Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Christmas Tidings

I will be cooking and filling the house with delicious smells, filling the house with some Christmas music, and having a lovely Christmas Eve dinner with my son... and friends will pop in and say Hello, knowing that I'll be home and not going anywhere ... very sad about that.... but, I'll make the best of it.  

So, tonight's movie fest:  Red 2, The World's End, and The Lone Ranger.... I know my favorite will be The World's End, I wanted to see it when it was in the theaters and never got the chance.

Merry Christmas to All.

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Spirit of the Holidays....



It's very difficult to find the Holiday Cheer... BUT, I can find the "Spirit" when I listen to the music.... my favorites this year are instrumental and acapella....



Music soothes my soul, my heart, my mind... how can it not lift you up some?

SO, instead of dwelling on the fact that my father is not with us anymore, that I cannot make it to my mother's for Christmas, I am missing my nephew's first Christmas, that I am so far away from my family, and so many "dilemmas" and "issues" ... I drift off into listening to music, and try to think of things that are positive, plan things that I "CAN" do and afford that can make my loved ones happy, and remember that "the thought" counts so much more than anything else...

A little chocolate goody on the taste buds does help too!!!!

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Woe.....

I went and jumped right off the wagon into a world of sugar and carbohydrates.  I'm a comfort eater - I want a bowl of pasta when I'm sad ... and sad, I've been.  I can see why people turn to drugs and alcohol when life gets them down and tragedies strike... I turned to "Pasta"...  A bowl of Linguine will cheer me up for an hour... if not, it will put me to sleep! Either way, it is the same as a drug or cocktail... I just won't get arrested for driving under the influence of Noodle consumption.  I've lost 1 lb. - no weight gain - and I really do plan to be back on track - I have to detox all over again!!!!  Because it's time to get back into the health zone - eating noodles and fats has not been nice to my "innards"... 


This weekend is my son's 23rd birthday - I am celebrating it with him and his best friend at our favorite Indian Restaurant.  I am very excited about it... tomorrow I am doing the bit of gift shopping, I think I've tricked him into believing he's "not" getting what he wanted!!!  I pretended to be shopping for clothes for him online - and pretended to get caught - he said "Please Mom, I just want a gift card to use at my favorite store."  I told him there is no fun in that - well - I'm going to buy him some boxer shorts, and in the gift box with the underwear will be a gift card to his favorite store ... he'll love it.

I can't believe 23 yrs old - I was married and a mother at his age.  I am glad he's not been in a rush to do those things.  I always tell him "College, Career, Home, and then settle down to share those accomplishments."




Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Some Of These Days

The World is just not the same.... without my Pop.... Here's to you Dad...

Thursday, October 31, 2013

A Happy Memory

One Thanksgiving, I did not have my son, he had left for the Midwest to visit relatives on his father's side and so, I hopped on a plane and went home to NYC to be with my parents.  It was the BEST Thanksgiving - I had my parents ALL TO MYSELF, and we ate good and we drank wine and I got to hear all kinds of crazy and wild tales of their youth.  They had great stories, fun stuff, adventurous tales, and great humor!!! Laughing with my parents - fantastic feeling - the warmth, the love, the closeness.... something that must always be cherished...

I will always treasure memories like this one.... it is so important to never forget  ...


Tuesday, October 8, 2013

50 LBS... gone... woosh....

I've been so busy at work, I think I worked myself out, as no matter all the vitamins, healthy diet, and adding exercise... I'm home with Bronchitis, sinus infection and fever... Doctor prescribed an army of pills and inhalers, and 48 hours of bed rest.  But it doesn't take the excitement away from the fact that I've finally reached my first goal!!!!!

AND that is with having lots of sodium packed Egg Drop Soup.  I've been sick for 2 weeks, but thought it was just allergies and change of weather... so I've been working, going home, sucking down egg drop soup (because I don't have Mom here to make her wonderful healing soups and hot tea-I can only take her advice and have egg drop soup instead - to the point that my son says he doesn't want Chinese food again for quite a long time), and sleeping ...

Off to take my evening doses and watch mindless television - I really think it is starting to melt my brain.

Friday, September 20, 2013

Life Got Away with Me....

Work has been hectic for me, stressful, demanding, long hours, and I go home, exhausted, watch tv and sleep... I get to work, have no time to even think about anything, but helping clients.  This week is over - TGIF....

Staying Low Carb....

Weigh In on Thursday....

This is my life for now - Work, Sleep and Work...


Monday, September 9, 2013

Teeth... Diet Log #86

Had to go to a periodontist today... seems that I am going to need to get braces again, as well as, reattach gum to a tooth that has shifted over the years.  So reattachment next month, then to the orthodontist for braces in Year 2014!  Oh dreading the braces, hopefully it won't be like it was when I was a kid - I think I broke the record for the longest amount of time with a metal mouth!

It is ACTUALLY COMFORTABLE outside!!!!!!!!!  A cool breeze blew in the late afternoon- making it a glorious late afternoon, early evening.  I got to sit outside for a few and shoot the breeze with my neighbor.  Love it - of course it's the weather just teasing me, because tomorrow will be another scorcher!  Of course!

Made delicious salmon and sauteed garlic and spinach for dinner.  Perfecto!!!!!!!


Friday, September 6, 2013

A Pound Gone... and Many More to Go- Diet Log #85

I am finally seeing the scale budge again, downwards! Been over a week or so that I've sat at 42 lbs... and today I was at "43" lbs!!! Wow, below is a visual of what I've lost!  Today I am celebrating!!!  The plateau time is over, now lets get to some serious business.  






Thursday, September 5, 2013

Labor Day Break * Fun - Diet Log #78-84

Enjoyed my lovely 4 day weekend... went to see Blue Jasmine (loved Cate Blanchett, but was so very disappointed, found it depressing - maybe it was the mood I was in, maybe not)... went shopping locally one day, and then took a road trip with friends to Orlando, Florida and shopped till we dropped.  I was so excited because I bought myself a new "smaller" outfit that looked wonderful and flattering on me ...

