{Pantry Essentials}

Over the weekend I watched several episodes I had DVR'd of Pioneer Woman.  In one episode, she cooked an entire meal with items she had leftover in her pantry.  She went into detail of what essential items she keeps in her pantry to get her family through until they take a "big city" trip to stock up.  She inspired me for today's blog post.  When me and my hubs make our weekly grocery shopping trip, we have particular items that make the list each time.  My pantry essentials aren't anything like the Pioneer Woman's, they're much more figure friendly.  Check it out!

{Mrs. Munana's Pantry Essentials}

1.  Apples.  Perfect as a snack on the go.  {0 WW Pts}
2.  Onions.  I use them in almost every dish. {0 WW Pts}
3.  Oranges.  Hubby grabs one on his way to work, great as a snack!  {0 WW Pts}
4.  Bananas.  I eat one for breakfast almost every day! {0 WW Pts}
5.  Brussel Sprouts. I buy 2 packs at a time.  Check out previous posts for my recipe! {0 WW Pts}
6.  Celery.  Great as an on-the-go lunch/snack.  You can also saute as dinner side-dish! {0 WW Pts}
7.  Carrots.  Pack 'em with your celery.  Super healthy and yummy!  {0 WW Pts}
8.  Blackberries.  I can't get enough of these!  {0 WW Pts}
9.  Raspberries.  I'm obsessed with these too.  I eat these for lunch often. {0 WW Pts}
10. Hummus.  Sabra brand is my fave.  {5 WW Pts for 1/2 Cup}
11. Whole Wheat Bread.  Make a quick sammy or for b-fast as toast.{2 slices = 3 WW Pts}
12. Whole Wheat Pasta. Always comes in handy, quick dinner when paired w/ ground chicken and sauce.  {1 cup = 4 WW Pts}
13. Classico Pasta Sauce.  Great brand with lots of variety to choose from. {1/2 Cup = 1 WW Pt}
14. Country Crock, Light.  {1 Tbsp = 1 WW Pt}
15. Mini Wheat Cereal.  I bag these for a quick b-fast on the go, hubby does too. {5 pts per Serving}
16. Salsa.  Great as a snack with a few tortilla chips. {0 WW Pts}
17. Weight Watchers Cheese Wedges.  Great sub for anything you use with cheese. {1 WW Pt ea}
18. Laughing Cow Cream Cheese Wedges.  I put one on a bagel thin for breakfast {1 WW Pt ea}
19. Skim Milk.  {1 Cup = 2 WW Pts}
20. Cottage Cheese.  This is a must for my hubby, his favorite snack. {1 Cup = 5 WW Pts}
21. Low Fat Yogurt. Yoplait brand is my fave. {2 WW Pts ea}
22. Weight Watcher Ice Cream.  Guilt-free sweet treat. {WW Pts vary, shown on box}
23. Pickles, dill.  Great side dish for any meal, or a guilt-free snack. {0 WW Pts}
24. Ground Chicken/Ground Turkey.  {1 oz = 1 WW Pt}
25. Thin Sliced Turkey Luncheon Meat. {3 Slices = 1 WW Pt}
26. Canned Veggies. Buy 'em with no salt and season as you wish.  {0 WW Pts}
27. Bagel Thins.  Lots of variety to choose from! Great for bfast or use for sandwich {3 WW Pts ea}
28. Cream of Wheat.  Hubby loves this on the weekend. {1 cup = 3 WW Pts}
29. Turkey Bacon. Always have this handy for breakfasts with my hubs. {3 pcs = 1 WW Pt}
30.  Arugula/Spinach Mix.  Great for a salad or to slap on a sandwich/wrap. {0 WW Pts}
31. Broccoli.  Eat raw or can be cooked, super healthy veggie {0 WW Pts}
32. Cauliflower.  Can boil & mash up as a mashed potato sub or eat raw! {0 WW Pts}

Share some of your healthy pantry essentials with me!  I'm always looking for new ideas in the kitchen!

