Happy New Year!!

It's that time of the year!  Make your resolutions realistic, doable, measurable and for you.

Read here.

All I want for Christmas is you LIVE 2004 by Mariah Carey

Jack Lalanne Juicer

My husband and I bought ourselves a juicer for Christmas.  You know 0 plus pts. fruit and veggies.  So, my son came in and we checked it out.  My son loves, loves loves it!

My messy, messy kitchen.  Thanks to Jeremy!

Lots and lots of fruit.  We bought oranges, cored pineapples, mango, kiwi, apples, pears, i small container of blueberries (pricey!),

OK, this is a sideways pic. of our homemade salsa.  (don't know how to turn it).  We took tomatoes, onions and fresh cilantro.  Usedthe pulp for the salsa.  YUMBO!!  Then I had a boatload of onion and tomato juice.  Well, not in the mood for a Bloody Mary!  So i put the juice in a quart freezer bag, placed in the freezer and decided I could make soup next week.  All fresh ingredients.  YUMBO again.

So, then we took the pulp from the apples and pears and made apple muffins.  I used the fruit pulp and cinnamon.  Used whole wheat flour so talk about low plus pts.  And they are good.  Very filling.  Jeremy, you know Mr. almost weighs 150# soaking wet, put apple butter on his.  Which just a dab of apple butter would not add too much.  (I am not an apple butter fan, although I always have a jar in the fridge cause my church makes it every Oct. and I always purchase for a good cause.)

OK, turn your head sideways and this is a bag of the pulp.  Makes great smoothies.  we took the pineapple pulp and i mixed it with water and a pack of ww smoothie mix.  Another YUMBO!  Very filling!!

Have a great day.  Be sure to make the most of a gray sky!!

Sausage Balls

OK, the mother-in-law has appetizers for her Chritmas, which this year is tomorrow the 22nd.  Actually, my mother does the same thing on Christmas eve.  So,  I have finally broend down and figured out the Points Plus for sausage balls.

Here is my recipe: (I put it into the e-tools recipe builder)

1 lb. hot sausage
2 cups FF shredded cheese
1 1/2 cups heart smart Bisguick

1 points plus each ball. 
Not as bad as I thought.  I can eat 2 and be satisfied.  I CAN!!

My daughter talked her into making a veggie plate.  So guess what, I can enjoy my veggies.  And feel like I am munching the whole time I am there.  But healthy! I am taking a veggie tray to my mom's also.  I do think I will surprise them with my own dip.  They all like REAL ranch.  Now what to make.  One more thing on my "to do" list.

Portion Control with Weekly Points

This week's challenge to use your weekly points>

Click here.

Schedule Change

The Bristol Center will be closed on

sat. Dec. 25 and Sat., Jan 1st.

BUT,  will will have the center open on:

Fri., Dec 24th and Fri., Dec. 31st

From 7:30 - 9:30 a.m..

Don't miss a weigh-in. 

Coffee will be brewing!!

Health Tip of the Day

Today's Tip: HOW TO LOSE A POUND PER WEEK
Losing weight is a matter of balancing your calories. You can’t eat
and drink more than you burn and lose weight. It takes approximately
3,500 calories to gain or lose one pound of fat. To lose about one
pound per week, you could eat 250 calories less per day and do extra
activity to burn 250 calories more per day. However, each person’s
body is unique. See how your body responds during several weeks of
eating less and/or being more active. A safe rate of weight loss is
generally considered one-half pound to 2 pounds per week.

Remember:

Calories in---calories OUT!!

Move it.

I was at Dick's Sporting Goods last night and saw that they have the mini-trampolines for 39$.  You know I love my mini tramp..  I can watch my tv and walk with ease.  Great on the "old" hips and knees!!

Health Tip of the Day

Today's Tip: MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY SWEET
Did you know that seasonings can add sweetness to some of your holiday
foods without the extra sugar and calories? Allspice, cardamom,
cinnamon, ginger, mace and nutmeg make great additions to holiday
foods. Try adding ginger to a fruit glaze. Blend frozen raspberries
with a pinch of ginger and a small amount of fruit-juice concentrate
and toss the glaze with fresh berries or sliced fruit. For a warm
treat, add a cinnamon stick to your coffee grounds before brewing. Top
with nonfat or low-fat whipped topping and a sprinkle of shaved
chocolate and enjoy!

from Eastman Hea.

Caramel Apple Salad

Haven't made this in awhile:

1 can crushed pineapple in natural juice
2 apples cut into tiny pieces
1 container cool wip (sugar free)
1 box ff sugar free butterscotch pudding
garnish with a few pecans if you have them (i didn't today)

mix all together,refridgerate and have 1 cup for 2 pts.

yeah

Sand Dancer

This is amazing. Be sure to watch the whole video to see his entire work!!

New york Times article Please read!

Click here.  to read a great article about Points Plus and all the changes.changehttp://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/04/nyregion/04watchers.html?_r=3&ref=nyregion

Straight No Chaser: The 12 Days of Christmas (2008 Version)

Laughing Cow

Laughing cow cheese is still just one points plus per wedge!!!!! Woot, woot!!

I love eggs

Read this article from Sparkpeople.com about eggs. Remember eggs are high in protein. And protein helps keep us full and satisfied. 3 egg whites are still 1 points plus value and 1 whole egg continues to weigh in at 2 points plus value. Yeah!! I love to make egg white salad. I take my three egg whites throw away the yolks and add just a touch of ff mayo. Then throw in the veggies, onions, peppers (all kinds), broccoli what ever you have on hand. Also, a one whole egg omelette with all the veggies is only 2 points plus. When eating out remember to either ask for egg whites or just one egg.

click here.

