Here is the recipe as you all requested. Vaness...I have a vegetarian recipe I'm going to e-mail you later.
To ensure your meatballs boast their best flavor, create a carmelized crust by first searing them on all sides until they're golden brown. the colorful and hearty blend of black beans, corn tomatoes, line and cilantro enveloping the meatballs fills out this dish, plus it's a unique take on salsa: It's served warm!
INGREDIENTS:
1 lb ground turkey breast
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup whole-wheat bread crumbs
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper
2 tsp olive oil
1 cup frozen yellow or white corn
1 15 oz BPA free can low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed well
2 cups diced vine-ripened tomatoes
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tsp ground cumin
1/4 cup chopped frsh cilantro
INSTRUCTIONS:
ONE: In a large bowl, combine turkey, egg whites, bread crumbs, salt and pepper and mix well. Shape into 16 meatballs, each about the size of a golf ball.
TWO: In a large skillet, heat oil on medium-high. Add meatballs and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning frequently, until browned on all sides. Add corn, beans, tomatoes, broth, lime juice and cumin and mix well. Reduce heat to medium, partially cover and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through. Stir in cilantro and serve.
Nutrients per serving (4 meatballs and 1 cup corn-bean mixture is a serving): Calories: 320, Total Fat: 4.5g, Sat. Fat: 0g, Carbs: 32g, Fiber: 7g, Sugars: 5g, Protein: 37g, Sodium: 340mg, Cholesterol: 55mg
Friday, October 28, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
NSV and Food Porn
In an effort to eat healthier for the entire family as well as cleaner eating I am cooking more. I usually let my mom cook. However, she cooks good ole fashion artery clogging soul food. Don't get me wrong it is good (at least to the hubs), but its just not where I am.
I cooked this awesome meal the other day. It's called Southwest Turkey Meatball Skillet. This is how it turned out.
This is what it looked like in the magazine
It was delicious!!! I can't wait to make it again.
NSV:
I cooked this awesome meal the other day. It's called Southwest Turkey Meatball Skillet. This is how it turned out.
This is what it looked like in the magazine
NSV:
- My scrawny husband can now wrap his arms completely around me. Fun times.
- We went to my favorite restaurant the other night. I order what I have ordered for years. A huge steak, grilled onion and mushrooms, au gratin spinach, and of course bread pudding for dessert. I ate 4 bites of steak, 1/2 a tbsp of mushrooms & onions, no spinach and 2 bites of bread pudding. Gotta love the band. Previously I would eat it all before we left the table and take a dessert home for later. Major win here.
- I have 6 runs under my belt. Still don't love it...but I'm running more and walking less.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Workout Playlist help
I purchased an ipod nano. I have had the same mp3 player for over 5 years. It was time for a new one. However, the nano is strictly for workout music only. I think it will hold up to 2000 songs.
I'm asking for your help in creating this list. I need some kick ass workout music. I'm talking get your body pumped type music. I'm excited to see what you listen to to get you moving. Thanks for your suggestions.
I'm asking for your help in creating this list. I need some kick ass workout music. I'm talking get your body pumped type music. I'm excited to see what you listen to to get you moving. Thanks for your suggestions.
Sexy Can I?
Thanks for all the love and support regarding my first run. I actually have 2 runs under my belt. Sunday night and Monday night. Unfortunately, I couldn't do it on Tuesday...but I have 2 planned for today. One in the morning when I get off work and one when Charles gets home.
The running is not to bad. It's the breathing technique that is kicking my butt. I think once I get the breathing under control I will be better prepared to handle longer runs. We are not rushing it though. We are taking our time.
On the band front. I created a meal plan. Yup...I even printed out a chart. It's going pretty well. Of course their has been some off plan snacking. But I'm writing it down and being accountable. Which is a big deal for me. The fun thing is I have created protein snacks. Or at least the handout I received has some on their. My favorite has been the 1 oz. of mixed nuts. Yummy. I have made breakfast 2 days in a row. Which means I had to get off my butt early. So not cool.
