It’s rather quiet In My Kitchen as another month rolls around and this time there are medical issues. My advice to you is not to get older. It’s highly overrated. 🙂 Thankfully I’m still smiling.
You might recall that over the past few years I’ve mentioned that I suffer from back pain. My doctor always said, “It’s muscular, get more exercise.” To that advice I saw a physiotherapist week after week with no improvement. Then it was, “Get a few massages,” and while they were very relaxing, no improvement there.
Finally, I told the doctor I was going to be in a wheelchair if something wasn’t done. Why do they wait until you’re at the end of your rope before investigating? Anyway, the tests show all sorts of problems back there and I’m off for an MRI tomorrow and maybe a CT scan after that. If the diagnosis is what she thinks it is, there’s a shot for it. I try not to be angry but frankly, I’m losing that battle.
Then just to add insult to injury, I have brand new kidney disease which she thinks is from the ibuprofen I’ve eaten like candy just to function. All this isn’t for sympathy because I need none. I’ve got a plan and it includes juice (and that shot in my back!).
Years ago I had problems with my liver from living with gallstones for a long time (long story) when I lived in New Zealand. After the surgery I was told that I had irreversible liver damage and I was out to prove them wrong. I bought a masticating juicer and juiced carrots, spinach, beetroot, red cabbage and anything else in my fruit and veg drawer every day for six months. No more damage. The doctor decided that the test must have been wrong. Could be, but I’m on another quest for wellness.
I read nearly every article on kidney disease that Dr. Google has and then dragged out the old Green Star juicer from the shelves where I store things I rarely use.
Day one, I ate nothing but watermelon because nearly every page said watermelon will help to clear up an unhappy kidney. I’m not sure why it’s important but they all said it was an alkaline juice. I enjoy eating watermelon so I didn’t juice it.
Day two I made a juice from carrots, apples, black grapes, mango, beetroot, peach, celery, ginger, blueberries, raspberries and strawberries. It didn’t taste too bad.
Day three and I added spinach, pomegranate, cherry tomatoes, green grapes and pears to the above mix. Most of the juice is carrot, then apple but enough of the others to make a difference.
After that, I just switch around with whatever is in there. Yesterday I added pineapple to the mix.
I was talking with a friend who told me I shouldn’t have anything in my juice but green stuff and maybe she’s right but I wouldn’t drink it so why bother. I drink juice that is fresh, healthy and tastes good.
My diet will now have less protein, more water and way more fruit and veg. It’s a real change for me but now you know where I’ve been. Just sitting for a short period feels like I’m sitting on spikes.
I’m keeping on with the blog and hope you’ll follow my progress as 2016 is going to be a good year for us. I just know it.
In my kitchen is a new bottle of homemade vanilla extract that’s about a month old. I have made my own vanilla extract for years and one day recently I noticed I was out. I’m ordering some new vanilla from Sunshine Vanilla and I’m going to make 3 bottles from vodka. In 3 years, the vanilla extract should be wonderful.
Early in January, I met up with Tania Cusack from My Kitchen Stories and she brought me these gifties. I love this oil in a salad dressing! That pink thing is SHARP. Good thing she warned me.
Australia Day was on the 26th and every year there’s a party with with my friends Fran and Chris. Sadly, this was our first Australia Day without Chris who died from cancer late last year. Thankfully Fran has a covered deck because it poured rain all day. I had a wonderful time catching up with old and new friends and it reminded me of an Australia Day in 2004 when I became an Australian citizen. When I got home from the ceremony all our friends were on our verandah wearing yellow hats that said, “I’m Aussie Mauzza’s Mate.” Then they handed me this one.
Holidays like Australia Day and 4th of July make me realise just how lucky I am. I might have a niggly bit here or there but my life could be a whole lot worse. Thanks for being my friend – I really mean that.
I appreciate your visit and if you’d like to be part of the In My Kitchen group, we’d love to peek in your kitchen. Seriously. All you need to do is snap some shots from your kitchen, post it on your blog and link to orgasmicchef.com. I’ve recently taken over In My Kitchen from Celia over at Fig Jam and Lime Cordial and I’ve made some incredible new friends.
Finally, my best friend needs a haircut but he’s still very cute. He’s started going for walkies every day with daddy so now I’m not needed any more.