Last night's dinner was:

A bag of broccoli frozen florets, mix of zucchini, yellow squash, red onion and red bell pepper - cooked till tender
A bag of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 eggs
1/2 c. of Half n Half

Put the cooked veggies in a greased casserole dish, put the cheese on top of that, then poured the eggs/half n half that were beaten together with some seasonings, and kind of mixed it up enough that the egg was even everywhere, then baked for 35-40 minutes at 400 degrees.  Oh my gosh, this was over the top delicious, filling, and low carb!!!!!  For those that want meat, you could add ham, bacon, ground meat, or chicken... I just wanted that yummy vegetable and egg - basically it was something between a crustless quiche and a frittata or baked omelet.


Thursday, August 29, 2013

Never Give Up - EVER Diet Log #77

A reminder to you. To me. xo :: art by Jay Roeder

Today is my first day of having my Carboholics Anonymous meeting.  I have brought in some celery and ranch dressing for sharing as a nibble.  Everyone's packed their own lunches to bring in... I'm going to go over a few helpful tips = things that have helped me.

1.   If it is a root vegetable, it's not on the "Plan".
2.  Don't listen to other people tell you you are doing something wrong, or how you should do something another way - instead - take hints and advice to a point that if you think it might work for you, try it, but don't fall in the trap of Nay-Sayers.  Nay-Sayers will sabotage (not purposely) every chance they can ....
3.   It's ONE day at a time.  If you ate some pizza or ice cream, then you should make consequences that are healthy to fix it - and that is, get back on the horse, walk an extra mile, do an extra 30 minutes exercise, and start back with a healthy choice and realize - you can do better next time.  
4.  DO NOT GIVE YOURSELF TREATS for a GOOD LOSS in the form of FOOD.  Buy yourself a new shirt, skirt, piece of jewelry, perfume, something that you wanted... new shoes :)  But if you treat yourself with Carbohydrates, you've just given in to the addiction... just like a drug addict.

I've always said - my drug of choice, is Food.  I'd rather sit and eat a giant bowl of pasta and fresh hot bread smothered in butter than take any drugs or alcoholic beverage.  I guess I can't really say that I'm not an addict, because honestly, regardless of how hard I work on weight loss - this has been a long time battle - and I only fail because of my addiction.  

I have lost a total of 42 lbs today.  This was confirmed by the doctor visit I had this morning.  I am 8 lbs. shy of my intended 90 day goal, but I'm not going to punish myself over it - instead I am bumping up the will power and the "movement"... and I'm gathering the masses to be my support.  I will reach that 50 lbs goal - it just might be a week late.  AND Late is better than NEVER


Recap:  A wonderful meeting, two ladies that attended were stunned at how "small a world" we live in - they used to be neighbors - so I reunited two friendly people in a great little group!  We shared recipes, talked honestly about how much weight we have to lose - and I was stunned by the smallest one in the group - I'd have NEVER guessed her weight!  She's carrying her weight very well... I am the heaviest by 4 lbs. But I'm going to take care of that - "Miss Competitive" here, not "Miss Supportive!"... No, I will definitely want to shine in the weight loss and set a good example!  BUT I never want anyone to feel bad ....so I will always be there to support.  As an overweight woman, I know how to verbally express without hurting feelings or stepping on toes, the sensitive issues of weight, diet, etc.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Carboholics - Diet Log #76

I have started a support group for Carbohydrate Addicts!  So far, the group consists of 4 people ...it's a start.  We will meet every other Thursday for lunch and share recipes, support, encouragement, and diet tips.  I am so looking forward to it- the small group is made up of some really great people ... who knows, it may grow...and we may be able to support each other into healthier and fitter selves.

Work is extremely busy - I come home and just crash.... not very exciting ... but I am looking forward to a 4 day weekend coming up - a nice little mini break.


Friday, August 23, 2013

My Beautiful Habibi - Diet Log #72


Have to share my beautiful smushy face boy.  He's a bit upset with me because I don't stop washing his face and grooming him.  He's just not feeling it - so he thought he could hide behind the lamp...

Today I had chicken salad, tuna salad, egg salad combo at a little cafe with a tall glass of mint iced tea.  No carbs!!!  It was a lovely lunch, spent in good company, but the cafe we were at made me feel like I should have been dressed in a flowery summer dress, pearls and a pretty hat... it was like stepping into a book that took place in 1950-1960s Deep South.

Tonight my son is bringing home chicken wings (naked with spice only) - which again - no carbs!!!  

Plans for the weekend are nill - it's raining and doesn't look like it will ever let up... 

Thursday, August 22, 2013

A new modified Chile Relleno Casserole Recipe

I am modifying the recipe to my way of eating…low carb….

The real recipe – the original is here at Mandy’s Recipe Box

Chile Relleno Casserole
Ingredients
16 oz. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
16 oz. shredded Cheddar Cheese
2 (8 oz) cans whole green chiles (You may need more. I halved this recipe and still used 2 cans)
4 eggs, separated
2/3 C. evaporated milk
salt and pepper to taste

How You Do It
Sprinkle both cheeses into a lightly greased 9x13 casserole pan. Arrange chiles over cheese; set aside. Beat egg yolks in a bowl; gradually beat in milk. In another bowl, beat egg whites until fluffy; stir into yolk mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle egg mixture over chiles. Bake uncovered at 325 degrees for 50 minutes or until eggs are set. Let stand several minutes before serving. Makes 8 servings.

Faux Mother’s Sour Cream Rice
Ingredients
2 to 2 1/2 C. cooked crumbled/grated/riced cauliflower
4 oz. can diced green chiles
8 oz. shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
16 oz. sour cream

How You Do It

Combine all ingredients in a bowl; stir well. Spoon mixture into a buttered 2 qt. casserole dish. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Serves 6 to 8.

