The Fresh Diet - Nov 29

Well my buddy is back again!  It is just another one of the many benefits offered by The Fresh Diet.  I took the week off because of Thanksgiving, with all the traveling and getting things together for our closing.  All I needed to do was mark my deliveries each day as "hold" and then there was nothing going to waste, nothing delivered while I wasn't here.

I do have to say that it was nice to see my little buddy waiting for me Monday morning.  My husband is away for a few more days so I thought it would be just perfect to see my buddy waiting and I knew I would be eating well without having to do anything.  Jenn is sooooo jealous, unfortunately with closing in just a few days, I can't afford to get her a delivery of her own.  But she still manages to taste every meal she is here for.

Breakfast this morning was Apple Ricotta Cheese Crepes with Fresh Strawberries.  I know you look at these and say "THAT will not fill me up and I will be starving before 10".  I thought that when I had my first meal of crepes - but I was really surprised.  Today was no exception.  I had breakfast a little after 7AM, my crepes with a huge mug of coffee (need the caffeine jolt every day) and then went about doing all those final things for closing and the laundry after our trip.  It wasn't until a little after noon that I even realized what time it was - and it wasn't because I was hungry!

Lunch was The Philly Cheese Steak on a Whole Wheat Wrap with Sauteed Bell Peppers & Mozzarella Cheese.  This tasted different from the one I had for my very first Fresh Diet lunch but just as good.  Perhaps it had more bell peppers this time so I tasted the peppers more, not sure but it is still my favorite.  I really could have this once a week and be a very happy camper.

My snack for today was Strawberry Vanilla Pudding.  When Jenn saw this one, she said, "so what's that one?"  When I told her she wasn't thrilled - but still wanted to taste it.  It really doesn't look like it has anything strawberry in it, but you can definitely taste it with each spoonful.  It's not an overpowering strawberry but you do know that it is not "just" vanilla.  Very creamy.  I really do enjoy those pudding snacks.  Sometimes I have them as my afternoon snack and other times a lighter dessert - either time is perfect.

Dinner was Turkey Breast Scalopini with White Wine & Shallots with Orange Glazed Baked Yams and Sauteed Spinach.  I picked this one because of the sides.  We all should be "turkeyed out" after Thanksgiving - at least with my family - but I thought it would go well with the sides I wanted to try.  I have never been a big fan of yams.  Perhaps because they are usually in a heavy sweet syrup, they are usually NOT on my plate.  These had none of that sickeningly sweet glaze/syrup so it was really just a nicely roasted vegetable.  I may have to try making something like these at home.  And the spinach is really becoming a big favorite for me.  This was a very filing dinner.

Dessert was White Chocolate Chip Cappuccino Cheesecake.  This is just too good to be part of a "diet" program.  I mean seriously - how many diets do you know (that work mind you) that allow you to eat cheesecake for dessert EVERY day?  This is so perfect with a nice cup of coffee ....... definitely my first choice!


I just realized, as I was writing this, that I had selected the same entrees for today as I did for my very first The Fresh Diet meals back at the beginning of October.  The only difference was the snack/Hors D'Oeuvre that I chose for both days.  I have to say in the roughly 2 months that I have been able to taste these meals - they just seem to be getting better and better.  I had enjoyed my first day of meals way back when, and today's meals were equally enjoyed.

Someone said the meals they have had was "heaven on a plate" and I have to say that I agree.  When I look at my meal options I can't believe what a great selection I get to make for each day.  4 separate entree options for each meal?  All made fresh each day?  Delivered fresh to my door each night?  I don't know of any other plan out there that doesn't require you to "add" to your meals or pay much more for each month's delivery.  The Fresh Diet is complete right out of the bag!  Who would have thought Gourmet meals on a diet?  You just gotta love it!  I know that I do.

I hope you had been able to take advantage of the Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal at The Fresh Diet, because it really was a killer deal.  If you weren't able to, I'm sorry, but check out the Fresh Diet Facebook Page, and if you are in the delivery area, perhaps you could win a few days or week or a grand prize in one of their contests for a month!  If you want to get a delivery after seeing all my great meals (check out October and November for each of my previous days) check out The Fresh Diet and call - it really is worth it.  The CS reps are so very helpful and sweet - we just love them all, I've never spoken to such a personable group - no pressure to purchase, but so very helpful.  Thank you Laurie and Dianne and Arleyrose for all your help whenever I call.  I am so very happy that I won a month of meals in a wonderful contest hosted by ScaryMommy, then add the killer Black Friday deal ..... I am set for months and will get through the upcoming tax season without carb overload or fast foods - THANK YOU Chef Yos (executive chef), Mr. Zalmi Duchman (the creator), and The Fresh Diet NY kitchen for my meals.

CSN Holiday Giveaway

 Contest closed on Dec 6th - I will be contacting the winner shortly - we had a great showing so I have lots of entries to check out before making the random selection.   Thanks for your support.

