News for today's 2018

Weekend Recap

11:56 AM Tukiyooo 0

Hey everyone, hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I sure did and I hope you stick around to read about it! ;) Kyle had the weekend off so we didn’t have to wake up to an alarm Saturday morning, which was amazing!! Once we did get up we hit the gym first thing! I started out with a 20 min interval workout on the treadmill and then finished up with 30 minutes on the cross ramp. Breakfast was protein packed & super filling! I made an egg white burrito with ff cheddar cheese and salsa on a flat out. I also had an orange on the side for a total of 5 points. <img alt="DSC05952" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNzRFSB8SvvgKhok1bIFae5QELM49ljrJuyyCEW0ncRHloXk-xcbufmhws_4oVUX4pR-42eJ0L5Qz_yS_cHNlWeFOj6GpCcHbwWwV7RRAvXlWrMVFFPs8GHgXjsF8ULreksJhv0R9fKu4/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05952" width="404" /><img alt="DSC05953" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHNCmbcaSEPhT6dSMuzguxB54qQNhr2X-ntRoMdVtcqbddp68UuDHuJKyMc3xKTdL3zdpPmT8PeAlsKIHW2LVnBWmP3uO5hezMoTFgr07M1Wz40Zn7XoHuPjPjIio-NjE1zb53-8gYXQnF/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05953" width="404" /> I was busy girl all afternoon. I did laundry, cleaned the kitchen, did our menu planner, and cleaned the floors! Then we both got ready for our fun evening! We had a birthday party to go to for my friend/neighbor/zumba buddy, Mel! We started out the night at a nice local restaurant. I ordered a Bud Select 55 to start out for 1 point. I hadn’t tried this before and was pleasantly surprised. I defiantly like d it much better than MGD 64. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuvf1GwKbnhVNbqiQIOenkU9hAZY08ROJJTwGn45Z3Ox-kHPIAqIxeuf-9o6QPzIbdMJrsLNOXng5uVidrbMeg5LjF_kKbxlE8s4PDr5cxW3tODVg7KKsR5_gNKkgkZdzRBV9C2TJZxKbM/s1600-h/DSC05954%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05954" border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjve7-gReXTQGr-SrtaFNNiN123jrR9fuAkW7FerQtwnsaNQrxYZ-B_qRLovTKS3evXr4cAKADOv-V6hgacffx_Y8omZNlSGoo5mrnB9LptUTrrV_byBd2dHif30fywBvXOJ073igKrCUOg/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05954" width="254" /></a> For dinner I ordered grilled chicken (it came in the shape heart!!), cottage cheese, and 1/2 baked potato. I am estimating my total meal at 9 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsMineLjXjJ_aRBurmCt0SuRK2hRv1y7CZgOzXjyXkMvxI5FJuVv-BW1AbIWOGZix0QQVX5whIYMGyM9qGGTd43HkcPksFaJihFEJWb4zbL_4Na1j57acIXX6QRaAIKJFyJxFY4zyIWbT/s1600-h/DSC05956%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05956" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6x7j5zXW3nZOsm2riySHfzej4dGQBVJ16KsWOJR-REgBdqMn5MchMvLL-KsYWTXe9WTyfFXPhe_TtRu4AxKep9zRzjs3XMRassQxD1QZM5NdaZt9JoXh1aN2esaSoycbpfi4raoMQ2IX/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05956" width="404" /></a> It was also a few other friends’ bdays so they all blew out their candles together!! Check out the cake my friend made…it was a snowman! No worries though, I didn’t eat any!<img alt="DSC05957" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSJJzA-dDyvT2d33s1ZTup-JtiaLCNaFgWdOFaxC0io19U6_Sc79kMmUYVvD2C8Pyk_CW9glirv4-05OMmKWSYsEnMv4myenMmZqoyse74leiPyj-ZtggaxHqFVohvSWOQEmj4jSbuQLE/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05957" width="404" /><img alt="DSC05959" border="0" height="471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp-Pe2ohxEowraRbf12pU8sp-gnrL9hikhP_Ir88HxFvb3wOUBHmAx-mjGF22oyadJI6ZjryzfCT8TND4kCcfDrgQk_RUyHFm-k62riLa8D9yKWmq_vSzb4TbRau0Eq62w1qewEZiyJ-Vw/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05959" width="354" />  The restaurant did offer our whole group (I think there were 16 of us!) complimentary champagne to toast with our cake! I am estimating my glass at 2 points. After dinner we all headed to the bowling alley to do some cosmic bowling!! I did have a few beers at the bowling alley, I am going to estimate that I had about 8 points worth. Here are a few pictures from the night!! Kyle had a superman shirt on under his button down…you could see the symbol in the black light! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9eAP1SYwM4NkEp95v52qz1kpRF7HL2c3Fc6MDGA-nIT6MmVxSjc4ML9LWAHQdxuUrchkrp_eV3Y5Guxkp6cCn255kJPPFLvaMv227LTC6BHH1W-6w5m_4SI3Gs32VtptVey24AxVCQJqA/s1600-h/DSC05960%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05960" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9OTg7cJZqdXOxmTEmzYSLmElHgsii0nQK3jrprbyqyKrAlugv3J2kWIwoAe1mWpnyR9S3VuF3LdSC6kqC1nWVCfeUjNUKBXBhAgE0Le4_qbT13KgRP8uJD2V64IzxGtoDJ_LGfIp2sroS/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05960" width="404" /></a>  Me with the birthday girl, Mel! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1uXzVM763wlTPS9W64t0l67dpOOp7T69L8BfnYDvszAh7rI0ukLbHSmzUMia4-b8qnt4XGxMhfgSODL8x6kAXAje11r28yhbSpq-9UPLYengpD41Z5jjPvNHAirC35OUMuaoQLB23PAz/s1600-h/DSC05962%5B2%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05962" border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1l1whKbFn-yepxnY-dANn5Zf700gNjUpR2utQpozskS5CYdvHc1KB-iftXNtr0xuxahI5BbGyqZFvSiowfAPXXFG60wGLbmtGW_rrlRKEXwq8WKg5rYMzSindnGXzbJryoHhInH6D1QJ5/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05962" width="354" /></a>  Kyle has all the “moves” at the bowling alley! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdCyqbricEjfhhA-9Z8zwj_yS7reCBhXqNnMl02jAEFa0DM3retQTp7WoaGDEEmMBrkYj5OMAYHIlb2GCWw9V2x6aWAff1Gg7NjbEicKK6YAnezubosyXBKp1GaxE0mOAWL1uD55DWVa_/s1600-h/DSC05964%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05964" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv03yXxEl8IGkWqTf9mhnATJa03s5UCWnvTD2J4aRZzHqvEpu4_e_o-mNrpMqf93-YHtwQC23lQXXOnILj160F6nqalB6VLsjIfuAPpwA7j2DR7InLY6UgnTWZU1JDRpaZzjat4aYBvuF_/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05964" width="404" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtNY5HYawRHTv2iAjpwWR2EJ3XU5vuvYDGgGSAJMMrxUDzolvIAmZKvBF7O6mGpMit5I9FV736ijoOIwiJEYMaVyKkHppXeFEivsDC1glsWB7st0y0gjAlOIvYJZGaugb4f5HcvOz0yAB/s1600-h/DSC05965%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05965" border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIzOr0fFyUA2qDqNJymV7nYB2112e8UmOqrMzAmQ08nk_6TQCK0R3WbzDir0cMYC6w33j3WICFo1svNbEa1gFExDBrfk5ytOsOLpeQ-Qi0FhEn7iIFBnz16i2KSvXuT8mXRJQCZ-DIF6k6/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05965" width="404" /></a> When bowling ended at midnight we went out and got our groove on! Not sure if I’ve mentioned this before, but I LOVE to dance!! May not be the best at it, but always have a fun time!! And we decided to call it a night around 3am!! Too late for this girl!! :) SATURDAY’S STATS POINTS = 25/23 WATER =  72 oz EXERCISE = 20 min interval run/30 min cross ramp SUNDAY Sunday I woke up around 7:30am and was SUPER hungry. I had a peanut butter fiber one bar for 3 points and a banana & chocolate PB2 wrap for 4 points . After a while I decided I was NOT ready to be up for the day yet AT ALL!! I went back to bed and didn’t wake up till 2:30pm!!<img alt="DSC05933" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcwzujH3cTs5I2ipCwVo0Qdh52V0jf2QGNRwX7l3HDFoFHpHJhbzXN56ID3BLd3l5qHWpY_OAloPkz5_meo93suklu3xf4rbv-jldNFZs8XL8qbsG6bzS8KHZg0LrOWqzasEnFhEWngXgA/?imgmax=800" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" title="DSC05933" width="400" /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0jjzIlhthvyFCAf2Y7Z3YnvyMES5YTsrC3Zma0N_GS3xAZCKq-NwCvU3cRasf9-pZGvPcQGEFjXyYUGWLqSaxORcWYFumBHa1i1dtvK4iyQRWvzgLJ_Rf239oQkt5-4MxL-bLRTzknMD/s1600-h/DSC05979%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05979" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuz5Y6uTIzHSPpt-tRPIQFqJG2M9r2cwfzueSSRCHsHZknoO2ANdiAf8VbmD3spYW-D8-Ku1dZlgobuIH3oTSnC7G-tMX-bnxAuko3ZGjULJLD1OUpaQ1mHIul8rAnEJOnuffpmH-U0STk/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05979" width="404" /></a> We headed to the grocery store for our weekly run! We didn’t realize how close it was to kickoff and had to rush home for the Super Bowl!! I made a hawaiian pizza for Kyle and whipped up a little something special for me, spinach artichoke dip! My plate consisted of 16 reduced fat wheat thins, baby carrots, 1 slice of pizza, and a serving of spinach artichoke dip which totaled 8 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje4wYA2TSbxhy9SyWl8WM8y24Tv6hujp2WRH_dUB_fZ-PcyAxhFptQ953dNif7Hk62T6EZ6D-7UsFsvVvXqkuQQ2xzd6E9OC5B9H4ZAC59UXuLtEw9hj8h4nvm7GAF2i0wnGEgJsrqtD7Q/s1600-h/DSC05980%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05980" border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu4fD3EAktbJ6hKn6sFog8bJPi8uqaWPttaAYNhO8wJ5NqDrty1eIdL7Dxbo4UXTeitMnDlJe7YbA1uuMSS5WaXzPME2vS9RboYl4RFNGpl2MvMIuFp6r6gHFCxUCtIm3yF_mMT7pi66DZ/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05980" width="404" /></a>  I modified a recipe from Kraft to make it more point friendly. Here is what I used: Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip <ul> <li> <div align="left">1 - 14oz can artichoke hearts, drained, finely chopped</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">1 – 10 oz pkg frozen spinach, thawed, drained</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">6 tps reduced fat parmesan cheese</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">4 Tbs lite mayo</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">1/4c ff shredded mozzarella cheese</div> </li> <li> <div align="left">1/4c 2% shredded mozzarella cheese</div> </li> </ul> Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients until well blended. Spoon into 4 ramekins. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Each serving is 2 points.  Spinach artichoke dip is one of my favorite things and I love that I can still have it and fit it into my daily points. And it’s a HUGE serving also!! I was craving something sweet so I whipped up some “pumpkin whip”(2 points) !! It totally satisfied my sweet tooth! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMo5ba7oW7UGBpjwcV0_oRvTG8XATy83S4Mh2vD3I1l6EQx_T2fz3r8LCr1GraNASFCuQyFsmFYjCCD7nH-EZs_E-5NZ8h0HpPxFNoFwCicwntYg7TfWA0FrF-B-E5UCs4WbQabqGaTVuW/s1600-h/DSC05981%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05981" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW18gN1GX_F6kN961uT93CWm9t6eDrKW2PYKotO8pYQ8Yfy8YCQnr3AIBR-BxnWiefXA85RI5TbAX3jU75-8J4Ucy_JuLHW6RNzjVs07-yIqnEVUfXHpWwDWTo5E3P2jjKHS4T_qEBIRaU/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05981" width="404" /></a> Pumpkin Whip <ul> <li>1 sm. pkg. FF butterscotch pudding mix </li> <li>1 1/2 c cold milk </li> <li>1 c canned pumpkin </li> <li>1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice </li> <li>2 c FF Cool Whip </li> </ul> In a mixing bowl, beat putting and milk until well blended (1-2 minutes). Blend in pumpkin and spice. Fold in Cool Whip and spoon into 4 dessert dishes. Chill. Garnish with 1 tsp. Cool Whip. Makes 4 servings, 2 points each. SUNDAY’S STATS POINTS = 17/23 WATER =  48 oz EXERCISE = none

