Well, it turns out that owning a Kitchen Aid mixer can be quite dangerous! There was a cookie explosion in my kitchen over the past several days - as in there were cookies EVERYWHERE! There were types that were full of wheat, gluten-free, sugar-free and even the most delicious non-fat ginger cookies. All that time spent baking was son incredibly worth it when I gave family members their favorite cookie or gave others something they could enjoy. Let's just say I'm the baker in my family and I haven't really baked in about 2 years, so they had been going through withdrawal.
Unfortunately, in the quest to get everything done for spending the holidays with family I forgot to take pictures...
But to sum it up - and I will probably add pictures of some of these later - this year in holiday baking included:
Pistachio Chocolate Chip cookies - a recipe from a friend and my brother's all time favorite
Ricotta Chocolate Chip Cookies - one of my sister's new favorites and dad loves anything chocolate chip
Nutella Cookies - deliciousness defined!
Nonfat Chewy Gingersnaps - One of my new favorites! A David Lebovitz recipe with all natural ingredients!
Eggnog Snickerdoodles - a little dry so they need some work
My first ever macaroons - YUM! Even if they did take some problem-solving and looked funny :)
Lemon Olive Oil Cookies (sugar-free and sugar-filled) - Gluten-free from the Gluten Free Girl
Peanut Butter Cookies - the flour-less variety and mom LOVES them!
Fairytale Sugar Cookies - I think I added too much flour, so this one is getting a do-over ASAP!
Rugelach - Gluten-free and Sugar-free and ABSOLUTELY loved by everyone in the family and a couple others - also from Gluten Free Girl
Wow, that is a long list! No wonder I was so tired the day after Christmas...
The crazy thing was that I was much more relaxed for most of the holiday than usual, but I'm contributing a good portion of that to the guy that made me dinner in the midst of it all the baking and even helped scoop cookie dough. Now, if only his favorite kind of cookie wasn't something sold in stores... Oh, well - I think I smell a challenge! ;)
Although I have to say that dinner on the 26th was fabulous! Pirogi and kolacki - YUMMM! (I love me some Polish specialties...)
I hope you had an amazing holiday with your family and friends! I know I did!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Spicing up Tomato Soup
Well, I planned a soup social for work and ended up making tomato soup from scratch/cans for the event. Let's just say trying to blend soup in a food processor is not so much fun...
Then someone told me about the wonders of an immersion blender and I bit. It came in the mail just before I came down with a lovely case of acute tonsillitis, so needless to say it sat unused for about two weeks...
But by Sunday night, I was itching to make some more tomato soup with a few changes from the first recipe inspired by dating a guy who adds hot sauce to a whole lot of things and the fact that I adore salsa! Then I went to find the recipe and couldn't, so this is a combination of memory from making the original three weeks ago and new inspiration. It's Delicious with a capital D and he didn't even add hot sauce!
And that immersion blender thing - is now one of my top three gadgets in the kitchen, maybe even top two! Only topped by the Kitchen Aid mixer! This thing is amazing and my new favorite thing is making blended soups. Next on the soup spectrum is dairy/wheat free corn chowder with a recipe that tastes like it's loaded with cream! Can't wait!
Salsa Tomato Soup
(ingredients are in the order that you will need them!)
1-2 teaspoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
4-5 stalks of celery, diced
2 cans sliced carrots*
1 box vegetable stock**
3 (14.5 oz) cans of diced tomatoes
2 jars salsa***
1 T fajita seasoning#
pepper
In a large pot, saute the onions in the olive oil over medium heat until they start becoming transparent and then add celery, carrots and garlic. Saute that mixture until the carrots and celery begin to soften and heat up.
Add the vegetable stock, tomatoes and salsa. Bring to a simmer and add the seasoning and pepper. Let the mixture continue to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Turn the heat off, but let the soup sit covered for several minutes to let it cool some before you blend it.
Once the soup has cooled a bit, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup and finish combining the flavors.
Heat it back up for just a few minutes if you desire and serve. (We added a bit of fat free sour cream but it really didn't need it! There was also a grilled cheese sandwich, but that's another post...)
*I think the canned carrots blend better (Thanks for that idea goes to my sister's friend Britt), but you can substitute 4-5 regular carrots. They would just need to be steamed first or sauteed for longer.
** Broth can be used, but I have a preference for stock since I think it has a richer flavor and isn't as salty
***I used Trader Joe's Fire Roasted Salsa, but this is where you should use your favorite one and go with it! Next time I may try a fruit version or pico de gallo
#This is purely to taste - we like things a bit spicier.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Cranky!
It's December and I'm cranky!
Cranky because the antibiotics haven't made me feel completely better yet.
Cranky because one of my nearest and dearest friends is moving just after Christmas and it hurts to talk to her and I can't go see her since I can't chance getting her or her kids (who I'm going to miss something fierce too) sick since they need to spend time with her dad who is dealing with Chemo.
Cranky because, have I mentioned it hurts to talk but other than that I'm perfectly fine to teach and I would rather be at school than at home catching glimpses of daytime TV! It's simply too much work to NOT be here.
Cranky, because I've realized how long I've neglected my poor blog once again - that has to change with the different things going on in life and the amazing yummy stuff coming out of my kitchen... So much to share!
Cranky because December is so much fun with everything going on - but I have so much to get done! (Along with everyone else out there...)
Cranky because I really, really want to go for a run...
And, I'm cranky because I'm cranky! I hate being cranky! It's annoying, darn it!
But, now that I've vented a bit and had some tea, I'm feeling a bit better. Life is pretty good at the moment (Well, aside from the Schlosser-Goode family moving, but that just means that I'm going to have to get to know the various routes to Nashville, right?) and I need to remember that. I am so lucky in so many ways with my family and friends, a great guy in my life, a job that I love (aside from when I'm cranky), my health (most of the time), two adorable furballs, a good group of kids on my speech team, somre more holiday shopping done, and so much more...
YAY for getting rid of most of the crankiness!!!! Hopefully it stays that way!
Stay tuned for recipes for some of the best chocolate chip cookies I've ever made and homemade tomato soup with a kick! Hopefully I can get those up this week :)
Cranky because the antibiotics haven't made me feel completely better yet.
Cranky because one of my nearest and dearest friends is moving just after Christmas and it hurts to talk to her and I can't go see her since I can't chance getting her or her kids (who I'm going to miss something fierce too) sick since they need to spend time with her dad who is dealing with Chemo.
Cranky because, have I mentioned it hurts to talk but other than that I'm perfectly fine to teach and I would rather be at school than at home catching glimpses of daytime TV! It's simply too much work to NOT be here.
