WEIGHING IN

Healthy Recipes

2010-11-03T07:18:00.001-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-11-02T07:13:00.001-04:00

From:Weight Watchers
Beyond the Bottle: Hot Sauce
Article By: Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough

10 uses you never thought of for this bottled spice booster

We learned the hard way that bottled hot sauce does not make a good contact lens cleaner. (Hey, it was the only thing we had handy besides Bushmills, so we flipped a coin.) It is, however, great to keep in your desk drawer or your glove compartment to fire up boring lunchtimes, and the possibilities at home are limitless.
Read the article below

1. Spicy melon cocktail. In a blender, puree 4 cups of chunked-up, seedless watermelon (buy it already cut up) with 2 tablespoons lime juice and up to 1 tablespoon red pepper sauce.

2. Spicy cucumber salad. Peel 2 large cucumbers and a small red onion and slice them into paper-thin rings. Put the cukes and onions in a large bowl, add 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 1 tablespoon sugar and up to 1 tablespoon of hot sauce. Stir well and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Your barbecued chicken won’t know what hit it.

3. Hot burgers. Spice up any hamburger by mixing several splashes of hot pepper sauce with raw, lean ground beef. Want to make it tastier? For every pound of ground beef, add 2 thinly sliced medium scallions, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Form into patties and fire up dat grill!

4. Spiked potatoes. For the best oven-roasted potatoes ever, halve 2 pounds of small red-skinned potatoes and toss them with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, up to 1 1/2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce and 1 teaspoon salt in a roasting pan. Bake in a preheated 450°F oven until crunchy and brown (about 1 hour), tossing occasionally.

5. Fiery corn on the cob. The stuff of legend. Peel back the husks but don’t remove them. Pull out the hairy silks and discard them. Sprinkle the corn kernels inside with several dashes hot pepper sauce, then fold the husks back in place. Wrap each ear individually in aluminum foil, set right over the heat on the grill, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally.

6. Snapper ceviche. A hottie with a taste for hot sauce will love this. In a large bowl, mix 1 pound skinless snapper fillets (diced), 1 large tomato (chopped), 1 medium green bell pepper (cored, seeded and chopped), 2 medium scallions (thinly sliced), 1 medium garlic clove (minced), 1/3 cup lime juice and up to 2 tablespoons hot red pepper sauce. Marinate in the fridge for at least 6 hours but no more than 12 hours. Drain off most of the liquid and serve in cocktail or martini glasses with some crunchy toast on the side.

7. Hot glazed salmon. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil. Spread half this mixture over a 1-pound salmon fillet. Grill skin side down over high heat (about 15 minutes) or broil on a baking sheet 4 to 6 inches from the heat source (about 10 minutes) until the fish flakes when pulled with a fork.

8. Spiked brownies. Chocolate and chiles were born to mate. Mix 2 tablespoons of hot pepper sauce in with your favorite boxed brownie mix and bake as directed. Serve with fat-free frozen vanilla yogurt for fireworks in a bowl.

9. Hot popcorn. Here’s how to stay awake while watching He’s Just Not That Into You for the fifth time with your partner: Make hot-air popped corn and sprinkle with salt and a few splashes of hot pepper sauce. Add 1 or 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for a tangier taste.

10. Breakfast hot blast. Got weekend guests? Send them off in style with a little bottled hot pepper sauce sprinkled on scrambled eggs—or even dabbled over the cream cheese on a toasted bagel half.

Revive My Soul

2010-11-01T07:43:00.001-04:00

Heaven http://www.letters2jesus.com

Healthy Recipes

2010-10-20T07:10:00.002-04:00

From: Food Network

Pumpkin Rice Pudding

Prep Time: 25 min
Inactive Prep Time: 8 hr 0 min
Cook Time: 1 hr 10 min
Level: Easy
Serves: 8 servings

Ingredients
2 cups water
1 cup arborio rice
3 cups reduced-fat (2%) milk
1 cup solid-pack pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
3/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped

Directions
Preheat the oven to 375F.
Bring the water to a boil in an ovenproof 4-quart saucepan. Stir in the rice and cover. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the rice is nearly cooked, about 20 minutes. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, pumpkin, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. While the rice is still hot, add the pumpkin mixture to the saucepan and stir well to combine. Cover and transfer to the oven. Bake until the liquid has reduced by about a third and the mixture is foamy and bubbling, 45 to 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Transfer to a large bowl, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. The pudding will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of cinnamon.

Serving size: 1/2 cup rice pudding and 1 1/2 tablespoons whipped cream
Per Serving:Calories 240; Total Fat 6 g (Sat Fat 3.5 g, Mono Fat 1.5 g, Poly Fat 0 g); Protein 4 g; Carb 42 g; Fiber 1 g; Cholesterol 20 mg; Sodium 120 mg

Healthy Tips

2010-10-19T07:28:00.000-04:00

Read this article on how to not overeat:
Tips To Divest Yourself Of Overeating - Eating Right - 101WeightLoss.com

Revive My Soul

2010-10-18T07:48:00.000-04:00

Do you! http://www.letters2jesus.com

Weighing In

2010-10-16T15:57:00.001-04:00

Ok drumroll please today I weighed in at 305. I've lost 6 pounds since last week! I really couldn't believe it at first. I told my mother I was going to weigh myself again tommorrow. She gave me a good talking too which I'm thankful for. She told me in so many words I can be self defeating with my thoughts. That deep down I think I won't be successful. This has to change. I have to have hope and believe in myself. Yes it's true I haven't been successful in the past losing weight but that doesn't mean I can't be successful in the future. So I'm letting this victory soak in I'm doing great and it feels so good. I admit I was holding my breath but now I can exhale. Thank you Jesus!!

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-10-14T07:49:00.001-04:00

Ok I've been on weight watchers now for two weeks and it's going well. I actually for once feel like I may be able to keep the weight off. This program isn't really about dieting but it teaches me about portion sizes and making better choices. I love that I don't have to give up my foods I love. I can still have them but in moderation.

On another note I love my blog "Weighing In" not only because it gives helpful information to aid in losing weight but because it's cleansing for me to talk about my feelings on this weight loss journey. It's like having an online journal. I would like to express my gratitude for my readers, you help me to keep going. I picture your faces and what you may be going through and it encourages me to know I'm not alone. Ok your turn what's been weighing you down?

Healthy Recipes

2010-10-13T05:00:00.001-04:00

*Please note you can use I can't believe it's not butter instead of butter to cut calories.

Healthy Tips

2010-10-12T07:07:00.001-04:00

*Please note the information I received below regarding fruit is from an email & had no way of verifying facts. So before changing diet in any way please check with doctor first. Thank you.

EATING FRUIT... It's very informative

We all think eating fruits means just buying fruits, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths. It's not as easy as you think. It's important to know how and when to eat.

