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Contest Rules

OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA AND WHO ARE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE OR THE AGE OF MAJORITY IN THEIR STATE OF RESIDENCE, WHICHEVER IS GREATER, AS OF THE DATE OF ENTRY. VOID ELSEWHERE AND WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT DOES NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.

1. ELIGIBILITY:
Open only to individuals who are legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, 18 years of age or older or the age of majority in their state of residence, whichever is greater. The following individuals are not eligible: employees, contractors, directors and officers of H. J. Heinz Company, L. P. ("Sponsor"), Promotion Execution Partners, Ferrara & Company, Emanate, Kick Apps, Promotion Fulfillment Partners, LLC, and each of their respective parent, subsidiaries and affiliated companies, distributors, web design, advertising, and fulfillment agencies and other individuals and entities involved in the administration, development, fulfillment and execution of this Contest (collectively, "Sponsor & Others"), and the immediate family members (spouse, parent, child, sibling and spouse or "step" of each) and those living in the same households of each.

2. BRIEF OVERVIEW OF PROMOTION:
The Weight Watchers® Smart Ones® “Share Your Story Contest” (“Contest”) starts on 7/15/09 at 6:00 P.M. ET and ends on 4/30/10 at 11:59:59 P.M. ET (“Contest Entry Period”). All entries (“Submissions”) must be uploaded to www.eatyourbest.com/community (“Contest Website”) no later than 4/30/10 at 11:59:59 P.M. ET. Please be aware that your copy, photos and videos may be publicly displayed on the Contest Website. To participate in the Contest, a community member (“Member”) as defined below must submit a blog post on the Contest Website, which may include photos, videos and copy up to 300 words in length, in which the member shares their weight loss story according to the instructions and judging criteria stated in these Official Rules. (Be sure to carefully read these Official Rules as you will be bound by them.) The twelve (12) Submissions selected by the panel of Contest judges may be posted on the Contest Website for public view. Twelve (12) Winners will receive a Flip Video Camcorder. Additionally, each Winner’s weight loss story may be featured on eatyourbest.com as a “Featured Member”.

3. TO ENTER:
To enter, a Member must go to www.eatyourbest.com/community during the Contest Entry Period, and follow the instructions to register, post his/her Submission, and click on the “Share Your Story” link. Submissions must be received no later than 4/30/10 at 11:59:59 P.M. ET or the member’s submission will not be entered into the Contest. Before uploading a Submission, each member must indicate his/her agreement that s/he has read, understands and agrees to be bound by these Official Rules. Remember: Once a Submission has been posted, it may not be changed or edited. Be sure to save your Contest Submission in its original format after uploading it to the Contest Website. Submissions become the property of Sponsor and will not be returned. Limit of one (1) entry per person/e-mail address. Multiple entrants are not permitted to share the same e-mail address. Any attempt by any entrant to obtain more than the stated number of entries by using multiple/different e-mail addresses, identities, registrations and logins, or any other methods will void that entrant's entries and that entrant will be disqualified.

4. REPRESENTATIONS & WARRANTIES AS CONDITIONS OF ENTRY:
Submitter by registering and uploading a Submission, represents and warrants that: (A) s/he has the legal capacity to enter this Contest; (B) the Submission has not been entered in or won previous contests or awards; and (C) the Submission has not been published or distributed previously in any media. Additionally, each Submitter represents and warrants that the member owns all rights and title to the Submission and all the Submission Elements. Submitter further represents and warrants that the member has obtained permission from each person whose name, image, likeness or voice ("Likeness") is included in the Submission, and that such person(s) have granted Submitter all necessary rights to use the person's Likeness as described in these rules, and that Submitter can and will make written copies of such permissions available to the Sponsor upon request. By uploading a Submission, a Submitter, irrevocably grants Sponsor and its affiliates, legal representatives, assigns, agents and licensees, the unconditional, unlimited and perpetual right and permission to reproduce, encode, store, copy, transmit, publish, post, broadcast, display, publicly perform, adapt, exhibit and/or otherwise use or reuse the Submitter's Submission and Submission Elements, including, but not limited to, the recording and the performances contained therein (in each case, as submitted or as edited/modified in any way by the Sponsor, in its sole discretion), as well as to use (or not use) Submitter's and the Family Members’ names, likenesses, photographs, and/or statements ("Bio Information") in this Contest in any and all media without limitation, worldwide and throughout perpetuity, without additional compensation, notice to, or approval from Submitter, or any other party. Each Submitter understands and agrees that although it has granted Sponsor to use its Submission as stated hereinabove, Sponsor, in its sole discretion, may elect not to so use any said Submission. EACH SUBMITTER REPRESENTS, UNDERSTANDS AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT A SUBMITTER WILL NOT BE PAID FOR OR RECEIVE ANY FORM OF COMPENSATION OR ROYALTY OTHER THAN POTENTIALLY THE PRIZES STATED HEREIN IN EXCHANGE FOR GRANTING SPONSOR THESE RIGHTS OR FOR ANY SUBSEQUENT USE OF SUCH SUBMISSION BY SPONSOR. Each Submitter waives all intellectual property rights, privacy/publicity rights or other legal or moral rights that might limit or preclude Sponsor’s use of the respective Submission and agrees not to sue or assert any claim against Sponsor & Others arising out of or connected to the use of the Submission or Bio Information. Each Submitter further agrees to indemnify and hold Sponsor & Others harmless from any and all claims, damages, expenses, costs (including reasonable attorneys' fees) and liabilities (including settlements), brought or asserted by any third party against any of them due to or arising out of the respective Submission, or the Submitter's conduct in creating a Submission or other actions in connection with this Contest, including but not limited to claims for trademark infringement, copyright infringement; violation of an individual's right of publicity or right of privacy; or defamation. Each Submitter further agrees to release and hold harmless Sponsor & Others from any and all claims that any advertising subsequently produced, presented, and/or prepared by or on behalf of Sponsor infringes Submitter's rights with regard to any Submission Elements, contained in the Submission. Although all Submissions will be reviewed by Sponsor before being judged, posted or published; the posting or publication of a Submission does not mean the Submission has been deemed to be in compliance with these Official Rules. Submissions that do not comply with these Official Rules or that otherwise contain prohibited or inappropriate content as determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion will be disqualified and, if posted on any websites related to this Contest, removed there from.

5. CONTENT REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMISSION FORMAT:
(A) Creative Objective: The creative objective of the Submission is to create a Submission that will deliver the weight loss story of our community members, and motive other members to share their stories. (B) Content Requirements: The Submission must be a minimum of fifty (50) words and a maximum of one hundred fifty (300) words in length, including any tags, and must be primarily in English. Submission may not contain or refer to any food or beverage brands other than Weight Watchers® Smart Ones®. All Submission Elements used must be either (i) entirely original, or (ii) be in the public domain. Use of any elements, including without limitation music, audio, speech/voiceovers, video, stills, visuals, or other materials that are not original, in the public domain, or downloaded from the Web Site may result in disqualification of Submission, in Sponsor's sole discretion. A Submission must not contain, mention, refer or otherwise allude to the name or logo of any retailer, manufacturer, brand, product, person, company or character nor may it contain, mention, refer or otherwise allude to any obscene, lewd, violent, illegal, offensive, disparaging or inappropriate words, abbreviations, language, signs, products, symbols, political, personal and/or religious references or statements, (including but not limited to words or symbols that are widely considered offensive to individuals of a certain race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or socioeconomic group; must not promote alcohol, illegal drugs or tobacco (or the use of any of the foregoing); or in any way reflect negatively upon the Sponsor as determined by the Sponsor in its sole discretion. All Submissions will be reviewed before being posted or judged; however, despite a Submitter’s receipt of an email from Sponsor confirming acceptance of his/her Submission, posting of a Submission does not mean the Submission has been deemed to be in compliance with these Rules. Submissions that do not comply with these Official Rules or that otherwise contain prohibited or inappropriate content as determined by the Sponsor in its sole discretion at anytime during the Promotion Period, will be disqualified and will not be considered for a Prize. (C) Technical Requirements: The maximum file size for any Submission to be uploaded to the Contest Website is 100 MB, and must be provided in one of the following file formats: .flv, .avi, .mov, .mpg, wmv, .asf, .mpeg, .mp4, or .3gp.

