I wanted to post an update on how we are doing for the month. we are at a midpoint in our grocery monthly menu and I went to the grocery store yesterday for the first time since my big spree. I purchased necessities that we needed--milk, coffee creamer, salad, tomatoes and a few other things that have come up. Last night we went out to eat with another family! This wasn't planned, but I still have the meal to bump to next week or I may use it for lunch tomorrow.
How are you doing on your stock in the pantry and freezer?
Stay cool out there!
Jenny
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
More July Recipes
This past weekend the Frozen S'mores were put to the test. They passed! On the first tasting Brady said "mom this is the best thing ever!" As my heart overflowed with joy, I still felt they could be better. They needed more chocolate to them. On Sunday afternoon, I melted a bag of milk chocolate chips (I always have chocolate chips in my pantry, you never know when you need them) and added a little vegetable oil to thin it out a bit. Then, I dipped each frozen s'more into the milk chocolate, laid them on wax paper and back to the freezer. Yesterday afternoon we went to a pool party. The newly created "Chocolate Dipped Frozen S'mores" were a hit! The chocolate smeared fingers, faces and bright smiles proved it. This is one recipe I will be making over and over again, dipped in chocolate of course.
Yesterday I attempted my first ever kabobs. It was a suggestion from a friend that her kids love them, thanks Karen. While digging through my Paula magazines, I found a Lime Chicken and Shrimp Kabobs recipe. I must omit the shrimp since Anna has a severe allergy. I added the ingredients to my shopping list and grilled these up last night. Very tasty! Another great recipe to do again.
Lime Chicken Kabobs
3/4 cup veg oil
juice of 3 limes
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1/4 crushed red pepper (i didn't have any and thought it might be too hot for the kids)
1 red bell pepper and 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 16 oz. can pineapple rings, drained, cut into 1-inch pieces
6 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
(if you want to add shrimp, 1/2 lb. large fresh shrimp, peeled and de-veined)
In a small bowl, combine oil, lime juice, vinegar, sugar, and crushed red pepper. In a dish or plastic bag, throw in the bell pepper, onion, pineapple, chicken (and shrimp). Pour lime mixture over chicken mixture. Cover and seal and marinate in refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours.
Remove chicken from marinate and thread ingredients onto kabob sticks. Grill covered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until done, turning occasionally.
*Since I didn't use the shrimp, I added a green bell pepper. I didn't think one red bell pepper was enough. I dumped all the ingredients into a ziploc bag, dumped the marinade on top, sealed bag and then toss around to coat all the ingredients well. I also like to turn and toss the bag during the marinating process when its in the refrigerator, just to help everything evenly coat.
Sausage and Pepper Pasta
1 tbsp veg oil
1 14 oz pkg beef smoked sausage, halved lengthwise, cut into 1/2 inch thick slices
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 sweet onion, chopped
2 tsp minced garlic
1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp Creole seasoning
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1 16 oz pkg penne pasta, cooked and kept warm
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage, and cook about 6 minutes stirring frequently or until sausage is browned. Add peppers, onion and garlic; cook for 6 to 8 minutes or I cook until my veggies are tender the way we like them.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, creole seasoning, red pepper and salt. Turn down to medium heat and cook about 5 more minutes or until cooked through. Add cooked pasta, tossing gently to coat. Serve immediately.
My kids love this! I usually serve with corn on the cob and some toasted bread. Usually I still have fresh salad, so I'll throw that in. This is a quick and tasty meal! Oh and yes, this is from one of my Paula magazines. love her.
--I'll go out of order and post a requested recipe that just dawned on me...the Chicken Club Tacos. Chris and I used to frequently eat at Chili's after we had our 2nd child. It was close to the house and we received several gift cards there after we had her. By the way, I loved the restaurant gift cards for baby gifts! One night I saw this on the menu and tried them out. I realized quickly that these could easily be duplicated at home and enjoyed anytime. So, here's what we came up with.
Chicken Club Tacos
about 4 Grilled Chicken breasts--I use whatever I have...house seasoned chicken breasts, canned chicken breasts (seasoned well) or even chicken fajita meat.
lettuce
shredded cheese
ranch dressing
bacon bits--please no imitation in this house. I either make them homemade or use the REAL bacon bits that comes in the big bag at Sam's. I love those, very quick and tasty.
flour tortillas
lots of options: chopped onion, garlic, chives, cilantro, diced tomatoes
Cut up your chicken breasts, grill them up. If I have time I usually throw in some chopped onion (and garlic) with a little butter or EVOO with my chicken breasts. Warm up your tortillas. Then build your own tacos. In each tortilla put some chicken, shredded lettuce, cheese, bacon and ranch like a club sandwich. Wrap it up and enjoy! Like I said, you can get creative and add many options to suit your family's tastes. The next time you go to Chili's, try out their version. PS...NOT a Paula recipe. maybe I should send this to her.
