Biggest Loser--Fall 2011 Challenge for Losers & Maintainers!!

[SettinSail]

Thanks for the congrats everyone! I am still on today. Nothing motivates me to lose weight like losing weight

QOTD: Well, it's hump day. 1) How is your week going so far? and 2) What are your weekend plans?

I've had an up and down week. I don't think I mentioned it here but my brand new 2 month old washer broke on Sep 13. The factory authorized repair shop could not come look at it until Sep 19. Then it was determined a part was needed and they didn't actually fix it until Sep 26. So 13 days w/o a washer but it was finally fixed on Monday of this week Driving home to meet the repair guy Monday I ran over something in the road and it punctured my tire. One of my crowns came out at my dental cleaning this morning and had to be cemented back in DS brought home a progress report with 3 A's and 1 D (Honors Geometry) today. Weighed myself Tues morning and FINALLY reached 30 lbs off I have been waiting for that number a looooong time.

Saturday is our 17th wedding anniversary. We don't have any plans; we don't usually make a big deal out of it. DH and I are both HUGE tightwads No plans really for the whole weekend

go shawn! go shawn! amazing! you totally rock!!! you must treat yourself to something nice! how about a mani/pedi?????

Well, I just had a pedi Sunday. I'm thinking about a new gym outfit or a new sports bra. Wasn't there a sports bra several people recommended here last year?



TRACEY Hope to see you in a few weeks too! Don't be looking for the skinny girl or you won't find her Look for the lady who looks not too bad!

LTS Oh, I love croutons too! I can eat them right out of the package! The roasted black beans sound like an interesting alternative. Don't know if I would take the time to do that but I'm going to try to remember.

NANCY We also cook tillapia here and it is delicious. We just put it on the George Foreman grill and brush it with some olive oil. Very quick.
What happened to all our other Nancies

PAMELA Did you see my post that I may have been to Santa's Village in my childhood? I found an old diploma from Santa School in Jefferson, NH while unpacking boxes. I'm not sure why I was holding onto that
Around here, if you put something rainbow on your car, it means something entirely different than a pretty sky after rain.

GRETCHEN Congrats on the single digit dance!

LISA I thought Pan Am was just OK. Didn't even watch the last 15 minutes. Other than the neat 60's stuff, I didn't think the plot was that interesting. I may give it one more chance. I'm not liking BL so far this season either.....are they just going to pick off the old people each week until they're gone !?! Didn't the producers anticipate this would happen? How can they compete with the younger ones on an even keel for weight loss and physical challenges?

KATHY Loved your story about Michael What a neat idea to get the photo mugs!

Well, I have made an executive decision not to go to the gym today. My whole day was a little off. I didn't eat anything before or after my dental work so I had about 8 hours between breakfast and lunch. Boy was my body and head complaining! And then I freaked out and let DS have it over his geometry grade. My throat is so sore now. BAD MOM! I knew as I was doing it, it was not the appropriate response. But, like I told him, If he was doing his absolute best, we would accept it but he's not.

Supper is already prepared- I realized I had a London Broil about to go bad in the fridge yesterday so I put it in the Crock Pot around 3:30. It wasn't ready in time last night but will be wonderful tonight! I took a few bites last night around 10:30

 

[SettinSail]

Hi Lindsay! I think we were posting at the same time.

Have fun at the casino!!!

 

[dvccruiser76]

Kickboxing wasn't for me. It just seemed to drag on forever. I prefer Zumba, and I also tried Yoga which I would do again.

I used to have a great kickboxing instructor years ago and loved going, but haven't really found a dvd that I liked as much as her class yet

I took her class on a Monday then Yoga the next day and was like zzzzzzzzzzzz....... let's kick ip up

Sue, I will have to check out the Italian restaurant, thanks!

Finally, for my big news..................I have FINALLY reached 30 pounds lost in total Check out my new clippie. I loved it so much I added it twice. I am really proud of myself. I hope the next 5 come off a little quicker though!

They have THE BEST fetuccinni alfredo I have EVER had anywhere. It's more stingy cheesy than creamy and I always order a side or marinara to mix when I'm almost done so I feel like I'm trying 2 different dishes.

Please remember that participating in Healthy Habits is optional. Reporting your points is optional too. However, 1 point is worth reporting!

I need to get on that, I've had all I can do to post after I get home and catch up on all my weigh in pms and update my spreadsheet.

hi sue! i'm running out of time so i'll just comment on the soccer stuff - hope dylan can get into a class! thomas is really enjoying it! the little gym is supposed to be great too! expensive i think but hey, they're worth it

Yeah the Little Gym is super expensive, but I got a good deal on groupon and have asked people for gift certificates for there for Christmas, so DH can take DS on Saturday's when I'm working during tax season. Something to get them out of the house.

Sue-That's too bad there isn't much out there for under 3. Love your vacation plans. I'm always planning in my mind, but don't have any official disney dates set.

Love the story about Minnie and the kiss Too cute!

DVC does change your planning style for sure, Sue. I remember I used to think 11 months -- that's a long time to plan in advance. Now I think "man, isn't my booking window open yet?"

Exactly



Well, time for my run. Have a good evening everyone!

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Thanks for the congrats everyone! I am still on today. Nothing motivates me to lose weight like losing weight





I've had an up and down week. I don't think I mentioned it here but my brand new 2 month old washer broke on Sep 13. The factory authorized repair shop could not come look at it until Sep 19. Then it was determined a part was needed and they didn't actually fix it until Sep 26. So 13 days w/o a washer but it was finally fixed on Monday of this week Driving home to meet the repair guy Monday I ran over something in the road and it punctured my tire. One of my crowns came out at my dental cleaning this morning and had to be cemented back in DS brought home a progress report with 3 A's and 1 D (Honors Geometry) today. Weighed myself Tues morning and FINALLY reached 30 lbs off I have been waiting for that number a looooong time.

Saturday is our 17th wedding anniversary. We don't have any plans; we don't usually make a big deal out of it. DH and I are both HUGE tightwads No plans really for the whole weekend






Well, I just had a pedi Sunday. I'm thinking about a new gym outfit or a new sports bra. Wasn't there a sports bra several people recommended here last year?



TRACEY Hope to see you in a few weeks too! Don't be looking for the skinny girl or you won't find her Look for the lady who looks not too bad!

LTS Oh, I love croutons too! I can eat them right out of the package! The roasted black beans sound like an interesting alternative. Don't know if I would take the time to do that but I'm going to try to remember.

NANCY We also cook tillapia here and it is delicious. We just put it on the George Foreman grill and brush it with some olive oil. Very quick.
What happened to all our other Nancies

PAMELA Did you see my post that I may have been to Santa's Village in my childhood? I found an old diploma from Santa School in Jefferson, NH while unpacking boxes. I'm not sure why I was holding onto that
Around here, if you put something rainbow on your car, it means something entirely different than a pretty sky after rain.

GRETCHEN Congrats on the single digit dance!

LISA I thought Pan Am was just OK. Didn't even watch the last 15 minutes. Other than the neat 60's stuff, I didn't think the plot was that interesting. I may give it one more chance. I'm not liking BL so far this season either.....are they just going to pick off the old people each week until they're gone !?! Didn't the producers anticipate this would happen? How can they compete with the younger ones on an even keel for weight loss and physical challenges?

