Thursday, November 29, 2012

Day 44 (I think)

I've been a bit busy so I haven't posted much.  But to be totally honest, I just don't like admitting to everyone that I'm still not back on the CAD.  I have my reasons (and excuses), the most pressing being both last weekend and this weekend, we've got company. 

I know, there are days between those weekends and yes, I could have gotten back to it but I didn't.  But at least I haven't been going completely hog-crazy.  The good news is my carb cravings still aren't like they were before I started CAD and I'm still not food-obsessed like I was. 

My plan is to start again on Monday.  Things will be settled down again and menus will be a bit more predictable.  Hopefully, soon, I'll have a new job to help me get into a real routine again.

Until then, I'm going to enjoy this little respit and the cookies too. ;)

Monday, November 26, 2012

Day 41-Not So Bad

Today was Weight-Average day and I'm very relieved to say I only gained back 1.5 pounds. I'm sure that will come off this week pretty easily. I was afraid it would be much more.

Tomorrow I begin again.  Never give up. Never surrender!

Meals don't look too bad considering.  Notice I started out good anyway. ;)

Breakfast:  Mini egg omelet with cheese, bacon bits and salsa coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Chili salad made with a flour tortilla, salad mix, cheddar cheese, onions, fat free Catalina, homemade chili with beans, salsa, and sour cream.  A couple thumbprint cookies.
Dinner:  Leftover Pad Thai & panang curry with rice, a few cookies.

Saturday, November 24, 2012

Day 40

Please forgive me.  It's been a busy few days and I haven't been by the computer much.

Well, remember I said I fell off the wagon?  I not only fell off, I went running as fast as possible down the lane away from that wagon, over the hill, and through the forest!  Yes, I'm saying I have completely gone over to the dark side.  It's been carbo overload for the past few days. 

It's a combination of stress and holiday planning.  I am aware of what I'm doing so that's a positive note, I suppose.  My plan is to get back on that horse tomorrow.  Begin anew with the new week.

Saying that, I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving and are ready for the next round of holiday parties, shopping and excitement.

Me?  I am feeling good and know that I am very capable of returning to my normal eating again.  Guess it's normal for a junky (that's funny...junk food) to have a few set backs.  The important thing is to learn and get back on the program. 

Day 37

Ya know, as much as I do love me some Asian food, the day after leads to puffy fingers.  I guess as I'm getting a little older, soy sauce and salt are starting to affect me a bit.  I don't really like how the excess water makes me feel.  Fortunately, I'm not a huge salt fan to begin with so this is easily fixed.

Body is back to it's new normal.  I didn't wake up hungry.  My hunger kicks in around 10:00 am every day.  Just in time for lunch. 

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving.  I'm curious to see how I do.  To be honest, my holiday cravings are never satisfied when I have lunch at the in-laws.  Their menu is significantly different from my family Thanksgivings.  I don't know if this will trigger a desire to snack or if this time, because I will be eating my Reward Meal, if I'll be ok.  In the past, both Hubs and I tend to eat fairly light and then we go out later for dinner.  I know that sounds a bit odd but it's true.  I guess I'll find out tomorrow.

I decided to make some gluten free cookies for my Mohter-in-law.  She makes pies for Thanksgiving meaning she can't eat them.  Here is my recipe for Gluten Free Oatmeal Peanut Butter Cookies.  I have to say, they are pretty tasty. 
http://tenderfoothearth.blogspot.com/2012/11/cookies-for-turkey-day.html

Breakfast:  Coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Reward Meal:  BBQ Chicken, fried potatoes & onions, baked beans, corn, and an oatmeal peanut butter cookie. 
Dinner:  (don't remember...didn't finish this post due to company)...

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Day 36-Doctor Visit

This morning, I went for my yearly checkup.  Since they were going to take blood, I had to fast from midnight last night.  Not a bad thing for someone who went on a carb spree yesterday.

All went well with the doctor.  I really like mine.  He's got a fantastic bedside manner and really listens when we talk.  He's also willing to try alternative ideas to traditional medical practices, which I really appreciate.  I prefer to fix any problems naturally if at all possible and he supports this.  Heck, I even told him about the CAD books and he questioned me in depth and then wrote it down to suggest to other patients.  Yup, got a good doc there!