Hot Dog

My favorite 98% ff wieners are still 1 points plus. Yeah!! So my 2 pt hot dog is now 4 pts with the bun and wienee. Still good!!

What Do Ya'll Think!!

So I hope everything is clear as mud at this point!! I would like to get your feedback, drop me note. And if there are things we need to discuss at our next meeting let me know. There is lots of new information, but lots of info stayed the same.

My struggles have been:

Getting use to my Daily points Plus target number

Eating a breakfast that is more than 2 points plus!! (I love it now)

Getting the old Points values out of my head!! I very easily forget day to day stuff, but not points. So I Have found myself slipping up sometimes and realizing I have used the old Points.

looking up everything I eat!! Oh my I can't whip out those numbers like I did before. And being a member for over three years now ya get fairly quick and believe me I have eaten all my favorite foods at sometime or another!!

But all these are also good things. I have to look up to be accurate in order to learn the points. That's ok. I use to when I first started I can very well do it again.

So with all this in mind we all will continue on our journey.

URGENT Alert!!!

I just thought about this on my way home. I have not changed points to Points Plus in this blog. So, guess what I will work on this afternoon. As I change points, I will make a note on the blog post to let you all know of the change. If there is not a Points Plus note then, BEWARE, It is the old Points program. But this could be good practice for you guys to find the points yourself. And as you read through these recipes on previous posts and you dare to look up the new Points Plus values, Drop me a note and let me know. I really need to change the Halloween post on the Halloween cand!!So on with the show!

5 Things to Watch on Points Plus

Click here.
Read tis article great advice.

Don't combine programs.

Don't guess at points plus values

Measure and weigh correctly

Don't stuff yourself with fruit

Don't panic.

Link to Changes

Follow this link to some corrections in the complete food guide

HERE

Changes in the Pocket Guide

make the following changes in your Points Plus Pocket Guide

Weight Watchers
PointsPlus® pocket Gu ide
Page Correction
18 Delete ▲ before couscous
21 Under Edamame, change PointsPlus value to 3
26 Under “Hot dog, beef or pork” change the PointsPlus value of “on roll, plain, 1” to 9
30 Low-fat buttermilk, delete ▲
33 Pastrami, beef: Add the words “extra-lean” after beef
35 Under Popcorn, 94% fat free, change PointsPlus value to 3
35 Under Popcorn, light change PointsPlus value to 3
38 Under “Rolls, hamburger or hot dog, 1,” change the size to 2 oz and the PointPlus value to 4
40 Change shrimp listing to “Shrimp, 2 oz” and PointsPlus value to “1”
49 Add ▲ to Yogurt, Greek
72 Change shrimp listing to “Shrimp, 2 oz” and PointsPlus value to “1”
80 Under 94% popcorn, change PointsPlus value to 3
124 Under Easter, replace PointsPlus value for chocolate any type with “4”
124 “Burger, plain. . .” should be 10 PointsPlus values

CEO of WW Blog entry Re. Points Plus

Here is the CEO of WW in his blog discussing the new Points Plus Program.

Click Here.

Weight Watchers Announces the new PointsPlus program!

From the President (of ww)

Click here for letter about the new program and changes.

Fruits and veggies from the GOV!

Found this site from familyfun.com. Has lots and lots of recipes. Give it a try!

Click here

More Stress

Good article from Prevention.com. click heree

Let's do something about all this stress, Let's be thankful, look at glass as half full and take care of ourselves. I think most of my stress is sometimes guilt for taking care of myself. So just do it.

Get your helpful habits book, Tools for Living and take care of yourself, mental rehearse how Thanksgivingand other stressful moments in life will "go down".

STRESSSSSSSS

Who has stress in their life? Click here.

Crustless Punkin Pie

15 oz can pumpkin
¾ cup Splenda®
¼ cup Egg Beaters®
1 cup nonfat milk
½ tsp salt
1 tbsp flour
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Beat all ingredients together. Spray pie plate with cooking spray. Pour batter into pie plate and bake for 15 minutes at 400°. Reduce heat to 350° and bake for an additional 45 minutes. Place in microwave and cook on high for an additional 5 minutes, knife should come out clean when inserted into the center. Allow it to cool completely before cutting it.

Top with a dollop of fat-free whipped topping (not included in nutritional information).

For nutritional information of alternative products you can use, please CLICK HERE.




If included above, brand name products have been selected based on their nutritional data (primarily calories, fat and fiber). No commercial endorsement exists or is implied by KimBensen.com based on their inclusion. PLEASE NOTE: Substituting specified brand name ingredients with similar products may alter the final nutritional information as calculated by KimBensen.com.

3 points plus per serving

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: ¼ of 9" pie
Servings: 4
Calories: 73
Total Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 1mg
Sodium: 647mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 6g

Thanksgiving Cheat Sheet

Look at this plate: here

Black Bean Saute'

Yum. You know I love anything with black beans.

Something new is coming from Weight Watchers!

This was on weightwatchers facebook::

SLEEP

Who needs more, who needs to sleep better. Here is an article from Sparkpeople that gives you some common sense ideas on how to sleep better. We all know whtat it takes, but sometimes hearing it again helps. Here.

More Candy Info

More info from Hungry Girl. Here.

When Y ou Just Gotta Have.....

Halloween trreat ideas from Hungry Girl. Click here.

The Trick To Treats

I don't want no stinking candy. Click here.



