This is basically a continuation of Weight loss tip number 27. It will also make the weight loss tip the same number as the date.Which makes it easier.I think I'll keep it this way.
So to elaborate on Weight loss Tip of the Day Number 27:
If you still have sweets and goodies around, it might be hard to avoid them; so try to eat sweets in moderation and don't restock on them. Also try to be sure you eat your fruit and vegetables. This will help keep you from feeling so hungry and tempted to eat the sweets.

Merry Christmas a day late!
Today may not be the best day to talk about weight loss. Then again it might be a good day to talk about weight loss. You may have overeaten yesterday. I probably did, but not really that much. I did eat a piece of chocolate cake with whip cream frosting, though. It looked so good I just couldn't or didn't resist. It tasted as good as it looked, too! So I guess we'll just skip a weight loss tip for yesterday, and pick up today.

Weight loss tip of the day number 27:
If you did overeat yesterday, don't be too hard on yourself. Today is a new day. Just get right back on track and move forward. Eating better is a better goal than eating less, anyway. So looking back, we did have some healthy raw vegetable choices, but I chose ham and sides. In reality I didn't eat a lot, but probably could have made better choices. Let's put yesterday behind us now, and press forward to our weight loss goal.

Weight loss tip of the day number 26:
Enjoy dried fruit in moderation. Dried fruit is pretty nutritious, but it has concentrated sugar and is higher in calories than fresh fruit.

Weight loss tip of the day number 25:
Try to always keep fresh fruit on hand. When you crave something sweet grab fruit instead of candies or cookies.

Weight loss tip of the day number 24:
Put together a storage container filled with raw vegetables like Brocolli, Cauliflower, Carrots and Celery. When you feel hungry grab some of these instead of chips.

Weight loss tip of the day number 23:
When choosing snacks try choosing Fruit and Nuts instead of sugary snacks. They are lower in calories and higher in nutrition.

Weight loss tip of the day number 22:
During this Holiday Season avoid overeating at gatherings by eating an apple and drinking some water before going to where the higher calorie foods are.

I know I am way behind on my blogging Tip of the Day segment. Please forgive me. I've been very preoccupied. We have a new grandson! Jaiden; born 12-20-2013. He's adorable!
I'll try to get back on track now, and catch up, but I'm not making any promises.

Weight loss tip of the Day number 21:
Eat more sweet potatoes. Try substituting them in the place of white potatoes as much as possible. You can even make mashed sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes have a lot of nutrients in them. They've been called the nearly perfect food. They are an excellent source of Vitamin A (beta carotene) and Vitamin C. These powerful antioxidants have healing properties that have been known to play a role in reducing inflamation and restoring cells.

Weight loss tip of the day number 20:
If you have a lot of weight to lose try taking it a week at a time. This is what I started out doing and it was working well. I got away from that for a while, after I broke my arm, and was just maintaining, but I think it is time to get back to losing weight again. After I broke my arm I got a little distracted, but I believe it is high time to move forward now. I also need to start exercising again, too, and be even more diligent than I was before. We happened to buy a box of Tangelos from our grandson, for his school band fundraiser. This gives us a lot of a good nutritious snack. So I'm hoping this, along with adding exercise back in, and eating an apple a day will help. I believe, if I will just take my own tips and apply them to my daily life, they will work. Let's give it a try!

This is actually yesterdays weight loss tip. I will post it now and another one later.

Weight loss Tip of the Day number 19:
Along with eating an apple a day try eating at least one more fruit and three vegetables. They say 5 a Day. This seems like a good rule of thumb. Try to concentrate on the higher nutrient vegetables. Mainly dark green, orange and yellow ones.

Weight loss tip of the day number 18:
Try eating an apple a day.
There really is something to the saying; An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away. Here is some information I found on Web M. D. Researchers from Cornell's Food Science and Toxicology Department in Ithaca, N. Y. found that the antioxidant properties of one fresh apple were equal to 1,500 milligrams of vitamin C. The Cornell researchers suggest that a combination of plant chemicals, collectively known as phytochemicals, found mainly in the skin of apples, provide the bulk of the fruit's anticancer and antioxidant properties. The cooperative activity of these phytochemicals, they argue, has health benefits that are superior to those found in single compounds like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. Apples are rich in isoflavones and phenolics, Many of the antioxidants in an apple are in the skin, which might have cancer fighting properties.
 

Weight loss tip of the day #17:

Avoid sugary juice drinks. Even though they may have vitamins added in, you can add a lot of extra calories by drinking sugary juice drinks. They may say juice, but if they have added sugar, don't drink them.

Weight loss tip of the day #16:

Try to eat about 6-8 oz. of Yogurt a day. Make sure it has active Yogurt cultures in it. An individual Yogurt container works well. Get the low-fat kind. I prefer Greek, but I also like the Yoplait kind that's not Greek. I guess you can try some of both kinds. Just be sure it has the active Yogurt cultures in it. If you just don't like Yogurt, take an Acidophilus Capsule a day. This will help your digestion and also help keep your good bacteria level up. All of this will help in your weight loss.

Here's a yummy treat to make using Yogurt:

                                                     Fresh Fruit and Greek Yogurt Parfaits

3 cups Blueberries, Kiwi, Grapes(sliced), Mandarin Oranges, or about 3 different fruits of your choice. 1 cup each.

3 cups Greek Vanilla Yogurt..

1 1/2 Granola.

6 Parfait glasses.

Put a layer of Fruit in the bottom of the glasses.

Put a layer of Yogurt on top of the Fruit.

Put a layer of Granola on top of the Yogurt. (about half the amount of the Yogurt layer).

Keep layering 1/2 cup of each ingredient per glass, until all the ingredients are used up.

Healthy and delicious! Enjoy!

Tip of the Day #15:

If you happen to be snowed in, or stuck inside for a while, instead of eating for comfort try doing something else like cleaning or decorating. Even if you decide to cook make something healthy like Soup or Chili.
We happened to make Vegetable Beef Soup on Friday, while it was snowing. We still have some left. Something like that really hits the spot when it's cold and snowy outside.
Here's my recipe:

                                                            Vegetable Beef Soup

1 1/2 pounds of Beef Stew Meat.
Water to cover.
3-4 Beef Bouillon Cubes or 1 Tablespoon Beef Broth Base and Seasoning Mix.
1 can of diced Tomatoes.
1 can V-8 Juice. (low-sodium)Water to make the pot about half full.
4-6 med-large Potatoes. Peeled and cut-up in bite-size pieces.
6 med-large Carrots. Peeled and cut-up in bite-size circles.
1 package frozen Vegetable Soup Mix or 1 package frozen Mixed Vegetables.

Place the Stew meat in a large pot.
Add enough water to cover a little above the meat.
Add the Bouillon Cubes or Beef Broth Base and Seasoning Mix.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and boil gently for about 2 hours.
Add the V-8 Juice and Tomatoes.
Can add more water if needed.
Continue cooking for about 30 minutes.
Add the Carrots and Potatoes
Cook another 30 minutes.
Add the frozen Vegetables.
Cook another 30 minutes or until everything is done and tender.
Serve with Crackers.

My mother used to make this soup and I've been making it for years. It is a very good way to get a lot of vegetables in one meal. This will give you a lot of vitamins, as well as protein and other nutrients, too. I believe my mother used Tomato Juice, but the V-8 adds more nutrients and we really like it.

Weight loss tip of the day number 14:

If you have a Holiday or Birthday Party to attend, go ahead and eat the treats, but use moderation. Try to eat very small samples of what you choose and watch your drink calories, too.