Life is Gouda... Diet Log #71

A few years ago I went to the pretty city of Gouda.  Wheels of Cheese city street lamps, cheese market in the middle of the city center with tables and displays of huge wheels of cheese, it was Heaven.....and it was a little bit on the "Cheezy" side... but a lovely place.  I reminisced while eating a nice slice of some aged Gouda today... Buying a ticket to go to Gouda was a bit of a chore - nobody told me it wasn't pronounced GOODA - it's more on the gutteral sound of GHOWDA... I'll never forget how to pronounce it after that!  When I go back to the Netherlands - I have Edam on my list of places to visit - for I am so ready to be in another Paradise of Cheese....

We've been having some "doozy" storms!  I love it when I don't have to work, because then you can curl up and watch the weather blow in ... cuddle up with the fatty tabby and a nap blanket and just chill out... but, today that's not possible, I am at the office!  We are now entering into the prime time of Hurricane Season... September being the worst.  Hopefully, they will all pass by, if any....

Swollen and puffy, I believe it is because of the salty salad pepper rings and bacon that was on my chef salad yesterday at lunch time.  It was delicious - including the homemade buttermilk ranch dressing I was dipping each bite into... that was also very salty... dinner was a bowl of roasted brussels sprouts, not too inventive.  I even managed to tolerate the vitamins because I took them AFTER dinner - with a full stomach and lots and lots of fluids.  The 1st of September is sneaking up quickly and that is my 90 day marker!  90 days!!!!!  So far, I look at my weight loss as having removed a 4 yrs old child made of body fat from my system!  I really need to lose another 40 lbs before Thanksgiving... I want to be in all my nice clothes I love so much when I drive up to be with my family.... I want to be healthy and happy with myself for this trip... It's a big deal to me - that I travel that distance feeling good about myself!!!!!!



Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Compliments - Diet Log #70

Compliment quote via www.Facebook.com/RelaxRelateRelease

Today a client at the office said to me that I looked great... 

A co-worker walked up to me and told me it was really showing how much weight I've lost, and how good I looked...

This made my day brighter....

Tomorrow I must remember to share the love and compliment random people... so they can have a bright day...


Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Niçoise Salad

I have this memory of eating out with my parents at a restaurant across the street or near Bloomingdales in NYC when I was a child, and my mother would always order me a Niçoise Salad... it was NOT the choice of a child... sorry Mom, that's the truth!!!!  And, now looking back, oh how wonderful that salad must have been and how I could certainly munch down on it today - but I don't believe that restaurant is in existence anymore ... my memory fails me on its name, possibly something like Yellow Fingers?


Niçoise Salad
16 oz. grilled tuna steak or canned tuna (2-3 cans)
4 eggs, hard-boiled

2 Boston lettuce leaves
3 small ripe tomatoes
1 small red onion
8 ounces green beans, cooked
1/4-cup niçoise olives
1 tbsp. capers
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

The Vinaigrette:
1/2 cup lemon juice
3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium shallot, minced
1 Tbsp. fresh thyme leaves, minced
2 Tbsp. fresh basil leaves, minced
2 tsp. fresh oregano leaves, minced
1 tsp. Dijon or homemade mustard
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Low Carb Eggplant Faux Lasagna - Diet Log #66, 67, 68 and 69

First, my good news, is that my xrays showed that I do not have tumors on my chest where I've torn and inflammed the cartilage - so I now ice the area and take anti-inflammatory pills to help heal the silly but painful injury.  

Second, being healthy and doing good deeds to your body, doesn't always payout for the best...as today I took a multi-vitamin and a Flax Seed Oil pill and ended up just doubled over for a few hours this morning, racked with intense stomach pain.  Not fun - it reminds me of how I said one time when I was visiting Belgium, that the clean country air during the first part of my trip almost killed me, and the minute I arrived in Brussels, and was back in the polluted air of a busy city, I was able to breathe and feel great... 

My dinner last night was a sort of faux Lasagna made with Eggplant slices instead of pasta noodles... I read up on so many different recipes that were similar and just went on a whim to do it "my" way.... which was as follows:

*          Sliced Eggplant into paper thin rounds and covered the bottom of casserole dish
*          Sauteed julienned summer squash, 2 cloves of pressed garlic, chopped onion, julienned 3 petite sweet red, green and orange bell peppers, in olive oil, scooped out of the liquid in pan with slotted spoon and spread over sliced thin eggplant
*          Whipped up a container of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shaved romano/parmesan/asiago mixture, Tuscan seasoning mix, 2 eggs, and finely chopped cup of Kalamatas and Ripe Green or Spanish Olives (pimento stuffed and sundried tomato stuffed that I had in fridge); then spread that over the veggies in dish evenly
*          Layered another batch of thinly sliced eggplant rounds completely covering the cheese mixture; topped with Rao’s Arribata Spaghetti Sauce (3 net carbs), then spread grated mozzarella and provolone mix
*          Covered with tin foil, baked at 400 for 1 hr 45 minutes – uncovered and cooked additional 10 minutes to slightly brown the cheese on top

*          AND it was incredible……. 

This will be dinner tonight as well.... I can only imagine after soaking in flavor overnight in the refrigerator it will only be even more incredible and tasty when I heat it back up.

I turned down Carrot Cake yesterday during a celebration of my employer's birthday.  I just kept saying 38 lbs. to myself - and sang the birthday song, wished him the best, and went back to work.  I've had moments of self-pity and weakness where I've wanted to get in the car and go somewhere and eat something full of carbohydrates; but, the effort is too much for me in this awful Summer heat to even think about leaving the A/C in order to do something self-destructive - thank goodness for my laziness!

And, lastly, an acquaintance walked up to me today and said "You are looking good"... Now, I won't take it as I don't always look good, but instead as a compliment that my hard work and determination to be healthy again is working and showing....




