Weight Watchers~~ 9/10-9/16

[AZJane]

Welcome one and all!
Just getting us started for the week. My computer line is back up! Yahoooo!

I ate and drank a tad crazy yesterday (football game!) and today I am back on track :) I'm drinking my water and have some treadmill time scheduled for later on today. I'm wishing everyone a great week!

[mom2garret]

Hi! I just thought I would jump on in to your WW thread! I just got back from joing this a.m. While the plan has changed slightly from several years ago, I think that I should be able to fair rather well. Looking forward to sharing great weight loss news with you.
Jodi

[AZJane]

Welcome Jodi! Wishing you much success!

Scale is back down to 131 this morning. Yahooo! That weekend bloat has been kicked to the curb :) I'm planning a menu for Saturday game day at our house. Yikes. I'm all over the map with what to serve. Part of me is leaning towards all appetizers and the other is thinking appetizers with a dinner buffet at half time with dessert following. Hmmm..still working on it and my dd is coming for the weekend, always fun but always time crunching. Make ahead is the plan!

I got a great walk in last night and treadmill this morning! Off to do some grocery shopping and to get some motivation for my menu. Make it a great day everyone :cool:

[AZJane]

Morning! Hope everyone is ok cos this thread is pretty quiet this week :)

I'm doing well with my food choices and exercise. We are going to PF Changs for dinner tonight and then to see Van Morisson. Should be a nice evening. I love how PFC now has nutritional info on their online menu. I'll make my choices before leaving the house tonight.

Have a great day! Drink your water and get in some exercise. :cool:

[Terri_A]

I've been quiet because I CAN'T STOP EATING!!!! My mouth has food in it and my mother always said, "Don't talk with your mouth full!!!"

Seriously, I can't stop eating. I think this is a pattern with me. I lost 1.5 last week - and every time I lose a little, I go crazy! What is my problem. I want to lose weight by I seem to constantly sabotage myself. I think I need an intervention!!!

Anyone here a shrink that can fix me? ;)

[AZJane]

Terri, if you find the answer please let me know :D I do the same thing every time I hit a new low weight. It is like I have to challenge my body to see just how much I can get away with. I did that nearly every week when I was in losing mode. Luckily I could reel myself in for a few days before each weighin and drop the weight along with a little more. I guess I'm an 'on plan half the time kinda gal??' I know this will make you roll your eyes but can you munch on veggies when you're just munching to munch? :p :rolleyes: :p I do that sometimes, sometimes not. Sometimes I just want the junk for no other reason because I can. Food sure is powerful! Makes me mad :mad:

[mom2garret]

Afternoon! AZJane, congrats on being 131 again! Your VanMorrison concert sounds awesome. Have Fun.

Terri: I so wish I had the answer for you. I guess it is the cycle of life. :rolleyes: The only suggestion I have is to eat what you want but try and point it out and try to keep your portions in control. Of course, this comes from someone that dipped into a bag of b-bcue chips and put one in her mouth then spit it in the trash. I pointed them out and decided 13 lousy chips were not worth 4 points today! Tomorrow, it may be another story :D

I am only on day 2 but doing well. I find that I spend way too much time thinking about food when I am on WW. I have been trying to find different webites and recipes with low points. I will have to play catch up with chores before DH gets home.

My only problem so far is trying to get the 2 servings of healthy oil in. For lunch I made a big salad but used salsa (0 pts.) for the dressing. Yesterday, I made a quick vinegrette and got it in that way. How do you get your oil in other than dressings?

Have a good afternoon.
Jodi

[mommycook]

I weighed in yesterday and lost 2.1 pounds last week, bringing my total to 17.2 pounds.

I was expecting some loss, but not that much! I did pretty well last week and am keeping it up this week.

Terri....I do the SAME THING!!! I loose a little and then go crazy like I have a free pass to eat everything within reach!!! I needed chocolate chips for a recipe my DD was making and last night I ate the rest of the bag!!!!!! I am so mad at myself because I could have easily measured and counted a portion and savored them one chip at a time but instead I poured them into my mouth like there was no tomorrow!!!!! When I bought the chips I was thinking that I could buy the Safeway brand and not be (as) tempted or buy the really dark Ghiradeli chips and go for quality. Dang it, I should have gone for the Safeway brand!!!

Total points for my splurge: 18 points !!!!!!! :eek: :mad: :mad:

[mom2garret]

That was a great weight loss! Today is another day, I do not think you totally wrecked yourself. Add some extra water some cardio in and you will be fine!

I can't decide if I want to weigh in on Mon or Tues. Mon I currently do not work out but I want to add an extra day of cardio in to program. Tues, I would like the meeting leader better, but I do kickboxing before WI so I wouldn't get my true weight.

Happy day to all.

Jodi

[MNGirlTX]

I have my WI tonight. I'm feeling pretty good about it even though I've only run 2 days this week. Bad, Lori!

I picked recipes from the ww website for this week and I'm happy to say that the 2 I've made turned out to be really good...Morrocan spiced pork chops with apricot couscous and a chinese dish...chicken with pineapple and black bean sauce over brown rice.

Good job on the losses!

Lori

[Terri_A]

Lori - Thanks for sharing that those 2 recipes were good...I'm always hesitant to try WW recipes for some reason!!!

Jodi - Even if you wouldn't get your "true" weight after a workout, as long as you consistantly WI after a workout you should get your "true" weightloss - know what I mean? But I also understand your dilemma tremendously!

Mommycook - I'm sorry to hear we were on the same wavelength yesterday, BUT today's a new day, and I dont' know about you, but I'm determined to not let yesterday derail me!!! And Congrats on a GREAT loss!


So....I'm adding some extra water today. Today is also Grocery day for this week ( not our usual, but it's when I can get it in!!!) So, at lunch today I'll be planning a menu ( which I don't usually do ) to see if that helps me avoid some pitfalls. I've vowed to be down 30 pounds by Christmas and so far I'm only 1.5 pounds along....but I KNOW that I'm capable of it!

I hope everyone has a great day!

[MNGirlTX]

Lori - Thanks for sharing that those 2 recipes were good...I'm always hesitant to try WW recipes for some reason!!!

I've vowed to be down 30 pounds by Christmas and so far I'm only 1.5 pounds along....but I KNOW that I'm capable of it!


I know sometimes the ww recipes are kind of bland...don't you think? That's why I like to share those that do taste good!

My goal is to weigh 140 by Christmas - which is 23 pounds for me. Good luck to both of us!

Lori

[jmccune]

Hi I would also like to join your board. I'm starting back on WW after having my 2nd child and had great success the first time around. This will be my 2nd week on it and I changed my WI day from Tues to Thurs so I'll be weighing in tonight. I think that I've lost 2 lbs (from the scale at the gym) so wish me luck.

I know what you guys mean about eating out of control after your weight loss. I don't know what the deal is but I feel like eating more and I just had lunch.

Well great job in all of your losses and keep up the good work.

Jen

[Terri_A]

Welcome Jen and good luck on your WI tonight!

Lori - Yes, I think the WW recipes are usually bland. The times I have made them I end up really adding a lot of flavors to the original recipe or just not being able to doctor it enough to make it something I'd like. I might spend some time on their site today and see what other things sound like they might be alright. Ill keep you posted on if there's anything that looks good.

[SusanPC]

There is a basic pasta recipe (bowties or penne I can't remember) with peas, asparagus and morel mushrooms that I made once that is awesome. I made it with whole wheat pasta and it tasted great. I can't remember which cookbook I got it from but I can look when at home. I would highly recommend it. It may even be on their website...not sure.

I even ate the leftovers the next night and I HATE leftovers.

I am proud of myself...I just went down to the kitchen to get a slice of bday cake for a coworker's bday. I looked at it, picked up a water instead and walked out of the kitchen. Yah!!!!!

Good luck to all with weigh ins tonight. I will post after mine with the trainer on Sunday.

I just found out my cholesteral is 225. The last time I checked it was 175. More reiteration that these lbs have to go!

