My beautiful mother-in-law, Dolores passed away Monday, December 21st. It will take me awhile to be able to keep up the writing. Please forgive me.
-Jill
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Good Friday!
We both got on the scale this morning. Aaron lost 5 pounds this week. YES! I lost 1/2 pound. YES! It's working again. That just makes my weekend.
I haven't eaten any of the sweets that have arrived to the office this time. My snack at work is either a South Beach peanut butter flavored bar or whole grain Goldfish crackers. Sweet and salty depending on the mood. I'm sure the not drinking helps too.
Have a good weekend everyone. If I don't write for a few days you can assume I am having a great time with my family this weekend.
I haven't eaten any of the sweets that have arrived to the office this time. My snack at work is either a South Beach peanut butter flavored bar or whole grain Goldfish crackers. Sweet and salty depending on the mood. I'm sure the not drinking helps too.
Have a good weekend everyone. If I don't write for a few days you can assume I am having a great time with my family this weekend.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Stuffing Down The Bad Thoughts
I decided to take a break from drinking alcohol. I didn't think it was doing any good for my Diabetes. I'm totally fine with not drinking. In fact I'm truly enjoying it. I'm even happier at work, with more energy.
We had egg and bacon sandwiches on whole grain bread with tomato and spinach tonight. Aaron had some low fat potato chips but I had a small salad instead. We each had a diet decaf Pepsi. It feels so great to eat right and do the right thing. What a relief.
My Christmas shopping and wrapping are done. The presents are stacked all around the house. As I sit in my beautiful chocolate La-Z-Boy, it makes me think of how blessed we truly are. Financially blessed but also spiritually blessed. I'm looking forward to celebrating Christmas this year with renewed joy for many reasons. As many of you know, I've had a truly wonderful year getting to know all of my new family members in person, via e-mail, Facebook, letters, phone calls, etc. It's absolutely fulfilling to find my real family - both sides!
Food For Thought:
I've also had a difficult relationship with my adoptive mom and this has taken it's toll on me this year. I think it's one of the reasons why I've been struggling with my weight. I just want to eat to stuff down the bad memories and feelings. But I really just need to deal with these things instead of pushing them down and being weighed down by them. I'm not afraid of the truth, the struggle, the bad feelings. It is what it is (that statement's getting old) so acceptance is what I need to concentrate on. What a liberating thought. It's not a new thought but a re-affirmation of recognizing that people make their own choices and then must learn to deal with the consequences. Bring it on!
We had egg and bacon sandwiches on whole grain bread with tomato and spinach tonight. Aaron had some low fat potato chips but I had a small salad instead. We each had a diet decaf Pepsi. It feels so great to eat right and do the right thing. What a relief.
My Christmas shopping and wrapping are done. The presents are stacked all around the house. As I sit in my beautiful chocolate La-Z-Boy, it makes me think of how blessed we truly are. Financially blessed but also spiritually blessed. I'm looking forward to celebrating Christmas this year with renewed joy for many reasons. As many of you know, I've had a truly wonderful year getting to know all of my new family members in person, via e-mail, Facebook, letters, phone calls, etc. It's absolutely fulfilling to find my real family - both sides!
Food For Thought:
I've also had a difficult relationship with my adoptive mom and this has taken it's toll on me this year. I think it's one of the reasons why I've been struggling with my weight. I just want to eat to stuff down the bad memories and feelings. But I really just need to deal with these things instead of pushing them down and being weighed down by them. I'm not afraid of the truth, the struggle, the bad feelings. It is what it is (that statement's getting old) so acceptance is what I need to concentrate on. What a liberating thought. It's not a new thought but a re-affirmation of recognizing that people make their own choices and then must learn to deal with the consequences. Bring it on!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Lightening It Up
So I'm back in the swing of things. Thank God for the beginning of a new day. With 2 more weeks to go in this year - both a difficult and happy year - I feel blessed.
Last night Aaron and I ate some steak, green beans and salad. For the starch, since I need it for my Diabetes, I bought a loaf of old world Italian bread made from rye flour and wheat flour with flax seed and other whole grains. It was great. I sliced off a piece, toasted it and then let the steak rest on the bread so all the juices would soak in to the bread. Mmmm.
Today we had a sub sandwich on thin French bread with lots of lettuce and vegetables. We skipped the low fat potato chips tonight (a first) and just had some diet soda.
I feel so much better than being weighed down by heavier foods. What a relief. I'm lighter both in body and in my thinking. It's amazing how the two go hand in hand.
Last night Aaron and I ate some steak, green beans and salad. For the starch, since I need it for my Diabetes, I bought a loaf of old world Italian bread made from rye flour and wheat flour with flax seed and other whole grains. It was great. I sliced off a piece, toasted it and then let the steak rest on the bread so all the juices would soak in to the bread. Mmmm.
Today we had a sub sandwich on thin French bread with lots of lettuce and vegetables. We skipped the low fat potato chips tonight (a first) and just had some diet soda.
I feel so much better than being weighed down by heavier foods. What a relief. I'm lighter both in body and in my thinking. It's amazing how the two go hand in hand.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
"In The Bleak Midwinter"
"In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan,
earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone;
snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow,
in the bleak midwinter, long ago.
Heaven cannot hold Him, nor the earth sustain;
heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign.
In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed
the Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.
Angels and archangels may have gathered there,
cherubim and seraphim thronged the air;
but His mother only, in her maiden bliss,
worshiped the Beloved with a kiss.
What can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;
if I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;
yet what I can I give Him: give my heart."
Food For Thought:
Today was a hard day...long. Realizing in the midst of chaotic circumstances that I have a problem that needs to be dealt with. I've decided to deal with it. Telling yourself the truth is always the best thing to do even though it's not always the easiest.
In my own bleak midwinter I praise God that he loves me despite my faults and that he gave his only Son to die for me to redeem my soul to heaven.
Today I gather up all my troubles and woes and give them over to God as I think, "Christ was born for this, Christ was born for this!"
It will truly be a happy Christmas Day for me this year. I hope for all of you too.
earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone;
snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow,
in the bleak midwinter, long ago.
Heaven cannot hold Him, nor the earth sustain;
heaven and earth shall flee away when He comes to reign.
In the bleak midwinter a stable place sufficed
the Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.
Angels and archangels may have gathered there,
cherubim and seraphim thronged the air;
but His mother only, in her maiden bliss,
worshiped the Beloved with a kiss.
What can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;
if I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;
yet what I can I give Him: give my heart."
Food For Thought:
Today was a hard day...long. Realizing in the midst of chaotic circumstances that I have a problem that needs to be dealt with. I've decided to deal with it. Telling yourself the truth is always the best thing to do even though it's not always the easiest.
In my own bleak midwinter I praise God that he loves me despite my faults and that he gave his only Son to die for me to redeem my soul to heaven.
Today I gather up all my troubles and woes and give them over to God as I think, "Christ was born for this, Christ was born for this!"
It will truly be a happy Christmas Day for me this year. I hope for all of you too.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Back To Ground Zero
Old habits die hard. I must renew my commitment so again tomorrow...
That's all I want to say tonight because I'm disappointed in myself. Having a hard time.
That's all I want to say tonight because I'm disappointed in myself. Having a hard time.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Snow Storm
So last night we stayed in a hotel 5 minutes from work due to the snow storm. We normally have over an hour drive both ways and with a snow storm, it has historically been at least 2 1/2 hours to get home.
At the Staybridge in Glenview, we took advantage of their employee snow rate. The rooms have a sitting room with a TV, couch, chairs, coffee tables. A full kitchen with refrigerater, stove, microwave, dish washer, cupboards stocked with dishes, glasses, silverware, and a kitchen table and chairs. Also, a separate bathroom and sink area, closets, and the most comfortable bed and pillows I've ever known. We enjoyed their happy hour - free beer, wine, nachos, salad bar and then this morning, we enjoyed their free breakfast - eggs, Canadian bacon, bagels and cream cheese, fresh fruit, juice, coffee, etc. Very nice. We went to bed at 8:30pm and woke up at 7am. It was the best night's sleep we've had in a long time. Well worth the $49 snow day rate. Yes, that's right, only $49.00!!!
Food for Thought:
I haven't been on the scale for awhile, but even if the number isn't lower on Friday, my pants are sagging a little bit and I know I'm making healthier choices and I'm feeling better, getting more exercise and my back pain is slowly going away. So, I'm happy.
At the Staybridge in Glenview, we took advantage of their employee snow rate. The rooms have a sitting room with a TV, couch, chairs, coffee tables. A full kitchen with refrigerater, stove, microwave, dish washer, cupboards stocked with dishes, glasses, silverware, and a kitchen table and chairs. Also, a separate bathroom and sink area, closets, and the most comfortable bed and pillows I've ever known. We enjoyed their happy hour - free beer, wine, nachos, salad bar and then this morning, we enjoyed their free breakfast - eggs, Canadian bacon, bagels and cream cheese, fresh fruit, juice, coffee, etc. Very nice. We went to bed at 8:30pm and woke up at 7am. It was the best night's sleep we've had in a long time. Well worth the $49 snow day rate. Yes, that's right, only $49.00!!!
Food for Thought:
I haven't been on the scale for awhile, but even if the number isn't lower on Friday, my pants are sagging a little bit and I know I'm making healthier choices and I'm feeling better, getting more exercise and my back pain is slowly going away. So, I'm happy.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Old Friends
I reconnected with one of my best friends, Marie, on Saturday and we talked and talked just like the old days. We hadn't seen each other in 5 years and we just picked up where we left off. What a great friendship!
Dolores made mandel bread on Saturday and the whole house smelled fantastic. It was comforting and at the same time driving me crazy because I couldn't wait to try some. It is traditionally a Jewish cookie that is slightly softer than biscotti. We are not Jewish, but it was a tradition in Aaron's family growing up. His Dad loved it so Dolores made it all the time for him. I wanted to try it so she made some for me. She made it with both chocolate chips and walnuts and then rolled the dough in cinnamon. I know there's more to it and I've requested the recipe from her. I'll have to continue the tradition because it was just delicious.
Our work holiday party on Friday was really fun. Instead of a plated dinner, they chose to have food stations this year. A beef and ham carving station, a mashed potato bar, a pasta station, salad bar, and a dessert table. The wait staff walked around with trays of hot appetizers and also huge cold shrimp. We danced a little and laughed a lot. Aaron won a raffle prize - $100 gift certificate for Lettuce Entertain You restaurants. That was so nice. Our doctors and management really make us feel appreciated and valued.
Food For Thought:
Oh, yes. The benefits of getting enough sleep. I keep reading articles in magazines, newspapers, etc., about the horrible health problems of being sleep deprived. This worries me because I am a night owl. I wait until Aaron is in bed to start my projects and sometimes I lose track of time and it's already midnight. I have to get up at 6:30am during the week so this pattern has to stop. I'll renew my commitment for better sleep starting now.
"...Zzzzzzzzzzzz....."
Dolores made mandel bread on Saturday and the whole house smelled fantastic. It was comforting and at the same time driving me crazy because I couldn't wait to try some. It is traditionally a Jewish cookie that is slightly softer than biscotti. We are not Jewish, but it was a tradition in Aaron's family growing up. His Dad loved it so Dolores made it all the time for him. I wanted to try it so she made some for me. She made it with both chocolate chips and walnuts and then rolled the dough in cinnamon. I know there's more to it and I've requested the recipe from her. I'll have to continue the tradition because it was just delicious.
Our work holiday party on Friday was really fun. Instead of a plated dinner, they chose to have food stations this year. A beef and ham carving station, a mashed potato bar, a pasta station, salad bar, and a dessert table. The wait staff walked around with trays of hot appetizers and also huge cold shrimp. We danced a little and laughed a lot. Aaron won a raffle prize - $100 gift certificate for Lettuce Entertain You restaurants. That was so nice. Our doctors and management really make us feel appreciated and valued.
Food For Thought:
Oh, yes. The benefits of getting enough sleep. I keep reading articles in magazines, newspapers, etc., about the horrible health problems of being sleep deprived. This worries me because I am a night owl. I wait until Aaron is in bed to start my projects and sometimes I lose track of time and it's already midnight. I have to get up at 6:30am during the week so this pattern has to stop. I'll renew my commitment for better sleep starting now.
"...Zzzzzzzzzzzz....."
Thursday, December 3, 2009
First Day of Snow
I'm so looking forward to our work holiday party tomorrow night. We're having an appetizer meal, which will be unusual. Lots of different flavors. I'll be able to dance off whatever appetizers I decide to sample too!
Tonight we had grilled chicken breast sandwiches on warm french bread with mayo, cheese, lettuce and tomato. We enjoyed that with a garden salad with bleu cheese dressing and we shared some fried mushrooms. It was truly very good. Aaron is not one for a salad, but he really enjoyed it. Light, healthy, flavorful.
It was hard to bounce back from Thanksgiving, but I do have to say these past few days we've been doing very good. I was able to get some exercise today walking around outside. I wasn't ready for the snow though. Cold.
You probably won't hear from me for a few days due to my social calendar, so please have a great weekend - I sure will!
Tonight we had grilled chicken breast sandwiches on warm french bread with mayo, cheese, lettuce and tomato. We enjoyed that with a garden salad with bleu cheese dressing and we shared some fried mushrooms. It was truly very good. Aaron is not one for a salad, but he really enjoyed it. Light, healthy, flavorful.
It was hard to bounce back from Thanksgiving, but I do have to say these past few days we've been doing very good. I was able to get some exercise today walking around outside. I wasn't ready for the snow though. Cold.
You probably won't hear from me for a few days due to my social calendar, so please have a great weekend - I sure will!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Egg Fritatta
If you like eggs, try making an egg fritatta. It's an Italian omelet and you can put anything in it you want. I made one tonight. In my cast iron frying pan, I sauteed some onion, spinach leaves, asparagas, tomato slices, mushrooms, and fat free bologna in olive oil. I then added 12 eggs and scrambled everything together. When it was almost set, I added some low fat cheese and mixed it again. Then I finished it in the oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes until the sides were a little brown. Cut it into 6 pieces and serve hot. Lots of good protein and vegetables.
Food For Thought:
Just thinking about grazing the holiday party tables this year. It's really going to be difficult but I know I can keep in control. I have to keep thinking of my goal and using my plan to get there. I also have to allow a little fun too or else I just won't do it and I'll quit.
"A goal without a plan is just a wish." ~Larry Elder
Food For Thought:
Just thinking about grazing the holiday party tables this year. It's really going to be difficult but I know I can keep in control. I have to keep thinking of my goal and using my plan to get there. I also have to allow a little fun too or else I just won't do it and I'll quit.
"A goal without a plan is just a wish." ~Larry Elder
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
New Month - Fresh Start
Much better today. My boss took me out to lunch and gave me my annual review, glowing, of course! Ha ha. Seriously, it was all positive.
But for lunch, we went to Egg Harbor. I ordered a chicken salad sandwich on multigrain toast. The chicken salad was mixed with chopped apple, walnuts and dried cranberries. I also had a small salad and hot tea. Very tasty and healthy.
