POOR NEGLECTED BLOG:

I PROMISE THERE WAS A WINNER!  

KIMRI MURPHY!!!!

I'M NOT GOING TO LIE I WAS A TAD BIT DISAPPOINTED I WAS SOOOO CLOSE TO WINNING.

JOKES ON ME:)

I had in my head that this challenge went right up to THANKSGIVING!  This shows where my brain is!  HAHA!  It ended last week!  OOPS!  For those of you still doing it KEEP IT UP!!!  

I am on my way out of town and will add of the points when I get back.

I KNOW IT'S BETWEEN ME AND MY TWO SISTERS AND I'M ANXIOUS TO SEE WHO WINS!

{recipe}

I am a sucker for crock pot recipes...but since 99% of the time they aren't overly heatlhy I have stayed clear from my crock pot the last few weeks.  I stumbled across this Minestrone soup, hesitant to try because I an very picky when it comes to MY minestrone.  More often than not it fails with my taste.  After reading over the recipe and changing a few things I gave it a try, and it was DELICIOUS!!!!  My entire family loved it (which is awesome) Even better I had left overs for lunch two days in a row for me and I was able to send it to school with Gracie in her lunch!  It's a must try Easy meal.  Side with a Whole Wheat bread stick or slice of bread and it's perfect for this Idaho Chilly weather!


(Taken from skinny Taste)
Minestrone soup is a classic hearty Italian soup with tomatoes, white beans, pasta and vegetables. You can use Swiss chard or kale instead of spinach if you wish and you don't have to puree the beans, it's just my preference. I modified this for the crock pot but I prefer to make this soup on the stove and let it simmer for about 45 minutes before adding the zucchini and pasta. The crock pot however is so convenient when you are working all day and want to come home to a cooked meal. I highly recommend adding the Parmesan cheese rind. This is also great with mini turkey meatballs, or even some sauteed crumbled turkey sausage.

Crock Pot Minestrone Soup

• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can white beans, drained, rinsed (cannellini or navy)
• 3 cups fat free chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarians)
• 1 oz chunk of good Parmesan cheese rind
• 1 fresh rosemary sprig
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves
• salt and fresh pepper
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 2 cups chopped fresh or frozen (defrosted) spinach
• 2 cups cooked small pasta like ditalini or elbows (al dente)  I FOUND WHOLE WHEAT NOODLES IN THE BULK BINS AT WINDCO
• extra parmesan cheese to top (extra pts)

In a crock pot, combine broth, tomatoes,  beans, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, herbs, Parmesan cheese rind, salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Forty minutes before the soup is done cooking, add zucchini and spinach. Cover and cook 30 more minutes. Add cooked pasta, cook 10 minutes more. Remove bay leaves, rosemary sprig, parmesan rind and season to taste with salt and black pepper.Ladle soup into bowls and top with extra parmesan cheese.

DO YOU SEE THIS BRIGHT RED FACE????  

That my friends is from the best work out ever...

ZUMBA.

Why in the world did I not jump on this fitness wagon years ago??  It's just about the best work out ever.

Last week was an incredibly hard week for me.  I just didn't have the drive to work out and stay on top of my game.  Due to and incredibly stressful week, any sort of sweet sounded delicious, and most the time I caved:(

THIS WEEK I'M A NEW WOMAN, AND ZUMBA WAS JUST THE THING I NEEDED!

WHOOP WHOOP...WATCH OUT, I'M WINNING THOSE CAR LITTER BAGS:)

{Skinny Taste}

I get asked daily how I plan my menu and what kind of meal plan I use.  My general "plan" is:  I make my list Sunday, Go shopping on Monday for a weeks worth of grocery's.  On my list I make sure I plan Breakfast Lunch and Dinner so I'm not wondering what to cook for every meal and I'm not making extra trips to the Grocery store                                          (I DESPISE THE GROCERY STORE UGH)  

Our lunches aren't too fancy, and alot of time they are left overs.  Gracie LOVES when I send her with left over dinner for her lunch...and I love it too because I KNOW it's healthy. {Fight on school lunch, will be another post} 

I have am at a point in my cooking that I feel comfortable making up my own recipes with the food I have, but I LOVE trying out new recipes and freshening things up.  My all time FAVORITE recipe blog is

 skinnytaste.com   

She has adapted her recipes for those doing weight watchers. I'm not the biggest fan of weight watchers...but obviously it works for some:)

 Any how back to SKINNY TASTE:  I have to say over all her recipe's are pretty darn good.  BUT WATCH OUT 99% of the time I have to use substitutions to make it suitable for this challenge and make them over all healthier.