That's right - it is time to start your holiday shopping.

We have been looking at getting some furniture pieces for the new condo.  When a man thinks of furniture what is the first thing he thinks of?  That's right you got it - flat screen TV stands, because where else is he going to put his big ole TV?  That's important right?  If your husband / boyfriend / significant other is anything like my husband - it is most important.

Of course I had to steer him towards CSN Stores because they have a great selection.   I kept saying to him - I want simple, no clutter, and nothing heavy looking.

 Here's one that he picked out - what do you think?  Did he figure out something that was close to what  I was asking for or should I tell him to keep looking?  I guess I will take this long holiday weekend to look for myself and see what I see on the site.  They have a huge selection so I am sure to find something we can both like.

Because I have worked with CSN Stores before, they gave me a heads up for Black Friday Deals that started on Monday, Nov 22nd and will run as long as supplies last. Since these sites are offering exclusive savings at incredibly discounted prices, gift codes and other promotional codes won't apply, but there are still some pretty amazing deals! So don't miss these.

CSN Baby
Every Game Room
Toys and Games Online
Fitness Equipment and more

Ok now for the really good deal.  What better than to start it with the chance to win a prize?  Right?
I have a $65 gift certificate that I will give to one of my lucky readers. Open to US and Canadian readers!
Sounds like a great way to start the holiday season, doesn't it?

Contest will end on December 6th at midnight Eastern time.  That gives you almost 2 weeks to decide what you will do with the gift certificate and get in an entry or two.

First Entry is always an easy one - Leave me a comment  telling me what you would do with your certificate.
Second Entry:  Follow me on GFC, leaving me a separate comment here.
Third Entry:   Grab my button and place on your blog.  Again separate comment here.
Fourth Entry:  Blog out this great giveaway, linking back here.  Again a separate comment here is appreciated.
Fifth Entry:  Do a facebook or twitter post, linking back here and post a separate comment here.  Can be done once a day.

See easy, easy to grab 5 entries into this great contest.  Make sure I can send you an email if you are the winner ( either on your entry or publicly available on your blog).  If I can't get to you then you can't win.

Once I have picked the winner I will email him or her and they then have 48 hours to get back to me.  That way we know for sure that the email address is correct.

Where are you shopping on Black Friday?

I know on Black Friday many people are out and about or waiting in lines at 3AM just to get gifts for everyone on their holiday list. I just heard that more and more stores will be open by 3AM!

Sometimes when I see all the lines and people camped out waiting in the dark, I think they HAVE to be crazy! There is NO WAY I would do that. I've NEVER done that. NEVER will!

Maybe I'm just a grinch. No I'm not, I'm actually a very generous shopper where my friends and family are concerned, but somehow I don't extend the same thought to things for me. Are you the same way? Do you put yourself last or forget about doing things just for you? Well I have got a deal for you .......

The Fresh Diet is having a FANTASTIC Black Friday Sale. This great meal plan will be at a price that is the lowest price of the year.

Whether you have purchased from The Fresh Diet before or this will be your first purchase, you can buy at the discounted price of $29.99 per day. This is a great deal and will not be repeated, so once its over - its over.

You will be able to buy up to 1 full year in either 31 day blocks or individual days at that price. The minimum days to purchase is 31. This price will not be repeated again, so if you have enjoyed looking at my meals and want some for yourself - this IS the sale for you.

Now this IS the Black Friday Sale BUT because they know that many of you will be waiting in those horrendous lines or fighting the crowds for some "must have" toy for junior, they will honor this price on Cyber Monday as well, but would rather you did it on Black Friday, so you don't forget and then miss out.

The Black Friday Special Pricing ends at Midnight Pacific Time on Friday November 26th. To get in on the Cyber Monday part of the deal, you only have the 24 hours of Monday.  In other words, don't try to get in on Saturday or Sunday and expect this great price. It's Black Friday or Cyber Monday - then its gone.

So here is how you can cash in on this great deal:

1. Call the Phone Number 1-866-373-7450 and ask nicely for this great deal.  (I know you will, they are super sweet and all my readers are too)

2. or on the Web at http://www.thefreshdiet.com/blackfriday, that will ONLY be available for this promotion.

Now remember this is for Black Friday and Cyber Monday ONLY

Mark your calendar, set an alarm on your phone (everybody does that now right?), set up your Microsoft Office calendar. However you remember IMPORTANT things in your life DO IT.

Do it now so you don't miss out.

I will be there with bells on - even though I just won 31 days, I WANT IN on this deal! It really is too good to miss.

The Fresh Diet WINNER

Right now I am beside myself - I can not believe my good fortune.  I never have this much luck but somehow the stars are shining down on me VERY brightly.