Friday, August 16, 2013

Broccolli Cheddar Crustless Quiche -Diet Log #65

Tonight's dinner...


Preheat oven at 350 degrees

6 eggs
1/2 c. Half n Half
course salt for taste
ground pepper
1/2  t. nutmeg
1/2 t garlic powder
1 frozen package of broccoli florets - cooked and drained
1 cup of cooked till clear chopped onion
3 c of shredded cheddar cheese

Greased souffle baking dish, add broccoli and onion and cheese
Whisk spices and eggs and Half n Half
Pour custard over and bake for an hour (for me it took an hour) till knife comes out clean...

Filling and delicious and LOW carb!!!!

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Weigh In with Doctor... Diet Log #64

I think that I'm falling a part!  And, thank goodness, laughing about it... I had some discomfort/pain above my right "boob" and immediately went into hypochondriac fits of having cancer.. I thought I felt a lump.. today I went to doctor -he said this isn't your breast, this isn't a lump but the cartilage to your ribs and sternum, and asked had I been swinging around from the chandeliers because it seems to him I've ripped and inflamed the cartilage... and so I went off to get xrays and won't have final answer till next week - until then - ice packs and anti-inflammatory pills - and no lifting weights, hanging from the chandeliers or any other kind of crazy monkey business.

It was confirmed that per the doctor's scale I'm down 36 lbs...(after a cup of coffee, fully dressed and wearing shoes) and he was very impressed.  He said "Looking good, and keep up the good work"...

So I sat at my desk today with a giant ice pack shoved in my shirt!  Pretty funny looking... my boss laughed at me - because if it isn't one thing, it's another.  At least I'm there - and thankfully, nothing serious... Thank GOD!!!!!

Tonight's a boring dinner of just some roasted brussels sprouts - I swear I'm going to look green and leafy soon.  But I don't feel like cooking up anything elaborate - just going to lie down and watch mindless television and stay in out of the rain... bad storms blowing through - electricity keeps blinking.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Sniffle Sneeze Sniffle Blow Wheeze - Diet Log #59-63

Ughhhh, hayfever at its best!!!!  I'm plateaued at my weight... My face looks like a puffer fish's... I'm one complaint after another... No bright and cheerful me... so... because I realize this, I am going to try and fill my day with positive and motivational little thoughts and pictures and such....  (because the weather is going to get worse by the weekend, tropical storms/depressions/hurricanes are breeding all around us - bringing us more rain and MOLD).....


Friday, August 9, 2013

One of Those Days.... Diet Log #58

Lunch was Fatoush salad that I could not finish... when I got out of the car with the leftover container of salad, I tipped the container and all the salad dressing/juice spilled out all over my clothes.... I stink of lemon juice and garlic!!!!!  Now I get to go to the grocery store on my way home and walk around smelling like a delicious Lebanese salad bowl... hahaha

This is just the kind of thing I felt would happen today.

I am just having one of those days...


Thursday, August 8, 2013

Caudalie - Diet Log #57

After years of off and on acne, breakouts, and never having good skin... I found Caudalie Gentle Cleansing Milk ... and my skin turned to peaches and cream...smooth, soft and no more awful breakouts... Well, I ran out and have not taken the time to buy a new bottle, and so now I suffer the consequences and damage - from using other soaps - I am breaking out like a teenager!  UGH!!!!
Caudalie - Gentle Cleansing Milk
So, after dinner out with friend tonight, I am walking over to Sephora and buying a new bottle... and hopefully in the next few days, my skin will be back to it's healthy and happy balanced glow it had a week ago!

I can't wait - I love Sephora... it's not the same as it used to be, doesn't feel very elite or fancy, but I still love make up and perfume and all kinds of good smelling cleansers, brushes/tools, etc.  I love playing in it all and getting samples of all the new perfumes and products.  Love it - Girly Girl I AM!

Last night's dinner:  I got a bowl from Chipotle - Black Beans, Chicken, Tomato Salsa, Cheese, Sour Cream, and Guacamole.  I didn't have very many carbs all day, so the black beans did NOT push me over ... I'm finding more and more ways to manipulate options to make them doable when I don't want to shop or cook!

Tonight I am eating at Mimi's Cafe.  I am getting Mimi's Chopped Cobb Salad and I am GOING to ENJOY every bite.... I love Mimi's - but I love their bakery items.... I will have to make sure all bakery items are covered with a napkin and moved far far away from me... I've been having bouts of weakness - I don't want to sit and eat an entire basket of bakery items, I just want ONE MUFFIN!!!!  ONE SLICE OF BREAD!!!  ONE BITE OF PASTA!!!!!  AND - well - WILL POWER!!!!!  Not going to give in to the weakness!!!!
NOT GOING TO!!!!!!!!!  I have 15 more lbs. to lose and then I can go have a great shopping trip!!!!!!  THAT's much better than a muffin!!!!!!

I'm off the scale for the next week - I'm happy with the lowest number and I hope to see it move down some more next week...

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Full Belly - Diet Log #56

Of all places, Ruby Tuesdays!  Turkey Burger (No Bun) and Smashed Cauliflower for the side - can't beat that for a perfect lunch... and a glass of unsweetened iced tea... I'm full, I'm satisfied, and I ate on plan!!!  The restaurant is in the mall which is 2 minutes from the office... and now I have a new place to go to ... those who are on a caloric counting/healthy diet, they have their Trim and Fit Menu items - some sound really delicious... for me, I'm just absolutely thrilled that they offer mashed cauliflower and grilled spaghetti squash for sides!!!  

It's hot and miserable here - though slightly better than it has been the past week.  Energy levels are on SUPER LOW... Dog days of Summer, and all I want to do is curl up in front of the fan, with the A/C on low temp and read books or watch British TV.  Last night I watched a documentary from BBC called Victoria's Children.  I knew Victoria loved her husband more than anything, and that they had 9 children, but that's all I knew... not how weird they were about parenting, and how obsessive she was over her husband (of course, obvious with the 9 kids!)... but what cracked me up was a comment she had made in a journal that she found the babies repulsive with their little skinny legs and arms and froglike gestures!!! Oh my!!!!  She definitely was not "maternal"....


Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Running on Empty - Diet Log #55

I need caffeine!  I need sleep!!!  My fat cat, Noomi, decided to play fetch with me ALL night long and early morning... I'd get a chance for some sleep when she knocked herself out and slept too.  She needs all the exercise she can get, but I wish it did not include me and the wee hours of the morning.  I can't lock her out of my room, she'll sit on the other side of the door screaming and start throwing herself at the door in a full temper tantrum.  My snuggly, fuzzy lovebug... 





Monday, August 5, 2013

Power of the Frittata!!!!! And Other Recipes I've Collected....

Zucchini-Basil Frittata

Nancy's caramelized onion, goat cheese and olive frittata





Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Necks

1 large yellow onion 
2 large smoked turkey necks and enough water to cover 
4 bunches of collard greens
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (or to taste)
2 tablespoon olive oil

Cut up onion into 1/2 inch pieces. Cut necks in half and add enough water to just cover the necks. Cook until slightly tender; 1 hour on low boil. While necks are cooking, wash collard greens and drain.

Roll up leaf tightly, slice down the middle long ways. Chop leaf into bite size pieces. Add collard greens to the turkey necks and water. Add 2 tablespoon of oil.
Cook for an additional hour or more depending on how tender you like your greens. The meat on the turkey necks should flake off the bone. Serve over a bed of rice (serve over Faux Rice made of Cauliflower) for a complete meal.


Nigel Slater's Roast Eggplant


1 eggplant
2.5 Tbsp. olive oil
ground cardamom
2 heaping Tbsp. plain yogurt
1 Tbsp. tahini paste
1 tsp. fresh minced thyme
a couple of squeezes of fresh lemon juice
a drizzle of olive oil
2 Tbsp. pine nuts
salt and pepper
Preheat the oven to 400. Slice the leafy ends off the eggplant and then slice it in half lengthwise. Cut eat half into two pieces, and then cut each of those pieces into 3 short/fat lengths.  Place in a baking dish and toss with the olive oil, some ground cardamom, salt and pepper. Roast for about 45 minutes.
Meanwhile, make the dressing by combining the yogurt, tahini, thyme, lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil and some salt and pepper to taste. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.

After the eggplant has roasted, plate and drizzle with the dressing and toasted pine nuts.
Mushroom Paprikash  (I would serve over faux rice -cauliflower)

Turkish Eggplant Pie (I'd love to try this crustless)


Weekend Melt - Diet Log #52-53-54

Well, a little obsessive over the scale at the moment - which can be a good thing and it can be a bad thing - but at this moment, it's a good thing!!!!  I'm down to 35 lbs!!!!  It was blazing hot outside, the air was so thick and hazy and dirty, nothing moved, mosquitoes were out in full force, and so - I never left my home!!!

I did laundry, cleaned house, and watched my favorite British TV shows and a few movies... slept... groomed the Persian, cuddled with my fat tabby cat... napped... lived the life of laziness... too hot to want to really eat anything, drank my weight in ice water and iced tea...

This morning - 3 lbs. - gone!!!!  Dancing the happy dance!!!!  Only 15 lbs to reach my FIRST goal of 50 lbs. and then I'm going SHOPPING!!! :)

Meal:

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Cooked the spaghetti squash, scraped it into a large mixing bowl
Mixed 2 eggs, italian seasoning, garlic powder, ground pepper, and a container of ricotta cheese in
   with the squash strings
Put the squash into a 9 X 13 greased (Pam sprayed) pan
Poured a jar of low sugar spaghetti sauce and spread it evenly over the squash mixture
1 lb of shredded italian blend cheese over the entire pan
Turkey Pepperoni over the cheese

Baked for 1 hour at 375 degrees - till bubbling all over and browning...

OMG - it tastes so sinful, fattening - all that cheese - but it was wonderful - and made enough to make several extra meals for the week.


Friday, August 2, 2013

Tropical Depressions.... Diet Log #51

Happy Friday!!!!!!!!!!!!  Another Pound BIT the DUST!!!! WOOT WOOT!!!!!!!!  (33 lbs)

Yesterday's plans were washed down the drain - a storm system is moving across us, bringing tornadoes, torrential rains, winds, lightening, flooding, and hail... needless to say, I waited till there was a small break in the rains, and drove home, and stayed home... my friends did the same.  We've rescheduled a night out on Tuesday.

So, last night I had not planned on eating at home, so there were no planned meals, etc. - and I had to dig in the fridge to find something - a head of cauliflower - that's all there was... a head of cauliflower! 

Washed, chopped, sprinkled a little olive oil, Crazy Jane's Mixed Up Salt, ground pepper, and microwaved it for 15  minutes.  That was my dinner.... 

I also did NOT give in to the urge of ordering a pizza!  OR Chinese food.... nor did I beg the Kidlet to bring me home something .... I ate the cauliflower, it was tasty, it filled me up, and I LOST weight!!!!!!!!  I was feeling so weak - because I was down about not going out and shopping with friends, the weather was miserable, I was mentally exhausted from work, it was "easy" and "sinful"...but... I ate my cauliflower and I enjoyed it and I lost weight!!!!!!!  



Thursday, August 1, 2013

Recipes

Baked Fritata with Artichokes, Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta

Ingredients:

18 Eggs
1 tb-sp Olive oil
1 Onion (diced)
3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
1 small jar sun dried Tomatoes (drained and chopped)
15 onz Artichoke Hearts in Water (drained and chopped)
½ cup Italian Parsley (chopped)
Salt and Pepper (as per taste)
1 ½ cup Crumbled Feta Cheese (Basil and Tomato Feta)

 

Instructions:

 

In a large bowl, whisk the 18 eggs together.

