Weight Watchers - Day # 70 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Wendy's Chili (large) - 7 points Saltine Crackers (4 packets) - 2 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 11 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 28.5 Used / 6.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 69 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Fiber One Peanut Butter & Oats Bar - 2 points Lean Cuisine Three Cheese Stuffed Rigatoni - 4 points Pumpkin Pie - 8 points 6 Small Homemade Cookies - 8.5 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 24.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 28.5 Used / 6.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 68 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: McDonalds Grilled Honey Mustard Snack Wrap - 6 points Cooked turkey breast - 2 points Beef Gravy - 1 point 2 slices of Wheat Toast - 2.5 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 11.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 28.5 Used / 6.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 67 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Weight Watchers English Muffin Sandwich - 4 points Turkey - 2 points Green Bean Casserole - 5 points Sweet Potato - 3 points Stuffing - 4 points Beef Gravy - 1 point Shrimp - 3.5 points Pecan Pie - 12 points Pumpkin Pie - 8 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 42.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 28.5 Used / 6.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 66 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Lean Cuisine Asian Style Pot Stickers - 5 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Mint Sundae - 3 points Dairy Queen French Fries (small) - 9 points Diary Queen Grilled Chicken Sandwich - 9 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 26 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 28.5 Used / 6.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 65 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Lay's Baked Sour Cream & Onion Potato Chips - 2 points Fiber One Oats & Peanut Butter Bar - 2 points Apple Slices and Fruit Dip - 2 points Subway Turkey Breast Sub (6 inch) - 5 points Goldfish Crackers - 4.5 points Subway Turkey Breast Sub (6 inch) - 5 points 2 Regular Bagel-Fuls - 8 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Sundae - 3 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 31.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 28.5 Used / 6.5 Left

Monday Weigh In - On Tuesday

Because I forgot!

Today I weighed myself and I was at 168.0 pounds. Since my last weigh in I've lost 2.4 pounds for a total of FIFTEEN POUNDS! I'm so proud of myself.

Weight Watchers - Day # 64 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Panino's Hawaiian Panino - 8 points Side of Potato Salad - 3 points Apple Slices and Fruit Dip - 2 points Fiber One Toaster Pastries - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Water - 0 points Exercise: Hiked the incline (4 hours / high intensity) - 33 points Total Points Used: 19 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 63 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal; Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Lean Cuisine Teriyaki Steak - 6 points 1 Slice of Pepperoni Pizza - 7 points 1 Slice of Cheese Pizza - 6 points Fiber One Toaster Pastries - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 27 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 16 Used / 19 Left

Baked Eggs with Spinach and Tomatoes

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained Kosher salt and pepper 2 8-ounce bunches spinach, trimmed 8 eggs, separated (yolks kept whole, if possible) 4 ounces cream cheese (optional) Heat oven to 400° F. Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and simmer for 3 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until it begins to wilt, 1 minute. Transfer to a 2-quart baking dish. Beat the egg whites until foamy, about 30 seconds, then pour them over the spinach mixture. Carefully place the whole yolks over the top. Bake until the whites are set, 20 to 22 minutes. Divide among individual plates. Add dollops of the cream cheese, if desired. Tip: To separate an egg, crack the shell on a counter. Working over a bowl, hold the egg upright and separate the shell into halves. Carefully transfer the yolk back and forth from one eggshell half to the other, letting all the white slip out into the bowl. Yield: Makes 4 servings NUTRITION PER SERVING CALORIES 128(28% from fat); FAT 4g (sat 1g); CHOLESTEROL 0mg; CARBOHYDRATE 12g; SODIUM 547mg; PROTEIN 13g; FIBER 6g; SUGAR 4g Recipe courtesy of Real Simple