Yum – I love that you make your own vanilla extract. Thanks so much for hosting the ‘In my kitchen’ link up, here is my post for the month: http://goodfoodweek.com.au/2016/02/life-whats-in-my-kitchen-9/
My kitchen features in my post for today (it’s still January 31 here) … http://maefood.blogspot.com/2016/01/in-my-kitchen-this-weekend.html
I hope your health problems respond to the juice cure!
best… mae at maefood.blogspot.com
Good luck with your health challenges! Remember to prioritize your well-being this month while you juggle the activities of routine life.
My IMK post is up (even though it’s Jan 31 for 4 more hours in Seattle.
http://otm-inthegalley.blogspot.com
My goodness, Maureen, I do hope your pain and health problems improve soon – with all those wonderful fruity antioxidants bouncing around in your system I’m sure you’re giving yourself a big helping hand. You have such lovely friends to welcome you as an Aussie the way they did – it must make you smile every time you look at your cap. I love IMK so I’m very glad you are hosting it. Thank you.
Being unwell is the pits. I hope you can juice your way to better health. I make my own vanilla extract too. It’s almost a necessity for me, because the amount I use would put us in the poorhouse if I had to buy it.
My IMK post is up. Here’s the link. http://milk-and.blogspot.com.au/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february-2016.html
I’ve had back injuries for years, but 2015 brought them to a whole new level. It’s the sort of thing that’s very hard to just forget about, yes? I can relate to your frustration and have sent you good health vibes from Canada!
Thank you so much, R. I’m determined to make 2016 pain free. 🙂 watch this space.
It’s incredible, one month is gone already ! I said I will participated “in my kitchen in january and I didn’t see the time is gone !
I’m sorry for your back pain, my mum has the same problem and I know it’s not funny everyday !
I like to see the new things in your kitchen every month. Charlie looks so cute always !
Oh no back pain is no fun at all. I love your approach to it though and staying positive. I’m a big juicer, have been making lots lately and recently did a cleanse to rebalance lots of berries were involved! Home made Vanilla Vodka sounds the business. Thank you so much for hosting IMK here is my post for the month. http://www.boiledeggsandsoldiers.com/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february/
I thought you must be away on vacation. I’m sorry you’re not feeling well. If you need a backup for juicing you might try chaga. My liver issues cleared up (fatty liver and too much Ibuprophen) when I changed my diet, stopped using Ibuprophen, and started drinking chaga in my tea and coffee. I hope you’ll find relief from all of it soon.
Maureen, if there is someone who can fight any battle, this someone is you!
Just a couple of days ago I read an article and it has some relevance to what you went through, so I hope you allow me to share here?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/patti-digh/no-you-are-not-an-hysteri_b_9110982.html
it is so important to have a doctor who LISTENS. I guess we can all profit from that and making sure we are heard. No one knows our own body like WE do.
If I had a magic wand, I would use it to heal all your boo-boos, one by one. And John’s too.
then I would take Charlie for a walk….
What a frustrating and painful experience for you – at least the juicing can’t hurt and it all sounds very nutritious and healthy. Interesting to read that you sorted out your liver with juices before – that juicer of yours looks like hard work though – is it?
I won’t get an IMK post together this month as I’m travelling and my folks haven’t sorted out wifi in their new place. Which means we will have to talk to each other now… 🙂
PS Charlie is as handsome as ever
Wishing you both a better February than January xx
Your health history makes me think my own was a walk in the park in comparison. It sounds like your strategy to deal with the current issues is a practical one. Best of luck and ‘never give up, never surrender’. You will prevail.
Lovely goodies in your kitchen as usual. You can still see Charlie’s eyes … I think he can wait on that hair cut. That’s MY gauge, anyway. 🙂
I trimmed his nose with sewing shears – he couldn’t see when he went swimming. LOL
A few things – I’m sorry about your back problems and that they hadn’t given your an MRI and/or CAT scan long ago.. And, as far as juicing goes, its better for you body to juice exactly the way you’re doing it – with lots of different kinds of veggies and fruits. I’m hoping to do an ‘In My Kitchen’ soon. I hate to sound so ‘non-computer savvy’ but when I post the ‘In My Kitchen’ on my blog… do I just add the link to your site somewhere in my post? I’m not how that works. THANKS!!