I know that you all have read about the wonderful meals I have sampled from The Fresh Diet because of winning a contest on The Fresh Diet Facebook page.  Well another blogger, ScaryMommy had a fabulous contest to win 31 days of The Fresh Diet.  Now I did facebook posts, I did twitters, I think I even shouted from the rooftops about this great giveaway.  Well guess who won????  Come on you can guess .... oh ok I'll tell you - yes IT WAS ME!!  I can not tell you how excited I was to see this when I got home from the office.   Thank you so much Jill for have this great contest/giveaway and thank you so much for picking me out of all those great entries - I am so incredibly blessed.  I have been blessed with many days and weeks of The Fresh Diet through contests and great pricing - this was just so much more than I could have hoped for.

I promise I will continue to share my meals each day, here on the blog, so that you can see how fantastic this program is.  And who knows you just might decide that YOU want to have your own meals delivered each day and you too will order.  They are going to be having a FABULOUS Black Friday deal that you really MUST come back and check out.  You really don't want to miss out on it - I KNOW you don't.  I will tell you as soon as I know the details - but I know it is going to be THE deal of the year.

But right now you can enter a contest to win a free week of The Fresh Diet and it is so easy to do.  If you haven't already entered The Fresh Diet Picture Contest why not?   Seriously it is so easy, even my daughter has an entry in.  Now if a college student can come up with a caption for the picture - what are you waiting for?  Why didn't you do it already?

Ok no excuses - jump on over to my post on the contest  and then you can hit the link directly - or you can go over to their facebook page, click on "like" and then scroll down and find the posting and enter.   You could win 1 of 3 free weeks that they are giving out.  And who knows, they could be into a generous mood (which they usually are) and do even more than 3 - but they are definitely giving out 3 free weeks.

The Fresh Diet Picture Contest

Ok The Fresh Diet is running a contest for a free week of The Fresh Diet Meals delivered to your home (provided you live in their delivery areas) - Yes this is an opportunity for some of my Canadian readers - They have a location in Toronto!  This contest is a cation contest.  See I told you it was easy!  Look at the picture above, go to The Fresh Diet Facebook page and scroll down to the contest (or just click here) and enter your caption.  Now you MUST get over and  enter before Wednesday Nov 24th at midnight Pacific Time to have a chance to win.  You get 2 chances - so if you just can't decide between 2 cute/funny/unique/wonderful captions .... you can enter both.

If you check out The Fresh Diet Facebook Page and become a fan, you will see all the fun things that go on and have an opportunity to be one of the Random Daily winners of 3 days worth of meals.  You KNOW you want to - so check it out.  Tell them Kat sent you!!

The Fresh Diet - Friday Edition

So many wonderful things have been happening lately.  Some have been testing my resolve and stress levels and other things have just been helping to mellow me out.

The Fresh Diet has to be one of those things that has been helping to mellow me out and lower my stress levels tremendously.  I am just about a week away from closing on a condo that will be wonderful once it is done - but it has been a whirlwind of activity getting everything done.  The Fresh Diet has made meal prep, at least for my meals, non-existent.  They have taken care of EVERYTHING except the selection (because I actually get to chose between 4 entrées per meal every day) and the plating.  Now I could eat my meals out of the plastic containers that they come in - but I have found that I enjoy my meals much more when I take the time to make everything look like home.

Friday morning was no exception.  I came down to make the coffee and pick up my Fresh Diet bag.  Today's bag was yet another color - black!  I thought I had seen them all (that is until they announced a new bag in the works) but this one was another member of the bag family.

Breakfast this morning was a Country Ham and Cheddar Cheese Omelet with Roasted Tri-Color Bell Pepper.  This was a really good choice.  The ham was not overly salty as country ham can be and the cheese was a nice complement.  The bell pepper had a sweet taste which was nice.  I think it had to be the roasting process that did it - but I've not had the pleasure of this before.

Lunch was a Grilled Steak Salad with Romaine Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion & Horseradish Dressing.   As is the norm with their salads, it is HUGE and very filling.  Now I don't know what I was thinking when I ordered this - you see when I was younger I was called "the surgeon" because I would cut any fat or remotely looking fat away from my food, and usually there is some fat on/in good meat - its called marbling that is "prized" in good meat.  When I opened this salad and started putting it on the plate - I removed the steak slices to "inspect".  I know - get real.  The only thing that I did was cut the pieces into bite sized pieces, although you could have just left them as is.  The steak was really good - added to the "chew" factor of the salad but by no means tough or chewy.  I really enjoyed this salad.  The only thing I would have done was add a little more horseradish to the dressing.  Maybe its my Polish roots .... but that was the only thing this needed - a little more horseradish bite.

My snack for the day was a Peanut Butter Chip Cheesecake.  I have to say that it just seemed so decadent to be sitting there with a slice of Cheesecake and a cup of coffee at 3 o'clock in the afternoon.  But it was totally LEGAL!!  What more can I say.

