Chubbie Chica

31 Days to Clean

2011-04-27T17:19:00.000-07:00

My friend, Sarah Mae, recently released an ebook, 31 Days to Clean: Having a Martha House the Mary Way. I can’t wait to dive into my copy next week and hope to do a review soon.

But I had to go ahead and tell you about this ebook because Sarah Mae is giving it away today. To get a free copy, you just have to post about the ebook on your blog or on Facebook or Twitter and link to her site. Email her with the link to your post and she’ll send you a free copy!

Menu Monday

2010-05-31T05:57:00.001-07:00

Will be up soon - working very hard on a new menu!

Menu Monday - Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a blessed Mother's Day. It was a great one for as as well.

We have had a rough week as many of you heard thought the national news! The town where we live was the hardest with the flood here in KY! We are still struggling through it and life is getting back to normal. I am thankful for each and every moment I have and have had. It can all be taken away during a simple rain (so we think). Even though we are only a few hours away from Tenn. - we were not hit as hard as they were. Thank goodness. Even though we could go swimming in our back yard and we weren't able to move the car.......we had no structural damage, or leakage to our home! Hard to believe! We have truly been blessed!

As you can see from the photo - we were a little overwhelmed and that photo was taken, at least, 12 hours before the rain stopped.

Please Mother Nature - please be nice to us this week! I think I am a little tired and need to rest.....oh, and relax, just a little!

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU

Hope everyone has a great week!

Menu Monday - Warning......

2010-04-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

WARNING: I'M BACK...........

WOW ..... What a week we have had! A much needed break but I must say the stress was up there. To start off, we had to leave and our dog was very ill. It totally broke my heart to have to catch a plane and leave her without knowing what was going on. She was 14 years old and the best dog we have ever had. Chi Chi had been part of our family since the beginning. Even though my mother was here to handle everything....I just felt wrong about leaving but had no choice. To make a long story short, we had a plane to catch and had to leave the house at 1:00 p.m.

We lost Chi Chi around 6:00 p.m. that evening. Our hearts were totally shattered. And my daughter was in tears as we were renting the car in Florida and proceeding to the hotel. It was a very long night. Unfortunately the show must go on.....

We drudged on to National's! And I must say that I now live with a National Champion. YEAH - THEY WON! My daughter reminds me on a daily basis that I am living with a 2x National Champion! Little does she know that I still pull rank over her.........ssshhh don't tell my secret!

So we are now back in Kentucky enjoying all the storms that are hitting. UUGGHH! How has everyone been doing? Give me an update in the comments below! I've missed my Chubbie Chica family!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

Chi Chi your in our hears forever !

Menu Monday

2010-04-11T18:47:00.000-07:00

Well everyone - I am in the final countdown. Thank heavens! I can't keep this up for much longer plus I WANT MY LIFE BACK! Can you tell me that the stress is getting to me? I guess its the fact that it is so intense right now but have no fear.....National's here we come! And we are prepared! Well - for some fun anyway! And to top if all off, with the intense practice schedule, the kids have been on spring break! Thank heavens school starts back tomorrow! I hope everyone has a great week! I will be thinking about you as we are basking in the sun.....oh, it HAD better be nice and sunny!

Have a great week!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu.

Menu Monday

2010-04-05T06:11:00.000-07:00

Just one more week and we are hitting the friendly skies heading to National's! OK - one more week and 2 days. Our lives have been turned upside down but we are managing. Kinda can't wait for it all to be over. The kids are on Spring Break this week so I am for sure it will go FAST! I can't wait to get my life back...........

Have a great week!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

Menu Monday!

2010-03-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

WOW! It's late .... I am beat..... yes, another day of cheerleading BUT we are 16 days away from leaving for Nationals. WHOOPPEEEE! I will be so glad when I have nothing, ok - I know that's an understatement when you have 5 kids, to do!

I hope you all have a great week and I am going to bed!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

Menu Monday

2010-03-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

I have no idea where my week has gone! If anyone finds it out there - please send it home! It has totally flown by. Although we have finally had beautiful weather in Ky so we have been outside a lot. Not really on my schedule but a must...... I actually am not feeling to hot so I just thought I would go ahead and post the menu and go to bed. I feel like I could sleep for a year.....or two!

I must share a story about a conversation that I had with my daughter:

Daughter - Mom, you can't ever get skinny!
Me - Yes honey, I know it's really hard for mom.
Daughter - No mom, if you get skinny then you won't be Chubbie Chica anymore. What will you do?
Me - Well, lets cross that bridge when we get there. (knowing that at the rate I am going it will be another 10 years)
Daughter - Well, I have already got it worked out?
Me - Oh, you must share!
Daughter - Yes, we will just change the name from Chubbie Chica to Skinny Minnie.

I am so glad my darling 11 year old has everything all planned out for me! I hope I don't disappoint her!

I hope everyone has a great week!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu. Enjoy!

Menu Monday - Surprise!!!

2010-03-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

I made it! Yes - I can't believe it but I did! We are home from the competition, oh she WON by the way, and I am so tired I just can't go to sleep. I guess I am to overstimulated right now and need to unwind sooooooooo I was able to get the menu put together!

Here it is! I feel like doing the "Happy Dance".

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

Have a great week everyone! I am now going to go soak these ol' bones in a long hot bath and chill! Take Care!

Will be back...........

2010-03-13T20:03:00.000-08:00

I won't be able to get this weeks menu posted! As usual, the next month is going to be very hectic. My daughter is heading to National's to compete and it gets pretty intense preparing for the trip.

She will be training hard over the next 4 weeks to bring home another National title! If only she could drive! Bring it home baby!

And as long as she brings along her DS - the world seems to continue to turn and nothing really seems to bother her!

We are at a competition this weekend and I don't have access to what I need. We won't be returning until very late Sunday night! I will do the best I can over the next month but just in case I mess up ............now you know why! But don't worry! I won't be gone long!

Menu Monday

2010-03-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

This has been a very, very difficult week for us. We are remodeling our kitchen and do I need to tell you how that has turned my life upside down? I was prepared for the 2 days that they had said it would take but we are now on day 4 and it looks like it is going to be 2 additional days before I get my kitchen back. I THINK I AM GOING TO SCREAM! My house is in shambles. Let alone plan a menu - I would love to but I can't even find a spoon. CALGON TAKE ME AWAY..................

So not to leave you high and dry this week I have copied a menu from the files.
Please pray that we get our kitchen soon before I have to hurt the little people working in my house.

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu.

I hope you all have a great week. Surely mine will get better!

What About Dining Out ??

2010-03-04T10:26:00.000-08:00

Afraid dinner out will ruin your diet before you even start your entree? These 10 dos and don'ts will help.

Some people trying to lose weight steer clear of restaurants to avoid the large portion sizes, bottomless bread baskets and all those high-calorie entries. But shunning restaurants altogether isn't a realistic approach to weight loss — and it's unnecessary.

You can eat out and lose weight. Start with this list of tips to help you navigate the menu options at your favorite fast-food joints and sit-down restaurants.

1. Set a budget
Determine how much you're willing to eat before looking at the menu. You can give yourself some leeway by scheduling some exercise on or near days you plan to eat out. Putting in gym time or going for a brisk walk will help offset a little extra eating. And remember, be flexible. You can loosen up a bit on special occasions, as long as you eat carefully most of the time. (Just don't let every day become a special occasion.)

2. Put on your game face
Decide on some guidelines before you go to a restaurant, and stick to them. For instance:

* Skip the all-inclusive menu and opt for à la carte selections. Doing so might not be as economical, but you'll probably eat less.

* Take one piece of bread, then ask your server to remove the breadbasket from the table.

3. Make special requests
You're paying good money for that meal, so you're entitled to make special requests or slight modifications. Why not say:

* Can I have that without butter? Grilled? With the sauce on the side?

* I'd like mixed greens instead of fries with my sandwich.

4. Practice portion control
Some restaurant portions can be two, three, even four times the "normal" size — especially super-sized fast food meals. Keep your portions in check by:

* Ordering a salad as a starter and then splitting a main entree with a friend.

* Creating your own scaled-down meal from a couple of appetizers and/or side dishes.

5. Break down (language) barriers
If you don't know what a preparation term means, ask. In general, though, the following words translate into high-fat, high-calorie dishes:

* Au gratin, scalloped, hollandaise.

* Parmigiana, scampi, Bolognese.

6. Downsize the super-size
Super-sized fast food meal options can be loaded with calories. Either:

* Order something small, like a basic burger. After all, the first bite tastes the same as the last.

* Order yourself a children's meal.

7. Watch out for extras
The average burger with ketchup, lettuce and tomato isn't so bad. But one with "the works" is usually a caloric nightmare. Skip:

* Bacon, cheese and mayonnaise.

* Double-burger patties and extra pieces of bread.

8. Don't go top heavy
Salad bars and garden salads grace menus across the country. But those extra toppings can sabotage your seemingly diet-conscious choices:

* Go light on croutons, grated cheese and bacon.

* Opt for small amounts of low-fat or nonfat dressings on the side.

9. Don't drink away your progress
A drink with dinner is fine, but too many margaritas may wreak havoc on your dieting resolve. Keep your appetite under control by:

* Alternating alcoholic beverages with noncaloric sodas or sparkling water.

* Not drinking alcoholic beverages on an empty stomach.

10. Resign from the "clean plate club"
You paid for it so you have to eat it, right? Wrong. Just think of the health and emotional costs of those extra calories on your body. Downsize by:

* Eating half the meal and doggie-bagging the rest.

* Pushing your plate away when you're full.

* And remember to eat slowly. It takes 20 minutes for your body to recognize that it's full.

Menu Monday

2010-02-28T18:56:00.000-08:00

OK - so am I behind or am I behind? I am like REALLY BEHIND! REALLY! I have let this past week consume me. I am on the Human Rights Commission for our City and we had a big City Unity Breakfast (which was a HUGE success) and it ended up consuming my week with the final preparations. But it's over now.....WOO HOO!

Now to catch up! The winner for the Progresso Souper You is:

ALEXIS

Everyone have a great week! I think I am going to stay in my pj's all week and just crash!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

Menu Monday

2010-02-21T18:44:00.000-08:00

Yep - It's Monday ........again! I have no idea why 2010 is flying by. I thought it just was Christmas yesterday. Well we have been shut in for the major part of the week. We had a huge snow storm that hit KY. I loved it! I still had to slide out and work, didn't enjoy the kids being stuck home for 3 days, but I enjoyed the blizzard like snow. So awesome! Now that the kids have trashed the house .... totally! I might be getting it back in order. I think!

Remember to sign up for the give away, in the post below, and get a great gift pack from Progresso Soup!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu! Enjoy your week!

It's a Give Away!!!

2010-02-19T13:14:00.001-08:00

I am doing the happy dance..............another GIVE AWAY ! And I love this one because I love Progresso Soup! From now until March 15th, you can visit visit www.Progresso.com/SouperYou to enter the Progresso “Souper You Debut” contest for the chance to win a full makeover in New York City.