It’s easy to be a part of In My Kitchen and I encourage every blogger to do it. Then send me an email at maureen[@]orgasmicchef.com and let me know you’ve posted or leave it in the comments. I want to link to everyone. 🙂
Oh hon, I’m sorry to hear all that. Getting older really is the pits. I hope you and John are both on the mend very soon. The juicing sounds like a delicious plan! I’ve always made my own vanilla extract as well and isn’t Tania always so generous? She’s a treasure. Take care, my lovely friend, and thanks for uploading my post! xxx
I hope you are feeling better soon!
Back pain can be such a pain, can’t it? Literally, as you know too well. Hope you get things sorted out. Good luck with that, and the juicing. Getting older is largely better, or at least I think so, but the falling apart bit is no fun at all. That part is a continuing saga, alas. Anyway, thanking for sharing a peek into your kitchen. Charlie looks adorable, as always. 🙂
Hi Maureen – know what you mean about getting older – I have recently in the last few months been diagnosed with secondary progressive MS (after trying for a diagnose for about 5 years! so understand what you are saying there too!) – so I too am just working out what I am going to do with my blog as standing for too long is becoming increasing difficult. Anyway hope you get things sorted and thoughts are with you.
Those smoothies sound amazing. The absolute best to you Maureen, I’m pulling for you!!
Oh Maureen darling, you and John have been in the wars something terrible… I am praying that you both come through as good as new real soon! I don’t like getting older either, but it beats the alternative. I have Dr Sandra Cabot’s juice book, I will try and hunt out a couple of her recipes for you… will email them as soon as I can. Good things in your kitchen. xxx
Dr. Cabot cured my liver issues. 🙂
Cool!
I feel deeply for you as back pain is guaranteed to make one feel ancient, no matter one’s chronological age! Hope the injection works and that you beat that kidney problem into submission. I so enjoy your blog. Thank you
Hi Maureen, I hope you feel better, if anyone can you can you have such a positive attitude. How wonderful that you make your own vanilla, that is something that I would love to learn how to do. Take care, Cheri
I wish you all the best with your new treatment and hope you get some relief from the needles. Your juices look really fabulous. If they work for you, then that’s all that matters. This is what most sensible doctors would say. Might drag out my old juicer too.
I’m sorry to hear about your health issues. Back pain is definitely no fun. Hopefully both of you feel better soon. That is one of the best juicers in my opinion! Fresh juices are the best!?
I have been thinking of you, Maureen, and wondering how you are. I’m so sorry to hear about your back – that’s very debilitating and must be quite frustrating. I do hope you receive good news from the scans. I believe in the power of juicing and I’ve been reading a bit about the importance of eating an alkaline diet – at least 80% of our diet should be alkaline foods as acidity in our systems cause diseases. Meat, alcohol, processed foods and sugar are acidic! I’m sure you will get great results from your juicing. What a lovely gift from Tania. I’m impressed you make your own vanilla extract xx
Vanilla extract is made by opening a bottle of vodka and tossing in split vanilla pods. It’s not exactly rocket science. 🙂 I just like that I know what’s in it.
I just typed a full comment and when I hit post the whole thing disappeared. Long story short get better.
Yes Ma’am!! 🙂
Good health is one of those things we perpetually take for granted, until we don’t have it. I’m sure your efforts will make a huge difference. Here’s my post for this month. https://napolirestaurantalert.wordpress.com/2016/02/01/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/
Hi Maureen, Not sure where to add my post so I’ll pop it here. Thanks.
https://almostitalian.wordpress.com/2016/02/02/in-my-kitchen-simply-red-february-2016/
I’m really sorry it has taken so long to get the attention of your doctors and to finally schedule the tests and procedures you need for relief. It seems to be that way for so many, and I had to smile at your comment about aging! It’s not of sissies, that’s for sure. I can remember being a very young woman and my mother-in-law laughing and saying to me, “Don’t get old.” At the time, I thought it was just funny. Now I see her point in an entirely different light. I think your juicing routines are very cleansing and that has to be helpful to your overall health and well-being. I’ll definitely be following to see how you get along. I’m sure you’ll do well now that you’re getting the attention you needed all along!
My mother has dealt with back pain for many years. I don’t know what you are going through but i admire your stamina. Getting old is not fun, but as my father in law says-it beats the alternative. Seems like you are taking matters into your own hands I’m sure that Charlie is very happy about this!
