Biggest Loser "Sizzlin' Hot" Summer Challenge

[jillbur]

Well, soon I will have to put my money where my mouth is ...

Some of you may recall that I've been unemployed for almost three years. (For those who don't know - I did go back to school for my Associate's degree and did some freelance work in that time.) But, I've used the excuse of being home all the time with easy access to the kitchen, along with a total lack of routine for my failure at weight loss. But it all ends next Monday - because I FINALLY GOT A JOB.

It isn't in my field and it is a pretty big pay cut from my last position - but it is full-time, has medical benefits, and is about 3 minutes from my house.

My first order of business this weekend is to go out and buy some sort of insulated lunch bag so I can pack a lunch every day. I saw a cute one at Homegoods the other day - it had all little compartments and came with little containers - but I didn't want to jinx myself by buying it before I was actually offered the job.

Now, as for my attempt to ride my bike.

We've had some pretty crazy weather here the past few days, so I only got a chance to go out once (under cover of darkness) to practice. I'm having trouble with balance, but I'm learning how to fall gracefully.

I didn't weigh myself today - I'll try to remember tomorrow, but I have a feeling that I've gained back the few pounds that I've lost so far. It was NOT a good week food-wise.

Have a great weekend everybody.

- Laura

Congrats on the new job! How exciting! Good luck

all I have to say is
computer system crashed on Monday morning...have been here for what feels like 100 hrs this week....
have ate junk and tons of it all week as we frantically have worked to get the system back up and running.

Scale shows I am up 5 lbs

Just want to jump off a cliff right now!!!!! So tired and just want this to be over.....

Just remember that I think everyone's been there~I have...many times. Try to destress and get back on track when you can. Don't beat yourself up!

Not keeping up in here but been weighing in and sending them in. Down about 5 lbs. I'm feeling good now to work at bumping my losses closer to an average of 2 lbs a week so i can get to 10% off. I'll feel soooooo much better when I get back under 300. 18.4 lbs to go to 299. Not thinking I'll get there by the end of August but I'm so very happy its finally going down steadily. Not up and then down and up and then down.

Congrats on the loss and keep it up!

Variety is the spice of life!

QOTD: Name 3 foods you began eating as an adult that you did not like as a child, and name 3 foods that you may consider eating that you have not tried before. For all you eclectic eaters who have tried everything, teach us something!!

As an adult, I've come to love green peppers (well, actually, any peppers), yogurt, and cheese. I could never eat yogurt and cheese when I was younger. I'm not sure about food I would like to try, but I wouldn't mind getting some recipes for Mediterranean food. I love it, but I've never cooked it.

I have an announcement to make -

Sue (dvccruiser), CC (cclovesdis) and I (buzz5985) are stepping down in our roles of weightkeeper, HH, and hostess. We wanted to give plenty of notice in order for other's to step up to the challenge.

Any questions regarding any of the positions, just PM me. We will help any new people in anyway that we can.

Janis

I am so sad that you are all leaving, but I completely understand. I feel like you all are my family because I depended on you when I started my first challenge and I feel like I know you all so well. Thanks for everything you have done!

Making it Healthier!

QOTD: For day to day eating, what is something you have done to a meal to make it healthier?

I just try to cut out any extra fat I can and incorporate more veggies.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I had such relaxing weekend. I hope everyone else did too. Here's wishing everyone a healthy, happy week!

Jill

 

[dumbo_buddy]

hi there...

i didn't join the summer challenge but wanted to pop in and say hello. someone told me about our wonderful hostesses stepping down and i just wanted to make sure i said thank you to janis, sue, and cc for all the hard work they've put into these challenges.

i admit i dropped out for the summer. i started a new job which was the biggest reason and i found it hard to keep up with the discussion when i had time to get on the DIS.

i love dona's idea of keeping up a discussion minus the weigh-ins. the only thing i would add is that it would be much more motivating and easy to keep up with everyone if we kept the thread to a conversation about healthy living rather than a place to simply journal our day and move on. just a thought.

hope everyone is having a great summer. thanks again to our wonderful hostesses for all the hard work they've put into these challenges.

 

[pjlla]

Variety is the spice of life!
QOTD: Name 3 foods you began eating as an adult that you did not like as a child, and name 3 foods that you may consider eating that you have not tried before. For all you eclectic eaters who have tried everything, teach us something!!

Three foods I didn't eat as a child.... believe it or not, they aren't particularly strange.... peas, cukes, tomatoes. I didn't start eating and enjoying those until my late teens and mid-20's.

Three foods I may consider eating.... well, I tried grilled wild caught tuna recently and really enjoyed it. I would consider eating squid or octopus if given the opportunity. And I think I would try tongue. However, I would draw the line at tripe and brains!!

I've tried venison, ostrich, and bison.... all were okay... nothing I really crave, although I would buy bisonbuffalo for the family if it were more affordable. I haven't gotten too adventurous with sushi, but I would if I had someone there to help me order.

Eclectic foods others may not enjoy..... I really like liver.... grilled beef liver with onions (although now that I know what the liver does and such, I'm not so anxious to eat it). And chicken livers or goose livers made into pate.... YUMMMM!

Beets (since someone mentioned them)..... ate them as a child, but went about 10+ years deciding that I really didn't like them. But tried them again recently and they are back on the menu.... especially roasted!! Try combining them with diced roasted sweet potatoes.... super yummy... and turns the potatoes a pretty purple color! Brussel sprouts are yummy roasted too!

GREAT question!

C
Share your snacks packed, I seem to be stuck in pistachios/almonds for snack...need some changes!!

For Saturday I packed a serving of grapes, a serving of cherries, a 1/2 C of lf cottage cheese, a low carb pita smeared with a Laughing Cow cheese wedge, plus a bag of jicama sticks and carrot sticks and a bit of hummus for dipping. It was a lot of food but it was to be my mid-morning snack, lunch, and afternoon snack (8 points total for what I packed....about half my day's calories).

Other snacks.... Vitamuffins (bring them along frozen and in this type of weather they defrost by the time I want to eat), Luna bars (for a treat), red bell pepper "cups" stuffed with Laughing Cow cheese, hardboiled egg whites, apples (maybe with a bit of peanut butter for dipping), lowfat microwave popcorn.