New month, new mindset, re-newed motivation. The best thing about having another day is the fresh start that comes with it.
Thanks for lifting me up with your support!
But for lunch, we went to Egg Harbor. I ordered a chicken salad sandwich on multigrain toast. The chicken salad was mixed with chopped apple, walnuts and dried cranberries. I also had a small salad and hot tea. Very tasty and healthy.
New month, new mindset, re-newed motivation. The best thing about having another day is the fresh start that comes with it.
Thanks for lifting me up with your support!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Hand To Mouth
I am becoming quite an expert at the hand to mouth motion! Darn. It's hard getting back into the mindset. I find that once the door is open, it's so hard to close. I must reinforce my locking system. I may even need to put a chair under the door handle...
No more, no more.
When I was eating healthier, I even craved fruits and vegetables. Now I am craving heavier foods, comfort foods, chocolate, etc. Although, I did experience a moment of sunshine today and actually had a thought about a piece of pineapple.
We're going to have fat free hotdogs, whole grain buns, fat free chili, low fat cheese, onions, tomato, and mustard tonight. So that should set me straight.
I let you know how it's going tomorrow. Wish me luck.
No more, no more.
When I was eating healthier, I even craved fruits and vegetables. Now I am craving heavier foods, comfort foods, chocolate, etc. Although, I did experience a moment of sunshine today and actually had a thought about a piece of pineapple.
We're going to have fat free hotdogs, whole grain buns, fat free chili, low fat cheese, onions, tomato, and mustard tonight. So that should set me straight.
I let you know how it's going tomorrow. Wish me luck.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Polonez Report
Wow, what a great long holiday weekend!
Taking Dolores to Polonez on Friday was a great idea. We all thought the experience was "top drawer." Her words.
We started off with creamed herring with onions and apples, which was very good. Aaron, my mom and I ordered a Polish Kosmo to drink. That was really good. The difference was Roses Lime Juice. Then we all ordered Czarnina soup, which the chef makes each day from scratch. Czarnina soup is also known as Duck's Blood Soup. It is fantastic. Dark, rich, sweet and savory. It's made with Kluske noodles, plums, raisins, duck meat and yes, a little duck's blood. Andrew Zimmern from Bizarre Foods (now Bizarre World) on the Travel Channel visited there (which is how we heard of the restaurant in the first place) and he said the soup tasted like Christmas. Well, he was absolutely right!
We each ordered the Polish platter which included 4 pierogis, 1 cabbage role, 1 piece of Polish sausage, sauerkraut and 1 potato pancake with apple sauce and sour cream. We all had left overs, which was the plan. Then the chef came out with his staff and sang Happy Birthday to Dolores in English then in Polish. They presented her with a huge piece of cheesecake with a candle. It was a fantastic experience. As Andrew Zimmern said, luckily the chef (George) is teaching his son the old world traditions and recipes because once this chef has passed on, a part of what makes this cuisine so special will have passed on as well. Needless to say we took home a quart of Czarnina soup to feeze so we all can enjoy it again on Christmas day. We enjoyed our talk about food traditions and cultural traditions in the car on the way home.
Now back to work, back to the diet, the exercise, the mindset, the focus. It's getting harder now in the middle of the holiday season. I must find the motivation to continue on. I am thankful for 4 wonderful days spent with my family.
Taking Dolores to Polonez on Friday was a great idea. We all thought the experience was "top drawer." Her words.
We started off with creamed herring with onions and apples, which was very good. Aaron, my mom and I ordered a Polish Kosmo to drink. That was really good. The difference was Roses Lime Juice. Then we all ordered Czarnina soup, which the chef makes each day from scratch. Czarnina soup is also known as Duck's Blood Soup. It is fantastic. Dark, rich, sweet and savory. It's made with Kluske noodles, plums, raisins, duck meat and yes, a little duck's blood. Andrew Zimmern from Bizarre Foods (now Bizarre World) on the Travel Channel visited there (which is how we heard of the restaurant in the first place) and he said the soup tasted like Christmas. Well, he was absolutely right!
We each ordered the Polish platter which included 4 pierogis, 1 cabbage role, 1 piece of Polish sausage, sauerkraut and 1 potato pancake with apple sauce and sour cream. We all had left overs, which was the plan. Then the chef came out with his staff and sang Happy Birthday to Dolores in English then in Polish. They presented her with a huge piece of cheesecake with a candle. It was a fantastic experience. As Andrew Zimmern said, luckily the chef (George) is teaching his son the old world traditions and recipes because once this chef has passed on, a part of what makes this cuisine so special will have passed on as well. Needless to say we took home a quart of Czarnina soup to feeze so we all can enjoy it again on Christmas day. We enjoyed our talk about food traditions and cultural traditions in the car on the way home.
Now back to work, back to the diet, the exercise, the mindset, the focus. It's getting harder now in the middle of the holiday season. I must find the motivation to continue on. I am thankful for 4 wonderful days spent with my family.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Food Hangover!
Good Morning and happy post Thanksgiving day to all.
I have a food hangover! Ha ha. The meal was so delicious that we all kept going on and on about it. My mom said it was the best Thanksgiving meal she's ever had. Tradition in her family growing up was to have pheasant, which was good, but she always wanted to have a turkey during those years.
The brining worked wonderfully and our turkey was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was just perfect and I was very proud to be able to make this delicious bird for my family. Dolores's red cabbage and mashed potatoes were awesome as usual, but her red cabbage was even more so than usual. It was the best batch she's ever made!
The oyster stuffing, Aaron felt was the best batch that I've ever made. So all in all, it was a complete success. We had Spanish champagne (Cava) to go with the meal and a little cranberry juice. No dessert this year, it was just not needed.
We celebrated Dolores's 76th birthday yesterday. She was very happy and pleased with all of her gifts.
Now today we are taking her to Polonez, a Polish restaurant, in a southern suburb of Milwaukee for her birthday meal. We're looking forward to that and, of course, I will report on the meal tomorrow.
Oh, were you waiting to find out how much I weigh today since it's Friday? I'm not even going down that road today. I enjoyed an abundance of wonderfulness yesterday and we'll just leave it at that!!! ha ha.
I have a food hangover! Ha ha. The meal was so delicious that we all kept going on and on about it. My mom said it was the best Thanksgiving meal she's ever had. Tradition in her family growing up was to have pheasant, which was good, but she always wanted to have a turkey during those years.
The brining worked wonderfully and our turkey was crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was just perfect and I was very proud to be able to make this delicious bird for my family. Dolores's red cabbage and mashed potatoes were awesome as usual, but her red cabbage was even more so than usual. It was the best batch she's ever made!
The oyster stuffing, Aaron felt was the best batch that I've ever made. So all in all, it was a complete success. We had Spanish champagne (Cava) to go with the meal and a little cranberry juice. No dessert this year, it was just not needed.
We celebrated Dolores's 76th birthday yesterday. She was very happy and pleased with all of her gifts.
Now today we are taking her to Polonez, a Polish restaurant, in a southern suburb of Milwaukee for her birthday meal. We're looking forward to that and, of course, I will report on the meal tomorrow.
Oh, were you waiting to find out how much I weigh today since it's Friday? I'm not even going down that road today. I enjoyed an abundance of wonderfulness yesterday and we'll just leave it at that!!! ha ha.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanksgiving Eve
Whoops! Don't ever go to Costco just to pick up a couple things the day before Thanksgiving. I couldn't even get out of the store let alone the parking lot. I spent 45 minutes buying 4 things. What a waste of time.
Although, I did pick up the Dunkin Donuts coffee there, so I guess it was worth it.
Our turkey is brining in the garage as I write this. The champagne for tomorrow is chilling in the fridge. All ingredients for the dinner are ready and accounted for. Let the holiday begin.
It's my first Thanksgiving with my mom (Sue). As many of you know I was adopted at birth and we just re-connected last August. I didn't get to be with her last Thanksgiving as she was still living in TN then. So this is our first. It will be very emotional I'm sure.
It's also Dolores's birthday as I mentioned before, so it will be a terrific day indeed. I wish everyone a blessed and happy time together with family and friends tomorrow.
God Bless!
Although, I did pick up the Dunkin Donuts coffee there, so I guess it was worth it.
Our turkey is brining in the garage as I write this. The champagne for tomorrow is chilling in the fridge. All ingredients for the dinner are ready and accounted for. Let the holiday begin.
It's my first Thanksgiving with my mom (Sue). As many of you know I was adopted at birth and we just re-connected last August. I didn't get to be with her last Thanksgiving as she was still living in TN then. So this is our first. It will be very emotional I'm sure.
It's also Dolores's birthday as I mentioned before, so it will be a terrific day indeed. I wish everyone a blessed and happy time together with family and friends tomorrow.
God Bless!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Turkey Brine
In order to defrost the turkey, we took a small plastic storage container, filled it with water and ice and placed our turkey (still in the wrapper) inside and weighed it down with a cast iron pan. Then we snapped the lid on and put it in the garage overnight. It should defrost in about 8 hours this way.
Tomorrow morning I will rinse it off and put it in the refigerator until we get home from work, then we'll pour the brine over the turkey, add ice and put it back outside for the night. It should be very juicy when it's done cooking!
The philosophy of a brine is basically water, salt and sugar which soak into the turkey causing it to be immune to bacteria and to gather the flavors of the other spices and aromatics that are added to the brine. These could include candied ginger, soy sauce, oranges, lemons, apples, thyme, allspice, peppercorns, etc. These flavors enter into the turkey during the brining process. The salt is what holds the bacteria at bay, which is why just putting it in the garage overnight is suitable when it's not very cold outside.
Food For Thought:
Thanksgiving isn't just about food and family and football. It's tradition dates back to the early days where folks gave thanks to God for the abundant harvest, for the people in their lives and for making new friends. Thanksgiving is about looking into your own hearts and finding joy, then realizing that God gave us the ability to feel joy and He also gave us all of our Blessings, which we count every day. Thank you and thank you!
Tomorrow morning I will rinse it off and put it in the refigerator until we get home from work, then we'll pour the brine over the turkey, add ice and put it back outside for the night. It should be very juicy when it's done cooking!
The philosophy of a brine is basically water, salt and sugar which soak into the turkey causing it to be immune to bacteria and to gather the flavors of the other spices and aromatics that are added to the brine. These could include candied ginger, soy sauce, oranges, lemons, apples, thyme, allspice, peppercorns, etc. These flavors enter into the turkey during the brining process. The salt is what holds the bacteria at bay, which is why just putting it in the garage overnight is suitable when it's not very cold outside.
Food For Thought:
Thanksgiving isn't just about food and family and football. It's tradition dates back to the early days where folks gave thanks to God for the abundant harvest, for the people in their lives and for making new friends. Thanksgiving is about looking into your own hearts and finding joy, then realizing that God gave us the ability to feel joy and He also gave us all of our Blessings, which we count every day. Thank you and thank you!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Thanksgiving Menu
Over the weekend I had a taste for Tzatziki sauce. So I bought some plain Greek yogurt and chopped 1/2 a cucumber, added 2 chopped garlic cloves and a dash of olive oil, salt and pepper, mixing everything together. We dipped our low fat chips and really enjoyed a tasty wholesome snack with alot of flavor.
I had a late meeting at work tonight so Aaron graciously picked up some turkey breast sandwiches at Subway - it's the only relatively healthy fast food I know of. If anyone has found anything else, please let me know.
I'm looking forward to our Thanksgiving meal. Ok, I won't keep you waiting any longer on the menu. We usually have a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Aaron and I love oysters, so in our family, oyster stuffing is traditional. Since Dolores is such an excellent cook, I've asked her to make her red cabbage. It's not what you think. She fries a little bacon and sautees/marinates her green cabbage and adds onions and some ingredients I'm not even aware of. She uses tomato soup for the "red" part. Not your traditional red cabbage, but her's is most definitely better. Aaron will be licking the bottom of his bowl. My mom will get a first time treat!
Dolores is also excellent at making potatoes. Any way you can think of - mashed, boiled, baked, potato salad, in soup, doesn't matter. She taught me how to make potatoes, which really isn't easy. You have to know just when to turn the heat off. I won't give any of her secrets away, though! So she's making the mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving again this year.
I'm making the turkey - 18.5 pounds! I'm going to brine it on Wednesday night after it's defrosted. Then I stuff butter and herbs under the skin on top of the breast to keep it moist. I also put foil over the white meat after the crust gets crispy so it doesn't overcook and dry out.
I'm also making the oyster stuffing which includes fresh french bread, canned oysters (they hold up better), Tennessee Pride pork sausage, chicken livers, celery, green onion, sage, marjoram, thyme, red pepper, an egg and chicken broth. Everything gets sauteed except the egg and chicken broth. Pour the mixture over the french bread, add the raw egg and chicken broth and mix with your hands. Thats the best part! Then lay it out in a cassarole dish and cook until everything is hot (so the egg cooks) but not too long so it goesn't get crisp.
I make giblet gravy from the bits on the bottom of the roasting pan. I also let my turkey rest for about 20 minutes before carving it so the juices flow through the bird to keep it moist.
All of the above with cranberry sauce, black and green olives, a really fine Pinot Noir, candles, family, saying what we're thankful for. What more could I ask for on Thanksgiving?
I had a late meeting at work tonight so Aaron graciously picked up some turkey breast sandwiches at Subway - it's the only relatively healthy fast food I know of. If anyone has found anything else, please let me know.
I'm looking forward to our Thanksgiving meal. Ok, I won't keep you waiting any longer on the menu. We usually have a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Aaron and I love oysters, so in our family, oyster stuffing is traditional. Since Dolores is such an excellent cook, I've asked her to make her red cabbage. It's not what you think. She fries a little bacon and sautees/marinates her green cabbage and adds onions and some ingredients I'm not even aware of. She uses tomato soup for the "red" part. Not your traditional red cabbage, but her's is most definitely better. Aaron will be licking the bottom of his bowl. My mom will get a first time treat!
Dolores is also excellent at making potatoes. Any way you can think of - mashed, boiled, baked, potato salad, in soup, doesn't matter. She taught me how to make potatoes, which really isn't easy. You have to know just when to turn the heat off. I won't give any of her secrets away, though! So she's making the mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving again this year.
I'm making the turkey - 18.5 pounds! I'm going to brine it on Wednesday night after it's defrosted. Then I stuff butter and herbs under the skin on top of the breast to keep it moist. I also put foil over the white meat after the crust gets crispy so it doesn't overcook and dry out.
I'm also making the oyster stuffing which includes fresh french bread, canned oysters (they hold up better), Tennessee Pride pork sausage, chicken livers, celery, green onion, sage, marjoram, thyme, red pepper, an egg and chicken broth. Everything gets sauteed except the egg and chicken broth. Pour the mixture over the french bread, add the raw egg and chicken broth and mix with your hands. Thats the best part! Then lay it out in a cassarole dish and cook until everything is hot (so the egg cooks) but not too long so it goesn't get crisp.