FOR THIS WEEKS BONUS POINTS I NEED YOU TO EMAIL ME 2 HEALTHY RECIPES THAT I CAN POST ON HERE:)

THE WINNER OF THIS WEEKS CHALLENGE IS IN FOR A BIG TREAT!  MY SISTER HAS DONATED 2 CAR LITER BAGS, THAT ARE AWESOME!  I NEED TO GET PHOTO'S UP (TOMORROW) 

These are the most adorable portable garbage bags that hang in your car...but they hang in style!  YOU WANT TO WIN THESE!  IF YOU'RE LOCAL SHE'S ALSO DONATING A LOAF OF WHOLE WHEAT BREAD.  

UHHHHHHH I'M WINNING THIS ONE:)

{WINNER WINNER}

The winner of this week challenge is KIMRI MURPHY...again:)

I was tied with Kimri and seriously drew out of a hat who would win the cute headband.  I wanted to win dang it!!!  Congrats Kimri!

Does anyone want to do the prize for our next challenge?

Who all is doing this still??  Slowly but surely one by one people have started to ignore my points emails.  Just curious who is still in?

{FOOD FOOD FOOD}

I got the sweetest email from one of my dear friends who in spirit is doing this competition with us...she is 6 maybe 7 months pregnant and holy cow she is a machine!  Not only did she run our 180 mile relay through the Tetons at 5 months pregnant, but she just finished a 20K up in Driggs being 6 months pregnant!  She is amazing!  She sent me an email with some AWESOME ideas that I know you'll all love!

Breakfast:

*Eggs (scrambled with salsa, mix in spinach, avocado, tomatoes etc)(or with good ol cheese melted on top) boiled w salt, "dunky" eggs with whole wheat toast dunked into yellow part)
*Oatmeal-especially steel cut oats w/ honey or brn sugar, and a little cream(with huckleberries or blueberries)(Or top it with cinnamon, nuts, raisins) (We also buy a brand of hot wheat cereal called Red River that is amazing! Zoom is good too.)
*Fruit-endless possibilities( plain, smoothie, cut up on hot or cold cereal)The way I see fruit is carbs+sugars=ENERGY!
*Greek yogurt (pair with fruit and low sugar granola..so yummy, tons of protein!)
*10 grain waffles or pancakes (Im sure there is a delicious recipe out there...but I cheat and use Bob's Redmill package from Winco. Super fast, and really good and filling for my strong sexy husband! ;)
*We of course throw in meat- which we(by we I mean my hubby) usually hunt and then do our "own" meat, or go in half way on buying a beef cow or pig and then do it ourselves..this way we know what stuff goes in..and it is much cheaper!(and better!)

LUNCHES-
*Salads!! Mix in meat (fresh, or canned turkey, chicken, tuna, or salmon or diced grilled chicken(cook and freeze to have on hand) Also you can marinate the chicken in taco seasoning for taco salads, or you could season w cumin and garlic for a totally diff flavor)Salads fill you up(if you eat enough, and they are filled w fiber, and are low cal) Also use sprouts or olives to liven up a salad. Another good mix is salad topped with diced apple, walnuts, blue cheese crumbles, and chicken)
*Shrimp- (0% fat, 18 grams of protein per 5 oz.) You can dip them in "sugar-free ketchup", w some horseradish sauce mixed in.
*V8 juice(buy low sodium..although the regular kind is much more flavorful..but you get used to not as much salt after a bit)(These are good heated too, with some whole wheat crackers,(or Mela toast) and a cheese stick)
*I LOVe this idea from Jenna- Mission Whole wheat Wraps, carb balance, small size- slathered with a low fat laughing cow swiss cheese wedge, filled with fresh tomato, cucumber spears, lettuce, and whatever you want to pack in there produce-wise. I also put in a piece of turkey(they have preservative and nitrate free in the most meat sections, not in Deli tho) SO delish!
*I love steamed spinach, swiss chard or broccoli with a little butter and salt.

