a compliment

Since starting back to work last month, I have been touched and overwhelmed by the wonderful words of encouragement and compliments about my weight loss up to this point.  Since Christmas 2011, I have lost 20 pounds.  Now that's not like Extreme Makeover Weight Loss Edition style weight loss success, but it is a good success for me. 

however, EVERYONE NEEDS VALIDATION to continue a journey.

The way my friends and coworkers have taken notice to my change in body has also helped me continue to change my lifestyle. 

--I have been able to get my style mo-jo back; wearing clothes I wouldn't have dared to wear in the last two years---mainly because my pants don't create a FULL muffin top and scarves don't accentuate my triple chins. 


--I have felt more confident in my self over all.  Smiling more and just generally more pleased with myself and others around me.

I have felt the positive energy in my body and heart.  If I quit now, I not only quit myself, but I am quitting the belief from others that what I am doing is healthy and awesome.

So, THANK YOU to all who have read my blog with me, given me a compliment on ANYTHING lately.

YOU MATTER.  YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
...now go continue on your journey too (whatever that may be)

Dipped Cone

So from my very personal opinion (which is typically spot on when it comes to food) the Chocolate Dipped Cone from McDonalds is NOT worth the extra calories.

it is NOT worthy for the following reasons:
#1: the chocolate tastes just so-so.
#2: The ice cream MELTS inside the chocolate coating causing a sticky flow of "ice cream" to run down your hand and ALL OVER EVERYTHING around you.
#3:  you actually get LESS ice cream due to the dipping of the chocolate--RIP OFF!
#4:  you increase your calorie intake without increasing the deliciousness factor.

So to sum this bad boy up, DON'T BOTHER.

you have been warned.

Attention Ladies and Gentlemen

Come one come all!  The Dieting Drama Queen has an official announcement.

The Queen would like to announce that she can in fact, button AND zip a size 12.

***This is the part where the crowd cheers and waves flags in signs of approval***

It may not be pretty.  It may not feel awesome.

BUT I didn't have to lay down on a bed, suck in to the point of passing out, or use any type of power tool or baking oil to assist in the buttoning of these clothes.

It has been 2 years since I could get a size 12 past my giant Honey Baked Hams (aka--my thighs).

SO today, you may all celebrate and spread the news---The QUEEN can button a 12!!!!!



(***Those of you who think a 12 is still too big, you may sit on a tack and don't rain on my parade!)

Take THAT, Extra Fat

The random extra weight I acquired last week has officially been worked off.

It has taken some work to get accomplished. 
-->A hike this weekend, 4 outdoor photoshoots, chores, biking with weights AND most importantly better choices in the kitchen. 

I have been following the "dairy diet" more closely and it really does have an affect on my body style. (Good thing Yoplait makes so many flavors because doing this on any other yogurt would be an extremely short lived diet plan! It has also been on sale this week to get rid of the old design containers for the new ones!) 

I have big plans for this week/weekend/next week as well to stay on track. 

My BFF is coming to stay a couple of days and we have plans to hike around a couple of state park trails close by.  She has been a big follower of Weight Watchers so with her nearby I will have a support buddy to say, "PUT DOWN THE CUPCAKE" even if we both REALLY want another.  If my husband said such a thing to me, I would instantaneously burst out into tears because he is supposed to love me no matter what--big or small.  If a fellow dieter says it, I know it's for my own good--because they have been there before.

Next week school starts back up and I am super excited to get back into a routine and get things arranged and organized in my room.  There will be no time for boredom snacking when I will be knee deep in alphabet games and glitter! 

...LOTS and LOTS of glitter.

So for now I will leave you with a recipe
_________________________________________________
Personal Pan Tortilla Pizzas
**You can make this for lunch or make one for each person you have at home for dinner!

1 Tortilla
1-2 TBSP Spaghetti sauce (I don't like Pizza sauce its tooooo tangy)
up to 22 slices of PIZZA STYLE Canadian Bacon (80 calories/3.5g fat)
2 TBSP Any style Cheese OR  1/4 cup Fat Free Cheese
Vegetables to your liking! (I like LOTS of onions, peppers, mushrooms, green onions)
OR Pineapple (with the bacon it makes a Hawaiian style pizza)

Trust me, this pizza is super delicious and is WAY less calories and points than a standard slice of pizza!
ENJOY!

Underpants

This blog will not be for the easily embarassed or for those who don't like the word "panties."  This blog is especially not for my BROTHER as it will contain too much information that you never needed to know.

So the current issue burning in my mind is Underpants.  Why, you may ask.  Why are you thinking so much about underwear?

Well I have recently been struggling--more like battling--to keep the poor pants UP.  They are constantly rolling underneath my pouch (my "pouch" is what I affectionately call the flab of fat at the very bottom of my torso; much like where a kangaroo would carry her joey).  It drives me NUTS!  I can't stand to have it all bunched up beneath my pouch. 

Now I am just wondering, AM I THE ONLY ONE?!  Is there something wrong with me or something wrong with them?  Here are the possible scenarios I have run through, but need more input to know if the underwear roll is a real problem or not.

Scenario #1:  Are they too old? 
Just had one too many wears and washes and the elastic isn't what it used to be?

Scenario #2:  Am I too big for the size I have?  
Maybe there is just too much me for the tiny roos to handle?

Scenario #3:  Are they too big? 
Is it possible I have lost enough that it's time to go down a size?

Scenario #4: Are you struggling with rebelling panties too but didn't want to openly talk about it?
....yeah....me neither.

I don't know which of these scenarios may be the case because quite frankly I refuse to go out and buy a new pack of underwear.  I refuse for the following reasons:  my underwear are not holey and do the job they are assigned to; what if I am too fat for the ones I have and bring home a pack of something too small?  FAIL; what if I get a hold of a pack that is just as bad if not WORSE than the ones I already own? DOUBLE FAIL.   

Underthings can be your best friend and make you feel good or they can go awry and make your life miserable.

Are your unders a friend or a frenemy?

Avoidance

Recently, there has been a big absence of blogs on my part.

Mostly because somehow I was able to pack on enough weight to shame me into silence.  Between my constant hunger and a total lack of control (*which I am pretty famous for) I was able to chomp my way back to 185 pounds.  How I can gain almost 10 pounds in a week is beyond any comprehensible process that I can understand.

Sometimes I feel like there is something in my body and just holds onto the pounds. 
I have a theory, if you'd like to hear it.