KATHY Loved your story about Michael What a neat idea to get the photo mugs!

Well, I have made an executive decision not to go to the gym today. My whole day was a little off. I didn't eat anything before or after my dental work so I had about 8 hours between breakfast and lunch. Boy was my body and head complaining! And then I freaked out and let DS have it over his geometry grade. My throat is so sore now. BAD MOM! I knew as I was doing it, it was not the appropriate response. But, like I told him, If he was doing his absolute best, we would accept it but he's not.

Supper is already prepared- I realized I had a London Broil about to go bad in the fridge yesterday so I put it in the Crock Pot around 3:30. It wasn't ready in time last night but will be wonderful tonight! I took a few bites last night around 10:30

Well Shawn Im glad you posted after me or I would be really worried that I killed the thread. At least this has been easy to keep up with today.

Well football practice got cancelled as we got onto the field tonight. There was a thunderstorm coming through. So we made it home and I got to make a decent dinner again. I had gotten marinated chicken breasts last night from Wegmans. They come in packs of two and each breast was about 4 oz. We had the lemon garlic. It was so delicious and moist. Ive made dinner now 2 nights in a row and it has been .

Well I hope everyone is doing well tonight.

 

[elanorasmom]

QOTD: Week has been okay so far. I realized this morning that I have been incorrectly tracking my food on My Plate, so I broke down and bought a food scale. Hopefully it helps with my accuracy! This weekend, we are talking about maybe going to a wine fest (i.e. good times=empty calories). Last Sat we killed ourselves getting ready for a Sunday Open House, so it will be nice to relax (and go to the gym!).

Just finished lunch of a chef salad. I love croutons but they add extra carbs I am trying to avoid so I took a can of seasoned black beans, rinsed and dried them, tossed with a little bit of olive oil and seasoned with salt and garlic powder, and roasted for about 20 mins in a 400 degree oven. Great seasoned crunchy salad topping. I love croutons mostly for the crunch and the seasoning on them so this is a great alternative.

Great suggestion! I'll have to try this soon. Sounds yummy!

Went to Power Yoga today...tough but it makes me feel great! Tomorrow I'll go early to the gym and go for a run on the treadmill.

Jennifer

 

[dumbo_buddy]

alas, it's the end of the day, i'm exhausted and have zero energy to respond to all the lovely posts and answers to the QOTDs. bad coach! bad coach nancy!

and to add to the bad coach thing - i definitely ate my weight today, including making brownies JUST to be able to lick the bowl. and then after dinner i ate half the pan. i'm gross. my only excuse is that i'm 8 months pregnant. not a great excuse but i'll take it.

i'm going to bed before i let myself near those brownies again. i have mommy and me class tomorrow and this class is the weirdest, most awkward group of mommies/grandmas and kids i have ever met. i need to be well rested for these folks!

will talk to you all tomorrow and will come back for personals! xoxo

 

[jillbur]

QOTD: i've read about how sleep is SO important to a healthy lifestyle. "they" are always saying that a solid 8 hours of sleep really helps in your weight loss effort. personally i think it's because if you're sleeping you can't eat. how many hours of sleep do YOU get each night? are you a good sleeper? a problem sleeper?


QUOTE]


I am a person who really needs 8 hours of sleep. Of course, I usually have to function on less. I am trying to go to bed earlier so I can wake up and try yoga before work. So far, this hasn't happened lol.

On another note, just wanted to share my woo-hoo moment of the day:
In June I bought myself a 40th anniversary t-shirt knowing that I would be going to MK on Oct 1st. I bought it too small for me then, making myself have a goal to loose the weight to be able to use it. Well today I tried it on, nervous it would still not fit....and it does!! Woo-Hoo!! anyone else going to MK on Saturday?

Awesome! Congrats!

QOTD 1: you've had a busy day - work, school, kids, pets, etc have been a pain in your butt and it's dinnertime. what's your go-to dinner when in a pickle? (you know, assuming you didn't put ingredients in a crock pot this morning or came home to a wonderfully cooked meal by your spouse )

QOTD 2: what's your favorite disney purchase?? something you find you're always buying when you visit?

QUOTE]

#1-I usually resort to some sort of pasta or breakfast for dinner which my kids love. I'll usually make pancakes or french toast for them and an omlet with veggies for me. Sometimes they want omlets too.

#2-We don't have a regular purchase but my kids got into Vinylmation on our last trip. I think we'll be buying those for years to come.

QOTD: Well, it's hump day. 1) How is your week going so far? and 2) What are your weekend plans?

1) My week has been busy, of course, but have managed to exercise everyday since Sun so I am very happy.

2)DH and I are going away this weekend (no kids!). We have a wedding in Pittsburgh on Sat (we are about an hour and 15 mins away) so we turned it into a whole weekend. We are staying in downtown Pitts from Fri-Sun. Only plan so far are dinner (not sure where yet) Friday night, the Rivers casino Sat morning, wedding at 4:30 with reception after, and maybe breakfast in the strip district (not sure about hours on Sun though) and a museum (probably Carnegie Museum of Art). Yay!

 

[bellebookworm9]

I used to have a great kickboxing instructor years ago and loved going, but haven't really found a dvd that I liked as much as her class yet

I took her class on a Monday then Yoga the next day and was like zzzzzzzzzzzz....... let's kick ip up

To me, yoga was almost more strenuous than kickboxing. Kickboxing was difficult while I was doing it, but I wasn't sore the next day (though my housemate was!). Yoga, while challenging during the class, left me sore for 4 days afterwards. And after yoga I was so tired that I fell asleep for an hour and just felt like mush for the rest of the day.

and to add to the bad coach thing - i definitely ate my weight today, including making brownies JUST to be able to lick the bowl. and then after dinner i ate half the pan. i'm gross. my only excuse is that i'm 8 months pregnant. not a great excuse but i'll take it.

i'm going to bed before i let myself near those brownies again. i have mommy and me class tomorrow and this class is the weirdest, most awkward group of mommies/grandmas and kids i have ever met. i need to be well rested for these folks!

Hey, sometimes you just gotta lick the bowl! (I was guilty of this two weeks ago when I made the Halloween funfetti cake )

I'm chuckling at your description of the people in the class. Are these people also from Westchester or is that just the gym class?

**************
Today could have been better or worse with eating. I went through the fridge and threw out all my spoiled fruits and vegetables which was kind of a lot. I definitely need to eat what I buy, because I can't afford to keep throwing this stuff away! Will hopefully do the pantry tomorrow. I am hopefully going to make a pumpkin cookie recipe tomorrow that I found on that skinnytaste website, and a spinach and artichoke dip from the same website this weekend. I plan to throw the oatmeal recipe in the crockpot tonight.

I'm taking a prospective student to my psych class in the morning. I have an Aural Rehab exam in the afternoon that I'm still prepping for, but my other morning class is canceled for the rest of the piano exams, so more time to study! I'm planning to go to the gym tomorrow afternoon, and then I have a meeting in the evening.

