Whole30 2018: Reasons and Preparation (T minus 2 days)

Hi Ladies and Gents:

I'm back! I've decided to embark on another Whole30 adventure starting January 1, 2018.

I am hopeful that the Whole30 will help clear the severe eczema on both of my hands. I've been struggling with the painful, itchy blisters for over a year, and lately, my palms have been splitting open whenever my eczema flares up, leaving painful cracks and hampering my ability to work.

This is actually a good day

Secondly, I hope that my energy levels will increase. Since the wedding, my energy levels have depleted to an all new low. I have never felt so exhausted after a few hours of working as I do now. I do not have enough energy to workout, go for a walk or hike, or even socialize. I have horrible mood swings and my libido is non-existent. My "tiger blood" from four years ago is completely and utterly gone.

Lastly, I want to prove to myself that I am capable of taking care of myself and give my body the love it truly deserves. I've always hated how I look to the point that I would just let myself go. If I do put in the work that my body needs, I will ultimately go back to my old habits. I want to end the cycle of healing and self-sabotage.

Preparation is in full swing. Here are some scenarios that I am preparing for:

1. If work has a free non-compliant lunch, then I will eat in my office with the computer screen off so that I'm not tempted to eat the free food. I will always have emergency food around just in-case.
2. If friends invite us for dinner, then I will bring compliant food to share and simply enjoy being with them. I will not stress over what they think of my eating habits and if they are interested,  I will tell tell them that I'll be happy to talk about it at another time. 
3. If I am running errands and suddenly get hungry, then I will stop at the grocery store and get compliant foods such as fruit, hard-boiled eggs, Epic Bars, Rx Bars, etc. 
4. If it's been a rough day and I do not feel like cooking, then I will have scrambled eggs with salsa, steamed vegetables, or turkey roll-ups handy.
5. If we decide to go out for dinner, then I will look at the menu. If there are no compliant options, then I will eat beforehand.

 Meal Plan for Week 1:

Wish me all the luck!