How has this BB helped you?

[GayeC]

Well, I was feeling a little down after reading some of the posts from earlier this week. So I started thinking about all of the things that being a part of this BB has done for me - it's quite a list:

1. I'm trying new foods -- Kashi cereals, Boca burgers, and eggplant, to name a few
2. I'm adding more of certain super-healthy foods to my family's diet -- beans and other legumes, in particular
3. I've lost weight, although at the glacial pace of 1 pound per month (at least at that rate I know it's fat and not water!)
4. I'm more aware of the need to do different types of exercises (aerobics, resistance, stretching), although my actual practice has not yet caught up with my level of awareness (i.e. all I do is walk!)

How has the BB helped you? Gaye

[HUNGRY!]

I now eat beans on a regular basis.

I may soon even try tofu http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

My menu is more varied.

I bring my lunch to work on a regular basis, and I actually now enjoy what I bring! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

I think about the food and excercise choices I make now.

I may get fired because I never get any work done!

[Jodi]

I've started meal planning, which is definitely a good thing.

I've gotten into running thanks to the Runners Rambles on the Healthy Living board.

Overall, I'm much more conscious about what I'm eating and why and am more willing to try new things.

Thanks to all!

[KValley]

GayeC- thank you. What a nice way to greet this beautiful Friday.

This question was posed about three months ago: here's the thread for even more smiles: http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/Forum1/HTML/005913.html

I had only just joined the board at the point of this first thread,so wasn't ready to share.

Now, however:

*I have met so many interesting, intelligent people who have challenged me by offering different perspectives

*We rarely eat out anymore- the BB has unleashed in me a passion for cooking and a confidence to try the new

*I now eat beans on a regular basis

*I have run two 5K races since joining this BB. Previously, I abhorred running

*I have discovered some wonderful new books, music

*At this very moment, I am eating a bowl of Kashi GoLean http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[SQ]

I cook more and use a wider array of ingredients.

I get much, much more from each CL magazine, thanks to BB reviews.

I tinker w/recipes thanks to BB advice. Example: Because I don't eat chicken w/cheese I totally ignored the June cover sandwich until someone suggest subbing a portobello for the chicken. What a great find that sandwich is!

Thank you BBers for your continued good advice and suggestions.

[NgocBao]

I'm trying new dishes that I never would have attempted.

1) I know what to expect when preparing a recipe (I print out any threads on recipes that get many reviews and put them in the back of that month's issue. Then, right before I'm about to prepare a recipe, I pull out all reviews for that one recipe. Some of the suggestions make all the difference in the world.)

2) I get to network with a ton of very knowledgeable people.

3) I get to network with a ton of people who enjoy (and create) one of the most beautiful things in life: FOOD!

[BlueMoose]

I have "met" lots of really nice people who are always more than willing to help with any cooking questions I have....share recipes...laugh and be silly with. I can share my excitement with you over things my DH doesn't understand...like getting a KA mixer, or just finding a great new food product or cookbook. I've gotten lots of new recipes which are in a pile in my kitchen waiting to be tried. And I've had a lot of fun!

This is a great thread!
Chrisi http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

By the way, I've always liked beans! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[kwormann]

We have started cooking more at home, leraned new ways to cook beans, tried new things, and made new friends...on the board and in our supper club http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Kim

[Jewel]

Well first of all, you people are costing me money!! I've learned so much about food prep and food storage, as well as drooled over all of your different 'must have' tools! So, I had to go out and buy a KitchenAid Stand Mixer and a FoodSaver! However I must say that I'm crazy about both and can't imagine my life or my kitchen counter without them.

I've discovered Penzeys Spices, Trader Joes, the use of fresh herbs as opposed to dried, and my mind has been opened widely to try new things. DH has even commented that I don't seem to be repeating recipes as much as I used to because I'm always trying new things, and says he has to write me little notes asking for repeat dishes! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/tongue.gif

I guess most of all, I've made some really terrific friends that I know are there for me day and night (sniff), and that if we were to all get together in Vegas (hint! hint!) for a weekend, there wouldn't be any of that awkward shuffling that usually goes on when you meet new people. We're not new, we're friends!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[LaraW]

I have also "met" a lot of really nice people. The people on this BB have a great sense of humor! I always look forward to logging on, and I feel deprived if the board is down!

I have found this BB to be a great resource for cooking questions that I have. I can ask a question without feeling dumb, and hope that I have been able to anwer some questions too.

I am the one of the only "foodies" in our circle of friends, so it is nice to know that there are others out there who share this interest with me.

Thanks for a great thread!

Lara

[This message has been edited by LaraW (edited 06-15-2001).]

[Jessica]

This board inspires me to cook when I am feeling lazy and I have tried recipes just because someone said they were delicious. The tofu chocolate mousse is a recent example--and it was a hit with dinner guests.