6. SELECTION OF WINNERS:
Judging will commence as Submissions are received and will be completed on or around the fifteenth of each month beginning August 15, 2009 and ending May 15, 2010, at which time the highest scoring entry received as of that time will be declared the winning entry for that judging period. Two winning entries will be selected in the months of (June & July 2010). Non-winning entries from one month will be eligible to win in subsequent months, but will not be re-judged each month. Submissions will be judged by a panel of qualified judges (“Contest Judges”) comprised of Sponsor’s employees. The Contest Judges will employ the following criteria in evaluating and rating the Submissions: (i) Originality – 25%; (ii) Overall appeal – 25%; (iii) Likelihood to motivate people to use lose weight/start a healthier lifestyle -25%; and Use of key messaging – 25%. The twelve (12) Submissions that are selected based on the above criteria will be designated as the Twelve Winning Submissions. In the event of a tie in any month, the tie will be broken based on the highest score received for Criterion (i) Originality, and continuing thereafter to each other Criterion above in order, as needed to break the tie. If a tie still remains, the tied Submissions will be evaluated and ranked by a Contest Judge not previously involved in the judging. Potential Grand Prize Winners will be notified by email, phone, and/or courier within approximately five (5) business days of each drawing. The Submitters of the potential Top Twelve winners will be required to irrevocably assign and transfer to Sponsor any and all rights, title and interest in their respective Submission, including, without limitation, all copyrights, and agree to waive all moral rights in that Submission. The Submitters of the Top Twelve Winning Submissions will be required to complete, sign and return an Affidavit of Eligibility, Liability Release, Copyright Assignment and, where lawful, a Publicity Release and return these properly signed documents to Sponsor in the pre-paid, pre-addressed mailer provided to Submitter within 5 days of date notice was sent or their potential winning status will be forfeited and an alternate winner may be selected. Notification of Winners status must be kept confidential until their Submissions are publicly revealed by Sponsor. All Top twelve winners are subject to verification, including without limitation, verification of eligibility, compliance with these Official Rules and completion of all required documents (described below). Additionally, the potential Winners agree that Sponsor may conduct a confidential background check as described in Rule 7 below. Entrants agree that the Sponsor has the sole right to decide all matters and disputes arising from this Contest and that all decisions of Sponsor are final and binding.

7. PRIZES: GRAND PRIZE (12):
Twelve (12) Winners will receive a flip video camera (Approximate Retail Value: $250.00). TOTAL ARV OF ALL PRIZES: $3,000. Prizes may not be redeemed for cash and they are neither transferable nor substitutable, except at the sole discretion of the Sponsor. The potential Winners may also be required to sign additional documents, as deemed necessary by Sponsor in its sole discretion. Sponsor reserves the right to require a potential Winner to submit to a confidential background check to confirm eligibility as a condition of awarding the Prize to help ensure that the use of any such person in advertising or publicity for the Contest will not bring Sponsor & Others into public disrepute, contempt, scandal or ridicule or reflect unfavorably on the Contest as determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion. All Prizes will be awarded provided that, in Sponsor’s good faith judgment and sole determination, there are a sufficient number of eligible and suitable Submissions. LIMIT: Only one (1) Prize per Family will be awarded.

8. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY/RELEASE/ INTERNET:
No liability or responsibility is assumed by Sponsor or Contest Parties resulting from any user's participation in or attempt to participate in the Contest or ability or inability to upload or download any information in connection with participating in the Contest. No responsibility or liability is assumed by the Sponsor or Contest Parties for technical problems or technical malfunction arising in connection with any of the following occurrences which may affect the operation of the Contest: hardware or software errors; faulty computer, telephone, cable, satellite, network, electronic, wireless or Internet connectivity or other online communication problems; errors or limitations of any Internet service providers, servers, hosts or providers; garbled, jumbled or faulty data transmissions; failure of any e-mail transmissions to be sent or received; lost, late, delayed or intercepted e-mail transmissions; inaccessibility of the Contest Website in whole or in part for any reason; traffic congestion on the Internet or the Contest Website; unauthorized human or non-human intervention of the operation of the Contest, including without limitation, unauthorized tampering, hacking, theft, virus, bugs, worms; or destruction of any aspect of the Contest, or loss, miscount, misdirection, inaccessibility or unavailability of an email account used in connection with the Contest. Sponsor & Others are not responsible for any typographical errors in the announcement of Prizes or these Official Rules, or any inaccurate or incorrect data contained in the Contest Website. The use of any robotic, automatic, macro, programmed, third party or like methods in this Contest are prohibited and the use or attempted use of such will void any attempted participation effected by such methods, may result in the cancellation, termination, or modification of the Contest and the disqualification of the individual utilizing the same. CAUTION: ANY ATTEMPT TO DELIBERATELY DAMAGE ANY WEBSITE OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE PROMOTION IS A VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS. SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, THE SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES OR OTHER REMEDIES FROM ANY SUCH PERSON (S) RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ATTEMPT TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW. Use of the Contest Website is at user's own risk. Sponsor & Others are not responsible for any personal injury or property damage or losses of any kind which may be sustained to user's or any other person's computer equipment resulting from participation in the Contest, use of the Contest Website or the download of any information from the Contest Website. By participating in the Contest, the Submitter releases Sponsor & Others from any and all claims, damages or liabilities arising from or relating to participation in the Contest. By accepting a prize in the Contest, Winners agree that Sponsor & Others shall not be liable for any loss or injury resulting from participation in the Contest, or acceptance or use of any prize. Sponsor & Others are not liable in the event that any portion of the Contest is cancelled due to weather, fire, strike, acts of war or terrorism, or any other condition beyond their control (a "Force Majeure Event"). As stated above, a Submitter shall be regarded as the official representative acting on behalf of his/her Family and Family Members, is authorized to accept the Prize on behalf of the Family and Family Members, and will be the arbiter of any disputes between and/or among Family Members relating to a Submission or participation in this Contest. Sponsor & Others are not liable for any disputes between a Submitter and his/her respective Family or among Family Members as relates to a Submission or participation in this Contest. If for any reason the Contest is not capable of running as planned, including without limitation, infection by computer viruses, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the Contest, Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion to cancel, modify or terminate the Contest and proceed in a manner it deems fair and reasonable, including the selection of winners from among eligible Submissions received prior to such cancellation, modification or termination. Further, Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual deemed to be (a) tampering or attempting to tamper with the entry, judging or voting process or the operation of the Contest; (b) violating the Official Rules; or (c) acting in an unsportsmanlike or disruptive manner, or with intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other person.

9. PRIVACY POLICY:
Any personally identifiable information collected during an entrant's participation in this Promotion will be collected by Sponsor and used by Sponsor, its affiliates, agents and marketers for purposes of the proper administration and fulfillment of the Promotion as described in these Official Rules and in accordance with Sponsor's Privacy Policy as such is stated at www.heinz.com/privacy.aspx.

10. PUBLICITY RIGHTS:
By accepting a Prize, Prize Winners agree to allow Sponsor and/or Sponsor's designee the perpetual right to use their name, biographical information, photos and/or likeness, and statements for promotion, trade, commercial, advertising and publicity purposes, at any time or times, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, worldwide, including but not limited to on the World Wide Web and Internet, without notice, review or approval and without additional compensation except where prohibited by law.