Cranky, because I've realized how long I've neglected my poor blog once again - that has to change with the different things going on in life and the amazing yummy stuff coming out of my kitchen... So much to share!
Cranky because December is so much fun with everything going on - but I have so much to get done! (Along with everyone else out there...)
Cranky because I really, really want to go for a run...
And, I'm cranky because I'm cranky! I hate being cranky! It's annoying, darn it!
But, now that I've vented a bit and had some tea, I'm feeling a bit better. Life is pretty good at the moment (Well, aside from the Schlosser-Goode family moving, but that just means that I'm going to have to get to know the various routes to Nashville, right?) and I need to remember that. I am so lucky in so many ways with my family and friends, a great guy in my life, a job that I love (aside from when I'm cranky), my health (most of the time), two adorable furballs, a good group of kids on my speech team, somre more holiday shopping done, and so much more...
YAY for getting rid of most of the crankiness!!!! Hopefully it stays that way!
Stay tuned for recipes for some of the best chocolate chip cookies I've ever made and homemade tomato soup with a kick! Hopefully I can get those up this week :)
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Seriously???
Apparently, there are people out there that think skinny people can't cook. Really? What rock have they been living under? And for their information, they thought I could cook just fine when I was 70 pounds heavier!
This little outburst comes from my reaction to a conversation that took place at a gathering of women centering around books. Someone had the great idea of starting a recipe club, which I thought was an AMAZING idea! My initial thought was what could I contribute to the first one, of course. Heck, if I weren't allowed to cook and try new things I would go crazy. So I spoke up and simply said "I'm in!" The response I got was a little shocking in that the person responded, probably intending it to be a joke but it was a poor one, by telling me I was too skinny to be part of it. I just looked at her, appalled by the comment that was coming out of her mouth considering that she was talking to someone slimmer than I as they came up with the idea. She immediately turned back to the other person and continued the conversation.
It's amazing how your body can define you to other people and the opinions that people have about those that are overweight simply transfer in the reverse to people that are slimmer than them. Honestly, when I was heavier I thought the slimmer girls had all the fun and it was easier to be skinny since they apparently didn't have to work to stay slim. I was wrong. There was a preconceived notion of what it meant to be slim as opposed to heavy and lots of people out there have those notions about people on both ends of the spectrum. It seems to me that one has got it made if you are just average because then you are right in the middle.
Losing weight ain't easy! It's a lot of hard work and you have to find the method that works for you. It won't come off easily and it's an on-going process that includes a lot of change.
Yes, I finally found my method - a mixture of Jenny Craig and my own healthier cooking, moderation in any other food, less alcohol (apparently friends believe that my liver now needs a workout ;)),two JC consultants by the names of Vicki and Collette (they are fabulous!!!), a gym membership, a trainer that happens to be a Marine by the name of Nick, running and the support of friends and family.
And while I have cancelled the Lane Bryant credit card, I have not forgotten how to cook! In fact I cook even more and made polenta and yogurt for the first time last night. Fresh polenta is so stinking easy and tons better than the already prepared stuff (although the best one for that is Trader Joe's). The yogurt is still in the yogurt maker...
I'm thinking grilled polenta and chicken with peach salsa for dinner tomorrow night. Mangoes and veggies on the side sound delish!
Does that sound like the menu of someone that shouldn't be allowed to join a recipe club??? Recipes posted this weekend!
This little outburst comes from my reaction to a conversation that took place at a gathering of women centering around books. Someone had the great idea of starting a recipe club, which I thought was an AMAZING idea! My initial thought was what could I contribute to the first one, of course. Heck, if I weren't allowed to cook and try new things I would go crazy. So I spoke up and simply said "I'm in!" The response I got was a little shocking in that the person responded, probably intending it to be a joke but it was a poor one, by telling me I was too skinny to be part of it. I just looked at her, appalled by the comment that was coming out of her mouth considering that she was talking to someone slimmer than I as they came up with the idea. She immediately turned back to the other person and continued the conversation.
It's amazing how your body can define you to other people and the opinions that people have about those that are overweight simply transfer in the reverse to people that are slimmer than them. Honestly, when I was heavier I thought the slimmer girls had all the fun and it was easier to be skinny since they apparently didn't have to work to stay slim. I was wrong. There was a preconceived notion of what it meant to be slim as opposed to heavy and lots of people out there have those notions about people on both ends of the spectrum. It seems to me that one has got it made if you are just average because then you are right in the middle.
Losing weight ain't easy! It's a lot of hard work and you have to find the method that works for you. It won't come off easily and it's an on-going process that includes a lot of change.
Yes, I finally found my method - a mixture of Jenny Craig and my own healthier cooking, moderation in any other food, less alcohol (apparently friends believe that my liver now needs a workout ;)),two JC consultants by the names of Vicki and Collette (they are fabulous!!!), a gym membership, a trainer that happens to be a Marine by the name of Nick, running and the support of friends and family.
And while I have cancelled the Lane Bryant credit card, I have not forgotten how to cook! In fact I cook even more and made polenta and yogurt for the first time last night. Fresh polenta is so stinking easy and tons better than the already prepared stuff (although the best one for that is Trader Joe's). The yogurt is still in the yogurt maker...
I'm thinking grilled polenta and chicken with peach salsa for dinner tomorrow night. Mangoes and veggies on the side sound delish!
Does that sound like the menu of someone that shouldn't be allowed to join a recipe club??? Recipes posted this weekend!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Vegetables galore...
There are a fair amount of people out there that think eating healthy can be boring and dull. I have to admit that I really do disagree. I mean, how can this be considered boring?
The best part of summer is all the fresh fruits and vegetables!
Veggie Combo #1
Saute 1 medium white onion in about 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. When that starts to get slightly transparent add about 8 oz. sliced portabella mushrooms and let those cook for about 3-4 minutes until thet start to get limp (just barely). Add 1 small sliced zucchini and half a pint of grape tomatoes and let that saute for another 2 minutes before adding 1/2 pound asparagus, with the stalks cut in half, and the seasoning of your choice (this time around I used an Italian blend). Let all of that countinue to cook until the asparagus gets tender and add a bit more seasoning with the low-fat/fat-free cheese of your choice (or the regular stuff if you would like!)
Makes 2-3 servings depending on how much everyone loves their veggies!
Cede even wanted some!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
A new beginning...
Spring and summer are times for new beginnings for so many things! We get to have more fresh vegetables again, the new flip flops hit the pavement, and in my case, a new outlook on a few ideas.