Xox,
Mrs. Munana

{Grilled Tilapia Packets}

For all you "Grill Masters" out there, this blog post is just for you! 

My hubby and I enjoy grilling.  Well, actually Stephen grills and I enjoy whatever he makes {hehe}.  In fact, that is one way he swept me off my feet when we first started dating, he grilled all the time for me.  Just ask our family and friends: he's famous for his steaks and bacon-wrapped jalapenos stuffed with cream cheese {they're TO DIE FOR}.  He came up with a creative little recipe one weekend and after a few tweaks, he's perfected it.  It's super delicious and very healthy.  Grilled Tilapia with veggies in a cute little foil packet. 

{Grilled Tilapia Packets}

Tilapia Fillet(s), fresh
Lemons
Onion, Sliced Thin
Veggies of Choice: {bell peppers, squash, zucchini, tomatoes, mushrooms, etc.}
Cilantro
Olive Oil
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Chili Powder, to taste
Cooking Spray

{Directions}
Lay out pieces of foil {one for each piece of fish}, spray each foil piece lightly with cooking spray.  In a small bowl mix the salt, pepper, chili powder, cilantro and fresh squeezed lemon juice with olive oil.  Brush the mixture gently on both sides of the fish.  Lay fish on foil and place whatever veggies you please on the fish.  Wrap it up and slap it on the grill for 20 minutes, 10 minutes each side on high heat. 

{Notes from Mrs. Munana}:  Hubby says to make sure you have extra cilantro and lemon juice for topping the fish once it's cooked.  You can also heat up some corn tortillas and make fish tacos!  We've found that Reasors has the best selection of fish, check out their meat counter!

Tilapia: 4 oz = 3 WW points
Olive Oil = 1 Tbsp = 4 WW Points

 

Xox,

Mrs. Munana

{Support System}

I've got to brag just a little bit: my husband is absolutely amazing, and I am one blessed girl to have found him.  We've been together almost two years, married almost two months, and he is my world.  When I started my weight loss journey, he was my biggest supporter.  He encouraged me every day and celebrated each weight loss goal I achieved.  He even started eating what I cooked which made it that much easier for me to stay on track {turned out to be a good thing for him, he ended up losing weight with me}.  My weight loss journey became "our" weight loss journey.  Each pound lost made our relationship stronger, and we created a new healthy lifestyle together.  I know I wouldn't have been successful without him by my side every step of the way. 

One story that really sticks out to me is the day I realized I had to buy a whole new wardrobe.  Every article of clothing I owned was too big for me.  One day, I sat in my closet, crying.  Stephen came in the closet and asked me what was wrong.  I sobbed, "None of my clothes fit me anymore."  He asked me why I was sad about it and said that I should be happy, it was a great thing!  Truth was, I wasn't comfortable in my new skin yet and the thought of having to start completely over with my wardrobe was overwhelming.  I wasn't expecting to have to do it so soon.  With his encouragement, patience (lots of patience I might add) and support, I was able to gradually rebuild my wardrobe.  It was a challenge for me at first to get used to shopping and looking for a smaller size, but Stephen was by my side for each shopping trip.  I mean, honestly, how many guys out there go shopping with their girl?!  He's quite the trooper.  

I'm very blessed to have such a great guy in my life.

Bragging aside, this story has a purpose.  I am a firm believer that having a support system is a huge part of any weight loss goal.  Whether your support be your significant other, best friend, or a family member, find that someone who you can confide in and trust...that person you can lean on and who will hold you accountable when you need it.  Having that support is an essential key of your journey.

I love you, Stephen.  Each day you make me a better person.