Here's a good idea for a snack recipe:

1 Head of Cauliflower (cut-up).
1 Bunch of Broccoli (cut-up).
1 Pound of Carrots (cut-up) or 1 pound of Baby Carrots.

Dip:
 8 ounce container of low-fat Sour Cream.
4 ounces light Miracle Whip.
1 package Hidden Valley ranch Salad Dressing mix.

Put all of the ingredients for the dip in a bowl and mix together well.
Serve the Vegetables with the Dip.

Weight loss tip number 12 and 13:
12:
Avoid white flour. (expanding on tip number 9)  You might find it difficult to cut white flour out totally; especially if you eat out once in a while. You can cut it way down though by avoiding it at home. Instead of white flour try using whole wheat, whole grain, or at least unbleached healthier flour.
Also use wheat or whole grain bread and buns.

13:
Avoid white rice. (expanding on tip number 9) Instead of white rice try using brown rice. It has a lot more fiber and nutrients.

Weight loss tip of the day number 11:

Avoid White Sugar.

Instead of using white sugar for sweetening try using Truvia instead. There are other sweeteners you can use including honey and natural sugars, but to avoid calories, I think Truvia is a good choice because it's natural. 

Here's a good recipe to try using Truvia or honey:

                                             Fresh Fruit and Greek Yogurt Parfaits

3 cups Fresh or Frozen Blueberries, Kiwi, Grapes (sliced), Strawberries (sliced), Mandarin Oranges, or about 3 different Fruits of your choice. 1 cup each.

3 cups Greek Yogurt.

Truvia or Honey to taste. (optional)

Natural Granola of your choice.

6 Parfait glasses.

Put a layer of Berries in the bottom of the glasses.

If you want the sweetener mix it with the Yogurt now.

Put a layer of Yogurt on top of the Fruit.

Next add a layer of Granola.

Keep layering until all of the ingredients are used up.

Healthy and Delicious! Enjoy!

Well I managed to miss another day posting, so I will post for 2 days again today.

Weight loss tip of the day number 9:

Try to avoid white flour, white sugar and white flour.

Substitute instead whole grain or whole wheat flour, natural sweetener or Truvia, and brown rice. If you do this it will go a long way in helping you feel fuller longer. It takes longer to digest whole grains than processed food. They are also a lot healthier to eat. Switch to whole grains to help improve your health.

Weight loss tip of the day number 10: 

Don't skip breakfast.

You might think that skipping breakfast will help you lose weight, but in reality it will just set the stage for eating in between meals and eating more later on in the day. I have tried this before and inevitably I have been starving hungry by mid to late morning. Eating a good healthy breakfast will help boost your metabolism and help you feel fuller for the rest of the day. So it actually should help you in your weight loss.

Now I will post a good, healthy recipe. Try it and enjoy!

                                                     Skillet Cooked Flounder

1 pound Flounder Fillets.
Put a small amount of oil and butter, in the skillet, enough to cover the bottom.
Heat the oil to medium  heat.
Place the Fish, in the skillet, in a single layer.
Cook over medium heat until browned lightly and done.

This makes a very good, healthy and low-calorie main dish. If you serve this with a baked Potato and a Vegetable or Salad you have a healthy, low-calorie, balanced meal.

I missed posting my Weight loss tip yesterday; so I will post 2 of them today.

Weight loss tip number 7:
Through the Holiday Season instead of snacking on fudge, cookies and candy a lot; try keeping fresh fruit available and grab that instead.

Weight loss tip number 8:
Watch your Sodium intake. Instead of salty chips and nuts; try eating unsalted nuts, fresh raw vegetables and healthy crackers.

Weight loss tip of the day number 6:

Try not to wait until you're starving hungry to eat something. Especially if you have Diabetes. This will probably just cause you to eat too much or possibly the wrong kind of food. Stick with the healthier snacks and don't skip meals. This will help moderate your blood sugar and help keep you from overeating.

I realize we are all pretty busy today, so I will keep this short. Hopefully you have all of your recipes, for today, planned by now. So here is my weight loss tip for today.
Weight loss tip #5:
Enjoy all the Thanksgiving dishes, but don't pig out. Eat in moderation. Try to eat just a small helping of everything; unless it's a fruit or vegetable.Think about taking a walk today as long as the weather permits. And don't forget to drink your water!

Weight loss tip of the day #4:

Protein is important, but make it lean. Go ahead and eat meat in moderation, but trim the fat and eat more Chicken, Fish and Turkey. Try to eat Fish at least 2-3 times a week. Since this is Thanksgiving week we will concentrate on Turkey. Turkey is a good choice for a protein. It is lower in fat and calories than any other meat, but you still need to eat it in moderation. So to help us do that I've come up with some great side recipes. I will post some of them now:

                                                   Homemade Turkey Dressing

About 1 Loaf of Honey Wheat or Unbleached White or your choice of Healthy Bread; toasted and broken into small pieces. Or 1 package Bread Crumbs of your choice.

Chicken Stock. Enough to cover the Bread Crumbs or Toast pieces and soak into it to make it very moist.

Giblets and bony Turkey pieces; such as the neck. 

Several stalks of Celery; chopped.

1 Onion; chopped.

3-4 Chicken Bouillon Cubes.

1 Egg; beaten.

1/2-1 teaspoon Sage.

Salt and Pepper to taste.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Boil the Giblets, Celery, Onion, Sage, Salt, Pepper and Bouillon Cubes together with the stock and enough water for the Bouillon Cubes.(about 1 cup per cube) until done and tender.

Remove the Giblets and allow to cool enough to touch.

Cut up the Giblets and remove the meat from the bones.

Mix the Giblets and Meat back into the Broth.

Break up the toast or put the breadcrumbs in an 11x13 inch pan

Pour the liquid mixture over the Bread Crumbs.

Stir the beaten Egg into the Dressing mixture until everything is well mixed and the bread crumbs are all coated and pretty moist.

Spread the mixture in the pan and smooth out.

Bake in 350 degree oven for about an hour or until golden brown and done.


                                               French Green Bean or Pea Salad

1 (16oz.) can French Green Beans.
1 (16oz.) can Tiny Green Peas.
1 (4oz.) jar red Pimientos.
1 Green Pepper.
1 Medium Onion.
4 Stalks Celery.
2 large Carrots.
1 cup Vinegar.
1 1/2 cups granulated Sugar(or use Splenda or Truvia).
1/2 cup Canola Oil.
1 Tablespoon Water.
1 teaspoon Salt.

Directions:
Drain beans, peas, and pimientos well.
Grind, chop or grate Bell Pepper, Onion, Celery and Carrots.
Combine all Vegetables and set aside.
Make a dressing using Vinegar, Sugar, Oil, Water and Salt by heating in a saucepan until sugar is dissolved. Heat to boiling and pour over vegetables. Stir well.
Let stand until cool, refrigerate overnight before serving.


                                   Cranberry Relish Jello Salad with Mandarin Oranges

2 bags fresh Cranberries; ground or chopped.
Zest of 1 Orange.
1 large box Black Cherry Jello.
1 large box Raspberry Jello.
4 large stalks of Celery; ground or chopped.
6 oz. chopped Walnuts or Pecans.
1 large can Mandarin Oranges.

Using a Food Processor or Food Grinder chop the Cranberries and Celery.
Add the Nuts and Orange zest.
Make the Jello according to directions in a rectangle or square dish that has a cover.
Add all the other ingredients to the Jello and stir together well.
Cover and put in the refrigerator until well set.
Cut into squares to serve.


