So this is Christmas...

Happy Christmas Eve!!!

Unlike many of your favorite bloggers, I don't have tons of pictures of family and cookie-baking time. BUT, I want to talk to you about Christmas, about what it really is.

You can't always be where you want to be. This is the lesson I'm learning at the holidays.

This is my second Christmas in a row not going home. In 2007 when I did go home, my brother fell ill and we missed Christmas altogether. What I'm realizing is that Christmas is about family, wherever you are. If you can't be with your "real" family" make your own.

This year, like last, Ryan and I will spend Christmas with our roommate and his brother, as well as his 17-year-old son. These people are my California family. They are the noise and laughter and full bellied friends with whom I share my holidays now that I'm 2500 miles away from my family. And, it's okay.

Christmas is like life: things change. And, if I've learned nothing in life, it's that change is good. Learning to make the most of life wherever I am is a gift in and of itself. :)

Happy Holidays!



Last night's dinner: Leftover White Chicken Chili Salad and a partridge in a PEAR tree.



Today is busy. To do:

-Meeting at 9am
-Trader Joe's for last minute shopping
-Write articles
-Wrap presents
-Work on Book Outline
-Gym
-Spend time w/hubby

Merry Christmas!

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Yesterday... All My Troubles Seemed So Far Away

...because I made amazing FOOD.

Lunch was ridiculous. Why? Because I made brussels sprouts. Have you noticed that when you serve brussels sprouts they claim your plate and anything else on there is secondary?

They are always the star of the show. Mine were sprinkled with sea salt.

Oh, ya, there was a bean/cheese wrap on the side. :D

For dinner, I made one of Ryan's favorite meals. White Chicken Chili. The chicken is really the only thing white. I used kidney and black beans, corn, spinach, and soy chorizo for kick. YUM!!!

[Disclaimer: It's not your eyes. My camera is actually getting WORSE. Much discussion in the Myers residence has been had about a new camera. Funds are the challenge.]

I had a slice of bread w/AB and a small red pear on the side. Forgive me, for I have sinned. I wanted you to see my whole meal, but my camera is going down faster than the titanic. So... I committed the biggest bloggie sin of them all.

I used FLASH. :(

Sorry... Do you guys forgive me?

Well, maybe this will make up for it. Not really, but ya know... Ryan and I visited Downtown Disney on Saturday to get into the holiday spirit (disney-style). Too bad the weather decided to go wacky on us. It was 80 degrees!

After taking a picture beside the GINORMOUS Christmas tree, we continued typical Christmas fun.

...we tried on hats... Isn't that what YOU do to get into the holiday spirit???

And, I'll leave you with this. The most awesomest of shirts...

Ho Ho Ho

--Mrs. Myers


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Apple Imposter and Friday Productivity

Today was productive. I met with a client who needs his book edited, and I'm currently working on MY book outline, which will be part of the package I give to the editors and agents I meet with at the end of January.

It's so weird to not have to go to school. Last night, I kept feeling pressured, like I should be doing something else, when really all I had to do was hang out with hubby. It was nice!! :D

This morning hubby dropped me off at the gym on his way to work. (We still don't have a second car since his accident, so I have to walk or get dropped off everywhere while he's at work.)In fact, after this post, I'm about to give our insurance company a piece of my mind. My dear sweet hubby is way too nice for this business.

After the gym, I walked home and had scrumptious chocolate-peanut butter oats. I make them with water and chocolate soy, then I use a small spoon of natural peanut butter. Tasty!

I didn't eat again until lunch, which was leftovers. See last night's vegetarian rice mix. This afternoon, I'm chomping on a cute little apple. Well, actually it's an apple imposter. The entire bag of apples has tasted like pears. It's plain weird.

My cute little pear-apple:

Tonight, I'm supposed to hang out with my friend Kirsten, but she's feeling under the weather. We'll either have a chill at home night or forego all together.

Stay tuned.

--Mrs. Myers

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GO COLTS!!!

Hi Guys! This will be a quickie post. This is the first night in FOREVER that I can hang out with hubby with no deadline hanging over me. AND.... the COLTS are playing!!!!