What is the correct way of eating fruits?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS! * FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD. Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so.

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil....

So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet, etc. actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight

When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

APPLE: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

ORANGE: Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene, the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium

GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content.. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.

Drinking Cold water after a meal = Cancer! Can u believe this?? For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE': (THIS IS NOT A JOKE!) Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive.

A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this mail sends it to 10 people, you can be sure that we'll save at least one life.

Read this.....It could save your life!!

Revive My Soul

2010-10-11T07:07:00.000-04:00

Are you just living for the weekends? http://www.letters2jesus.com

Weighing In

2010-10-09T11:19:00.001-04:00

Great news! I lost two pounds this week on WW. Last week I weighed in at 314, this week I'm at 312. My goal for this week is to kick it up a notch by exercising. I know I still haven't been exercising yet, a shame I know. But I'm going to get my act together I promise.(smile) Have a blessed weekend!

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-10-07T05:00:00.000-04:00

I had a stressful day yesterday and was tempted to overeat but thankfully I held out. I just told myself what do you want more some junk food or to be happy when you step on the scale Friday. I need to see that I lost weight on Friday. I am tired of the rollercoaster going up and down. I need to see some real results.In the past I have always eaten to soothe myself when I was upset. I need to find to find another way to deal with my stress level besides eating so I can be successful in the long run. Maybe I can start working out whenever I'm stressed to blow off some steam. Turn a bad habit into an healthy one. Well enough about me. What's Weighing You Down?

Healthy Recipes

2010-10-06T07:05:00.000-04:00

Try this chili recipe it's looks delish==>

Top-Rated Chili Recipes - Photos - CookingLight.com

Healthy Tips

2010-10-05T06:19:00.000-04:00

Healthy Eating: Easy Tips for Planning a Healthy Diet & Sticking to It

Weighing In

2010-10-02T07:11:00.000-04:00

Ok good news I finally got my new scale and it's a Weight Watchers scale! (smile) Since I haven't weighed myself in like a month. I will use my weigh in today as my starting weight. My weight today is 314 pounds. It's like 14 pounds more than when I last weighed in but I'm not tripping because my other scale was older and I believe this new one is more accurate, closer to the one they have at the doctor's office. So it's what it is, I embrace the truth so I can move forward. This is the beginning for me not the end. I have every confidence in myself this time I will be successful with my goals. Weight Watchers isn't a diet but it's a lifestyle change. WW is teaching me how to eat.

Weight Watchers calculates your goal weight at 5% of your current weight which is 286. I like this because it's an attainable short term goal. Of course my ultimate goal is alot smaller than 286, but it's baby steps until I reach the ultimate goal which is 150.

I can't believe I'm actually saying this but I'm looking forward to weighing in next Friday because I know I will see weight loss. I can do this one day at a time and one pound at a time. God Bless you!

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-09-30T05:00:00.000-04:00

Ok so far so good on weight watchers program. I haven't been perfect I will admit. I do well at work then when I come home it's a different story. For example I had chips and not just a few but more like a bowl.(smile) I think I need to buy the individual small bags so I won't overdue it. One thing I love about weight watchers is you can have what you want. They teach what portion sizes should look like. Like my mother told me there is no failure on this program. They actually give you 35 extra points a week in case you need them. You got to love it! I also love my i-phone application which makes it so easy to log in my points. So that's what is going on with me. Your turn I want to hear from you.

Healthy Recipes

2010-09-29T05:00:00.000-04:00

(From Food Network Kitchens)

Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients
Tomato sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, preferably organic
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Chicken:
Cooking spray
4 thin chicken cutlets (about 1 1/4 pounds total)
Salt to taste
2 large egg whites
6 tablespoons dry Italian bread crumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 to 5 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions
Tomato Sauce: Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes, vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the flavors are blended and the sauce begins to thicken slightly, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in the basil.

Chicken: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Sprinkle the cutlets with the salt. Lightly beat the egg whites in a medium bowl. Combine the bread crumbs and Parmesan on a sheet of waxed paper. Spread the flour on another sheet of waxed paper. Working with 1 piece of chicken at a time, dip both sides into the flour, shaking off excess. Dip each piece into the egg whites, shaking off excess, and then press both sides into the breading to coat.

Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken (in batches, if necessary) and cook until browned, 3 to 4 minutes.

Transfer the chicken, in 1 layer, to the baking dish. Spoon the sauce over the chicken then sprinkle with the cheese. Bake, covered loosely with a tent of foil, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly, about 12 to 15 minutes.

Healthy Tips

2010-09-28T05:22:00.001-04:00

Revive My Soul

2010-09-27T05:05:00.004-04:00

Forgiveness http://www.letters2jesus.com

Weighing In

2010-09-24T11:04:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday to you! Well my scale is still out of commission, so I won't be weighing in today. I am going to treat myself to new scale this weekend. So stay tune.

Comments are welcome. How are you doing on your weight loss goals?

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-09-23T05:00:00.000-04:00

I did it you guys, I finally joined Weight Watchers! I feel so good that I did it. I am going shopping this weekend so I can make good food choices. I am preparing for success. The great thing with weight watchers is you don't feel like you are on a diet. You can still eat what you want but just in moderation. I'm feeling optimistic like I will be successful on this program. My motivation was my mother. She joined first and it inspire me to finally do it.

Ok I want to hear from you. Have you had success with weight watchers?

Healthy Recipes

2010-09-22T06:15:00.001-04:00

Here's an easy simple recipe courtesy of my mother Adrienne. I would like to express my thanks to her for sharing with us.

Tuna Shrimp Salad

5 ounce can of tuna packed in water
6 jumbo shrimp (frozen, cooked and deveined)
Relish
Miracle whip
Salt and pepper to taste

Drain tuna
Mix in miracle whip and relish
Dice up defrosted shrimp into small pieces
Mix shrimp into tuna
Salt and pepper to taste

Serve with saltiness

You may opt to include one diced boiled egg, diced celery and onions.

Healthy Tips

2010-09-21T05:14:00.002-04:00

Revive My Soul

2010-09-20T07:52:00.001-04:00

Living a life of purpose http://www.letters2jesus.com

Weighing In

2010-09-17T08:42:00.000-04:00

Well I didn't get a chance to weigh myself this morning. It isn't what you think though. I have to buy a new battery for scale.(smile)

Comments are welcome,let me know how your progress is going.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-09-16T05:00:00.000-04:00

As you may have noticed I was missing action last week. I didn't blog much last week. Why? I was disappointed in myself. Isn't it amazing we know exactly what to do but we don't do it. I know what to do to lose weight but haven't been committed as I should be. I actually considered not continuing with this blog anymore. Of course I came to my senses. (smile) This is the time I must continue to fight, I can't give up because I don't want you to give up. I have to lead by example. This isn't easy but anything worth having you have to fight for. We can do this one day a time, one pound at a time!

