Baby, it's a castle outside

Today I had my lovely Remicade.

However, I was incredibly grumpy due to a poor sleep, forgetting to pack a snack, no morning tea (UGH!), and was late for my appointment. I got the snakiest look from reception when I was checking in. It's not my fault that my usual transportation is gone, and I had to walk. In -20 weather (which, in my Northern reality, is actually quite balmy).

Thus.... none of the usual Remicade photos. But you can always link back to admire IVs in my hand and various Remicade snacks HERE.

So... what is a young lady to do in a cold, frigid town?

Explore a castle made of ice. OBVIOUSLY.

For 20 years, the Snow King has made his castle of ice and snow for Yellowknifers to enjoy. He (and his crew) went ALL out this year. It was an impressive monstrosity, including a bar (made of ice, of course), a stage, a AMAZING ice slide, various tunnels, and latrines. There were even snow sculptures outside to welcome you in.

But, really... the photos speak for themselves.

Well, hello there sailor.

Apparently I was pleased with the photographer...

The bar made of ice!!

The stage during a Stand Up comedy night:

I snuck away while the bevy of local talent made the crowd guffaw. I was more interested in the ice slide, which was (and this is a very rare occurrence) not overrun with people. In fact, I was the only person enjoying the slide. It was beautiful, dark, with a million stars in the sky.

The slide in it's daytime glory:

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

And, to anyone who reads who is not from my Northern home, the castle is built on a giant frozen lake. Yes... we walked, drove, and partied atop several thick feet of ice.

There may have even been a Brrrlesque show at the castle, of which I may have been partaking in. However, I was to chilled to remember to take any photos. Boo.

Sadly, the castle has been closed for the season and will melt into a royal pile of slush. It had a grand run, and I look forward to what's in store for next season.

Hi There

Hi There Stranger.

So... has it really been six months since I've posted? It has? 

My Bad.

A hectic six months it has been. No word of a lie. I had good intentions to blog, write about the goings-on here in the cold North, and keeping tabs on my Remicade infusions. But, you know ... sleep, food, work, etc happened. Especially sleep, I have been aggressively protective of any extra minute of sleep I can gain. Constant business can do that to a lady.

A brief breakdown of the last six months, to exemplify why my blog has been collecting proverbial internet dust:

October

I began a new job (a permanent position!), and this month was orientation. I spend much time going home after work and looking through new guidelines, manuals, and researching health topics that were new to my practice. I love learning and being challenged professionally, so it was an exciting month in that aspect. I was fortunate that I was taking over the role from a previous preceptor of mine, whom I admire for her seemingly endless wealth of knowledge. I am also fortunate that I have some incredible co-workers, who guided me through this new role and answered my questions as I maneuvered through a mountain of new information. 

I attended a Run for Our Lives event on 16 October 2014. It was an event to raise funds and awareness regarding breast cancer. As breast cancer runs in my family, I felt it was important to support this event. I went with my Mom. There was some yoga, a dinner (the curried sweet potato soup was DELICIOUS) and discussion of nutrition from Lorie Crawford RHN, and a friend spoke about alternative beauty products. A worthwhile event!

I also went to a wine gala. It was ... meh. Small finger foods (not much on the dairy-gluten-free front) and a very crowded room. Some okay wine, but being shoulder-to-shoulder in line waiting for a small sample is not my idea of a fun evening. Also .... very few seats and many women in heels. My poor feet. Will not attend a second time.

I also discovered this amazingness, which I've been eating every day since:

Also amazing, during my Remicade infusion:

November

Orientation over, ready for work just in time for flute flu season. This month I learned a great deal about many communicable disease and vaccines, specifically the flu vaccine. Read more about it here (Public Health Agency of Canada) and here (Immunize Canada). Very interesting stuff (aka I'm a nerd).

While I was influenza-free (yes, I did get my vaccine!), I did get a nasty sinus infection that dragged on for about two weeks. My neti-pot became my best friend (so much so that I dropped and shattered it, requiring an urgent replacement should my congested nasal passages cause unearthly snoring).

I also joined Brrrlesque, "the hottest show in town" (seriously... tickets sold out in just seconds last year). I thought I would be unable to attend due to another obligation, but that fell through and dreams of glitter and spotlights danced in my head. I asked if any groups needed a spare for their piece, and back into rehearsals I was! This lead on to many months of rehearsals, costume alterations, loops of music replayed continuously to the annoyance of others. And spending time with some of the most incredible women.