Weight Watchers - Day # 62 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Subway Black Forest Ham Sandwich (12") - 10 points Baked Lay's Sour Cream & Onion Potato Chips - 2 points Crab legs - 4 points Crab Rangoog - 4 points Beef & Broccoli - 4 points Shrimp - 3.5 points 4 Pot Stickers - 8.5 points Beverages: Water - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points 2 Rum & Diet Coke's - 4 points Rock Star Sugar Free Energy Drink - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 40 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 16 Used / 19 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 61 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal; Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Pita Gyro - 6 points Lay's Baked Sour Cream & Onion Potato Chips - 2 points Noodles & Company Japanese Pan Noodles - 12 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 22 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 60 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Weight Watchers English Muffin Sandwich - 4 points Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie Yogurt - 1 point Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point Oscar Mayer Roasted Turkey Slices - 1 point Progresso Light Beef Pot Roast Soup - 1 point 100 Calorie Orville Redenbacher Popcorn - 2 points Fiber One Bar - 2 points Grilled Pork Chop (3 oz.) - 3 points Green Beans - 0 points 4 Small Homemade cookies - 6 points Dippin' Stix Apple Slices & Yogurt Dip - 2 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Crystal Light Drink - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 23 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 59 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: 1/2 cup Egg Beaters; Scrambled - 1 point 2 slices of Wheat Toast - 2.5 points 1 Serving Oscar Mayer Roasted Turkey Breast Slices - 1 point Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point Lean Cuisine Steak Tips Portabello - 4 points Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points Wax Beans - 0 points Fiber One Peanut Butter & Oats Bar - 2 points Grilled Chicken Breast (3oz.) - 3 points Fiber One Toaster Pastries (2) - 6 points Weight Watchers Black Cherry Yogurt - 1 point Beverages: Water - 0 points Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Lemon Lime Flavored Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 21.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

Hungry Girl Right Said Bread

After getting a BAZILLION requests for pumpkin bread, we figured it was time to make some. And after EIGHT attempts, we got it just right. Try it and see! Ingredients: One 15-oz. can pure pumpkin 1 1/4 cups whole-wheat flour 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup fat-free liquid egg substitute (like Original Egg Beaters) 1/2 cup Splenda No Calorie Sweetener (granulated) 1/4 cup brown sugar (not packed) 1/4 cup Ocean Spray Craisins Original Sweetened Dried Cranberries (or regular raisins), chopped 2 1/4 tsp. baking powder 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. salt 1/3 tsp. pumpkin pie spice Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, combine both types of flour, Splenda, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and pumpkin pie spice (in other words, all dry ingredients except for the Craisins or raisins). In a medium bowl, mix together pumpkin, egg substitute, and vanilla extract (all the wet ingredients). Add this mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients, and stir until just blended. Slowly sprinkle chopped Craisins or raisins into the batter, making sure they don't all stick together, and mix to distribute them. Spoon batter into a large loaf pan (about 9" X 5") sprayed with nonstick spray. Bake for about 50 minutes, until the top of the loaf is firm to the touch. (Bread may be moist inside. This doesn't mean it's undercooked.) Allow to cool, and then cut into 8slices. Enjoy! MAKES 8 SERVINGS Serving Size: 1 (thick!) slice Calories: 143 Fat: 0.5g Sodium: 281mg Carbs: 31g Fiber: 4.5g Sugars: 9g Protein: 5g POINTS® value 2* HG Alternative! To make this bread into muffins, evenly distribute the batter among 8cups of a muffin pan sprayed with nonstick spray. Cook for 35 minutes at 350 degrees, let cool, and enjoy! Visit Hungry Girl for more great recipes!

Weight Watchers - Day # 58 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points 1 Serving Oscar Mayer Roasted Turkey Breast Slices - 1 point Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point Lean Cuisine Stuffed Cabbage - 4 points Fiber One Peanut Butter & Oats Bar - 2 points Dippin' Stix Sliced Apples & Yogurt Fruit Dip - 2 points Tuna Fish on Wheat Bread - 4 points Green Giant Healthy Weight Vegetables - 1 point Fiber One Toaster Pastries (2) - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Raspberry Flavored Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 23 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

UPDATED: Frozen Meal Food Recall

If you are a consumer of Lean Cusine and Weight Watchers Smart Ones, you MUST READ THIS. And wouldn't you know, the TWO products mentioned in the press release? Are in my freezer. I posted about this on my family blog too - check it out here. UPDATED Just came across this on a local tv website:

Lean Cuisine Recalls Over 800,000 lbs. of Chicken Meals

WASHINGTON - Nestle Prepared Foods Company is recalling approximately 879,565 pounds of frozen chicken meals with pieces of plastic inside, the U.S.D.A. announced Tuesday. The problem was discovered after consumer complaints and a report of one injury. Detailed Recall List: 9.5-Ounce packages of "Lean Cuisine Pesto Chick with Bow Tie Pasta" brand frozen meals. Printed on each side of each package is a production code of "8280595912" as well as a use-by date of "Best Before MAY 2010." 10.5-Ounce packages of "Lean Cuisine Chicken Mediterranean" brand frozen meals. Printed on the side of each package is a production code of "8231595912" or 8241595912" as well as a use by date of "Best before SEP 2010" ; a production code of "8263595912," "8269595911" or "8274595912" as well as a use-by date of "Best before OCT 2010"; or a production code of "8291595912" or "8301595912" as well as a use by date of "Best before Nov. 2010." 12.5 Ounce packages of "Lean Cuisine Chicken Tuscan" brand frozen meals. Printed on the side of each package is a production code of "8234595911" and a use-by date of "Best before SEP 2009" ; a production code of "8253595911" or "8269595912" as well as a use-by date of "Best before OCT 2009", or, a production code of "8292595911" or "8296595911" as well as a use-by date of "Best before NOV 2009. Each package also bears the USDA mark of inspection as well as the establishment number "EST P-9018." The frozen chicken meals were produced on Aug. 18, Aug 21, Aug. 28, Sept. 9, Sept 19, Sept. 25th, Sept. 30th, Oct. 6, Oct. 17-18, Oct. 22 and Oct 27th and were distributed to retail stores nationwide.

Weight Watchers - Day # 57 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal, Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Lean Cuisine Rosemary Chicken - 4 points Weight Watchers Berries 'n Cream yogurt - 1 point Asparagus - 0 points Wax Beans - 0 points Grilled Chicken Breast - 3 point Fiber One Toaster Pastries (2) - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Water - 0 points Key Lime Flavored Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 16 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

Weigh In Progress

I have to say, I look forward to Mondays. But only because it's the ONLY day out of the week that I allow myself to step on the scale to see how much I weigh. And since I've had several HORRIBLE weeks/weekends in a row, I'm always on edge when it's time to check out my progress. But I look forward to it just the same. I guess you can say I'm enjoying my new lifestyle. Last week I weighed 171.8 pounds. Today I weighed 170.4. That's a total loss of 1.4 pounds for the week, 12.6 pounds total since I started Weight Watchers. The weight is coming off slowly, but that's okay. It's coming off. And really at this point in the game I know that I'm responsible for the number on the scale either increasing or decreasing. Here's to another good week, yet again I need to work out daily and stay on track with my eating. Weekends are always such a challenge for me. Catch ya on the flip side.

Weight Watchers - Day # 56 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Weight Watchers English Muffin Sandwich - 4 points 2 Slices of Canadian Style Bacon & Cheese Pizza - 15 points Mixed Salad Greens - 0 points Reduced-Calorie Italian Dressing - 1 point 6 Small Homemade Cookies - 8.5 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Energy Drink - 0 points Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 28.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 17.5 Used / 17.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 55 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Dairy Queen Grilled Chicken Sandwich (plain) - 6 points Dairy Queen Onion Rings - 7 points 3 Small Homemade Cookies - 4.5 points 1 Slice of store bought Birthday Cake - 7 points 1/2 Marble Ice Cream - 3 points Fresh Salsa - 0 points Tortilla Chips (1 serving) - 3 points Organic Hummus - 1 point Wheat Crackers (1 serving) - 1 point Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Water - 0 points Xenergy Energy Drink - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 32.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 13 Used / 22 Left

Tortilla Casserole

3/4 pound extra lean ground beef 15 ounces red kidney beans, 1 can 14.5 ounces no-salt-added diced tomatoes undrained 4 ounces chopped green chilies, 1 can 1package taco seasoning mix 6 corn tortillas 3/4 cup nonfat sour cream 3 ounces shredded cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 1. Spray large nonstick skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over high heat until hot. Add ground beef; brown 8 to 10 minutes or until thoroughly cooked, stirring constantly. Drain well; return beef to skillet. 2. Add beans, tomatoes, chilies and taco seasoning mix; mix well. Reduce heat; simmer 5 minutes. 3. Meanwhile spray 12x8-inch (2-quart) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Cut each tortilla in half; place 6 halves in bottom of sprayed baking dish, overlapping slightly. 4. Spoon half of beef mixture evenly over tortillas. Spoon sour cream over beef mixture; spread evenly. Top with remaining 6 tortilla halves and remaining beef mixture. Cover tightly with foil. Freeze. 5. Thaw overnight. Heat oven to 350ºF. Bake at 350ºF for 25 minutes. Remove from oven; sprinkle with cheese. Cover; let stand 3 minutes or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with cilantro. Makes 6 Servings. 1 serving = 6 points