Last spring, I had lost about 20 pounds and was getting used to the idea of losing weight. I thought that losing all the weight I wanted to lose would make life so much easier and I would automatically have all my body worries go away. Life would be peachy keen and worry free!
Ummm… Not so much!
Instead there are variety of different issues that can pop up and the realization that there are flaws that one used to consider a liability that can now be considered a benefit. Who knew one could draw strength from a weakness simply by recognizing it and talking about it? I sure didn’t!
Sometimes, I think I talk too much once I get started on a topic and that can come in handy when friends notice something and point it out. It also helps when you decide to go see a therapist or just spend time talking to those that are close to you. Then I step back and think about what I said a good portion of the time…
Getting past plateaus is frustrating, but my biggest struggle in this whole weight loss thing (besides finding the right strategy/wagon – but more on that later) is realizing that even if you are trying to lose weight the healthy way, you can end up having unhealthy thoughts.
The thing is that about two months ago or so, I realized that I was still thinking of myself as being fat. Now, I know that is rather normal for a fair amount women since we all want to be our own version of perfect, but I had a hard time saying thank you when someone would compliment me or comment on how skinny I was getting. I just wasn’t seeing the results that everyone else was seeing. My confidence was a bit low at that point and with scary thoughts like thinking about buying a new bathing suit coursing through my mind – I hit the low. People were making comments about me wasting away and that bothered me! (I’m not wasting away, honestly I eat plenty – I promise!)
It got to the point where someone commented on how tiny I am getting and I responded by saying that I still feel fat even after losing almost 70 pounds! The reaction that I got from her and others in the room made me realize that it was time to talk to somebody.
I was still seeing myself as I had always been – insecure about the way I looked, hiding behind anything and everything, afraid to let even my family and friends see anything that I was ashamed of, and completely scared of the changes that were happening.
That after years of being a plus-size girl and then 17 months of working on a big lifestyle change, I have had hard time accepting the fact that I now shop in what I have always considered to be the "skinny" part of the store. I always wanted to shop there one day...I always wanted to be more athletic, the one that could eat anything and not gain a pound, to be able to wear all that cute stuff etc. I thought once I lost all the weight I wanted to, things would be perfect and all the problems would be solved.Hardly...I'm still working on getting to my goal, but I've encountered new bumps in the road. It’s a journey, but one that I am getting comfortable on and it has been teaching me a lot in regards to who I am. There will be more about this since dealing with the bumps gets easier when one opens up and talks to people :)
Last spring, I had lost about 20 pounds and was getting used to the idea of losing weight. I thought that losing all the weight I wanted to lose would make life so much easier and I would automatically have all my body worries go away. Life would be peachy keen and worry free!
Ummm… Not so much!
Instead there are variety of different issues that can pop up and the realization that there are flaws that one used to consider a liability that can now be considered a benefit. Who knew one could draw strength from a weakness simply by recognizing it and talking about it? I sure didn’t!
Sometimes, I think I talk too much once I get started on a topic and that can come in handy when friends notice something and point it out. It also helps when you decide to go see a therapist or just spend time talking to those that are close to you. Then I step back and think about what I said a good portion of the time…
Getting past plateaus is frustrating, but my biggest struggle in this whole weight loss thing (besides finding the right strategy/wagon – but more on that later) is realizing that even if you are trying to lose weight the healthy way, you can end up having unhealthy thoughts.
The thing is that about two months ago or so, I realized that I was still thinking of myself as being fat. Now, I know that is rather normal for a fair amount women since we all want to be our own version of perfect, but I had a hard time saying thank you when someone would compliment me or comment on how skinny I was getting. I just wasn’t seeing the results that everyone else was seeing. My confidence was a bit low at that point and with scary thoughts like thinking about buying a new bathing suit coursing through my mind – I hit the low. People were making comments about me wasting away and that bothered me! (I’m not wasting away, honestly I eat plenty – I promise!)
It got to the point where someone commented on how tiny I am getting and I responded by saying that I still feel fat even after losing almost 70 pounds! The reaction that I got from her and others in the room made me realize that it was time to talk to somebody.
I was still seeing myself as I had always been – insecure about the way I looked, hiding behind anything and everything, afraid to let even my family and friends see anything that I was ashamed of, and completely scared of the changes that were happening.
That after years of being a plus-size girl and then 17 months of working on a big lifestyle change, I have had hard time accepting the fact that I now shop in what I have always considered to be the "skinny" part of the store. I always wanted to shop there one day...I always wanted to be more athletic, the one that could eat anything and not gain a pound, to be able to wear all that cute stuff etc. I thought once I lost all the weight I wanted to, things would be perfect and all the problems would be solved.Hardly...I'm still working on getting to my goal, but I've encountered new bumps in the road. It’s a journey, but one that I am getting comfortable on and it has been teaching me a lot in regards to who I am. There will be more about this since dealing with the bumps gets easier when one opens up and talks to people :)
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Yuummm...
OK, the whole challenge of trying to eat healthy can be a little traumatic when someone tells you that you can't eat chocolate or eat the things you really enjoy! But, I'm here to say that you don't have to give those things up - it's just time to enjoy them in moderation or switch things up to make them healthier.
I just spent a weekend with friends at Lake Geneva and it was one of those weekends filled with talking, laughter, food and wine. The type of weekend that you want to repeat over and over again! We made french toast casserole, cinnamon bacon, a dinner filled with vegetables and grilled meat products, and grilled fruit sundaes. Then to top it all off, throw homemade salsa and cheese curds in for watching the Kentucky Derby! It was a blast and nobody went hungry and I mean nobody! We had so much food left over...
A couple of us are trying to watch what we eat as we are working on getting into shape or trying to shed a few pounds, but we were also on vacation! We knew we wanted to enjoy our food since most of us are the foodie-type. So we made it a bit healthier in very simple ways :) Cut the butter in the casserole and used egg beaters (it was a Paula Deen recipe, so that was easy to do), baked the bacon and the brownies for the sundaes were made with bananas.
Yes, that's right, bananas! Think of a chocolate covered banana in reverse...
Hungry yet? It turns out that bananas can be used to substitute for oil and butter in recipes just like applesauce, but they have a stronger flavor so aren't used as often in that capacity. I had a bunch of bananas on the counter and decided to be adventurous on day :) It turned out to be a good thing!
Dark Chocolate Banana Brownies
1 Pkg. Dark chocolate Brownie mix (9x13 size)
4-5 very ripe bananas
1 T Spice Mix
1/2 c caramel sauce (the fat free ice cream topping is what I used)
1/2 package dark chocolate chips
Preheat the oven according to the directions on the box. Grease a 9x13 pan. Mash up the bananas and mix everything up until the mix is completely moistened. Now put the mixture in the pan, spread it out and bake according to the directions on the box. You may need about 5 minutes less and these will be fudgy. If you want a more cake like texture, substitute one egg for one banana.