Your comments are welcome, let me know what's weighing you down?

Healthy Recipes

2010-09-15T05:00:00.000-04:00

From:Food Network
Recipe courtesy Chef Katsuya Fukushima of Cafe Atlantico in Washington, DC

Watermelon-Tomato Skewer

Prep Time:15 min
Level:Easy
Serves:8 skewers

Ingredients:
1 small seedless watermelon
4 cherry tomatoes
4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
8 tiny baby basil leaves
Directions
8 bamboo skewers
Kosher salt

Cut top and bottom off the watermelon to level it. Sit it upright and cut away the rind. Cut into 1-inch cubes, reserve.
Bring a small pot of water to boil. Have a small bowl of ice water on the side. Carefully drop the cherry tomatoes into the water. Allow to cook for 10 seconds. Put in the ice water. Carefully peel away the skin and cut into halves (note: the tomatoes do not have to be peeled.) Whisk together the vinegar and oil.

Place a tomato half on top of each watermelon cube with the flat side facing up. Poke a bamboo skewer through the top all the way down to secure the 2 items. Line up the skewers on a serving tray.

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the skewered tomato and watermelon. Sprinkle with salt and place a micro basil leaf on top. Serve.

Healthy Tips

2010-09-14T05:00:00.000-04:00

From:Weight Watchers
"25 Little Tips for Big Weight Loss"

Article By: Karen Hammonds

Take a look at our 25 tips below for eating healthfully, fitting exercise into your busy day and revamping your daily routine. Start by picking five changes that you're sure you can tackle and practice them this week. Then try another five next week. Not every idea is right for everyone, so experiment and see what works for you. Lots of little changes can yield big weight-loss results—and a healthier new you!

1. Good things come in small packages
Here's a trick for staying satisfied without consuming large portions: Chop high-calorie foods like cheese and chocolate into smaller pieces. It will seem like you're getting more than you actually are.

2. Get "water-wise"
Make a habit of reaching for a glass of water instead of a high-fat snack. It will help your overall health as well as your waistline. So drink up! Add some zest to your six to eight glasses a day with a twist of lemon or lime.

3. Herb it up
Stock up your spice rack, and start growing a small herb garden in your kitchen window. Spices and herbs add fantastic flavor to foods without adding fat or calories.

4. Slim down your soup
Make a big batch of soup and refrigerate it before you eat it. As it cools, the fat will rise to the top and can be skimmed off the surface.

5. Doggie-bag that dinner
At restaurants that you know serve large portions, ask the waiter to put half of your main course in a take-home box before bringing it to your table. Putting the food away before you start your meal will help you practice portion control.

6. Listen to your cravings
If you're craving something sweet, eat something sweet — just opt for a healthier nosh (like fruit) instead of a high-calorie one like ice cream. The same goes for crunchy cravings—for example, try air-popped popcorn instead of high-fat chips. It's just smart substitution!

7. Ease your way into produce
If you're new to eating lots of fruits and vegetables, start slowly. Just add them to the foods you already enjoy. Pile salad veggies into your sandwiches, or add fruit to your cereal.

8. Look for high-fat hints
Want an easy way to identify high-calorie meals? Keep an eye out for these words: au gratin, parmigiana, tempura, alfredo, creamy and carbonara, and enjoy them in moderation.

9. Don't multi-task while you eat
If you're working, reading or watching TV while you eat, you won't be paying attention to what's going into your mouth—and you won't be enjoying every bite. Today, every time you have a meal, sit down. Chew slowly and pay attention to flavors and textures. You'll enjoy your food more and eat less.

10. Taste something new
Broaden your food repertoire — you may find you like more healthy foods than you knew. Try a new fruit or vegetable (ever had plantain, bak choy, starfruit or papaya?).

11. Leave something on your plate at every meal
One bite of bagel, half your sandwich, the bun from your burger. See if you still feel satisfied eating just a bit less.

12. Get to know your portion sizes
It's easy to underestimate how much you're eating. Today, don't just estimate things — make sure. Ask how much is in a serving, read the fine print on labels, measure your food. And learn portion equivalents: One serving of pasta, for instance, should be around the size of a tennis ball.

13. Don't give up dips
If you love creamy dips and sauces, don't cut them out of your food plan completely. Just use low-fat soft cheese and mayo instead of the full fat stuff.

14. Make a healthy substitution
Learn to swap healthier foods for their less-healthy counterparts. Today, find a substitution that works for you: Use skim or low-fat milk instead of whole milk; try whole-wheat bread instead of white.

15. Bring lunch to work tomorrow
Packing lunch will help you control your portion sizes. It also provides a good alternative to restaurants and takeaways, where making healthy choices every day can be challenging (not to mention expensive).

16. Have some dessert
You don't have to deny yourself all the time. Have a treat that brings you pleasure, but this time enjoy it guilt-free be — sure you're practicing portion control, and compensate for your indulgence by exercising a little more or by skipping your afternoon snack.

17. Ask for what you need
Tell your mother-in-law you don't want seconds. Ask your other half to stop bringing you chocolates. Speak up for the place with great salads when your co-workers are picking a restaurant for lunch. Whatever you need to do to succeed at weight loss, ask for it — make yourself a priority and assert yourself.

18. Improve your treadmill technique
When walking on a treadmill, don't grip the rails. It's fine to touch them for balance, but you shouldn't have to hold on. If you do, that might be a signal you should lower the intensity level.

19. Simon says... get fit
Here's an easy way to fit in exercise with your kids: Buy a set of 1 lb weights and play a round of Simon Says—you do it with the weights, they do it without. They'll love it!

20. Make the most of your walks
If your walking routine has become too easy, increase your effort by finding hills. Just be sure to tackle them at the beginning of your walk, when you have energy to spare.

21. Shop 'til you drop...pounds!
Add a workout to your shopping sessions by walking around the mall before your start spending. And try walking up the escalator — getting to your destination faster will be an added bonus.

22. Walk an extra 100 steps at work
Adding even a little extra exercise to your daily routine can boost your weight loss. Today, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or stroll down the hall to talk to a co-worker instead of sending an email or calling.

23. Brush your teeth after every meal and snack
This will be a signal to your mouth — and your mind — that it's time to stop eating. Brushing will also give your mouth a nice fresh taste that you'll be disinclined to ruin with a random chip. At work, keep a toothbrush with a cover and toothpaste in your desk drawer.

24. Clean your closet
First, it's great exercise. Second, it's an important step in changing your attitude. Get rid of all the clothes that make you look or feel bad. Throw out anything that's too big — don't give yourself the option of ever fitting into those clothes again. Move the smaller clothes up to the front to help motivate you. Soon, you'll be fitting into those too-tight jeans you couldn't bear to part with.