11. GENERAL:
By entering this Contest, participants agree to abide by and accept these Official Rules. Participants waive any right to claim ambiguity in these Official Rules. In no event will more Prizes be awarded than are stated in these Official Rules. In the event that due to technical, mechanical or other errors, there are more potential Prize Winners than are stated in these Official Rules, a random drawing among the claimants will be held to determine the Game Prize Winners. All federal, state and local laws and regulations apply. In the event of a dispute as to the identity of a winner based on an email address, the winning entry will be declared made by the authorized account holder of the email address submitted at time of entry. "Authorized account holder" is defined as the natural person who is assigned to an email address by an Internet access provider, on-line service provider or other organization (e.g., business, educational institution, etc.) that is responsible for assigning email addresses for the domain associated with the submitted email address. The interpretation of these Official Rules shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Any and all disputes will be resolved individually, without resort to class action, in the appropriate courts in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania exclusively, and subject to the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Should there be a conflict between the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and any other laws, the conflict will be resolved in favor of the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. All federal, state, and local laws apply. Void in PR and where prohibited by law.

12. WINNERS LIST:
For a list of the Grand Prize Winners, visit www.eatyourbest.com/community, by 5/30/10.

These Weight Watchers Smart Ones “Share Your Story Contest” Rules may not be re-printed or republished in whole or in part without the prior written consent of H.J. Heinz Company, L.P.

Sponsor: H. J. Heinz Company, L.P. 357 6th Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 ©2009

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Happy Friday
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good morning and Happy Friday!
  Sorry for the silence yesterday. But, got a little tied up and couldn't get on here to send out my usual daily blog. But, I am back today! This will probably be my last blog for a few days. I'll be busy next week with travel and Thanksgiving plans. So, look for me again on next Friday! We'll have a lot to catch up on by then for sure.
  So, next week is the big week.....Thanksgiving Day celebrations begin! So, read all my blogs that gave you some good tips on what to do during those holiday celebrations. At the end of this blog, I'll list them again for you. Just be prepared and you'll do fine. Don't let anyone or any food sabatoge your progress....it is not worth it. Just keep that in mind and you'll be fine. I am telling myself the same thing too. Also, check out my Turkey Day Recipe blog and get some great ideas on what to bring or serve at the celebrations. Remember, this holiday is about family, friends and sharing, so a lot of food does not have to be the main attraction.   Keep the bigger picture in mind.
  Here are the reminder tips:
  • Have a game plan in mind before you go. Enjoy a light snack or meal at least 30 minutes before arriving to the dinner. You won’t be hungry and it will keep you in control. If you can, ask what will be served and then offer to bring something along. Bringing a dish will give assurance there will be at least one healthy offering as well as show the host or hostess your thoughtfulness.
  
  • Scan then choose. Before anything hits your plate, look at what is presented, then decide. Go for veggie platters, steamed or roasted vegetables, turkey breast or chicken (skin removed), and fruit for dessert. Steer clear of the creamy based salads, such as potato or pasta salad. Watch out for the stuffing and cheesy casseroles too. These items are often loaded with calories and fats that can potentially derail your weight loss and healthy eating goals. You may sample a small taste of one item that may not be as healthy, but watch those portion sizes.
  • Stay in control.   Sometimes peer pressure can play a vital role in this situation. If people do not see you eating as much as they are, they can feel as though you are not joining in on the fun. So, the key is to be prepared and have something already in your hand. An ice filled cup of water or diet soda won’t add any additional calories and won’t leave you standing there idle. If someone still pressures you, just be polite, and say no thank you.
  • Get involved. Remember, the holiday should be about getting together and sharing in the joy of the holiday season. Food is not the only way to get involved in the party. So, be sociable and mingle. A good discussion and even a card game are good distractions that can keep you on track.   However, when you do engage in conversations, keep away from the food table. If you engage too long in front of the table, you may not only find yourself engaging in good conversation, but also some mindless nibbling.
  Have a healthy Thanksgiving holiday! See you next Friday online!!
  Bridgette
- Blog post
- 7 hours ago
- Views: 20
- Not yet rated
De-Stressing
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Well, we made it to Wednesday!
  As mentioned in my blogs earlier this week, stress can be a factor during this holiday season. If next week will be kicking up your stress notch a bit, try some of these tips to help de-stress. I found these in an article by Heidi Brown of Forbes.com, it lists the top 10 ways to de-stress yourself:
  1. Learn to say No
  2. Schedule time for yourself
  3. Realize that everyone needs you at your best
  4. Take 5 minute breaks
  5. Delegate
  6. Don’t make excuses
  7. Go to church
  8. TV time doesn’t count
  9. Take a nightly bath
  10. Forget about being superwoman
  Following these tips will not only bring great health benefits to you and your weight loss efforts, but also others around you. If you are stressed, you can not be there for those who count on you. So, take care of YOU first.
  
  Have a great day!
  
  Bridgette
- Blog post
- 2 days ago
- Views: 80
- Not yet rated
Reflection - Defining the mome
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good morning all!
  Being a full-time working Mom and wife, I don’t get much “me” time. You know, that time to just sit and think…..no noise, no distractions. So, this morning, before starting my usual busy day, I decided to take that extra time and do just that. I did some reflecting. I thought about my journey and how far I have come. I thought about my “wake-up” call and what it took for me to get started on my journey that has led me to where I am today.
  January 3, 2007 was the first day I took those steps. It was tough, but I had a made up mind and was determined to do something about ME.   My health was bad and I was taking three different pills daily. I was 35 years old and didn’t want to continue on medication for the rest of my life. I wanted to stop the constant shortness of breath and be able to keep up with my daughter. I wanted to change not just my weight, but my self-esteem, my drive, my passion….the discovery of the real me trapped inside a 215 pound body.   This was my wake-up call. What is your wake-up call?
  Losing weight is not an easy task. Keeping it off, is even harder, but I am learning each day, that it can be done. Most of you have gotten your own personal wake-up call too. You have decided to take those first steps to a new life.   I believe that is why you found this community and joined. We are all looking for inspiration as well as answers.
  Here is a checklist that I used when I first started out. It helped me to stay focused and get to my goal. So, now I am reflecting on it.
  1. Decide in your mind that this is something you really want to do. This truly has to be a commitment in order for you to succeed.
  2. Take it one day at a time. Change takes time. No one gains weight overnight. It may seem like one day you were eating a slice a pizza and the next day it stuck to your thighs. No, it actually took some time to gain the weight. So, as a result, it will be a process to take the weight off. It will not just melt away on its own. It will be a lot of work, but well worth it. Give yourself time. Change one habit a week; take it day by day.
  3. As most of us are learning, diets don’t work. Weight Watchers has told us this message many times over and over again. So, prepare your mind to trade in all your old habits and replace them with good habits. As you develop new eating habits, your body will start to fall in line with how you are thinking about food. This journey is a lifestyle change. So, you are in it to win it. You don’t want to lose the weight then gain it back. Ultimately, the goal should be to lose it for good.
  4. Be selfish. That’s right….selfish. Take time out for yourself and learn about what you need to do to get yourself on the path to healthy eating and exercise. Carve out some “me” time in your daily schedule to make sure you are getting enough rest, eating the proper foods and exercising your body. It is not only good for you, but also those around you.  The people around you need you to be at your best. Taking that much needed time for yourself is important.
  5. When choosing to go with a weight loss program, choose a plan or program that works best for you. Research all of your options. There are so many programs and plans to follow these days. So, take your time and find what fits with your plans for your new lifestyle.
  6. Lastly, it is always advisable to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before changing your diet or starting any exercise program.
  Whether the decision has been made or the process of making the decision is still underway, define your moment and own it. Freeze that moment in time, then, start using it as a self-motivator to get the ball rolling forward. Once the decision has been made, it will not be easy, but when you remember why you are doing it, it will be at those tough times that you know you have started a journey that has defined your success.
  Until tomorrow……take it one step at a time and live in the moment! Enjoy your day!
  Bridgette
- Blog post
- 3 days ago
- Views: 101
- Not yet rated
Taking back control
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good morning everyone!
  I hope you all had a fantastic weekend! My weekend started off pretty good. On Friday, hubby stopped by and surprised me at work with some roses. I was blown away! I was totally not expecting it at all. It really made my day! He told me how much he appreciates and loves me and sees how much I do. That really made me feel good!
  I actually got a lot of rest this weekend. I am proud of myself. Resting is very hard for me. I am truly a “busy” body. But, I'm working on it. I usually run around doing this and that and then regret it on Monday mornings. But, this time, I did get some much needed rest. I spent a lot of time with my 5 year old daughter. That is always fun and adventurous. She loves to challenge me.
  But, even though I had some good things going on this weekend, there are the not so good times. There are the stressful times, the disappointment times, the sad times and the just being "in dumps" times. One thing I was thinking about was that this is the final week before Thanksgiving! Whew....time has flown right by! We are going to be pretty busy that week in our house. I am sure it will be a busy week for most of you as well. It is so easy to be in focus when things are going well, but what happens when things are not going well with us? What happens when we are in stress mode? Do we get derailed and lose focus?
  In last week’s blogs, I shared some great recipes and recipe links for the big festivities. I even shared with you some tips on how to stay on track at parties and events this holiday season. But, there is one more thing I want to share with you. If you are like me, eating based on emotions, you will need some help when the holiday stress starts to get to you. Here are some tips that I have discovered on my journey that really help me get through the stress and "not so good times" without turning to food for comfort. I hope you find at least one or two or even all that are useful for you. Here goes…..
  The six step zero calorie solution for handling emotional eating:
  1. Discover your emotional triggers
  2. Regain control
  3. Avoid unwanted extra calories
  1. Cry it out. Allow yourself to feel the pain. Tears allow you to release what is bothering you from deep inside. Don’t bury the feelings with food. Let the tears roll.
  2. Pray it out. Once you start allowing yourself to feel the pain, you will need some help dealing with it. Ask God to give you strength. He will hear your cries and give you comfort like no other food. He can permanently fill that emptiness with peace and contentment.
  3. Write it out. When that moment hits you, write it down. A journal serves as a good distraction and allows you to say everything you are feeling at that moment. These are your thoughts and feelings and no one else has to know. Once you have it all on paper, your journal will serve as a very useful tool to identify your food triggers when you are in emotional overload.
  Ask yourself these questions:
  • What happened to make you feel bad?
  • What are you thinking about eating?
  • Are you hungry at this moment?
  • What are you planning to do?
  4. Laugh it out. Laugher is truly the best medicine. Allow yourself to laugh at yourself sometimes. We often take ourselves too seriously. Some situations are very serious and should be treated accordingly. However, in most situations, you will find that it could always be worse.
  5. Work it out. Go for a walk or exercise. It clears your mind and refocuses your attention on something else rather than your present situation. It turns you away from the food and back to your weight loss and fitness goals.
  6. Talk it out. Communication is a key to opening the door to your inner feelings. However, be careful. Talk to someone who won’t judge you and someone you truly trust. Tell them how you feel and be specific. If they are the person who is causing you pain, tell them. If there are underlying problems in your relationship, discussing the issues will heal you and even the relationship.
  So, stop, take a deep breath, and take back control. No matter what life throws at you, there is always a zero calorie solution.
  For more info: Feeding your feelings – WebMD.com
  
