Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower

I have no doubt that my continued On Plan success this week has come from the aid of my husband in the cooking department.  There is simply not enough time in my day to do all that I want to do, which includes cooking a healthy and full course meal each night.  On weekends I typically do a slew of meal prep for the upcoming week, but September has completely devoured all of my weekends with weddings and other fun activities.<br /><br />Tonight, Joel made one of my <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/04/slow-food-fast-italian-sausage-peppers.html" target="_blank">favorite meals</a> in the pressure cooker.   He used the sweet turkey sausage from Shady Brook Farms along with some broth, peppers and onions.  Out comes a delicious hot sausage meal in, literally, minutes.  That <a href="http://www.qvc.com/CooksEssentials-3-Quart-Stainless-Steel-Digital-Pressure-Cooker.product.K35934.html?sc=K35934-Zone&cm_scid=zone&cm_sp=MERCHZONE-_-Best+Sellers-_-2" target="_blank">pressure cooker</a> was one of the best things I've ever received as far as cooking tools.  Meals are completed so quickly and easily <i>and</i> deliciously.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVDTMySe9hiNardAAnzPcF8stve9y0z7sBBOCYEG8ePcl_rRmSjxXRmT-EnsWXaREgqfw9KYHwreJRz08mOvy_cLR5WpZ1vMfNV-Ofoe6jGwOhX-oa3pxL9KO6q-C8eQm0ZpEmlBusto/s1600/sausage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidVDTMySe9hiNardAAnzPcF8stve9y0z7sBBOCYEG8ePcl_rRmSjxXRmT-EnsWXaREgqfw9KYHwreJRz08mOvy_cLR5WpZ1vMfNV-Ofoe6jGwOhX-oa3pxL9KO6q-C8eQm0ZpEmlBusto/s400/sausage.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">an old pic of these delicious sausages! (you can tell it's<br />mine since I don't eat peppers & onions :) )</td></tr></tbody></table><br />In addition to the tasty meat came the side dish of <a href="http://www.mccormick.com/Recipes/Vegetables/Turmeric-Roasted-Cauliflower-and-Tomatoes.aspx" target="_blank">turmeric roasted cauliflower</a> - a veggie dish I most recently enjoyed at FitBloggin via the McCormick Spice experience.  Anything that is simple and gets me eating veggies is a major plus to me.  However, next time we are going to half the amount of olive oil and not include any salt.  It was super salty and oily.  I know that EVOO is good for us digestively speaking (helping us to absorb other nutrients more easily), but there was definitely too much oil for this Weight Watchin' gal. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WxfzvFFZg4incso5OqPsZVD8u1taUQI-nhg8UJnluZPFPlcaG2xq_j4xOSImoL7ro-p2HdFDS932Uj42qeETT1sriQwdJRGGg7GPBFuZ_pGdTVDdM5jnDegkNFe6Ql_4QtZDa4AkCqs/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5WxfzvFFZg4incso5OqPsZVD8u1taUQI-nhg8UJnluZPFPlcaG2xq_j4xOSImoL7ro-p2HdFDS932Uj42qeETT1sriQwdJRGGg7GPBFuZ_pGdTVDdM5jnDegkNFe6Ql_4QtZDa4AkCqs/s400/photo.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did finish off my day slightly over my DPT by 3 PP.  I had a cup of chocolate milk after my dinner.  I love milk so much and drinking it was totally worth it.  It served as my dessert for the evening!  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And after that very salty dish, it's just me and my Nalgene tonight!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9XC_CSqMe65IIAKPJ5XVvAbNqj9a3iQO3FVPjskA4AP8hZvWc__511eT15ZbvIgURmCzW5JjW1MhXyxLWidrxFloWmrWevBz1xlON8ppqhhAZhDqdWeGP5FczXqiy0EVUttE3y_tkXQ/s1600/nalgene+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9XC_CSqMe65IIAKPJ5XVvAbNqj9a3iQO3FVPjskA4AP8hZvWc__511eT15ZbvIgURmCzW5JjW1MhXyxLWidrxFloWmrWevBz1xlON8ppqhhAZhDqdWeGP5FczXqiy0EVUttE3y_tkXQ/s320/nalgene+2.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br />

Weight Watcher Recipes Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower

I have no doubt that my continued On Plan success this week has come from the aid of my husband in the cooking department.  There is simply ...

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Cowboy Spaghetti & Weekend Plans

On the dinner menu this week was, quite frankly, a ton of pasta.  It started off with Cowboy Spaghetti, followed by penne with homemade meatballs, and we rounded it all out last night with Joel's favorite, <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/204702745533861060/" target="_blank">Million Dollar Spaghetti</a>.  <br /><br />But please allow me to share this recipe for the Cowboy Spaghetti.  I borrowed this meal from the <a href="http://www.marlenekoch.com/books/eat-what-you-love/" target="_blank">Eat What You Love</a> cookbook.  This was different from traditional spaghetti in that it combined 3 different meats (beef, turkey and bacon) and was topped off with cheddar cheese, instead of the traditional grated Parmesan.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctzzzglrVr3L_BpnAGVQDABQHvINAoMH8kWL7JSlofL9RhYeMtmj_xYwNH4Y7qHATaf4GGREd-_qVhVTc0E7jSeh8g3Fg7BvL-zUBdGKvdnlQx4UjicyLpeD6rwrNJA6ZHXZzKx5tud8/s1600/eatwhatyoulove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctzzzglrVr3L_BpnAGVQDABQHvINAoMH8kWL7JSlofL9RhYeMtmj_xYwNH4Y7qHATaf4GGREd-_qVhVTc0E7jSeh8g3Fg7BvL-zUBdGKvdnlQx4UjicyLpeD6rwrNJA6ZHXZzKx5tud8/s320/eatwhatyoulove.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><br />I had never heard of this version of pasta prior to making it but after soliciting feedback on Facebook, <a href="http://www.nothankstocake.com/" target="_blank">Kelly</a> confirmed that she had!  As it turns out, a quick Google search proved that other versions exist out there too, including a <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/cowboy-spaghetti-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">5 star version</a> by Rachael Ray (her version has 298 reviews!).  If you click over, you'll see that the ingredients in her recipe are practically the same as this one I'm about to share!<br /><br /><br /><b>Cowboy Spaghetti</b> - <i>4 PointsPlus (for the sauce only)</i><br /><br /><i>Ingredients:</i><br /><ul><li>3 slices center-cut bacon, chopped</li><li>1 medium onion, chopped</li><li>1 medium green bell pepper, chopped</li><li>3-4 garlic cloves, minced</li><li>2 tsp dried oregano</li><li>1/2 lbs lean ground beef</li><li>1/2 pound lean ground turkey</li><li>1/8 tsp black pepper</li><li>1 tsp hot sauce (like Tabasco)</li><li>2 tsp Worcestershire sauce</li><li>1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted chopped tomatoes</li><li>1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce</li><li>3/4 cup (3 oz) reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese</li></ul><i>Directions:</i><br /><ol><li>Start by cooking your<a href="http://pasta-products-ronzonismarttaste.newworldpasta.com/Thin-Spaghetti-ZX0071300050016ZX2" target="_blank"> pasta of choice</a> according to the package directions while preparing the sauce.  Set aside when done.</li><li>Add the bacon to a large saute pan over medium-high heat and cook 5-6 minutes, or until slightly crispy.  Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic and oregano and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until veggies are slightly softened.  Add the ground beef and turkey.  Break apart the meat as it cooks for 5-7 minutes, or until browned.</li><li> Add the black pepper, hot sauce, Worcestershire, chopped tomatoes, and tomato sauce.  Stir and allow to simmer for 10 minutes.</li><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IpnQbauO30pLN0esxFauEzwXKxiUs4nWjR9lmFp-UEe7Dee7mOS2l_jXo-95xDNmF_WTTeDUL3hIz1YMQS_2Ms_Bjvy9VqgpJIajQcbxrFpGvB_nBV-B2tZ7q1ogXJf0pBwSlMpwGc0/s1600/Camping+&+VA+Beach+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-IpnQbauO30pLN0esxFauEzwXKxiUs4nWjR9lmFp-UEe7Dee7mOS2l_jXo-95xDNmF_WTTeDUL3hIz1YMQS_2Ms_Bjvy9VqgpJIajQcbxrFpGvB_nBV-B2tZ7q1ogXJf0pBwSlMpwGc0/s400/Camping+&+VA+Beach+014.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div><br /><li>Serve the hot pasta topped with 1/2 cup of the cowboy sauce and shredded cheese.</li></ol><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTPYcyZeocKNRj4PK8fzvAHzEHeT_-MJYVyvR-E-opgS71vCa0QkjYIRDc4ah9HKMn8M-IvVKdv8EOpaeRfWs4Jiadhy4rR9V4SLieiEgaC37ejGtw45B4PQ0xAdgdHPOsoPNtWG4nUU/s1600/cowboy+spaghetti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkTPYcyZeocKNRj4PK8fzvAHzEHeT_-MJYVyvR-E-opgS71vCa0QkjYIRDc4ah9HKMn8M-IvVKdv8EOpaeRfWs4Jiadhy4rR9V4SLieiEgaC37ejGtw45B4PQ0xAdgdHPOsoPNtWG4nUU/s320/cowboy+spaghetti.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="color: #674ea7; text-align: center;">*************************</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This weekend I'll be hitting the books and studying all there is to know about human anatomy and physiology.  In case you're new around here, I'm working on a second degree - I want to become a nurse!  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSbRvLh0hN9ZEIKONGNi02E79fIc7QIBMuLnDaxixAKuJQ2W2KhhK7Mzi6abTJ7b6XuFoCuQSVx1xBXmAfuWbrDxDwiuepkVVajdnbRpSRIDrqrOapBQ3LAK0bKpCOUGOEiOjU5VMZ0E8/s1600/textbooks+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSbRvLh0hN9ZEIKONGNi02E79fIc7QIBMuLnDaxixAKuJQ2W2KhhK7Mzi6abTJ7b6XuFoCuQSVx1xBXmAfuWbrDxDwiuepkVVajdnbRpSRIDrqrOapBQ3LAK0bKpCOUGOEiOjU5VMZ0E8/s400/textbooks+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That's right - 4 textbooks for one measly class!  Other than studying, I may have a little shopping trip break to TJ Maxx and/or Lane Bryant.  Apparently LB is having major sales this weekend. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm setting myself up for a fantastic, on plan weekend.  I've already completed 1 of my workouts for the week and I'm feeling very focused and motivated.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's to maintaining a positive, on plan and productive weekend! </div>

cowboy spaghetti Weight Watcher Recipes Cowboy Spaghetti & Weekend Plans

On the dinner menu this week was, quite frankly, a ton of pasta.  It started off with Cowboy Spaghetti, followed by penne with homemade meat...