The Pad Thai didn't turn out very well so I basically ate five shrimp, an egg roll, and 3 steamed dumplings.  Oh, and the chocolate pie.  Let's not forget that.  I'm sure I'll probably end up a bit hungry tonight but that's ok.  To quote one of my favorite fictional characters:

After all, tomorrow is another day!
I just love the smirk on her face!

Breakfast:  None for me today!
Lunch:  Sour creamed chicken and cabbage. 
Dinner:  Reward Meal:  Egg roll with mustard, steamed dumplings, homemade Pad Thai,chocolate pie and Sprite/cherry vodka/grenadine cocktail. 

Day 35-Fell off the Proverbial Wagon

Official Monday weekly weigh-in...drum roll please...lost another pound! That's six total!  WOOHOO!  VERY excited about that!

Yes, today I fell off the wagon.  It was the first day I've been alone since the funeral and dealings with all of that.  Today apparently was MY day to 'lose it'. 

We all have our moments of weakness.  This was mine.  I was feeling frustrated, sad and emotionally drained.  Not a good combo for any type of addiction.  I needed soothing. No ands, ifs or buts about it.  I tried to talk myself out of it but it didn't work.  So, I gave myself permission so it wasn't too bad but still, my carb desire was definitely in the drivers seat.  Here is how it turned out.  As I said, looking at it on "paper", it's not that bad.  But I know the out of control feeling that went along with it so for me, it wasn't good.

Breakfast:  Coffee.
Lunch:  Spaghetti with meat sauce & ranch, garlic toast, cookies, iced tea.
Dinner:  BBQ Pork Chop, fried potatoes, baked beans, peas.
Snack:  Nerds candy, airhead candy, Riesen carmel, pork chop, pasta with ranch & Parmesan.

Hopefully, tomorrow will be better.  I take pride in the fact that I stayed true to my journey here and told the truth about my day.  If nothing else, I want to show myself and anyone reading that we do have bad days, no one is perfect, but we can move forward, even if it's tiny, little baby steps!

Monday, November 19, 2012

Day 34

This morning, I woke up really early for some reason.  It's kind of cool and dark today.  Just the perfect kind of day to snooze in.  Dang it!

I got up and did my weigh-in and am happy to say the end-of-week average loss is another pound!  WOOHOO!  I was a little worried because of the salty Chinese food I ate yesterday.  My rings are a bit tight so maybe tomorrow, I'll have a happy surprise when this bit of water weight comes off too.  I am pleased that I was able to go though a really hard day and still stay on the CAD. I'm proud of myself for that.

Meanwhile, just working the plan.  It's so damn easy I don't know why I wouldn't!  Not hungry at breakfast again.  Yup, you got it.  10:00 came and so did the appetite.  So I had brunch.  I'm seriously considering Breakfast-for-Dinner tonight.  I've been craving waffles for quite some time.  We shall see. 

Decided today, I just wanted a drink.  Sprite, black cherry vodka and grenadine make a nice one.  Yeah, dinner was a bit carb heavy but I was in need of some good old-fashioned comfort and all these things definitely provided that.  Stayed within my hour of eating so I don't expect much damage.

I think my drinks filled the food slot a bit so I got hungry.  Of course, I ate dinner pretty early today too.  I got hungry again but since I had not had breakfast, I still had a meal available to me.  I think the stress of the weekend as still there too.  So I ate again.  I figured it was better to go ahead and have a meal versus the possibility of going into snack mode.  It worked.  It satisfied my hunger and pacified my feelings.

Brunch:  Eggs with red pepper, salsa, spinach & cheese.  And a bit more coffee. 
Dinner:  Reward Meal:  Spaghetti, garlic toast, cookies, Sprite & cherry vodka.
4th Meal:  Tuna and no-carb coleslaw.

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Day 33

Today is going to be a long, tough one.  It's the funeral of the young man who passed away earlier this week.  It's going to be emotionally wrenching for everyone.  I'm in a support role.  I'll be there for my friend and her children to lean upon.  Can't say it's something I look forward to but I will be there. 

Woke up a bit hungry today so opted to eat.  I figured with the emotions running high, I need to eat right the whole day.  It will make it easier for me and will keep me from mindless snacking.

Decided I just wasn't hungry enough before we went to the funeral.  It was heart-wrenching.  It was hard to watch his family.  I cannot even imagine the depths of their sorrow.  I'm glad I was there for my friend and her family.  She definitely needed the support and that's what sisters do.  I may not be her sister from birth but I am her sister from choice.  I've known her children since they were very young and have watche them grow up to become beautiful teens.  ~sigh~ Such a terrible thing to see young lives changed forever. 