I eat a lot more fruits and veggies and fresh fish than when I was a child. For starters, squash, zucchini and salmon. I wish I liked cantaloupe better, I can tolerate it in a fruit salad but not all by itself. I read it has some great nutrients in it. There are not many foods I won't eat Not sure I can bring myself to try oysters, escargot, frog legs

I think I would be willing to try those three, but I don't think I would really enjoy them.

Pamela, good luck at the swim meet. I want that crockpot oatmeal recipe too. I remember when it was originally posted here but I didn't save it. DH eats oatmeal every morning since finding out his cholesterol was 203. He was mad mine was 176 and I prob have higher BMI than him.

Really easy.... this is what I use and it makes 3-4 generous servings.

1 C steel cut oats
4 C water
dash of salt
few sprinkles of cinnamon

Combine all in the crockpot and cook on low overnight. I've cooked it anywhere from 8-10 hours.

I use this "mini" crockpot I've literally had for over 20 years. Not sure if it cooks on low or high. It is just a plug-in and go type. You can put brown sugar in the crockpot at the start as well, but I don't.

We are having Chick fil a for lunch, I' m having the grilled. Tmrw we are going out on our friends boat, there will be water skiing and knee boarding and tubing. Hope I can survive. Aug 8, 2011 was my first day back working. I was hired to work on a one year project that is winding down. Next week my boss is going to meet with me to discuss " how best to use me in the future". I am really nervous for my next assignment. Work is miserable when you don't enjoy it. They've used me a lot in the past to train new people and I HATE that!!

Have a great weekend all

Shawn

Good luck with the "boss talk".

I have an announcement to make -

Sue (dvccruiser), CC (cclovesdis) and I (buzz5985) are stepping down in our roles of weightkeeper, HH, and hostess. We wanted to give plenty of notice in order for other's to step up to the challenge.

Any questions regarding any of the positions, just PM me. We will help any new people in anyway that we can.

Janis

Thank you ALL for all you've done for us! I really appreciate it. I know it takes a lot of time and energy.

Thank you for all that you have done. I know that it is a lot of work.

May I offer a suggestion? How about we Just have a discussion thread and not challenge. (There are a couple of other threads like this on the WISH) We can come on and discuss how we are doing and what we are doing. WE can use it to encourage each other. We could try it for the fall and see how that goes. I would be willing to moderate that without all the work of bookkeeping of weight and HH points. We could still have people doing questions of the day.

Just a thought.

I like your suggestion! It would be nice if we could still have a QOTD though. Maybe we could still have coaches?? I'll give some thinking about this.

Making it Healthier!

QOTD: For day to day eating, what is something you have done to a meal to make it healthier?

I reduce the fat (especially saturated fat) and carbs (especially white carbs) whenever possible... but I try to still preserve the taste and texture. If possible I change white pasta to whole wheat, white flour to whole wheat, sugar to molasses/agave/honey, add extra veggies, etc. I use healthy fats when needed (coconut oil, EVOO).

hi there...

i didn't join the summer challenge but wanted to pop in and say hello. someone told me about our wonderful hostesses stepping down and i just wanted to make sure i said thank you to janis, sue, and cc for all the hard work they've put into these challenges.

i admit i dropped out for the summer. i started a new job which was the biggest reason and i found it hard to keep up with the discussion when i had time to get on the DIS.

i love dona's idea of keeping up a discussion minus the weigh-ins. the only thing i would add is that it would be much more motivating and easy to keep up with everyone if we kept the thread to a conversation about healthy living rather than a place to simply journal our day and move on. just a thought.

hope everyone is having a great summer. thanks again to our wonderful hostesses for all the hard work they've put into these challenges.

Hey stranger! Glad to see you! How are those adorable little boys of yours doing??

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

Evening friends! Sorry I didn't get on here sooner today. Trying to get some stuff done around here while I had a day at home. I did get some stuff done, but probably not as much as I should have. Always the case.

Yesterday's swim meet went well, but it was a long, hot, sunny 8 hours! Fortunately we had a few tents to give us some shade and there was a decent breeze. DD swam well, but no new best times. She did bring home a heat winner ribbon and their relay just barely missed winning their heat (this was not their "A" relay group, as several of those girls are at Nationals or weren't swimming yesterday).

DH took DS to a local "fun park" today with his best friend (DH bought Groupons for this place earlier this summer). I was glad DS was able to get out and enjoy the afternoon. He has had a lot of alone time this summer, with us being so busy with swim and Driver's Ed, etc.

Hope everyone had a great weekend. I may have a minute or two to pop on tomorrow before heading out to drive DD to Driver's Ed........P

 

[6ofus2]

QOTD: For day to day eating, what is something you have done to a meal to make it healthier?

I've eliminated croutons from salad. I use 2% cheese & fat free or low fat dressing.
I made enchiladas & dipped the tortillas in chicken broth rather than oil.
I don't use reg mayo or butter anymore.
Only eat the serving size, usually I'm full if I wait.
Little things!

 

[Octoberbride03]

If somebody could beat me over head with a 2x4 or something that would be good. I see i got about a month left to join in. So I'm in and if y'all don't see me for 2 days please send out a search thumbsup2

Its been a quick summer but not a great 1. I need to drop a minimum of 6lbs cause that's what I've gained lately.

 

[kollerbear]

I FINALLY GOT A JOB.

Congratulations!!

QOTD: Name 3 foods you began eating as an adult that you did not like as a child, and name 3 foods that you may consider eating that you have not tried before. For all you eclectic eaters who have tried everything, teach us something!!

I was a pretty good eater as a child, but I didn't like any kind of egg that wasn't scrambled (and, by extension, egg salad), Brussels sprouts, and nuts. There are a couple of fruits that I've tried before, but not done anything really interesting with and I'd like to experiment with--lychees, bitter melon, and prickly pears

OH! And regarding beets, I really used to love this Rachael Ray recipe for Rigatoni with Ricotta and Roasted Beets before I went vegan. Increase the spinach, reduce the oil a little, and use lower fat ricotta and it's even pretty healthy. Speaking of which, I should make a cashew-tofu based ricotta and make this myself!! (If anyone is interested in a GREAT recipe for cashew-tofu ricotta, PM me and I'll type it up for you! That's a REALLY healthy alternative.)