See I have this idea that there is a skinny girl inside of me but she is not screaming to get out. 
In fact, my inner skinny girl really likes junk food, so she doesn't want to give up the outer fat girl because if she did, she would have to sacrifice all her cravings to maintain her killer body.

So, it's really not my fault.  I blame her.
the skinny *!#(% won't let go!!!!!!!


On a more serious note...I am not so delusional that I think I can really blame others for my problems. 
I am and always will be my own worst enemy when it comes to battling food addiction.


So I will start this week much like I have started many other weeks. 
I start this week with good intentions and then we go from there.

Tune UP

I am obviously looking to do a little more than "tune up" my body, but I am needing a jumpstart.

Sometimes when you are doing the same old same old, your body just acclimates and doesn't see any new results.

I have done this "diet" but literally only for two weeks.  I indeed did lose 5 pounds in two weeks.

It's called the Yoplait LIGHT Two Week Tune Up Plan
http://153.13.148.213/twoweektuneup/weekly-meal-planner

This requires you to eat 2 Yoplait Light Yogurts a day, with 3 ADDITIONAL servings of Low-fat Dairy products.  You also need whole grain products, vegetables, and fruit.  The link above gives your guidelines and even shows you a menu and recipe ideas.

I am gonna talk my husband into taking me to the store tonight because I think my steady routine of "salad, fruit, repeat" is getting a little mundane.  Gotta throw in something new to do to keep this dieting thing interesting.

PLUS----I really like yogurt. :)

NEW GOAL

With my original goal, I wanted to lose 7 pounds in 12 days.  I wanted to be at most 175 before going on vacation.  I got to 177 and couldn't seem to go any lower (for female reasons I think most girls can identify with).  I found myself only gaining back two pounds over vacation which I was proud about, then losing those couple of pesky pounds.  I was excited that I was able to make such progress.

Then my brother came to town and I apparently lost all sanity because we had a visitor in the house.  We went out for dinner Thursday (Fried Chicken, okra, and rolls), had a BBQ on Friday, and then had left over chicken as well as devoured half a can of pringles on Saturday. 

...weight officially RE-gained.

It took me just three short days to pack on what took me 4 days to lose. Since I apparently like to work under pressure I have set a new goal to keep me focused. 

I have decided I want to lose another 10 pounds by the time I start back teaching. 
August 15th.


The bigger your goal the harder you try. 

A recipe and a celebration

THIS is my celebration.  After going on vacation for a week, I only gained two pounds. 

...which if you think about it, is quite the accomplishment. 
Eating out a lot-BBQ in Texas, Creole in New Orleans. 
Snacking on the car rides-chips, beef jerky, granola bars.  

BUT we also had lots of places that required us to walk.  We did LOTS of walking.  4 city blocks in New Orleans, exploring the WHOLE Fort Worth Zoo.  I would have worn my pedometer to track the steps/miles, but where do you put a pedometer on a dress?

After just 3 days of being home, I have already lost back to where I started before we went on vacation and I couldn't be happier!

CELEBRATION--over. :)
_______________________________________
RECIPE now!

CrockPot Santa Fe Chicken
1-2 pounds Chicken Breast
1 can FAT FREE Chicken Broth
1 can Tomatoes with green chilies
1 can Black Beans
1/2 cup Frozen Corn
1/2 cup Chopped Onion
1tsp Cumin
1tsp Onion Powder
1tsp Garlic Powder
Salt to taste.

Mix ingredients in crock pot and put on High for 6 hours or Low for 10 hours.
1/2 to 1 hour before serving, remove chicken, shred with fork, and return to crock pot.

Serve Chicken on Tortilla with low fat cheese/fat free sour cream on a tortilla or on top of rice.


Happy Eating!

Not quite Failure

Well I didn't make my goal of 175.  I was SO SUPER close.

...well I thought it was super close.  I got down to 178.2.
Only 3 pounds from my goal weight. 

To me it wasn't a failure.  I know I didn't reach my goal so by definition this is called failure.  BUT I have more energy to want to do things, I am able to walk farther before getting winded/tired, I am able to look in the mirror and see a little less chin.  That screams success to me!

It was a bit crazy to want to lose 7 pounds in 10 days I suppose, but I did lose almost 5 pounds in a week.  I believe my body also lost inches (*I really wish I would have measured that along with the pounds!).

This next week I will be traveling but I won't be giving up. We are going to be walking and sight seeing and doing so much that there won't be time for "bored snacking" and big meals.

...Plus, it will be too dang hot to eat too much!


So until next week...Happy eating! :)

Feeling Puffy

This morning I woke up and my fingers fell puffy and I actually gained a few ounces even though I ate very little yesterday.  I did however reflect on WHAT I ate yesterday and found a common denominator.  High Sodium/Salt content.

1 slice of Fat Free Turkey Meat has 220 mg of Sodium.
...I ate 6 slices.

I put salt on my tomatoes.
I put salt on the peppers and onions.
I put salt in the pepper dip.
I ate a serving of baked chips.
I ate a LOT of pickled Beets. (*they are delicious, do not judge me).

I also did not drink as much water as I have been AND had a soda.

With bad choice after bad choice, I am as puffed up as a blow fish.  My first clue should have been when my wedding ring was cutting in to my hand YESTERDAY.  The scale only climbed 0.4 ounces, but that was kind of the opposite way I wanted the numbers to go.  SO I looked up some natural ways to treat fluid retention.

1. Lessen your intake of salt and salty foods. Too much salt in the body can cause fluid retention to worsen. Many processed foods contain high values of sodium that should also be avoided, so check the nutritional information on products you eat to make sure that they do not contain high levels of sodium. Avoid adding additional table salt to your food, and stay away from salty snacks like chips, peanuts and pretzels.
2. Drink plenty of water if you are aware that your fluid retention is due to premenstrual syndrome, too much salt in your diet or another minor cause. You may feel that you have enough water in your body already, but being well hydrated will help you flush out excess water instead of storing it in your body.
3.  Eat foods with diuretic properties. There is a long list of diuretic foods such as celery, lettuce, carrots, onion, asparagus, tomato and cucumber.

Needless to say, I will spend most of my day repairing the damage done yesterday.  OY.

weigh in as of 6:30 am: 179.4

Steak Fajitas and Roasted Red Pepper Dip

Boy oh Boy do I have a dinner planned for you.  This is SUPER easy and I even used some leftovers to make it.

