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Eating Disorders, Life, Thoughts

5 THOUGHTS including Fresh Starts + Favorite Snack

September 10, 2018 By Robyn 26 Comments

Happy Labor Day! I hope you have some time to rest and relax today no matter what your plans hold. We are home in the midwest this week with my family in Indianapolis and then Nick’s family in the Chicago area and are soaking it up. Below are just 5 of my most recent and random thoughts!

1. Favorite Snack Lately –> Cookie Dough Balls

I made a double batch of these cookie dough balls and they are the bomb. Even though I love dates, making energy balls with them can be expensive and a pain in the butt. I love that this recipe doesn’t involve dates. Sometimes it’s nice not to pit dates, clean up the sticky mess, and shell out the cash. I store them in the freezer and they last for days/weeks/months.

When you feel like ED recovery won’t be “worth it”

It’s really hard to imagine what living without your eating disorder will be like. If recovery means weight gain and tolerating a bigger body, recovery might seem all the more “not worth it.” In the thick of an eating disorder, cognitive function is often compromised due to inadequate nutrition so it’s very difficult to separate rational from irrational thoughts. Recovering has so many unknowns, the eating disorder is familiar. While there is so much uncertainty with recovery and more certainty and familiarity with the eating disorder that doesn’t mean uncertainty is bad and familiarity is good. With your eating disorder, you know the quality of life you are able to lead. It’s not good. You can’t live a meaningful, fulfilling life and also live in your eating disorder. But recovery, while scary and unknown, there so many positive possibilities.

While it’s hard to grasp exactly what recovery will look and feel like, and while the process of recovery is hard and painful and you will want to quit, and while it might feel like it is getting worse before it gets better….you will never know what recovery could feel like unless you give it a shot. You know what your eating disorder feels like. It might feel like everyone is full of crap when they tell you, “It will get better.” but I’ve never met someone who is fully recovered that said, “that wasn’t worth it.” IT IS WORTH IT. Your eating disorder will always be there, you can always go back. But you’ll never know what’s on the other side of recovery unless you give it a shot.

Refreshing pin from Pinterest

You are not going to be for everyone and that is okay. Think about what matters most and do that. Focus your time and energy on that.

September being a fresh start

I love the start of September! Even though I’m no longer in school (at least for now… maybe again one day) the start of September feels like a blank slate. Summer winds down, the weather cools, the leaves will soon begin to change and there’s a different vibe in the air. You feel me? While summer is usually full of travel and celebration and less routine and structure, come September it’s like productivity is in the air – and not in a “hustle and do all the things” way, but more like an, “I’m excited to dig into learning and projects and feel more focused” kind of way. Anyone else feel that way? It feels like a fresh start!

boston weekend

Hawaii Trip 

I’ve never been to Hawaii and I am like a toddler before Christmas thinking about this trip coming up at month’s end. Nick and I have thankfully been able to travel quite a bit and see a lot – something that I do not take for granted. We’ve taken some really cool trips together that have been full of adventure and I’ve loved them. That being said, I’m pumped about planting myself on a beach, getting a massage, letting the day take us where it takes us, and straight up relaxing like I never have before. September will be a busy month both personally and professionally, but this trip at the end of the month is keep me motivated and focused. If you’ve been to Hawaii, I’d love to hear your recommendations!

Those are my thoughts this week, share yours in the comments!


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Filed Under: Eating Disorders, Life, Thoughts

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Comments

  1. emily vardy says

    September 10, 2018 at 5:49 am

    September always feels like the new year to me, too. I miss the “brand new notebook” feel of going back to school!!

    Reply
    • Robyn Nohling says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:14 pm

      Oh yes that feel!!

      Reply
    • Robyn Nohling says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:14 pm

      Oh that is the best feeling!!

      Reply
  2. Hillary says

    September 10, 2018 at 10:13 am

    I lived on Maui (working on convincing my husband to move back with me). There is so much amazing stuff and it is absolutely beautiful! Recommendations will depend on what island you are staying on. And I totally agree with not pleasing everyone. Something I’ve gotten better at, but still hard to accept sometimes 🙂

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:15 pm

      We won’t be on Maui but a friend’s sister lives there and from what I’ve seen it is GORGEOUS!!

      Reply
  3. India says

    September 10, 2018 at 10:47 am

    Hawaii?! Oh my goodness, great choice in a babymoon. We did a Pacific Northwest tour for ours and although it was great, I was really just wishing I could be relaxing at a hotel somewhere. I’m happy for you!