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Everyday Cinnamon French Toast

I will never make French toast another way again.  I thought this was a totally genius way to make the popular breakfast dish!  The star ingredient is whole grain cinnamon swirl bread.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgR5Mes5-qloREpVKVnEhXdRplCbQQ3kJqjPzqOoo8mibpNdjy3xpIoXvk7C7hiS02BUMBqqBofbXQBV1ob2K1E6lvK2unWpS3uUDkO-zxJ7SwwcFQYeNyvZtKXezyB0hRZPVm5ustck/s1600/cinnamon+bread+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgR5Mes5-qloREpVKVnEhXdRplCbQQ3kJqjPzqOoo8mibpNdjy3xpIoXvk7C7hiS02BUMBqqBofbXQBV1ob2K1E6lvK2unWpS3uUDkO-zxJ7SwwcFQYeNyvZtKXezyB0hRZPVm5ustck/s400/cinnamon+bread+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />The recipe is a slight adaptation from the Eat What You Love cookbook (probably one of my favorite cookbooks ever - can't wait to pick up Eat More of What You Love!).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctzzzglrVr3L_BpnAGVQDABQHvINAoMH8kWL7JSlofL9RhYeMtmj_xYwNH4Y7qHATaf4GGREd-_qVhVTc0E7jSeh8g3Fg7BvL-zUBdGKvdnlQx4UjicyLpeD6rwrNJA6ZHXZzKx5tud8/s1600/eatwhatyoulove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctzzzglrVr3L_BpnAGVQDABQHvINAoMH8kWL7JSlofL9RhYeMtmj_xYwNH4Y7qHATaf4GGREd-_qVhVTc0E7jSeh8g3Fg7BvL-zUBdGKvdnlQx4UjicyLpeD6rwrNJA6ZHXZzKx5tud8/s320/eatwhatyoulove.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />This French toast offers plenty of rich, delicious cinnamon flavor, thanks to the bread already being infused with the cinnamon!  I made 4 servings of this and froze them for the work week.  Afterward, I nuked them for about 1 min 30 seconds and they were perfectly warm.  I also ate mine with 1/8 cup of light butter-flavored syrup. <br /><br />Pepperidge Farms has a cinnamon swirl bread as well as a whole grain cinnamon raisin swirl bread.  I believe both calculates the same PointsPlus-wise.  I used the latter and I loved it! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCIRWQe6SNIbWJh4BcwCSx_Hbpr8QLKBwJQ3CsBGzMZywk1TjR4KdxVXQ_CGwNKHAcpv9wr1gU010HZMwbwY280xYlRwdyQ5e3crgKAasvtMIW93NxnaX6adv2bDcRaRIyCJup_H01wA/s1600/cinn+swirl+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCIRWQe6SNIbWJh4BcwCSx_Hbpr8QLKBwJQ3CsBGzMZywk1TjR4KdxVXQ_CGwNKHAcpv9wr1gU010HZMwbwY280xYlRwdyQ5e3crgKAasvtMIW93NxnaX6adv2bDcRaRIyCJup_H01wA/s320/cinn+swirl+bread.jpg" width="299" /></a></div><br /> For 6 PointsPlus, you get two slices of the bread for breakfast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6bql7d55OsPlYsEjPFlvnphBVQ6mCI4aUjyivf_baYd6Xz5-BHmZvP-Y9cS4p5ooMOXBbrviOrc8MjhAwymM24V4WvqFzmauvccqfZQPETFoVECJC2ciRsYcddm4ukLjlZmq6oh7JUU/s1600/cinnamon+bread+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6bql7d55OsPlYsEjPFlvnphBVQ6mCI4aUjyivf_baYd6Xz5-BHmZvP-Y9cS4p5ooMOXBbrviOrc8MjhAwymM24V4WvqFzmauvccqfZQPETFoVECJC2ciRsYcddm4ukLjlZmq6oh7JUU/s400/cinnamon+bread+002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><b><u style="color: #351c75;">Eat What You Love: Everyday Cinnamon French Toast</u><i> </i></b><i>(6 PointsPlus)</i><b><br /></b><br /><br /><ul><li>1 egg</li><li>2 egg whites</li><li>1 cup skim milk</li><li>2 Tbsp Splenda granulated sweetener </li><li>3/4 tsp vanilla extract</li><li>8 slices Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Cinnamon Raisin Swirl Bread (I found this as Target)</li><li>1/2 tsp ground cinnamon</li></ul><br />1. Coat griddle or large skillet with nonstick spray and set over medium heat.<br /><br />2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together all ingredients except the bread.  Place slices of bread into the egg mixture, turning to coat both sides.<br /><br />3. Place the bread onto the hot griddle/skillet and cook until the underside is golden brown.  Turn and cook until the second side is golden brown.  Serve immediately.</blockquote><b style="color: #351c75;">Do you have a star ingredient in your favorite French toast recipe?</b><br /><br /><br />

Eat What You Love Weight Watcher Recipes Everyday Cinnamon French Toast

I will never make French toast another way again.  I thought this was a totally genius way to make the popular breakfast dish!  The star ing...

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Weight Watchers Baked Fruit Cinnamon Oatmeal

I had a special request to post this recipe, so here it is.  I have no pictures of this one though.  I will warn you: this recipe says it serves 8.  When baked in an 8 x 8 pan, naturally you would cut it evenly in to 8 pieces.  Then you realize how small those pieces are, and it's 7 PointsPlus!  However, in the cookbook, it also gives the weight of the serving size, which is 126 grams.  THAT makes this worth the 7 PointsPlus, especially because it's so filling.<br /><br />Also, I find that adding milk to it is necessary, since it is definitely on the dryer side otherwise (especially if you make this for the week).  <br /><br />I hope you like it!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJXlCNP6Pn0ZRzRcJ7nYu1P3q_FEP2LGstnjCozUxY_czjKAbMObMjB5qfCpDrDNgfvQeQbJ0sBIEOmoX19mc03vqyXx2McB1b4VkzfPgPGfUagGoSfcmNlDMckeTXG-O4pM1UZJI16E/s1600/ww+new+complete+cookbook.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibJXlCNP6Pn0ZRzRcJ7nYu1P3q_FEP2LGstnjCozUxY_czjKAbMObMjB5qfCpDrDNgfvQeQbJ0sBIEOmoX19mc03vqyXx2McB1b4VkzfPgPGfUagGoSfcmNlDMckeTXG-O4pM1UZJI16E/s320/ww+new+complete+cookbook.JPG" width="284" /></a></div><br /><b><u>Weight Watchers Baked Fruit Cinnamon Oatmeal</u> <i>(7 PointsPlus)</i></b><br /><ul><li>3 cup old-fashioned oats</li><li>1/2 cup chopped dried apricots</li><li>1/2 cup dried cranberries or blueberries <i>(I used bluebs!)</i></li><li>1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar</li><li>2 tsp baking powder</li><li>3/4 tsp ground cinnamon</li><li>1/4 tsp salt</li><li>1/2 cup plain fat-free yogurt</li><li>1 cup reduced fat (2%) milk <i>(I used skim)</i></li><li>1/2 cup applesauce</li><li>1/2 cup Egg Beaters</li><li>2 Tbsp canola oil</li><li>1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract</li></ul><i>Directions:</i><br /><ol><li>Preheat oven to 350.  Lightly spray and 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray.</li><li>Mix together oats, apricots, cranberries/blueberries, all but 2 Tbsp of brown sugar, the baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.  Whisk together yogurt, 1/2 cup milk, the applesauce, egg substitute, oil, and vanilla in a medium bowl until smooth.  Add yogurt mixture to oat mixture, stirring until combined well.</li><li>Spoon into prepared baking dish and spread evenly; sprinkle with remaining 2 tablespoons brown sugar.  Bake oatmeal until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean, about 35 minutes.  Let cool 10 minutes in baking dish on wire rack.  Cut oatmeal into 8 equal portions and serve with remaining 1/2 cup milk.</li></ol>Makes 8 servings

Weight Watcher Recipes Weight Watchers Baked Fruit Cinnamon Oatmeal

I had a special request to post this recipe, so here it is.  I have no pictures of this one though.  I will warn you: this recipe says it se...