                                                   French Green Bean Casserole

2 cans (14.5oz. each) French Style Green Beans.
1 can (10 3/4 oz.) Reduced Sodium Cream of Mushroom Soup.
1/4 cup Milk.
1 can (2.8 oz.) French-fried Onions.

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
In 1 1/2 quart casserole or glass baking dish. mix Green Beans, Soup and Milk.

Bake 20-25 minutes, topping with Onions during last 5 minutes of baking, until bubbly.



                                                

Weight Loss Tip of the Day #3:
Do some kind of exercise everyday. This is very important to help tone your muscles as you lose weight. Also exercise will burn calories which will help in losing weight. Walking is a good choice to do by itself or along with other forms of exercise.
Since Thanksgiving is this week I decided to post a recipe I like for Turkey.

                                                Roast Turkey with Citrus and Vegetables

10-12 pound Turkey.
Salt or Seasoned Salt/or Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
Pepper.
1 Stick of Butter.
1 Orange, Lemon, and Onion, cut in wedges.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Rinse Turkey inside and out.
Pat dry with paper towels.
Totally coat Turkey inside and out with the Butter.
Season inside and out with Salt or Seasoned Salt and Pepper.
Place the Lemon, Orange And Onion wedges inside the Turkey.
Place the Turkey in a Roaster Pan.
Cover with foil and lid.
Bake at 325 degrees according to directions with Turkey or about 15 minutes per pound. Until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
Uncover and continue cooking until golden brown.
Let stand 15 minutes.
Slice and serve.

I weighed this morning and got a little discouraged. I haven't gained much, maybe a little, but I haven't lost any more either. I have started taking my own advise, though, and have been drinking more water today. I think it really does help, too. I've tried to keep a glass of ice water available, for me to drink, most of the day. It seems like as long as I have water available to drink it's a lot easier to not eat in between meals.

So here is my weight loss tip for day #2: 

2. Eat at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. These are naturally low in calories and free of any bad  fats. If you fill up on healthy low calorie foods it will help you eat less and avoid the foods you need to avoid.

Here is a recipe for the day:

                                           

                        Baked Whole Roasted Chicken with Lemons, Oranges, Onions and Vegetables

1 Whole Chicken; 3-5 pounds.

1 Lemon cut in wedges.

1 Orange cut in wedges.

1 Onion cut in wedges.
6-8 Large Carrots cut in chunks or several Baby Carrots.
6-8 Potatoes cut in chunks.
1 pound Green Beans.
Butter or Olive Oil.
Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
Pepper.

Rub the Butter or Olive Oil on the inside and outside of the Chicken and under the skin.
Season inside and out with the Seasoned Salt and Pepper.
Place the vegetables on the bottom of the 11x13 inch baking dish.
Stuff the Chicken with the Lemon, Orange and Onion wedges.
Place the stuffed Chicken on top of the vegetables.
Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and bake for another 30 minutes or until golden brown and the juices run clear.

Well I just got my computer back Friday, It had to have a new screen. So now I will really try to start posting on a more regular basis. Also I've come up with a plan to help me stay on track and hopefully it will help you, too. My new plan is to post a weight loss tip of the day, starting today. Here is my first weight loss tip of the day:
1. Drink a lot of water. They say 6-8 glasses a day. If this seems like too much, try to drink at least 4 full glasses a day and increase it gradually up to 6-8.
This will help you feel less hungry, plus it will also help flush fat and impurities out of your body.
Also I will be posting a lot of recipes on here. This may help when you plan your meals through the holidays and all year round, too. Here is my recipe for today.

                                                             Oven Fried Chicken

1 Chicken cut-up or legs, breast, wings or any pieces you like.
2 cups low-fat Buttermilk.
A few or several shakes of hot sauce. (depending on taste)
3 cups Panko Bread Crumbs.
1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder.
1/4 teaspoon Pepper.
Cooking Spray.

Marinate the Chicken pieces in the buttermilk and hot sauce mixture a few hours or overnight.
Mix the breadcrumbs, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and pepper together in a large freezer bag.
Put the Chicken pieces in the bag a few at a time and shake to coat with the Panko bread crumb mixture.
Spray the bottom of a baking tray.
Lay the Chicken pieces on the tray and spray with the cooking spray.
Bake in 350 deg. oven for 1 hour or until golden brown and the Chicken is done inside.

I happen to love conventional Fried Chicken, but don't need all the extra fat. So I came with this recipe to get the flavor without as many calories. It's a yummy alternative to Skillet Fried Chicken. Give it a try!

Ok. I had a post ready earlier and figure out how to post it. got a new phone and wht using to post today. Hopefully I can get it posted this time. I posted lately because our computer been working right. I  guess we need to take it to somebody that knows more about computers than we do. Lol! My arm is doing a lot better now ad probably would be doing better if I would exercis it more often. I guess I better get working on that. Losing weight when you are concentrating on so many things is a lot of work. been so busy its been hard to work on it like I need to. But I will. Check back later and hopefully I will get some of this stuff straightened out in the meantime.

My arm is healing, so I will be posting more often, now. I also plan on posting more recipes, too. The recipe I'm posting today can be made with brown rice to make it healthier. Although I suppose it's pretty healthy if you use white rice. Either way it's delicious and nutritious. So here it is. Try it and enjoy it.

                                                                    Texas Hash

1 1/2 Pounds Lean Ground Chuck.
1 Onion; chopped.
2 Cloves of Garlic; chopped.
1/2 Green Pepper; chopped.
1 large or 2 small cans Tomato Sauce.
Enough Ketchup to cover the top with.
3 cups White or Brown Rice; cooked.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Cook the Rice according to directions.
Brown the Ground Chuck, Onion, Garlic and Green Pepper together in a skillet.
Drain or use a slotted spoon to dish it out.
After the Rice and Ground Chuck are cooked, set aside.
In a large casserole dish layer the ingredients.
Put a layer of Rice on the bottom of the dish.
Put a layer of the Ground Chuck on top of the Rice.
Add a layer of 1 small or 1/2 large can of Tomato Sauce on top of the Ground Chuck mixture.
Keep layering, until all of the food, except the Ketchup is used.
Put a layer of Ketchup on the very top.
Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 30 minutes or until cooked through and hot.

I thought I better do another update today. My arm is improving, but it does still hurt some. My weight is holding steady and my eating is, too. I'm trying to come up with some more healthy recipes to help us lose weight. I plan on redoing the recipes I already have to make them more weight-loss friendly. And I'm trying to start a recipe blog for the Holidays. Check back later and I will update that information. I'm still working on it.

I realize I haven't posted in a little while, but I have a good excuse. I fell on my living room floor, on August 29, 2013. I broke my right arm and dislocated my shoulder. I was pretty sure right away that I broke my arm. It was very painful. My husband took me to the emergency room, where I got the verdict. They had to put my shoulder back in place and I've been wearing a sling to hold my arm in place, while it heals. As far as my diet goes; I haven't been doing real good, but not too bad either. I'm pretty much staying the same. As soon as my arm heals enough for me to exercise I plan on being more consistent with that. Well I guess that's my condensed update for now. I will try to start increasing my posts this week.

                                                            My 1500 Calorie Diet

Breakfast
2 oz. Protein= 2 cooked eggs or 2 Tblsp. Peanut Butter or 2 oz. Cheese or 1/2 cup unsalted Nuts.
1 Carb Serving=1 Slice higher-fiber toast, or 1/2 cup oatmeal or 3/4 cup higher-fiber cold cereal, etc.
1 Carb Serving= 1 cup fat-free or 1% Milk or 1 cup calcium- fortified soymilk or 1 cup low-fat yogurt, etc.

