Have you ever been reading and come across something and wondered, “What is that?”  Well, I came across something called “muscle milk” and decided to go to the site www.musclemilkreview.org to find out what is was. It’s not actually milk but rather something that body builders use. Since I’m not trying to build up bulky muscles or gain weight, this is definitely not on my shopping list. It’s interesting, though, to check out things and find out about them.

I’ve mentioned that I’m trying to eat healthy foods since the holidays, but I’m not obsessed with my diet.  I don’t follow a colon cleanse diet or anything like that. We try to eat more fresh fruits, salads, veggies, and lean protein. Whole grains such as oats and whole wheat or spelt flour are what we eat, and white processed flour is eaten in very limited quantities.  Desserts are not as often and in smaller portions.  Notice that we still have desserts.  I’ve read that people who don’t reward themselves with treats are more likely to binge and eat way too much of the dessert they’re craving.  So, basically we eat healthy foods and in moderation.

I take several vitamins and supplements which really do help the way I feel and help my overall health.   I research supplements, though, and make sure I’m taking something that’s safe and also the right amount for me.  When taking any kind of supplement or pill, it’s good to research for side effects, for example diet pill side effects.  Sometimes the side effects are something most people would want to avoid.

Here’s a recipe for “Quick & Easy Beef Stew” from Gooseberrry Patch’s cookbook, Ready, Set, Eat!  Sounds delicious & like a great 30 minute meal:

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon oil  (I would use EVOO)
• 1 lb boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 10 ounce can French onion soup
• 10 ounce can tomato soup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 24 ounce frozen stew vegetables

Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat.  Add meat.  Cook and stir until brown and juices have evaporated.  Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.  Reduce heat, cover, and cook over low heat for 10-15 minutes.  Serves 4.

Note:  Gooseberry Patch offers several cookbooks.

Looking in the mirror is not one of my favorite things to do.  Too many wrinkles!  I wonder what the best eye cream for wrinkles is, or if it’s very expensive.  It’s really not that big a deal for me anymore, though.  My family and true friends will love me regardless of my wrinkles.  And you know what?  It’s a person’s personality and warmth that I notice.  I don’t care if they have wrinkles or not.  A lot of people probably feel the same way!

There’s so much sickness going on right now.  I have been doing more substitute teaching recently because of it.  I feel sorry for our daughter, Christi, and her husband and two babies.  They’ve all been sick with everything from pink eye (Baby C), throwing up, ear infection, to just not feeling well because of a bad cold and/or fever.  They need to take an Outer Banks vacation to get away from all the sick germs that are at work, preschool, and everywhere!

I have been trying hard since the holidays to eat healthy and not have all the goodies that surrounded us during Christmas and New Year’s. However, I do allow myself treats and small servings of dessert from time to time. I don’t know what the best weight loss pills are since I just try to eat sensibly and healthy.  If you have a healthy recipe that you would like to share, email me.  (Go to “About” at the top of the home page to find my email address.)

Those of you who’ve had babies, do you notice how hard getting rid of belly fat can be? Some people don’t have that problem, but I think they’re in the minority.  I just resigned myself to the fact that I would always have some, and it’s a reminder of our two precious children.  As far as trying to slim down some, I try to go for longer walks more often and eat healthy.

(Ft. Worth, Texas)