Weekend Recap

Hey everyone, hope you all had a wonderful weekend ! I sure did and I hope you stick around to read about it! ;) Kyle had the weekend off...

I know who the Saints are now

10:10 PM Tukiyooo 0

The Saints are only the greatest football team in America! We made it home from the 5th Avenue Theater by half-time. Downtown Seattle to our house, about 24 miles, in less than 20 minutes. A record. The last half of the game was amazing! Speaking of football, we saw Blind Side on Saturday. I agreed to go to it because I'd messed up about the Super Bowl. Best movie ever! I'm usually not into football movies but this movie was really good.. It's a must-see. It's based on a true story which makes it even cooler. I cried a lot and laughed a lot, my requirements for a great movie. A++ My husband and I had an interesting conversation at brunch this morning (where I ordered scrambled egg whites with as little oil as possible, and sliced tomatoes). I told him I felt guilty about dinner Saturday night. I had a large piece of prime rib, a twice baked potato (with lots of cheese), Marsala mushrooms, roasted Brussels sprouts where I didn't even measure the olive oil, champagne and two pieces of cake. I didn't like the chocolate cake, but I loved the homemade buttercream frosting. He didn't understand my guilt about eating food. He seriously didn't get what I was talking about. He told me why would you feel "guilty"? It's just food. I told him it was because it was so many calories and it made me feel bad that I just ate whatever I wanted and didn't even think about the calories and fat. It was the champagne that made me nuts...when I drink I lose all common sense. Something he said really hit home with me. It's not anything I haven't heard before on other blogs or in comments, but when he said it, it made it finally made sense. He said, "It's not like you eat like that every day. You always eat healthy. In fact, when is the last time you had prime rib or a piece of cake?" I really can't remember the last time I had prime rib, maybe three or more years ago. The last time I had a piece of cake, a real piece of cake and not just a bite, was probably at least two years ago too. When I weighed 240 pounds. Today I'm completely back on track with my eating, and I worked out an hour and a half at the gym. I didn't have any sugar cravings or cravings of any type today. The big dinner with the cake for dessert didn't send me down some path of food debauchery and gluttony. I'm not even interested in having more cake. I had it, it was good, but I'm over it. Is this what normal people feel like? It's a new concept for me--to actually eat a meal I would consider "bad" and not deeply regret it and beat myself up about it. Like he said, it's just food. What is there to feel guilty about?

I know who the Saints are now

The Saints are only the greatest football team in America! We made it home from the 5th Avenue Theater by half-time. Downtown Seattle to our...

Planning de la semaine du 08 au 12 février 2010

5:52 AM Anonymous 0

<h2>Permanences </h2><ul> <li>Le Conseil Général du Loiret sera présent dans les locaux de la Maison de l'Emploi du bassin d'Orléans - le lundi 08 février de 9h à 12h30 - le mardi 09 février de 9h à 12h30 et de 13h30 à 17h, - le mercredi 10 février de 13h30 à 17h - le jeudi 11 février de 13h30 à 17h - le vendredi 12 février de 13h30 à 17h <li><a href="http://www.egee.asso.fr/" target="_blank">EGEE</a> - lundi 08 février de 13h30 à 17h (sur rendez-vous)</li></ul> <h2>Ateliers </h2> <ul><li>CV - mardi 09 février de 9h à 12h30 et mercredi 10 février de 13h30 à 17h <li>Lettre de Motivation - mardi 09 février de 13h30 à 17h <li>Préparation à l'entretien - jeudi 11 février de 13h30 à 17h <li>Pôle-emploi.fr - vendredi 12 février de 10h à 11h30 <li><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com/2009/07/atelier-situtilises-tu-trouves.html">Sit'Utilises tu trouves</a> - vendredi 12 février de 14h à 16h</ul>

Planning de la semaine du 08 au 12 février 2010

Permanences Le Conseil Général du Loiret sera présent dans les locaux de la Maison de l'Emploi du bassin d'Orléans - le lundi 08 fé...

What is a "Weight Watcher"?