HALLOWEEN CANDY ITEMS POINTS
3 Musketeers, 2 fun size bars 3 1/2
1000 Grand, 2 mini bars 4 1/2
Abazaba, mini, Each 1 ABC Fruit Chomps, 7 pieces 3
ANDES Creme de Menth Thin Mint , 8 pieces 5 1/2
Animal Crackers, 11 crackers 3
Almond Joy, 2 snack size bars 4
America1s Original Bubble Gum, 4 pieces 1 1/2
Atomic Fireballs, Each 1
Baby Ruth, 2 fun size bars 4
Big Hunk, mini, Each 1
Bit-O-Honey, 6 pieces 4
Blow Pops, Each 1.5
Bubble Gum, super, 2 pieces 1
Butterfinger, 2 fun size bars 4
Butternut Mini Bar, .75 oz 2
Candy Corn, 22 pieces 3
Caramello, 2 snack size bars 4
Crispy Caramel Fudge Bar, snack size, Each bar 2
Caramel & Peanut Butter Crispy Bars, snack size, 2
Chocolate Toffee Crisp Bar, snack size, Each bar, 2
Crunchy Peanut Butter Bar, snack size, Each bar, 2 Double Bubble Gum, 2 pieces 1
Heath Bar, 5 snack size bars 6
Hershey's Bar (plain), 2 snack size bars 5
Hershey's (almonds), 2 snack size bars 5
Hershey Kisses, 8 pieces 5
Hershey Kisses or Hugs, 3 pieces 2
Hershey Miniatures, 5 pieces 5
Hershey Tastations (any flavor), 3 pieces 1
Hershey Sweet Escapes 2
Hi C Juice Fillers, bag (5 candies) 2
Hot Tamales, Each snack box 1
Jolly Rancher, 3 pieces 1
Jolly Rancher Mini Stix, Each 1
Kit Kat, 3 (2 pc) snack bars 6
Kit Kat, Each mini 2
Lemonheads, Each box 2
Life Saver Five Flavor Candy, 4 1.5
Life Saver Gummi Savers, 2 rolls 2.5
Life Saver Pops, Each 1
M & M (plain), Each fun size pack 2
M & M (peanut), Each fun size pack 2
M & M Crispy, Each pkg 5
Mars, 2 fun size bars 4
Mary Jane Peanut Butter Kisses, 6 pieces 3.5 Maynards Wine Gums, 1 roll (44 g), 3
Mike & Ikes, Each snack pkg 1
Milk Duds, 4 fun size boxes 4
Milky Way, 2 fun size bars 4
Milky Way Lite, minis, 5 pieces 3
Milky Way Lite, regular bar 3.5
Mounds, 2 snack size bars 4
Necco Wafers, Each roll 1
Nerds, Each box 1
Nestles PB Mallow, Each 3.5
Nestles Baby Ruth, Each 4.5
Nestle Crunch Fun Size, 4 bars 5
Now & Later, 3 mini bars 3
O'Henry, 2 fun size bars 5
Peter Pan Peanut Butter Cups, 4 pieces 6
Pumpkin Pop, Each sucker 1
Raisinettes, 3 snack size boxes 4
Red Hots, Each box 2
Reese's Crunchy Cookie Cups, 2 snacks 4
Reese's Miniature Peanut Butter Cups, 5 pieces 5
Reeses Peanut Butter Bites, 3 pkgs 5.5
Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, 2 snack size 4
Reesesticks, 2 snack size 4
Skittles, small pack 3 pkgs 4 Skittles (regular), 2 packs 3
Smarties, 3 rolls 1
Smuckers Fruit Fillers, Each bag (5 candies) 2
Snackwells Nut Clusters, Each piece 1
Snickers, 2 fun size bars 4
Snickers, minis (4 pieces) or 2 fun size bars 4
Spree Candies, 8 pieces 1
Spree Twist, 2 rolls 1.5
Starburst, 3 fun size pkgs 4
Starburst Fruit Chews, 8 chews 3.5
Sugar Babies, 2 snack size pouches 4.5
Sugar Daddy Pops, 3 3.5
Sweethearts (Necco), Each (1 1/8 oz box) 2.5
Sweet Tarts, 2 rolls 1
Tootsie Hot Chocolate Pops, Each 1.5
Three Muskateers, 2 fun size 4
Tootsie Roll, 2 snack bars 2
Tootsie Roll Midgees, 6 pieces 3.5
Tootsie Roll Midgees - small, 11 pieces 2
Tootsie Roll Pop, Each pop 1
Triple Chocolate Wafer Bar, snack size, Each bar, 2
Twix, (mini size) Each 1
Twix, Each snack size bar 2
Twix, Regular Size, Each (2) pack 7
Twizzlers Pull-n-Peel Cherry Candy, 3 pieces 2.5 Twizzlers Strawbery Twists, 4 twists 2.5
Werther's Original, 3 pieces 1
Whoppers Malted Milk Balls, 2 snack size pouches 5
Wonka Nerds Gumballs, Each 1
Wonka Shock Tarts Gumball, Each 1
Wrigleys Chewing Gum, 5 pieces 1
York Peppermint Patties, 3 patties 3

Pumpkin Butter

Have not tried but thought it sounded interesting.

Microwave Pumpkin Butter
Makes about 2 Cups
Serving size = 1 Tablespoon

1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
2 Tbs sugar
1/4 cup water
1/2 tsp allspice
1/4 tsp ginger
1/4 tsp cloves
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1-1/2 cups pumpkin - 1 can

Mix the two sugars, water, allspice, ginger, cloves, nutmet, and cinnamon in a 4 cup glass measure. Microwave on High 3 minutes; stir.
Add pumpkin a microwave on High for 5 minutes.
Let cool and refrigerate.
Keeps several weeks in refrigerator or can be frozen.
Use as you would apple butter.