I have an announcement to make -

Sue (dvccruiser), CC (cclovesdis) and I (buzz5985) are stepping down in our roles of weightkeeper, HH, and hostess. We wanted to give plenty of notice in order for other's to step up to the challenge.

Any questions regarding any of the positions, just PM me. We will help any new people in anyway that we can.

Janis

Thank you all so much for the work that you've done! I know I'm pretty new to all of this, but once the group of those who have been doing this for longer gets a better sense of what they want to do, I'm very open to helping out if there's a role that you need filled. I spend all day in Excel in my 9 to 5 keeping and analyzing records, so I think I'd be a pretty good weight keeper if you all want one.

Thank you for all that you have done. I know that it is a lot of work.

May I offer a suggestion? How about we Just have a discussion thread and not challenge. (There are a couple of other threads like this on the WISH) We can come on and discuss how we are doing and what we are doing. WE can use it to encourage each other. We could try it for the fall and see how that goes. I would be willing to moderate that without all the work of bookkeeping of weight and HH points. We could still have people doing questions of the day.


Just a thought.

This is a good idea, but I'd really appreciate having a QOTD. I do really like weighing in and setting short-term goals--I find that to be REALLY motivating--but I understand if the group would rather move away from it.

QOTD: For day to day eating, what is something you have done to a meal to make it healthier?

I do have a couple go-to strategies:

1) Sautee in a lesser amount of oil or a combination of oil and stock.

2) Double the quantity of vegetables in a recipe.

3) Make sure there's a leafy green or cruciferous vegetable in my meal.


Have a great start to your week, everyone!!! Keep it on-plan!

 

[mackeysmom]

Congrats on the new job! How exciting! Good luck
Jill

Thanks

Congratulations!!
OH! And regarding beets, I really used to love this Rachael Ray recipe for Rigatoni with Ricotta and Roasted Beets before I went vegan. Increase the spinach, reduce the oil a little, and use lower fat ricotta and it's even pretty healthy.

I will totally give this recipe a shot - I'll let you guys know how it turns out.

I am not a beet person either, I know my grandmother would eat pickled beets! And borscht is a beet soup (Russian) I believe, but someone must have a good way to eat them, candied beets Me, too with the black beans, LOVE them! Still trying to get some eggplant in there...

I posted this recipe during a previous BL challenge - it is my "go-to" eggplant recipe. (A lower-fat version of Food Network's Barefoot Contessa's recipe):

Eggplant Gratin

Ingredients

• 3/4 pound eggplant, sliced 1/2-inch thick (peeled or unpeeled, depends on your preference)
• 1/3 cup fat free ricotta cheese
• ½ cup eggbeaters
• ½ cup fat free half-and-half
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Partially pre-cook the eggplant slices (in a single layer) in the microwave for about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together the ricotta, egg, half-and-half, Parmesan, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.

In a square casserole dish, layer sauce, eggplant slices, ricotta mixture and marinara sauce. (In an 8X8 pan, you should get 2 layers.)

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top..

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the custard sets and the top is browned.

Serve warm.

(If you are following WW, it is 13 PointsPlus TOTAL for the entire dish)

---------------------------------------------------------------------
I took a few pictures of the insulated lunch bag I bought for work - I'm a sucker for little compartments ...

- Laura

 

[buzz5985]

ok I must have missed something. How come all of you are leaving? That is so sad. You all will definitely be missed. Does this mean no more challenge?

No you didn't miss anything, nothing so dramatic!!!! Sue and I have been volunteers for close to a year on the BL challenge, CC for longer.

you all have helped me hit a milestone and break through a nasty plateau...I am so indebted...very sad to see you go! I wish I had the time...school starts for us in 2 weeks and I am swamped creating 46 writing folders with over 300 pages in each...wish I could help! Hope someone has the heart and time to help!!

You all are awesome!

Your very welcome.

So very sad but understandable. You guys have done a lot.

Thank you for all that you have done. I know that it is a lot of work.

May I offer a suggestion? How about we Just have a discussion thread and not challenge. (There are a couple of other threads like this on the WISH) We can come on and discuss how we are doing and what we are doing. WE can use it to encourage each other. We could try it for the fall and see how that goes. I would be willing to moderate that without all the work of bookkeeping of weight and HH points. We could still have people doing questions of the day.

Just a thought.

Actually - moderater = hostess!!! The hardest part of the being the host is - just my opinion - keeping the first page of the thread up to date. Don't go look - it hasn't been done in over a week. If you didn't bother with that aspect, and just kept track of the coaches - it wouldn't be bad at all.

Well that's too bad. I appreciate all that is done to keep this going. It seems like something must have happened for all three to quit in the midst of the challenge.

I'd love to see them be able to finish out this challenge, but if that is impossible, I'm willing to take over the weight tracking. Keep me posted.

I'm sorry - I wasn't clear. We aren't quiting this challenge. I wanted to give enough notice so people could think of taking over for the Fall challenge.

Janis

 

[pjlla]

If somebody could beat me over head with a 2x4 or something that would be good. I see i got about a month left to join in. So I'm in and if y'all don't see me for 2 days please send out a search thumbsup2

Its been a quick summer but not a great 1. I need to drop a minimum of 6lbs cause that's what I've gained lately.

Welcome back to the flock! Feel free to jump right in. I'll try to keep an eye out to make sure you stay! Glad to have you back. Those 6 pounds should disappear quickly.

I posted this recipe during a previous BL challenge - it is my "go-to" eggplant recipe. (A lower-fat version of Food Network's Barefoot Contessa's recipe):

Eggplant Gratin

Ingredients

• 3/4 pound eggplant, sliced 1/2-inch thick (peeled or unpeeled, depends on your preference)
• 1/3 cup fat free ricotta cheese
• ½ cup eggbeaters
• ½ cup fat free half-and-half
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Partially pre-cook the eggplant slices (in a single layer) in the microwave for about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together the ricotta, egg, half-and-half, Parmesan, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.