Tonight we are dining on last night's pork steak.  You can use beef steak or even chicken to make fajitas, but why go and cook something new when we had 3 steaks left over from last night?  The pork will add an extra point or two into the equation for all you hard core weight watchers, but use what ya got!  Here's the skinny on a steak fajita (I will disclose that LEAN flank steak was used to create these facts, but if you are making a menu for next week, this could be something to buy)

Skinny Facts: for ½ cup Steak Fajita only (not including tortilla or toppings)
Weight Watchers (old points) 3
Weight Watchers POINTS PLUS 4
Skinny Facts: for ½ cup of steak fajita (not including tortilla or toppings)
141 calories, 6g fat, 15g protein, 7g carbs, 1g fiber, 405mg sodium, 4g sugar

Weight Watchers (old points) 4
Weight Watchers POINTS PLUS 5
**Information given by: http://www.skinnykitchen.com/recipes/skinny-steak-fajitas/
***1/2 Cup of Fajita Mixins is quite a bit--even though it doesn't sound like it.

To put my Leftovers Pork Fajitas together I used:
3 Grilled Pork Steaks
1 Large Green Bell Pepper
4 Small Sweet Peppers *red, yellow, orange
1 Large Onion
2 Tbsp Canola Oil
Salt and Pepper to taste

I sliced the steak very VERY thin.  I will use 2 tbsp of canola oil to sautee my peppers and onions til the onions become clear.  I will add my steak into the onions about half way through so the meat can start soaking up the flavor of everything else.  I will sprinkle on some salt and pepper to taste, but I am going to let the peppers and onions really give the flavor instead of other seasonings. Top with what ever you like as long as you keep track of it all.

I also made a Roasted Red Pepper Dip to accompany our fajitas.  This was also SUPER easy to do.

To make this dip I used:
1 12oz jar Roasted Red Peppers, drained
1 cup Fat Free Sour Cream
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Salt
Pepper to taste.

**In a blender combine roasted peppers, sour cream, garlic, salt, and pepper.  Puree until smooth.
Makes 10 servings---ONE POINT PER SERVING!!!!!  
 

This has a delicious flavor that will make those fajitas SING without having to use any extra cheese or anything.  We will also dine on Fat Free Refried Beans---at a 1/2 Cup for 1 point you can't beat it!


Sounds like Heaven to me!




Weigh in today: 179.0

Homemade cooking spray

We have decided that grilled vegetables are our FAVORITE staple with our regular summer time grilled meat.  The first time I cut up the vegetables I used straight canola oil to brush the vegetables with.  THEN I decided I could use cooking spray to coat my vegetables.  Worked like a charm!

This morning I found a recipe for nonstick cooking spray recipe.

• 2 tablespoons canola oil (or olive oil for olive oil spray)
• 1 cup less two tablespoons water

Directions:
Buy a new plant mister bottle. Wash thoroughly before using. Add two tablespoons of canola oil followed by 1 cup less two tablespoons of water.  Just make sure you shake it before each use.

Nutritional Facts for Nonstick Cooking Spray Serving Size:

Servings Per Recipe: 50

Amount Per Serving

Calories 4.9

Calories from Fat 5

Total Fat 0.5 g

Cholesterol 0.0 mg

Sodium 0.0 mg

Total Carbohydrate 0.0 g

Dietary Fiber 0.0 g
Read more: http://www.food.com/recipe/nonstick-cooking-spray-225023#ixzz1yvRtQ95R

 

 

No extra chemicals and you have a visible way to track and see how much you actually do use when you spray.   Tonight we will try this homemade cooking spray on those vegetables you see behind the bottles.

Happy Eating!

Through weakness comes triumph

Well I have been a bit stressed--another death in the family, trip planning, basic life issues--and I had a moment of weakness yesterday.  I blacked out and binge ate a large 3 Musketeers along with 3 helpings of baked chips.  At least I picked the least worst things to eat right?

Through weakness comes triumph. 

I was counting on the mornings workout to save me.  I was needing to power through a family BBQ to eat only salad and other vegetables.  Even though everything else looked really, really good.

Well it worked.

This mornings weigh in:  179.8.

That's enough words for now, I will get into some recipes later today!

Shameless plug

my scale was able to live another day.  I added a new battery, and it showed me the results I had been looking for.

181.  That's right, I lost the first of the seven pounds I am wanting to lose.

This weekend will be busy.  I am part of a photography duo specializing in outdoor events.

Needless to say, I will be walking a lot, running back and forth at times, and sweating my face off in the 100* weather.

It's all in the name of good memories for the families and bride&groom we will be celebrating today!

Check out our work at www.facebook.com/cupcakesandfireflies

I even got a pedometer yesterday so that I can track just how much I actually do during a typical day of photo shoots.  That should be helpful! 
....until I lose it. 
....or it falls off. 
...or I forget to wear it and it stays in my purse.

Well here's to a busy weekend full of exciting adventures! 

Pray for my scale

Please pray for my scale today as I premeditate it's demise.

It would appear as though even with rigorous point tracking and pouring sweat work outs, I have actually gained a pound.  THIS IS NOT WHAT I WANTED TO SEE.  When you set a goal to lose in a short amount of time, any set back no matter how small, can be incredibly frustrating.

My muscles are sore.  My sides are aching.  It hurts to sneeze.

...and I added a pound.


I will be going to the store today to buy a new battery for the demon who holds the numbers within.

If this does not remedy the problem, please hold a moment of silence for the scale this afternoon... as my scale will be "put down."

Venison Burgers and Homemade Potato Chips

Why would you use DEER meat instead of hamburger or turkey?   Even when compared to lean beef, most cuts of venison typically have fewer calories. On average, a three-ounce portion of cooked deer meat contains 134 calories, whereas a three-ounce cut of cooked beef contains 247 calories.

(To read more about venison vs. ground beef please visit: http://www.livestrong.com/article/326549-nutritional-values-of-venison-vs-beef/#ixzz1yRsGVrvM)

SO with the health benefits in hand, I went on a recipe hunt to cut down on the TASTE of wild game.  Because lets face it, venison tastes...gamey.  Gamey is not the most awesome flavor.  I found 2 recipes that I think will cut down on the WILD taste and make them flavorful and delicious.

GRILLED Venison Burgers
1/2 cup onions, minced
1 pound ground venison
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
salt and pepper to taste
1 egg white (Large Egg)
1 tbsp (less or more depending on what you might like) Dijon Mustard

Mix all ingredients together thoroughly and form in patties.  Put in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to allow the seasonings and onions to begin blending into the meat.  Grill on medium-high heat to desired done-ness.