Well I do hope your back gets sorted very soon! I am with you and the juices! I love my Oscar, its fabulous… I don’t use it as much as I use to, but I hope to get back into it soon! 3 years for your vanilla extract… i use mine after about only 6 months… maybe I need to make a big batch and let it sit for a while 🙂
Thanks for sharing!
Liz xx
Wishing you good luck in getting a definitive diagnosis and effective treatment. Tap dancing again in no time, right? Your juices look temptingly tasty as well as healthy – you have inspired me to reassess my diet.
Now about that vanilla; must it cure for 3 years before you use it?
The glass is half-full or more! Am writing this one hour after ambos brought me back from 13 days in Bowral Private! We REALLY should compare notes 🙂 ! Except in addition to just about all yours shall lose one unnecessary gallbladder etc et al in near future!!! Or so they think 🙂 !!! OK – had the bestest doctor in Bowral who, some time during a long weekend, managed to say ‘well, Eha. some of it IS age’ – I am afraid I poked my tongue out at him. . . he laughed . . . and now that is a rather fun comment on the streets . . . good luck! Sandra Cabot great . . . but keep on reading more . . . . luv!!!
I will, and I took her advice and also listened to my body. So far so good.
Dear Maureen, You are so brave. I admire your discipline and your willingness to dive into juice…That does seem to be the solution to many ills according to SoCal health foodies..(I need my sweets fix.) Seriously, I admire your stamina…And your sharp but cute pink scraper…Of course, my favorite photo is of the adorable Charlie =) Keep taking good care of you <3
Sorry Maureen…Looks like I was supposed to add my #InMyKitchen
link url <3 http://ninjabaker.com/node/814
I linked it already – it works for me. 🙂
Hello pretty boy! And hello Maureen too…:))
Bummer to hear about your health woes, I’m sure tons of us can empathise with you. On that note, what can we do to help you?
Don’t you just love juice? Once you adapt (& particularly in this humidity) it is just a fabulous new little taste sensation every time.
Cheers huni…I’ll PM you xx
So frustrating when medicos fob you off, just hope they get the same treatment from their mates. Juicing is the way to go IMHO. I followed the Gawler diet and meditation regime for 12+ months after radical gut surgery. I made a miraculous recovery and have to say I was at my fittest ever. We have to confront the ageing thing head on, especially when you consider the alternative! Be kind to yourself Maureen. Do something that makes your heart sing every day, even if it’s just stopping to pat your beloved Charlie. Here’s my IMK post for Feb. http://pleasepasstherecipe.com/2016/02/02/in-my-kitchen-feb-16/
Sorry to hear about your aliments, pain can really get you down. I am sure all your fresh juicing will brighten your days as will your cute little dog 🙂
So sorry to hear of your pain Maureen and the frustrating time with doctors. Good luck with all your juicing – sounds like a nice way to seek wellness. And good luck with your blogging – it must be hard with all this ill health
I have uploaded an In My Kitchen post to share – http://gggiraffe.blogspot.com/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february-2016.html
So sorry to hear about your health issues. My father in law went through a kidney transplant, hopefully all your juicing and healthy diet will clear up your problems before it gets that far. I usually use my homemade vanilla after about 6 months, maybe I should be making more and waiting longer. I’m actually due to make some any day now, just need to order some vanilla beans. Charlie is looking adorable as always. Take care of yourself and wishing you a speedy diagnosis/recovery. Here’s my post this month http://feedingmy3sons.com/2016/02/02/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/#more-2813
I’m praying that this new year will be a healthy and wonderful year for both of you! It makes me sad to think of you in pain 🙂 Love peeking into your kitchen, there’s always something delicious and fun!
We have missed you and I hoped it wasn’t a medical issue that kept you from posting. Very sorry about the troubles. I will keep you and John in my prayers for a speedy, painless, complete recovery. Hang in there – and yes – getting older kinda sux.
Yeah, I wouldn’t go for green smoothies either. Fingers crossed they help your kidney functions. And I also hope you get some relief for your pain ASAP. I’m sorry you’re going through this!!! xo
P.S. Give Charlie some kisses from me!