SNACKS:
*Nuts (Almonds,etc. but I love trail mix!)
*yogurt w honey, or fruit, or granola
*cottage cheese (I like to cut up tomato to top it)
*string cheese(skim mozz)
*Laughing cow cheese wedge
*carrot and celery sticks, and red and green pepper slices, cucumber spears,
*Grapes, strawberries, blueberries, cantalope slices, apricots, plums...etc
*Apple slices w peanut butter or almond butter
*Bannana with peanut or almond butter
*Applesauce(I do homeade w nothing added)
*Prunes (with a couple nuts)
*Pickles (I love them with a bite of sharp cheddar cheese)
*Fruit Leather (basically any blended(pureed) fruit, slathered out on heavy duty plastic wrap and baked in oven on lowest temp 8-10 hrs) (can mix fruits..I like apricot, plum, throw in a bannana ..just use what you have or what is in abundance!)
*Jerky
*Homeade pudding(usually suger free, but be careful with sugar free stuff)(Make it w skim milk..this helps curb suger attacks!) (You can also do a yummy dessert with suger free Key Lime pudding in a graham cracker crust w sugar free whip topping or just plain whipped cream)
*Choc Flavored Graham crackers with fat free whipped cream..make in an "ice cream" sandwich manner and freeze them. Everyone loves these and they really are way low cal)
*Pretzels
*Dark Chocolate(although milk is my fav hands down ;)
*Jenna's Black-Bean Salsa (which I love..thanks Jenna) Start with can or two of black beans, diced tomatoes, can add canned or frozen corn, diced cucumber, avocado, cilantro and squeeze lime over it...use as a dip..its pretty much a meal for me!)(Also Im sure there are a lot of variations, just like in any recipe ;)

DINNERS:
*Brown rice (this will keep expanding as its in your tummy and be very filling) Dice up green onion, carrots, ham, and scramble an egg in it when almost done for FRIED RICE! Use low sodium soy sauce)
*Fish fillets or chicken breasts, tuna...with any thing..salads, whole wheat pasta, rice, etc) You could do chicken with Terriaki sauce and rice with steamed veggies.
*Recipe idea- Acorn Squash cooked and diced up, with low cal marinara and grilled diced chicken over top. Season w salt, pepper, cumin, and garlic. Green salad on side.

There are so many possibilities and its fun to eat healthy! These were just some ideas I thought I'd share. Hope they helped someone! May the force be with you ladies(and myself!)

Love, Nashina

                                                                    (here she is running her first leg)

{That kind of day}

Cold Rainy windy...it's a TEA day!!! One of my favorite kind of days...now if only all my clients would cancel so I could lay in bed in my PJ's and watch movies all day!  

.....mmmmm I'm dreaming

  OH PS...NO sugar and NO cream were added:)

{BONUS POINTS}

Hey I'm LATE on bonus points!  This one I'll make easy for you:)  This week I encourage you to cook a MEAL that you've never made before.  This will help us get out of the rut making the same thing over and over.

REMEMBER how I told you to keep you're fridge stocked, so you always had options to eat?

I have been without a car for a week due to my husband "needing" to sell his car.  Lets just say I haven't been to the grocery store for 2 weeks! REALLY!

I have had to be incredibly creative with our meals, I can not say enough how excited I am to get my car back today so I'll be able to go grocery shopping!

By not having a stocked fridge, I just about fell off the wagon...fast food never sounded so good!

Stay tuned...I got the best email from a friend with idea's on meals!

Point System Recap

For those who don't want to scroll through past posts to tally up your points for this past week...here's the breakdown again.

(per day)

No sugar: 1 point (for a total of 7 points per week)

No fast food: 1 point (for a total of 7 points per week)

No processed food: 1 point (for a total of 7 points per week)

Exercise: 1 point (for a total of 5 points per week)

Extra: 2 Bonus points! (I will be adding in a creative activity for you to do each week for 2 extra bonus points)

Grand Total: 26 Points with the option of 2 Bonus Points!

Remember you get 2 cheat meals per week! (highly discouraged)

You are allowed 2 Free passes on exercise per ever 4 weeks!

You are allowed 3 sick days during this 12 week time...but remember you won't need them because you'll be feeling so awesome!

{WINNER, WINNER}

The winner of this weeks point challenge is....DRUM ROLL PLEASE

KIMRI MURPHY (another one of my sisters)  She completed this week with a PERFECT score!  