Mid-Morning Snack
Any non-starchy raw vegetables= broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, onions, raw carrots, avocado, etc.
1 Carb Serving= A fresh apple, peach, nectarine, or pear is best at this time for blood sugar balance.

Lunch
3 oz. Protein serving=3 oz. total of protein (chicken, turkey, fish, lean pork, lean beef, cheese or unsalted nuts)
Any non-starchy veggies (raw, steamed)= Romaine Lettuce, green beans, peppers, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, avocado.
1 Carb Serving= higher-fiber bread or tortilla or 1/2 cup pasta or brown rice or 1/2 c. corn, peas, squash, etc.
1 Carb Serving= 1 cup low-fat yogurt or 1 cup fat-free or 1% milk or 1 cup soymilk.

Afternoon Snack
Any non-starchy raw vegetables= broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, raw carrots, etc.
1 Carb Serving= Best fruits for blood sugar balance: fresh peaches, plums, pears,kiwi,nectarines, apples, clementines & all berries.

Supper
3 oz. Protein serving=3 oz. total of protein (chicken, turkey, fish, lean pork, lean beef, cheese, unsalted nuts)
Any non-starchy veggies (raw, steamed)= broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, romaine lettuce, avocado.
1 Carb Serving=higher-fiber bread or tortilla or 1/2 cup pasta or brown rice or 1/2 cup peas, corn, squash, etc.1 Carb Serving=1 cup fat-free or 1% milk or 1 cup soymilk or 1 cup low-fat yogurt.

I've been thinking today about how to lose weight. I would like to lose about 2 pounds a week. I believe this diet is the way I need to do it. I should have been doing a better job staying on this diet from when I first started it. I still believe in Grace, but I may have not understood the idea like I needed to. I'm starting to see that I do need the diet and where the Grace comes in is if I somehow get off-track I need to correct myself and keep moving forward. So much more effective than being too relaxed! I plan on trying it this way, now. I will post updates as to how it's working.

Okay, so I weighed again this morning and it looks as though I have lost most of the weight that I gained. I still need to lose about 2 more pounds to get back down to where I was before I gained a little back. I should be able to do that this week. I think I will start posting weight reports once a week. Probably on Sunday. Not the amount I weigh, (I don't have that much nerve yet), but how many pounds I have lost. After I lose enough weight , for me to feel comfortable, I will probably post a before and after weight. In the meantime I just want to concentrate on eating right, exercising, and getting in shape. That will take a while and a lot of effort by itself. Not to mention everything else I have to do, everyday! Pray for me! This is going to be a very long and tedious journey! My pain seems to be gone now, (I think I had a virus), so I should be able to exercise this week a little easier than I could last week. After I get off of here I think I will go exercise, before the day gets away from me. This isn't exactly diet food, but my husband made breakfast yesterday, so here is a picture of it.

                                                French Toast with Fruit and Sugar-Free Syrup.
French Toast
2 slices Texas Toast per serving.
1-2 Eggs, whisked per serving.
1 cup Milk per serving.
Cinnamon to taste.
Nutmeg to taste.
Sugar or Sweetener to taste.

Topping
Enough fresh or frozen fruit (thawed out), for the amount of French Toast you are preparing.
A little Butter, for topping each piece of French Toast.
Sugar-Free Syrup, for topping.

Preheat a skillet or griddle, lightly oiled.
Place all the ingredients, but the Texas Toast, in a bowl and whisk together.
Put the Texas Toast, one piece at a time, in the Milk mixture and coat on both sides.
Place the Texas Toast, a piece at a time on the skillet or griddle.
Brown on one side turn over and brown on the other side until cooked through.
Continue this process until all the pieces of French Toast you want are done.
Remove to a serving plate.
Top with the Fruit and Syrup.

I weighed this morning before I had anything to eat. It looks like I may have gained a couple of pounds. But my stomach has been hurting some today, too. So I wonder if I may be retaining some fluid, which concerns me because of my kidneys. I guess I will wait and see how I feel by next week and decide then if I need to go to the doctor or not. Before all of this my back had been hurting for a while, too. Needless to say it has been very difficult to do much exercising, lately. I did get on the Ab Coaster Pro, though and tried to make myself exercise. My back hurt so bad that I had to quit. I will try again later today, if I'm not in too much pain. I really believe if I can manage to lose enough weight to do me some good, that I will feel much better. It definitely seems to be an uphill battle. I'm trying to lose weight and improve my health at the same time, which is not easy. I think for the rest of today I will try to eat only healthy foods. We'll see! If I do that, it might make me feel better by in the morning. Okay for now I think I will go eat a few grapes. Hopefully I will get on a better track, soon.

I haven't weighed today, so I don't know how I'm doing weight wise, but I believe I'm doing okay. My back has been hurting me and I've been babysitting, so I haven't been eating a lot lately. I probably am not going to stay on here long enough this time to post a recipe. Although I may make that Chef Salad tomorrow and hopefully post a picture of it with the recipe. I'm hoping my back will quit hurting soon, so I can start exercising on a more regular basis. So for now just try to remember to eat healthy and get some exercise and your weight should adjust.

                                                           Beef Pot Roast with Vegetables

I got this picture off of Pinterest. It looks and sounds good to make for dinner tonight. If I do make it for dinner I will take a picture of my own food and post it on here tonight. Either way here is the recipe for it:

3 pound Arm, Chuck, Sirloin Tip or any other Beef Roast of your choice. I believe I will be using an Arm Roast.
1 medium Onion, chopped.
2 Cloves of Garlic, chopped.
3 Beef Bouillon Cubes-low-sodium.
2 cups Beef broth, Stock or Water (add more later, if needed).
5-6 large Carrots, cut-up or several Baby Carrots.
5-6 large Potatoes, peeled and cut-up or several small Red or Yellow Potatoes, scrubbed well.
1 small container fresh Mushrooms, cleaned and sliced.
1 can Reduced-Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup 1 cup Red Cooking Wine (optional).

Brown the Roast, in a large pot, in a small amount of olive oil, on all sides.
Add the Onion and Garlic. Brown lightly.
Add the Bouillon Cubes and liquid.
Simmer on low for about 2 hours.
Turn the Roast over.
Add the Vegetables and Mushrooms.
Continue cooking for about an hour or until Roast is falling apart tender and Vegetables are tender, too.

This is another meal that takes me back to my childhood. When I was a child we almost always had either Beef Roast or Fried Chicken for Sunday Dinner. There was the occasional time we went out to eat, but generally on Sunday one of these two meals was what we had.
They were both yummy and comforting.


                 

So it's Monday. a good day to start over with a diet, if you need to. I personally start over just about every day. Which may be the best way to keep moving forward on a weight-loss program. If you don't give up eventually you just might succeed! Keep on keeping on! We went grocery shopping over the weekend and I managed to get some of the stuff I need to eat right! I'm glad that I can now try to eat the way I really want and need to for longer than a few days at a time. I plan on eating more salads and maybe soups, too. I'm kind of excited to try to eat even better than I have been. Hopefully this plan will help me lose at least a few more pounds; maybe more. I will probably post a recipe later; after I figure out which one to post. Let's move forward this week and make some progress. I will post updates along the way this week. Have a good day and week!