Breakfast:  Eggs, Morningstart Hot & Spicy breakfast patties, coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Didn't eat.
Dinner:  Reward Meal:  Chinese buffet with fruit & a cookie for dessert.

Day 32

I have to say, it is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost upon us again.  Where has the year gone?  It seems like I was just opening the pool and now, it's time to cook turkey.

It's also hard to believe I've been on CAD for a whole month!  Yes, I had a cheat day but it was only one day!  And even then, I didn't go crazy like I thought I would.  That makes me very happy.  I know I keep repeating myself but I am just so amazed by CAD.  No cravings.  No food obsessions.  True amazement! 

I woke up with no hunger again today.  So, again, I am listening to my body and just having my coffee.  I know I'll start to get hungry around 10:00.  That seems to be the norm now.  When I do, I start thinking about what I want for lunch, and then around 10:30, I start cooking and I eat around 11:00.  I normally eat dinner around 5:00.  Hubs comes home starving and right now, I am home so an early dinner works.  When I get back into the job, it will be delayed a bit.

Breakfast:  Coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Sour creamed chicken & cabbage.
Dinner:  Reward Meal:  Fish, loaded baked potato, hush puppies, coleslaw, Pepperidge Farm cookies.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Day 31-A Whole Month!

Today marks a full month of being on CAD.  It's hard to believe.  It has gone by so quickly.  Here is an overview:  It is easy.  I'm amazed I can say that.  CAD is the best "diet" I've ever tried.  It is a lifestyle, no doubt of that.  It's something I definitely can do forever. 

Now for the confession.  As you know, yesterday was a horrible day. Learning from the mistakes of my past, yesterday I gave myself permission to go off plan.  I was very tried and I was emotional.  Not a good combination.  Since we all know food is a comfort for me, I knew I was just setting myself up for a huge failure if I didn't give myself a break.  So I did.  That's the bad news.  Yes, I went off plan.

Here is what I ate yesterday:
Breakfast:  Coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  By this time, I was in need of some serious soothing so what is better than fast food, right?  McDonald's was calling my name. Well, actually, their french fries.  I had a Big Mac meal with a Coke and a cherry pie.  Not the best but it worked it's carby goodness.
Snack:  Here's where I really went off the plan.  I ate the rest of a glazed pumpkin scone. 
Dinner:  Chicken breast stuffed with cheese & a bit of bacon, and again, some carbs, Israeli Couscous.  No veggie.  Wasn't feeling it.   

The good news is this. All in all, even though I ate some extra carbs, I didn't go hog wild and eat all day long.  This morning, fortunately, I am back to my new normal and woke up with no appetite.  Today my plan is to eat the CAD like I have been. 

My weigh in this morning was good.  One day of being "bad" doesn't seem to have affected anything but only time will tell on that one.  I feel pretty confident things are okay.

Breakfast:  Not hungry.  Black coffee.
Lunch:  Two McDonald cheeseburgers (no buns), salad with ranch dressing.
Dinner:  Reward Meal:  Homemade Italian sausage pizza, salad with low-fat Catalina dressing, and a few Pepperidge Farm cookies.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Day 30-The Big Picture

What should be a landmark day for me (30 days on CAD!) has become very insignificant in the grand scheme of things. 

In the wee hours of the morning, I got a text telling me of a tragic event and asking for a phone call when I saw it.  The 19 year old boyfriend of my best friend's daughter was found dead in his bathtub.  No, it was not a suicide.  He had just been released from the hospital that very day for a concussion from a car accident.  No one knows exactly what happened.  I just know that a very sweet, intelligent, good kid is gone from this world.  So very sad.

Needless to say, my friend and her family are in shock.  It's one of those stories that just breaks your heart.  Not many people find the love of their lives in High School but these two kids did.  It was obvious from the very beginning their relationship was something special.  Sure, they had their moments as all young lovers do, but they had a deep bond to one another that always transcended their problems.  They were not officially engaged but it was only a matter of time.  They were planning their future together and taking steps towards that future.  It's absolutely heart breaking to see this happen.