Xox,
Mrs. Munana

“You can’t do it all yourself. Don’t be afraid to rely on others to help you accomplish your goals.” ~Oprah Winfrey

Before & After



Before & After



{Oven Roasted Brussel Sprouts}

A year ago, I didn't know much about brussel sprouts.  I can't recall my mom ever making them growing up.  Starting out, I was buying them frozen and boiling them in water because I really didn't know any other way to make them.  A sweet co-worker of mine encouraged me to buy them fresh and cook them.  I did some research and found this super simple recipe that is amazingly delish, healthy and oh-so hearty.  It can almost stand by itself as a main course!  Oh, and did I mention it's only 1 WW point!? I make this dish at least twice a week, and my husband raves over it!

{Roasted Brussel Sprouts}

1 or 2 cartons fresh Brussels

 

1 or 2 Tablespoon(s) or so of light butter, melted or EVOO

 

Few sprays of canola oil 

 

Dash of Salt

 

Dash of Pepper, to liking

 

Any other seasoning of choice. {I use a lemon-pepper seasoning & garlic powder}

 

{Directions}

Preheat oven to 400 degrees or so.  Cut the core off the bottom of the brussels, peel off first layer or so of the brussels, rinse, then cut in half. Spray baking sheet with canola oil {I put foil on my baking sheet for easier clean up}.  Place Brussels on the sheet and sprinkle with desired seasonings. Then pour oil or melted butter on them.  Use your hands to mix all together so they are evenly coated.  Place in the oven and bake or 20-25 minutes until golden brown.  

2 Servings, 1 WW Point Each Serving

 

 

 

Xox,

Mrs. Munana

{Dress of my Dreams}

One major boost for me to stay on track with the Weight Watchers program was shortly after I began my weight loss journey, Stephen proposed to me.  I knew it was time to really kick my butt into high gear so I could look amazing in my dream wedding dress.  I had a little less than 8 months to accomplish my weight loss goal, but I knew I could.  Of course, no girl can wait 5 or 6 months to go dress shopping, so immediately I went with one of my best friends {love ya, Courtney!}.  At that point, I had lost only about 8 lbs, but I was feeling pretty great about it and figured why not just "look".  Go figure I'd fall in LOVE with the very first dress I tried on.  But, I was hesitant.  If I had this much luck right off, then maybe there was an even better one out there?  Or maybe not.  What if this dress was gone by the time I made up my mind?  After going to several other dress shops with the help of my family and Stephen's family, we all agreed the first dress was "the one".  Then, I got the surprise of my life... Stephen's sister, Steph, paid for my dress!  What a sweet moment. 

So there was my dress, hanging in the closet waiting for our December wedding.  Seeing that purple garment bag in the closet every day was a constant reminder of what I was working towards.  I refused to look back on my wedding day photos and regret the way I looked.  As a bride, I wanted to feel beautiful on the inside and out.

8 months later and 25 pounds lost, along with having my dress altered IN, it was the moment I've waited for...our wedding day.  The dress fit perfectly, and in that moment all my hard work and perseverance had paid off.  It was a magical day filled with loving vows, tears, and a new beginning together as husband and wife.  It was all worth it. 

I hope my wedding dress story inspires you to create a goal for yourself...some sort of motivation to work towards.  Whether it be a special occasion or swimsuit season, doesn't matter.  Save that special date in your calendar or put an item of clothing in your closet where you can see it every day.  Remind yourself on a daily basis what you're going to accomplish and why it's important to you.  You can do it!

Xox, Mrs. Munana

{Points Tracking}

Now it's time to talk about tracking.  I'm going to review the basics of the Weight Watchers tracking system, for those of you who have been asking how it works.  Tracking my daily points was how I lost all my weight, fast.  I kept track of every single item I put in my mouth along with all the daily exercise and activity I did.  Let's dive right into it.

You're allotted a certain amount of points each day, and starting out you get 26 daily points.  Everything you eat is assigned a certain number of points.  You subtract each item you eat from your daily points.  Planning ahead is a key component of tracking.  Try to think in advance what you'll be eating for the day.  I LOVE to pre-track.  It helps me stay on track and I know before each meal what I'm going to eat.  It also gives me motivation to say "no" to those pesky cookies laying in the break room or catered work lunches.  Pre-tracking for restaurants was key for me also. 