[greysangel]

Lori - Yes, I think the WW recipes are usually bland.

Delurking to say that if you get your hands on a "take out tonight" book, grab it. Great recipes and not bland IMO.

[mom2garret]

Is that an older cookbook that WW doesn't sell anymore? I looked at my mtg. on Mon because I heard about it from this board but it doesn't seem like they have it anymore. I need to ask this week.
Jodi

[applecrisp]

Mom2garret,

I so agree with greysangel, Take out Tonight is a great book. You should be able to find the book at a bookstore (or online).

(greysangel - got to mention, always like reading your posts about weightloss etc -- think you're a great writer and the posts give great encouragement or things to think about. Great job with your weightloss! A big woo, hoo!)

[Goin' Coastal]

Terri or Lori -

Where can I find the two recipes under discussion? I'm sure they are posted on the board somewhere - maybe one of you can guide me to them.

Jodi -

Did you find any websites with recipes for low point recipes? If so, can you share? I see in the Weight Watcher site you have to pay a monthly fee to access the recipes. I was hoping once you were a member of WW you would have access to the entire website.

What do you all have for breakfast? I am especially in need of things to have on the run. If I am at home in the morning, no problem.....but I struggle with what to grab when I go to work in the morning. I don't like to eat real early - I prefer to have some breakfast after I've been at work an hour or so. I did make the Banana Oat breakfast cookies posted on another thread and found them good. They were 4 points apiece.

I, too, would like to lose 30 pounds by Christmas, but I was thinking that might be unrealistic. I'm new to WW (this is my 1st week) - so I hope I am wrong and it is doable. That is more than 2 pounds a week so I don't know. It's a goal though!

[Terri_A]

Okay....I'll have to find the WW recipes, but perhaps Lori has them handy already.

As for breakfast on the go...my latest is drive-thru McDonald's and get a dry english muffin - 3 pts and a Fruit 'n Yogurt Parfait with granola - 3 points. I don't know how many points you usually use at breakfast, but that will get me to lunch usually without needing a snack. A yogurt smoothie, like the sell by the yogurt at the grocery store is easy too, and they're only 1 point!!!

As for 3- pounds by Christmas...if you were starting right now, that would be 2 pounds a week ( if you made it end of year instead of Christmas ), but I have already started...hehehe...but I"ve only lost 1.5. I have high hopes for tomorrow despite my endless eating yesterday. I think it's a stretch goal, but it is doable. I'm going by the old "shoot for the moon and if you fail you'll land on a star" mentality. If I come up a few pounds short I will have still lost a good bit of weight. I have a LOT of weight to lose - total of 86 pounds, so it's going to be a long process. Breaking it up helps and constantly reassessing helps.

Good luck!

[Terri_A]

Moroccan-Spiced Pork Chops with Apricot Couscous


POINTS® Value | 10
Servings | 4
Preparation Time | 12 min
Cooking Time | 10 min
Level of Difficulty | Easy

main meals | You can have this well-seasoned, exotic meal on the table in minutes: Just make sure the pork is cut 3/4 inch thick for quick and even cooking.


Ingredients


1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 pound lean pork loin, four 4 oz boneless chops, 3/4-inch-thick each
2 tsp olive oil
10 oz uncooked couscous
2 cup fat-free chicken broth
8 1/2 oz canned water-pack apricot halves, unpeeled, chopped (or 8 fresh apricot halves)
1 Tbsp cilantro, fresh, chopped


Instructions


In a resealable plastic bag, combine cinnamon, cumin and coriander. Add pork to bag, seal and shake until well-coated; allow to marinate 20 minutes. (Note: You may use a medium glass bowl instead, if desired.)


Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook pork, turning once, until cooked through and an internal temperature of 160ºF is reached, about 8 minutes.


Meanwhile, prepare couscous according to package directions using broth instead of water. Fold apricots and cilantro into cooked couscous and mix to combine. Serve pork over couscous. Yields 1 pork chop and about 1 1/4 cups of couscous per serving.

__________________________________________________ ______________


Chinese Pineapple Chicken with Black Bean Sauce


Was POINTS® value of | 9
Now POINTS® value of | 7
Servings | 4
Preparation Time | 15 min
Cooking Time | 13 min
Level of Difficulty | Easy

main meals | Forget take-out: This sweet and savory chicken recipe is delicious and a breeze to make. The tangy black bean sauce is perfect over brown rice.

Ingredients

1 sprays cooking spray
4 medium scallion(s), chopped (green and white parts)
1 Tbsp ginger root, fresh, chopped
2 medium garlic clove(s), minced
1 pound uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
20 oz canned pineapple, packed in juice, use tidbits
1/4 cup black bean sauce
2 cup cooked brown rice, kept warm (regular or instant)


Instructions


Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray and set pan over medium-high heat. Add scallions, ginger and garlic; cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides, stirring often, about 5 minutes.


Add pineapple (with its juice) and black bean sauce to skillet; bring to a simmer. Simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes more.


Divide rice among 4 shallow bowls and spoon chicken mixture over top. Yields about 1 cup of chicken and 1/2 cup of rice per serving.

Chef Tips

We renovated Chinese Pineapple Chicken with Black Bean Sauce by:

Sautéing the vegetables and chicken in cooking spray instead of oil.


Simmering the chicken with canned fruit (packed in its own juice) and black bean sauce instead of oil.

[Goin' Coastal]

Thanks Terri - that was quick! A question about the second recipe - I am not familiar with black bean sauce. Is that something found in the Asian section with the soy sauces?

[MNGirlTX]

Thanks, Terri, for posting the recipes!

Yes, the black bean sauce should be in the Asian section of your grocery. It's a thick sauce...so it would probably be by the hoisin sauce. Also, I had a hard time finding apricots packed in water, so I got apricots in light syrup and drained and rinsed them.

I lost 1.6 pounds this week! Yay, me!

As for goal setting - I think it's really important. And, it's really important that the goal's are attainable. Two pounds a week is doable . However, if you're like me, you're going to have some weeks that you stay the same...or, heaven forbid!...gain. I really try to break my goal's up into 10 pound increments. Like, I get really excited about getting into the next decade down. I've got to lose 1.8 pounds to FINALLY be back down in the 150s. I'm hoping to do that by the end of the month. My next goal after that is to hit 155.

I also think it's important not to sabotage yourself if you don't make that goal. If I don't lose 23 pounds by Christmas will I be disappointed? Of course. BUT, if I decide to just throw all my hard work out the window, I'll have even MORE weight to lose and that would be a real bummer.

I reward myself. When I hit 155 I'm having a loose gemstone that I got in the Caribbean mounted into a pendant. If I can make 159 by the end of the month, I'll have to come up with something good because I'll be on vacation in Vegas and Arizona.

My usual rewards are small things - I won't go to a movie at the theatre until I lose x pounds. I bought myself a new purse when I lost 30 pounds.

ANYHOW, that's more info than anyone asked for....

Since I'm on core, I eat ff cottage cheese with fruit every morning for breakfast. I take it to work with me and eat it at my desk. The only day I don't is Saturday, because I run with my running group. Then, I eat a bagel and p-nut butter before my run...and a yummy decadent breakfast...usually eggs and bacon with some kind of bread...after my run.

Hope everyone is having a good night.

