Part two of the Benlysta Blues

Diet and exercise, the two go together. But I deal with an auto-immune disease call Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, just one of the more than one hundred forms of arthritis. On my lowest days when the lupus is winning and all I want to do is crash and eat whatever will make me feel better that's a challenge. There's a world of difference between what might make me feel better mentally and what really will make the difference physically. I'm human and when that choice is between a slice of cheesecake and a meal with plenty of foods that act as anti-inflammatories I haven't always made the right choice. Welcome to being human. But with a new mindset and plan thanks to Genevieve Sanders, BS, RDN, LDN, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for BayCare Fitness Centers I'm focusing on foods that will make a difference and not as much on the numbers – like those on the scale every morning. This is what's making a big difference and making me feel so much more successful. Sure, it takes a little work and planning but that is what makes it work. I have plenty of busy friends who take one day a week to meal plan and cook, and it makes life much easier. I go for those delicious pans of roasted veggies, maybe something in the crockpot but all with one thing in mind. It takes so good and it's good for me. More fish, That's all I want. I'm not looking for rapid weight loss which is in no way healthy, I want to make that change in my life that I can live with.

Now this sure didn’t help this week. My stove decided it had enough and stop working. The burners were shutting down and since I’ve had it quite a while it was time to get a new one. I did keep that easy as well; it’s kind of like not shopping when you’re hungry. I wasn’t in the mood to shop at all, so I did my research, found what I wanted for an excellent price at Famous Tate and arranged for delivery at my convenience. That’s a big plus as well for lessening the stress in my life. I learn to say no more often and look for solutions that benefit everyone. Now this is going to be the fun part. I have to ability to use it for convection cooking which is great for baking. I’m looking forward to using it and saving a little time and electricity and would welcome your input at @ann.kelly@coxinc.com.. Recipes, do’s and don’ts and all that fun stuff.

Thanks for listening, and I’m looking forward to hearing from you.

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM ANN KELLY’S KITCHEN

Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. – Charles Swindoll