  Until tomorrow…..stay on the journey!
- Blog post
- 4 days ago
- Views: 81
- Not yet rated
A little experiment and Friday
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  TGIF!!
  
  Got a question......
  
  Has anyone ever tried putting Smart Ones Artisan flatbreads in the oven?
  
  Well, I had one of the flatbreads in the freezer, the Chicken Bruschetta Grilled Flatbread. So, since I am always thinking outside the box, I decided to do a little experiment. I was off from work on Wednesday, and had some time on my hands. That is when I get into trouble most times, but this time I think it paid off.
  
  Anyway, I thought, what would happen if I put it in the oven and bake it. I would keep it open, like a pizza and not fold it like a flatbread. So, I set the oven to 350 degrees. Then, I lightly sprayed my baking sheet with butter-flavored Crisco cooking spray. Then, I laid the flatbread onto the baking sheet, lightly sprayed the flatbread with the butter-spray on top and placed in the oven for about 20 minutes. It looked good, but how would it taste? Well, let me tell you, it was pretty good! The crust was crispy and thin, like a thin crust hand tossed style pizza. I cut it into four slices and it was heavenly to me.
  
  Don’t say it…..I know it goes against the packaging instructions, but I thought….what the heck, this is good stuff!
  
  Next time, I may try using olive-oil cooking spray. I chose the butter-flavored one this time because it seems to give the crust that little buttery taste that you may taste in a full-fat pizza crust, but without all the calories and guilt. So, just thought I would share that with you.
  
  Now…..recipe time! From my kitchen to yours, this is another one of my quick and easy meals. You can put it all together in no time. I divide it up into separate containers for quick and easy portion control. It is easy to reheat the next day and takes the guess work out of what’s for lunch or dinner. I have also added some side suggestions as well as a dessert recipe!
  
  Meaty Beanie Leanie (with turkey smoked sausage)
  Makes about 9 (1c) servings. 202 calories/2.2 fat grams per serving
  Ingredients:
  8 oz. Hillshire Farm Turkey smoked sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
  4 (16 oz.) can Bush’s Great Northern Beans or Pinto Beans, rinsed off and drained (also available in Reduced Sodium)
  2 cans of Ro*tel tomatoes (original), drained
  1 cup of KC Masterpiece low-cal BBQ sauce (or a BBQ sauce that has low sugars and no more than 10 calories per 2T)
  1/2 cup water
  Instructions:
  Cut sausage into bite-size pieces. Lightly spray a large pot with non-stick cooking spray. Add the smoked sausage and heat until slightly browned on one each side. Add the Ro-tel, beans, BBQ sauce and water. Reduce heat, let simmer until all heated.
  
  For side suggestions: Add a side salad with 2 tablespoons of fat free dressing or 2 cups of steamed broccoli with a little I Can’t believe it’s not Butter spray and Mrs. Dash Southwest Seasonings sprinkled on top
  
  For dessert: Smart Ones Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Sundae (my favorite) or this recipe from last Friday’s blog, which I am modifying here to change the flavors:
  Chocolate Cream Pie Pudding
  6 servings (about 1/3 cup each) Est. calorie and fat per serving: 132.5 cal, less than 1 gram fat
  Ingredients:
  1 - box (4 serving size) Fat-Free Sugar-Free Jell-O Instant pudding and pie filling Chocolate flavored mix
  3 sheets – Low-Fat Graham Crackers
  1 - 8 oz tub of thawed COOL WHIP FREE Whipped Topping
  1/2 c Fat Free evaporated canned milk
  Instructions:
  Take graham crackers and place in Ziploc bag. Pound them with a mallet or rolling pin to form fine crumbs. Combine the pudding mix and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside. Add milk and cool whip free to pudding. Use wire whisk and beat by hand or use electric mixer and beat well until smooth and creamy. For instant portion control, go ahead and divide pudding into 6 small bowls. Add some crumbs to the bottom of each bowl. Put 1/3 cup of pudding into each bowl. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumbs on top of each serving of pudding. Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Serve chilled. For extra coldness, place in freezer about 10 minutes before eating.
  
  With these suggestions, you can have a great meal with a chocolate dessert, less than 500 calories!
  
  Enjoy your weekend! Don’t forget to check Monday’s blog!
- Blog post
- 1 week ago
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Fast Food
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good morning all!
  I was online this morning reading some articles that really caught my attention. I am sure we all know and hear constantly about how fast food is unhealthy. It is certainly the cause of my battles with weight throughout the years.
  I have attached the links to some interesting articles that I ran across that give some interesting information about fast food. One talks about food allergies linked to fast food. And the other two discuss the top 10 worst foods and the top 5 worst fast food restaurants. Check out these articles at your leisure.
  Fast Food Allergies: A Dangerous Reality: http://www.qualityhealth.com/featured-article-segment?fa=104148&rf=40941&ct=36917&mc=MTUxNzg4Njk.
  