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Things I'm Loving This Week

<b style="color: #674ea7;">1. Hungry Girl's <a href="http://www.hungry-girl.com/newsletters/raw/367" target="_blank">Yum Yum Brownie Muffins</a> {5 PointsPlus}</b><br /><br />These are definitely on the steeper side of PointsPlus values on sweet treats for me, especially since it's <i>just </i>a muffin!  However, they are really chocolatey and provide some hidden fiber as a bonus, thanks to the pumpkin.  They're actually a nice size too.  INCREDIBLY easy to make: simply mix <span style="color: #999999;">{ONLY}</span> the cake mix + the pumpkin puree and bake in 12 cup muffin tin at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. <span style="color: #999999;">{HG Tip: Make these in mini muffin tins to yield around 36 mini muffins at a smaller PointsPlus value!} </span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzgAL09sN8ngryhaBBVpWgXwjGAYDz_QmBmGKZUYsL72qb1roL9WahVSJF40dW7KG55TZiagLs_b3_jYzJv3-_VoanM_hUJ4cb2JbKmlu6OZmKUCo-K22zWO9ZiZSEWEJdMk7-Zmc5Gg/s1600/brownie+muffins+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzgAL09sN8ngryhaBBVpWgXwjGAYDz_QmBmGKZUYsL72qb1roL9WahVSJF40dW7KG55TZiagLs_b3_jYzJv3-_VoanM_hUJ4cb2JbKmlu6OZmKUCo-K22zWO9ZiZSEWEJdMk7-Zmc5Gg/s400/brownie+muffins+3.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">easy peezy</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8quTmk7iE289_IXUjUw5K3u09s9usEkcdUu0tp3ZyBDZqNBPkmMq5dlAmmUYJuWQqSQufY2EVAXL3HUVlMC5htmJwCWkQDA-bXbNwzK6Ibw5VIxwC5ZpjO4cHXUxhYrlcPQZCuuT32wU/s1600/brownie+muffins+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8quTmk7iE289_IXUjUw5K3u09s9usEkcdUu0tp3ZyBDZqNBPkmMq5dlAmmUYJuWQqSQufY2EVAXL3HUVlMC5htmJwCWkQDA-bXbNwzK6Ibw5VIxwC5ZpjO4cHXUxhYrlcPQZCuuT32wU/s400/brownie+muffins+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />You could argue that these muffins have an almost....dis-pleasurable look to them. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOd72hil_x3hBe8_SV4SM3pBseHdR90UOaXMTpGFAVOlabeFZhaqD0xi5D9wxwmYPMMXTesivZYZhWMvnfQgj7-9oQwt0as49KAUNJD69B-LPuSKhHBm6karLlgPIYxVP1BtfC-HCECQ/s1600/brownie+muffins+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOd72hil_x3hBe8_SV4SM3pBseHdR90UOaXMTpGFAVOlabeFZhaqD0xi5D9wxwmYPMMXTesivZYZhWMvnfQgj7-9oQwt0as49KAUNJD69B-LPuSKhHBm6karLlgPIYxVP1BtfC-HCECQ/s400/brownie+muffins+2.jpg" width="306" /></a></div> <br />They somewhat resemble what might "happen" to you if you consume endless amounts of fiber.  BUT if you can look past their....outward appearance.... and try not to think about it as you bite into the goodness, you will be glad you didn't judge this brownie-muffin by it's cover!<br /><div style="color: #351c75;"><br /></div><div style="color: #674ea7;"><b>2. Mini Chopper</b></div>I received this mini chopper as a Christmas gift two years ago.  My mom purchased it as part of a Black Friday special at Wal-Mart for $4.97.  Sometimes, you get what you pay for.  In this case, I can assure you that this less than $5 chopper has been nothing short of amazing and useful since I first unwrapped it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBW4wQklboCx6K2-iuZtHDBU7iNLDG3KjLqDmO77IvA-C7SJtB7cJY1UD7dQd9x1JlGNGURTf8G0X0l87tdHYX5HmR_K_zkYqoE4YENgMWHEkOE1WlKMUspywcoZgpkxWPMw4mFpNozg/s1600/mini+chopper+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbBW4wQklboCx6K2-iuZtHDBU7iNLDG3KjLqDmO77IvA-C7SJtB7cJY1UD7dQd9x1JlGNGURTf8G0X0l87tdHYX5HmR_K_zkYqoE4YENgMWHEkOE1WlKMUspywcoZgpkxWPMw4mFpNozg/s400/mini+chopper+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />I primarily use my mini chopper to get those pesky onions minced up.  I hate onions, but a lot of ingredients in recipes that I cook often call for them.  Once upon a time I would've never considered putting onions in a dish.  But since I got my mini chopper, I can get them so finely minced that I can pretend they're not even in the food I'm making!<br /><br />Of course, it's also extremely good at grinding up Oreos to make <a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/easy-oreo-truffles-95085.aspx" target="_blank">Oreo Truffles</a>.  <span style="color: #999999;">{Tip: If you do make the truffles, refrigerate or freeze them for up to an hour before dipping them in the chocolate.  Otherwise you will have a mess of melted Oreo balls in your bowl of chocolate.}</span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbbZScAuAe7o9azHmpfefyTZj1lB9H4C5-AYRpiAeZFza6jifIlL6h7n0Ky2wTJSFlTGqpiHZCBbxnYoEF_z2HtBBkjAcVniRjOIStSLPlod_-e77ipVgZmBFPOvtL45HFchfyclGeFk/s1600/mini+chopper+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbbZScAuAe7o9azHmpfefyTZj1lB9H4C5-AYRpiAeZFza6jifIlL6h7n0Ky2wTJSFlTGqpiHZCBbxnYoEF_z2HtBBkjAcVniRjOIStSLPlod_-e77ipVgZmBFPOvtL45HFchfyclGeFk/s400/mini+chopper+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />The stainless steel blade, chopper bowl, and lid are all dishwasher safe.  What more could you ask for in a $5 kitchen appliance?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Y9Gpjqa3eVagyznQwpaEL7sDF4HN9At_55wYehcl3ybq8aelNP4v-iuEogXCvVNwcoN5lHgO2Ruebrkri6g3J9LgAS6MnFwiMdBKkqW0tym81BmEXeVjP2ZDQWveEqebSdAFNlgI-gs/s1600/mini+chopper+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Y9Gpjqa3eVagyznQwpaEL7sDF4HN9At_55wYehcl3ybq8aelNP4v-iuEogXCvVNwcoN5lHgO2Ruebrkri6g3J9LgAS6MnFwiMdBKkqW0tym81BmEXeVjP2ZDQWveEqebSdAFNlgI-gs/s400/mini+chopper+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />I have used this chopper over and over and <i>over </i>again, and the blade is starting to get a little dull.  Any idea where I can go to get something like that sharpened?<br /><br /><div style="color: #674ea7;"><b>3.  <a href="http://www.drpepper.com/products/#drpepperten" target="_blank">Dr. Pepper Ten</a></b></div>Diet pop is an acquired taste, let's face it.  It's about the same as during your freshman year of college, when your first taste of an alcoholic beverage is, inevitably, cheap beer.  You choke it down at first, but eventually you cannot even tell the difference between <a href="http://www.anheuser-busch.com/s/index.php/our-beers/#%21Natural" target="_blank">Natural Light</a> and the "premium" beer that is the <a href="http://www.coorslight.com/" target="_blank">Silver Bullet</a>.  {That was then, however!  No way will you catch me sipping a Natty Light these days!}<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOX_yXOEh9yoJwq015YmZTP6m6mVyq9775QTsL4fQhT4B5ImnFBeng4kJx5f9PEbZK2ARFPLnuQ0eCArbNf_6u8xBPHOtbMg6wvpQiVIL7R0KJwrJ-O-inDcTuKNckE7M3qN-hVqwx1U/s1600/dr+pepper+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOX_yXOEh9yoJwq015YmZTP6m6mVyq9775QTsL4fQhT4B5ImnFBeng4kJx5f9PEbZK2ARFPLnuQ0eCArbNf_6u8xBPHOtbMg6wvpQiVIL7R0KJwrJ-O-inDcTuKNckE7M3qN-hVqwx1U/s400/dr+pepper+1.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><br />Still, Dr. Pepper Ten is the closest variation to it's "parent" version that I've tasted yet.  Coke Zero may be a close second.  But Dr. Pepper Ten has absolutely no after taste what so ever.  And for 10 calories, I will take it!  I don't drink a lot of diet pop, but I will not hesitate to use it as a substitute for eating whenever I'm craving food.  I find it filling and it gives me a taste of something other than water.  <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Gk5pdxFuGUGSXGbBH5vcUjcBzqsnSItWrwgMalqLoeZObXsP4qEZi8Na5w9SZk5Vc_3LfFjIMn9sALUuNZI8qLq10pzFaHwv8Ld1XI1qT7AIUF9sfdmYVXi_7m8YzfZKbYK4CNhecBc/s1600/dr+pepper+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Gk5pdxFuGUGSXGbBH5vcUjcBzqsnSItWrwgMalqLoeZObXsP4qEZi8Na5w9SZk5Vc_3LfFjIMn9sALUuNZI8qLq10pzFaHwv8Ld1XI1qT7AIUF9sfdmYVXi_7m8YzfZKbYK4CNhecBc/s400/dr+pepper+002.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">click to make larger - yes, there is HFCS</td></tr></tbody></table><br />This gem was an accidental discovery whenever Joel was looking for a low-cal mixer for his Jack Daniels fix.  I'm so glad he discovered this!<br /><br /><b style="color: #674ea7;">What are some things you love this week?</b>

Hungry Girl Things I Love Weight Loss Products Weight Watcher Recipes Things I'm Loving This Week

1. Hungry Girl's Yum Yum Brownie Muffins {5 PointsPlus} These are definitely on the steeper side of PointsPlus values on sweet treats f...