Serve with Onions, Tomatoes, and more!

__________________________________________________

Next is the potato chips.  We bought some Amish grown Red Potatoes from a country market and have been dying to make just the right thing with them.  This I believe will be the perfect way to use them.


Homemade Potato Chips

• potatoes, peeled and sliced diagonally 1/8 inch thick
• canola oil cooking spray
• Coarse salt to taste or any other seasoning (chili powder, season salt, paprika)

Pat the potatoes dry between paper towels and arrange them in one layer in greased cookie pans. Spray and season each side of the potatoes, bake them in a preheated 500°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Sprinkle them with the salt if desired.


Serve with your favorite dipping sauce!

Vacation Pictures

We are going on our Honeymoon vacation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
                                                                           
This is where we will be staying in New Orleans.

River Walk is another place we will be visiting.







We will be leaving in a week and a half for New Orleans and a 4 day stay in Texas.  I am super excited that we are getting to take a vacation.  We are young, have no children, good jobs, so WHY NOT go?!?!

 

No one wants to look like a beluga whale in their vacation pictures.  

I am currently putting a really really BIG goal on my head.  I want to be at least 175 pounds (even less wouldn't hurt my feelings) when we go on vacation.  That will by no means will make me look like a skinny hot bod blonde in my pictures, BUT I feel like having such an awesome adventure ahead of me could really benefit my motivation.  That means in the next 12 days, I need to lose at least 7 pounds.  That would also put me at a weight loss total of 20 pounds since January.  I believe it is a reachable goal, and here is why...

When you hit a plateau where nothing you are doing really makes any changes, you need a new motivation to make the changes you have to in order to continue seeing results.  The same few pounds I keep fighting are hanging around because I hadn't really added a steady routine of exercise into my lifestyle.  I am, like most people, not really enticed by the idea of having to participate in "cardio" and blah blah blah...so I am hit and miss with when I choose to exercise.  I want my weight to magically fall off of me in the middle of the night.

...NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.

SO, with that said, I encourage anyone and everyone to ask me how I am doing on my 12 day goal.  I want others to keep me accountable as I would hope I could be a help to anyone else.  Ask me on facebook, comment on here, text me if you have my number.  Get all up in my business!  I want to take charge of this and see results!

Today, Wednesday 20th, my current weigh in is:
182 pounds

Wii-Wii-Wii all the way home

I keep fighting the same stupid 2 pounds over and over and over again. 

I carefully select and journal my food. 
I have added in "biking" for an hour along with housework (you burn calories doing your chores, right?!)

I think my body is protesting.

However, in the spirit of continuing what I have started I added something new to my morning workout!

  
This is called "Duel Slicing"--using your wii remote, you slice stuff up in various angles.  You compete against another player to see who can slice stuff (wood, eggs, diamonds, vases, sushi, etc.) the fastest and at the right angles.  I literally played this for 30 minutes because I was winning and it was fun!  About halfway through, I noticed my biceps were beginning to throb a little.  I was holding my arms up, flexed, and when I would "slice" I would put resistance on my muscles to swing the remote to slice fast. 

After slicing, I put in my Active Personal Trainer game.  Here I used my favorite Punching Bags and Targets portion.  The game puts resistance in your remote along with the resistance you add to your own muscles to punch hard enough to move the bags and bust the targets.  SUPER fun!!! This gets out calories, sweat, and any pent up aggression you may have. :)

So, if you have a game console just sitting there unused, think about the games you may have and REALLY play those games.  Add your own spin on them to make the difference (do squats when bowling, add resistance to your muscles when you throw the ball, etc.)

Squeaky Beast

THIS is our "new to us" bike. We were in the market for a brand new piece of exercise equipment back in early spring trying to find the best bargain we could.  This is what we found.  We have had our bike since March.  I think we may have used it more this last week than we have since we have had it!  I have gone 27 miles in the last two days.  Kudos to my husband who has also gotten on the "healthy" train and has also spent some time on this squeaky beast.  He alone has lost 6 pounds in the last two weeks!!! SUPER proud of him.

This bike actually came from a yard sale (Thanks Mom and Dad!)!  It has a timer/distance/calorie counter on it.  It adjusts for height.  It squeaks a little when you peddle a little too briskly.  It works GREAT!  Especially for the low, low price of FREE to us!

This is the time of year to shop those yardsales.  Dieting drop-outs are willing to sell their workout equipment that they have abandoned for low LOW prices!  I think my parents said they picked up this bike for $3-$5.  We were looking at the same bike at walmart for $100.  SO while it may squeak and beep at us occasionally, it's a start! 

Get out there on the weekends and see what you can find to help you along on your healthy journey!

Daily To-Do

I have lists of stuff all over my house.  To-Do Chores, Bucket Lists for the season, Grocery Lists, Menus, Weight Watchers Lists, the lists are never ending!  Well the "Daily To-Do" List I am passing on to all of you is something I found on Pinterest that incorporates a ton of "To-Do" lists into one handy list.  Check this out! (courtesy www.lifes-a-journal.com)

 

Isn't that awesome!  I am currently printing this out and hopefully going to use it to continue to stay on track.  You can do the same!

Diet Brownies---No Joke!!!

Last night, my husband and I were celebrating our first date 2 years ago.  We had a nice healthy dinner (because he's on board with WW now too!)  He grilled small round steak, I fixed us each a personal salad topped with either light or fatfree dressing, and steamed some potatoes and snap peas in the microwave (those Ziploc Steam Bags are AMAZING by the way.  If you don't have them, GET them.)

After such a nice dinner, we wanted something sweet to eat without ruining our entire effort.  I remembered I had blogged about Brownie Bites a LONG time ago.  I figured we didn't have a whole lot to lose, so I got in and made them.

Honestly, they were SUPER simple to put together.  They had a good chocolatey taste with a cake like texture.  I used light margarine and omitted the walnuts in my recipe -- hopefully I cut a calorie or two more with my substitutions and omission.  Also, instead of topping the brownies with powdered sugar, I added a tablespoon of Sugar Free Coolwhip when they came right out of the oven so it was like adding a small scoop of ice cream.   We both liked them and the brownies were only 2pts per brownie! Now onto the recipe with a few notes to start.