  5 Worst Fast Food Restaurants: http://www.qualityhealth.com/featured-article-segment?fa=108&rf=40941&ct=36918&mc=MTUxNzg4Njk.
  The 10 Worst Foods in America: http://www.qualityhealth.com/featured-article-segment?fa=448&rf=40941&ct=36918&mc=MTUxNzg4Njk.
  Tomorrow is Friday....so, don't miss tomorrow's blog and surprise recipe! Have a great day!
- Blog post
- 1 week ago
- Views: 154
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411 on Holiday eating
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Whew…..we are almost to Friday!!
  
  As we continue gearing up for Thanksgiving, I wanted to continue sharing strategies and of course, recipes that will get you through the holiday eating frenzy. Whether you are planning to eat out at a restaurant (Oh yes, many restaurants and hotels will be serving Thanksgiving dinner on Thanksgiving day!) or with your family and friends at home, if you are planning to splurge this Thanksgiving holiday, here a few tips on how to burn off those extra calories.
  
  Burn Off Extra Thanksgiving Calories
  http://www.startmakingchoices.com/beactive/articles/Burn-Extra-Holiday-Calories.jsp?WT.mc_id=SMC_Nov_09_B&WT.mc_ev=click
  
  But for those of us who want to stay on course and away from the next dress or pants size, here are some great tips to help this holiday season as well as any party or event you may attend.
  • Have a game plan in mind before you go. Enjoy a light snack or meal at least 30 minutes before arriving to the dinner. You won’t be hungry and it will keep you in control. If you can, ask what will be served and then offer to bring something along. Bringing a dish will give assurance there will be at least one healthy offering as well as show the host or hostess your thoughtfulness.
  
  • Scan then choose. Before anything hits your plate, look at what is presented, then decide. Go for veggie platters, steamed or roasted vegetables, turkey breast or chicken (skin removed), and fruit for dessert. Steer clear of the creamy based salads, such as potato or pasta salad. Watch out for the stuffing and cheesy casseroles too. These items are often loaded with calories and fats that can potentially derail your weight loss and healthy eating goals. You may sample a small taste of one item that may not be as healthy, but watch those portion sizes.
  • Stay in control.   Sometimes peer pressure can play a vital role in this situation. If people do not see you eating as much as they are, they can feel as though you are not joining in on the fun. So, the key is to be prepared and have something already in your hand. An ice filled cup of water or diet soda won’t add any additional calories and won’t leave you standing there idle. If someone still pressures you, just be polite, and say no thank you.
  • Get involved. Remember, the holiday should be about getting together and sharing in the joy of the holiday season. Food is not the only way to get involved in the party. So, be sociable and mingle. A good discussion and even a card game are good distractions that can keep you on track.   However, when you do engage in conversations, keep away from the food table. If you engage too long in front of the table, you may not only find yourself engaging in good conversation, but also some mindless nibbling.
  
  Now, to add on to the recipes that I shared in yesterday’s blog, here are a few more!
  
  Here is an awesome pumpkin cake recipe that I discovered while searching online! I have made this cake numerous times.   It is SO good! No one will believe it is low in calories and fat! Shhh! Don’t tell anyone! Just sit back and hear all the compliments of how delicious it is.
  
  Quick and Easy Pumpkin Cake
  http://www.startmakingchoices.com/recipes/recipeDetails.jsp?action=recipe&recipeid=1826&view=view&WT.mc_id=SMC_Nov_09_B&WT.mc_ev=click
  
  Oh, and one more link……here are TONS of recipes for some healthy holiday eating: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/thanksgiving-recipes/NU00643
  
  That’s all for now! Have a great day!
  
  Bridgette
- Blog post
- 1 week ago
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Eating plan to get you started
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good afternoon all! I don't usually blog twice a day, but someone just asked me about an eating plan they could use. So, I remembered I had this in another blog last week, but it was buried with some other recipes and tips. I didn't want anyone to miss this one. So, here it is again.....
  Here is a quick guide to help with meal planning. I use this myself and it really works! You can incorporate Smart Ones right into this plan too!
  
  BREAKFAST (about 350 calories spent here)
  Entrée (examples: Smart Ones breakfast entree, whole grain cereal, whole grain bagel, whole grain toast, etc.)
  Dairy or protein
  Fruit
  
  MID-MORNING SNACK:
  Low-fat, 100-140 calories (example: protein bar, Fiber One bar, Kashi bar)
  
  LUNCH (about 300-350 calories spent here)
  Entrée (example: Smart Ones frozen entrée, Progresso Light soup (watch sodium), low-fat sandwich tuna with water or chicken with water and whole grain bread, turkey on whole wheat)
  Salad or raw vegetable with 2T low-fat or FF dressing or a Fat Serving (see grocery list)
  Dairy or Protein (yogurt or low-fat cheese or sugar free fat free Jell-o or South Beach pudding)
  
  AFTERNOON SNACK:
  Low-fat, 100-140 calories (example: fruit, yogurt or cheese, or Kashi bar)
  
  DINNER (about 500 calories spent here)
  Entrée (examples: Smart Ones Artisan Pizza (yum), grilled chicken, turkey burger, low-fat pasta dish, any recipes you choose that are low in fat; check online: www.eatingwell.com)
  2 Vegetable servings
  Salad or fruit
  
  DESSERT (no more than 220 calories should be spent here):
  Low-fat treat (Smart Ones Chocolate Chip Cookie dough dessert (my favorite), low-fat frozen yogurt, low-fat icecream or non-fat fruit sorbet)
  
  DRINK YOUR WATER!!! You can add Crystal Light or some other sugar-free low-calorie drink mix (no more than 5 calories per serving). It goes down much easier. Or try a lemon or lime....works just as well and no added calories!
  
  Have an awesome day!! - Bridgette
- Blog post
- 1 week ago
- Views: 124
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Turkey Day recipes
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  11/10/2009 - Happy Tuesday!
  
  Do I have some great recipes to share with you today? Of course I do! Thanksgiving plans are underway at our house. For those of you who know me, you know what a planner I am. When trying to watch those calories this holiday season (and throughout the year), I have to be on guard, planned and ready for action.
  
  So, as promised in my last two blogs, here are some great recipe finds that I have researched. Now, I can’t take any of the credit for these awesome dishes, but I guess I can take credit for finding them. J
  
  Here is a great Turkey Day lineup that is sure to please. I will be trying at least one these out myself for our Thanksgiving dinner this year. These recipes come to you from Eatingwell.com. They are a great source for a lot of my recipe favorites as well as healthy meal tips and ideas.
  Check them out: www.eatingwell.com
  
  Eatingwell did an awesome job on these makeover recipes. These recipes will save you TONS of calories as compared to the traditional recipes. These are all classics that most of us just can’t live without. So, you can have your turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes……and pumpkin pie too! Just leave the extra calories behind. Remember, please remember.......WATCH THOSE PORTIONS!
  
  Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
  http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/maple_roasted_sweet_potatoes.html
  
  Cornbread & Sausage Stuffing
  http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/cornbread_sausage_stuffing.html
  
  Apple Shallot Roasted Turkey
  http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/apple_shallot_roasted_turkey.html
  
  Frozen Pumpkin Mousse Pie
  http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/frozen_pumpkin_mousse_pie.html
  
  And one more thought……
  
  If you don’t cook, no problem, forward this blog page to your host or hostess who will be preparing the Thanksgiving Day feast. They would love you for helping them plan. ;-)
  
  If I stumble on more recipes or tips, I’ll be sure to send them your way.
  