Well here it is Friday already! I don't feel like I've accomplished very much this week. I haven't even posted for a couple of days. But I did weigh this morning and it looks like I may have gained a pound! This losing weight process does require a lot of effort. You need a lot of self-control, but you need to be flexible, too. Sometimes it's near to impossible to eat right, but you don't quit! Keep on keeping on and you will succeed! I'm still learning this lesson myself. If I can offer some valuable advise; try to always keep enough of your new diet around that you can always find something healthy to eat. I think this is at least part of the secret to losing weight consistently. If we can change our eating habits and develop the right ones our weight will adjust itself. This will take some time. Although if you gear your grocery shopping to the foods you need to eat; that will make it a lot easier. If you don't have any junk food it makes it more difficult to eat it. My grandson ate a salad, at our house, the other day and enjoyed it! I think I learned something from him. I do love salads, but don't eat one near as often as I should. If we would just decide to eat at least one salad a day that would go a long way in reducing our daily calories; as well as boosting our daily nutrition. We can learn a lot from watching children! Especially if they like healthy foods! So maybe my recipe for today needs to be a salad recipe and here it is:

                                                                 Chef Salad

1 large head Romaine Lettuce.
2 large grated Carrots.
2 English Cucumbers, peeled and sliced.
1 small container Cherry or Grape Tomatoes, cut in half.
1 small bag of Radishes, grated or sliced.
1/2 pound boiled Ham, cut in small pieces.
1/2 pound Roast Chicken or Turkey, cut in small pieces.
Grated low-fat Cheddar Cheese. Add this to the salads before serving.
3 hard boiled Eggs, peeled and chopped.

Combine all the ingredients, except Cheese and Eggs in a large salad bowl.
Divide evenly into serving bowls.
Add Cheese and Eggs.
Serve with low-fat or fat-free salad dressing.

                                                              Spaghetti and Meatballs

        Meatballs

1 pound Ground Chuck or Ground Turkey or 1/2 pound of each.
3/4 cup Oats.
1 Egg.
1/2 Onion, chopped.
2 Garlic Cloves, chopped.
Salt and Pepper.
Can use frozen meatballs if you prefer.
A small amount of Olive Oil, for browning.

         Sauce
1/2 Onion, chopped.
1-2 Garlic Cloves, chopped.
2 Large cans Tomato Sauce.
1 Packet Spaghetti Sauce Seasoning. (Can use Jar Sauce instead of Tomato Sauce and Seasoning Packet if you prefer)
2-3 Bay Leaves.
A few Basil Leaves, chopped.
Enough water to make the sauce the right consistency.

1-2 pounds Spaghetti (good quality or whole wheat).

Put the Olive Oil in a pan and preheat.
Mix the meatball ingredients together and shape into balls or separate the amount of frozen meatballs to equal about a pound or so.
Brown in a large skillet in a small amount of Olive Oil or brown on a tray in the oven at 350 deg. till brown on all sides.
Put all the sauce ingredients in a large pot.
Bring to a boil stirring frequently.
Add the meatballs.
Reduce the heat and continue cooking at a low boil for about 30 minutes.
In the meantime cook the spaghetti according to the directions on the package.
Serve meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
Serve with Garlic Bread and a Salad.
Delicious!

There wasn't any weight loss to report for today, so I decided to post a recipe. Give it a try! We had this for dinner last night and it was yummy!

I weighed again this morning and I'm still holding my own. I intend to work a little harder this week to actually start losing weight on a consistent basis. I also plan on getting some groceries that go along with some of my recipes. I may start cooking daily the recipe that I post for that day. This should make it a lot easier to follow along with my progress and for me to actually make more progress! So for today here is my recipe. If I make this later I will try to take a picture of my own cooking.

                           Fish with Lemon Slices and Vegetables in a Pouch (Baked and Steamed)

Preheat oven to Temperature on Package directions.
1-2 pieces of Fish per pouch (Cod, Tilapia, Salmon or any cold water fish of choice.2-3 Lemon Slices per Pouch.
1-2 small pats of Butter per pouch.
Potato slices (about 1/2 potato per pouch; sliced very thin).
Vegetable of choice (carrot slices, green beans, squash or whatever vegetable you prefer) cut in thin, small pieces; enough for one serving.
Salt.
Pepper.
Foil or Parchment Paper.

Put a piece of foil or parchment paper, about as long as foil is wide, on the preparation area; one for each piece of Fish.
Lay 1-2 pieces of Fish on each piece of foil or parchment paper.
Place Lemon slices on top of Fish.
Add potato slices and vegetables to each piece of Fish.
Place the Seasonings and Butter on top of the Fish and Vegetables.
Fold to seal around the top and ends.
Place on a baking tray.
Bake according to directions on the Fish package and check for doneness  of Vegetables.
1-2 Pouches per serving.

                                         

I have a little time between ball games right now; so I decided to post my recipe for today before the next game.

                                                         Oven Barbecued Chicken

Preheat oven to 350 Degrees.

1 Whole Chicken, cut up or 8-10 Chicken pieces of your choice.

Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.

Pepper.

Garlic Powder.

Barbecue Sauce of choice.

Place the Chicken pieces on a baking tray.

Season both sides with all the seasonings.

Bake at 350 Degrees for 45 minutes.

Coat the pieces of Chicken, on all sides, with the Barbecue Sauce and continue baking for 15 minutes or until juices run clear and Chicken is done.

I came up with this recipe many years ago, because I wanted an alternative to grilling Chicken outside.

It turned out great and I've been making it ever since.

I decided to go ahead and post another recipe today. Give it a try and enjoy!

                                      Roasted Rock Cornish Game Hens with Citrus and Vegetables  

Preheat oven to 450 deg.
1 Hen per serving.
1/8 cup loosely packed Parsley per hen.
1 Lemon Wedge per Hen.
1 Orange Wedge per Hen.
1 Onion Wedge per Hen.
Seasoned Salt or Seasoned salt Substitute.
Pepper or Lemon Pepper.
Butter and/or Olive Oil for coating the Hens.
2 Carrots per Hen.
2 Potatoes per Hen.
2 Red Onions cut in quarters or smaller for roasting.
Garlic cloves for roasting.
Green Beans Or Squash for roasting. (optional).

Rub the Hens inside and out with Olive Oil and/or Butter.
Season inside and out with the Seasoned Salt and Pepper.
Put the Lemon, Orange, and Onion Wedges inside the Hens.
Place the Hens, breast side down, in a baking dish large enough to fit all the Hens in with room for the Vegetables.
Add the Vegetables.
Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and turn the Hens over.
Continue baking until the Hens are golden brown and done.
Thermometer inserted in the thickest part of thy should read 180 deg.

I love Rock Cornish Game Hens. Not only are the delicious, but low in fat and calories. They are yummy and can be very nutritious served with roasted vegetables.
Also a cute size. One Hen per serving!

  

I made a grocery list earlier. I used my diet that I got from the dietitian as a guide. My plan is to get the food on the list and try to stay on the diet, for at least a week or two and hopefully indefinitely. I will post at least a condensed version of it today and maybe that will help in grocery shopping later.

Breakfast (2 Carb. servings):
2 oz. Protein= 2 cooked eggs, 2 Tbs. Peanut Butter, 2 oz. Cheese or 1/2 cup unsalted nuts.
1 Carb. Serving=1 slice higher-fiber toast, 1/2 cup oatmeal, 3/4 cup higher-fiber cold cereal, etc.
1 Carb. Serving= 1 c. fat-free or 1% milk or 1 cup calcium fortified soymilk, or 1 cup low-fat yogurt, etc.

Mid-Morning Snack (1 Carb):
Any non-starchy raw vegetables = broccoli, cauliflower, bell pepper, cucumbers, celery, onions, raw carrots, avocado, etc.
1 Carb. Serving (ex: fresh fruit) =A fresh apple, peach, nectarine, or pear is best at this time for blood sugar balance.