*PLEASE NOTE, in the recipe it does in fact say LOAF pan.  Do not use the standard 8x8 brownie pan.  Your brownies will be SO flat you can almost see through them.  
**ALSO PLEASE NOTE, that I have fully disclosed I am not the best cook therefore I did in face use the wrong pan. So here is a picture stolen from the sixsistersstuff blog to show you what they are actually supposed to look like.  :)


Weight Watchers Brownie Bites:

(Recipe from skinnytaste.com)

2 tbsp margarine

1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp chopped walnuts
1 tsp powdered sugar

In a small saucepan melt margarine, remove from heat. Stir in sugar, vanilla and water. Stir in flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Mix well. Stir in chopped nuts.

Spray the bottom of a 8x4x2 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray coating. Pour batter into pan.

Bake at 350° for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool thoroughly. Remove from pan. Cut into 8 bars. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Servings: 8 • Serving Size: 1/8th • Old Points: 2 pt • Points+: 3 pt

Calories: 103.9 • Fat: 4.3 g • Protein: 1.3 g • Carb: 15.6 g • Fiber: 0.6 g
 ________________________________________________

Tonight, I might  use the left over brownies in a new dessert!  I am going to crumble up the brownies into a Chocolate Pudding Mousse.
1 Snack Pack cup of Sugar Free Chocolate Pudding
1-2 TBSP Sugar Free Coolwhip
Remove pudding from snackpack cup, add coolwhip, and blend together.
TADA!  2 point Mousse.

Add a crumbled brownie and BOOM---a delicious, individual sized, 4 point dessert with no leftovers to tempt you to eat more. 

Happy Eating!

Homemade Banana Softserve

If I make it...it MUST be easy.  I am no culinary artist.  I did not think of this all on my own.  HOWEVER, it works and it was delicious.  So try it at home and you can indulge in "ice cream" for just 1 point.

What you need:
BANANAS--Frozen Ripe Bananas.  Make sure you use REALLY ripe bananas to give this dessert more flavor.

What to do: 
--Cut your bananas into 1/2 inch discs. You can do this either before you freeze them or after they are frozen (they were super easy to cut when frozen).  **If you are cutting your bananas then freezing, it will take at least an hour for the bananas to freeze enough for this recipe. 

--Place Banana discs into a food processor or blender.

--Next, Turn processor or blender on.  Your bananas will go through many phases.  It will look like gravel, lumpy mashed potatoes, tapioca pudding, KEEP going.  You will need to stop and scrape the sides of the container several times.

--After just a few short minutes of blending and scraping, your bananas will magically turn into a seriously smooth, creamy soft serve "ice cream".

 

MY suggestions for toppings!!!  

This was good on it's own, but if you don't dig a straight up banana flavor here are some things you could add to it for 0-2 points more.

--Toppings

Fresh Fruit--Strawberries, Blueberries, Peaches, Pineapple
Fruit in Splenda--crush up your fresh fruit and mix in a packet of splenda.  let sit in the fridge for an hour or two to let a wonderful syrup evolve.

Peanut Butter--a tsp of peanut butter mixed in with this turned it into a dream.
Sugar Free Coolwhip--Add a tbsp to the top to make it creamy

Cinnamon and Splenda--mix up a packet of splenda with sprinkles of cinnamon.  Sprinkle on top or mix it in to your personal taste!

ENJOY!

 

On the menu: Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes

Nutrition Data Yield: 4 servings (or 6 smaller servings)
Serving size: 1 cup (bun not included)

Calories: 167 (plus or minus depending on bbq sauce used)
Fat: 3.8 g
Carbs: 14 g
Fiber: 2.5 g 

Protein: 23 g

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground turkey breast (raw)
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup green pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup natural ketchup
• 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 Tbsp BBQ sauce
• 1-2 packets stevia (optional, if you want to make it on the sweeter side)

Directions

Mist a skillet with oil and brown raw turkey, onions and green pepper over medium heat. (You could skip this step, but you will get a better flavor.)

Place turkey meat, onions & green pepper in the slow cooker. Add all the other ingredients and mix well.

Cover and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. If you don't brown the meat first, then cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. 

__________________________________________________

So honestly, I don't have the "recommended or approved" brands.  So I figure I may have a few added extra calories but only a 1tbsp or two won't hurt the recipe too much.  I will use Whole Wheat Bread instead of a bun (making the whole sloppy joe sandwich 4 pts/serving) and will be making Spicy Spiral Mac-n-Cheese (using 2 tbsp Queso Cheese bringing 1c serving to 8pts) and a serving of frozen peas (0 pts).  

Dinner Total WW Points: 12

Chicken Stroganoff

Makes 6 servings, 4 points each.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken
• 1 container (16 oz) fat free sour cream
• 1 packet powdered onion soup mix
• 1 can fat free cream of chicken soup
• 1 small can mushrooms

Instructions

Add all ingredients to crock pot. Cook on low for 6 hours.

 ___________________________________________

This is in my crockpot now.  Smelled good as I was mixing it and I am looking forward to eating it later!  I am planning on pairing it with Green beans, carrots, and a serving of egg noodles.  

Dinner Total:  8 points.

McMuffins for LESS

I have been hooked on McMuffins lately.  But not the "300" calories or less McDonalds kind.  I have been creating my very own McMuffins that are EVEN less calories and adds a little bit of nutrients.

Here are the ingredients.

Here is what to do:
*You can split the english muffin up and toast if desired or just rock it plain if your muffin doesn't split quite right.

*Take two egg whites, scramble together in a very small bowl (I found some at Dollar Tree that were in a 3pack for $1) then microwave for 1 minute.  WATCH THEM---they can EXPLODE.

*Meanwhile, cut a nice slice of tomato (can add any vegetable you see worthy or even add some salsa) and add any salt or pepper to taste.

TO ASSEMBLE THE SANDWICH--this is key in getting the right combination
*Put 1/2 slice of the Fat Free Cheese on the bottom half of the muffin.  Top with Egg, salt and pepper to taste, and the other 1/2 slice of cheese (*By layering your cheese you don't feel "cheated").  Add the tomato and muffin top. 

Calories Intake:  164
Fat Intake: 1.1grams

WW Points (Old school system):  3

From beginning to end this should take 3-5 minutes total.  So don't say you don't have time!  You feel full all morning and you start your day with protein, whole grains, calcium, and Vitamins A and C.
ENJOY!

Pinterest

Most everyone I know uses pinterest (and if you aren't, it's time to come out of the cave).

Most everyone I know wants to lose a few pounds (and if you don't, I am jealous of you).