Yum!
I just spent a weekend with friends at Lake Geneva and it was one of those weekends filled with talking, laughter, food and wine. The type of weekend that you want to repeat over and over again! We made french toast casserole, cinnamon bacon, a dinner filled with vegetables and grilled meat products, and grilled fruit sundaes. Then to top it all off, throw homemade salsa and cheese curds in for watching the Kentucky Derby! It was a blast and nobody went hungry and I mean nobody! We had so much food left over...
A couple of us are trying to watch what we eat as we are working on getting into shape or trying to shed a few pounds, but we were also on vacation! We knew we wanted to enjoy our food since most of us are the foodie-type. So we made it a bit healthier in very simple ways :) Cut the butter in the casserole and used egg beaters (it was a Paula Deen recipe, so that was easy to do), baked the bacon and the brownies for the sundaes were made with bananas.
Yes, that's right, bananas! Think of a chocolate covered banana in reverse...
Hungry yet? It turns out that bananas can be used to substitute for oil and butter in recipes just like applesauce, but they have a stronger flavor so aren't used as often in that capacity. I had a bunch of bananas on the counter and decided to be adventurous on day :) It turned out to be a good thing!
Dark Chocolate Banana Brownies
1 Pkg. Dark chocolate Brownie mix (9x13 size)
4-5 very ripe bananas
1 T Spice Mix
1/2 c caramel sauce (the fat free ice cream topping is what I used)
1/2 package dark chocolate chips
Preheat the oven according to the directions on the box. Grease a 9x13 pan. Mash up the bananas and mix everything up until the mix is completely moistened. Now put the mixture in the pan, spread it out and bake according to the directions on the box. You may need about 5 minutes less and these will be fudgy. If you want a more cake like texture, substitute one egg for one banana.
Yum!
Monday, April 19, 2010
So many things...
There are so many things going on in my mind at the moment and so much school work to be doing, but I'm here writing instead. It's all about trying to think things through and figuring out what I really want from life (or think I want at the moment).
I do know that I want a munchkin known by the initials HL to keep growing and healthy (being early isn't easy), things to be a bit easier for two of my favorite expectant parents (they are incredibly strong, but still...) and for Russian adoptions to get moving again so two friends can bring their two little boys home! Note to the guy in the sky - these items are non-negotiable!
It would be much easier for so many if the state government simply got their act together, students would always do their homework and people wouldn't have to worry about where their next meal or paycheck was coming from.
Yes, I want perfection for others! Is that too much to ask for? I think not!
Now, for myself - that's another story! My life is full of imperfections that I love, but for once I wish it would make sense at least a little bit! Pretty please!
That's my struggle - I know it's not going to be perfect, but I keep working for that perfection. I don't want to admit that something is done until it's done completely right and then I also don't want to work on something until I have time to do it completely right. It sounds strange I know, but it's something I struggle with. At times, it can hold a person back because if you can't do it perfectly, why do it at all?
So, the new goal is to break things down into segments and focus on those tasks for 15 minutes at a time until they are done! This is going to apply to everything from excercise (although that is a strong area at the moment), to food, to dating, to cleaning and stuff for work. The challenge is to just get started and realize that it is OK not to be perfect (in my mind)! :)
The part that bugs me about this is that I know that others don't expect me to be perfect! Oh goodness!
I do know that I want a munchkin known by the initials HL to keep growing and healthy (being early isn't easy), things to be a bit easier for two of my favorite expectant parents (they are incredibly strong, but still...) and for Russian adoptions to get moving again so two friends can bring their two little boys home! Note to the guy in the sky - these items are non-negotiable!
It would be much easier for so many if the state government simply got their act together, students would always do their homework and people wouldn't have to worry about where their next meal or paycheck was coming from.
Yes, I want perfection for others! Is that too much to ask for? I think not!
Now, for myself - that's another story! My life is full of imperfections that I love, but for once I wish it would make sense at least a little bit! Pretty please!
That's my struggle - I know it's not going to be perfect, but I keep working for that perfection. I don't want to admit that something is done until it's done completely right and then I also don't want to work on something until I have time to do it completely right. It sounds strange I know, but it's something I struggle with. At times, it can hold a person back because if you can't do it perfectly, why do it at all?
So, the new goal is to break things down into segments and focus on those tasks for 15 minutes at a time until they are done! This is going to apply to everything from excercise (although that is a strong area at the moment), to food, to dating, to cleaning and stuff for work. The challenge is to just get started and realize that it is OK not to be perfect (in my mind)! :)
The part that bugs me about this is that I know that others don't expect me to be perfect! Oh goodness!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
So very thankful!
Time goes by so very fast at times, that we often forget to count the roses or smell our blessings!
Wait a minute, other way around!
We forget to smell the roses or count our blessings!
That's it!
Isn't it reassuring to know that I am one of those people shaping the minds of our youth?
Laugh as you may, or will in the case of many of the people I know! But there is something to be said about taking time for ourselves or simply taking time to think of those that are important to you. I am incredibly blessed in terms of family and friends - I can't imagine life without any of you around. There are ups and downs in my life, but the ups make up for the downs and my glass is almost always half full.
There are people that I miss having around in physical form, but the memories that I created with them are always with me. The influence that they had on me is still here and I am a better person for all thier efforts.
It's all about the people you surround yourself with and let me tell you, I am one of the luckiest people in the world to be surrounded by the people in my life!
Thank you!
Wait a minute, other way around!
We forget to smell the roses or count our blessings!
That's it!
Isn't it reassuring to know that I am one of those people shaping the minds of our youth?
Laugh as you may, or will in the case of many of the people I know! But there is something to be said about taking time for ourselves or simply taking time to think of those that are important to you. I am incredibly blessed in terms of family and friends - I can't imagine life without any of you around. There are ups and downs in my life, but the ups make up for the downs and my glass is almost always half full.
There are people that I miss having around in physical form, but the memories that I created with them are always with me. The influence that they had on me is still here and I am a better person for all thier efforts.
It's all about the people you surround yourself with and let me tell you, I am one of the luckiest people in the world to be surrounded by the people in my life!
Thank you!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Relief...
As in relief in deciding to let things go, to let myself have breathing room and time to do the things I love.