Three grand prize winners will be awarded a trip for two to New York City from May 21st-23rd. The prize includes round trip airfare, a two-night stay in a NYC hotel, a full makeover, a $1,000 wardrobe shopping spree and personal consultation at a New York department store.

To enter, you’ll need to do the following:

* Go to www.Progresso.com/SouperYou to learn more and enter the contest

* Submit your essay (200 characters or less) telling Progresso why you love Progresso Light or 100 Calorie Soups and why you would like a makeover

* In addition, please submit a photo of yourself that visually reinforces the theme of your essay

Once you enter, you’ll have the chance for your photo and/or an excerpt from your essay to appear on www.Progresso.com/SouperYou, so be sure to check back frequently! Once the 10 finalists are announced, you can visit www.Progresso.com/SouperYou from March 29 through April 12 to vote for your favorite.

In addition, throughout the duration of the contest you can visit www.Progresso.com/SouperYou to download a coupon for $1 off any three varieties of Progresso Soup!

With surprisingly hearty ingredients like pasta, beans, corn and rice, and flavor-packed vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and peppers, Progresso Light and 100 Calorie Soups offer varieties with a good source of fiber and a full serving of vegetables. Satisfying your taste buds, Progresso Light and 100 Calories Soups can help curb your hunger, making it easier for you to stick to your weight management plan.

I will be giving away a “Souper You Debut” gift pack. Here is a picture of what you will receive:

You will love this soup bowl. My husband fights me all the time for mine! They are the best! O.K. honey - I know you have it hidden in your lunch box!

Now - just post what your favorite thing about Progresso Soup is and you are entered into the give away. How simply is that? So just leave your comments and random.org will select a winner. The deadline is Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010 @ 12:00 p.m. The winner will be announced that evening. Good luck and go get your coupon!

This give away was made possible by the wonderful generosity of Progresso Soups & MyBlogSpark.

Menu Monday

2010-02-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

WOW! Another hectic week - will they ever end? Sometimes I wonder! My daughter turns 11 today - HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABY GIRL - but we had her party this past weekend. We had 60 kids and I think it was enough to test any one's patience! I did get to buy my new camera for the big event though! I got a Nikon D5000 (my new baby) although I still haven't learned how to use it. My little idea of just setting it up so I could point and shoot at the party, backfired a little on me. I was able to get some good shots. Moral of the story: read the humongous manual that comes with it! Oh well, I will save that for my spare time.

I am having another great giveaway so stay tuned this week. Hope everyone has a great week.

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu.

And the winner is................

2010-02-09T08:05:00.000-08:00

The 2 winners are:

mholgate
Rebeca @All Vegged Out

Congradulations to both of you! I hope you enjoy them....and shopping! That is the fun part......going shopping with free money! An email will be sent to both of you shortly!

Congrad's Again!

Menu Monday & 24 hr. Giveaway ....

2010-02-07T09:31:00.000-08:00

Well - I am menuless this week! Why, you might ask? Because 3 of the 4 kids are sick and now so am I so I haven't gotten anything done and I am heading back to bed. And.....I am going to stay there all day! Sorry kids - you are going to have to let dad take care of you! And yes dad - you have no choice this time - sorry mi amor ! I selected a menu from my archives. Hopefully this can help you out.

CLICK HERE for your menu !

But ........

I also have a 24 hr. giveaway! You won't want to miss this one!
I am giving away 2/$50.00 gift cards to Safeway (also good at Dominick’s, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, Genuardi’s). Yes - that is 2! This is a promotion was made possable by Safeway (Dominick’s, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, Genuardi’s) and Fiber One through MyBlogSpark. So a big shout out to them.

A little about Fiber One Yogurt and why its so great for us..........

Best-selling author and food expert Lisa Lillien, AKA Hungry Girl, has given her “seal of approval” to the new Fiber One yogurt, the only leading nonfat yogurt with 50 calories and 5 grams of fiber (20 percent of the Recommended Daily Value). It is also a good source of calcium and vitamins A and D, making this a guilt-free and all-around great choice for dieters and those watching their weights. Each cup includes the creamy, delicious taste you expect from Yoplait, and you don’t have to feel guilty about enjoying it. Fiber One is available in a variety of flavors including, Strawberry, Peach, Vanilla and Key Lime Pie (see what Hungry Girl thinks about the new yogurt here:

http://hungry-girl.com/news/newsdetails.php?isid=1772

All you have to do is just post a friendly comment and that's it! Easy as pie! The winner will be selected by Random.org. Entries will be accepted through 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb.9, 2010. The winner will be announced that morning!

Menu Monday

2010-01-31T18:07:00.000-08:00

Where has my week gone? I have no clue but yet I am running so behind that I don't even know where to begin. I am on the Human Rights Commission for our City and we have been working on a city wide unity project. That has taken a lot of my time this week. Also the fact that our eldest son turned 18 yesterday. Since he is "differently - abled" I did have to petition the courts for guardianship, which was granted. I guess that took some time this week - some unexpected time.....just sitting in the courtroom for hours. I could have been blogging.....what were they thinking? Oh - have I mentioned that we are doing some remodeling in the house? In fact, I am suppose to have everything picked out and picked up by tomorrow. HHHMMMM - don't have that done at all! Our contractor comes to start the project on Wednesday. Let's see if I can pull this one off! Shopping spree tomorrow......here I come!

I hope all of you have a great and productive week!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

So - what are you all doing tonight?

2010-01-26T18:12:00.000-08:00

Really - what are you doing tonight? I am dying to tell you what I am doing....because I need to tell on myself! It is so wrong but I am doing it!

It is Tuesday night and I am sitting here watching The Biggest Loser! Now that isn't really wrong BUT............

I am sitting here watching the show with a plate of cookie and a glass full of milk. NOW THAT'S WRONG! I think the more stressed they become - the more cookies I eat! What is wrong with me?

UUUGGGHHHH.................. maybe I should dust off the recumbent bike and actually use it. It just holds my clothes. But they are making m really tired so I might have to save that one for tomorrow!

Menu Monday

2010-01-24T16:25:00.000-08:00

I am going to make this post real short.....really! I have a splitting headache. I am really lucky that I had already prepared my menu earlier in the week. I hope you all have a great week .......... surely my headache will go away soon or I think I might scream!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

Crock Pot'in - Apple Pie

2010-01-20T07:02:00.000-08:00

I got a yummy one for you today!

Apple Pie
4 WW Pts

8 apples, peeled and sliced
1 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
3/4 cup skim milk
2 tablespoons Brummel and Brown Spread, softened
3/4 cup Splenda
1/2 cup egg substitute
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cup Reduced Fat Bisquick
1/3 cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons of cold butter

Spray your crock-pot with cooking spray Toss apples in large bowl with cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg. Pour into crock-pot. Combine milk, softened butter spread, Splenda, eggs, vanilla and 1/2 cup Bisquick. Spoon over apples. Combine the 1 cup of Bisquick and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over top of apple mixture. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until apples are soft.

Menu Monday

2010-01-17T18:00:00.000-08:00

Another week has quickly rolled around again. I decided to clean out a closet this week and well.....it has now turned into 2 closets and a garage. I guess I just inspired! I am on a roll and I really don't see any end in sight..... With 5 kids - there is always something to clean out! UUGGHH! Now I am getting tired just thinking about it! Other than cleaning out the closets, I have been closely watching the television - glued to Haiti.

This kinda hit close to home since I did mission work for 8 years. What a tragedy! My heart breaks for them yet I feel so hopeless. If you get a moment, click here and go check out the post written by moneysavingmom.

Now I was able to put my coupon skills to work this week (thanks to all my blog teachers). I constantly hear over and over "It is so expensive to eat healthy", well, I just shot that theary right out the door. Here is what I got:

10 Smart Ones
4 Fruit Gushers (O.K. - not totally healthy)
8 Betty Crocker Warm Delights (O.K., O.K.- REALLY not healthy. I got it for the kids snack ..... really!)

Now here is what I paid:

In case you can't read that receipt....It's $3.88! Yes, that is what I said - $3.88. So only the Smart Ones were really something that I could/should eat.....THAT'S A DEAL! Cheap Eats, that's what I like! Do any of you use coupons? Share your story with us. I would love to hear!

Hope everyone has a great week!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

P.S. I am still loading recipes into my Plan To Eat recipe book. Have any of you found it helpful? I love it! Love it! Love it! What do you think about it? If you haven't checked it out then click the link at the top right side of my page - a must have!

Little Changes Can Add Up..........

2010-01-14T19:11:00.001-08:00

There's no better time to embark on a weight-loss plan than the beginning of the year, when you're bursting with good intentions and still reeling from a surplus of festive food. But making good food substitutions rather than going to extremes will ensure your weight-loss results last beyond the first two weeks. So forget rigid, elimination diets; here are six ways to lose weight without feeling deprived.

Milk

Drinking whole milk cappuccinos and lattes will use your daily POINTS® Allowance up quickly. Use fat-free or low-fat milk instead, and look for flavored coffees or sugar-free syrups to improve that cup of java.

Make smoothies by blending fat-free milk with low-fat or fat-free yogurt, a banana, frozen strawberries and honey to taste.

Use low-fat milk when making mashed potatoes.

Rice pudding is just as nice made with low-fat milk. Add flavor with cinnamon, and sprinkle the top with nutmeg.

Bread

Instead of serving bread with soup, add a tablespoon of bulgar wheat or a 1/2 cup of brown rice to your homemade recipe.

As a change-up from bread sandwiches, generously fill whole-wheat tortilla wraps with chunks of fresh-cooked chicken, coriander, lettuce and red pepper, adding a teaspoon of low-fat mayonnaise.

Potatoes

Switch to sweet potatoes or yams. Cut up the sweet potatoes and roast in a hot oven for 30 minutes, sprinkled with sea salt and a little olive oil, or lightly boil and mash with a small amount of butter.

Boil some couscous to fluff up and serve with grilled fish or meat.

Filling Fruits

Dried fruits come into their own in the winter months and make excellent after-dinner desserts. Put dried apricots, prunes and pineapple chunks in a pan and cover with a little orange juice. Bring to a boil, then let stand for 20 minutes so the fruit can absorb the juices. Sprinkle with a little cinnamon and serve with spoonful of low-fat yogurt.

Poach peeled pears in a low-calorie fruity cordial with one cinnamon stick until tender. Serve with low-fat or fat-free yogurt.

Cheese

Get into the habit of buying low-fat varieties. Keep a tub of low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese on hand to mix in with fresh fruit or sprinkle with Splenda and cinnamon for a sweet treat.

Sprinkle a teaspoon or two of freshly grated Parmesan over your pasta, a little of its big-hitting flavor goes a long way.

Poultry and Meat

Trim off fat before cooking.

Always roast chicken on a rack in a roasting tin, so the saturated fat drains off.

If you plan to marinate the meat, use lean strips of pork or beef.