Check out my pinterest boards called Dieting Drama Queen Inspirations and Dieting Drama Queen Eats!

http://pinterest.com/mrschristyb/

You will find lots of pins with motivational sayings, websites with simple workouts, other aspiring weight loss "experts", and LOTS of "skinny" recipes.

Life Happens

Life happened as it always does and the all the "stuff" I had going on re-prioritized itself.  My life took a turn that made me ditch the dieting and the counting and the junk that consumed my thoughts.  The only thing on my mind was the health of my uncle.  I devoted all my time and energy into my family not my food. Nothing else seemed to matter when he was struggling to live.  My uncle was given a miracle and taken off his ventilator and quickly transitioned to a rehab floor for physical therapy, but continued his hospital stay for 40 days.

After weeks of nothing but vending machines and fast food containers, my mind was able to process the junk I had been putting in my body and how it was making me feel.  I felt tired, sluggish, bloated, and unhealthy.  I was able to realize all of these things but didn't go back to weight watchers system, because I still didn't have time to devote to tracking, counting, and calculating.

The evolution of stress allowed my body to get back on track naturally without specifically having to diet or exercise.  I was able to drop 7 pounds in a month and I was able to control that weight loss even with continued trips back and forth between hospitals, trips to fast food joints, and a sedentary life style.

My Uncle and I had several conversations about his health and how he had already over come so many health challenges.  In 1996, he survived a massive heart attack that required a quadruple bi-pass surgery.  After that he quit smoking, a habit he had since age 14.  He avoided diabetes, a disease that runs heavily in our family, by eating well and staying active.  He worked at a rock quarry for over 30 years--right up until he was hospitalized in March.  He lived his life fully with traveling, and spending time with his family.

We spoke candidly about his health and wellness as well as what I needed to do to avoid some of the health challenges my genes predisposed me with (heart disease, diabetes, etc).  What we never really discussed was the elephant in the room---his cancer.  I think we didn't want to think about it.

My uncle passed on May 17th at age 71.  The man that LOVED life is gone.
 I must say I still feel shock when that phrase is said out loud.

So this summer I am going to make sure that LIFE HAPPENS but in the right way.  I want to be active, travel, eat right, and love my family.

In memory of Uncle Joe---make life happen <3
 

MENU Madness

2 Rotisserie Chicken DRUMSTICKS-1 point per drumstick
Steamed Potatoes (1 small), handful of Carrots, handful of Sugar Snap Peas--2 points
(*Add in 2tsp light margarine and sprinkle in some Italian Seasoning)
Whole Wheat Roll with 2 tsp light margarine--2 point
6 Points Total

BBQ Pulled Pork, 1 cup--8 points
1 Regular Bun--3 points **Could substitute whole wheat roll or bread for only 1 point
Pickles and onions--0points
1 serving Baked French Fries--3 points
Salad with fat free dressing--0 points
12 (*with whole wheat bread/roll) or 14 points (but WELL worth it!)


Bubble UP Enchiladas (*see earlier post for recipe)--6 points per serving
Chili beans, 1/2 cup--2 points
Corn--1 point
9 Points

DESSERT!!!!

1 Jello Brand, Dulce Sugar Free Pudding Cup
1 Banana cut up *Layer on the bottom of the bowl, and on top of pudding
2 points!!!!

1 sugar free snack pack pudding (*any flavor)
2 tbsp Sugar Free Cool Whip *Blend Together in a bowl to create a mousse
2 points!!!!

1 serving frozen fruit of your choice *heat in the microwave for 30sec-1min--add splenda to sweeten
Add 2 tbsp FROZEN sugar free coolwhip (will taste like ICECREAM!)
2 points!!!!

NEW RECIPE BUT WORTH A TRY

Butterfinger "Pie"  (4 points)

1 angel food cake (prepared)

1 oz fat-free sugar-free vanilla pudding (mix larger size)

16 ozs cool whip (fat free)

8 12 ozs candy bar (size butterfinger) 

1	Spray a 9 x 13" pan with cooking spray.
2	Tear angel food cake into bite size pieces.
3	Prepare pudding with 1-1/2 cups of skim milk and mix with 2 containers of Cool Whip Free.
4	Crush candy bars.
5	Layer 1/2 cake, 1/2 of pudding mixture and 1/2 of crushed Butterfingers. Repeat layer.

 

1 12 cups skim milk

going the extra mile

When I am doing any type of exercise that includes mileage, I watch the counter like a hawk.  Every tenth of a mile, every second it takes to get there, I soak it all in and attempt to make myself pedal a little harder, jog a little faster.  Every extra bit of mileage I can fit in makes me feel accomplished.

Most of my cardio workouts last about 30 minutes.  I don't know about you, but I try to stay engaged, but after 30 minutes I start to get bored.  SO I have to fit in as many miles, as many calories, as much sweat as I possibly can.Today, I was able to fit in a whole extra mile. 

To the fitness buffs and cardio queens this is no big deal. 
But for a fluffy gal with lower back issues, I am more than thrilled!

I was able to fit in a 7 mile bike ride in 30 minutes.  Up til now it was 5-6 miles and I was content with that.  This is BIG STUFF people.

I give half the credit of this accomplishment to my husband.  How is that possible you ask?  He's not pedaling the bike for me, right?!  WELL we have had this lovely piece of equipment sitting in our livingroom for almost 3 weeks now.  Til this week I had only used it ONE time.  Tuesday night, my sweet loving (*and oblivious) husband asked me "Why I hadn't been using the bike that I was advocating so hard to get?"   
 After a few seconds of hurt feelings mostly comprised of wounded ego and guilt I attempted to be mad at him for questioning my workout ethics, but then I had to take a long deep breath and ask myself...
"WHY HAVEN'T I BEEN USING THIS BIKE?!" 

There's only one answer: I'm using excuses of basically anything and everything to get out of doing it.  AKA--I'm lazy. 
And that has to change.

So, THANK YOU to my handsome husband for accidentally motivating me to go the "extra mile" 

...literally. =)

Bandaids

Food is not a band-aid.  It will not fix whatever you are using it to cover up. 

What a profound statement. 
Food is not a Band-aid.

How many times in my life, and maybe in your own, has food been used as an emotional crutch?
A mental distraction? 
A physical release of life? 

But the truth in the matter is, FOOD IS NOT A BAND-AID.

It will in fact cause more problems that it will solve.
It will snowball your life into a host of other ailments that you will try to eat your way out of. 

