***This blog post is not for the squimish (spelling??) nor for those who get grossed out easily. You have been warned.***
The lovely art of detoxification. It’s been a few days since we have actively started this lifestyle change. No gluten, casein, soy, antibiotics or hormones. No artificial sweeteners and who knows what else because I just can’t remember. The list is long and written down in a notebook.
The side effects are certainly not pretty. Migraines that pop out of nowhere. An hour spent sitting on the toilet because your stomach is cramping and attempting to expel everything inside. The swollen joints, puffy face and incessant inflammation as you try and drink enough water. (And you’re STILL thirsty after 100 plus ounces.)
I think the worst side effects is the mood swings. Going from crying, to laughing and sobbing and there isn’t any sense to it. Eric has been amazing through it all, but I know it’s rough. It’s rough on both of us. The depression, anxiety and panic-induced nightmares as your body literally fights to shove out everything that doesn’t belong. You wait for the medication to kick in, hoping this day is going to be a better one, disappointed when it’s just more of the same.
BUT THEN. Ah, that but in there.
Then I remember how worth it this will all be in the end. These effects are temporary, and I don’t have to rely on my own strength. Sitting in the command chair, Bible in hand, I take comfort in Psalms and Proverbs. Never before has this little family pressed more in to His presence as we have this past month. It’s been hard; the struggle has been real, and our mouths have been silent on so much. Instead, we find ourselves sitting beside each other, kneeling before a God who understands our every need, every struggle and every prayer.
I’m thankful for the spiritual family that surrounds us. The hugs, prayers and chats as we walk through the fire and the pain. I’m thankful for all that He has done and is doing. I’m thankful that, after so many years of pain, we finally got answers to what was wrong. I’m thankful for the Healer to come and speak into our hearts as we learn a better way.
So, maybe this wasn’t as squirm inducing as I thought. Maybe I just needed to be real, and to say that this has been a hard journey. It’s been one where emotionally every aspect is a battle, a fight not to give in to. Maybe I just needed to say…I’m grateful for a husband that has never left my side through this, who has held me up and prayed for and over me. A husband who speaks His banner and His love when it seems like this process doesn’t end. I’m thankful for a God who knows my every heartbeat and tells me it will be okay.
Maybe I just needed to know… that someone understands, and that this whole process really is worth it in the end. 💕
Tonight’s dinner for me. I actually didn’t get sick after eating this ! It was a nice change. 😂😂 Jalapeno & cheddar beef salami; gluten free crackers; kosher dill pickles; Hatch roasted green chile.
Flint Family Adventures 