25. Take your measurements
You might not like your stats now, but you'll be glad you wrote them down when you see how many inches you've lost. It's also another way to measure your success, instead of just looking at the scale. Sometimes even when the numbers on the scale aren't going down, the measurements on your body are.

Revive My Soul

2010-09-13T08:26:00.001-04:00

Give thanks in all circumstances http://www.letters2jesus.com

Please Note

2010-09-12T09:01:00.000-04:00

I want to apologize to my readers for not blogging much last week. I will explain more in this week segment of "what's weighing you down". God Bless have a wonderful week.

Revive My Soul

2010-09-06T07:54:00.003-04:00

Do you have a prayer request or would you like to have your name listed on prayer list? Click here for more detail ==> http://www.letters2jesus.com/

Sarah's Story

2010-09-04T10:00:00.000-04:00

I'm Sarah. I'm 33 years old, and I'm still technically overweight by the BMI charts, but definitely not like I once was.

You see ... as of today I've managed to lose 106.4 pounds. And just last week I actually met my initial weight watchers goal. I know the next question. I hear it several days a week. How'd you do it? I don't have any voodoo magic to share with you. Sorry! Here's my secret... huddle in now... wait for it... I strictly watch what I eat EVERY single day, right it all down, and I exercise most days a week, usually instead of doing something like going out for lunch, or happy hour. Not very fun, huh? But it is MUCH better than the alternative.

How did I let myself get to almost 282 pounds? Well.... I let it happen over many many years of being overweight, obese... fat. Whatever you want to call it, I was it. I was the fat kid, the fat teenager, the fat friend, the fat person without a prom date, the fat bride, and finally the fat pregnant lady. I loved myself, I had good friends and family, and I felt people accepted me, but it all came down around me on August 9, 2007.

That was both the best and worst night of my life. It’s the night that my sweet baby boy was born. Let's call him "L". He was born 5 weeks early, via emergency C-section, and only weighed 3 lbs 4 oz. He spent 27 days in the NICU at the hospital. He was born early because I developed HELLP syndrome - a very serious and rare from of preeclampsia that can lead to liver failure and even maternal death. L and I, we're lucky. We both came out of it relatively unscathed. Sure, he's a little small, but it hasn't affected his ability to flourish one bit. After L was born I continued my "old lifestyle" for over a year before I was finally told flat out by my doctor that my weight was likely a "contributing factor" to my pregnancy issues. He advised me to lose weight prior to any more pregnancies. WOW! I almost killed myself and this sweet little boy by being this fat. It was really hard to hear. I wanted to keep my ears closed to hearing it, but I knew in heart that it was true. Getting this fat, and keeping myself this fat was selfish. I had that sweet little boy to think about now; this wasn’t just about me anymore. And so, the very next week I walked into Weight Watchers and vowed to change myself.

I've followed Weight Watchers since October 2008. I lost my first 50 lbs with no exercise, and then in April of 2009 I started going to Curves. I loved Curves, but finally decided I needed more this past spring, and trained for running my first 5k, which I ran in 32 minutes and 15 seconds on June 12th! After my race, I found that I just couldn’t quit, and I continued to run. I recently joined a new gym that allows me to do more than I was doing at Curves. I’ve also signed up for my next race – The Great Prostate Cancer challenge, which I am running in memory of my father who passed away from prostate cancer 9 years ago.

Like I said earlier, just this past Thursday I reached my Weight Watchers goal. I have a personal goal of losing another 15 pounds, but I’m feeling very happy with where this journey has taken me so far. These days, I find myself staring at recent pictures and wondering. “Who is that person? Where did she come from?” While it seems like it has taken a long time to get to this point, in some ways it seems like no time has passed at all. I wonder… how did I make it, what was different this time? Determination, and every single day, no matter what, putting one foot in front of the other and moving forward!

I have a favorite quote. "A journey of a thousand miles, must begin with a single step"
- Lao Tzu

I live by that every day!

Visit my blog: http://fatlittlelegs.blogspot.com/

"You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."
-- AA Milne

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-09-02T07:45:00.000-04:00

Ok so let me update you from last week. I said I was joining weight watchers. I've decided to wait until I get paid tommorrow before I sign up. I have been enjoying myself eating what I want this week because I know this will change soon.(smile) However I do like the fact with weight watchers you can still have what you want but just in moderation.

Ok I want to hear from you, what's been weighing you down?

Healthy Recipes

2010-09-01T05:27:00.001-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-08-31T05:16:00.002-04:00

Don't Skip Breakfast

A Healthy Breakfast Means Good Nutrition
By Shereen Jegtvig, About.com Guide

Start the Day Right - Don't Skip BreakfastStudies show that children who eat breakfast1 do better in school. It doesn't take much further thought to realize adults will feel better and perform better at work as well. Whether you work at home, on the farm, at the office, at school, or on the road, it is not a good idea to skip breakfast. Eating a good breakfast sets the tone for the rest of the day.

When you skip breakfast, you are likely to become tired when your brain and body run low on fuel. By mid-morning, you might grab a cup of coffee or wolf down a sugary candy bar to wake up again. This might work for a few minutes, but by lunch time you are hungry, crabby, and perhaps your mood might make you a little more prone to make unhealthy choices at lunch.
Skipping breakfast is a common strategy for losing weight, but not a smart one. Many people believe that they will lose weight if they skip meals, but that just isn't true; the body expects to be refueled a few times each day -- starting with breakfast.

Actually, eating breakfast is good for weight loss. In fact, people who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight.

Making a Healthy BreakfastA healthy breakfast should contain some protein and some fiber. Protein can come from low fat meats, eggs, beans or dairy. Fiber can be found in whole grains, vegetables and fruits. A good example of a healthy breakfast might be something simple like a hard boiled egg, an orange, and a bowl of whole grain cereal with low fat milk.

Stay away from the sugary cereals, syrups, pastries, and white breads because they are digested quickly and will leave you hungry and tired in a couple of hours. Protein and fiber satisfy your hunger and will keep you feeling full until lunch time.

If you really don't like to eat breakfast, you can split it up into two smaller meals. Eat a hard boiled egg at home, and an hour or two later, take a break from work and snack on an apple and a handful of healthy nuts like pecans or walnuts.

Breakfast Every MorningRemember that eating a healthy breakfast is the best way to start off your day, and be good to yourself by eating a healthy breakfast. Notice how much better you feel through the morning and the rest of the day when you don't skip breakfast.

Sources:
Murphy JM, Wehler CA, Pagano ME, Little M, Kleinman RE, Jellinek MS. "Relationship Between Hunger and Psychosocial Functioning in Low-Income American Children." Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, February, 1998.
Warren JM, Henry CJ, Simonite V. "Low Glycemic Index Breakfasts and Reduced Food Intake in Preadolescent Children." Pediatrics, November 2003.