It will cause health issues: obesity, diabetes, acne, bone density loss, arthritis, high blood pressure...
It will cause emotional and mental issues: lower self esteem, lacked confidence in almost every aspect of your life even if you don't realize it, depression, eating disorders...

As a society we immediately gravitate towards food for EVERYTHING.
Celebration? Dinner Party, BBQ, Cake and Punch
Funeral? Casseroles, Comfort Food
Family Time? Dinner Table, Breakfast/Brunch, Picnics, Movie Snacks, Sunday Dinner after church

...can you see where this is all leading for someone who seeks sometime of answer for their problems?  We are raised to associate food to solving the answer to everything.

but FOOD IS NOT A BAND-AID.  
Maybe I can keep this in mind when I need to process whatever I am going through in my life to find an alternative to using food to patch together what I am needing to accomplish.



HAPPY MONDAY!!!

RECIPE TIME

SUPER EASY BubbleUp Enchiladas

1 pound ground turkey
1 10 oz can Enchilada sauce
1 can Tomato Sauce
1 can reduced fat Refrigerator Biscuits (cut into 1/4ths)
Mexican Cheese Blend to Top the dish

Preheat oven to 350*
Brown your turkey meat (I also added some green peppers, onions, and 1/4 corn to my meat mixture).
Add your enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, AND your refrigerator biscuits.
Pour into greased 8x10 baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
Add cheese to top and bake for 10 additional minutes.

Nutrition  Info: Calories 390 | Fat 11.5g
Weight Watcher Recipes 6 points (old points)
      Serves 6

Overall this dish was super easy to make and very filling.  Even my husband liked it and said it was a "do again" kind of recipe!

weakness into strength

My attitude is that if you push me towards something that you think is a weakness, then I will turn that perceived weakness into a strength.  ---Michael Jordan

I am my own worst enemy.  

I can take my biggest weakness (being food) and let it overcome me.  I can get so down when I start to feel "food guilt" and continue to go on a downhill slide because it's what I do. 

So with that said, "My attitude is that if you push me towards something that you think is a weakness, then I will turn that perceived weakness into a strength" is a new mantra.  

Food should not be a weakness because it should be the way to stay healthy.  

You should never lose yourself to something that can spoil. =)

I am proud of the progress I have made even if it has taken a while to accomplish it.   I will take my moments of weakness that I typically punish myself for and make myself transform that self degradation into strength to continue working on becoming a healthier me.

NO MORE WEAKNESS---not even for chocolate =)

Since January...

If it isn't enough to see the change in my eating habits written on paper each day to track my "points" this is my proof.  The hardcore evidence that no once can dispute.  Besides, who would make up stories about this weight right?  Now if I said I had already lost 25 pounds then maybe...

Weight watchers has been easier to grasp this second go around.  PLUS it's nice not having the pressure of a wedding dress to fit into looming above my head.  I have time to lose a few ounces or a pound a week.  I have the mind set to be able to eat a cookie, instead of feeling nothing but guilt and then stress eat that cookie into a bigger problem.

I am still working the logistics and financial aspect of getting a treadmill at the house while maintaining a gym membership.  **IF anyone would like to donate to the "Get Fit" fund all proceeds will help!**  After a snaffoo of sneezing and pulling my back out of whack, we went to the gym for the first time since the beginning of January.  After several chiropractor appointments I finally felt like I had the energy and strength to go again.  It was a rough 30 minutes on the treadmill, but i felt accomplished.  Then I did some ball exercises and stretches to help my back along then went to the weights side and did some machine work.  In all I would say there was a good hour of work done on my body....and it is much felt today.  There are folds and rolls that are more sore than they have been in quite some time.  I will say that while it does take a bit of time out of your weekend to go to the gym, I enjoy the freedom of being able to go in and have choice of any machine I want, any equipment I want.  
BONUS: you can lip sing and treadmill dance while you walk/run without fear of total embarassment.  
DOUBLE BONUS : No one is there to judge you when you just lay there lifeless between sets of crunches.

Also within this blog today I would like to thank anyone and everyone who has commented in person, online, through pinterest, etc. for any and all supportive comments, suggestions, and thoughtful praise you have given.  THANK YOU!!!!


And now...for the PSA of the Day: When at home with some extra times on your hands DO NOT CLEAN YOUR FRIDGE OUT.  You find things that look good and then there isn't enough to make another meal out of so you dispose of it.  ...and NOT in the good "garbage disposal,-give it to your dog" kind of way.  You will end up eating all kinds of random things that you wouldn't typically eat for breakfast or lunch.  My advice is wait til your husband gets home and make him clean it.

thought of the day

on a bender

Quick question.
and please feel free to answer if you have a valid, reasonable explanation for the following remark.

Why is it, that when you binge eat you do not binge on celery stalks?
Why is it that we immediately gravitate towards the chips, chocolate, and other various really bad for you foods that instantly make your hips wider?

I have come to the conclusion that life would be a much healthier place if when people were stress eating, emotional eating, bored eating, etc. they would crave carrot sticks instead of candy bars.

...just a thought that has been plaguing me today.


in other news: I have not gained any additional weight, but I haven't lost any either.  However, the key to a fully successful weight loss program of any kind is movement and quite honestly I am still sitting on my tush waiting for some magical miracle to occur and I wake up 20 pounds lighter. 

heh yeah.
...maybe after another bender of "carrots."

a week of meals

When I make the weekly grocery list, I always make a list of menus to guide my shopping.  When the menus are made I go through my little WW books and scour the pointage of each menu item. (*Please note this is the old school WW not the new Points Plus).  I thought I would share some of the common menus we eat here at home.  This makes it easier for me through the week to make my lunches/breakfasts accordingly to the amount of points I will use up at dinner time.   These are NOT diet meals and these are NOT meals made using WW Recipes.  Just your basic foods you get from the store with portion monitoring set up for you on the boxes or in the books.