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Kickin' Chicken Pot Pie

One thing I love in particular about this version of pot pie is the crust. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZBJZAGTIdI1PJVR0eaCsxMWODRxsdMpqNt2UsLngU569HZw4wf-fDmxcWTONER8-6gb2i0flk_ng6C36mNN4cWWOWICiLRc1xoXwKvpUtmH8pB7yLQHBWjX_VjAcc2JdI2VEyJqUh3c/s1600/chicken+pot+pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZBJZAGTIdI1PJVR0eaCsxMWODRxsdMpqNt2UsLngU569HZw4wf-fDmxcWTONER8-6gb2i0flk_ng6C36mNN4cWWOWICiLRc1xoXwKvpUtmH8pB7yLQHBWjX_VjAcc2JdI2VEyJqUh3c/s400/chicken+pot+pie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Hungry Girl makes it using Pillsbury Reduced Fat Crescent Rolls, making for a really delicious and buttery flavored topping.  As much as I love pot pie, I'm less of a fan of the pie crust used to make a traditional pot pie.  This one? Love!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuPm2pkWxJAKyFX7Rar9L1bzVDdqIO0RvACzvtCNhcctnQRPFNA-XkxGleEomn3zpmsSilg7R6OL9_M2sN0MQhmFKKasGvEyW_QYxx8SHlBBqE7jZtWnbG7D2oFDQb1FuZvY0I8rbeFY/s1600/hungry-girl-book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNuPm2pkWxJAKyFX7Rar9L1bzVDdqIO0RvACzvtCNhcctnQRPFNA-XkxGleEomn3zpmsSilg7R6OL9_M2sN0MQhmFKKasGvEyW_QYxx8SHlBBqE7jZtWnbG7D2oFDQb1FuZvY0I8rbeFY/s320/hungry-girl-book.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><b><u>Hungry Girl's <a href="http://www.hungry-girl.com/newsletters/raw/710" target="_blank">Kickin' Chicken Pot Pie</a></u> - <i>7 PointsPlus</i></b><br /><i>Ingredients:</i><br /><ul><li>8 oz. raw boneless skinless chicken breast; cut into bite-sized pieces<i> (I used a can of chunk chicken)</i></li><li>3 cups frozen mixed vegetables</li><li>1 can (10.75 oz.) Campbell's Condensed Soup, 98% Fat Free Cream of Celery</li><li>3 servings (triangles) Pillsbury Reduced Fat Crescent Rolls (unprepared)</li></ul><i>Directions:</i><br />Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Saute chicken pieces for several minutes in a pan spritzed with nonstick cooking spray, until chicken is light brown/cooked but still tender; set aside. Heat frozen veggies in microwave according to package. Mix chicken, vegetables and soup together and put in a 9" round baking dish sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Place dish in oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly (stir about halfway through). While dish is cooking, unroll 3 crescent rolls. Combine pieces together with hands to make one large ball of dough. With a rolling pin, roll dough out into a circle to cover top of dish <span style="color: #674ea7;">{you have to get it very, VERY thin!}</span> . Add dough to the top of the dish and cook for an additional 15 - 20 minutes or until top is golden brown. Serves 4.</blockquote><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZnYA-YWmL_16uQkznFfgEIcgdT1s3yuMLOkIEk6uRnQgf0s7dAixoXouVvG5vxfSTQCSo7Bn96_xJ093AyjpxUP8I8q_Q87iP-P8MIUmLjvGqpkyHBzvlJSTR3qu5pbUX_M23YfQDaXk/s1600/pot+pie+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZnYA-YWmL_16uQkznFfgEIcgdT1s3yuMLOkIEk6uRnQgf0s7dAixoXouVvG5vxfSTQCSo7Bn96_xJ093AyjpxUP8I8q_Q87iP-P8MIUmLjvGqpkyHBzvlJSTR3qu5pbUX_M23YfQDaXk/s400/pot+pie+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />

Hungry Girl Weight Watcher Recipes Kickin' Chicken Pot Pie

One thing I love in particular about this version of pot pie is the crust.  Hungry Girl makes it using Pillsbury Reduced Fat Crescent Rolls,...

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Fast Fix Lasagna

Those of us trying to lose weight know more than anyone how difficult it can be to enjoy pasta.  2 oz of spaghetti is such a joke!<br /><br />Hungry Girl certainly has her <a href="http://www.hungry-girl.com/newsletters/raw/666" target="_blank">substitutes</a>, but I still prefer the real deal.  My go to pasta is <a href="http://ronzonismarttaste.newworldpasta.com/" target="_blank">Ronzoni's Smart Taste</a> - loaded with fiber, but not grainy like traditional whole wheat pasta.<br /><br />I always say that my favorite "international" cuisine is Italian, and particularly lasagna.  I LOVE lasagna.  I'm worse than Garfield when it comes to this layered feast.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://theskinnyonmyjeans.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/its-that-kind-of-day.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://theskinnyonmyjeans.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/its-that-kind-of-day.gif" width="324" /></a></div><br /><br />I came upon <a href="http://www.marlenekoch.com/" target="_blank">Marlene Koch's</a> recipe for a lasagna-style dish called Fast Fix Lasagna.  Though this is not prepared with your traditional flat lasagna noodles.  She uses these cute little curvy numbers called Campanelle {i.e. "bell flowers"} noodles.  Have you heard of them?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3aZSckjoWsxrwaGPwRKlq7SkoY0Q7ZPBeMg96dhJTKd8EBjfWUoiHS8jh-77WSHkmes2m7_z-h_jlQe9m_nyagLRG18yJNZvPr6LAn8J5SjtEpOD4evvQbhGokz-ToE4mSQFS0BK0kE/s1600/campanelle+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3aZSckjoWsxrwaGPwRKlq7SkoY0Q7ZPBeMg96dhJTKd8EBjfWUoiHS8jh-77WSHkmes2m7_z-h_jlQe9m_nyagLRG18yJNZvPr6LAn8J5SjtEpOD4evvQbhGokz-ToE4mSQFS0BK0kE/s320/campanelle+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Man, I had a hard time finding these.  None of my grocery stores {Giant, Safeway or Shoppers Food Warehouse} carried them.  It wasn't until months later, after first attempting to make this dish, that I stumbled upon them at Target.  Thank you Tar-jay for stocking these awesome noodles in your stores!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjbVvSerD2iPhL0pyxeeyv9FEsSJ_aBH2jEXvpc-sbPVA5b5JUyPFupV9h2ZHepFWyTi8LL5TZUVIEfUSZNrNFXJz3l2ZyW9W33BROyG_grQwR-KUa0EoJ6E1n76JFWv-oaLfYdMYEi4/s1600/campanelle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjbVvSerD2iPhL0pyxeeyv9FEsSJ_aBH2jEXvpc-sbPVA5b5JUyPFupV9h2ZHepFWyTi8LL5TZUVIEfUSZNrNFXJz3l2ZyW9W33BROyG_grQwR-KUa0EoJ6E1n76JFWv-oaLfYdMYEi4/s400/campanelle.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><br />Essentially, the process of making Fast Fix Lasagna is the same as making regular lasagna - the only difference being the noodle shape.  Below is the original recipe.  Obviously because it's pasta, it's high in PointsPlus values, but I promise you it is a nice serving size (1.5 cups or 1/12 of the recipe) and is filling.  Served with a side salad, you'd be plenty satisfied!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2VyQb0mJWVVIMkZXXExyuJMqQrNyT_kEpFurP3X41-_NLFwsIEejAOEDJRdY3N2NNLNVLPoAeocqvQP0aaKWPa1Wk_FeFS8-W2mUne4P-x8r4wYgw4oLj43WvzIW5TyYyBawVtd2iHE/s1600/fast+fix+lasagna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU2VyQb0mJWVVIMkZXXExyuJMqQrNyT_kEpFurP3X41-_NLFwsIEejAOEDJRdY3N2NNLNVLPoAeocqvQP0aaKWPa1Wk_FeFS8-W2mUne4P-x8r4wYgw4oLj43WvzIW5TyYyBawVtd2iHE/s400/fast+fix+lasagna.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looks just like lasagna to me!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Enjoy!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctzzzglrVr3L_BpnAGVQDABQHvINAoMH8kWL7JSlofL9RhYeMtmj_xYwNH4Y7qHATaf4GGREd-_qVhVTc0E7jSeh8g3Fg7BvL-zUBdGKvdnlQx4UjicyLpeD6rwrNJA6ZHXZzKx5tud8/s1600/eatwhatyoulove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctzzzglrVr3L_BpnAGVQDABQHvINAoMH8kWL7JSlofL9RhYeMtmj_xYwNH4Y7qHATaf4GGREd-_qVhVTc0E7jSeh8g3Fg7BvL-zUBdGKvdnlQx4UjicyLpeD6rwrNJA6ZHXZzKx5tud8/s320/eatwhatyoulove.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">her new book is coming out in March!<br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Eat-More-What-You-Love/dp/0762445890" target="_blank">Eat More of What You Love</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><u>Eat What You Love - Fast Fix Lasagna</u> - <i>8 PointsPlus</i></b><br /><b>Ingredients:</b><br /><ul><li>12 oz campanelle noodles</li><li>1 Tbsp olive oil</li><li>1 small white onion, chopped</li><li>3 garlic cloves, chopped</li><li>8 oz Italian turkey sausage, bulk or removed from casings (I used Shadybrook Farms)</li><li>1 (14 oz) can reduced-sodium beef broth</li><li>1/3 cup dry red wine</li><li>1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes</li><li>1 (6 oz) can tomato paste</li><li>2 tsp granulated sugar</li><li>1 1/2 tsp dried basil</li><li>1 1/2 tsp dried oregano</li><li>1/4 tsp black pepper</li><li>1 1/2 cups low-fat cottage cheese</li><li>1 (15 oz) pkg part skim ricotta cheese</li><li>2 Tbsp water</li><li>2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese</li><li>1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese</li></ul><br /><b>Directions:</b><br />1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 13 x 9 inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.<br /><br />2. Cook the pasta according to package directions while preparing the sauce and set aside.<br /><br />3. Marinara sauce: In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.  Add the onion and saute for 2 minutes, or until tender.  Add the garlic and sausage and cook until meat is slightly browned.  Deglaze the pan by pouring in the beef broth and wine and scraping the browned bits from the bottom.  Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, herbs and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.<br /><br />4. In a medium bowl, mix together the cottage cheese and ricotta cheese.  Add the water and a dash of black pepper.  Set aside.<br /><br />5. Toss half of the red sauce with the cooked pasta.  Layer half of the pasta in the casserole dish.  Top evenly with the cheese mixture.  Pour 1/2 cup of sauce across cheese mixture and top with remaining pasta.  Cover with remaining sauce and sprinkle top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.<br /><br />6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until heated through.  Serve.<br /><br />

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Papa Bear Oatmeal & Some Housecleaning