Weight Watchers - Day # 54 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal; Brown Sugar & Maple - 2 points Variety of Homemade Cookies (about 10) - 14.5 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Xenergy Energy Drink - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 16.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 4.5 Used / 30.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 53 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal; Brown Sugar & Maple - 2 points Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point 1 Serving Oscar Mayer Roasted Turkey Breast Slices - 1 point Lean Cuisine Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry - 6 points Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points 2 Chocolate Chip Cookie Squares (raw dough) - 3. 5 points Fiber One Peanut Butter & Oats Bar - 2 points Amy's Cheddar Cheese Organic Burrito - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-N-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 21.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 4.5 Used / 30.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 52 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Low Sugar Oatmeal; Brown Sugar & Maple - 2 points Weight Watchers Key Lime Pie Yogurt - 1 point Weight Watcers String Cheese - 1 point 1 Serving Oscar Mayer Roasted Turkey Breast Slices - 1 point Green Beans - 0 points Pumpkin Pie - 5 points Mashed Potatoes - 3 points Turkey & Gravy - 2 points Stuffing - 4 points 1/2 Grilled Pork Chop - 1.5 points Select Harvest Light Italian Vegetable Soup - 0 points Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie (2) - 2 points Beverages: Xenergy Pink Lemon Energy Drink - 0 points Water - 0 points Raspberry Flavored Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 22.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 4.5 Used / 30.5 Left

Berry Orange Sunrise Smoothie

1 tub Crystal Light Sunrise Classic Orange Flavor Sugar Free Drink Mix

1 cup cold water

1 cup chopped frozen strawberries

1/4 cup fat free milk

2 tbsp. Breakstone's free or Knudsen free fat free sour cream

Add drink mix to water, stir until mix is dissolved. Remove 2 tbsp. of the prepared drink, add to blender. Reserve the remaining prepared drink for other use. Add remaining ingredients to blender, cover. Blend on high speed 30 seconds, or until drink is thickened and well blended. Serve immediately. Pour the remaining prepared drink into 1 1/2 quart glass or plastic pitcher. Add 1 1/2 quart (6 cups) cold water, stir until well blended. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

110 calories, 0.5g total fat, 22g carbohydrate, 3g fiber

Weight Watchers - Day # 51 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Smart Ones Canadian Style Bacon English Muffin Sandwich - 4 points Weight Watchers Raspberry Yogurt - 1 point Lean Cuisine Chicken in Peanut Sauce Meal - 5 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie - 1 point Fiber One Peanut Butter & Oats Bar - 2 points Campbell's Select Harvest Light Savory Chicken with Vegetables Soup - 1 point 2 slices of Wheat Toast - 2.5 points Weight Watchers Mint Chocolate Chip dessert - 3 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Tangerine Lime Flavored Water - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 19.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 4.5 Used / 30.5 Left

Salsa Cottage Snacks

12 Triscuit Reduced Fat Crackers 1/4 cup Breakstone's or Knudsen Cottage Cheese

1/4 cup Taco Bell Home Originals Thick 'N Chunky Medium Salsa

Top each cracker with 1 tsp. each cottage cheese and salsa. Sprinkle with green onion slices if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition:

45 Calories 1g. total fat

7g. carbohydrate

1g fiber

Weight Watchers - Day # 50 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Quaker Low Sugar Oatmeal; Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point 1 Serving Oscar Mayer Oven Roasted Turkey Breast - 1 point Fiber One Oats & Peanut Butter Bar - 2 points Lean Cuisine Asian Style Pot Stickers - 5 points Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points Orville Redenbacher 100 Calorie Butter Popcorn - 2 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie - 1 point 2 McDonald's Grilled Honey Mustard Snack Wrap - 11.5 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Sundae - 3 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Tangerine Lime Flavored Water - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 28.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 4.5 Used / 30.5 Left