December

Remicade again. December 24th, 2014 marked year four of this potent medication pulsing through my veins, allowing me to have a chance at a normal quality of life. My UC has never been this well behaved. Let's hope it keeps working for many years to come:

I also had my first EVER trip to Toronto, Ontario - for Christmas and New Years, no less!

It was a trip with my handsome man, to see his stomping grounds and meet the family (or, as my Mother says, "the outlaws"). Scott was kind enough to inform the family about my dietary concerns - and, much to my surprise and delight, had a dairy-gluten free Christmas dinner prepared. His Mom even purchased some of my favorite fruits and snacks so I wouldn't go hungry. His family rocks.

He also surprised me with a gift of tickets to some of the attractions to see in Toronto - Casa Loma, Zoo, Royal Ontario Museum, Science Center, CN Tower. Yes, those are in order from my most favorite to "yay another high tower" rating. Sadly, we did not make it to any Leaf games (although their season has been crummy).

Although, I did get to meet someone pretty fantastic...

*Commence Canadian Geeking Out*

He also introduced me to some delicious places to eat, which is a magnificent treat considering the limited restaurant choices in the small city of Yellowknife. Even more-so, places that can accommodate my delightful dietary issues. I still dream about Burrito Boyz and tapas. 

January

Happy new year?

My Grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. I am close with my Grandmother, and the thought of the struggled ahead of her with this diagnosis made my heart ache. I began planning when I could visit to help her with the ordeal of medical appointments, pending procedures, and potentially chemotherapy.

It was also Brrrlesque photoshoot time. I was fortunate to have a foxy friend complete my makeup for me. I felt like a shiny Burlesque star:

Photo Credit: Tara Marchiori at Chasing Light Studio

Brrrlesque was a nice reprieve from worries about my Grandmother, and was a much-needed confidence booster. Getting dolled up and having a sisterhood of amazing women telling you that you are also amazing is the jump I needed.

February

This was a hectic month. I had my Remicade to start the month off, then Brrrlesque rehearsals increased as the pending show was at the end of the month. 

It was also damn cold outside.

I then went to Victoria for two weeks to help Grandma. It looked more like this:

She began chemotherapy. It was hard at times, but I appreciated every moment we had together. I don't know what I would have done without Scott's help, he was the best confidant/supporter/chauffeur I could have asked for.

I did see my friend Sarah while I was there, who introduced me to Origin Bakery. I had the best gluten-free, vegan bread I've ever had. I bought five loafs of the Vega bread to bring home. I ate one loaf while I was there.

The Brrrlesque show was a massive hit. We brought glitter to the city over three miraculous days.

Playing Alice in Brrrlesqueland, dancing to Sway, and opening the show were my contributions - which were filled with so much joy and energy. I can't wait to do it again next year. I even made the local newspaper!

March

My only focus right now is getting a little rest ... and preparing for another Brrrlesque show in a castle made of snow!

Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe

It is full-on Autumn here in the North. Which has made for some stunning days...

... and breathtaking nights

Credit: James MacKenzie Photography

I live in the most stunning place in the entire world, bar none.

On the cooler Autumn days I have been craving some warm comfort foods. My former favorite was canned cream of mushroom soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. As much as I reminisce of this comfort meal that I'd have as a young'un, living out in the outskirts of the city, it is not an ideal meal for me anymore. 

It's full of gluten, dairy, and processed yuck.

The ingredients in the soup is chicken broth, mushrooms, butter, dried potatoes, white wine, modified corn starch, onion powder, salt, flavour (barley), modified milk ingredients, dried chives, dried garlic, sugar, spices.

I decided to make an alternative to cream of mushroom soup that was free of dairy and sugar. If I can make a version of my former favorite that is palatable and easy on my gut, it will makes for a cozier Autumn for my belly.

A few failed versions and bland soups later, I finally hit the mark. Creamy, flavourful, and easy to make. Even my Dad was a fan! The secret? A nut based "cream" and lots of delicious herbs!