I make giblet gravy from the bits on the bottom of the roasting pan. I also let my turkey rest for about 20 minutes before carving it so the juices flow through the bird to keep it moist.
All of the above with cranberry sauce, black and green olives, a really fine Pinot Noir, candles, family, saying what we're thankful for. What more could I ask for on Thanksgiving?
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Pork Tenderloin
I went to my chiropractor Saturday and found that I have a muscle in my back that was injurred so 2 other muscles around it have been told to pitch in. I received a massage and an adjustment and feel a little better. I need to return on Wed night and again on Saturday to try to get rid of it once and for all. I guess I can't be doing too much lifting and twisting heavy objects for awhile.
Darn, I really wanted to hang my new curtains up this weekend. Oh well.
For dinner tonight I braised a pork tenderloin in a little olive oil, a can of cream of mushroom soup (98% fat free), and I added some chopped Medjool dates, 1/2 Honey crisp apple, chopped, 1/2 zucchini sliced, black pepper, 1/4 cup dry white wine. I served slices of the pork and fruits/veggies over Kluske noodles (egg noodles). It was really good. I had been thinking about this dish for a couple days and came up with my own recipe. Very simple.
Back to work tomorrow but only a 3 day work week for Aaron and I. That's good. We could sure use a break.
Yoga and stretching tonight and then into bed for some reading. Tomorrow I begin defrosting the turkey so it's ready by Thursday morning!
(8:59pm)
Darn, I really wanted to hang my new curtains up this weekend. Oh well.
For dinner tonight I braised a pork tenderloin in a little olive oil, a can of cream of mushroom soup (98% fat free), and I added some chopped Medjool dates, 1/2 Honey crisp apple, chopped, 1/2 zucchini sliced, black pepper, 1/4 cup dry white wine. I served slices of the pork and fruits/veggies over Kluske noodles (egg noodles). It was really good. I had been thinking about this dish for a couple days and came up with my own recipe. Very simple.
Back to work tomorrow but only a 3 day work week for Aaron and I. That's good. We could sure use a break.
Yoga and stretching tonight and then into bed for some reading. Tomorrow I begin defrosting the turkey so it's ready by Thursday morning!
(8:59pm)
Friday, November 20, 2009
3rd Weigh In
Good Morning to everyone. I hope you enjoy this blessed day today.
I am holding at my current weight - no gain, no loss. Considering Aaron's numerous birthday celebrations, less exercising due to back pain, and Ibuprofen, I'm not thrilled but ok with the results.
Tomorrow I see my chiropractor again and a massage therapist to help get rid of this chronic back and side pain. I just don't understand it. I'm going to use all my strength and mental energy to fight back!
Aaah! It's Friday. We look forward to the weekend. Relaxing and spending time with family, home projects, time alone together and enjoying the fresh brisk weather.
Food For Thought:
The scent of an apple pie and cinnamon filling up the kitchen and wafting into the living room... I remember as a little girl waking up on Thanksgiving day to the many enticing aromas of what was going on in the kitchen. The anticipation of homecooked comfort food. Sharing in the joy of the abundant harvest and God providing for his children. Making a mental list of all I had to be thankful for. Saying a prayer of thanksgiving. Realizing I've always had so much to be thankful for.
"Write your sorrows in sand and your blessings in stone."
I am holding at my current weight - no gain, no loss. Considering Aaron's numerous birthday celebrations, less exercising due to back pain, and Ibuprofen, I'm not thrilled but ok with the results.
Tomorrow I see my chiropractor again and a massage therapist to help get rid of this chronic back and side pain. I just don't understand it. I'm going to use all my strength and mental energy to fight back!
Aaah! It's Friday. We look forward to the weekend. Relaxing and spending time with family, home projects, time alone together and enjoying the fresh brisk weather.
Food For Thought:
The scent of an apple pie and cinnamon filling up the kitchen and wafting into the living room... I remember as a little girl waking up on Thanksgiving day to the many enticing aromas of what was going on in the kitchen. The anticipation of homecooked comfort food. Sharing in the joy of the abundant harvest and God providing for his children. Making a mental list of all I had to be thankful for. Saying a prayer of thanksgiving. Realizing I've always had so much to be thankful for.
"Write your sorrows in sand and your blessings in stone."
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Giving
I've been spending alot of time in my new heavenly chair just thinking things over. It really feels great. Since the chairs are a chocolate brown leather, I've been running all over the stores on my lunch hour and weekends acquiring chocolate colored items to match. I'm calling this chapter in my life "Chocolate Changes." My mom is calling it "Hershey Haven." I guess I'm making Chocolate Changes in order to have a Hershey Haven. Nonetheless, I'm very happy indeed!
Shrimp and Shells for dinner tonight. I added in some sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, green onions, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, hot paprika and tossed all of the above with olive oil mayonnaise. I also was able to share our dinner with Dolores and our mutual friend, Terrie, who came over to pick up one of our old recliners.
Terrie is a phenomonal painter. She hand-paints Christmas ornaments and sells them for $4. I ordered 24 of them so she brought them along with her tonight. They are absolutely gorgeous. She paints dark pink roses on gold ornaments and also paints pine branches and holly with berries on gold ornaments. If anyone is interested, let me know. She's also done snowmen scenes on blue ornaments.
Dolores's birthday is on Thanksgiving this year so I really want to make that day special for her. We're planning the menu together and so far it will prove to be spectacular. More on that subject later.
Food For Thought:
It feels so good to share. The Bible says giving and sharing is a sacrifice, but it just feels so good to me to be able to provide for my family and for anyone in need or just a friend who happens to be picking up an old recliner. It is very important to me to share - to give part of what I have, part of who I am, part of my time, talents and lots and lots of love. By doing this, over the years, it seems I keep finding more to give. I have truly been blessed.
Shrimp and Shells for dinner tonight. I added in some sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, green onions, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, hot paprika and tossed all of the above with olive oil mayonnaise. I also was able to share our dinner with Dolores and our mutual friend, Terrie, who came over to pick up one of our old recliners.
Terrie is a phenomonal painter. She hand-paints Christmas ornaments and sells them for $4. I ordered 24 of them so she brought them along with her tonight. They are absolutely gorgeous. She paints dark pink roses on gold ornaments and also paints pine branches and holly with berries on gold ornaments. If anyone is interested, let me know. She's also done snowmen scenes on blue ornaments.
Dolores's birthday is on Thanksgiving this year so I really want to make that day special for her. We're planning the menu together and so far it will prove to be spectacular. More on that subject later.
Food For Thought:
It feels so good to share. The Bible says giving and sharing is a sacrifice, but it just feels so good to me to be able to provide for my family and for anyone in need or just a friend who happens to be picking up an old recliner. It is very important to me to share - to give part of what I have, part of who I am, part of my time, talents and lots and lots of love. By doing this, over the years, it seems I keep finding more to give. I have truly been blessed.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Good Blood Sugar
It looks like I won't be taking my Diabetes medication for awhile. My blood sugars have been so good that I am on the verge of becoming hypoglycemic. So I'm going to try leveling off with my doctor's approval of course.
Research says medications for Diabetes work well but diet and exercise works the best. And, once you've lost even 5% of your total body weight the disease process is much better over all.
So, that's good news!
Aaron and I received our new recliners today from La-Z-Boy, thanks to my Mom's generous Christmas gift. They are divine - chocolate colored leather and so soft and comfortable. Wow, what a treasure. Thanks, Mom, we're very happy!
My Mom made cauliflower soup today in her crock pot, which sounded very good. Here's her recipe:
"The soup is: a little diced, slightly browned bacon, chopped onion, chopped celery, chopped cauliflower, lots of fresh parsley, chopped red potatoes, lots of garlic powder, Mrs. Dash, 4 chicken bouillon cubes, and low-fat, lactose-free milk to cover plus about an inch. It is in my slow cooker and smelling pretty good. When it is cooked through I will mash some of it to thicken it. Might add more milk if it turns out very flavorful."
Ooh, I think I'm going to make that on Sunday.
Now to exercise and retire to get some much needed beauty sleep.
(9:26pm)
Research says medications for Diabetes work well but diet and exercise works the best. And, once you've lost even 5% of your total body weight the disease process is much better over all.
So, that's good news!
Aaron and I received our new recliners today from La-Z-Boy, thanks to my Mom's generous Christmas gift. They are divine - chocolate colored leather and so soft and comfortable. Wow, what a treasure. Thanks, Mom, we're very happy!
My Mom made cauliflower soup today in her crock pot, which sounded very good. Here's her recipe:
"The soup is: a little diced, slightly browned bacon, chopped onion, chopped celery, chopped cauliflower, lots of fresh parsley, chopped red potatoes, lots of garlic powder, Mrs. Dash, 4 chicken bouillon cubes, and low-fat, lactose-free milk to cover plus about an inch. It is in my slow cooker and smelling pretty good. When it is cooked through I will mash some of it to thicken it. Might add more milk if it turns out very flavorful."
Ooh, I think I'm going to make that on Sunday.
Now to exercise and retire to get some much needed beauty sleep.
(9:26pm)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Mussels in Chadonnay Sauce
Aaron's birthday today was truly great. He received a few gifts from his friends at work, one of which was the opportunity to leave at 4pm, which we took advantage of.
For dinner I made him mussels in a Chardonnay sauce with a dab of butter, black and white pepper, hot paprika, onions, garlic, and a touch of lemon. I served that with garlic bread that I made using french bread, Smart Balance butter and garlic powder. It was very good and healthy. I took my blood sugar 2 hours later and it was 113.
I also had a little fun progressing along with the re-decorating of my living room tonight after Aaron went to bed.
What I am doing "for my own good" tonight is exercising and then going to bed as soon as I can.
God bless everyone while they sleep tonight!
For dinner I made him mussels in a Chardonnay sauce with a dab of butter, black and white pepper, hot paprika, onions, garlic, and a touch of lemon. I served that with garlic bread that I made using french bread, Smart Balance butter and garlic powder. It was very good and healthy. I took my blood sugar 2 hours later and it was 113.
I also had a little fun progressing along with the re-decorating of my living room tonight after Aaron went to bed.
What I am doing "for my own good" tonight is exercising and then going to bed as soon as I can.
God bless everyone while they sleep tonight!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Taco Night
Good evening!
What a great meal we had tonight. I used some of the steak that we had for Aaron's birthday, cut it up into strips and made tacos. I grilled the tortillas right on the burner on the stove to brown them a little, then spread some fat free spicy refried beans and lowfat cheese on top of that. Then I put about 5 pieces of meat on top with tomato, green onion, a little salsa, cilantro, an avacado piece and topped it with fat free sour cream. Delicioso.
Tomorrow is Aaron's actual birthday so I'm going to steam mussels for him and pour a white wine and lemon (diet) butter sauce over the bowl. He's going to love it!
We found these Medjool dates at Peapod.com. They are fantastic. For a taste of something sweet, slice one in half, remove the pit, replace it with an unsalted pecan half, close the date around the pecan and then spread a small amount of low sugar peanut butter on the top. Very Mediterannean and tasty natural sweetness all by themselves. They are also good with pistachio nuts.
Food For Thought:
Some random thoughts I've had today: I have to remind myself that progress is sometimes 2 steps forward and 1 step back. Growth is circular. If losing weight were so easy, everyone would be thin. What is it that we are trying to stuff down with food?
(10:38pm)
What a great meal we had tonight. I used some of the steak that we had for Aaron's birthday, cut it up into strips and made tacos. I grilled the tortillas right on the burner on the stove to brown them a little, then spread some fat free spicy refried beans and lowfat cheese on top of that. Then I put about 5 pieces of meat on top with tomato, green onion, a little salsa, cilantro, an avacado piece and topped it with fat free sour cream. Delicioso.
Tomorrow is Aaron's actual birthday so I'm going to steam mussels for him and pour a white wine and lemon (diet) butter sauce over the bowl. He's going to love it!
We found these Medjool dates at Peapod.com. They are fantastic. For a taste of something sweet, slice one in half, remove the pit, replace it with an unsalted pecan half, close the date around the pecan and then spread a small amount of low sugar peanut butter on the top. Very Mediterannean and tasty natural sweetness all by themselves. They are also good with pistachio nuts.
Food For Thought:
Some random thoughts I've had today: I have to remind myself that progress is sometimes 2 steps forward and 1 step back. Growth is circular. If losing weight were so easy, everyone would be thin. What is it that we are trying to stuff down with food?
(10:38pm)
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Aaron's Birthday
I'm mourning the loss of my weekend and yet looking foward to the week ahead.
Aaron's birthday celebration yesterday was fantastic! Dolores and Sue took him out for dinner at Johnny's Chop House in Antioch, IL and, of course, I tagged along too. He ordered some raw oysters and the prime rib with a blue cheese crust. The wait staff sang happy birthday to him as they brought him a piece of bread pudding with a lit candle. After dinner we came back to the house and he opened his presents then we watched a movie and settled in for the boxing match between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto. It was a great fight and Manny made history winning his 7th title!
Oh, by the way, Dolores looked "hot" in her new outfit!
My mom and I went shopping today as I've caught the decorating bug. We walked all around JC Penney, Pier 1 and World Market for almost 4 hours. I ended up buying some new chocolate brown curtains for the living room, a new chocolate curtain rod and my mom bought me some tie backs to match. Beautiful! Our new La-Z-Boys are coming on Wednesday so we're all excited to see the new changes.
Speaking of changes, my back feels better tonight after Aaron massaged it and cracked my back for me. I think he put some ribs back into place. He's an excellent healer. I had a chicken sandwich with lettuce and tomato along with a garden salad for dinner and a glass of white wine. I'm going to resume my walking again tomorrow (although I did a tremendous amount of walking today as we shopped).
Food For Thought:
Thank you everyone for all the support. It's helpful to know my friends and family are pulling for me. Writing about all of my successes and my struggles helps to keep me on track. I look forward to making some more healthy choices this week.
(11:02 pm)
Aaron's birthday celebration yesterday was fantastic! Dolores and Sue took him out for dinner at Johnny's Chop House in Antioch, IL and, of course, I tagged along too. He ordered some raw oysters and the prime rib with a blue cheese crust. The wait staff sang happy birthday to him as they brought him a piece of bread pudding with a lit candle. After dinner we came back to the house and he opened his presents then we watched a movie and settled in for the boxing match between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto. It was a great fight and Manny made history winning his 7th title!
Oh, by the way, Dolores looked "hot" in her new outfit!
My mom and I went shopping today as I've caught the decorating bug. We walked all around JC Penney, Pier 1 and World Market for almost 4 hours. I ended up buying some new chocolate brown curtains for the living room, a new chocolate curtain rod and my mom bought me some tie backs to match. Beautiful! Our new La-Z-Boys are coming on Wednesday so we're all excited to see the new changes.
Speaking of changes, my back feels better tonight after Aaron massaged it and cracked my back for me. I think he put some ribs back into place. He's an excellent healer. I had a chicken sandwich with lettuce and tomato along with a garden salad for dinner and a glass of white wine. I'm going to resume my walking again tomorrow (although I did a tremendous amount of walking today as we shopped).