Monday Weigh In

The last two weeks have been horrible for me. I consistently made poor choices in regards to what I was eating, whether it was birthday cake, ice cream, Halloween candy or just too much food in general, I was feeling it. And so were my spirits. I just couldn't get on track and stay on track without something else distracting me from the whole purpose of Weight Watchers. I even let my food journal fall to the wayside for a few days (although I did keep track online). I was not looking forward to weighing in this morning. However, I weighed in today at 171.8 pounds. Last week I was at 172.8 pounds. So I managed to lose ONE POUND despite my rough few weeks that I've had. It was a nice surprise and lifted my spirits. Just a positive reinforcement that I can do this! Even if it means falling off the wagon for a little while. I just have to remind myself why I am doing this and DO IT. I didn't however follow through with my commitment to work out daily, so this week I'm starting fresh. Good food choices and daily exercise. I really want to reach my final goal....

Weight Watchers - Day # 49 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Quaker Low Sugar Oatmeal; Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point Lean Cuisine Three Cheese Stuffed Rigatoni - 4 points Dippin' Stix Sliced Apples & Yogurt Fruit Dip - 2 points Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points Fiber One Oats & Peanut Butter Bar - 2 points Progresso Light Chicken Noodle Soup - 1 point Weight Watchers Berries 'n Cream Yogurt - 1 point 2 slices of Wheat Toast - 2.5 points Fiber One Pastries; Chocolate Fudge - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Ice Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 21.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 24 Used / 11 Left

8 ways to take tubby out of a twosome

By Michael W. Rosen, M.D. Ah, the thrill of romance — sharing home-cooked meals, companionship, special events and restaurant dining. Then comes a step on the scales. Yikes! What happened? It's the "love spread," those pounds packed on after couples enter committed relationships or tie the marriage knot. In fact, if one spouse becomes obese, the likelihood that the other spouse will follow increases by 37 percent, according to one study. Schedules, habits and patterns change. More meals, larger helpings, missed gym sessions, snacking together, juggling families and jobs, complacency — they all add up. Many of us gain 15 or more pounds in our early adult years, but people who live with a partner often gain more. Within five years, newly married women gain an average of 24 pounds, and men gain an average of 30 pounds, according to a study presented at the Obesity Society annual scientific meeting. Amy Gorin, Ph.D., a University of Connecticut researcher who focuses on strategies for long-term weight loss, offers these tips to nip pudge in the bud: 1. Commit early to a healthful home. Subscribe to healthful-cooking magazines and try the recipes together. Support each other's workout schedules, too. 2. Weigh in regularly. When you step on a scale every day, the instant feedback gives you a chance to assess trends and make changes before habits become deeply ingrained. 3. Downsize dinnerware. Control portion sizes with smaller plates and bowls. 4. Cull the cabinets. "Once a month, go through the pantry and make sure high-fat, high-sugar items aren't sneaking back into your home," advises Dr. Gorin. 5. Team up for positive results. Choose activity over being sedentary. Bike, walk, take a yoga class, go dancing — anything active works. Remember, you have an advantage as a couple: an automatic exercise partner. Just be sure to check with your doctor before significantly increasing your level of physical activity. 6. Don't ditch your favorite solo exercises. If an aerobics class and early morning run were important before the relationship, keep it up. 7. Beware of the garbage-can effect. Nibbling your way through food prep and cleanup tastes good but can add unwanted pounds. 8. Stay positive and supportive. "Nagging, controlling comments and unwanted policing usually backfire," Dr. Gorin says. "They really undermine someone's motivation." So, compliment and encourage each other's efforts.