You also get extra points for your week. Yay!  You start out with 42 extra points to be used as a "cushion" whenever you need it.  I saved all my extra "cushion" points for the weekend, when I knew I would be going on a date or out for drinks with friends.  I am still able to enjoy myself and stay on track.  These points are only depleted; however, after you use up your daily points.



Here's a snap shot of my daily tracker I use on my phone.  *Please note: don't pay any attention to my daily points/weekly points.  I am now on the "maintenance" plan {since I'm now a Lifetime Member} so I don't continue to drop weight.  My daily allowance has been re-adjusted.   It's a nifty little tool to have; however, you have to pay the monthly membership fee to have access to it.  Don't panic!  I've got a nice little surprise for you.... 

I've located a website that helps calculate points.  Be sure to enter the food's nutritional info on the "Points Plus" side.  {Click on Link Below}
Points Calculator
{http://www.calculatorcat.com/free_calculators/weight_watchers_calculator.phtml}


Also, for you math gurus out there, here's a standard formula on point calcluation:

 

 

 

P is points, C is calories, F is fat, R is dietary fiber

 

Dietary fiber greater than 4 is not used. Only fiber up to 4 grams is used to calculate Weight Watchers points. For example, if dietary fiber = 2, then 2 would be used to calculate the points.

However, if dietary fiber = 5, then only 4 dietary fiber would be used in the calculation.

For example, based on the calculation for weight watchers points, every 50 calories would be equal to one point and every 12 grams of fat is equal to one point and for every gram of fiber (up to 4 grams) you deduct 1/5 of a point.

So if a food item had 100 calories, 2 fat grams and 2 fibers, you would use the following formula to calculate weight watchers points.

(100/50) + (2/12) – (2/5)

2 + .17 - .4 = 1.77 points

*Points are then rounded to the nearest whole point, so this particular example would calculate Weight Watchers points at 2 pts.

{Tracking Activity}
It's also important to keep track of your activity. The Weight Watchers Program states that once all your daily points/weekly points are used up, you can use your "Activity" points as extra food points if you wish. I never did that, nor would I recommend using them. Consider them off limits. That helps boost your weight loss even faster!  Here's a list of my most used activity that I track and the amount of points each of them contain:

Zumba, 1 hour = 6 Activity Points
Hot Vinyasa (yoga), 1 hour = 8 Activity Points!
Walking, 1 hour = 3 Activity Points
Running, 3 miles {12 min/mile or faster} = 5 Activity Points

{Few Quick Notes}:  Like I've mentioned on a previous blog post, fresh fruits and veggies are ZERO points.  Exceptions are: beans, corn, potatoes, dried fruits, fruits canned in syrup. 

{If you have any questions or need clarification on points of certain foods/activities, please let me know, send me a FB message and I'll be happy to help!}
XoX,
Mrs. Munana

{It's Lunchtime}

I had a special request for this blog post:  Healthy lunch ideas for work.  I've become pretty good at coming up with a variety of lunch options to take to work everyday that doesn't get boring or repetitive.  Here is a list of my favorite portable lunches:

1.  Veggies with hummus.  Any veggies are great.  I typically use celery, grape tomatoes, or baby carrots.  Other great options are bell peppers, broccoli, or cauliflower.  Keep your eye open for those competitor Aldi ads, they are a great way to save money on weekly veggie staples.  I buy Sabra Hummus, they have a great variety whether it be spicy, traditional or garlic.  Prep veggies the night before your work week by washing, slicing and bagging.  I keep my hummus at work in the fridge, but you can also pre-portion it at home. 

Veggies: 0 WW Points! {knock yourself out}
Hummus: 1/2 Cup = 5 WW Points

2.  Veggie Wrap.  Challenge yourself to find the most low-cal tortilla in the store.  Slice an English Cucumber in small strips, slice regular sized carrots in strips also.  Spread a Weight Watchers Cheese wedge {can be found in the specialty cheese section at the store} in the tortilla and lay as much of the cucumber and carrot strips as you wish in the tortilla.  Roll up, wrap in cling wrap and place in a baggie.  Quick and healthy lunch to-go!