When making casseroles,cook them the day before, so as it cools you can skim any fat off the top before reheating.

Woo Hoo - Menu Monday

2010-01-10T18:17:00.000-08:00

Well - I think I have gotten a lot done this week. I think I am starting to get my life organized, reorganized into a better system. Well - I guess I am feeling it mentally! We did make a big decision with the education of our oldest daughter. (remember: our 3 oldest are adopted special needs) With much urging from her Dr. we have decided to home bound her. So what does that mean....... that means, medically she is not able to attend school and they will send a teacher to the home to educate her here in our surroundings. Not a great option for many but we think this may work for her.....hopefully!

Now - I have another decision to make and I would love it if you gave me your opinion. Darling husband works 2nd shift so he leaves at 2 p.m and isn't home until 1 a.m (on an early night) so therefore, he isn't here for dinner. Why am I cooking such wonderful gourmet meals (O.K., O.K. - not totally gourmet but close) when the kids could care less? SOOOOO - I have wondered about feeding them kid friendly meals during the week and saving my cooking for the weekends when someone besides myself cares. What do you think? Seriously ....tell me! I can take the good, the bad and the ugly! I really want to know!

www.plantoeat.com

Also before I sign out, did you get a chance to check out Plan To Eat? Oh my - if you didn't you are really missing something. I totally love this site! It has a free 30 day trial so go for it. I really don't think the membership fee (yearly) is that much for what you get. Go check it out! I love the drag and drop menu planning calender and the shopping list it creates. I have found it easy to import recipes. Go check it out. I will keep the link on my sidebar! Or click the logo above. OH - you can even put the recipes from this site through the bulk import, copy and paste then create your own menus! LOVE IT!

Happy Week Everyone! CLICK HERE for this weeks menu.

Oh - I almost forgot! Got some great giveaways coming real soon and I have a product review to do so stay tuned. Hint: it is a diet product....should be interesting :0)

WW Magazine ~ Cheap Deal ~ Treat Yourself

2010-01-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a deal for all of you. Lately I’ve been getting all of my magazine subscriptions at this site, because they really do have the best deals.

Best Deal Magazines has an awesome deal on Weight Watchers Magazine right now. Go HERE and search Weight Watchers, and add it to your cart. Then check out with code WW20, and you will get this for only $3.75!!

They also have a lot of other great deals going on right now. You can get Woman’s Day, Redbook, Car & Driver and a whole lot of other magazines for around $5 or less. Use code PXCJ117 to take an additional 15% off. They have over 100 titles that will end up being $3.99 with this coupon code.

Crock Pot Cookin'

2010-01-05T20:00:00.000-08:00

The first Crock Pot Wednesday @ Dining With Debbie. Happy New Year Dining With Debbie. If you would like to get some more crock pot ideas CLICK HERE and you might even want to jump in on the fun. I am sure you all are welcome....right Debbie? LOL! Enjoy!

Hamburger Casserole - Crock Pot
Serves 6 @ 5 pts

Ingredients:
16 oz. extra lean gr. beef (or turkey)
2 cups sliced raw potatoes
1 1/2 cups sliced carrots (I used frozen)
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup frozen peas –thawed
1 cup frozen whole kernel corn – thawed
1 10 oz. can healthy Request Tomato Soup
1/2 cup water
1 tsp. dried parsley flakes
1 can mushrooms
Salt and Pepper

Prep:
In large skillet brown meat, onion & celery mixture and mushrooms. In slow cooker – sprayed with a butter flavored spray (or a non-stick cooking spray), combine meat mixture, potatoes, carrots, peas, and corn. Stir in tomato soup, water, parsley flakes and salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low 6 to 8 hours.

Menu Monday ~ Happy New Year

2010-01-03T17:17:00.001-08:00

I can't believe it is now 2010! Where has this year gone? It seems to just fly by and they kids just seem to get bigger and bigger. I have decided that this year my New Year's Resolution is going to be ....... to be a better me! Yep - that's right! A better me! Now just "WHAT" does that mean? I want to be a better Christian, daughter, mother and wife. I want to get things under control and for me that means being more organized, stick to meal planning, stick to a family budget and simplify my (and my children) life. I think once these things are under control and simplified then other things will fall into place. Now I am not going to do this alone. I have met some wonderful bloggers that I now call my blogging buddies. I thought I would pass along some great sites in case you would like to check them out.

For my house: www.flylady.com

Go check out her site! Start with some baby steps and before you know it she has worked some magic.

Having 5 children, things can get hectic. So I have decided to make a family binder.
Check out: www.orgjunkie.com
You will find all kinds of great little things on this blog.

Meal Time: www.plantoeat.com

I have fallen in love with this site. You can organize all of your favorite recipes in one place, create menu plans and it automatically makes your shopping list. I have only played on this site for a few days and have truly fallen in love with it. It is very simple to use and to import recipes from your favorite site. There is a free 30 day trial. Go check it out. I think you will love it also. You can even copy/paste your favorite Chubbie Chica recipe in your cookbook. You can also go to the link on the right side of my page to get to it anytime. Trust me.....you will love it! (hopefully)

For My Finances: www.moneysavingmom.com

She has a wonder excel spreadsheet, free to use, to help track your spending. Also you will find all of stuff on her blog to help you with couponing, etc. MSM is actually where I started when I started with coupons.

And for me: www.shrinkingjeans.net

I plan to hang around there more this year and hopefully some goodness will rub off! I also would like to become a more avid blogger for Chubbie Chica and Felix Five.

O.K. ........... so that is my plan, for now, and that is how I am going to start. So far so good. Of course it's only the 2nd day of the month but I will have to say that I am off to a banging start. We have put ourselves on a "cash only" budget so we will have to see how that goes. I think I will be fine but we shall see about the hubby! Although I was very surprised when he turned over his debit/credit cards. We will see! Now for your turn............what's your New Years Resolution? Please share!

Happy New Year Everyone!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu.

P.S. I started the menu count over so now it will start with 2010 (for the year) and then the week. Which this weeks menu is number 1.

Why Is Everyone Talking About........

2009-12-29T07:23:00.000-08:00

What's your New Years Resolution? Well - my resolution is going to be to not have one.....what do you think? I have been asked this so much that my wheels are spinning! But why do I have to have one? Why do I set myself up for failure year after year? To me - that is just as self destructive as my eating habits! What is wrong with just loving your body the way it is? My husband is happy with me at any weight that I am ............ which really makes it hard. And I am happy ........ which makes it doublie hard. So this year why not be more organize, spend more time with the kids, be a better mom, slow down and smell the roses, meal plan and save money. WHY can't one of these be my resolution? WHY does it have to be to lose weight? Although I will tell you - I really might join a challenge over at The Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans.

(If you have not visited this site I challenge you to go check it out! It's a great site.) Maybe that's what I will do. Who knows! I sure don't. Well - what do you all think? I guess I will let you know my decision in a few days ...... if I have too!

Menu Monday

2009-12-27T19:55:00.000-08:00

Is everyone catching there breath from the Christmas holiday's as we head into the New Year? I am just now starting to hold my head up above water. Although I have had a wonderful Christmas but just like any mother of 5, I find myself burning the candle at both ends during the holidays. Not to mention the fact that I am still recovering from surgery. On a surgery note: I have improved greatly over the last week.....it's really strange how it has happened but other than feeling tired, extremely tired but I am for sure the holidays hasn't helped. This is a big week for us as well. It is my birthday week and my mother's birthday! And I must admit.......not only are donuts and cookies my downfall...... so is birthday cake! Yep - I just can't take it! I LOVE BIRTHDAY CAKE and I AM GOING TO EAT SOME! Yes - it's premeditated!

OK - enough jabbering. I think I can jabber all night ............ call me "Chatty Cathy"!

Have a great week!

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR MENU.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-25T11:31:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful and blessed Christmas filled with joy! The link to the Weight Watcher Magazine is back up today so go treat yourself to a free subscription, or someone else! This is only available for a limited number of subscriptions and once they are filled they are gone! You must fill out a little questionair (nothing major).

CLICK HERE FOR THE SUBSCRIPTION!

Happy Holidays Everyone!

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 12th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me ......................

Apricot Bar Cookies

Ingredients:
Canola oil cooking spray
1 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/3 cup canola oil
5 Tbsp. apple juice, divided
1/2 cup apricot jam, preferably fruit-sweetened
1 package (7 oz.) dried apricots, diced

Prep:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 9 X 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
In large bowl, mix together oats, flour, sugar, cinnamon, salt and baking soda until well combined. In small bowl, whisk oil and 3 tablespoons juice together and pour over oat mixture, blending well until moist and crumbly. Reserve 3/4 cup for topping. Press the remainder evenly into prepared pan. In small bowl, blend jam with remaining 2 tablespoons apple juice. Stir in dried apricots. Spread evenly over crust. Sprinkle reserved crumb mixture over apricots, lightly pressing down with fingers. Bake 35 min. or until golden. Cool in pan on wire rack. Cut into 16 bars.

WW pts = 3 per bar

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 11th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me...............

Meringue Nut Cookies

Ingredients:
1/3 cup walnuts
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons confectioners' (powdered) sugar
4 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
2 large egg whites
1/8 teaspoon salt

Prep:
Preheat oven to 300F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Toast walnuts in small skillet, stirring frequently until crisp and fragrant, about 7 minutes. When cool enough to handle, chop coarsely. Sift together 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon on sheet of waxed paper. With electric mixer, beat egg whites and salt in large bowl until stiff peaks form. With rubber spatula, gently fold cocoa mixture into egg whites. Gently fold in nuts. Drop batter by generous teaspoonfuls onto baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart. Bake until set, about 20 minutes. Remove and cool on wire rack. Dust with remaining 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar just before serving.

One serving equals four cookies. Store leftovers at room temperature in a tightly sealed container.

Chubbie Chica Tip:
Meringues are sensitive to humidity (they'll absorb moisture and become sticky), so it's a good idea to bake them on a fairly dry day. Place the cookies in an airtight container once they've cooled completely. If you live in a humid climate, it's best to seal cookies in a freezer bag and freeze them.

Serving Size 4 cookies = 1 WW pt

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 10th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me .........

Cream Cheese Cookies

Ingredients:
1 box of yellow cake mix
8 oz fat free cream cheese
1/4 cup butter
confections sugar to sprinkle on (about 1/2 cup for all)

Prep:
Soften the cream cheese and butter in the microwave. Stir in the cake mix. Roll into 1 inch balls and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with powdered sugar while warm and store in the refrigerator.

Number of Servings: 72
WW pts = 1

And the winner is................

2009-12-18T12:05:00.001-08:00

The Winner Is:

tammyyarbrough

A special thanks to:

It's back........

2009-12-18T08:10:00.001-08:00

If you missed this from last week's post it's back. Why not go and get you a FREE subscription to Weight Watcher's Magazine. Yes - it's really FREE!

Click HERE to subscribe!

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 9th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me............