Food For Thought:
Thank you everyone for all the support. It's helpful to know my friends and family are pulling for me. Writing about all of my successes and my struggles helps to keep me on track. I look forward to making some more healthy choices this week.
(11:02 pm)
Friday, November 13, 2009
2nd Weigh In
Good Morning,
I stepped on the scale this morning and found myself at 197 pounds. So I gained 1.5 pounds back. I think mostly due to water retention. I thought it would be worse, so I'm not all bent out of shape.
Aaron and I have discovered Brown Cow natural yogurt that we ordered from Peapod.com. This yogurt is the best we've ever tasted - thick, creamy, all natural ingredients. It's sweetened with honey for some flavors and evaporated cane juice and pure maple syrup for some other flavors. It ranges from 170 to 180 calories per 6oz container. It does have saturated fat - about 3 to 4 grams. I highly recommend it for flavor, texture and all natural ingredients.
Have a wonderful day today. I sure will be enjoying this great weather!
I stepped on the scale this morning and found myself at 197 pounds. So I gained 1.5 pounds back. I think mostly due to water retention. I thought it would be worse, so I'm not all bent out of shape.
Aaron and I have discovered Brown Cow natural yogurt that we ordered from Peapod.com. This yogurt is the best we've ever tasted - thick, creamy, all natural ingredients. It's sweetened with honey for some flavors and evaporated cane juice and pure maple syrup for some other flavors. It ranges from 170 to 180 calories per 6oz container. It does have saturated fat - about 3 to 4 grams. I highly recommend it for flavor, texture and all natural ingredients.
Have a wonderful day today. I sure will be enjoying this great weather!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Anticipating the Weekend
We stopped at Subway for turkey sandwiches. They are 280 calories for a 6" sub. Healthy and delicious!
Aaron's 47th birthday is the 17th so our moms are taking him (and me) out to Johnny's Chop House for dinner on Saturday. He's been talking about it all week in anticipation of the perfect birthday meal. I am really having a taste for a steak, but I think that may be overdoing it, so I will have a few bites of Aaron's and that should satisfy my craving. I will most likely order the Mahi Mahi and their broccoli which is steamed with lemon juice - yum!
Tomorrow I weigh in. I must say I'm a little nervous but I did exercise and try hard this week to eat well, even though I believe I overate somewhat on Tuesday night. With the water retention from the Ibuprofen, the results should be very interesting.
Food For Thought:
Tomorrow is also Friday night - a Food Trigger night for me. Instead of mindlessly munching on junk food while watching TV, I am planning to make an egg frittata with vegetables and some fat free lunch meat and low fat cheese. With all the protein and fiber in the veggies, I should stay fuller longer. If I get hungry (or think I am hungry) later, then I have some fat free popcorn that I will make. I can make it through Friday nights eating well and still have alot of fun. I keep telling myself this and I know it will work.
Now I'm going to get some much needed beauty sleep!
(9:40 pm)
Aaron's 47th birthday is the 17th so our moms are taking him (and me) out to Johnny's Chop House for dinner on Saturday. He's been talking about it all week in anticipation of the perfect birthday meal. I am really having a taste for a steak, but I think that may be overdoing it, so I will have a few bites of Aaron's and that should satisfy my craving. I will most likely order the Mahi Mahi and their broccoli which is steamed with lemon juice - yum!
Tomorrow I weigh in. I must say I'm a little nervous but I did exercise and try hard this week to eat well, even though I believe I overate somewhat on Tuesday night. With the water retention from the Ibuprofen, the results should be very interesting.
Food For Thought:
Tomorrow is also Friday night - a Food Trigger night for me. Instead of mindlessly munching on junk food while watching TV, I am planning to make an egg frittata with vegetables and some fat free lunch meat and low fat cheese. With all the protein and fiber in the veggies, I should stay fuller longer. If I get hungry (or think I am hungry) later, then I have some fat free popcorn that I will make. I can make it through Friday nights eating well and still have alot of fun. I keep telling myself this and I know it will work.
Now I'm going to get some much needed beauty sleep!
(9:40 pm)
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Veterans Day
I had a taste of a Mediterranean side dish today that I thought was really good. A co-worker shared a bite of her lunch which she purchased at Trader Joe's. It consisted of chickpeas, dried mint, parsley, red onion and some other seasonings. It was in an 8-oz plastic container and was 2 Weight Watchers points for the entire container. Low fat, high fiber, no sugar or substitute or any additives. I think I'll be planning a trip to Trader Joe's pretty soon.
I'm doing great with the back pain and have resumed walking a mile each morning. I think I might back off of the Ibuprofen and see what happens. I'm only taking the lowest dose once in the morning and of course celery every day. I like the heart the best.
For dinner tonight we had 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast cut into pieces and 1 pound of shrimp that I sauteed in olive oil with red, yellow and green peppers and green onions. I added 6 oz of fat free sour cream and a little teriyaki sauce to make a gravy. I served it over 1/2 piece of multigrain bread. I enjoyed that with 5 oz of wine.
I'm also adding Benefiber to the diet after dinner each night to help in getting rid of everything I no longer need in my body.
I'm so proud of myself. Even if I don't lose weight this week, I'm already making healthy changes and forming new habits. And my family loves me even though I'm not always perfect!
Food For Thought:
Veterans Day brings a few thoughts to mind. I think about all of the food that soldiers both can't enjoy and are forced to have to eat because of where they are stationed. It makes me grateful for what I have available to me on a constant basis. It also makes me want to send a care package of homemade cookies or warm bread or a hot juicy steak just to make someone happy. There are so many things we take for granted - including our freedom. Many thanks to all of the people now serving our country and for those who have gone before us and helped shape American into what it is today. Even though we may not fully agree with everything that is happening in our country, it's still the best country to live in and I wouldn't trade it for anywhere else!
I also think about my cousin on my adopted Dad's side of the family - Rick Miller. He was a Viet Nam vet who went through Hell while in the war and had many problems when he returned. He was able to work them out, get married and have a wonderful family. While he was in Viet Nam he bought a doll for both me and my other cousin. I still have it proudly displayed in my home and on days like today I wonder what he was thinking all the way around the world at 21 buying those dolls for us. He must have been so lonely and scared and needed a connection to his family. He passed away a few years ago and left behind a legacy as a deeply devoted, loving, kind husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin and new grandfather. Rick, I miss you. I will always love you...
(8:47 pm)
I'm doing great with the back pain and have resumed walking a mile each morning. I think I might back off of the Ibuprofen and see what happens. I'm only taking the lowest dose once in the morning and of course celery every day. I like the heart the best.
For dinner tonight we had 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast cut into pieces and 1 pound of shrimp that I sauteed in olive oil with red, yellow and green peppers and green onions. I added 6 oz of fat free sour cream and a little teriyaki sauce to make a gravy. I served it over 1/2 piece of multigrain bread. I enjoyed that with 5 oz of wine.
I'm also adding Benefiber to the diet after dinner each night to help in getting rid of everything I no longer need in my body.
I'm so proud of myself. Even if I don't lose weight this week, I'm already making healthy changes and forming new habits. And my family loves me even though I'm not always perfect!
Food For Thought:
Veterans Day brings a few thoughts to mind. I think about all of the food that soldiers both can't enjoy and are forced to have to eat because of where they are stationed. It makes me grateful for what I have available to me on a constant basis. It also makes me want to send a care package of homemade cookies or warm bread or a hot juicy steak just to make someone happy. There are so many things we take for granted - including our freedom. Many thanks to all of the people now serving our country and for those who have gone before us and helped shape American into what it is today. Even though we may not fully agree with everything that is happening in our country, it's still the best country to live in and I wouldn't trade it for anywhere else!
I also think about my cousin on my adopted Dad's side of the family - Rick Miller. He was a Viet Nam vet who went through Hell while in the war and had many problems when he returned. He was able to work them out, get married and have a wonderful family. While he was in Viet Nam he bought a doll for both me and my other cousin. I still have it proudly displayed in my home and on days like today I wonder what he was thinking all the way around the world at 21 buying those dolls for us. He must have been so lonely and scared and needed a connection to his family. He passed away a few years ago and left behind a legacy as a deeply devoted, loving, kind husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin and new grandfather. Rick, I miss you. I will always love you...
(8:47 pm)
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Exercise and Therapy
This topic is not what you think it's going to be about! I want to tell you about all the exercise I did today and the fact that I'm writing about it is my mental therapy. I just want to laugh instead of feeling so frustrated.
One of the physicians that I work for ordered 21 posters of sports related themes and had them shipped to me at the office. Unfortunately, none of them were standard size. I measured each poster and found a comparable frame for each online knowing that I would have to cut and matt each one. When I went to check out and saw the cost for freight (not shipping because at this heavy weight, it's called freight!) was more than the cost of the frames, I had to cancel the order. What to do, what to do? I went to Michael's yesterday and bought 12 frames in all different sizes. I could only handle 12 at a time. Luckily they were on sale 40% off. The sizes ranged from 24 x 36 to 18 x 24. 12 frames are heavy! I put each one in the cart, then had to take each one out to be scanned and put each one back in the cart to take to my trunk in the parking lot. I had to take each one out of the cart and put them in my trunk. I got back to the office, went upstairs and got a medical records cart, came downstairs and loaded each one from the trunk to the cart and went back upstairs. I took each one off the cart, unwrapped them all and found that 4 were damaged and 2 were completely the wrong size. Today I framed 6 posters and put all of them in my trunk again. The good 6 went to the clinic across the street. So, you get the idea, I put each one in the cart to bring downstairs to put in my trunk to drive to the clinic to take them out and bring them in the clinic...then I drove back to Michael's, went inside to get a cart, brought the cart out and put the bad 6 in the cart to get a refund. I had to take each one out to get scanned for the refund. Then I had to replace the 6 and I bought 7 more in addition. Ok, I won't go through the cart to scan to cart to trunk to office to cart to upstairs routine this time. However, it took me until 2:30pm to frame all of the posters (cutting and matting, etc) and then to find out that I needed 2 more. So I had to go back to Michael's for the last 2, come back and frame the last 2. At this point, one of my co-workers felt sorry for me and offered to take the rest of them over to the clinic across the street after I framed them all. I told him about the cart to trunk to office routine so he would know how to do it....
Whew! Ok, I'm exhausted physically and now I'm laughing so I guess that gives me another "belly" workout. So all in all it was a good day of exercise for me. The point is that sometimes despite your best intentions, things just don't go as planned. It's important to keep a sense of humor and to be flexible.
Food For Thought:
The bad news is that because I had such a frustrating day I think I ate a little too much for dinner, which was 10 small potstickers and 2 small breaded fish squares. It doesn't sound like much but my belly is full! In examining my relationship with food, I have to get rid of this sense of entitlement. I'm entitled to eat/drink whatever I want because I had a frustrating day or situation or I deserve it, or whatever the excuse. What I deserve is to be healthy. That's what we all deserve. I'll be examining why I think of food as an award. It's an award while I'm eating it and then afterwards I feel guilty. An all too familiar routine that I have to break. I must pray about this and ask for help.
(8:48pm)
One of the physicians that I work for ordered 21 posters of sports related themes and had them shipped to me at the office. Unfortunately, none of them were standard size. I measured each poster and found a comparable frame for each online knowing that I would have to cut and matt each one. When I went to check out and saw the cost for freight (not shipping because at this heavy weight, it's called freight!) was more than the cost of the frames, I had to cancel the order. What to do, what to do? I went to Michael's yesterday and bought 12 frames in all different sizes. I could only handle 12 at a time. Luckily they were on sale 40% off. The sizes ranged from 24 x 36 to 18 x 24. 12 frames are heavy! I put each one in the cart, then had to take each one out to be scanned and put each one back in the cart to take to my trunk in the parking lot. I had to take each one out of the cart and put them in my trunk. I got back to the office, went upstairs and got a medical records cart, came downstairs and loaded each one from the trunk to the cart and went back upstairs. I took each one off the cart, unwrapped them all and found that 4 were damaged and 2 were completely the wrong size. Today I framed 6 posters and put all of them in my trunk again. The good 6 went to the clinic across the street. So, you get the idea, I put each one in the cart to bring downstairs to put in my trunk to drive to the clinic to take them out and bring them in the clinic...then I drove back to Michael's, went inside to get a cart, brought the cart out and put the bad 6 in the cart to get a refund. I had to take each one out to get scanned for the refund. Then I had to replace the 6 and I bought 7 more in addition. Ok, I won't go through the cart to scan to cart to trunk to office to cart to upstairs routine this time. However, it took me until 2:30pm to frame all of the posters (cutting and matting, etc) and then to find out that I needed 2 more. So I had to go back to Michael's for the last 2, come back and frame the last 2. At this point, one of my co-workers felt sorry for me and offered to take the rest of them over to the clinic across the street after I framed them all. I told him about the cart to trunk to office routine so he would know how to do it....
Whew! Ok, I'm exhausted physically and now I'm laughing so I guess that gives me another "belly" workout. So all in all it was a good day of exercise for me. The point is that sometimes despite your best intentions, things just don't go as planned. It's important to keep a sense of humor and to be flexible.
Food For Thought:
The bad news is that because I had such a frustrating day I think I ate a little too much for dinner, which was 10 small potstickers and 2 small breaded fish squares. It doesn't sound like much but my belly is full! In examining my relationship with food, I have to get rid of this sense of entitlement. I'm entitled to eat/drink whatever I want because I had a frustrating day or situation or I deserve it, or whatever the excuse. What I deserve is to be healthy. That's what we all deserve. I'll be examining why I think of food as an award. It's an award while I'm eating it and then afterwards I feel guilty. An all too familiar routine that I have to break. I must pray about this and ask for help.
(8:48pm)
Monday, November 9, 2009
Hypoglycemia alert
I was able to resume walking my mile in place this morning with just some slight back pain. Ibuprofen is a wonderful creation! Now for some celery...
I hope I'm on the right track. I guess we'll find out on Friday morning.
I'm so afraid that I'll gain weight that I'm probably not eating enough. I had a hypoglycemic episode today right before lunch. The panic that sets in when this occurs is very scarey. My hands start shaking and I can't think straight. Luckily I had some red grapes in my lunch bag. I grabbed 5 of them and waited. My endocrinologist says it takes 15 minutes to correct low blood sugar so I should try hard not to panic during that time. It's hard but I'm getting better at it. If you have never experienced a hypoglycemic attack, it's hard to explain but I'll try. It's like suddenly all of your energy starts going down a drain and you begin to feel very drunk and confused. Your hands shake and your mouth becomes dry and you think you're going to pass out and can't do anything about it. If you wait too long to start correcting it with sugar or Glucose tabs, you could pass out, luckily that's never happened to me. I get scared and tend to overcorrect it with candy or juice or grapes and my blood sugar is then high. I'm learning to only eat a little sugar or Glucose and wait the 15 minutes. Today just the 5 grapes did the trick.