So yeah, today is definitely a mixed bag.  I'm happy for myself and sticking to my diet but ultimately, who really cares if I carry around a few extra pounds.  It doesn't really change who and what I am.  What is important is the people in your life and your relationships with them.  This tragic event is a reminder to cherish every single second you have with those you love and to never, ever take them for granted.

It's just sad that a 17 year old girl had to learn this lesson so early in her life.  Who she is will be forever changed from this moment on.  Time will heal the wound, it always does, but there will be a scare there.  A big one.  

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Day 29

Another cool and sunny morning here in Oklahoma.  Love this time of year!  

Woke up without hunger again this morning.  Seems to be a reoccurring situation.

I do remember growing up, I wasn't a big breakfast person.  I would drink Carnation Instant Breakfast (chocolate of course) some mornings but most of the time, I didn't eat.  At some point, I started taking the traditional advice that breakfast is the most important meal of the day instead of listening to my own body.  This definitely works against me.  MY natural cycle is to start getting hungry around 10:00.  This lends itself very well for brunch or early lunch.  Occasionally I am hungry for breakfast and if so, I eat. Go figure.  Eat when you're hungry, don't eat if you're not.

That's what I love about the CAD. It works with my body instead of against it.  Another thing I love is the flexibility.  I eat my main meal when I have the most hunger.  Sometimes it's lunch, sometimes it's dinner.  But the #1 reason I love the CAD is I am no longer chained to my food obsession.  It's day 29 and food is no longer my #1 priority like before.  I no longer wonder right after breakfast what I will have for lunch.  Or after lunch what I will have for dinner.  I don't pour over food porn (those beautiful food blogs) any longer.  I will look up a recipe occasionally but I don't spend hours looking at their other posts.  I rarely talk about food anymore either.  I will ask Hubs for dinner suggestions but I don't dwell on it.  It's a wonderful thing!

Didn't eat a sweet treat at my Reward Meal today. Just wasn't feeling it.  Besides, between the bread & the pasta, my carb desire was definitely sated. 

Since I had no breakfast & a hearty, homemade lunch, I decided to keep it easy tonight and have Breakfast-For-Dinner! Though I would love to have coffee, I'm opting for hot tea instead.  Much less caffeine so I won't be up until the wee hours. 

Breakfast:  Coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Reward Meal:  Pasta with meat sauce, spinach salad with Caesar, garlic toast.
Dinner:  Omelet with cheddar cheese, onion, green pepper, bacon, & salsa and hot tea.

Monday, November 12, 2012

Day 28

Official weekly weigh in is...drum roll please...five pounds!  Yeah!  CAD works!  I tell ya, I'm just so darn excited with this whole thing.  It's just so easy.  It's not like dieting at all!  Amazing! 

I got an interesting lead on a job.  Keep your fingers crossed for me!  I need a paycheck! 

Dinner tonight is creative use of leftovers.  I took my leftover potatoes and "smushed" them together into patties, sprinkled them with garlic powder and rosemary and baked them until they were golden brown and toasty.  Delicious!  There was just enough of the other things to round out the meal.  The sole was a gift from Omaha Steaks.  Yea, fish from a steak place.  It was really tasty!  Hubs said if I had told him what we were having, he probably wouldn't have gotten too excited but he loved the meal.  Yay!

Breakfast:  Coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Sauteed sour cream chicken with mushrooms, green pepper and onion over mashed cauliflower.
Dinner:  Crab stuffed Sole, baked smashed red potatoes with sour cream, green beans, cranberry sauce, Oatmeal bread, honey butter, gingerbread cookie.

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Day 27-Another One Bites the Dust!

I woke up early to the sound of rain.  It's dark and cool and just right for snuggling.  Good way to start the morning.

Also a good morning for a weigh in.  Lost another pound!  Yes, I lost another pound and I get to eat desserts, fried foods, real sugar, whatever I want.  Of course, I'm eating my veggies too. 

I've been awake long enough to be ready for some breakfast.  And of course, coffee.  Delicious, rich, hot coffee.  Yeah, I have a thing for coffee.  In truth, it's all about the taste, not the caffeine.  I'm pretty sensitive to caffeine so I have to limit my coffee consumption to about two cups.  I like iced tea too, but I can't drink it too late in the evenings either. It will keep me awake.   A shame, really, 'cause I like both. 