Veggies: 0 WW Points!
Low-Cal Tortilla: 2 WW Points
Weight Watchers Cheese Wedge: 1 WW Point

3.  Progresso Light Soup.  Can be found in the soup aisle with many different varieties!  Try serving with whole wheat saltine crackers. 

 Soup: 2 WW Points/Serving {2 servings per 1 can, 4 total points}
Whole Wheat Crackers: 10 crackers = 3 WW Points

4.  Pita Sandwich.  Whole Wheat Pita Bread, 3 thin turkey slices, Weight Watchers cheese wedge, and lots of veggies.  Arugula is one of my faves, can also use onions, carrots, cucumbers, etc. 

Pita: 2 WW Points
Sliced Turkey: 3 thin slices, 1 WW Point
Weight Watchers Cheese Wedge: 1 WW Point

5.  Yogurt.  I buy Yoplait Light Yogurt in bulk.  This is typically my dessert, or sometimes I'll eat the Yogurt as a light lunch with a banana sliced in it or strawberries.  Very filling!

Yoplait Light Yogurt: 2 WW Points
Banana/Strawberries: 0 WW Points!

6.  Low-Cal Popcorn.  They have 100 cal packs at the grocery store.  Popcorn is super filling too.  Try the Pop Secret or Jolly Time Healthy Pop.  Just be sure to look for the "100 Calorie" logo.

7.  Salad.  You can never go wrong with salad, just be careful with the salad dressing.  I am obsessed with Lucini Shallot and Cucumber dressing, I just limit the amount I put on it.  It's packed with flavor, so you really don't need much.  Play with your salad ingredients to keep your mouth guessing. 

Lucini dressing: 2 Tbsp = 3 WW Points

Xox,
Mrs. Munana

 

{Turkey Brats}

Huh, turkey brats?  Didn't know such a thing existed?  Me either, until I started Weight Watchers.  This dish makes the list of one of our favorite dinner meals.  A delicious dinner that I cook once a week and hubby can't get enough.  Recipe is easy, healthy and super affordable.

{Ingredients}
1 Package Turkey Brats {will say "lean" on the package}
1 Onion, Sliced
1 Can Sauerkraut
Canola Oil Spray
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder
Beer, if desired

{Directions}
Spray non-stick skillet with canola oil, heat skillet to med-high.  Place turkey brats in skillet, brown each side, turning a few times, season each side of the turkey brat with salt, pepper and/or garlic powder if desired.  Once brats are almost cooked through, add the sliced onions to the skillet.  {At any point during this process feel free to add a splash of beer for more flavor, or you can actually soak them in beer the night before}.  Heat up Sauerkraut and serve brats along side.  {4 WW Points per bratwurst}

{Note from Mrs. Munana}: Sauerkraut is zero points, so completely guilt-free!  If you decide to add the beer, don't feel too bad, just tag on an additional point {it's worth it for the added flavor}.  I don't serve these on a bun, but you're more than welcome to. Also, you can make a "stir fry" version by adding red and green bell peppers and cutting the brats into smaller pieces once cooked.

Xox,
Mrs. Munana

{Angel Food Berry Dessert}

Today I've got something special for your sweet tooth.  When I came across this recipe, I was searching for the perfect light and healthy dessert that was portable enough to take on a trip to my hometown for the 4th of July.  I also needed it to be Weight Watcher approved.  When I served this to my family, my mother fell in love and demanded that I bring this dessert for every holiday, birthday, or any other family event.  So, I'd say it was a hit! 