Congrats:  Kimri has won a Shampoo, conditioner and a styling product that suites her hairs needs:)

The next item up for Grabs in next weeks challenge is this ADORABLE knitted headband modeled by yours truly (I'm literally glowing)  

Jen has offered this and oh my heck it is AMAZING!  Jen is full of pure talent...did I mention I get to work with her in YW so I cash in on her talents frequently?  I can't get enough of her gift!

The Challenge for this starts on Monday Oct 3rd and ends the Sunday night of Oct. 9th.  So gear up to have a perfect week of points starting monday.  

Here is my advice for the day:  I knew I wouldn't have time to get what I consider a full on work out today but I knew I needed to do something.  I asked Gracie if she'd come play JUST DANCE II on the wii today, not only was it hilariously fun but it was a SERIOUS work out!  I kicked some serious butt...against a 6 year old:)

IF DIDN'T NOTICE I DIDN'T DO A BONUS CHALLENGE THIS WEEK...OOPS.  SO THE TOTAL NUMBER OF POINTS YOU CAN GET IS 26 THIS WEEK.

{Frustration}

Has any one else felt a sense of frustration these past few days?  

Mine isn't necessarily with this whole Healthy lifestyle thing...in fact I love that I am finally getting my health back on track.  Maybe some days my mental health isn't the best:)  Or maybe it is, I have taken on 3 project that I am in charge of...they aren't necessarily time consuming but it requires me to to deal with other people and in return they get to deal with me:)  I try to be the nice person but lets be honest, when I'm dealing with super flaky people it BUGS.   In regards to ALL 3 of these project I have come across super flaky people, these are good people but man you can't take their word for crap.

I decided to take on this challenge to get my own Health in check but also to help other people be aware of the choices they are making in regards to our health.   When I asked people to join this adventure I was excited (I still am)  but it is so frustrating when people say "yes! yes! yes! I'm on board" then the second they mess up they decide to pull out before they get their money in, even though they already made the commitment.   AND HERE'S THE KICKER...THEY FLAT OUT IGNORE MY ATTEMPTS TO REACH THEM.   Do you feel my frustration?  All it comes down to is even though people committed to this I can't force them to pay their portion even if it's the right thing to do!  

So in the end the winner may not receive the full amount that everyone committed too. In fact you may receive half.  But I hope you all stick in there with me whether you win or not.  Because in the end it's not about the money.  REALLY... It's about our health. 

The next thing bringing frustration into my life is this darn blog...My sister and I have been trying to figure out how to make tabs up top so it's easy to access the point system, and recipes without having to scroll down.  For some reason, it won't work...Is anyone familiar with the new blogger set up?

Lastly, then I'll quit my whining is, I have had a few of you mention you have tried to comment and it won't let you...I have NO idea why.  So if you have ideas that you would like mentioned on this blog email me at jennajoejohnson@yahoo.com and I'd love to post your ideas.

AHHHH I FEEL BETTER....PLEASE FORGIVE MY VENTING SESSION. I HAD TO DO IT BEFORE I WENT AND BOUGHT MYSELF A CUPCAKE AND TOOK MY FRUSTRATIONS OUT ON IT'S DELICIOUSNESS:)

I HAVE TO END WITH SOME AWESOME NEWS:

ONE OF OUR CONTENDERS IS MY OLDER SISTER BRITTNEY.  I HAVE MENTIONED BEFORE HOW AWESOME BOTH MY SISTERS ARE.  THEY ARE THE ONES TO BEAT!  SHE JUST HIT HER 500 MILE MARK IN HER SPIN CLASS AT HER GYM.  TO ADD ON TO THAT SHE WAS THE FIRST AT HER GYM TO HIT THE 200 MILE MARK, WINNING SOME AWESOME SWAG!  THIS IS WHAT THIS IS ALL ABOUT GUYS...PUSHING YOURSELF TO DO THINGS YOU DIDN'T THINK YOU COULD!  CONGRATS BRITT!

{NEW WEEK}

I am so sorry for the lack of post...I've been slammed with hair, children, HEALTHY eating... throw in a SEVEN year anniversary and a HUBBIES birthday and well that made for an INSANE week.   Making it extremely hard to stay 100% on track...I did well just not perfect.  THAT'S OK!  There is always tomorrow. RIGHT?

Has this challenge gotten harder or Easier for you?  It depends on my day.  I find I am a creature of habit and eat the same thing day in and day out.