In a medium pan, sauté the onion in the olive oil until tender.

Add the garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add the onions and garlic to the eggs.
Stir in the sun dried tomatoes and artichokes.
Add the parsley and salt and pepper.
Stir in the feta cheese.
Pour the egg mixture into a 9 by 13 glass Pyrex dish that has been coated with cooking spray.
If you want, you can add extra cheese to the top of the egg mixture once it is in the pan.
Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes.
Let the egg casserole cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before cutting.
Cut into squares and serve.

Spinach & Ricotta No-Carb Cheese Balls
Ingredients: Makes about 15 large balls
1 pkg. of frozen Spinach,  thawed, squeezed dry & chopped (get rid if the excess water)
300 gr. of Ricotta
150 gr. of Pecorino, grated
1 egg
Salt and Pepper to taste
For the sauce:
4 tsp. Extra Virgin Olive oil
5 leaves of Sage, fresh chopped or whole
Handful of Pecorino, grated
Preheat your oven at 350° (180°) degrees.
In a large bowl mix together spinach, ricotta, pecorino, the egg, salt and pepper.
Grab a baking dish and start making the balls placing down one by one, don’t worry if the are close to each other they won’t stick.
Now in a small sauce pan heat your olive oil and sage together until starts to sizzle and switch off. Drizzle the Olive oil mixture evenly over the balls, sprinkle the pecorino on top and bake for 20 minutes. Serve.
  
Crustless Spinach Cheese Pie
10 oz. frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and drained
5 eggs, beaten
2 ½ cups cheese, any kind (I used a fiesta blend)
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
Grease a 9-inch pie pan. Combine all ingredients and pour into prepared pan. Bake at 375 degrees F for about 30 minutes or until edges start to brown.
Makes 8 servings
Net carbs per serving: 1.5g

Broccoli and Bacon Egg Casserole
12 large eggs
16 ounces sour cream
12 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
½ pound bacon, chopped
1 cup broccoli, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
dash pepper
Preheat oven to 350 F.
Put eggs and sour cream in blender with salt and pepper. Blend well.
Put half the cheese into a 9X13 baking pan, followed by the bacon, the broccoli and then the rest of the cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the whole thing.
Bake 45-55 minutes, until top is golden brown and toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Makes 8 servings
Net carbs per serving: about 5g
Chicken Florentine Casserole
2 skinless boneless chicken breast halves
1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup parmesan cheese
¾ cup sour cream
Poach chicken in boiling water until no longer pink. Remove from water and let cool. Cut chicken into bite size pieces. In small bowl, mix Parmesan, mayonnaise and sour cream together. Combine chicken and spinach in the bottom of a casserole pan. Spread cheese mixture on top. Bake uncovered in 350F oven for 35 minutes or until edges are browned.
Makes 3 servings
Carbs per serving: 4g
Eggplant, Sausage and Cheese Casserole
1 pound sausage, cooked and drained
1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
1 medium eggplant
1 ¼ cups cottage cheese
¼ cup parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten
2 cups mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon oregano
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix tomato sauce into cooked sausage. Set aside.
Slice eggplant lengthwise into thin strips. Fry eggplant slices in a little oil until brown and softened. Line bottom of an 8×8 baking dish with cooked eggplant. Mix egg with cottage cheese, parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Spread cheese mixture over eggplant. Layer sausage mixture over the cheese. Spring oregano over sausage layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake in 350 oven for about 30 minutes or until cheese has browned on top.
Makes 9 servings
Carbs per serving: 4.5 g

Fitting Back into Favorite Clothes - Diet Log #48, 49, and 50

I was sooooo ecstatic - today I was able to wear my favorite old  Liz Claiborne denim skirt to work... it's a timeless skirt, goes with anything, and no matter how much weight I lose - it just hangs lower on my hips, and I can still wear it.  Right now - it's the "perfect" fit ... Jumping for Joy - I'm fitting back into my "smaller" big girl clothes!!!!!!!  Another 32 lbs and I might be able to start squeezing into the clothes I've packed away for that special unveiling event of a slimmer me...

Every night this week I have had a vegetable (squash or brussels sprouts) and some chicken... nothing exciting, nothing adventurous, just plain because I've been mentally wiped/exhausted from busy work days.

Yesterday for lunch I went to my favorite Turkish restaurant and had vegetables and chicken... might be growing a few feathers soon!!!!

Tonight I'm looking forward to a girl's night out with friends.  Going to Bahama Breeze ... and then hitting a few shops (Sephora, Lush, etc.).  I just hope it's not pouring cats and dogs and ugly out - being August that's the "norm"!!!  It will put a damper on the fun!


Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Jackson (R.I.P.)

My BFF's cat, Jackson, was the largest grey tabby cat I've ever seen.  He was an outdoor cat, and just mozied on around the condominiums like he owned the place.  Nobody messed with him because he was just huge, quite plump too... when I'd get out of my car, he'd stroll up, flop over on his back and rub around my feet for loving.  Or, she and I would be standing outside talking, and he'd do Circle 8's around my ankles ... She and I had been really busy one day, and she was over at my condo - when there was a scraping sound at my door - we opened the door, and there he was, sitting pretty, telling her it was time for her to come home - so he could get some food, water and sleep time... He was over 14 yrs old, and a friend of her daughter's backed up out of her parking spot (yesterday), not knowing Jackson was under her car, and killed him....

My friend is devastated...

So, my Noomi and Habibi got some extra hugs and kisses last night - I would be so devastated if anything happened to them... of course, mine never step foot outside unless in their little pet carrier... but you just never know ... my fears are always that they will make a wild mad dash outside... the truth is, they really have no interest whatsoever except for the birds in the trees - and they seem content to stay in the climate controlled home and watch them through the windows... they live the life of luxury and seem to appreciate it very much so....