Lori

[greysangel]

grrr...I just had this whole long post and I lost it :mad:

1) Glad to see this thread. MIWTB died out at the end of the summer, but I know there are folks still trying to maintain or to lose so it's good to have a thread going :D

2)Not a fan of time related weight loss goals...too easy to get discouraged and derailed. 2lbs every week for 3 months is NOT realistic IMO. I have averaged around 4-6 lbs a month since January and I have a lot more to lose than most of you :D

3) Take out tonight may be available at WW centers, though they tend to pull the old published books down once new ones come out. This was published in 2002...best bet is to check out ebay. A lot of recipes have been posted on these boards though so you may find the ones you want to try. Here are some that I really have enjoyed:

Whole wheat cranberry scones - 3pts per serving
Roast beef sandwiches with caramelized onions - 6pts p.s.
Pan steamed veg dumplings with dipping sauce - 2 pts p.s.
Kung Pao Shrimp (add more veg) - 4 pts
Chinese BBQ pork - 3 pts
Sweet and Sour pork - 6 pts
Spicy Orange Beef with Veg (add more veg) 5pt
Baked Orzo with fragrant Lamb - 6 pts
Greek meat balls - 6 pts
Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken - 6 pts
Chipotle Chicken and Rice 6pts
Red Roasted Chicken 4pts
Skinny Chimichangas 4 pts
Thai noodles with chicken and veg 4pts
Roasted Chicken with Coconut Lime Glaze 6 pts
Spicy Lamb with Jasmine Basil Rice 7pts
Saag Aloo 4pts
Dal with Spiced Tomatoes and Potatoes 5pts

Lots of good stuff! The only section I didn't like was the Italian. And with the exception of the few I listed, I think CL does better with the Mexican stuff.

p.s. Another good resource is Dottie's Weight Loss Zone. Lots of restaurant point values and recipes in the community/msg board section. Dottie has also been at this a long time. I think she's gone up since her all time low, but she's plugging away.

http://www.dwlz.com

[mom2garret]

Greysangel: Thank you for directing me the book and outlining some great sounding recipes.

GoinCoastal: Unfortunately, even though I used to be a member, I have to pay to access all the recipes too. It irks me because we actually are paying customers if you think about it. As far as low point breakfasts on the go, I have not come up with anything great quite yet. This a.m. I was in a hurry so I grabbed an apple 1pt. and a pre-packaged piece of cabot sharp chedder cheese for 2 pts. It held me over during yoga then I had a 1pt. WW yogurt drink. I am not a huge breakfast eater so I am happy that I am getting my metabolism going 1st thing.

Jodi

[Terri_A]

Amazon.com has WW Takeout Tonight if you can't find it at your meeting!
$10.85 + shipping costs
Weight Watchers Take Out Tonight (http://www.amazon.com/Weight-Watchers-Take-Out-Tonight-Restaurant/dp/0743245946/sr=8-1/qid=1158409102/ref=pd_bbs_1/102-6034264-6548930?ie=UTF8&s=books)

As for me and my WI....my ticker says it all...down another 1.5!!!


http://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/d/3;13;67;0;0/c/-3/t/-86/k/b5bb/weight.png
(http://www.TickerFactory.com/)

Now I have a tough weekend to get through...birthday party at the zoo ( not a lot of healthy selections there! ), DD's soccer game this afternoon, taking dinner to sick boss tonight ( will probably get her sushi of some sort ), and tomorrow we'll be at Minute Maid Park for the baseball game ( I'm thinking a hot dog is always my best bet there, although I LOVE their nachos!!!)

I hope you guys have a great weekend!

[mom2garret]

Terri:

Thanks for the link. I am going to go there. As far as your weeked :eek:
Lots of fun that comes with lots of temptations. You can do it. Maybe for the zoo and ballpark, take along a backpack and bring some choices that are good for you (you know fillers, vegggies, fruit, that way you can munch and perhaps still have a splurge with your pts.). Go really low point in the a.m. and I guess if your points are used at the functions, you can fall back on 0 pt dinner - veggie soup and salad with some rice vinegar splashed on it.
So far our weekend is consisting of taking DS to et all his hockey gear and tomorrow he has evaluation for his team. <snort> Evaluations for a 7 yr old! But, this is the sport he has decided to stick with so I shall nuture it!
Have a great weekend.
Jodi

[mom2garret]

Terri:
I loved your ticker and I went and made a short term goal one for halloween. After I weigh in this week, how do I change the ticker (or do I have to make a new one everytime? Sorry to bombard you with all these questions, I just find that all and any little fun gadgets keep me in check!
Jodi

[Goin' Coastal]

I found a "back door" into the WW web site! We went out to eat at Champps Rest. last night and I googled "nutrtitional info Champps" and the following showed up. I clicked on it and it led me to the WW BB. From there you can access other areas of the site! I hope copying and pasting this works........

Bootcamp Buddies - Weight Watchers Support Forum - Help...staring ...It is from Champps Restaurant and Bar and they offer a lunch-sized, ... Someday they'll list all the nutritional info huh!! __________________ Height 5'10 ...
www.healthdiscovery.net/forums/showthread.php?t=65237 - 85k - Cached - Similar pages

By the way, we were eating late so I didn't want to have too much, and besides I have been doing really well all week. (still in the honeymoon phase! :D ) DH wanted wings, which I am not a big fan of anyways; so he had the wings appetizer and we decided to split the parmesan crusted chicken. It was 3 chicken breast pieces served with pasta, but we subbed steamed broccoli for the pasta. I ate 1 chicken piece and some brocolli, and so did my DH. We brought home the other piece of chicken and the rest of the broccoli which I am going to have for dinner tonight. It was also served with some marinara. Any one have any ideas on how many points this might be? I was thinking maybe 8?

[mommycook]

Unfortunately, even though I used to be a member, I have to pay to access all the recipes too.
Jodi

I think someone may have already mentioned this......When I get my WW mazagines (or any new cookbook or magazine for that matter) I get out my points ruler and write the points for each recipe right next to it. CL has soooo many low point recipes and most of the recipes posted on the board are low point too. WW recipes are good, but CL recipes seem to have more flare and flavor that make it seem like you are getting away with eating more points than you actually are. :D

[Terri_A]

Terri:
I loved your ticker and I went and made a short term goal one for halloween. After I weigh in this week, how do I change the ticker (or do I have to make a new one everytime? Sorry to bombard you with all these questions, I just find that all and any little fun gadgets keep me in check!
Jodi

Jodi - I marked the link to the tickerfactory website as a favorite and seems everytime I go back there it takes me right to the place that you put the numbers in, so it's pretty simple. I hope that helps!

Just as an FYI - the zoo was a bust. DD had a huge fit, kicked me and we left the birthday party ( with her crying the whole way ) before they served pizza and cake! I suppose although I hated her tantrum, it saved me from eating some bad stuff!!! So, I just had a banana, yogurt and string cheese instead.

[SusanPC]

Good afternoon everyone, this will be quick as I am off to a hair appt. in a few. I met with my trainer this AM and although I have only seemed to actually lose 1 lb of scale weight in 6 weeks, according to him, I am seeing good results in terms of inches. In six weeks I have seen the following reduction:

Neck- 2 inches
Chest- 3 inches
Waist- 3.5 inches
Hips- 3.5 inches
Thighs 6.5 inches!!!!

They forgot to measure my biceps and forarms at the beginning but there hasn't been a change in them in 3 weeks.

Trainer wasn't worried about the lack of scale weight due to the inches and tone but he did reiterate that I need to watch the food. Yup.....I know I have to be better.

The only troubling thing was that my body fat increased overall...despite a decrease at week three. So, I am supposed to go back tomorrow to have it re-measured. I hope it was just a factor of the massive quantities of water I drank this AM between the cardio and then an hour of wieght training.

In all, I am feeling great. Although, I feel like my legs are where I want them to be, the upper body is about there and everything else has pushed into my belly. Seriously, I think I have 30-40 lbs sitting in my belly. I know it has to be diet!

My DH and I leave for a 5 day conference (well he has a conference and I am doing spouse activities) in FLA late next week and when I get back I plan to bite the bullet and join a WW meeting. My immediate goal is to lose 20 lbs of scale weight by the end of November when we head to Australia to visit his family. Then I will have 15 lbs to go until I am happy with where I am. I think that will put me in a 6/8 and anything above that will be gravy for me.

Hope everyone is having a good weekend. I enjoy reading about everyone's progress. Keep at it!


http://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/d/3;53;104;0;0/c/-1/t/-34/k/6099/weight.png
(http://www.TickerFactory.com/)

[Terri_A]

Susan - congrats on all those inches gone!!!! That is fantastic!!!

[MNGirlTX]

Susan - That's great!