Revive My Soul

2010-08-30T05:24:00.004-04:00

Who's Watching You? http://www.letters2jesus.com/

Weighing In

2010-08-27T19:40:00.001-04:00

Sorry I didn't weigh myself today. I forgot to do it when I got up this morning. I never I repeat never weigh myself after I have eaten.(smile) I think I did that once & have never done it since then. Be sure to tune into Monday's devotional segment of Revive My Soul. The topic will be "Who's Watching".

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-08-26T05:00:00.000-04:00

I feel like I'm at cross roads right now in my life. I need to finally decide which way I want to go. There are two roads right now in my life. The road of mediocracy. And then there's the road of determination. I feel like to be honest I travel both. Sometimes I don't put enough effort into losing weight & being too comfortable where I am. Then there are some days I'm so determine to get this weight off. I'm choosing today to take the road of determination. I have to do this. I have to be the best me I can be. This weekend I'm joining weight watchers, yes I'm finally going to do it and stop talking about it. Also I'm going to start exercising even if I just jog in place 15 minutes a day. My goal right now is to just get moving.

Okay I want to hear from you. What's been weighing you down?

Healthy Recipes

2010-08-25T05:25:00.002-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-08-24T05:28:00.002-04:00

Revive My Soul

2010-08-23T05:01:00.004-04:00

Come Boldly Before The Throne..... http://www.letters2jesus.com/

Weighing In

2010-08-20T09:52:00.001-04:00

Last weigh in I was at 302, today I weighed in at 300. I lost 2 pounds!! Yay me (smile) Have a blessed weekend you guys and for those in this fight with me remember we can do this! One day at a time and one pound at a time.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-08-19T06:33:00.001-04:00

As you may have noticed I didn't weigh in last Friday. Sometimes you just don't want to know. Can anybody feel me? (smile) I was going through something last week and couldn't face the disappointment of not losing weight. Sometimes you have to give yourself permission to wait until later. I'm back on track will weigh myself this week. I'm praying it will be good news. My clothes seem to be a little looser this week,dare I hope! (laugh) So be sure to tune in tommorrow. We can do this one day at a time, one pound at a time!

Ok now I want to hear from you my readers. What's been weighing you down?

Healthy Recipes

2010-08-18T05:00:00.001-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-08-17T05:06:00.002-04:00

Revive My Soul

2010-08-16T05:10:00.001-04:00

Speak The Word Over Your Life http://www.letters2jesus.com

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-08-12T11:05:00.001-04:00

Okay first an update from last week. I did get some information regarding taking water aerobics. The club I wanted to go to,their classes are scheduled too early for my work schedule. I think I might try the YCMA though.

This week so far I have done good eating well. I am really considering joining weight watchers, may need some more structured help.

I'm just trying to keep my mindset healthy as well because this determines my outcome. Postive thoughts = a postive life.

Ok now I want to hear from my readers. How have you been doing? Come on don't be shy I really want to know.(smile) God Bless!

Healthy Recipes

2010-08-11T05:00:00.002-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-08-10T05:00:00.001-04:00

Revive My Soul

2010-08-09T05:00:00.001-04:00

A call for love http://www.letters2jesus.com/

Weighing In

2010-08-06T09:50:00.007-04:00

Okay let's get right to it. No change, I'm still at same weight from last week. I may have not lost any weight this week but in spite of this, I'm thankful that I didn't gain any. It's all how you choose to look at it.(smile) We can do this one day at a time and one pound at a time! Have a blessed weekend.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-08-05T05:06:00.008-04:00

Ok let's talk exercise! Why oh why are you dragging your foot on this issue?<- This is me talking to myself. I know this is the missing link for me. If I exercise and eat healthier this is the magic combination for me and I would really start losing the weight. So why is it so hard for me to commit to this? Maybe it's because I am lazy and just don't feel like. (smile) . The truth of the matter is that I may never feel like exercising. I can't let my feelings dictate to my life. I can't wait until I feel like it or it may never come. I have to just do it. I used to take water aerobics a couple years ago and I really enjoyed it. I am going to call today and get some information about taking water aerobics. I'm not going to wait until the weekend to call or I most likely would put it off. lol I will be sure to update you next week and let you know if I sign up. I can do this, one day at a time and one pound at a time. Be Blessed.

Healthy Recipes

2010-08-04T05:15:00.000-04:00

Mesquite-Lime Chicken

Ingredients:
Skinless Chicken Breast
Lawry's Mesquite Lime Marinade
Ziploc Bags

Directions: Clean chicken breasts, put breasts in ziploc bag and pour marinade over chicken.

Place bag with chicken on a plate and let sit in marinade for a few hours in the refridgerator.

Bake in the oven at 350 for 30 minutes. You can serve with a fresh salad.Here is a picture of the finished product. I cut up chicken put it on a bed of lettuce along with grape tomatoes. I loved this recipe and it was so simple to make. The chicken was so tender and flavorful.

Healthy Tips

2010-08-03T05:12:00.003-04:00

It is important to start off our week prepared. I believe preparation is the key to success. I decided to start off this week prepared. I cooked my meals for this week on Sunday. Which makes it so much easier when I get home because let's face it who wants to cook after working all day.(smile) I also went to the fruit store and got my fruit and veggies. See photos attached:

I will be eating fruit and veggies with every meal. I've made the decision to be more proactive in planning my meals. So make the commitment to start planning your meals ahead which will aid you in making better choices throughout your week. Remember our motto we can do this one day and one pound at a time!

Revive My Soul

2010-08-02T05:00:00.001-04:00

Having a grateful heart http://www.letters2jesus.com/

Weighing In

2010-07-30T11:05:00.000-04:00

Sorry guys that I didn't post weighing in segment last week. But I back on track. Okay last time I weighed in at 303. Today I weighed in at 302. I lost a pound. Thank you Jesus! For those of you who are in this fight with me be encouraged. We can do this one day at a time and one pound at a time.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-07-29T05:06:00.001-04:00

I need to start thinking ahead and not always go for the instant gratification. Yes it may taste good but there are consequences for my actions. You know what they say a moment on the lips a lifetime on the hips.(smile) So before I open up that next bag of chips, I need to ask myself is it worth it? I need to live more consciously. I don't believe in telling myself no all the time sometimes you need to just enjoy the ice cream. However sometimes the answer has to be no if I am to reach my goal. It's going to take discipline, determination, and consistency. I believe that is the key.

Healthy Recipes

2010-07-28T05:00:00.001-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-07-27T05:00:00.000-04:00

Cucumbers:

1. Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.

2. Feeling tired in the afternoon, put down the caffeinated soda and pick up a cucumber. Cucumbers are a good source of B Vitamins and Carbohydrates that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.

3. Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance.