It has been a crazy year and it feels like I haven't had a moment for myself in ages or times to do the things I love. Just realized today that I have barely had a chance to do anything remotely crafty for about 7 months - no wonder I'm going nuts here! Getting stuff done has been a battle because I just want the time to sit and be still or to spend time with the people that keep me sane (which sounds crazy considering who they are). Other things have been building up around me and threatening to cave in. It's been a struggle to say no to anything that I really want to do as opposed to doing the things that I thought were important. I've even been struggling on the weight loss goals as I was getting bored with how I was going about it - hey do the same thing for a year and you would get bored too! (doesn't help that the results were moving a bit slower than I liked, but realizing I was bored helped!)
Then you add state budget issues that are impacting every aspect of education, trying to go to grad school, working and not being happy with how well I was managing things, other work related responsibilities, surgery and well, you get the picture - it's been a roller coaster.
The things keeping me going - family, friends, the furry munchkins and those crazy teenagers at work. It's amazing the impact that people and animals have in your life when you have the chance to breathe and connect with them. Over the past several months, those have felt like the stolen moments that have kept me going. Facebook is so addictive - but it has been that connection to others and the chance to keep in contact with others even if it was 11 at night and I was half-asleep. Thank you so much for that!
It's time to give my brain a break and breathe! No, I'm not giving up teaching - as if I would do anything else, silly! I'm actually taking a break from grad school and once that decision was made - it was an incredible weight off my shoulders. I hadn't realized just how much I have been craving the chance to say no to something like that or how much I have been struggling with my ability to focus. Online courses and I just don't seem to mix - I do much better given the chance to interact with people :) It also gives me the chance to focus on matters that are more pressing and immediate, like spending time with Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt Ruth. They are amazing people that have had a part in shaping my life since the very beginning and though I would hope that they would live forever...
Life is short and I haven't been happy with the way I have been letting it zoom past! Now it's time to actually live and enjoy it! The most important realization is re-discovering that the saying no to something is saying yes to something else. I've learned it before, so let's hope it sinks in for good this time! I'm saying yes to saying no once again!
Ahhhh...
Now if I could only get to my next weight loss goal of 60 gone, we would be all set... I know, I know - baby steps!
It has been a crazy year and it feels like I haven't had a moment for myself in ages or times to do the things I love. Just realized today that I have barely had a chance to do anything remotely crafty for about 7 months - no wonder I'm going nuts here! Getting stuff done has been a battle because I just want the time to sit and be still or to spend time with the people that keep me sane (which sounds crazy considering who they are). Other things have been building up around me and threatening to cave in. It's been a struggle to say no to anything that I really want to do as opposed to doing the things that I thought were important. I've even been struggling on the weight loss goals as I was getting bored with how I was going about it - hey do the same thing for a year and you would get bored too! (doesn't help that the results were moving a bit slower than I liked, but realizing I was bored helped!)
Then you add state budget issues that are impacting every aspect of education, trying to go to grad school, working and not being happy with how well I was managing things, other work related responsibilities, surgery and well, you get the picture - it's been a roller coaster.
The things keeping me going - family, friends, the furry munchkins and those crazy teenagers at work. It's amazing the impact that people and animals have in your life when you have the chance to breathe and connect with them. Over the past several months, those have felt like the stolen moments that have kept me going. Facebook is so addictive - but it has been that connection to others and the chance to keep in contact with others even if it was 11 at night and I was half-asleep. Thank you so much for that!
It's time to give my brain a break and breathe! No, I'm not giving up teaching - as if I would do anything else, silly! I'm actually taking a break from grad school and once that decision was made - it was an incredible weight off my shoulders. I hadn't realized just how much I have been craving the chance to say no to something like that or how much I have been struggling with my ability to focus. Online courses and I just don't seem to mix - I do much better given the chance to interact with people :) It also gives me the chance to focus on matters that are more pressing and immediate, like spending time with Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt Ruth. They are amazing people that have had a part in shaping my life since the very beginning and though I would hope that they would live forever...
Life is short and I haven't been happy with the way I have been letting it zoom past! Now it's time to actually live and enjoy it! The most important realization is re-discovering that the saying no to something is saying yes to something else. I've learned it before, so let's hope it sinks in for good this time! I'm saying yes to saying no once again!
Ahhhh...
Now if I could only get to my next weight loss goal of 60 gone, we would be all set... I know, I know - baby steps!
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Fennel and the on-going challenges
I've started considering this "project" of mine losing weight to be a bit of war - but in a good way!
Each day is a battle that needs to be won in order to win the war and reach my goal. There are the days that go really well and I feel fabulous when they are done. And then you have the days that you kick yourself for! Of course, there are also the days where you decide that you are going to take a day off from the limits and strategies (well, kind of - it is usually pretty well planned out now - like picking food over drinks or my strategic contributions when I am supposed to bring something!). Don't worry! The strategy never affects the taste! That is part of the challenge that I now welcome whenever I get the chance.
A new weapon comes about every so often that helps in the battle, like bananas in brownies or a new vegetable to try and fall in love with! The most recent addition to my arsenal is fennel in the vegetable form. I have always loved the spice, but had never realized that there was a vegetable version! The vegetable itself looks like the cross between celery and onions while having a crunchy texture that is meatier than celery. It's a similar flavor to the spice and fabulously subtle. This veggie saute is packed with goodness and super easy to throw together!
Fennel Veggie Saute
(still experimenting with other combos and this is very easy to multiply)
1 large bulb fennel, thinly sliced
1 small red onion or 2 shallots, thinly sliced
8 oz. slice portabello mushrooms
8 oz cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced in half
1 t olive oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
salt
pepper
Italian seasoning mix (about 1 teaspoon or to taste)
Heat the oil up just a bit in a saute pan. Then add fennel, onions and garlic to saute for just a minute or so. Then add the rest of the veggies and saute for about 5-6 more minutes, adding the spices in the last two minutes or so. The fennel is done when it starts to get a little bit translucent around the edges.
And enjoy! It's one that fills you up!
Each day is a battle that needs to be won in order to win the war and reach my goal. There are the days that go really well and I feel fabulous when they are done. And then you have the days that you kick yourself for! Of course, there are also the days where you decide that you are going to take a day off from the limits and strategies (well, kind of - it is usually pretty well planned out now - like picking food over drinks or my strategic contributions when I am supposed to bring something!). Don't worry! The strategy never affects the taste! That is part of the challenge that I now welcome whenever I get the chance.
A new weapon comes about every so often that helps in the battle, like bananas in brownies or a new vegetable to try and fall in love with! The most recent addition to my arsenal is fennel in the vegetable form. I have always loved the spice, but had never realized that there was a vegetable version! The vegetable itself looks like the cross between celery and onions while having a crunchy texture that is meatier than celery. It's a similar flavor to the spice and fabulously subtle. This veggie saute is packed with goodness and super easy to throw together!