[mommycook]

Susan, your inches lost list is amazing!!!! Good work on those thighs!!! :D

[Tangerine]

I was wondering if anyone is doing points at the 18-21 range?

I'd love some low-point recipe ideas. I've copied the chicken with Asian sauce and brown rice and pineapple recipe, which I think could become a real keeper in my kitchen, all the way around, and only 7 points.

Have a nice Sunday (it's in the glorious 80's here today!)

Tangerine

[Terri_A]

Tangerine,

I don't know what your definition of low-point is ( to me it's under 6 /serving ), so here are some....but also this might be one place that WW magazine or website would help. You can always "up season" their recipes that seem a bit bland.


* Exported from MasterCook *

Black Bean, Corn, and Shrimp Salad

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp -- peeled and deveined
Cooking spray
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice -- divided
1 1/2 cups corn -- frozen, thawed
3/4 cup salsa
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 can black beans, canned -- (15-ounce) rinsed and drained

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

Combine first 3 ingredients in a large bowl. Add shrimp; toss to coat.

Coat pan with cooking spray. Add shrimp; sauté 3 minutes or until done. Add 1 tablespoon lime juice. Remove shrimp from pan. Add corn to pan; sauté 1 minute. Stir in salsa, cilantro, and beans; cook 30 seconds or until thoroughly heated. Stir in 1 tablespoon lime juice. Serve shrimp over bean mixture.

5 points per serving

Source:
"Michele Powers Cooking Light, JULY 2005"

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 281 Calories; 4g Fat (13.6% calories from fat); 39g Protein; 22g Carbohydrate; 5g Dietary Fiber; 259mg Cholesterol; 848mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 Grain(Starch); 5 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 0 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.



* Exported from MasterCook *

Chicken Poblano Casserole

Recipe By :
Serving Size : 12 Preparation Time :0:00
Categories :

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3 poblano peppers
1 large red bell pepper
3 ears corn -- shucked
1/3 cup flour, all-purpose
1 teaspoon salt -- divided
1/4 teaspoon black pepper -- halved
3 1/2 cups milk, 1% lowfat
3 cups reduced fat cheddar cheese -- Mexican blend, shredded
1/3 cup red onion -- chopped
1/3 cup cilantro -- chopped
2 large eggs -- lightly beaten
1 carton ricotta cheese, part skim milk -- (15-ounce)
Cooking spray
18 corn tortillas -- (6-inch)
3 3/4 cups chopped cooked chicken breast
1 cup thinly sliced green onions -- divided

Preheat broiler.

Cut poblanos and bell pepper in half lengthwise; discard seeds and membranes. Place poblanos and bell pepper, skin sides up, on a foil-lined baking sheet; flatten with hand. Place corn on baking sheet. Broil 10 minutes or until poblanos and bell pepper are blackened and corn is lightly browned. Place poblanos and bell pepper in a zip-top plastic bag; seal. Let stand 10 minutes. Peel and coarsely chop; set poblanos and bell pepper aside separately. Remove corn kernels from cobs.

Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Place flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper in a large saucepan. Gradually add milk, stirring with a whisk. Cook over medium heat until slightly thick (about 12 minutes), stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Combine 1 cup milk mixture and poblanos in a blender; process until smooth. Stir pureed poblano mixture into remaining milk mixture.

Preheat oven to 350°.

Combine bell pepper, corn, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup Mexican cheese, red onion, cilantro, eggs, and ricotta.

Coat bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/2 cup sauce in bottom of dish. Arrange 6 tortillas over sauce, overlapping slightly. Spread half of ricotta mixture over tortillas; top with half of chicken. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup green onions and 2/3 cup Mexican cheese. Pour about 1 cup sauce over cheese. Repeat layers with 6 tortillas, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining chicken, 1/3 cup green onions, 2/3 cup Mexican cheese, 1 cup sauce, and 6 tortillas. Pour remaining sauce over tortillas. Coat 1 side of foil with cooking spray. Place foil, coated side down, over casserole. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Uncover; sprinkle with remaining 2/3 cup Mexican cheese and 1/3 cup green onions. Bake, uncovered, 15 minutes or until cheese melts. Let stand 15 minutes.

6 points per serving

Description:
"Not only is this casserole a good source of niacin (mainly from the chicken), but one serving also supplies about 60 percent of your daily calcium needs. Fresh corn and corn tortillas offer an ample amount of folate, too."
Source:
"Maureen Callahan Cooking Light, SEPTEMBER 2006"
Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 322 Calories; 8g Fat (22.4% calories from fat); 30g Protein; 33g Carbohydrate; 3g Dietary Fiber; 88mg Cholesterol; 524mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain(Starch); 3 1/2 Lean Meat; 1/2 Vegetable; 1/2 Non-Fat Milk; 1/2 Fat.





POINT - 5 per serving

[JRM24]

I was wondering if anyone is doing points at the 18-21 range?

Hi All - I just joined WW last week and had my first WI on Saturday. I was perfect all week and lost 7.4 lbs. Boy was I surprised! I could not believe it. I have about 25 lbs to lose until I hit my goal. Although, I have not been that weight since HS so I am not sure if I will make it. But I am enjoying reading your experiences on the board.

I have a few favorites low point recipes -
CL Mini Ham and Cheese Frittattas - You can make this recipe in the mini muffin tin or bake it in a round pie pan. I typically opt for the pie pan and that way it seems like a crustless quiche. If you spilt the recipe 4 ways - each piece is 3 points. Plus, you can reheat the frittatta for breakfast the next month as well!

WW Chicken Marsala - I got this recipe from the website and it was really good. I too was surprised. It is only 4 points for a serving. It only calls for 1 cup mushrooms, but I made a whole container. I will definitely make this again.

My own concoction - Pita Pizzas - I use whole wheat pitas (2 points), some sauce - about 3 tbsps, and 1/4 cup italian part skim cheese (1 point). Toast the pita in the toaster oven, then add sauce and cheese and melt the cheese. I am so addicted to these that even my DH has been making them!

Please share any other low point recipes too. I am going to try making gazpacho this week - hopefully that is lower in calories.

Good luck this week!
Jen

[mom2garret]

Jen: That is awesome. Congrats on a great weight loss. What site did you get the marsala off of? This on or the actual WW site? Keep up the good work.
Jodi

[MNGirlTX]

Jen - Wow! That's great!!

So, I have to figure out a way to eat dinner on Sundays, now. I'm bowling at 6 p.m., which means I have to leave the house between 5:15 and 5:30. Just a little bit early for me to eat. I usually eat about 6 or so. Tonight I had popcorn at 5 and oatmeal at 9 p.m. when I got home.

Let's have a good week, ladies!

Lori

[suebear37]

Jen mentioned that she wants to make gazpacho this week, so I wanted to share a WW recipe that I've had stowed away for a few years... haven't made it lately, but as I remember, it's really good! I just checked the WW website & it's not listed there. Everything there is a 1 point recipe. This one is zero points, or as I like to say, " it's pointless"!!! :)

Spicy Gazpacho (makes 6 servings)

1 cucumber, peeled, seeded & chunked
1 green bell pepper, seeded & chunked
2 celery stalks, chunked
1 white onion, chunked
1 garlic clove, peeled
1-1/4 cups low sodium vegetable juice
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp hot red pepper sauce
1/2 tsp salt (I don't think I ever added it, but I'm including it for the info)
1 plum tomato, seeded & chopped

In a food processor, combine the cucumber, pepper, celery, onion & garlic; pulse 8-10 times to break up. Add the vegetable juice, vinegar, hot pepper sauce & salt; process to a fine dice.
Transfer to a container with a tight-fitting lid & refrigerate at least 2 hours.
Serve, sprinkled with the chopped tomato.

This came from Fergie's WW book, "Dieting With the Duchess". It came out in 1999... ooh, I guess I have had this recipe for a long time!!!