4. Are grubs and slugs ruining your planting beds? Place a few slices in a small pie tin and your garden will be free of pests all season long. The chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminum to give off a scent undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the area.

5 Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or to the pool? Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem area for a few minutes, the phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing the visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles too!!!

6.. Want to avoid a hangover or terrible headache? Eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed and wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutrients thethe body lost, keeping everything in equilibrium, avoiding both a hangover and headache!!

7. Looking to fight off that afternoon or evening snacking binge? Cucumbers have been used for centuries and often used by European trappers, traders and explores for quick meals to thwart off starvation.

8. Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you don't have enough time to polish your shoes? Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick and durable shine that not only looks great but also repels water.

9. Out of WD 40 and need to fix a squeaky hinge? Take a cucumber slice and rub it along the problematic hinge, and voila, the squeak is gone!

10. Stressed out and don't have time for massage, facial or visit to the spa? Cut up an entire cucumber and place it in a boiling pot of water, the chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber with react with the boiling water and be released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma that has been shown the reduce stress in new mothers and college students during final exams.

11. Just finish a business lunch and realize you don't have gum or mints? Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath, the phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.

12. Looking for a 'green' way to clean your faucets, sinks or stainless steel? Take a slice of cucumber and rub it on the surface you want to clean, not only will it remove years of tarnish and bring back the shine, but is won't leave streaks and won't harm you fingers or fingernails while you clean.

13. Using a pen and made a mistake? Take the outside of the cucumber and slowly use it to erase the pen writing, also works great on crayons and markers that the kids have used to decorate the walls!!

Revive My Soul

2010-07-26T05:39:00.001-04:00

Join me in praying the following prayer to start off our week http://www.letters2jesus.com

p.s. If you have prayer requests please submit at mtinsley1212@aol.com, twitter : @letters2jesus, or go to prayer blog directly and click on comment to post prayer.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-07-22T05:00:00.001-04:00

We all basically know what to do to lose weight but actually doing it is another thing. The concept is basically simple you eat less and move more. Sometimes I have to ask myself how much do I really want this? If you really want something you will go after it with all your heart. Nothing will stop you. So why am I not going after this with all my heart and stopping short of my goal. As funny as it may sound is being overweight comfortable for me? Am I afraid of failure so I don't really try? These are questions I need to ask myself and be honest with myself. Nothing is holding me back but me. So again I say to myself how bad do you want this? You can do this Monica. One day at a time, one pound at a time.

Healthy Recipes

2010-07-21T05:00:00.001-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-07-20T05:00:00.001-04:00

Revive My Soul

2010-07-19T05:00:00.001-04:00

Who could we be or what could we accomplish if we just took God at his word? http://www.letters2jesus.com/

P.S. Also I want to invite you to write me your prayer requests by either emailing at mtinsley1212@aol.com or go to site above directly to post prayers. Be blessed.

Weighing In

2010-07-16T07:18:00.001-04:00

When I last weighed in I was at 300, today I weighed in at 303. No excuses it is what it is.:-) Change is on the horizon.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-07-15T07:54:00.001-04:00

I need to get my mindset right. I have been all over the place,up one minute down the next. I believe the weight loss process starts in the mind first. You have to be fully committed. I will admit this process hasn't been easy. Sometimes I want to give up and say forget it. But I can't give up, I owe to myself to be healthy. I am worth the fight. Anything worth having takes effort, determination and tenacity. The pay off in the end will be so worth it. I'm going to make a vision board so I can see where I want to go. It will also provide motivation to keep me going.

Healthy Recipes

2010-07-14T07:41:00.001-04:00

From: Weight Watchers

Gazpacho Salad

Makes 6 servingsPOINTS® value | 1 per serving
Ingredients
1 pound grape or cherry tomatoes, halved (4 cups)
1 medium English cucumber, peeled, halved lengthwise and chopped (2 cups)
2 celery stalks, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced (1 1/4 cups)
1 medium green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped (1 1/4 cups)
1 small red onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Several dashes hot red pepper sauce, to taste
Instructions
Mix all ingredients in a large serving bowl. Toss well, and serve.

Serving size 1 1/3 cups.

Healthy Tips

2010-07-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

Ok last week I talked about one of my staples skinny cow ice cream. Here's another one that you can try. We all love the taste of a nice cold glass of soda pop but we don't love the calories. Here's a healthy alternative. All you need is fruit juice of your choice without sugar & club soda. Pour in 1/2 of juice into glass & add club soda. Isn't that simple and it is a delicious drink with the frizz of soda.

Revive My Soul

2010-07-12T08:25:00.001-04:00

Let God carry your burdens for you today.
http://www.letters2jesus.com

p.s. If you have prayer requests please submit at mtinsley1212@aol.com, twitter : @letters2jesus, or go to prayer blog directly and click on comment to post prayer.

Healthy Recipes

2010-07-07T05:00:00.001-04:00

Healthy Tips

2010-07-06T09:39:00.001-04:00

I want to share with you my latest snack that is good but not loaded with calories. Let's hear the drumroll please......The winner is Skinny Cow Ice Cream. I love this stuff and believe me when I say it taste like the real thing! They have a variety of flavors in ice cream sandwiches however I recently tried their ice cream cones. I looooovvvvvve their vanilla and carmel ice cream cone. (smile) It gives me the satisfaction without the calories so there is no guilt what could be better. It's 150 calories and only 3g of fat! If you try it let me know what you think ok? I promise you won't be disappointed.

Revive Your Soul

2010-07-05T11:25:00.003-04:00

Speak the word of God over yourself and watch your life change. http://www.letters2jesus.com

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-07-01T07:20:00.000-04:00

Let's talk about choices. Where we are in our life comes down to the choices we have made. It is as simple as that. You will reap what you sow. We can apply this truth to eating right. If you make good food choices, you will lose weight. If you make bad food choices you will gain weight. It's time out for denial. The dryer didn't shrink your clothes, you aren't big-boned, you aren't just bloated, etc.. (smile) There are so many excuses we tell ourselves to make ourselves feel better. Let's keep it real. If you stay in denial you will just stay where you are. Embrace the truth and you open the door to change.

Healthy Recipes

2010-06-30T05:17:00.000-04:00

From: Food Network

Farfalle With Herb-Marinated Grilled Shrimp

1 lb. uncooked extra large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
1/4 cup olive oil
2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil leaves
1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 tsp. finely chopped fresh oregano leaves (optional)
Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
1 jar Bertolli® Tomato & Basil Sauce, heated
1 box (16 oz.) farfalle or penne pasta, cooked and drained

To butterfly shrimp, slice down back of shrimp with small sharp knife, almost completely through. Spread and flatten to form butterfly shape.

Combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, basil, parsley, oregano and red pepper flakes in shallow bowl. Add shrimp; toss to coat. Cover and marinate in refrigerator 30 minutes.