Creamy Mushroom Soup

• 1 Tbsp Earth Balance
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1/2 Sweet Onion
• 1 Carrot
• 1.5 Celery Stalk
• 1 Portobello Mushroom
• 8-10 Brown Mushrooms
• 2 Oyster Mushrooms
• 1 Tsp Fresh Parsley
• 1 Tsp Dried Sage
• 1 Tsp Dried Thyme 
• 3/4 cup Dry White Wine (I used Chardonnay)
• 2 Cups Chicken Broth 
• 1 Cup Walnuts
• Hot water
• Himalayan Sea Salt
• Pepper

1. Melt Earth Balance in large soup pot. Add olive oil and chopped onion, carrot, celery. Cook on medium heat until onion is transparent. 
2. Add chopped mushrooms, cook and stir occasionally for 8-10 minutes.
3. Add chopped herbs, stir.
4. Add white wine and cook on medium-high heat until alcohol is mostly cooked off ... will have less of a alcohol smell.
5. Add chicken broth. Put on low heat and cover for 15 minutes.
6. Add walnuts to a high-powered blender (like my beloved Vitamix) and enough hot water to cover. Blend until smooth. 
7. Add soup mixture to blender one ladle at a time, blending until smooth (or leave it chunkier if that's your preference). 
8. Salt and pepper to taste. 
9. Enjoy!

I like my soup thick and smooth, so if you prefer a more watery texture, add more broth!

I am very happy with the outcome of this recipe. Although I still have to forgo grilled cheese sandwiches, this is a very delicious alternative to the store-bought soup.I look forward to chowing down on the leftovers for lunch tomorrow, and I am not a fan of leftovers!

"How do you get your protein" / Chocolate Avocado Smoothie

I love love LOVE long weekends! I've been sleeping in like it's my job.

See the rainbow?

Even better, the crisp nip of autumn air has crept in overnight. I love it. I am more apt to enjoy the outdoors in cooler weather than during sweltering summer days. I love bundling up in a cozy sweater and toque - then going for a walk or a bike ride. Or, just getting cozy with a cup of tea and a warm blanket when it's rainy.

Boy oh boy... has it been raining!

Yesterday on Facebook I posted a photo of a smoothie I had made as a late lunch, and there was a request to share the recipe. I picked up the habit of having smoothies as meals when I was in the worst flare I've had with my UC - I was seeing a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, whom had put me on low-residue and high-nutrient "diet" for several months. Smoothies were a staple, as I could not tolerate raw vegetables and was nauseated at the thought of most solid foods. I was also only eating plant-based foods at that time - for the purpose of eating a significant amount of anti-inflammatory foods and personal choice. I found that, while avoiding animal products AND being chronically ill, I never had any difficulty with getting nutrients into myself. Protein seemed to be of biggest concern to my GI, but with the assistance of my RHN - this was never a problem!

Since the question of plant-based protein is brought to my attention fairly frequently (aka "How do you get your protein"), here is a cute infographic from kriscarr.com:

While I do eat some animal products now (No eggs or dairy - and I opt for organic), I still eat a significant amount of legumes, hemp seeds, tofu, nuts (soaked or milk), seeds (especially chia!), and dark green veggies.

With my smoothies, I also opt for delicious protein powders. I usually use Vega, but my preference for chocolate flavor is Sunwarrior.

As you can see on the package, it is gluten/soy/dairy/GMO free. I also like that it contains all essential amino acids and is easy to digest (at least for my delicate gut)!

There is also 15 grams of protein per scoop - two scoops is HALF of my daily requirements for protein!

Along with the protein powder, I add a scoop of a "super green" to my smoothies. Extra nutrition!

I like this protein powder as it has several super foods: hemp, botanical nutrients, and maca. I am a huge fan of maca, as it is a root that is found to be helpful in hormonal balance, decreasing the stress hormone cortisol, and has many vitamins (A, B, C, D, E) and plant sterols. There are even some studies that are looking into the use of maca for hot flashes in menopausal women!

Check out the nutrition label:

Another 14 gram of protein. And the manganese!!

This all led up to a very filling smoothie, some of which I had to save for a snack today!

Chocolate Avocado Smoothie

• Half frozen banana
• 4-5 frozen strawberries
• Half avocado
• 1 cup homemade macadamia nut milk
• 2 scoops Sunwarrior chocolate protein powder
• 1 scoop Ruth's Goodness hemp, E3 live, and maca powder
• 1-2 tbsp agave nectar
• Cacao nibs (for garnish)

So simple: Add all ingredients except for cacao nibs to blender. Blend. Put in a cute glass and garnish with cacao nibs. Enjoy.