Lunch (2 Carb. servings):
3 oz. Protein Serving= 3 oz. total of protein (chicken, turkey, fish, lean pork, lean beef, cheese or unsalted nuts)
Any non-starchy veggies =(raw, steamed) = romaine lettuce, green beans, peppers, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, avocado.
1 Carb. Serving(ex. grain or starchy veg.) higher fiber bread or tortilla or 1/2 cup pasta or brown rice or 1/2 cup corn, peas, squash, etc.
1 Carb. Serving (ex. lower-fat dairy) = 1 cup low-fat yogurt or 1 cup fat-free or 1% milk or 1 cup soymilk.

Afternoon Snack (1 Carb.):
Any non-starchy raw vegetables = broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, raw carrots, etc.
1 Carb. Serving (ex.piece of fresh fruit) = Best fruits for blood sugar balance: fresh peaches, plums, pears, kiwi, grapefruit, nectarines, apples, clementines & all berries.

Supper (2 Carb. Servings):
3 oz. Protein servin =3 oz. total of protein (chicken, turkey, fish, lean pork, lean beef, cheese, unsalted nuts).
Any non-starchy veggies (raw, steamed) = broccoli,cauliflower, green beans, bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, romaine lettuce, avocado.
1 Carb. Serving (ex: grain or starchy veg.) = higher-fiber bread or tortilla or pasta or brown rice or 1/2 c. peas, corn, squash, etc.
1 Carb. Serving (ex: low-fat dairy) =  1 cup fat-free or 1% milk or soymilk or 1 cup low-fat yogurt.

Here are some pictures our granddaughter sent us from her trip to Florida!

Well I didn't weigh this morning, but I'm sure it hasn't changed much since yesterday! Lol! I do plan on getting some more healthy food in this house, if not today then, soon. My granddaughter has been in Florida this week. So she wanted to know what I wanted her to get me. I said" I don't care;" then I said "a cup". She said, "How about a shirt?" I quickly agreed to that. Then I had to tell her what size. Ugh! I did tell her, but it was kind of embarrassing. I am looking forward to the day that my size will not make me feel that way. Like I said yesterday the journey of a thousand miles starts with one step. I have made progress, even though it has been slow, so far anyway. Slow doesn't bother me, if I can just be consistent. Maybe I'm about to get on the right track and stay there. Anyway since we have to eat regardless we might as well make it good and healthy. So here is another recipe to try, along the way.

                                                        Pork Loin Roast with Vegetables

3 pound Pork Loin Roast.
5-6 Carrots cut in chunky pieces or several Baby Carrots.
5-6 Potatoes peeled and cut in chunky pieces.
2 cloves Garlic, chopped.
1 medium Onion, chopped.
1 can Reduced Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup.
1 can Reduced Fat Chicken Broth or Stock.
Water for consistency.
Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
Pepper.
Season and Brown the Roast on all sides.
Add the Onion and Garlic.
Cook lightly.
Add remaining Vegetables.
Season well.
Add Cream of Mushroom Soup and spread over top.
Add Chicken Broth or Stock and enough Water to make it the right consistency.
Cook at simmer for 2-3 hours or until done and tender.
Add more liquid if needed.

                                             Beef Pot Roast with Vegetables and Mushrooms

3 pound Chuck, Sirloin Tip or any other lean Beef Roast of your choice.
Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
Pepper.
1 medium Onion, chopped.
2 cloves of Garlic, chopped.
3 Beef Bouillon Cubes-low- Sodium.
2 cups Beef Broth, Stock or Water (add more later, if needed).
5-6 large Carrots, cut-up or several Baby Carrots.
5-6 large Potatoes, peeled and cut in quarters or smaller.
1 can sliced Mushrooms, drained and rinsed or 1 small container fresh Mushrooms, cleaned and sliced(optional).
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup.
1 cup Red Cooking Wine (optional).

Season the Roast on all sides.
Brown the Roast, in a large pot, in a small amount of Olive Oil, on all sides.
Add the Onion and Garlic.
Brown lightly.
Add the Bouillon Cubes and liquid.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer gently on medium-low heat, for about 2 hours.
Turn the Roast over.
Add the Vegetables and Mushrooms.
Season them well.
Continue cooking for about another half hour or until Roast is falling apart tender and the Vegetables are tender, too.

I decided to post another yummy dinner recipe, on here. This one goes back to my childhood. My mother used to make this a lot. Usually for Sunday Dinner. Not every Sunday. Sometimes we had Fried Chicken or something else, but we did have this a lot. She would, put it on to cook while we went to church and it would be ready when we got home; with just a little extra, for her to do. I don't remember her using Mushrooms. I added those later on. You don't have to add those, but they are yummy, with it.

                          Baked Whole Chicken with Lemons, Oranges, Onions, and Vegetables.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

1 Whole Chicken 3-5 pounds.
1 Lemon cut in fourths.
1 Orange cut in fourths.
1 Onion cut in fourths.
6-8 Large Carrots cut in chunks or 1 pound Baby Carrots.
6-8 Potatoes cut in chunks.
1 pound Green Beans.
Butter or Olive Oil. Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
Pepper.

Rub the Butter or Olive Oil on the inside and outside of the Chicken and under the skin.
Season inside and outside with the Seasoned Salt and Pepper.
Place the Vegetables on the bottom of  a 11"x13" baking dish.
Stuff the Chicken with the Lemon, Orange and Onion pieces.
Place the stuffed Chicken on top of the Vegetables.
Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and bake for another 30 minutes or until golden brown and the juices run clear.

                             Micah with the waitress where Rachel and Brendan ate in St. Louis today.

When you need to lose a lot of weight it can seem like it takes so long that you wonder if you'll ever get there. But the journey of a thousand miles does start with one step. So the only way to get from where you're at to where you want to be is to take it one step at a time. I decided to try to post at least one recipe a day on here to make our journey a little easier and pleasant. I wrote this recipe a while back to help me lose weight, so maybe it can help you now. Here it is:

                                                              Oven Fried Chicken

Preheat oven to 350 deg.

1 Chicken, cut-up; or legs, breasts, wings, or any pieces you like.
2 cups low-fat Buttermilk.
Hot Sauce; several shakes to taste.
3 cups Panko Bread Crumbs.
1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder.
1/4 teaspoon Pepper.
Cooking Spray.

Marinate the Chicken pieces in the Buttermilk and Hot sauce mixture a few hours or overnight.
Mix the Bread Crumbs, Seasoned Salt, Garlic Powder, and Pepper together in a large freezer bag.
Put the Chicken pieces in the bag a few at a time and shake to coat with the Panko Bread Crumb mixture.
Spray the bottom of a baking tray.
Lay the Chicken on the tray and spray it with the baking spray.
Bake in 350 deg. oven for 1 hour or until golden brown and the Chicken is done inside.

I weighed again this morning and am doing good keeping the weight off. I need to work this week on losing another pound, or two, at least. If I've learned one thing, in this process, it's, "Don't quit"! It may seem like, at times, that you're fighting a losing battle, but if you just keep moving forward, with faith and "grace"; you will succeed! I have been getting a little more exercise lately, too. A friend of ours just had knee replacement surgery last week. So we've been going to the hospital to visit her. To get to her room requires a good amount of walking, which has increased our exercise, at least some, lately. Every little bit helps, I guess. Anyway I am posting a recipe again today. Hopefully I will keep this up and post at least one a day, for a good while. That is the plan, at least! So here is my recipe for the day. Try it for dinner, this evening!