In a square casserole dish, layer sauce, eggplant slices, ricotta mixture and marinara sauce. (In an 8X8 pan, you should get 2 layers.)

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top..

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the custard sets and the top is browned.

Serve warm.

(If you are following WW, it is 13 PointsPlus TOTAL for the entire dish)

Um.....DING, DING, DING We have a WINNER here! This sounds GREAT and no breading, so DH could eat it as well! I'm definitely going to print this one out. Probably won't have a chance to make it for at least 2 weeks though. DH is away most of this week and next week we are on vacation.

---------------------------------------------------------------------
I took a few pictures of the insulated lunch bag I bought for work - I'm a sucker for little compartments ...

- Laura

I love the new lunch sack! I'm a sucker for little compartments as well. When I was pregnant with DD and looking for a hospital bag, I wanted LOTS of compartments for all of that stuff they tell you you will need during labor.... chapstick, fan, (can't remember it all).... I ended up buying a bag in the tool department at Home Depot. It is made of heavy canvas and the entire outside is all pockets. It was expensive, but I loved it. Still got it somewhere... I should dig it out and use it for scrapping tools!

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

Happy Monday friends! I'm back from a short walk/run....but better than nothing!

I almost NEVER leave clothes on the line overnight (fear of skunks), but I decided to put a few loads out late yesterday so I wouldn't have to do it this morning when I am rushing.... and wouldn't you know it, it RAINED last night! GRRRR>>>> My own dumb fault for not checking the weather report I suppose. Gotta check them and see if they are dripping wet (in which case I will have to bring them in and throw them in the washer for a spin) or just wet/damp (in which case I might just leave them). And of COURSE, I should check TODAY's weather report first!

Off to wake DD for Driver's Ed. I'll be back around lunch time to answer the QOTD.............................P

 

[pjlla]

Good news! The laundry isn't soaked..... in fact, it is remarkably dry considering the rain. And the sun seems to be trying to pop out, so I'm leaving the stuff out there for now!

Smoothies are made for breakfast and I'm showered and dressed and we will head out in just a few minutes. TTYL.....................P

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning all!

Trying to do a little catching up post here.

Kaiti, thanks for coaching last week! You were a great coach and I loved your pictures and questions.

And a big, BL thank you to our new coach, Tara!

Welcome to a Losing Week!!!

In honor of Lilo and Stitch, I want to send a shout out to all the losers/maintainers who have had a tough time coming in and reporting, tracking, exercising, whatever it is that has helped you to lose your way during this challenge--we are here for you...and for all those new faces, weekly reporters...what a great family to be in for this summer challenge!!!

I am Tara, your weekly coach this week! I find it is perfect timing, because as of this morning I weighed 199.6 and am in ONEDERLAND for the first time in 5 years, the last time I lost with WISH and got down to 175ish. I have officially lost 65.4 pounds in this past year!!! Now, before I go and get that new clippie...I've got to share some tips for this week!

• Get your smile on! If your heart is smiling it's always easier to tackle something!
• Drink that water! I have found that if add about a 1/4th cup of gatorade (blue) it makes my water turn a pretty color and I just like drinking blue water! HA!
• If you have that killer craving, it's okay to give into it...just let it be a short event not to linger to the next meal.
• Move, move, move...hardest part is getting started, once you're in it, very hard to stop!

I look forward to getting to know all of you this week and sharing in your triumphs and challenges! Life always throws us curve balls, the toughest part is trying to duck quick enough!

QOTD: Family can help us, share your favorite family memory and share what makes your heart smile!

On to a losing week folks!! So excited to be here with you all!!! Only 6 more weeks to go!!

Tara, a big BL congrats on being in ONE-derland!

There are so many great family memories it is hard to pick just one -- as a group we typically have trouble with these "pick one" questions. We are heading off this week to the lake cottage where my husband's family has been making memories since 1893.

Laura, a big congratulations on the new job! Good luck! They are lucky to have you!

Are you the one asking about beets? Try golden beets. I think they are a bit sweeter. My husband loves roasted beets. Me, not so much, honestly I think beets taste like dirt. But I will fix them (in a separate pan) for my sweetheart.

Jen, big on the computer crash. Those things can wreck an entire week. Hope it is fixed now.

Shawn, good luck with your review. I hope they find something fun and interesting for you to do! I remember that you've worked there for a long time and are a very versatile employee.

Variety is the spice of life!

Hello Sizzlers!!

Variety is something we need halfway through this challenge, we get stuck eating the same turkey/cheese roll up or oatmeal in the morning...time to give our body a shake up!!

QOTD: Name 3 foods you began eating as an adult that you did not like as a child, and name 3 foods that you may consider eating that you have not tried before. For all you eclectic eaters who have tried everything, teach us something!!

Let this Saturday be a losing day! The hardest day of the week for me foodwise...making a big salad for lunch loaded with crunchy veggies....

I keep forgetting to answer my own qotd. I could not eat brussel sprouts, broccoli, or cucumbers as a child, I still struggle with cucumbers but I don't gag if one goes down! I would love to be able to eat mushrooms, zuchini or squash, those I need to try and eat!

I never remember to answer my own QOTD either!

Three food I eat now that I did not like as a child: broccoli, red peppers, and parsnips.

Three foods I would consider trying now: sushi, different kinds of greens, paella.

Just this week-end I tried gelato for the first time and I thought it was absolutely yummy. Just a little bit satisfies that desire for something cool, smooth and creamy.

I have an announcement to make -

Sue (dvccruiser), CC (cclovesdis) and I (buzz5985) are stepping down in our roles of weightkeeper, HH, and hostess. We wanted to give plenty of notice in order for other's to step up to the challenge.

Any questions regarding any of the positions, just PM me. We will help any new people in anyway that we can.

Janis

Thank you so much, ladies, for all that you do for us. It is a BIG job running these challenges and we appreciate all that you do for us.

The BL show is constantly changing and evolving and so has our challenges. Whatever we decide to do we will still be a place to come for support and friendship!