Dinner was a yummy vegetarian mix.

Brown rice, kidney beans, spinach, black and smokey pepper to spice.

With a side of green cauliflower and peas. I didn't eat much of the peas. They were too crisp for me. I like crisp, but these were... weird. Dunno. With the 99 Cent Store you win some, you lose some.

My camera is not good. I really need a GOOD camera to take this blog to the next level. But that stuff costs a pretty penny. Sometime...

Everyone have an amazing Thursday! Tomorrow is FRIDAY!!!!!

GO COLTS!!!

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Crunching the Numbers: Diabetes

Good morning world! I hope you are all bright eyed and bushy tailed. It's the week before Christmas!!!!

Today, my post may err on the side of serious. For my Realities in Nutrition class, we were given an extra credit opportunity. The extra credit was to get your lipids panel done to determine your cholesterol levels. I didn't necessarily need the extra credit points, but it's been a long time since I'd had my cholesterol checked. Plus, it was only $5 on campus. You already know I love me a bargain! ;-)

On Monday, I picked up my results, and I was truly floored to see my numbers.

My total cholesterol: 243 [Should be less than 200]
HDL Cholesterol: 71 [That's actually good. Should be more than 40, or ideally more than 60.]
Triglycerides: 105 [Ok. Should be less than 150.]
LDL Cholesterol: 151 [Should be less than 100, some say less than 130.]

For the sake of this post, I will hugely oversimplify things and just say LDL is the bad stuff and I'm way high. Needless to say, this is not cool. I was very embarrassed at first. I kept thinking, I'm going to school for dietetics and I'm borderline diabetic?! But, I also realize that being honest about who I am is part of being a healthy me. It's part of the Jasmine Myers Mission Statement. So, here goes...

If I step back and look at myself honestly, I see that since my wedding my life has changed drastically. I went from working a full-time, high-stress job in an office setting to working out of my home, random hours on random jobs (ah, the life of a freelance writer). Then, the fall semester began and I was going to school full-time and working those random hours to boot. I've gained approximately 7-10 pounds since the wedding. Here's where I think I made my mistakes:

* Pasta. I love pasta. I love it because it's really quick, easy, and you usually have enough leftovers for another day. Very handy when I'm running around doing school and work, but not good for my waist line or my cholesterol. All those extra carbs (even 100% whole wheat carbs) add up to fat, especially when you're making a pasta dish like 3 times a week.

* Gym regimen. I used to go to the gym at 5am every morning before my full-time job. When I left my job and my life became a bit more chaotic, so too did my workout routine. I still worked out (thus, my high HDL), but I didn't work out as much, which allowed me to put on weight.

* Stress Eating. I battle with binge and emotional eating pretty often anyway. But, when life gets chaotic, I get a bit stressed. I began grazing alot over this semester. Extra calories = extra fat on my bod.

I'm not trying to be hard on myself, but I wanted to use myself as an example. I'm studying to be a dietician. You'd think I'd be on top of these things, but I'm human. I'm busy, and so many things can take priority over the gym. But, what it all boils down to is your health. It's not so much about going to the gym as it is maintaining a healthy balance. It's important. Those numbers were a real wake-up call.

Weight loss and maintenance isn't just about looking good. It's serious. You wouldn't look at me and think I have high blood sugar. But, here I am, borderline diabetic. I need to remember that eating well and exercising isn't just something I do so I can fit into my favorite jeans. It's something I do so I can live a long and happy life.

In the spirit of good-for-you food... Breakfast...

So, as we all go into the crazy-foodness of next week, let's all remember that being well is the best gift we can give to ourselves and the ones we love. No resolution required. Just do it.

How do you plan to stay healthy through this holiday season?

--Mrs. Myers

Related Links:

How to eat healthy on a budget in San Diego

Beat the Cold and Avoid Winter Weight Gain

Strength Train to Burn Fat

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Two Down. Two to Go!!!

This morning, I took two of my four semester finals. I am SO glad to be half-way through.