                                                                    Meat Loaf

1 1/2 pound Ground Chuck.
1 small Onion, chopped.
1 clove Garlic, chopped.
1 egg.
1 cup Oats + extra if needed.
1 cup Ketchup (can use low-sodium).
1/2 teaspoon Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
1/4 teaspoon Pepper(if it's not in the Seasoned Salt).

Mix the ground chuck, onion, garlic, oats, egg, seasoned salt, and 2/3 cup ketchup in a bowl. I use my hands to mix it.
Put it in a loaf pan and shape it.
Spread the remaining ketchup on top.
Bake at 350 deg. for one hour.
Let stand a few minutes before slicing.
6-8 servings.

We took our grandson; Logan to The Fire Department yesterday. Here are some pictures from our visit, there.

Well I weighed this morning and I'm doing good keeping the weight off that I have already lost. What I need to do this week is work on losing at least another pound or two. This adventure seems to be taking a lot longer than I had hoped. I guess what I need to do is actually put some concerted effort in it. Not that I haven't already, but I have been mostly, only relying on grace. Grace is wonderful, but you probably need to apply faith to it, and move forward. I believe that is the key to success, in weight loss. I think maybe I'm starting to understand, the grace helps tremendously, in staying power, but faith is what keeps you moving forward to actually lose the weight. I'm covered in grace, but I walk by faith. So we really must use our faith and move forward, without fear, to reach our goals! Here's a yummy recipe for a good Sunday dinner, that I tweaked, to make it weight loss friendly.

                                                           Chicken Fried Steaks

4 Beef Cube Steaks.
Unbleached or Whole-Wheat Flour.
Salt or Seasoned Salt or Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
Pepper.
Garlic Powder.
Canola Oil. (enough to brown in).
2-3 Beef Bouillon Cubes.
1 Small Onion; chopped.
Mushrooms. Sliced.

Put enough Canola Oil in a large skillet to cover the bottom of it.
Put the Flour and Seasonings in a shallow dish.
Place the Cube Steaks one at a time in the Seasoned Flour.
Coat well on both sides.
Put them on a plate as you coat them.
Place them one at a time in the skillet, keeping the oil warm enough to keep cooking them.
Brown well on both sides.
Remove to a plate.
Add the Onion to the skillet and brown lightly.
Add the Mushrooms.
Add about a Tablespoon of Flour and whisk until it is browned lightly.
Add about 2 cups of Water or as much as needed to make gravy.
Add the Bouillon Cubes and stir until dissolved and well blended.
Add the Cube Steaks back in and simmer until tender and done.
Serve with Mashed Potatoes and a Vegetable and/or a Salad.

                 
                                                                   Salmon Panzanella

I found this recipe on Facebook from Diabetic Connect. If you would like it just follow the links.

The way I've been losing weight seems to be a very long and boring process. I'm beginning to wonder if maybe I should put a little more effort into it and start losing weight faster. I have done that before. One time I went on a Yogurt , Cottage Cheese, and Wheat Thin Cracker Diet and lost 10 pounds in 3 days. I was a lot younger then and it was so much easier to lose weight. Now that I've gotten older I think that diet would be very difficult. I have thought about altering it somewhat though to suit my current nutritional needs. I'm not sure that the original diet would be a good idea for someone with Diabetes. I think I could do basically what I've already kind of done with it; which is to add an evening meal and some extra fruit and vegetables to it. That has worked too; just not as fast. Whatever I do I really need to lose a lot of weight, for my health's sake. Hopefully I can keep at this all summer, with all the baseball games we go to and as hot as it's been it shouldn't be that difficult. Speaking of baseball games we have one tonight. It has been so hot here this week it seems like I should be losing a pound or two a game! I guess that's it for now. I'll post a picture of watermelon to help you feel cooler!

I weighed again this morning and so far so good. I also have yogurt still I need to eat. I think that's what I will eat this morning. We've had a lot of ballgames this week with our grandson, Logan. He made the All-Stars Team this year and they've been playing several games  this week. I should be losing weight going to these games. It has been excruciatingly hot here. I'm kind of hoping for rain and a cool-down. Well, my baby grandson just got here, so I'll sign off here for now. Check back later, and I'll try to get a recipe on here.

I'm so glad that I got my weight back down to where I was before. I must pay better attention to what I eat. Grace is wonderful for staying power, but you do have to learn some lessons along the way. The main lesson I have learned is to use grace to help you not to hurt you. If you do find yourself eating too much, just stop, back up, and start over. Remember the best way to lose weight is to change your eating habits and exercise. In other words change your lifestyle!

I weighed again yesterday and had lost all the weight that I had gained back. Yay! Now I can concentrate on going forward and losing more weight. This means that I have lost a total of 20 pounds since I first started keeping track. I got some Yogurt and Wheat Thin Crackers. All the flavors are yummy, but try Strawberry with the Wheat Thin Crackers. It kind of tastes like strawberry shortcake. Yum! Be sure to get the kind with active cultures in it. This makes it healthier. You could also add some low-fat cottage cheese to this and add some protein.
 I also went to the doctor the other day. All of my tests are looking pretty good. I've been trying to be more consistent in eating healthy. I'm sure it helps. I've also started exercising some. I do need to be more consistent, but every little bit helps. I do get some exercise babysitting my little grandbaby. Not really a lot. He's still really small, not very heavy or active. So for right now I'm ok, but as he gets bigger I may start having trouble lifting him. I guess I'll cross that bridge when I come to it, though.
I guess for now I will post another recipe. After all we do have to eat. We just need to be wise about it!

                                                                 
                                                                    Taco Salad

1 pound ground Chuck or Turkey.
!Packet Taco Seasoning.
Taco Salad Shells or Flatbread or Nacho Chips.
1 Head Lettuce; chopped or a bag of Combination Salad.
Diced Tomatoes.
Shredded Cheddar or Mexican Cheese.
Taco Sauce.
Sour Cream (low-fat).
Can grate 1-2 Carrots for added nutrition, if you don't use the Combination salad.

Put the Ground Meat in a skillet and brown over medium-high heat.
Preheat oven to temperature in directions for shells.
Add the Taco Seasoning Packet and prepare according to directions.
Put the shells in the oven and bake according to directions. You can save calories by using Tortilla Chips instead of Shells and limiting the amount you eat.
Remove Shells from the oven and allow to cool a few minutes.
Put the Lettuce Salad and Tomatoes in the shells.
Put the Ground Meat Mixture on top of the salad ingredients.
Add the Cheese, Sour Cream, and Taco Sauce to the Salad.
Toss to mix.
Eat and enjoy!

Well, I weighed this morning and have gained a little. About 5 pounds; since I lost the 19 pounds a while back. I'm not quit sure what happened, but I assume I've been eating too much. LOL! I did make fried chicken and hot wings the other night. It was pretty yummy, too. We took them over to our daughter and her family's house. That was nice, but this is Monday, so I need to put that behind me, and move forward this week. I took my medicine, vitamins, fish oil and ate a banana this morning. Bananas are on my foods to avoid list, but I can eat one once in a while. So I did eat one this morning. It was the last one so I probably won't eat another one for a while.
I've been watching Extreme Weight Loss and they put a lot of emphasis on exercise; which is what I think I need to do. Maybe not to the extreme that they do, but a lot more than I have been. The subject seems to keep popping up. From the guy that lost a lot of weight by walking, to the show, it just seems to look like a necessary part of weight loss.
So I think I will get away from this computer and go exercise. Hopefully I can see it through this time. I will report back later.