Dear Maureen, I can’t imagine how awful this has been for you, trying to get answers and help. XO I’m so proud of you for taking charge of your health and building such nutritious things into your diet. I can only think that it must help. XO
Hi Maureen, have left a previous comment but did not add the link to my IMK post so here it is… Thank you xx http://foodandtools.com/2016/02/01/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/
All fixed, Moya!
Maureen! I am so sorry to hear that this back thing has you down. Sounds like you are addressing it head on though. I know it sounds crazy – but please post some of your juicing recipes – even if taking a photo is too much for your back. Most of us could figure out what a glass of juice looks like. If you would share what you focused on with your sick liver, I would appreciate it! I too have a sick liver (from Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever) and I never even considered juicing. I’m willing to do anything though. So – any tips, hints or tricks would be appreciated! I praying that you feel better soon and that your tests reveal what is really going on.
Peace,
Wendi
I use a masticating juicer that puts very little air in the juice so it holds for 48 hours. That’s a good thing because ‘slow juicing’ takes about an hour a day so it’s a real commitment. I juiced one beet, a hunk of red cabbage, 2 apples, 5 carrots, and an inch of fresh ginger in every juice. Then, to bulk it up, I added any fruit and veg I had in the house. For the liver, it’s beets, red cabbage and apples. The rest just makes the juice palatable.
I’m so sorry to hear about your medical challenges Maureen. I know you weren’t looking for sympathy, but you nonetheless have mine! I hope the injection helps with the pain and the juices do their job – the certainly look full of nutrition.
I’ve just posted my IMK post at http://www.bitesizedthoughts.com/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february-2016.html
I am so sorry to read of your wows Maureen but I can certainly sympathize, Saturday to Monday was spent in the hospital because I had my first diverticulitis attack, not very pleasant. I’m on the mend now with some minor repercussions from the antibiotics but we’re working through it. Fortunately for both of us, we have extremely supportive husbands who jump at the chance to take care of us! I too believe in health through what we eat and your story resonates with me. I did the juicing thing for a while, but I wasn’t up against a wall either (I believe you cured yourself, what a closed minded doctor). I believe you will cure yourself this time too. I sure hope the scans will not show anything serious.I’ll be sending lots of love your way all the way from Canada!
Becoming a citizen is something I haven’t thought about because I was born in Canada but recently I have been reading about the pride one feels and I can just imagine how choked up that ceremony made you when you became an Australian citizen. And then to have all your friends celebrate with you is something even more wonderful.
I just love that you are hosting the IMK series and plan to take part of it when I get my act together. I will one of these days. What a lovely gift from Tania, you have a wonderful group commenting on your blog.
woe not wows!
I can read typo 🙂
I am so sorry to learn of your ill health Maureen and hope the your juicing efforts help. The beetroot and mango one looks yummy. Please also find my iMK post. http://allotment2kitchen.blogspot.co.uk/2016/02/parsnip-poridge-and-green-granola-in-my.html
I’m sorry to hear you have been unwell Maureen! I’ve missed seeing you about so thought I’d stop by as see where you were at. I love your In My Kitchen. I’ve been making my own vanilla extract too…I gifted it at Christmas and have a batch of my own that I am keen to let go a while longer before using.
I love In My Kitchen – I just might give it a whirl … I’ll pop back with a link 🙂
Yay!!
I think my link and a few others must have slipped under the radar Maureen x
http://pleasepasstherecipe.com/2016/02/02/in-my-kitchen-feb-16/
I think my link and Green Gourmet Giraffe are still missing, unless I’m totally missing it which is certainly not impossible having just had two sick kids at home!
Can you refresh? It shows just fine for me and I haven’t done anything different. It’s right after Bite Sized Thoughts.
I concur about the aging! Good luck with the remedies, I should really drag out my juicer and filter some of the toxins out too.
let me know how it goes 🙂
So sorry to hear about your woes my friend. Keep smiling and I’ll be sending warm thoughts from down south. x
Oh man, I want a juicer SO BAD… It is so high up on my BUY NOW list!! lol! – http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com
Oh Maureen, that is no good to hear about your pains at all! I’m wishing you all the luck and pushing good vibes and well wishes your way. And green juice without the good bits? Sounds absolutely miserable. I’d hate that. My favourite combo is: carrot, beetroot and pear. Definitely give that a go and there are two veggies in that but they’re sweet ones 🙂 xxx
Hi Maurz,
I’m pleased they can do something about your back. I had noticed you weren’t writing as much and I wondered how you were feeling. Good on you for re-starting your juicing regime. I try to make a smoothie each morning for the kids so they get more of a variety of vitamins and minerals at breakfast. Sometimes I even add a glass to my breakfast coffee ritual.