It was a warm day, and I really enjoyed my walk home from school. I've taken it easy today. Sometimes, you just need a break. I'm about to hit my study notes for tomorrow's Realities in Nutrition final. I should be good to go, but it never hurts to do that last-minute cram. :p

I had a healthy, but simple lunch today. Turkey and 2% cheddar on whole wheat and a salad on the side.

I'm not sure what's on the menu tonight. I don't really feel like cooking, but I'm sure I'll whip something up. Awesome, as always.

Have a great Monday night, everyone! Last full week of work of 2009! WOOHOO!!!!

Cheers,
Mrs. Myers

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Weekend Eats

It's the Sunday before finals and all through the house every peep is stirring, including the mouse.

Ya, it's not exactly quiet here. So, I'm heading over to my favorite coffee house to get my study time in.

This weekend was full of yummy food. Friday night, Ryan and I shared a candle-lit dinner. Ground turkey stroganoff with baby bella mushrooms and romaine salads. Yum!

Last night, our friend Jen had a birthday celebration at a wine bar in North Park. The ambiance was awesome. Ryan sampled the beer and I tasted the water. The water was tres magnifique if I do say so myself.

Later, I did get in my Saturday night recreational calories by sharing a warm chocolate chip cookie with vanilla bean ice cream. If I'm going to get in random calories, I'd rather eat them than drink them. YUM-O Rachel Ray. YUM-O!

Ok, ladies and gents, I'm off to study. Have a wonderful day!

--Mrs. Myers

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Little Kid Friday

Today has been a busy one. Ryan and I careened out the door because I had to drop him off at work, so I could use the car. It's raining and I have to go to class (my last one this semester). I'm getting ready to head out.

I had a little kid lunch. PB&J, apple, and pretzels. Delish!

I have so many meals to show you guys over the past few days. I will update again very soon. I have some major writing to do this afternoon after class, and then... time to cram for finals!!!

--Mrs. Myers

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Breakfast Lunch Breakfast Out!

My friends!

I hope all is well in your bloggy lives. I have been busy with school and work. Plus, the loss of the car has meant I've been walking the 4-5ish miles home from school. Not a big deal, except my book bag gets heavy!!! It also cuts into my time. However, I'm love love loving the exercise.

This will be a quick post, but I wanted to share my beautiful breakfasts I've been having, as well as yesterday's quirky lunch.

Yesterday's breakfast was raspberry-licious.

As you remember from my last post, I got these berries for the bargain-basement price of $3.99. Oh, how good a bargain berry tastes.

My Saturday lunch included eggs and tomatoes. Maybe strange, but one of my favorite combos in the whole food world! The picture leaves alot to be desired. Forgive me, as always.

Today's breakfast took the cake, or muffin, I should say. Cinna-raisin english muffin with crunchy peanut butter and more raspberries!!! This was so filling. Love it.

I'm about to head over to my friend Isela's house (to study, of course... Isn't that what you do with friends?). Catch you on the flip side.

I'm out!!! Have a good one!

--Mrs. Myers

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Getting My Shop On

Because yesterday was super-cala-fragilistically busy, I didn't make it out for my usual Sunday grocery shopping errands. So, I went today. Per usual, I combined coupons, sales and a shopping excursion at the 99 Cent store to get amazing savings. You already know.

99 Cent Store: $26.98
-2 boxes of Turkey Sausage
-1 Lean Cuisine
-3 lbs Ground Turkey (in 1lb rolls)
-Alaskan Polluk (99 Cents, holy cow)

-Onion Soup mix (4pack)
-Bananas
-16 oz bag frozen peas
-Quaker granola bars
-Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth
-3 Rolls Soy Chorizo
-2 cans lite tuna
-16 oz bag frozen corn
-16 oz bag frozen california blend veggies
-16 oz bag frozen green beans
-pack of 6 tomatoes
-1 can cream of chicken
-glass cleaner
-3 Christmas-related things

Vons: $49.18

-Box Raisin Bran
-Walnuts
-2 jars Ragu
-2 jars Skippy PB
-1 bottle smoky pepper seasoning
-1 box whole grain spaghetti
-1 roll paper towels
-18 eggs
-gallon of 1% milk
-2 bottles juice
-yogurt
-waffles
-Big pack cinna-raisin muffins
-HUGE Pack Skinless Chicken Breast ($6.62!!!)
-red delicious apples
-12 oz red raspberries ($3.00!!!)
-2.5 gallons drinking water

Yes, I am a professional shopper. Thank you. Thank you. No need for applause. You're too kind.