Dinner was Chicken Cordon Blue with Ham and Swiss Cheese with Nine Grain Pilaf and Sauteed Spinach.  I have had this before from The Fresh Diet kitchen and have to say it is just as good as the first time.  I don't get to have Spinach very often at home (my non-veggie eaters won't even touch a spoonful if I make it) so this is a real treat.  I'm not sure if it is because we've been "cutting down" on salt or if someone got a little heavy handed with the salt today, but even Jenn thought the Pilaf was a little salty.  Yes, my skinny minny daughter had to taste.  I'm afraid that one of these days she is going to decide that she too should be eating my meals and want to "share" even more.

Dessert was a Chocolate Pudding Topped with Toasted Almonds.  Again I have had this one before, but thought I needed something "light" for dessert when I was selecting my meals.  It really is perfect.  Just the right amount of chocolate with the almonds.  Sometimes when you have "diet" meals there is this aftertaste, especially with chocolates, that is missing from this dessert.  I'm not sure if its because diet pudding is usually made with skim milk and "artificial" chocolates or what, but not the Fresh Diet pudding.  It really does taste like "regular" chocolate pudding with a little extra crunch.   

See it comes in one of those containers that are large enough for you to eat out of if you chose to - but like I said before, having it out of "real" plates makes it so much nicer, at least to me.  And then I don't feel like I'm eating differently than the normal" people in my house.  But if "normal" people around here were eating The Fresh Diet way .... they might be much happier on a regular basis because THEY get to choose what they eat and not me.

Now you really really need to get over to  The Fresh Diet on Facebook if you haven't already been there.  You NEED to click the "like" button and you MUST come back often.  They are constantly giving away prizes to their fans.  You could be a random winner of 3 days of meals - just because.  You could win one of their contests and get 7 days of meals or be a "big" winner of 31 days - that's right a MONTH of free meals.  Just yesterday I won a JUST BECAUSE free week of meals.  Mr Jim and the entire Fresh Diet team are just so awesome!  This company has to be the MOST GENEROUS company I have seen in a very long time.

What are you waiting for --- get over to  The Fresh Diet on Facebook  and click that "like" button.  Who knows you too could be sampling the meals of The Fresh Diet!  If they ask (cause sometimes they do) how you found The Fresh Diet - make sure you tell them Kat from Inspiration Can be Found EVERYWHERE sent you.

Thirty-One Gifts

If you will recall I had a giveaway with my friend Ginger for Thirty-One Gifts.  If you don't remember what their gifts look like .... you REALLY need to check them out.  Hop on over to Ginger's Facebook page so that you can see what she has going on, as well as see what Thirty-One Gifts has to offer and the specials for the month.

Because I just loved so many of the things that were offered - I of course, had to make my own purchase.

Here we have the Demi Purse in Black Pocket Full of Posies - which is just the perfect size, and I LOVE the striped inside lining with the little pockets for those things you don't want to end up in the bottom - like your keys.  You can carry just what you need without having it super cramped or so huge that all you see is the bag.
And the Hard Case Wallet in Onyx Medallion.  When Jenn saw my wallet, she looked at me and said -- you saw mine and just wanted one didn't you?  Then she really started to look at it and decided that mine was much "cooler" and better than hers.  I just did a hurry up and put my stuff inside so she didn't make off with it.  I wonder how long it will be before she decides she wants a new "cool" wallet.

Now if you remember I had said that there were "special" offered each month for an extremely discounted price.  I am in the process of trying to "organize" my life, so the Organizing Utility Totes were the perfect option for me. The fact that October offered these bags at $5.00 each with a qualifying purchase made these even more perfect to me.  I thought these will be great keeping bathroom supplies neat in our Florida condo - so of course I had to get an extra one just so I would have it once I got down there and really started to organize.

Here we have it in Black Tailored Stripes with pink and green handles - one side has 3 outside pockets and the other has 2.  I know it is a little difficult to see because of the stripes ... wild optical illusion going on there.

Here is the other one I got in Newport Bloom which shows the mesh pocket - one on each width side.  Look at how wide this bag is ....... even without the October bonus price this is a great bag well worth the listed price.

Remember I could have had my purchases personalized with initials/words/whatever - I just decided to leave them plain.  I think if I had gotten these for a teen/young adult I probably would have done the personalization, just to make it more THEM but I really like them just as they are.

I was so very happy that I got to host this giveaway at Ginger's Thirty-One Gifts and may just have to try this one again in a few months.  Who knows maybe you might be the winner of a gift certificate.

Preparing A House For Winter Is An Excellent Way To Save Money

This is a very "timely" post since I have been, among other things, getting ready for the winter months and the possibility of the "white stuff" making an appearance outside my door in the months to come.

With that in mind, we have a guest post written by our friend Clara Castro.


Getting the house ready for winter is a priority up here in the Northeast, as it should be wherever cold weather strikes. Its a great way to save money in these tough economic times, as well as notice any small problems that might become big, expensive problems come springtime.

We put up the storm windows in October. This is when we look for any signs of termite damage, mold, or rot. The storm doors go on next. These go a long way to keeping snow where it belongs: outside of your house.