{Angel Food Berry Dessert}
2 Cups Strawberries, Fresh, stems removed, berries quartered
6 oz Blackberries, {can used fresh or frozen, just be sure to thaw}
6 oz Blueberries, fresh
1/2 cup Sugar, white
2 Tbsp Sugar, white
1 Tbsp Lemon juice
2 Tsp Lemon juice
12 oz Raspberries, fresh or 2 Cups thawed frozen
9 oz Angel Food Cake, {store bought} cut into 6 wedges

{Directions}
1.  Combine strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, 2 tablespoons of the sugar, and 2 teaspoons of the lemon juice in a bowl, toss well.

2.  Combine the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice with the raspberries in a blender.  process on high speed until smooth {about 1-2 minutes}. 

3.  To assemble:  Spoon 2/3 cup of berry mixture on angel food cake.  Spoon 3 tablespoons of raspberry sauce on top.  Yields 1 plate per serving, {6 WW Points}

{Note from Mrs. Munana}:  I serve this with a small dollop of light cool whip.  Recipe actually says to remove seeds from raspberries by using a cheese cloth after blending the mixture.  I leave the seeds in the sauce, great source of fiber.

 

 

Xox,

Mrs. Munana

{Use This, Not That}

Let's talk subbing. One great thing about the Weight Watchers program is your eyes are opened to great substitutes you can use in your everyday eating, some of which I never thought about before. I've compiled a short list that I now live by. It's amazing how simple substitutes like these can add up to make a huge difference. Your body will say, "thank you!"

1. Sub ground turkey or ground chicken in place of ground beef. It's healthier, more lean, and it gives great flavor to your recipes! {my hubby prefers ground chicken over ground turkey, which suits me just fine because it's cheaper!}

2. Use whole wheat pasta instead of the traditional pasta. Healthier for you, and I prefer the hearty flavor.

3. Try reduced fat dairy products. Whether it be butter, cheese, milk, or yogurt, I am always looking for the light and healthy alternatives. The flavor difference is virtually nonexistent.

4. Curb that sweet tooth with fro-yo versus ice cream. If you know me and my hubby, you know we love our fro-yo. I gotta have that sweet, icy treat and fro-yo fits the bill without all the fat.
{Money Saving Tip: If you happen to be at Cherry Berry for some fro-yo, "check-in" on FB to receive 3 oz free!}

5. Try baked instead of fried. I've never been a fan of the ol' fry daddy; I've always preferred baking. It's not worth the added fat and calories. Anything that can be fried can be baked. 

6. Sub fresh veggies for potatoes and corn. On the Weight Watchers program, corn and potatoes are two starchy vegetables that are assigned points while fresh veggies are not. Try limiting these two tricky culprits--they aren't as healthy as others, for example spinach, carrots, celery, tomatoes, etc.

7. Choose water over pop {or soda, if you're not an Okie}. The moment my hubby cut out that sugary substance from his life was the moment I fell more in love with him. Just kidding, but you'd be amazed how much weight he dropped almost immediately. While I've never liked to drink pop my whole life, I know a lot of people struggle with the addiction. Just take a quick glance at the calories and sugar content on the label. Or you can watch those nasty videos on the web that show the sugary devil disintegrating steak - um, nasty much?!

8. Turkey bacon always wins against pork bacon. Try it!  You cook it just the same as traditional bacon, and the it crisps up just as good.  Compare the labels next time you're at the store, it's pretty amazing.  I love the flavor of the turkey bacon and it's guilt-free!

9. Always choose whole grain breads over white bread.  There are so many awesome varieties of breads nowadays.  I challenge myself to find the one with the most whole grains, flax, etc.  You can feel good about eating bread for once in your life!

10.  OJ freak?  Sub Trop50 orange juice just once and tell me you don't love it. 

XoX,
Mrs. Munana

{Crockpot Chicken}

I am obsessed with my crockpot, that's no secret. I have the easiest recipe to share with you today. All you need to do is throw a few veggies on the plate with this dish and dinner is complete! I cook this recipe ALL THE TIME. Oh, and did I mention, you only spend like $5?! Check it out...