Weight Watchers - Day # 48 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Quaker Low Sugar Oatmeal; Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points Burger King Veggie Burger - 7 points Weight Watchers Oatmeal & Raisin Cookie - 1 point Weight Watchers Berries 'n Cream Yogurt - 1 point Chicken w/Dumplings - 7 points 4 Keebler Fudge Shoppe Cookies - 4.5 points Fiber One Toaster Pastries - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Ice Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 28.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 24 Used / 11 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 47 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Quaker Low Sugar Oatmeal; Maple & Brown Sugar - 2 points 3" Veggie Sub - 3 points Cheetos's Crunchy Cheetos (small bag) - 4 points 1/2 cup Chocolate Ice Cream w/Whipped Cream - 4 points Souper Salad Mixed Greens Salad w/ Low Fat Ranch - 2 points Souper Salad Vegetable Lentil Soup - 1 point 1 slice of Souper Salad Cornbread - 4 points Kashi Cinnamon Harvest Cereal - 4 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Sugar Free Rock Star Energy Drink - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 24 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 19.5 Used / 15.5 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 46 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Smart Ones Canadian Style Bacon English Muffin Sandwich - 4 points Cheetos Snackbag - 4 points Luna Chocolate Peppermint Stick - 4 points Lean Cuisine Baked Chicken - 5 points Ghiredelli Hazelnut Chocolate Bar - 12 points Weight Watchers Oatmeal & Raisin Cookie - 1 point Campbell's Select Harvest Light Southwestern Vegetable Soup - 0 points Nature Valley Fruit & Nut Bar - 2 points Kashi Cinnamon Harvest Cereal - 3 points Beverages: Celestial Seasonings Echinacea Complete Care Tea - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 35 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 19.5 Used / 15.5 Left

5 Hardest Foods to Digest

In most cases, lifestyle changes can aid in preventing indigestion. Eating foods low in fat, eating slowly, taking care not to overeat, and cooking legumes and raw vegetables are just a few of the ways you can make strides towards a gasless day. In some cases, indigestion is caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), GERD, ulcers, or stomach infections. If symptoms persist over an extended time, you may want to consult a doctor. And stay away from these foods. 1. Bread. Believe it or not, that inconspicuous loaf of white bread can cause your body to work harder. Bread is considered one of the hardest foods to digest primarily because it offers no help in the form of enzymes. Enzymes are secreted by the pancreas and serve to break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins so that the body can digest and use them. Because bread lacks any natural occurring enzymes, it requires the pancreas to work in overdrive, and in rare cases, it can result in illness. 2. Pork. Nutritionists and vegetarians have debated whether humans were biologically designed to eat meat. Regardless, humans have one of the most meat-heavy diets in the animal kingdom. And of the meats we consume, pork is one of the most difficult to digest. Pork takes approximately four and a half to five hours to digest. What's important to note about foods that take a significantly longer time to digest than others is that any easily digestible foods are held in the stomach until the slowest digesting foods are released. During this lay time, fruit, vegetables, and other fast-digesting foods begin to ferment—producing gas, acid, and indigestion. 3. Beans. Their notorious gaseous reputation aside, beans are high in protein and fiber and can be an asset to your diet. But the truth remains—they can produce less-than-desirable effects. The enzyme that is required to sufficiently break down beans is found only in human stomach bacteria, which means, if beans aren't a regular part of your diet, you may experience bloating, gas, and discomfort. 4. Broccoli. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, broccoli can help minimize the risk of colon cancer. What's more, the Harvard School of Public Health found that broccoli can help prevent cataracts. Yet, for all its positive associations, broccoli also has some adverse effects when it comes to comfortable digestion. Because it is high in fiber and various nutrients, broccoli can cause gas buildup when in the stomach, leading to unpleasant bloating. 5. Whole-Milk Hard Cheese. Cheese is slow when it comes to the digestive process; it can take between four and five hours to digest. Although it is widely believed that milk and yogurt serves to aid indigestion, the density of whole-milk hard cheese puts significant strain on your pancreas. In many countries where cheese is eaten more regularly and in place of meat or eggs, problems with cheese digestion are not as prevalent. As Americans, we tend to eat cheese at the beginning or end of a large meal, resulting in an overloaded stomach that needs to rid itself of the protein that has been forced in first. Information courtesy of Quality Health