[mom2garret]

Okay, thought I would share! I went to WI today and I was down 1.6 pounds. For the first week I really wanted more but I guess I will be happy just losing and not gaining. I went thru and figured where I could tighten the flex points so we shall see next week.
Jodi

[greysangel]

my w.i. is monday too. I stayed the same this week...not a surprise with TOM on the way :rolleyes: :D

[mom2garret]

Staying the same is better than gaining! I "celebrated" by going to Applebees with DH. Didn't do anything out of the ordinary. Had a 7 pt. lunch but usually I wouldn't spend 7 pts. on a lunch meal. I skip breakfast before WI so it all came out the same! I had the chicken baja sandwich. It was good.
Jodi

[SusanPC]

Congrats to everyone that lost or stayed the same last week. You ladies sure do motivate me.

I already posted my results and am looking forward to posting better weight results as I get more serious about the "diet" portion of this whole thing when I am back from my mini vacation.

I haven't been good today, had a broccoli/cheddar soup for lunch. I was in a bad mood/sad this AM and went right for comfort food at lunch. I have got to stop thinking of food that way.

As a saving grace, I did manage to meet with my trainer at 6am this morning. So, at least I won't let my bad day derail my exercise efforts today!

Oh well, tomorrow is another day!

[cookieee]

Moroccan-Spiced Pork Chops with Apricot Couscous


POINTS® Value | 10
Servings | 4
Preparation Time | 12 min
Cooking Time | 10 min
Level of Difficulty | Easy

main meals | You can have this well-seasoned, exotic meal on the table in minutes: Just make sure the pork is cut 3/4 inch thick for quick and even cooking.


Ingredients


1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 pound lean pork loin, four 4 oz boneless chops, 3/4-inch-thick each
2 tsp olive oil
10 oz uncooked couscous
2 cup fat-free chicken broth
8 1/2 oz canned water-pack apricot halves, unpeeled, chopped (or 8 fresh apricot halves)
1 Tbsp cilantro, fresh, chopped

Instructions
In a resealable plastic bag, combine cinnamon, cumin and coriander. Add pork to bag, seal and shake until well-coated; allow to marinate 20 minutes. (Note: You may use a medium glass bowl instead, if desired.)

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; cook pork, turning once, until cooked through and an internal temperature of 160ºF is reached, about 8 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare couscous according to package directions using broth instead of water. Fold apricots and cilantro into cooked couscous and mix to combine. Serve pork over couscous. Yields 1 pork chop and about 1 1/4 cups of couscous per serving.


Terri, DH and I would like to thank you for a VERY DELICIOUS dinner. I cooked this tonight and we really loved it. All through dinner DH kept saying, "this is WW? ;) I went crazy over the couscous. I love couscous and never had it this way. I made it with home made chicken stock. No fat, no sodium. Thank you again. The chicken recipe is next. ;)

[MelissaAS]

Hi folks- would love to jump onto this bandwagon. Short version: have been on WW since early April, lost 11# by early July then gained 4# back over a slacker summer (but the ice cream and hot dogs were yummy!). Started back right after Labor Day (and my too-long birthday celebration) and was down .4 the first week with a half-hearted effort. Am now totally on the bandwagon and using the online tracker for the first time, since it's now included in the monthly pass. I like it so far, btw!

So, when I weighed in after my first week "back" they said, "How's it going?" and I said, "It would be better if I could stop eating." And that's the truth. Sometimes I get on a roll of obsessing over food and I just can't stop thinking about the next thing I'm going to eat and eating. Anyway, this week the beast feels tamed for the moment (have been OP so far), but it scares me, to be honest. Thoughts? Didn't mean to be so heavy from the get-go, just sharing where I am.

Anyway, I wish all of you a healthy journey and am happy to be here!
Thanks, Melissa

[JRM24]

Thanks!

The Spicy Gazpacho looks great! I am going to try and make it this weekend. So far so good this week. Yesterday was a little tough - I did not make the best decisions. I had a ceasar salad for luynch with the best bread - which I am estimating at 15 points! So by dinner time I went about 10 points over yesterday. The rest of the week I will be on a business trip - so I have to make sure I make good decisions.

Does anyone have suggestions for eating while traveling? I will try to order grilled chicken, low cal dressing on the side, drink a ton of water,....anything else?

THe one thing that I can count on is exercising while traveling. I always try to pick a hotel that has a gym in it. That way at night instead of lying around and watching tv, I can go to the gym and watch tv. Typically no one else is ever int he gym - and I work out around 8 or 9 when the good shows start!

Hope everyone else is doing well so far!

[JRM24]

So, when I weighed in after my first week "back" they said, "How's it going?" and I said, "It would be better if I could stop eating." And that's the truth. Sometimes I get on a roll of obsessing over food and I just can't stop thinking about the next thing I'm going to eat and eating. Anyway, this week the beast feels tamed for the moment (have been OP so far), but it scares me, to be honest. Thoughts? Didn't mean to be so heavy from the get-go, just sharing where I am.



I know what you mean - I always think about food. But I have tried to convince myself that I would rather be thinner then eat xx. I have been drinking a lot of water too. I try to plan my meals for the week that way I know what I will be eating and when I can expect it. My saving grace is grapes - really cold, crispy ones - and the one point WW ice pops!

Good luck and keep up your efforts!

[Goin' Coastal]

I had my first weigh-in this morning and was down 4.2 lbs! I was pleased. I was very careful with my points -- ate the points for each day, but just used 8 of the the extra 35 points. I also walked 45 -50 minutes 5 of the 7 days. I am hoping to keep the momentum going! I certainly don't expect to lose that much every week. This weekend will be a challenge as we are having out of town guests in for the weekend and are going to the OSU - Penn St game with tailgating beforehand. (And of course the victory party afterwards :D )
So we'll see........my goal is to lose at least 1 pound.

[jmccune]

Goin' Coastal are you a OSU fan or a PSU fan. The good thing about watching the the game on the West Coast is that there is no tailgating. I'm rooting for the Buckeyes!

Well I switched my WI days to Thurs from Tues closer to my house. So last Thur I was down 2.2lbs. I'm trying to be good and having those extra 10 pts for nursing has been helping me cause I've been over since I started. I also try to get some in anywhere from 3-5 activity pts 3-5 times a week. I'm hoping that this week will be a loss also. I think I'm on track but we shall see on Thurs.

I saw the Take-out book at a local Costco and they were selling it for 8.45. I was thinking about picking it up but passed. I think the WW recipes I've tried seemed a little bland but I'm all about flavorful foods. Like the other ladies have said CL recipes are somewhat low pts and they pretty good.

Have a great week and happy losing.
Jen

[linsleyd]

Jen, The Take Out book is actually very good. There are a lot of recipes in there that I make over and over especially the chinese and mexican! It can't hurt to try it and I generally dislike WW recipes for the same reason you mentioned.

If you all don't mind my joining in here, I started again today on ww. I don't go to the meetings becasue they are a bit crazy for my taste but I do have the points book and all that.

I've done very well today, I think. We'll see how it goes when I get home! :D

[SusanPC]

I thought I would post encouragement to all before I leave for my mini vacation. It sounds like everyone is doing well so keep up the good work!

As I am packing, I am encouraged as a dress I wore on vacation in July was so snug I had to have my husband help me get the zipper up the side while exhaling any air in my body (very attractive I know)! I just tried it on and I got the zipper up effortlessly up myself. It actually looks flattering!

My stomach is still my area that needs help....I really plan to focus on that when I get back. I have noticed my DH could use to lose about 15 lbs so I am hoping my cooking more and meal planning will help him too. We eat out entirely too much.

I have a plan for cardio on this trip and last night my trainer gave me "homework" for when I am away. I am so looking forward to the beach and getting a massage. Here's to this being the last vacation where I feel the need to wear my "miracle" suit :D

[mom2garret]

Susan: Congrats on the dress! hat is an accomplishment that just make you feel validated on all your efforts. Enjoy your mini vaca.