Saltine Toffee Cookies

3 ww pts

Ingredients:
35 Saltine crackers, fat free
12 tbsp butter
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
10 oz semisweet chocolate chips

Prep:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line cookie sheet with aluminum foil and spray with a non-stick cooking spray. Line cookie sheet with saltine crackers in single layer. In a saucepan combine the brown sugar and the butter. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes. Immediately pour over saltines and spread to cover crackers completely. Bake at 400 degrees F for 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Let sit for 5 minutes and spread melted chocolate. Cool completely and break into pieces. Enjoy! :)

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 8th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me.........

Choco Cookies

These are so fudgy and chewy they almost melt in your mouth. These make me feel like I'm in chocaholic's heaven!

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup Karo syrup (light or dark)
3 egg whites (or 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp egg beaters)

Prep:
Spray cookie sheets with cooking spray. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt (I like to sift them together to destroy any lumps in the cocoa). Stir in corn syrup and egg white until blended (dough will be thick and slightly sticky). Drop by rounded teaspoon onto prepared cookie sheets.
5Bake at 350 degrees for 7 to 9 minutes or just until set (cookies will be soft when pressed). Do not overbake. Cool on wire rack.

WW pts = 1

Givin' It Away......

2009-12-15T17:35:00.000-08:00

If you have not tried this soup, then you really should!

Progresso High Fiber Chicken Tuscany. Seriously...........It's is delicious! And heaven knows that I have been #itching about enough stuff lately (I think my surgery is messing with my hormones) so for me to say it's good ....then its REALLY GOOD! You want to know what is even better! It is only 2 WW points. Yep, That's right - only 2! You can't beat that at all. And if that isn't enough, they are very economical so you CAN EAT HEALTH. In fact, I just went out and stocked my pantry full of soups. Walgreen's has these on sale this week for .99 and if you click here for a coupon, saving you $1.10 on 3 then you are only paying $.63 per can. Heck - you can't even cook it for that! I was very surprised at there selection.

Now - here's the great part! Progresso and MyBlogSpark are allowing me to giveaway this prize packet.

It includes 2 (really, really nice) branded soup mugs, 2 branded soup spoons and of course, soup that you will love!

To register, tell us what your favorite soup is, in the comment sections below. The winner will be selected at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 18, 2009 by Random.

Good Luck! This is a great set thanks to Progresso and MyBlogSpark!

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 7th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me.............

Frosted Pinapple Cookies

Ingredients:
1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple
1/2 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar

Prep:
Drain pineapple, reserving 3 tablespoons juice. Set pineapple aside; set juice aside for frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add egg; mix well. Add pineapple and vanilla; mix well. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; stir into the creamed mixture. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 325* for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. For frosting, in a small bowl, combine powdered surgar with enough of the reserved pineapple juice to achieve a smooth spreading consistency. Frost cookies. Yield: 3 dozen
Note: If doubling recipe do not double frosting recipe- makes way too much icing. Also make sure that cookies are completely cooled or icing will melt and run off.

Number of Servings: 36
WW pts = 2

Menu Monday

2009-12-13T18:27:00.000-08:00

WOW! Time is flying by and I am just here watching it! And still not losing any weight! But who can lose weight when they can do nothing. This is really getting old. I just don't think I care anymore.....just don't want to hear it! Nope - save it! Although, having a husband that works for Pepsi is not such a good thing. I am going to have to stop drinking pop (which is something I rarely did) cold turkey. Might go through withdraw on that one. I knew I was in trouble this morning, when I woke up, and the first thing that entered my mind was "Mt. Dew....I need a Dew". Shame on me! Oh well......just don't care! I actually go see my Dr. today (Monday) and he had better let me rejoin the real world. I refuse to leave the office without my driving privileges. I will settle with at least just "some" driving privileges. But I will be honest, not being able to lift anything heavier then a daily newspaper, does not bother me at all! I will keep that restriction as long as he would like. You know - that means that I do not have to do laundry! That calls for a celebration! With 5 kids, laundry is a HUGE issue. But I do suggest, never, never, never have surgery around a holiday (unless you absolutely can't avoid it). Not such a good idea! As you can tell, I am feeling much better! I finally decided that I was going to make it and the technical difficulties have seemed to work themselves out......seems like the Dr. knows what he is talking about after all! LOL!

Now for some holiday fun...............GIVEAWAY! YEAH A GIVEAWAY! Check in tomorrow (Tuesday) for more information. The giveaway will start on Tuesday and end on Thursday.

I hope all of you are finding that you are having a joyous holiday season!

CLICK HERE for this weeks menu!

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 6th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me.............

Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients:
1 cup margarine or butter, softened
1-1/2 cups white sugar
1/4 cup egg substitute
1-1/2 tablespoons orange zest
2 tablespoons dark corn syrup
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt

Prep:
Cream the margarine and the sugar together. Add the egg and mix well. Mix in the orange peel and dark corn syrup. Add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, ground cloves and salt, mixing until well combined. Chill dough overnight. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets. Roll dough out to 1/4 inch thick and cut into desired shapes. Place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared pan. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 10 to 12 minutes.

Makes 6 dozen cookies.
WW pts = 1

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 5th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me...............

Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:
1 cup heart-healthy margarine
1-1/2 cups white sugar (or sugar substitute)
1/2 cup egg beaters
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 pinch salt

Prep:
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and lemon extracts. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually blend into the creamed mixture to form a soft dough. Cover or wrap dough, and refrigerate overnight. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). On a floured surface, roll the dough out 1/4 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters. Place cookies 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.

Makes 48 servings
WW pts = 1

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 4th Day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me..........

No Bake Cookies

Ingredients:

2 cups sugar
1/2 cup milk
3 tbsp cocoa
1 stick maragrine
1 tsp vanilla
3 tbsp peanut butter
3 cups quick oats

Prep:
Mix sugar, butter, cocoa and milk. Bring to a rolling boil. Continue to boil for 1 1/2 mins. Take off stove and add peanut butter, vanilla and oats.
Stir and drop by tablespoon on wax paper.
Makes 2 1/2 dozen.

Number of Servings: 30
WW pts = 2 per cookie

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 3rd Day of Christmas Chubbie Chica gave to me................

Ritzy Thin Mints

Ingredients:
1 sleeve of Reduced-Fat Ritz crackers, ~40 crackers
1 bag of Wilton Sugar Free Dark Cocoa Mint Flavored Candy Melts (get at a craft store, like Michael's)

Prep:
Follow the directions to melt the chocolate (I use the double-boiler method). Place 1 cracker in the chocolate and coat; use a fork to lift it out and place it on waxed paper. Repeat until out of chocolate.

Let the cookies cool...YUM!!

Total number of cookies: 40

Serving Size 4 = WW pts 3

Smart Ones Savings

2009-12-09T19:12:00.000-08:00

Sign up here to receive a coupon for $3 off any 10 Weight Watchers SmartOnes. After you sign up, your printable coupon will arrive via email. Who said eating healthy was expensive??

Crock Pot Cookin'

2009-12-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Kielbasa Bean Soup
Serving Size 1 Cup = 2 WW pts

Ingredients:

58 ounces fat-free chicken broth, four 14 . 5 oz cans
6 ounces low- fat sausage, turkey, smoked or low-fat kielbasa, cut in half lengthwise and then sliced
15 ounces cannned pinto beans, rinsed and drained
15 ounces canned black beans, rinsed and drained
4 medium carrots, chopped
3 medium celery, stalks, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 teaspoon thyme
14 1/2 ounces canned diced tomatoes, undrained I like to use rotelle with green chili's

Prep:
Mix all ingredients, in a 5-6quart slow cooker (crockpot). cover and cook on low-heat setting at least 6 hours or until beans are tender.

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

On the 2nd Day of Christmas Chubbie Chica gave to me...........

Coconut Meringue Cookies
1 pt per cookie

Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
2 egg whites
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Dash of salt
2/3 cup granulated sugar

Prep:
Beat egg whites and dash of salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add in sugar while beating until peaks are stiff and glossy. Fold in coconut. Drop by rounded teaspoon onto greased baking sheet. Bake at 325*F 18-20 minutes until set and very slightly browned. Center will still be soft.

HURRY!

2009-12-08T20:01:00.000-08:00

FREE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO WEIGHT WATCHERS MAGAZINE

Sign up here for a free subscription to Weight Watchers magazine. I get this magazine and have found it to be helpful, full of quality content, and highly motivating. They typically only have a certain amount of subscriptions to give away so you must hurry. Once they are gone then that is it! HURRY, HURRY!

12 Days Of Cookies

2009-12-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

12 Days of Cookies ~ Day 1
On the 1st day of Christmas, Chubbie Chica gave to me......

Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies
A Girls Best Friend

When following ANY diet plan, it’s important to be able to have a good, reliable Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe on hand. Let’s face it, there are times when you absolutely must have some cookies, so why not have a good selection of Weight Watchers Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipes to choose from? Well, this low calorie cookie recipe is one of my old standbys. These fabulous little chocolate chip cookies are so divinely decadent, you’ll feel like you are being really bad (which feels really good)! The cookies are small, but they pack quite a chocolate punch. And with just 1 Weight Watchers Point per 2 cookies, you can go ahead and grab a handful of these mini chocolate chip cookies without an ounce of guilt. Just because you are dieting and eating healthy, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the treats you love, but having a healthier version of them sure helps keep you on track.

Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp light butter, softened (I like Brummel and Brown Spread)
- 2 tsp canola oil
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, dark-variety
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp table salt
- 1 large egg white
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 3 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips, about 1/2 cup

Directions:
Preheat oven to 375ºF.
In a medium bowl, cream together butter, oil and sugar. Add vanilla, salt and egg white; mix thoroughly to combine. In a small bowl, mix together flour and baking soda; stir into batter. Add chocolate chips to batter; stir to distribute evenly throughout. Drop rounded half-teaspoons of dough onto one or two large nonstick baking sheets, leaving a small amount of space between each cookie. Bake cookies until golden around edges, about 4 to 6 minutes; cool on a wire rack. Makes 24 servings.

Serving Size 2 cookies = 1 pt.

Menu Monday

2009-12-06T17:45:00.000-08:00

Well - it has been a rough week but I do think it is finally getting better.........FINALLY! I have had 2 great days, compared to what I was having. I am still having a few technical difficulties but they assure me that this can be "normal". Sure....normal! Turn my life upside down and then tell me it's normal. I think if my Dr. tells me that one more time I might smack him! You would think that he would know this by now....since he has been my Dr. since 1990 (that sounds like forever ago but seems like yesterday). I appreciate all the emails that I have gotten from many of you. Your thoughts and prayers HAVE BEEN appreciated. It's in tough times you find out who really are your friends and for that I am thankful for all of you. The one question that everyone has in common is not only concern about my surgery, but what type of surgery. I have decided to reveal that answer since I keep chattering about it, and you all have to pretend to know about it! I had to have a hysterectomy for medical reasons. I never knew it was going to be so difficult but her I am! This has been the longest 2 weeks of my life.....uugghh! And I do think that the next 6 will be longer but that's O.K. Everyone assures me that once I get to the other side of this, it will be a blessing........so we shall see! I still am not eating really normal foods yet but I didn't want to miss another Menu Monday so I put this menu together for you. It was quite a challenge since nothing really sounds good to me so hopefully this menu will be satisfying. There is one thing that is the MOST frustrating of all..........do you know what that is? I am really not eating, much at all........and.....I AM NOT LOSING WEIGHT! What is wrong with this picture? What is wrong with me? O.K. ...... the man upstairs and I need to have a big discussion! UUUGGGHHH!!

