Two weeks and 4 pounds down!

I weighed in this morning and had lost .8. This brings my two week total to 4 pounds. What have I learned? That journaling really does matter. That journaling works and if you live the plan, then it really does work for you!

Sorry I missed you all today. I had a doctor's appointment I had to go to. The doctor was amazed at how well I have done losing the weight and she wanted to know how I had done it.

I told her all about our great group of Wednesday Morning losers and how you had all helped me, encouraged me and listened to me during my journey.

I'm off to a Dog Show this weekend in Pennsylvania Dutch Country! Talk about a challenge! I'll report in along the way. I sure hope I can be strong and do this.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

I'm not going to be at class on Wednesday, although I will rush in early and weigh in. I'll post my results here on Wednesday night. I have a doctors appointment and this was the only time she could fit me in.

Oh how I hate to miss a meeting! Especially when I am on a roll.

I'll be traveling to a dog show over the weekend and I have packed some food to eat on my trip. I have also packed a tracker and my WW points guides. I love those things. All I have to do, when I feel weak for a McDonalds Big Mac, is look at the total points value (10) for that one thing and the thought slaps some sense into me!

I'll blog about what I am eating and portion control (hopefully), and see how I do over the next week!!

Good luck tomorrow!!

	Morning
	6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
	1 serving Fiber One Raisin Bread	2
	1 egg white	0
	2 cups black coffee	0
	6 oz Raspberry nonfat yogurt	1
	1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
	2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
	Subtotal	3
	Midday
	1 cup lettuce	0
	1 cup cucumber	0
	1 cup tomatoes	0
	6 large olives	1
	3 oz Turkey burger	3
	1 tsp ketchup	0
	2 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing	0
	2 cups black tea	0
	6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
	2 servings Fat FreeCreamer	0
	Subtotal	4
	Evening
	1/2 breast cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast	3
	1/2 cup cooked brussels sprouts	0
	1 cup cooked eggplant	0
	1/8 cup cooked onions	0
	1/8 cup cooked sweet green pepper strips	0
	1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce	1
	1 cup cooked brown rice	4
	2 cups tea herbal	0
	Anytime
	1 serving Ritz Crackerfuls	2
	Subtotal	10
	Food POINTS values total used	17
	Food POINTS values remaining	2

Monday, September 28, 2009

Today I worked all day long, which meant I was moving. I was running up and down the cellar stairs doing laundry, making meals and here is the best part! I vacuumed and cleaned out both my car and my husband's car! Why is this such a challenge? With a White German Shepherd, the cars were full of hair and it took me three hours of twisting turning and sweating to get the job done!
Calories in and calories out!

Today there was a lot of calories going out!

So when I finally came up from finishing the cars, I grabbed a Miller Genuine Draft 64 and sat down and enjoyed every single 1 pt. of it!

It felt good today, to be busy and then to know that I got a lot done...and I burned up calories while doing it.

Now back to my journal!

Morning
2 slices 100% Whole Wheat Bread	1
1 egg white	0
6 oz strawberry nonfat yogurt	1
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cups black coffee	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
1 cup lettuce	0
1 cup cucumbers	0
1 cup tomatoes	0
2 oz cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast	2
2 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing	0
2 cups black tea,	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
6 large olives	1
Subtotal	3
Evening
1/2 breasts cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast	3
5 oz potato, baked	2
1/2 cup cooked summer squash	0
1/2 cup cooked zucchini	0
2 Tbsp Jellied Cranberry Sauce	1
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
1 serving Miller 64 Beer (Yahoo!)	1
2 cups black tea,	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
Subtotal	7
Anytime
1 small apples	1
1 serving Ritz Crackerfuls	2
1 bar English Toffee Crunch Ice Cream	2
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	5
Food Pts. used	17
Food Pts. remaining	2

Sunday, September 27, 2009

I was thinking about this journey I have been on for nearly two years. I have felt the real highs of being at goal, wearing clothes I'd only dreamed about wearing again, and I have also felt the lows of my first meeting weigh in, regaining some weight after my Dad died (14 pounds!) and I have been wondering where I am going now. Do I go back to that low number, do I say the heck with it and just try to maintain where I am?

I struggled with this for a few weeks and then I decided that the reason I came to WW to begin with, is that I am just not ready to give up on myself!

So no, I am not going to pick a new goal weight. I am not going to give in, give up and go status quo. Nope, I am going to get back to my original goal weight! I will fit into those clothes again and I will feel happy about who I have worked so hard to become!

I am not giving up on me!