Lindsay, was it you that said football practice was canceled due to rain? We had something similar-around 4:30 it got suuuuper dark out, like a hurricane was coming in and then proceeded to DOWNPOUR for at least an hour. It was terrible, and there was literally about 4 inches of water on the ground in spots.

I filled out all my transcript request forms today, wrote the checks for them, wrote the check for one of my actual applications, submitted a different application, and filled out my graduation application (no fee for that, thank goodness!), so that was a pretty productive afternoon. And now my desk is clean!

 

[ougrad86]

Carol, were you guys stationed at Ramstein? I went there once.

Finally, for my big news..................I have FINALLY reached 30 pounds lost in total Check out my new clippie. I loved it so much I added it twice. I am really proud of myself. I hope the next 5 come off a little quicker though!

We were stationed up north - a little airbase near Hanover called Hessich-Oldendorf - the base no longer exists, they gave it back to the Germans. DS is currently taking German in HS, and we plan to take him to Europe as a graduation gift - our last family trip. Once he starts college, probably won't want to do much traveling with us!

Congrats on your loss! 30 pounds is awesome! Read about your crummy week(s), but at least you managed to top it off with that!

QOTD: Well, it's hump day. 1) How is your week going so far? and 2) What are your weekend plans?

OK...DS got braces yesterday, and today never thought I'd get through the day - one of those days were you have to do everything at once. Finally got quite a bit done, so tomorrow will be busy but more organized. Stayed pretty much on plan, but have two provided lunches at work the next two days, so will need to be extra careful. No splurges this weekend! So not the greatest week, but still being careful. I gained alot of weight with that anniversary dinner, so want to get back to where I was. And I will!

Carol

 

[Disneywedding2010]

Hi Everyone!

Yes, I've been MIA for almost 3 weeks but I have a LOT to report. I'll try to make this short as possible.

The movers came the 9th and packed our house (took them 6 hours and they did a HORRIBLE job). Yes, I paid this company out the wazoo to pack everything, load it, haul it to FL, and unload it. Then why is it I had to go behind them and spend 5 hours packing boxes? Yes, the company has yet to call and ask me what I thought (and I've been in FL almost 2 weeks now). The loaders took 12 hours to load our truck on the 10th

We got on the road on the 11th with both cats and the dog. I had some Tremadol for the cats. Dublin and Lizzy (our lab) for the most part did okay. Taylor (other cat) was the one I was most worried about but overall she did okay. We stopped about every 4 hours to let them do our thing. We wound up not even getting to our house until 10am on the 12th.

I helped Alan get the animals situated, plugged my phone in to charge, and slept til 3pm that day. We wound up spending 3 nights at Villas of Wilderness Lodge until our household goods arrived. Our houshold goods arrived on the 15th. The unloaders were awesome (along with our driver). They had everything unloaded and furniture put in appropriate areas and put together all within 6 hours.

Alan had to fly back to TX to load up my convertible on his flatbed and give keys to the house to our realtor. Long story short the realtor is on thin ice with me and Alan's flatbed is still in TX. He got 3 hours from the Louisiana border and his truck started acting funny. He had a friend tow it to his shop to look it over and he drove my convertible back to FL.

During all the time he was gone I was busy trying to get our kitchen unpacked and was watching my NCIS seasons on DVD. I didn't get it completely unpacked but made a major dent in it.

Our vacation started Sept 21st. We got up that morning, took Lizzy to the kennel on Disney property and made our way to Kidani village. Now, if you like this hotel skip over what I'm about to write.

We got to the resort and the security guard directed us to the wrong spot (Jambo House). So we get the car unloaded, the valet park it, and I go in to check in. Long story short she told me I was at the wrong end of the resort but they still got us checked in. We get everything back in the car and head over to Kidani Village. By this time my best friend is arriving on the Magical Express. We head up to our room to relax.

I call down to bell services and ask them to bring up our owners lockers, suitcases, wheelchair and my laptop bag. I gave them the code on the card and spelled my last name. They bring up only our owners lockers and my wheelchair. When the bell hop asks if I need anything else I said, "Yes, the rest of my luggage. I had 2 pieces of luggage, and a laptop bag. You only brought me my owners lockers and wheelchair." He takes my luggage ticket and goes down to bell services. A chunk of time goes by and they still haven't come back. They call our room and basically tell us they can't find our luggage!! Alan heads downstairs to figure out what is going on and luckily comes back up with our stuff.

Then every time I tried to make a phone call on my cell I didn't have signal. I've never had that problem on Disney property. The internet is slow as molasses out here and we've just come to the conclusion that this resort is not for us. Then we go to pick the car up from valet last night and I have a scratch all the way down the one side of my car. This about sends me over the edge.

I spent a few hours alone at Magic Kingdom on Sunday. I was really missing Josh & Maddie and just needed to be alone. Alan and Candice were still lounging when I left the resort. I walked down Mainstreet USA and wept the whole way. I rode a few rides and took a few photo pass pictures. They showed up a few hours later and while they were on Space Mountain I broke down. I was noticing all the little girls that would be around Maddie's age now if she were alive. Many were dressed up as princesses and I just couldn't handle it and broke down. When they got off the ride and headed toward me I gave them their bags and told them I was going back to the resort. Alan asked me if I was sick and I told him "No, I just can't be here. Its to hard. I'm going back to Kidani. If you guys want to stay then stay. Your adults and I'm not going to hold your hand through the park." Alan went back with me to the resort and Candice stayed at the park. My best friend has been really negative this trip and its really annoying me. I think it all started due to the events of this day. She complains about the heat (she knew over a year ago that we'd be going during the summer.), she doesn't want to ride the rides we want to ride, she doesn't want to do character meals (our faves) and I'm just fed up. I finally just told Alan that I wasn't inviting her anymore. Yes, I understand when your going to Disney with someone else you have to compromise and do things everyone wants to do but I'm not changing my whole vacation for her.

The trip wasn't a complete nightmare. We for the most part have had short lines at the parks. Its been warm but not to terrible and I've ate at some places I've never been to. Kona Cafe = thumbs up, I loved it. Yak and Yeti = thumbs down, I've had better. Nine Dragons at Epcot = thumbs up, I really liked it even though I was really nervous about eating there.

Its rained a few days that we've been here but nothing to bad. We knew ahead of time that it rains in FL so we just made sure we had ponchos packed in my wheelchair bag. We only had to use them once. It would sprinkle a little in the parks but nothing to really worry about dragging out the ponchos for.

Tomorrow is our last full day and then we head home Friday morning. We'll have internet and satelite at our house this weekend so it'll be easier to catch up then. I just thought I'd post an update and let everyone know I'm alive.

 

[bellebookworm9]

Christina, I was just thinking about you the other day. Glad you made it to Florida safely, and I'm sorry to hear about the problems at Kidani. We loved it there, but it seems that at all Disney resorts these days people are having hit or miss experiences.

************
The crock pot oatmeal is pretty good! I did have to add a little bit of sugar (the only sweetener that was in there was maple syrup), but it didn't burn the hose down overnight.