  Have a great day! J
- Blog post
- 1 week ago
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Monday's Blog - Sharing ideas
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  11/9/2009 - Happy Monday! Hope you all had a great weekend. My weekend was busy, but I got a lot done. I did my usual recipe testing, which is always fun for me. I did my run/walk on the treadmill on Saturday. I’m getting better and better. I run for 1 minute, then, walk for 2 minutes. I did this for 31.15 minutes and burned 200 calories and completed 1.5 miles! I never ran a day in my previous life. When I was overweight, it was very hard for me to run. But, now, I WANT to run. It sure feels good too! J
  
  Did anyone try out the Pumpkin Cheesecake Pudding Recipe from Friday’s blog? Well, I did and I loved it! Got some suggestions and swaps for you too…..
  
  Instead of the 1 cup fat-free skim milk, I used ½ cup fat-free evaporated milk. It gave a much smoother, creamier taste that reminds you of a mousse. Also, my serving sizes ended up being about 1/3 cup each rather than ½ cup each. Lastly, I put one of the servings in the freezer for about 10 minutes before eating it. Wow….that took it over the top! It was just a like a frozen cheesecake dessert! You won't those high fat ones at all.
  
  So, if you haven’t tried it, check out last Friday’s blog for the recipe. If you did try the recipe, I want to hear from you. Add some comments to this blog or shoot me an email at bridgetteywilson@prodigy.net . There is a ‘send message’ link on my profile page for you to email me your thoughts as well.
  
  Speaking of pumpkin pie alternatives…….
  
  Hungry Girl announced a new ice cream treat!
  
  Artic Zero low-fat icecream is known for it’s good tasting low-fat qualities. But, for the holiday season, they are introducing their Pumpkin Spice flavor. Remember those stats I gave on Friday for the Baskin Robbins Pumpkin ice cream? Well, check out Arctic’s stats: A 1/2-cup scoop has just 34 calories, 0g fat, 10g carbs, 0g fiber, and 5g protein (POINTS® value 1*) Definitely want to add this one to the list for a good alternative. Check out their website: http://www.myarcticzero.com/index.html
  
  Since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, starting this week, I will be getting some recipes and tips to you as I come across them. Well, here’s one to start your list……
  
  For some low calorie side options for this Thanksgiving dinner or anytime, check out the new mashed potatoes from Betty Crocker! A 2/3-cup serving (prepared) has 80 calories, 1 - 1.5g fat, 17g carbs, 3g fiber, and 2g protein (POINTS® value 1*). Great find from Hungry Girl.com!! Check out the product website: http://www.bettycrocker.com/products/potatoes/potatoes-news.htm
  
  Until tomorrow, keep focused, keep out of those candy jars and stay on the journey. J
  
  Have great day!
- Blog post
- 1 week ago
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Friday's blog and surprise rec
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good morning all! It is FRIDAY!!!!
  
  I was lying in bed last night and thinking about all I have to do this weekend. I also get most of my recipe ideas in the middle of the night. I've been thinking alot about the Fall season and the weather starting to change. Thanksgiving right around the corner. I love to smell and taste of pumpkin and cinnamon in tasty treats. I thought about some of those treats that are starting to appear on the market for this season. This time of the year is always a challenge.
  
  For instance the pumpkin pie icecream from Baskin Robbins is one to watch for. 4 oz. of this icecream (1/2 cup) packs in 230 calories and 12 fat grams, which 7 are saturated fat. Check out this link: http://www.baskinrobbins.com/Nutrition/Product.aspx?Category=Ice%20Cream&id=0158
  
  And of course, our good friends at Cheesecake Factory loading us up with their holiday favorite, Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake.  I piece (well, hunk) comes in at....ok, hold your breathe....the stats alone could give you a heart attack: One slice: 680 calories/45 grams of fat (24 saturated fat) and a whopping 49 grams of sugar! Ok, enough said. Want more? Here's the link on all of their cheesecakes, just so you are making informative decisions before taking a bite of one of those killer treats: http://www.calorieking.com/foods/calories-in-fast-food-chains-restaurants_c-Y2lkPTIxJmJpZD0xMDEwJnNpZD0tMQ.htmlat
  
  Now that you have the facts, let me give you some good news. We all know that both of these treats can put some damage on the waistline. So, as I lie there in bed last night, I started thinking up this little recipe that might get us through some of these holiday cravings. This special treat gives you the flavor and the best of both worlds: pumpkin and cheesecake.  It is called the Pumpkin Cheesecake Pudding. I just thought it up and will be testing it out this weekend. You are welcome to test it out with me. Don't worry, there is NO baking or cooking involved on this one. I can hear the cheers of my non-cooks out there. You will need some elbow power for stirring or you can use your electric mixer. So, here's the recipe, have a crack at it. You can even take this one to the office potluck that you have already signed up for.
  
  On Monday, I'll let you know how it turned out on my end. If you are game and you try it too, let me know how it turned out on your end. Add a comment to this page and let me know your thoughts. Don't worry, I have many other recipes up my sleeve to share with you as we enter the holiday season. So, stay tuned to this blog. You don't want to miss anything.
  
  Pumpkin Cheesecake Pudding
  Total calories/6 servings (about 1/2 cup each)
  Ingredients:
  1 - small box (4 serving size) Fat-Free Sugar-Free Jell-O Instant pudding and pie filling Cheesecake flavored mix
  3 sheets – Low-Fat Graham Crackers
  1 - 8 oz tub of thawed COOL WHIP FREE Whipped Topping
  1 c Fat Free (Skim) cold milk (I recommend Over the Moon Fat Free milk - it is creamier than most skim milks, but any skim milk will work too)
  1t Pumpkin Pie Spice
  Est. calorie and fat per serving: 125 cal, less than 1 gram fat
  
  Instructions:
  Take Graham crackers and place in ziploc bag. Pound them with a mallet or rolling pin to form fine crumbs. Combine the pudding mix and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside. Add milk and cool whip free to pudding and spice mixture. Use wire whisk and beat by hand or use electric mixer and beat well until smooth and creamy.  Divide pudding into 6 serving bowls. Sprinkle the crumbs on top of each bowl of pudding. Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Serve chilled.
  
  Here's the calorie breakdown for each ingredient:
  3 sheets LF graham crackers – 180, 2.25FG
  8 oz Cool whip Free – 375, 0 FG
  1 box Pudding mix – 100, 0 FG
  1 cup ff milk – 100/0g (calorie range can be between 80-100, depending on brand)
  spices - 0 calories
  
  Craving Chocolate? Substitute the cheesecake flavored pudding with the chocolate fudge flavored one instead.  You can choose any flavor pudding mix you like, just make sure it is a sugar-free variety.
  
  So, have a great weekend and watch those high calorie pitfalls! - Bridgette
- Blog post
- 2 weeks ago
- Views: 136
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It's time....
- From: MLC512
- Description:
  
