Challenges

As if I haven't given myself enough of a challenge this month by following the Eat from the Pantry challenge, I decided that this is as good a time as any to start losing some weight! I wrote last April how I had always struggled with my weight and had started following Bob Greene's Best Life Diet. I did lose a few pounds (3.6 to be exact) but once more fell off the wagon after a couple of weeks. At least those pounds haven't come back, but I still need to lose MANY more. Again, more importantly I realize that I need to become stronger and more fit so I can keep up with these two crazy boys of mine (well, three boys if you count hubby!) But since I have planned out menus for the month based on food that needs to be used up, I decided what I will do is cut back on the portions of the main dishes I planned, make sure I am eating more veggies and fruits as well as calorie conscious breakfasts and lunches, and drinking more water. I also will try to focus on incorporating excercise back into my life...walking, small weights and using the Wii Fit (which I did yesterday - yay!) I also am posting a ticker tape on my sidebar as a visual reminder to myself that I have 25 pounds to lose (I am the type who NEEDS accountability!) I'll keep you posted.

So last week was great in terms of eating as planned, reducing shopping trips and staying on budget, and I'm planning to keep it that way for this week! I did make one switch up...we felt life having Steak this past Saturday night so I made that meal instead of the Baked Macaroni. It was so nice to know that I had lots of choices in the house! Anyway, here's my choices from the 20 meals I can make right NOW for this week.


Monday: Salmon in Teriyaki Sauce with Rice and Broccoli

Tuesday: Shane is at a meeting, so the boys and I will have Chicken Nuggets, Oven Fries, Veggies & Dip (lots of veggies and no dip for me!)

Wednesday: Spaghetti and Tomato Sauce, Salad and Garlic Bread (meatless)

Thursday: Leftover buffet (Thursday is usually leftovers night since we have accumulated a fair bit of them in the fridge by now!)

Friday: Pizza night...just 1 or 2 pieces for me and loads of salad! And I guess I should forgo my red wine...sigh.

Saturday: Meatballs and Rice with Mixed Veggies

Sunday: Chicken and Stuffing Bake

I will post my weight loss results along with next week's menu plan next Monday. Don't forget to check out more menu plans on http://www.orgjunkie.com/ and Eat From the Pantry Updates on Money Saving Mom!

And, watch for a guest post from me on Simply Frugal on Thursday...I'll make sure to come back and link to it!