With this I usually serve my black beans. I dump a can of black beans and a can of rotel together. Simmer in a small pot. These are yummy added to your tacos or dip your chips in them! My kids have a hard time NOT making a mess during this meal. If I have time, I take some of the chicken and cheese and make them quesadillas with it. It's easier for them to eat without all the mess.
The kids are still sleeping and the laundry is still going so let me try to type out one more...
Another requested recipe...hamburger steak. This yet again, is from a Paula magazine. It is the BEST recipe I've found for this dish. It's tasty and easy. Best of all, everyone in my house eats this up!
Hamburger Steak
1 1/2 lb ground beef
3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp minced fresh parsley (i never use this, or just the dried)
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 8 oz pkg. sliced fresh mushrooms
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 10.5 oz. can beef consomme
1 cup beef broth
1 pkg brown gravy mix
Hot cooked egg noodles or rice or mashed potatoes to be served with the steaks
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, worchestershire, parsley, garlic, salt and pepper. Shape into patties, about 5 or so 1/2 in thick.
Heat a large skillet over medium to high heat. Add beef patties and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside. Drain skillet reserving 1 tbsp skillet drippings.
In the same skillet, heat reserved drippings over med to high heat. Throw in mushrooms and onions, cook stirring frequently for 5 to 6 minutes or until tender. Return beef patties to skillet.
In a small bowl combine consomme, broth and gravy mix; add to the skillet. Bring to a boil over med to high heat. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes or until patties are cooked through and sauce is thickened. Serve immediately over your starch of choice! :)
Yesterday I attempted my first ever kabobs. It was a suggestion from a friend that her kids love them, thanks Karen. While digging through my Paula magazines, I found a Lime Chicken and Shrimp Kabobs recipe. I must omit the shrimp since Anna has a severe allergy. I added the ingredients to my shopping list and grilled these up last night. Very tasty! Another great recipe to do again.
Lime Chicken Kabobs
3/4 cup veg oil
juice of 3 limes
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1/4 crushed red pepper (i didn't have any and thought it might be too hot for the kids)
1 red bell pepper and 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 16 oz. can pineapple rings, drained, cut into 1-inch pieces
6 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
(if you want to add shrimp, 1/2 lb. large fresh shrimp, peeled and de-veined)
In a small bowl, combine oil, lime juice, vinegar, sugar, and crushed red pepper. In a dish or plastic bag, throw in the bell pepper, onion, pineapple, chicken (and shrimp). Pour lime mixture over chicken mixture. Cover and seal and marinate in refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours.
Remove chicken from marinate and thread ingredients onto kabob sticks. Grill covered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until done, turning occasionally.
*Since I didn't use the shrimp, I added a green bell pepper. I didn't think one red bell pepper was enough. I dumped all the ingredients into a ziploc bag, dumped the marinade on top, sealed bag and then toss around to coat all the ingredients well. I also like to turn and toss the bag during the marinating process when its in the refrigerator, just to help everything evenly coat.
Sausage and Pepper Pasta
1 tbsp veg oil
1 14 oz pkg beef smoked sausage, halved lengthwise, cut into 1/2 inch thick slices
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 sweet onion, chopped
2 tsp minced garlic
1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp Creole seasoning
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
1/4 tsp salt
1 16 oz pkg penne pasta, cooked and kept warm
In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage, and cook about 6 minutes stirring frequently or until sausage is browned. Add peppers, onion and garlic; cook for 6 to 8 minutes or I cook until my veggies are tender the way we like them.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, creole seasoning, red pepper and salt. Turn down to medium heat and cook about 5 more minutes or until cooked through. Add cooked pasta, tossing gently to coat. Serve immediately.
My kids love this! I usually serve with corn on the cob and some toasted bread. Usually I still have fresh salad, so I'll throw that in. This is a quick and tasty meal! Oh and yes, this is from one of my Paula magazines. love her.
--I'll go out of order and post a requested recipe that just dawned on me...the Chicken Club Tacos. Chris and I used to frequently eat at Chili's after we had our 2nd child. It was close to the house and we received several gift cards there after we had her. By the way, I loved the restaurant gift cards for baby gifts! One night I saw this on the menu and tried them out. I realized quickly that these could easily be duplicated at home and enjoyed anytime. So, here's what we came up with.
Chicken Club Tacos
about 4 Grilled Chicken breasts--I use whatever I have...house seasoned chicken breasts, canned chicken breasts (seasoned well) or even chicken fajita meat.
lettuce
shredded cheese
ranch dressing
bacon bits--please no imitation in this house. I either make them homemade or use the REAL bacon bits that comes in the big bag at Sam's. I love those, very quick and tasty.
flour tortillas
lots of options: chopped onion, garlic, chives, cilantro, diced tomatoes
Cut up your chicken breasts, grill them up. If I have time I usually throw in some chopped onion (and garlic) with a little butter or EVOO with my chicken breasts. Warm up your tortillas. Then build your own tacos. In each tortilla put some chicken, shredded lettuce, cheese, bacon and ranch like a club sandwich. Wrap it up and enjoy! Like I said, you can get creative and add many options to suit your family's tastes. The next time you go to Chili's, try out their version. PS...NOT a Paula recipe. maybe I should send this to her.