I will be happy to take the first week of coaching for the fall challenge. I like to coach those crazy, busy first weeks.

I'm also here to help whoever decides to take over. I hostessed several challenges myself over the years.

Making it Healthier!

All right, sometimes just one slice of something is enough to get us over those cravings!

QOTD: For day to day eating, what is something you have done to a meal to make it healthier?

For me, I have tried to really watch sodium intake. I try to buy frozen vegetables (if not fresh) instead of canned ones that can have a good bit of sodium, and have stopped frying as much...I think in the past year I have bought only one bottle of wesson oil and still have half of it I try to stick to sauteeing with olive oil or baking.

A big thank you for our tracking crew!! WE so appreciate your time and help in helping us get healthy!!!

I try to be sure that I get those fruit and veggie servings in every day. I do reasonably well staying under my calories but it is that balanced eating that sometimes eludes me.

Three foods I may consider eating.... well, I tried grilled wild caught tuna recently and really enjoyed it. I would consider eating squid or octopus if given the opportunity. And I think I would try tongue. However, I would draw the line at tripe and brains!!

You are adventurous, my friend!

If somebody could beat me over head with a 2x4 or something that would be good. I see i got about a month left to join in. So I'm in and if y'all don't see me for 2 days please send out a search thumbsup2

Its been a quick summer but not a great 1. I need to drop a minimum of 6lbs cause that's what I've gained lately.

back, Maureen! Nice to see you!



Happy Monday everyone!

 

[lmhall2000]

Get Your Green On!

Inspired by Kollerbear's tips to add more leafy greens....today's
QOTD How many times last week did you get green veggies in? What were they and if you have any good tips for buying/choosing/cooking/preparing them so they're easier to fix...let us know!

I will try my best to plug in with everyone who has posted, our insurance adjustor comes today (terrible roof damage from last week's hail storm) and need to take our car in to get fixed from being rear ended the week before...just waiting for that trifecta to hit!

Tara

My answer: UGH, I'm the worst at green veggies!! Okay, I did have chives/romaine/iceburg/leaf lettuce in my salad over the past 3 days. And that is IT! I think I'll try to add some bell peppers to my diet this week and broccoli....I think I need to post a list of green veggies, because honestly, I"m not sure what they all are! I need spinach, too!

Green Apples
Green Grapes
Honeydew
Kiwifruit
Limes
Green Peas Artichokes
Arugula
Asparagus
Broccoflower
Broccoli
Broccoli Rabe
Brussels Sprouts
Chinese Cabbage
Green Beans
Green Cabbage
Celery
Chayote Squash
Cucumbers
Endive
Leafy Greens
Leeks
Lettuce
Green Onions
Okra
Peas
Green Peppers
Snow Peas
Spinach
Sugar Snap Peas
Watercress
Zucchini

 

[EDuke98080]

Thank you CC, Sue & Janis! Although I don't post a lot, this thread gives so much support and really helps me at least stay where I am, if not loose a little. Your work is so appreciated!

 

[pjlla]

Get Your Green On!

Inspired by Kollerbear's tips to add more leafy greens....today's
QOTD How many times last week did you get green veggies in? What were they and if you have any good tips for buying/choosing/cooking/preparing them so they're easier to fix...let us know!

I will try my best to plug in with everyone who has posted, our insurance adjustor comes today (terrible roof damage from last week's hail storm) and need to take our car in to get fixed from being rear ended the week before...just waiting for that trifecta to hit!

Tara

My answer: UGH, I'm the worst at green veggies!! Okay, I did have chives/romaine/iceburg/leaf lettuce in my salad over the past 3 days. And that is IT! I think I'll try to add some bell peppers to my diet this week and broccoli....I think I need to post a list of green veggies, because honestly, I"m not sure what they all are! I need spinach, too!

Green Apples
Green Grapes
Honeydew
Kiwifruit
Limes
Green Peas Artichokes
Arugula
Asparagus
Broccoflower
Broccoli
Broccoli Rabe
Brussels Sprouts
Chinese Cabbage
Green Beans
Green Cabbage
Celery
Chayote Squash
Cucumbers
Endive
Leafy Greens
Leeks
Lettuce
Green Onions
Okra
Peas
Green Peppers
Snow Peas
Spinach
Sugar Snap Peas
Watercress
Zucchini

I eat a wide variety of greens every day. It is a truly RARE day that I don't have a huge salad, either as a meal or part of a meal. My salad greens are a combo of baby spring mix and baby spinach topped usually topped with cucumber, red bell pepper and tomato. But I will also get a bit more adventurous at times and throw in things like jicama, cold cooked asparagus (or nearly any leftover cooked veggie that is on hand), shredded/baby carrots, tabbouleh, basil, chives, olives, pea pods and/or peas (frozen thrown in a small colander and run under warm water...just right!), marinated artichoke hearts, heat of palm, water chestnuts, sprouts (bean, alfalfa, broccoli), sundries tomatoes, pickles, .....you get the point!

I also eat cooked veggies every day....zucchini and summer squash, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, cabbage, bok choy, carrots, beets, sweet potatoes, spinach, onions...those are my usuals. Most veggies taste best roasted, but I frequently steam my broccoli and cauliflower and sautéed my green beans, cabbage, bok choy, onions. Love to grill my squash this time of year!

I eat less fruit than veg, but I average 1-2 servings per day. Apples, berries, pears are my standards, but melon, mango, and peaches in season are frequent visitors as well. Love bananas and pineapple but try to limit those due to high sugar. Sometimes kiwi, papaya, oranges, grapefruit too.


I think I have achieved a pretty thorough answer! .......P

 

[kollerbear]

Inspired by Kollerbear's tips to add more leafy greens....today's
QOTD How many times last week did you get green veggies in? What were they and if you have any good tips for buying/choosing/cooking/preparing them so they're easier to fix...let us know!

I'm honored!

Hmm. This is a tough question. Since Matt's been home before starting a new job last week, he did all the cooking, so I wouldn't share the recipes he used because he wings it a lot and I don't really know what he did! But I'll share a couple of my favorite recipes with leafy and cruciferous greens instead...