Good Tuesday to ya!<br /><br />Hopefully you all got to enjoy a nice, long holiday weekend.  I had 4 days off, but was busy for every single second of them!  The goal for the weekend was to get my life in order before classes started (today) and also to get our <a href="http://www.davisdeejays.com/" target="_blank">DJ</a> and <a href="http://photography.benpowellmedia.com/">wedding photographer</a> squared away.  Check. Check. Check!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://photography.benpowellmedia.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsPxlL9kePNyff4LCtrIDQZWUGoeowBRld80-jOqECIDfOpKbRfe3qnOdFPBxkzjfN-bVUsithyzpaqHK3MXhjd1Lg1qEiNVXP6TKKKX7hyphenhyphenIZYHwNy30yo_bt2_C-Jc8mHBzJDtLBoJc/s1600/BPP.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>Housecleaning</b><br />#1 - I'm <i>still </i>playing catch up on my Google Reader with all of your blog posts!  I try to follow every person who comes to The Big Weight and comments (plus a few others!), and I'm just extremely behind.  Ever since the holidays, I cannot get caught up.  It's going to get worse too because of school.  So having said that, know that I'm still reading your posts, I'm just VERY behind!<br /><br />#2 - I know that from now until the end of April my life is going to be devoted to: work, school, & wedding.  Tumbleweeds may start blowing around these parts.  I just want to put it out there.  I will <i>absolutely </i>check in weekly to let you all know how the weight loss is progressing, but by no means will I be posting daily.  I will <i>try </i>to post as often as I can.<br /><br />Phew! Glad I got that all off my chest.<br /><br /><b>Recipe</b><br />I tried this great recipe over the weekend, thanks to Paula Deen's Deen Family Cookbook.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.betterworldbooks.com/074/Paula-Deen-s-the-Deen-Family-Cookbook-Deen-Paula-H-9780743278133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.betterworldbooks.com/074/Paula-Deen-s-the-Deen-Family-Cookbook-Deen-Paula-H-9780743278133.jpg" width="252" /></a></div><br />I had a hankering for some hearty oatmeal, and boy did I find it in the <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/papa-bear-oatmeal-recipe/index.html">Papa Bear Oatmeal</a>.  Now, before you immediately discount it as a healthy recipe, just give it a chance!  It received, on average, 5 full stars on the Food Network website!  <br /><br />I admit that if you follow the recipe exactly as she lays it out, it becomes caloric quickly.  However, with some modifications, you can definitely make this fit within your Daily PointsPlus allowance (or whatever plan you follow).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrP0VkBoSiPHDhsQN9tn9peY8lHxS8-fv_WIdoBOchElf7b_zXuoKkPVLkqmornRJxbOnG9W6eQ_IE0vJqxfsV7Oo7fslzjlBKxuwNNzI0gFkA7-ZUB8NhzropjUpAs9q6-S197aKp2k/s1600/oatmeal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzrP0VkBoSiPHDhsQN9tn9peY8lHxS8-fv_WIdoBOchElf7b_zXuoKkPVLkqmornRJxbOnG9W6eQ_IE0vJqxfsV7Oo7fslzjlBKxuwNNzI0gFkA7-ZUB8NhzropjUpAs9q6-S197aKp2k/s400/oatmeal.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>  <br />So, without further adieu:<br /><br /><b><u>Papa Bear Oatmeal</u> - <i>9 PointsPlus</i></b> <i>(don't be scared - make it to suit you!)</i><br /><i><b>Ingredients:</b></i><br /><ul><li>    1/8 teaspoon salt</li><li>    2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant or quick cooking)</li><li>    3 1/2 cups water</li><li>    2/3 cup raisins</li><li>    1 banana, sliced</li><li>    1 cup sliced strawberries</li><li>    1/2 cup heavy cream <i>(I used half & half)</i></li><li>    Brown sugar, for serving</li><li>    Honey, for serving</li></ul><br /><i><b>Directions</b></i><br />In a medium saucepan, bring 3 1/2 cups water and the salt to a boil. Stir in the oats and simmer until almost thickened, about 15 minutes. Stir in the raisins and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more<br /><br />Spoon the oatmeal into individual bowls and serve. Place the banana and strawberry slices, cream, brown sugar, and honey into the oatmeal bowl. Stir if desired.<br /><br />Makes 4 Servings<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoJUR-Up2rKNx3bT1YR3LNrVQET_Uh-VYQrWTqcCkBnpZvVg1qEOgv8V4B6ngOlG3tRRdFa2YLus0TcKIL63xdwxryb-bdnTAeZzIW30V2XOpGKVYTGS7K-AwpkXsSEmdegfkZSpErdI/s1600/oatmeal+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoJUR-Up2rKNx3bT1YR3LNrVQET_Uh-VYQrWTqcCkBnpZvVg1qEOgv8V4B6ngOlG3tRRdFa2YLus0TcKIL63xdwxryb-bdnTAeZzIW30V2XOpGKVYTGS7K-AwpkXsSEmdegfkZSpErdI/s400/oatmeal+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><b><i>Modifications</i></b><br />Let me just say... I'm used to eating my oatmeal with only water.  Never have I <i>ever </i>put milk/cream in mine.  Boy, what a difference that makes!  So, having said that, here is what I did:<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">1. After making the oatmeal, I measured out 1 cup of the cooked oatmeal with the raisins.<br />2. I added 2 tsp of brown sugar, 1/2 sliced banana, 1 cup strawberries, 1/8 cup half & half, and 1 tsp of honey.  </blockquote><br />That is how I got to 9 PointsPlus.  However, you could cut back further on the sugar/honey or reduce your serving size of the oatmeal from 1 cup to a 1/2 cup.  You could eliminate the cream all together, but I would try not to :).... it really adds something to it!  Trust me, it's worth playing around with.  It's incredibly filling AND you're getting to knock out those fruit servings.  If you're someone who struggles with the daily fruit/veggie intake {like me}, then this is a great way to sneak those in.<br /><br /><b style="color: #351c75;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">Do you have a favorite oatmeal combination you like?</span> </b><br /><br />

Deen Family Cookbook Paula Deen wedding Weight Watcher Recipes Papa Bear Oatmeal & Some Housecleaning

Good Tuesday to ya! Hopefully you all got to enjoy a nice, long holiday weekend.  I had 4 days off, but was busy for every single second of ...

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Deen Family Cookbook: Meemaw's Kitchen Sink Christmas Cookies

As you'll soon find out, these cookies had a ton of ingredients in them, making the taste oh-so-delicious.  The resulting texture of the cookie was unexpected.  Mine turned our rather crumbly.  They remained whole when I'd pick them up, but they almost felt like sand in your hands.  Hard to describe, and I'm not sure if I did something wrong or if that was the intended texture.  I saw a few reviews online where people had the same result, so I guess that was supposed to happen?  They were still delicious!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVCCIdaAz2OVmor3zPAYIpSU6IDAhOu5obQFztMemx20yFq3CT6NiCM5_h2dswyMF1z95qQLwqKAh2IvZeQQ6K-0U2wvpLTI2XTPE3Szao3kQv0msiAbfB77VSMt6a1rb1wkigmzD7Omo/s1600/Cookie+Exchange+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVCCIdaAz2OVmor3zPAYIpSU6IDAhOu5obQFztMemx20yFq3CT6NiCM5_h2dswyMF1z95qQLwqKAh2IvZeQQ6K-0U2wvpLTI2XTPE3Szao3kQv0msiAbfB77VSMt6a1rb1wkigmzD7Omo/s400/Cookie+Exchange+011.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.recipestap.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-o-matic/cache/5709d_deen-family-cookbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.recipestap.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-o-matic/cache/5709d_deen-family-cookbook.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><br /><b><u>Deen Family Cookbook - Meemaw's Kitchen Sink Christmas Cookies</u> (3 Points+ each)</b><br /><i><b>Ingredients</b></i><br />-3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />-1 teaspoon baking soda<br />-1 teaspoon cream of tartar<br />-3/4 teaspoon salt<br />-1/2 pound (2 sticks) butter, softened<br />-1 cup granulated sugar<br />-1 cup lightly packed light brown sugar<br />-1 cup vegetable oil<br />-1 egg<br />-1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />-1 cup puffed rice cereal<br />-1 cup sweetened flaked coconut<br /> -1 cup rolled old-fashioned oats<br />-1 (8-ounce) package toffee bits<br /><br /><i><b>Directions</b></i><br />In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.<br /><br />Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugars. Scrape the sides of the mixer bowl and beat in the oil, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Beat in the flour mixture in 3 small additions, scraping the sides of the bowl after each one. Slowly beat in the rice cereal, coconut, and oats. Fold in the toffee bits and refrigerate the dough, covered, for 1 hour.<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.<br /><br />Drop rounded tablespoons of dough on 2 cookie sheets, leaving at least 1-inch of space around each drop. Bake until the cookies are golden around the edges, 12 to 14 minutes. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool.<br /><br />Makes approximately 60 cookies. <i>Mine made 74. </i><br /><br /><i>Note: If you Google this recipe, the one shown on <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/meemaws-kitchen-sink-christmas-cookies-recipe/index.html">Foodnetwork.com</a> is slightly different.  That one shows them dipped in chocolate sprinkled with crushed candy canes, which sound amazing, but this was not how it was published in the cookbook.</i>

Deen Family Cookbook Paula Deen Weight Watcher Recipes Deen Family Cookbook: Meemaw's Kitchen Sink Christmas Cookies

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BHG Fudgy Cappuccino Crinkles

These Fudgy Cappuccino Crinkles are very similar to your typical chocolate crinkle cookies, except with a hint of coffee taste.  I'm not a huge fan of coffee, but I did love these - the taste was so subtle. <i><b> </b></i><br /><i><b><br /></b></i><br />The cookies come out similar to the photo below should you choose to use powdered sugar.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tinyjoys.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/crink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://tinyjoys.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/crink.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not my picture, because I totally forgot to take one!  <a href="http://tinyjoys.files.wordpress.com/">Source</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51D79NCV4VL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51D79NCV4VL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a></div><br /><u><b>Better Homes & Gardens: Fudgy Cappuccino Crinkles</b></u><i><b> (1 Points+ for one cookie)</b></i><br /><i><b>Ingredients: </b></i><br />-1/3 cup butter, softened (no substitutes)<br />-1 cup packed brown sugar<br />-2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br />-1 tablespoon instant coffee granules<br />-1 teaspoon baking soda<br />-1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />-2 egg whites<br />-1/3 cup vanilla yogurt<br />-1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour<br />-1/4 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar or powdered sugar<br /><br /><br /><i><b>Directions:</b></i><br />Beat butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add the brown sugar, cocoa powder, coffee granules, baking soda, and cinnamon.  Beat until combined, scraping sides of the bowl occasionally.<br /><br />Beat in egg whites and yogurt until combined.  Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.  Stir in remaining flour with a wooden spoon.  Refrigerate dough for at least 3 hours.<br /><br />Heat oven to 350 degrees F. <br /><br />Place granulated sugar/sifted powdered sugar in a small bowl.  Drop dough by heaping teaspoons into sugar and roll into balls.<br /><br />Place balls 2 inches apart on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are firm.<br /><br />Transfer cookies to wire racks and cool.<br /><br />Makes approximately 40 cookies, though mine made more, making them 1 Points+ each.

