Support System

 Good evening,

Just like so many others I have restarted my diet or "life style change" so many times that I have lost count. As I restart my diet again I think about why I have to. I read all the articles, research some great recipes, stock fridge, pull out workout videos and give myself a pep talk. Monday comes, I'm strong and succeed. Tuesday comes; start strong and darn bad lunch choice. Shoot this day is shot so guess I should give up and try to restart Wednesday. Wednesday morning, you are not feeling it... Maybe Thursday. A couple weeks later I restart the same thinking as before. So what went wrong? 

Things happen. You get invited to lunch. Kids sporting event goes long and quick dinner is needed. You wake up not feeling good, no workout that night. Life happens, so dang now what?!

Mentally I know when life happens, roll, pick up and push on. One bad meal does not need to turn into a week of bad meals or worse yet a month of them. But, even though mentally I know what to do I just don't do. Which leads me full circle.

As I exam all the attempts and fails I have made over the years one thing I have found to be true I can not do this alone. The key to successful weight loss is having a strong support team. This doesn't mean you have to hire trainers, nutritionist and if you don't have a supportive household you can't do it. What this means is you need to build a support system that works for you. Support system can include local support like spouse, friends, coworkers or groups like weight watchers etc. Or support systems can be made up of online friends, groups or a hybrid of both. Once you establish your support use it; lean on it and you will find that bad days can stay as bad days and less likely to become bad months.

Reflecting (Early) on the 30's

 As I was reflecting back on this past year I started looking back further and further until I reached my 30th birthday. I had so many big plans to make my 30's amazing. See I had spent my 20's making babies, learning how to adult and fine tuning career options and vowed to wow myself in my 30's finding myself. Looking at my 30 things in my 30's list I find myself wondering if I accomplished my goal or if I managed to get further lost in life and if I am still searching for myself. 

Let's look at that list and see what still needs done in the next 10 years and maybe some of those items really are less important then they were 10 years ago. 

1. Go roller skating with my kids (Kiddos are not interested in this and I am sure we can find something better.)
2. Have family photo's done (I have taken several)
3. Run a 5K (Memorial Day 2013) adding back to list. Run a 5K
4. Walk around the lake (7 miles) (Summer 2013) adding back to list. Walk around the lake. 
5. Run a race of any sort in every state. (ya lets cross this one off as it doesn't excite any longer.)
6. Go Ziplining
7. Wear shorts in public (all summer walking the lake 2013)
8. Buy something sexy to wear
9. Get a body massage
10. Build a 90 day emergency savings fund
11. Volunteer More
12. Start a retirement plan
13. Take a class or lesson
14. Go Skiing (ya not my thing)
15. Get my passport
16. Purchase a new home (we have a home so yup off the list)
17. Send a message in a bottle
18. Go hiking
19. Make something new out of something old
20. Watch the sunrise and set in the same day from the same location
21. Read 1 book every month for a year.
22. Start recycling
23. Pay off my car
24. Go on a woman's retreat
25. Attend the canoe trip with friends
26. Take my kids on an airplane (Took kids to Disney World in April 2012)
27. Graduate from college (Done June 8th, 2012)
28. Plant a garden (Summer 2013 with sister)
29. Lose all my child gained weight
30. Complete this list

Alright, Alright, Alright! With a couple updates and adds; we have a new list. 

1. Run a 5K
2. Walk around the lake. 
3. Go Ziplining
4. Noodle
5. Buy something sexy to wear and wear it.
6. Build a 90 day emergency savings fund
7. Volunteer More
8. Take a class or lesson
9. Get my passport
10. Send a message in a bottle
11. Watch the sunrise and set in the same day from the same location
12. Go on a woman's retreat
13. Attend the canoe trip with friends or river trip period.
14. Lose all my child gained weight
15. Get married
16. Complete this list
17. 
    

If you notice I am leaving the list open. I do not want to close off the opportunity to try something new or accomplish something wonderful because I am constantly changing and growing. So here is to the next many years... 

Family Room - Custom Wall Unit

 Here in Northern Michigan it is not uncommon for homes to have basements and unfinished ones are the most common. When I moved in I found just that.. a beautiful unfinished basement just asking to be finished. The main problem I would find is that when Ed built the home he never really planned to do anything with the basement so shorter ceilings and exposed well... everything is what I had to work with. 

Our basement is setup in a way that it encourages me to want to finish it. The major question is how. Ed had previously finished or sorta finished three spaces; gun room, utility space and guestroom. Another space was sorta mapped out as a family room but longs to be finished and used as such. This space will be my first of many I will get my hands on and turn into a great space for our big beautiful family to use and enjoy. 