Broccoli:
40-Cloves Chickpeas and Broccoli: Matt doesn't typically enjoy broccoli, but this is a really delicious way to prepare it! It's nothing fancy, but if you like garlic (this doesn't actually have FORTY cloves), this is a really nice, relatively easy way to get a ton of nutrition into a bowl.

Bistro Broccoli Chowder: Never in a million years would I have thought there was only 150 calories per serving in this soup. It's creamy and delicious--the secret ingredient is parsnips. Also, there is 5.5 grams of protein just from vegetable sources. It is kind of a game changer. It's really, really delicious, although the chopping takes a little bit of work. Well worth the effort, and it reheats beautifully!

Cauliflower:
Lasagna with Roasted Cauliflower Ricotta and Spinach: Cauliflower can be SNEAKY! And it's super healthy. Pulse up cooked cauliflower and add it to your ricotta in stuffed shells or lasagna. Sometimes, we also mash cauliflower to mix in with mashed potatoes.

Cabbage:
Curried Cabbage and Peas: Cabbage is so healthy, but I have such a hard time eating it! I like this side dish a lot, and it's got some color and variety with peas and a little bit of carrot. It would go really well with some rice cooked in a little bit of broth, and any kind of protein you're cooking up that night.

Swiss Chard:
Posole with Garnishes: Sometimes Martha just really knows what she's doing. A soup is a GREAT way to cook leafy greens, because it's easier to boil them than to sautee them, but you don't lose the nutrition because the nutrients just leach into the broth. If you're in a neighborhood where you can find tomatillos (and this is the season for them!), then this recipe is a delicious summer soup!! I typically only crisp up a couple corn torillas in the oven and slice up some avocado and radish as toppings, but you can also use Greek yogurt or sour cream if you like.

Dandelion Greens:
Leeky Broth with Ravioli: I make this with a small spoonful of pesto over the top and with gemelli pasta now that I'm vegan, and that is healthier than making it with filled pasta. But I've had very picky eaters eat this recipe when I made it with the tiny raviolis from Trader Joe's! This is perfect in the spring when leeks and bitter greens come into season before everything else.

Kale:
Sauteed Kale with Umeboshi Vinegar: OK, I don't have a recipe link for this one. I tried to find a recipe online that approximates it, but no dice, because everyone makes it fancier and more complicated than it needs to be when they're writing up a recipe. The basic gist is you par-boil the kale for just part of the way, drain, and rinse. Then sautee the kale in about a teaspoon per serving of sesame oil and, as the leaves become more tender, sprinkle with umeboshi vinegar. This is an Asian plum vinegar, and the flavor is incredible and just really makes the kale sing. It's worth looking for in the Asian section of your supermarket. Then, taste and sprinkle with soy sauce and/or Kosher salt until it's seasoned as you like. My FAVORITE way to make this recipe is with Lucianato (aka dinosaur) kale, which is a more wrinkly variety that cooks to be more tender than regular kale. And how fun is it to cook with something with "Dinosaur" in the name? (Note: If anyone is really interested in this but can't find umeboshi vinegar locally, I would be happy to ship some to you because I am crazy about it and would be happy to spread the love! Just PM me.)

Whew. OK. That's a good start. I hope somebody finds something that sounds interesting to them here!

I'm home sick from work today and feeling hungry but not up to cooking, so maybe I just wanted to eat vicariously through the recipes?

A lot of these are from a REALLY good low-calorie vegan cookbook called Appetite for Reduction by Isa Chandra Moskowitz. I actually would recommend this book to ANYONE looking for yummy ways to cook with a variety of vegetables, not just vegans. I've cooked at least 1/2 of the recipes in the book--some are better than others--but it's honestly just my go-to book for cooking a veggie based meal. And she's got all the nutrition info. for each recipe right in the book! (And someone awesome has entered them all into MFP, too, so it's very easy to fit the recipes into your plan!)

 

[kollerbear]

I will totally give this recipe a shot - I'll let you guys know how it turns out.

Yay! I can't wait to hear how it goes.

---------------------------------------------------------------------
I took a few pictures of the insulated lunch bag I bought for work - I'm a sucker for little compartments ...

- Laura

I LOVE THIS BAG! I'm so jealous of it. I hope it brings you a lot of everyday joy as you transition into your new job and your new routine!!

 

[kollerbear]

Sorry I'm posting in spurts, I just keep finding quotes I want to reply to and I'm feeling disorganized and out of it (home sick excuse).

We are heading off this week to the lake cottage where my husband's family has been making memories since 1893.

I LOVE this! My family has one of those too. Although as the family gets bigger the issues surrounding ownership have gotten so much more complicated. Who knows where it will stand when it's my generation's turn to step in and pay the bills and do the up-keep! Not that we'd be unwilling to do so, but it's complicated because ownership is so diffuse. But we really cherish having that place to all see each other and come together.

Are you the one asking about beets? Try golden beets. I think they are a bit sweeter. My husband loves roasted beets. Me, not so much, honestly I think beets taste like dirt. But I will fix them (in a separate pan) for my sweetheart.

Yes! I second this about golden beets. Also, they are MUCH LESS MESSY! I especially sub golden beets whenever a recipe calls for grated beets. I made that mistake only once, thank you very much--my hands were red all week and I ruined a shirt! Sometimes the red color is really nice, though.

Also, anyone here remember The Beets from Doug? I always think of them when I make beets-- "Oooh eeee oooo... Killer tofuuuuu"

The BL show is constantly changing and evolving and so has our challenges. Whatever we decide to do we will still be a place to come for support and friendship!

Agreed!!!

 

[6ofus2]

Get Your Green On!

Inspired by Kollerbear's tips to add more leafy greens....today's
QOTD How many times last week did you get green veggies in? What were they and if you have any good tips for buying/choosing/cooking/preparing them so they're easier to fix...let us know!

I had green veggies 11 times last week. Romaine, lettuce, spinach, snap peas & basil. Mostly in salads. I had the basil in hummus & I use it in chicken wraps as well.

 

[pjlla]

I'm honored!