Fennel Veggie Saute
(still experimenting with other combos and this is very easy to multiply)
1 large bulb fennel, thinly sliced
1 small red onion or 2 shallots, thinly sliced
8 oz. slice portabello mushrooms
8 oz cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced in half
1 t olive oil
1 garlic clove, crushed
salt
pepper
Italian seasoning mix (about 1 teaspoon or to taste)
Heat the oil up just a bit in a saute pan. Then add fennel, onions and garlic to saute for just a minute or so. Then add the rest of the veggies and saute for about 5-6 more minutes, adding the spices in the last two minutes or so. The fennel is done when it starts to get a little bit translucent around the edges.
And enjoy! It's one that fills you up!
Monday, February 8, 2010
The Best Brownies I have EVER created!
OK, cooking and baking is taking on a whole new meaning again! I am falling in love with the process and challenge all over again as I am trying to make the things that I see even healthier while keeping the important elements of the dish such as taste and texture.
Let me back up a bit...
I have always loved to cook and bake! Put me in a kitchen and I am a happy camper, only way to make me happier would be to have a dishwasher - a girl can dream... There are members of my family that have dietary limitations and those challenges have made things interesting. The more of a challenge the dish was, the better! The search for new recipes to try was always an adventure since you never know what you will find!
But, somewhere along the way - I got burned out on anything in the kitchen... :( I didn't want to bake anything, let alone cook dinner for one person without anyone else to enjoy it with me (I love to hear what other people thing about my cooking whether it's good or bad). Then there has been the year plus on Jenny Craig where most of my meals come from them. It has been a welcome inspiration because sometimes, just sometimes, frozen meals need to be spiced up! :)
Well, that and trying to use what I had available to me when getting ready for a Super Bowl get-together led to the newest creations - Dark Chocolate Banana Brownies!
They are actually not so bad for you, but taste absolutely decadent! I'm working on the recipe bit by bit - so if you live in the area, be prepared as I always need testers...
On another note, it seems that banana works very well as a oil/butter substitute with the only challenge being the distinct flavor of the fruit. Applesauce and/or prunes have a tendency to blend in a bit more with different flavors making them more suitable choices for other dishes.
More to follow as the recipe develops!
Let me back up a bit...
I have always loved to cook and bake! Put me in a kitchen and I am a happy camper, only way to make me happier would be to have a dishwasher - a girl can dream... There are members of my family that have dietary limitations and those challenges have made things interesting. The more of a challenge the dish was, the better! The search for new recipes to try was always an adventure since you never know what you will find!
But, somewhere along the way - I got burned out on anything in the kitchen... :( I didn't want to bake anything, let alone cook dinner for one person without anyone else to enjoy it with me (I love to hear what other people thing about my cooking whether it's good or bad). Then there has been the year plus on Jenny Craig where most of my meals come from them. It has been a welcome inspiration because sometimes, just sometimes, frozen meals need to be spiced up! :)
Well, that and trying to use what I had available to me when getting ready for a Super Bowl get-together led to the newest creations - Dark Chocolate Banana Brownies!
They are actually not so bad for you, but taste absolutely decadent! I'm working on the recipe bit by bit - so if you live in the area, be prepared as I always need testers...
On another note, it seems that banana works very well as a oil/butter substitute with the only challenge being the distinct flavor of the fruit. Applesauce and/or prunes have a tendency to blend in a bit more with different flavors making them more suitable choices for other dishes.
More to follow as the recipe develops!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Is there something wrong...
If I find myself liking fat free ice cream more than the regular stuff? Put that on a brownie (jenny craig style), add fat free reddi whip and a bit of chocolate syrup... Absolutely Fabulous! A treat with no guilt attached :)
Tonight was one to celebrate - I went from a "cranktastic" mood this morning to an absolutely fabulous mood this evening! And the week will actually get even better when I'm able to brush all of my teeth on Thursday! (It's so easy to impress a person who just had oral surgery!)
Why the celebration? I broke a goal, finally! I have been trying to get past the 55 pounds lost mark for weeks and today I blew past it. Go me! The total lost is now 57.8 and counting... It was perfect timing, because just this morning I was getting really, really discouraged about the whole process and reading all those headlines/hearing those commercials about losing weight quickly. Started thinking about going that route since things have been moving so slowly and then I stepped on the scale this afternoon.
Losing weight is not an easy process despite what some may think - heck it's more of a lifestyle change than anything else! Taking the time to do this is ultimately going to help me stay at my desired weight because I will know how long the whole process takes and I won't want to go through it again :) And my cravings have changed as bizarre as it may sound...
Right now, I can't wait for for the periodontist to tell me that I can have raw vegetables again!!! I'm going through withdrawal...
In the meantime - this vegetable soup is helping take care of the veggie craving -
Garlic Vegetable Soup
Prep Time:20 Min
Cook Time:1 Hr 15 Min
Ready In:1 Hr 35 Min
Servings 8-10 2 cup servings
Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
4 carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/4 medium head cabbage, shredded (or 1 bag coleslaw mix found in the produce section with no dressing)
7 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 (14.5 ounce) cans peeled and diced tomatoes
1 green pepper
1 medium onion
2 leeks
mushrooms
5-6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
spices to taste (I use about a tablespoon of assorted italian spices and season to taste. Considering trying it with mexican mixtures etc...)
bay leaf
Directions
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Saute the carrots, celery and cabbage in the oil for about 8 minutes, stirring well.
Raise heat to high and pour in the broth, tomatoes and rest of ingrediants. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 1 hour.
Remove from heat and stir in the garlic and ground black pepper.
(orriginal recipe at allrecipes.com - Garlic Vegetable Soup - and altered to be a bit healthier and from advice given by other reviewers)
Tonight was one to celebrate - I went from a "cranktastic" mood this morning to an absolutely fabulous mood this evening! And the week will actually get even better when I'm able to brush all of my teeth on Thursday! (It's so easy to impress a person who just had oral surgery!)
Why the celebration? I broke a goal, finally! I have been trying to get past the 55 pounds lost mark for weeks and today I blew past it. Go me! The total lost is now 57.8 and counting... It was perfect timing, because just this morning I was getting really, really discouraged about the whole process and reading all those headlines/hearing those commercials about losing weight quickly. Started thinking about going that route since things have been moving so slowly and then I stepped on the scale this afternoon.
Losing weight is not an easy process despite what some may think - heck it's more of a lifestyle change than anything else! Taking the time to do this is ultimately going to help me stay at my desired weight because I will know how long the whole process takes and I won't want to go through it again :) And my cravings have changed as bizarre as it may sound...