  I've finally hit a wall, so to speak, with my weight. I've tried everything and found that nothing works. I even tried the "Clean Eating" way of life, but I can't deny myself some foods that I LOVE. When I do, I feel horrible, so now it's time to teach myself how to eat correctly. I won't lie, I LOVE Smart Ones food. Everything is delicious and the portions are perfect. I've even started eating the breakfast meals, which I really like. I also love the fact that Diet Coke isn't a HUGE no no. Although it's NOT the best to have, it curbs if not completely removes any cravings for sweets or sugar. Maybe it's my crutch - so be it.
  I've upped my activity level and started running 3 miles a day and 45 mintues of weight training. I'm really hoping with WW/Smart Ones and my activity level, I'll be able to shed the 20lbs I've gained over the last few years.
- Blog post
- 2 weeks ago
- Views: 117
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Another Day - Another Chance
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good morning all,
  Hope this morning finds you doing well and ready to take charge of your day. I wasn't going to post today, but something inside told me that I should just write what I feel and it just might help someone out there. So, here goes......
  Well, yesterday was a challenge for me. I had some very disappointing news come my way. Something I had been hoping for and waiting for just didn't come through as expected. It hit me pretty hard; harder than I thought possible. When it happened, the first thought was to think about how I was going to handle it. What would the new me do vs. the old me? Well, of course the old me says to go out and hit the first drive thru that you see. But the new me is rational and says, no you better not do that. You have come too far on this journey to turn back to old habits. The light bulb went off in my head and that is how I knew there will always be that battle there inside of me. No matter how long I am on this journey, it will be a battle going on. But, thank God, he didn't let me fall into the trap. So, I stopped what I was doing, called my husband talked to him about the issue. Got a pep talk from him. Then, I called a friend of mine and got a pep talk from her. Slowly, the pain started to settle a bit. As I drove home, I turned on my CD and asked God to help me. I picked up my daughter from school and focused on helping her with her homework. I was proud of myself because I didn't turn to the food like I use to do. I focused on other things and other people to distract me from what I was feeling. Last night, I did some crying too. That helped a lot to finally let it all come down and out.
  I wrote this in hopes that it helps someone else too. You may be going through something right now. And, I stopped by to encourage you that there is another way to deal with the pain. I don't feel 100% better about the news, but I am getting there. I am learning to deal with bad days and disappointments in a different way. I believe that if God closes one door, he is getting ready to open up another one. The point is that I am learning on this journey is to look to him and not to the food for the comfort. Life is tough and having to go through it "sober", meaning no longer binging on food for comfort, is tough at times. Yes, even I still go through the struggle. I started my journey 3 years ago, but still learning that it is a fight everyday. I understand now that I am in for the fight of my life. I have to stay prayed up and in check each day to battle this weight journey. So, if you are out there and struggling with depression, stress or any other obstacle and it is taking you to food, please be assured, that you are not alone in this. You can pull yourself out of it. Stay on the journey and don't give up. But what I am telling myself each day is that I can't take the focus off of what is important. That is me and staying on track to continue on my journey. With God's help, I know I can beat this.....one day at a time....one day at a time. BUT.....this is a new day and new chance to jump the next hurdle.
  Have a great day! Hey....tomorrow is FRIDAY!!!!!
- Blog post
- 2 weeks ago
- Views: 72
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Happy Wednesday - Ready for th
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Good morning!
  It is Wednesday....two more days and the weekend begins. As you can tell, I live for the weekend. I don't have to get up early. I don't have my commute and most of all, I can plan my weekly menu!! Ok, so that doesn't sound like fun to most of you. But, if you want to stay on track and make sure you are eating what you should, planning is key. If you cook on the weekends, you can have all the work over with before your week gets started. If you don't like cooking, then try picking some Smart Ones. They have great breakfast, lunch, dinner and even dessert options! Do your shopping on the weekends and then next week, you are set.
  
  Here is a quick guide to help with your planning. I use this myself and it really works!
  BREAKFAST (about 350 calories spent here)
  Entrée (examples: Smart Ones breakfast entree, whole grain cereal, whole grain bagel, whole grain toast, etc.)
  Dairy or protein
  Fruit
  
  MID-MORNING SNACK:
  Low-fat, 100-140 calories (example: protein bar, Fiber One bar, Kashi bar)
  
  LUNCH (about 300-350 calories spent here)
  Entrée (example: Smart Ones frozen entrée, Progresso Light soup (watch sodium), low-fat sandwich tuna with water or chicken with water and whole grain bread, turkey on whole wheat)
  Salad or raw vegetable with 2T low-fat or FF dressing or a Fat Serving (see grocery list)
  Dairy or Protein (yogurt or low-fat cheese or sugar free fat free Jell-o or South Beach pudding)
  
  AFTERNOON SNACK:
  Low-fat, 100-140 calories (example: fruit, yogurt or cheese, or Kashi bar)
  
  DINNER (about 500 calories spent here)
  Entrée (examples: Smart Ones Artisan Pizza (yum), grilled chicken, turkey burger, low-fat pasta dish, any recipes you choose that are low in fat; check online: www.eatingwell.com)
  2 Vegetable servings
  Salad or fruit
  
  DESSERT (no more than 220 calories should be spent here):
  Low-fat treat (Smart Ones Chocolate Chip Cookie dough dessert (my favorite), low-fat frozen yogurt, low-fat icecream or non-fat fruit sorbet)
  
  DRINK YOUR WATER!!! You can add Crystal Light or some other sugar-free low-calorie drink mix (no more than 5 calories per serving). It goes down much easier. Or try a lemon or lime....works just as well and no added calories!
  
  Have an awesome day!! - Bridgette
- Blog post
- 2 weeks ago
- Views: 61
- Not yet rated
Smart Pizza recipes
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  It is only Tuesday and I am already thinking about some fun food for the weekend! Just because you are watching your weight doesn't mean you can't have what you crave. Just have it smart and sensible. I love Smart Ones Artisan Pizzas!! But, if you don't feel like going out to the store, these recipes come very close to the next best thing.
  Recipe #1: Low-Fat “Pepperoni” Pizza (from Bridgette’s kitchen) Makes 8 slices
  Quick tip: Since most people eat with their eyes, try cutting the pepperoni slices in half. Then, cut up the cheese shreds a little bit too. Spread toppings evenly over pizza. It gives the illusion that you ordered a pizza with “extra” pepperoni and “extra” cheese.
  Pillsbury Refrigerated Pizza Crust – Classic
  34 slices of Hormel Turkey Pepperoni
  1-1/2 Cups Ragu Pizza Sauce
  1 cup Kraft 2% Reduced Fat Mozzarella (4 oz.)
  Follow directions on pizza crust tube for baking temp and baking time. Spray a baking sheet or cookie sheet with olive oil or canola cooking spray. Roll out pizza crust onto prepared baking pan. Spread out crust until it covers the entire bottom of pan.
  Tip: You may also use a two 12 in round pizza pans to make two round thin crust pizzas.
  Spoon on the sauce and spread evenly. Sprinkle ½ of the cheese, and then spread out the pepperoni sliced halves evenly over pizza for full coverage. Sprinkle over remaining cheese. Spray lightly with non-fat olive oil or canola oil spray.
  Bake in oven according to pizza crust instructions. Allow to cool slightly. Cut into 8 even slices. Note: If baking two thin crust pizzas, cut each into 4 wedges. Enjoy!
  1 serving (1 slice) = Approx. 201 cal/5.25 fat grams/less than 1 gram saturated fat
  24% fat
  Recipe #2: Bagel style “Pepperoni” Pizza (from Bridgette’s kitchen) – Makes 2 bagel pizzas. Loaded with fiber and protein! Both bagel pizzas are less than 400 calories total. Compared to the calories of a traditional pepperoni pizza, this is a great calorie bargain! If eating only one bagel pizza, then it will be 187.5 calories/4.5 fat grams.
  1 Thomas’ Hearty Grains 100% Whole Wheat Bagel
  8 slices Hormel Turkey Pepperoni
  ¼ cup Ragu Pizza Sauce
  ¼ cup Kraft 2% Mozzarella Cheese
  Spray a baking sheet with non-stick spray. Place bagel halves onto pan. Divide sauce between each bagel half. Add four pepperoni slices per bagel half. Add 2T cheese per bagel half. Spray lightly with non-fat olive oil or canola oil spray. Bake at 400 for about 10-15 min or until cheese melts and edges of bagels are slightly toasted.
  2 bagel pizzas = approx. 375 cal/9 fat grams
  22% fat
  Enjoy your pizza party! And remember…….watch those portions!
- Blog post
- 2 weeks ago
- Views: 141
- Not yet rated
Quick and easy pasta recipe
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Hello out there!
  I have a quick and easy pasta recipe for you all to try! It is low-fat, low in calories, but great on taste and time. It is so easy to make and economical too. I invented this one when I was on one of my "broke" weeks. That last week before you get paid....we all can relate to that one.
  So, give it try tonight. Makes 12 servings, which is plenty for you and the family. OR you can pack some for lunch and have some for dinner.
  Flavorful Pasta with sausage – 12 servings
  
  8 oz. Hillshire Farm Turkey smoked sausage –360 /20 fat, bite-size cuts
  12 oz. whole grain pasta – each 2 oz. serving = 210cal/1 fat grams total (6*210/6*1)
  2 (26oz) can Hunt’s spaghetti sauce (Tomato and Basil or Traditional) – ½ cup= 50 cal/1 fat * 6 servings * 2 cans
  
  Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set to the side. Cut up turkey sausage into bite-size pieces or slices, your preference. Spray a large pot with cooking spray. Add sausage to pot and allow to sizzle a bit until they are a little charred on one side. This will get the juices and flavors flowing before adding your sauce. Add sauce. Add in pasta and stir completely. Simmer on low for about 10 minutes until all has heated. Divide into 12 portions. Makes 12 (1 - Cup) servings.
  