 

[dumbo_buddy]

To me, yoga was almost more strenuous than kickboxing.

i totally agree! there's an AWESOME DVD by brian kest (he has a bunch actually). he does "power yoga" and i swear 20 min of that and you're sore for days! DH used to be really into yoga and lost a bunch of weight doing it and it helped him also with his crohn's disease. now if i could only get back to it (and him too!)

Hey, sometimes you just gotta lick the bowl! (I was guilty of this two weeks ago when I made the Halloween funfetti cake )

I'm chuckling at your description of the people in the class. Are these people also from Westchester or is that just the gym class?

let me just say i have nothing against westchester. it's just the snotty attitude of money money money that i don't like. heck, i went to middle school and high school in fairfield county, ct...land of snobbery! lol! but no! the mommy and me is all bronx folks. and this class if full of people who don't live in my neighborhood. some of them are just straight up ghetto! one grandma showed up and wore sunglasses the whole class. i caught a glimpse under her glasses and she had a black eye! omg! anyway, maybe today will be better!

your new recipes are inspiring my qotd

OK...DS got braces yesterday, and today never thought I'd get through the day - one of those days were you have to do everything at once. Finally got quite a bit done, so tomorrow will be busy but more organized. Stayed pretty much on plan, but have two provided lunches at work the next two days, so will need to be extra careful. No splurges this weekend! So not the greatest week, but still being careful. I gained alot of weight with that anniversary dinner, so want to get back to where I was. And I will!

how's DS handling the braces? any pain? i hope he's getting some ice cream or other soft treats. i will never forget the day i got braces. 5th grade, a month after moving to a new school in fancy-pants CT. i already had a strong bronx accent and didn't fit in! got the braces on a saturday and that afternoon we went down to manhattan to madison square garden for my very first knicks game. i was so excited. and my dad took me which meant we got the special treat of mcdonalds! knicks game AND mcdonalds?? heaven, right? of course my teeth hurt too bad to eat my mcnuggets. i was a sad kiddo. how pathetic. hope your DS had a better day than i did (apparently it still bothers me! lol!)

The crock pot oatmeal is pretty good! I did have to add a little bit of sugar (the only sweetener that was in there was maple syrup), but it didn't burn the hose down overnight.

well this brings me to my QOTD for the day (and last as a coach for the week).

QOTD: Won't you please share a new recipe? How about a nice fall one? Gretchen's oatmeal has me pining for some cooler weather! With apple picking and pumpkin picking season in full swing, it'd be great to try some new fall-inspired recipes!

have a fabulous day everyone! i had the WORST belly ache and headache from the disgusting amount of brownies i ate last night. lesson learned.

on a positive note, i bought these k-cups for the keurig in chai latte. it. is. amazing! goes along with my pining for cooler weather. delicious latte in the morning! too bad it's 70 and a billion percent humidity!

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning losers and maintainers!

Pamela, what a nice project you are working on to surprise your MIL with for her birthday!

The report is the make-up work "isn't too bad."

Gretchen, always love to do the single digit dance!

Tracey, glad that Izzie is feeling better.

Linda, sorry the bug hit your house, too. Hope the audition went well.

JaxJags08, hope that you get to go to the beach this week-end!

lovehoney, sending good thoughts and that something works out for you soon. And on the pants -- DS grew 5 inches this year!

LTS, great idea for the salad toppings. I like crunchy things on my salads, too. Have you ever tried those Salad Toppins by McCormick? They aren't too bad calorie wise but I don't know how the ingredients play into South Beath. Will you saute your kale?

Reenie, enjoy your busy week-end!

Shawn, sorry about the bad week. But way to turn a bad situation into something good! I hardly ever get to watch tv so my expectations are pretty low when I watch something. I agree with you on BL -- nothing like alienating part of your audience. I can't see them sending Anna home like they did Brett last season so it will be interesting to see what happens. I don't have any strong feelings about anyone yet.

Sue, I'm actually waiting for my 7 month window to open to try to go to Aulani in 2012. I'm still trying to figure that airfare thing. Actually compared to Orlando right now it's not too bad.

Lindsay, woo hoo for two dinners at home in a row!

Nancy, you are a wonderful coach so don't worry about it!

I gained alot of weight with that anniversary dinner, so want to get back to where I was. And I will!

Yes, you will! Love the positive attitude!

Christina, glad to hear that you made it to FL.

I tried to sabotage myself by leaving my running shoes and work out clothes at home yesterday. Instead of doing what I would usually do which is recite a litany of excuses about why I should put my run off I just did 30 minutes around my neighborhood. And guess what the world did end! So this morning I put two sets of clothes together -- one to use and an extra to put in the car. This week-end I will put together a third to keep at the office so there will be no excuses or missed opportunities.

Have a great day all!

 

[pjlla]

Weekend: well, DS1 takes the SAT Saturday and DS2 will pop down to a neighbor's house to play some flute duets. Sunday DS1 will participate in a walk for diabetes with his basketball team then get his senior pictures taken in the afternoon. DS2 will be playing the flute at both church services with the grown up group he's joined. Then in the evening he'll have choir practice and youth group. DS1 may go to youth group; we never know what his plan is! Who knows what DH and I will do? I Ah, I'm sure DH will go for a long bike ride out in the boondocks. That'll take care of a couple hours for him. It's a new month so I'll balance out September and pay bills. We lead such an exciting life.

Thanks for the reminder that I need to pull out the Sept. bills!!

DS2 is home sick today; he's got a whopper of a cold. This evening he has rehearsal with the grown up group and after that he will be recorded for an audition to an honors choir in March. Hope he can get the notes right! Had a girlfriend tell me that her hubby auditioned once with a cold and was accepted--but was given a very low part. He usually sang a bit higher! We'll find out before Halloween.

Sorry he is sick on such an important day! Maybe if you could get a good dose of decongestant into him it would help?? Tell him to really push the fluids today and blow, blow, blow.... don't sniffle!

Better go take a shower and figure out something to eat. Have a super day!

I QOTD: The week is going okay. I've applied for 4 jobs this week. I'm seeing more and more positions posted that I'm qualified for. Hopefully a good sign. DS1 caught a bug last night - up till 3 with my poor little guy. That means no MDO tomorrow.

Good luck with the jobs. What are you applying for?

What kind of bug did DS catch? The kind that involves buckets or the kind that involves tissues?? Hope he is better quickly!

This weekend I have my long walk on Saturday and then shopping with DS10. He is going to an environmental camp with his 5th grade class next week and needs 4 pairs of pants. He has outgrown all of his jeans, and only has dress/uniform pants. I can't believe I have to buy him 4 pair.I've already looked at the Goodwill and there was nothing in his size. Oh the fun of growing boys. Target has jeans on sale for $8 so we will try there first.

You are singing to the choir here about boys outgrowing their clothes. Too bad we don't all live close enough to have a clothing exchange! DS has grown something insane like 9 inches in the past 18 months!! Honestly.... when I took him to Disney in 05/2010 he was about 4 inches shorter than me.... now he is 5 inches taller than me!! He got measured at the allergist this week at 5' 9"!!