Charles is home!!! Yippie. I know I was supposed to jump his bones and catch up on 2 months of sex. But I was tired. Hell yeah. I literally slept on and off for 3 straight days. It was great!!! I feel rejuvenated. The kids are happy they have their dad back. They keep saying..."no leave no more daddy." I guess being stuck with mommy for 2 months was too much for their little brains. LOL
I'm totally okay with him not leaving again. I on the other hand should be allowed to leave.
So about the title. It's the title to a song I was listening to when I decided to start this blog....no relevance at all. LOL
I hope everyone is having a great work week. The weekend is almost here. I will be home sleeping most of the day. I'm at work now. Working the 12-8 am shift. Blah. So not a good environment for proper eating..but I'm trying. Getting ready to have a some tuna.
P.S. Dance today ladies...just because.
The running is not to bad. It's the breathing technique that is kicking my butt. I think once I get the breathing under control I will be better prepared to handle longer runs. We are not rushing it though. We are taking our time.
On the band front. I created a meal plan. Yup...I even printed out a chart. It's going pretty well. Of course their has been some off plan snacking. But I'm writing it down and being accountable. Which is a big deal for me. The fun thing is I have created protein snacks. Or at least the handout I received has some on their. My favorite has been the 1 oz. of mixed nuts. Yummy. I have made breakfast 2 days in a row. Which means I had to get off my butt early. So not cool.
Charles is home!!! Yippie. I know I was supposed to jump his bones and catch up on 2 months of sex. But I was tired. Hell yeah. I literally slept on and off for 3 straight days. It was great!!! I feel rejuvenated. The kids are happy they have their dad back. They keep saying..."no leave no more daddy." I guess being stuck with mommy for 2 months was too much for their little brains. LOL
I'm totally okay with him not leaving again. I on the other hand should be allowed to leave.
So about the title. It's the title to a song I was listening to when I decided to start this blog....no relevance at all. LOL
I hope everyone is having a great work week. The weekend is almost here. I will be home sleeping most of the day. I'm at work now. Working the 12-8 am shift. Blah. So not a good environment for proper eating..but I'm trying. Getting ready to have a some tuna.
P.S. Dance today ladies...just because.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
My First Run
Here is a picture of me after my first run. Notice the awesome headband I won during a BUUBS drawing. I love it. You may also see my BUUBS bag hanging on the door. I take that thing EVERYWHERE!!!
Friday, October 14, 2011
BYOC - Go Crazy!!!
It’s Friday which also means it’s BYOC – Bring Your Own Crazy – day around these parts.
Five little questions you can copy and paste and answer in your own blog to get to know your fellow bloggers better and to give your blog brain a break!
Enjoy!
1. What’s your most favorite noise and your least favorite noise?
My favorite sound is my kiddos breathing when they are asleep. They are perfect at that time.
Least favorite sound is this demon dog next door. That little fucker barks all night and wakes up my 9 month old. I'm totally thinking about taking him off the count...I'm just saying.
2. If you were a character in the movie Grease – who would you be?
Rizzo baby!! She was sassy. She didn't take no stuff. She lived her life for her. And those hot pants. I could totally rock those hot pants. Plus she was the leader of the Pink Ladies. I am so a leader.
3. What was the name of your best friend in elementary school? Are you still friends?
In elementary my best friends were Tiffany Louise Congious and Sumyetta Rynae Wilson. I am still close with both of these ladies. We do not talk often...but we have a comfortable friendship that last the test of time.
4. Who is your current celebrity crush?
Current celebrity crush - Idris Elba...that is one sexy man...OMG...and when he speaks...that accent does it to me every time. He could get it...anytime he wants.
5. Repeat question: How was your week in real life and in blog land?
Real life is exhausting. However, Charles will be home in less than 24 hours. I am happier than a sissy with a bag full of dingalings. We have a busy weekend planned. A kids birthday party and...wait for it...wait...I'm going to get fitted for running shoes. Yup...me and my tatas are going running. Not a pretty picture...but I'm doing it.