We always test the back-up generator. You do not want to be without heat during a Noreaster. We heat with natural gas, so we always make sure the furnace is in good working order. Ideally, we never have to depend on the generator. We also have the in-ground sprinklers blown out so that no water freezes and bursts any pipes.

Its hard work, sure, but definitely worth it. Getting the house ready for winter means we dont have to worry; we can settle down in our cozy living room, watch some directv, and dream of the warm days of springtime.

The Fresh Diet - Wednesday

With the holidays just around the corner, there are so many things going on around here as well as our impending closing I have been running around so my "meals" are spotty.  Now I could have had The Fresh Diet deliver my meals all week and then I wouldn't have had to worry about it but I just knew I wouldn't be able to eat on a regular schedule so I opted to skip some days.

Wednesday was an "on" day.  I almost forgot it was an on day until I came down to make the coffee and saw my friendly green bag on my doorstep.  It was a very nice surprise since I knew I had some running around to do to take care of the truck before the holidays and the "hunting" expedition.

Breakfast was Goat Cheese, Baby Spinach & Sun Dried Tomato Omelet with Seven Grain Toast.  Now I have had Goat Cheese before (in fact it was in the salad from The Fresh Diet) but never this way.  I will say it gave the Spinach a whole different dimension of flavor.  It was also surprisingly filling.  Eggs are normally a more "filling" entree because of the protein factor but this was even more so than usual.  I had breakfast at 6:30AM -  yes an ungodly hour - and I was still very comfortable at 11:00 when I was driving back from dealing with the truck.  I also MUST find out where the bread comes from - I MUST get more.  I know they probably make it themselves ... but that means there is a recipe out there somewhere.

Lunch was Mushroom Souffle and Gruyere Cheese Panini on Whole Wheat Ciabatta Bread.  I don't think I have ever had Gruyere cheese before - I could be wrong, but I don't remember it.  This was so very good.  But then I love mushrooms and then there was that wonderful bread ... what is not to like.  I will definitely get this one again when I see it on the menu  Look at how "big" this is - it almost fills the plate (an 8 3/8" paper plate) and very filling again.

For a snack I had Grilled Canadian Bacon over Baby Arugula with Fresh Honeydew & Toasted Pine Nuts.  I am not sure if you were suppose to "heat" the bacon or not but I just put it all together and ate it on the "cooler" side - in other words I let the chill from the fridge leave the food before I sampled this one.  I will definitely be making this one at home.  I know I have some Canadian Bacon and Pine Nuts in the house.  I will figure out how to toast the Pine Nuts without burning them (a habitual problem) while I grill up some bacon.  Was very tasty.

Dinner was Fillet of Chilean Sea Bass with Citrus Chipotle Sauce with Spaghetti Squash in Fresh Basil Pesto and Sauteed Baby Bok-Choy.  I have said this many times - I am not generally a "fish" person.  Don't get me wrong its not that I don't like fish - heck I LOVE shellfish - but I don't usually order "fish" and I definitely don't make it at home.  I have a new favorite fish dish!  So light and buttery tasting but not oily.  The whitest fish I have ever seen.  I've never figured out how to successfully cook Spaghetti Squash (and I know its not difficult) but this, with the Basil Pesto was very good.  It was still crispy but not raw.  And the Bok-Choy was so very very good.  I only had one problem with this meal ........ it was finished by me much too soon.  I could have ordered another without batting an eye.  Brings me back to the movie scene .... "Sir please could I have some MORE" - do you remember the movie I'm thinking of?

Dessert was a Butterscotch Chip Cookie.  This was a pretty big cookie, thin but not crispy/crunchy, incredibly soft and chewy.  I don't know but I could have my work cut out for me "finding" a recipe for this one.  I bet even Jenn would like this one (even if it isn't chocolate chip).

All in all this was an incredible (yes I use that word again) day of meals from the NY kitchen of The Fresh Diet.  You guys (and gals) totally out did yourself - I'm in love all over again.

You really need to get yourself over to The Fresh Diet on Facebook - they are always giving away free meals (3 days, 7 days, if your lucky even a MONTH) of meals prepared especially for you ....... what are you waiting for - go check them out and "like" them!  Tell Jim, Kat sent you if you think of it.  Thanks!

See you tomorrow - I get another delivery on Friday, so make sure you check out my post either Friday night or Saturday morning, then I'm not getting another delivery for a week (see great flexibility) because of the holidays.  Not getting delivery for the week was my choice - TFD will be delivering all next week as well - even for Thanksgiving.  Speaking of which, have you checked out Chef Yos talking about turkey day meals?

The Fresh Diet - Monday Monday

I know I am a little behind here - I was going to post this on Tuesday morning but life seems to have gotten in the way again.  Sorry about that.  But I have to say, having The Fresh Diet delivered to my home made my eating meals on Monday so much easier for me - and no fast food stops along the way!  Thank you Chef Yos for your awesome meals.