Dinner tonight was lemon chicken stew. I roasted a whole chicken with lemon halves, onions, red potatoes, mushrooms, chicken broth, garlic, rosemary and black pepper. I served this with a 1/2 pc of whole grain bread and some sauteed asparagus, red pepper, mushrooms in a spicey mustard sauce. I also had 5 ounces of pinot noir.
I enjoyed a Diet Rite cola earlier today and learned it is sweetened with Splenda. I like the taste of Splenda better than Aspartame. I also like the taste of Stevia better than Aspartame. They both are not as sweet to my taste.
Food For Thought:
Over the weekend Aaron bought me a new book entitled "Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan. The Wall Street Journal's remarks about this book are: "Pollan wants us at least to know what it is we are eating, where it came from and how it got to our table. He also wants us to be aware of the choices we make and to take responsibility for them...." This is a book about the natural history of food and how the food industry has changed how we look at food and what is available for us to eat. Apparently, there is a promise within this book that I may never see the Chicken McNugget the same way again!
(9:58 pm)
I hope I'm on the right track. I guess we'll find out on Friday morning.
I'm so afraid that I'll gain weight that I'm probably not eating enough. I had a hypoglycemic episode today right before lunch. The panic that sets in when this occurs is very scarey. My hands start shaking and I can't think straight. Luckily I had some red grapes in my lunch bag. I grabbed 5 of them and waited. My endocrinologist says it takes 15 minutes to correct low blood sugar so I should try hard not to panic during that time. It's hard but I'm getting better at it. If you have never experienced a hypoglycemic attack, it's hard to explain but I'll try. It's like suddenly all of your energy starts going down a drain and you begin to feel very drunk and confused. Your hands shake and your mouth becomes dry and you think you're going to pass out and can't do anything about it. If you wait too long to start correcting it with sugar or Glucose tabs, you could pass out, luckily that's never happened to me. I get scared and tend to overcorrect it with candy or juice or grapes and my blood sugar is then high. I'm learning to only eat a little sugar or Glucose and wait the 15 minutes. Today just the 5 grapes did the trick.
Dinner tonight was lemon chicken stew. I roasted a whole chicken with lemon halves, onions, red potatoes, mushrooms, chicken broth, garlic, rosemary and black pepper. I served this with a 1/2 pc of whole grain bread and some sauteed asparagus, red pepper, mushrooms in a spicey mustard sauce. I also had 5 ounces of pinot noir.
I enjoyed a Diet Rite cola earlier today and learned it is sweetened with Splenda. I like the taste of Splenda better than Aspartame. I also like the taste of Stevia better than Aspartame. They both are not as sweet to my taste.
Food For Thought:
Over the weekend Aaron bought me a new book entitled "Omnivore's Dilemma" by Michael Pollan. The Wall Street Journal's remarks about this book are: "Pollan wants us at least to know what it is we are eating, where it came from and how it got to our table. He also wants us to be aware of the choices we make and to take responsibility for them...." This is a book about the natural history of food and how the food industry has changed how we look at food and what is available for us to eat. Apparently, there is a promise within this book that I may never see the Chicken McNugget the same way again!
(9:58 pm)
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Ibuprofen vs. Celery
Another beautiful day in Northern Illinois. The cool breeze blew the falling leaves all around our yard and deck. Just beautiful! I don't want this fine weather to end.
For breakfast I made scrambled eggs with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, a small amount of Fontina cheese and I folded in some avacado. I served that with a natural yogurt and 1/2 piece of whole grain bread.
Aaron and I shopped for awhile looking for a new entertainment center to go with our 2 new recliners. No luck so will keep searching.
For dinner I made low fat hotdogs, whole grain buns and I topped them with green onions and yellow mustard. I ate 5 tortilla chips and some fat free salsa, a pickle wedge and a small bowl of tomato soup.
I've been afraid of taking Ibuprofen for my back pain because of the water retention and weight gain, but I had to break down today and take one. I will take one tablet daily until my back pain is resolved. I hope it won't increase my weight. I have to be extra careful with my eating plan and increase exercise to the degree that I can stand it with my back pain.
Food For Thought:
Celery is known for it's colon cleansing attributes. A very natural and inexpensive way to clean out some of the bad! Now that I may be retaining water, I am going to increase my celery consumption to see if that will counteract it. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
I remember as a little girl spreading Cheese Whiz into the celery stalks that my Mom (June) and I were preparing for a family party. Not the best of cheese products for your health, but they sure tasted great. If you don't like the taste of celery, try spreading a little natural peanut butter or low fat cream cheese in the stalks. That's a great way to eat healthier.
(5:51 pm)
For breakfast I made scrambled eggs with roasted red peppers, mushrooms, a small amount of Fontina cheese and I folded in some avacado. I served that with a natural yogurt and 1/2 piece of whole grain bread.
Aaron and I shopped for awhile looking for a new entertainment center to go with our 2 new recliners. No luck so will keep searching.
For dinner I made low fat hotdogs, whole grain buns and I topped them with green onions and yellow mustard. I ate 5 tortilla chips and some fat free salsa, a pickle wedge and a small bowl of tomato soup.
I've been afraid of taking Ibuprofen for my back pain because of the water retention and weight gain, but I had to break down today and take one. I will take one tablet daily until my back pain is resolved. I hope it won't increase my weight. I have to be extra careful with my eating plan and increase exercise to the degree that I can stand it with my back pain.
Food For Thought:
Celery is known for it's colon cleansing attributes. A very natural and inexpensive way to clean out some of the bad! Now that I may be retaining water, I am going to increase my celery consumption to see if that will counteract it. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
I remember as a little girl spreading Cheese Whiz into the celery stalks that my Mom (June) and I were preparing for a family party. Not the best of cheese products for your health, but they sure tasted great. If you don't like the taste of celery, try spreading a little natural peanut butter or low fat cream cheese in the stalks. That's a great way to eat healthier.
(5:51 pm)
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Indian Summer
Wow, what a great day to spend outside!
Aaron and I moved some furniture around all morning to be able to accommodate our 2 new recliners that will be delivered soon. We really got a nice workout and after all the exercise, my back felt much better.
I had ordered some natural foods from Peapod.com which arrived this morning. So we tried Stevia sweetener for the first time in soda and it really was quite good. I also ordered some natural yogurts sweetened with honey and boy were they delicious.
I enjoyed spending time with my family for dinner and horror movies. We ordered out tonight since we worked all day and I didn't feel like cooking. So we splurged and had ribs from Jimano's in Gurnee. Ok, not the diet meal that I really needed to have, so back on track tomorrow.
Food For Thought:
I have a tendancy to munch more snack types of foods on Friday nights and Saturdays when we watch TV. I'm going to work on decreasing this behavior while I plan to munch on healthy snacks. Maybe I can do my floor exercises while we watch TV too. Hmmm, something to think about.
Have a great evening!
Aaron and I moved some furniture around all morning to be able to accommodate our 2 new recliners that will be delivered soon. We really got a nice workout and after all the exercise, my back felt much better.
I had ordered some natural foods from Peapod.com which arrived this morning. So we tried Stevia sweetener for the first time in soda and it really was quite good. I also ordered some natural yogurts sweetened with honey and boy were they delicious.
I enjoyed spending time with my family for dinner and horror movies. We ordered out tonight since we worked all day and I didn't feel like cooking. So we splurged and had ribs from Jimano's in Gurnee. Ok, not the diet meal that I really needed to have, so back on track tomorrow.
Food For Thought:
I have a tendancy to munch more snack types of foods on Friday nights and Saturdays when we watch TV. I'm going to work on decreasing this behavior while I plan to munch on healthy snacks. Maybe I can do my floor exercises while we watch TV too. Hmmm, something to think about.
Have a great evening!
Friday, November 6, 2009
We had a truly wonderful eating experience last night at Emilio's Tapas Bar in Hillside, IL. At 6pm they began the reception with 20 different Spanish wines to taste - some of which included: Rose Cava (sparkling wine), Albarino, Verdejo, Chardonnay, Garnacha, Monastrell and Tempranillo. During the reception, the wait-staff carried around platters of tapas which were sausages on little pieces of bread. The four different sausages were rabbit over garlic mayonnaise, venison on sweet carmelized onions and brown spicy mustard, elk made the same way and then wild boar with sweet red peppers. They tasted smokey, spicy, salty, sweet, yum!
We then were requested to take our seats at one of the 8 tables of 10. The first wine was poured for the first course - Ensalada de Rabbit with Thyme Champagne Vinaigrette. This was served with a Verdejo - a white wine. The second course was Grilled Quail with Sauteed Cabbage and Onion with Pistachio Honey Sauce served with a Garnacha - a red wine. The 3rd course was Cazuela of Boar Stew with Fava Beans & Autumn Vegetables served with a Monastrell - a red wine. The fourth course was Roast Venison Loin with Chanterelle Mushrooms and Forbidden Black Rice served with a Tinta de Toro - a red wine. For dessert they served a Puff Pastry with Carmelized Spaghetti Squash and Whipped Cream lightly sprinkled with powdered sugar along with a Cream Sherry - a dessert wine.
Throughout the dinner we viewed a slide show on the different vineyards and wine regions in Spain and learned many different interesting facts about Spanish wines from the speaker. At the end of the dinner Emilio brought out his cooks and we all clapped for their grand feast. On the way out Emilio held out his hand to me but I threw my arms around him and kissed him on the cheek and thanked him for a delicious experience!
We ordered 7 bottles of wine: 2 Verdejo, 1 Garnacha, 3 Monastrell and 1 Tinta de Toro.
Despite all the wine that was served and the 5 course meal, we did not leave drunk or even tipsy and we were not stuffed. I took my blood sugar before we went to bed and it was 138. I slept with a smile on my face.
This afternoon my Mom took us to La-Z-Boy and bought us 2 new recliners for our Christmas gifts this year. We were squealing with delight - the style is Gibson and they are a dark chocolate brown leather. We look forward to many years of comfort relaxing in our new chairs. They should be delivered in about 10 days. Thanks Mom!
We then were requested to take our seats at one of the 8 tables of 10. The first wine was poured for the first course - Ensalada de Rabbit with Thyme Champagne Vinaigrette. This was served with a Verdejo - a white wine. The second course was Grilled Quail with Sauteed Cabbage and Onion with Pistachio Honey Sauce served with a Garnacha - a red wine. The 3rd course was Cazuela of Boar Stew with Fava Beans & Autumn Vegetables served with a Monastrell - a red wine. The fourth course was Roast Venison Loin with Chanterelle Mushrooms and Forbidden Black Rice served with a Tinta de Toro - a red wine. For dessert they served a Puff Pastry with Carmelized Spaghetti Squash and Whipped Cream lightly sprinkled with powdered sugar along with a Cream Sherry - a dessert wine.
Throughout the dinner we viewed a slide show on the different vineyards and wine regions in Spain and learned many different interesting facts about Spanish wines from the speaker. At the end of the dinner Emilio brought out his cooks and we all clapped for their grand feast. On the way out Emilio held out his hand to me but I threw my arms around him and kissed him on the cheek and thanked him for a delicious experience!
We ordered 7 bottles of wine: 2 Verdejo, 1 Garnacha, 3 Monastrell and 1 Tinta de Toro.
Despite all the wine that was served and the 5 course meal, we did not leave drunk or even tipsy and we were not stuffed. I took my blood sugar before we went to bed and it was 138. I slept with a smile on my face.
This afternoon my Mom took us to La-Z-Boy and bought us 2 new recliners for our Christmas gifts this year. We were squealing with delight - the style is Gibson and they are a dark chocolate brown leather. We look forward to many years of comfort relaxing in our new chairs. They should be delivered in about 10 days. Thanks Mom!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Weigh-in Results
Just a quick post today...
Good Morning, I wanted to share with all of you that I am now down to 195.5 pounds. 4 pounds down, 56 to go! I'm so excited that my efforts are continuing to pay off.
Tonight we have our wine / game dinner at Emilio's Tapas Bar in Hillside, IL. (Yes, Emilio's is spelled with an i and not an e. I'm learning!). I know we are going to get home late so I wanted to share my good news with you now.
Our menu tonight includes rabbit, quail, boar and venison followed by a puff pastry dessert. Stay tuned for tomorrow's update with a full review of all the tantalizing flavors.
Food For Thought:
"Nothing tastes as good as being thin feels!" Ok, this is going to be a struggle tonight...
Good Morning, I wanted to share with all of you that I am now down to 195.5 pounds. 4 pounds down, 56 to go! I'm so excited that my efforts are continuing to pay off.
Tonight we have our wine / game dinner at Emilio's Tapas Bar in Hillside, IL. (Yes, Emilio's is spelled with an i and not an e. I'm learning!). I know we are going to get home late so I wanted to share my good news with you now.
Our menu tonight includes rabbit, quail, boar and venison followed by a puff pastry dessert. Stay tuned for tomorrow's update with a full review of all the tantalizing flavors.
Food For Thought:
"Nothing tastes as good as being thin feels!" Ok, this is going to be a struggle tonight...
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
A Little Help From My Friends - And Family!
Good Evening! I have some tips from my good friend Joyce, from my Mom Sue, and from my Aunt Liz.
From Joyce:
I substitute olive oil spray for drizzles, and I find I use much less oil and still get the flavor. It works well on garlic bread, oven fried potatoes, chicken and fish, and all vegetables. It’s not as messy as drizzling and tossing either. Give it a try sometime! You might just love it!
For oven fries, use good baking potatoes. Slice lengthwise into wedges, place on baking sheet, spray with light coating of oil, and sprinkle with seasoning. I use Mrs. Dash (table blend) and a little paprika for color, and just a tiny sprinkle of salt. Bake at 425 for about 20 minutes, turning once. Time varies according to thickness of wedges. Delicious!
From Sue:
I love this website. Anything you want to know about food...
http://www.nutritiondata.com/
From Liz:
For years I used sugar substitutes. We found it caused a lot of problems with my joints. Once I returned to sugar use, in small amounts, my joints improved. I also try to avoid high fructose corn syrup, this has been substituted for sugar in many products. (cheaper)
In the 70's we didn't eat at fast food restaurants, we ate at home. We also didn't watch as much TV and never ate while watching it except an occasional popcorn for a ball game.
Just wanted to share what I have figured out. Eat slower, and a little less; substitute vegetables for 2nds and move more. I use sugar, butter and anything that isn't man made.
More on sugar substitutes:
Well, as my very wise husband reminds me, the internet is a place where you can second guess everything and drive yourself crazy going in circles. So my research on sugar substitutes has led me to find out a few things. If I'm understanding everything correctly...Aspartame was created by a Searle employee over 20 years ago and it took them almost that long for the FDA to approve it. Despite controversy that it was thought to cause some brain cancers in lab mice, it was pushed into being approved with a GRAS stamp. GRAS means Generally Regarded As Safe. McNeil stumbled upon a new sweetener by adding chlorine to chemically alter a derivitive of sugar, which they call Splenda, from sucralose. Eventually the creators of Aspartame sued the creators of Splenda for false advertising and they've been battling in the courts and through the Better Business Bureau for years. In the meantime, the Sugar industry was losing money so they began creating websites and other alerts to discourage people from consuming Aspartame and Splenda. Politics, Drug Companies, Lawyers, the FDA are all involved and are all making a huge profit from this controversy and from sales.