Blogland - Rocks as always. Because of this community I have met some amazing women. I have been inspired and I have decided to do what needs to be done for me. I just want to send a shout out to my PBC...you know who you are and I love you!!
Five little questions you can copy and paste and answer in your own blog to get to know your fellow bloggers better and to give your blog brain a break!
Enjoy!
1. What’s your most favorite noise and your least favorite noise?
My favorite sound is my kiddos breathing when they are asleep. They are perfect at that time.
Least favorite sound is this demon dog next door. That little fucker barks all night and wakes up my 9 month old. I'm totally thinking about taking him off the count...I'm just saying.
2. If you were a character in the movie Grease – who would you be?
Rizzo baby!! She was sassy. She didn't take no stuff. She lived her life for her. And those hot pants. I could totally rock those hot pants. Plus she was the leader of the Pink Ladies. I am so a leader.
3. What was the name of your best friend in elementary school? Are you still friends?
In elementary my best friends were Tiffany Louise Congious and Sumyetta Rynae Wilson. I am still close with both of these ladies. We do not talk often...but we have a comfortable friendship that last the test of time.
4. Who is your current celebrity crush?
Current celebrity crush - Idris Elba...that is one sexy man...OMG...and when he speaks...that accent does it to me every time. He could get it...anytime he wants.
5. Repeat question: How was your week in real life and in blog land?
Real life is exhausting. However, Charles will be home in less than 24 hours. I am happier than a sissy with a bag full of dingalings. We have a busy weekend planned. A kids birthday party and...wait for it...wait...I'm going to get fitted for running shoes. Yup...me and my tatas are going running. Not a pretty picture...but I'm doing it.
Blogland - Rocks as always. Because of this community I have met some amazing women. I have been inspired and I have decided to do what needs to be done for me. I just want to send a shout out to my PBC...you know who you are and I love you!!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
No more
No more excuses....no more sob stories. Well at least after this one. LOL
In Chicago I spoke with a lot of women. Many of whom I admire. One conversation discussed how much we as a community are always there for each other. It's a great thing. Yet, at the same time...is it?
Whenever any of us are stalled in our weight loss, eating crap, not exercising...whatever...we turn to the blog. We post our story...and what happens. Our sisters in the battle encourage us. We tell each other it's just one day...tomorrow will be better...don't beat yourself up, etc. That's great...but...
We are enabling each other to make excuses. We are enabling our bad behavior by saying...you can do better tomorrow. WTF...let's stop right now. Why do we have to do better tomorrow? We know what needs to be done today...so why the hell are we not doing it?!?!? It's not cool. Writing these sob stories and getting sympathy from each other is not helping us succeed. It's helping us continue to fall into the same damn trap that we have fallen in over and over again.
I'm guilty of this behavior. I do it all the time. I come on my blog and tell yall that I ate cookies, I haven't worked out, I'm tired, etc., etc., etc. Well I'm done crying about what I'm not doing right and what I'm eating wrong. I'm done. I'm tired of crying about my screw ups on this journey. I'm just tired.
I'm only going to focus on my successes...no matter how slow it takes to get there. Thank you all for being here for me...no matter what I'm crying about. Now it's time to talk about my joys...my new challenges of succeeding and how success changes my life. I am going to do me...and I'm not crying anymore. No more!!!!
In Chicago I spoke with a lot of women. Many of whom I admire. One conversation discussed how much we as a community are always there for each other. It's a great thing. Yet, at the same time...is it?
Whenever any of us are stalled in our weight loss, eating crap, not exercising...whatever...we turn to the blog. We post our story...and what happens. Our sisters in the battle encourage us. We tell each other it's just one day...tomorrow will be better...don't beat yourself up, etc. That's great...but...
