphatic system, while cypress and grapefruit help decongest it. Helichrysum and lemongrass are good for draining, while lavender supports proper elimination of waste, and lemon oil increases the function of lymph fluid.

PicMonkey Collage

Blood

Without blood, we wouldn’t be alive. Therefore, it is extremely important that this life source is kept clean, as it supports our body at a cellular level by distributing oxygen, transporting nutrients, controlling body temperature, eliminating waste, healing from infections, and more. If the blood is not healthy, no other organ system in the body will be either. When your blood is “dirty,” the side effects will most typically be seen through the largest organ system that covers the blood itself, and that is the skin. Other symptoms include bad headaches, fevers, and other signs of a lowered immune system. Oils that help prevent clotting include clove, fennel, and helichrysum. Helichrysum is also good for cleansing the blood.

Skin

The skin is easily one of the most overlooked organs on the body. It removes up to one third of all of the toxins and foreign invaders that enter into the body, while also helping out the other detox organs mentioned above when they become overburdened. When the skin is constantly eliminating toxins through its pores, they become clogged, causing redness, rashes, acne, and other signs of inflammation. There are innumerable ways essential oils can be used for the skin. However, for those that address symptoms related to toxins being excreted, jasmine and orange work for dull skin, bergamot and orange address greasy skin, while rosewood, geranium, and lavender help dry skin. Rashes are best helped with melaleuca, melrose, and hinoki. Eczema and dermatitis are best addressed with helichrysum, German chamomile, rosewood, thyme, patchouli, and juniper.

Essentialoils

Other oils good for detoxification include helichrysum, juniper, rosemary, and dill, which can be applied over the abdominal area. Those specific for removing heavy metals include helichrysum and clove. For toxins, hyssop, lemongrass, and patchouli.

To learn more about essential oils and how to become a member, check out my latest affiliate link with Young Living Essential Oils here!

1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Announcing the Organ Meat Makeover by Gabriella Schneider (AIP, Paleo, Low-FODMAP, Keto, & Low-Histamine)

February 2, 2016 by beyondthebite4life 5 Comments

Hey everyone! Guess what? Today is the day I release my very first e-book! For all of the individuals who have ever contacted me regarding how I enjoy organ meat on the Autoimmune Protocol, this e-book is for you! For everyone who finds organ meat foreign and daunting, this book is also for you! Eating nose-to-tail is also one of the best ways to respect the entire animal, making this book great for those seeking sustainability in their diet and lifestyle. Overall, the Organ Meat Makeover has over a dozen recipes dedicated to helping individuals maximize their health and healing through the consumption of offal.

Why I chose Organ Meat

Human beings have been eating organ meat since the beginning of time. Yet during the past few decades, there has been a steady and rapid decline in the practice of nose-to-tail eating. With processed food dominating grocery store shelves, the average American finds these cuts of meat as gross and unappetizing, not only creating an epidemic of selective eating, but also highly influencing the risk chronic disease and illness. Throughout the years of battling chronic Lyme Disease, I have found significant help and healing through the Paleo Autoimmune Protocol. A key factor of this diet and lifestyle is the consumption of organ meat, and after more than a year of eating this way, I decided it was time to share some of my favorite offal (but not awful) recipes with you all! The recipes themselves follow the dietary guidelines that I have personally found necessary and beneficial in my healing, including not only AIP Paleo, but also low-FODMAP, ketogenic, and low-histamine.

The book includes….

15 recipes: Paleo, Autoimmune Protocol, low-FODMAP, low-histamine, and Ketogenic friendly.
FAQ: Why organ meat? What is organ meat? What is the best way to prepare organ meat? What if I don’t like the taste of organ meat?
A simple grocery list of ingredients used throughout the book.
A recipe index by Animal, covering cuts of beef, lamb, chicken, duck, pork, and turkey.
Recipes using everything from heart, liver, and tripe, to marrow, gizzard, and tongue.

Note: While the recipes in the Organ Meat Makeover may follow specific dietary protocols, many of the recipes have been 100% approved by my non-organ meat eating friends and family! Remember, organ meat isn’t just for those battling chronic disease. The nutrients found in these meats are vital for all humans seeking optimal health and wellness (and not to mention cheap cuts of tasty meat).

Recipes included…

Asian Gizzard Lettuce Cups
Rutabaga Dirty Rice
Rosemary and Horseradish Pate
Heart Skewers with Creamy Turmeric Sauce

>>>Buy the Organ Meat Makeover<<<