As with all my projects I did not want to spend a ton of money. Ed is so handy but asking him to build something from nothing is not something I wanted to do... so I got onto Facebook marketplace and started shopping. What I found were two entertainment systems, solid oak with similar styles. Both have lights and both were $75 each. The next item I found was an electric fireplace insert for $10. We loaded everything up in the truck and took my finds home where Ed was left to put the puzzle together. See I strongly feel the best tool one can have in a family room is a main wall unit with plenty of storage. With a ton of games, video game systems and toys we need a ton of storage. Plus, I want a space with room to setup an air mattress for extra sleeping space when kids come home so I don't want big bulky storage solutions here and there rather one big beautiful wall unit. 

Slowly piece by piece my wall unit went up. 

Ed build sides walls to connect the first set. Then it was time to add set two; securing the pieces together as he went. 

I don't have a picture of it but we had this small entertainment center before that was had storage below the tv and one cabinet along the side. The lower part would also be used as center portion of structure and where the fireplace insert would placed. 

With some framing and stone work a custom fireplace would be added. 

Wire up the lights from both units to work as one.. 

and what you are left with is a beautiful custom build wall unit for under $250. Man look at all the storage.. I am in love.

Now onto painting walls, adding some wood accents, drywall the ceiling and add some awesome barn door for privacy. Stay tune... 

  

Zucchini Pineapple Carrot Muffins

 ZUCCHINI PINEAPPLE CARROT MUFFINS

INGREDIENTS

• 3 eggs
• 1/2 C oil
• 1/2 C unsweetened applesauce
• 2 C sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 2 C shredded zucchini
• 3/4 C shredded carrots
• 10 oz crushed pineapple, drained
• 3 C flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 C chopped nuts (optional)

---

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, beat together eggs, oil and applesauce with a whisk. Add the sugar, vanilla, zucchini, carrot and pineapple then mix well. Add all the dry ingredients and mix together just until combined. Do not overmix!
3. Divide among 24 muffin tins lined with paper liners. Bake muffins for 20-22 minutes

 https://www.mykitchenescapades.com/healthy-zucchini-carrot-muffins/

20 Reasons why I am not a loser!

1. Plateau

Weight loss plateau may be explained by muscle gain, undigested food and fluctuations in body water. If the scale doesn’t budge, you might still be losing fat.

2. You're Not Keeping Track of What You're Eating

Keeping a food diary can be helpful when you are trying to lose weight.

3. You're Not Eating Enough Protein

Low protein intake may bring your weight loss efforts to a standstill. Make sure to eat plenty of protein-rich foods.

4. You're Eating Too Many Calories

 If your weight loss seems to have come to a standstill, it’s possible you may be eating too much. People frequently overestimate their calorie intake.

5. You're Not Eating Whole Foods

Make sure to base your diet on whole foods. Eating too much processed food could ruin your weight loss success.

6. You're Not Lifting Weights

Strength training is an effective way to lose fat. It prevents the loss of muscle mass often associated with weight loss and helps maintain long-term fat loss.

7. You're Binge Eating (Even on Healthy Food)

If you frequently binge on food, it may explain why your scale doesn’t seem to budge.

8. You're Not Doing Cardio

Make sure to do cardio regularly. It helps you burn fat, especially around your midsection. Lack of exercise could be one reason for a weight loss plateau.

9. You're Still Drinking Sugar

Avoiding all sugary beverages is an excellent weight loss strategy. They often make up a significant portion of people’s calorie intake.

10. You're Not Sleeping Well

Lack of quality sleep is a strong risk factor for obesity. It could also hinder your weight loss progress.

11. You're Not Cutting Back on Carbohydrates

If you are unable to lose weight, consider trying a low-carb diet. Many studies show that a low-carb diet can be an effective weight loss strategy.

12. You're Eating Too Often

Eating too often may result in excessive calorie intake, curbing your weight loss efforts.

13. You're Not Drinking Water

To reduce your calorie intake, drink a glass of water before meals. Drinking water may also increase the number of calories you burn.

14. You're Drinking Too Much Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages are generally high in calories. If you choose to drink alcohol, spirits mixed with zero-calorie beverages are probably the best options when you are dieting.

15. You're Not Eating Mindfully

Always eat mindfully when trying to lose weight. Mindless eating is one of the main reasons people struggle to lose weight.

16. You Have a Medical Condition That Is Making Things Harder

Medical conditions like hypothyroidism, Sleep Apnea and PCOS may be hindering your weight loss efforts.

17. You're Addicted to Junk Food

If you have strong food cravings or food addiction, weight loss can be very difficult. Consider seeking professional help.

18. You've Been Starving Yourself For Too Long

If you have reached a weight loss plateau, you may simply have been dieting for too long. Maybe it’s time to take a break.

19. Your Expectations Are Unrealistic

People’s expectations are sometimes unrealistic when it comes to weight loss. Keep in mind that losing weight takes time and not everyone can look like a fitness model.