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:16 pm

      People rave about the Pacific Northwest!!!!

      Reply
  4. Kaci says

    September 10, 2018 at 2:22 pm

    My hubby and I are trying to plan a trip to Hawaii in January, so we will be looking forward to all the advice you have from your trip! Where are you guys going/staying?

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:17 pm

      I’ll share some tips via IG or email!!
      Ackkk I don’t know the exact name of the hotel – Nick booked it

      Reply
      • Kaci says

        September 11, 2018 at 11:37 am

        No worries! Do you know what island you guys are going to? Can’t wait for the IG tips!!

        Reply
  5. Emily says

    September 10, 2018 at 3:06 pm

    Oh boy oh boy! 🙂 Hawaii sounds so fun. This year I’ve been craving a beach vacation which is weird for me being someone who loves the mountains, but we’re going to Mexico in about a month.

    Also that Nutella quote. I had to pin that; I love that, because it’s so true, and the more I learn it the more freeing life is.

    September is such a fresh start. I bet Boston is starting to cool down?

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:18 pm

      We are getting there! I am so excited for fall up here!
      Have a great week Emily <3

      Reply
  6. Brittany Audra @ Audra's Appetite says

    September 10, 2018 at 3:10 pm

    I didn’t realize you were going to Hawaii!! Wow, what an exciting babymoon! So excited for you! 🙂

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:18 pm

      I hadn’t shared until this post so you’re not behind 🙂 Thanks Brittany!!

      Reply
  7. Sara says

    September 10, 2018 at 3:49 pm

    My husband and I just went to Oahu in April! We had the most wonderful time, it is beautiful there! Hope you enjoy your time!!!

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:19 pm

      We can’t wait!!!!

      Reply
  8. Erin Drum says

    September 10, 2018 at 4:10 pm

    Love this! Making those cookie dough balls ASAP. What island?? You will have a blast!

    Reply
    • Robyn says

      September 10, 2018 at 5:20 pm

      The Big Island!

      Reply
  9. Megan says

    September 10, 2018 at 5:23 pm

    Thank you for the section on recovery and if it feels worth it. I am in the thick of recovery and some days feel just SO hard. This is a nice reminder things will get better if I keep focused and moving forward. I am so grateful to have a very dedicated dietitian who checks in most days. I’d love to read more recovery content x

    Reply
  10. Stacie says

    September 10, 2018 at 5:49 pm

    The big island is so fun! My husband and I are headed back in Mid-November, and I am counting down the weeks! If you’re staying on the Kona side, some of our favorite beaches are: Kua Bay (about mile mile marker 88) – the water is incredible, so beautiful, fun waves and lots of sand. It can be busy, but worth it (and parking right next to the beach). I have a hard time leaving this beach every time! Puako Beach (about mile marker 69) – calm waters with lots of shade thanks to some trees, a smaller beach, but soooo serene. Get there a little early if you can to stake out a spot. Magic Sands Beach – we like this one primarily because it’s close to where we stay, a smaller/busier beach, but great waves for body surfing and floating past the shore break. We also saw a turtle every day we went here which was fun 🙂 There is a large rock in the center, and rocks on the right side of the beach, so lifeguards always remind you to be careful about avoiding those areas, especially while body surfing. Hapuna State Beach is one of the larger white sand beaches, so there’s plenty of space to roam, and good for floating, but not my favorite (maybe because it was super windy the day we were there haha)

    We cook at the condo a lot (Costco FTW!), but Randy’s Huli Chicken & Ribs, Super J’s and Scandinavian Shave Ice are all realllly good.

    Depending on your energy levels, Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay can be a fun kayaking excursion. We didn’t make it all the way over to Captain Cook’s monument because we ended up swimming with/watching the spinner dolphins for about an hour – so amazing!! Captain Cook’s is supposed to have really great snorkeling though. And South Point is also breathtakingly beautiful for a stop (especially if you’re headed to the south end of the island for anything).

    Have a fun & rejuvenating trip!!

    Reply
  11. Kayleigh says

    September 10, 2018 at 10:21 pm

    Haha you missed Labor Day by a little bit 😉 enjoy!!

    Reply
  12. Dietitian Jess says

    September 11, 2018 at 2:39 pm

    We are headed the Big Island the second week of October- I have already made a long list of recos and rough ideas if you want me to email it to you I’d be happy to share!