We are enabling each other to make excuses. We are enabling our bad behavior by saying...you can do better tomorrow. WTF...let's stop right now. Why do we have to do better tomorrow? We know what needs to be done today...so why the hell are we not doing it?!?!? It's not cool. Writing these sob stories and getting sympathy from each other is not helping us succeed. It's helping us continue to fall into the same damn trap that we have fallen in over and over again.
I'm guilty of this behavior. I do it all the time. I come on my blog and tell yall that I ate cookies, I haven't worked out, I'm tired, etc., etc., etc. Well I'm done crying about what I'm not doing right and what I'm eating wrong. I'm done. I'm tired of crying about my screw ups on this journey. I'm just tired.
I'm only going to focus on my successes...no matter how slow it takes to get there. Thank you all for being here for me...no matter what I'm crying about. Now it's time to talk about my joys...my new challenges of succeeding and how success changes my life. I am going to do me...and I'm not crying anymore. No more!!!!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Restriction....
Let's talk Restriction. That is the title of the little handout I received at the docs office when I went in for a fill on the 4th. Needless to say I didn't get a fill, because apparently...I had lost 6 lbs...and according to the photo I was pretty tight.
I just think this is a handout that should be given when a bandster comes in for their very first adjustment. Not when a person is almost a year out. Ugh.
Here is what it says.
Definition of "Restriction"
The best way to look at "restriction" is eating your food normally, but just less of it; that is, a smaller size portion. That is all restriction means...a decrease in the size of your meal. So if you are eating large platefuls of protein and vegetables you obviously need more restriction.
You think...well ummm...that is not what I thought restriction was. I thought something totally different. Okay...maybe I'm just a dope...but yeah...I was way off the mark.
Restriction
Your goal is to have the least amount of restriction that enables you to do the rest yourself. You should only eat until satisfied and no longer hungry. This is to be differentiated from eating until you are full and stuffed. There is a difference. This is a learned behavior in the brain. So you will have to discipline yourself initially until you have mastered this concept to stop eating when satisfied and no longer hungry.
Do not see how much you can eat, but see how little you can eat.
You need to eat less and you need to eat differently. This is the real reason weight loss surgery works!!
There is a common misconception among many patients that the more adjustments that they have will result in more restriction and that will translate into the more weight they will lose. This is absolutely wrong thinking. The more restriction and tightness you have, the more miserable you will be.
The lap band does not work by making you feel full with less. It works by making you feel satisfied with less.
Do not get an adjustment if you are not going to make good healthy food choices and exercise as much as possible. Having restriction, yet cheating on your food choices, defeats the purpose of the Lap Band operation.
The Lap Band should only be doing 60% of the work. The remaining 40% is your part.
Why don't they give this to you one your first adjustment? I mean this could make a major difference in someones journey. At any rate...I thought I would share. I'm sure many of you already knew this. I'm tardy to the party...but I'm getting it now.
I just think this is a handout that should be given when a bandster comes in for their very first adjustment. Not when a person is almost a year out. Ugh.
Here is what it says.
Definition of "Restriction"
The best way to look at "restriction" is eating your food normally, but just less of it; that is, a smaller size portion. That is all restriction means...a decrease in the size of your meal. So if you are eating large platefuls of protein and vegetables you obviously need more restriction.
You think...well ummm...that is not what I thought restriction was. I thought something totally different. Okay...maybe I'm just a dope...but yeah...I was way off the mark.
Restriction
Your goal is to have the least amount of restriction that enables you to do the rest yourself. You should only eat until satisfied and no longer hungry. This is to be differentiated from eating until you are full and stuffed. There is a difference. This is a learned behavior in the brain. So you will have to discipline yourself initially until you have mastered this concept to stop eating when satisfied and no longer hungry.
Do not see how much you can eat, but see how little you can eat.
You need to eat less and you need to eat differently. This is the real reason weight loss surgery works!!
There is a common misconception among many patients that the more adjustments that they have will result in more restriction and that will translate into the more weight they will lose. This is absolutely wrong thinking. The more restriction and tightness you have, the more miserable you will be.