11 calories per serving, 0 fat, 0 fiber

Pumpkin-Halloween-Fall-Thanksgiving

Recipes:

Ingredients: "Perfect Crustless Pumpkin Pie": Serves 8:2

1 can pumpkin
1 can fatfree evaporated milk
3 egg whites
1/2 t salt
1/2 t ground ginger
1/4 t ground cloves
1 t vanilla
1 t cinnamom
1/3 c splenda/brown sugar mix


Instructions:


Mix all ingredients in bowl; beat till smooth; pour into pie plate sprayed with pam; Bake 400* x 15 min; reduce heat to 325* and Bake for 45 min more I have made this one.

*************************************************************

Cranberry Pumpkin Bars

1 cup(s) packed light brown sugar
4 Tbsp reduced-calorie margarine, soft, at room teperature
1 cup(s) canned pumpkin, puree
1 large egg(s)
1 large egg white(s)
1/3 cup(s) buttermilk
1 1/4 cup(s) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cup(s) uncooked old fashioned oats
1 Tbsp pumpkin pie spice
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp table salt
2/3 cup(s) dried cranberries

Heat oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly coat a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with cooking spray, then dust lightly with flour.

In a large bowl, cream sugar and margarine with an electric mixer; beat in egg, egg white, pumpkin purée and buttermilk.

In medium bowl, combine flour, oats, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda and salt. Stir into pumpkin mixture just until moistened, then add cranberries and mix gently.

Spread batter in pan and bake 20 to 25 minutes or until center springs back when gently pressed. Cool and cut into 18 bars

This one is featured recipe on ww.com.

********************************************************************

Crustless Pumpkin Pie
Kim Bensen

15 oz can pumpkin
3/4 cup Splenda®
1/2 cup Egg Beaters®
1 1/2 cup nonfat milk
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp flour
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Beat all ingredients together.
Spray pie plate with cooking spray.
Pour batter into pie plate and bake for 15 minutes at 400°.
Reduce heat to 350° and bake for an additional 45 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Top with a dollop of fat-free whipped cream (not included in nutritional information).
If this is not stiff enough can be microwaved for an additional 5 minutes.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1/4 of 9" pie
Servings: 4

Calories: 64 - Total Fat: 0g - Cholesterol: 2mg
Sodium: 893mg - Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g - Sugars: 1g - Protein: 4g
*************************************************************

Title: Mini Pumpkin Pies (Graham Cracker Crusts)
Categories: Pumpkin
Yield: 6 Servings

15 oz Pumpkin,Canned
1 sm box Jell-O Pudding Vanilla
Instant Pudding,4 Serving
-Package, Sugar free
1 c Skim Milk
1/2 t Pumpkin Pie Spice
pn Salt
6 Keebler Ready Graham
-Cracker Mini Crusts
6 T Cool Whip Fat Free,Optional

If you don't have pumpkin pie spice try this mixture: 1/4 teaspoon
cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon cloves; 1/8 teaspoon ginger.
Mix with the rest of the ingredients in place of pumpkin pie spice.

Mix pudding and milk in bowl with electric mixer until smooth. Add
pumpkin and spices. Mix until smooth. Spoon into mini crusts.
Refrigerate until ready serve. Top with cool whip before serving if
desired.


Per Serving: 188 Cal; 5 g Tot Fat; 3 g Fiber



************************************************

Pumpkin Dip

3/4 cup (6 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
2 teaspoons maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
24 apple slices


Place first 3 ingredients in a medium bowl, and beat with a mixer at medium speed until well blended. Add syrup and cinnamon, and beat until smooth. Cover and chill 30 minutes. Serve with apple.

Yield: 12 servings (serving size: 2 tablespoons dip and 2 apple slices)

CALORIES 107
FAT 3.2g
FIBER 1.4g
**********************************************************************

Pumpkin Dip

Yields: 32 servings

1 (8 ounce) package cream
cheese, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 (15 ounce) can solid pack
pumpkin 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon frozen orange juice
concentrate

DIRECTIONS:
1. In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese and confectioners' sugar until smooth. Gradually mix in the pumpkin. Stir in the cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and orange juice until smooth and well blended. Chill until serving.

calories 61
fat 0.5
fiber 2.5
allrecipes
***************************************************************

Comfort Foodrecipes

From Weightwatchers.com. Click here.

So True

If you don't do what's best for your body, you're the one who comes up on the short end. -Julius Erving

reFOCUS Again

Think of Fall as a new beginning rather than a difficult change of the seasons. Let's look at ways to help ourselves rather than make our journey difficult.

What makes your journey tricky. Think of positeve ways that will make your wight loss easy! They are out there!

Follow this link for a great article from ww.com

WW on Dr. Oz

Follow this link to a segment with Jennifer Hudson's ww leader. how cool would that be to lead several celebrities. I have seen this leader in action in some of our training. She is great.

Recipes with pumpkin

Some of you asked. Here is a link.

Pumpkin White Bean Soup

Tuscan Pumpkin-White Bean Soup




Course: soups
POINTS® Value: 2
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 12 min
Cooking Time: 18 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy

This soup has a delicious and complex taste. It's the perfect thing to perk up sleepy winter taste buds!