I literally had to get rid of EVERY SINGLE article of school clothing from last year and start all over (well... except for a few hoodies). And I desperately need to order him a set of snowboarding clothes too! It is an expensive year to be his Mom! Plus I absolutely MUST get him in to the orthodontist this fall.... I've put it off far too long!

DD and I like the Target jeans, so hopefully you can find a few bargains!

In the mood to talk about food today! Not much exciting going on with me this week so that is all that is on my mind!

Just finished lunch of a chef salad. I love croutons but they add extra carbs I am trying to avoid so I took a can of seasoned black beans, rinsed and dried them, tossed with a little bit of olive oil and seasoned with salt and garlic powder, and roasted for about 20 mins in a 400 degree oven. Great seasoned crunchy salad topping. I love croutons mostly for the crunch and the seasoning on them so this is a great alternative.

I need to make an egg casserole later today. I hate cooking in the morning so hopefully I can make it and it will be good the next few days (the recipe says it will). And I have a pot roast in the crock pot for dinner.

I went to the store this morning and found some Yoplait Yogurt Delights that look like they are a low fat low sugar pudding like dessert. They are around 120 calories which is a little more than I would like but that is the same calories and carbs as my regular yogurt. I will try one tonight. I bought Grasshopper (chocolate and Mint) and Chocolate Eclair.

I also bought some Kale-- I keep seeing recipes that use it but I have never made it. I bought some a few months ago but never used it so it got thrown out.

That is all of my excitement for today! Guess maybe I should go and clean something.

Try roasting the kale for a crunchy treat. I wash and dry it, spray it with a bit of PAM and sprinkle it with some salt and roast/bake it until it is dried out and crunchy. I call them kale chips. It is also excellent in soups and some stews, but takes much longer than spinach to soften up properly, so allow that extra time or cook it separately and add it to the soup at the end.

I love black beans, but I've never tried them like you suggested, although I have roasted chick peas before (yum!). I'll have to give it a try! Thanks for the idea!

Not so good on the eating front. Some meals are worse than others. I currently feel like a need a trip to the BL ranch...so thats why I made sure to come back to this thread.

Glad you are back here!!

Weekend plans: Sat- Ryans football game Sun- Going on a bus trip to Atlantic City (Casino's) with my mom, Nana, Aunt and Uncle. I got on the trip by process of default because my dad couldnt go. He is afraid my grammy will get out of sorts again (alzheimers) and that my aunt will not have him to help. So I am the choosen one. It means a full day away from the kids but I am really in need of some mommy only time.

Have fun in AC!!


wowza whenever I feel like I have alot going on all I need to do is read about your crazy busy days and I feel like Ive been lazy. You are a superwomen....good luck getting the book done. That will be a great gift for her.

Well.... it sounds pretty exciting, but what it really boils down to is me sitting on my a** in the car A LOT!! THat is mostly due to the fact that NOTHING, and I mean NOTHING around here is less than a 15 minute drive. DS's school... 15 minutes, DD's school..... 20 minutes, DD's YMCA...... 30 minutes, DS's soccer field...... 20 minutes, DD's chiropractor...... 45 minutes, grocery store.......30 minutes, Target and/or Walmart.......40+ minutes.

So with DH gone and me doing the back-and-forth driving for all of the activities, you can see why my days are a bit crazy! We were really pushing for DD to get her license this summer, but she didn't do it and now she doesn't have the time for Driver's Ed. But honestly, two of her classmates had bad accidents this month, so for the time being I am not pushing it. It is just scary to think about!

I have the same issues with my older son. He sometimes goes through 2 sizes in one season. Not to mention the wholes he gets in the knees. Its insane. Good luck finding some good deals.

I agree.... it is nuts sometimes when they have these huge growth spurts! WHen DS tried on the new pants I bought him in August, he thought they were too long..... he didn't realize they were just right because he was so used to wearing pants that were too short!! "Yes honey, your pants are SUPPOSED to touch your sneakers!"

**********************************************************

Ok so I caught up on the last page. I have been really bad at checking in lately. I need to just stop making excuses. Life being busy just cant be an excuse for me anymore. Its the life Ive chosen and now I just need to figure out how to deal with it all.

Ive missed chatting with everyone and hopefully I can just jump right back in. I could really use the help. I keep adding numbers instead of taking them away on the scale.

Ryan has 5 more weeks of football and I know once that is over things should get a little bit easier. I really need to get better with meal planning and making some things in the crock pot or ahead of time to just heat up. The problem is I am starving by the time we get home at 830 at night.

Ok well I hope to get on here more often...talk to you soon!

Take a few minutes to plan some meals this weekend. YOu could even do the prep for them (cutting veggies, browning meat) and they'd be ready to drop in the crockpot in the morning! Take my word for it, you will THANK yourself later!!

Thanks for the congrats everyone! I am still on :today. Nothing motivates me to lose weight like losing weight

Ain't that the truth!!?

I've had an up and down week. I don't think I mentioned it here but my brand new 2 month old washer broke on Sep 13. The factory authorized repair shop could not come look at it until Sep 19. Then it was determined a part was needed and they didn't actually fix it until Sep 26. So 13 days w/o a washer but it was finally fixed on Monday of this week. Driving home to meet the repair guy Monday I ran over something in the road and it punctured my tire. One of my crowns came out at my dental cleaning this morning and had to be cemented back in. DS brought home a progress report with 3 A's and 1 D (Honors Geometry) today. Weighed myself Tues morning and FINALLY reached 30 lbs off I have been waiting for that number a looooong time.

Oh my heavens! Thank goodness you had some good news on the scale to balance out all of that .

Saturday is our 17th wedding anniversary. We don't have any plans; we don't usually make a big deal out of it. DH and I are both HUGE tightwads No plans really for the whole weekend.

Happy anniversary!

Well, I just had a pedi Sunday. I'm thinking about a new gym outfit or a new sports bra. Wasn't there a sports bra several people recommended here last year?

I know a lot of the ladies swear by Enell bras.



PAMELA Did you see my post that I may have been to Santa's Village in my childhood? I found an old diploma from Santa School in Jefferson, NH while unpacking boxes. I'm not sure why I was holding onto that.
Around here, if you put something rainbow on your car, it means something entirely different than a pretty sky after rain.

Sad to say I've never been to Santa's Village. It wasn't something I ever took my kids to when they were younger and of course, now, they are much too old. I didn't grow up in NH (grew up in MA) and we NEVER traveled much just for "fun". We usually took one vacation a year, it was never more than a 2 hour drive away, and we thought that we were really "going places!"

I totally understand the "rainbow" statement. DD belongs to a girls group called the "Rainbow Girls".... it is part of the Masonic family.... younger version of the Eastern Star, if you are familiar at all with that.... but anyhow, when we talk about it people usually think that DD is, well, um.... "playing for the other team", so to speak.

I think rainbows are lovely and I don't much care what people think when I drive around with my rainbow Mickey antenna topper on!!


I'm not liking BL so far this season either.....are they just going to pick off the old people each week until they're gone !?! Didn't the producers anticipate this would happen? How can they compete with the younger ones on an even keel for weight loss and physical challenges?

Because of my schedule this week I didn't catch the first half of the show, but did see the weigh-in, etc. It sounded from the talk like maybe Johnny just wasn't giving it his all this week?