It had been awhile since I've had a delivery, but when I came down to make the coffee, there outside my door was a bright green buddy waiting for me.  It was so nice to see him sitting there.  I just knew at least meals were out of my hands for the day and I could concentrate on other things.

Breakfast was Creamy Banana Nut Oatmeal.  As had been the case when I had another oatmeal from The Fresh Diet, I added some milk (probably 2 TBSP max - no I didn't measure) and a sprinkle of cinnamon.  I do have to say that this was again a wonderful.  Even with the added milk (which I mixed in after the picture) it was still very thick but creamy.  And filling - very filling. 

Lunch was Asian Style Chicken Salad with Baby Bok Choy, Watercress, Alfalfa Sprouts, Water Chestnuts and Sesame Soy Dressing.   This salad, although on a dinner plate, was not as overflowing as the other salads I have had from The Fresh Diet, nor did it fill me up as much.  I won't say that I didn't like this one - but it is definitely NOT my favorite.  Perhaps it was because there was so little protein (chicken) in my salad this time.  I guess the "greens" just aren't as long lasting filling as the other salads have been.

I needed my snack so much earlier than ever so when I opened my container and found a blueberry muffin, I was happy to see it there.  This muffin was very very moist and tasty.  Perhaps it was because I was so hungry (very unusual for me while eating The Fresh Diet way) but this was perfect.  I did have this with a nice mug of tea so between the two I was set until dinner without any "grumbling".

Dinner was Citrus Marinated Beef Stir-Fry with Black Barley Pilaf and Oven Roasted Roma Tomato.  I have to say I was a little disappointed in this one.  The beef, although still tender, was rather "well done" - now was it because of the marinade, I'm not sure.  The Black Barley Pilaf .... was just Barley.  Now when I've had Pilaf before it had spices and veggies in it.  This one was very bland and just barley, that was very al dente.  The roasted tomato was really different.  I'm not exactly sure why, but I really did enjoy this more than I've ever before (and I've made these many times myself - Jersey tomatoes are THE best)

Dessert was Chocolate Dipped Strawberries with Creamy Vanilla Ricotta Cheese.  I have had this one before and thought it was a decedent dessert.  Perhaps that was part of the reason I was disappointed with this serving.  Instead of 2 strawberries - it was only 1.  Perhaps if it had been a whole strawberry it would have been better, but it was 1 strawberry that was cut in half and then dipped (at least that is what it looked like).  Strawberries are somewhat delicate and once they are cut they start to over-soften and "macerate" - which made the chocolate come away from the strawberry. 

I have to say that this was not one of my better day of choices.  Perhaps it was just an off day for the NY kitchen because this was the first day of 15 that I wasn't extremely happy with my delivery.  It was nice to have everything here and ready when I needed it, because my day was not easy, but I am glad that it was not my first delivery.  I will give this day a pass because I KNOW the kitchen and The Fresh Diet is so much better than this day showed.

While you are here you really should check out Chef Yos talking about Thanksgiving meals on YouTube - yes he is a star!  And if you want to win 31 days of The Fresh Diet delivered to your home ...... check out ScaryMommy - hurry you only have until Sunday to enter.

KNOCKING AT HEAVEN’S DOOR

I was shocked, confused, bewildered
 As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
   Nor the lights or its decor.

But it was the folks in Heaven
   Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
   The alcoholics and the trash.

There stood the kid from seventh grade
   Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
   Who never said anything nice.

Herb, who I always thought
   Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
   Looking incredibly well.

I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?
   I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
   God must've made a mistake.

'And why is everyone so quiet,
   So somber - give me a clue.'
'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock.
   No one thought they'd be seeing you..'

JUDGE NOT!!

Remember...Just going to church  

doesn't make you a Christian

 any more than standing in your garage

makes you a car.

Every saint has a PAST...
Every sinner has a FUTURE!

The Fresh Diet Giveaway!

Ok I know by now that you all know how happy I have been sampling the entrees of The Fresh Diet.  I actually had a delivery yesterday (Monday) but haven't had a chance to post my meal options or my feelings about each one - I'm still trying to sample different things each time.  And I promise I will get that one posted (probably tomorrow) but I had to share this giveaway.


Scary Mommy is having the giveaway of all giveaways (at least in my opinion).  Now I would just LOVE to win this, I won't deny that, and if I could have it go into next year ... with tax season nipping at our heels already, I would be in heaven.

Anyway, even though this would cut down on my odds (I know I AM dreaming) I wanted to share the possibility with you.  I wanted to share that "dream" with you.  Almost like when they say all you need is a dollar and a dream ........ well here all you need is a facebook account (which is free) and a dream.

So you need to hurry on over and check out Scary Mommy - The Fresh Diet Giveaway for your chance at winning 31 days of The Fresh Diet Meals.   Of course you need to be in their delivery area - but that keeps getting bigger all the time - so check them out.  If they aren't delivering in your area now - it could be very soon so "like" them on Facebook so you can keep up to date with new kitchens that are coming.