Thanks for the read, take care of yourself and John
Julie
Gourmet Getaways
Gosh Maureen, you have been in the wars – I often say to my husband with my poor health “if I was a dog I’d be put down!!” you have to laugh don’t you 🙂 But seriously, big hugs to you and hope you can get some relief from both. Here’ my hook up this month and thanks for hosting all of us kitchen nuts as we’d be lost without you xxxxx Jan x
http://agluttonouswife.blogspot.com.au/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february-216.html
I hope you’re feeling better, Maureen. I’ve been taking some Ibuprofen recently for a toothache and then a cold- I think I’ll stop now after you told me about the kidney complaint. (The one good thing resulting from the toothache was the fact that the dentist I saw here in the US actually paid for my cab ride home)! I’ve definitely got it on my ‘to do’ list to make my own vanilla extract using your recipe!
I hope you feel better soon Maureen, this getting old sucks as far as I’m concerned while I am sitting here with my neck brace. I just got a Vitamimix and I have a smoothie for breakfast but than I eat regular meals for the rest of the days. My girlfriend adds a protein mix to her juices. Wishing you the best.
Oh Maureen, I’ve been wondering about you – and I’m sorry to hear this and hope your kidneys improve and your back can begin to heal too. You are right, docs seem to put off tests till things are way off – why is that, I dunno.
Glad you are juicing – I’m no expert, but I’ve heard that pineapple and beet juice are good for kidney issues – some say cranberry too.
That homemade vanilla must be so much better than the store bought stuff! And Charlie sure is adorable – with or without a haircut!
Good luck with the juicing I hope it helps with everything and that 2016 WILL be a good year for you and John 😀 I make my own vanilla extract as well you can’t beat it!
Hi Maureen
Hope you are feeling better soon. As always, Charlie is gorgeous.
Here is the link to my IMK post. http://passionfruitgarden.com/2016/02/06/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/
Cheers.
What lovely things in your kitchen, Maureen.
Thanks for hosting IMK this month Here’s mine: https://thenotsocreativecook.wordpress.com/2016/02/06/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/
Best wishes to you and John.
Have a lovely week ahead. x
so sorry to hear you and john are not well. it makes you very miserable doesn’t it? i think having all the fresh fruit and veg is a great idea. Get better soon:) . I love having my own vanilla extract on the go too. I buy my pods from up north as they are actually grown up there- i like to use Aussie made and grown. And i adore olive oil pressed with citrus. One of my faves is from south australia- so delish. (sorry i am sounding like an ad!)
here is my post: http://sherryspickings.blogspot.com.au/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february-2016.html
thinking of you
sherry xx
Sorry to hear about all your troubles lately, how frustrating it is that doctors dismiss your concerns when you know your body and know something isn’t right. I believe in the power of fruits and vegetables, so I look forward to seeing what juice combinations you come up with! Wishing you all the best from over here.
I hope your back is on the mend and that shot does the trick. Getting older is certainly not for the faint of heart (and the Drs keep getting younger). Your program of juicing is interesting, I look forward to hearing if it helps. Doesn’t seem like it would hurt, all those lovely fruits and vegetables. I’ve been debating getting a high speed blender or juicer myself.
Thank you for hosting.
Forgot to send the link to my post, here it is:
http://spadesspatulasandspoons.com/2016/02/08/february-in-my-second-kitchen/
Be well,
Liz
I’m a firm believer that one of the most important things for good health is a positive attitude. Looks like you are right on track!
Here’s my post for the month: http://thoughtsofamoni.blogspot.in/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february.html
Hi Maureen,
That juice looks delicious!
My IMK post is up as well at http://www.cookswithevie.com, thanks for hosting!
Maureen darling, here is my post for February. Hope Rob and John are okay! Much love. http://www.bizzylizzysgoodthings.com/blog/in-my-kitchen-february-2016
Well get better, lady! Old, did you say old??? my 75th is lurking around the 24th and I have a few aches and pains as well. Hope you get some help soon.
