Posts

Showing posts from 2008

Menu Plan Monday

Image
Monday - Pizza for the kids, dinner out with dh Tuesday - Hyderbadi Chicken Wednesday - Stuffed Bread and Soup Thursday - Chicken with Potatoes and Mushrooms Friday - Crockpot Roast Beef Saturday - Salmon with Rice and green beans

$10 in Sam's Gift Card

for another $50 in P & G purchases. I make these anyway (think Tide, or Cheer, or Bounty towels I think). Now this $50 in purchases needs to be made AT Sam's club. http://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/pgeds/en_US/jsp/rebate/pg_sams_club_rebate.pdf

$120 in coupons for a $50 purchase

That you'd probably make anyway - here's the info - spend $50 on P & G products - fill out the form, and they'll send you $120 in coupons. Here's the link for the form or http://tinyurl.com/5b6jg6 and here's the link for the info http://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/pgeds/en_US/jsp/EDS_Page.jsp?pageID=Year-of-Savings

Free More Magazine

Simply Sign up More Magazine

Salmon with brown sugar

INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 4 (6 ounce) boneless salmon fillets salt and ground black pepper to taste DIRECTIONS Preheat the oven's broiler and set the oven rack at about 6 inches from the heat source; prepare the rack of a broiler pan with cooking spray. Season the salmon with salt and pepper and arrange onto the prepared broiler pan. Whisk together the brown sugar and Dijon mustard in a small bowl; spoon mixture evenly onto top of salmon fillets. Cook under the preheated broiler until the fish flakes easily with a fork, 10 to 15 minutes. Taken from All Recipes

Crockpot Roast Beef

Taken From http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/ 5 lbs bone-in rib eye (this is the max that will fit in a 6.5 qt crockpot) 1 large yellow onion, sliced in rings 6 cloves garlic, peeled 2 T cornstarch 1 tsp kosher salt 1 tsp black pepper 1 T Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup beef stock/broth The Directions. Slice the onion, and spread around the bottom of your crockpot. Trim excess fat off of meat. Make little slits in the meat with a serrated knife, and insert a garlic clove into each one. Try to space them out equally, if you can. Add dry ingredients to a plastic zipper bag, and shake and bake the meat. Put it in the crockpot on top of the onion slices. Add Worcestershire sauce and broth. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours, on low for 6-8, or until meat has reached desired temperature with a meat thermometer. Let the meat stand for 15 minutes before slicing. If you'd like, you can use the juice at the bottom of the crockpot to make a gravy with some more cornstarch. Do not put your crockpo

Stuffed Bread

Again - this comes from Arabic Bites - these girls have some wonderful recipes For dough : 1 1/2 cup white flour. 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour. 1 teaspoon baking powder. 1/4 teaspoon salt. 2 Tablespoons olive oil. 1 1/3 cup water. For filling: 1/2 Tablespoon olive oil. 500 g ground meat. 1/4 teaspoon black paper. 1 teaspoon salt or to taste. 1 small onion, chopped. 3 boiled eggs. 1/4 cup cheddar cheese cubed. 2 Tablespoons parsley, chopped. Olive oil, extra for cook the Mtabaq. 1)For filling: Heat oil in large pan, cook onion until browned lightly, add meat and spices,cook,stirring, until browned,remove from pan. 2)Add boiled eggs, cheddar cheese and parsley. 3)For dough: place all ingredients in the bowl of mixer ,beat 3 minutes to make a soft dough. 4)Divide dough into 12 pieces. 5)Roll each portion into square. 6)Drop a 3-4 Tablespoons of filling into centre of each square ,fold over to enclose filling 7)Heat oil in large pan, cook Mtabaq until browned on both sides.

Chicken and Potatoes with Mushroom Sauce

1)For Chicken: 8-9 thin chicken cutlets. olive oil salt and pepper. 1)Heat a grill pan over high,season cutlets with olive oil ,salt and pepper,cook 3 minutes per side. For Potatoes: 8-9 Potatoes,unpeeled. salt and pepper. 1/4 teaspoon ground sweet paprika. 1 teaspoon oregano. 1 teaspoon basil. 2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese. 2 Tablespoons Nutritional yeast flakes. 2 Tablespoons olive oil. 1)Pre heat oven to 350. 2)Place potatoes into a large pot filled with water and a few pinches of salt. Bring to a boil until tender. 3)Press Potatoes to flatten using back of plat. 4)Sprinkle potatoes with olive oil ,salt,pepper,herb,cheese and spices. 5)roast,uncovered,in oven until browned lightly. For Mushroom Sauce: 1/8 cup short grain rice, washed and drained. 250 g mushroom,sliced. 1 small onion,chopped. 1 Tablespoon soy sauce. 1/4 teaspoon oregano. 1/4 teaspoon basil. 1/2 cup green peas. 1 1/2 cups low fat milk. 1/2 cup water. salt. 1))In a large saucepan,heat oil ,add onion,cook,stirring until

Date and Walnut Quick Bread

From Arabic Bites 1 cup white flour. 3\4 teaspoon baking powder. 1\4 teaspoon baking soda. 1\2 teaspoon ground cardamom. 3\4 cup dried dates. 1\3 cup hot water. 1\2 cup butter. 1\2 cup brown sugar. 1 teaspoon vanilla. 4 eggs. 1 teaspoon salt. 1 cup Chopped walnut. 1/2 cup fresh dates, chopped. (Optional) 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds. 1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2) In a small bowel mix together:1\3 cup hot boiling water + 3\4 cup dried dates. (let it cool before use it). 3)In the bowl of an electric mixer cream together butter and sugars for 2 minutes. Add eggs mixing well, Reduce speed to low and add dates mix, dry ingredients, vanilla, fresh dates and Chopped walnut; mix until well combined. 4) Pour the batter into the prepared (9 inch pan), and smooth the top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds 5) Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani

Most of my Arabic Recipes - if they didn't come from my Mother-In-Law or a cookbook - come from Arabic Bites by Zainab & meedo 1-2 Tablespoons olive oil. 2 whole chickens, each cut to 4 (you can use meat or Fish or shrimp). Salt and Fresh ground black pepper Ground turmeric. 1-2 Tablespoons olive oil. 4 large onions, cut into slices. 2 green chilies. 2-3 cloves garlic, crushed. 1 Tablespoon fresh ginger peeled and finely grated. 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric. 1/4 teaspoon red hot pepper. 1/2 teaspoon Biryani Masala. 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Whole Spices: 2 cinnamon sticks. 3 whole cloves. 4 whole cardamom pods. 1 Bay leaves. 360 g low fat yogurt. 1/2 cup parsley, chopped. 1/2 cup mint, chopped. 3 cups basmati rice. Water for boiling the rice +1 Tablespoon salt +1 Tablespoon Oil. 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds. 2 cinnamon sticks. 3 whole cloves. 4 whole cardamom pods. 1 Bay leaves. 1 Tablespoon butter. * soak: 2 Tablespoons Boiled rose water. Pinch of saffron . Juice of 3-4 lime. 1) Heat

Turkey Scaloppine Parmesan - 4 pts.