So where does that leave us? It will take some time to figure it all out. Nonetheless, I am still horrified by the articles I am reading and scared about consuming any more sugar substitutes. It would appear that Splenda is the least offensive. However, there are other new natural sweeteners out there such as Stevia, Agave Nectar, and Honey (watch the calories!). Peapod.com sells an organic/natural carbonated soda that is sweetened with Stevia, which is a natural plant derivitive, but it is very costly. How long has Stevia been tested? What are the side effects? Are there any long term statistics? You can go on and on with this topic and eventually drive yourself over the edge. At the end of the day, I really don't feel comfortable making a recommendation to you on what to do. I think it will have to be based on your own research, experience and gut feelings.
Aaron and I even disagree on Aspartame. I don't want it in my body any more and Aaron reminds me that when we first went on Weight Watchers several years ago, that's all we ate and between the 2 of us we lost almost 80 pounds and neither of us have a tumor or brain cancer.
However, the 80 pounds has been found again! But that's another story for another day.
(10:05pm)
From Joyce:
I substitute olive oil spray for drizzles, and I find I use much less oil and still get the flavor. It works well on garlic bread, oven fried potatoes, chicken and fish, and all vegetables. It’s not as messy as drizzling and tossing either. Give it a try sometime! You might just love it!
For oven fries, use good baking potatoes. Slice lengthwise into wedges, place on baking sheet, spray with light coating of oil, and sprinkle with seasoning. I use Mrs. Dash (table blend) and a little paprika for color, and just a tiny sprinkle of salt. Bake at 425 for about 20 minutes, turning once. Time varies according to thickness of wedges. Delicious!
From Sue:
I love this website. Anything you want to know about food...
http://www.nutritiondata.com/
From Liz:
For years I used sugar substitutes. We found it caused a lot of problems with my joints. Once I returned to sugar use, in small amounts, my joints improved. I also try to avoid high fructose corn syrup, this has been substituted for sugar in many products. (cheaper)
In the 70's we didn't eat at fast food restaurants, we ate at home. We also didn't watch as much TV and never ate while watching it except an occasional popcorn for a ball game.
Just wanted to share what I have figured out. Eat slower, and a little less; substitute vegetables for 2nds and move more. I use sugar, butter and anything that isn't man made.
More on sugar substitutes:
Well, as my very wise husband reminds me, the internet is a place where you can second guess everything and drive yourself crazy going in circles. So my research on sugar substitutes has led me to find out a few things. If I'm understanding everything correctly...Aspartame was created by a Searle employee over 20 years ago and it took them almost that long for the FDA to approve it. Despite controversy that it was thought to cause some brain cancers in lab mice, it was pushed into being approved with a GRAS stamp. GRAS means Generally Regarded As Safe. McNeil stumbled upon a new sweetener by adding chlorine to chemically alter a derivitive of sugar, which they call Splenda, from sucralose. Eventually the creators of Aspartame sued the creators of Splenda for false advertising and they've been battling in the courts and through the Better Business Bureau for years. In the meantime, the Sugar industry was losing money so they began creating websites and other alerts to discourage people from consuming Aspartame and Splenda. Politics, Drug Companies, Lawyers, the FDA are all involved and are all making a huge profit from this controversy and from sales.
So where does that leave us? It will take some time to figure it all out. Nonetheless, I am still horrified by the articles I am reading and scared about consuming any more sugar substitutes. It would appear that Splenda is the least offensive. However, there are other new natural sweeteners out there such as Stevia, Agave Nectar, and Honey (watch the calories!). Peapod.com sells an organic/natural carbonated soda that is sweetened with Stevia, which is a natural plant derivitive, but it is very costly. How long has Stevia been tested? What are the side effects? Are there any long term statistics? You can go on and on with this topic and eventually drive yourself over the edge. At the end of the day, I really don't feel comfortable making a recommendation to you on what to do. I think it will have to be based on your own research, experience and gut feelings.
Aaron and I even disagree on Aspartame. I don't want it in my body any more and Aaron reminds me that when we first went on Weight Watchers several years ago, that's all we ate and between the 2 of us we lost almost 80 pounds and neither of us have a tumor or brain cancer.
However, the 80 pounds has been found again! But that's another story for another day.
(10:05pm)
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
What's In Our Food?
I'd like to begin tonight by sharing a recipe on Tyler Florence's website:
Broccoli, Parmesan and Lemon
Preheat the oven to 400˚F.
Trim about 1 inch off the ends of the broccoli stalks and peel the stalks with a vegetable peeler. Then cut the broccoli lengthwise into spears. Arrange the broccoli on a non-stick cookie sheet, drizzle with some olive oil and season with a little bit of salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Transfer to the oven and roast for 10 minutes.
Remove the broccoli from the oven and sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top and bake until the cheese melt and forms a crisp shell over the broccoli, about 10 minutes. Lift the broccoli out onto a platter with a spatula and hit it with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Mmm, I'm having such a taste for broccoli. Gosh, I thought I would never hear myself say that! My mother makes the best broccoli and I'm sure Tyler Florence's comes in second to hers. Tyler roasts his broccoli rather than boils or steams it because the flavor and vitamins are lost in the water.
For dinner tonight we had light hot dogs on whole grain buns, topped with reduced fat cheese, green onions (also known as scallions and as spring onions), yellow mustard and Hormel fat free turkey chili with beans. A light but filling meal that we crafted in our early Weight Watchers days. We are following the Weight Watchers Points plan even though I am concentrating on Mediterranean foods and cooking and watching my sugar intake. (Weight Watchers Points are directly related to calories, total fat and grams of fibre. You can learn more about this at www.WeightWatchers.com. )
Which leads me to a subject we all need to talk about - artificial sweeteners. I am horrified by the articles I am reading about most artificial sweeteners but especially Aspartame. Aaron says before I ban it from our home forever I need to do a little more research and then inform all of you too. So please note that I will be delving into whatever I can find on Aspartame and other others to make an educated decision. After looking in all of our cabinets and refrigerator tonight I'm finding it in many things including our fat free yogurt, our diet pop (obviously) and even our diet tonic water. In my preliminary reading on this subject last evening, I found that agave nectar as a natural sweetener has been discovered to actually be beneficial and stevia is from a plant and is regarded positively. In thinking about this I realized that we've always had sugar as a sweetener until our society advanced to the point where we could determine that it was causing us problems. So we came up with an alternative, saccharin, and that was found to have caused cancer in some lab mice. So we kept looking and developed some others and now that we've advanced a little further, we're finding that our current artificial sweeteners are causing us more problems than sugar was. We need to keep searching and researching and testing so that we can all have some healthy alternatives. I pray the drug companies and the FDA seriously consider what they are doing to the health of the population in order to make their millions. People need to eat, we'll buy the food, make it healthy!!!
In the meantime, I welcome you all to take a look at some articles on the controversy of Aspartame and other artificial sweeteners. See what you come up with, let me know and I'll make a reference to the information in some of my upcoming posts.
Food For Thought:
Haven't you often wondered why Americans are overweight and it's (unfortunately) a socially acceptable norm? When I see movies that were made prior to 1980 most people were in shape and healthy. What were we eating in the 1970's? Many people that I've asked this of have answered along the lines of "Oh, we never had fast food restaurants that we visited or all these restaurants in general. We ate a home cooked meal every night and only went out on special occasions." That's true for the most part. But how have our grocery stores changed over the past 30 years? Why are many people paying thousands of dollars annually to be on a diet? I want to know what is in our food that is making us fat? Why is diabetes taking over so many of our bodies? People today are consuming more and more diet sodas, the diet version of many different packaged foods, low fat or fat free foods, and SUGAR SUBSTITUTES! If many people are constantly "on a diet," then why are all of these people so fat? Myself included.
I want to know, don't you?
(9:50pm)
Broccoli, Parmesan and Lemon
Preheat the oven to 400˚F.
Trim about 1 inch off the ends of the broccoli stalks and peel the stalks with a vegetable peeler. Then cut the broccoli lengthwise into spears. Arrange the broccoli on a non-stick cookie sheet, drizzle with some olive oil and season with a little bit of salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Transfer to the oven and roast for 10 minutes.
Remove the broccoli from the oven and sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top and bake until the cheese melt and forms a crisp shell over the broccoli, about 10 minutes. Lift the broccoli out onto a platter with a spatula and hit it with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Mmm, I'm having such a taste for broccoli. Gosh, I thought I would never hear myself say that! My mother makes the best broccoli and I'm sure Tyler Florence's comes in second to hers. Tyler roasts his broccoli rather than boils or steams it because the flavor and vitamins are lost in the water.
For dinner tonight we had light hot dogs on whole grain buns, topped with reduced fat cheese, green onions (also known as scallions and as spring onions), yellow mustard and Hormel fat free turkey chili with beans. A light but filling meal that we crafted in our early Weight Watchers days. We are following the Weight Watchers Points plan even though I am concentrating on Mediterranean foods and cooking and watching my sugar intake. (Weight Watchers Points are directly related to calories, total fat and grams of fibre. You can learn more about this at www.WeightWatchers.com. )
Which leads me to a subject we all need to talk about - artificial sweeteners. I am horrified by the articles I am reading about most artificial sweeteners but especially Aspartame. Aaron says before I ban it from our home forever I need to do a little more research and then inform all of you too. So please note that I will be delving into whatever I can find on Aspartame and other others to make an educated decision. After looking in all of our cabinets and refrigerator tonight I'm finding it in many things including our fat free yogurt, our diet pop (obviously) and even our diet tonic water. In my preliminary reading on this subject last evening, I found that agave nectar as a natural sweetener has been discovered to actually be beneficial and stevia is from a plant and is regarded positively. In thinking about this I realized that we've always had sugar as a sweetener until our society advanced to the point where we could determine that it was causing us problems. So we came up with an alternative, saccharin, and that was found to have caused cancer in some lab mice. So we kept looking and developed some others and now that we've advanced a little further, we're finding that our current artificial sweeteners are causing us more problems than sugar was. We need to keep searching and researching and testing so that we can all have some healthy alternatives. I pray the drug companies and the FDA seriously consider what they are doing to the health of the population in order to make their millions. People need to eat, we'll buy the food, make it healthy!!!
In the meantime, I welcome you all to take a look at some articles on the controversy of Aspartame and other artificial sweeteners. See what you come up with, let me know and I'll make a reference to the information in some of my upcoming posts.
Food For Thought:
Haven't you often wondered why Americans are overweight and it's (unfortunately) a socially acceptable norm? When I see movies that were made prior to 1980 most people were in shape and healthy. What were we eating in the 1970's? Many people that I've asked this of have answered along the lines of "Oh, we never had fast food restaurants that we visited or all these restaurants in general. We ate a home cooked meal every night and only went out on special occasions." That's true for the most part. But how have our grocery stores changed over the past 30 years? Why are many people paying thousands of dollars annually to be on a diet? I want to know what is in our food that is making us fat? Why is diabetes taking over so many of our bodies? People today are consuming more and more diet sodas, the diet version of many different packaged foods, low fat or fat free foods, and SUGAR SUBSTITUTES! If many people are constantly "on a diet," then why are all of these people so fat? Myself included.
I want to know, don't you?
(9:50pm)
Monday, November 2, 2009
It's Important to Plan
I apologize - I hate typos just as much as you do! In reading my post from yesterday, I found that I spelled Tapas incorrectly.
Quoting from my cookbook, "Mediterranean Cooking:"
"In Spanish, "tapa" means a lid and it was the custom of bartenders serving glasses of sherry covered with a slice of sausage or ham which evolved into the most fascinating and imaginative selection of "little dishes" served today. Tapas bars, particularly abundant in southern Spain, serve a variety of such dishes. In these bars you can enjoy pre-dinner tasters or thoroughly indulge yourself with a selection of dishes as a main meal. Fried new potatoes, chorizo sausage in olive oil, garlic prawns and empanadillas are tapas classics."
Oh, I can't wait for Thursday night's wine dinner with Aaron at Emelio's as we celebrate his 47th birthday. It's going to be very difficult to enjoy everything this dinner has to offer and not totally go overboard, blowing the diet and getting an upset stomach - or worse! Aaron and I very diligently discussed our plan this morning. In looking at the pre-set menu for the night, we know there will be 20 wines to sample with appetizers or Tapas; 5 courses of game all with different wines paired with each dish, and dessert paired with a dessert wine. Wow, what a feast. Luckily Chef Emelio stresses quality and authentic Spanish cooking instead of quantity! I know that every bite entering my mouth will be a memory I will have for a very long time and my mouth is watering just anticipating the adventure. We plan to sample only wines we've never tried before and only 1/2 glasses with the dinner courses and a sip or 2 of the dessert wine. We plan to concentrate more on the food and try a little of all of the flavors. I think we'll be ok.
It's important to pre-plan what you are going to eat so it fits in with your diet and you don't get out of hand. In fact, this may sound a bit crazy, but I keep a list of everything that is stocked in my 2 freezers. We have a freezer chest in the garage to hold larger items such as a turkey, ice for parties, and stock up items when I see a sale. Keeping a list helps me control my menus during the week, and then I don't over buy or impulse shop when it comes time for grocery shopping. It's hard to impulse shop on Peapod.com so I try to stick with ordering groceries. You can really get some great deals and they take manufacturers coupons.
My back is feeling somewhat better and I managed to walk 1/2 mile with my DVD today. By the way, the DVD is by Leslie Sansone. She has a great collection of walking at home DVD's. She also includes low-impact aerobics which is great for beginners.
Dinner tonight consisted of 1 pork chop each and 2/3 sausage for Aaron, 1/3 for me. We enjoyed a garden salad and 1 glass of white wine. I also made ratatouille - a vegetable dish from Provence. I sauteed some Spanish onion, red and yellow peppers, zucchini (also called courgette along the Mediterranean), garlic cloves and black olives in some olive oil and sprinkled the mixture with a small amount of salt and some crushed black pepper. Absolutely delicious.
Food For Thought:
In trying to unravel the mystery of what I am doing in this overweight body, I began thinking about my history with food. My earliest memory is when I was 2. My Dad was eating a pizza and drinking a beer. I was very curious what that would taste like so I wandered over to where he was sitting watching TV and asked for some. I think it was more like pointing and whining. I bit into the pizza and grabbed hold of it. My Dad just started laughing then he offered me some beer to wash it down. I think that's when it all started going south!
(10:48 pm)
Quoting from my cookbook, "Mediterranean Cooking:"
"In Spanish, "tapa" means a lid and it was the custom of bartenders serving glasses of sherry covered with a slice of sausage or ham which evolved into the most fascinating and imaginative selection of "little dishes" served today. Tapas bars, particularly abundant in southern Spain, serve a variety of such dishes. In these bars you can enjoy pre-dinner tasters or thoroughly indulge yourself with a selection of dishes as a main meal. Fried new potatoes, chorizo sausage in olive oil, garlic prawns and empanadillas are tapas classics."