Hi Maureen, hope you feel better soon. Aches & pains in your body are annoying, especially when the brain is full of life! Be kind to yourself and take things easy. I just love your vanilla essence – I can smell it from here 😉 Happy #IMK http://missfoodfairy.com/2016/02/09/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/
Life has really thrown the two of you some medical challenges lately. My husband is going through some issues too but jokingly says that getting old isn’t for sissies and that it beats the alternative. It sounds as though you have made a good start with helping your body get better. My hope is that all can be cured soon.
Oh dear! So sorry to hear you have been unwell. I hope you feel better soon. It is good you are taking charge and watching out for your own body. I must say I have been guilty of doing that since a small accident 4 years ago where apparently I had a foot fracture but never went to the doctor, just hobbled everywhere thinking it was a sprain and hoped it would get better. 4 years on, the pain with every footstep had gotten so bad, I thought I was going to lose my leg :-(. I have reduced my working days to start extensive physiotherapy (2 months into it now). They reckon it will be slow and many months before it starts getting better. But there is hope. So don’t give hope up Maureen. Sending you hugs 🙂 x
You keep popping into my thoughts Maureen, sorry you are dealing with continued back pain too, what a total sh$t. I wish I could help in someway, but know my thoughts and healing energy are with you for a super speedy recovery. Love that you are juicing like a superstar, I meant to kick my juicing off again after Australia Day, havent. Sigh!!! Sure looks like you have some rad stuff happening in your kitchen and Charlie, well Charlie is my fave, such a cutie. 🙂
Oh you sound like you have been in a lot of pain! It’s amazing how changing diet can help with such afflictions and unfortunate that many doctors are not aware of helpful movements such as juicing and smoothies. Well done for being so proactive. I’m very sorry about your friend, Chris. Lovely ending to your post with a pic of your furry BFF.
Here’s my IMK link http://twigsandtwine.blogspot.com.au/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february-2016.html
Thanks for hosting IMK this month! So good of you to take control of your health, I hope things are on the improve quickly. I really must finally make my own vanilla extract – I keep telling myself I need to photograph the process and instead simply avoid making it! (my contribution for the month is here – http://84thand3rd.com/2016/02/10/in-my-kitchen-december-february-2016/) 🙂
Thanks for hosting once again, Maureen! I am so sorry to hear about you and John’s health. I can imagine how frustrating and worrying that can be.
The juice is a gorgeous colour! What is the pink thing Tania gave you? Hope you didn’t cut a finger!
Here is my entry – it’s still the 10th in Ireland – by the skin of my teeth!
http://spooninasaucepan.com/2016/02/11/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/
Hi Maureen, Thanks for hosting IMK! It’s great that you are taking control of your health,and I wish you the best. My two cents add some fresh turmeric in that juicer, it will help cut down on inflammation and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat kidney problems. All the best! Here’s my IMK link: http://cookingforkishore.blogspot.com/2016/02/in-my-kitchen-february-2016.html
I am a huge believer that food can heal many ills, so glad to hear you have had some success already. I am not a fan of green smoothies either, but do throw handfuls of lettuce and spinach into juices if I have some left in the crisper. You can’t taste them if you add lots of grapes 🙂 I hope you are feeling better soon.
After a few months I have finally managed an IMK post – http://thecookspyjamas.com/in-my-kitchen-february-2016/
Hi Maureen,
I hope I’m not too late to join the challenge.
Warm wishes for a speedy recovery.
Damn Girl!!!!!!!!!!! You have been thru the wringer. I am sooooooo sorry! I don’t blame your for the anger part. But it’s good that you are moving forward with a VERY viable plan. So I think things are looking up.
Now at least you know what you are dealing with. Excellent. Sending you Good Vibes!!!!
I’ve met so many people recently who’ve cured really quite desperate illnesses by a change of diet, I wonder why I’m amazed. We are definitely what we eat. I do hope it works for you maureen. Back pain is dreadful, really debilitating but if a shot can cure it then roll on or is it roll over? 😉 Love you r wooly fickle doggy. GG
sorry to hear of all your health woes, sounds awful. Am sure all that fresh fruit and veg juice must be doing something positive. Hope you get some answers soon.