Morning
1 item egg whites	0
1 servings Fiber One Raisin Bread	2
6 oz Raspberry nonfat yogurt	1
1/4 large cantaloupe	1
2 cup(s) black coffee	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
Subtotal	4
Midday
1 cup lettuce	0
1 cup tomatoes	0
1/2 breast cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast	3
1 cups cucumbers	0
2 Tbsp fat-free blue cheese dressing	1
2 Tbsp bacon bits, imitation	1.5
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 cups black tea, without sugar	0
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	5.5
Evening
1 items refrigerated grilled chicken breast fillet	3
5 oz cooked sweet potato	2
2 1/4 Tbsp Jellied Cranberry Sauce	1
Subtotal	6
Anytime
1 serving(s) Ritz Crackerfuls	2
1 small apple(s)	1
1 cup Broccoli	0
Food Pts.used	18.5
Food Pts.remaining	0.5

Saturday, September 26, 2009

I was on the go all day. I can't believe how much running around I did. Up and down the cellar stairs doing laundry, and then trying to track down my two young dachshunds who were chasing another dog! Oh my goodness did I run!

Todays insight into my eating was a little slip. A friend came down with a homemade macaroon cookie and instead of saying no thanks, I ate it. Then I started looking at my daily points total and I realized that as long as I watched it the rest of the day, I could handle it. Still the guilt was there.

I love hearing from you in the comment section of the blog! It really inspires me to keep writing. If you haven't left one yet, please do. It means a lot to me!

Now on to my journal!

Morning
1 egg white	0
2 cups black coffee	0
6 oz blueberry nonfat yogurt	1
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
1 muffin 100 calorie English muffin	1
1 servings Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
3 oz Turkey burger	3
1 serving Sandwich Thins	1
1/4 large cantaloupe	1
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	5
Evening
1/2 cup cooked brown rice	2
1/4 cup cooked onions	0.5
1/2 cup cooked shrimp	1.5
2 oz baby carrots	0.5
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
1 serving Ritz Crackerfuls	2
1/4 cup bell peppers	0
Subtotal	6.5
Anytime
1 bar English Toffee Crunch Ice Cream	2
1 Macaroon cookie	2
Food Pts. used	17.5
Food Pts. remaining	1.5

Friday, September 25, 2009

Today was a day where I really worked eating a lot of vegetables. In fact my poor husband told me that if I need to eat vegetables in such quantities, go ahead, but he needed more normal portioning of food. I guess three vegetables at dinner is a little bit of an over kill.

However, tonight, as I sit here writing, I feel really full and satisfied. I think that is such a good feeling because I know that I have been eating the correct foods.

Morning
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
1 serving Fiber One Raisin Bread	2
1 serving egg white	0
6 oz cherry nonfat yogurt	1
2 cups black coffee	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
1 servings Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
1 Tbsp shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	0
Subtotal	3
Midday
1 cups lettuce	0
3 Tbsp guacamole	1.5
2 oz cooked ground turkey	3
1/2 cups salsa	0
1 Tbsp canned jalapeno peppers	0
1 cup(s) tomatoes	0
3 Tbsp shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	0.5
4 cups black tea	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
Subtotal	5
Evening
5 oz cooked haddock	3.5
5 oz cooked sweet potato	2
1/2 cup mushrooms	0
1 cup cooked eggplant	0
1/4 cups fat-free tartar sauce	1
1/2 cups green peas	0.5
2 cups black tea,	0
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 servings fat Free Creamer	0
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	7
Anytime
1 bar English Toffee Crunch Ice Cream	2
1 Ritz Crackerfuls	2
Subtotal	4
Food POINTS values total used	19
Food POINTS values remaining	0

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Thursday found us trying to eat some of my much loved foods, but within limits. I weighed and measured it all out, and it was really a joy to have Tacos! Yes, dinner was a big point total for my day, but in the end, I was still right at my allowed points for the day. It just meant no ice cream tonight.

Morning
6 oz Blueberry nonfat yogurt	1
1 item(s) egg white(s)	0
1 Tbsp shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	0
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black coffee	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
2 cup(s) Reduced Sodium Soups Garden vegetable	3
2 slice(s) 100% Whole Wheat Bread	1
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
Subtotal	4
Evening
1 1/2 serving(s) Taco shells (2)	4.5
1 cup(s) lettuce	0
1 cup(s) tomato(es)	0
1 medium corn on the cob	1
3 oz cooked ground turkey	4.5
1/4 cup(s) shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	1
3 Tbsp guacamole	1.5
1 Tbsp canned jalapeno peppers	0
1/2 cup(s) salsa	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
Subtotal	12.5
Anytime
No entries for this meal time.
Subtotal	0
Food Pts. used	18.5
Food Pts. remaining	0.5

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Today at WW class I weighed in, and I was really pleased to see I'd lost 4.2 pounds. Now before anyone wonders why it was such a big loss, and did I eat my points, etc., I want to let you know that yes, I did eat my points, but after a very lazy summer of not eating the right foods or counting any points, I had gained some weight back. In essence this was like a first week weight loss. I don't expect that next week will be as big a loss.