But I agree... you get older folks with blown knees, etc, and it is unfair to expect them to do the same work as a 25 year old.... even an overweight 25 year old!



Well, I have made an executive decision not to go to the gym today. My whole day was a little off. I didn't eat anything before or after my dental work so I had about 8 hours between breakfast and lunch. Boy was my body and head complaining!

Sounds like your body needed some food and rest!

Then I freaked out and let DS have it over his geometry grade. My throat is so sore now. BAD MOM! I knew as I was doing it, it was not the appropriate response. But, like I told him, If he was doing his absolute best, we would accept it but he's not.


Sounds like what DH and I say a LOT to DS! He, of course, will immediately claim that he did his best, but when you don't even see him studying..... or he studies for 30 minutes the night before a test that he knew was coming for 4 days.... well, I'm sorry but that is NOT your BEST!

Don't feel too badly. Maybe your blow-up will shake him up a little bit.

Supper is already prepared- I realized I had a London Broil about to go bad in the fridge yesterday so I put it in the Crock Pot around 3:30. It wasn't ready in time last night but will be wonderful tonight! I took a few bites last night around 10:30

Hope the dinner was delicious!

Yeah the Little Gym is super expensive, but I got a good deal on groupon and have asked people for gift certificates for there for Christmas, so DH can take DS on Saturday's when I'm working during tax season. Something to get them out of the house.

That's a great idea. I would far rather have someone give my child an "experience" or a "lesson" rather than a "thing" that needs to find a home, be picked up, cleaned, etc.

Well, time for my run. Have a good evening everyone!

HOpe the run was a good one!

alas, it's the end of the day, i'm exhausted and have zero energy to respond to all the lovely posts and answers to the QOTDs. bad coach! bad coach nancy!

Don't worry too much.... we've kept ourselves pretty busy here!

and to add to the bad coach thing - i definitely ate my weight today, including making brownies JUST to be able to lick the bowl. and then after dinner i ate half the pan. i'm gross. my only excuse is that i'm 8 months pregnant. not a great excuse but i'll take it.

i'm going to bed before i let myself near those brownies again. i have mommy and me class tomorrow and this class is the weirdest, most awkward group of mommies/grandmas and kids i have ever met. i need to be well rested for these folks!

will talk to you all tomorrow and will come back for personals! xoxo

How about throwing the rest of the brownies in the freezer for another day??

2)DH and I are going away this weekend (no kids!). We have a wedding in Pittsburgh on Sat (we are about an hour and 15 mins away) so we turned it into a whole weekend. We are staying in downtown Pitts from Fri-Sun. Only plan so far are dinner (not sure where yet) Friday night, the Rivers casino Sat morning, wedding at 4:30 with reception after, and maybe breakfast in the strip district (not sure about hours on Sun though) and a museum (probably Carnegie Museum of Art). Yay!

Make the most of your weekend and enjoy it!

[SIZE="3Today could have been better or worse with eating. I went through the fridge and threw out all my spoiled fruits and vegetables which was kind of a lot. I definitely need to eat what I buy, because I can't afford to keep throwing this stuff away! Will hopefully do the pantry tomorrow. I am hopefully going to make a pumpkin cookie recipe tomorrow that I found on that skinnytaste website, and a spinach and artichoke dip from the same website this weekend. I plan to throw the oatmeal recipe in the crockpot tonight.

[COLOR="magenta"]Share the cookie recipe if it turns out well![/COLOR]

I filled out all my transcript request forms today, wrote the checks for them, wrote the check for one of my actual applications, submitted a different application, and filled out my graduation application (no fee for that, thank goodness!), so that was a pretty productive afternoon. And now my desk is clean![/COLOR][/SIZE]

Good job getting all of that stuff done and the desk cleaned! It reminds me that I absolutely MUST stop procrastinating about DD's passport application!

Hi Everyone!

Yes, I've been MIA for almost 3 weeks but I have a LOT to report. I'll try to make this short as possible.

The movers came the 9th and packed our house (took them 6 hours and they did a HORRIBLE job). Yes, I paid this company out the wazoo to pack everything, load it, haul it to FL, and unload it. Then why is it I had to go behind them and spend 5 hours packing boxes? Yes, the company has yet to call and ask me what I thought (and I've been in FL almost 2 weeks now). The loaders took 12 hours to load our truck on the 10th

We got on the road on the 11th with both cats and the dog. I had some Tremadol for the cats. Dublin and Lizzy (our lab) for the most part did okay. Taylor (other cat) was the one I was most worried about but overall she did okay. We stopped about every 4 hours to let them do our thing. We wound up not even getting to our house until 10am on the 12th.

I helped Alan get the animals situated, plugged my phone in to charge, and slept til 3pm that day. We wound up spending 3 nights at Villas of Wilderness Lodge until our household goods arrived. Our houshold goods arrived on the 15th. The unloaders were awesome (along with our driver). They had everything unloaded and furniture put in appropriate areas and put together all within 6 hours.

Alan had to fly back to TX to load up my convertible on his flatbed and give keys to the house to our realtor. Long story short the realtor is on thin ice with me and Alan's flatbed is still in TX. He got 3 hours from the Louisiana border and his truck started acting funny. He had a friend tow it to his shop to look it over and he drove my convertible back to FL.

During all the time he was gone I was busy trying to get our kitchen unpacked and was watching my NCIS seasons on DVD. I didn't get it completely unpacked but made a major dent in it.

Our vacation started Sept 21st. We got up that morning, took Lizzy to the kennel on Disney property and made our way to Kidani village. Now, if you like this hotel skip over what I'm about to write.

We got to the resort and the security guard directed us to the wrong spot (Jambo House). So we get the car unloaded, the valet park it, and I go in to check in. Long story short she told me I was at the wrong end of the resort but they still got us checked in. We get everything back in the car and head over to Kidani Village. By this time my best friend is arriving on the Magical Express. We head up to our room to relax.

I call down to bell services and ask them to bring up our owners lockers, suitcases, wheelchair and my laptop bag. I gave them the code on the card and spelled my last name. They bring up only our owners lockers and my wheelchair. When the bell hop asks if I need anything else I said, "Yes, the rest of my luggage. I had 2 pieces of luggage, and a laptop bag. You only brought me my owners lockers and wheelchair." He takes my luggage ticket and goes down to bell services. A chunk of time goes by and they still haven't come back. They call our room and basically tell us they can't find our luggage!! Alan heads downstairs to figure out what is going on and luckily comes back up with our stuff.

Then every time I tried to make a phone call on my cell I didn't have signal. I've never had that problem on Disney property. The internet is slow as molasses out here and we've just come to the conclusion that this resort is not for us. Then we go to pick the car up from valet last night and I have a scratch all the way down the one side of my car. This about sends me over the edge.