10 Super Foods for Your Diet.

Here is a great article, found in WebMD (thank you The Fresh Diet) on things we SHOULD eat to help us stay on the "straight" and "narrow".  But the best part - these are "real foods" that most either have already in their pantry or refrigerator or can easily find in local supermarket.

Check out 10 everyday super foods

How food influences YOU

You know how people always say that there are certain foods that make you happy or sad or are an aphrodisiac?  Well the Los Angeles Times did an article on how foods can effect your mood - Fact vs Fiction. 

Check it out.  Some of these put an end to those old wives tales and others confirm them.

Link between Food and Mood


Thank you The Fresh Diet for all your great links to "interesting" things we "should" know but most of the time don't

FAN FRIDAY! You could win 31 FREE days of The Fresh Diet

If you want to have a month of meals delivered to your door (just like the ones I blogged about in October and will be doing again very soon) HERE is YOUR chance to win!

FAN FRIDAY! You could win 31 FREE days of The Fresh Diet

Its easy, its versatile, it's fun and just tastes darned good. And then YOU TOO can feel like a celebrity with your own personal chef.

I know I entered - how about you??

Y'all have a great weekend

 Ok I got this the other day but I wanted to pass it on to each of you so that you too could be laughing all through the weekend - just remember I had the nerve to post it here.  Thanks Diana!


As we progress into the year 2010, I want to thank all of you for your educational e-mails over the past year.   I am totally screwed up now and have little chance of recovery. 

 I no longer open a bathroom door without using a paper towel, or have the waitress put lemon slices in my ice water without worrying about the bacteria on the lemon peel. 

 I can't use the remote in a hotel room because I don't know what the last person was doing while flipping through the adult movie channels.

I can't sit down on the hotel bedspread because I can only imagine what has happened on it since it was last washed.

I have trouble shaking hands with someone who has been driving because the number one pastime while driving alone is picking one's nose.

Eating a little snack sends me on a guilt trip because I can only imagine how many gallons of trans fats I have consumed over the years.

I can't touch any woman's purse for fear she has placed it on the floor of a public bathroom.

I MUST SEND MY SPECIAL THANKS to whoever sent me the one about rat poop in the glue on envelopes because I now have to use a wet sponge with every envelope that needs sealing.

ALSO, now I have to scrub the top of every can I open for the same reason

I no longer have any savings because I gave it to a sick girl (Penny Brown) who is about to die for the 1,387,258th time.

I no longer have any money, but that will change once I receive the $15,000 that Bill Gates/Microsoft and AOL are sending me for participating in their special e-mail program.

I no longer worry about my soul because I have 363,214 angels looking out for me, and St. Theresa's Novena has granted my every wish.

I can't eat at KFC because their chickens are actually horrible mutant freaks with no eyes, feet or  feathers.

I can't use cancer-causing deodorants even though I smell like a water buffalo on a hot day.

THANKS TO YOU I have learned that my prayers only get answered if I forward an e-mail to seven of my friends and make a wish within 5 minutes.
 BECAUSE OF YOUR CONCERN, I no longer drink Coca Cola because it can remove toilet stains.

I no longer buy gas without taking someone along to watch the car so a serial killer doesn't crawl in my back seat when I'm filling up.

I no longer drink Pepsi or Fanta since the people who make these products are atheists who refuse to put 'Under God' on their cans.

I no longer use Cling Wrap in the microwave because it causes seven different types of cancer.

AND THANKS FOR LETTING ME KNOW I can't boil a cup of water in the microwave anymore because it will blow up in my face. Disfiguring me for life.

I no longer go to the movies because I could be pricked with a needle infected with AIDS when I sit  down.
  
I no longer let my children mix Clorox and brake fluid because it fills the garage with a nasty smoke.

I no longer go to shopping malls because someone will drug me with a perfume sample and rob me.

I no longer receive packages from UPS or Fed Ex since they are actually Al Qaeda agents in disguise.

And I no longer answer the phone because someone will ask me to dial a number for which I will get a phone bill with calls to Jamaica  , Uganda ,  Singapore  , and  Uzbekistan  .

I no longer buy cookies from Neiman-Marcus since I now have their recipe.

THANKS TO YOU I can't use anyone's toilet but mine because a big black snake could be lurking under the seat and cause me instant death when it bites my butt.

AND THANKS TO YOUR GREAT ADVICE I can't ever pick up a .25 cent coin dropped in the parking lot because it probably was placed there by a sex molester waiting to grab me as I bend over.

I no longer drive my car because buying gas from some companies supports Al Qaeda, and buying gas from all the others supports South American dictators.

I can't do any gardening because I'm afraid I'll get bitten by the Violin Spider and my hand will fall off.