After seeing how well my enforced journaling has been, I opted to do this public accounting for one more week. This is more to help boost my return to the plan than anything else.

As Pam said today at class, "This is hard work." There is no other way to put it. I believe it is why having the support of our leader, and all the members in our class, really helps to make this plan work.

Together we can do it!

Morning
1 serving Fiber One Raisin Bread	2
1 Tbsp reduced-fat peanut butter	2
1 tsp jelly	0.5
6 packet Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
2 cup(s) black coffee	0
Subtotal	4.5
Midday
1 cup lettuce	0
1 cup cucumbers	0
1 cup tomatoes	0
2 Tbsp reduced-fat feta cheese	1
6 large olives	1
2 1/2 oz cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast	2.5
2 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing	0
1 serving Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cups black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet Splenda Fiber	0
2 servings Fat Free Creamer	0
Subtotal	4.5
Evening
2 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing	0
1 cups lettuce	0
1 cups cucumbers	0
1 cups tomatoes	0
2 slices 100% Whole Wheat Bread	1
1 Tbsp Light Spread Margarine	1
6 packets Splenda Fiber	0
2 cups black tea, without sugar	0
2 serving Fat Free Creamer	0
1 serving Italian Wedding Soup	2
Subtotal	4
Anytime
1 servings Ritz Crackerfuls	2
1 bar English Toffee Crunch Ice Cream	2
1 small apple	1
Subtotal	5
Food Pts used	18
Food Pts remaining	1

Beef Chili

Pts 6 Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 sprays cooking spray
• 1 small garlic clove(s), minced
• 1/2 cup each chopped onion and bell pepper mixture
• 1 pound uncooked lean ground beef (with 7% fat)
• 14 1/2 oz canned diced tomatoes, with chipotle chiles*
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes, fire-roasted
• 2 tsp chili powder, medium heat suggested
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano, crushed
• 1/2 tsp table salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 15 oz canned Kindney beans, drained and rinsed

Instructions

• Coat a large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat. Add garlic and frozen vegetable mixture; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are soft, and any liquid evaporates, about 3 minutes. Add beef, breaking up clumps with back of a spoon; brown beef, stirring frequently, about 2 minutes.
  
  
• Add diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, oregano, salt, black pepper and beans; cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, until some liquid evaporates, meat is cooked through and chili thickens slightly, about 3 minutes. Yield about 1 1/4 cups per serving.

Notes

• *If you can’t find canned diced tomatoes with chipotle chilies, either use a 14.5 ounce can of plain diced tomatoes and add 1/8 teaspoon of chipotle chile powder to the mixture, or substitute a 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (the latter will be quite spicy).
  
  Substitute lean ground turkey for the beef if you prefer (could affect POINTS values).

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

I was completely well today! How did I know this? I was hungry! I took time today to plan my meals and measure and weigh all the ingredients. I really enjoyed my salad, as I added something different to it. 6 beautiful olives!

I spent the morning making the WW recipe for Chili. I made a triple batch because my husband loves it. I'll post that recipe tomorrow. After that was done I froze 5 quarts of it to use as last minute meals.

Then I cooked a chicken for our dinner. Tomorrow I'll be making Italian Wedding Soup. I'm making a triple batch of that too, and then I will freeze meal size portions. I love that recipe and I tend to eat it more than my husband would like. Thus the chili for him and the soup for me.

Tomorrow is weigh in day and I really hope I have done well. Despite the fact that I was feeling badly over the weekend, I did try to stay on course with my eating and did not allow myself my usual comfort food of cinnamon toast.

I did finally feel well enough for some activity today. I worked pulling up plants in my dying garden. I worked for half an hour pulling weeds and plants and putting them in the compost heap.

I hope this week has helped someone. I wonder if I should do it one more week or not. Let me know what you think.

Morning
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
1 item(s) egg white(s)	0
6 oz Raspberry nonfat yogurt	1
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving(s) LFat Free Creamer	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
1 Tbsp shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
1 cup(s) cucumber(s)	0
1 cup(s) lettuce	0
1 cup(s) tomato(es)	0
3 oz water-packed tuna fish, drained	2
6 large olive(s)	1
2 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing	0
1 serving(s) Ritz Crackerfuls	2
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
4 cup(s) black tea, with Fat Free Half and Half	0
Subtotal	5
Evening
4 oz cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast	3.5
1/2 cup(s) mashed potatoes	2
1/2 cup(s) cooked frozen mashed butternut squash	1
1/8 cup(s) canned cranberry sauce	1
4 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	7.5
Anytime
1 serving(s) Ritz Crackerfuls	2
Weight Watcher Ice Cream Bar	2
Food Pts.total used	18.5
Food Ptsremaining	.5

Monday, September 21, 2009

I was finally feeling almost normal today, and so I tried to eat a more normal menu. I'm truly enjoying the egg white each morning and since I have noticed a benefit with my low blood sugar, I think I will continue that.