I spent a few hours alone at Magic Kingdom on Sunday. I was really missing Josh & Maddie and just needed to be alone. Alan and Candice were still lounging when I left the resort. I walked down Mainstreet USA and wept the whole way. I rode a few rides and took a few photo pass pictures. They showed up a few hours later and while they were on Space Mountain I broke down. I was noticing all the little girls that would be around Maddie's age now if she were alive. Many were dressed up as princesses and I just couldn't handle it and broke down. When they got off the ride and headed toward me I gave them their bags and told them I was going back to the resort. Alan asked me if I was sick and I told him "No, I just can't be here. Its to hard. I'm going back to Kidani. If you guys want to stay then stay. Your adults and I'm not going to hold your hand through the park." Alan went back with me to the resort and Candice stayed at the park. My best friend has been really negative this trip and its really annoying me. I think it all started due to the events of this day. She complains about the heat (she knew over a year ago that we'd be going during the summer.), she doesn't want to ride the rides we want to ride, she doesn't want to do character meals (our faves) and I'm just fed up. I finally just told Alan that I wasn't inviting her anymore. Yes, I understand when your going to Disney with someone else you have to compromise and do things everyone wants to do but I'm not changing my whole vacation for her.

The trip wasn't a complete nightmare. We for the most part have had short lines at the parks. Its been warm but not to terrible and I've ate at some places I've never been to. Kona Cafe = thumbs up, I loved it. Yak and Yeti = thumbs down, I've had better. Nine Dragons at Epcot = thumbs up, I really liked it even though I was really nervous about eating there.

Its rained a few days that we've been here but nothing to bad. We knew ahead of time that it rains in FL so we just made sure we had ponchos packed in my wheelchair bag. We only had to use them once. It would sprinkle a little in the parks but nothing to really worry about dragging out the ponchos for.

Tomorrow is our last full day and then we head home Friday morning. We'll have internet and satelite at our house this weekend so it'll be easier to catch up then. I just thought I'd post an update and let everyone know I'm alive.

It all sounds a bit Sounds like lots of stress lately. Hopefully once you are in your new home and can settle in everything will look brighter. Sorry you were sad at the MK.... no one should be sad there, but I'm sure we all understand.

The crock pot oatmeal is pretty good! I did have to add a little bit of sugar (the only sweetener that was in there was maple syrup), but it didn't burn the hose down overnight. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

You'll have to share this recipe too!

well this brings me to my QOTD for the day (and last as a coach for the week).

QOTD: Won't you please share a new recipe? How about a nice fall one?

Well.... does it count if I just asked someone ELSE to share a few recipes??

I'll share a super easy one!

Pumpkin Spice Muffins

1 box spice cake mix

1 15 oz can of pure pumpkin (not pie filling)

3/4 C water

Combine all ingredients. Spoon into muffins tins. Bake at 350 degrees for 18-20 minutes. Makes approximately 16 muffins. These were 2 points on the old WW system.... not sure about Points Plus.

I also threw in a bit of extra nutmeg and cinnamon. If you want to make them healthier you can throw in some ground flaxseed also! And nuts and/or raisins would work in this (or chocolate chips.... but you didn't hear me say that! ). It is really just a "base recipe" and as you can see, you can built on it in many, many ways!.

***************

Happy Rainy Thursday friends! I got absolutely NOTHING done in the scrapbook for DMIL yesterday. And I spent an HOUR going through pictures to find to print and found exactly 2! Not going to get "100 reasons we love you" book done with just 2 pictures! I will not be MOVING from this computer station this morning until I find at least 5 decent pictures and send them to Walgreens to pick up this afternoon!

I am skipping the TM this morning and will walk/run during DS's soccer practice tonight (unless there is lightening). I will ABSOLUTELY get 4 scrapbook pages done for this book (sans photos) today!!

Laundry is caught up except for two loads to fold, kitchen is clean, dining room and living room are picked up. Office is a disaster, but oh well. I will make the beds and run the vacuum around. I'm picking the kids up early from school for DD's chiropractic appointment, so I need to leave here at 1:30 with soccer equipment and swim bags packed, plus snacks, water bottles, and dinner (unless I decide to splurge and buy them something while we are out). We will not return home until 8:45 pm after all evening activities are done.

Guess I had better move along. BTW, breakfast was delicious today! I had a 3 egg white omelet with sauteed onions, sundried tomatoes, and laughing cow garlic and herb cheese. TTYL.......................P

 

[bellebookworm9]

QOTD: Won't you please share a new recipe? How about a nice fall one? Gretchen's oatmeal has me pining for some cooler weather! With apple picking and pumpkin picking season in full swing, it'd be great to try some new fall-inspired recipes!

Here's the Pumpkin Spiced Oatmeal Pecan Cookies. It calls for canned pumpkin (not pie filling) but I absolutely could not find it at the store, so I'm going to try the pie filling and see what happens.

Cranberry Maple Slow Cooker Oatmeal
8 cup(s) water
2 cup(s) Hodgson Mill Steel cut oats, or other brand
2/3 cup(s) dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup(s) maple syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp table salt
3 Tbsp slivered almonds, toasted

Instructions
Combine all ingredients, except almonds, in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Cook on low power for 4 to 6 hours, depending on desired creaminess. Stir well to combine and then sprinkle with almonds. Yields about 3/4 cup oatmeal and 1 teaspoon almonds per serving.

Notes
Be sure to use steel-cut oats for this recipe as regular oatmeal will not hold up to this length of cooking. If you like your oatmeal very creamy, you can cook it up to 8 hours.

I ended up adding 1/2 tsp of sugar to my serving this morning, which increases the total point value per serving to 6. I also used reduced calorie maple syrup. My crock pot is only 4 qts and it was still fine, and I cooked it for just over 8 hours, so it turned out a bit creamier than I might have wanted.

Good job getting all of that stuff done and the desk cleaned! It reminds me that I absolutely MUST stop procrastinating about DD's passport application!

All my forms are submitted, payments have been made, etc. Yup, you don't want to procrastinate on the passport stuff for too long!

 

[donac]

Good thursday morning everyone. Just relaxing on my day off. It is nice to have it off but it will be very hard to go in tomorrow. Especially since dh has the tomorrow off.

Dh just mentioned about mowing a lawn today. I don't think we are going to get it in. It looks like it is going to rain any minute now.

I don't have anything planned for today or even this weekend. I do need to work on my letters of recommendations for my students.

Setting Sail congrats on 30 pounds that is a great accomplishment.

Disneywedding2010 I am glad that you made it Fl safely. I can't imagine the stress you are going through with a new move and all your memories. Take care of yourself

Hi to everyone else. Will try to be back later.

have a happy and healthy day.

 

[elanorasmom]

Good Thursday morning everyone!

Looking forward to an early afternoon run, then DD Ballet Class, then I'm helping at a dog training class - busy day!

Here is a recipe for a great, healthy dip as an alternative to hummus. It is from Fat Free Vegan blog - I'm not vegan anymore (too many chocolate ice cream cravings when I was pregnant) but it is a great site for high protein, low fat meat alternatives. Most of the recipes are very accessible.

Rosemary Chickpea Dip

Fresh rosemary and lemon brighten mild, nutty chickpeas. Dip with pita wedges or endive leaves. For a quick lunch, try this in pita bread with sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. Or thin with a little vegetable broth to make an easy soup.