12:04 PM Tukiyooo 0

Quote from my former Weight Watcher leader:  "Just because you're in a garage doesn't mean you're a mechanic, and just because you plant your tiny hiney here doesn't make you a Weight Watcher." I didn't make it to my meeting today. I had all kinds of good intentions, but it's my husband's birthday "weekend". Yes, we do birthday weekends. I started it a few years ago that during the weekend of your birthday, it's YOUR weekend. Whatever the birthday person wants, the birthday person gets. It's really fun on my birthday, and a hell of a lot of work on my husband's birthday! Between preparing him breakfast fit for a king, baking his favorite cake* from scratch and taking my cat to the vet, all before 11am, I missed all the Saturday morning meetings. I even forgot to step on the scales here at home. Tomorrow, I promise tomorrow I'll weigh in here at home. I've been really good about my eating, no junk food at all (not that I ever eat junk anyway), but more importantly, no binging. I don't know what happened or why, but since I posted the Secret post, I don't have this crazy urge to eat at night. I'm tyring not over-analyze the situation and just let it be.  I've cut back on the exercise just a bit, working out only five days a week for an hour or two hours, depending on how much time I have and if I'm in the mood for a 2-hour workout. I still feel like I'm cheating, but I feel so much better physically. It was getting where I was sore all the time, my muscles always ached and hurt. Now I'm giving them some recovery time. My workouts are stronger, and I'm not exhausted all the time. I'm even sleeping better. I'm trying to ease up on myself a little and not be such a nazi about the exercising. The weekend I screwed up royally on one of my husband's birthday presents. Several weeks ago he saw a commercial for the musical South Pacific playing at the Seattle 5th Avenue Theatre. It looked pretty cool and the reviews are great. He mentioned he'd like to go to see it, but we never discussed it any further. Last week as I was scrambling to get his gift (a really nice camera that I totally want for myself), I thought the play would be a fun thing to do together. I looked online at tickets for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The seats for Friday and Saturday were horrible, way in the back where you'd need binoculars to see it. Sunday however, had great seats at the 1:30pm show. Right up front, perfect view of the stage. I bought the non-refundable, non-exchangeable tickets. Over $100 each. Yesterday my husband started talking about Superbowl Sunday. I asked, "oh, when is the Superbowl?" I'm not a big football fan unless it's the Seahawks or the Broncos. If it's not one of those teams I could care less. I almost fell over when he said this Sunday. Nooooooooooooooooooo!!!! Then  I asked, "you're not watching it, right?" He looked at me like I'd grown horns. His response was something like this..."are you kidding?! Of course I'm watching it! The Saints are playing!!!" My response, "who are the 'Saints'? I got an earful about the Saints and how much he likes them. I honestly don't know where I've been the past few months when he was watching the Saints play, but I had no idea he was a fan. Surprisingly when I told him the tickets were non-exchangeable and non-refundable, but maybe I could find someone else to go with me, he said no, he really wanted to go. Then he got excited about the show. He's actually a pretty understanding guy when I do this kind of thing, and I seem to do it a lot. We're going to record the game, but I doubt it'll be the same for him. *About the cake. It's chocolate, his favorite. I hate chocolate cake so I'm okay with it being in the house. No worries of me binging on chocolate cake. Now if it was carrot cake or German Chocolate cake, that would be an entirely different story.

What is a "Weight Watcher"?

Quote from my former Weight Watcher leader: "Just because you're in a garage doesn't mean you're a mechanic, and just beca...

If The Church Were A Safe Place

11:10 AM Tukiyooo 0

"Simon Stoker (not his real name), stand up! Your eyes are red with drink." So thundered the preacher from the pulpit of the rural church of my childhood. I love the church. It is in serving here I feel most alive. But I often do not feel at home. I often do not feel safe and I suspect that's why more and more people keep their distance from us. The church is not safe because of a spirit of judgment. I do not mean the willingness to discern right from wrong or speak out for justice. I mean a frozen, stiff spirit of moral superiority established by condeming others. The criteria for judgment vary. In the little congregation where I grew up, drinking was the number one thing to judge. "Oh Lord, please straighten out my brother in law who is a sorry alcoholic and has wronged my sister and their children so pitifullly." In the schismatic churches, it is judgment of LGBT people. In liberal circles, the folks who disagree with them about inclusiveness are labelled "hate-mongers." In total ministry circles, beware of using words like "rector," "pastoral," even "diocese." In traditional structures, they still call locally trained priests "Canon 9" -- which was abolished years ago. Then there are the high church and low church folks who hold each other in ecclesiastical disdain. We seem to compulsively generate criteria we can use to build ourselves up by tearing others down. Again, my problem is not with convictions held, but with the use of convictions as swords and shields. If the church were a safe place, we could welcome more people, serve more compassionately, and show the world God's unconditional love.

If The Church Were A Safe Place

"Simon Stoker (not his real name), stand up! Your eyes are red with drink." So thundered the preacher from the pulpit of the rural...

Fun-Tastic Friday

8:36 AM Tukiyooo 0

Greeting readers!! I hope you all wore red yesterday in support of <a href="http://www.goredforwomen.org/">National Wear Red Day</a>! I sure did; little pops of red at the gym for my workout and then an all out red sweater for work! Speaking of the gym, I got in 25 minutes on the cross ramp!<img alt="DSC05937" border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWHs7UiZ6y3UA9EJlj3qDj5hh6VZD6j6UnJtpz9X2-ZDStxZfHeR8dd1FPJF-aYxHriMqsKUXoOJAn0NM34T1PLEdo7pWP-4Ompo6g1CvCw8c0Jpjci4vXSgv4jK-lgQz-nXbjrKi1M6z/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05937" width="304" /><img alt="DSC05940" border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSWp73cWMyiWcnvBQeaPKpBHLengGCHKDYj87wLSXxAN2S-cdOS0lbRbbc07j6tsGPv4Y-wDjPv03ra-hmMKJscwVAs39-h9bak9J8zzjlT3iZrJZ3S8fBZidGJpVxU8D22QhJBL2QwRLE/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05940" width="304" /> I tried something new for breakfast, <a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2010/02/01/banished-from-the-face-of-the-earth/">overnight pumpkin oats</a> inspired from <a href="http://iowagirleats.com/">Iowa Girl Eats</a>. If you haven’t checked out her blog, you should definitely do so!! Oh and another bonus, she’s a fellow “corn fed cutie”! ;) (AKA an Iowan!) The only difference between mine and hers were the nuts, I chose to use walnuts I had as a topping rather than sliced almonds. I don’t think I added enough cinnamon though…I will know for next time. My serving was 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkwYQCF8yJpBhVTywi571tsaWhTm4tGDP9uivRfTBhBthwwLXDWM877VE5M_48FWCFdTo-K_KexA8sYL-bqkMCMJ66polPVS4H9pyYcbYdRLz_G_dHksthSWFd1P6FKWynF2ukVFS5ih9/s1600-h/DSC05939%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05939" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYEbOka7MEcwznqNLlde8jYHGC3jhLJiRzXX38wOF030ikmxM_2t7AjPceLqc0xk1keN0odkypxtdwlDDGA64OABuMjqunEZwDt9gjX1Rbi3TyO_ZXIINACH0ffi8la46-46ZrMqd2aeL/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05939" width="404" /></a> It was a white winter wonderland outside today! Light flurries all day…here is the view out my office window! I think the flurries are so light you can’t even see them in the picture!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIszLE_X_wxKp_QgQY10Omxu830IxoIieC4u8VSyPXEgBMhYbKwnugdu7464yKLXdRJ2eTKoVozT-fpfU0hG-ejcIm76ZeF7naFtuLsbFbZKjVBcQsYupF3-Voyy4rqhNoLDQgv0GxQ5i/s1600-h/DSC05943%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05943" border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYo5w4W00IZ2VV0xmdQnNZ0oaPfS8J1ZrVIN3fr5jzqxs_fVzNpUGtdEmEHFrj9JC27s1RmPOU5o26LQksPPQEQVKreavWq6qvQng9BcwWJcRRnFSgbSxG4XuvptwZxfkCDggrPt_9hNF/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05943" width="304" /></a> I mixed up my favorite morning snack, 1 1/2c strawberries, yogurt, and 1/4c grape nuts for 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPS7iKnjeInTRHU9IBwqjQWzY6Fv-HJEM_wHnjIxMlT1y4I1FBG_roeGmSz5u6Nl2HMlXfh_ztyUKlSiQaiHXhOl_0Y5blpiqDDUDYUov_0RxkjqAaUzHJEOIzABH7KNPuDQigh0ba4U9/s1600-h/DSC05944%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05944" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWStQLQ-ASoT3O1Pgz8dL9cHV8gOnXu9RDzfsHQDuXhEyduzAjODtN9nwhsSk8AJdtSADucJGh2HhjeYAqM22vHSl_CRZHiMI1qM1jf8freH6aAGZ9hPEjSC0jCjQBQAxHEb273-eUiSL/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05944" width="404" /></a> I went for a nice & warm lunch today since it was snowy and cold outside. I had chicken noodle soup and a cheese sandwich surrounded by an orange for 5 points. <img alt="DSC05945" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvgYVzDBFBGqx_AaZg58IbI5_R9SgxkS6g8EB7r6KpbrF-7G-o-a-UVKTsHe_aMw2UfgjThPkm7sztzod1GlCq2jHJ39vXCeh6W_wovRx9OtsrOZxZJLoMD0qkCLU-rwiGUYWVpsdLTDT/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05945" width="404" /><img alt="DSC05946" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge1jOdu-O5yidRQ9nDzb3Y1X_BmLuEVa68tIyDSx0A9dA2A5KSdxpuvuFex4xpJD6pWBSecAY9MnPDItJKTplMfiV1hadXkAHO2-gegfzOKOOGp0LSZa6JsbuWDsEHPvWv8KyJIA1F5klE/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05946" width="404" /> While I was home I got supper going in the crock-pot. Little did I know part of it ended up on my pants! This inspired me to go on the hunt for an apron. I found a few online I liked. The first three are the same design from the “<a href="http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Womens-Sassy-Black-Apron/3906090/product.html">O</a>”. I really like all three…<img height="267" src="http://cdn2.overstock.com/images/products/L11950289a.jpg" width="267" /><img height="268" src="http://cdn2.overstock.com/images/products/L11950585a.jpg" width="268" /><img height="268" src="http://cdn2.overstock.com/images/products/L11950295a.jpg" width="268" /> OR….should I go something fun and get a personalized one like one of the ones below!!!<img height="352" src="http://i23.ebayimg.com/07/i/001/2a/81/2e2c_35.JPG" width="268" /><img height="268" src="http://www.brandisboutiqueshop.com/500_500_csupload_14191764.jpg?u=633988461300468750" width="268" /><img height="352" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/04/!BW0T09Q!Wk~$(KGrHgoH-CoEjlLlfZ3LBKZMh0iyZQ~~_35.JPG" width="268" /> So help me out blog friends, leave me a comment with the number of the one you like the best! <ol> <li>pink & brown from overstock.com </li> <li>pink & black from overstock.com </li> <li>black & white from overstock.com </li> <li>personalized </li> <li>other…you give me another idea! </li> </ol> Don’t worry I wasn’t apron shopping on my afternoon at work! I actually did that this (Saturday) morning! My afternoon at work FLEW by though! I did have a peanut butter fiber one bar for 3 points. Forgot to photograph until after I ate it! ;)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhc11Ox-h0Q3krwngY_Q7uyfpjFCMOFKmlHGLaHqV7dHAGSR_01ehNq0YyTHiWJoSnZDLfrE6Q1W_RGMBOybOB8EVSKvfCChxTG9koMjhYCt-MVVwXwyc9AAFTef3IGK7Q8fSApZMBUXnK/s1600-h/DSC05949%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05949" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGBKDf7pYy2LOj2_YDhWtUqRKyX_4xwvpOCsLz0nZ2Wcq5o6m2WONeZ9xJf2ArJ0sC6-FDB9x4rgbyRsdnIiGTDwFCFSVPYKetkBMlFvEhCREDsoAJUKUvTqYfnF20bPNQR05d6HIwm51d/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05949" width="404" /></a> After work Kyle and I headed to a visitation for a spouse of a retired co-worker of mine. Things like that are never fun, but she seemed to be in good spirits. Afterwards we headed home for supper that was all ready for us in the crock-pot! We had chicken cordon bleu, brown rice, and a side of veggies with ranch. My serving was 8 points. Chicken Cordon Bleu <ul> <li>6 chicken breasts, pounded out thin </li> <li>6 pieces of ham </li> <li>6 slices of ff swiss or mozzarella cheese </li> <li>1 can cream of mushroom soup </li> <li>1/4 c milk </li> </ul> Put ham and cheese on chicken. Roll up and secure with a toothpick. Place chicken in crock pot. Mix soup and milk; pour over top of chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until chicken is no longer pink. Serve with rice or noodles with the sauce it makes. Makes 6 servings, 6 points/serving. <img alt="DSC05950" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4xAnIdAmdtsr3INio-v9Br6rMEAZeyd89yuqth9dx0JYfplTghnUaAeB1FJC9DNMdyeSyjBBsl7IMe9zrwxU9tFqOxw7Ab_RwpmwPNw6zN8N4n1JZg83AOhw7ruW36A7Na6ddnX9GsyIW/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05950" width="404" /><img alt="DSC05951" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEAhSbDcz8HtMkBn4-hfOvGZqHmNXDthBZ-b3tGR7WYiI5diF7oIFY_f7-yhqfpelX43aLfiApdmHthRSaWNXkXIak40MVDAH5a6I7z8tDpS44DkWTDKKSCKJKtp2a995Se3utMR1bM7vS/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05951" width="404" /> After supper we made a quick run to Target, Redbox, and Wendys! I checked out the aprons at Target and wasn’t too happy with the selection of only 3! :p We picked up <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0986263/">Surrogates</a> with Bruce Willis from Redbox and I got a frosty at Wendys (5 points). We spent the rest of our evening curled up in the basement watching our movie with a few friends and also a few animal crackers that were calling my name (3 points). It ended up being a late night…didn’t get to bed until after 1am!! Hope everyone had a wonderful Friday and is ready for a great, OP weekend!! I’m off to the gym and then catch up with you guys later on!! FRIDAY’S STATS POINTS = 29/23 WATER =  116 oz EXERCISE = 25 min cross ramp PS PLEASE DON’T FORGET TO LEAVE ME A COMMENT VOTING FOR YOUR APRON CHOICE!!!