I have also been staying away from a lot of carbs, and going more towards the filling foods, and I like that too. The only problem I have is when I eat an apple, I do need to have some protein so my blood sugar doesn't sky rocket up, with nothing to balance it out.

I have also started planning for a trip I will be taking the first weekend in October. I'm going with another WW member, and so we are planning. We will bring a few meals with us, and try to stay on plan as much as we can. I may just try to blog about the adventures of traveling on this wild and wacky WW plan!

Okay, down to the journal.

Morning
6 oz Raspberry nonfat yogurt	1
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
1 item(s) egg white(s)	0
1 cup(s) black coffee	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
1 serving(s) Egg Foo Yung Vegetable	0
1 cup(s) Oriental Style Vegetables In Garlic Soy Sauce, Frozen	1
1 cup(s) cooked zucchini	0
1 small banana(s)	1.5
4 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
1 cup(s) fat-free chicken broth	0
1/2 Seafood Salad	1.5
Subtotal	4
Evening
5 oz cooked swordfish steak(s)	5
5 oz potato(es), baked	2
1 cup(s) cooked cauliflower	0
1/4 cup(s) fat-free tartar sauce	1
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
2 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
Subtotal	8
Anytime
1 small apple(s)	1
1 item(s) cookies and cream bar	2
Subtotal	3
Food Pts. total used	17
Food Pts. remaining	2

Sunday, September 20, 2009

It was another difficult food day. I did try to eat, but this virus has kept me down and out. I had gotten a can of Progresso Soup, with a WW food value listed and I really enjoyed that. It also set well. However, the idea of normal food wasn't appealing, so I ate lightly all day.

Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.

Morning
1/2 slice(s) Fat-Free Sharp Cheddar Slices	0.5
1 item(s) egg white(s)	0
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
1 cup(s) black coffee	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
1 bag(s) 100% Green Tea	0
Subtotal	1.5
Midday
2 cup(s) Light Soups Light Italian Meatball	1.5
1 serving(s) Ritz Crackerfuls	2
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
Subtotal	3.5
Evening
2 eggs	4
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
2 serving(s) Fat Free Creamer	0
6 packet(s) Fiber	0
Subtotal	5
Anytime
2 serving(s) Ritz Crackerfuls	4.5
Subtotal	4.5
Food Pts. total used	14.5
Food Pts. remaining	4.5

Saturday, September 19, 2009

I woke up today not feeling too well. In fact I wondered how I was going to be able to eat very much for breakfast and lunch. Trust me, it was a struggle. Everything inside of me wanted that old comfort food of cinnamon/sugar toast with my tea. However, I tried to find things that were healthful, and would keep me on my goal, so I did a repeat breakfast sandwich and yogurt. I'm amazed at how well I do since I started eating the egg white with my English muffin each morning. I have very low blood sugar and for the first time ever I am not starving at 10 AM! Yay, egg whites!

I was still not myself at lunch and it was a light one, but by dinner I was perking up a bit and ready to broil up the scallops I'd promised my husband.

I didn't use up all my points today, but I also didn't move too much out of the recliner. I'll try to do better tomorrow.

Morning
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
1 item(s) egg white(s)	0
2 cup(s) black coffee	0
1 Tbsp shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	0
6 oz cherry nonfat yogurt	1
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
1 cup(s) lettuce	0
1 serving(s) Fiber One Cottage Cheese	1
1 cup(s) canned fruit cocktail, packed in water	1
1 serving(s) Ritz Crackerfuls	2
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
Subtotal	4
Evening
1 cup(s) cooked asparagus	0
4 oz cooked scallops broiled	2.5
1/2 cup(s) cooked brown rice	2
1/4 cup(s) fat-free tartar sauce	1
1/2 cup(s) canned yellow corn	1
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
Subtotal	6.5
Anytime
1 small apple(s)	1
1 bar(s) English Toffee Crunch Ice Cream	2
Subtotal	3
Food Pts. used	15.5
Food Pts. remaining	3.5

September 18, 2009

I liked the egg white sandwich that I made yesterday so much, that I had it again this morning. This is something new and I found that having that with my yogurt gives me a real boost in the morning! I also made a nice lean pork roast for our dinner and enjoyed that. Surprisingly, 3 ounces of pork was a good amount!