1 cup chopped green onions
2 (15 1/2-ounce) cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fat-free, less-sodium vegetable broth (such as Swanson’s Certified Organic)

Heat a large non-stick skillet over med. high heat. Add onions; sauté in sauté liquid (water, pan spray…) 3 minutes or until tender. Add beans; sauté 1 minute. Place bean mixture and remaining ingredients in a food processor; process until smooth. Place bean mixture in a bowl.

Everyone have a great day!!

Jennifer

 

[Disneywedding2010]

Thanks everyone for the replies..

I'm going to get in the shower here in a few. Alan is over at the house getting some things in order (internet guy is there as we speak). Candice and I are going to do some bus hopping to make our way over to Boardwalk villas. I've never been to that area of Disney and I want to check out the boardwalk.

 

[lovehoney]

Laundry is caught up except for two loads to fold, kitchen is clean, dining room and living room are picked up. Office is a disaster, but oh well. I will make the beds and run the vacuum around. I'm picking the kids up early from school for DD's chiropractic appointment, so I need to leave here at 1:30 with soccer equipment and swim bags packed, plus snacks, water bottles, and dinner (unless I decide to splurge and buy them something while we are out). We will not return home until 8:45 pm after all evening activities are done.

You have encouraged me to get the laundry caught up. I have about 5 loads. Thanks!

I hope you have a great walk during soccer. I usually spend the whole time chasing DS1 - since he is under the weather I think I will bring his stroller along and walk while DS7 has baseball practice tonight.

BTW - DS1 had the bucket kind of bug. I guess more like a pail - not too bad. He is still running a fever but feeling better. I was a little worried because I gave him pre-cut cantaloupe with his lunch that day. I emailed the store and they let me know that the cantaloupe came from California and Texas and was not from Colorado. What a relief!

Cranberry Maple Slow Cooker Oatmeal
8 cup(s) water
2 cup(s) Hodgson Mill Steel cut oats, or other brand
2/3 cup(s) dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup(s) maple syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp table salt
3 Tbsp slivered almonds, toasted

Instructions
Combine all ingredients, except almonds, in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Cook on low power for 4 to 6 hours, depending on desired creaminess. Stir well to combine and then sprinkle with almonds. Yields about 3/4 cup oatmeal and 1 teaspoon almonds per serving.

Notes
Be sure to use steel-cut oats for this recipe as regular oatmeal will not hold up to this length of cooking. If you like your oatmeal very creamy, you can cook it up to 8 hours.

I ended up adding 1/2 tsp of sugar to my serving this morning, which increases the total point value per serving to 6. I also used reduced calorie maple syrup. My crock pot is only 4 qts and it was still fine, and I cooked it for just over 8 hours, so it turned out a bit creamier than I might have wanted.!

Yummy.

Good Thursday morning everyone!

Looking forward to an early afternoon run, then DD Ballet Class, then I'm helping at a dog training class - busy day!

Here is a recipe for a great, healthy dip as an alternative to hummus. It is from Fat Free Vegan blog - I'm not vegan anymore (too many chocolate ice cream cravings when I was pregnant) but it is a great site for high protein, low fat meat alternatives. Most of the recipes are very accessible.

Rosemary Chickpea Dip

Fresh rosemary and lemon brighten mild, nutty chickpeas. Dip with pita wedges or endive leaves. For a quick lunch, try this in pita bread with sliced cucumbers and tomatoes. Or thin with a little vegetable broth to make an easy soup.

1 cup chopped green onions
2 (15 1/2-ounce) cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup fat-free, less-sodium vegetable broth (such as Swanson’s Certified Organic)

Heat a large non-stick skillet over med. high heat. Add onions; sauté in sauté liquid (water, pan spray…) 3 minutes or until tender. Add beans; sauté 1 minute. Place bean mixture and remaining ingredients in a food processor; process until smooth. Place bean mixture in a bowl.

Everyone have a great day!!

Jennifer

I love this recipe - it doesn't contain the calorie/fat laden tahini that it is in regular hummus. I love chickpeas. I sometimes make a quick and easy chickpea salsa. Rinsed chickpeas with red onion, cilantro, jalapenos, tomato and lime.

 

[lovetoscrap]

Was planning to sleep in today, in fact was considering not getting out of bed at all because I am not feeling well but it was pouring down rain this morning so I drove DD11 to the bus stop. Hers is a half mile away and it is a loooooong walk in the rain. By the time I did that I couldn't really get back to sleep so I showered, put on my comfy flannel MIickey jammie pants and tshirt and am hanging out on the couch today. I have the "South Beach Flu"-- which I expected to happen. Was very low energy and dizzy yesterday and today, from the lack of carbs. Add in to that some major allergy congestion and chest tightness and I am not up to much. I did make an egg casserole this morning that was just kind of eh, and have the ingredients prepped for making Mushroom Soup in a little bit. I will have to have some carb for breakfast tomorrow because I have to be somewhere half the day but I am really trying to get through a two week period with as little as possible to readjust my body. I don't have much going on this week or next so I figured this was a good time to do it.

I am so tired of rain! It has been raining here for about 3 weeks and the yards are full of mushrooms everywhere. My main allergy is to mold so it is not surprise that after all of this rain I am feeling crummy. I think the mushrooms have mold on them, and at this point even the mold has mold!

Weighed myself Tues morning and FINALLY reached 30 lbs off I have been waiting for that number a looooong time.

LTS Oh, I love croutons too! I can eat them right out of the package! The roasted black beans sound like an interesting alternative. Don't know if I would take the time to do that but I'm going to try to remember.

CONGRATULATIONS on your loss!!!

I failed to mention that I had roasted the black beans the night before. I had some left over after dinner and just added another can to that and threw them in the oven. Then store in an airtight container and you can keep them for at least a few days (not sure exactly how long). So I can just grab a handful every time I make a salad which is about every day. They also make just a good crunchy snack.

Hi Everyone!

Yes, I've been MIA for almost 3 weeks but I have a LOT to report. I'll try to make this short as possible.

You have had a stressful few weeks. I totally understand about traveling with friends. I have a hard time with it because I am a total control freak. My family knows they just get to follow whatever I have planned but friends don't do that! The one time we went with friends they sort of planned to tag along on our vacation and we all understood that this was MY vacation and they were welcome to tag along with us or go their own way. We did a little of both and it worked okay and we are all still friends but my kids decided that they don't want to travel with anyone outside the family again.

Take that time you need for yourself and remember that it all doesn't have to be done immediately.

QOTD: Won't you please share a new recipe? How about a nice fall one? Gretchen's oatmeal has me pining for some cooler weather! With apple picking and pumpkin picking season in full swing, it'd be great to try some new fall-inspired recipes!

I will see if I like this mushroom soup and if so I will try to post the recipe later.

bellebookworm9 Going to have to try that recipe. I made Steel Cut Oats ( I think they were Hodgson Mill? in a metal can) a few weeks ago on the stovetop and they were AWFUL. They had a real chemical aftertaste. Not sure if it was my oats, the way I cooked them, or that I just didn't like them but I love oatmeal. I am going to try again with Red Mill brand and see if they are any better.

Need to go and get my soup started. Hope everyone has a great On Plan day!