With this I usually serve my black beans. I dump a can of black beans and a can of rotel together. Simmer in a small pot. These are yummy added to your tacos or dip your chips in them! My kids have a hard time NOT making a mess during this meal. If I have time, I take some of the chicken and cheese and make them quesadillas with it. It's easier for them to eat without all the mess.
The kids are still sleeping and the laundry is still going so let me try to type out one more...
Another requested recipe...hamburger steak. This yet again, is from a Paula magazine. It is the BEST recipe I've found for this dish. It's tasty and easy. Best of all, everyone in my house eats this up!
Hamburger Steak
1 1/2 lb ground beef
3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp minced fresh parsley (i never use this, or just the dried)
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 8 oz pkg. sliced fresh mushrooms
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 10.5 oz. can beef consomme
1 cup beef broth
1 pkg brown gravy mix
Hot cooked egg noodles or rice or mashed potatoes to be served with the steaks
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, worchestershire, parsley, garlic, salt and pepper. Shape into patties, about 5 or so 1/2 in thick.
Heat a large skillet over medium to high heat. Add beef patties and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side or until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside. Drain skillet reserving 1 tbsp skillet drippings.
In the same skillet, heat reserved drippings over med to high heat. Throw in mushrooms and onions, cook stirring frequently for 5 to 6 minutes or until tender. Return beef patties to skillet.
In a small bowl combine consomme, broth and gravy mix; add to the skillet. Bring to a boil over med to high heat. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes or until patties are cooked through and sauce is thickened. Serve immediately over your starch of choice! :)
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Recipes for July
So those of my friends on facebook have requested some recipes. I will begin posting them here for anyone to access. Hope these are helpful.
Southwest Chicken
4-6 chicken breasts flattened
6-10 bacon strips
some shredded cheddar cheese or whatever you have in the fridge
BBQ sauce
house seasoning*
Preheat oven to 375. Spray a 9x13 pan. Season chicken breasts with house seasoning. Place in pan. Take a slice of bacon (sometimes I cut one slice in half depending on how long the bacon is) and make an X shape on each chicken breast. Put in oven about 35 minutes. Take chicken out and baste or pour some BBQ sauce on each chicken breast, then top with the cheese. Put back in the oven 10 more minutes or until it looks done to your satisfaction--that's how I roll. If you'd like, the last 5-10 minutes you can broil it to crisp the bacon a little more.
*House Seasoning
This is straight up Paula Deen recipe from her very first cookbook, The Lady & Sons Savannah Country Cookbook. If you've ever watched her show, she uses it nearly every time she cooks. About 5 or 6 years ago, I mixed up a batch and leave it in on the counter. I uses it on just about anything. We love it.
*Mix 1 cup salt, 1/4 cup black pepper and 1/4 cup garlic powder. Mix well. Store in an air-tight container or in a shaker.
Swiss Steak
This recipe varies for me depending on what I have time to do. Anyway I prepare it, it's still good. This original recipe is from the above named Paula cookbook. Of course, I've tweaked it and change it to suit our taste. Have fun with this one.
1 round steak--about 1 1/2 lbs. (since all of my children eat this, in order to have leftovers, I usally do about 2 to 3 lbs round steak)
House Seasoning
flour for dusting
1/3 c. vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, crushed (I just use the refrigerated chopped garlic)
1 14 1/2 oz. diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped or cut in strips
1 medium bell pepper, cut in strips (I always use at least 2 bell peppers, we love them)
-Beef bouillon granules
Cut your steak into serving pieces and season with House Seasoning. Dust meat with the flour. In a skillet, add the vegetable oil (if it's a morning rush, I skip this step and just brown my steaks) and brown steaks on both sides. Place steaks in sprayed or lined crock pot. In a big bowl, combine garlic, tomatoes, onion and bell pepper. Then, add one tomato can measure of water. (This is where I alter her recipe some more. I usually add a few teaspoons of beef broth granules to the crock pot to give the water more flavor.) Pour over the steak and cover with a lid. I usually set this to low for 6 or 8 hours.
When we get home, I cook up some rice. I usually have this meal early in the month because I just shopped at the store. This ensures my bell peppers are still fresh and I usually still have some salad left for a side dish. This meal is very tasty with a big spoonful of white rice with steak, bell pepper, onions and tomatoes to top it off. Mmmm...family favorite!
Chicken and Rice Casserole
again, another family favorite that is yummy and from the same Paula cookbook.
3 c. diced cooked chicken
1 med. onion, diced and sauteed
1 8 oz. can water chestnuts, drained and chopped (I NEVER use these!)