Crockpot Chicken

1 Whole Chicken, defrosted and rinsed
1 onion, cut into thick chunks
Lemon, cut into slices
Seasonings of choice

Directions: Place rinsed chicken into crockpot. Shove onion chunks inside chicken. Place lemon slices gently under skin of chicken breast. Sprinkle top of chicken with desired seasonings. That's it! Let it cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, and you've got a healthy meal! {1 oz = 1 WW point, without skin}

{Note from Mrs. Munana}: No need to put water, beer, or any sort of liquid in with the chicken. Trust me, it creates its own juices fast and doesn't need it. Also, my personal seasonings of choice are: lemon pepper, garlic and salt. If I have a few leftover garlic cloves, sometimes I'll put those in the cavity or under the skin also.

{Breakfast Muffins}

I'm a breakfast FUH-REAK {just ask my husband}. I love everything about breakfast and could probably eat breakfast every meal. Ah, I'm drooling just thinking about it! When I started my weight loss journey, I was nervous to see what I could get away with to eat for breakfast without losing all my precious points for the day. I stumbled across an awesome breakfast recipe one day, and I've made it so many times I've got it memorized. These yummy little treats are healthy, portable, and oh-so delicious! Check it out:

Weight Watcher Pumpkin Breakfast Muffins

1 (18 oz) can spice cake mix
15 oz can pumpkin
1 cup water

Directions:
Mix all ingredients in mixer. Makes 24 muffins. Bake for 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees.

2 Weight Watcher Points Plus each

{Note from Mrs. Munana}: I use my muffin tin that makes 12 at a time. I fill them about 1/3 of the way full each, bake the 1st batch then repeat. Let them cool, then I package them 3 to a baggie, which equals 6 Points per baggie, and I promise they are so filling. That's my breakfast for the day.

P.S. Hubby approves and takes them to work for breakfast too!

Xox,

Mrs. Munana

{Girl look at that body, I work out}

I will be completely honest and admit that I've never been one of those naturally athletic girls that played every sport in school growing up...or any sport for that matter. Running was never my thing, and I'm 5'2" so it's pretty obvious I didn't shoot hoops. I was a choir chick who made straight A's and lived in the middle of nowhere. {Pretty awesome, huh?} But now working out and being active is my new favorite hobby and stress reliever.

Working out was something I eased into, slowly.  My husband and I started by walking in the evenings several times per week.  It turned out to be a great opportunity for us to talk about our day and unwind together.  Eventually we grew tired of the same ol' scenery, so we branched out and started exploring more neighborhoods and cool areas around us, adding more miles onto our trip each time.  Soon, we built our way up to walking a trail by a local river and before we knew it, we were walking 8 miles together!  It's a great way to spend quality time together, and the calorie burning benefit ended up being an added bonus. 

Last year we signed up for the Full Moon 5K run in Tulsa.  We allowed ourselves a few months to train together and stay motivated.  Training was more challenging for me than my husband, but we accomplished it together with teamwork!  Let me just tell you, there is no greater feeling than running through the finish line of a 5K, hundreds of people cheering for you.  Ah, sweet success!  Now we're signed up for the Sweetheart 5K Run in February, a great way to celebrate Valentine's Day.  Training has already started for us!


Right after we completed the Full Moon 5K Run, 2012
 



My Workout Summary from my training sesh a few nights ago.  Thanks for the motivation, hubby!

I recommend working out at least 5 times per week.  Incorporate working out into your routine, at least for one hour.  I promise you, it'll get easier each time, and eventually you'll regret the days that you don't workout.  Now, my body craves it.  Motivate your significant other to join in with you, it'll make the schedule that much easier to adhere to, plus you'll have fun together, as a team. 

Try something new!  My husband and I joined a gym together.  Although we don't work out together every single time, he does show me how to operate new weight lifting machines, and we'll run together on the treadmill.  I enjoy taking hot vinyasa classes {aka hot yoga} and Zumba is my #1 workout love, I LOVE to dance.  If you enjoy your workout, you are more likely to stick to it. 