    Reply
  13. Amber @ Bloom Nutrition Therapy says

    September 11, 2018 at 3:26 pm

    I agree so much about September feeling like a new beginning! I think, for me, it is the nostalgia that comes from remembering college, as well. I can remember walking to my classes in cool, brisk, foggy mornings with the fallen leaves blowing all around on the sidewalk. I always love those days the most while in school and this time of year ALWAYS takes me back!

    Reply
  14. Amy Hanneke says

    September 11, 2018 at 7:03 pm

    Hawaiian must-haves: chicken katsu (like a Hawaiian chicken strip – so good) and shave ice with ice cream on bottom!

    Reply
  15. Rajai Hanna Shnoudeh says

    September 12, 2018 at 2:35 am

    https://bit.ly/2x5d7Hv

    Reply
  16. Manal Hakim says

    September 17, 2018 at 10:54 am

    My husband & I will be going to Hawaii at the end of this month for our babymoon too!!!!! YAY! Can’t wait! Hope you have a great time & congrats on your pregnancy!

    Reply

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A non-diet dietitian and nurse practitioner helping women find peace with food, accept their natural body size and heal from hormonal issues and period problems.

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I talk a lot about moving, eating, and living intuitively so you can be well hormonally and live a fulfilling life in line with your values

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🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻 two babies are asleep at the same time in their beds (and not on me) for the FIRST TIME IN 7657 DAYS and dear lord I could cry tears of relief straight into this latte and bowl of chocolate chips bc I woke up this morning exhausted and weary and told Nick I didn’t want to parent today 🤣 Not even calling this self care. It’s sanity right now. And even if it lasts 5 minutes it will be 5 minutes of freaking glory. p.s. yes that brick is crooked bc v uneven floors are part of the charmed package of this old house
Learning over and over again in this season that f Learning over and over again in this season that feels unsettled and chaotic and longgggggg that sometimes, you just need the viewpoint of a toddler to remind you that the seemingly insignificant things & moments really are....straight up magical. And that yes, these mundane days are packed full of goodness & beauty if I keep my eyes fixed on what actually matters.
Spent two hours at Lowe’s this morning and wow, Spent two hours at Lowe’s this morning and wow, wowww 🤯 Asked at least six people where to find something and their opinion on all the options bc holy decision fatigue. Nursed my newborn on the floor of the paint aisle. And BLESS my new contractor friend Matt I found in the lumber section that pushed my cart around and helped me avoid the mistake of buying exterior wood for some DIY bathroom shelves.
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I’m giving all our bathrooms a DIY makeover and I couldn’t be more of a rookie. So shoutout to all my Lowe’s buddies and YouTube 😜 You’re making this happen.
We are now officially homeowners. WUT? We didn’t We are now officially homeowners. WUT? We didn’t plan to close on a house 10 weeks after having a baby, but here we are. And we are so, so grateful.  And I’m also terrified. We’ve moved three times and lived in three different states since we got married three years ago. After six years spent living in New York City and Boston, moving back to Charlottesville was really, really hard for me. I cried a lot those first six months because my heart ached for the northeast and for city life. I wanted to pack up and go back to Boston ASAP. It felt so different and so quiet here and at times, very lonely. Even though it felt like the next right step, I second guessed our decision A LOT.
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But here we are 10 months later ready to continue investing in this neighborhood we’ve come to love. And this community of people that have become so dear. Ten months later and it feels so, so right. And although committing to settling down here for a good bit feels really scary to me, it also brings so much peace to know we aren’t moving again anytime soon. We are here to plant and grow. And raise our babies in this house as we make it a home. It’s also really fun to have one of your best friends be your realtor. We love you @kelli.teter.nesting 🤗
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Now, to see if we make it out of this kitchen renovation all in one piece 🤪
my go-to breakfast these days is two fried eggs in my go-to breakfast these days is two fried eggs in ghee with sautéed spinach (also in ghee) and an english muffin with more ghee + some sort of jam on half for that sweet & savory combo. we discovered these local english muffins (from The Bread Basket) and they are doughy and delicious and we are obsessed.
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I’ve found that I need a solid source of protein and lots of fat for breakfast to keep me full while breastfeeding this time around vs with Cal, I was so into big bowls of pb & chocolate chip banana oatmeal. just goes to show our bodies know what they need and change cravings accordingly. also, just a psa: go pick up the maple butter from @traderjoes bc it is bonkers 🤤 and lastly, shout out to my husband bc a lot of mornings he is making this bfast for me while I nurse & try to pull myself out of bed - don’t for a moment think I’ve got it together 🤪