Right now, I can't wait for for the periodontist to tell me that I can have raw vegetables again!!! I'm going through withdrawal...
In the meantime - this vegetable soup is helping take care of the veggie craving -
Garlic Vegetable Soup
Prep Time:20 Min
Cook Time:1 Hr 15 Min
Ready In:1 Hr 35 Min
Servings 8-10 2 cup servings
Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
4 carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/4 medium head cabbage, shredded (or 1 bag coleslaw mix found in the produce section with no dressing)
7 1/2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 (14.5 ounce) cans peeled and diced tomatoes
1 green pepper
1 medium onion
2 leeks
mushrooms
5-6 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
spices to taste (I use about a tablespoon of assorted italian spices and season to taste. Considering trying it with mexican mixtures etc...)
bay leaf
Directions
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Saute the carrots, celery and cabbage in the oil for about 8 minutes, stirring well.
Raise heat to high and pour in the broth, tomatoes and rest of ingrediants. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 1 hour.
Remove from heat and stir in the garlic and ground black pepper.
(orriginal recipe at allrecipes.com - Garlic Vegetable Soup - and altered to be a bit healthier and from advice given by other reviewers)
Sunday, January 31, 2010
OK, goals for the weeks ahead...
Well, now that I've started posting on this thing again - maybe I should use it to keep myself in line! Life is crazy at the moment with all the goals I have up the air, trying to figure out where I want to go in terms of the dating arena and trying to save money while not freaking out about the whole state budget thing.
In terms of the state budget thing, basically schools in Illinois really shouldn't be counting on any state funding for awhile and that means that budgets will be affected resulting in the possibility of posistions being cut all around. I'm a teacher that teaches an elective so I am taking all possibilities into account for next year. One of which is the possibility that I may be out of a job (desperately hoping not though!). So, as a result I am working on getting my finances in order and working to get my monthly expenses down as much as possible. Now there are some of those basic expenses that you get locked into a contract for or can't live without like phone, electirc, water etc. But in my case, I could spend less on the fun things and food.
I never realized exactly how many e-mails I got in regards to advertisements! It's ridiculous! Now I only notice them because I delete them without even reading them after deciding to have a goal to limit my impulse shopping as much as possible. It is a work in progress as I do have my weaknesses, but can proudly admit I can walk into JoAnn's and walk out without buying anything! I have also gotten better at more comparison shopping and building what I need for cheaper. I do still need to stay away from the previously-viewed section at Blockbuster and try to avoid Amazon more - but like I said, work in progress here!
Food is a bit harder these days with being on Jenny Craig and all, but I have a new goal for the month of February in terms of my grocery budget! As of tonight at midnight, for the next 28 days, I am going to limit myself to one trip to the grocery store a week and one to Jenny Craig with spending as little as I can - sticking to the budget I have and using what is "cluttering up" my pantry and freezer. Eating out is going to be limited to once a week if at all possible (not that I really eat out anymore, but I do want to be conscious of what I am doing). I'll purchase dairy, fresh produce and fresh meat, but that's it. Oh and two cans of cream of mushroom soup that I know I need later in the month, but that's it!
I need to learn to be better about my budget and put thought behind what I spend. A lot of this is coming more to the top of the thought process in part due to the state budget thing, but also because I simply want to be less tied to the amount of my paycheck every month when there are people out there that have to get by with far less than what I am blessed to have each month.
Oh and that thing called dating gets expensive! Oh and maybe once I get my budget figured out, I can help the state of Illinois figure theirs out - ok that might be a bit too much to hope for!Sheesh!
In terms of the state budget thing, basically schools in Illinois really shouldn't be counting on any state funding for awhile and that means that budgets will be affected resulting in the possibility of posistions being cut all around. I'm a teacher that teaches an elective so I am taking all possibilities into account for next year. One of which is the possibility that I may be out of a job (desperately hoping not though!). So, as a result I am working on getting my finances in order and working to get my monthly expenses down as much as possible. Now there are some of those basic expenses that you get locked into a contract for or can't live without like phone, electirc, water etc. But in my case, I could spend less on the fun things and food.
I never realized exactly how many e-mails I got in regards to advertisements! It's ridiculous! Now I only notice them because I delete them without even reading them after deciding to have a goal to limit my impulse shopping as much as possible. It is a work in progress as I do have my weaknesses, but can proudly admit I can walk into JoAnn's and walk out without buying anything! I have also gotten better at more comparison shopping and building what I need for cheaper. I do still need to stay away from the previously-viewed section at Blockbuster and try to avoid Amazon more - but like I said, work in progress here!
Food is a bit harder these days with being on Jenny Craig and all, but I have a new goal for the month of February in terms of my grocery budget! As of tonight at midnight, for the next 28 days, I am going to limit myself to one trip to the grocery store a week and one to Jenny Craig with spending as little as I can - sticking to the budget I have and using what is "cluttering up" my pantry and freezer. Eating out is going to be limited to once a week if at all possible (not that I really eat out anymore, but I do want to be conscious of what I am doing). I'll purchase dairy, fresh produce and fresh meat, but that's it. Oh and two cans of cream of mushroom soup that I know I need later in the month, but that's it!
I need to learn to be better about my budget and put thought behind what I spend. A lot of this is coming more to the top of the thought process in part due to the state budget thing, but also because I simply want to be less tied to the amount of my paycheck every month when there are people out there that have to get by with far less than what I am blessed to have each month.
Oh and that thing called dating gets expensive! Oh and maybe once I get my budget figured out, I can help the state of Illinois figure theirs out - ok that might be a bit too much to hope for!Sheesh!
Taking Emeril's Chili and making it lighter
Part of this challenge of eating healthier is finding a recipe you love and then looking at the nutrition facts :( Seriously, some of the recipes out there that are developed are downright horrendous for you! So, how do you make them healthier without sacrificing taste? Trial and error, baby!
This recipe from Emeril Lagasse for Turkey and Hot Sausage Chili is fabulous and not terribly bad for you, but given the parameters of different eating plans, it could be better...
The first time I made this, I fell in love! This stuff is amazing! Then I got creative the last time I made it to bring it further into the healthy range of things - and let me tell you, this is perfect to have the next day or a couple months later if you freeze it. The flavors are amazing :)
So the healthier version of the recipe with a calorie count of about 260 for a very large serving is... (Note: this calorie count is with both meets being ground chicken)
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey or chicken
12 ounces hot Italian sausage made with turkey or chicken
2 teaspoons Emeril's Original Essence
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onions (I use white because I like them better...)