I made tuna salad tonight with mayonnaise and no sweet pickles and guess what?  It was delicious!  Yes, I am a die hard Miracle Whip & sweet pickle gal.  It's that Southern coming through again.  Sweet and sweet.  OK, I confess.  I doctored the mayo up a bit with some vinegar, dash of yellow mustard and some artificial sweetener.  It was just enough to give me the flavor I wanted. 

And if you're wondering, I usually drink plain old water with my meals unless I note something different.  I'm one of those people who actually likes water. I drink a lot of it.  Always have. 

All in all, a really good day.  :)

Breakfast:  Egg scramble with green peppers, onions, salsa, and cheese with a side of bacon. 
Lunch:  Reward Meal:  Schnitzel, potatoes with sour cream, green beans, cranberry sauce, herb stuffing, brown gravy, potato chips and dip (craving them), and 2 cookies.
Dinner:  Tuna salad with celery sticks.

Happy Vetrans Day!


Day 26

Went to the Farmer's Market this morning.  We are absolutely addicted to the milk.  I also got cheese curds, mozzarella (yeah, not making my own today), pork steak, hamburger and fresh turnips with the greens.  One day this week, I'm going to have a good old fashioned Southern dinner of beans, turnip greens, & cornbread. Yum yum! 

Decided I was hungry when I got home so I had brunch. 

Hubs and Stepson went to t-ball this morning then straight to GranC & GramP's house.  Yes, you read that right.  GranC and GramP.  The other paternal grandparents are Poppy & Nana Jan.  He also calls his mother Mom Mom.  I used to call my paternal grandmother Mom mommy when I was little.  Kids. 

Hearty German food is calling my name.  Weiner Schnitzel to be specific.  The rest of the meal is pretty American.  And yes, that is cranberry sauce you see.  I love cranberries!  I always buy extra bags during this season and stash them in the freezer.  I make my own cranberry sauce and it's so good.  I eat it with chicken, pork, turkey and occasionally fish. I've spread it on toast like jam.  My favorite sandwich?  Smoked turkey, maple bacon, smoked cheddar cheese, onion, leaf lettuce, & cranberry sauce on herbed ciabatta. What's not to love? 

Breakfast:  Not hungry. 
Lunch:  Omelet filled with cheese curds, spinach, onion, green pepper, tomato and mushrooms, coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip and sugar free chocolate syrup.
Dinner:  Pork schnitzel, red potatoes, brown gravy, herb stuffing, green beans, cranberry sauce, and a strawberry oatmeal bar. 

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Day 25

I have an interview in one hour.  It's for a temp agency but still, gotta look my best!  It's been awhile since I had to dress up and wear heels.  Gotta say, even though they are pretty, they are not my favorite thing.  Bare feet.  That's my favorite thing but alas, most employers frown upon this concept.

Needless to say, not really hungry this morning.  I'll eat when everything is done.  Keep me in your thoughts!

Interview went well.  Looks like they'll be able to set me up with something.  Afterwards, I was STARVING!  Decided on Chinese again.  Just sounded good.  As always, I start eating and in a matter of minutes, I'm already feeling full.  Not that I'm complaining.  I just find it somewhat fascinating.  Me, the woman who used to out eat pretty much anyone.  Always ate seconds and frequently, thirds!  And dessert too!  Amazing!
Reality:  More lettuce, much less of everything else.

It's Taco Bueno night at our house.  We have it on Friday nights when we have the Stepson.  He absolutely loves their bean burritos.  I decided to give the taco salad a try.  I did not eat the big fried crunchy flour tortilla bowl it came it.  Oddly enough, I really didn't want it anyway.   It was tasty and filling and I didn't have to make or buy something special to share a fun meal with my family.  Yup, I like CAD!

Breakfast:  Nada.  Zip.  Zilch. 
Lunch:  Reward Meal:  Crab Rangoon with sweet & sour dip, Spicy Hunan chicken with fried rice, and one chocolate cookie.
Dinner:  Taco Bueno grilled chicken taco salad (grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese, sour cream, & a tiny bit of ranch.  

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Day 24-Hopeful!

Uggh!  For some crazy reason, I woke up at 4:50 this morning and could not go back to sleep.  I made the best of it and read for a little while.  Now the sun is coming up and it looks to be another beautiful day.  Not a bad thing.

Think I'll have a bite of breakfast today.  And coffee.  Lots and lots of coffee!

Keep your fingers crossed for me.  I applied for a new job at a local school this morning and they are already checking my references!  Sounds hopeful!  I also have an interview tomorrow at a temp agency.  Figured at least that would be a paycheck until something full time comes my way. 