I’ve had many thoughts rolling around in my brai I’ve had many thoughts rolling around in my brain of if/how to use this platform in a way that aligns with how I want to live my life. I’m finding it tricky to discern that when 90% of my use on this app is for professional purposes. But I’m not sure if even professionally, it makes sense for me. Because I feel more aligned with what matters to me when I’m not regularly present here.  I’m not really sure what things will look like moving forward, but for right now I’m here to share with you that I somehow found some spare minutes between newborn & toddler life to write a post with some semi-coherent thoughts on life lately. 🤪 You can head there by clicking the link in my profile.
I’ve been completely disconnected from social me I’ve been completely disconnected from social media and that’s been vital for me during this tender postpartum period of transitioning from a mama of 1 to 2. But today, I’m bopping on briefly to share how Teddy entered this wild world with you - if you’re into a lengthy, detailed birth story, the link in my profile will lead you to the blog post 💙
Theodore “Teddy” Lars Nohling joined our famil Theodore “Teddy” Lars Nohling joined our family at 12:48am on Wednesday after a quick and swift labor & birth at home 💙 Thank you Father for another healthy baby boy & your abundant, tender love for us. What an undeserved gift.
Very grateful to be carrying another baby past his Very grateful to be carrying another baby past his due date, but also....LET’S GO DUDE. Still over here eating dates (check out the @ebbirth article on the research showing dates can help ripen (aka soften) your cervix, reduce the need for medical intervention in labor and can overall, improve birth outcomes) drinking red raspberry leaf tea and sleeping as much as possible with a 19 month old running around. And also trying to survive July in VA without public pools or splash pads bc it is BLAZIN HERE (and I’m a wuss with the heat 🤪)
#AlignPartner A huge plus of transitioning from ti #AlignPartner A huge plus of transitioning from tiny-apartment-city-living to house living is this screened in porch. This little oasis sold me on renting this house when we moved from Boston to Virginia back in November. I dreamed about this becoming our outdoor living room for at least half the year (because also, summer comes earlier and stays later down here - which has a its pros and cons 😆)  During Cal’s afternoon nap, I set up shop out here with my computer + something refreshing to drink and get a little bit of work done before my brain turns to mush and/or a find myself napping instead of working. 🤷🏻‍♀️ I can only drink so much water during the hot months before I’m over it so I’ve been mixing it up with either seltzer + juice, iced tea or @alignprobiotic’s new Kombucha On-the-Go powder sticks - all you do is mix one of the packets into ice cold water and stir. Then sip!  With quarantine life, we aren’t on-the-go much these days, but it’s still nice to have a nonperishable drink option always around. Flavor wise, it’s like a fizzy iced tea with a zingy, refreshing lemon ginger flavor.  I think it’s important to know that not all probiotic supplements are created equal. They all aren’t backed by evidence, but the Align brand is and could be something helpful for you if you feel like you need some digestive support - but talk to your healthcare provider first. I try to incorporate probiotics into what I eat - and that mostly comes in drink vs food form. Tell me how you’re staying hydrated in the comments ...because these days, it’s the little things 🤪 #AlignProbiotic **Use as Directed
Lunches for the past month or so have been some re Lunches for the past month or so have been some rendition of a sandwich + chips + fruit. SUMMERTIME 😎I’ve switched to open faced only bc there just ain’t much room left in there for food at 38.5 weeks 🤰🏻90% of the time at the end of a meal, no matter how “small” the portion, I’m feeling stuffed and like the food is in my throat (just what you wanted to read on this lovely Tuesday afternoon 🤪) but my point here is...intuitive eating doesn’t mean find-the-perfect-fullness and eat-only-when-hungry. Sometimes it means eating when you’re not hungry and feeling overly full often and trying to eat foods lower in fiber and higher in calories.
Found this photo on my camera roll today from a wa Found this photo on my camera roll today from a walk I took a month or so ago. Between quarantine and spending my days with a toddler, life is much less hurried and a lot more mundane these days. But those two things are helping me to stop & notice and to chill out on checking things off my to do list and instead just being present with whatever is in front of me. I want to have the curiosity & wonder my 18 month old has as I go about my day - with my surroundings and people I encounter and really, everything. Life is way more meaningful that way. Ending my evening with that reminder and a white chocolate chip cinnamon blondie covered in vanilla ice cream before I go take an Epsom salt bath and read.

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