Oatmeal with blueberries

eggs

Green Smoothie

nuts 

salads

Turkey wraps

Raisins

Lots of fruit

DINNER is the only meal that is changed day in and day out...Maybe I need to change my menu up!

I'd love to get your input on more Healthy recipes.  What works for you?

Ready To meet your second contender?

Katie!

 Katie apparently is short on words:)  But I have plenty to say about her.  We have been friends since high school, meeting at the beloved snow shack.  We sucked down Red hot/ Banana snow cones like no bodies business.  Far from what we're trying to achieve these days.  Katie is the best friend anyone can ask for.  We lost touch for a few years, but reconnected when I came up to Idaho.  I don't know what I would do with out Katie in my life.  She is the best example of being a kind person to EVERYONE around her.  Seriously...should I keep going??  haha I really do love her.

Here's what Katie said about why she decided to join us on this crazy adventure: 

"I just really wanted to make a true effort to eat healthier. I am hoping that doing this will help me feel better, look better, and just be happier. I needed this so I could have a goal to work towards and people doing it with me!" 

(This is Bridger, Wade and Beautiful Katie...I sure miss these guys!)

{BONUS POINTS}

How was the FIRST week??  You all did awesome, even if you didn't get a perfect score you're on the road to feeling great!  I would have had a prefect week including not using my 2 cheats except we went to Utah for a relaxing weekend.  We stayed at Matt's parents home, which is a Heaven on Earth.  We love every moment of being there INCLUDING the food.  His mom is the skinniest little thing, but looking in her pantry you'd think she'd be quite opposite:) I found it a HUGE struggle to stay away from all the goodies!  So here is my advice as you go into this new week:  Clean your cupboard from ALL junk food, even things you feed your children.  The reason my week was relatively easy while home was because I don't keep any sort of goody in our home...the kids eat what I eat.  If they want a snack it's fruits, vegetables and if they get lucky they'll get some almonds too.  I promise you, you're kids will adjust to this easier than you think, and in the end it not only helps you keep your goal but it helps THEM!!
  Ready for the 2 BONUS points for this week?  

Cook 3 HEALTHY dinners for your family!

It's Fall and the first thing I turn to to cook and bake is Soups with Bread.  My sister Emailed me this YUMMY Recipe that I'm cooking for Dinner tonight.  Side with a slice of whole wheat bread and some broccoli and you're set!  

White Chicken Chili

1 medium read onion, finely chopped

2 TBS. Olive oil

1 (4oz) can chopped green chili's drained

3 TBS flour (use whole wheat)

2 tsp ground cumin

2 cans of great northern beans

1 can broth (use stock from the chicken with a little bouillon to taste)

1 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken breast

In a large skillet, cook onion in oil for 4 minutes until transparent.  Add chili's, flour, cumin; cook and stir for 2 minutes.  Add beans and chicken broth; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat simmer for 10 minutes to thicken.  Add chicken, cook until hot.  Garnish with a small amount of sour cream if desired.  YUM!

{Points Due}

Friendly reminder Points are due at the end of the day or tomorrow. 

 ALL I NEED IS  A TOTAL FOR THE WEEK...I have to say I did awesome until we drove down to Utah Yesterday, and Thankfully I hadn't used both my cheats yet so I could enjoy myself a little bit:)  But I've already seen and FELT the benifits of taking care of myself!  I even got the BEST text from one of you stating you've already lost 7 pounds in this first week!!!  It's amazing how the body works when it's treated correctly!  WAHOO!!!

AS AN INSENTIVE FOR THIS WEEK STARTING TOMORROW.  THE PERSON WITH THE HIGHEST POINTS IN THE UP COMING WEEK WILL BE ENTERED TO WIN A NICE SUPPLY OF HAIR PRODUCT FROM ME!!! SO GET YOU BUTTS IN GEAR!!!  ALSO I'M LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO DO THE NEXT GIVEAWAY IN 2 WEEKS...IT CAN BE ANYTHING, EVEN HOMEMADE:)

{ALSO GET YOU MONEY IN}

{The importance of reading labels}

As I was sitting here eating a handle full of Craisins I glanced at the nutritional facts out of boredom.  Upon inspection I discovered they are made up of not 1 but 2 ingredients: CRANBERRIES (Duh) and SUGAR...LOTS AND LOTS OF SUGAR. Seriously??? Are you kidding me???  So after much research through handy dandy google my fears were confirmed...Craisins are indeed a not what they are cracked up to be.  CRAP!  Lesson learned and shame on me!