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR MENU

Everyone get ready for the 12 Days Of Cookies!

Everyone have a great week!

Up, Up & Away..........

2009-12-03T16:52:00.000-08:00

I look like a balloon. Well - should I say my stomach looks like a balloon. It is so swollen and bloated that I am so uncomfortable. Not to mention the pain it is putting on my lower back. One thing is for sure - If I wasn't fluffy before, I sure am now! I don't even think weight watchers can help. It has been 10 days since my surgery and I am so tired of this. I am so ready for this to be over............but I don't think it ever will be. UUUUGGGGHHHH! There is one good thing though, I have completed all of my Christmas shopping from my bed using this laptop. Got just as good of deals as if I went out shopping on Black Friday. And - they come straight to my door in discreet boxes and the kids never know! How great is that! I may never go Christmas shopping again.....in the actual outside world. My mom went out today and she said it was crazy! Oh well.....sorry mom! Ok - I am going to go back and chill.....I am so tired of chilling!

Thanks for letting me vent!

What......Menu Monday....????

2009-11-30T16:36:00.000-08:00

Well - it has been a rough week. That is all I can say! I am sorry for the missing Menu Monday but I have not handled this surgery very well. The surgery ended up being more difficult then expected. My Dr. was trying to prevent totally opening my up so opted for a lengthy surgery and to go the extra mile before making that decision. I am glad he did because it worked.....I think I am having difficulties now, if he would have had to open me completely up, I think it would have been worst.

I know I am getting old but gee wiz..............

This is how you stayed warm. Yes, you stuck the vacuum hose into my vacuum bag dress, turned up the heat and just toasted away. WHAT THE #&@*! I want blankets. Yes - those old fashion things that I am pretty sure that we all still use every night. A blanket! Isn't that the craziest thing you have ever seen! I felt like I was in the twilight zone or something...........

But I did get cute socks! And it matched my vacuum bag gown so I have to give them credit for that! It all matched.

Well - I am off for some rest. I plan on popping in later this week, depending how I am feeling!

Hey Everyone !!

2009-11-26T06:00:00.000-08:00

Enjoy your time with family and friends!

Recipe Of The Day ~ Pinapple Cooler

2009-11-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

This is a great drink for social occasions. Just multiply to make larger patches.

Pineapple Cooler
Serves 3 @ 2.5 pts

Ingredients:
4 cups unsweetened pineapple juice
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
2 cups carbonated water

Prep:
In a pitcher, combine the pineapple juice, lemon juice and extracts; chill. Just before serving, stir in carbonated water. Serve over ice.

Recipe Of The Day ~ Pumpkin Pie

2009-11-24T06:00:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Pie
Serves 8 @ 3 pts

Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 4 oz reduced-fat cinnamon graham crackers
- 2 Tbsp light butter, melted (I suggest Brummel and Brown)
- 2 large egg white
- 1 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 1 tsp light Pancake Syrup (I used Aunt Jemima Butter Light Syrup)

For the pie filling:
- 1 1/4 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp light Pancake Syrup (I used Aunt Jemima Butter Light Syrup)
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp table salt
- 1/2 cup fat-free evaporated milk
- Top with a dollop of Fat-Free Reddi-Whip whipped cream

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a food processor, combine graham crackers and light brown sugar, and process into fine crumbs. In a small bowl, combine the crumbs and the melted butter, and pancake syrup, and mix with hands. Then transfer to an ungreased 9” pie pan, and distribute crust mixture evenly, pressing it against the pan with your hands. Put in the fridge and chill for 40 minutes. Then, bake about 8-10 minutes, or until the pie crust starts to turn that yummy golden brown.

In a large bowl, whip egg whites into a soft peak, using an electric mixer. Fold in remaining ingredients (except the whipped cream). Beat the mixture until smooth, creamy and lump free, and pour into your pie shell. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 5-10 minutes. Cut into 8 even slices and top with a nice dollop of the Fat Free Whipped Cream. Enjoy!

Total servings per recipe: 8
Serving size = 1 slice
Each serving = 3 Point Value

Menu Monday

2009-11-22T18:00:00.000-08:00

Here it is ...... Thanksgiving week! I have a lot to be thankful for! God has truly blessed me and my family, including my wonderful blogging family. I have decided to only do a menu for 3 days, Mon-Wen. We all know what we will be eating on Thursday and in fact......for the remainder of the week! LOL!! We have turkey every which way by the time the week is over! I will only use Thanksgiving as an excuse. I am having surgery today (Monday) so I needed the short menu anyway! Thank you Thanksgiving! Hopefully I will be back blogging sooner then later. I do know that I will be in the hospital for a few days so I am going to try to schedule some posts in advance.....we will see how that works. I have never done that before! We will see how that works! Please keep my family, and myself, as we go through the next few weeks!

I love getting emails from everyone who visits Chubbie Chica. Everyone seems to be curious about who we are. So since that seems to be among the most common questions asked, I decided to let you all in on my families photo session so you can see for yourself. So CLICK HERE to see us .... for real! I must say - I love the results that we got from our family session. I am blown away by the talent Shaun has. If he can make me look good, fluff and all, he can make anyone look good! This Chubbie Chica had a blast! Yes - before you look - we have 5 children ranging from 17-3. My husband and I adopted 3 special needs children and then God blessed us with 2 of our own. My children are a true blessing and each one has something special to offer. Hope you enjoy seeing our family up close and real!

Now for this weeks menu! CLICK HERE!

Have a very happy and blessed Thankgiving everyone!

Recipe Of The Day ~ Cranberry Apricot Sauce

2009-11-21T05:00:00.000-08:00

Cranberry-Apricot Sauce
Serves 10 @ 1 pt.

2 oz cranberries, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup(s) dried apricot halves, chopped
1/2 cup(s) unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup(s) water
1/4 cup(s) spreadable fruit, orange-flavor

Combine all ingredients in a medium pot. Cook over medium-high heat until cranberries have popped, about 10 minutes. Allow to cool and serve at room temperature. Yields about 1/4 cup per serving.

Recipe Of The Day ~ Turkey Stuffing

2009-11-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

Flavorful but low-fat and low-calorie ingredients star in this renovated stuffing. It'll please the taste buds without making you feel...stuffed!

Turkey Stuffing
Serves 24 @ 2 pts.

9 slice(s) white bread, cubed
12 oz raw turkey sausage, casings removed
6 medium celery, stalks, chopped
3 medium onion(s), chopped
3 small apple(s), cored and chopped
1/8 oz fresh sage, chopped (use 1/3 cup)
3 Tbsp parsley, fresh, chopped
1 1/2 Tbsp thyme, chopped
4 1/2 cup(s) fat-free chicken broth
3/4 cup(s) fat-free egg substitute
1/8 tsp table salt, or more to taste
1/8 tsp black pepper, or more to taste

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread bread on baking pans and bake until lightly toasted.
In a large nonstick skillet sauté sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain in a colander and return to skillet. Stir in celery, onion and apple and sauté until tender. In a very large bowl, stir together bread cubes, sausage mixture, sage, parsley and thyme. Drizzle with broth and egg substitute and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon stuffing into a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish and bake until heated through and browned on top, about 45 to 50 minutes. Cut into 24 pieces and serve.

Recipe Of The Day ~ Candied Sweet Potato with Pineapple

2009-11-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

Four ingredients equal one simple side dish. The pineapple juice helps caramelize the potatoes, resulting in wonderful flavor and texture.

Candied Sweet Potato with Pineapple
Serves 6 @ 2 pts

1 spray(s) cooking spray
1 1/2 pound(s) sweet potato(es), peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
8 oz canned crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
1 Tbsp McNeil Nutritionals SPLENDA No Calorie Sweetener
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Prep:
Preheat oven to 425ºF. Coat a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. Place potatoes in prepared dish. In a small bowl, combine crushed pineapple, Splenda and cinnamon; add to potatoes and toss until well mixed. Bake, stirring after 30 minutes, until sweet potato mixture is bubbly, about 45 minutes. 1/2 cup per serving.

* You can use canned sweet potatoes in water to save time if you prefer.

Crock Pot Cookin'

2009-11-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

It's Crock Pot Wednesday over at Dining With Debbie so here is Chubbie Chica's Crock Pot Cookin' recipe for the week.

Shrimp Creole
Serves 8 @ 3 pts

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced celery
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 (14 ounce) can tomatoes
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon white sugar
salt and pepper
1 1/2 lbs peeled and deveined shrimp
green onion, for garnish

Prep:
Preheat crock pot on high. In fry pan, heat olive oil. Add peppers, onions and celery. Cook until softened. Add chili powder and saute until caramelized.
Remove from heat and pour into crock pot. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, hot sauce, Worcestershire, white sugar, salt and pepper. Cook for 3 hours. Add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes. Serve over rice. Top with chopped green onions.

Recipe Of The Day ~ Spoon Bread

2009-11-17T16:27:00.001-08:00

I am going to give you some great sides that you can possably use with your Thanksgiving Dinner, or anytime within the holiday season.

Spoon bread makes a wonderful, wintry side dish or a satisfying main dish when served with a green salad.

Spoon Bread
Serves 8 @ 3 pts

2 cup(s) fat-free evaporated milk
1 Tbsp sugar
1 cup(s) uncooked cornmeal, yellow
1 tsp table salt
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 cup(s) regular egg substitute
1 large egg(s)
1/2 tsp baking powder
3/4 cup(s) yellow corn
2 oz turkey ham, chopped

Prep:
Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat a medium-sized soufflé dish with cooking spray.
In a saucepan, warm milk and sugar until steaming. Remove pan from heat and gradually whisk in cornmeal. Return to heat and cook, stirring, until very thick.
In a bowl, whisk together salt, pepper, egg substitute, egg and baking powder. Gradually whisk in cornmeal mixture. Stir in corn and ham. Spoon mixture into soufflé dish and bake until puffed and browned, about 45 minutes. Serve immediately.

Serving Size: 2/3C

Menu Monday

2009-11-15T17:56:00.001-08:00

It's time for another menu! I have been busy this week.....I have to have surgery and I have been trying to get everything in order so when I leave it won't be such a disaster. And to help me along during my recovery as well. I have cleaned out all the toys and sent them to Goodwill, had the entryway-stairwell and hallway painted, got the laundry caught up, watched my daughter compete at a cheerleading competition and arranged transportation for my kiddo's. I am tired just typing it all! This week - I will be getting our Christmas decorations put up. If I don't I am afraid how my husband will decorate. That could be the talk of the neighborhood! I think I want to steer clear from that for a while! Might not live that one down. Wish me luck on the decorating this week!