All jokes aside, I have literally HALVED our grocery bills since I began my freelance career. It's amazing what you can do when you have to.

I love my life today, and I hope all is well and beautiful in yours.

--Mrs. Myers

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A Day After Thanksgiving Reminder

This morning, my husband was in a terrible car wreck. It was a two-car crash. Both of them are totalled. What's worse... I stayed up late last night and slept through his calls.

He is okay. His only injury was jammed-up hands (they hit the dash).

But, it TERRIFIED me that I could sleep while something so big was affecting him. I couldn't stop crying for hours after he called me. I always had this idea that I'd just intuitively know something was wrong. Not so. I didn't know. I didn't know at all.

I have another reason to be thankful today.

On a lighter note...

Thanksgiving Fun


This is what the boys do on holidays ALL DAY.


YUM-O!!!




My Love







Wiped out.

Today: A Day of Thanksgiving Leftovers


Oatmeal w/Cranberry Jelly (OMG)


Acai Berry Tea in my new mug... Thanks Jess!!!


Lunch... Can you tell I love cranberry?

Did you have a good holiday? Let's help each other bring the spirit of Thanks into our lives all year round, okay?

THANK YOU for reading my blog.

xoxo

-Mrs. Myers

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How to Feel Fabulous on a Budget

Hey All,

Today has been non-stop. Well, except for that small nap I took, but, otherwise, all work. lol. I had an early morning. We didn't get home last night until 10:30 after our friend's going away party. So, this morning, I got up at 4:45 to do my math homework. Yay. I had to be at class at 7:30. (At least that partly explains my nap.)

After class, I worked. I did eat, but it was nothing spectacular and I was bent over my laptop all day long.

This evening I made another fabulous Bloggie-style Tuna Helper because we were out of food and that's all our roommate had. I used olive oil instead of butter, threw in a few leftover whole-grain rotini noodles and some peas. It actually turned out really tasty. I served with a side salad (again, we had no food, so iceberg and cheese was it), and we split an orange. I didn't eat the salad though. He ate mine.

After that, I headed to the 99 Cent store and Vons. I highly recommend always always going to the 99 Cent store BEFORE the grocery store. They have some serious deals.

Organic Rice Milk (chocolate!) Cha-ching!

Eight Roma Tomatoes Cha-ching-ching

I also purchased:
-a head of cauliflower
-a loaf of whole wheat bread
-Del Monte tomatoe sauce
-two cans tuna in water (.79/each!)
- Yoplait Light for hubby (.39/each!)
- a box of tuna helper (to replace the one I borrowed from roommie)
- napkins and paper towel
AND
- Candies Sunglasses!!! Yaaaaay

Fun new shades: $0.99
Feeling Fabulous: Priceless

Have a happy, productive, FABULOUS Tuesday.

Best,

-Mrs. Myers

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I Miss Daylight Savings Time

Good evening! My brain is currently the consistency of what my grandmother would call "mush melon. " I think unless you're from the Midwest, you won't know what that is.

Today's lunch was colorful and tasty. I had a red-pepper hummus, honey turkey and spinach sammy on whole grain bread with tomatoes and a clementine on the side. I had an apple about 10 minutes later, as well. I'm addicted to apples lately. I love the crunch.

After lunch, I worked and worked and worked some more. Then, I did a quick 4.75 mile walk before the sun went down. And, considering the sun goes down at like 4:30pm, I really did have to book it. I swear, at 5pm, it could be midnight for all you know just by looking outside. :-/

Now, my tummy is working up a nice appetite for supper, but I have no desire to cook!! What to do? I think my vote is to hit the shower and let hubby deal with it. What do you think? :D

I'll let you know what we figure out.

xoxo
--Mrs. Myers

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Be Green: Recycle Your Food

In my quest to leave no leftover unused, I used the kidney bean and spinach rice dish again for dinner last night. I skillet-browned some tilapia fillets and served with cut-up apples on the side. Simple and quick (required). Mr. Myers thought it was mighty tasty too, so it was a hubby-approved meal.