Remove shrimp from marinade, discarding marinade. Grill or broil shrimp, turning once, until shrimp turn pink.

Spoon sauce over hot farfalle and top with shrimp. Garnish, if desired, with additional parsley.

VARIATION: Substitute 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts for shrimp. Marinate and grill as above. Serve sliced chicken over hot farfalle.

Healthy Tips

2010-06-29T05:05:00.001-04:00

Candies that won't blow your diet Nutritionist Joy Bauer shares chocolates, hard candies and chewy treats that satisfy a hankering for something sugary without delivering the same blow to your waistline as a king-sized candy bar.
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/37762912/from/toolbar

Revive My Soul

2010-06-28T05:47:00.002-04:00

Ask God to heal your heart today and make you whole again.
http://www.letters2jesus.com

Weighing In

2010-06-25T09:03:00.000-04:00

Okay y'all I didn't weigh in last week but the week before I weighed in 295, I had lost five pounds. I weighed in this morning at 300, Ugh!! I've gained five pounds. I'm about to get my boxing gloves on and fight. I refuse to go back where I was. This will be fuel for the fire. Time out for excuses. I wasn't going to write in today but I want to keep it a hundred percent real with you guys. I want you to know it's not easy. But anything you want in life isn't easy you have to fight for it. If you are in the same place I am get on your boxing gloves with me and join me in this fight! Be blessed.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-06-24T05:12:00.001-04:00

Okay guys I've made my list of things to do this year. As promise I'm sharing with you. Hopefully this will also motivate you to make your own list. Remember it's time for us to start dreaming again and living again!

Monica's To Do List:
1)Take a knitting class
2)Take a painting class
3)Take a vacation
4)Go horseback riding
5)See a ice skating show
6)Go roller skating
7)Go bowling
8)Go to the zoo
9)Go on a boat ride
10)Go to a museum

Healthy Recipes

2010-06-23T05:35:00.001-04:00

From Food Network: Aaron McCargo, Jr., Weeknight Feast

Braised Kale with Toasted Almonds

1 cup slivered almonds
1 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 cup minced onions
1 bunch kale, stemmed and sliced thin
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
In a large saute pan over low heat, toast almonds for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly browned. Add butter and allow to brown. Add garlic and onions. Cook for 3 minutes until slightly caramelized. Add kale and toss lightly. Add broth, bouillon and pepper. Cook kale for 5 to 6 minutes until tender and liquid has evaporated.

Healthy Tips

2010-06-22T06:13:00.001-04:00

Keep a food journal to keep track of what you are eating. It will help you to be more conscious of what you are putting in your mouth.You may find some hidden calories you weren't even aware of. Calories have a way of adding up by the end of the day.

Also I wanted to give you an update. I have been cooking ahead for the week. It really makes a difference. It really has helped me to stay away from the fast food knowing I have a meal waiting for me at home. So I encourage you to do this. Cook on the weekend for the week ahead and freeze your meals in ziploc bags.

Revive My Soul

2010-06-21T05:34:00.002-04:00

Have you let the cares of life choke out the time you spend with God?
www.letters2jesus.com

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-06-17T06:36:00.000-04:00

We need to live consciously. How many of us just go through the motions becoming numb. Life is so precious to let it just pass you by. Let's fill up on life instead of using food to fill us up. Find something that you are passionate about and brings you joy. It doesn't have to be anything big. I've learned it's the small things that bring me joy. I taught myself to knit a year ago and I love it. There is so much of life we have yet to experience. Take a class and learn something new like painting. Take a vacation and go somewhere you've never been before. Make a list of some of the things you would like to do and do at least one of them monthly. It's a beautiful thing to have no regrets at the end of life. Let's commit to not spend so much time and energy on things that won't matter in the long run. Next week I'm going to make a list of ten things I want to do this year and share with you. Hopefully you will make your own list. Let's start dreaming again and living BIG!!

Healthy Recipes

2010-06-16T06:20:00.000-04:00

Turkey Meatloaf
(from food network)

3 cups chopped yellow onions (2 large onions)
2 tablespoons good olive oil
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (1/2 teaspoon dried)
1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
3/4 cup chicken stock
1 1/2 teaspoons tomato paste
5 pounds ground turkey breast
1 1/2 cups plain dry bread crumbs
3 extra-large eggs, beaten
3/4 cup ketchup
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

In a medium saute pan, over medium-low heat, cook the onions, olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme until translucent, but not browned, approximately 15 minutes. Add the Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and tomato paste and mix well. Allow to cool to room temperature.

Combine the ground turkey, bread crumbs, eggs, and onion mixture in a large bowl. Mix well and shape into a rectangular loaf on an ungreased sheet pan. Spread the ketchup evenly on top. Bake for 1 1/2 hours until the internal temperature is 160 degrees F. and the meatloaf is cooked through. (A pan of hot water in the oven under the meatloaf will keep the top from cracking.) Serve hot, at room temperature, or cold in a sandwich.

Healthy Tips

2010-06-15T07:31:00.000-04:00

http://health.yahoo.net/experts/eatthis/sip-your-way-flat-belly

Revive My Soul

2010-06-14T05:24:00.001-04:00

I've decided to do something new for the revive my soul segment. Since revive my soul is a devotional to start our week out on a positive note, I'm going to link with another blog I have called letters to jesus which is a prayer blog. Click the following link below:

http://www.letters2jesus.com/

Weighing In

2010-06-12T13:17:00.001-04:00

Last week weight was 298, this week weight is 295. I lost three pounds! So happy:-)

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-06-09T16:05:00.000-04:00

Ok it's confession time! I haven't been sticking to my once a week free day. It's more like every other day. I need to be more balanced in this area. Knowing what you need to do and actually doing it is an another thing. My biggest problems are eating too much fast food, drinking soda pop and eating chips. One thing that would help me is to start preparing meals for the week ahead and freezing them because let's be honest after I get home from work I don't feel like cooking. So I need to be more proactive. And as far as the junk food if I don't keep it in the house I can't be tempted right? Lol So starting next week no more chips or pop in the house. I will allow myself to have it but only on my free day. I will buy only a grab bag of chips or one 20 oz bottle of pop if I want on my free day. I don't need any leftovers. (smile) Pray my strength you guys. Will give you report next week on how I do.