ALWAYS 

CHECK THE INGREDIENTS BEFORE YOU PUT ANOTHER THING IN YOUR MOUTH.  

GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

{Turkey Meatballs}

I tried these awhile back and they were a big hit with my hubby, I changed a few things up so they'd be pretty darn healthy and they turned out great.

Asian Turkey meatballs

1 1/4 pounds Lean Turkey (I used 93%) lean

1 egg

1/4 cup whole wheat flour

1/4 cup cilantro

1 clove minced garlic

1TB low sodium soy sauce

2 tsb sesame sauce

Preheat oven at 500 degrees

Mix all ingredients together with your HANDS:)  That's when you know they are legit meatballs.  Take approximately 1/4 cup scoops and form into a ball.  Makes about 12 Meatballs

Bake for 15 minutes

Dipping Sauce

4 Tbsp low sodium soy sauce

2 tsp sesame oil

2 Tbsp fresh lime juice

2 Tbsp water

Place your meatballs over Brown rice, add your sauce on top.

I served this with Steamed Broccoli and Squash for dinner last night.

ENJOY!

{The Crew}

Hey Guys it's time to get to know a little bit about each other and why we ALL decided to change our lives for the better.

Here is who we have so far...I'll keep it to first name basis only:)

Me...Jenna

Clancy
Bonnie

Jen

Chambrae

Danica

Kassie

Kimri

Brittney

Reade

Camille

Avery

Katie

These are the firm commitments then I had a few say they wanted to maybe do it, so I don't know if they are....SO IF YOU'RE ONE OF THOSE FEW SPEAK UP NOW:)

Also remember to get to your money to me as soon as you can...You're word was your commitment so when you are able mail me a check:)

Our first spotlight is Danica!!!

I can't say enough good things about Danica, when I first met Danica I instantly loved her. Not only is she beautiful, but she is kind, funny and smart...The whole package! I truly miss living in Utah and seeing her!  

Here is what she had to say about why she decided to join in on this challenge:

The last few years of my life have been like a roller coaster. I think I have coped with it by eating (usually junk) which momentarily makes me feel better, more in control. The result of course is that I have packed on many lumpy pounds and am wearing 2 sizes larger and that makes me feel horrible everyday when I go to get dressed and nothing fits (and I can't go buy a whole new wardrobe!). I am hoping by getting these bad habits under control I will feel better for the right reasons - because I am healthy and happy with myself. I know it will also make me a happier, healthier momma and wife. I love that I have to report how I do each week to someone. I think this will help me stay focused and reach my goals. So PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE call me out if I start slacking : )

I'm still waiting to hear back from many of you...email me at jennajoejohnson@yahoo.com or message me on facebook and let me know why you took on this challenge!

{Frustrated?}

I have sensed a whole bunch of frustration today...I think the key things are to have your fridge stocked and not to over think all of this.  I'm not going to be this Health Nazi that judges everything you put in your mouth.  My whole goal is to make people aware of what we actually are putting in our bodies.  I wish I had more time to sit and write all the awesome thoughts I have going through my head, but I've got 3 busy bodies that keep me very busy!

I did however find time to toy with some awesomely healthy zucchini bread today!  I switch out a few ingredients and it taste awesome!  As a side note, I told my client the other day that I bought zucchini and she said that is a sure sign you have no friends...HAHA.  Oh boy, a lady in more ward heard this and was so kind to stock me up on a BUNCH of zucchini and squash, just to let me know I have atleast one friend in this world.

This would be an awesome snack!  One slice with some carrots or a fruit would hold you over nicely...

HEALTHY ZUCCHINI BREAD  (DOUBLE THE BATCH AND FREEZE)

Ingredients:

2 cups WHOLE WHEAT flour if you're not use to whole wheat use half all purpose)

1/2 cup honey or 1/3 cup Agave Nectar (I mixed the two because I ran out of honey)

1-1/8 tsp baking soda

1 tsp vanilla

1/3 cup raisins

1/3 cup craisins 

1 large egg beaten

1 cup apple sauce

1-1/2 cup shredded zucchini (not packed)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325°.Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Mix well.Add Raisins and Craisins.In a medium bowl, mix egg, vanilla,apple sauce, honey and zucchini. Add to the flour mixture and stir until just blended.