  Total Calories/fat: 2280/33 fat
  
  Noodles – 1260/6 fat
  Sauce – 540/12 fat
  Sausage – 320/20 fat
  
  Per serving: 265 cal/4.75 fat
- Blog post
- 2 weeks ago
- Views: 126
- Not yet rated
Keeping in Shape at Winter: To
- From: jenniferadams1985
- Description:
  
  As summer draws to a close and winter draws closer, it can be easy to look forward to a few months of being tucked away inside, warm and away from the cold outdoors. And while this is still possible, it's important to keep an eye on your health at the same time.
  
  With shorter days and colder weather, it's easy to neglect the importance of taking exercise during the winter. Ironically, this is one of the major times of the year when your body needs to be in top condition. With the change in seasons, your body can easily become prone to colds and flues, so having the physical strength to battle these off is important.
  
  If going outside for a jog in the mornings or evenings is too much for you, why not consider joining a gym? Although gyms have the image of containing body worshippers and steroid-loving weight lifters, this isn't the case with most gyms. In fact most gyms or leisure clubs simply contain other people just like yourself who are looking to keep trim.
  
  Of course staying healthy isn't just about taking exercise, although this is very important. The food you eat plays an important role in how healthy you are. While cutting out certain foods is always seen as the most important part of staying fit, when it comes to keeping winter colds at bay it's more about what you eat rather than what you don't eat.
  
  For example, foods with a high content of vitamin c are particularly important during the winter months. Vitamin C is essential for keeping you healthy, boosting your immune system and allowing you to keep healthy and fight off colds.
  
  With the increased focus on keeping fit and healthy, winter proves an ideal time to look at your long term health. A checkup with your doctor, a blood test or perhaps speaking to a health or life insurance company are all ways in which you can do this.
  
  So rather than just snuggling up by the fire this winter, take the opportunity to keep your health in shape. Just half an hour a day could make all the difference and there will still be plenty of time left to snuggle up by the fire.
  
  Jennifer Adams writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
- Blog post
- 2 weeks ago
- Views: 96
- Not yet rated
Bridgette Wilson - The Journey
- From: bridge92
- Description:
  
  Long as I could remember. I was the “cute, but chubby” girl. In the first grade, I weighed 90 pounds!! I was the one that adults would say, “She has such a pretty face, if only she could lose a little weight…..”
  
  Fast food was my obsession. I loved French fries…..they were everything. I never met a French fry I didn’t like. When I was in Middle school, every Friday Mom treated us to somewhere special. I would get off the bus and no matter what had happened that day, I knew we were going to go and eat later that evening. There was a place where I grew up in Houston, called “Master Burger”. They had small orders of fries: four for 25 cent with a coupon. I would get the Master Burger with Cheese and four orders of fries and sometimes onion rings as well. I would eat it all!!
  
  College was where I had my first wake up call to do something about my weight. One of my mother’s friends was into fitness and losing weight. She recommended I try Slim-Fast. I did it for about two weeks and lost 14 pounds. I was hooked. So, then I started exercising, watching what I ate and really giving it my all. I went from 194 to 130!! I was wearing a size 8 and thought I was the queen of the world. But the part I didn’t learn was HOW to eat and WHAT to do after the diet is over.   I was finally thinner, but very unhealthy. I realized that you can’t live on shakes for the rest of your life. So, before long, I put the weight back on and was heavier than when I first started out.
  
  In spite of my weight challenges over the years, I met a wonderful man in the fall of 1997. Shawn and I were married on May 20, 2000.   On our wedding day, I weighed 175, which I had accomplished to fit into my wedding dress. Before I got pregnant, I had swarmed up to 210 pounds. We had our daughter in 2004, which surprisingly, I only gained 30 pounds, so that took me to about 240 pounds. After Kayla was born, I dropped 25 pounds just like that. I thought to myself, hey, let’s try losing some more. So, I did finally get down to 188 and was feeling pretty good. I got on a 1500 calorie diet plan on my own. I exercised and was feeling pretty good about my accomplishment. But then, the yo-yo dieting started all over again for me. I returned to my old habits and the weight returned as well. I was back up to 215 pounds.
  
  A job offer came to me in November 2006. We moved to Austin, TX. I continued with my bad eating habits, rebelling on being healthy. I tried to convince myself that since I keep going back to the 200 pound range, maybe this is just where I was meant to remain.
  
  Finally, my turning point came. I had to get self-employment insurance because my consulting firm was not going to be able to provide group insurance to the Texas employees. So, that meant every consultant for my company working in Texas had to get their own insurance. Once the agent found out how much I weighed, they put me in a high risk category, which meant my rate changed so drastically. This was the wakeup call I needed.
  
  On December 28, 2006, I started my weight loss journey, weighing 215 pounds.   For once in my life, I realized, it was an addiction with me and fatty foods. I didn’t want to go back this time, but go forward. I didn’t need to be skinny, just healthy. I started changing the way I was eating and got into exercise. After a year, I got to my ultimate goal of losing 92 pounds!
  
  I have been maintaining my weight loss (between 121-124) since March 2008, which is over a year and half. I am now a size 4-6 Petite in pants and skirts and small in tops! I use to be a size 22W pants and XXL in tops. This makes shopping so much easier and more fun now!
  
  But the three things that are the key to my success are:
  - You must make it a lifestyle change.
  - You can not return to old habits.
  - You must do it for YOU.
  I have learned to find sensible alternatives and still get the same satisfaction as the high fat foods gave me.   Some people want to challenge me to see if I will stick to my new way of eating. I use this as a tool to make me stronger. I have adopted a new way of thinking and along with it came a new life.
  
  Before I go out to a restaurant, I research online for calorie and fat counts. I know what to order before I get there. I only eat out twice a month, and I make Smart Ones part of my lunch menu at least 3 times a week!
  I have learned on my journey that you must plan or you will fail. I have finally learned that I am a food addict and I have to be aware of that or I will end up back in the plus-size department.   But with a little planning ahead, I believe I will make it this time.
  The surprising conclusion is that I don’t even like the way those fatting foods made me feel. I know that I didn’t like the way they made me look.   So, do I miss it?? Not one bit, because when I look in a mirror, I am so grateful to God for helping me to find a new life.
- Blog post
- 3 weeks ago
- Views: 650
- Not yet rated
Another weekend
- From: lainey5006
- Description:
  
  I made it through another weekend without over eating. I even had a dinner party and kept to my eating plan. We even had Smart Ones Chocolate chip cookie sundaes for dessert at my party. Everyone loved them and I was still able to stay within my points.
  My pants are feeling loose on. I do have a long ways to go in my weight goals still. It feels good to not have tight pants. I am in between sizes right now. It is going to be more difficult to walk this week. It has been raining and is cold.
- Blog post
- 3 weeks ago
- Views: 294
- Not yet rated
Emotions
- From: lainey5006
- Description:
  
  I made it through last night without feeding my emotions. It was not easy. I have some turmoil in my life as many people do and last night it popped up. I was able to see what it was and did not try to stuff it back in with comforting foods. I feel good about myself today. So many times in the past I would have stuffed bad things into my mouth and feel horrible the next day for not keeping to my eating plan.
  Lainey
- Blog post
- 4 weeks ago
- Views: 225
- Not yet rated

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