Goin': Wow, what a great job. As I wrote before I only went down 1.6 so now I have weight loss envy for you ;)

Jodi

[Goin' Coastal]

Goin' Coastal are you a OSU fan or a PSU fan. The good thing about watching the the game on the West Coast is that there is no tailgating. I'm rooting for the Buckeyes!







Go Bucks!! I am going to think of something very healthy to take with me - probably a veggie tray. Tailgating can be tough!!

[MNGirlTX]

Just checkin' in - nothing very exciting to share. I'm trying to be really good because I'm trying to get into the 150s before I leave on my little vacation in a week. I have to lose not quite 2 pounds.

I'm not Terri, but glad you and DH liked the pork chops and couscous, Cookiee...it is one of the best tasting recipes I've found from WW, so far.

One of the cool things about core is that I've found myself trying things I normally wouldn't have tried. I eat quinoa, now. I made a really good barley salad that called for avocado, which I didn't think I liked since guacomole isn't on my list of foods to like, but I didn't hate the avocado.

Welcome, linsleyd!

Continued thin thoughts for everyone!

[mommycook]

I was wondering if anyone is doing points at the 18-21 range?

I'd love some low-point recipe ideas. Tangerine

From the 8/06 CL (these are just the recipes in my ToTry file, there might be more in the magazine that you like)

Chipotle Chicken Tack Salad, p.180, 5 points
Fig, Date, and Walnut Quick Bread, p. 216, 4 points per slice
Indian-Style Marinated Chicken (with rice), p.214, 8 points
Roasted Red Pepper Soup, p.200, 2 points
Grilled Steak with Teriyaki Glaze, p. 196, 5 points
Grilled Herb Steak, p.194, 8 points (for an 8 oz steak)
Basic Grilled Steak, p. 190, 8 points (for an 8 oz steak)
Broccoli Salad, p. 169, 1 point
Breakfast Coffee Cake, p. 166, 7 points
Stuffed Baked Shells, p. 164, 8 points
Spinach Fettuccine, p. 163, 8 points
Pork Chops with Cherry Preserves Sauce, p. 146, 8 points
Mashed Potatoes with Cumil-Lime Butter, p. 130, 4 points
Potato, Corn, and Leek Chowder, p. 128, 7 points
Broccoli and Parmesan Casserole, p. 127, 3 points
Spicy Grilled Chicken over Sweet Peppers, p. 120, 2 points
Steamed Asparagus with Lemon-Garlic Gremolata, p. 115, 1 point

[Terri_A]

Okay Ladies...I got WW Take Out Tonight in the mail today!!! I am overwhelmed and don't know what to try first! Any recommendations????

It looks like it has everything I usually order in a restaurant!

Can you tell I'm little giddy about my new cookbook????

BTW...Congrats to those of you who lost this week! We had a lot of big losers! I'm hoping on Friday when I weigh in I'll be joining you!

[greysangel]

Okay Ladies...I got WW Take Out Tonight in the mail today!!! I am overwhelmed and don't know what to try first! Any recommendations????




ummm i posted a whole list in this thread :D :D

great job ladies! I'll be flying off to Belize tomorrow for 6 days of sailing and 4 days of adventuring in the rain forest :) Wish me luck that I'm not calorically challenged by fruity cocktails and grilled meats!

[Terri_A]

ummm i posted a whole list in this thread :D :D

Didn't see the list before....did check it out and have a few I think I'll start with...

Have a great trip!

[emilyn]

delurking... I made the beef with broccoli from take out tonight this week, I thought it was great, much better than I was expecting.

[AZJane]

Hey Guys! sorry I've been MIA, I've been busy and kinda under the weather as of late.

Terri, is this your first WW cookbook to try? I have a few of them that a neighbor gave me when she moved.

I've decided to lower my goal weight to 125 pounds. My incentive is a trip to Vegas over the Christmas holidays with my dh. I want to look hot, hot, hot! :cool: So, cutting my points back down to 20 plus my flexies, so wish me luck. I'll weigh in tomorrow and see where I'm at. I have my official WI at WW in a few weeks (October). I know I'm up a little cos I haven't been watching myself much this week :eek: so I've been afraid to weigh but it is time to face the music. I've been an exercise slacker too :rolleyes: :( :rolleyes: so back to that tomorrow as well.

Let's do it Ladies! Kick these pounds to the curb!

[AZJane]

Happy Saturday!

I weighed in this morning at 133.5 :rolleyes: Not too bad, but not great. Not surprising either :p I'll be working on dropping back to goal weight this week and continuing downward after that. I'm sticking with 20 pts. plus flexies and I already have a day this week planned to use them since we are meeting some friends for Happy Hour on Tuesday. That should be very challenging as it is an asian place with spectacular appetizers and half price drinks. I shall overcome :D and make good choices. Hmmm..yeah. Easy for me to say today.

Today is game day (ASU) and I'm not making anything special. I'm sticking with the basics and dh is ok with that. He's so into his team that I doubt he hears a thing I say. He just agrees. I kinda like that :p

I'll be doing an upper body workout along with treadmill time today. Here's the menu for today:

Steel cut oats (from TJ's) 2 pts. with a touch of sf syrup (0)
1/2 grapefruit 1 pt.

cottage cheese mixed with some sundried tomatoes 2 pts.

LC pizza 6
salad greens with ff dressing 0
sf jello 0

pear with cheddar cheese 3 pts.

Grilled chicken breast 4 pts.
fruit salad 1 pt
green beans 0 pts.

Sans Sucre mousse made with Unsweetened almond milk 1 pt.

[MelissaAS]

WI day for me too today and I'm down .8 (to 128). I'm a little disappointed because I wasy super-good this week and hoping for a better loss, but I did eat out at a Mexican place last night (stayed OP with some flex), but the timing did not work in my favor. Also, I find that with the exercise sometimes that takes an extra week to help, if that makes any sense. Anyway, I officially set my goal at 124 and now I'm racing to get to it and make Lifetime before I get pregnant (we just started trying but last time it only took one weekend). So I'm bearing down...Jim is golfing today so planning sushi dinner for me, which is easy to stay OP. Thanks for being here-

Melissa

[AZJane]

I'm setting up some goals to achieve this week.
1. Exercise daily a minimum of 30 minutes.
2. No eating after 6 PM.
3. Get to bed before 11 PM.
4. Drink 100 oz. of water daily
5. Stay within my points plus flexies
6. 2 glasses of wine on Tuesday since we have plans for Happy Hour

Weight stayed at 133.5 today. I'm hoping to see the scale moving downward tomorrow. Did any of you see the biggest Loser last week? I missed it while we were out at a concert. Looking forward to tuning in this week. What did you think of the new trainer?

[AZJane]

Back down to 131.5. I'll take it :) I was getting a little out of control last week and afraid that I was going to go back to some of my old ways. Thank goodness I reeled myself back in. I think attending the meetings even though I am at goal really helps. Even if I've had a bad week, I seem to get revitalized. Thank goodness I don't weigh in every week anymore though. On the one hand it would keep me in line, on the other hand I think I would be too obsessed about my choices. I am impressed by the members in my meeting group who have no problem jumping on the scale and gaining and just saying "oh well". I wish I could be more like that. I need to either have lost or maintained. None of this gaining stuff for me. See what I mean about obsessive? Oh well, maybe this attitude will keep me in control. I've lost this weight before and gained it back because I didn't reel myself back in. Not this time (I hope). Ok, blah, blah, blah. sorry for carrying on this morning.

Here's the plan for today:

Breakfast: cantelope with 2 slices light 9 grain bread 2 points
Snack: string cheese 1pt.
Lunch: 2 ff hotdogs with sauerkraut and canned spinach 2
Snack: cottage cheese with sundried tomatoes in oil 4 pts.
frozen yogurt 3 pts.
Dinner: fish, brussel sprouts, slice bread with butter, fruit salad 8 pts.
20 points total for the day

100 oz. of water
1/2 hour treadmill time

Make it a great day everyone!

[mom2garret]

Well, today was my WI. I am soooooooo excited. Ready.................
I am DOWN 4.6!!!!! It more than made up for my little 1.6 last week. I am inspired to keep plugging along.