Hmm. This is a tough question. Since Matt's been home before starting a new job last week, he did all the cooking, so I wouldn't share the recipes he used because he wings it a lot and I don't really know what he did! But I'll share a couple of my favorite recipes with leafy and cruciferous greens instead...

Broccoli:
40-Cloves Chickpeas and Broccoli: Matt doesn't typically enjoy broccoli, but this is a really delicious way to prepare it! It's nothing fancy, but if you like garlic (this doesn't actually have FORTY cloves), this is a really nice, relatively easy way to get a ton of nutrition into a bowl.

Bistro Broccoli Chowder: Never in a million years would I have thought there was only 150 calories per serving in this soup. It's creamy and delicious--the secret ingredient is parsnips. Also, there is 5.5 grams of protein just from vegetable sources. It is kind of a game changer. It's really, really delicious, although the chopping takes a little bit of work. Well worth the effort, and it reheats beautifully!

Cauliflower:
Lasagna with Roasted Cauliflower Ricotta and Spinach: Cauliflower can be SNEAKY! And it's super healthy. Pulse up cooked cauliflower and add it to your ricotta in stuffed shells or lasagna. Sometimes, we also mash cauliflower to mix in with mashed potatoes.

Cabbage:
Curried Cabbage and Peas: Cabbage is so healthy, but I have such a hard time eating it! I like this side dish a lot, and it's got some color and variety with peas and a little bit of carrot. It would go really well with some rice cooked in a little bit of broth, and any kind of protein you're cooking up that night.

Swiss Chard:
Posole with Garnishes: Sometimes Martha just really knows what she's doing. A soup is a GREAT way to cook leafy greens, because it's easier to boil them than to sautee them, but you don't lose the nutrition because the nutrients just leach into the broth. If you're in a neighborhood where you can find tomatillos (and this is the season for them!), then this recipe is a delicious summer soup!! I typically only crisp up a couple corn torillas in the oven and slice up some avocado and radish as toppings, but you can also use Greek yogurt or sour cream if you like.

Dandelion Greens:
Leeky Broth with Ravioli: I make this with a small spoonful of pesto over the top and with gemelli pasta now that I'm vegan, and that is healthier than making it with filled pasta. But I've had very picky eaters eat this recipe when I made it with the tiny raviolis from Trader Joe's! This is perfect in the spring when leeks and bitter greens come into season before everything else.

Kale:
Sauteed Kale with Umeboshi Vinegar: OK, I don't have a recipe link for this one. I tried to find a recipe online that approximates it, but no dice, because everyone makes it fancier and more complicated than it needs to be when they're writing up a recipe. The basic gist is you par-boil the kale for just part of the way, drain, and rinse. Then sautee the kale in about a teaspoon per serving of sesame oil and, as the leaves become more tender, sprinkle with umeboshi vinegar. This is an Asian plum vinegar, and the flavor is incredible and just really makes the kale sing. It's worth looking for in the Asian section of your supermarket. Then, taste and sprinkle with soy sauce and/or Kosher salt until it's seasoned as you like. My FAVORITE way to make this recipe is with Lucianato (aka dinosaur) kale, which is a more wrinkly variety that cooks to be more tender than regular kale. And how fun is it to cook with something with "Dinosaur" in the name? (Note: If anyone is really interested in this but can't find umeboshi vinegar locally, I would be happy to ship some to you because I am crazy about it and would be happy to spread the love! Just PM me.)

Whew. OK. That's a good start. I hope somebody finds something that sounds interesting to them here!

I'm home sick from work today and feeling hungry but not up to cooking, so maybe I just wanted to eat vicariously through the recipes?

A lot of these are from a REALLY good low-calorie vegan cookbook called Appetite for Reduction by Isa Chandra Moskowitz. I actually would recommend this book to ANYONE looking for yummy ways to cook with a variety of vegetables, not just vegans. I've cooked at least 1/2 of the recipes in the book--some are better than others--but it's honestly just my go-to book for cooking a veggie based meal. And she's got all the nutrition info. for each recipe right in the book! (And someone awesome has entered them all into MFP, too, so it's very easy to fit the recipes into your plan!)

WOW! Thanks for sharing a boatload of new recipes!! I'd love to try the broccoli chowder, but I couldn't give it to DH, as parsnips are a starchy vegetable and it would mess with his carb status. But that doesn't mean I won't make it for the kids and I!

And I am definitely looking for the umeboshi vinegar! I've heard of umeboshi before (sadly on America's Next Top Model ). I really like vinegar.... I currently have 4 different types in my cupboard, but they are all pretty run of the mill (apple cider, balsamic, rice wine, and ??). I'd love to find something new! If I can't find it as my local market, I will ask my Korean friend to pick some up for me next time she goes to her favorite Asian market.

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

Okay friends..... this visit is just an attempt to AVOID folding laundry! I've got 3 1/2 loads ready to fold, one on the line, and one in the washer... and I don't feel like folding any of it! Time to put on some mindless tv show and just get it done! But maybe I'll check FB and Pinterest first ........P

 

[lmhall2000]

For any I've missed! So sorry! Hugs and CHEERS for a great day of staying focused on a healthy mindset!! Your body will thank you!!

If somebody could beat me over head with a 2x4 or something that would be good.

Octoberbride, won't beat you over the head, but will give you some banana knee bends!! Welcome back to summer and those pounds will be running for the hills!

I'm sorry - I wasn't clear. We aren't quiting this challenge. I wanted to give enough notice so people could think of taking over for the Fall challenge.

Janis

Oh! You don't know how much this encouraged me! I thought you three were gone for the rest of the summer and I was about to have a pity party and had no idea how to figure out all those percentages that really really keep me focused!! So happy you guys are sticking with us through this final encore! So happy I found it so I could meet the three of you!!

Good news! The laundry isn't soaked..... in fact, it is remarkably dry considering the rain. And the sun seems to be trying to pop out, so I'm leaving the stuff out there for now!

Smoothies are made for breakfast and I'm showered and dressed and we will head out in just a few minutes. TTYL.....................P

Those little graces each day that help us say 'all is right with the world!' Have a great day!

Thank you CC, Sue & Janis! Although I don't post a lot, this thread gives so much support and really helps me at least stay where I am, if not loose a little. Your work is so appreciated!