2-14 1/2 oz. cans french green beans, rinsed and drained
1-4 oz. can pimentos, rinsed and drained
1-10 3/4 oz. can condensed cream of celery soup
1 cup mayonnaise
1-6 oz. box Uncle Ben's long-grain and wild rice, cooked according to package (they sell a Fast Cook type, I keep at least 3 of these in the pantry...good fast, quick side)
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese--I use whatever shredded cheese I have
Preheat oven to 300. In a BIG bowl, mix everything together and dump into a 3-quart (or 9x13 pan). Bake for 25 minutes.
This couldn't be easier.
**Here are my variations--I usually use 2 of the canned chicken breast from Sam's to save on time. In a skillet, I put some butter or EVOO (do you know Rachel Ray?) I throw in my onions and get them tender. Then, throw in the canned chicken with some House Seasoning. If I have time, I'll add a little of my frozen chicken broth (yes, I save all broths and freeze them to use whenever I need it) to flavor up the canned chicken. Once I get that good a seasoned together, I'll add it to the big bowl of ingredients. Stir together, dump in my pan. Then, if you really want to take it up a notch...top it with some more cheese and crushed Ritz crackers.
Frozen S'mores
I found this in a little cookbook I bought from a friend's daughter for a fundraiser. It's too hot for regular s'mores, so why not try these out. Just finished putting them in the freezer so we will see if they pass the family test tonight after supper.
2 cups whipped topping
1/2 c mini chocolate chips
2/3 c mini marshmallows
graham crackers
Mix the first 3 ingredients in a big bowl with a wooden or rubber spoon. Break crackers into squares. I used my big Pampered Chef scoop and dropped a spoonful on a cracker square. Topped with another cracker square, wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in big Tupperware container. I kept doing this until all the mixture was used. Place in freezer until frozen.
My thoughts: why not try using marshmallow cream instead of the marshmallows? We'll see how it turns out.
Southwest Chicken
4-6 chicken breasts flattened
6-10 bacon strips
some shredded cheddar cheese or whatever you have in the fridge
BBQ sauce
house seasoning*
Preheat oven to 375. Spray a 9x13 pan. Season chicken breasts with house seasoning. Place in pan. Take a slice of bacon (sometimes I cut one slice in half depending on how long the bacon is) and make an X shape on each chicken breast. Put in oven about 35 minutes. Take chicken out and baste or pour some BBQ sauce on each chicken breast, then top with the cheese. Put back in the oven 10 more minutes or until it looks done to your satisfaction--that's how I roll. If you'd like, the last 5-10 minutes you can broil it to crisp the bacon a little more.
*House Seasoning
This is straight up Paula Deen recipe from her very first cookbook, The Lady & Sons Savannah Country Cookbook. If you've ever watched her show, she uses it nearly every time she cooks. About 5 or 6 years ago, I mixed up a batch and leave it in on the counter. I uses it on just about anything. We love it.
*Mix 1 cup salt, 1/4 cup black pepper and 1/4 cup garlic powder. Mix well. Store in an air-tight container or in a shaker.
Swiss Steak
This recipe varies for me depending on what I have time to do. Anyway I prepare it, it's still good. This original recipe is from the above named Paula cookbook. Of course, I've tweaked it and change it to suit our taste. Have fun with this one.
1 round steak--about 1 1/2 lbs. (since all of my children eat this, in order to have leftovers, I usally do about 2 to 3 lbs round steak)
House Seasoning
flour for dusting
1/3 c. vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, crushed (I just use the refrigerated chopped garlic)
1 14 1/2 oz. diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped or cut in strips
1 medium bell pepper, cut in strips (I always use at least 2 bell peppers, we love them)
-Beef bouillon granules
Cut your steak into serving pieces and season with House Seasoning. Dust meat with the flour. In a skillet, add the vegetable oil (if it's a morning rush, I skip this step and just brown my steaks) and brown steaks on both sides. Place steaks in sprayed or lined crock pot. In a big bowl, combine garlic, tomatoes, onion and bell pepper. Then, add one tomato can measure of water. (This is where I alter her recipe some more. I usually add a few teaspoons of beef broth granules to the crock pot to give the water more flavor.) Pour over the steak and cover with a lid. I usually set this to low for 6 or 8 hours.
When we get home, I cook up some rice. I usually have this meal early in the month because I just shopped at the store. This ensures my bell peppers are still fresh and I usually still have some salad left for a side dish. This meal is very tasty with a big spoonful of white rice with steak, bell pepper, onions and tomatoes to top it off. Mmmm...family favorite!
Chicken and Rice Casserole
again, another family favorite that is yummy and from the same Paula cookbook.
3 c. diced cooked chicken
1 med. onion, diced and sauteed
1 8 oz. can water chestnuts, drained and chopped (I NEVER use these!)
2-14 1/2 oz. cans french green beans, rinsed and drained
1-4 oz. can pimentos, rinsed and drained
1-10 3/4 oz. can condensed cream of celery soup
1 cup mayonnaise
1-6 oz. box Uncle Ben's long-grain and wild rice, cooked according to package (they sell a Fast Cook type, I keep at least 3 of these in the pantry...good fast, quick side)
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese--I use whatever shredded cheese I have
Preheat oven to 300. In a BIG bowl, mix everything together and dump into a 3-quart (or 9x13 pan). Bake for 25 minutes.