Ingredients

1 spray(s) olive oil cooking spray, or enough to coat pot
1 medium onion(s), coarsely chopped
15 oz canned pumpkin
3 1/2 cup(s) fat-free chicken broth
15 1/2 oz canned white beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 tsp ground oregano
1/8 tsp table salt, or to taste
1/8 tsp black pepper, or to taste
6 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
Coat a large soup pot with cooking spray and set over medium-low heat. Add onion, cover and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 6 minutes.


Stir in pumpkin, broth, beans and oregano; simmer 8 minutes.


In a blender, process soup in batches until smooth. (Note: Make sure not to overfill blender in order to avoid splattering.) Return soup to pot and reheat; season with salt and pepper.


To serve, ladle soup into bowls and top each with 1 tablespoon of grated cheese. Yields about 1 cup per serving.

Exercise Portion Control

I have to say one of the biggest things I learned from Weight Watchers is portion control. before I started my weight loss journey, my portion control was eat til I have to unbutton my pants. Then that was my que to stop!!

Read here for this week's great article from WW.

Pumpkin

Here is a link for Hungry Girl pumpkin recipes. I am not
finished, I will gather more later tonight~~Click here

Diet Myths Debunked

We have all heard them:

No Fat

No Sugar
Ok, click here for the skinny

Don't MIss the Ride

Be sure to read this article about staying in tune with life!

Satisfaction

Click here.




Macronutrients; Click here.


Energy Denisty: click here.

Food Triggers or EATFEST

Have you ever found yourself just eatring because? I have, let's help one aother in finding out the whys and hows.

click here

Snacking

This is my favorite thing to do:

SNACKING

Greetings From the Beach

YES! I am on vacation, the good ole Myrtle Beach!! And yes I can stay on plan. So far so good.

I have so enjoyed my early morning walks without my family! While they ae in bed , i get up!! It is so worth it. I have walked between 5 and 7 miles each morning.

Our first night we visited all you can eat pizza, and you though I would say seafood! We always go to this place. It is really good! I ate the best salad, every veggie known to mankind. It was great. On to the good stuff--I had three kinds--taco, cheese and all veggie. All on crispy thin crust and the smalledst pieces. I did ok. Could have been damage, but not. I left stuffed and happy!

Ate in the room last night, spaghetti. we usually take most of our food and eat out only twice, we eat all lunches and b'fast in the room. We spend most of our day on the beach. We played putt-putt tonight. how fun.

Tomorrow it is hot dogs for lunch and hamburgers for supper made my way!

See you all in a couple of weeks, yes I am even taking a vacation from Weight Watchers. I try not to miss very often, but this is a much needed break!! But I do miss you all and hope you have had great weigh ins.

See a little less of you all soon!!

Remember Your Cooler!!

Remember a few weeks ago we discussed taking a cooler along with you. Well, great article weightwatchers.com here.

Wrap It Up!!

I have been into wraps this summer. I buy the 1 pt. LaTortialla Factory wraps in the refigerator section and use just abut anything to put in them, Here are some ideas. I actually copied from weightwatchers.com, but i tend to use about anything. Especially all my veggie leftovers from the grill. YUMBO!! I also add to my o pts. inside some lean meat or even tuna for very low pts. and so, so filling!!

Just another way to include my 5 a day veggies!!

To make a wrap:

Lay a medium, fat-free, whole wheat tortilla flat (a POINTS value of 1) on your work surface. Place the filling in a line down the center of the tortilla. Roll the wrap closed and keep refrigerated until you’re ready to eat. Want even more flavor? Add any of these extras:
For a POINTS value of 0:
1/4 cup alfalfa or other sprouts
1/4 cup shredded carrots
2 Tbsp sliced radishes
2 Tbsp diced cucumber
2 pitted black or green olives, minced
1 diced jarred pimiento or roasted red pepper
1 sliced pickled jalapeño chile, minced
Several leaves green leaf, red leaf, or Romaine lettuce, chopped
For a POINTS value of 1:
2 Tbsp reduced-fat sour cream
2 Tbsp low-fat shredded Cheddar or Swiss cheese

Snacks on the Go, Go., Go.

Try some of these ideas:

Check out these suggestions.

Celery sticks with peanut butter and several raisins on top

Rice cakes with peanut butter (good for getting a protein punch)

Low-fat cheese cubes

Hardboiled eggs

Deviled egg (wrapped in plastic wrap)

Fruit yogurt cup (add in some fresh fruits or nuts for a boost

Trail mix(some are high in fat and calories, watch your servings)

Nuts or nut mix (stick to just a handful)

Vegetable sticks with a little packet of dip (lowfat salad dressing packets found in salad bars work as easy-to-pack dip)

Broccoli or cauliflower bites

Half of a turkey or tuna sandwich on whole-wheat bread

Cucumber slices (lightly salted or with nonfat Italian dressing)

Yogurt and granola

Leftover chicken or turkey slices (great to eat cold)

Healthy fiber-rich or grain cereal (great to eat dry from a baggie)

Pickles (wrapped in foil or plastic wrap)

Box of raisins or other dried fruit

Half a large whole wheat bagel with light cream cheese

Apples, bananas, strawberries (any fruit works, these are naturally portable)

Mixed berries (these freeze well in plastic bags)

Whole-wheat crackers and low-fat string cheese

Grapes in a baggie

Fruit smoothie in a thermos

Tuna and cottage cheese in mini-containers

The trick here is to be prepared and get creative! Get your fresh fruits and vegetables on the weekend in preparation for the week’s snacking. Keep small-sized plastic containers for packing up small portions. Take note of the healthy foods you need to keep stocked in the house for future quick and healthy snack preparation. These will become automatic items for your grocery list. You may find that you start to replace a few nonessential, calorie-wasting items with your new healthy snack list

From Sparkpeople.com

The 5 serving of fruits and veggies challenge

Get ready to discuss fruits and veggies.

read here

Disney-MGM Studios 4th of July Fireworks

Plan For the Unexpected

Whether it is staycation or vacation:

read here.