Hi Maureen – I hope you feel better soon! Like you, I always turn to healthier foods when I’m not feeling well.
Maureen – came on line to try and find you and discovered others as worried had posted as late as today! So here we go!! Cannot say anything else but that I DO care and understand more than most and hope you can keep on top of the triad!! Have just spent over two weeks in Bowral Private – guess why – back[mobility], liver, kidneys . . . darlingHeart I DO understand and I DO wish you at least some solutions and some opportunities to become better . . . oh sheeesh, why did you not believe ’em about the bloody iboprufen!!!!!! Oh, am thinking about your darling husband . . .
So sorry to hear about all the health issues you are enduring. I really hope you can get them resolved soon. Living with pain is no fun at all. I have knee issues and can relate, which is not easy. Take care of yourself and yours!
Dear Maureen,
You are addictively hilarious. Sorry to hear about Chris but love the cap. I love vanilla extract on ice cream and desserts but what caught my attention was “V O D” 🙂
Yikes, your life really is full of lumps and bumps at the moment. Sending love to you and your hubby (and yr father-in-law) and wishing you all a speedy recovery. You manage to keep smiling through despite everything, Maureen. Here’s hoping 2016 eases up a little on you and starts dropping wonderful things into your lap instead of dropping a load of cr*p on your head.
Maureen, keep juicing; there’s definitely power in it. Hope you get relief soon. My dear MIL had a magnet on her fridge “Getting old isn’t for sissies.” Isn’t that the truth!
I have been out of the loop for while and am now back. So sorry to learn of your back pain and can totally relate, pain surely saps ones energy. Wishing you speedy recovery.
Maureen, just heard the news from Fran, so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine how painful this is 🙁 . Such a great loss, praying for you and your family.
“I’m on another quest for wellness…” Maureen, we don’t know each other well, but from what I have gathered in the years I’ve been following along, you are a determined woman with a strong go-get-em for life. I look forward to hearing good reports throughout the coming year and pray for restoration in your health as you fight the good fight. ((hugs))
Snap on making homemade vanilla extract. I too purchased beans from Sunshine Vanilla (they are glorious beans) and I have a vodka, and a bourbon bottle brewing. I mainly use the vodka for baking, so much that I need to top up – thanks for the reminder. Thank you too Maureen for being so honest and opening up to us about your health. I wish you all the very best with your health journey. I will endeavour to get back into the IMK groove soon! All the very best, Kirsty
Hello. I found you today by accident when you posted a comment on someone else’s blog. I was taken with your orgasmic name and thought I’d pop in to see what it was all about. So glad I did, I’ve enjoyed traveling around your site, and joined your e-mail list. Looking forward to more stories from Australia, a relief from the searing heat here in Arizona.
It’s pretty hot over here in Queensland but it’s a humid heat up here. Today is the first day of Autumn but I can’t tell by going outside. Thanks so much for visiting. I love making new friends.
I had problems with my kidneys when I went down with glandular fever when i was younger… they said the damage was irreversible – I also juiced, and now completely fine! Think there is something in the whole juicy healthy eating thing 😀
Big gentle hugs to get you better!
Sad I couldn’t join in again this month but hope to get a March one done tomorrow 🙂 I’ll have some lovely chicken salads, and pulled pork recipes. More fruit infused water mixes too!
Ooo vanilla extract I’ll have to try that – I’ve not made my own before!
Have a lovely day – love from the UK
xxx
Ever been to an osteopath? A physiological has a recipe for every area of the body but they can work in a very non-diagnostic way and only with the musculoskeletal system. An osteopath trains for four years and his or her work will incorporate every system in the body. They are hands on and diagnostic. I had back pain for years and managed and eventually cured it with osteo and weekly yoga. Got to know my body a lot better too. I love osteopaths because you tell them roughly what’s wrong and then they stand you in front of them and look at how your body bends, or doesn’t, get an idea of what’s going on, then they lie you down and very gently feel and manipulate, and before long you find they have literally put their finger on the spot. Very few GPs ever lay their hands on anybody with back pain and in my experience they know stuff all about it. That’s why they’re called General practitioners. I always recommend osteopathy to anyone with back pain. I usually find people are quite resistant to listening because they’ve usually got preconceived ideas about what it’s like. But if there’s just a little chink of curiosity there, I’d recommend you try one!