Turkey Scaloppine Parmesan from Weight Watchers Sept/Oct 08 issue 4 (1/4 lb each) turkey cutlets 1 1/2 cup fat free marinara sauce 4 (3/4 ounce each) slices fat free mozz. cheese 1/4 cup freshly grated parm cheese Spray a large nonstick skillet with nonstick spray and set over medium high heat. Add the cutlets and cook until browned, 1-2 minutes per side and transfer to plate. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Add the cutlets and turn to coat with the sauce. Top each cutlet with 1 slice of the cheese and a spoonful of sauce. Sprinkle with the Parm. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the cheese melts and the cutlets are cooked through - 2 minutes

Barley Pilaf - 2 pts

Bring 1 1/3 cup broth to a boil in a saucepan; add 2/3 cup quicking cooking barley. Simmer, covered 12 miutes. Spray a skillet with nonstick spray and set over medium high heat. Add 2 cup sliced mushrooms and cook until tender. Add the barley and 1 TBS low-sodium soy sauce - serves 4 at 2 pts per serving.

Orange Beef - 3 pts per serving

ORANGE BEEF Weight Watchers Sept/Oct 08 issue Prep 10 min Cook 7 min SERVES 4 3 scallions, sliced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 Tbsp minced peeled fresh ginger 1 Tbsp. grated orange zest 3/4 lb. bonless sirloin steak, trimmed and cut into matchstick thin strips 1 (10 oz.) bag fresh sugar snap peas and baby carrots 2 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce 2 Tbsp orange juice 1 tsp. cornstarch 1 Tbsp. cold water Spray a large nonstick wok or skillet with nonstick spray and set over high heat. When hot add scallions, garlic, ginger and orange zest. stir fry until the scallions are soften, about 1 min. Add the beef and stir fry unitl browned, about 3 mins. add the sugar snap peas and carrots, stir fry until crisp tender, about 2 min. Stir in the soy sauce and orange juice; bring to a simmer and cook 20 seconds. Meanwhile, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Add the cornstarch mixture to the wok and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thickened, 30 seconds, seve with brown rice. Nutriti

So - How do you like the new look?

Still experimenting - but I will try and get it all done before New Years. I got out all my Fly Lady stuff from before. Not only will I be looking fine in 2009 - my house will too. Check out her site if you've never been - get your control journal ready to go !! You WILL get tons of emails - either just delete the ones you don't have time for, or get a digest version - but it will help get your home in order. Also going back to Menu Plan Monday - if you've never heard about it - check it out. Working on next weeks menu's now. Workout Journal - just going to make extra pages for my FlyLady control journal. So much out there - just find what works for you. Girls did really well at the swim meet. None of the qualified for JO's yet - but there is still time. I am very proud of them all !! What's cooking this a.m.? In my Zoji - I have bread baking, and it does smell good. If you've never made bread in a Zoji - poor you. I love mine. Almost my favorit

Looking Fine in 2009

Yep - tha'ts my motta - this coming year - every day I'll be looking fine. As most of you know, I've been spending an hour or two each day at the gym. Course, not wanting to miss out on more of my family time - I get up at the very dark hour of 4 a.m. - and I'm usually at the gym by 5 (I have to pack dh's lunch and have the coffee pot ready to go by pushing a single button, or else he just couldn't make it LOL) From 5 - 6 I treadmill - either watching CSI, reruns of Law & Order, or some vampire movie called "Angel". I prefer the previous 2 ! Then on to the weights, and if I have enough time left - a session on the tanning bed. Although the weight isn't just dropping off like on Biggest Loser - my body is becoming more toned. I know what's hampering my weight loss - it's obviously the peanut M & M's (dark chocolate) that were calling my name yesterday. Or perhaps the minty chocolate chip ice cream that was calling my name

Awesome Christmas Music

I had to order this CD - even though we don't celebrate Christmas - these guys are awesome !! Check them out at You Tube - then go to Amazon to order !! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8&feature=channel Straight No Chaser

December 15

Image
Exercise Today - 60 minutes treadmill - 3.8 mph at a +2 incline during commericals. Free weights for upper body strength. Breakfast - microwavable steel cut oats - pretty darn good - 4 WW points Lunch - Salad with lunchmeat rolls Dinner - TBA

WEIGHT WATCHERS CRANBERRY BANANA BREAD

1 1/2 c. flour 1 1/4 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. soda 1 c. fresh cranberries 1 1/2 very ripe mashed bananas 1/2 c. sugar 1 large egg (room temperature) 1 tsp. vanilla 1/2 c. oil Bake at 35 minutes in spray coated 8" square pan. Cut in 16 servings. http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1625,146172-240192,00.html

Decisions have been made -

More on this later - but I wanted everyone to know I'll be posting more often - and sharing what I'm doing both at the gym and in the kitchen. I'm leaving my WW meetings for now. Not real happy with the program lately - nor the people that promote WW online. Off to the kitchen to bake - Banana Bread Cranberry Bread Cranberry Muffins

Awesome Buy on Headphones -

With homeschooling - we use headphones all the time - if someone is doing their language, another person can be watching a movie - and since we all have our own computers - I'm picking up 2 more sets of headphones - at this price - you can't beat it Buy.com

Free Stuff for Babies

A friend of mine is having their first grandchild - I knew there was tons of free stuff out there - so during my websearch - I stumbled acrossed Free Stuff for Babies - I may sign up - never know when you can pass along some good coupons CS Jerzy

Cyber Monday Shopping -

Some of the stores I'll be hitting - Speedo - with 25% off your entire order, plus free shipping, can't be beat. I ordered 4 suits, 2 of them were racing XD skins - normally around $80 each - got all 4 suits - delivered, for less than $100. Use coupon code SPCYBER at checkout (must spend $50 to get the free shipping) Joann - I love, love, love sales at Joann. Going to pick up another floor lamp - love these things. This can be the only light in the room, and it's plenty. Perfect for needlework or sewing or even homework when you want to keep the rest of the room dark for TV or even others sleeping. Do a search for OTT-LITE® 18 W Hampton Floor - normally $160, on sale for $50 And - Olfa Gerber Daisy 45mm Cutter & 12x18 Mat normally $41 on sale for $16 Lots of other goodies - click on shopping from the home page and see all the cybermonday sales - good luck ! Updated - 7 a.m. - sites already starting to slow down - check out Woman Within - 40% off entire order -

What's Cooking

Got lots of new recipes I will be trying out - they'll be linked after I try them Pumpkin Pie - 2 pts per slice Squash Sweet Potatoes - 2 pts for 2/3 cup Fluffy Pumpkin Pie - 3 pts per slice Marinated Veggies - 1 pt per 1 cup serving Pumpkin Oatmeal Muffins - 1 pt each Cranberry Oatmeal Bars - 3 pts each Pumpkin Cranberry Muffins - still need to run this one through Master Cook Software Enjoy your Thanksgiving !