Dinner Menus are:

2 Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups (*97% lean ham, regular slice of cheese, Reduced Fat Crescent Rolls)
Spiral Mac-N-Cheese (*1 cup)
Green Beans
13 Points

Homemade Pizza (*Refrigerator Crust, 1/2 C Sauce, 1/2 c FF Cheese, 14 slices of Pepperoni, Vegetables)
Salad with Light Ranch Dressing

12 Points

Cheesy Tuna Helper (*1 cup)
Steamed Broccoli and Carrots

5 Points

Sloppy Joes (*Ground Turkey, 1 Regular Hamburger Bun)
Baked French Fries
Green Beans

12 Points

Chicken Fried Rice Helper (*1 Cup)
Egg Roll from the Freezer section at Walmart (1)
Pot Stickers (2)

13 points

Bean Burrito (1 Cup Fat Free Refried Beans, 1 --6" tortilla, 1/4 c FF Cheese, Salsa, Vegetables)
Spanish Rice (1 Cup)
Corn (1/2 Cup)

10 points

Lunch Menus would include:

Turkey and Cheese Roll ups
Pickles
Cheezits (27)
Sugar Free Caramel or Chocolate Pudding

7 Points

1/4 Totinos Pizza (cheese or Canadian bacon)
Cheezits (27)
Sugar Free Jell-O

6 points

Egg Roll (1)
Vegetable
Sugar Free Pudding
Welch's Fruit Snacks

6 points

Ham Sandwich (Whole Wheat Bread, Mustard, 2--97% FF Ham, 1 slice reg. cheese)
Pickles
Jell-O
Fruit Snaciks

7 points

1/4 totinos pizza (*cheese or canadian bacon)
Sugar Free Pudding
90 cal Granola Bar
Fruit

6 points

Breakfasts are:

Light Yogurt
Fruit

3 Points

3 Egg Whites
2 slices whole wheat toast

2 Points

Light Yogurt
90 Cal Granola Bar

4 points

There you have it.  A "typical" week in my WW world.  Sometimes it doesn't always go according to plan, but I have good intentions.  Hope this helps anyone else who is just "too busy" to think about what they are eating!!!

A banana for breakfast

and by lunch time I was STARVING.  That banana wore off at about 10am. 

We had a lovely dinner and all things considered I am still one point under my daily allowance.  But there is something that nags at me.

I think about it in the morning.  I consider it in the afternoon after work.  I plot ways to do it in the evening when I am plopped on the couch watching TV. 

That's right, I'm filled with "GYM GUILT".  I didn't know such thing existed, but nothing else could explain this feeling.  I read on pinterest (*a help and a burden) lots of motivational sayings and pictures about health and wellness and clearly these images are haunting me. 



This one phrase has been on my mind today :

 

Its not an earth shattering statement.  Heck, it's not even that witty, but every ounce of this statement is true.  I always feel sorry the next day for not doing what I know I should do.  ...and it's my choice.

Choices that I make are both disappointing and unproductive.  However, the warmth of home and comfort of my couch usually outweigh the drive to the gym after a day at work.  At the time I make the decision to stay home with my husband and puppy dog I am content.  It is only later, after dinner and reminiscing about the meals I had through the day, I realize that I did nothing to supplement my efforts to eat differently.

The choice I am making here and now: BUYING A TREADMILL and putting it right in the living room.  (*SHHH! My husband doesn't know yet!)  

Will it be ugly?  YES.  

Will I be more likely to use it if it is in a place where I can spend time with my husband, watch tv, and I don't have to climb the stairs to get to it? ABSOLUTELY!  

Weight Loss--brought you by: pickles, pop, and chocolate!

This morning I awoke to a beautiful thing---A scale that said 189.  That's down from 195 in just two short weeks!

I have been slowly working back into counting points and I have had some favorite foods helping me along these last couple of weeks. 

 These pickles are both delicious and have an extra kick that most pickles don't have. 

This is as always, a staple in my life.  Blah blah, you shouldn't have soda.  This is my weakness.

This dressing is a bit interesting but I enjoy it.  It is very similar to the Light Italian dressing you get at McDonald's.  It reminds me of the Caesar dressing used in the dining hall on campus.

As always, the pickles and the dressing will be just a phase and I will move on to something new.  But for now, they are something to look forward to.  They are FREE in points and provide lots of flavor so you don't feel cheated.  

Speaking of being cheated, women on diets often feel they can't have CHOCOLATE.  First off, I have no intentions of giving up chocolate.  I have found a recipe that I haven't tried yet, but I have every intention of doing so very soon and you should too!!!

Weight Watchers Brownie Bites:

(Recipe from skinnytaste.com)

2 tbsp margarine
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup cold water
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp chopped walnuts
nonstick cooking spray
1 tsp powdered sugar

In a small saucepan melt margarine, remove from heat. Stir in sugar, vanilla and water. Stir in flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Mix well. Stir in chopped nuts.

Spray the bottom of a 8x4x2 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray coating. Pour batter into pan.

Bake at 350° for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool thoroughly. Remove from pan. Cut into 8 bars. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Servings: 8 

• Serving Size: 1/8th
• Old Points: 2 pt • Points+: 3 pt

Calories: 103.9 • Fat: 4.3 g
• Protein: 1.3 g • Carb: 15.6 g • Fiber: 0.6 g

Free stuff from the doc of oz

http://www.doctoroz.com/


This link will take you to, of course the Dr. Oz show website, but it also can get you free ww recipes, easy exercise techniques (*No gym required), be entered to win a free cookbook OR a million dollars (pssh don't I wish!), and there is a link to take you to weight watchers to JOIN FOR FREE in the month of January. 

SO if you are interested in actually joining weight watchers this is the month to do it to avoid the start up club fees. 

Just thought you might want to know.

Commitment.

Commitment.

I do not have a fear of commitment.  In fact, I would think that I am mainly a commitment freak.

I decided to go to college I made sure I was there to graduate...and did.

I accepted a job in special education and stuck to the job *regardless of how scared I was* and it turned out to be the best job ever.


I moved in with my boyfriend (now husband) after 2 months of dating because I was already that committed.

I married that man, and I am committed for life to him.


But apparently, this "commitment" thing is a difficult task for me to accomplish when it comes to buckling down and letting this "healthy lifestyle" thing happen.

After telling myself it was time for a change I think my brain has gone into an overlaod.  "MUST EAT MORE FOOD" has been my mission when no one is around.  Like there is some cutoff date to which I will no longer be allowed to eat.  Or perhaps there is a food shortage and I must stock up like a chipmunk for a long winter?

Regardless, I am certain that foods like Steak burritos from Chipotle and multiple pieces of fried chicken from KFC, are not the best options to JUMP START a food turn around.  Not saying that I give up, but just curious as to why I secretly sabotage my attempt to commit to something that is GOOD for me. 

Maybe I can give posters to fast food places saying *Don't give this girl food* with my picture on it. 
...Just to be safe.

All I can do is just keep trying. :)