Today's eating went well.  My tummy is definitely starting to shrink.  I used to eat at least three pieces of pizza.  Now, I'm down to 1-1/2 at the most.  Very happy about that. I also have no hunger between meals or after dinner at all either.  This CAD thing definitely works.


Breakfast:  Omelet with cheese, green peppers, onion and a smidgen of salsa, coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Creamy steak over mashed cauliflower. 
Dinner:  Homemade cheese & black olive pizza, spinach salad, chocolate biscuit (cookie) and some Sprite.

Day 23-Sleepy but Happy

Good morning, America!  The country cast its votes and diversity seems to have gained a bit more ground!  WOOT!  Our politics are starting to look like our country.  No matter who you voted for or what issues, I want to thank all you who got out there and made your voice heard.  That is what makes our country great. 

Whew!  It was a long night last night.  Yes, I am one of those idiots who stayed up until 1:00 am, following the political news.  Hubs & I just couldn't go to bed until we learned who won and listened to all the speeches. 

I am proud to say, even though I did get a little hungry, I didn't snack my way through the evening!  That was a biggie for me.  I made a cup of ginger peach tea and enjoyed it's warm goodness.  I woke again this morning with no appetite.  Seems to be how things are going now.

I know the traditional wisdom is to eat a hearty breakfast but I look at it this way.  If I'm not hungry, why would I eat?  That just reinforces exactly the habit I have been breaking.  I've thrown out all the old dieting arguments and am sticking to the concepts in CAD.  It's working for me and that's all the evidence I need!

Here is another reason to be happy today.  When I put my jeans on this morning, the waist was not tight!  Talk about a motivator!  Yup, I'm smiling like a fool! 

Breakfast:  Yup, coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Reward Meal:  Chicken strips, honey mustard, green beans, roll, jalapeno poppers with ranch, gingerbread cookies and unsweet iced tea.
Dinner:  Chicken sausage with brown mustard, sauteed cabbage, spinach salad.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Day 22-Don't Forget!

Another beautiful Fall day in Oklahoma.  Sun is shining, the breeze is crisp.  Wonderful.  Just the right kind of day to stand in line and vote.  No matter what happens, today will be a turning point in American politics.  Don't worry, I'm not going to get on a soapbox.  Just a little reminder to go vote!

I'm a tiny bit hungry this morning.  Getting ready to have my coffee and then I will decided if I want to eat breakfast or not.  It's also Tuesday, which means I'm on my own for dinner.  Typically, I use this day to have something I like that Hubs just isn't into.  Not sure where that will lead me today.  I can't say that I'm really craving anything in particular. 

OK, craving kicked in and it was...the envelope please...Chinese!  I haven't had any in quite awhile and it definitely fills all the flavor slots (sweet/sour/spicy/salty).  There is a little Chinese drive-through just down the street.  I've lived here three years and I've never tried it.  It's one of those tired looking places that's been around forever that you just sorta notice but don't really look at.  Well, today was the day.

I was pleasantly surprised.   The food was good, the prices were great and wow!  Do they ever pile it on!  The egg roll was almost a meal in itself.  It was huge!  Lots of leftovers.  Glad I took the chance.  I'll definitely try some of their other menu items.

Breakfast:  Coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip
Lunch:  Veggie egg roll with hot mustard, Spicy Chicken Kung Pao, Sweet & Sour Pork, steamed rice, and a fortune cookie.
Dinner:  Cottage cheese with bacon bits, garlic powder and pepper. 

Monday, November 5, 2012

Day 21-Is It a Habit Now?

I've always read that if you do something for 21 days, it becomes a habit. Today is that day!  WOOHOO! 

Today was also my weekly weigh in.  I lost another pound.  According to the CAD weigh-in process, I lost 2-1/2 pounds this past week.  Total weight loss is 4 pounds.   Not too shabby considering I get to eat whatever I want once a day.  And believe me, I do!  I eat whatever I want.  No restrictions whatsoever.  I do try to stick close to the 1/3 meal concept but in truth, I always pretty much eat like that anyway. 
1/3 low carb veggie+1/3 protein+1/3 starch=Delicious!