Saturday - November 22

Time for a much needed long weekend. Still not sure if the entire family is going - but I know I am LOL. I have a pile of cooking magazines and WW magazines and a blank calendar - going to work out some menu's and grocery lists - hoping to get about 12 weeks worth done. I will figure out a way to link them all here - sorta like a "saving dinner" kind of thing - only free LOL I think when I get back I'm going to sign back up with fly lady as well. My house is started to get messy again - not dirty - but messy. I can't understand how I can pick everything up - and 10 minutes later it's trashed ! Well, with 4 kids I can understand it - but that doesn't mean I like it ! Down 2 lbs at my Biggest Loser Meeting today - just need to stay on track. Rick - the gym owner - has lost 12 lbs in about 3 weeks - so I need to get my rear in gear if I'm going to win this thing ! The girl next to me has lost about 6 lbs each of the past 2 weeks - not sure how she

Who Is Jerzydeb

This blog has gotten off track. It was meant to help me stay on track with my weight loss, and perhaps share some of my personal life with the outside world (If you don't find that interesting - then click on the recipe you want on the left, and don't read the rest LOL) I've realized that I don't think I've ever said much about myself (although I know you're all sick of hearing about the kids). So I thought I'd truly try blogging for a change. A big part of me is my religion, for I am a Muslim. This is my story. I am married to an Egyptian, and I am Muslim I was a Christian my entire childhood. I was baptized in the Catholic Church as and infant, and again in an Interdenominational church as a young teen, because I was told that first one "didn't count". Years later, my step mother also found out that her baptism didn't count ( they didn't do the full underwater thing when she was in her 20's). and the pastor told her she&

November 7, 2008

Image
While the weight is not exactly melting off - I do feel 100% better. I've been to the gym probably 8 of the last 10 days. This a.m. I was there at 4 a.m. - couldn't sleep - so figured I'd get an extra workout in. Feels good to move. A friend told me I need to get back to menu planning - how right. The kids have been doing so good - we're doing a family biggest loser. Right now I'm in 3rd place. But we have until the end of the year, so plenty of time to catch up. I've missed my last 2 WW meetings - and going to miss again tomorrow - swim meets. But, I'll be there the following week - just hoping the scale goes down between now and then ! Found a great sale on swim suits

Buy.com

Image
$10 off $200 valid in our Computers, Software, Home Networking, Digital Cameras and Electronic Stores! exp 11/30/08 Just leaving this here so I can find it again. Wonderful buy on that Wii - and I got noticed that it's been shipped !!!

Buy.com

Image
$10 off $200 valid in our Computers, Software, Home Networking, Digital Cameras and Electronic Stores! exp 11/30/08 Just leaving this here so I can find it again. Wonderful buy on that Wii - and I got noticed that it's been shipped !!!

Wii great buy and Puritan Pride Sale

Buy two Get three FREE on all Puritan's Pride Vitamins! This is usually when I stock up on vitamins - And I ordered this Wii - really good buy - I hope I get in http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=209868768&adid=17654&dcaid=17654

Checking In October 25

Image
Don't know where my time goes - eye surgery and birthday's last couple weeks. Still visiting the gym - but found I need new bras. I know JMS has some great prices and using Free shipping on any order Just My Size Coupon: 607884 - and going through the link below to get 25% off - should save me a bit of $$$. I love Victoria Secret - but not for the gym ! Also need to get to Amazon again - wasn't real pleased with the amount of candy the parents sent in - so I need to stock up on more - sigh. Spent too much $$$ last night on buckets and crafts for the kids - good thing there's not a lot of kids in his class, eh?

October 16th

I've been going to the gym pretty regularly - feels good. Not sure about the weight - I'll find out Saturday - but I think I'm holding my own. LOL Haven't been great at journaling - need to work on that. Finding out what being a homeroom mom is all about. Lot's more work then I ever thought - so if you've ever been a homeroom mom - thanks. Hitting Amazon this a.m. for some last minute buys on candy and decorations. I use Oriental Trading as well - but Amazon continues to carry the good stuff (and free shipping if your order is over $25). Here's a link to the candy page - Amazon Grocery’s Halloween page is stocked up on all kinds of candy and treats that your trick-or-treaters will love. From now until Oct. 31, save $15 off orders of Nestle and Hershey products of $39 or more. Plus, get free Super Saver Shipping on all orders that total over $25 (after discount).

October 4, 2008

Image
Hello blogging world ! AFter a short haitus - I'm back. As some of you know, we just finished 30 days of fasting, followed by 3 days of celebration, and I'm proud to say that I only gained .2 lbs during that 3 day celebration. I did have 1 doughnut the first day - dh brought home an entire dozen after the party - and I'm also very proud of me that I didn't have one of those !! I also joined the gym (free 1 month membership for teachers) and met with a personal trainer - Ivan. He set up my first workouts - lots of reps at low weights - just to get in condition. Plus, 5 minute warm up on the treadmill, and 30 minutes any type cardio. Today, after my WW meeting, I was going to go grocery shopping, as per my norm, but I saw Ivan through the window of the gym, and I figured it was the perfect time to get a workout in. So, #1 for the week is in. Still need to hit my 30 minutes cardio - I may do that tomorrow morning. We'll see how the day plays out. Need to ge

Sept. 23

Just a quick post tonight - one more week and I'm finished with my first class on my way to getting my Bachelors. Good News - dd lost 2.2 lbs her first week on WW. I think maybe it inspired her a bit. I hope so. I promised her I'd log all my food if she logged hers - so I did. I ate 28.5 points today - I get 28, and I'm sure I earned at least .5 in AP's - so I'm good. Need to get some more office/school supplies. Office Depot coupon code 14950642 exp 9/30 for $15 off $50

Homeroom mom? Me?

Yep, me, the homeschooling mom is also now my son's homeroom mom. Too funny, but I think we'll both enjoy it. Plus, I'm financially able to supply the class with some fun stuff - so it'll be good for everyone year round. Big dinner tonight. About 20 people. Everything on the grill - except green bean casserole and rice. I'll be busy later, but for now - I'm relaxing. Steam cleaned all the carpets yesterday - so just a quick dusting, and I'm ready. Need to go check out some stuff for Halloween stuff for the classroom - Of course, Oriental Trading is the place to go. Free Shipping on $60+ Oriental Trading Company Coupon: RLS100 exp 9/30 with the free shipping, I'll probably order stuff for Thanksgiving and the winter holidays as well. WW was great this week - down 2.6. It's a good start - just gotta keep it going that direction.

Chocolate Cake 4 pts

Chocolate Cake From Light & Tasty ***** I ran this through Master Cook - cause the calories seemed high for what you had. Using Cool Whip lite, I came up with 116 calories, 4 fat, and 1 fiber. Only 2 points. If you cut it into 8 slices - it's only 5 points. I don't know how they came up with their nutrionals - but I'm assuming it'd be what kind of chocolate cake mix you would use. SERVINGS: 16 CATEGORY: Lower Fat METHOD: Baked TIME: Prep: 20 min. Bake: 15 min. + cooling Ingredients: 1 package (18-1/4 ounces) chocolate cake mix 1 package (2.1 ounces) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix 1-3/4 cups water 3 egg whites FROSTING: 1-1/4 cups cold fat-free milk 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1 package (1.4 ounces) sugar-free instant chocolate pudding mix 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen reduced-fat whipped topping, thawed Chocolate curls, optional Directions: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, water and egg whites. Beat on low speed for 1 minute; b

Sept, 9th, 2008

Back on Track - thats the new WW challenge. Saw it today on the message boards. Yep, that's me. Back on Track - with a plan no less !! I have all the support I need. I have the tools I need. I have the desire. I've been MIA - getting back on a new schedule - school for the kids. Swimming starts next week - it's been nice to be home each night. Sigh. Will be back to posting new recipes soon ! Jerzy