Fun-Tastic Friday

Greeting readers!! I hope you all wore red yesterday in support of National Wear Red Day ! I sure did; little pops of red at the gym for m...

The hard way is the easy way, the easy way is the hard way

12:00 AM Tukiyooo 0

lackadaisical 1. without interest, vigor, or determination; listless; lethargic: a lackadaisical attempt. That pretty much describes me this week in regards to trying to lose weight. It's been a weird week. For the first time in two years I completely lost interest in tracking my food, measuring everything I ate, weighing myself every day (something I've done almost every day for two years) or even reading blogs. I certainly had no interest in posting either. I was losing interest in everything. A dangerous thing for a girl like me. I've still worked out every day, tried to watch what I ate, even when I ate out at a pizza place and an Italian restaurant this week, but my heart just wasn't into it. Then I watched Oprah tonight. I rarely watch Oprah but I kind of like that Dr. Oz guy. He was on tonight talking about diabetes. Scared the holy crap out of me. If you didn't see it, you need to see it. Here's a <a href="http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Dr-Oz-Talks-About-Diabetes-Video" target="blank">link</a> to a clip where Dr. Oz talks for a few minutes about diabetes, but Oprah show isn't online yet. First they showed how diabetes works, what it does to you. Then Dr. Oz shows what too much sugar does to your insides. It's like shards of glass going through your body. He wasn't just talking about white table sugar, but carbs like white bread or processed foods that turned to sugar. Dr. Oz interviewed a patient of his, a 40-year old woman with diabetes. She was on dialysis because her kidneys were destroyed and half of one leg had been amputated, as well as part of her foot on the other leg was amputated. You could she'd been a beautiful woman at one time, but she looked terrible. Much older than 40 and so very sick. It was absolutely horrifying. I keep thinking, well, I'm not that fat. Techinically if I was to go by my highest acceptable weight according to Weight Watchers I'm "only" about 20 pounds overweight. I don't want to weigh 155, I want to weigh 135, but I play that stupid game with myself that 155 would be okay, and 175 isn't so bad. Dr. Oz burst that bubble for me. He said measure your waist at the belly button. I always measure my waist at the smallest part, which is about three inches above my belly button, so it's 32 inches. I already knew that your waist should never be more than half of your height. I'm 5' 6" so my waist shouldn't be more than 33 inches. I thought I was okay, but at my belly button my waist is 40 inches! I'm high risk for diabetes! Yes, I'm just a little bit freaked out by this little fact. I can't remember how much it increased the odds of me getting diabetes, but it was huge. This means it's time to get off my lazy butt and get serious again. It means the end of my lackadisical ways. Back to tracking, back to measuring and weighing and Weight Watcher meetings. In high school my best friend's dad use to always say 'the hard way is the easy way, the easy way is the hard way'. It took me years to understand that, but basically it means if you do the hard work now, it'll be easier for you in the long run. If you take the easy way out now, it'll be hard for you in the long run. Let's see...which would I choose, have my legs cut off or do all that other stuff to get healthy? I choose the hard way (which in the long run will be the easy way!) p.s. - my girl Pink is on Oprah today, and I have today off work. Woohoo!

The hard way is the easy way, the easy way is the hard way

lackadaisical 1. without interest, vigor, or determination; listless; lethargic: a lackadaisical attempt. That pretty much describes me this...

