Before I get to the food, I thought I let you know that this photo to the left is extremely appropriate today, since I just got back from a really long walk with Sofi. I didn’t intend to take her out for more than 30 minutes or so, but once we started out and I made the decision to take an entirely new route, we were off and running walking. We walked through a gorgeous neighborhood, filled with huge houses and amazing landscaping, and we kept on walking and walking and walking until I realized we’d been gone for 45 minutes. So all told, we took a 90-minute walk, and I think we’re both feeling great (and tired) now.
But back to the food. I’m three days into my decision to eat more real food, and I couldn’t be happier! I feel fuller longer, feel more satisfied, and simply enjoy my food much more. I am so glad that I listened to Kim and my sister. Sometimes the best decision really is the simplest.
I’ve been trying to snap a few photos of my meals, but I’m so bad at remembering! I just have to get into the habit. I have taken a few here and there, so I’ll write a quick post toward the end of the week so that you can see what I’ve been eating.
One thing I’ve been absolutely loving is my new version of the green monster smoothie. I decided to add a scoop of protein powder, and it has really made all the difference. I always loved the flavor of the green monster, but it didn’t stay with me for more than an hour so. Adding in the scoop of protein powder adds 150 calories, but it also adds hours of staying power. Kim gave me samples of several of the BSN Lean Dessert and Nectar powders, and so far my favorite to add to the green monster is the banana nut bread flavor. Yum! I bought that one and it arrived today, and I know that it’s going to be in heavy rotation from here on out, whether I’m trying to lose weight or not. It’s that good! All of the protein powders really help to add a thickness to the smoothie that I’m loving.
I’m keeping lunches simple this week with salads and fruit, and I love the crispness they offer. Dinners are easy for me, because I’m still eating the Lean & Green that I’ve been doing for months. I’m always open to new recipes and meal ideas, so if you have a favorite lunch or dinner, please let me know in the comments.
Another major piece of the puzzle is water. Well how appropriate that today I found out about a Tag-A-Day Challenge 24 Hour Fitness is hosting on FB every day throughout February, and today’s was all about H2O. I look forward to completing as many of the challenges as I can this month. I’m glad they waiting until February to do this, so that the “bandwagon-ers” are gone and the truly serious “challengers” remain.
I’m so thankful that February is here! It feels like a breath of fresh air in so many ways, so I’ll happily “release” January.
So glad to hear that you are feeling better about your food!
You’ll have to tell me all about those nectars!
Yay! I’m so happy you’re feeling successful and in control with your food. It’s better to feel full longer and it definitely helps to keep the cravings at bay. And I’m glad you’re finding the protein powders helpful too. I have the protein shakes every weekday and have the smoothies from greek yogurt every weekend. I’m not much of a morning eater so these totally fill me up and keep me full for hours. I bought several of the sugar free Torani syrups to mix things up even more in the shake department. My faves are the peppermint and the almond. YUM!
I’m curious where you walked. You’ll have to fill me in on that. I have a rough idea. Have a great night!
I walked down Meridian to Campbell Ave, and then all around that neighborhood & back. Pretty, but tiring.
Keep up the great work!
Clever move ! Real food does wonder for us !!! You go girl !
Thats a serious walk! I bet Sofi slept like a baby after that one
I think that youre going to find between the real food keeping you more satisfied and the water challenge you are going to see pounds dropping off quickly
I’m 100% the same as you when it comes to green monsters. Love them, but it just doesn’t do it for me w/o adding protein powder. Add that, and I’m set for hours. i love starting my day off well with one.
I know! It makes me feel so healthy. Plus it really does give me a bit more pep/energy.
I wish I could find a protein powder that didn’t upset my stomach! The last two I tried left me with stomach cramps within 30 minutes of eating them. Ugh!
I find that when I stray away from whole foods, my skin breaks out, I get bloated, and I generally have less energy than when I stick with fruits, veggies, and lean proteins.
Good luck, so glad you seem to have found something that works for you!
I’m glad the real food is making you feel so good! You make me want to try out a green monster. I’ve see several recipes for protein shakes that look really good, but I’ve been hesitant due to all the calories that the protein powder adds. But, since it keeps you full for so long, it just might be worth it!