Jane: Congrats on getting down to where you wanted. It must feel really good!

I am off to find some inspiration for some chicken sausages that are defrosting. I am open to any ideas.

Have a great point week.

Jodi

[Terri_A]

Jodi and jane - Congrats on your WI's!!!

Okay, so perhaps I'm the only person on earth who didn't know this...but did you know that you can get Souper Salad TO GO??? I didn't know that! I hate keeping salad stuff at home because salad is one of those things that just tastes better when you eat out...do you know what I mean? But I got soup and salad to go for about $6. It's way more salad than I can eat in one sitting so I'm thinking I need to start hitting Souper Salad every other day or so on the way home to get salad to go!

[JanetJ]

Can I join in ladies? I just rejoined WW this morning with my mom, with 7 month old Maya in tow. She managed to entertain everyone at the meeting since everytime there was clapping (and there was a lot!) she squealed with delight. :) A little about me: about 3 or so years ago I lost 85 pounds with WW and since getting married, trying to get pregnant, having a baby and now dealing with a c-section recovery from he!! (7 months later and still not healed) I am back at WW. I'm not able to do any physical activity so my focus is going to have to be really strong with my food choices. Having my mom join with me will be a big help since I see her pretty much every day and we can keep each other on track. When I was doing WW before the thread that was going here on the BB was a huge help to me so I'm hoping to be able to lean on you ladies and offer some support to you all as well.

[AZJane]

Jodi, Wow!!! Congratulations on your huge loss! Woohooo!n did you find a great recipe? what did you end up making?

Terri, We don't have one of those restaurants but we have a great place that we order salads/soups from to go. I swear you can't make the stuff for what they charge and sure keeps the kitchen clean :D

Welcome Janet! Have a great on-plan first week back! You know the drill :)

I just got back from my walk (did that instead of the treadmill) and had a great workout tonight! Yahoo! I'm feeling pumped!

Have a great evening.
Jane

[AZJane]

Morning! Holding at 131.5 and I'm happy about that. I stuck to my points yesterday but changed my menu and some of my choices were better than others :p

Challenging day today on the menu front. Mainly because we are going to Happy Hour but also because I'm meeting my SIL for some shopping and lunch. She always likes to go to places that tend to hold a grip on my food intelligence and I toss it all out the window and eat junk. Hmmm..oh well, I'll do my best. I know I should select the restaurant to stay on plan but she really, really enjoys picking and I'm a pushover for someone with such enthusiasm. ;) :rolleyes: :eek:

Then on to Happy Hour with friends. I know I could skip the wine/liqour, but the question is, will I? :p Most likely not. We don't go out to Happy hour often and I want to enjoy myself. Oh well, tomorrow is another day and this is a lifetime plan so I guess I should roll with the punches. I think I'll wear my smallest outfit to remind myself of all the work I've done to get here :cool: Maybe that will help with my evil ways. :D :eek: :D

[jmccune]

Happy Tues gang. So last week I was down 1.2lbs and I'm glad for any weight loss. I'm tracking my pts on the WW website cause I got the monthly pass and can use the tools on WW so I noticed today that my allotted pts went from 22 to 20 and I was like that sucks. I mean it is good that I'm down to the next weight category but I kinda like having those extra pts. I mean it is hard enough trying to stay in the 32 pt range (10pts for nursing) and now I'm down in the 30 pt range. I could use my activity pts but try not to use those and since we went to the beach this weekend I used all my 35 weekly allowance pts. YIKES!!!

Well I'm staying in my pt allotment for the rest of the week (until Thurs) and I'll see what damage I've done this past weekend.

Jen

[Terri_A]

I have a request. I love seeing how much everyone is losing, but could we not post actual weights? I find it a bit discouraging when someone who is my target weight is trying to lose more and I still have almost 80 pounds to go to get there. I know not everyone will feel this way, but I thought it was a small enough request that you guys might not mind if we do that. Thanks!

Adding - I also wanted to say that there's nothing wrong with someone at my target weight wanting to lose more! I know that even if you're a size 2 - and extra 5 pounds is weight you want gone!!!

[AZJane]

Terri, No problem. My apologies for not being more sensitive to others here.

Day is going great. Sil didn't want to have lunch. Worked out perfectly for my food plan today :cool: I'm a little down on my water but I'll chug a lug this afternoon before we leave for our happy hour.

[mom2garret]

Hi all! Seems like everyone is doing well. Hello to the newcomers (not that I am on this thread for that long of a time myself :D ). Good luck withthe plan. Not much to add here. Worked out today. I made the Fiesta Soup from WW with grilled cheese for supper. Very quick (until I burnt DH's sandwich by mistake :o ).

Jane: I ended up making a few different things. I had Bobmarks onion/sausage/balsamic vinegar sandwich. I took DH's sausage out of the casing, sauteed with onions, peppers, carrots. Added chix broth and then some Barilla Pasta I had leftover. DS just had his sausage cooked in the oven.

Other than that, I am starting back with my trainer tomorrow! Tomorrow I have Group Groove and before that I am meeting with my trainer.

Have a great night!

[SusanPC]

Hi all. Back from glorious florida and back in the grind. The weekend, hosted by my DH's firm, was an eating and drinking extravaganza so the scale went up 1 lb....but I was good and worked out each day so that was worth something and probably kept the gain to a minimum.

I am back with my trainer tomorrow and Friday night and am joining a WW meeting on Saturday. I was hoping that scheduling the trainer early on Friday evenings would eliminate my desire to go off plan on Friday AND Sat nights....plus a weigh in on Sat. AM should keep me on track.

My mom and sister are joining me (even though my mom is 130lbs, my goal weight, and wears a size 6---I guess she wants to see 115 again....) so I am hoping we will motivate each other.

Sounds like everyone is doing great. Keep up the good work!



I head on vacation for 2.5 weeks in November and want to be down quite a bit by then so I can keep the momentum.

[foodlady]

Hi all!

Is there room for one more? I'm a lifetime member, have been for four years now. I joined WW when my twins were 6 months old. Interestingly, I didn't gain extra weight when I was pg, but gained a ton after they were born (and I stopped BF!) I was so stressed, overwhelmed, and exhausted I would just eat all day long to keep myself going. Finally, I said enough....and joined WW. I lost 25 pounds and kept it off.

And now I just had another baby. Ben is 2 months old, and I gained quite a bit during this pg. And now I'm falling into the same pattern I did with my twins -- eating to get through the day. Last night I took the kids to Wendy's after soccer practice, and after eating a reasonable dinner, ordered a frosty AND more fries. I wasn't even hungry, but felt like I "deserved" it. (My dh travels for work, so I was having a "pity" party -- all alone w/ 3 kid, etc.) Well, I got what I deserved all right -- a terrible tummy ache!

I'm up at least 30 pounds, but honestly haven't gotten on a scale in a few weeks. I'm planning to go back to WW and weigh in after I drop my boys off at preschool this afternoon. I know what I need to do, but need some motivation to just do it! My dh has gained too, and would love to join me OP (especially since I do the hard part -- planning and cooking).

Sorry for the long intro....thanks for listening!

Robyn

[MNGirlTX]

Susan - Only 1 lb is great! I'm heading for a long weekend tomorrow and I'm afraid of how the scale will look next week.

Welcome to the newbies!!

I'm weighing in tonight since I leave for my trip in the morning. I'm very hopeful for this week. I gained 1.8 last week and haven't figured out why. This week I was really good about tracking my APs earned and flexies used and I've been good on my H2O.