                                                               Lemon -Baked Cod

1 pound Cod or 2-3 pieces per serving.
1/4 c Butter and Olive Oil.
1/2 teaspoon Salt.
1/8 teaspoon White Pepper.
2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice.
1/4 cup Unbleached All-Purpose Flour.
Paprika.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

If fish are large cut into serving pieces.
Melt Butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave add Lemon Juice and Olive Oil.
Mix Flour, Salt and White Pepper together in a bowl.
Dip Fish in the Butter mixture and coat with the Flour mixture.
Place in a single layer in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining Butter mixture over the Fish.
Sprinkle with Paprika.

Bake uncovered until Fish flakes easily with a fork. 25-30 minutes.
Garnish with Parsley sprigs if desired.

This is my version of a recipe I found on Pinterest. Fish and especially Cod , is one of the healthiest foods you can eat. It's High in Omega-3 Oils and low in calories; which also makes it great to help in losing weight. We should really try to eat Fish at least 2-3 times a week.

I weighed again this morning, just to make sure I'm not really gaining weight. Well I seem to be holding my own. I haven't gained anymore and I haven't lost anymore either. I plan on weighing more often than I was so I can watch my progress more closely and adjust my eating accordingly. I intend to buy more fruit and vegetables in the future so I can eat those instead of other foods if I get hungry in between meals. And yogurt seems to work out real well for me, too. Also salads, with a lot of vegetables and not a lot of extras. Here is a picture of the kind of salad I'm talking about.

Grilled Barbecue Chicken

1 Chicken cut-up or 8 pieces of Chicken.
Seasoned Salt or Seasoned Salt Substitute.
Pepper.
Barbecue Sauce of choice or make your own.

Preheat the grill inside or outside.
Season the Chicken on all sides.
Lightly grease the grill.
Place the Chicken pieces on the grill skin side up. Cook for about 20 minutes or so on the first side; checking often. When it is brown with grill marks on the side that is down turn it over and cook on the other side. About 5 or 10 minutes before it is completely done put the barbecue sauce on the side that is up. Turn over and put the barbecue sauce on the other side. Finish cooking until it is done and juices run clear.


This is really a pretty simple recipe; great for summer cooking, so I decided to post it today. I love grilling meat, especially outside, because it cooks a lot of the fat off and it tastes really good, too! If you grill a lot you can save a lot of fat calories. This along with a vegetable and a salad would make a delicious, healthy, low-calorie meal and be great on a diet!

Well yesterday I put my diet on here. It didn't look to me like I wanted it to. I just hope it can be read and understood like it is. I'm thinking about posting it once a week. If I do that I will try to condense it so it's easier to write and read, too. In the meantime I will post a shopping list, which should make it easier than just looking at the diet. After all we are mixing Grace with this diet, for a lifestyle change. If you buy the food on the list and that's what you eat everyday, in moderation, you pretty much have the diet. So here is my grocery shopping list:

Eggs
Peanut Butter
Cheese
Unsalted Nuts
High-Fiber Bread
Oats
Higher-Fiber Cereal
1% Milk
Low-fat Yogurt
Vegetables (carrots, salad veggies, any non-starchy vegetable of choice)(lots of veggies)
Fruit (fresh or frozen) any fruit you like, but mostly melons, peaches,plums, pears, kiwi, nectarines, apples, clementines & all berries
Lean Meat
Fish
Brown Rice
Whole Wheat Pasta
Tortillas
Low-sodium Pasta Sauce
Whole Wheat Crackers
Popcorn

To these foods you can add anything healthy you like as long as it's low-sodium, low-fat, low or no-sugar.
I don't know why the dietitian didn't put cottage cheese on my list, but I think that should be acceptable.

I put the diet that I got from the dietician on here a while back. I believe it deserves to be repeated every so often. Not only for your sake, but also to help remind me of the foods I need to be eating. So here it is:

1,500 Cal. Lower Carb Meal Plan (Low Sodium, Low Potassium, Diabetic Management, Weight Management, Stage 3 Kidney Disease)+ about 45% of these calories come from carbs/  30% of calories from protein/ 25% of calories from fat (about 5 tsp. oils/day).
"Carbohydrates" come from Fruit, Breads, Cereals, Rice, Pasta Crackers, Soups, Starchy Veggies, Milk, Yogurt and "Junk Foods"
"1 Carb Serving" = 1 piece of fresh fruit or 1/2 cup fruit juice or 1/2 cup cooked cereal or 3/4 cup cold cereal or 1 pancake or 1 waffle or 1 slice of bread or 1/2 bagel or 1/2 tortilla or 1/2 cup rice, or 1/2 cup pasta or 1/2 cup beans (legumes) or 1/2 cup peas, squash, corn, cooked carrots, or 3 cups unsalted popcorn or 4-6 crackers (check total carbs on label) or 1 cup skim or 1% milk or low-fat yogurt. Avoid potatoes, tomatoes, bananas, oranges, and O. J.

The meal pattern below for carb servings is 2-1-2-1-2 (2 carbs for meals, 1 carb for snacks).

"Junk foods" such as regular soda, potato chips, candy, cookies, pies and cakes are low in nutrients and high
in sodium, calories, sugar, and fat. They promote weight gain, food cravings, and blood sugar imbalances, and should be avoided.

Breakfast (2 Carb servings):     For Example:
2 oz. Protein=                          2 cooked eggs or 2 Tbs. P. Butter or 2 oz. cheese or 1/2 cup unsalted nuts.
1 Carb Serving=                      1 slice higher-fiber toast, or 1/2 c. oatmeal or 3/4 c. higher-fiber cold cereal,
                                                etc.
1 Carb Serving=                      1 cup fat-free or 1% milk or 1 cup calcium-fortified soymilk or 1 cup low-fat    
                                                yogurt, etc.

Mid-Morning Snack (1carb):   For Example:
Any non-starchy raw               broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, onions, raw carrots,    
vegetables.........................       avocado.
1 Carb. Serving (ex: fresh        A fresh apple, peach, nectarine, or pear is best at this time for blood sugar
fruit)=                                     balance.
                     

Lunch(2 Carb servings):          For Example:
3 oz. Protein serving=             3 oz. total protein (chicken, turkey, fish, lean pork, lean beef, or unsalted nuts)
Ant non-starchy veggies          romaine lettuce, green beans, peppers, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower,
(raw, steamed)                        cabbage, avocado.
1 Carb. Serving (ex: grain or     higher-fiber bread or tortilla or 1/2 c. pasta or brown rice or 1/2 c. corn,
starchy veg.)                            peas, squash, etc.
1 Carb Serving (ex: lower-                              
fat dairy)=                              1 cup low-fat yogurt or 1 cup fat-free or 1% milk or 1 cup soymilk.

Afternoon Snack (1Carb):      For Example:
Any non-starchy raw              broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, cucumbers, celery, raw carrots, etc.
vegetables........                                          
1 Carb Serving (ex. piece  
fresh fruit) =                          Best fruits for blood sugar balance:fresh peaches plums, pears kiwi,
                                             nectarines, apples, clementines & all berries.

Supper (2 Carb servings):      For Example:
3 oz. Protein serving=            3 oz. total of protein (chicken, turkey, fish, lean pork, lean beef, cheese,
                                             unsalted nuts).
any non-starchy veggies         broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, romaine
                                             lettuce, avocado.
1 Carb Serving (grain or        higher-fiber bread or tortilla or 1/2 c. pasta or brown rice or 1/2 c. peas, corn,
 starchy veg.)                        squash etc.
1 Carb Serving (ex: low-fat    cup fat-free or 1% milk or 1 cup soymilk or 1 cup low-fat yogurt.

dairy=