Rockin’ Thursday

7:10 PM Tukiyooo 0

Happy Friday Eve my blogger friends!!! I’m especially happy for the weekend this week because my dear hubby actually has it off work!! Three cheers for a weekend with my man!! Hip hip hooray! :) I hopped out of bed this morning at 5:10am without even thinking twice about hitting snooze!! The “evil Darci” wasn’t anywhere to be found today!! :) I hit the gym and got in 35 minutes on the treadmill. I walked at 4.0 mph at a 4.5 incline! Great work out on the legs!! I LOVE to read while I workout (if I’m not running)! Right now I’m finishing up the Shopaholic series (Shopaholic And a Baby). I know a lot of people weren’t a big fan of the movie, but the books are an easy read and really keep you in it!! I haven’t watched the movie yet, but plan to when I finish this book. I’m looking for another book series to read next! Drove to the other side of campus to my office building to make my yummy breakfast! It was the usual oatmeal with a small sliced banana and chocolate PB2 for 4 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcV7iPds69cyZHk22z3Ty36mZ2Hp1miIAwvw7nrdohXeg6OgkqpJNt49R5fx0I1FZ7zgKqNHq1GmU4k2Ov4rxffirUJ5FGKiSnlFc7W6-suL-q-2FXk9URqSUKfpKRj3hpbitpiC6LXVgj/s1600-h/DSC05930%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05930" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNbJf1f_g7sbietnDPxKAs_9GBNEWQU1vSJ-wxb7ATwsZPRt-CseNpluDhbQmXwd1GL7A1UPbrhd7eUO5IyVsT_8m_sSWu8k88LcYfCrkHP1LGmZWgaZ1asiHNzbbt82VU_2NEe8LAvSi8/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05930" width="404" /></a>  Work is slowing down a tad so it felt good to get caught up on a bunch of stuff today. I had the same morning snack for the 4th day in a row…but it’s oh so good!! 1 1/2 c strawberries, vanilla yogurt (hey that’s a change from the previous 3 days!), and 1/4 c grape nuts for 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip6kOd9CvSgm8a0aag1VEDEoMla1AiA6G7f2ywSwTYP59iaMQ-OoKGAaAVJqLfk4-jey49Q2EXIXY4w4X_kWmPaF7Dyrw1841PvWUIauv1YjHnWA-4YRtUL7tv1lUa5LMMhih6pPHT16u8/s1600-h/DSC05931%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05931" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjWxOpAIiXvYPeQJ1v6WSLaDmo1m4zMdm2srbu0-BG_LiIy6gAk5Fqket2kfLJomvD4hX7AD0JB_aKrRpcQqvg2iLKDGX895yzqyvhWJRgS2hD_LL8EMXiHzSC1v9Ebp2HUg_oZWk5-YXf/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05931" width="404" /></a> Broke for lunch around 1pm. I wasn’t sure what today so I just kept it simple. I had a chicken salad on a thin bun with cheese and sliced up a golden delicious apple for 5 points. If you haven’t tried thin buns (I know there are many other names out there as well) before, you need to…they are VERY good!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQLEec1ph0xzKluHNdLR6AefBYwBo2OZrn9HEtyv6ILm-5XjtJO9inFarIOrZxTVkR4bVyzlJeQWhaUqMsql2eLqZpWdo01YT0I3lPaCDDPIPhIE10gTYbw4ANxMvDMYScqqWCF-cfQ11N/s1600-h/DSC05932%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05932" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqvZPvKeLjDubCDljyy_O7ftTzIrKcHhCFnSSupBLjYOgE3yvmuF7oBHohH6bEhbbP_z9B4oq2PiRaoGVkQ4Tg1JboH2hnAgRjCyg7R4jH6X4nSRGHa8mycGHjxYRHTpnw3BbsECp5lm4g/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05932" width="404" /></a> I wanted something sweet after lunch so I had a peanut butter fiber one bar for 3 points on my short little jaunt back to work. And it did just the trick!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFmKZ6Ses5s2lff7sCD569HeFmrnId16U7hln5ANtQcZlMBlo-VlbfxhPPR2mjLnSMsc7bOSHFppKJsNi3UpYuK0h37fMb_RnbpsnA-s-ZLZkUVo0Do-Q99nBBcZQiRiTBuZRFmCJ9KeOT/s1600-h/DSC05933%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05933" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLGVZCKiR5mUsLTNwP0yDtJQwkroeN5M987URHT8EFCwMnrabOfC8-SusrzCiQs_yHI_cpUHHernGEd9e9z47kqoXUyQNlpLBvXYPA8KsN2I0y1LNSchGwxap0CkbSaHBLIaQhVRZRoTXK/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05933" width="404" /></a> My afternoon was super productive. Afterwards I put on my sweaty gym clothes (from my morning workout!) and went back to the gym for 3rd two-a-day of the week! Tonight was ZUMBA!!! I love this class more and more each time! And I think I pushed myself extra tonight ‘cause I was sweating a whole LOT more than I remember from Tuesday! When I got home I got right to work in the kitchen on supper! Another new try tonight! I made Deep Dish Pizza Casserole. It was pretty good, but I think next time I will add some green peppers & maybe some onions to the mix so it isn’t so meaty. I also had a side of corn to round out my meal for a delicious 7 point supper. <img alt="DSC05934" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrGbydjG-pu8JopT6k_VC1JrWymYsYS5egyKtrp66ABBVUNfGI762ZvLNe4CPBz9XxhgT4T-LY6twchqdN0uk-mHacdDc5_Du9bsEcDljZhJOezGLSAGpXzjJKfuXjm_jp0mhT02SI5t96/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05934" width="404" /><img alt="DSC05935" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYrgtMzwst7zfI8hOrwOu6QE7C_MJ2aag3kHx29HYoXZbE2hHfZlhsbeHZG3Xgd_a9VsptwMNS_TLvSs24xwaX0tnB0o5OUz9x4kPW-gbO99Es-b3qjLARgCTwQOo6bkF5efcVjq2g7tt4/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05935" width="404" /> Deep Dish Pizza Casserole <ul> <li>1 lb ground beef or turkey </li> <li>1 15 oz can tomato sauce (the recipe called for chunky itlaian style…we aren’t fans of tomato chunks tho!) </li> <li>Cooking spray </li> <li>1 10oz can refrigerated pizza crust </li> <li>1 1/2 c 2% shredded mozzarella cheese </li> <ul> <li>Brown meat. Drain if necessary and return to skillet. Add tomato sauce and cook until heated. </li> <li>While meat cooks coat 9 X 13 baking dish with cooking spray. Unroll pizza crust dough and press into bottom and halfway up side of baking dish. Top with meat mixture. </li> <li>Bake uncovered at 425 degrees for 12 minutes. Top with cheese and bake for 5 additional minutes or until crust is browned and cheese melts. Cool 5 minutes before serving. Makes 6 servings. 6 points/serving </li> </ul> </ul> My gym bag is packed, supper dishes are done, and food is ready for tomorrow! Now it’s time for bed!! I feel like a grandma going to bed at 9-9:30ish…but boy I just can’t get up very well if I don’t go to bed early!! So I think I choose feeling like a grandma over not working out!! ;) THURSDAY’S STATS POINTS = 19/23 WATER =  116 oz EXERCISE = 35 min walk @ incline/45 min Zumba Do you read while working out? Do you have a good series to recommend I start next? (PS I’ve already read Twilight!) What’s your favorite book(s) of all time? edit: Make sure to over to <a href=" http://enduranceisntonlyphysical.blogspot.com/2010/02/giveaway-oiselle-running-apparel.html">this blog</a> for a wonderful giveaway!!

Rockin’ Thursday

Happy Friday Eve my blogger friends!!! I’m especially happy for the weekend this week because my dear hubby actually has it off work!! Three...

Birdfeeding in Wintertime...Memories in the Making.