YES THIS!

I eat a wide variety of greens every day. It is a truly RARE day that I don't have a huge salad, either as a meal or part of a meal. My salad greens are a combo of baby spring mix and baby spinach topped usually topped with cucumber, red bell pepper and tomato. But I will also get a bit more adventurous at times and throw in things like jicama, cold cooked asparagus (or nearly any leftover cooked veggie that is on hand), shredded/baby carrots, tabbouleh, basil, chives, olives, pea pods and/or peas (frozen thrown in a small colander and run under warm water...just right!), marinated artichoke hearts, heat of palm, water chestnuts, sprouts (bean, alfalfa, broccoli), sundries tomatoes, pickles, .....you get the point!

I also eat cooked veggies every day....zucchini and summer squash, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, cabbage, bok choy, carrots, beets, sweet potatoes, spinach, onions...those are my usuals. Most veggies taste best roasted, but I frequently steam my broccoli and cauliflower and sautéed my green beans, cabbage, bok choy, onions. Love to grill my squash this time of year!

I eat less fruit than veg, but I average 1-2 servings per day. Apples, berries, pears are my standards, but melon, mango, and peaches in season are frequent visitors as well. Love bananas and pineapple but try to limit those due to high sugar. Sometimes kiwi, papaya, oranges, grapefruit too.


I think I have achieved a pretty thorough answer! .......P

YES!! If I could give out an award for best overall eater..YOU WIN!! You have inspired me to really work harder on getting more variety in there for my family! Wish we could do a week at your house!

I'm honored!

Hmm. This is a tough question. Since Matt's been home before starting a new job last week, he did all the cooking, so I wouldn't share the recipes he used because he wings it a lot and I don't really know what he did! But I'll share a couple of my favorite recipes with leafy and cruciferous greens instead...

Broccoli:
40-Cloves Chickpeas and Broccoli: Matt doesn't typically enjoy broccoli, but this is a really delicious way to prepare it! It's nothing fancy, but if you like garlic (this doesn't actually have FORTY cloves), this is a really nice, relatively easy way to get a ton of nutrition into a bowl.

Bistro Broccoli Chowder: Never in a million years would I have thought there was only 150 calories per serving in this soup. It's creamy and delicious--the secret ingredient is parsnips. Also, there is 5.5 grams of protein just from vegetable sources. It is kind of a game changer. It's really, really delicious, although the chopping takes a little bit of work. Well worth the effort, and it reheats beautifully!

Cauliflower:
Lasagna with Roasted Cauliflower Ricotta and Spinach: Cauliflower can be SNEAKY! And it's super healthy. Pulse up cooked cauliflower and add it to your ricotta in stuffed shells or lasagna. Sometimes, we also mash cauliflower to mix in with mashed potatoes.

Cabbage:
Curried Cabbage and Peas: Cabbage is so healthy, but I have such a hard time eating it! I like this side dish a lot, and it's got some color and variety with peas and a little bit of carrot. It would go really well with some rice cooked in a little bit of broth, and any kind of protein you're cooking up that night.

Swiss Chard:
Posole with Garnishes: Sometimes Martha just really knows what she's doing. A soup is a GREAT way to cook leafy greens, because it's easier to boil them than to sautee them, but you don't lose the nutrition because the nutrients just leach into the broth. If you're in a neighborhood where you can find tomatillos (and this is the season for them!), then this recipe is a delicious summer soup!! I typically only crisp up a couple corn torillas in the oven and slice up some avocado and radish as toppings, but you can also use Greek yogurt or sour cream if you like.

Dandelion Greens:
Leeky Broth with Ravioli: I make this with a small spoonful of pesto over the top and with gemelli pasta now that I'm vegan, and that is healthier than making it with filled pasta. But I've had very picky eaters eat this recipe when I made it with the tiny raviolis from Trader Joe's! This is perfect in the spring when leeks and bitter greens come into season before everything else.

Kale:
Sauteed Kale with Umeboshi Vinegar: OK, I don't have a recipe link for this one. I tried to find a recipe online that approximates it, but no dice, because everyone makes it fancier and more complicated than it needs to be when they're writing up a recipe. The basic gist is you par-boil the kale for just part of the way, drain, and rinse. Then sautee the kale in about a teaspoon per serving of sesame oil and, as the leaves become more tender, sprinkle with umeboshi vinegar. This is an Asian plum vinegar, and the flavor is incredible and just really makes the kale sing. It's worth looking for in the Asian section of your supermarket. Then, taste and sprinkle with soy sauce and/or Kosher salt until it's seasoned as you like. My FAVORITE way to make this recipe is with Lucianato (aka dinosaur) kale, which is a more wrinkly variety that cooks to be more tender than regular kale. And how fun is it to cook with something with "Dinosaur" in the name? (Note: If anyone is really interested in this but can't find umeboshi vinegar locally, I would be happy to ship some to you because I am crazy about it and would be happy to spread the love! Just PM me.)

Whew. OK. That's a good start. I hope somebody finds something that sounds interesting to them here!

I'm home sick from work today and feeling hungry but not up to cooking, so maybe I just wanted to eat vicariously through the recipes?

A lot of these are from a REALLY good low-calorie vegan cookbook called Appetite for Reduction by Isa Chandra Moskowitz. I actually would recommend this book to ANYONE looking for yummy ways to cook with a variety of vegetables, not just vegans. I've cooked at least 1/2 of the recipes in the book--some are better than others--but it's honestly just my go-to book for cooking a veggie based meal. And she's got all the nutrition info. for each recipe right in the book! (And someone awesome has entered them all into MFP, too, so it's very easy to fit the recipes into your plan!)

WOW!! Thanks! I just had to repost so people coming in don't miss it!! Wonderful!!

I had green veggies 11 times last week. Romaine, lettuce, spinach, snap peas & basil. Mostly in salads. I had the basil in hummus & I use it in chicken wraps as well.

11 times!! That is awesome!!! You are an accomplished Varietarian!

Everyone! Have a GREAT and blessed remainder of your Monday!!!! Thanks for all the great support and helps along this fitness journey!