This couldn't be easier.
**Here are my variations--I usually use 2 of the canned chicken breast from Sam's to save on time. In a skillet, I put some butter or EVOO (do you know Rachel Ray?) I throw in my onions and get them tender. Then, throw in the canned chicken with some House Seasoning. If I have time, I'll add a little of my frozen chicken broth (yes, I save all broths and freeze them to use whenever I need it) to flavor up the canned chicken. Once I get that good a seasoned together, I'll add it to the big bowl of ingredients. Stir together, dump in my pan. Then, if you really want to take it up a notch...top it with some more cheese and crushed Ritz crackers.
Frozen S'mores
I found this in a little cookbook I bought from a friend's daughter for a fundraiser. It's too hot for regular s'mores, so why not try these out. Just finished putting them in the freezer so we will see if they pass the family test tonight after supper.
2 cups whipped topping
1/2 c mini chocolate chips
2/3 c mini marshmallows
graham crackers
Mix the first 3 ingredients in a big bowl with a wooden or rubber spoon. Break crackers into squares. I used my big Pampered Chef scoop and dropped a spoonful on a cracker square. Topped with another cracker square, wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in big Tupperware container. I kept doing this until all the mixture was used. Place in freezer until frozen.
My thoughts: why not try using marshmallow cream instead of the marshmallows? We'll see how it turns out.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
I lost it and I don't EVER want to find it!
Yep, it's official there is something that I have lost and I NEVER hope to find. What could it be? Oh, it's just 30 pounds. WHAT? That's right THIRTY pounds that I have kissed good-bye!! I cannot believe it. I always thought about getting back down to pre-baby (7 years ago) weight, but just thought it was never really attainable. I am so happy to say that I did it!! It has been really fun to pull out last spring/summer clothes and all my shorts fall right down! Last summer I was sportin a size 16 and this spring I am down to a 10!! Just saying it makes me giddy.
I've had several friends ask me how did you do it? how long did it take? My favorite part is that I am proud to say that I did it the old fashioned way. I did NOT follow a "diet" or drink a shake or take a pill or eat some crazy food or work out like a high school jock. It all started last spring when the ladies of the Hills decided to have a little Biggest Loser contest. We started Memorial Day Weekend of 2010 and ended sometime in late August (or around there). I was somewhat motivated, but didn't really take it serious until about half way thru the contest. I ran into a teacher friend that had weight loss surgery over the summer and was trying to adjust her body. After I asked her several questions about diet, I started applying it to myself. It made sense...portion control! The more you eat, the more your stomach expands, the more your waist expands which allows you to eat more...vicious cycle. I tried to remember back to my Weight Watcher days of '02-'05. I was a Life Member, surely I could do this on my own WITHOUT a meeting! So, in July last summer I started eating supper off the salad plate. It was killer for the first week. I was still hungry, but I drank water to help me make it through. After that, it was a breeze. I knew I was just trying to get my stomach to a "normal" size or just smaller than it was at the time. It took several weeks before I really started noticing a change. But, I stuck with it. I quit eating off my kids plates while I was doing dishes, tried hard not to do senseless snacking and started exercising again.
Walking is where I started last May. But in my college days, I enjoyed running and knew it always helped me shed pounds. I wanted to run, however, I was fearful I would re-herniate something in my back. After trying to walk a few more miles, one day I just couldn't do it. I felt the urge to run and just wanted to try. The rest is pretty much history. Started out walking for 5 mins, jog for 1 min, walk for 5, jog for 1...repeat for 30-40 mins 2-4 times per week. I worked myself up to jogging for 10 minutes straight without jogging! At some point, I found the RunKeeper app and it made my workouts even better. I have worked myself up to running on average a 10 minute mile (this was a personal goal). So far, my farthest distance is 6.5 miles in 1 hour, 8 minutes!! I would love to try a 10K and maybe even a half-marathon at some point. But for now, I am thoroughly enjoying my smaller clothes, lots of energy and the joy of running.
Another key to my success is what I remember from Weight Watchers--don't deprive yourself! If I want to sit and eat a bowl of ice cream, why not? No, I didn't buy skinny cow or something fancy. I just ate regular ice cream. Really it was about trade-offs. I want this now, so I won't have this later. Or if I have this today and tomorrow, I will have to run for sure to make up for it. That's another thing...I didn't have a workout regiment. I work full time, drive 35 miles to work, raise 3 crazy kids (under 6), mommy and wife duties...I ran when I had time. Some weeks, I could only squeeze in one run....some weeks I could get 4 runs in. I did what I could do and didn't worry about it.
Possibly another key--I didn't stress or worry about what I was eating/should I or should I not exercise...I just lived my life, made sensible choices and added some exercise!