I am having a great Fiber One Yogurt giveaway that you need to get involved in - best of all.....it's free! Check out the posting, just below this one for all the details. You can't lose!

Everyone have a great week!

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU!

Yahoo For Yoplait - It's FREE!

2009-11-14T19:59:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Yoplait Fiber One Yogurts and if you have never tried them then you should. Infact, now you have no excuse......the first 50 bloggers that comment will receive a coupon for a free 4 pack of Fiber One Yogurt! Yep! That's right! It's free! All you have to do is place your comment here and click the "Try It Free" button - fill out your information - Yoplait will send you your coupon. Can't get any simplier..........and these are ZERO points. Yep! That's what I said. ZERO POINTS! What's not to love? A must have for the refridge. Thank you Yoplait !

Info For You About Yoplait Fiber One 50-calorie Yogurt:

* Yoplait Fiber One 50-calorie yogurt is the only leading nonfat yogurt with 50 calories and 5 grams of fiber.

* Available in four flavors – Strawberry, Vanilla, Peach and Key Lime Pie – Fiber One 50-calorie yogurt is a delicious snack that is good for you, contributes 20% of the recommended daily value of fiber and is a good source of calcium as well as vitamins A and D.

* Instead of munching on boring lower-calorie foods, you can now snack with zero guilt on Fiber One yogurt, a tasty way to help watch waistlines and keep calorie counts in check.

* Fiber One 50-calorie yogurt features a ‘Hungry Girl Seal of Approval’, the first nationally distributed yogurt to receive this endorsement.

Yoplait Fiber One 50-calorie yogurt is available in the yogurt section of grocery stores nation-wide.

Now - what are you waiting for ?

Get Ready, Get Set..............

2009-11-12T18:19:00.000-08:00

Get Ready, Get Set............O.K. hold on just a second! I am going to keep you in suspense for just a little while! O.K., O.K., O.K., you talked me into tell you just a little bit. I am getting ready for a Fiber One Yogurt give away! And.....you all could be winners, so Get Ready, Get Set......... (wait for my post) te, he, he!

Hurry Winners..........Hurry!

2009-11-12T18:01:00.000-08:00

Here we go................ and the winner is:

Diana

Please email me with you mailing information so this can get shipped! Thanks for your support!

Menu Monday

2009-11-08T19:05:00.001-08:00

Still not doing to hot but we are managing! So much has gone on in our little world in the last few weeks - I don't even know where to begin. On an exciting note, we had family portraits taken today and I can't wait to see them. We have one of the best on location photographers and we sure put him to work today. I will pass his information along later.......

I found out that I am going to have to have surgery on the 23rd........UUUGGGHHH!! But necessary! I will have a 6/8 week recovery time. I am not that thrilled but I just need to get it over with and done. Finding out that I needed surgery and everyone being sick made me do some soul searching. I run myself ragged, volunteering, this event, that event and so on......... I decided to let go of some of my commitments and focus on some of my real passions! And at the same time, de-stress my life and free up some time. I fond myself chasing myself all around town sometimes and my life continues without me. On Halloween my baby turned 3 (yes - a halloween baby) and I think I have missed some of his infancy and now here we are and he is a toddler. Before I know it, he will be in college.

It will take me a couple of months to get my life on a new schedule but I am so looking forward to it all. And the peace that comes with it!

Well, enough about my past weeks.....how about yours? What do you do to de-stress your life?

While you are thinking how to answer that question.
CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU.

Again........why, why, why!

2009-11-05T18:06:00.001-08:00

How many of you have been battling with all this crud and illness going around? I am sick and tired of someone being sick! It has started through our house again. That is a downfall of having a big family - it can circle around several times before you get rid of it! But - this is different!

I second guess myself as a parent and what we used to do for just general illnesses it seems that we just don't do it anymore - such a fear of running a fever. I am sick of hearing H1N1 ....I could really puke infact, I just might the next time someone brings it up! GO AWAY and let us be normal! I am so exhausted, both physically and mentally!

The baby is sick again although this time it does seem like he is responding to the medications! FINALLY! Hopefully Chubbie Chica will be back soon and back to the normal routine.

And The Winner Is...............

2009-10-31T21:00:00.001-07:00

FEBREZE HOME COLLECTION WINNER is .............

Young in Texas!

Please send me your email address and I will be in touch with you on Monday to finalize everything! CONGRADS!

Come And Help Out........Hurry!

2009-10-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and there has been a lot of advocating and you may have already helped out ...... but I need you to do one more thing for this great cause.

Please go and visit www.pinktogether.com and read some inspiring stories. You can even post words of encouragement or send virtual flowers. For everytime you do this, General Mills will donate money to the Susan G. Koman Foundation. How easy is that - not bad huh? All for a great cause!

Chubbie Chica will be giving away an Inspiring Hope Gift Basket, courtesy of the Susan G. Koman Foundation and Myblogspot. The winner will be selection by using random.com and announced on Nov. 1st!

Now - once you have gone to www.pinktogether.com and posted your words of encouragment. Simply post you link below - random.com will do the rest!

Thanks Susan G. Koman Foundation for all the awareness and thanks to Myblogspot for assisting in this giveaway!

Crock Pot Cookin'

2009-10-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

It's Crock Pot Wednesday over at Dining With Debbie so here is Chubbie Chica's Crock Pot Cookin' recipe for the week. It actually is on this weeks Menu Monday.

Potato and Bacon Chowder
Serves 6 @ 3 pts

Ingredients:
4 cups potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 large carrot, diced
2 cup leeks, chopped, white part only
2 medium garlic clove, minced
8 cups fat-free chicken broth
1 cup uncooked barley
2 bay leaf
1/2 tsp dried thyme, crushed
1/2 tsp black pepper
8 oz Canadian-style bacon, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
1 cup(s) fat-free evaporated milk
4 oz fat-free half-and-half

Prep:
In a slow cooker, combine potatoes, carrots, leek, garlic, broth, barley, bay leaf, thyme, pepper and bacon; cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in evaporated milk and half-and-half; heat through, uncovered, about 10 minutes.

Enjoy!

It's A Give Away!!!

2009-10-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yep - It's a give away - just for you!
I am very excited about these product!

First off I must say that the packaging was fantastic. I get this wonderful box in the mail and I open it - not only does it smell good but it is very attractive. I will say - as I was taking everything out I was a little skeptical, especially about the candle (not really a candle - just appears to be) with the different fragrant shades that go around it.

I thought that this was one of the craziest little getup's I had seen but you know what.......IT WORKS! This candles are great! And not to mention, totally safe and since I have a 2 year old.....very important! LOVE THEM! I can have my candles back. I have now tried all of these products and they ALL are wonderful. I have my family room and kitchen (which are the hubs of my home) set up and smelling wonderful. Even darling husband noticed, and commented, which rarely happens. This is the best line of products that I have used in a long time. I suggest everyone of you to rush out and go get some to beatify your home. Febreze Home Collection has hit it on the nail this time.

In fact, I am giving away a $20 gift card to Wal-Mart to the person that can tell us how they would best use the Febreze Home Collection to spruce up a room.

Thank you Febreze and MyBlogSpark for allowing me to, not only sample these products, have such a great give away! This collection is truly wonderful!

Deadline for entries is Friday, Oct. 30th at 9:00 p.m. EST.

The winner will be announced on Saturday - Oct. 31st!

Menu Monday

2009-10-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

It's Monday again, and boy do I feel it! I still have one child home sick and my computer has been on the blink.....that is not a good combination! I have not had any avenue to vent! UUGGHHH! I am not going to fuss to bad since obviously it is back and running. I am afraid if I bash it to hard then it will decide to go back out again - for some reason I think computers have a mind of there own! Well - other than playing nurse maid and running back and forth to the Dr's office - I, AGAIN, have gotten nothing done. Still no meeting! What is it going to do to take me to just go to a meeting? WHY is this such a roadblock for me? WHY, WHY, WHY! Maybe I should just do it online and forget a meeting for now! What do you think? Which way do you do it - if at all? OK - here we go again. Another new week.

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU.

OH - I can't forget! This week I am having 2 giveaways so make sure you check back!

Menu Monday

2009-10-18T16:49:00.000-07:00

Well - did you all think I had disappeared? I thought there for a second I had! I am feeling much better but now 3 of the 4 kids, that are at home, are sick. I don't know which is worse - me or them! Of course, I am so far behind that I think it will take me a year to get caught up - especially the laundry. The kitchen would be next. Why is it that when your sick no one cleans.......no one! They have had a party! And needless to say: I haven't made it to a meeting yet so I have lost out on my free month! oh well - I'm pissed but only at myself! How has everyone else been doing? Hope everyone stays well.

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU!

Quick Note.......

2009-10-08T18:46:00.000-07:00

Chubbie Chica & the kids are sick :0( Sorry for the delay in blogging. Hopefully I will be back soon!

Menu Monday

2009-10-04T18:02:00.001-07:00

WOW! Where has this week gone? I really have no clue. It has been crazy around here! I mean real crazy! Infact, is it a full moon? I think it is by the way my children are acting! I did get one thing accomplished though.....no, it wasn't a meeting (we are not going to talk about that). My darling daughter has begged to have a wall in her room striped brown and pink. So, the supermom that I try to be, decided that I could stripe a wall! It's not ready to reveal to the public yet, but I have to admit, it looks pretty good. It has just taken me about 3 days to complete 1 wall. Any projects around your house?

Have a great week everyone!

CLICK HERE FOR YOUR MENU!

P.S. I have a confession over on my family blog if you would to read it! Lynnett is will be alright! I promise! www.thefelixfive.com

Recipe Of The Day ~ Double Salsa Burgers

2009-10-01T06:09:00.000-07:00

I know it’s not that healthy, but I enjoy eating burgers once in a while. They’re my favorite comfort food (besides pasta, of course).

I tried this burger recipe the other day, and I loved it. The salsa really gives it a special flavor…

(yes - this in my real photo of my burger)

Double Salsa Burgers
Serves 6 @ 6 pts

Ingredients:
1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
1 large tomato, seeded and finely chopped
1/4 cup finely chopped red onions
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 cup finely chopped green sweet peppers
2 finely chopped seeded jalapeno peppers
2 cups shredded lettuce
1 tablespoon snipped cilantro
1/3 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sour cream and/or guacamole (to serve)

Prep:
1. For the salsa: In a bowl, combine the tomato, garlic, onion, green peppers, jalapeno peppers, cilantro, and salt. Set aside 2 tablespoons of the salsa. Cover and chill the remaining salsa until serving time.
2. In another bowl, combine the ground beef and the 2 tablespoons of reserved salsa; mix well.
3. Shape the mixture into six 1/2-inch-thick oval patties.
4. Grill the patties on an uncovered grill directly over medium coals for about 13-15 minutes (or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in side of patty registers 160 degrees F), turning the patties once halfway through grilling time.
5. Arrange the shredded lettuce on individual plates. Top with the burgers, the remaining salsa, and the cheddar cheese.
6. Serve with sour cream and/or guacamole.