11:59 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryjTXFXLYGSDkT-yzguro-3_w_2XDalHHjYJ2pi1_e4PSywbu9Gey54Smp-hfG1VmAXwgLbOdxTGol2HYZ7_eK80oUpdHtIY6GgYEQObSzg-68Xa73WQpX-dQb0fOp8yJhawT-VnxpM51/s1600-h/IMG00016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryjTXFXLYGSDkT-yzguro-3_w_2XDalHHjYJ2pi1_e4PSywbu9Gey54Smp-hfG1VmAXwgLbOdxTGol2HYZ7_eK80oUpdHtIY6GgYEQObSzg-68Xa73WQpX-dQb0fOp8yJhawT-VnxpM51/s200/IMG00016.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I just got back from a nice, albeit short, vacation in Florida.  I'm always struck by the diversity of birds that I see at my mom's verses my own home, especially in winter.  For goodness sake, she has Painted Buntings at her feeders all winter long!! And, on a trip to the grocery store, you will likely see Sandhill Cranes in the parking lot! Lucky!  </div> <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">My first exposure to bird feeding was actually through her parents, with whom I was very close, and who my daughter is named after.  My grandfather was the avid bird feeder.  He had feeders on his back porch all winter long and he'd sit and eat breakfast at the kitchen window and watch the many visitors.  He had an old Golden Guide to Birds, which I inherited when he passed away.  I've kept it in a special place because it has wonderful little handwritten notes and newspaper clippings in it that he kept, all related to birds.  It wasn't until I went to college and took my first ornithology class that I realized that my grandfather was a bona fide bird nerd, just like the rest of us.  I smile when I think of that because I believe he would have loved that title.  My grandmother was not as interested, but she continued to feed the birds long after he passed.  I think she had just as many fond memories of him sitting at that window with his cup of coffee as the rest of us did and probably couldn't bear to stop.  </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcc3xtIuJGuEBnhsQ72b4GlQZz8_aDLyKPZbJ_CxFCCeFFvvB21s11F_6bzpUhmNP4Jgu6c3PvRXbD9y21dbKdkKl3aykksUnGWTm3UKiRds7DnyjNF9X3UawXpRscANRchjxZJJG9VK5-/s1600-h/IMG00055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcc3xtIuJGuEBnhsQ72b4GlQZz8_aDLyKPZbJ_CxFCCeFFvvB21s11F_6bzpUhmNP4Jgu6c3PvRXbD9y21dbKdkKl3aykksUnGWTm3UKiRds7DnyjNF9X3UawXpRscANRchjxZJJG9VK5-/s200/IMG00055.jpg" width="200" /></a>My daughter now has a feeding station outside her bedroom window.  And, even though she's a toddler, she gets excited when the downy woodpecker comes to the suet feeder.  She loves the little goldfinches and chickadees too.  I keep a list of our visitors hanging on a tack next to her window, kind of a house list so to speak.  And Grandpa's bird guide is in the top drawer of her dresser waiting for her to be old enough to carefully flip through the worn pages and pick out what birds are at her feeders now as compared to what he was seeing way back when.  </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We'll probably always feed birds at our house.  And I hope my daughter has just as many fond memories of those birds and our time together as I do of my mom and my grandparents.</div> <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshsRYB0B5gTxmw-LNGcITIxkZUjoOU3EXW4IN4QKBiD4VZOktsrL6pcn64AAkFbC-WpUIKgP9hy_aWPWEXsFGxXvapGnAV7Pn-QgUKViomVCHIBIp5bt7LCHplFFJa6udVnyF9Ul3v2uW/s1600-h/232%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshsRYB0B5gTxmw-LNGcITIxkZUjoOU3EXW4IN4QKBiD4VZOktsrL6pcn64AAkFbC-WpUIKgP9hy_aWPWEXsFGxXvapGnAV7Pn-QgUKViomVCHIBIp5bt7LCHplFFJa6udVnyF9Ul3v2uW/s200/232%5B1%5D.jpg" width="146" /></a></div>February is <a href="http://www.birdfeeding.org/">National Birdfeeding Month</a>.  February 12-15th is the <a href="http://www.birdsource.org/gbbc/">Great Backyard Bird Count.</a>

Birdfeeding in Wintertime...Memories in the Making.

I just got back from a nice, albeit short, vacation in Florida. I'm always struck by the diversity of birds that I see at my mom's ...

Le contrat unique d’insertion (CUI)

9:16 AM Anonymous 0

Depuis le 1er janvier 2010, le nouveau « contrat unique d’insertion » (CUI) est entré en vigueur. Ce contrat prend la forme du <a href="http://www.travail-solidarite.gouv.fr/informations-pratiques/fiches-pratiques/contrats-travail/contrat-unique-insertion-contrat-initiative-emploi-cui-cie.html" target="_blank">contrat initiative emploi (CUI-CIE)</a> dans le secteur marchand et du <a href="http://www.travail-solidarite.gouv.fr/informations-pratiques/fiches-pratiques/contrats-travail/contrat-unique-insertion-contrat-accompagnement-emploi-cui-cae.html" target="_blank">contrat d’accompagnement dans l’emploi (CUI-CAE)</a>, dans le secteur non marchand. Il a pour objet de faciliter l’insertion professionnelle des personnes sans emploi rencontrant des difficultés sociales et professionnelles d’accès à l’emploi. Il donne lieu à une convention conclue entre l’employeur, le salarié et, selon le cas, Pôle emploi agissant pour le compte de l’État, ou le président du Conseil général. Le contrat unique d'insertion peut prendre la forme d'un CDD ou d'un CDI, la durée hebdomadaire du travail doit être comprise entre 20 et 35 heures. Pour en savoir plus : <ul><li><a href="http://www.travail-solidarite.gouv.fr/informations-pratiques/fiches-pratiques/contrats-travail/contrat-unique-insertion-contrat-initiative-emploi-cui-cie.html" target="_blank">Fiche pratique CUI-CIE</a> <li><a href="http://www.travail-solidarite.gouv.fr/informations-pratiques/fiches-pratiques/contrats-travail/contrat-unique-insertion-contrat-accompagnement-emploi-cui-cae.html" target="_blank">Fiche pratique CUI-CAE</a> <li><a href="http://www.travail-solidarite.gouv.fr/formulaires/insertion/contrat-unique-insertion.html?var_recherche=CUI" target="_blank">Formulaires relatifs au contrat unique d’insertion (CUI)</a> <li><a href="http://www.circulaires.gouv.fr/pdf/2009/11/cir_29980.pdf" target="_blank">Circulaire DGEFP n 2009-42 du 5 novembre 2009 </a>« relative à l’entrée en vigueur du contrat unique d’insertion au 1er janvier 2010 »</ul>

Le contrat unique d’insertion (CUI)

Depuis le 1er janvier 2010, le nouveau « contrat unique d’insertion » (CUI) est entré en vigueur. Ce contrat prend la forme du contrat initi...

Work-filled Wednesday

6:39 PM Tukiyooo 0

I was short on time this morning. The “evil Darci” wanted to skip the gym, but the “good Darci” won and I got in a quick workout. I’ve been shorten my workouts in the mornings this week to get to the office sooner to get some more work done. Today I only got in 15 minutes on the cross ramp, but let me tell you, it was a good 15 minutes!  I did intervals going 2 minutes at 140 strides/minutes and then for 1 minute I rocked out at 250+ strides/minute!! Boy I was sweating when I finished!! :) My oatmeal was the same with a small sliced banana and chocolate pB2 for 4 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7s01kMtpHa62QgCPR74xp47yof6D3Zj5mlZJQffNeUZx6DWKoJPs-PNvIj1iEJ9qnF2pepMVv4utV9qKB6PyVHQfgnz3w84eVncy3YyzLdoAYPd3IQulZgFvNwi6wDIM5-ol3Y3E3Rxk/s1600-h/DSC05923%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05923" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_IE35rTBFYT5peRn61VD0cMZ1_tqynYkMIuQ8z3cuJODsmf95quhmdhBzHU-pgqhZB67ykjAvYiDuHqDfTZ9bPoHpVmziCy42VeVJOdzJHHnujr5Djmcd5PXn9YDVz7KwRu2v9yo3PKM/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05923" width="404" /></a> I had an uber productive morning, but did get in a snack. I mixed up 1 1/2c strawberries, yogurt, and 1/4 c grape nuts for 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bbgfa5NaHuoCNwp6iKuV0TQ8EPf8QBhtEqRUSEhxEXU_iHnU2jZARqljJE32LZAPg47DrpLxKeUyj6DX85gXa0J12LzF50fEtduFFuffR8qwveXxF3SeQ-twdCrW5-CMqHALWWepc8Jb/s1600-h/DSC05924%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05924" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif55HR7bjdW17_RGf65m3lth9QIOfyjnEHwAakuy3C4U2yDStfBrZRbo9l6XJ_vAl3fIKCV-Gql_P5Vy3SS43WS0b8lzVks9woA9cubk-OTmw-FNxVYDNidVHT_0cDEMs0AZpH5PUY-XEM/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05924" width="404" /></a> Kyle got off work early and brought me my lunch so I didn’t have to go home and could get some more work time in! It was leftovers from <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2010/02/few-days-late.html">last night</a>. Fiesta chicken & rice bake for 7 points. And trust me there is a chicken breast under there. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsaj0cwmVMKAPmZObWghxHavagAr18pSEWVwwEkhD5HDd3Wb5m4d-TrVKrfJWKulLD6M2948IV6ZWUSXv9Rsr4mobQjLjsKCQbiU2ahhTPUJ11gHxtPTLNQYK4OK40bxhVoKlnmyEOc86/s1600-h/DSC05925%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05925" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLjtMALuLYXpS9PWzoIs5G2sTe3JuXOVH9IR0DCe5G3M-ciRkJXmC-TIMxlODt-54Z45SXkIw4GU9taZJ5QEaTHmfKzcasUvqIfkKevEwI86rPU_T8UAPZ6B0An8CsefrMC9OumBDrmc93/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05925" width="404" /></a> I worked till about 6pm and whipped up a delicious supper! I made creamy ham & potato bake with a side of green beans for 4 points. Click <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2009/02/day-112-monday-223_24.html">here</a> for the recipe. <img alt="DSC05927" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAA0zbNXVpzaDA_MPEWtvwTb0-Wf9cOBHzoMVcC5Yb1eLYoGfTw248UImfP98UtmumpXJMFUJfeKwSda8d2y3BPyrGXT21_9ySyvl9izFeVmAVQixH9v24YqWe92CkI_7wumnqTXEGsbF3/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05927" width="404" /><img alt="DSC05926" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbygja-Ax911BMIxsmqtPmKUJZiXGRrCnWUqn0p_LjH_6k8bOTpOXG5dzJKthffQMXkW0uX9iBkZ3iNqapH1XKJxfptuwUa48Z8bE-qwLj26h8VVgDBA7JhSsME2_8kOl7nNhivCvkhFSs/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05926" width="404" /> After supper I got to work again, I brought home a bunch of files I needed to get done. So I worked on those and had my dessert!! My sundae consisted of 1/2 c lite vanilla ice cream, 3 sliced strawberries, and a drizzle of lite choclate syrup for 3 points. MMmmm!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiUslEBfgdU6zH1WE8hGAk7NJGvXymqSLmKPqz6mBnKwPlsyovas2cdplV3CHioiDjorEapBrMlC-OUBlrIFbP4ehKMEMru00GExizSURYFxZvxD2GMl3MwIcWYwL_jFy_8puw33HTdE5U/s1600-h/DSC05928%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05928" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vHsWLG7t8coSxgibXVUVwx3phKSebyF4ZfuIEJirkfz_SvT0ggkDp5oZI1lPQsz74Rl_rhxyQh0vR-tMmyeELa67zHyeUqf1-KSJe40JzLxHTFMtSatiznlLBgj8p_O0fBk_t5hPGIhk/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05928" width="404" /></a> Sorry for the short,  boring post! Need to finish up a few things and hit the hay so I can get more than a 15 minute workout in! Those weather guys are taking about more bad weather coming our way…I sure to love snow days, but there comes a point when I’m ready for warm, sunny weather!! We’ll see what happens! :) G’nite all WEDNESDAY’S STATS POINTS = 21/23 WATER =  116 oz EXERCISE = 15 min cross ramp