I've also been drinking, drinking, drinking. That has helped me to feel full most of the time. I only felt a little hungry in the late afternoon, but an apple seemed to do the trick and helped me get through until dinner.

Here is my journal for today.

Morning
1 item(s) egg white(s)	0
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
6 oz Raspberry nonfat yogurt	1
2 cup(s) black coffee	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
1 Tbsp shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
1 cup(s) lettuce	0
1 cup(s) cucumber(s)	0
1 cup(s) tomato(es)	0
2 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing	0
1 serving(s) Sandwich Thins	1
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
3 oz Turkey burger	3
1 Tbsp ketchup	0.5
1 tsp relish	0
6 large olive(s)	1
1 Tbsp reduced-fat feta cheese	0.5
Subtotal	6
Evening
3 oz cooked lean pork	3.5
5 oz potato(es), baked	2
1/2 small corn on the cob	0.5
1 cup(s) cooked broccoli	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
6 packet(s) Splenda Fiber	0
1/2 cup(s) unsweetened applesauce	1
Subtotal	7
Anytime
1 small apple(s)	1
1 cup(s) canned fruit cocktail, packed in water	1
1 serving(s) Ritz Crackerfuls	2
Subtotal	4
Food PTS total used	19
Food PTS remaining	0

Thursday, September 17, 2009

I started the day off making an egg white English muffin sandwich. I wasn't sure how it would come out, but it was delicious!

I also sat down last night and planned my meals for the entire day. I have to say it's a little nerve wracking when you are putting what you are eating on display for all to see. So I want to make sure I am being careful and following all the rules that I have learned over the last year and a half.

One question was sent yesterday regarding the Splenda with Fiber.

It's available in most grocery stores now. It only comes in packets, and the box with green accents. Each packet contains 1 gram of fiber.
By using the Splenda with Fiber, (I use 3 packets in a very large mug for my coffee and tea) I can have my Fat Free Half and Half (2 tbs per cup) and since I have the fiber in each cup, it sort of erases the FF Half and Half.

I love this product and can recommend it to you from my personal experience.

Now onto my day. Here we go!

Morning
1 item(s) egg white(s)	0
1 Tbsp shredded fat-free cheddar cheese	0
1 muffin(s) 100 calorie English muffin	1
6 oz Raspberry nonfat yogurt	1
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black coffee	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
6 packet(s) Fiber	0
1 Tbsp fat-free mayonnaise	0
Subtotal	2
Midday
1 cup(s) lettuce	0
1 cup(s) cucumber(s)	0
1 cup(s) tomato(es)	0
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
3 oz Turkey burger	3
2 Tbsp fat-free Italian salad dressing	0
1 serving(s) Sandwich Thins	1
1 tsp relish	0
1 Tbsp ketchup	0.5
Subtotal	4.5
Evening
5 oz cooked haddock fillet(s)	3.5
5 oz cooked bliss potatoes	2
1 cup(s) cooked broccoli	0
1 Tbsp fat-free mayonnaise	0
3/4 Tbsp seasoned bread crumbs	0.5
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
1/4 cup(s) fat-free tartar sauce	1
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Fiber	0
1 medium corn on the cob	1
Subtotal	8
Anytime
1 small apple(s)	1
1 cup(s) canned fruit cocktail, packed in water	1
Subtotal	2
Food Pts total used	16.5
Food Pts remaining	2.5

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

This is day one, of my one week long challenge, to journal what I am eating. I drank more than usual today, which did make me less hungry. More than anything, I tried to keep busy to keep my mind off of snacking, and on more productive things.

What Maribeth ate on Wednesday

Morning
2 slice(s) Bakery light 7 grain bread	1
1 tsp jelly	0.5
2 cup(s) black coffee	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
1 Tbsp reduced-fat peanut butter	2
6 packet(s) Fiber	0
Subtotal	3.5
Midday
1 cup(s) tomato(es)	0
1 cup(s) lettuce	0
1 cup(s) cucumber(s)	0
2 slice(s) deli-sliced turkey	1
1 serving(s) Cranberry Juice Sugar Free	0
2 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
6 packet(s) Fiber	0
2 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
2 Tbsp fat-free salad dressing, except Italian	1
Subtotal	2
Evening
3 oz cooked trimmed beef round steak or roast	4
1 cup(s) cooked asparagus	0
5 oz cooked sweet potato	2
1 cup(s) black tea, without sugar	0
3 packet(s) Fiber	0
1 serving(s) Land O Lakes Creamer	0
1 Easy Roasted Eggplant	1
Subtotal	7
Anytime
1 small apple(s)	1
1 sandwich(es) Round Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwiches, Skinny Cow	2
Subtotal	3
Food Pts values total used	15.5
Food Pts values remaining	3.5

The Next Week...A Challenge!