WARNING: When you work with peppers, do not get your hands close to your eyes until you have really, really washed them thoroughly!

Crock Pot Cookin'

2009-09-30T17:32:00.000-07:00

Southwest Meat Loaf
Serves 8 @ 4 pts

Ingredients:
Vegetable cooking spray
2lbs ground round (I used 93% lean ground beef)
3 slices light bread, curmbled (1 cup)
1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium)
1/2 cup fat-free egg substitute
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
1/2 cup ketchup
1/2 cup thick and chunky salsa (I used chili sauce)

Prep:
Coat 3 1/2-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Tear off two lengths of aluminum foil long enough to fit in bottom of cooker and extend 3 inches over each side of cooker. Fold each foil strip lengthwise to form 2-inch-wide strips. Arrange foil strips in a cross fashion in cooker, pressing strip in bottom of cooker and extending ends over sides of cooker. Combine beef and next 5 ingredients; shape mixture into a loaf the shape of the slow cooker container. Place loaf in slow cooker over foil strips. (Foil strips become "handles" to remove meat loaf from slow cooker.)Make a shallow indention on top of meat loaf. Combine ketchup and salsa (chili sauce); pour over meat loaf.

Cover and cook on low heat 8 hours or on high heat 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Use foil strips to lift meat loaf from cooker. Let meat loaf stand 10 minutes before serving.

YUM YUM!

Tempting Tuesday

2009-09-29T16:33:00.000-07:00

Is anyone having a Tempting Tuesday?

Well, how is everyone doing? I actually was being sucked in by favorite treat! It was calling my name.

I LOVE LAY'S POTATO CHIPS!! They love me! I just can't resist this little things - I just don't know why......but I can't! SOOOO today when they started screaming "come eat me", I jumped in the car and went grocery shopping......and I bought all healthy snacks, yes - I am a snacker. So I bought snacks, breakfast and lunch items.

Oh, my beautiful snacks! I am happy now and I AM NOT GOING TO EAT YOU - YOU CRAZY LAY'S POTATO CHIPS !!

Menu Monday

2009-09-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

I have had a busy week! Meetings, meetings and cheerleading! My daughter is starting her competition season in 1 week! It gets pretty intense at this time - now once I see her perform, then I will relax. Hopefully! She has done this since she was 4 (now 10) and has 1 national title ..... we will see what this season holds. NO! I am not one of "those" moms. She doesn't have to win! As long as she doesn't get hurt and has fun....that's all we care about. I can say that it sure keeps her in shape! LOL!! So - I still haven't made it to a meeting yet? How are you all doing? I hope you all have a great week!

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU !

Crock Pot Cookin'

2009-09-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Crocked Pineapple Chicken
Serves 6 @ 4 pts

Ingredients:
6 whole chicken breast halves without skin -- skinned and split
1 dash pepper
To taste paprika
20 ounces pineapple chunks in juice -- 1 can tidbits
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 clove garlic -- minced

Prep:
Arrange chicken in bottom of crockpot. Sprinkle with pepper and paprika. In a small bowl, combine drained pineapple tidbits, mustard and soy sauce. Pour over chicken. Add minced garlic. Cover and cook on LOW 7-9 hours or HIGH 3-4 hours.

Oh my! I almost forgot to post the crock pot meal! Why didn't you all remind me? Sorry for the delay!

Remember - please go vote for my daughter.
CLICK HERE

OH MY! Please Vote!

2009-09-24T07:37:00.001-07:00

I a steering away from Weight Watchers and healthy eating for a moment. The things we do for our children.

My darling daughter has decided that she wants to be a Gap Girl!

Go figure! At 10 yrs. of age she expresses her wants very loudly at times. I really think that she wants to do this so she can go to see the Lion King. Anyway - will you please take a moment and go and vote for her!

Please click here to vote!

Chubbie Chica would really appreciate you doing this for her! Thanks everyone!

Tempting Tuesday

2009-09-22T18:08:00.000-07:00

I have decided to call Tuesday's - Tempting Tuesday. Why you might ask? Because I am sitting here, watching The Biggest Loser, and instead of getting motivated.....I am eating a whole bag of Jalapeno Cheeto's! What is wrong with me! I have lost my mind. You can go and check out my day with the family at www.thefelixfive.com but I really think I have a problem - really.....a whole bag!

Are you watching? Who is your favorite? Coach Mo is from KY! Go Coach Mo!

Is anyone else being tempted? If so - shout it out here in the comment section!

Menu Monday

2009-09-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

Warning: this is a long post! Thought I would give you a heads up before I solved the problems of the world. I think I need a meeting.....LOL!

This week has been a journey of much stuff! I am on a commission for our city and all I can say is that it has had to be a full moon out there because things have gone wild! Also having a close family member that runs the city, that is under attack, has only added to things being interesting. We have had another interesting week with our daughter adjusting to public school. Just when I think everything has past, more creeps up but I am so proud to say that she has very high standards and morals that just can't be kept under control though the public system. We have only been in school 3 weeks and the staff clearly knows me by first name - I don't know if that's a good thing - LOL!

Another thing that I want to set straight! I never thought I would have to explain what Menu Monday is - especially in the blogging world, which is where I am, I think! I clearly thought that everyone understood what Menu Monday is. It's a common thing in the blogging community that I didn't know needed to be explained but here goes, for those of you that are clearly confussed! Menu Monday originated at Organizing Junkie. It is a wonderful blog (remember we are all bloggers) on organization. Here is her description "I truly believe that menu planning is one of the best places to start in your quest to get organized. Each week over 300 ladies share what’s on their menus for the week and we’d love to have you join us! It’s a wonderful opportunity to keep your menu planning efforts on track week after week not to mention the many great ideas and recipes that come from reading the menus of the many other participants.", enough said. I started posting MY weekly menus. Now here comes the clarification part.....am I the creator of these recipes? NO. Where do I get them? From all over the web. I print menus out and put them into a weekly list for my refrigerator. They come from about 1,000 different resources, books, meetings, food web sites with adaptations, etc. I think you get the point. For some to think that I have stolen these because they are theirs is INSANE! They are not yours either! Ex: you do not own exclusive rights to Country Fair Chicken. Nor was it your creations. It is all over the WWW and I feel certain that it originated from a WW cookbook (hhhmmmm .... something to keep in mind) but my point is that it is all over the web and anyone can google it. I have NEVER claimed that these are my recipes nor will I ever. As far as saying that this is what I am eating for the week-I think I have that right. Maybe some need to understand the meaning of a blog! If you have thought that I am the creator of these recipes then I do truly apologize! I am not! And anyone with a WW calculator can figure the points for any food item in a store! I am not the only one that post their weekly plan and include ww points! Interesting!

On a positive note: if you ever want any menu ideas then you truly need to go to Organizing Junkie every Monday and check out everyone's weekly planned menus. You will get some great ideas and recipes. I have been an avid follower of Laura for years and it has truly helped me pull things together here at the house. Maybe I will do a blog on menu planning this week (with resources)......I love it! And no....I am not the orignal creator of all these recipes! No mother blogger is and no one claims to be!

Love you Laura! Thanks for all you and your blog!

Now that I have ranted, and you have tolorated me, I want to say thanks! I hope you have a great week as always! I think I need a meeting..............

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU.....WHAT I AM EATING AND PLANNING!

Recipe Of The Day ~ Cinnamon Popcorn Crunch

2009-09-18T19:02:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon Popcorn Crunch
WW Pts = 3

Ingredients:
11 cups popcorn, air-popped -- unsalted
6 1/2 ounces mixed nuts, dry-roasted -- 1 can salted
1 pound light brown sugar
1 cup light corn syrup -- or maple syrup
1/2 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

Prep:
Mix popcorn and nuts in large buttered bowl. Combine sugar, syrup, butter or margarine, water, salt and cinnamon in saucepan. Heat slowly to the boiling point, stirring until sugar melts. Cook to hard crack stage (290-295º F). Pour syrup in a fine stream over popcorn and nuts. Stir until popcorn and nuts are evenly coated with syrup. Spread out on large buttered surface or waxed paper. Separate into bite-size portions with forks. Cool.

Serves: 34 (1/2 C servings)

Crock Pot Cookin'

2009-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Beef Tips in Mushroom Sauce

Ingredients:
2 pounds lean chuck – cut in 1 – 3/4 inch pieces
1 can 98% fat free cream of mushroom soup
1 pkg. onion soup mix
1 can Diet Sprite or 7up

*Feel free to bulk this up with any zero point vegetables that you choose!

Directions:
Put meat in crock pot. Pour soup & onion soup mix over meat. Add Diet Sprite/7up. Cook in crock pot all day on low (or high for at least 4 hours). Turn off and let sit for 30 minutes before serving.

Makes 8 servings.
Each serving = 6 pts

Enjoy! For more great crock pot recipes go check out dining with debbie (they may not be ww's but can be adapted)

Menu Monday

2009-09-13T18:04:00.000-07:00

WOW! What a week! Things seem to be settling down around our house and we seem to be getting back to a routine .... YEAH! My life this past week has been more sane then others. Although my 2 year old has started telling me "you mean mama, you mean", LOL! What does he know.....he hasn't seen mean yet poor fella! I love this age.
I hope this next week goes as well as this week then I may actually start getting caught up on things. Guess we will have to wait and see! Hope everyone has a great week! (oh, I am thinking about going back to meetings and restarting......here we go again - let's see if I actually make it!)

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU!

Never Forgotten!

2009-09-11T06:47:00.000-07:00

In our hearts forever!

2009-09-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have decided to join diningwithdebbie for crockpot Wednesday's ....If I can remember! LOL! So here it is! If you are looking for more crockpot recipes (all will not be WW's but you can put the info into the calculator and get your points)the go over to diningwithdebbie blog and check it out!

This is an easy, quick and yummt meal. So easy since many ingredients you should have on hand - if not! Try it and make it a staple!

Crock Pot Salsa Chicken
WW Pts = 3

4 skinless boneless chicken breast halves
1 package reduced-sodium taco seasoning mix
1 cup salsa
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup light sour cream

Spray the crock pot with cooking spray. Add the chicken breasts. Sprinkle with taco seasoning. Top with salsa. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. When ready to serve, remove the chicken from the pot. Place about 2 tablespoons cornstarch in a small bit of water. Stir the cornstarch mixture into salsa sauce. Stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream.
Enjoy!