The lap band does not work by making you feel full with less. It works by making you feel satisfied with less.
Do not get an adjustment if you are not going to make good healthy food choices and exercise as much as possible. Having restriction, yet cheating on your food choices, defeats the purpose of the Lap Band operation.
The Lap Band should only be doing 60% of the work. The remaining 40% is your part.
Why don't they give this to you one your first adjustment? I mean this could make a major difference in someones journey. At any rate...I thought I would share. I'm sure many of you already knew this. I'm tardy to the party...but I'm getting it now.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Product Review from Swag Bag
Our amazing planners for the Chicago Girls Weekend had great products in our Swag Bag. All they asked is that we mention the generous donations on our blogs and FB pages.
So yesterday...all my meals consisted of (I only had 2 yesterday and 2 today)...you guessed it...Swag Bag snacks. Horrible I know. I brought them to work to place in my desk...but I got stuck on a piece of chicken and resorted to snacking. So here is my take on the items I have tried.
Pirate's Booty - This stuff is crack. It is amazingly good. I have ordered some online already. It even comes in a variety of flavors. We had the aged white cheddar cheese flavor. OMG...they melt in your mouth. It's like a little piece of heaven on your tongue.
Jenny Craig's Toffee Cookies - These were delicious. I didn't think I would like them. But they were so gosh darn good. I wanted to go out and buy up a case of the dang things. These snacks are yummy and delicious.
Apex Chocolate Chip Fiber Bar - Umm...it was like a candy bar. I never eat protein bars or fiber bars. This one was so good. I took a bite and I was so surprised by the candy bar texture and immediately tastiness. I didn't feel the need to spit it out. I'm glad I tried it. I plan on ordering some this weekend.
Detour Chocolate Chip Caramel Protein Bar - I was highly disappointed with this selection after tasting the apex fiber bar. It was chalky and the texture was not appealing at all. I had high hopes for this bar. Unfortunately it was disappointing.
There you have it....my opinion about some of the items in the Swag Bag. Yummy stuff. I can't wait to try out the rest. I will though.
So yesterday...all my meals consisted of (I only had 2 yesterday and 2 today)...you guessed it...Swag Bag snacks. Horrible I know. I brought them to work to place in my desk...but I got stuck on a piece of chicken and resorted to snacking. So here is my take on the items I have tried.
Pirate's Booty - This stuff is crack. It is amazingly good. I have ordered some online already. It even comes in a variety of flavors. We had the aged white cheddar cheese flavor. OMG...they melt in your mouth. It's like a little piece of heaven on your tongue.
Jenny Craig's Toffee Cookies - These were delicious. I didn't think I would like them. But they were so gosh darn good. I wanted to go out and buy up a case of the dang things. These snacks are yummy and delicious.
Apex Chocolate Chip Fiber Bar - Umm...it was like a candy bar. I never eat protein bars or fiber bars. This one was so good. I took a bite and I was so surprised by the candy bar texture and immediately tastiness. I didn't feel the need to spit it out. I'm glad I tried it. I plan on ordering some this weekend.
Detour Chocolate Chip Caramel Protein Bar - I was highly disappointed with this selection after tasting the apex fiber bar. It was chalky and the texture was not appealing at all. I had high hopes for this bar. Unfortunately it was disappointing.
There you have it....my opinion about some of the items in the Swag Bag. Yummy stuff. I can't wait to try out the rest. I will though.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Let's Talk about Chicago
Chicago...is a wonderful town. It's even better when it has been over run by 50 plus fabulous women!! Yup...that town will never be the same.
I had the best time of my life. I swear I had more fun than I did when I was in Vegas for my 30th birthday.
Let's start with the Planners...each of the planners worked so hard to make this weekend an overwhelming success. They went above and beyond. We received amazing gift bags with free samples and treats. Everyone wanted to know how they got all of the goodies. I have the answer. They are beautiful, courageous women with hearts of gold and no vendor could tell them no. Thank you Debi, Linda, Joey, Draz, Jenny and Stephanie. Your dedication to this weekend is greatly appreciated.