I have been an errant WW member. Oh I haven't missed a meeting lately, but I have not been staying strictly to plan. I haven't binged, but I have not counted my points and I haven't been watching the portion size either. Oh yes, and one day I ate....cake!

But.....that is about to change.

Starting on Wednesday, September 16th I am going to blog what I am eating, and how I am feeling each day. I will also tell you what I did that day to move my body!

I am going to attempt to do the "filling foods" version of the plan and see just how many of those I can incorporate into my daily life. Then after weigh in on the 23rd I will report if I have had a good week, or if we are simply doing a "don't ask, don't tell" post.

However, I know that this plan works, if you work it! So I am hopeful that I can get back on course.

Is anyone else having this problem? Want to do the challenge with me? Oh come on, you know you want to!

Good luck!!!

Eggplant Parmesan

Ingredients

3 pts. per serving

	1 spray(s) cooking spray
	1/3 cup(s) seasoned bread crumbs, Italian-style
	1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
	1 tsp Italian seasoning
	1/4 tsp garlic powder
	1 medium raw eggplant
	2 large egg white(s), lightly beaten
	1 1/2 cup(s) canned tomato sauce
	1/2 cup(s) part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 9 X 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; set aside.
  
  
• Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning and garlic powder in a medium-size bowl; set aside. Remove skin from eggplant and trim off ends; slice eggplant into 1/2-inch-thick slices.
  
  
• Dip eggplant first into egg whites and then into bread crumb mixture. Bake eggplant on a nonstick cookie sheet until lightly browned, about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once.
  
  
• Place a layer of eggplant on bottom of prepared baking dish, then add 1/3 of tomato sauce and 1/3 of mozzarella cheese. Repeat with 2 more layers in same order. Bake until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbling, about 10 minutes more. Slice into 4 pieces and serve.

Julie, Julia & Maribeth

I made the mistake of going to see "Julie & Julia" on Friday. I have not been the same since. How can a devout WW member go and sit through two glorious hours of cooking with cream and butter and not walk out wanting to stop at the first gourmet restaurant, or even the dairy section of the local grocery store is beyond me! I felt ravenous!

And I wanted anything that was just plain made with butter!

I got home and stood looking at all the fresh vegetables in my fridge. Nothing slaps your face back to reality more than seeing all those vegetables, fruits and ground turkey!

Hubby joked with me about dinner. "Are we cooking with BUTTER tonight?" he asked

Yes, he is still in traction following that remark.

I raged at the Gods, who made me this food loving, slow metabolizing, female who loves all things fattening and yummy. Especially butter!

I sat down away from the fridge and started to think. I knew I could still cook, delicious meals. I can make almost all of our favorite meals simply by moderating the ingredients. I can do this!!!

So what did I make for dinner after watching "Julie & Julia"? A lighter version of Eggplant Parmesan that I'd put together the day before.

And it was good.

Chocolate Strawberry Sundae

	Trust us, DQ is doing this one all wrong. Here's proof... Ingredients: 1 standard-sized Keebler Waffle Bowl (or another store-bought waffle bowl with about 50 calories) 1/2 cup fat-free vanilla ice cream 3 frozen unsweetened strawberries 1 1/2 tbsp. Hershey's Lite chocolate syrup, divided 1/2 tbsp. sugar-free strawberry preserves 2 tbsp. Fat Free Reddi-wip Directions: Pour 1 tbsp. chocolate syrup into the waffle bowl, tilting the bowl from side to side so the syrup coats as much of the inside as possible (sides too!). Freeze for 30 minutes, or until syrup has solidified. Place berries in a microwave-safe bowl, and microwave until thawed, about 25 seconds. Do not drain excess liquid. Add preserves and mash with a fork, until you have a chunky strawberry sauce. Set aside. Remove waffle bowl from the freezer and place in a dish. Scoop ice cream into the waffle bowl. Top with strawberry sauce and 1/2 tbsp. chocolate syrup, and then finish it all off with Reddi-whip. Eat the WHOLE thing, waffle bowl and all! MAKES 1 SERVING
	Serving Size: entire sundae Calories: 198 Pts. 4

Only Human

This summer has been a tough one for me. I've really struggled with the plan. I know what I should be eating and I know that portion control is the real key, but somehow I am tired and then I get lazy and then, well, let's just say, weigh in day isn't easy.

I almost stayed home last week just so I didn't have to face the music, but I decided to go anyway. After all. if I make that one big mistake and stay away, then all is lost.