Oh, I can't wait for Thursday night's wine dinner with Aaron at Emelio's as we celebrate his 47th birthday. It's going to be very difficult to enjoy everything this dinner has to offer and not totally go overboard, blowing the diet and getting an upset stomach - or worse! Aaron and I very diligently discussed our plan this morning. In looking at the pre-set menu for the night, we know there will be 20 wines to sample with appetizers or Tapas; 5 courses of game all with different wines paired with each dish, and dessert paired with a dessert wine. Wow, what a feast. Luckily Chef Emelio stresses quality and authentic Spanish cooking instead of quantity! I know that every bite entering my mouth will be a memory I will have for a very long time and my mouth is watering just anticipating the adventure. We plan to sample only wines we've never tried before and only 1/2 glasses with the dinner courses and a sip or 2 of the dessert wine. We plan to concentrate more on the food and try a little of all of the flavors. I think we'll be ok.
It's important to pre-plan what you are going to eat so it fits in with your diet and you don't get out of hand. In fact, this may sound a bit crazy, but I keep a list of everything that is stocked in my 2 freezers. We have a freezer chest in the garage to hold larger items such as a turkey, ice for parties, and stock up items when I see a sale. Keeping a list helps me control my menus during the week, and then I don't over buy or impulse shop when it comes time for grocery shopping. It's hard to impulse shop on Peapod.com so I try to stick with ordering groceries. You can really get some great deals and they take manufacturers coupons.
My back is feeling somewhat better and I managed to walk 1/2 mile with my DVD today. By the way, the DVD is by Leslie Sansone. She has a great collection of walking at home DVD's. She also includes low-impact aerobics which is great for beginners.
Dinner tonight consisted of 1 pork chop each and 2/3 sausage for Aaron, 1/3 for me. We enjoyed a garden salad and 1 glass of white wine. I also made ratatouille - a vegetable dish from Provence. I sauteed some Spanish onion, red and yellow peppers, zucchini (also called courgette along the Mediterranean), garlic cloves and black olives in some olive oil and sprinkled the mixture with a small amount of salt and some crushed black pepper. Absolutely delicious.
Food For Thought:
In trying to unravel the mystery of what I am doing in this overweight body, I began thinking about my history with food. My earliest memory is when I was 2. My Dad was eating a pizza and drinking a beer. I was very curious what that would taste like so I wandered over to where he was sitting watching TV and asked for some. I think it was more like pointing and whining. I bit into the pizza and grabbed hold of it. My Dad just started laughing then he offered me some beer to wash it down. I think that's when it all started going south!
(10:48 pm)
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Extra Hour To Relax!
We really appreciated the extra hour today. I used the time to relax and try to get rid of this back pain. No exercise again today.
For dinner, Dolores made Pasta Fagioli and brought some upstairs for us to try. She really does a great job. I made a simple Spanish dish of boneless pork chops and hot sausage browned with onion, tomatoes, garlic, white wine, bay leaf and parsley. I served it with a garden salad. I took my blood sugar 2 hours after I ate and it was 81!
Food For Thought:
Just thinking about the holidays coming up and getting a little concerned about over eating. I'm going to plan out my menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Also in November we celebrate Aaron's birthday and Dolores's birthday each with special meals. Aaron's birthday is the 17th but we are going to celebrate on Thursday with a wine dinner at one of our favorite restaurants - Emelio's Tappas Bar - in Hillside, IL (where we used to live). It's a Spanish restaurant serving Tappas and other regional dishes. This dinner will be very special and I'll write all about our experience on Friday.
I think the best tomatoes to eat are home grown. If you can't get home grown over the winter, then select vine ripened or heirloom tomatoes. Other tomatoes - if not organic - tend to be forced to turn red so they are not really ripe and, therefore, the flavor is compromised.
(9:04pm)
For dinner, Dolores made Pasta Fagioli and brought some upstairs for us to try. She really does a great job. I made a simple Spanish dish of boneless pork chops and hot sausage browned with onion, tomatoes, garlic, white wine, bay leaf and parsley. I served it with a garden salad. I took my blood sugar 2 hours after I ate and it was 81!
Food For Thought:
Just thinking about the holidays coming up and getting a little concerned about over eating. I'm going to plan out my menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. Also in November we celebrate Aaron's birthday and Dolores's birthday each with special meals. Aaron's birthday is the 17th but we are going to celebrate on Thursday with a wine dinner at one of our favorite restaurants - Emelio's Tappas Bar - in Hillside, IL (where we used to live). It's a Spanish restaurant serving Tappas and other regional dishes. This dinner will be very special and I'll write all about our experience on Friday.
I think the best tomatoes to eat are home grown. If you can't get home grown over the winter, then select vine ripened or heirloom tomatoes. Other tomatoes - if not organic - tend to be forced to turn red so they are not really ripe and, therefore, the flavor is compromised.
(9:04pm)
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Eating With My Family
I was in such pain from a muscle spasm in my back that wraps around to my side, that I made an appointment with my Chiropractor this morning. He used moist heat and then adjusted my back. I was able to get some relief but not enough so that I could walk my 2 miles today. I will have to make up for that when the pain is resolved. I don't know how I hurt my back either, just gradually getting worse since last week.
Dolores, Aaron and I helped my Mom hang some mirrors and some other chores, and then we all went out to lunch at Johnny's Chop House in Antioch. This is our favorite restaurant. They are known for their steaks, seafood, pasta and burgers. The food is always excellent and I highly recommend it. In fact, Aaron and I renewed our wedding vows on May 16 this year and our reception was at Johnny's. It was so fun to get married all over again with all of my new family members present. I was looking for something healthy on the menu so I ordered 6 raw oysters for my fat free protein and I had the veggie melt on multigrain toast. If you know me well, I am no where near a vegetarian so this was an experiment. It was absolutely delicious. They grilled tomatoes, green peppers, onions, zucchini and put it on toast with 2 different kinds of melted cheeses. I was very pleased. I ordered a glass of Crossings Sauvignon Blanc which goes so well with oysters!
We came back to the house and watched a movie together - Almost Famous. An old favorite of ours. We only had about 10-15 kids come to the door for Halloween and Aaron was on candy detail since my back hurt so bad. I kept to my vow of not having any candy.
For dinner we had chicken breast sandwiches on pumperknickel bread with a small amount of olive oil mayonnaise, lettuce and tomato. (I had an open-face sandwich) I also enjoyed 4 reduced fat Cape Cod potato chips so I wouldn't feel denied. Since it's Saturday, I sipped another glass of wine.
Food For Thought:
At lunch today we were discussing the Mediterranean diet and all that I'm learning. I've been reading about Parmesan Cheese. The book states that "there are 2 types, Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano, but the former is infinitely superior. A really fine Parmesan may be aged for up to seven years, during which time it matures, becoming pale golden with a slightly granular, flaky texture and a nutty, mildly salty flavour. Always buy Parmesan in the piece and grate it yourself."
We reminisced about the time that one year for our anniversary we decided to order 2 pounds of Parmigiano Reggiano from Parma, Italy. It was shipped along with a cheese knife and packed in 2 1-pound sealed bags. This cheese was the most delicious cheese we have ever tasted. It was hard but also creamy and nutty, salty and grainy like stated above. We didn't have the heart to grate it so we kept flaking off pieces and eating it with different Italian red and white wines over the next couple of weeks. We shared it with our friends and family and everyone was taken by how delicious it was. We're all used to Kraft grated Parmesan cheese but this is definitely no here near this American favorite. If you want to make a memory that will last the rest of your life, try ordering 1 to 2 pounds of Parmigiano Reggiano from Parma, Italy. It's a little pricey, but it's worth it.
(9:09 pm)
Dolores, Aaron and I helped my Mom hang some mirrors and some other chores, and then we all went out to lunch at Johnny's Chop House in Antioch. This is our favorite restaurant. They are known for their steaks, seafood, pasta and burgers. The food is always excellent and I highly recommend it. In fact, Aaron and I renewed our wedding vows on May 16 this year and our reception was at Johnny's. It was so fun to get married all over again with all of my new family members present. I was looking for something healthy on the menu so I ordered 6 raw oysters for my fat free protein and I had the veggie melt on multigrain toast. If you know me well, I am no where near a vegetarian so this was an experiment. It was absolutely delicious. They grilled tomatoes, green peppers, onions, zucchini and put it on toast with 2 different kinds of melted cheeses. I was very pleased. I ordered a glass of Crossings Sauvignon Blanc which goes so well with oysters!
We came back to the house and watched a movie together - Almost Famous. An old favorite of ours. We only had about 10-15 kids come to the door for Halloween and Aaron was on candy detail since my back hurt so bad. I kept to my vow of not having any candy.
For dinner we had chicken breast sandwiches on pumperknickel bread with a small amount of olive oil mayonnaise, lettuce and tomato. (I had an open-face sandwich) I also enjoyed 4 reduced fat Cape Cod potato chips so I wouldn't feel denied. Since it's Saturday, I sipped another glass of wine.
Food For Thought:
At lunch today we were discussing the Mediterranean diet and all that I'm learning. I've been reading about Parmesan Cheese. The book states that "there are 2 types, Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano, but the former is infinitely superior. A really fine Parmesan may be aged for up to seven years, during which time it matures, becoming pale golden with a slightly granular, flaky texture and a nutty, mildly salty flavour. Always buy Parmesan in the piece and grate it yourself."
We reminisced about the time that one year for our anniversary we decided to order 2 pounds of Parmigiano Reggiano from Parma, Italy. It was shipped along with a cheese knife and packed in 2 1-pound sealed bags. This cheese was the most delicious cheese we have ever tasted. It was hard but also creamy and nutty, salty and grainy like stated above. We didn't have the heart to grate it so we kept flaking off pieces and eating it with different Italian red and white wines over the next couple of weeks. We shared it with our friends and family and everyone was taken by how delicious it was. We're all used to Kraft grated Parmesan cheese but this is definitely no here near this American favorite. If you want to make a memory that will last the rest of your life, try ordering 1 to 2 pounds of Parmigiano Reggiano from Parma, Italy. It's a little pricey, but it's worth it.
(9:09 pm)
Friday, October 30, 2009
It's Working!!!
First Friday:
I weighed in this morning and found that I was 198 pounds!!! I lost 1.5 pounds this week. I'm thrilled to know it's working. I had an extra special glow as I got into my Julia Child outfit and rode to work today.
What fun pretending to be a very important cooking icon in America as well as someone with great character. Someone called me Betty Crocker at work today and I almost hit him with my wooden spoon.
I did very well with my eating today and was quite proud. I stuck to the plan and was very hungry by dinner time. We ordered some food for delivery tonight. I had a sandwich and a salad and a few shoe string french fries. We shared some wine and watched Dexter. A great Friday night.
Food For Thought:
I promised that I would tell you about growing up German and then learning I was 1/2 Italian. I was adopted at birth to a couple named Bill and June Hake. They were both German and Lutheran and raised me that way. My maternal Grandmother was an excellent cook and owned her own deli in Chicago during the Depression. I was no stranger to deli meats, sauerbraten, spaetzle, sausage, bread, cheese, sauerkraut, pickles, etc. They conveyed to me that I was German and Norwegian and also Lutheran. I believe this is what they truly thought.
Last year I was reunited with my birth mother, Susan Warner Malone. Upon our first conversation over the phone I learned that my real father was Italian and she is a mix of Bohemian, English, French, German and Irish. Oh, that just makes so much more sense. I was eating German food growing up but craving Ravioli and garlic bread. After speaking with my real Uncle Ralph, I've learned that my 50% Italian consists of 25% Sicilian, 12.5% Neopolitan and 12.5% Calabrese. It's very important in the Italian culture to know this ratio.
This also explains my love for wine. Aaron and I have studied (and sipped) many different wines over the past 10-12 years and have cultivated quite a palate. Our favorites are French and Italian.
In closing tonight, I just wanted to mention that my blood sugar tests that I take every morning when I wake up and every evening before I retire have been very good this week. Overall I am pleased with my results.
(10:34 pm)
I weighed in this morning and found that I was 198 pounds!!! I lost 1.5 pounds this week. I'm thrilled to know it's working. I had an extra special glow as I got into my Julia Child outfit and rode to work today.
What fun pretending to be a very important cooking icon in America as well as someone with great character. Someone called me Betty Crocker at work today and I almost hit him with my wooden spoon.
I did very well with my eating today and was quite proud. I stuck to the plan and was very hungry by dinner time. We ordered some food for delivery tonight. I had a sandwich and a salad and a few shoe string french fries. We shared some wine and watched Dexter. A great Friday night.
Food For Thought:
I promised that I would tell you about growing up German and then learning I was 1/2 Italian. I was adopted at birth to a couple named Bill and June Hake. They were both German and Lutheran and raised me that way. My maternal Grandmother was an excellent cook and owned her own deli in Chicago during the Depression. I was no stranger to deli meats, sauerbraten, spaetzle, sausage, bread, cheese, sauerkraut, pickles, etc. They conveyed to me that I was German and Norwegian and also Lutheran. I believe this is what they truly thought.
Last year I was reunited with my birth mother, Susan Warner Malone. Upon our first conversation over the phone I learned that my real father was Italian and she is a mix of Bohemian, English, French, German and Irish. Oh, that just makes so much more sense. I was eating German food growing up but craving Ravioli and garlic bread. After speaking with my real Uncle Ralph, I've learned that my 50% Italian consists of 25% Sicilian, 12.5% Neopolitan and 12.5% Calabrese. It's very important in the Italian culture to know this ratio.
This also explains my love for wine. Aaron and I have studied (and sipped) many different wines over the past 10-12 years and have cultivated quite a palate. Our favorites are French and Italian.
In closing tonight, I just wanted to mention that my blood sugar tests that I take every morning when I wake up and every evening before I retire have been very good this week. Overall I am pleased with my results.
(10:34 pm)
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Having Fun on the Journey
I am having so much fun being on this journey already. So many people are behind me and support my efforts. Thank you to everyone!
Last night I added 5 push ups to my exercise routine. Wow, they were hard to do with my weak muscles but I like the fact that I did them. I felt so energized when I was done that I asked myself "why didn't I start this sooner?" I guess I just didn't feel bad enough to make a change. I'm really aware of my body today. I know it's because of the exercising - finally. Just slightly tender but manageable.
I walked all around the grocery story on my lunch hour today gathering together items that would be found in the Mediterranean area - artichokes, olives, various vegetables, as well as the makings for chili for supper tonight. My Mom (Sue) came over for dinner so we all ate together: Aaron, me, my Mom and Aaron's Mom (Dolores). We all get along so well and that makes me very happy. I had a small bowl of chili with 7 oyster crackers and I'm still full.