SWAGGER WAGON

These videos are hilarious!! Be sure to watch, by the way they ahve several on youtube.

Corn On the Cob

Corn on the Cob is usually 1 pt. Yumbo!! After grilling or micrwaving, try some great dry rubs that will not include butter! Thyme, dill or any spice. Be creative. Also, if you have not discovered Butter Buds, DISCOVER it! 1 tsp is 10 calories, 0 fat, 0 fiber. Great on potatoes too!

Potato Salad

This is the recipe from Kimbensen.com that i told ya'll about:

1¾ lbs new red potatoes
¾ cup white parts of scallions, sliced
½ cup fresh dill, cut up
½ cup Smart Beat®* Mayonnaise (or equivalent) (I use Kraft Free Mayo)
½ cup fat-free plain yogurt
1 tsp salt
Leaving skins on, wash and cut potatoes into bite-size pieces. Boil potatoes until soft, NOT mushy. Drain and cool. In a medium sized bowl blend remaining ingredients and toss gently with cooled potatoes. Chill until ready to serve.

*Smart Beat® Mayonnaise
1 cup serving==3 points plus. 8 servings

Drink mixes

OK, for those who have asked, here is the site for Baja Bob's fat free drink mixes, 0 calorie, 0 fat. You can make alcohol or alcohol free. Not that I am advertising to be a big drunk, with the post below, but in case you are interested!

Click here for web site.

Supersize IT!!!

NO, NO, NO!!!

But, I still have to weigh, measure and think about my portions. I can eat until I drop, but I ususally don't because I do check my portion size. This is something I am trying to teach my daughter and this is not only a TOUCHY lesson, but difficult. She thinks I am fussing (because that is what I seem to do best lately). This is also a subject difficult for adults, take my mother-in-law for example. Her philosphy is more, more, more. Or bigger, bigger, supeersize it please.

Just remember we are all blessed that our next meat will not be our last meal.

Read here a good article from ww.

Black Bean Dip

Read HERE for the recipe from ww.com. I am def. making this sometime this week!!

For the Macho Beer Drinking Guys!

Happy Father's Day!!!

(Hope I don't offend anyone!)

When Zero Does Not = Zero

These questions come up a lot. READ here.

I want to EAT.....

24 hours a day. When we get those urges how do you decide if it is hunger vs. apetite? read this article from Weightwatchers.com.

When is Hardest Time of the Day?

Mine is at night if Scott is at work. Lonliness, boredom...

Read here for tips from fellow weight Watcher members.

Yellowstone Pictures

I just wanted to share some pictures sent from my son who is in Yellowstone National Park this summer. Get ready to "wish you were there".





This was on May17. It was about 90 degress here that day!!










This was his first view when arriving o the park. WOW!

Combat those 3 pm cravings

This is one of the hardest times of the day for lots of people. Read here for tips.

Enjoy Memorial Day

Another Reason Not to Workout!!

I Miss You

I will miss you Saturday morning guys. This is only my 2nd time to be out, but the good thing is it is my last day of school for about 10 weeks. Unless you count the two WW classes per week I am picking up, three days of in-service and two weeks of summer school! And Bible School, and, and, and!!!!

Breakfast

Read this article from ww.com.

More Breakfast

Breakfast Burrito


½ cup Egg Beaters®
¼ cup fat-free cheddar cheese
½ tsp sea salt
¼ cup salsa
¼ cup red pepper (also add green peppers for color)
1 Kim's Light Flat Bread
Cook Egg Beaters® in frying pan. Once they start to stiffen, add the remaining ingredients. Cook until cheese is melted. Lay evenly in flat bread. Roll it up, cut it in two pieces. Enjoy.
Serve with a side of fruit for a beautiful and fiber-full breakfast.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: ½ Burrito
Servings: 2
Calories: 138
Total Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 3mg
Sodium: 1233mg
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 15g

Are You Living A Little Lie?

You know we all at some time kid ourselves about our journey. Read this article to see if any of these ttopics click.

BREAK FAST

Plan to share breakfast tips and ideas this week. Breakfast is our topic this week. Also check out the following articles:

Bacon, Egg and Hash Brown StacksTex Mex Scrambled eggs

Overnigt Scramble Egg Bake

Scrambled egg Whites with Cheese and Home Fries

Steak and eggs

Hashbrowns, Eggs and Cheese CasseroleBacon, egg and Spinach breakfast StacksPuffed egg White Omelet with Veggies

Where Do YOu Fit Your Goal Weight

This chart iss found in your "gold" Pocket Guide. Those of yu that have reached your 10% and have not talked with me to set your goal weight, please grab me. Please also be thinking about where you want your goal weight. This is listed in columns in this order: Height in ft. and inches and then inches only, then the weight range. Some folks shoot for the top of their weight range and some folks feel better at a mid pt. within that range.