Sunday, July 28, 2013

I'm Melting... Diet Log #46-47

Everyone was melting at the Birthday Brunch - it was outdoors, no fans, no real breeze, and over 90 degrees outside...the ice in my diet soda was melted by the time it got to the table... but, we had a fantastic time - and most of all, I loved hearing about how good I looked... Ego needs some boosting!  AND, the scale dropped 2 lbs... so I'm happy about that as well.

Omelet with feta and spinach was all I ate, and only half - shared with friend.  Dinner tonight - I am roasting yellow squash.  I am not really hungry for much - that sounded best, lite and easy... too hot outside to really want to eat anything heavy.

Visited my grandmother for a little bit and she couldn't stop going on about how good I looked too ...

So - even if the scale is moving slow - it's showing - and my pants are getting loose... feels good - I have more energy, I feel more confident... I'm happier... looking forward to losing more!

Friday, July 26, 2013

TGIF! - Diet Log #45

Last night I made:

Sausage/Pimento Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

I blended 4 turkey sausage patties with a tub of (no sugar added) pimento cheese and then stuffed the mixture into mushrooms, baked at 375 for 40 minutes... My friend who claimed she did not like pimento cheese thought they were fantastic.

Funny, when I told her what I was making, she immediately wrinkled her nose.  I said "Before passing judgment, just take a tiny bite".... and the rest is history.

Tonight I am making Spinach/Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms...

I am blending a French Garlic/Herb cheese with spinach, stuffing the mushrooms, and again, baking at 375 for 30-40 minutes.  Along with the mushrooms I am cooking up a turkey meatloaf and zucchini.

I am so glad it is Friday... I am ready for the weekend.  Sunday I have a birthday Brunch to go to - being held at a little cafe on the dunes of the beach...  So - tomorrow I have to run out and grab up a birthday gift and card... looking forward to getting out and seeing friendly faces!  Hoping that the weather is decent enough for it to not be "miserable" - being at the beach won't mean it will be great outside - or cooler - not at this time of the year - it will probably feel like a sauna... ughhhh...

Thursday, July 25, 2013

In the Clouds - Diet Log #43-44

My sleep was interrupted all last night, either because my son was doing laundry after Midnight while I was wearing my supersonic ears (I need a louder fan in my bedroom), or the cats were playing at 2 a.m., 3 a.m., and 4 a.m.  So, I feel like I'm walking through a fog or clouds, I obviously used "Auto Pilot" to get to work...

Last night's dinner was Roasted Garlic Brussels Sprouts - nothing else.

Yesterday's lunch was delicious, I had chicken kabobs with grilled vegetables at my favorite Turkish restaurant.  My picky lunchmate even felt adventurous and was happy for it, as she's already recruited another person to go with us - AND - they've decided they also would like to try Indian... ahhhhh, after my own heart.  BUT, can I possibly go to an Indian restaurant and turn down rice and Naan??  Do I really have to turn down Naan, I believe it is made with Chick Pea Flour?  I will have to research this .... as my will power is only SO strong.

Well, time to finish my cup of coffee and get to work.... I'm in the "feast" part of the month, and if I don't stick to the job, I'll be working late - and I'd rather go home and wake my "BFF" up and drag her out somewhere like Home Goods or Sephora, etc. and see what kind of mischief we can get into....
Drink coffee and be kind.

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Nommm Nommm - Spinach! Diet Log #42

Spinach is sooooo full of fiber that it is absolutely fabulous for Low Carbing.  There are not many vegetables that I don't like - I do make a good vegetarian, at times.  Though, every now and then, my body craves meat - and I mean a lean mean steak on the grill.  The best steak I ever had was at a restaurant called La Villette, in Brussells, that had this incredible garlic/mushroom/wine cream sauce with fries... ohhhhh my.... my mouth waters... how I wish, so wish, I lived in Belgium!!!!!!!  I can just see myself in a cute apartment in one of the smaller cities outside of Brussels or Antwerp, with a bicycle, riding the trains, and hanging out with friends in incredible little restaurants for hours, drinking wine, beer, eating well - and laughing... what a dream I have, too bad nobody in Belgium wants to hire a paralegal who only speaks English... pffft, I can say Hello and Goodbye and Thank You in MANY languages... I can even say a few things in Farsi... but, not enough to get a good job overseas.

Today's recipe that I am going to make and serve with a rotisserie chicken from the super market:

GREEK SPINACH RECIPE:  3 SERVINGS; 3 NET CARBS PER SERVING
1 T. Butter
1/4 small minced onion
1 pkg of frozen, chopped spinach, thawed
1/4 c. crumbled feta cheese
1/4 c. cottage cheese

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.  Add onion and let it sizzle for a minute; then add spinach and saute, stirring now and then, for 5 to 7 minutes.

Add in the cheeses and stir until they start to melt - for another minute. Then ready to serve.....


Monday, July 22, 2013

Little Baby Cabbages recipe....


This is the recipe for Fried Brussels Sprouts that I came across.... pretty much the same as what I do with them but in the microwave oven....

I toss them in olive oil, sea salt, fresh ground black pepper, and sprinkle with garlic powder - then cook them for about 15-17 minutes on high in the microwave oven - and then I sit and eat every single one of them....   I am going to try it on the stove like this recipe with fresh garlic.... yummmy.

Cafe au Lait...Mmmmm... Diet Log #38-41


This here Chick-a-Dee is drinking down a delicious cup of hot coffee and trying her best to keep the spirits up high!!!!!  I had this really weird dream going on, then the alarm went off, and it felt like I was being interrupted in a really good movie and then missing the big ending!

A Hair Stylist, I am NOT... and yet this weekend I pulled my friend's hair through a cap (that's how much of a NON-Stylist I am!) and highlighted her hair... it wasn't a total disaster... she's got blonde highlights!!!