1 chopped green bell pepper
1 chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped, roasted and peeled green poblano or Anaheim chiles (or a can of green chiles that have been drained simplifies this!)
2-4 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
2-3 cups vegetable stock
1 (28-ounce) can chopped tomatoes with their juice
2 cups cooked pinto beans, or canned beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
8-16 oz sliced mushrooms (optional)
3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 cups grated Monterey Jack for garnish (use reduced fat or fat-free to keep the health factor up)
Directions
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat and Essence, and cook, stirring, until the meat is no longer pink, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the onions, bell peppers, carrots, and chilies, and cook, stirring, until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt, and cook for 1 minute. Add the stock and tomatoes, stir well, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Remove from the heat and add the cilantro. Adjust the seasoning, to taste, and cover to keep warm until ready to serve.
To serve, ladle into large bowls and sprinkle each serving with 1/4 cup of cheese. Serve tortilla chips on the side.
It's not much of a change really, but just enough to make everything a bit healthier! I know the carrots and mushrooms may be a bit odd to some in chili - but for some reason they really seem to fit here. One note on using stock versus broth - you can substitute the broth but watch for sodium content as broth is usually saltier!
Enjoy!
This recipe from Emeril Lagasse for Turkey and Hot Sausage Chili is fabulous and not terribly bad for you, but given the parameters of different eating plans, it could be better...
The first time I made this, I fell in love! This stuff is amazing! Then I got creative the last time I made it to bring it further into the healthy range of things - and let me tell you, this is perfect to have the next day or a couple months later if you freeze it. The flavors are amazing :)
So the healthier version of the recipe with a calorie count of about 260 for a very large serving is... (Note: this calorie count is with both meets being ground chicken)
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey or chicken
12 ounces hot Italian sausage made with turkey or chicken
2 teaspoons Emeril's Original Essence
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onions (I use white because I like them better...)
1 chopped green bell pepper
1 chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped, roasted and peeled green poblano or Anaheim chiles (or a can of green chiles that have been drained simplifies this!)
2-4 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
2-3 cups vegetable stock
1 (28-ounce) can chopped tomatoes with their juice
2 cups cooked pinto beans, or canned beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
8-16 oz sliced mushrooms (optional)
3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 cups grated Monterey Jack for garnish (use reduced fat or fat-free to keep the health factor up)
Directions
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat and Essence, and cook, stirring, until the meat is no longer pink, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the onions, bell peppers, carrots, and chilies, and cook, stirring, until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt, and cook for 1 minute. Add the stock and tomatoes, stir well, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Remove from the heat and add the cilantro. Adjust the seasoning, to taste, and cover to keep warm until ready to serve.
To serve, ladle into large bowls and sprinkle each serving with 1/4 cup of cheese. Serve tortilla chips on the side.
It's not much of a change really, but just enough to make everything a bit healthier! I know the carrots and mushrooms may be a bit odd to some in chili - but for some reason they really seem to fit here. One note on using stock versus broth - you can substitute the broth but watch for sodium content as broth is usually saltier!
Enjoy!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
It's been a little long between posts...
It's been over a year since I last posted up here since I keep wondering why anyone would want to read what I write... But then I decided that people will read it if they want and if it doesn't make any sense to them, then they will laugh and ignore it! Sounds like my students...
And what a year it has been!
Quite a few changes have occured since the last time I actually posted something that I wrote. (Apparently, the trend for a couple months was to start writing and never post...) And a comment the other day inspired me to actually write and post something!
I have to say one of my biggest accomplishments from this past year was losing over 50 pounds and then continuing to stay on track to lose the 37+ pounds that are still left towards my goal weight. It hasn't been easy, but well worth the journey and the effort. There have been lots of ups and downs, both emotionally and physically - but the determination is still there although it does fade at times, unfortunately. The support from family, friends and co-workers has been amazing! And finding a program to work with that works is priceless, even if there is a price! It's amazing to me that I have now lost more than most of the "faces" of Jenny Craig typically use and have started entering the category of "results not typical" the more I lose. Hopefully, I'll be smaller than I was for my first driver's license next month...
But, let me say it again - This has not been easy! And then to hear someone say about another person that the person should just lose some weight already really ticked me off! Apparently, there are people out there that think losing weight is easy! Granted it's probably because they have one of those uberfast metabolisms that allows them to eat whatever they want, whenever they want too... Sometimes, I really, truly, dislike people like that but there are those that are fabulous and I love them!
But now, I realize there are some things that I miss about life before "the diet," namely cooking and trying different foods simply for the adventure of trying them. I've slowly been getting back into cooking and loving every minute of it - the therapy involved is still very much there but it now goes hand in hand with going to the gym.
So, this blog is being reinvented yet again! (I know I should probably start from scratch, but part of me is reluctant to let go of the adventures and words of the past!)
This is simply going to be a place where I share the ups and downs of life with a few recipes thrown in, with many of those recipes being modified to be healthier, but not sacrificing any taste!
And what a year it has been!
Quite a few changes have occured since the last time I actually posted something that I wrote. (Apparently, the trend for a couple months was to start writing and never post...) And a comment the other day inspired me to actually write and post something!
I have to say one of my biggest accomplishments from this past year was losing over 50 pounds and then continuing to stay on track to lose the 37+ pounds that are still left towards my goal weight. It hasn't been easy, but well worth the journey and the effort. There have been lots of ups and downs, both emotionally and physically - but the determination is still there although it does fade at times, unfortunately. The support from family, friends and co-workers has been amazing! And finding a program to work with that works is priceless, even if there is a price! It's amazing to me that I have now lost more than most of the "faces" of Jenny Craig typically use and have started entering the category of "results not typical" the more I lose. Hopefully, I'll be smaller than I was for my first driver's license next month...
But, let me say it again - This has not been easy! And then to hear someone say about another person that the person should just lose some weight already really ticked me off! Apparently, there are people out there that think losing weight is easy! Granted it's probably because they have one of those uberfast metabolisms that allows them to eat whatever they want, whenever they want too... Sometimes, I really, truly, dislike people like that but there are those that are fabulous and I love them!
But now, I realize there are some things that I miss about life before "the diet," namely cooking and trying different foods simply for the adventure of trying them. I've slowly been getting back into cooking and loving every minute of it - the therapy involved is still very much there but it now goes hand in hand with going to the gym.
So, this blog is being reinvented yet again! (I know I should probably start from scratch, but part of me is reluctant to let go of the adventures and words of the past!)
This is simply going to be a place where I share the ups and downs of life with a few recipes thrown in, with many of those recipes being modified to be healthier, but not sacrificing any taste!
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