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Hungry Girl 1-2-3: Fiesta Bites

These Fiesta Bites were a huge hit at the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/12/weekend-recap.html">cookie exchange</a>.  No one knew they were "diet friendly" food either, which I love :).  That little "secret" makes them all the more delicious, wouldn't you say?  I topped some with tomatoes and some without, since the chef doesn't eat tomatoes unless it's coming from a Heinz bottle!    <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQKkwF_BOg58C2FCjXQrKlJ1EgQqjc5y8hsSRWNZKznn2yRx6PolQAWTnlqyZx5IncxsWE1bC6BTga4ECHTsfJn6umcEnuGcJD0WcxFu0INUmFC2GzTqndrnMyYgaIV-a8cWTWECcJsA/s1600/cookie+exchange+013+redone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQKkwF_BOg58C2FCjXQrKlJ1EgQqjc5y8hsSRWNZKznn2yRx6PolQAWTnlqyZx5IncxsWE1bC6BTga4ECHTsfJn6umcEnuGcJD0WcxFu0INUmFC2GzTqndrnMyYgaIV-a8cWTWECcJsA/s400/cookie+exchange+013+redone.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Please note my modifications that make them come out to 1 Points+ each.  Also, my version below is doubled.  In her book the recipe is halved - making only 12 servings. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID660/images/hungrygirl123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID660/images/hungrygirl123.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><u><b>Hungry Girl Fiesta Bites</b></u> (1 Points+ for one "bite")<br /><br /><i><b>Ingredients</b><b>: </b></i>  <br />-24 small square wonton wrappers <i>(I ended up using 30)</i><br />-4 tablespoons taco sauce<br />-2 tablespoons fat-free cream cheese, room temperature <i>(I used WW block cream cheese)</i><br />-2 teaspoons dry taco seasoning mix<br />-Two 9.75-ounce (or 10-ounce) can 98% fat-free chunk white chicken breast in water, drained and flaked<br />-1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed<br />-1/2 cup corn, thawed from frozen<br />-1/2 cup shredded fat-free cheddar cheese <i>(I used 2% shredded cheddar)</i><br />-2 plum tomatoes, chopped<br />-Optional: salt and black pepper to taste <i><b><br /></b></i><br /><i><b>Preparation: </b></i></blockquote><blockquote>Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br /><br />Spray a 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick spray. Place each wonton wrapper into a cup of the muffin pan, and press it into the bottom and sides.<br /><br />Lightly spray the wrappers with nonstick spray. Bake in the oven for about 4 minutes, until the corners begin to brown. Leaving the oven on, set muffin pan aside to cool.<br /><br />Mix taco sauce, cream cheese, and taco seasoning together in a bowl. Add chicken and stir until coated. Add beans, corn, and cheddar cheese. Stir well. If you like, season to taste with salt and pepper.<br /><br />Evenly distribute mixture into the wonton shells, about 2 tablespoons each <i>(Note: I only used 1 Tbsp for each won ton, which seemed to be plenty!)</i>. Return pan to the oven and bake for about 8 minutes, until the chicken mixture is hot.<br /><br />Once cool enough to handle, remove the filled wonton shells, and top evenly with tomato. Serve and enjoy!<br /><br />MAKES 30 SERVINGS</blockquote>Have you had these before?  What is your favorite Hungry Girl recipe?

Hungry Girl Weight Watcher Recipes Hungry Girl 1-2-3: Fiesta Bites

These Fiesta Bites were a huge hit at the cookie exchange .  No one knew they were "diet friendly" food either, which I love :).  ...

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Post-Thanksgiving Week

How did you survive Thanksgiving?  Yes, a week later and I am just now getting around to this!<br /><br />First, we had Thanksgiving at Joel's family on Thursday.  I was extremely mindful of my eating, and practiced Mental Rehearsing beforehand (a WW concept).  I told myself over and over to only eat small portions ("mini islands of food" - as we were advised at last week's meeting) and not to finish anything I did not truly enjoy.  I passed up bread.  I left the stuffing and sweet potatoes on my plate.  And I was even able to enjoy my favorite part of Thanksgiving: the 5 Points+ Pumpkin Pie I made especially for Thursday.  I was so pleased, impressed, and proud of how well I did on this holiDAY (as Sharon, my WW leader reminds us, it's not a holiMONTH or holiWEEK, it's a holiDAY).  My non Weight Watchers weigh in day is on Friday, and as you can see, I had a nice loss for the week.  Success!<br /><br />However, then I had to travel to Pennsylvania for Thanksgiving Part Deux.  I started Saturday off with a trip to the local-PA WW meeting center.  I clocked in at a loss for the week on their scale as well.  Great!<br /><br />Still, currently I'm sitting at well over <b style="color: red;">-</b><b>35 WEEKLY Points+</b> for the week.  Fellow Weight Watchers, did you read that correctly? NEGATIVE WEEKLY!  Ugh.  How did this happen???    <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniEjr8Nuhq8jvfZo7EMrtroePWEbEoOT_V33pZ_y494LYxQs-lQilUUX6A_zgdp10krtSfouR6PPQt7ViCwHnty9ECyEJEJCYGTimCc3tmrotwDnDr8tW_IzNvMohQFfQS6QENA5iS08/s1600/thanksgiving+food.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniEjr8Nuhq8jvfZo7EMrtroePWEbEoOT_V33pZ_y494LYxQs-lQilUUX6A_zgdp10krtSfouR6PPQt7ViCwHnty9ECyEJEJCYGTimCc3tmrotwDnDr8tW_IzNvMohQFfQS6QENA5iS08/s400/thanksgiving+food.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My salad size plate at my sister's house: turkey, mashed potatoes, noodles,<br />stuffing and green bean casserole.</td></tr></tbody></table>I used a small plate, and made small islands of food.  Everything was a 1/2 cup size or less.  I thought I did well.  I only had seconds on the green bean casserole.  <br /><br />I had these <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/09/pumpkin-cupcakes-with-pumpkin-spiced.html">pumpkin cupcakes</a> for my dessert (and very small servings of 2 other desserts my mom made - which I accounted for):<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzvVMINuEtSZSIaWuzPRxOxDVeQoZ_5ScLfqOFIdiDnAZ1W8RzfqpaLmv3a_Jl-sAu_snz-196sNeixx5u3VA9NrZmULt5_DvyWuiCd1LOW70WInwSJISCQX04OZ0ps7R5e4x-8KNxpA/s1600/cupcakes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzvVMINuEtSZSIaWuzPRxOxDVeQoZ_5ScLfqOFIdiDnAZ1W8RzfqpaLmv3a_Jl-sAu_snz-196sNeixx5u3VA9NrZmULt5_DvyWuiCd1LOW70WInwSJISCQX04OZ0ps7R5e4x-8KNxpA/s400/cupcakes.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />While I didn't eat much of this on T-Day Part Deux (it was bland and needed more spicing up), I have been eating this in my lunch all week:<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9sortvM61D_Ihy_6Un95Wg0G5qs1VMA2OubMWOKlte4q36fzNVj6gKUMPeVGdAE8KNeN6d-fz82Qw-3pySRSHrrESTUUtv0WMxRk0XZ_u9-9NEiObcTwh5kM9oGc17fUKN-cRypbWqM/s1600/casserole.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9sortvM61D_Ihy_6Un95Wg0G5qs1VMA2OubMWOKlte4q36fzNVj6gKUMPeVGdAE8KNeN6d-fz82Qw-3pySRSHrrESTUUtv0WMxRk0XZ_u9-9NEiObcTwh5kM9oGc17fUKN-cRypbWqM/s400/casserole.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/10/sweet-potato-casserole.html">Sweet Potato Casserole</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />IF I have a gain tomorrow, and I'm praying I do <i>not</i>, but IF I do, it will be because, yes, I did eat a little more than I normally would this past week due to Thanksgiving.  Also, it was.... that special time of the month, and I have been absolutely ravenous all week.  Actually, I believe a lot of the negative Points+ have come as a result of this more than Thanksgiving to be honest. Do you ladies ever get like this during the actual week of the "event"?  No amount of food or anything in particular has been satisfying.  Not even chocolate!<br /><br />I was able to avoid one "war" this week with <a href="http://www.fiveguys.com/">Five Guys</a> (Joel was having a craving and he indulged, I did NOT)... but I lost the battle last night to Japanese from our <a href="http://kodorirestaurant.com/">favorite restaurant</a>.  Still, I had very small portions of the Japanese food and only ate until just satisfied.  <br /><br />I really don't want a gain tomorrow, not only for obvious reasons, but because I am really proud of how I handled Thanksgiving this year.  I am proud of how I managed Joel's family's feast, and how I even managed my own family's spread.  I'm also proud that I made 3 WW friendly substitutions (pie, casserole and cupcakes) and that I have still accounted for EVERYTHING this week, even if I am in the deep, deep red of Points+.  It really does feel better when you write it down, even if you are borrowing from next week's Points+ bank ;). I'm also proud that I visited WW while traveling.  I'm really trying to stay focused!  <br /><br />Today (Thursday) I am sucking down the water and trying to stay within my 39 Points+ for the day.  Tonight we have a happy hour for the 3 couples who got engaged in my office, and so I'm going to have to fight another war tonight... I will get 1 beer and that is it! I <3 beer.  But I don't love gains, and no amount of beer is worth a gain!!<br /><br />What is your self assessment of how you handled Thanksgiving?

Random Weight Loss Thoughts Weight Loss Challenges Weight Watcher Recipes Weight Watchers Post-Thanksgiving Week

How did you survive Thanksgiving?  Yes, a week later and I am just now getting around to this! First, we had Thanksgiving at Joel's fami...

