Life Without Wheat: So Far...

So, I have eliminated wheat from my diet over the last few weeks.  I normally struggle with an upset stomach, and think that wheat may be partially to blame.  Also, when I consume wheat products, I feel very much out of control in my eating, and like I can't stop. 

I have been eating no bread and rice-based pastas and cereals.  What I've noticed is that I feel much better.  I no longer have bloating or an upset stomach feeling.  I made some gluten-free, rice-flour chocolate chip cookies tonight though, and you know what?  I still wanted to eat more than one. 

My conclusion is that I still need to limit the amount of carbs I am consuming.  I feel like the wheat is a great start, because it is everywhere in food.  It also explains why I am in love with licorice.  Wheat is very addictive, and when I start eating licorice, I can't stop.  (I wonder if there's a wheat-free licorice?) 

I will continue to not eat wheat, and will also think about eating much fewer carbs all together.  Biggest Loser weight loss to date:  3.5 pounds!  I think the elimination of wheat has helped this, too.

Becoming a Bomber

I accepted a position to teach English at Barnum High School, which has been a goal of mine for a few years.  This is where my kids go to school, it's where I live, it's a great school.  I am so excited to teach there this year! 

I am also feeling very sad about leaving my last place of employment, Willow River High School.  I began teaching there in the fall of 2004, 9 years ago, just out of college.  I became a better teacher there because of all of the support I received from many people.  It's a tight community in that building, and everyone is looking out for one another.

What I will miss most of all are the people there.  The great kids.  The great parents.  The great staff. 

But change is good.  Even if it's hard.