Weight Watchers Weight Ranges For Adults (in pounds)
Height
Ft/In In
Minimum for all adults
(BMI = 20) Maximum for all adults
(BMI = 25)
4'8" 56" 89 - 112
4'9" 57" 92 - 116
4'10" 58" 96 - 120
4'11" 59" 99 - 124
5'0" 60" 102 - 128
5'1" 61" 106 - 132
5'2" 62" 109 - 137
5'3" 63" 113 - 141
5'4" 64" 117 - 146
5'5" 65" 120 - 150
5'6" 66" 124 - 155
5'7" 67" 128 - 160
5'8" 68" 132 - 164
5'9" 69" 135 - 169
5'10" 70" 139 - 174
5'11" 71" 143 - 179
6'0" 72" 147 - 184
6'1" 73" 152 - 189
6'2" 74" 156 - 195
6'3" 75" 160 - 200
6'4" 76" 164 - 205
6'5" 77" 169 - 211
6'6" 78" 173 - 216
6'7" 79" 178 - 222

Help or Hinder

Weight Loss Saboteurs click here.

Remember, ask for help and talk with those loved ones in your life that you need help from. Many times these same people that hurt you honestly feel they are helping.

Cheap Snacks

ITEM POINTS values per serving (based on generic items) PURPOSE COST*
1 pound bag of whole carrots POINTS value of 1 per cup Peel and cut into sticks. Terrific for mindless munching and for pairing up with sour cream and onion dip. $.99
1/2 of a 16-ounce container fat-free sour cream POINTS value of 1 per 1/4 cup Combine with onion soup mix. A few tablespoons with pretzels, raw carrots or string beans can satisfy the need for comfort food. $.75 ($1.50 per container)
1/2 of 1 envelope of onion soup mix POINTS value of 0 per tablespoon Use this to whip up a flavorful, creamy dip. $.25 ($.99 for two envelopes)
1 pound of string beans POINTS value of 0 per cup Wash and cut into 2-inch pieces. Great on their own (zero POINTS) or with dip. $.99
1/2 pound of potatoes POINTS value of 1 1/2 per 1/4 pound plain potatoes The ultimate comfort food: homemade French fries! Thinly slice potatoes, coat with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt. Bake at 450°F until browned and slightly crisp, about 20 minutes. $.30
1/4 of a 15-ounce box of fat-free Saltine crackers POINTS value of 2 per 6 crackers Perfect for making mid-afternoon, pick-me-up peanut butter sandwiches. $.35 ($1.39 per box)
1/8 of a 1-pound jar of creamy reduced-fat peanut butter POINTS value of 1 per 1/2 tablespoon Sometimes a little protein and fat can stave off hunger longer than just carbs. Spread a thin layer onto crackers. $.30 ($2.39 per jar)
1 pint of strawberries POINTS value of 1 for 1-1½ cups Delicious on their own, strawberries are a sweets-lover's bargain in the spring and summer months. Stock up on them in the warmer months and freeze them. $2.99
1/6 of a 16-ounce package of pretzels POINTS value of 1 1/2 per 3/4 ounce A little bit of salty crunch can wipe out most carbohydrate cravings. $.45 ($1.19 per bag)
1 lollipop POINTS value of 1 per pop Chocolate that lingers in your mouth for much longer than a few chews; perfect for that soaring sweet tooth. $.16($2.29 per bag)
1/4 of a 64-ounce container orange juice POINTS value of 1 per 1/2 cup Freeze in small paper cups (insert a popsicle stick) or popsicle molds for thirst-quenching, homemade ice pops. $.75 ($2.99 per 1/2 gallon)
TOTAL COST $8.28

Happy Mother's Day

Apology

I just wanted to apologize to you Saturday guys! I was so sick on Saturday. I just didn't realize how sick. After I got back home after our meeting I was pretty much in the bathroom or in bed for the next 24 hours. I have not been that sick in a very long time. I feel like our meeting was not very good! About half way throu I brake out in asweat like nobody's business! Next week will be better!!! I feel so much better. Here it is Tuesday and I am still not 100%. My husband started his round yesterday morning. He is still running to the bathroom!!

YUCK! You all stay healthy!

Let's Go Out To Eat

This week's article from weightwatchers.com. Click here.

Habit Changing

This week's article regarding habit changle. Clik here.

Eggplant Rollatini

Eggplant Rollatini


Browse Related Recipes by Topic:
Anemia, Cancer Prevention, Diabetes, Diverticulosis, Gout, High Cholesterol, Heart Disease, Heart Health, Osteoporosis, Pregnancy, Diabetes Prevention, Broiled, Italian, Dinner, Main Dish, Cheese, Pasta, Vegetable, Alcohol Free, Post Workout, High Fiber, Low GI, Low Calorie: Active Men, Shellfish Free, Nut Free, Low Fat, Pork Free, High Protein, Egg Free, Soy Free, Flat Belly Diet
Baked eggplant is an easy winner when it's rolled around a delicate blend of cheeses and topped with sauce. A side of multigrain spaghetti makes the meal complete.
Ingredients
Serves: Prep: 10min|Cook: 50min |Total: 1hr 0min

NOTE: Ingredients for a changed serving size are based on a calculation and are not reviewed by the author or tested. Please also consider scaling up or down cooking containers as needed.
1 large eggplant
1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 cups marinara sauce
1 ounce (1/4 cup) shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
4 ounces multigrain thin spaghetti
Loading...
Directions
1. Preheat the broiler. Coat a large baking sheet with olive oil cooking spray. Coat a 9"x 9" baking dish with cooking spray. 2. Peel the eggplant, if desired. Cut lengthwise into 1/4"-thick slices. Place on the prepared baking sheet and coat with cooking spray. Broil 6" from the heat for 10 minutes or until softened and lightly browned, turning once. Reduce the oven to 350°F. 3. Combine the ricotta, Parmesan, basil, and pepper in a medium bowl. Divide evenly between the eggplant, spooning onto 1 end of each slice. Roll the slices around the filling, starting from a short side. Arrange seam sides down in the prepared baking dish. Spoon 2 cups of the marinara sauce over the eggplant rolls and sprinkle with the mozzarella. 4. Cover and bake for 25 minutes or until heated through. 5. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti per the package directions. Drain. Heat the remaining 2 cups marinara sauce in the same pot. Divide the pasta onto 4 plates and top each with 1/2 cup of the sauce. Serve the rollatini alongside.