My photo is definitely not pretty like the recipe one... but my zucchini was absolutely fantastic!  Sadly, I could not find some good sized ones that would be needed for this recipe.  The larger, the better for this recipe because you really don't have much to work with using small ones.... My son and I gobbled these down for dinner last night with a bit of chicken... I definitely mark this recipe as a Keeper!!!!!  I am making it again tonight!!!

Excited about my new purchase - got a new food processor.  My Cuisinart died after having lost parts through moving... so with all these new recipes I want to try - I can now have some real fun and save some time with the slicing, grating, etc.

The weather was crappy - lots of storms blew in - and if it wasn't stormy/rainy, it was too miserable to be out of the Air Conditioned indoors.... So - went to see The Heat - some great laughs.

I was terrified going to the movie theater - my one weakness, POPCORN!!!!  Movie Theater Popcorn!!!! So, as soon as I walked into the lobby, I just took off like a bat out of Hell to the theater - not looking, holding my breath, just whatever it took to get me into that theater, into a seat, and without a break down/melt down because I wanted a soda and popcorn.... My friend laughed - she knew why - so in the theater she was pointing out the weak and easy to mug (for their popcorn)... She and I had a blast - between the funny movie and our own jokes!

Another weekend of NO STRAYING from the path of Low Carbohydrates!!!!!


Thursday, July 18, 2013

Friendly Support - Diet Log #37

What a blast I had at Happy Hour - and when the waiter put that fresh out of the oven, smothered in butter Sourdough bread, my friends immediately removed it from my path ... and everyone ordered low carb appetizers!  Chicken wings with no breading, Ahi Tuna that was my favorite, ... and I had a Martini... then drank 5 glasses of iced lemon water down.  Never once did I feel that I was denying myself anything, and went home in such a good mood!!  I am now sending out invites for next month's Happy Hour, and it will be at J. Alexander's - they have the most incredible grilled artichokes!  There were five of us last night, and next month I imagine we can bump that group number up to at least eight.

Recipe:  I am planning to try this one on the weekend -
Photo: Low carb!...YES!! talk about yummy!

 SIMPLE EASY SIDE DISH...

 Slice the zucchini in half. Slice off the bottom to keep in stable. Brush with olive oil and top with garlic or garlic powder. Top with sliced tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste. Use mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese or mixed blend.. Bake 375 for 20 to 30 minutes until soft.

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Slice the zucchini in half. Slice off the bottom to keep in stable. Brush with olive oil and top with garlic or garlic powder. Top with sliced tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste. Use mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese or mixed blend.. Bake 375 for 20 to 30 minutes until soft.

Looks delicious!!!!  I bought some really good shaved parmesan that will be absolutely perfect with this recipe!!! I love squash of any kind... and there's one thing I truly love about Summer, and that is the produce.  The kiddo has actually requested Spaghetti Squash too.  I'm thinking a trip to the butcher for some spicy turkey italian sausage, to the farmer's market for the good produce, and we can have a Squashy Weekend!!!  Instead of spaghetti sauce, which is very difficult to find in low enough carbs to meet "my" approval, I'm going to just saute up garlic, onion, some chopped up fresh plum tomatoes, seasoning and olives... and kind of Putanesca Chunky Style ...

Lunch today is at an Italian place where I will have a chicken dish and their house salad... 


Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Shopping and Happy Hour.... Diet Log #36

Yesterday ended up being just a really "crappy" day - had a meeting with surgeon about my arm, for him to be more concerned that I'd end up with a scar I don't like rather than lets get this irritating/painful tumor out of my arm and move on.... so now, off to a new surgeon for another opinion.  Then I had the irritation of having some Hillbilly Idiot Employee here at the office I work in verbally accost me after eavesdropping on a private phone call with my boss.  Gosh darn it - Golly Jee Mabel, I know how to attract the uglies!!!!!!  Not worried - she'll either kill me in the parking lot or she'll eventually be fired.

I ended up shopping, then going to Outback and getting Alice Spring Chicken (NO honey mustard) and steamed vegetables.... It was so nice to buy things for myself that I love - L'Occitane and Lush (Gave Lush a second chance - they were up to standard!!! YAY!!!)

Tonight is Happy Hour with friends at Mitchell's Fish Market... I will have one cocktail that is not ladened with sugar and an order of Ahi Tuna....

I lost the 5 lbs I gained... still sitting at the 27 lb loss ... but I have a feeling we'll be seeing a drop any day - I've not strayed and refuse to - today a friend I went to lunch with said, wow, your face is getting thinner, can really see the good work... those are words of encouragement!!!!!!!  So who cares what the scale says at the moment, it's visually obvious I'm losing!!!!!




Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Diet Log #35 - Humidity

Living in the Sunshine State is not all that it is cracked up to be... unless you are running around at the beach or have a nice home with a big pool... and live to be in a bathing suit and sunshine.  Not me, I work, work, and work some more, and when I get home it's thunder/lightening and raining - the streets are steaming from the cold rain... enough that you feel as though you stepped into a sauna when you walk outside any door into the outdoor elements.  Disgusting - hair kinks up immediately, your skin sticks to your clothes, and you feel like you can't breathe...  I don't belong here!!!!  I belong in cooler climates, where Peonies grow!

I am on a new kick, turkey burgers.  I'm buying pre-cooked, grilled turkey burgers from the deli area at Fresh Market.  I cook up cauliflower for the side, and put a slice of cheese and some mustard on the patty - that's my new dinner.  Cauliflower is filling!!  Like it expands in your tummy - so I find it the perfect food.

I've lost 3 of the 5 "Overnight Gain" lbs. - I know it was just a swell - I may need to see about weighing once or twice a month rather than once a week.

I'm not very chipper - have appointment at Mayo again - with the surgeon.  Though it's not cancer, and the Radiologist said he did not see recommending it to be removed, it hurts, it's aggravated and swollen today, and the Surgeon wants to discuss options.  Hoping there's some non-invasive way!!  Doubt it - but who knows....