This morning is very busy. I'm working on a lot of great projects right now (possibly too many, but that's how I work), none of which can I share with you at this time! :p However, I'm very excited, and can say only that there's going to be some changes that I think you guys will love! Thank you for all your support.

Much love,
--Mrs. Myers

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Quick Food Does Not Mean Fast Food

Good afternoon, my friends!

Today has been go-go-go. My to-do list is growing, and it's already 1:15!!!

Since my life is erratic and chaotic time-wise, I'm going to catch you up on a few yummy meals, and I will try to be better at regularly scheduled blogging. But you know me. Work and school are my life. :D

This morning, I was in a blazing hurry, but a girl's still gotta eat, right?

PB&J Whole Grain English Muffin - Does a body good.

Sped off to class, and thankfully made it on time. I stayed after class today to talk with my nutrition teacher. We talked for almost an hour about dietitican stuff. It was SO interesting. The older I get the more I yearn to learn.

When I got home, I was craving a black bean topped baked potato. No such luck. I am out of black beans. So sad. So sad. I still managed to make a really scrumptious lunch, though. Recently, I used a coupon for Uncle Ben's Sundried Tomato Long-Grain Rice. I ususally don't buy these because of the sodium content, but cheap is cheap. Live a little, right? Still, I couldn't just have plain ol' boxed rice, could I? Absolutely not! Am I a foodie or am I a foodie?

Boxed Rice w/fresh spinach and kidney beans. Tomatoes on the side.

Recent Meals

I've been working ALOT of late nights. Sometimes hubby, in his infinite sweetness, will make me dinner. Last night was one of those nights.

Take this McDonalds. Whole Grain English Muffin w/1 egg and 1/2 slice of cheese. I couldn't eat that for dinner every night, but sometimes it just hits the spot.

Over the weekend (when my life is slightly less hectic), I made soy-chorizo pasta w/spinach & broccoli salads on the side. Delish!

Well, now it's time to get down to the get down. I have six articles and a letter to write by tonight! EEP!

Recent Articles by Mrs. Myers

400 Calorie Fix: Fix or Fantasy?

How to eat healthy on a budget in San Diego

Have a happy and productive day!

--Mrs. Myers

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Kashi Meal Review & a Surprise Party

Good Evening Peeps!

I've been working on my book all night, and I'm just now getting to blog. This is wayyyyy past my usual bedtime, so I'll make it quick.

For lunch today, I tried a Kashi Meal: Lemongrass Coconut Chicken.

Ok, I seriously heart coconut. Where the halibut was the coconut?!? Needless to say, I wasn't impressed. I thought it would be really tasty. It has quinoa, which I love, but there was really no flavor. It tasted like chicken, quinoa and snow peas. No flavoring at all. And, it was a bit mushy to boot. I didn't eat it all.

For dinner,I threw something together at lightning speed because I needed to get back to work. Hubby couldn't cook tonight because the Colts were playing (HOLY COW - did you see that game!?).

So, I made Kraft Whole Grain Mac n Cheese with a can of tuna and some fresh broccoli. Served with kiwi on the side. It was actually really tasty.

Sorry, my camera sucks if I'm only using interior lighting (it was already dark outside, so no help from the sun).

Also, last night, we threw my husband a SURPRISE 30th Birthday Party. It was a total hit. He was COMPLETELY surprised.

Yes, a football cake, too. Of course, what else?

Hubby had an absolute blast. A complete success! I can't believe my man is 30!!! It seems so grown up!

And, now... it's really time to go to bed. In the morning, I'm hoping to hit the gym and finish my math homework, all before I have to be in class at 7:30am. SHEESH. We'll see.

See you tomorrow.

xoxo

--Mrs. Myers


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