Two Weeks and Two Days

That's how long it's been since I've taken the top eight allergins out of my diet. Crazy! That's sixteen days with no wheat, milk, soy, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish {some kinds} and shell fish. 

The most common question people ask me is, "is it really hard?!" Honestly, it's not too bad. Sure, there are things I miss... like just being able to go in a cabinet and grab a snack, or at the end of a rough day just being able to order a pizza. But other than that, I'm feeling healthier and despite the few afternoons when I realize I have nothing I can eat for lunch, more satisfied with the food I do eat. 

A renewed way of thinking about food. I think this is key to making this a success. I'm learning more about nutrition, how to plan meals out to make shopping cheaper and easier, and ways to combine what I like with what I can eat to make tasty meals. You may not think this is a big deal, but for me, it's huge! 

I'm excited because I know that even when I can go back to eating "normal", it will be a different normal. The things I have learned in these sixteen days will stay with me as I prepare meals from now on. I am thankful that this journey has {already} led me to helping my family eat healthier.

As far as Lucas goes, he's still doing the same. His pediatrician said that it takes about two weeks for the "bad food" to get out of my system, about another two weeks to get out of his system and then another week or two for his digestive tract to heal. So, we're still looking at quite a few more weeks, but it's great to know we're one step closer to figuring this whole thing out.

And seriously, look at him- he's he may have gas and mucus in his stool, but he's a happy guy!

The other day some of my friends were praying for me and this whole journey. They were assuring me that there is a bigger picture to all of this. The things I'm learning, not just about food, but sacrifice and love, are things that are going to be key in raising my boys. If that alone is something that I get out of this, then it's all worth it. If Lucas has allergies to every one of the top eight allergins {God, let it not be so!!}, but I learn to better love my boys through it, then bring it on.