If you don't send this e-mail to at least 144,000 people in the next 70 minutes, a large dove with diarrhea will land on your head at 5:00 p.m. tomorrow afternoon, and the fleas from 120 camels will infest your back, causing you to grow a hairy hump. I know this will occur because it  actually happened to a friend of my next door neighbor's ex-mother-in-law's second husband's cousin's best friend's beautician . .  . 
Oh, by the way.....

A German scientist from Argentina, after a lengthy study, has discovered that people with insufficient brain activity read their e-mail with their hand on the mouse.

Don't bother taking it off now, it's too late.  (Love this one-got me!)

P. S.: I now keep my toothbrush in the living room, because I was told by e-mail that water splashes over 6 ft. out of the toilet.

Have you checked out The Fresh Diet?

Have you checked out The Fresh Diet on Facebook?  

You know how I feel about this wonderful company's products right?  If not, where HAVE you been?  I did some great posts about their products in October (check those out too)

Well if you would like to try their stuff .... of course you need to be in their service area, which is constantly increasing (right now it is throughout Florida, Chicago & NY Tri-State Area, LA, Orange County, CA, San Diego, Philly, Washington DC (and surrounding areas like Baltimore and Virginia) and Boston Area's.  They have recently added Indianapolis,Toronto Canada and Houston Texas as well as San Francisco and the surrounding areas), they have a fantastic deal going on right now. 

It is called The Special "Try us out" offer.  You get 3 DAYS of The Fresh Diet for $99.99 (Reg. $179), when you mention promo code TRY1110S. Call 1-866-373-7450 to order. This is the special YOU have been waiting for! Now this ends at midnight 11/13 so you have to hurry!  But trust me you will NOT be disappointed.  I have been loving my days and can't wait until next week when my days start again!!

The $20 Bill lesson

I was "wandering" around the net looking for something to make a friend feel better about herself and how, no matter what, she was "worth" it.  I happened upon this story and knew it was too good to keep hidden.  If you want to see even more of the great quotes and stories I found, inspireme.net would be a good place to start.


A well known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, "Who would like this $20 bill?" Hands started going up. He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first, let me do this." 

He proceeded to crumple the dollar bill up. 

He then asked, "Who still wants it?" Still the hands were up in the air. "Well," he replied, "what if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty.  "Now who still wants it?" 

Still the hands went into the air. "My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value.

It was still worth $20. 

Moral Of the Story

 

Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. 

We feel as though we are worthless. 

But no matter what has happened or what will happen, 

you will never lose your value.

Secrets of Happy People

There are some secrets are just too good to keep secret!  Ivillage.com has some really great articles that need to be explored - I've found some great ones already.

11 secrets of happy people has some really good things to think about and start to implement in your life.  Let's face it we all want to be happy people right??

Check it out and while you are there, brows around and see what else you can find. 

Women's History Month and Erma Bombeck

In honor of women's history month and in memory of Erma Bombeck who lost her fight with cancer. 

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
(written after she found out she was dying of cancer)

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, 'Later. Now go get washed up for dinner.' There would have been more 'I love you's' More 'I'm sorry's.'

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute, look at it, and really see it . . live it and never give it back.  

STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!

Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.

Stand by me

My girlfriend Karen, sent me this in an email this morning - I just KNEW I had to share it with all of you. 
This has to be the best rendition of "Stand by Me" that I have ever heard.

Take 6 minutes and Check it out - you will not regret it.

Stand by Me

Something else to think about today

Good friends are like stars........

You don't always see them ,

But you know they are always there.

"Whenever God Closes One Door 

He Always Opens Another,

Even though sometimes 

It's Hell in the Hallway"

I would rather have one rose and a kind word

from a friend while I'm here 

than a whole truck load when I'm gone.

Happiness keeps You Sweet,

Trials keep You Strong,

Sorrows keep You Human,

Failures keeps You Humble,

Success keeps You Glowing,

But Only God keeps You Going

'Worry looks around, sorry looks back, Faith looks up.'

And always remember... 

when life hands you Lemons, 

ask for Tequila and Salt 

and call me over!

Thoughts for today - Reasons to be YOU and ONLY YOU

This should be taped to your bathroom mirror where one could read it every day. 

You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.

1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.

2.. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.

3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.

4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.

5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.

6. You mean the world to someone.

7. You are special and unique.

8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.

9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.

 10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look.

11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.

CSN Giveaway Results.

We have a winner for the CSN Gift Certificate Giveaway.

The winner is ...... number 81 who was  ElennaLouise, who said...

I posted this on my blog http://elennalouise.blogspot.com/2010/07/csn-contests.html

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 81 Powered by RANDOM.ORG

I have sent an email to Elenna giving her the good news.  Once she contacts me, I will make sure she gets her gift certificate so that she can make purchase - which could be the Whitehall Products Garden 30" Cat Weathervane that she said that she loved - or it could be anything else if she changed her mind ... its her choice.


Congratulations Elenna!  You have 48 hours to get back to me.  If I don't hear from Elenna by Wednesday night - I will have to draw another winner .... I sure hope that doesn't happen.