Woman Within - AWESOME DEAL

OK - here's what I ordered - Tops and Sweaters and cardigans - 7 pieces Jeans - 3 pairs Pantsets - 2 sets pj's - 1 set swim shorts - 1 pair Suede Boots - 1 pair Sweatpants - 2 pair So that's what - 17 items (and that's saying that the pantsets are only one item - although 2 of the pantsets come not only with the pants and top, but also a pair of bonus shorts - so really - we're talking 22 items of clothing/shoes - how much? $125 delivered. Less than $6/piece. Have I mentioned how much I love online shopping? How you ask? CLICK HERE for Woman Within - and use coupon code at checkout for 50% off your ENTIRE ORDER !! CLEARANCE ITEMS only - so hit the clearance tab (far right) and go shopping !!! HINT - throw everything you think you might like in your cart - by the time you hit check out - they'll be removing some of the things that sell out quickly. Extra 50% off everything in plus size Clearance! Coupon Code: WW26016 exp 8/29 Here's some of the items av

Updates -

Speaking of Updates - yes, I was up at WW this week - why? Not much journaling going on. Yes, I had my dinner plans - and I stuck to them. But snacked at the beach. Snacked for lunch. Snacked in the car. Too much snacking. Next week will be better !

Blueberry Banana Bread - 2 pts

Blueberry-Banana Bread Get two fruits in one great-tasting quick bread. Savor this sweet, tempting bread all by yourself, or give it as a gift during the holidays. Prep Time:15 min Start to Finish:3 hr 20 min Makes:1 loaf (24 slices) 2 cups Original Bisquick® mix 3/4 cup quick-cooking oats 2/3 cup sugar 1 cup mashed very ripe banana (2 medium) 1/4 cup milk 2 eggs 1 cup fresh or frozen (thawed and drained) blueberries 1. Heat oven to 350ºF. Grease bottom of loaf pan, 9x5x3 inches. 2. Stir Bisquick, oats, sugar, bananas, milk and eggs in large bowl until moistened. Beat vigorously 30 seconds. Gently stir in blueberries. Pour into pan. 3. Bake 45 to 55 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Loosen loaf from sides of pan; remove from pan and place top side up on wire rack. Cool completely, about 2 hours, before slicing. Wrap tightly and store at room temperature up to 4 days, or refrigerate up to 10 days. --------------------------------------

Lands End Shopping

Image
Slender Suits: “Lands' End has a bathing suit that makes you look one size smaller! Get it!” – The View See what's On The Counter this week at Lands' End

FitWatch - Exercise Log

FitWatch - Exercise Log

New Swim Season - new weight loss, new determination

Down 1.8 today - feel good. Promised myself to journal every day - even if I blow it. I'd love to see another nice loss next week. If you're a praying type of person - say a prayer for a little baby born in Ireland last Thursday - he was only 27 weeks - only about a pound and a half - so he could use as many prayers as possible. Swim season starts again - I've enjoyed this time together with my family. But - I know swimming is an excellent exercise for them. Hopefully they'll move the kids up to the next group and push them harder - it'll help dd#1 with her weight loss efforts. Need to buy some new suits for everyone - so back to swim outlet - I'll stock up on goggles and caps as well - cheaper there than anywhere. I have my menu all worked out - bbq this weekend - tonight is lamb chops, and tomorrow steak. Then running all next week - but I do have dinner plans each night - so I should be able to stay on track. Until later.

More Shoes !!!

Image
I've received 2 orders so far from and I love each and every one of the 15 pairs of shoes we've received. One pair is going back for size - that's it. The leather is of good quality. There are name brands like Hush Puppies, and the fit is wonderful. Now, I don't want summer to be over, I don't want to put away my flip flops - but when I do .... I'll have an entire new closet of shoes to wear LOL. Course, now to ebay to get some stockings.... shoes start at $9.99 - can't beat it - when you go to check out - change the source code to 943706 and the sale prices will show up !

Overnight Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake 4 pts

Overnight Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake I'll be making this one tonight. You could substitute cranberries in this recipe if you prefer (it will just be a bit more tart than the blueberry version). Ingredients: Canola cooking spray 1 cup cake flour (regular white flour can be substituted) 1 cup whole-wheat pastry flour (you can delete this and use 2 cups of cake flour if desired) 3/4 cup granulated sugar (Splenda® can be substituted) 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons canola oil 3 tablespoons fat-free sour cream (light can be substituted) 3/4 cup low-fat milk 1 large egg 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries Crumb topping: - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (Splenda® can be substituted) - 6 tablespoons cake flour or white flour - 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 2 tablespoons no- or low-trans fat margarine (butter can be substituted) - 2 tablespoons fat-free sour cream. Preparation: 1. Coat a 9x9x2-inch sqare baking dish (or similar round pan) with canola cooking spra

Office Depot Deals

Gotta love free - looking for Internet Security? More than one computer? Check this out - Office Depot - click through the top link if you'll be ordering additional items - the $20 off does not apply to technology items $20 off $100, click to activate Office Depot Coupon, click continue shopping in order for discount to show up at checkout exp 8/31 Or, click through this link to get the free after rebate software ! McAfee Internet Security Suite With SiteAdvisor 3 User Free after rebate exp 8/17

Meatloaf Muffins 4 pts

Meatloaf Muffins 1 Pound Extra Lean Ground Beef 4 oz. Zucchini, unpeeled and shredded 1 Egg 1 Cup Ore Ida Hash Browns, frozen 1/2 Cup Fat Free Shredded Cheddar Cheese 1/2 Package (3 oz.) Kraft Stove Top Seasoned Stuffing Mix 1/4 Cup Reduced Fat Parmesan Cheese 1/2 teaspoon Minced Garlic 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce 1/4 Cup Ketchup 1/4 Cup Onion, chopped Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients together. Divide evenly into 12 muffin tins (I used a 1/3 measuring cup to divide the mixture). Bake 30-40 minutes or until done. These would be good as hamburgers also. Instead of placing the mixture into muffin tins, Make 12 hamburger patties, then grill or bake. Serves: 12 Per Serving: 163 Calories; 8g Fat (44.5% calories from fat); 9g Protein; 12g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 44mg Cholesterol; 291mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. WWP: 4 This came from "In the Kitchen with Aimee" - she now has 3 cookbooks out ! Excelle

Blueberry Coffee Cake 6 pts

This is pretty high in points - but it is good. I'll try and lower the points next time I make it by using 1/2 applesauce instead of all the butter, and egg beaters, and perhaps splenda and 1/2 wheat flour. But - if you're having guests for breakfast - this is excellent as is ! Blueberry Coffee Cake From Cooking Light This moist, tender cake scored high in our Test Kitchens, where tasters unanimously considered it a delicious way to use the first blueberries of the season. Studded with plump, juicy pockets of berries, the cake also features a sprinkling of turbinado sugar on top that adds another dimension of texture. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or as a snack to savor with coffee, it's a recipe you'll make more than once. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (about 6 3/4 ounces) 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup granulated sugar 6 tablespoons butter, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 large egg 1 large egg white 1 1/3

Swim Outlet again

Swimming season is about ready to start again - doesn't it seem like I just finished? Whew. Swim Outlet - still the best prices even without coupon codes Not much online for today, paperwork and swimming, swimming and paperwork, and perhaps I'll get a bit of sewing in as well !