Listen, I'm not a workout pro---AT ALL.  My sister-in-law is, and she's a great inpsiration to me {Love ya, Pudd}.  But, one simple thing I can say is: {if you don't workout, you won't shed those pounds}.  That simple. 

Get off your ass and do something, anything. 

{Mrs. Munana's Top Ten Workout Tunes}:
1.  Ayy Ladies  {Travis Porter, ft. Tyga}
2.  Big Booty  {Ca$h Out}
3.  Drop It Low  {Kat Deluna}
4.  Fuego  {Pitbull}
5.  Girl On Fire  {Alicia Keys}
6.  Long Heels, Red Bottoms  {Trina}
7.  Scream & Shout  {Will.I.Am ft. Britney Spears}
8.  Boom {Snoop Dogg ft. T-Pain}
9.  Say Yeah {Wiz Khalifa}
10. Take It To Da House {Trick Daddy}

XoX,

Mrs. Munana

 

{Cozy Winter Recipe}

I've been searching for a warm and comforting crock pot chili recipe that's Weight Watcher friendly. Too much to ask for? Nope!  I did some online research and found the perfect recipe. And after a tough workout at the gym on a cold winter evening, it's the perfect meal to come home to. Perfectly warm, ready to go, and most importantly "hubby approved". I serve this cozy chili with a few whole wheat crackers and a dash of hot sauce because I'm a spicy freak.

1 lb. Italian Turkey Sausage
15 oz can pinto beans, undrained
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with chilies, undrained
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with garlic and union, undrained
1 medium onion, uncooked, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
Pepper to taste

Remove turkey sausage from casing, break into small pieces with spoon, add remaining items all in slow cooker, cook for 7 1/2 hours on low. Serving Size: 1 1/2 cup, (8 WW Points Plus)

{Note from Mrs. Munana}: I recommend prepping the night before just to make it that much easier on you if you work in the morning. I pre-chop my onion and seal in a plastic bag in the fridge, and I de-case the turkey sausage in the same manner. Also, slow cooker liners are my best friend {can be found at Wal-Mart}.

XoX,
Mrs. Munana

{Intro}

I'm not your typical "blogger". I'm a bit rusty in the writing world, but why not start now?!  So, here goes {wish me luck!}  Guess I should start back where it all began {where I discovered I needed to change}...

Over a year's worth of courtship {wining, dining, falling in love} can really catch up with a girl.  Espeically if you have a guy who wants to splurge on you and treat you like a princess- - what girl would turn that down?! Well, that's where it all added up for little ol' me.  Not blaming anyone, {TRUST ME}, I enjoyed every single minute of it.  After a year's worth of indulgence, I discovered something about myself--I was chunky.  I wasn't 16 anymore, and I can't just eat whatever my little heart desires!  What?! Wait a minte!! When did this happen to me?! 

Upon realizing the truth, I couldn't hide from it.  I was disgusted, angry, sad, depressed - - how could I have let this happen to me?! I thought I was moderately healthy, working out occasionally and whatnot.  Lies, all lies!  My mind had tricked me, and I had lost all control.

So what's a girl to do?! Where was I supposed to begin?  Diet pills? Starvation?  After a few days of research, I decided to try Weight Watchers {again}.  Yes, AGAIN.  I had attempted the famous program once, for about a month or so, and quit.  The first time I was unfocused and not 100% committed.  This time was different.  I WANTED it. 

25 pounds later {along with a Weight Watchers Lifetime Membership} I discovered a new and improved me. 

Here's a Snap Shot of my Weight Watchers weight loss

This blog will follow my journey and give you easy healthy recipes, tips and my insider knowledge of how to shed the pounds {FAST} and discover a new world of healthy living.  As long as a person remains focused and dedicated with a great support system, weight loss can be easier than you think, and I'll help you do it without the Weight Watchers price tag.

 {Cha-$-Ching!}

Xox,

Mrs. Muñana