20. You're Too Focused on Dieting

Dieting is not a long-term solution. If you wish to lose weight and keep it off in the long term, focus on adopting healthier lifestyle habits.

Weigh In Thursday

It's Weigh Day Thursday! Another sad week on the scale but I lost weight. I only lost 0.6 but same my support team says "a loss is a loss". So I will celebrate the loss but fighting the struggles. 

207.4

Pizza Roll Ups

Pizza roll ups

Mozarella slices (or any sliced real cheese you like)

Sprinkle with Italian Seasoning

If you like spicy add chili flakes 

Add pepperoni slices

Put in a preheated at 350 oven for 5 minutes

Let cool until you can roll up comfortably

Serve with a keto-friendly marinara (or no sauce)

Big Mac Salad - Cheeseburger Salad

BIG MAC SALAD – CHEESEBURGER SALAD RECIPE (LOW CARB, GLUTEN-FREE)

This easy low carb Big Mac salad recipe is ready in just 20 minutes! A gluten-free, keto cheeseburger salad like this makes a healthy lunch or dinner.

INGREDIENTS

Salad

• 1 lb Ground beef
• 1 tsp Sea salt
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper
• 8 oz Romaine lettuce (or iceberg if desired)
• 1 cup Tomatoes (chopped)
• 3/4 cup Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Pickles (diced)

Dressing

• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Pickles (diced)
• 2 tsp Mustard
• 1 tsp White vinegar
• 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 tbsp Powdered erythritol (or any sweetener of choice; adjust to taste)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cook ground beef in a skillet over high heat. Season with sea salt and black pepper. Stir fry, breaking up the pieces with a spatula, for about 7-10 minutes, until the beef is browned and moisture has evaporated.
2. Meanwhile, puree all the dressing ingredients in a blender. If dressing is thicker than you like, thin out with water or oil and puree again. Adjust sweetener to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Combine the remaining salad ingredients in a large bowl. Add the ground beef. Toss with dressing.

Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake

An easy Raspberry Zinger Poke Cake made with raspberry jello and coconut that tastes just like the Hostess Raspberry Zinger snack cakes.

• 1 (18 ounce) box white cake mix
• 10 ounces diet Sprite
• 2 egg whites
• 1 (3 ounce) box raspberry Jell-O gelatin sugar free
• 1 1/2 cups boiling water
• 8 ounces Cool Whip
• 1/4 cup flaked coconut

1. Take dry cake mix and add the 2 egg whites and soda. Mix well with electric mixer. Pour into ungreased 9×13 dish and bake as directed on the box. Let cool for 15 minutes

.2. Then take the boiling water and add the jello. Stir until jello is dissolved.

3. Poke holes into your cake with end of spoon. Then pour jello mixture over the cake. Cover and refrigerate 2 hrs or overnight. Then spread on the cool whip and top with coconut.

Weigh Day Thursday

It's Weigh Day Thursday! I wish I could say that I had amazing success but I can't. Stepped up on the scale and bam 0.2 GAIN.

208.2

Really?! I went to the gym Tuesday night and did 4.5 miles on elliptical. Repeated Wednesday with another 4.5 miles. I have been watching my calorie intake. I will admit I should be doing better with this part. I am sure I have not been reporting well enough to get honest assessment of how each day is stacking up and what my deficit is. Weight loss is just a frustrating, discouraging journey. I am going to try to stay positive and not give up.. but it is hard not to.

Breakfast Egg Muffins

Breakfast Egg Muffins

3 in 1 recipe: 3 types of Breakfast Egg Muffins

Spinach Tomato & Mozzarella
Bacon & Cheddar
Garlic Mushroom & Peppers

iNGREDIENTS

BASE:

• 12 large eggs

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion, (red, white or yellow/brown)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

TOMATO SPINACH MOZZARELLA:

• 1/4 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 8 grape or cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

BACON CHEDDAR:

• 1/4 cup cooked bacon, chopped

• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

GARLIC MUSHROOM PEPPER:

• 1/4 cup sliced brown mushrooms

• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, (capsicum), diced

• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or 1/3 teaspoon minced garlic

INSTRUCTIONSPreheat oven to 350°F | 180°C. Lightly spray a 12-cup capacity muffin tin with nonstick oil spray.In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and onion. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.Add egg mixture halfway up into each tin of a greased muffin tin.Divide the three topping combinations into 4 muffin cups each.Bake for 20 minutes.Serve OR store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat when ready to serve.Enjoy!

how to freeze breakfast egg muffins

Let the egg muffins cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer-safe zip-lock bag. They will last for up to 2 months.

To reheat, unwrap from the plastic wrap and fold them in a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave in 20 second increments until warmed through.

NUTRITION

Calories: 82kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 5g