Healthy Recipes

2010-06-09T05:09:00.001-04:00

From:Food Network

Tyler Florence's Roast Chicken with Wilted Butter Lettuce and Peas

For the Chicken:
1 3-to-4-pound chicken, rinsed and patted dry
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 lemon, halved
1 head garlic, halved crosswise
1/2 bunch fresh thyme
4 to 6 bay leaves
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling

For the Lettuce and Peas:
1 cup dry white wine
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1 bay leaf
6 black peppercorns
Kosher salt
4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
Freshly ground pepper
1 cup frozen peas
1 large head butter lettuce, leaves separated

Prepare the chicken: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Season the chicken cavity with plenty of salt and pepper; stuff the lemon halves, garlic, thyme and bay leaves inside. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine. Drizzle the skin with olive oil and rub all over; season with plenty of salt and pepper. Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan; roast for 1 hour, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thigh registers 165 degrees. Let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Meanwhile, prepare the lettuce and peas: Combine the wine, red onion, bay leaf, peppercorns and a pinch of salt in a saucepan; simmer over medium heat until the mixture is syrupy and just coats the bottom of the pan. Whisk in the butter cubes, a few at a time, to thicken the sauce and give it a shine. Season with salt and pepper and keep warm. (Remove the peppercorns and bay leaf before serving.)
Place the peas in a small pot of salted boiling water until heated through; drain. Toss the peas, lettuce and beurre blanc (warm butter sauce) in a bowl until the lettuce wilts slightly. Serve with the chicken.

Healthy Tips

2010-06-08T06:34:00.001-04:00

Watch out for hidden calories. Sometimes food you consider healthy can be loaded with calories. This week while at the grocery store I notice a new product advertised call thin bagels. It said it only had 110 calories per serving. I had no idea a regular bagel has 276 per serving. I usually have a bagel sandwich and fruit for breakfast which I thought was healthy. I didn't realize a bagel is high in calories. So needless to say I brought the new thin bagels which means I will save half the calories I would had normally be eating. I will give you a review next week on how they taste. So be sure to read the labels on the packaging of food. You never know there may be hidden calories or fat lurking.

Revive My Soul

2010-06-07T05:05:00.001-04:00

John 6:35

Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.

Lord I ask you to be my bread of life. Fill the void so I will no longer use food to fill those empty places of my heart. Go into the inner places of my heart and heal me.Amen

Weighing In

2010-06-04T08:41:00.001-04:00

I weighed in this morning at 298, last week's weight was 297. Honestly glad I didn't gain more weight. With the holidays and everything ate more than I should have.(smile) Have a great weekend.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-06-02T21:22:00.000-04:00

If you been following my blog you may have noticed I haven't been losing weight. The scale has been going in the opposite position.(smile) It has been discouraging which makes me want to just overeat. It helps to be able to share my feelings with my readers. I hope you can relate with my struggle and know you aren't alone. We will get there. Never lose hope. So I may have missed it yesterday but it's a new day. I will keep pushing forward.

Healthy Recipes

2010-06-02T05:21:00.001-04:00

Chicken Paillards with Herb-Tomato Salad

From: Food Network

2 ripe medium tomatoes (1 red and 1 yellow), cored and roughly chopped (about1 1/2 cups)
1 clove garlic, peeled and smashed
1 scallion (white and green parts), thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus additional for seasoning
Freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup torn fresh basil
3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh tarragon
3 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
4 chicken paillards, about 6 ounces each (see chef's note, below)

Prepare an outdoor grill with a hot fire.
Toss the tomatoes, garlic, scallion, the 3 tablespoons olive oil, vinegar, the 2 teaspoons salt, and black pepper to taste in a medium bowl. Add all the herbs to the bowl but don't toss.
Brush the chicken paillards lightly with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Grill the chicken, turning once, until cooked through, about 2 minutes per side. Stir the herbs into the tomatoes. Put a paillard on each of 4 plates, spoon some herb-tomato salad on top (watch out for the smashed garlic-you might want to remove it), and serve.

Healthy Tips

2010-06-01T07:05:00.000-04:00

Let's talk about habits. We all have them, some good and some not so good.(smile) According to research it takes twenty one days to develop a habit. How about for the next twenty one days we form a healthy habit. It doesn't have to be anything big. Remember small changes add up to big ones. I will have fruit or vegetable with each meal for the next twenty one days.

I've listed some examples of healthy habits you may consider:
1)Don't eat after 8pm
2)Keep a food diary
3)Exercise for fifteen minutes daily.
4)Drink water, herbal tea, or juice instead of soda pop.
5)Go to bed by 10pm each night.
6)Eat air-popped popcorn instead of chips.
7)Take the stairs instead of elevator.
8)Drink a glass of water every hour.

Weighing In

2010-05-28T08:19:00.001-04:00

My current weight is 297, last week was 295. I gained two pounds. I'm disappointed won't lie. I really thought I lost some weight. Where am I missing it? I did drink pop everyday so no pop this week except on my free day. I will miss it but I know I need to lighten up on it. I will also walk in place for 10 minutes a day. So stay tuned until next week. I will be back with some good news to report.

What's Weighing You Down?

2010-05-27T08:57:00.001-04:00

I'm starting to realize how much losing weight is all about your mindset. Where your thoughts go your body will follow. So I have to be careful how I think. I can and will be successful at getting the weight off. I'm not interested on going on a diet because they don't work. I'm making a lifestyle change for lasting results. I'm working through my inner issues and getting healthy mentally. I know it's never been about the food but more about not dealing with my stuff. That's why this segment is called what's weighing you down. Once you figure out what's weighing you down you will lose the weight. So my question for you today is what's weighing you down? Find this out and you are on the way to healing mentally and physically.

Healthy Recipes

2010-05-25T12:15:00.000-04:00

From Allrecipes.com

Halushki

INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 pounds pork chops
garlic powder to taste
salt and pepper to taste
1 onion, chopped
1 large head cabbage, cut into squares
1 pound large egg noodles
1 tablespoon butter
DIRECTIONS:
1. Sprinkle pork chops with garlic powder, salt and pepper and place in a large greased sauce pan or deep skillet with chopped onion and fry until very brown and well cooked. It is ok if they stick a little, as the drippings are essential in this dish. When done, remove chops and set aside.
2. Add a little water to the saucepan or skillet and mix up the drippings a bit. Place cabbage into the pot, and allow to cook down completely.
3. In a separate large saucepan, boil the egg noodles in water until cooked. Drain noodles and mix in butter.
4. Cut up the pork chops to bite size pieces and set aside. When the cabbage has cooked down, add pork and cooked noodles and mix completely.

Prep Time: 45 Minutes
Ready In: 50 Minutes
Servings: 8
Nutritional Information
Amount Per Serving Calories: 334 | Total Fat: 9.2g | Cholesterol: 73mg

Healthy Tips

2010-05-25T08:12:00.002-04:00

Found this article on att.net, click on link below

AT&T - 10 flat-belly food tricks

Posted using ShareThis

Revive My Soul

2010-05-24T06:26:00.000-04:00

Lord help us this week make the right food choices. Show us were we might be missing it. It's good to know we don't have to do it our strength but you will strengthen us. Amen.

Psalm 55:22
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.