I am so thankful that my family taught me good eating habits. We always had at least two veggies with dinner and salad of some sort too. My mom wasn't big on fried foods so even now, they aren't something I really crave.  OK, occasionally I do want some McDonald's french fries but hey, they are really good!  We had desserts but a lot of the time, it was something as simple as the 1-2-3 jello stuff or no-bake cheesecake.  We even had fruit salad as dessert occasionally.  Very well balanced meals were the staple for us.  Again, I am so thankful I grew up eating this way.


Brunch:  2 egg omelet loaded with cheddar cheese, red & green peppers, onions, and spinach and topped with a bit of salsa, coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Dinner:  Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup, my Honey Oatmeal Seed Bread, butter, and a Russell Stover dark chocolate coconut cream pumpkin. 

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Day 20-Fall Back

Don't we just love the time change?  No we do not!  I hate the first few days.  I always wake up with the feeling I'm late, which I loath!  It makes a stressful beginning to the day.  Oh well. ~shrugs~

It took a few hours to get hungry again this morning so I opted for brunch instead of breakfast &/or lunch.  Seems like a good compromise for a lazy Sunday morning. 

I'm in a weird place emotionally.  I learned another thing about myself.  I always thought I didn't really use food as an emotionally crutch but I was wrong.  Way wrong!  I guess it is such an ingrained habit I never even noticed before.  Now that my body is free of the carb addiction, my mind is learning the new habits. 

It's been interesting from a observers prospective.  I have found that since I don't obsess over food, my mind is free to think about other things.  I know that sounds a bit odd but it's true.  So here's the rub.  What do I fill that blank space with?  I realized that is why I have felt 'bored' the past week or so.  There is a void that needs to be filled.  This is freeing but a little scary for two reasons.  One is I have to learn to use different tools to deal with those emotions (anger, frustration and boredom) and two, I need to figure out what it is I really like to do.  Sounds easy but it's not.  I've spent the past, ohhh, 40 years of my life ignoring this and now it's time to rediscover this neglected area of my life.  I figured I would look to my past interests as a child and young adult and see if any of those things still inspire me.  It should be an interesting journey. 
Had a nice dinner date with Hubs at Trapper's tonight.  He wanted somewhere cozy and semi-quiet.  I wanted a nice sit down meal.  We both agreed Trapper's had the perfect atmosphere. 
Yes, that is taxidermy.  It's Oklahoma, people!
The food is always delicious and the service is great.  I did eat some of everything but I didn't completely stuff myself.  I am decidedly full but not stuffed.  It does take much less to reach full now though.  I'm very happy about that!

Brunch:  2 egg scramble with green peppers, salsa, spinach, and coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Dinner:  Coconut shrimp with orange marmalade sauce, French bread & butter, Caesar salad, blackened tilapia with blackened shrimp, scallop and brown butter sauce, with a side of garlic smashed potatoes, Swamp Water, and some bread pudding with whisky sauce.  Oh, and one hush puppy. 

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Day 19

I'm awake...sorta.  It's one of those 'must have coffee' kind of mornings. 

Ahhh.  Now that's better.  Working on my second cup and now, the world looks rosie.  One of these days, I'm going to invest in a real coffee grinder and try my hand at roasting my own coffee beans. It looks like a pretty simple process and I love the idea of having my own personal house blend.  I may have to make a trip to the local whole food stores.  I'm sure one of them has raw coffee beans.

Speaking of beans, it's about time to make a big ole' pot of white beans, cornbread sticks, and a mess of greens.  Can you tell I have Southern roots?  Although I was born in the North, both sides of my family come from Tennessee.  This is why I am addicted to sugar!  We put sugar in everything we cook.  Green beans?  Add a pinch of sugar.  Greens?  Add a pinch of sugar.  Iced tea?  Add a lot of sugar.  Desserts?  The sweeter, the better!  Amalgamation Cake, Cobbler, Chocolate pie, Pecan pie, date nut candy, fudge, divinity.  It's in my blood. 

Man, I don't know what happened but around 3:30, I became ravenous!  I mean absolutely must-eat-NOW hungry.  My stomach was literally growling and gnawing.  Yikes!  So I ate an early dinner tonight.  Inhaled might be a better description.  I don't normally get like that so it was a bit odd for me.  You could have set hominy and Lima beans (both foods I detest) in front of me and I wouldn't have balked. It wasn't low blood sugar because there was no shaking or feeling odd.  Just overwhelming hunger.   Weird.  I'm chalking it up to hormones.  I really can't think of any other reason. 

Breakfast:  One egg omelet with cheese and green peppers, Morningstar Hot & Spicy sausage patties, and glorious coffee with cinnamon Cool Whip.
Lunch:  Steak Umz and creamy cabbage stir fry.
Dinner:  BBQ Pork sandwich, potato chips, French onion dip, salad with Ranch dressing, and a pumpkin Pop Tart.

Friday, November 2, 2012

Day 18 Aunt Flo Comes a knockin'

I know. Over sharing!  But this is an important subject for women and weight loss. 

For me, it usually means a few days before, I am starving, then the first day, I want to eat light.  Neither thing happened.  I wasn't starving this past week and really had no particular cravings at all.  I was a bit more hungry for dinner last night but I had a light lunch and I did 2-1/2 hours of physical labor so of course I was hungry.  Maybe it's the CAB that has balanced things.  I'm not sure.  Only time will tell on this particular issue.

I do know one thing.  I promise to give myself a break this week.  In the past, I've obsessed over the weight fluctuations that come with this.  Not this time!  I will weigh daily, record my weight, and let it go, remembering to have faith in CAD and my body.  It will continue to lose weight because I am following the 'rules'.  It's as simple as that.

If any of you are on this journey with me, give yourself a break too.  Our bodies are wonderful and mysterious things.  We, like nature, don't follow some rigid plan.  Our bodies respond to so many things.  Hormones, weather, moon cycles, emotions, diet, exercise.  All those things influence how our bodies respond.  Be kind and gentle to yourself.  Treat yourself like the magnificent being that you are!

I wasn't hungry again this morning.  I chalk that one up to a pretty filling dinner last night.  Homemade pizza is pretty hearty.  Well, the way I make it anyway. 

Apparently, today is all about Cheddar cheese.  I had some with my soup for lunch and I want more.  So, I'm going to have some on my 'burger' tonight.  Not sure what that's all about but okay.  It could be worse.  I could be craving cookies!

Breakfast:  Cuppa Joe with Cinnamon Cool Whip
Lunch:  Cream of cauliflower soup, Cheddar cheese
Dinner:  Morningstar Griller burgers with grilled onions & mushrooms, sharp Cheddar cheese, and Durkee Famous Sandwich & Salad sauce, steak fries, and a Russell Stover chocolate Carmel marshmallow. 

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Day 17

I don't know why but I woke up really early today.  I saw Hubs off to work and went outside.  It's a crisp, clear Fall morning.  The Sun has yet to rise but the Moon is shining brightly and the sky is full of morning stars.  The day feels full of possibilities.  Yes, Autumn is definitely my favorite season.

I've been up for a couple of hours so my tummy is just starting to rumble.  Looks like breakfast is on the menu this morning!

Did serious physical labor this afternoon.  We haven't closed our pool yet and yes, there are lots of leaves in it.  Well, there are less now.  I spent 2-1/2 hours dipping leaves.  At least it was an absolutely beautiful outside so it made it much more pleasant than it sounds.  It's not really hard to do, just time consuming.  It needs to be done methodically and slowly.  Tomorrow, I will dip the other half, then correct all the chemicals and next week, we'll put our baby to rest for the season.

Goodnight, sweet Pool.  You will be missed.

Breakfast:  2 egg-white omelet filled with cheddar cheese, onion, green and red peppers, mushrooms and spinach, coffee.
Lunch:  Cream of Cauliflower Soup
Dinner:  Homemade Italian sausage pizza, salad, Coke, and a Russel Stover S'more. 


Cream of Cauliflower Soup
Makes 2 servings
1 cup steamed & mashed Cauliflower
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
2 tablespoon Onion, chopped
2 cups Water
2 teaspoon Knorr Chicken Bullion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
1 tablespoon real Bacon Bits
1/4 cup Cream
shredded cheese (I used Parmesan because it was already shredded.  Use what you have)
nutmeg

Steam Cauliflower in microwave then mash with potato masher.
Saute onions in olive oil in a deep saucepan until onions are translucent.  Add water, bullion, garlic powder and nutmeg.  Bring to boil and boil for 2 minutes.
Add cauliflower and bacon bits.  Simmer together for 2 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend cauliflower mix until very creamy. 
Add cream and return to heat and gently boil until mixture is to the consistency you desire.
To serve:  Ladle into bowl and sprinkle with shredded cheese and nutmeg.