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Hungry Girl: Jammed with Cheese Stuffed French Toast

I've been trying to cook my way through all of the cookbooks I own.  I have a lot!  So this morning, when deciding on what to make for breakfast, I chose Hungry Girl's <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/hungry-girls-jammed-cheese-stuffed-french-toast/">Jammed with Cheese Stuffed French Toast</a>.<br /><br />I have to admit that I was a little weary on how this may taste, since the recipe calls for the <a href="http://www.thelaughingcow.com/products/light-swiss-original/">Laughing Cow Light Cheese Wedges</a>, rather than traditional cream cheese.  In fact, she even states in the book that she tried this recipe using both ingredients, and Laughing Cow won!<br /><br />This recipe was delicious!  I love the stuffed french toast that <a href="http://www.ihop.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=230&Itemid=2">I-Hop offers</a>, and this dish perfectly satisfied that craving many times over.  Plus, I believe that when I'm eating a more health-conscious version of my favorite food, sometimes <i>that </i>alone makes it taste <i>even </i>better knowing that I'm not sabotaging all of my daily Points+ on just one food.    <br /><br /><i>Some notes on this recipe:</i><br />First, if you follow it exactly how Hungry Girl advises, the recipe comes out to 7 Points+.  However, I made modifications based on what I had on hand, so mine calculated higher.  My variation  also does not account for the pancake syrup (mine was 3 Points+).  Also, bear in mind that you will not use all of the egg wash, so when calculating the Points+, I estimated that I only used 1/4 cup of the egg wash (which is still probably way more than what was used, but I definitely did not consume all 1/2 cup - you'll see!).<br /><br />Without further adieu:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9g01QPuA2rA7YWVwe8PzZ1A_sMziCObP9JdTL4fivlCMlzJZR-e_0pZl0Si9OhtYxmX9WsOskAbd9Z7Sut-AlycxPkt3Ng4DC52E25dBKVtySYUWosYtn6XVuyTjHngUP-Qh9NKl1YAI/s1600/french+toast+002a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9g01QPuA2rA7YWVwe8PzZ1A_sMziCObP9JdTL4fivlCMlzJZR-e_0pZl0Si9OhtYxmX9WsOskAbd9Z7Sut-AlycxPkt3Ng4DC52E25dBKVtySYUWosYtn6XVuyTjHngUP-Qh9NKl1YAI/s400/french+toast+002a.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><b><u>Hungry Girl's Jammed with Cheese Stuffed French Toast</u> - <i>8 Points+</i></b><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:<br /><ul><li>    1/2 cup fat-free liquid egg substitute</li><li>    1/4 teaspoon cinnamon</li><li>    1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract</li><li>    2 slices light white bread <i>(I used <a href="http://www.mfps.com/pages/products.asp#">Martin's Whole Wheat Potato Bread</a>)</i></li><li>    1 wedge The Laughing Cow Light Original Swiss cheese</li><li>    2 tablespoons sugar-free strawberry preserves <i>(I used <a href="http://www.polanerallfruit.com/polaner/index.html">Polaner's All Fruit with Fiber Strawberry</a>)</i></li><li>    2 teaspoons light whipped butter or light buttery spread <i>(I used <a href="http://www.thebestlife.com/best-life-buttery-spread.php">Best Life Buttery Spread</a>)</i></li><li>    1/4 cup sugar-free pancake syrup <i>(my Points+ does not account for this)</i></li></ul><i><br /></i><br /><i>Preparation</i><br /><br />Mix egg substitute with cinnamon and vanilla extract in a bowl. Transfer to a small plate and set aside.<br /><br />Lay bread slices on a clean dry surface and spread half of the cheese wedge on each slice. Spread preserves over 1 slice of bread, and place the other slice on top with the cheese-side down. Press gently to seal.<br /><br />Bring a skillet sprayed with nonstick spray to medium-high heat. Add butter and allow it to coat the bottom of the skillet. Meanwhile, evenly coat both sides of your sandwich with egg mixture. Coat the sides of the sandwich as well. (You won't need to use all of the egg mixture.)<br /><br />Place sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2 to 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Serve with syrup for dipping and enjoy!<br /><br />Makes 1 Serving

Weight Watcher Recipes Hungry Girl: Jammed with Cheese Stuffed French Toast

I've been trying to cook my way through all of the cookbooks I own.  I have a lot!  So this morning, when deciding on what to make for b...

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HG Upside-Down Chocolate Cream Pie

I am a sweets kind of girl, and almost always have to have something sweet after lunch and dinner.  <br /><br />So, for dessert last night, I decided to try <a href="http://book.hungry-girl.com/recipes/search?q=+chocolate+cream+pie&b=1&commit=SEARCH">Hungry Girl's Upside-Down Chocolate Cream Pie</a>.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/hungry-girl-book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.dietsinreview.com/diet_column/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/hungry-girl-book.jpg" width="164" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dietsinreview.com/">Courtesy of Dietsinreview.com</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />There are 3 simple ingredients to this amazingly chocolaty and delicious recipe, and it might be one of the<br />easiest desserts I've ever made (next to scooping ice cream from a carton of course!).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtM0x1_vdBzUjsriR5arx-jxNXvHXnx6HxDCfQsEORTyEXMEk9gOiaoiNT4aPvYdQNuFjFaOm3QTCUbMbi4WF4npeitJpB7PbPxBZIIBYcpXg0a8zTXv4ehv3DTNgQ1FF3aBxZ1PTvKI/s1600/UpsideDownChocolateCreamPieLARGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtM0x1_vdBzUjsriR5arx-jxNXvHXnx6HxDCfQsEORTyEXMEk9gOiaoiNT4aPvYdQNuFjFaOm3QTCUbMbi4WF4npeitJpB7PbPxBZIIBYcpXg0a8zTXv4ehv3DTNgQ1FF3aBxZ1PTvKI/s320/UpsideDownChocolateCreamPieLARGE.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://book.hungry-girl.com/recipes/search?q=+chocolate+cream+pie&b=1&commit=SEARCH">Courtesy of Hungry-Girl.com</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><u><b>Hungry Girl's Upside-Down Chocolate Cream Pie</b></u> <i><b>(5 Points+)</b></i><br /><i>Ingredients</i>:</blockquote><blockquote><ul><li>1 Fat Free Chocolate Pudding Snack</li><li>2 Tbsp Lite Cool Whip Topping</li><li>4 Low-fat honey graham crackers, crushed</li></ul></blockquote><blockquote><br /><i>Directions</i>:<br />In a small bowl, add the whipped topping first. Next, add the chocolate pudding.  Top with the graham crackers.  Enjoy!</blockquote><br />A few things to note on the recipe - you could reduce the Points+ value to 4 if you used Cool Whip Fat Free instead of the lite (sugar-free) version.  The fat free version has 0 Points+ for 2 tbsp.  Next time I will go for that instead.  Second, please note that the 4 graham crackers are equal to 1 sheet of the graham crackers (so 1 rectangular cracker on that sheet, is, in fact, 1 cracker here.  It's not that the entire sheet of the graham equals 1 cracker, nor is it that half of it equals 1 cracker.  Make sense?).  Also, while I do love graham crackers, 4 crackers makes a good amount of topping for this dish.  You could reduce that in half, or try just 3 crackers, and it will reduce the Points+ value as well (in this case, from 2 to 1).  So you could theoretically get this dish down to 3 Points+!   <br /><br />Seriously, this is one of those things that you ask yourself, "Why didn't I think of that?"  It's so simple and easy to make.  But most importantly, it really hit the chocolate spot!  It tasted just like a chocolate cream pie - dare I say, even <i>better </i>than the chocolate cream pies I've had.  The <a href="http://www.snackpack.com/products/low-calorie-snacks.jsp">pudding snacks I used</a> offered such a rich chocolate flavor.    <br /><br />What's more, you can essentially sub any flavor of pudding to make the cream pie, bearing in mind that the Points+ value may change of course.  I'm not sure what the volume is in each pudding snack, but all you'd have to do is figure that out, and make a batch of the boxed pudding mix in your flavor choice and use that instead.  It might even be cheaper?  I'm not sure on the Points+ value of that, but I'm certainly going to try it.  I actually have some <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pudding-Filling-Pumpkin-3-4-Ounce/dp/B000E1BKI6">Jell-O Pumpkin Spice pudding mix</a> that I'm going to try with this recipe.  That would surely taste like pumpkin pie, right?  I'll find out and let ya know :).  <br /><br />Do you have a favorite go-to dessert that is quick and easy, but also satisfying and delicious?  This is fast becoming mine!

Weight Watcher Recipes HG Upside-Down Chocolate Cream Pie

I am a sweets kind of girl, and almost always have to have something sweet after lunch and dinner.  So, for dessert last night, I decided to...

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Pumpkin Fluff

On Saturday we honored a friend/co-worker of mine to celebrate her upcoming wedding that will be held in Charlotte, NC next weekend.  <br /><br />For this get together, I made the glorious Pumpkin Fluff recipe that I obtained from a leader at Weight Watchers.  No one at the party knew it was a WW recipe, but they all loved it and requested a copy of the recipe. Here is it for you too as promised - enjoy!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YxEHyzKNDFdVZfKH6oX7R2CuasP-uEA708YCP3hTryOw2n2bKfw_2bPY29NmPVdFyh6zoSq3zh2JZ7kTsgYeaoZKwAY7M5hhK75MvgHmCv1amU3uqQT2Is7Rtm3Ww0NuceLVucmYsvI/s1600/pumpkin+fluff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YxEHyzKNDFdVZfKH6oX7R2CuasP-uEA708YCP3hTryOw2n2bKfw_2bPY29NmPVdFyh6zoSq3zh2JZ7kTsgYeaoZKwAY7M5hhK75MvgHmCv1amU3uqQT2Is7Rtm3Ww0NuceLVucmYsvI/s400/pumpkin+fluff.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><blockquote><u><b>Pumpkin Fluff</b></u> - <i><b>3 Points+ </b></i><br />Makes approximately eight 1/2 cup servings<br /><br /><i>Ingredients:</i><br /><ul><li>1 cup(s) fat-free skim milk</li><li>2 boxes fat-free sugar free instant vanilla pudding</li><li>29 oz canned pumpkin</li><li>8 oz fat free Cool Whip</li><li>1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice</li></ul><i>Directions: </i><br />Mix milk & pudding, then add remaining ingredients.  Keep refrigerated - the longer it sits the better it tastes!</blockquote>This can also be served with pears, graham crackers, or any other fruit/food you desire.  The leader also recommended using it as pie filling to make your own no-bake pumpkin pie.  Really, the options for this recipe are endless.<br /><br />Do you have a favorite pumpkin-inspired recipe?