I've received tips and suggestions and also realized that I, too, have something to contribute. I knew more than I thought and also less than I thought, if that is possible.

Finally, I've developed a severe jealousy of anyone who has a Trader Joe's in their city.

Thanks everyone, and happy cooking!!

[ebobbitt]

I love this bulletin board because it's taught me so much and made me see there's so much to learn. Everyone is so nice and helpful and some of the stories are so funny.
Elizabeth

[Alisa]

After reading all of the great responses I feel I don't have anything new to add...I just feel that this BB has made my life fuller. I have found a community where I fit and feel comfortable. Friends and family are great of course but it's a wonderful feeling to find a group of people who have gathered together because of their interests.
Cook On!!

[m4star]

I have stopped eating out as much because my homemade food tastes better than restaurants.

I've experimented with many new foods that have quickly become favorites (greens, curry, muffins)

I'm addicted to Kashi GoLean. Has anyone else tried mixing it into hot oatmeal in lieu of nuts? It's fantastic!!

I'm also a much more positive person. Food is a total joy to me now. I love planning menus, cooking, and just sharing food with others. I have a much more enlightened sense of others thanks to all the really great people I've met through this BB!!

Great thread and thanks for everything!

[daner94]

I like to check in and see what everyone has been cooking and experimenting with. Since I live by myself, it is so hard to make dinners like you all do, to feed the family. Looking forward to the day I can some home and cook for my family http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

I love the camaraderie too, and the support is amazing. 'Strangers' from all over the country, answering questions lickety split, offering support. The pregnant Susans thread was such a joy to read, although it is way outside my realm these days.

I consider myself a foodie and you all have opened my eyes about stuff I would never have paid attention to in the past-- Pirate's Booty (just bought my first bag, yum yum!) and I saw Drunken Goat Cheese too-- a huge display at Whole Foods.

And I like the polls too, and the off-topics, and the graphics, and the smilies. I just love it all! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif I wish there was a way to get everyone together to meet just once, I would love to see what everyone looks like, wouldn't you?

[Jewel]

I wish there was a way to get everyone together to meet just once, I would love to see what everyone looks like, wouldn't you?



I keep telling everyone, LAS VEGAS WEEKEND needs to be planned!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif



[This message has been edited by Jewel (edited 06-15-2001).]

[daner94]

Okay Jewel, I hear you loud and clear. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

I nominate you to be the Queen Planner. Got the time and/or inclination to see what kind of deals we can get????

VEGAS 2001!!!!!

Hee hee.
Dana

[KLynn]

What a fantastic thread!

I enjoy each issue of CL so much more. Things I pass over become so appealing after hearing the great reviews. Even if I never actually make the recipes, I find myself so much more open to trying new foods and food combinations...

I have discovered the joys of eating vegetarian (on occasion). A meal used to not be complete for me without meat, but I am finding that there are lots of great veggie recipes out there to enjoy...

I can easily menu plan at work (don't tell my boss). I search for recipes, make my grocery list, and shop on the way home...rather than either guessing what I need, or going home and then going back to the store. This has made life so much easier! And those of you with MasterCook are the best! (Just yesterday, valchemist saved the day...)

Thanks everybody! By the way, I am ready to hear some July reviews...I hope people aren't being hesitant given the BB events this week. I love knowing what to look forward to. Bring 'em on!

[KValley]

The ONLY way I'd go to Vegas is with a bunch of wild and crazy people who would know how to make the most out of over-the-top tackiness and outlandish human behavior.

Can't imagine where I'd ever find people like that http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Southwest Airlines will have great deals for us west-of-the-Mississippi BBers.

How about the New Year!?

[Julia1Pin]

Originally posted by SQ:
I cook more and use a wider array of ingredients.

I get much, much more from each CL magazine, thanks to BB reviews.

I tinker w/recipes thanks to BB advice. Example: Because I don't eat chicken w/cheese I totally ignored the June cover sandwich until someone suggest subbing a portobello for the chicken. What a great find that sandwich is!

Thank you BBers for your continued good advice and suggestions.

SQ - I don't eat meat with dairy either (I'm assuming that's what you meant), but I find it so easy either to leave the dairy out, or substitute the meat. Also, people on the BB, are more than willing to help with substitutions!

[Jewel]

Originally posted by KValley:
The way I'd go to Vegas is with a bunch of wild and crazy people who would know how to make the most out of over-the-top tackiness and outlandish human behavior.

Can't imagine where I'd ever find people like that http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Southwest Airlines will have great deals for us west-of-the-Mississippi BBers.

How about the New Year!?

You found 'em Hun! I've been appointed Vegas Queen, but we're changing that to Vegas Sheriff since Vegas Queen has an entirely different meaning than what we're after here. I've Deputized SandyM to help with the searching and scouting. Look for another thread to begin soon with all the particulars we need to decide! Any sign-ups and questions can be posted there, or directed to Sheriff Jewel or Deputy SandyM http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif



[This message has been edited by Jewel (edited 06-15-2001).]