Weight Watchers - Day # 45 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Egg Beaters, Scrambled - 1 point 1 Slice of Wheat Toast - 1 point 1 Serving Oscar Mayer Smoked Ham Slices - 1 point Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point Lean Cuisine Vegetable Eggroll - 6 points Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points Weight Watchers Oatmeal & Raisin Cookie - 1 point Spaghetti - 6 points Weight Watchers Mocha Fudge Sundae - 3 points Kashi Cinnamon Harvest Cereal - 3 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Sugar Free Rock Star Energy Drink - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 23 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 44 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Quaker Oats Low Sugar Oatmeal; Maple and Brown Sugar - 2 points Dippin' Stix & Sliced Apples & Yogurt Fruit Dip - 2 points Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point Lean Cuisine Hunan Stir Fry w/Beef - 6 points Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points Weight Watchers Oatmeal Raisin Cookie - 1 point Progresso Light Chicken Noodle Soup - 1 point 2 slices of Wheat Toast w/ICBINB Spray - 2.5 points Weight Watchers Mint Chocolate Chip Sundae - 3 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Water - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 18.5 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 43 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: 1/2 cup Egg Beaters Scrambled - 1 point 1 Slice of Wheat Toast - 1 point Weight Watchers String Cheese - 1 point 1 Serving Oscar Mayer Roasted Turkey Breast Slices - 1 point Sugar Free Jell-O - 0 points Lean Cuisine Asian Style Pot Stickers - 5 points Orville Redenbacher 100 Calorie Popcorn - 2 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie - 1 point Lasagna - 5 points 2 Gingerbread Cookies - 4 points Weight Watchers Oatmeal Raisin Cookie - 1 point Weight Watchers Boston Creme Pie Yogurt - 1 point Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Water - 0 points Sugar Free RockStar Energy Drink - 0 points Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 23 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 0 Used / 35 Left

It's Monday! Another Weigh In Day

After a very rough week last week and a rough weekend as far as eating choices were concerned, I was a slight bit worried about stepping on the scale today to weigh in. I was however pleasantly surprised to see that I had lost yet another 1.8 pounds of a weight. Officially today I weigh 172.8 pounds. I'm down 10.2 pounds since I started following Weight Watchers back on September 24th. And I'm damn proud of myself. As I should be, right?

Spinach Pockets

1 pound cooked spinach, chopped 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 2 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced 1 egg 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1 1-pound package phyllo dough, defrosted (12 sheets) 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Heat oven to 400º F. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, Parmesan, ricotta, scallions, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside. Fold 1 sheet of phyllo in half crosswise and place on a lightly greased baking sheet. Brush the top with some of the butter. Top with another folded sheet and brush with more butter. Repeat one more time. Leaving a 2-inch border around the edges, place 1/4 of the spinach mixture at one end of the pastry. Roll up the pastry, tucking in the sides. Brush with more butter. Repeat to make 3 more individual pockets. Bake in the oven until puffed and golden, about 30 minutes. Recipe courtesy of Real Simple

Weight Watchers - Day # 42 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Quaker Low Sugar Oatmeal; Apples & Cinnamon - 2 points Weight Watchers Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt - 1 point 2 slices of Wheat Toast w/ICBINB Spray - 2.5 points Campbell's Select Harvest Light Italian Style Vegetable Soup - 0 points 1/2 Grilled Chicken Breast - 1.5 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie - 1 point Nature Valley Fruit & Nut Trail Mix Bar - 2 points Lean Cuisine Chicken Enchilada Suiza - 5 points Sugar Free Jell-O Pudding - 1 point Weight Watchers Strawberry Cheesecake Yogurt - 1 point Fiber One Toaster Pastries - 6 points Beverages: Coffee Black w/Sweet-n-Low - 0 points Crystal Light Wild Strawberry Energy Mix - 0 points Iced Tea - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 23 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 13 Used / 22 Left

Weight Watchers - Day # 41 Menu

Point Total for the Day: 24 TotalFlex Points (for weekly use): 35 Menu: Weight Watchers Cherry Cheesecake Yogurt - 1 point 2 Slices of Wheat Toast - 2.5 points KFC Chicken Breast - 8 points KFC Macaroni & Cheese - 4 points KFC Mashed Potatoes & Gravy - 3 points 1 Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookie - 1.5 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Fudge Brownie Ice Cream - 2 points Lean Cuisine BBQ Chicken Pizza - 7 points Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookie - 1 point Roasted Pumpkin Seeds - 1 point Beverages: Arizona Diet Green Tea - 0 points Sugar Free Rock Star Energy Drink - 0 points Exercise: None Total Points Used: 31 points / out of 24 Flex Points Used/Left: 13 Used / 22 Left

10 Ways to Sneak in Activity

1. Go inside the gas station to pay for your gas

2. Volunteer to be the family dog walker

3. Move around as you talk on the phone

4. Take the stairs instead of the elevator

5. Bring in grocery bags one at a time 6. March in place while watching TV 7. Gather your kids or grandkids for playground fun 8. Ditch the drive-thru at the bank 9. Walk to the neighbors 10. Dance as you prepare dinner