Remicade Challenge

During last week's Remicade infusion, I pondered.

I pondered upon how I've been coming to the same hospital, for Remicade, for almost four years. The flares, and why they keep recurring. My lack of remission. How lonely it feels to be in the hospital without any visitors. How I wish there was a cure, so I could be medication-free. Or, even just being medication free AND in remission - even for a little while.

I pondered upon what would make this time during and between infusions meaningful, fun, and be a gentle distraction. I can't change my chronic illness, but at least I can change my perspective. And hopefully alleviate some of the negative associations I've developed.

I was bummed that I couldn't bike to my appointment as I am a fatigued mess afterwards. Not a good idea to cycle when you want to nap and can barely keeps one's eyes open. I do, however, take the hospital stairs. It gives me some activity in an otherwise very lazy day.

*epiphany*

I was inspired to create a challenge, for myself, that is meaningful between Remicade infusions. Right now I am inspired to become a more active person. I used to enjoy being a gym-goer, cycling, swimming, even the dreaded jogging. However, after my flare in the fall, my motivation has nose dived. I've felt significantly better when I am moving more, so hopefully giving myself this fun challenge (and blogging about it!) will keep me accountable.

Out for a walk!

Also, I considered the many benefits to increased physical activity. It improves symptoms of mild-moderate anxiety and depression, is important in bowel health as it increases peristalsis and blood circulation to the gut, assists in maintaining a healthy weight, and is important to so many functions in the body (ie cardiovascular function, musculoskeletal health).

Week one was a success. I did something a little active every day. On Remicade infusion day, I went out for a short walk after a long nap. It was short-lived due to my fatigue... but I had a great sleep afterwards!

Most of my activity has been spent going for walks and biking. I have to take advantage to the last few "nice" summer days we have left, as the evening chill is strongly indicating that fall is near.

Not that cold weather has stopped me before, but it is easier to cycle on pavement than through snow and ice.

If it's not obvious, I'm a winter baby. I love snow and cold weather.

Soon I'll be looking for studded winter tires for my bike. Yes, I intend on biking in the winter. I'm badass like that - cycling on ice roads and all.

Speaking of badass, check out the softball jersey's for the team I play for. We're in D division, so.... beer league!

While we're out of the finals, Walter White has faith we'll kick ass next year!

I'm about to head out to see if I still have the stamina for (UGH) jogging. Wish me luck.

Does anyone else feel "stuck" in their motivation during a flare or feel down around Remicade time? Do share, and feel free to join me in my Remicade Challenge!! I can use all of the motivation and support I can get!

Remicade Day, yet again!

Guess what day it is?!

It's that fantastical time, every eight weeks, where I am pumped full of medicinal-grade rat proteins that allow me to have a proper quality of life. As in, I'm not constantly nauseated, losing significant weight unintentionally, in the fetal position from severe abdominal pain, and/or spending the majority of my day ensuring I am near toilet facilities.

(Yes, it really does contain rat protein).

My trusted IV pump and myself.

Ah, Remicade.

Another early morning to attend this appointment, due to my previous reactions and necessity for "pre meds" now. Although, I am glad I am no longer going to receive IV Gravol considering my less than pleasant experience with it previously. I'm quite happily taking my Cetirizine daily, five days before and seven days after my infusion. No side effects as of yet.

Due to this early morning appointment, I went into work early to ensure all pertinent documents, etc were attended to. Which means I was awake at 0645. 

A morning person, I am not.

I prepared some quinoa flakes with raisins and coconut sugar to take to work for a quick breakfast. Then I packed my snacks for the day:

POM juice, organic blueberries, bananas, and plenty of tea.

First step on Remicade day: Pokey.

OUCH.

My usual nurse was off work today. I think she has the magic touch for IV. I hope she's back in eight weeks!

Second step: Vital signs. And... um.... educational reading.

After my foggy brain last infusion, I felt some gentle reading was appropriate:

Step three: Remicade time!

Step four: Waiting...

Time for reading, snacks, and tea!

After my infusion, it was noted that my Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) that was to be collected with this month's lab-work. Which means... I have to get blood-work. Again.

Le sigh.

So I had to register a second time, wait, and get poked with another needle. Yay?

OUCH x 2.

After such an early morning, two needles, and post-Remicade fatigue and headaches... it's time for a much needed nap. More tomorrow on a new undertaking I am considering... that I pondered upon during today's Remicade treatment!