Saturday - August 9th

Good start to the day - down at my WW meeting - thats always a good thing. Stopped by the grocery and just got some veggies and fruits - didn't have time to make a menu or a full list. Found another wonderful recipe online. Need to WW'er it some - and then try it and post it - but sounds wonderful !! Dinner tonight will be lamb on the grill, mashi rice and salads. Tomorrow will be crab cakes. Will figure out more later.

Some Updates -

OK - first order of shoes came in - wonderful. 3 of the pairs were mine - and every single pair fit wonderfully - that doesn't happen often when you have size 13 WW feet. I will definately be going back there over and over ! Second - I had ordered this clothes line tree about a month ago from Clares Drying Clothesline Now I know what you're thinking - $100 for clothesline - but this thing is wonderful ... so wonderful that I can't promote it enough (they do have smaller versions available - but if you're a quilter - you could probably dry every single FQ that you own at one time if you have enough pins !) Anyway - I had a problem with the bottom button - so I emailed the company - and they replied within 24 hours - and are sending a replacement directly from the company overseas - PLUS - they said they'd call the company for me to see if they could recommend a temporary fix in the meantime - how good is that for customer service (the original company is overseas

Corn Pudding - 2 pts

3 cup frsh or frozen white corn kernals 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives 1 T chpped fresh thyme 3/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1 1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk 1/2 cup egg substitute 2 T 1/3 less-fat cream cheese 1 egg, lightly beaten cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350*. Combine corn, chives, thyme, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Combine milk, egg substitute, cream cheese and egg in a medium bowl. Add the milk mixture to the corn mixture and stir well to combine. Pour into an 11 X 7 inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Bake for 55 minutes or until top of pudding is golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes. Cut into 8 squares. 1 square = 2 pts.

Shoes and Handbags

Image
Another new store - haven't checked it out yet - still haven't received the shoes I ordered below - but of course, it was the weekend. Endless.com I've wanted this Coach quilted bag for awhile - but I won't spend $300 on a purse - yet. Maybe once my kids grow up and I know my purses will stay where I put them ;) But for now - Endless is an exciting new destination for shoes and handbags built by Amazon.com. Endless is dedicated to providing the best prices, selection, and overall experience. With free overnight shipping, free return shipping, 100% price guarantee, and 365-day returns window, Endless is THE destination for shoe lovers. Endless customers can shop the wide selection of shoes their own way—it’s easy to shop by category, color, size, brand, or price. Detailed product descriptions--including construction materials, heel height, and customer reviews--help customers discover the right shoes for them. Many photographs and innovative zoom technology allow custo

Date and Walnut Bread

Another one I need to run through Master Cook for points - but since the oven will be on tonight - I'll whip this up as well 1 cup white flour. 3\4 teaspoon baking powder. 1\4 teaspoon baking soda. 1\2 teaspoon ground cardamom. 3\4 cup dried dates. 1\3 cup hot water. 1\2 cup butter. 1\2 cup brown sugar. 1 teaspoon vanilla. 4 eggs. 1 teaspoon salt. 1 cup Chopped walnut. 1/2 cup fresh dates, chopped. (Optional) 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds. 1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2) In a small bowel mix together:1\3 cup hot boiling water + 3\4 cup dried dates. (let it cool before use it). 3)In the bowl of an electric mixer cream together butter and sugars for 2 minutes. Add eggs mixing well, Reduce speed to low and add dates mix, dry ingredients, vanilla, fresh dates and Chopped walnut; mix until well combined. ) Pour the batter into the prepared (9 inch pan), and smooth the top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. 5) Bake for 20-25 minutes

Lamb and Pasta

Still need to run this through MasterCook to see the points - but it sounds so good - making it tomorrow ! Ingredients for Spicy Lamb Pasta Recipe 1 Pack Lean Minced Lamb 1 Carrot (roughly grated) 1 Small Onion 1 Sweet Red Pointed Pepper (chopped) Large Handful Fresh Spinach Leaves 1 tsp Paprika Sprinkle Dried Jalapeno Peppers Salt to season Olive Oil 1 Shot Glass Water (or small egg cup) 2 Garlic Cloves (crushed) 2 Tomatoes (chopped) Pinch Ghormeh Sabzi Large Pinch Dried Chives Gently fry the onions and carrots in some olive oil until they begin to slightly soften. Add tomatoes. Add chives, ghormeh sabzi, garlic, paprika and some dried jalapeno peppers. Pour in the shot glass of water. Stir well keep simmering. Add the red peppers. Add minced lamb, chop at the mince and stir well Cover with a lid and simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Cook the pasta now. After 10 minutes remove the lid add salt to season and add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce. Keep stiring, cook until the spi

Macy's sale - and updates

Image
Off to my WW meeting in a few minutes. I had a good week, but I don't think the scale is going to show it - not sure what's up with that. I'm ok about it though. I could have made some better choices, didn't have dinners planned this week. I should work on that now - but instead - I want to check out Macy's jewlery sale - supposed to be excellent prices right now - plus free shipping? I like that. Check out their clearance section while you're there - always a decent buy $10 off $75 Macys Coupon Code: REDACCEPT exp 8/25

Update on Shoetrader -

Ended up having to call my order in - if I clicked through the 15% off link - even tough it'd show me the $9.99 sale price when shopping, after I added them to the cart, they went back to the regular price. If I went through my second link posted - it'd give me the $9.99 but not the extra 15% .... so I called. Ended up with 8 pairs of shoes for $70 (I paid the extra $2 for trackable deliveries) very, very nice. Hopefully they'll fit. If not - with the free return shipping - can't beat it. I'll be shopping here again and again - new shoes just make a girl feel better - even if she doesn't have anywhere special to wear them to ! CS Jerzy

ShoeTrader - love it !

Link Deleted - see August 12th Plus starting tomorrow - lots of the best styles are going to be marked down to $9.99 !! Plus combine with the 15% off coupon (click through link above) - great deals. I already placed an order yesterday - but you KNOW'll I'll be ordering more tomorrow.

Time to Buy School Supplies ??? Off to College?

Looking for some used college texts - figured I'd post a link in case anyone else was as well.

Shopping again

Image
Scale this a.m. was being good to me - so instead of going back to bed, I figured I'd get up early and get some paperwork done. First off - buy some new bedding, pillows, ect - and the place to go ? Overstock Save up to 80% at Overstock.com! love, love, love their prices - especially on down blankets - do a search - wonderful for winter - lightweight but toasty warm. Also found a really neat site for shoes - especially if you have big feet. I wear a size 13, and my dd is already up to a women's size 10 - need to check on prices and coupons - but will post later in the day !

New Recipes Posted -

Image
Just received my most recent edition of Cooking Light - only found a few recipes this time around that I'll try - I posted them along with their WW points. Will post reviews once I try them. Please feel free to leave a comment - either negative or positive - if you try one of my posted recipes. The more feedbacks we have, the easier it is to see what to try when you know you must have a great recipe!!