I've learned over the last year and a half that I am not always going to lose weight. How wonderful that would be! Go each week and go down, down, down! But, that's not life, and my body has this unique way of keeping me humble!

I lose and gain and lose and gain, but as long as I am going in the general direction of my goal weight I feel that I am at least working on it.

Am I the very best little WW ever? No way. I'm human and I often totally blow it. I have learned, however, not to beat myself up when I have a bad meal, a bad day or even a bad week.

After all, I'm only human.

Italian Wedding Soup

This is one of my favorite winter soup lunches. It's easy and warms me up on a cold day. My husband also loves this!

Pts: 2 Servings: 6

This Italian soup is full of flavor yet low in calories and fat. Go ahead and swap extra-lean ground beef for the turkey and serve it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the broth.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound uncooked ground turkey breast
• 1 large egg white(s), lightly beaten
• 2 Tbsp dried bread crumbs
• 1 1/2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 1/2 tsp basil
  
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 8 cup fat-free chicken broth
• 2 cup escarole, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup onion(s), sweet-variety, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup shredded carrots

Instructions

• In a medium bowl, combine turkey, egg white, bread crumbs, cheese, oregano and garlic powder; shape into 3/4-inch balls.
  
  
• In a large saucepan, heat broth to boiling; stir in escarole, onion, basil, carrot and meatballs. Return soup to boiling and then reduce heat to medium; cook at a slow boil for 15 minutes. Soup is done when meatballs float to the top and escarole is wilted.
  
• Yields about 1 1/2 cups of soup and 5 to 6 meatballs per serving.

Notes

• Make this soup even more traditional by adding 1 1/2 cups of small cooked noodles to the broth for a total of 3 POINTS values per serving.

Go ahead, double or triple the recipe. It freezes well and is a great last minute meal!

Getting Back To Basics

I've been on WW now for a year and a half and mostly I feel I have done well. However, after a while I think you begin to get into a rut and forget the very basics that the program provides.

This week our fearless leader, Pam is starting a series getting us all back to basics. She'll be going over the program and helping us to get a second wind.

I'll be at the meeting tomorrow (Wednesday 9/9/09) with a pad of paper and pen. I'm ready to get back on track and remember all the things that make this plan a success for me!

See you there...

Beef & Beer Stew

Beef and Beer Stew
Pts: 5
Serving size: 1-1/2 cups

This hearty one-pot meal can be prepared in just one hour. Double the recipe and freeze for too-busy-to-cook days.

Ingredients

• 1 spray olive oil cooking spray
• 12 oz lean beef round, roast, cut into cubes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium garlic clove, minced
  
• 2 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 24 medium baby carrots, about 1/2 lb
• 1 cup fat-free beef broth
• 8 oz light beer
• 1/4 cup fat-free evaporated milk
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp paprika

Instructions

• Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat. Add beef, onion, pepper and garlic; cook until beef is browned, stirring, about 3 minutes.
  
  
• Stir in potatoes, carrots, broth and beer; bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer until meat is tender, about 30-45 minutes.
  
  
• Stir together evaporated milk, cornstarch and paprika in a small cup; add to beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook until slightly thickened and bubbly, about 5 minutes; cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes more. Yields about 1 1/2 cups per serving.

Quiche

This is one of my favorite lunches. I have a wedge of this with a garden salad and I am good to go! Pts: 3 Servings: 8

Vary this simple recipe by using other types of cheese, or by adding diced, cooked vegetables and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

	1 already pie crust
	3/4 cup egg substute(s)
	4 oz cooked crisp turkey bacon, diced
	1 cup(s) fat-free evaporated milk
	2 tbsp all-purpose flour
	1/4 tsp table salt
	1/4 tsp black pepper
	1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
	1/2 cup(s) low-fat hard cheese, Swiss, grated

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray.
  
  
• Lay pie crust dough in pie plate. Fold in any overhanging corners.
  
  
• Whisk together egg substitute, milk, flour, salt, pepper and nutmeg.
  
  
• Sprinkle cheese and bacon over pie crust dough. Pour in egg mixture and place quiche on a baking sheet. Bake until firm, about 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool at least 5 minutes before cutting into 8 wedges.

Oh No, It's The Weekend!

Are you like me? Do you do well all week long, and then you get to the weekend and suddenly you are faced with parties or barbecues or just feeling a little lazy about your cooking.

This happens to me pretty frequently and so I decided I had better think of something to do. Then it hit me. Fast is friendly!~

By this I mean, I would cook a little extra during the week and set things up for a quick and easy leftover weekend.

For instance. I might make a roasted chicken on Thursday, and save up the leftover chicken to use in a salad on Saturday at lunch. Or I might make a batch of stuffed zucchini and then reserve 2 servings for my husband and me for a Saturday night.

