Plan to Fail

Most people don't start out planning to fail.

When you first resolve to eat healthier, you are optimistic that you will succeed. But as time goes on, obstacles pop up. and you either overcome these obstacles, or they become roadblocks to your success.

For me, my biggest obstacle is inconvenience.

I have made an argument that convenience usually leads to some bad choices for me. a bag of chips and a can of soda is no real meal. So I try my best to ward off temptation by planning ahead. It does not have to be overly complicated. I try to make sure I have some backups for the week. An Apple. Icy water. Cut up melons. I keep a small ziploc of couscous and a bag of cream of wheat for real emergencies. The main point is that I plan for these little emergencies.

Failing to plan (for me) is planning to fail. So I do my best to make sure I have a stockpile of healthy options as to not fall into the vending machine temptations.

Every choice you make is a choice towards your goal, or a choice that defeats your goal.



So, what is your biggest challenge in eating healthy?

Color

I love color!

Color on your plate is visually appetizing.

Color usually equates to lots of yummy vitamins and nutrients.

This week try adding more color to each meal and snack. Add spinach to your turkey sandwich. Toss in some beautiful red peppers to your chicken dish. Add some jazz and pizazz to your dishes.

Pretty simple. It doesn't have to complicated to work.

Back on the Wagon!

I am back on the blogging wagon. Fortunately, I did not fall off the healthy eating wagon.
Real life just pulled me away from the trusty computer. I am sure you understand.

We have been busy planting our victory garden and herb garden. We have begun an earthworm farm and added to our composting.

On Sundays, we have begun the tradition of "Your Choice Sundays."
In the morning, smoothies. Lunchtime, egg white omelets, and dinner is personal pizzas.
The children (and hubby) were complaining of not having a choice on what they eat.
My solution was Your Choice Sundays. Meals made to order.
Each family member has his/her own bowl they fill with their "order."
Easy for me. Fun for them.

Healthy Eating

Now Is the Time

to start eating healthier. With this lack of confidence in our economy, rising costs and such we all need to be as healthy as possible. Eating healthy can help keep you from low moods.

When I go grocery shopping, I am as prepared as a soldier into battle. I have a plan of attack and take my task seriously. Good value nutritionally and financially are important to me.

So, what I want to say is that it is a great time to start. A great time to re-evaluate the norm. You can do it!

I was very encouraged in the past few days to hear that so many people are talking about eating healthier.

In fact my neighbor and I take turns cooking and sharing a meal on Wednesdays. Tonight she did all veggies. and it was delicious. She made jasmine rice, field peas with green snap peas. wasabi squash. grilled pineapple with balsamic vinegar dressing. and we all enjoyed it! So the pressure is on me for next week. ack! ;)

Super Snack

Put 1/4 to 1/2 cup low-fat, vanilla yogurt in a bowl. (we use vanilla soy)
Top with:
- Half of a banana (chopped)
- Half of a peach (chopped)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- Small handful of walnuts

a perfect snack. Protein, Healthy fiber, and essential (and good for you) fat. Very satisfying and delicious. Simple. Healthy. Quick. Affordable. and the kids give it a thumbs up.

Quick Little 411

We usually do a Bento-esque lunch a few times a week. Now that fall is coming and the temperature is dropping, I have brought out the thermos. It is great for cold lunches like gazpacho (yumm!) ; or for hot soups. We even use it to keep veggie nuggets (tastes like chicken) warm.

but there is a thermos trick!
for cold items, prior to loading with lunch fill up thermos with ice water. then drain and dry. This keeps the metal very cold all day.
For hot items, fill up thermos with really hot water. then drain and dry. Fill up with lunch. Keeps the metal hot.
Try it. It really works well.

My sister says she did not know this tip, so I thought I would pass it along to you.

A Favorite Brown Bag

One of my very favorite treats is a chicken or turkey sandwich. I love using cranberry sauce for my condiment instead of Mayo or mustard. sometime I add some crunchy spinach, watercress or waterchestnuts. Yummo!

It is good with sliced or diced chicken. and good in a wrap or pita pocket. Try to opt for whole wheat! ;)

Healthy eating! the healthy express way.