My weekend started with the beautiful Stephanie and Angie at the airport. OMG. Stephanie Joy looks amazing. I barely recognized her. She is super tiny and had on the hottest outfit at the airport. Angie...why is she the sweetest? LOL...I mean she has the most warm and welcoming smile. I loved her on sight. She looks great. She only has one problem area ( we discussed this in our room.) I diddn't see it though.
We get to our room and who do I see...but the amazing Brandi...and my bed partner for the weekend. You've seen the pictures...we love each other. LOL People...Brandi is beyond beautiful. She is simply gorgeous. She should seriously be modeling somewhere. Her smile is contagious and her hugs are great. I was so glad to meet her in person. We have been texting buddies for awhile.
Brandi and I immediately hit the road to Indiana for some fresh ink. Of course my tattoo guy was late...and then he had to draw up my design. Let me just say...I love it. He is my go to guy. Whenever, I'm close to Indiana or visiting...I try to see him for something new. Crazy but worth it. Brandi received 2 new tattoos while we were there. They are beautiful. She loved them. I'm so glad.
Thursday night resulted in a Drag Show and lots of laughs. I got to meet my friend Fluffy, my hero Angela, and my inspiration, Jessica. These women are freaking beautiful...I can't describe how honored I felt being in their presence. It was like wow...it's possible...I can do this. They helped me so much. I actually tear up thinking of how much they inspired me to be better.
After the drag show there was singing. Angela is on her way to the big times with those pipes. The girl can really sing. Seriously. I'm totally signing her up for one of those reality signing shows.
I met many women. I have so much more to share. Unfortunately, my brain is not working right now. Pictures and more details to come. I hope this post makes sense.
I had the best time of my life. I swear I had more fun than I did when I was in Vegas for my 30th birthday.
Let's start with the Planners...each of the planners worked so hard to make this weekend an overwhelming success. They went above and beyond. We received amazing gift bags with free samples and treats. Everyone wanted to know how they got all of the goodies. I have the answer. They are beautiful, courageous women with hearts of gold and no vendor could tell them no. Thank you Debi, Linda, Joey, Draz, Jenny and Stephanie. Your dedication to this weekend is greatly appreciated.
My weekend started with the beautiful Stephanie and Angie at the airport. OMG. Stephanie Joy looks amazing. I barely recognized her. She is super tiny and had on the hottest outfit at the airport. Angie...why is she the sweetest? LOL...I mean she has the most warm and welcoming smile. I loved her on sight. She looks great. She only has one problem area ( we discussed this in our room.) I diddn't see it though.
We get to our room and who do I see...but the amazing Brandi...and my bed partner for the weekend. You've seen the pictures...we love each other. LOL People...Brandi is beyond beautiful. She is simply gorgeous. She should seriously be modeling somewhere. Her smile is contagious and her hugs are great. I was so glad to meet her in person. We have been texting buddies for awhile.
Brandi and I immediately hit the road to Indiana for some fresh ink. Of course my tattoo guy was late...and then he had to draw up my design. Let me just say...I love it. He is my go to guy. Whenever, I'm close to Indiana or visiting...I try to see him for something new. Crazy but worth it. Brandi received 2 new tattoos while we were there. They are beautiful. She loved them. I'm so glad.
Thursday night resulted in a Drag Show and lots of laughs. I got to meet my friend Fluffy, my hero Angela, and my inspiration, Jessica. These women are freaking beautiful...I can't describe how honored I felt being in their presence. It was like wow...it's possible...I can do this. They helped me so much. I actually tear up thinking of how much they inspired me to be better.
After the drag show there was singing. Angela is on her way to the big times with those pipes. The girl can really sing. Seriously. I'm totally signing her up for one of those reality signing shows.
I met many women. I have so much more to share. Unfortunately, my brain is not working right now. Pictures and more details to come. I hope this post makes sense.
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