[BosunsWife]

I find that everyone here is so friendly. Some BB's that I visit are kind of bitchy at times and that is something I don't really need in my life.

I have gotten so much good advice both at Great Foods and at the Healthy Living board.

Although I always try to cook healthy for my family, the reviews here make it a lot easier to try things that I might ordinarily not.

[Lauren]

Last summer I discovered this BB and have to say I have been addicted ever since! The best thing to come out of it for me, is my dinner group. We've been meeting every month since last August and I feel like I have added eight dear friends within the year. Getting together with them is something I always look forward to! Also, I love being encouraged to try new recipes by reading reviews on the board, as well as sharing tips, recipes and support.

[GayeC]

I am overwhelmed by the response to this question! Thanks to everyone who replied -- and I know we would all still love to hear from others. Gaye

[matt]

Well for me this board has helped encourage me to try new things. What is nice there really nice people that make feel that I am a cook and a person. What is funny whenever i have leftovers i save them for my mother who never thought she would see me cook. I am much more confident and most of all i thank everyone for encouraging others. I know how hard it is for some to even boil water, but if we can learn from each other and pass it on. I feel bad I could not make to Birmingham, to see the faces but i know that all of you are in my heart and soul.
Matt

[suziking]

I have been cooking a lot more and trying new recipes! I have also been really excited to cook which is amazing with two young kids I have energy at the end of the day to be excited about anything!

THANK YOU ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[toothmom]

I can't wait to check and see what new threads are brewing everyday. I have been trying so many new and healthy recipes which have been wonderful. It is nice to be inspired by others who enjoy to cook as much as I do. I used to think that I was the only one who would buy recipe book after recipe book and treat them as novels. It is also nice to get helpful cooking advice from others. It has been great so far. I love it.

[smpv]

The bulletin board has really helped me with trying new things. I look at the reviews and decide what I'm going to make for the next couple of weeks.

It also helps me with menu planning.

This is probably the best bulletin board I've visited because of all of the responses you get from everyone.

Pat

[Julia1Pin]

I'm going to Vegas July 20-22nd. Anyone wanna join me?

[This message has been edited by Julia1Pin (edited 06-15-2001).]

[masimmons]

I can't remember exactly when I discovered this BB, but I have become "addicted" to it ever since. I get such better use out of my CL magazine after reading all the reviews. I try things that I would not normally, or at least not rush to cook. I also am trying lots of recipes from past issues. Some things I absolutely love and some I won't make again and that's OK too, at least I tried them. I am on WW and get lots of info on WW points and things to try with low points. (Speaking of which, I finally gave up and ordered a case of Pirate's Booty. It should be here any day now.) I also really like the friendly and helpful atmosphere on the board. Every time I have posted a question, someone, generally many of you, respond with great information and assistance. I am sure there are lots more that I get out of the BB, but these are some of the main things that come to mind. I agree with some of the earlier posts about appreciating the nice friendly atmosphere too. From my experiences on other BB, this isn't always the case. So, thanks to you all!

[Melina]

Recently I read a post from one of the members who was leaving this BB. I knew all that I had gained from being here, so although I don't know her, and didn't know why she wanted to leave, I decided to try to to change her mind. Because this place, to me, is exceptional.

I'm still in awe over the way members so quickly respond to questions. In awe of the trouble they go to for each other; looking things up, going through magazine back issues, typing up recipe after recipe. And giving advice in OT's, or giving a shoulder to lean on. There's always such a willingness to help.

The first thing I learned from a few of the members was good BB manners. Then they went ahead and taught me how to use the BB.

Someone taught me how to highlight to print.
Someone taught me how to open new windows.
Someone taught me how to do tricks in posts.

Many gave new life to my old recipes and many gave new recipes to my life.

I'm disabled and at times, I'm not able to leave my apartment. This BB has put me in a place where I can function. I don't have to worry about moving too slowly for the people around me, or slurring my words. Being here, sometimes contributing and sometimes just reading, has truly broadened my world.

This was the first BB I visited and because of the good experiences I had, I went to check out some of the others. What a difference. I wouldn't go back to some of them if I were carrying a bag of rocks. Sooo scarey.

And talk about scarey; I know that some of you out there are mind readers because I've gotten answers to questions I didn't have the sense to ask.

This place is exceptional because you've made it that way. You are this "place".
Melina





[This message has been edited by Melina (edited 06-16-2001).]

[Grace]

Melina, what a beautiful post. There's nothing more I could possibly say after that. My best friend growing up was named Melina, and she was one of the most beautiful people I have ever known (inside and out). I have always loved that name because it always makes me think of my dear friend. It must be something about that name, that it's only given to truly lovely people. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[Melina]

Thank you Grace. You are the proof of my post and I'm honored to remind you of your friend.
Melina