Food Triggers:
I know Halloween is Saturday and normally I would have a house full of candy - Reese's Peanut Butter Cups! Not this year. I've ordered a couple bags of candy from Peapod.com and they will bring them on Saturday with the rest of my grocery order and I've vowed to not eat any. After Halloween, I'll take the left overs to work and it will be gone in 3 minutes!
Tomorrow at work we have a Staff Appreciation Luncheon planned (we have a great boss!), which I am coordinating. Our Oktoberfest menu includes Sauerbraten, Chicken Schnitzel, Spaetzle, Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut, salad, and for dessert - apple slices. This is going to be very difficult to get through because I am planning to eat some of this food. I've been thinking about it all week. I'm going to have some chicken, salad, sauerkraut and 1/2 of an apple slice. I will have 1 bite of the sauerbraten (marinated beef) and 1 bite of the polish sausage. That way I will not deprive myself but I won't overdo it either and I will be able to enjoy all of the flavors and still keep on track. Successful dieters are the ones who plan ahead.
We are encouraged to wear costumes for Halloween at work, so since I'm coordinating the FEAST, I've decided to dress as Julia Child. Since I'm 5'2 I'll have to stand on a box like Meryl Streep did in Julie and Julia. (Great movie!) Fortunately, I took french in high school with Madame Kathy Pondorff (now Kathy Mathews) so I'll be able to play it off pretty well!
Food Tips:
A good friend of mine (Joyce) gave me a tip on unsalted canned vegetables. She buys the Jewel brand whole kernel corn and stewed tomatoes and says they are really good. I purchased them today and will try them in a dish next week.
I bought a loaf of bread at Jewel today which looks, feels, smells and tastes terrific. It's made by "Today's Tempations." It's a big round whole grain loaf that comes sliced with grains all over the top of the loaf. It's fat free, sugar free, cholesterol free, lo carb/hi fibre and no preservatives added. 1 huge slice is 45 calories, 6 carbs, 4 grams of fibre and 5 grams of protein. It's a soft bread and the color is like a wheat bread. I tried the end piece tonight with a drizzle of olive oil and was very pleased. Bread without butter is a very important ingredient in the Mediterranean diet.
More on the Mediterranean Diet:
I've just begun reading a cookbook called "Mediterranean Cooking - a culinary tour of sun-drenched shores with over 400 dishes from Southern Europe" The authors are Jacqueline Clarke and Joanna Farrow. Hermes House is the publisher in London. I'm only in the introduction and am already learning so much. For instance, I did not know that Italian mozzarella was made from buffalo's milk - hence the name Buffalo Mozzarella. Layering it with fresh basil leaves and tomatoes represents the colors in the Italian flag. Don't forget to drizzle all three with olive oil and serve as an appetizer or in place of a salad.
I'm also learning about the benefits of this diet from the Mayo Clinic's website. Such as their suggestion to use extra virgin or virgin olive oils because they "are the least processed forms, meaning they contain the highest levels of the protective plant compounds that provide antioxidant effects." You can read all about the diet on their website www.mayoclinic.com
I also use olive oil to soften my hands in the cold weather months. Unlike some hand creams, there is no perfume or alcohol, it's all natural and my skin feels silky smooth.
Food For Thought:
Ok, I'm a little nervous about getting on the scale tomorrow morning but I'm in this for the long haul. And we're all in this together, right? I'm going to be saying my prayers tonight. Also, I've decided that my absolute curfew is 11pm lights out. I've read in several places that getting the right amount of sleep will help you lose weight and stay healthy.
Tomorrow I will tell you how I thought I was German and Norwegian for 44 years and then found out I was 1/2 Italian. It's a very interesting story so stay tuned.
(10:38pm) the time is off on the post so until I learn how to correct this, I'm going to write it in.
Last night I added 5 push ups to my exercise routine. Wow, they were hard to do with my weak muscles but I like the fact that I did them. I felt so energized when I was done that I asked myself "why didn't I start this sooner?" I guess I just didn't feel bad enough to make a change. I'm really aware of my body today. I know it's because of the exercising - finally. Just slightly tender but manageable.
I walked all around the grocery story on my lunch hour today gathering together items that would be found in the Mediterranean area - artichokes, olives, various vegetables, as well as the makings for chili for supper tonight. My Mom (Sue) came over for dinner so we all ate together: Aaron, me, my Mom and Aaron's Mom (Dolores). We all get along so well and that makes me very happy. I had a small bowl of chili with 7 oyster crackers and I'm still full.
Food Triggers:
I know Halloween is Saturday and normally I would have a house full of candy - Reese's Peanut Butter Cups! Not this year. I've ordered a couple bags of candy from Peapod.com and they will bring them on Saturday with the rest of my grocery order and I've vowed to not eat any. After Halloween, I'll take the left overs to work and it will be gone in 3 minutes!
Tomorrow at work we have a Staff Appreciation Luncheon planned (we have a great boss!), which I am coordinating. Our Oktoberfest menu includes Sauerbraten, Chicken Schnitzel, Spaetzle, Polish Sausage and Sauerkraut, salad, and for dessert - apple slices. This is going to be very difficult to get through because I am planning to eat some of this food. I've been thinking about it all week. I'm going to have some chicken, salad, sauerkraut and 1/2 of an apple slice. I will have 1 bite of the sauerbraten (marinated beef) and 1 bite of the polish sausage. That way I will not deprive myself but I won't overdo it either and I will be able to enjoy all of the flavors and still keep on track. Successful dieters are the ones who plan ahead.
We are encouraged to wear costumes for Halloween at work, so since I'm coordinating the FEAST, I've decided to dress as Julia Child. Since I'm 5'2 I'll have to stand on a box like Meryl Streep did in Julie and Julia. (Great movie!) Fortunately, I took french in high school with Madame Kathy Pondorff (now Kathy Mathews) so I'll be able to play it off pretty well!
Food Tips:
A good friend of mine (Joyce) gave me a tip on unsalted canned vegetables. She buys the Jewel brand whole kernel corn and stewed tomatoes and says they are really good. I purchased them today and will try them in a dish next week.
I bought a loaf of bread at Jewel today which looks, feels, smells and tastes terrific. It's made by "Today's Tempations." It's a big round whole grain loaf that comes sliced with grains all over the top of the loaf. It's fat free, sugar free, cholesterol free, lo carb/hi fibre and no preservatives added. 1 huge slice is 45 calories, 6 carbs, 4 grams of fibre and 5 grams of protein. It's a soft bread and the color is like a wheat bread. I tried the end piece tonight with a drizzle of olive oil and was very pleased. Bread without butter is a very important ingredient in the Mediterranean diet.
More on the Mediterranean Diet:
I've just begun reading a cookbook called "Mediterranean Cooking - a culinary tour of sun-drenched shores with over 400 dishes from Southern Europe" The authors are Jacqueline Clarke and Joanna Farrow. Hermes House is the publisher in London. I'm only in the introduction and am already learning so much. For instance, I did not know that Italian mozzarella was made from buffalo's milk - hence the name Buffalo Mozzarella. Layering it with fresh basil leaves and tomatoes represents the colors in the Italian flag. Don't forget to drizzle all three with olive oil and serve as an appetizer or in place of a salad.
I'm also learning about the benefits of this diet from the Mayo Clinic's website. Such as their suggestion to use extra virgin or virgin olive oils because they "are the least processed forms, meaning they contain the highest levels of the protective plant compounds that provide antioxidant effects." You can read all about the diet on their website www.mayoclinic.com
I also use olive oil to soften my hands in the cold weather months. Unlike some hand creams, there is no perfume or alcohol, it's all natural and my skin feels silky smooth.
Food For Thought:
Ok, I'm a little nervous about getting on the scale tomorrow morning but I'm in this for the long haul. And we're all in this together, right? I'm going to be saying my prayers tonight. Also, I've decided that my absolute curfew is 11pm lights out. I've read in several places that getting the right amount of sleep will help you lose weight and stay healthy.
Tomorrow I will tell you how I thought I was German and Norwegian for 44 years and then found out I was 1/2 Italian. It's a very interesting story so stay tuned.
(10:38pm) the time is off on the post so until I learn how to correct this, I'm going to write it in.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Establishing The Rules
My Daily Routine:
So you don’t have to bother seeing this listed every day, my daily routine will be the following:
My alarm clock – Aaron – will wake me at 6:15am so I can walk in place 1 mile. This takes 15 minutes. I will then be rewarded with a cup of coffee (no cream or sugar) as I watch a little news with my Honey before I hop in the shower. I eventually will increase the mileage.
I eat the same thing for breakfast each morning. A creature of habit, I guess. 1 fat free yogurt and 1 hard boiled egg. My dietician has suggested I throw away the yolk 3 times per week to reduce my high cholesterol. I’ve also decided to get rid of my salt shaker.
Since I have Type II Diabetes, I eat a morning and afternoon snack. Usually a high fiber and protein breakfast bar, unsalted nuts or an instant oatmeal packet in the morning and always a piece of fruit in the afternoon.
Lunches usually consist of a brand name frozen boxed light meal with lean protein, vegetables and a healthy carbohydrate. Or, I will make a sandwich on whole grain bread with lean meat, lettuce, tomato and a ¼ of an avocado. Sometimes we eat left-overs from dinner the night before.
Dinner is where I like to experiment so you will be reading about my attempts at cooking gourmet light meals.
My Food Plan:
I’m currently researching the benefits of a Mediterranean diet – using herbs and spices to flavor foods (instead of salt), olive or canola oil, avocado, unsalted nuts, fruits, vegetables, fish, poultry, low fat cheese and yogurt, a small amount of red meat and red wine, whole grains and pasta. I’m trying to incorporate more of these foods into our diet.
I plan to eat a total of 1400 calories a day with a small allowance of a little more on Saturdays.
My Exercise Plan:
Monday through Friday mornings, walk in place 1 mile, Monday and Wednesday evenings Yoga and stretching for 30 minutes. Tuesdays and Thursdays walking for 15 minutes on my lunch hour at work. Saturdays and Sundays walk 2 miles.
My Weigh-In Plan:
Each Friday morning, I'll step on the scale and report my weight loss.
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My Motivation for Today:
Today I bought myself a pair of new shoes. You just can’t find a good pair of blue shoes but I was successful. The motivation for my new shoes is reminding myself that I need to continue taking steps toward my goal. I also bought a new lipstick. When I circle my lips with the new color and look in the mirror each morning, I will remind myself that I need to put only healthy foods into my mouth. I thought I would take it a step futher and try to be conscious of what I am saying as well - striving to be more constructive and complimentary.
Tonight's Dinner:
Since I love cooking and writing about food, I'd like to elaborate on our dinners. Tonight I made Filet Mignon and trimmed all the fat off. I sprinkled garlic powder and crushed black pepper over each filet and pan seared them on a hot cast iron pan (no oil or butter or salt). Once browned on each side I finished them in the oven for a few minutes to let the juices run. I toasted 1/2 whole grain English muffin with a thin slice of low-fat cheese and placed 1 filet on top for Aaron and one for me. I also sauteed in olive oil some sea scallops (7 each) and sprinkled a little Parmesan cheese over them with a red and black pepper mix. As a side dish I served canned peas with a can of mushroom pieces tossed with lemon pepper. Aaron had a Vodka and sugar free lemonade drink and I had 5 ounces of red wine.
Food For Thought:
For the past 2 mornings I have been walking in place along with my DVD. Our living room is right above my mother-in-law's bedroom. (She lives in the basement). I am trying to do it very quietly so I don't wake her so early. Tonight she came upstairs to see how everything was going with the new plan and I asked her if my exercising was bothering her. She let out a huge laugh and said, "I thought you guys were having sex!" My husband, Aaron, said, "At 6:15 in the morning?" She replied, "Your father was ready to go anytime, I thought maybe you took after him!"
Ok, so I guess we're all going to have to get used to my new journey! Wednesday night, now time for Yoga...
(8:22pm)
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Examining my relationship with food
Last night I made a fabulous dish of sauteed shrimp mixed with shell pasta, Parmesan cheese, tomatoes, roasted red peppers, scallions and button mushrooms. I added in a little olive oil mayonnaise and served it warm over a piece of whole grain toast.
I prepared our lunches for the next day - a can of chicken with a little olive oil, lemon pepper and black olives to be eaten with some natural apple sauce.
After 20 minutes of exercising and stretching on my Yoga mat, I sat down to crochet 2 Granny Squares for the afghan I'm working on.
This morning my husband, Aaron, woke me (upon my instruction) 15 minutes early so that I could walk in place 1 mile with my new "walk at home" DVD before getting ready for work.
Sounds great, doesn't it?
Well, this happens to be who I am today. I'm beginning what I hope to be "not just another diet." I have a goal in mind and this time I am going to stick to it and finally achieve that goal. I need to lose 60 pounds and I plan to lose that weight in 365 days.
I am writing about this for several reasons. I love writing, I need to be held accountable, I need support and perhaps I can help someone else as I struggle through this endeavor.
I love to eat and have many problems because of my relationship with food and drink. I am 45 years old, 5'2" and weigh 199.5 pounds. I have type 2 Diabetes, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, high cholesterol, depression, a herniated disk in my neck, back pain, foot pain, hip pain, GERD, and weak muscles from not exercising. I don't get enough sleep and until just recently, I was not eating the right foods or portions. The only problem I don't have is high blood pressure. I am a walking time bomb and I finally woke up and committed to doing something about it. My plan is to be around to thank myself some day for taking control of my health.
Please join me as I journey through this adventure and work hard to chisel away the extra pounds to see what I am really supposed to look like. I'm hoping that you will be with me on October 27, 2010 when I step on the scale and see 139.5
Are you with me?
I prepared our lunches for the next day - a can of chicken with a little olive oil, lemon pepper and black olives to be eaten with some natural apple sauce.
After 20 minutes of exercising and stretching on my Yoga mat, I sat down to crochet 2 Granny Squares for the afghan I'm working on.
This morning my husband, Aaron, woke me (upon my instruction) 15 minutes early so that I could walk in place 1 mile with my new "walk at home" DVD before getting ready for work.
Sounds great, doesn't it?
Well, this happens to be who I am today. I'm beginning what I hope to be "not just another diet." I have a goal in mind and this time I am going to stick to it and finally achieve that goal. I need to lose 60 pounds and I plan to lose that weight in 365 days.
I am writing about this for several reasons. I love writing, I need to be held accountable, I need support and perhaps I can help someone else as I struggle through this endeavor.
I love to eat and have many problems because of my relationship with food and drink. I am 45 years old, 5'2" and weigh 199.5 pounds. I have type 2 Diabetes, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, high cholesterol, depression, a herniated disk in my neck, back pain, foot pain, hip pain, GERD, and weak muscles from not exercising. I don't get enough sleep and until just recently, I was not eating the right foods or portions. The only problem I don't have is high blood pressure. I am a walking time bomb and I finally woke up and committed to doing something about it. My plan is to be around to thank myself some day for taking control of my health.
Please join me as I journey through this adventure and work hard to chisel away the extra pounds to see what I am really supposed to look like. I'm hoping that you will be with me on October 27, 2010 when I step on the scale and see 139.5
Are you with me?
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