And if you know me at all, you know I enjoy a little barley and hops refreshment from the Rocky Mountains. Well, I even changed that flavor as well. It has made a HUGE impact. Once I acquired a taste for MGD 64, I can't drink anything else. And I've already figured it out...I can nearly drink 2 64s for 1 Coors Light!! From this switch, I noticed the bloating feeling go away as well as many pounds! Thank you MGD!!
On that note, here's to you and your weight journey and here's to mine....I think I can shed a few more, why not?
I've had several friends ask me how did you do it? how long did it take? My favorite part is that I am proud to say that I did it the old fashioned way. I did NOT follow a "diet" or drink a shake or take a pill or eat some crazy food or work out like a high school jock. It all started last spring when the ladies of the Hills decided to have a little Biggest Loser contest. We started Memorial Day Weekend of 2010 and ended sometime in late August (or around there). I was somewhat motivated, but didn't really take it serious until about half way thru the contest. I ran into a teacher friend that had weight loss surgery over the summer and was trying to adjust her body. After I asked her several questions about diet, I started applying it to myself. It made sense...portion control! The more you eat, the more your stomach expands, the more your waist expands which allows you to eat more...vicious cycle. I tried to remember back to my Weight Watcher days of '02-'05. I was a Life Member, surely I could do this on my own WITHOUT a meeting! So, in July last summer I started eating supper off the salad plate. It was killer for the first week. I was still hungry, but I drank water to help me make it through. After that, it was a breeze. I knew I was just trying to get my stomach to a "normal" size or just smaller than it was at the time. It took several weeks before I really started noticing a change. But, I stuck with it. I quit eating off my kids plates while I was doing dishes, tried hard not to do senseless snacking and started exercising again.
Walking is where I started last May. But in my college days, I enjoyed running and knew it always helped me shed pounds. I wanted to run, however, I was fearful I would re-herniate something in my back. After trying to walk a few more miles, one day I just couldn't do it. I felt the urge to run and just wanted to try. The rest is pretty much history. Started out walking for 5 mins, jog for 1 min, walk for 5, jog for 1...repeat for 30-40 mins 2-4 times per week. I worked myself up to jogging for 10 minutes straight without jogging! At some point, I found the RunKeeper app and it made my workouts even better. I have worked myself up to running on average a 10 minute mile (this was a personal goal). So far, my farthest distance is 6.5 miles in 1 hour, 8 minutes!! I would love to try a 10K and maybe even a half-marathon at some point. But for now, I am thoroughly enjoying my smaller clothes, lots of energy and the joy of running.
Another key to my success is what I remember from Weight Watchers--don't deprive yourself! If I want to sit and eat a bowl of ice cream, why not? No, I didn't buy skinny cow or something fancy. I just ate regular ice cream. Really it was about trade-offs. I want this now, so I won't have this later. Or if I have this today and tomorrow, I will have to run for sure to make up for it. That's another thing...I didn't have a workout regiment. I work full time, drive 35 miles to work, raise 3 crazy kids (under 6), mommy and wife duties...I ran when I had time. Some weeks, I could only squeeze in one run....some weeks I could get 4 runs in. I did what I could do and didn't worry about it.
Possibly another key--I didn't stress or worry about what I was eating/should I or should I not exercise...I just lived my life, made sensible choices and added some exercise!
And if you know me at all, you know I enjoy a little barley and hops refreshment from the Rocky Mountains. Well, I even changed that flavor as well. It has made a HUGE impact. Once I acquired a taste for MGD 64, I can't drink anything else. And I've already figured it out...I can nearly drink 2 64s for 1 Coors Light!! From this switch, I noticed the bloating feeling go away as well as many pounds! Thank you MGD!!
On that note, here's to you and your weight journey and here's to mine....I think I can shed a few more, why not?
Saturday, March 19, 2011
what does spring break mean to you?
Nearing the close of my spring break, I find myself reflecting on the past few years. I remember those fun spring breaks in college. It meant staying out even later, trying to start the summer tan, working extra hours, catching up on school work, just about anything to help me get a head. This year I realized that I have grown up a little more and wanted to make note of this personal milestone.
Two years ago I was getting very pregnant! We were preparing and anticipating the arrival of our third child not knowing the gender. I think I took the kids to Houston, but like I said it was two years ago and I cannot remember specifics like that!
One year ago I do remember taking the kids to Houston. We took my three plus my nephew to the Houston LS&R. It was one big family day of fun. We made our way back home and Aunt Christy and Emma came for a visit. It was during that visit that my baby girl had drained me dry. Yes I had my last time to nurse my baby girl. One big crazy mess of mixed emotions over the last few days of that spring break. In a sense it was my baby girl growing up as well as myself. I knew it was my last time to care for my child in such a way since they are growing up and their needs change. I had to grow up a little more too.