I love fish because usually it is quick and easy to make. Salmon and Swordfish are great on the grill, or you can use your oven and quickly bake up some Haddock. And remember scallops and shrimp make a quick stir fry.

So don't stress because it's the weekend. A little prior planning can see you through!

Au Gratin Potatoes

This is a yummy recipe that both husbands and kids love, and it is points friendly!

pts. 3

Ingredients


1 spray(s) cooking spray

1 tbsp butter or margarine

1 medium onion(s), thinly sliced

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cup(s) fat-free skim milk

2 pound(s) Yukon Gold potato(es), thinly sliced

1 cup(s) low-fat (or fat free) shredded cheddar cheese

1 tsp table salt

1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions

* Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat a 2-quart covered baking dish with cooking spray.

* Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour; add milk slowly, stirring. Add potatoes and stir to mix. Bring to a boil. Stir in 3/4 cup of cheese, salt and pepper.

* Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and level out surface. Bake for 1 hour, uncovered. Cover and bake until potatoes are fork-tender, about 20 minutes more.

* Change oven temperature to broil. Sprinkle remaining cheese over potatoes. Broil 6 inches from the heating element until the cheese is golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into 8 pieces.

Yes, You Can!

When I first began WW a year and a half ago, I started with the idea of "I can't have this" or "I can't have that" anymore. I really had quite a defeatist attitude. It was what had kept me not eating healthfully before and had gotten me to the weight I had gotten to.

Now, there I was, weighing more than I ever had, and feeling more unhappy about it. Especially when, having taken the vacation of a lifetime, I came home with pictures of this stranger I had become.

I started out thinking that I needed to just do it. You know start the plan and then never eat again!

Then I began to open my mind (and my ears) and listen to what was being said at the meetings. I realized that I could eat anything I wanted....as long as I used portion control.

There are certain foods I have to stay away from because no amount of portion control keeps me from wanting more. My biggest "red light" food...Chocolate. I haven't met a piece yet that hasn't been calling my name, and once I start eating it, I just can't stop!

I have learned to substitute things like a portion controlled size of the WW candy, or frozen treats, but I do not bake cakes or brownies anymore because the entire pan would be gone.

I have learned to enjoy my vegetables and fruits. I've also learned to try new things and surprising to me is that I really like Haddock! Something that 5 years ago, I would have told you I disliked.

So, if you are sitting there saying to yourself, "No I can't" I want you to stop and remember, with portion control and a little imagination, "yes you can!"

"Pulled "Pork".

It's quite simple and makes a lot. This is also freezer friendly. I usually make a big batch and then freeze meal size containers Pulled "Pork" 4-5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs. Get Perdue, it's worth it, as they are leaner. 1 bottle of low sugar, low carb barbecue sauce. I use the entire bottle. 2-3 large onions diced, Place all ingredients in a Crockpot and cook 10-12 hours on low. At the end I remove about 1/2 the liquid and then I take knife and fork and shred the chicken thighs. I then add in as much of the liquid as I need to make a nice pulled pork consistency. I figure that 1 cup is about 5 points. And trust me a cup in enough to fill you up. Serve over the Arnold sandwich thins or mashed potato. It is totally yummy and you cannot tell it isn't pork!

Maribeth & Julia's Potato Salad

I am all for taking my favorite recipes and adapting them for the plan. This is a former Julia Child recipe that I took and ran through the fit and fabulous remake that I do. Here is the result.

Maribeth & Julia's Potato Salad

Pts:2 Servings: 20 (about 1/2-3/4 cup)

Ingredients

	5 pound(s) whole uncooked white potato
	1 cup(s) onion(s)
	1 cup(s) celery, chopped
	3 Tbsp table salt, no salt salt
	1 Tbsp black pepper
	8 item(s) whole hard-boiled egg(s) 2-3 tbs green hot-dog relish
	1- 1/2 cup(s) fat-free mayonnaise or enough to moisten the salad. A little mustard The Potato Base. Halve 5 pounds of "boiling" potatoes and slice 3/16 inch thick. Boil in lightly salted water for 3 to 5 minutes, just until tender. [if you don't slice the potatoes exactly to the thickness she specifies, you'll have to boil the potatoes longer obviously] Drain out cooking water, then cover the pan and let sit 3 to 4 minutes, to firm up. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the slices with salt, pepper, 1/2 cup minced onions, let sit for a few minutes, then very gently fold and let sit twice more. The Finish. Fold in a finely chopped dill pickle [pickle relish], 3 or 4 chopped hard-boiled eggs, and he rest of the onion and celery. Let the salad cool, then fold in enough mayonnaise just to enrobe the potatoes and I added two spoonfuls of mustard]. Correct seasoning.