Bake on 325 for 50-55 minutes until tooth pick comes out clean.

Question of the day:

How do you know if you're feeding your family healthy?  

Answer:

They all have gas.......Holy Stank!

{Quick Post}

Ok everyone this has to be quick I've got a man upstairs waiting for me to join him for some quality time... How was everyones first day??  I know, I had a few calls and texts of frustrations...Hang in there!  From experience day 4 is the killer but after that it's not so terrible!  I felt like my day was better than ever as far as food goes and hey I even got my workout in...even if it was just a SUPER long walk with the kids while they picked up garbage on our street (We really live in a classy neighborhood I tell ya)

I have more recipes to share

More random side notes...I really need to get organized

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU GUYS NEED FROM ME?? WHAT CAN I DO BETTER ON HERE??  

Also read comments people post...they all have been great!  I'll try to repost them in other post!

Ok my 2 minutes is up...GOOD NIGHT!

OH P.S...I don't love the juicer!  Too much work for not enough gratification!  Time to purchase in a Blend Tech.

.

{Is everyone ready?}

Isn't this exciting guys? I seriously have butterflies...I'm that excited! Just to forewarn you all my two sister are in on this and I have to say we are a little bit competitive...just a LOT little! So be on your A game:) My best words of advice is be prepared! Always have a menu plan and always have that food in your fridge because if you're like me you'll run for the next BEST Worst thing...Fast Food!

And get this...I tried a new form of exercise tonight and it was AWESOME!!! I'll get to that in another post, but lets just say I may be in the next Karate Kid!

Good luck all of you out there!!!

P.S. I would love for you to email me about yourself and why you decided to do this! We need to get to know each other people! We even have two men in on this...one being my amazing husband that I forced in to doing this with me.

Email Jennajoejohnson@yahoo.com or Facebook me to get my address to mail your $10 dollars due by next week!

Who has a juicer out there...Yeah I don't either, so I snaked mine off my mom to give it a whirl. This is something I'll have to get use to! I made a lovely mixture of oranges and carrots to stay on the safe side, but I'd love some awesome ideas from you...Hint hint!

If you want to watch a total eye opening documentary check out

FAT SICK AND NEARLY DEAD on Netflix

it will make you want to live off juicing!

{The scoop on Peanut butter}

Well Folks here is the scoop on our yummy peanut Butter

When shopping and making a decision, isn't peanut butter just that, peanut butter? No, not at all. It isn't just the taste that differs among brands, but there are many hidden problems with those nutrients and packaging labels on the jar. There are numerous myths and deceptions floating around about peanut butter. Is peanut butter really good or bad for a person? Well, some are good, some are bad and some are just down right ugly. How to tell the difference? Well, it's easy once the difference is known.

Peanut Butter with oil at the top:

Most all peanut butters with oil at the top are purely natural peanut butters. Look at the ingredients, it should read peanuts and salt. There is no purer peanut butter than this form. In fact, upon purchasing this butter, one should stir that oil up completely into the peanut butter and then store it in the refigerator Why? Well, that oil is full of good fats which lowers bad cholesterol and raises good cholesterol. It actually taste good too. Never drain the oil off, it's a very common mistake. It should be stored in the refrigeratorbecause it does not have any preservatives. What could be better than natural peanut butter? Not much of anything. Completely trans fat free, free of preservatives and taste great. It could take some getting used to but afterward, it really does have a better taste. Children are probably used to sugary peanut butter, if they refuse to eat the natural, simply add some sugar to theirs before using. Gradually decrease the amount of sugar added. They won't even notice the difference. There are some brands that even offer no salt added natural peanut butter, this is a bit stale tasting however.

Hint: turn the peanut butter upside down a few days before opening, then store in the fridge upside down. Helps the oil mix better.

Peanut Butter without oil on top that reads natural:

This peanut butter is the next best for the body and it does eliminate the need to stir and store it in the fridge. However, just how natural is this type of natural peanut butter? Well it's a bit better than some but it sure isn't natural. Ingredients of this type variation of peanut butter is usually something like: peanuts, sugar, palm oil, salt. Palm oil and sugar are not ingredients that should be found in a natural peanut butter. It could act as a temporary solution to gradually get children to transfer to natural. It is easier to cook with than the real natural, but it is not real!