Now here we are to spring break 2011, another milestone you say? Why yes indeed. Up hiding in my attic were all things baby that were once celebrated. I remember the excitement of the baby shower my old friend Angela threw for Brady. It was one big celebration over my first child, the family, friends and gifts I will never forget. I remember those sleepless nights of wondering if I laid him down just right, did I feed him enough, how long will he sleep, how long can I sleep, when will I cook, do laundry, praying that the batteries in the swing or bouncy seat would last forever...all those worrisome thoughts of a first time mother. Through it all, I was truly grateful for all those wonderful gifts and blessed to have some of the best friends ever. I wouldn't have made it through this first born if I didn't have my old high school girlfriend Ginny. We were going through the same things at the same time. I would have been lost without her. Adding a sweet little girl to the mix brought on more of the same feelings. I remember feeling relieved that I had most items I would need for her. Little did I know this little darling would only want her momma, no matter what swing, bouncy seat, baby carrier, etc I tried for her. This time I really learned the value of buying batteries in bulk at Sam's. She required me to stretch what I learned from the first born and then ask the experts too. I would have been lost without my neighbor Shannon. She was truly a hop and a skip away or mostly just a phone call. And when the third little blessing came along I had it all, or most of it I thought. After raising two very different infants I felt prepared for whatever God was willing to give. Thankfully God was very kind and blessed us with a sweet, easy-to-please little girl. All those gifts from the first and second were once again put to use. This time they were packed up and moved more times than I preferred, but it was what we had to do. We moved out of our first home when she was about 2 1/2 months old, then into our new house when she was about 7 1/2 months old. All those fun little baby things were put to use and found their place in the new house. Throughout the past year they've become outgrown and found their way to the attic. Recently the last item found its way up there and I realized that the "baby" section in my attic was no longer of use for me. We will not be adding anymore little people around here, so why am I holding onto this baby stuff? Well, I spent an entire day devoted to all those things that I once ripped open the packaging and put them together. I took off liners, washed, put pieces back together, dusted, cleaned and stepped back. I had to ask myself if I was ready to do this? Was I ready to just give it all away? The things that changed me from just a girl, to a wife, to a mother? And the answer was yes. Yes it was time to move forward. I loaded up the truck and tearfully drove it away. I took such ownership of my stuff. It kind of made me mad that the lady at the resale shop just waved some items off and said "this is too old", "this is out of date", "there's a recall on this", and "sorry we can't take that". It just made me angry for a second. How dare she say that to me. Those "things" are perfectly fine to make some mother or grandmother perfectly happy. Out of the whole truck bed, they only accepted 4 items that they could sell. Fine by me. I reloaded my stuff and drove the full truck bed to Goodwill. I was happy to hand over my perfectly cleaned up baby items that once made my children oh so happy. I had thoughts of some young mother trying to get on her feet and finding my matching stroller and car seat set in nearly mint condition. I thought of how happy that would make her feel. And that is why I knew it was time to hand over my baby items that were treated with lots of TLC the past 5 1/2 years.
I think I feel a little more grown up this spring break. It is for I realize that it wasn't the patterns and colors I fretted over or the exact model or design I wanted for my child. Over the years, it was the love that grew, the bonds that were made and all the memories that I will cherish forever. Thank you to all that ever gave me a baby shower gift, card, mommy tips, etc. I realized that I am a better person because of it all. And now I look forward to what gifts God has in store for my family in our many more spring breaks. I know there will be more pivotal moments and most of all, lots of love and memories to cherish.
Two years ago I was getting very pregnant! We were preparing and anticipating the arrival of our third child not knowing the gender. I think I took the kids to Houston, but like I said it was two years ago and I cannot remember specifics like that!
One year ago I do remember taking the kids to Houston. We took my three plus my nephew to the Houston LS&R. It was one big family day of fun. We made our way back home and Aunt Christy and Emma came for a visit. It was during that visit that my baby girl had drained me dry. Yes I had my last time to nurse my baby girl. One big crazy mess of mixed emotions over the last few days of that spring break. In a sense it was my baby girl growing up as well as myself. I knew it was my last time to care for my child in such a way since they are growing up and their needs change. I had to grow up a little more too.