Menu Monday

2009-09-06T17:16:00.001-07:00

WOW! This week has flown by! I had everything under control until Friday and then all the sudden my household management went out the window. Of course, with 5 kids that can happen in a matter of 15 minutes. They have a way of ganging up on me! Our babysitter got married today and I did the decorating for her - I love to decorate but I enjoy it more when I have help! Anyway, we have been busy, busy, busy with wedding stuff. It's not all lost because tomorrow is still an extra day for me ...... so hopefully I can regain my house and control tomorrow. I am just to tired, and my back hurts way to much, to care tonight! Thank heavens that I already had my menu completed for this post or we all may be starving next week - LOL! Everyone enjoy your holiday and have a great week!

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU!

And The Winner Is...............

2009-09-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

And The Winner Is.........BETSEY!
Thanks everyone for entering and hopefully I will have another give-a-way very soon! Keep watching! Congrads Betsey - I will be sending you an email shortly!

Recipe Of The Day ~ Cinnamon Rolls

2009-09-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

Low Fat Cinnamon Rolls
WW Pts = 4

Pear baby food is the secret ingredient that gives Low-Fat Cinnamon Rolls sumptuous texture and moistness without added fat.

Ingredients:
2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 package rapid-rise yeast
2 tablespoons nonfat dry milk
3/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup very warm water (120º F to 130º F)
6-ounce jar pear baby food
3 egg whites
1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
2 tablespoons honey
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
3/4 cup raisins
1 recipe Powdered Sugar Icing (recipe below)

Prep:
In large bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, the granulated sugar, undissolved yeast, dry milk and salt. Stir in water and baby food. Stir in egg whites, whole-wheat flour and enough remaining all-purpose flour to make soft dough. On lightly floured surface, knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 4 to 6 minutes. Cover; let rest on floured surface 10 minutes. Roll dough to 18- by 12-inch rectangle. Brush honey on dough; sprinkle evenly with brown sugar, cinnamon and raisins. Beginning at long end,roll up tightly; pinch seam to seal. Cut into 12 equal pieces. Place, cut sides up, in greased 13- by 9-inch baking pan. Cover; let rise in warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 30 to 45 minutes. Bake at 375º F for 25 to 30 minutes or until done. Remove from pan; cool on wire rack. Drizzle with powdered sugar icing.

Makes 12 rolls

Powdered Sugar Icing:
Ingredients:

In a small bowl, combine
1 cup sifted powdered sugar
3 to 4 teaspoons nonfat milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
mix until smooth.

Yoplait Whips & An Awesome Giveaway !!

2009-09-01T17:29:00.001-07:00

This is the greatest stuff ever! Yoplait Whips are a must have in every refridge....and freezer! These are awesome if you freeze these - simply put them in your freezer and when you take them out to eat them - you will be in heaven! You will think you are eating a full flavored ice cream. Go out and stock up on them now!

Now for the GREAT part!

I am having a Summer Cool Down giveaway thanks to Yoplait! You will get a nice red insulated travel cooler, a pop-cycle pop pack for making your own pop-cycles and a set of travel spoons! All you have to do is comment to this post below and random.com will pick the winner! That's pretty easy - huh? Come on and post a comment. This giveaway will be closed Saturday @ 12:00 p.m. and the winner will be announced on Sunday! Good Luck!

Heads Up.....

2009-09-01T06:27:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone - thanks for your kind words about our school situation. Our daughter seems to FINALLY be settling in. 10 years old is a hard age, she thinks she is going on 40 - LOL! I will be posting a product review and a giveaway later today! Heads Up! Heads Up!

Menu Monday

2009-08-30T17:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry for my absence last week! Our family was turned upside down and I had to drop everything and figure life out again! Our daughter has always been in a private Catholic School, the same as my son but he has graduated. There was only about 120 students and we all were like family. I have been extremely involved with all of our childrens education and activities. It was the night before school was to start (15 hours to be exact) and we received a phone call that said there would be no school - they were going to shut it down! WHAT! Uniforms bought, school supplies bought, backpack packed and clothes laid out for school the next morning! There was no compassion, all we got was the cold hearted message - sorry! Needless to say, we were devastated! I had a child in tears because "she couldn't say goodbye" to the kids you had been in class with since kindergarden. So - I had to take the time to figure life out and just what we were going to do. We had no other options but to go public and my daughter did not adjust well. The bottom line was - we were grieving! And we still are but we are adjusting!

Enough said - I could go on for a year about this....and cry....and cry....and cry!
On to Menu Monday! We are all going to have a better week! I know it! You included!

">CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU!!

Enjoy!

Recipe Of The Day ~ Skinny Meatballs

2009-08-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Skinny Meatballs
WW Pts = 1 per meatball

Ingredients:
20 oz (1.3 lb) Ground Turkey Breast 99% lean
1/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Reggiano Parmigiano cheese, grated
1/4 cup parley, finely chopped
1 egg
1/2 small onion, minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp olive oil

Quick marinara sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 28 oz cans crushed tomatoes (I like Tuttorosso)
1 bay leaf
1 tsp oregano
1/4 cup fresh chopped basil
salt and fresh pepper to taste

Prep:
In a medium size pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and saute until golden, being careful not to burn. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, basil and bay leaf. Stir and reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer.

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, onion, garlic and cheese. Using your (clean) hands, mix all the ingredients well until everything is combined. Form small meatballs, about the size of a ping ping ball.

Heat the 2 tbsp olive oil on medium high in a large saute pan. Add the meatballs and saute until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. When brown, add the meatballs to the sauce and cook about 20 minutes.

Recipe Of The Day ~ Sautéed Zucchini with Plum Tomatoes

2009-08-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Sautéed Zucchini with Plum Tomatoes

WW Pts = 2

Ingredients:
1 zucchini, cut up
5 fresh plum tomatoes, diced
5 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp Herbes de Provence
kosher salt and fresh pepper

Prep:
In a large non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until golden. Add zucchini, salt and pepper. Cook about 4-5 minutes on each side, add tomatoes and season with additional salt and herbes de provence. Lower heat and simmer about 5-10 minutes. Divide into 4 equal portions when serving.

Tips, Tips and More Tips!

2009-08-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Yes - I know! More tips! Tips we have all heard 100 times. Tips we could all write but tips we all need to be reminded of. Maybe some will be new to you but we all need to be reminded from time to time! Especially Me!

Helpful Weight Watcher Tips to Lose Weight

1. Keep a Food Journal - Record everything you eat and drink immediately including the sugar in your coffee. You will start noticing where your bad eating habits are and how to change them. Write down the points next to everything you eat so you can monitor how many points you have consumed.

2. Drink 6 Cups of Water a Day - I find it helpful to always have a glass of water near me at all times.

3. Eat More Greens - There are so many nutrients in leafy greens like carotenoids, folate, calcium, and fatty acids. Put them in salads, soups, dips, or eat them as a side dish. They are delicious cooked or raw and they are zero points.

4. Cook With Fat Free Broth - I like to keep chicken broth stocked in my pantry. I can make a quick soup by adding vegetables, or I use it in place of oil when I cook vegetables or rice, to give food extra flavor without the added points.

5. Eat Whole Grains - Switch to brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat bread, whole grain pasta whenever possible. These foods are loaded with nutrients and fiber.

6. Measure Everything - Know your measurements or you will be consuming more points than you think. The only way to get an accurate point count is by measuring everything.

7. Use Skim Milk - You should have 2 servings of milk a day. Using skim milk instead of whole will save you half the points.

8. Take Your Time Eating - Cut your food in small portions and enjoy each bite. It takes 20 minutes before the stomach can tell the brain it is full. You will eat less if you take your time.

9. Use Smaller Plates - This tricks your brain into thinking you are eating more food.

10. Exercise - Exercise doesn't have to be boring! Take a Zumba class or if you aren't comfortable with lifting weights take a weight lifting class. You'll burn lots of calories, build muscle and feel great! The more you exercise, the easier it becomes and the more calories you burn, which means you can deduct points for food you can eat! Make sure to eat the amount of points recommended. If you burn 5 - 7 points during an exercise session, make sure you eat.

11. Eat More Seafood - I was so happy to learn that shrimp and scallops are low in points. Get the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids when eating fatty fish such as salmon.

12. Use Meat as a Condiment - You don't have to give up meat to lose weight. Use lean meat as a flavoring instead of the main ingredient. Make stir-fries with lots of vegetables.

13. Eat More Fiber - Eating fiber is key for weight control because it fills you up with fewer calories. Foods like beans, plant foods, whole grains are all high in fiber. The higher the fiber, the lower the points.

14. Eat More Vegetarian Meals - Plant foods are rich in phytochemicals, fiber and protein. They are low in calories and saturated fats. I like to make vegetable soups, stir-fries, pasta primavera, and salads.

15. Eat Healthy Snacks - The best way to make your metabolism work faster is by eating smaller meals, so in between your regular meals, snack on zero to very low point foods so you will not feel hungry throughout the day. Snack on crudites, fruit, fat free popcorn, salsa with baked chips, whole grain crackers, bruschetta. I like to buy Weight Watchers Smart Ones desserts and Weight Watchers ice cream bars. They taste great and are low in points. Also, Skinny Cow, Philly Swirl Sugar Free Swirl Stix, Jello Sugar Free Chocolate Pudding Cups are all low in points.

I will post a list of 1 pt. snack sometime soon on the blog - stay tuned!

Menu Monday

2009-08-16T18:34:00.000-07:00

Another week has came around so that means it's time for another Menu Monday. My DH has left for Mexico and the kids and I are on our own for the next 10 days - WOO HOO. It will be a busy week though....preparing all the kids for school. One side of me is excited while the other side doesn't want to get up at 6:30 A.M. Oh well, at least I will get my routine back! I will be having my first "Give Away" this week so stay tuned!

CLICK HERE FOR THIS WEEKS MENU!

Recipe Of The Day ~ Corn Dog Casserole

2009-08-14T07:15:00.000-07:00

Corn Dog Casserole
WW Pts = 7
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp Country Crock Shedd's Spread Light Margarine
1/2 cup Egg Beaters
1/2 cup plain fat-free yogurt
8 oz Kraft 2% Milk Natural Cheese Mild Cheddar Cheese
1 1/2 cup fat-free skim milk
1 tsp black pepper
2 tsp hot pepper sauce
2/3 cup cooked celery
1 cup onion(s)
2/3 cup scallion(s), green onions chopped
8 fat-free beef or pork hot dog, sliced
1 tsp McCormick Rubbed sage
2 boxes JIFFY CORN MUFFIN MIX
1/4 cup yellow mustard

Prep:
In a sprayed skillet, saute celery for 5 minutes. Add white onions; saute for 5 minutes. Place in a large bowl; set aside. Cut hot dogs into rounds. In the same skillet, saute the hot dogs for 5 minutes or until lightly browned; add to vegetables. In a large bowl, combine eggbeaters, melted margarine, yogurt, milk, sage, pepper, and hot sauce. Stir in corn bread mixes. Add the chopped green onions and cheese. Spread into a shallow 3-qt. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 400 for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cut into 10 squares.

WW Pts = 7