Lori

[AZJane]

I'm loving all the activity on this tread :cool:

I did ok at happy hour. I had 3 glasses of wine (justifying that to myself by saying it was a small pour :p )and numerous goodies there but had a lovely time and we don't do it often. Anyway, bottom line is the scale is up 1.5 pounds today and I'm back on plan as of this AM. I think liqour in general is my main problem with weight loss/maintenance. I just do not tolerate it well or maybe I do, but I hate seeing the scale jump up after I have even a small amount. Should I accept it and just consider the jump on the scale as the norm? dunno. Obviously I'm still envibing and dealing with the consequences. We have tailgating before our game on Saturday, so that is my next food/booze challenge. Till then I am smooth sailing. Eating lots of fruits/veggies and lean proteins with cottage cheese for dairy and using sundried tomatoes in oil tossed in there for my healthy oils. It sure is easy to shop and prepare food when you're not trying out new recipes. :D

I start walking with my winter walking partner on Monday morning. I can't wait. We do an hour walk Mon-Fri. Really keeps me on track with my exercise. I will miss my evening walking partner but it is getting dark too early and she doesn't get home from work early enough to beat the sunset.

Here's the menu for today:
Bowl of strawberries, grapes and oranges with 2 slices Aunt Hatties 9 grain bread, dry

salad with lettuce,tomatoes,green onions,shredded carrot, lf cilantro dressing (from TJ's), spinach pizza (no problems. I've eaten them a bazillion times and they've been in the freezer for months! this is the last one)

Only8 yogurt (this stuff is so good. If you have a location by you, give it a try)

grilled chicken breast with brussel sprouts, same salad combo as lunch, fresh fruit bowl

snacks with be popcorn and an apple with sliced cheddar cheese.

[JanetJ]

Day 3 for me and so far, so good. I've been completely on plan and while I'm hungry often I know my body will readjust itself soon in the next couple days to this new way of eating. I even managed to dodge a landmine yesterday when DH called me to meet him for lunch. I had already eaten my sandwich but not the rest of my lunch and was still a bit hungry. Not wanting to go off-plan but still wanting to meet up with him, I managed to watch him eat and drink my Diet Coke. I was so proud of myself!

Jane, glad you had a good time last night! Maybe since you know the scale will jump after a night like that you could skip it the next morning? Just a thought - I can't weigh myself every day or I go nuts with all the normal flucuations, but I know everyone is different about that.

Thanks for the welcome everyone!

[AZJane]

Janet, you did a great job at the lunch yesterday! Congrats on getting past a hurdle :)

I've had 100 oz. of water, finished my foods for the day and now plan on exercising, having a nice tub and watching The Biggest Loser tonight.

[AZJane]

I had a great day today. I was down a pound this morning (still above my low but I'm getting there) had a great meeting tonight. Our leader is so fantastic! and our members, just WOW! So many successful people there. We have a super positive group and it is uplifting just to be in their company. :)

here's my menu:
B- 2 slices dry 9 grain bread with cantelope
L- pork chops with brussel sprouts
S-frozen yogurt
D- variety of fruit and cheeses
S- popcorn

6 16.9 oz. bottles of water plus club soda :cool:
1/2 hour treadmill

[Terri_A]

I'm the exact same weight for the 2nd week in a row!!! :confused: I haven't lost enough to already have hit a plateau. I think I need to ditch the flex points and not use them at all. I have a really screwed up metabolism thanks to some medication I've taken over the past couple of years, so I'm trying not to get discouraged. The 85 pounds did not appear overnight - they will not dissappear overnight!!!

AZJane - I've noticed you weigh yourself everyday. You may be putting yourself through some undo worry as your weight does fluctuate. It's more accurate and indicative of your true weight if you weigh only 1 time a week and do it at the same time of day each week. It sounds like you're doing really well!!!

Janet - great job on lunch!!! Keep in mind you can always order grilled or steamed veggies to munch on when you don't want to use points, but want the socialization of eating!!!

[SusanPC]

Terri_A- Don't get discouraged. It will start to come off you just have to keep plodding along. Are you exercising? I find that it makes a huge difference with me, not only in terms of tangible results, but on the days when I want to eat my whole pantry, a workout reigns me back in and helps me keep focus.

AZJane- I agree with Terri_A, could you limit the weighing in? My husband threatened to take away my scale as I was so obsessed. I really try to limit to every few days (which is probably still too much), and only once a week esp. when it is TOM.

Well, I am back down a LB this week (the one I gained last weekend) and I offically join WW tomorrow morning. I had my trainer last night and then will again tonight. He is harping on me about my eating and I know it is my barrier here. Wish me luck!

Have a great weekend everyone.

[Goin' Coastal]

Had my second weigh in this week and was down 1.4. I was thrilled as we had company all weekend and I was not on plan for those days. I was more concious of what I was eating though, and made better choices than I would have had I not been doing WW. I have been exercising more, too. Just finished 50 minutes on the treadmill. I set it for a program that has quite a bit of incline, so I really feel it. According to the treadmill calculator, I burned 400 calories.

DH is going out of town for the next 2 weeks. I hate to say it, but I am looking forward to it from the eating aspect. I know it will be much easier to stay on plan with him gone. I am hoping for 2 lb losses each week. (Fingers crossed here)

Good luck to everyone!

[AZJane]

Morning Losers :)

Terri, sending you "losing" vibes. I bet you'll see a loss this week. You've got a great attitude and you're working it, its gotta go!

Susan, I hope your meeting goes well and you enjoy your group as much as I do mine. Congrats on losing that pound!

GC, Congrats on your loss this week. Fantastic! I know what you mean about dh being gone and it being easier on the foodfront. Thats how I feel too. I feel like I have to have certain foods around the house for him. I think for me anyway, the reality is that he could care less. Somewhere in my warped mind I think that buying fun foods for my love shows my love. Hmmm...in reality, the junk isn't good for his weight either and I'm keeping him overweight by bringing the junk into the house. Hmmm..I'm going to think about that some mroe today. Just typing that out was sort of a revelation for me. :confused:

I think you guys are right about the weighing thing. When I reached lifetime the leader told me to weigh myself daily for 90 days to see what was and was not working. I've done that for over 60 days now. Hmmm...I think I'm pretty good at judging now and agree with you all. I think I'll make Fridays my official weight day. Thanks for the advice.

I'm doing some shopping and planning our breakfast tailgate for tomorrow. I'm making the CL apple cake, mini sandwich assortment, fruit salad, and not sure what else. We'll only have about 12 people, but I like variety. We'll be having mimosas, bloody mary's and fresh lime margaritas as well. Ugh. :eek: I think I'll go with a virgin bloody mary, that'll keep me on the straight and narrow :cool:

Todays eats are going to be:
fruit w/dry 9 grain toast
crab legs, salad and broccoli
cottage cheese w/sundried tomatoes
fish, salad, broccoli, fruit salad
popcorn
sliced apple w/cheese

edited to add 6 16.9 oz. bottles of water and 45 minutes treadmill :)

[ltcook]

Hi everyone!
I'm new to the BB and I am also a WW memeber. I also find the CL recipes to have a lot of great flavor. Some of my faves are the Lettuce Wraps (2points for 3 wraps), Fried Chicken Salad (6points), Baked Egg Rolls (2 points a piece), Tacos al Carbon (which means steak tacos, 8points for 2), and Tortilla Chicken soup (3 pts for 2 cups of soup).
These recipes are fabulous and quick and easy to make. I also make recipes from Light and Tasty magazine. The 3 Bean Chili is so good that I've made it twice in one week. I even froze single serving portions for a quick meal on a busy night. I hope this helps with ideas for tasty meals.

angela

[AZJane]

Welcome Angela :)

Thanks for the recipe recommendations :cool: One of my favorite CL recipes is the chicken and fruit salad. We have it almost weekly now. :)

[AZJane]

Morning Losers!

I'm just getting ready to hit the market for some last minute tailgate supplies but want to pop in and say "Hello". For our tailgate, I've got some yummy, healthy menu items today(fruit salad, some Alternative bagels with lean meats) and our catering company for our seats has fajitas on the menu today, so all is good foodwise. No scale today :cool: Looking forward to seeing what my next weigh-in brings. Kinda hard. Make it a great day!

[AZJane]

I chose to not stick to plan today. that.is.all. Yikes. :eek: :eek: :eek: Thank goodness tomorrow is a new day and the start of a new month. :cool: