Losing Weight Project: Day 37/Tomato-Basil Pork Ribs w/Mushrooms

Tomato-Basil Pork Ribs w/Sauteed Mushrooms
I bought a package of lean pork ribs on the way home tonight, marinated them in tomato-basil dressing, and grilled until done.  Enjoyed them with sauteed mushrooms and lettuce salad.  Yummy! :)

Pork Tenderloin 265.0 cal 5 oz

Cooked Mushrooms, fresh 44.0 cal 1.0 cup
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Butter, Unsalted 17.0 cal 0.5 tsp
Kraft Fat-Free Italian 15.0 cal 1 tbsp
Salad Dressing, Tomato Basil (Cook`s Classics) 12.2 cal 1 tbsp

Losing Weight Project: Day 36/Grilled Chicken Salad

I left the house at 4:00 am this morning and had a very long day so no energy to cook...  Pre-cooked grilled chicken strips to the rescue!

Grilled Chicken Salad
Reheat chicken in the skilled sprayed with non-stick olive oil flavor spray (I don't like to reheat in the microwave oven because chicken becomes rubbery) and chop into bite-size chunks.  Chop lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.  Drizzle with your favorite dressing.  Done!

Chicken Breast 280.3 cal 6 oz

Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Cucumber, with peel 8.0 cal 0.5 cup
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 40.0 cal 2 tbsp

Gardening and Grading

The weather was so nice and cool today -- finally!  We spent the day cleaning the yard.  Well, S. spent the day cleaning the yard. :)  I helped a bit with raking but mostly played with Beauty, inside and outside, so she won't get in trouble, and graded.  Yep, back to the worst part of my job -- grading.

It's going to be a tough day tomorrow -- have to drive 3.5 hours very early tomorrow morning, then teach two classes.  We're learning Twitter so I am a little nervous because I never personally liked to tweet and it's easier to teach something you're truly enjoying.  I am prepared, though, and some students are already tweeting so I will ask them to share and help the newbies.

Losing Weight Project: Day 35/Leftovers!!!

Same as yesterday...

Losing Weight Project: Day 34/BBQ Beef and Salad

Our router-modem decided to quit so we didn't have Internet.  After hours on the phone, we were finally able to connect last night.  What a relief!

I made this yummy and fairly healthy recipe:

BBQ Beef
I bought a package of lean Denver Cut steak on sale and decided to BBQ in a slow-cooker.  Season meat with favorite spices (I just used salt-pepper).  Some people pre-bake first, to remove fat.  I just cooked in a slow cooker on high for a couple of hours, until there was lots of liquid.  Drain the liquid and cover meat with your favorite BBQ sauce.  Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until meat is tender.  It was delicious and, because I started with a lean cut and then drained most of the fat, I think it was fairly healthy, too.

We enjoyed it with a simple salad -- lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, salt/pepper, and olive oil (just drizzle for taste).

Here is an approximate calorie breakdown (spices not included):

Beef Steak 277.0 cal 5 oz
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Raw Cucumber, with peel 8.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup
Barbecue Sauce, Hickory Smoke (Kraft) 20 cal 1 tbsp
Oil, Olive (Salad or Cooking) 20.0 cal 0.5 tsp

Losing Weight Project: Day 33/Rosemary Lamb with Green Beans Almondine

 MeRecording every meal is one of the most important requirements for this diet plan.  I am not as tempted to "cheat" while "estimating" because the difference in calories is glaring and reminds me that I will have to pay for my choices through exercise or, even worse, lack of progress.  However, I am tired of blogging every Medifast meal because, after the first month or so, it's all the same and does not hold any interest.  I have settled into my routine, more or less -- (1) shake for breakfast, (2) snack bar or oatmeal cookies for mid-morning snack, (3) soup or lean & green meal for lunch (I prefer to eat lean & green for lunch if I have time to cook), (4) pudding or parmesan puffs for mid-afternoon snack, (5) soup or lean & green for dinner, and (6) either shake or hot drink (hot cocoa or cappuccino) for evening snack.  There is almost no variation in calories for Medifast meals (approximately 500 calories per day) so I won't blog about them anymore, even though I will keep recording.

Instead, I will share my lean & green recipes.  First, you don't have to be on a diet to use these recipes.  Second, it's more important to be careful on this meal because calories can vary dramatically.

S. and I are spending the long weekend together so I am cooking for two, which is much easier than cooking for fun.  And sharing meals at the same table instead of a lonely table settting...  What a bliss! :)

I usually stay away from lamb because it tends to be rather fatty.  However, I bought a couple of really nice small lamb chops today and decided to try this recipe (found on the package):

Rosemary Lamb
2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground mustard (didn't use)
1/2 tsp oregano (didn't use)
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Process all spices in a blender until coarsely ground.  Rub lamb with spice mix on both sides.  Bake, uncovered, at 350 F for 1 3/4 to 2 1/4 hours or until meat reaches desired doneness.

Green Beans Almondine
Steam green beans.  Saute slivered almonds in butter until golden brown.  Mix with green beans.

I will also make a lettuce and cucumber salat with a low-calorie Italian dressing.

Green & Lean Calories
Lamb Loin 310.1 cal 5 oz
Rosemary Leaf, Fresh 2.2 cal 1 tbsp
Pepper, Black, Ground 2.7 cal 0.5 tsp
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 0.5 tsp
Garlic Powder 2.3 cal 0.25 tsp
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Raw Cucumber, with peel 8.0 cal 0.5 cup
Cooked Green Beans, frozen 19.0 cal 0.5 cup
Almond, Dry Roasted, 24 cal 0.5 tbsp
Butter, Unsalted 34.0 cal 1 tsp
Light Italian 15 cal 1 tbsp

Losing Weight Project: Day 32

Yesterday's meal plan was good so same thing today. :)  I will try to be more creative tomorrow.

Losing Weight Project: Day 31/Chicken "a la King" and Cauliflower "Rice"

Another looooooooooooooong day...  Three recipes tonight:

Cheesy Eggs
Mix Medifast eggs per instructions.  Spray the skillet with non-stick butter-flavored spray.  Scramble with low-fat Laughing Cow cheese (I had sun-dried tomato flavor).  Yummy, I mean non-diet yummy, really!

Chicken "a la King"
The real recipe is here but, of course, I had to modify it so it was nothing like the original...  Still, it was good so maybe this recipe will be useful to somebody.

Saute mushrooms and deli chicken in 1 tsp of butter.  Add 1 tbsp of non-fat sour cream and season with salt/pepper/favorite spices.

Cauliflower "Rice"
The recipe is found here.  Honestly, to call it "rice" requires imagination but it was pretty good.

Shred cauliflower so you get little "rice kernels."  Microwave in a covered dish (I microwaved for 1 minute but maybe you have to do it longer for more rice-like consistency).  Season to your taste.

I also made a small lettuce salad with fat-free Italian dressing.  Overall, a very tasty, nutritious, and healthy dinner.  I won't mind preparing it again.

Breakfast
Medifast Scrambled Eggs 100.0 cal 1 Each

Cheese, Mini (Laughing Cow) ,`Reduced Mini` 30.4 cal 0.5 oz

Mid-Morning
Medifast Strawberry Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Medifast Cinnamon Roll Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Afternoon
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Chicken Breast 280.3 cal 6 oz
Cooked Mushrooms, White, fresh 34.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Butter, Unsalted 34.0 cal 1 tsp
Sour Cream, Nonfat (Land O`Lakes) 5.0 cal 1 tsp
Cooked Cauliflower, fresh 14.0 cal 0.5 cup
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 20.0 cal 1 tbsp

Evening
Medifast Swiss Mocha 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 30/Raspberry Mocha

Another very long and busy day... I am exhausted...  Didn't have any energy to cook so decided deli chicken and veggies would do.  Sorry, no real recipes tonight.  I did enjoy this for my morning meal:

Raspberry Mocha
Strong Coffee
Medifast Hot Chocolate
Calorie-Free Raspberry Syrup

Breakfast
Medifast Hot Chocolate 110.0 cal 1 Each
Mid-Morning
Medifast Peach Oatmeal 110.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Medifast Maryland Crab Soup 110.0 cal 1 Each

Afternoon
Medifast Oatmeal Raisin Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Chicken Breast 280.3 cal 6 oz
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Cauliflower In Cheese Flavored Sauce, Frozen (Green Giant) ,Cheese & Cream Sauce Veg 30.0 cal 0.25 cup
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 20.0 cal 1 tbsp
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup

Evening
Medifast Orange Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 29/Poached Cod with Sauteed Mushrooms and Lettuce-Tomato Salad

Exhausted today -- a long, long day...

Poached Cod with Sauteed Mushrooms and Lettuce-Tomato Salad

Combine water, lemon juice, bay leaf, and peppercorns in a large non-stick skillet. Bring to boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Add cod, salt and pepper to taste, and simmer covered for 5-10 minutes or until fish flakes easily with fork.  While fish is cooking, saute mushrooms in olive oil (butter would taste better, of course).  Arrange fish on a plate and cover with mushrooms; sprinkle with fresh parsley.  Serve with lettuce-tomato salad.

Breakfast
Medifast Swiss Mocha 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Mid-Morning
Medifast Cinnamon Roll Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Medifast Peach Oatmeal 110.0 cal 1 Each (3 cookies)
Baking Powder (Calumet) 0.0 cal 0.25 tsp

Afternoon
Medifast Chicken & Wild Rice Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Cod 208.2 cal 7 oz
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Cooked Mushrooms, White, fresh 34.0 cal 0.5 cup
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 20.0 cal 1 tbsp
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup
Oil, Olive (Salad or Cooking) 20.0 cal 0.5 tsp
Parsley, Raw 1.4 cal 1 tbsp
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 40.0 cal 2 tbsp

Evening
Medifast French Vanilla 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 28/Eating Out!

As of this morning, I am 17 lbs lighter!  Most people don't realize yet because I am still wearing the same clothes.  However, everything fits much better and I feel great.  S. surprised me with a reservation at our favorite French restaurant -- he is so sweet...  I chose Fresh Trout Sauté Almondine -- what a treat!  Yeah, I know, all that butter... but I ate half of the entree and salad and let S. have my rolls.

This morning, I made Medifast eggs for myself and real scrambled eggs for S. so both of us very happy.  He also enjoyed freshly baked bread but I resisted; suprisingly, it was not difficult -- I guess I am really into this project...  Tonight, I plan to do the same -- Medifast soup for me and "real" soup for S.  It's getting easier to share meals! :)

Breakfast
Medifast Scrambled Eggs 100.0 cal 1 Each

Mid-Morning
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Trout, Rainbow, 120.0 cal 1 fillet
Butter, Unsalted 204.0 cal 2 tbsp -- Ouch!  Oh, well, it was a real treat!
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Cooked Mushrooms, Portabella, fresh 21.0 cal 0.5 cup
Cooked Broccoli, fresh 27.0 cal 0.5 cup
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 40.0 cal 2 tbsp

Afternoon
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Evening
Medifast Cappuccino 100.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 27/Squash Crust Pizza with Turkey Meatballs, Tomatoes, and Green Peppers

OK, one more portion of ground turkey!  Honestly, I am getting tired of it...  I found this recipe and decided to give it a try, with modifications of course.  Let's see how it will turn out...

Squash Crust Pizza with Turkey Meatballs, Tomatoes, and Green Peppers

Shred squash, drain excess liquid, and add favorite seasonings.  Flatten into a mini-pizza.  Spray the pizza pan with non-stick spray and bake "pizza" crust at 400 F until the bottom is crispy (because I did not use eggs or flour, it's easily falling part so .  Flip the "pizza" crust, top with sauce, cheese, veggies, and mini-meatballs.  Bake until cheese is golden brown.

Breakfast
Medifast Scrambled Eggs 100.0 cal 1 Each

Parsley, Raw 0.7 cal 0.5 tbsp

Mid-Morning
Medifast Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal 100.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Ground Turkey 333.0 cal 5 oz
Cooked Squash, Summer, fresh 18.0 cal 0.5 cup
Cooked Tomatoes, fresh 22.0 cal 0.5 cup
Cooked Peppers, Green, fresh 19.0 cal 0.5 cup
Cheddar Cheese, Shredded, Nonfat (Kraft) ,Natural 40.0 cal 0.25 cup
Pizza Sauce, Original (Contadina) 30.0 cal 0.25 cup

Afternoon
Medifast Vanilla Pudding 100.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Medifast Chicken & Wild Rice Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Evening
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Peer Communication

Friday!!! We had training this morning and then I had to meet with one of my students... and talk with a part-time faculty member who, I think, is just lonely and wants to talk because the issue was not important at all. This person called at 8:00 am this morning, at my house. Yes, 8:00 am, on Friday, our day off, using my home phone number! I have to be careful not to offend this individual because we desperately need part-timers but will have a face-to-face discussion next week about what is and is not appropriate. I don't mind helping but there are certain boundaries. Hopefully, it was a one-time deal and won't happen again.

Update:  We talked and this instructor apologized.  Apparently, our adjuncts don't realize that we are on a four-day schedule.  Well, theoretically...  That's probably why most people don't even know about the four-day thing.  Many meetings and workshops are scheduled on Fridays but the college is officially closed at noon and we're not supposed to be on campus after 12:00.  Still, it was not appropriate to call at home...  Apparently, it's a common practice at the person's full-time employment.

For my part, I was firm but very nice and understanding.  We were able to resolve this situation peacefully and, I think, gained a new level of respect for each other.

Losing Weight Project: Day 26/Turkey Meatballs with Cheesy Cauliflower

One more ground turkey recipe...  I am trying to use my freezer contents and they are not individually packaged so, once I defrost something, I have to use it up because all of us know what refreezing does to any food.  That's another change I am making -- before freezing, divide into small portions.  Even better, of course, is to buy just what we need but it's not always possible because of convenience and cost.

Turkey Meatballs with Cheesy Cauliflower
Mix ground turkey (or beef) with favorite spices (I used salt and oregano) and finely chopped parsley.  Fry or steam (I chose to steam).  I bought a package of individual servings of cheesy cauliflower, only 30 calories each, so heated up one serving for today.  Also, made a simple green salad (romaine lettuce with dressing).  Fast, easy, healthy, and tasty!

Breakfast
Medifast Orange Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each
This is one of my favorite shakes.  Tip:  Always add ice!

Mid-Morning
Medifast Lemon Meringue Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Ground Turkey 333.0 cal 5 oz
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 16.0 cal 2 cup
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 20.0 cal 1 tbsp
Cauliflower In Cheese Flavored Sauce, Frozen 30.0 cal 0.25 cup
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 1 dash
Oregano, Dried (Spice Islands) 4.8 cal 0.5 tsp
Parsley, Raw 1.4 cal 1 tbsp

Afternoon
Medifast Vanilla Pudding 100.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Evening
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 25/Turkey, Yellow Squash, and Parsley Pancakes + Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Another long day but I am encouraged by class dynamics.  Anybody who has taught for some time knows what I am referring to -- you just know how the class will progress on the very first day.  So far, I am very optimistic.  Even better, http://www.officegrader.com/ software made me jabber with excitement to anybody who would listen. :)  I usually spend countless hours grading papers and this application will cut that time to minutes, only because I don't have time to place a bookstore order for individual student codes this semester.  Next semester, I will just upload answer keys and students' papers will be graded within seconds.  Each paper is marked with corrections and there is a grade report to explain those corrections.  Wow!

Still had some ground turkey so created this recipe.  It could use an egg, some flour, and baking powder to hold pancakes together and make them a bit more fluffy but I resisted the temptation and just made pancakes with ingredients allowed for the lean & green recipe.

Turkey, Yellow Squash, and Parsley Pancakes
Shred squash, finely chop parsley, and add to turkey.  Season with your favorite seasonings.  Mix well.  Spray the skillet with non-stick spray (adding some olive oil would be nice -- I didn't).  Spoon mixture and flatten a bit to form pancakes.  Cook until done.  Serve on lettuce leaves topped with tomato slices.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
I have never liked oatmeal unless it's loaded with not so healthy stuff like brown sugar, syrup, whipped cream, and nuts.  Medifast oatmeal is filling but tastes too plain, so I found this recipe online and then modified it a bit.

Mix 1 pkg of Medifast oatmeal with 1/4 tsp baking powder, 1/4 cup water, and 1 tsp flavored syrup (I used raspberry).  Spray cookie sheet with non-stick spray -- these "cookies" stick!  Divide cookie mixture into four little mounds and flatten a bit.  Bake at 400 F for 10 minutes.  Quick breakfast or snack is ready -- much better than plain oatmeal!

Breakfast (made last night so I could grab cookies and run this morning)
Baking Powder (Calumet) 0.0 cal 0.25 tsp
Medifast Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal 100.0 cal 1 Each

Mid-Morning
Medifast Cinnamon Roll Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch (I prefer soup or lean & green for lunch but had to be on the road)
Medifast Parmesan Cheese Puffs 110.0 cal 1 Each

Afternoon
Medifast Dutch Chocolate 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Ground Turkey 333.0 cal 5 oz
Cooked Squash, Summer, fresh 18.0 cal 0.5 cup
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 1 dash
Sage, Ground 0.6 cal 0.25 tsp
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup

Evening
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 24/Meatloaf Pizza Pie on Lettuce

I am so happy to learn that my health coach actually takes her time to read this blog.  Wow, that means a lot!  Thank you so much! :)

Maybe somebody else can benefit from this project but it's mostly for me, to keep me honest and focused on the goal of reaching and maintaining healthy weight.  I am discovering that the key to maintenance is awareness of what we consume every day and responding appropriately if we do treat ourselves.  I am not advocating obsession, of course.  It would not be a good idea to enjoy a slice of yummy cake during the weight-loss stage.  However, lifetime maintenance is all about balance -- there is nothing wrong with enjoying sweets but in moderation.  That has been my personal downfall before and I sincerely hope to avoid it this time.

My health coach offered one useful tip -- ask for lettuce leaves instead of bread buns when ordering any sandwich.  Of course, it won't make much difference if I order a quarter-pounder with cheese, wrapped in a lettuce leaf, please! ;)  Ah, moderation...

OK, I have some ground turkey so found this recipe in one of my Italian cookbooks for tonight's dinner.

Meatloaf Pizza Pie on Lettuce
The original recipe calls for mixing the meatloaf as usual, baking it, topping with sauce, veggies, cheese, and crunchy fried onions, and broiling until done.  I will brown ground turkey and drain fat, then spread meat in a small casserole dish and top with pizza sauce, veggies (tomatoes and green peppers), and fat-free Cheddar cheese.  It will take only a few minutes of broiling to cook veggies and melt the cheese.  I will slice my "pizza pie" and serve on lettuce leaves.  Should be yummy and reasonably healthy.

Update:  Loved this recipe!  It's a keeper.

Breakfast
Original Pancakes 90.0 cal 1 meal
Baking Powder (Calumet) 0.0 cal 0.25 tsp
TIP:  Add 1/4 tsp of baking powder to the mix -- makes a huge difference!

Mid-Morning
Medifast Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal 100.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Afternoon
Medifast Cinnamon Roll Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each
Coffee, Brewed, Prepared ,Prep W/Tap Water 2.4 cal 1 cup (8 fl oz)

Dinner
Ground Turkey 333.0 cal 5 oz
Cooked Peppers, Green, fresh 19.0 cal 0.5 cup
Cooked Tomatoes, fresh 22.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Cheddar Cheese, Shredded, Nonfat (Kraft) ,Natural 40.0 cal 0.25 cup
Pizza Sauce, Original (Contadina) 7.5 cal 1 tbsp
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 1 tsp

Evening
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 23/Zaxby's Grilled Chicken Sandwich w/Celery Sticks

Another crazy day but tomorrow is the first day of classes so back to regular office hours.  I don't have to be at work until shortly before noon tomorrow, wow!  Since I can't get anything accomplished at work, that would be nice and, hopefully, writing will pick up again.  The goal is to defend prospectus this semester...  Both S. and my major professor are on my tail so I will do my absolute best!

Drove two hours (roundtrip) to 1.5 hour meeting this afternoon -- but it was a VERY important meeting so the drive was well worth it.

Committed a diet "sin" on the way back by stopping for Zaxby's Grilled Chicken Sandwich because I was not sure if I would have time to eat anything until 7:00 pm and was getting hungry.  It was very good, actually, even without any condiments, so I suspected I would pay for this indiscretion.  Ouch, I better spend extra time on treadmill tonight!  I would have been better off by buying a regular hamburger at McD's (269 calories).  Chicken itself was OK but the bun was the whooping 279 calories!  I should have asked them to slice chicken for me and throw away the bun.  I am sure that would have been a nuisance but would allow me to stick to the plan.  I did tell them to throw away fries and the girl offered celery sticks -- thank you, thank you, thank you!  Diet Coke for the drink, so no guilt there, especially since I rarely drink any soda, even diet.

Oh, well -- lesson learned!  From now on, I will plan better so I can avoid fast-food completely.  Should have brought an extra snack...

Breakfast
Medifast Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal 100.0 cal 1 Each

Mid-Morning
Medifast Cappuccino 100.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Medifast Parmesan Cheese Puffs 110.0 cal 1 Each

Afternoon
Chicken Breast 280.3 cal 6 oz
Raw Celery 16.0 cal 1 cup
Frankfurter or Hamburger Bun 279.0 cal 100 grams

Dinner
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Evening
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 22/Classic Romaine Crab Salad

It's Monday morning?!  Yikes!

I opened a package of crab meat for crab-stuffed pork chops and now have leftover crab meat to use.  This recipe was on the package.

Classic Romaine Crab Salad

The original recipe calls for these ingredients (4 servings) and I used the following:

• Lump crab meat, 12 oz -- I am using 7 oz, per Medifast
• Lemon juice, 2 1/2 tbsp -- 1 tbsp
• Olive oil, 2 tbsp -- 1 tsp
• Romaine lettuce, 8 cups -- 1 cup
• Red onions, 24 rings
• Carrot curls, 8 each
• Cherry tomatoes, 8 each -- 1 medium tomato
• I added parsley and parmesan

Toss crumbled crab meat, lemon juice, and olive oil.  Season with salt-peper to taste.  Chop romaine lettuce, tomato, and cucumber.  Arrange lettuce on a salad plate, top with tomatoes, crab meat mix, and cucumbers.  Sprinkle with parsley and parmesan.

Breakfast
Medifast Maple & Brown Sugar Oatmeal 100.0 cal 1 Each

Mid-Morning
Medifast Cinnamon Roll Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each
Coffee, Brewed, Prepared ,Prep W/Tap Water 4.7 cal 2 cup (8 fl oz)

Lunch
Crab 191.0 cal 7 oz
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Raw Cucumber, no peel 7.0 cal 0.5 cup
Oil, Olive (Salad or Cooking) 40.0 cal 1 tsp
Lemon Juice, Canned Or Bottled 1.2 cal 1 tbsp
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 1 dash
Pepper, Black, Ground 0.3 cal 1 dash
Parmesan Cheese, Shredded 20.8 cal 1 tbsp
Parsley, Raw 1.4 cal 1 tbsp

Afternoon
Medifast Parmesan Cheese Puffs 110.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Medifast Maryland Crab Soup 110.0 cal 1 Each

Evening
Medifast Dutch Chocolate 70 Shake 110.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 21/Rosemary-Garlic Pork Chops with Mushrooms and Squash + Raspberry Ice Cream + Medifast Waffles

Another cool morning...  My office door to the upstairst balcony is open and it's so nice... 

I have not blogged about regular exercise much but it's a very important component of any weight loss program.  You have to build up muscle as well as endurance.  It was so crazy last week that I only had time for 10-15 minutes every night.  My regular routine is at least 40 minutes every night.  If I had not abandoned this routine, I would not be here, struggling to shed pounds... :(

I love this individual blender -- takes just a few seconds to make shakes, easy to clean, and, best of all, it's a travel cup!  It means I can make breakfast in less than a minute and sip it on the way to work.

OK, one more pork chop left!  The original recipe is here.

Rosemary-Garlic Pork Chops with Mushrooms and Squash

Spray skillet with non-stick spray, add thinly sliced pork, and cook 2 minutes per side or until golden brown.  Remove meat, add butter, and cook minced garlic until just turning golden brown.  Reduce heat, add rosemary, mushrooms, squash, and meat. Season with salt and pepper.  Cook, turning occasionally, for approximately 2-3 minutes or until meat and veggies are done. Serve on lettuce leaves.

Medifast Waffles

I already posted a recipe for waffles that uses 1 pkg of Oatmeal and 1 pkg of Eggs.  You can make waffles with Medifast Pancake mix, too (well, duh!).  However, the trick is to add 1/2 tsp of baking powder! :)  In fact, I would add baking powder to the mix even if making pancakes -- last time they were rather flat.  Also, all Medifast mixes stick so be generous with non-stick spray; butter-flavor would taste the best, of course.  As Julia Child used to say, you can never have too much butter! ;)  I agree with her when it comes to taste but have drastically reduced the use of butter and determined to be careful from now on for health reasons.

Raspberry Soft-Serve Ice Cream

1 pkg Medifast pudding
1/2 cup -- water plus calorie-free raspberry syrup
1 tbsp fat-free cream cheese (regular cream cheese will make this creation creamier, I think)
1 cup crushed ice

Blend all ingredients for 1-2 minutes.  Freeze until desired consistency.  If it's too frozen, you can microwave it for a few seconds.  It's still has that "Medifasty" taste but variety is most welcome! :)

Breakfast
Original Pancakes 90.0 cal 1 meal + 1/2 tsp baking powder

Mid-Morning
Medifast French Vanilla 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each (Note:  All shakes taste much better with ice.)

Lunch
Pork Chop 286.0 cal 5 oz
Cooked Mushrooms, fresh 22.0 cal 0.5 cup
Butter, Unsalted 34.0 cal 1 tsp
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Cooked Squash, Summer, fresh 18.0 cal 0.5 cup
Rosemary Leaves, Dried (Mccormick/Schilling) 5.1 cal 0.5 tsp
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 1 dash
Pepper, Black, Ground 0.3 cal 1 dash
Garlic, Raw 2.1 cal 0.5 tsp

Afternoon
Medifast Vanilla Pudding 100.0 cal 1 Each
Calorie-free raspberry syrup 0.0 cal 1 tbsp
Fat-free cream cheese 15.0 cal 1 tbsp

Dinner
Medifast Chicken & Wild Rice Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Evening
Medifast Lemon Meringue Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 20/Crab Stuffed Pork with Light Caesar Salad

Boots

Beauty (Beauts)

Boots and Beauts, our babies...
Finally it's a little cooler outside...  I was able to open my upstairs balcony door to get some fresh air and Boots loved spending some time outside.  There are several trees close to the upstairs deck and so he can sit and watch the birds.  His paw is healing well and I actually mastered the art of squirting nasty-tasting medicine into his mouth.  Why can't they make better-tasting medicines?  The poor thing is so sweet and I hate to torture him but, as we all know, once you start the antibiotic, you have to finish or you will end with antibiotic resistance and lack of options if there is another infection.  We have a little donut-shaped pillow and so I wrap him in that, hold him under my arm, and slowly squirt the stuff.  He does not try to scratch or bite but you can see just how nasty that stuff is -- the poor thing is choking and gasping.  I have the open can of his favorite food ready so he can get the taste out of his mouth immediately.

S. spoiled Beauty and now she refuses to eat her food, preferring our food instead.  Who can blame her?! ;)  Her favorite treat?  Dried chicken wrapped in dried sweet potato?  I bought some at Marshall's and she patiently sits and waits (very difficult for a young puppy!) for a piece!  She also loves fresh veggies -- enthusiastically chomps on tomatoes and cucumbers!  Can you tell she has a team preference, too? ;)

Work...
I blogged about a week ago about requiring students to complete orientation quiz before accessing any course assignments.  There is a very simple but so cool option where you link the release of the folder to student's grade for the particular assignment.  Right now, when my students log in, they will only see orientation quiz and course syllabus.  When each student completes the quiz with 100% (they have unlimited attempts), the assignments folder will open and he/she will be able to start working on course assignments.  Because both orientation quiz and course syllabus are very detailed, I hope there will be less confusion, and, students won't be able to say "but I did not know..."  Unless there is a very unusual situation, it's all there and one of the statements on the quiz is a confirmation that they read the entire syllabus and understood all course policies.  I hope this approach will reduce the number of lengthy emails that take so much time...

Food...
Experimenting with pork chops today...  This package had two large pork chops so I divided it into three portions and have to eat pork for three days... Since there are only a few dishes I don't mind eating again and again, I have to be creative so I have something a little different every day. 

The original recipe is found here and would taste much better, of course, but I am making modifications to meet the diet requirements.

Crab Stuffed Pork with Light Ceasar Salad

Mix seasonings -- salt, pepper, thyme, cayenne pepper, etc.  Place the pork chop on a flat surface and make a 1" slit to form a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through the meat.  Tenderize the meat, being careful not to damage the pocket.  Sprinkle with seasonings on the outside and inside.

Finely chop green peppers and saute in a skillet sprayed with non-stick spray.  Stir in crab meat and cream cheese.  Add remaining seasoning mix.  Spoon mixture into the pork chop pocket and secure with a couple of toothpicks.  My pocket was too small so I placed the remaining mixture on top.

Spray the casserole dish with non-stick butter-flavored spray, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for approximately 20 minutes, turning once.  Uncover and cook for 10 more minutes or until done and turned golden brown.  Toss shredded romaine lettuce with Parmesan cheese and Light Caesar dressing.

Breakfast
Medifast Scrambled Eggs 100.0 cal 1 Each -- one of my favorite Medifast meals, if cooked on the skillet; microwaved eggs are rubbery...  Sprinkle some cheese and/or herbs and you have a delicious meal!
Cheddar Cheese, Shredded, Nonfat (Kraft) ,Natural 3.3 cal 1 tsp
Parsley, Raw 0.3 cal 0.25 tbsp

Mid-Morning
Medifast Banana Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Pork Chop 286.0 cal 5 oz
Crab Meat 27.3 cal 1 oz
Cooked Peppers, Green, fresh 19.0 cal 0.5 cup
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 1 dash
Thyme, Dried, Ground 2.7 cal 0.5 tsp
Pepper, Black, Ground 2.7 cal 0.5 tsp
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 12.0 cal 1.5 cup
Parmesan Cheese, Shredded 20.8 cal 1 tbsp
Light Caesar Italian 25.0 cal 2 tbsp
Fat-Free Cream Cheese 15.0 cal 1 tbsp

Afternoon
Medifast Vanilla Pudding 100.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Evening
Medifast Dutch Chocolate 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 19/Pork and Mushroom Kabobs with Tomato-Cucumber Salad

My brain is not functioning yet this morning so I decided to blog while drinking coffee and waking up...  I so did not want to be at work by 8:00 am after staying up late again but only three hours of "required office presence" left for today!  Does anybody accomplish anything substantial during office hours?  Even though my students are not always knocking on my door and my phone is quiet sometimes, I still can't concentrate and so completing small tasks rather than attempting to work on a larger project. 

I defrosted some pork chops last night and so making kabobs for dinner.  Anybody else has a favorite recipe for pork chops?

Pork and Mushroom Kabobs with Tomato-Cucumber Salad

Cut pork chops and mushrooms into bite-size chunks and marinate in Italian Dressing, preferably overnight.  I can only eat three veggies per day so using only mushrooms, because I love grilled mushrooms.  It's better to use a variety of veggies, of course -- green peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, etc.  Skewer meat and veggies and grill on medium-high until done.  I will enjoy kabobs with a simple tomato-cucumber salad (chop tomatoes and cucumbers, season with salt/pepper/other spices).

Breakfast
Medifast Fruit & Nut Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Coffee, Brewed, Prepared ,Prep W/Tap Water 4.7 cal 2 cup (8 fl oz)

Mid-Morning
Medifast Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal 100.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Medifast Chicken & Wild Rice Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Afternoon
Medifast Orange Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Dinner
Pork Chop 286.0 cal 5 oz
Cooked Mushrooms, White, fresh 34.0 cal 0.5 cup
Kraft Light Done Right Italian 40.0 cal 2 tbsp
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Cucumber, with peel 8.0 cal 0.5 cup
Salt, Table 0.0 cal 1 dash

Evening
Medifast Swiss Mocha 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 18/Egg, Tomato, Cucumber, and Lettuce Salad

Another crazy day at work... I am exhausted... and there is still so much to do...  Tomorrow we only have a half day -- what a relief!  Very busy weekend ahead, though.

Made this quick salad tonight because I don't have energy for anything else.  It was very good, though, and meets lean & green requirements, so here you go...

Egg, Tomato, Cucumber, and Lettuce Salad

Mix or layer chopped boiled eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce.  Add some dressing.  I used Light Thousand Island.  Done!

Breakfast
Medifast Lemon Meringue Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Mid-Morning
Medifast Hot Cocoa 110.0 cal 1 Each

Lunch
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Afternoon
Medifast Chocolate Pudding 110.0 cal 1 Each

Coffee, Brewed, Prepared ,Prep W/Tap Water 3.6 cal 1.5 cup (8 fl oz) because I was falling asleep...

Dinner
Eggs, Whole 213.0 cal 3 eggs
Raw Cucumber, with peel 8.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Light Thousand Island Dressing 70.0 cal 2 tbsp

Evening
Medifast Strawberry Creme 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

Losing Weight Project: Day 17/Salmon, Tomato, Spinach, and Cucumber Salad

One of my friends at work made my day -- she asked if I lost some weight!!!  Yes, yes, yes!!!  It's a slow process but I am getting there.

I had another very busy day -- Fall faculty convocation, department meeting, and lots of paperwork.  Since I didn't have to be at work until 8:30 this morning, I planned to have pancakes.  Until my alarm went off and I decided to snooze a little longer... 

Even though breakfast was provided, I suspected I won't be able to eat anything until lunch, so I made cappuccino to drink later and ate my breakfast bar on the way to work.  Sure enough, there was nothing Medifast-friendly -- pastries and fruit.  Honestly, I haven't noticed that before.  It's one of the benefits of Medifast -- you start paying attention to what is being served and whether it's good for you.  Before, I would sample pastries and think nothing of it.  I could not eat fruit today but, once I lose this weight, I will get fruit and maybe one small pastry, instead of several.  I think I will suggest to the person in charge to serve healthier choices -- she is one of my friends and won't mind.

Well, I was prepared so I was able to sip my still warm cappuccino during the mid-morning break.  The meeting ended early so I was able to go home for lunch.  I made this very simple but tasty salad (yes, still had some salmon in my fridge):

Salmon, Tomato, Spinach, and Cucumber Salad with Thousand Island Dressing

Dice one small tomato and one small pickling cucumber (I don't like those long cucumbers because they don't taste like cucumbers).  Chop spinach.  Flake fish.  Mix veggies and fish with dressing (go easy on dressing!) in a large bowl.  That's it -- fast, healthy, and yummy.

Since I already mixed pancakes, I decided to enjoy them for snack tonight.  I wasn't able to flip pancakes, probably because the mixture was refrigerated since last night.  I ended up with pancake lumps rather than pancakes and was about to toss them, actually, when I decided to sample them anyway.  My sorry-looking creation did taste like pancakes and was actually pretty good so I enjoyed the snack.  Won't mix early again, though -- learned my lesson.

Breakfast
Medifast Chocolate Mint Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

Mid-Morning
Medifast Cappuccino 100.0 cal 1 Each
Lunch
Salmon 257.8 cal 5 oz
Raw Tomatoes 16.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Cucumber, with peel 8.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Spinach 6.0 cal 1 cup
Kraft Light Thousand Island Dressing 30.0 cal 1 tbsp
Afternoon
Medifast Parmesan Cheese Puffs 110.0 cal 1 Each
Dinner
Medifast Maryland Crab Soup 110.0 cal 1 Each
Evening
Original Pancakes 90.0 cal 1 meal

Losing Weight Project: Day 16/Salmon, Mushrooms, and Asparagus Salad with Butter-Laughing Cow Cheese Sauce

Breakfast      
Medifast French Vanilla 55 Shake 90.0 cal 1 Each

I did not go to bed until 12:45 am last night (well, this morning) -- there was so much to do...  And then woke up at 6:45 am...  I am so not a morning person...  Got ready for work, blended my breakfast shake, and drove to pick up Boots from the vet.  Apparently, he had a very deep cut on his pad that became infected and, because of debris, did not heal properly.  The doctor had to open the cut and clean under anesthesia so poor Boots had to spend the night there.  He was so happy to see me this morning!  The vet prescribed a 10-day dose of antibiotic, to be squirted into his mouth once a day.  Hmmm... this will be interesting... wish S. was here -- he knows how to do this kind of stuff.  We will have to survive until the weekend.

So brought Boots home, made sure he was comfortable (fresh food/water, litter box filled with paper pellets so his wound won't get dirty again).  I decided to leave him in a bathroom because I was not sure if he would freak out and hide somewhere.  Then rushed to work.

Mid-Morning
Medifast Oatmeal Raisin Crunch Bar 110.0 cal 1 Each

We had a workshop until a few minutes after noon so I ate my snack bar during the break while everybody else was snacking on fresh fruit and M&M's.  A rather strange choice of snacks, in my opinion.  I am so determined to lose weight that I wasn't even tempted.  Now, if they had peanut M&M's...  just kidding! :)

Lunch          
Medifast Chicken Noodle Soup 100.0 cal 1 Each

Drove home to check on Boots.  Since he appeared to be calm, I opened the bathroom door and he didn't run anywhere, a sigh of relief...  Rushed back to work where several students were already waiting.  Helped them and then finally had time to cook and eat my soup.  Of course, was interrupted several times but oh well...  the other faculty member was out today so I was "holding the fort."  One of our secretaries commented on how yummy my soup was smelling while cooking in the microwave.  Yep, not bad at all, especially since it's filling and only has 100 calories.  The key is to keep it covered for at least five minutes after cooking, to let the noodles and chicken soften sufficiently.

Afternoon    
Medifast Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal 100.0 cal 1 Each

Every time I tried to cook my afternoon snack, I was interrupted... :(  Then it was after 6:00 pm and time to go home.  I didn't feel like cooking and eating oatmeal in the empty office so I went home.

Dinner
Salmon 257.8 cal 5 oz
Cooked Asparagus, fresh 20.0 cal 0.5 cup
Cooked Mushrooms, White, fresh 34.0 cal 0.5 cup
Raw Lettuce, Romaine 8.0 cal 1 cup
Butter, Unsalted 34.0 cal 1 tsp
Laughing Cow Creamy Swiss Light 35 cal 1 wedge
Pepper, Black, Ground 0.3 cal 1 dash
Oregano (McCormick/Schilling) 2.4 cal 0.25 tsp
Coriander Seeds 1.3 cal 0.25 tsp
Parsley 1.4 cal 1 tbsp

Salmon, Mushrooms, and Asparagus Salad with Butter-Laughing Cow Cheese Sauce

I had one salmon fillet so I divided it into three portions and baked last night with oregano, black pepper, and coriander seeds.  Today, I reheated one portion and cut fish into bite-size chunks.  Steamed asparagus, cut into bite-size lengths as well.  Sprayed the skillet with butter-flavor non-stick spray and cooked mushrooms until golden brown.  Chopped lettuce.  Mixed fish, asparagus, mushrooms, and lettuce.  Finally, melted butter and cheese on very low and poured sauce on my salad.  Sprinkled with parsley.

Evening
Medifast Vanilla Pudding 100.0 cal 1 Each

Snacking on pudding as I am writing...  Since I missed my afternoon snacks but have to eat all five Medifast meals, I will test the cookie recipe tonight.  I don't like eating so late so will try not to skip meals again.

Vanilla Cookies
1 packet of MF vanilla shake (or shake of your choice)
1 packet of splenda
1 tsp of baking powder (more than most, but really helps "puff" them up)
1-2 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 ounces of water
Mix dry ingredients with a wisk, then add the water slowly. Don't pour in all the water at once, add it slowly at first and then add more as needed. You want to get a "dough" that is the consistency of paste.
Spoon the cookies by tablespoonful onto parchment paper covered baking sheet (or spray baking sheet with cooking spray).  Bake the cookies at 350 degrees for 8 minutes.

Well, heading to my kitchen to test this recipe...  Will post an update later.

Update:  As with other Medifast concoctions, these cookies won't win any awards but they were pretty good.  I enjoyed my snack. :)

Losing Weight Project: Day 15/Lean & Green Taco Salad

It was great to chat with my Medifast Health Coach last night who reassured me that I am on track.  She will stay in touch with me as well as help me save money on Medifast meals.  Wow, thanks! :)

Took Boots to the vet clinic this morning because his paw is getting infected again.  We adopted him because he was declawed and looked so timid and terrified of anything and everything.  It has taken a lot of patience and encouragement from both of us and now he is a happy cat who loves to cuddle and window-watch.  His paw, however, never healed completely.  It was fine for several weeks and now bothering him again.  He was very nervous, obviously, so our vet will sedate him today, deep clean the wound, remove any foreign obstacles and/or bone fragments, and glue the incision.  I should be able to pick up Boots tomorrow morning.  Even though I don't like leaving him there for a long time (he probably thinks he has been abandoned again, poor kitty...) but need to take of this or he will continue to suffer.

Doing fine with my meal plan today.  Because I will be gone all day, I printed out the plan last night and made the pudding right away.  This morning, I made the shake and took the other packets with me (snack bar and soup).  Plenty of water at work so need to worry about that.

Lean & Green Taco Salad recipe was found here.  Here is my version:

5 oz. Ground Beef (93%)
1 tbsp taco seasoning
1 cup romaine lettuce
1/2 cup cucumber
1/2 cup tomatoes
1 tbsp fat-free cheddar cheese
1 tbsp ligh sour cream
 
Brown the ground beef, drain, and add taco seasoning.  Chop lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes.  Top with meat, cheddar cheese, and sour cream.  Should be yummy!

Losing Weight Project: Day 14/Mushroom and Mini Meatballs Salad

I don't want to go back to work tomorrow... one more week, please? :(

Because I have been traveling back and forth for over a year now, my closet is a mess... suitcases haven't been truly emptied in a long time...  I am on a mission to organize today!  Actually, almost done -- proud of myself! :)

Mushroom and Mini Meatballs Salad

Finely chop parsley, add to ground beef, season with salt/pepper, and mix well.  Form into tiny bite size meatballs.  Steam for 10 minutes (or fry, for extra flavor).  Chop romaine lettuce and spinach.  Slice mushrooms and fry in olive oil until golden brown -- as Julia Child advised, "Don't crowd mushrooms or they won't cook properly!"  Mix lettuce, spinach, mushrooms, meatballs, and add more salt/pepper if necessary.  Sprinkle some cheddar cheese.  I didn't add any dressing but, of course, this salad will taste even better with your favorite dressing.  Enjoy! :)

Losing Weight Project: Day 13/Warm Mushroom, Asparagus, Egg, and Steak Salad

Back to work on Monday?!  Yikes!  What happened to one quiet week I had since Christmas?!

For lunch, I will just throw a quick Mushroom, Asparagus, Egg, and Steak Salad together (saute mushrooms and steak, add asparagus; season with salt/pepper/cumin; serve on lettuce leaves).  Not really in a mood to cook today... 

Update:  I forgot that I used 1/2 of steak already so didn't have enough for 5 oz lean portion of the plan.  To compensate, I added one egg.  Steamed one egg and asparagus (cut into bite-size lengths) for 10 minutes.  Meanwhile, sliced steak and lettuce, seasoned with salt, pepper, and cumin.  Sauteed mushrooms in olive oil.  Added warm asparagus, mashed soft-boiled egg, and mushrooms.  Mixed all ingredients.  It was very tasty.  Hmmm... will make it again, definitely. :)

Here is my meal plan for today:

Losing Weight Project: Day 12/Lean & Green Stuffed Peppers

It's been a busy day -- worked this morning, had to run several errands, spent a couple of hours with my hairdresser...  I may regret my decision but I cut my hair; a lot of hair, actually... like 20 inches! ;)  My hair is shorter than I actually wanted but I was able to donate two hair lengths -- cancer clinic requires 10 inches, so two women somewhere will have hair now.  It feels good!  Especially since my hair grows quickly and so I will get the length I wanted in a couple of months.  Also, I decided to get highlights -- and they are not subtle as expected, either.  Oh, well -- going for redhead! ;)  S. will think I lost my mind when he sees me tonight but, oh well, he knows I live for adventure.

Lean & Green Stuffed Peppers

• 1 bell pepper, sliced in half
• 5 oz lean ground beef or turkey (used 93%)
• 1 small tomato, finely chopped
• 1 tsp olive oil
• salt/pepper
• oregano
• low-fat sour cream
• fresh parsley, finely chopped

Saute tomato in olive oil.  Mix cooked tomato, ground meat, and spices.  Fill bell pepper halves.  Bake or steam (my preference) until done, approximately 40 minutes.  Serve with a dollop of low-fat sour cream and fresh parsley.

Online Courses

Non-attendance and/or lack of participation is one of the main problems for most of our online courses, mainly because students become frustrated and just give up.  Having talked with colleagues at other schools, I know we're not alone.  I have noticed even higher numbers after a couple of plants closed in our area and we reached out to laid-off workers to provide retraining.  There are years of research, suggesting that support and structured approach are very important.  Therefore, I am doing something new (well, for me) -- I am requiring students to complete the introductory module before they allowed to even view any course content.  This module consists of (1) fairly comprehensive online course readiness quiz and (2) syllabus review/contract.  Students are required to complete this module before the last add/drop day, so they can switch to a face-to-face course if they decide they are not quite ready to attempt an online course.  Also, I am now requiring weekly check-ins.  Most of my courses involve production work and it's not always easy to implement group work and other interactive activies.  However, I will add some of those, too.

Losing Weigh Project: Day 11/Medifast Oatmeal Cookies

Lots to do today so this morning I treated myself to the "real" breakfast! :)  I am still within meal plan boundaries, though.  Also, will make cookies later today.  We'll see how they will turn...

Update:  These cookies won't win any awards but do taste better than oatmeal, I think.  Maybe because I am not that crazy about any oatmeal, unless there are lots of "goodies," like raisins, prunes, nuts, brown sugar, and whipped cream.  Yeah, more like a cake! ;)  No way I will sabotage my diet!

Medifast Oatmeal Cookies

• 1 oatmeal pkg
• 1/4 cinnamon
• 1 pkt sugar substitute
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/8 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Mix, shape into cookies, bake for 350 F until done.  I baked at 350 F for 10 minutes, increased temperature to 400 F, and baked for 5 more minutes.

Losing Weight Project: Day 10/Chef S. Chicken

I was able to relax for a few days but all that work is still there...  Back to work next week and still so much to do...

Another plus for this diet -- even though I am stressing out, I know I will not start snacking w/out paying attention.  I miss cooking for S., though -- he will have to survive on leftovers for the next couple of weeks, even though he can definitely cook if necessary.  He is nice to me, though, so I usually cook and he does dishes -- hey, works for me.  Here is one of his recipes, in case somebody can use it.  He came up with it one week when I was away, he was tired of leftovers, and decided to clean our refrigerator. ;)

Chef S. Clean Refrigerator Chicken

• 1 chicken breast, tenderized and sliced into chunks
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 4 scoops of plain yogurt or sour cream
• olive oil
• fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped
• salt
• pepper

Season chicken with salt and pepper, then fry in hot oil for a few minutes.  Remove chicken and set aside.  Saute onion until golden brown, add yogurt and chicken, add more salt/pepper if necessary.  Simmer until chicken is done and sauce starts to thicken.  Sprinkle with dill or parsley.  Enjoy with warm pita bread.

I am tired today -- it's that time of the month...  So chugging cold green tea (love sugar-free on-the-go packets, honey-ginger flavor).  Green tea always helps plus I am drinking enough fluids.

I have been putting off my IRB proposal and it's silly because I have all the information, just need to update the form and send it to my advisor.  I keep pushing myself for a burst of energy and then get the momentum going, to take care of my prospectus.  It's almost done, too, so how do I get through this block of apathy?!

Losing Weight Project: Day 9

I was excited after weighing in yesterday morning and so tried again this morning, to be consistent.  Still showing approximately 10 lbs difference from last week.  If I account for water weight and other factors, I still lost weight!

One of the main challenges is forgetting to eat!  What an interesting challenge, huh? ;)  One of the requirements is to eat every 2-3 hours to prevent being hungry and maintain metabolism rate.  I get too engrossed in my work and forget it's time for another snack... and I want to wait for a better stopping point... and then, oops, I am feeling hungry... 

I have been chugging water consistently, though.  I like to drink or nible on something when I am working, thus weight gain!  If I drink water, it's healthy and satisfies the need.  Why didn't I think of this strategy before?!

For lunch, I will try steaming steak.  Let's see how that turns out...  There are no recipes except one glowing forum post that presents excellent results.  I will make lettuce wraps with steak, cucumbers, and tomatoes.  Should be tasty!

Looking forward to my Medifast order, scheduled for delivery on Thursday.  It will add goodies like pancakes, cheese puffs, beef vegetable stew, more shakes (French Vanilla, Strawberry Creme, Banana Creme, Orange Creme), more snack bar flavors (Lemon Meringue Crunch, Strawberry Crunch, Fruit & Nut Crunch), different oatmeal flavors (Apple Cinnamon, Maple & Brown Sugar), chocolate puddings and cappuccinos.  No matter how tasty food is, it gets boring if there is no variety.

Losing Weight Project: Day 8/Medifast Eggs

Had a challenging day today because of travel plans.  It's easier to stick to the schedule at home, obviously.  Instead of picking any Medifast meals I wanted, I had to make sure I will be able to prepare them.

My meal plan for today:

• Medifast eggs (mixed as usual but prepared in the skilled, sprayed with non-stick spray), sprinkled with Italian seasoning and fat-free Cheddar cheese
• Medifast shake, Swiss Mocha (prepared before I left to drink on the way)
• Medifast bar
• Stuffed salmon and grilled chicken (leftovers, made one serving combined) and salad (spinach, cucumbers, 1 tbsp of feta cheese, 1 tsp olive oil)
• Medifast chicken noodle soup
• Medifast shake, Dutch Chocolate (trying out my new travel blender, Hamilton Beach for only $15 instead of $40 sold on Medifast website; blender cup fits in the drink holder, super easy)

Since Beauty is home with S., I will use treadmill to exercise for the next few days.  Not as much fun without those crazy companions...  Boots came with me but he is only interested in cuddling up, not exercising! :)

My scales confirmed that I did lose six pounds (accounting for variations).  Since I haven't started my usual exercise routine, it's not bad, I guess.

Losing Weight Project: Day 7/Medifast Waffles

I am surprised how early I have been waking up, not sure why.  I am not a morning person and so nothing substantial usually gets accomplished before 8:00 am.  Yet, I was up between 6:00 and 6:30 am for the last few days?!

OK, my meal plan for today:

I made waffles this morning!!! :)

• 1 pkg Medifast Eggs
• 1 pkg Medifast Oatmeal
• 1/2 cup water (4 oz)
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/8 tsp vanilla extract

Blend all ingredients thoroughly (I used hand blender to make sure I could easily scrape the bowl).  Preheat the wafflemaker.  Spray the griddle with non-stick cooking spray (no calories) and cook waffles until done; time depends on your wafflemaker.  It took about two minutes for me.

Wow, I was surprised at how fluffy the waffles turned out!  So I ate one half for breakfast and will toast the remaining half for tomorrow's breakfast -- two Medifast meals!

For dinner, we will have salmon stuffed with cream cheese and crabmeat.  I bought several servings at Publix a couple of months ago when they were on sale but still fresh and froze for later use.  Well, today I don't feel like cooking so I will just bake fish and fix salad.