Peanut Butter that has fully hydrogenated oil:

This is next to the worst peanut butter for a person's health. Hydrogenated oil is a solid oil. As everyone should know, solid oils are harder for the body to get rid of and will raise badcholesterol. More commonly, this type of oil is found in generic and cheaper products.

Peanut Butter with has partially hydrogenated oil:

Well folks, this is the worst, absolutely worst, peanut butter for anyone's body. Of course, it's also found in the most popular and best selling brands of peanut butters. Partially hydrogenated oil is not a natural oil. It's chemical structure has been altered and even though that label might read "trans fat free". It doesn't mean it is. The regulations will allow a product that has .05 grams of trans fat per serving to label the product at zero. So 0 doesn't always mean 0. This type of fat found in partially hydrogenated oil will lower good cholesterol and raise bad. The trans fat found in altered and processed food is much more dangerous for the body than those that naturally occur in products, such as meats.

Beware: If a product reads "hydrogenated oil" and does not have fully or completely in front of it, more than likely it is partially hydrogenated oil, which does involve trans fat. Also avoid any peanut butter that reads shortening. Shortening usually contains trans fat as well.

Effects of eating products with trans fat:

Eating products with trans fat increases the chances of developing certain heart disease. It also aids in increasing triglycerides, which contribute to thickening of the arteries. Trans fat also increases inflamation in the body and bad cholesterol. High LDL cholesterol is linked with increasing the risk of developing heart disease.

The good oil in peanuts:

Pure peanut oil is a monounsaturated fat. Monounsaturated fats is considered much more healthy than those found in saturated fats. Peanut butter is a good source of essential minerals and nutrients.

Deceptions about peanut butter:

Any peanut butter labeled no added sugar, reduce sugar, reduced fat or low fat peanut butter is not healthier than pure natural peanut butter. What is lowered? The amount of good fats that are found in nuts? Check the calories per serving. Does the lower fat peanut butter have less calories than the regular? No, so it is not a diet product, nor more healthy. It's just a marketing tool to sell more peanut butter to a health cautious economy. Peanut butter shouldn't have sugar added in it anyways. If someone is watching their sugar intake but like the taste of sugar in peanut butter, they should add natural sweetener such as Stevia to their natural peanut butter.

(Info Taken from infobarrel.com)

One of my Favorite things to do with Peanut butter...Slather it on a sliced up COLD CRISP green apple.

My husbands favorite MEAL Snack is Peanut butter and honey on white whole wheat bread!

This is two recipes I'm incorporating into our meal plans this week:

For Breakfast or a time you're craving SUGAR:

Orange, Carrot and Peanut Butter Cooler

Prep Time:	10 min
Cook Time:	0 min
Yield:	4 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 1/3 cup Adams® Creamy Natural Peanut Butter
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 seedless orange, peeled and quartered
• 1 (6 oz.) can pineapple juice
• 3 teaspoons agave nectar or sweetener of your choice
• Ice cubes

DIRECTIONS

1. COMBINE peanut butter, carrots, orange, pineapple juice and agave nectar in blender container. Process 30 seconds or until smooth. Add enough ice to measure 3 cups. Process until smooth.
2. POUR into four 6-oz. juice glasses.

Sesame-Ginger Couscous Lettuce Cups

Prep Time:	40 min
Cook Time:	0 min
Yield:	6 servings

INGREDIENTS

• 1/3 cup low fat sesame ginger dressing
• 3 tablespoons Adams® 100% Natural Creamy Peanut Butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon dark sesame oil
• 1 cup cooked couscous, chilled
• 1 cup cooked edamame, cooled
• 1 (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1/2 (16 oz.) bag cole slaw
• 1/2 (8 oz.) can diced water chestnuts, drained
• 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds
• 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 head Bibb lettuce, washed and dried

DIRECTIONS

1. WHISK sesame ginger dressing, peanut butter, lime juice and sesame oil in medium bowl until smooth.
2. TOSS couscous, edamame, mandarin oranges, cole slaw, water chestnuts, almonds, red onions and sesame-ginger dressing in large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
3. FORM 2 lettuce leaves into a cup shape. Fill with 1 cup of couscous salad. Repeat to make 6 servings.

4. TIP:

   To toast almonds: Place almonds in dry nonstick skillet. Cook over medium heat, shaking pan until nuts are lightly browned. Remove from pan immediately to prevent over-browning.