Cherry-Pistachio Wedding Cookies 2 pts

Ingredients 1 1/2 cups cake flour (about 6 ounces) 2/3 cup all-purpose flour (about 3 ounces) 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar, divided 2 teaspoons cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chilled butter, cut into small pieces 3 teaspoons ice water 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 cup dried tart cherries 1/4 cup finely chopped salted dry-roasted pistachios Cooking spray Preparation1. Preheat oven to 350°. 2. Lightly spoon flours into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flours, 3/4 cup powdered sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a food processor; pulse to combine. With food processor on, add butter through food chute a few pieces at a time; process 1 minute or until mixture is the texture of sand. 3. Combine 3 teaspoons ice water and vanilla in a small bowl. With food processor on, slowly add ice water mixture through food chute; process 1 minute or until very well combined. (Mixture will remain crumbly.) Add cherries and pistachios; pulse 10 times or just until combined. Transfer mi

Onion-Smothered Italian Burgers 7 pts

Ingredients 1 teaspoon olive oil 2 cups thinly sliced Vidalia or other sweet onion 2 teaspoons sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 3 tablespoons preshredded fresh Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon dried basil 1 pound ground beef, extra lean Cooking spray 4 (1 1/2-ounce) hamburger buns Preparation1. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, sugar, salt, and pepper to pan. Cook 6 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Add vinegar to the pan; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. 2. Combine cheese and next 5 ingredients (through beef) in a medium bowl; shape meat mixture into 4 (3-inch) patties. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add patties to pan. Cook 5 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Place 1 patty on bottom half of each bun; top each patty with 1/4 cup onion mixt

Albuquerque Corn Salad 3 pts.

Ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 2/3 cup chopped jicama 1 tablespoon minced jalapeño pepper 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears) 1 3/4 cups thinly sliced green onions (about 8 onions) 2/3 cup chopped red bell pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon salt Preparation1. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add jicama and jalapeño to pan; sauté 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add corn and remaining ingredients; sauté 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Yield 4 servings (serving size: about 1/2 cup) Nutritional Information CALORIES 151(36% from fat); FAT 6.1g (sat 0.5g,mono 2.5g,poly 0.5g); IRON 1.4mg; CHOLESTEROL 0.0mg; CALCIUM 38mg; CARBOHYDRATE 24.9g; SODIUM 157mg; PROTEIN 5.3g; FIBER 4.9g Abby Mandel , Cooking Light, AUGUST 2008

German Apple Pancake 4 pts

Ingredients Batter: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (about 2 1/4 ounces) 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon grated whole nutmeg 1 cup egg substitute 1 cup fat-free milk 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Apple mixture: Cooking spray 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon grated whole nutmeg 1 cup thinly sliced Granny Smith apple Remaining ingredient: 1 tablespoon powdered sugar Preparation1. To prepare batter, lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour, baking powder, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, salt, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg in a medium bowl, stirring with a whisk. Combine egg substitute, milk, butter, and vanilla in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. Add egg substitute mixture to flour mixture, stirring with a whisk. Let stand 30 minutes. 2. Preheat oven to 425°. 3. To prepare apple mixture, coat bottom and sides of a 10-inch ovenproof skil

Sunday, July 27th

Image
Wow - time sure flies. Girls are gone for the weekend. Adam and dh spent a wonderful day together yesterday, while mommy did yardwork. Don't get me wrong, I love working on my yard, especially with no interruptions, but since it was dh's first weekend home, I was thinking we'd go out to dinner together or something - big sigh. Have been doing lots of thinking. Caught myself yesterday getting ready to eat - just because the house was empty and I could sit and enjoy my meal - not because I was hungry. So I waited. I swam. I cleaned the pool - and then I was truely hungry - so I ate. Not too much, but enough to feel satisified. It was a good feeling - but it is going to be hard to break that habit - I need to be aware of when I eat and why. Our back row had a wonderful WI last week - altogether we lost 7.2 lbs. We were one person short (R was on vacation) - so hoping next week we can have even bigger numbers - although 2 of the losers were lifetimers - so that won&#

More Blueberry Muffins - 2 pts

Just checked and I'm out of buttermilk, so will try a new recipe tomorrow Blueberry Muffins - 2 points each 1 1/2 c whole wheat pastry flour 2 tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt 1 egg or ¼ c. egg substitute 1/3 c. skim milk 1/3 c. plain yogurt 2 Tbs. canola oil 1/3 + 2 Tbs. Splenda 1 cup fresh blueberries or any other berries Pinch of ground cinnamon ½ c. ricotta cheese Preheat oven to 350F. Lightly coat 12 muffin pan with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. In medium bowl, combine egg, milk, yogurt, and oil. Add 1/3 cup Splenda and mix well. Pour egg mixture into dry ingredients, and stir until all ingredients are moistened. Add fruit and stir until just mixed. Place ¼ cup batter in each muffin cup, and bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until muffins are golden and wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Topping Mix together cinnamon, 2 Tbs. Splenda and ricotta cheese. Spread mixture over warm muffins. Cool and remove from pan. Makes 12 muffins Per muf

Some Online Shopping

Image
Some Online Shopping - Click through either of the links below - after you're done shopping, check out the Macy's Beauty sale - Free shiping with $50 single brand beauty order 2 piece Benefit Sample order Macys Coupon Code: BENEFIT Free 3 piece Sample offer with Clinique order Macys Coupon Code: CLINIQUE 5 piece Lancome Sample offer Macys Department Store Coupon: LANCOME 3 piece Prescriptives Sample offer Macys Department Store Coupon: PRESCRIPTIVES exp 7/20 Shipping on Clearance Sale. Enjoy $.99 Shipping on Clearance Items at Macys.com! Offer Valid 16-July-2008 through 20-July-2008. Dyson Vacuum Closeouts: Sale $349.99 & $399.99, Originally $449.99-$499.99

Blueberry-Lemon Bundt Cake

Estimated POINTS® Values Per Serving | 2 Servings | 24 Ingredients 3 cup all-purpose flour 2 cup SPLENDA (R) 1 tsp baking powder 3/4 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 cup buttermilk 3 large egg(s) 1/2 cup Musselman's No Sugar Added Applesauce 1 Tbsp lemon zest 1 tsp imitation vanilla extract, no alcohol 2 cup unsweetened frozen blueberries Instructions Prepare bundt pan with Baker's Joy Non-stick spray with flour. Mix together all dry ingredients. In sep. bowl, mix together wet ingredients. Slowly add to dry, mixing only enough to moisten the mix. Fold in blueberries. Put into prepared pan. Cook 350 for about 1 hour--check for doneness. Got this from the WW website - will try it later this week - will post a review.

July 16th

Image
Planning menu's - baking healthy. Journaling. All the things I need to get back on track. The exercise is there - always has been. The knowledge is also there. Just need to apply it. Will be posting new recipes and menu's shortly - enjoy !