Work-filled Wednesday

I was short on time this morning. The “evil Darci” wanted to skip the gym, but the “good Darci” won and I got in a quick workout. I’ve bee...

A Few Days Late…

6:54 PM Tukiyooo 0

But I will take it!! My goal was to be 166 by 1/31/10, well I’m ok with that coming 2 days late!! So that means I’m down 8.5 lbs in under just 3 weeks. Only 7 lbs to win the sister challenge and 16 lbs to goal!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJWQ-SbcVv74LCaElctasemO-dnoNAOlOk5mIwIohjww7ZPjxit27KD5Q9QEbRraOfY8SilIhFAM0HNy49SaW53OktmK1S922bpRvLkZZBXBz__mXVdtBgRQWvK_C-7tGWXQmXZgNs1nN/s1600-h/DSC05916%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05916" border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitYNvUX8mIx9cmuWg2eqwq54XZWyXbmrbuT1AgVadFLc2KyXhi6Q_62SwqY6YNxjh6-RvEZPeUNur1hfpuSEsKGp1QF8LQ33g1KfOmUwFUIju_PXCX4XF-9pwAuyVWeYP-qu_osDBfugtV/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05916" width="379" /></a> I got in 22 minutes on the cross ramp at the gym this morning. Kyle even joined me. He usually has to be to work by 6am so a morning workout doesn’t really work for him, but today he didn’t have to be there till 9am! It was fun to have him next to me! :) I had my old faithful oatmeal this morning. It contained small sliced banana and PB2 for 4 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBjuR-gyXYbcaji0xSwxyLlHxt7hFiZwZMqHTE2MMopem-3WLIilV4nwb10P4nBiky_KfATZMJ3kgmeg6-KcSDhXhdQzZodcoBGOXh6SZPlXsRtGtraLYJgBa_VevdpArxG695kHdy49M/s1600-h/DSC05917%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05917" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_7rD54XGcqUjVoj1vd_9WtyjG7uA62UuRALjxQA86GXEH3O2AKKx9g3xUJMtNI8BRRE54ZxQqkE0iWrfe9PMN3TW_JiA7lSO7361OUnpfYJXFC9WtWbrREU9s0WuT6V6myGviBwbtnh9/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05917" width="404" /></a> Work was INSANE today!! It was “refund check day”, so today was the day I had to put on my tough skin on and stay focused!! Wow!!! Glad this only happens a few times a per year! I snuck in my morning snack in between students. Strawberries, grape nuts, and strawberry yogurt for 3 points. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOVv4JmqHXEHM3V4c5XjGhhubUuOfq8VR7G9tq_qNTp7K9tNIu472zQBzVxjPILPtTq73HVpxRdITQJ_gJEzWxL6VSRyUz3no3OAjxfyGp3Up5pcrVqKfC0aOiP2QJ8DXN1fySi-X-lVmb/s1600-h/DSC05918%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05918" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSm6b6Z7Huk_TBl3_NYH1zpmXkhyphenhyphenlbUmp8WwCHX3C9jbT2DjyWC1ZLscShivEWgcR5nesoKqSILkL9ZGTLHUr3jS-bgQiU3kKty2fjj973-d0sqfC7zihkq8j2wM3CEZk-4sITNzHw9iU/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05918" width="404" /></a> Lunch was late, but delicious! I had a 7.5oz smoked pork chop with a few slices of pineapple and a side of green beans for 6 points. I didn’t know smoked pork chops were relatively low point! I’m sure you’ll be seeing a lot of these when grillin’ season rolls around!<img alt="DSC05919" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVvePFgTdHA2bTwOBBO7kLvL9e2EChJOd0157Op3gPgLce5b-BcHQqGWckSaYwvcA1t7DPiqnxEvLQziQ2V1RMAesH4TelpLp473LU7-xemP89aEmK8VBtqlnEj-gx4a1y86TmfdBrbZ5/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05919" width="404" /><img alt="DSC05920" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt4xk-dNrORFJcHlPBzZy8BgNDDxT9zdfcOQOi2iP1TD6RdEfniR5CPE8EXcIMvkTzkn2w6_-55fVYldrtl7KoGnkIHP-a5HrLaD9VO1p7aL4THqRgr0pfgoKzQXJe1KxsYziP6fR92pCl/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05920" width="404" /> I peeled an orange for a sweet treat after lunch for 1 point. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_WlQHjlfArT9NjPlqsJ9jnvWFtmhAQQg7fFO6GbKpCdbok5qypo6_FLugnIeDcbNFv4pEs6qKI5neW6HWunCf6TC-y_2NmMmwwcmyQW9qAOxMZwVjJv0DUKQ1BB9iwKp-wDKNmXtWakxv/s1600-h/DSC05921%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05921" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP_FVeys5ZBvhuu0eUSSPedX-BLNv_zC-3wEwnjYC7Lsgl6iw2Ck9sCZSUt9_XGrrAtqxxLuYNlqUAJCo3gkCO4lAQaLiQJQ7aq6EsBq6MUxsFDsZBPQ1TRHlzCZi-BMySTuM6VhVgGAY/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05921" width="404" /></a> I, once again, got in 2 workouts today! My 2nd one was Zumba!! I just LOVE this class. My sister joined me today and really enjoyed it as well. 45 minutes of shaking our hips and sweating like crazy!! Supper was a new try! My sister joined us as well! I made Fiesta Chicken & Rice Bake, my serving was 6 points. SUPER YUMMY!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbmeqP7BRiyS86Y7VCm915GzE5uHOUtFIja0SuraptB_n0BR3-oxrqKSK9B4iPsxzqAolohGM6ollgGCXL6iI4zOWIZK04gQ2UFgOpsD1NSQ4R1dxsETkRaeSpScBzRBeakYzhpTwuOpre/s1600-h/DSC05922%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05922" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCt4fc35mJT9mOobkZnBByfhrSM9sIFMyHigu0p6UP7NrHdV0T56okwaMb7FMTNuTrMLhxqK4b92TRXvk_jMBsbSwtOlxRf3mG6SGPo6_h6hY7DXXHNkoZ0xvLHPrb08iD5UsaeKs2lPaI/?imgmax=800" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" title="DSC05922" width="404" /></a> Fiesta Chicken & Rice Bake <ul> <li>1/2 tsp paprika </li> <li>1 can 98% ff cream of chicken soup </li> <li>1 c salsa </li> <li>1/2 c water </li> <li>1 can whole kernel white shoe peg corn </li> <li>3/4 c uncooked minute brown rice </li> <li>5 boneless chicken breasts </li> <li>1/2 c 2% shredded cheddar </li> </ul> Mix soup, salsa, water, corn, and rice in baking dish. Top with chicken and sprinkle with paprika and cheese. Bake @ 375 for 45 minutes. Enjoy! Makes 5 servings, 6 points/serving. After supper I peeled another orange for 1 point. I don’t want those <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2010/01/saturday.html">Texas oranges</a> to go bad! They are the perfect snack to keep me in my points range! Kyle and I are settled in watching the BL. I can’t believe how much the yellow team Dad lost…51lbs in 1 month on your own! AMAZING!! TUESDAY’S STATS POINTS = 21/23 WATER =  140 oz EXERCISE = 22 min cross ramp/45 min Zumba class Thanks for the <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2010/02/ready-for-fabulous-february.html">tips on the breakfast cookie!</a> I hope to try it again later this week!