Weight Watcher Recipes Pumpkin Fluff

On Saturday we honored a friend/co-worker of mine to celebrate her upcoming wedding that will be held in Charlotte, NC next weekend.  For th...

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Chilla in Vanilla Milkshake

I made this AWESOME milkshake on Monday for a lunchtime treat.  If you love vanilla milkshakes, you will be sure to love this amazingness.  This is <a href="http://www.hungry-girl.com/newsletters/raw/1255">Hungry Girl's version</a> of a vanilla milkshake, and I think I would honestly take this over the fast food version any day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID660/images/hungrygirl123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.examiner.com/images/blog/EXID660/images/hungrygirl123.jpg" width="163" /></a></div>I snatched up this recipe from her Hungry Girl 1-2-3 cookbook.<br /><br />I thought for sure that the vanilla ice cream and vanilla soymilk alone would be enough to form a substantial vanilla flavor, but with the vanilla extract and vanilla powdered creamer there is no doubting what flavor this is.  It is incredibly vanilla-y & I loved every single ounce of it.  <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFBC2N5kObMrl86hRjaBW0M-7vyIXg0CCmn6MdR-r6o4suTIFnzk7E2RI4eqNplwmpf9EAsfRE2NCTp2TNZgYPkjY5fOAAp2SyT9SUVVeksWcYFdmLM0mzdFkgmK8JRECRIj2He3Ojn8/s1600/Milkshake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFBC2N5kObMrl86hRjaBW0M-7vyIXg0CCmn6MdR-r6o4suTIFnzk7E2RI4eqNplwmpf9EAsfRE2NCTp2TNZgYPkjY5fOAAp2SyT9SUVVeksWcYFdmLM0mzdFkgmK8JRECRIj2He3Ojn8/s400/Milkshake.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Ordinarily I would be wondering how I could incorporate chocolate into this, which, of course, would not be difficult.  However, I loved it just the way it was - all vanilla, all the time.<br /><blockquote><b><u>Chilla in Vanilla Milkshake</u> - <i>4 Points+</i> </b><br /><i>Ingredients:</i><br /><ul><li>1/2 cup Breyers Double Churn Free Creamy Vanilla fat-free ice cream</li><li>1/2 cup light vanilla soymilk</li><li>1/2 tbsp. Coffee-mate Sugar Free French Vanilla powdered creamer</li><li>2 no-calorie sweetener packets (like Splenda or Truvia)</li><li>1/8 tsp. vanilla extract</li><li>1 cup crushed ice or 5 - 7 ice cubes</li><li>Optional: 2 tbsp. Fat Free Reddi-wip</li><li>Optional: maraschino cherry</li></ul><br /><i>Directions:</i><br />Place powdered creamer in a small dish, and add 1/2 tbsp. very hot water. Stir until powder dissolves, and then transfer mixture to a blender.<br /><br />Add all other ingredients except the Reddi-wip to the blender. Blend at high speed until completely mixed. Pour into your favorite glass and top with Reddi-wip. If you like, finish it off with a cherry!<br /><br />MAKES 1 SERVING</blockquote> Milkshakes/icecream are a huge weakness of mine.  Do you crave milkshakes too?

Weight Watcher Recipes Chilla in Vanilla Milkshake

I made this AWESOME milkshake on Monday for a lunchtime treat.  If you love vanilla milkshakes, you will be sure to love this amazingness.  ...

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Better For You Buttermilk Pancakes

This was my breakfast for last week.  These are easy-to-make standard buttermilk pancakes, with a bit of a healthier kick to them.  I ate them plain with an 1/8 cup light syrup, but you could certainly add some fresh fruit (blueberries please!) and/or preserves and they would be just as delicious.<br /><br />These are brought to you by Eat What You Love.<br /><br />Enjoy!<br /><br /><u><b>Better For You Buttermilk Pancakes</b></u><b>-4 Points+</b><br />(Makes 6 servings)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1pCZbbEYjCUY4XLO9iaCgdIcsw0ACjSQr87jg4nye7J_SN4TgyyPuZaiOOVHlL8qums53OitoS5EBIh3OdWMkLloJb-UMlMMVqnr7NndilZ7hThTOVHkIY6pujxm2vaV3W6DEaPCI_M/s1600/blog+pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1pCZbbEYjCUY4XLO9iaCgdIcsw0ACjSQr87jg4nye7J_SN4TgyyPuZaiOOVHlL8qums53OitoS5EBIh3OdWMkLloJb-UMlMMVqnr7NndilZ7hThTOVHkIY6pujxm2vaV3W6DEaPCI_M/s400/blog+pancakes.jpg" width="300" /></a><i>Ingredients:</i><br /><ul><li>3/4 c. all purpose flour</li><li>3/4 c. whole wheat flour</li><li>2 Packets of Sweet 'n Low</li><li>1 tsp baking powder</li><li>1/2 tsp baking soda</li><li>1 egg</li><li>2 egg whites</li><li>1 1/2 c buttermilk</li><li>1 tsp vanilla extract</li></ul><br /><i>Directions:</i><br />1. Combine the flours, sweetener, baking powder and baking soda in a medium bowl.<br /><br />2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.  Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.  Make sure not to over-mix the batter.<br /><br />3. Spray a nonstick skillet or griddle with cooking spray and place over medium heat.  Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto skillet and spread into a 4" circle.  Cook the pancake for 3 or 4 minutes on the first side, or until golden on the bottom.  Flip the pancake just once more and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.  Serve hot. Serving size is 2 pancakes.

Eat What You Love Weight Watcher Recipes Better For You Buttermilk Pancakes

This was my breakfast for last week.  These are easy-to-make standard buttermilk pancakes, with a bit of a healthier kick to them.  I ate th...

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September Goals and a Chai Tea Recipe

3 weeks in a row of losses! Yay!!<br /><br />Oh hey - notice something a little different?  :)  While my old layout wasn't bad, black wasn't exactly the most chipper color.  I <3 purple, and so I present to you a new layout.  I hope you find it a little more refreshing/inviting.<br /><br />It's time for me to think about what I want to work on for the month of September.<br /><br /><ol><li>Have an average of 4 days of activity per week instead of the 3 that I had for August.</li><li>Track what I did for activity, how often I did it, and for how long.</li><li>Track the days that I've stayed On Plan.</li><li>Add 2 servings of fruit and 2 servings of vegetables into my daily menu.  <i>This is up from August's goal of just 1 serving of fruit and vegetables per day.</i></li><li>Continue on with the <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/08/staying-on-track-with-august-goals.html">New Rules of Lifting for Women</a>.<i> </i></li><li>Continue reading <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2011/08/staying-on-track-with-august-goals.html">The Beck Diet Solution</a>.</li><li>Set a weekly goal for myself that I will determine on Monday's.  Thanks <a href="http://www.1year100pounds.com/">Ryan</a>!</li></ol>These goals are all similar to that of August with a few tweaks.  Since I had success with this in August, losing a total of 3.6 pounds, I want to keep setting attainable goals for September.  <br /><br />I am a lover of tea.  In case you haven't figured it out yet, my favorite tea variety is the chai.  I particularly like the spiced chai flavor.  Now, I frequent Starbucks a lot, and they serve a chai that is a liquid version.  I love this chai, but I don't love the 7 Points+ value for a venti skim.  While I can almost afford those Points+ now, I know I won't be able to as time goes on.  Still, I like the liquid chai for it's creaminess, a consistency I cannot seem to achieve using just half and half and chai tea bags.  Until now!<br /><br />Enter: Coffeehouse Chai Latte.  This is yet another recipe from <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/search/label/Eat%20What%20You%20Love">Eat What You Love</a>.  I'm not sure how/why this tea tastes so great but perhaps you can figure it out by the ingredients:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkcgZttoiBKDsCqSU4XkP6Mk_QqcRhUpQrZsdw-3NoAtKRSZLapfl7PT6A8NTgjV1RDnVJosW3j3n0Sg4noqhvb9pzD0RJLaWaf39ILD2La08DcIiF7nBjUPHQqL7uoB-Z4UUvz0upbE/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJkcgZttoiBKDsCqSU4XkP6Mk_QqcRhUpQrZsdw-3NoAtKRSZLapfl7PT6A8NTgjV1RDnVJosW3j3n0Sg4noqhvb9pzD0RJLaWaf39ILD2La08DcIiF7nBjUPHQqL7uoB-Z4UUvz0upbE/s400/008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><ul><li>1/2 c. fat free evaporated milk</li><li>1 1/2 c. water</li><li>3 packets of Sweet 'n Low</li><li>2 individual chai tea bags</li><li>1 tsp honey</li></ul><blockquote>Combine the evaporated milk, water and Sweet 'n Low packets together in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.  Stir frequently, so as not to scorch the milk.  As the liquid begins to simmer, add the tea bags and allow to steep for 3 minutes.  Remove pan from heat.  Remove tea bags from liquid.  Add the honey.  </blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG9ZRZ-foyl1611OBXxos5qhah2TtsvBSgVnGcj-WkabV0WkrXwq3IMiHyS02y2SeG98x5kmpeBUHOPfyxssG2ok8-1L_TD7aMr-tgTLA3aTAewY4lmiFivuK_D3uoug4PhVSsJZ3djUw/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG9ZRZ-foyl1611OBXxos5qhah2TtsvBSgVnGcj-WkabV0WkrXwq3IMiHyS02y2SeG98x5kmpeBUHOPfyxssG2ok8-1L_TD7aMr-tgTLA3aTAewY4lmiFivuK_D3uoug4PhVSsJZ3djUw/s400/005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />This is supposed to make 2 servings at 1 cup each.  This entire concoction makes just 1 for me :).  This delicious chai only costs me 4 Points+, as opposed to the 7 from the Starbucks version.  Winning!<br /><br />Do you have any beverages that you cannot go without on your weight loss journey?

Eat What You Love goals Loss New Rules of Lifting for Women The Beck Diet Solution Weight Loss Challenges Weight Watcher Recipes Weight Watchers September Goals and a Chai Tea Recipe

3 weeks in a row of losses! Yay!! Oh hey - notice something a little different?  :)  While my old layout wasn't bad, black wasn't ex...

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