Blueberry cinnamon muffins

The original recipe called for 15 two point muffins. I changed the flour to 1/2 wheat and 1/2 white, and now you can get slightly larger 2 point muffins (make only 12 instead of 15) Blueberry cinnamon muffins From the kitchen of Jerzy Estimated POINTS® Values Per Serving | 2 Servings | 12 Ingredients 1/4 cup rolled oats 2 Tbsp unpacked brown sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 cup fat-free margarine 1 cup Splenda 1/2 cup fat-free egg substitute 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour (I used 1 cup wheat, 1 cup white, if you use the 2 cups white - it's 3 pts for 12 muffins, or 2 points if you make 15) 1/2 tsp baking soda 1 1/4 cups reduced-fat buttermilk 1 cup fresh blueberries Pam baking spray Instructions Stir together oats, brown sugar, and 1/2 tsp cinnamon; set aside. Beat butter and Splenda at medium speed with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add egg substitute, beating until well-blended. Stir in vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and remaining 1/2 ts

Berry-and-Spice Whole-Wheat Muffins

Berry-and-Spice Whole-Wheat Muffins Estimated POINTS® Values Per Serving | 3 Servings | 12 Ingredients 1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons chopped pecans 1 tablespoon butter, melted 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup whole-wheat flour 1/4 cup sugar 3/4 teaspoon baking powder 3/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 1 egg 1 1/4 cups buttermilk 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries Instructions Combine brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, and pecans in a small bowl. Stir in melted butter; set aside. Combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, and next 5 ingredients in a large bowl; make a well in center of mixture. Stir together egg, buttermilk, and oil; add to dry ingredients, stirring just until moistened. Fold in blueberries. Spoon about 1/3 cup batter into each of 12 lightly greased muffin cups. Sprinkle batter evenly with reserved pecan mixture. Bake at 375° for 1

Blueberry Muffins - 1 pt

I'll be making these over and over. If you're going to freeze them, I'd cut down on the amount of blueberries used, but I used a complete pint of blueberries (after I picked out the bad ones) and they were excellent ! 1 1/2 C Flour 3/4 C Splenda 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 2/3 C fat-free yogurt 2/3 C water 3/4 C blueberries, frozen or fresh Directions Combine and mix dry ingredients. Then add water and yogurt, mix then add berries and stir carefully. Fill greased muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake at 400 F. for 18 minutes. These make a really nice size muffin for 1 pt (12 muffins) Calories per muffin - 69, trace fat, 1 fiber

Blueberry Bread 3 pts

This was just OK. You could change around the orange peel for lemon zest and use a lemon yogurt - that would be good too. It's a good way to get your blueberries in. I'm going to try and freeze a loaf for a week or so - I'll let you know how that worked. 1 3/4 cups flour 1/3 cup sugar 2/3 cup splenda 2 teaspoons orange peel 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 pint blueberries 8 ounces yogurt with fruit, nonfat, artificial sweetener 1 each egg 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce Mix everything, adding blueberries last. I baked mine at *375 for about 50 minutes in a loaf pan. Per serving is 143 calories, 1 fat, 2 fibers - 3 WW points (10 slices) If you substitute wheat flour for 3/4 cup of the flour, and use egg beaters instead of the egg - it's down to 2 points per slice, but the texture is a bit different.

Blueberries anyone?

It's blueberry season here in Jerzyland. I'm working on pints # 13-18. I frozen #1-6, and am slowly turning the other 6 into baked goods that I'll freeze. I'll post the recipes along with my reviews once I make them. WW - I was up a bit - but I knew I would be. That's OK. For those of you that also do WW - check out this deal I'll be extending my subscription - that's for sure ! OK - still have a houseful of girls. They made chocolate chip pancakes this a.m. - tons of them. I limited myself to 4 small ones without the chocolate chips, and with sugar free syrup - no butter. Not bad. Made 1 pt blueberry muffins last night - and I did have 3 of those - so now I'm full. 11 a.m. - so no lunch - good day today !!

What's cooking

Just posting this weeks menu's - as always - if something turns out well - I will definately post the recipes. Sunday - Steaks and garlic mashed with peanut butter parfaits (from Healthy Cooking page 30) Monday - Teriyaki Burgers with fries (HC page 36) Tuesday - Slow Cooked Chicken with pasta Wednesday - Honey Grilled Chicken Thighs with Rice (HC 51) Thursday - BBQ'd Beef Roast (HC 63) Friday - Pizza Day I've decided to try a few new WW meetings to see if I can find another that fits me. While I enjoy my Saturday morning meetings - I think since I've been going so long, there are no fresh ideas for me. I end up chatting most of the time - and perhaps that's why I'm not loosing anymore. Going to quilt and swim all day today. Adam goes back to school tomorrow - will definately post pictures of that !!

Happy 4th of July !

It's been a whirlwind week - back and forth to swimming, getting dh packed and out, taking care of the kids, and getting Adam ready to return to school. We all need a break - so we're hitting the beach today. Don't know how long we'll stay - the beaches will be crowded - I like to be able to keep track of my kids - so it may end up being an early day today. Scale still up - but with the junk food we ate this week (no time to cook until dh finally left) I'm not surprised. Whatever it is up - will come right off next week - so I'm not stressing about it too much. My old WW leader will be back again next week - it'll be great to see her again. Found some good bluetooths online while searching (I have one, but some friends needed theirs). Now, I've been pleased with everything I've bought from Buy.com - It's the Law - Go Handsfree! Bluetooth Speicals and Free Shipping Offers! There are always coupon codes you can use at Buy.com as well - let me

How's Your Week Going?

Image
So many projects I want to start - so little time. I have this wonderful black batik quilt swap I need to do, plus a flying geese anniversary project swap for an online group. I also signed up for a BOM batik, and have to finish 2 other BOM's that end soon. Oh, and the nice lady that weighs me in each Saturday is having her first grandbaby - her daughter has picked out a pattern - so I just need to show her some fabric samples, then work up a new baby quilt. So much to do, so little time. I have found that by planning menu's - I've been doing much better. Even if I don't stick to my menu 100% - I'm much better off. Yesterday I made the stuffed shells - it was from Cooking Healthy magazine - it was just OK. I like my stuffed shells better - and mine have less points. The kids agree with me. Now, dh and I both loved the pineapple walnut cake - the kids didn't. Tomorrow I'll try the oatmeal brownies with them - if it passes - I'll post the recipe.

What's on the Menu this week?

Image
After another successful weigh in - I know I'm on the right track - planning and journaling. On a good note - a long time WW'er who first helped me get started is back. He originally had lost over 100 lbs - and kept it off for 5+ years. The biggest accomplishment - he did this at WW alone - and was only about 15 when he started. Anyway, he did put on the freshman 15 his first year away at school - but I think that's great (ok, ok, it was really 20, but still). He's back and determined to lose that 20 - and we'll all help him!! This Weeks Menu Saturday - We ended up eating breakfast for dinner - we had fool mudamas (Egyptian Beans) and bread and baked falafel - recipes will follow later. Sunday - Today dd#2 made pancakes for breakfast Lunch is fruit Dinner will be Medeterrain Pockets as aps, then Turkey Burgers and Corn on the Cob and salads for dinner. Dessert will be Pineapple Nut Cake - recipe to follow Monday - Breakfast - bagels Lunch - soup or sandwiches D

Pineapple Chicken with Spaghetti 7 pts

Pineapple Chicken with Spaghetti Light & Tasty From Canton, Ohio, Cheryl Harris shared the recipe for this stir-fry that's full of crisp-tender veggies. Chunks of pineapple add a colorful burst of fruity goodness to every forkful. SERVINGS: 6 CATEGORY: Lower Fat METHOD: Stir-Fry TIME: Prep: 10 min. Cook: 25 min. Ingredients: 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti, broken in half 1 can (20 ounces) unsweetened pineapple chunks 1 large green pepper, julienned 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced 3 green onions, chopped 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tablespoon minced fresh gingerroot 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips 1 garlic clove, minced 4 teaspoons cornstarch 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce Directions: Cook spaghetti according to package directions; drain. Drain pineapple, reserving juice; set aside. In a large nonstick skillet or wok, stir-fry green pepper, carrots, onions and ginger in oil for 3 minutes. Add chicken and garlic; stir-f

Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef 8 pts

Slow Cooker Barbecue Beef Taste of Home This juicy shredded beef is so popular at summer gatherings. The tender meat is slow-cooked in a savory sauce that includes tomato paste, brown sugar, molasses and chili powder. It makes a big batch...enough for seconds! -Colleen Nelson, Mandan, North Dakota SERVINGS: 8-10 CATEGORY: Main Dish METHOD: Slow Cooker TIME: Prep: 15 min. Cook: 8 hours Ingredients: 1 boneless beef sirloin tip roast (about 3 pounds), cut into large chunks 3 celery ribs, chopped 1 large onion, chopped 1 medium green pepper, chopped 1 cup ketchup 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup cider vinegar 3 tablespoon chili powder 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons molasses 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon ground mustard 8 to 10 sandwich rolls, split Directions: Place beef in a 5-qt. slow cooker. Add the celery, onion and green pepper. In a bowl, combine the ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, chili powder, lemon

Lemonade Chicken

It doesn't take a seasoned cook to turn out this scrumptious entree. Served with your favorite salad, it makes a wonderful summer supper. Try it with limeade or orange juice in place of lemonade. My family raves about every refreshing version. SERVINGS: 6 CATEGORY: Main Dish METHOD: Grill (gas or charcoal) TIME: Prep: 15 min. + marinating Grill: 20 min. Ingredients: 1 can (12 ounces) frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 teaspoon garlic powder 3/4 teaspoon minced fresh mint or 1/4 teaspoon dried mint 4 pounds bone-in chicken breast halves (8 ounces each) Directions: In a large resealable bag, combine the first five ingredients. Remove half of the marinade to a small bowl; cover and refrigerate. Add chicken to the bag; seal and turn to coat. Refrigerate overnight, turning occasionally. Drain and discard marinade. Grill, covered, over medium heat for 10 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with reserved marinade. Grill 5-10

I guess I will run ....

Got Veggies?

Wonderful blog with tons of veggie recipes - just in time for summer http://kitchen-parade-veggieventure.blogspot.com/ And from that site I found a few more - Like Garlicky (and very easy!) roasted aubergine dip and if you like that one - she has dozens more http://cooksister.typepad.com/cook_sister/2007/01/cooksister_the_.html I cook lamb often - so I'll be making this one SLOW-ROAST LAMB Ingredients a leg of lamb (about 2.3 kg) 1 large onion, roughly chopped a few sprigs of fresh roesmary 2 cloves of garlic 1 Tbs sea salt flakes a pinch of sweet paprika 1 Tbs cumin seeds 2 Tbs thyme leaves 2 Tbs olive oil a thick slice of butter Method Pre-heat the oven to 160C and start making the spice rub. Peel the garlic cloves and lightly crush them together with the salt using a pestle and mortar. Add the paprika, cumin seeds and thyme leaves. Gradually add the oil so as to end up with a thickish paste. Melt the butter in a small pan and stir into the spce paste. Put the lamb in a casser

Grilled Chicken Salad with Sweet and Spicy Dressing

Had this last night - chicken was awesome - 6 pts Chipotle chile adds a subtle smoky heat to the dressing. Use more for a spicier dish or less to make it mild. Ingredients Chicken: 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 garlic cloves, minced 4 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves Cooking spray Dressing: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil 1 teaspoon finely chopped chipotle chile, canned in adobo sauce 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin Salad: 8 cups mixed salad greens 1 cup thinly sliced peeled cucumber 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion 2 plum tomatoes, quartered Preparation 1. To prepare chicken, combine the first 5 ingredients in a large zip-top plastic bag. Add the chicken to the bag; seal. Marinate in refrigerator 1 hour, turning the bag occasionally. 2. Prepare grill. 3. Remove chicken from b

Chocolate Chip Muffins - On WW ?

Lost 3 lbs this week - so I need to keep on track, and make all WW friendly foods. Today what's cooking - oven's on - so I'll be making blueberry muffins, potato casserol (while the ovens on) and these chocolate chip muffins. I'll post a review later. Low-Fat Chocolate Chip Muffins desserts POINTS® Value: 3 Servings: 12 Preparation Time: 20 min Cooking Time: 23 min Level of Difficulty: Moderate Share these sweet, rich muffins with a special friend. They're perfect for breakfast or dessert. Ingredients 1 sprays cooking spray 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp table salt 1 large egg(s) 1 large egg white(s) 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar 2 Tbsp packed light brown sugar 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 3 tsp canola oil 1 tsp vanilla extract 6 Tbsp semi-sweet chocolate chips Instructions Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat a 12-hole muffin tin with cooking spray. Whisk together flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside. Separate egg, pla

AWESOME Turkey Burgers -

I'm not real big on Turkey burgers - I like beef. BUT - gave these a try last night - and they were AWESOME. The kids loved them - especially when I cut the first one in half for my 5yo (they are really nice size burgers) and the cheese oozed out from the inside. My 5yo ate and entire burger, and then 1/2 of another. And he's usually not a big eater. Yes, they were outside playing in the pool most of the day - but still I tripled this recipe and made 12 nice size burgers 8 ounces ground turkey breast 99% lean 1 cup shredded zucchini 2/3 cup panko 1/3 cup finely chopped onion 3 TBS taco or enchilada sauce 1 egg white 1.5 tsp ground cumin 1/4 tsp salt 4 TBS Monterey Jack Cheese 4 hamburger buns Heat grill. Combine turkey, zucchini, panko, onion, 1 TBS of taco sauce, egg white, cumin and salt in large bowl. Divide into 8 balls. Flatten 4 balls into patties (about 3.5 inches around and 1/4 inch thick) Place 1 TBS chhese in the center of each patty. Shape remaining turkey m

Blueberry Muffins - 1 pt

Ingredients 1.5 C Flour 3/4 C Splenda 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 2/3 C plain non-fat yogurt 2/3 C water 3/4 C Blueberries (can sub. other fruit) Directions Combine and mix dry ingredients. Then add water and yogurt, mix then add berries and stir carefully. Fill greased muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake at 400 F. for 18 minutes. Number of Servings: 12

What's Cooking in my Kitchen?

Made some blueberry muffins - I love blueberries !! I still had some frozen from last spring, so figured I'd use those up so I can make room for more. Found a wonderful recipe online - only 1 pt BLUEBERRY MUFFINS 1 WW Point. Then made some low fat pumpkin brownies for the girls - dd's softball team lost last night (yeah) but the opposing teams' coaches came over to tell all the girls how much they have improved since the first played us. Since they trounced us the first time we played, and since this time we kept it pretty close - He was telling the truth !! Got my old WW cookbooks out - will make up some recipes/menu's for the coming week. Jerzy

June 3, 2008

Image
DD's team won their first play off game !! Whaooooohoooooo On another note - Dell's 10 days of deals starts again tonight !! CS Jerzy