Now here we are to spring break 2011, another milestone you say? Why yes indeed. Up hiding in my attic were all things baby that were once celebrated. I remember the excitement of the baby shower my old friend Angela threw for Brady. It was one big celebration over my first child, the family, friends and gifts I will never forget. I remember those sleepless nights of wondering if I laid him down just right, did I feed him enough, how long will he sleep, how long can I sleep, when will I cook, do laundry, praying that the batteries in the swing or bouncy seat would last forever...all those worrisome thoughts of a first time mother. Through it all, I was truly grateful for all those wonderful gifts and blessed to have some of the best friends ever. I wouldn't have made it through this first born if I didn't have my old high school girlfriend Ginny. We were going through the same things at the same time. I would have been lost without her. Adding a sweet little girl to the mix brought on more of the same feelings. I remember feeling relieved that I had most items I would need for her. Little did I know this little darling would only want her momma, no matter what swing, bouncy seat, baby carrier, etc I tried for her. This time I really learned the value of buying batteries in bulk at Sam's. She required me to stretch what I learned from the first born and then ask the experts too. I would have been lost without my neighbor Shannon. She was truly a hop and a skip away or mostly just a phone call. And when the third little blessing came along I had it all, or most of it I thought. After raising two very different infants I felt prepared for whatever God was willing to give. Thankfully God was very kind and blessed us with a sweet, easy-to-please little girl. All those gifts from the first and second were once again put to use. This time they were packed up and moved more times than I preferred, but it was what we had to do. We moved out of our first home when she was about 2 1/2 months old, then into our new house when she was about 7 1/2 months old. All those fun little baby things were put to use and found their place in the new house. Throughout the past year they've become outgrown and found their way to the attic. Recently the last item found its way up there and I realized that the "baby" section in my attic was no longer of use for me. We will not be adding anymore little people around here, so why am I holding onto this baby stuff? Well, I spent an entire day devoted to all those things that I once ripped open the packaging and put them together. I took off liners, washed, put pieces back together, dusted, cleaned and stepped back. I had to ask myself if I was ready to do this? Was I ready to just give it all away? The things that changed me from just a girl, to a wife, to a mother? And the answer was yes. Yes it was time to move forward. I loaded up the truck and tearfully drove it away. I took such ownership of my stuff. It kind of made me mad that the lady at the resale shop just waved some items off and said "this is too old", "this is out of date", "there's a recall on this", and "sorry we can't take that". It just made me angry for a second. How dare she say that to me. Those "things" are perfectly fine to make some mother or grandmother perfectly happy. Out of the whole truck bed, they only accepted 4 items that they could sell. Fine by me. I reloaded my stuff and drove the full truck bed to Goodwill. I was happy to hand over my perfectly cleaned up baby items that once made my children oh so happy. I had thoughts of some young mother trying to get on her feet and finding my matching stroller and car seat set in nearly mint condition. I thought of how happy that would make her feel. And that is why I knew it was time to hand over my baby items that were treated with lots of TLC the past 5 1/2 years.
I think I feel a little more grown up this spring break. It is for I realize that it wasn't the patterns and colors I fretted over or the exact model or design I wanted for my child. Over the years, it was the love that grew, the bonds that were made and all the memories that I will cherish forever. Thank you to all that ever gave me a baby shower gift, card, mommy tips, etc. I realized that I am a better person because of it all. And now I look forward to what gifts God has in store for my family in our many more spring breaks. I know there will be more pivotal moments and most of all, lots of love and memories to cherish.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
brushing their teeth
Tonight I have to record this precious moment of time with my children. Baby K is now 20 months old and wants to do EVERYTHING her big sis and bro do, no matter what. Tonight baby K was in A's bathroom and A wanted to brush K's teeth. I got the toothbrush ready and handed it off. K let her do it for a minute and then she was done. In the meantime, I got A's toothbrush ready for her to brush her own teeth. A starts brushing her own and I look down to see K just moving her arm back and forth like she is really "brushing" her teeth like an adult. It's the cutest thing ever. It took me back to when B and A were the same way...they want to brush their own teeth so badly, but they just aren't really "brushing" them. I'm having a bit of a mommy moment, when K takes the toothbrush out of her mouth, leans over (she's just standing in the middle of the bathroom floor) and proceeds to make a spitting sound. She stands back upright and continues to brush away. She brushes for a few seconds and repeats the faux "spitting" several more times. I just crack up silently not to distract the cuteness that I am observing. B comes in to check on his sisters and sees what I'm silently giggling about and he just starts laughing too. Before you know it, the 4 of us are watching her "brush" her own teeth and "spit" on the floor (luckily there was never any spit that came out of her mouth). She is just cracking up and continues to entertain us. By the end, she is up on the counter (me holding her) and really practicing how to rinse and spit.
It's nights like tonight that make me so thankful to have been blessed with my three beautiful, healthy children that have brought so many wonderful gifts to the family. Tonight was truly a gift of laughter that brought joy to us all from Baby K. Makes me wonder what life will be like when she is no longer a toddler. I do know one thing, this does NOT make we want to have a fourth child. Just want to clear up any confusion.
It's nights like tonight that make me so thankful to have been blessed with my three beautiful, healthy children that have brought so many wonderful gifts to the family. Tonight was truly a gift of laughter that brought joy to us all from Baby K. Makes me wonder what life will be like when she is no longer a toddler. I do know one thing, this does NOT make we want to have a fourth child. Just want to clear up any confusion.
Monday, February 21, 2011
I DID IT!
I feel so tech savvy about now. I created my new blog, then exported and imported my old blog and it worked! woo hoo. See what happens when the herniated disc enables you to do anything active, I catch up on my internet stuff.
Now that I'm back up and into the blogging world, please don't set any high expectations for me. I'll do what I can to keep this thing updated.
Much Love,
Jenny
Now that I'm back up and into the blogging world, please don't set any high expectations for me. I'll do what I can to keep this thing updated.
Much Love,
Jenny
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)