Dinner Tonight

How good does this look.






These are my latest favorite dressings. They are yogurt based 2 pts. per serving. a serving is 2 Tbs. which does not seem much, but it really is. Using the correct servings has made me appreciate the taste of the veggie. But, these dressings really do tast good. I am picky about my dressings. If it taste bad, I just won't eat the salad.

Scott has been craving a salad, so here it is. How good and filling is this!

Chicken Again?!?

Every time I have chicken for ameal this is what I hear from my husbad. I don't even have it every week. Here are 10 ideas for chicken that are cheap and practical. And probably quick.

Followers

Hey, sign up to be a follower and get up-dates in your e-mail. Plus, I will feel like more of you are getting all lthis "great" info.

Recovering From Wild Week-ends

Members shared great tips for surviving our "wild week-ends". I know you guys are just that ...WILD!

Remember week-ends add up to 120 days per year. I know that you all are smart to do the math. If we are off plan that many days what happens to our weight loss andd are healthy habits?

A few of he tips shared:

keep some kind of structure
plan, plan, plan
track, track, track
make good choices
try to eat in, make yourslef a great meal, or special meals

click here for a greaat article

Open House

I had a great time this morning in class. we had our first ever WW Open House. We have had open meetings all week throughout the Tri-Cities area. Sandra and I tried to make a party atmosphere. We had 32 peple in all at the meeting including seven new folks.

WELCOME! to all new, returning and current members. This is a great journey to be on.






Thanks to all who shared parts of their story. I can preach all day, but when you guys talk and share, it is more like magic.

And, thanks Chelsea for sharing you beautiful pictures.

Famous Peeps

Be sure to get out and vote!!

Again I say: "Are You Moving?"

Tip of the Week:

One of the best ways to keep your stress level down is to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. You can go to the gym or fit it into your daily routine—take the stairs at work, park in the back of the lot, or take a walk after dinner.



OK, so maybe a beach sunset is not an option today, but You can take your mind there anytime.

If a H.S. Coach Can...

You all know we have our own coach in our Saturday class. He and his wife are looking GREAT!

Another Blog to Lurk

http://eachpointcounts.blogspot.com/

TRACK IT, And I mean TRACK IT!!

How many timess do I ask this questin: "Are ya racking?"

Click here for tips and a review of this weeks class.

The Beginner's Guide to Walking

Get started here.

Green Goddess Dressing

Green Goddess Dressing
sauces


POINTS PLUS® Value: 1
Servings: 2
Preparation Time: 7 min
Cooking Time: 0 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy

This retro-favorite is packed with fresh herbs. It's best on simple salads with lettuce, celery and sliced radishes.


Ingredients

2 Tbsp fat-free mayonnaise
2 Tbsp fat-free sour cream
2 Tbsp chives, or green part of a scallion, finely minced
2 Tbsp parsley, finely minced
1 Tbsp white wine vinegar
1 small item(s) anchovies canned in oil, drained, minced

Instructions
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl until creamy. Yields about 1 1/2 tablespoons per serving.
Notes
Also makes a great dip. Or try the dressing mixed into canned tuna for a new take on tuna salad.


Says pts. OOOOOOO! haven't tried this but I will, I will! I am always looking for a good low pt. dressing. I would eat more salad if I could find one, maybe this is it!!

From WW.com

Jennifer Hudson

First Jenny McCarthy from MTV that was a spokesperson and now Jennifer Hudson.

See the TV ad amd more here.

Eastman Tip of the Day

Here is a quick recipe that was in my "Tip of the Day" e-mail:

Welcome to the HealthFitness Tip of the Day! *** Today's Tip: TACO DIP For a healthy party treat, our registered dietitian recommends thefollowing quick and healthy recipe: mix a taco-seasoning packet withlow-fat sour cream. Spread the mixture over the bottom of a servingplatter. Top with a layer of nonfat vegetarian refried beans andsprinkle with shredded carrots, diced green peppers, onions, andtomatoes. Cover with finely chopped romaine lettuce and garnish withchunky salsa, sliced black olives and sliced avocado. This combo ishigh in fiber, protein and several key nutrients. Serve withreduced-fat baked chips or crackers.

Going For a Walk!

This week we will be discussing walking and exercise. Here is an article from a while back on getting started. So get up and get going!

Articles From Class Week of March 29

Here are the articles I refered to in class. Use them for all holidays. You know we have Memorial Day, weddings, and graduations coming up.

Here

here

and here

Buddy Up

Thoughts on looking for a buddy to exercise or travel with you throughout you journey. Click here

Bristol Racing

What can we say about race week-end! We had a race visitor from Indiana at our meeting yesterday. She earned her ten pound ribbon and we had a great time!

After the meeting I volunteered to work at our souvenier stand inside the track. I went early to get my walking in, and boy did I get my walking in!

Below are the ssights and sounds that I saw inside the track.. There have been many races that all of the food vendors smelled great, but now I am really glad that I take my own food with me. including LOTS of water bottles!