A Few Days Late…

But I will take it!! My goal was to be 166 by 1/31/10, well I’m ok with that coming 2 days late!! So that means I’m down 8.5 lbs in under ju...

Ready For a Fabulous February

6:20 PM Tukiyooo 0

Happy February everyone! Sorry for my downer post last night. Not sure where my focus was, but I got it back today!!! Last night I whipped up a breakfast cookie that I’ve seen for quite sometime all over the blog world. I followed <a href="http://fitnessista.com/?p=178">this</a> to make mine. It consisted of 1/3 c oats, 1 small banana, chocolate PB2, 1/8 c skim milk and 1 TBS chopped chocolate chips for a total of 5 points. Ok my “cookie” needs help. It didn’t set up like I thought it would. It was pretty much the same consistency that it was last night when I spread it out on the plate. Is this right? Would protein powder make it set up more? What should I do different? Anyone who has perfected this I would love to hear from!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4eoim1PbEygdG6RJ9Utm2txqtub80pKv4BJMwScGPHKrb5-2IBZOVTpdXBTKNqXf9Ls4vV55b2v9ZS23kk5-v0ee6HpRvNLVBRcgLKClYyafKGgLEwLgMhklue7uhq4jCTQ_KLd8s8lA5/s1600-h/DSC05910%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05910" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjqbHoPzDiYr5dmWIAXYFYW4bnQlMoxWXmTvo0Ko4LzTvANfMzS030nq_kzMp5ksE2FOLFYgeqOLkaSxwbfY7oiEOBCcdaWFB6dPqPxXRuLcLVkHy6Rf6Y1oVnYtxyksdIFaIS-YCzckHd/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05910" width="404" /></a> But before I enjoyed my breakfast I got in 25 minutes on the cross ramp at the gym. I did intervals and rocked out my heart rate! Wow…it was a short workout, but a great one! I couldn’t wait for my morning snack. Kyle and I picked up strawberries at the grocery store this week. They were on sale for $2.38/lb! Best price I’ve seen all winter long! It was the usual combo, 1 1/2 c strawberries, 1/4 c grape nuts, and light strawberry yogurt for 3 delicious points! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nTosqfQMhitpB1928yxREUA33oSxWGbhBQD1OUMHLTt0aH5ePH8ko0VXbU0-SqhCFuKvl5AdYtdCsOxarFUM5dHwNdorfiBGGweKYVBP1Dj6f2FZT5kDFV2c8wzsH1t1bd2McQEwVicc/s1600-h/DSC05911%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05911" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ0kLJ7_jrro_U_hWV0SwFQsJNMUL6xiTKsd785OpHUesrMANLE57D1TH9E4bTaO5wjxkqEaj9PTDA5GXwEqVA1Jz23DaQew3DpGuCP-keRewh8VCrjvpKTlyOmuieiS_wCJP_IRv-Judz/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05911" width="404" /></a> One of my staff members is on vacation this week so it’s defiantly going to be a busy week at work! It was after 1pm and I still hadn’t gone to lunch yet. I decided to test of a new (to us) flavor of fiber one bars we picked up at S<a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2010/01/saturday.html">am’s Club on Saturday</a>, oats & strawberries with almonds for 2 points. It was just ok, I like the chocolate or the peanut butter one better. But the price was nice, only $4.41 for 20 bars! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWBq8auBmE_SwGDpYH8tH2gswdtLvOTktLmWOLXJmjnc_d6DZVVaJWkyDeEYcKMciOrszZm0373DIiNEiPWuFf0q_aehGvzlayFZYVrhVF6X3FXj8MEOQ8tPSZlG2hHuYlEwiukOCduCfw/s1600-h/DSC05912%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05912" border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlY-8hcVWb_XchVicon0-MsbMYMZaOWeIn3wtOdkjxQKbVNQAGcwE8CkqV2W8Nu1wxNbKZBCNQUxuyu5kxSC4f3IQ-ruQMELP08nALCznAuuCfraZU-WSnoPG2lHJSlReFvMWacPSm3rA/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05912" width="404" /></a> Lunch was <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2010/01/yet-another-snow-day.html">left-overs</a>, but it sure didn’t seem like it! I had the last serving of cheesy crock-pot chicken with 2/3 c brown rice for 8 points. I went high on the points because the piece of chicken was quite large. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilDGdTkNkLqJcyizGIstHdRkrsYCsnkQB_sW6kY1YqvpENv4rAS8VqAwAAV4OPR8aKcZEAwuQSSRJ1USf02k7JZxaIlRQaRA5bM0HZwH4NGc5BWnzZ4wUZvL0ders1r9A_g5lU8yGrGEHR/s1600-h/DSC05913%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05913" border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKfPKb5CaA6tthWlK8IFAbSNUsWDulcQ737ivnPaGehoT9136L87U7oEZJvXSWM2suW4n1lyvou9rDaTp_kkyS1RikZgxn84kQi3qUQ9R3P0gvQv2jsKwpvbdORE5d05jFFZph3J158Vkc/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05913" width="404" /></a> I peeled an orange while I was home to have later in the afternoon for 1 point. But man I didn’t get back to work till almost 3pm, so I didn’t have much of an afternoon left!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaKsgIYRVGdaxOFrUYVcFoWzq84IycyCu0Mb5ROkS-niUrmxl9O-A639HBNzbtFdNwQ-hb5pEQiQK08FCJ0RrkKbsJhkmV5nVzojM-4O-utrNw4TuyNWGBqXq3_uP8lvGTUPofqRTTzcM/s1600-h/DSC05914%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05914" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtCVdMpZm0UnPQ0vPTlcIjqzUweNqaU3Rf2oduaydcp2IbY8IbWPcxRwcGe4-8J6Cw6Lur80JWx8dmGbJKXWY0-xM6YaHeUYAtgcJlZQT3e8-4G56crt3G_TRmNyB9KzrstOMjyUvcADVG/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05914" width="404" /></a> After work I met Kyle at the gym for my second workout! And I was determined to met my goal I was supposed to make by the end of January, running a 5K in 31 minutes or less. And I did just that! I smashed my previous time from last Saturday, running 3.1 miles in 29:51!! Kyle was right next to me on a treadmill ready to high five me when I was done! After our workout we headed home for supper. I knew I didn’t have many points left over. I decided to start out with a protein shake/smoothie and see how I felt hunger wise when I was done! My smoothie consisted of 2c of strawberries, 1 vanilla yogurt, 1/8 c milk, and 1 scoop of protein powder. 5 points for both glasses! I was double fisting it tonight!! But I didn’t end up drinking both, Kyle had a sip and LOVED it, so I shared! 3 points for my serving. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6hpuzaSmIS1C3-XhpQH3sS2CqHktM2hC1Fsz9j5TWMLxARfa3Z4wyv5nwFIzjS2eMxjettIlXVlSrq4PIlLspRGTTQDBRgw-GbkIopGI6SjvM5KouW_YAZsaIlwLH5rGjOWOBfeBQbT6/s1600-h/DSC05915%5B1%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC05915" border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO5WdzRFqd6Y6XkRDgZG0oArN5qJGZeMZZ6jMUKSCa3ZG_lbK590bErcNnlXNcicI2-r8BsLwy8bozDOpBRDpF2Chpa_Zm4g5yljD1Q02K5RT6BTK51uTwa8R6sXDLpvZ57HjBxKRZknsd/?imgmax=800" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" title="DSC05915" width="404" /></a> It’s now after 8pm and I still feel completely satisfied, so I’m calling it a day for my eats! January Goal Recap: 1. Run 5K < 31min – well you already read about this!! Boo-yah!!! Ran 3.1 miles in 29:50 today!! 2. Workout 6 days/week -- I started back on 1/13/10. So out of 19 days in Jan that I was back, I worked out 14 of them. Which averages out to about 5 days/week. I was hoping to go for 6, but <a href="http://weightloss-stories.blogspot.com/2010/01/still-kickin.html">feeling under the weather didn’t help last week</a>. 3. 166 lbs 1.31.10 -- And I also didn’t make my last goal of being 166 on 1/31/10. On Saturday I weighed 167, so close! January was a great month with a wonderful start (again!) on the road to a healthier me! In just 2 ½ weeks I lost 7.5lbs and I’m gaining back my endurance! Hoping to make a February an even better month!! Check out my February goals on the right under my progress pictures! MONDAY’S STATS POINTS = 22/23 WATER =  116 oz EXERCISE = 25 min cross ramp/35 min treadmill (29:50 5K) Don’t forget: If you have any tips for the breakfast cookie I would love to hear em!

Ready For a Fabulous February

Happy February everyone! Sorry for my downer post last night. Not sure where my focus was, but I got it back today!!! Last night I whip...