Goodbye to my Christmas Tree

I finally got my Christmas decorations put away today.  I was thinking it might be difficult to haul our tree to the dumpsters at our apt by myself.  It wasn't too bad, but when I walked back to our apt, I realized I left a big trail of pine needles and it leads right to my front door.  Ha, I hope no one cares about the mess because you can definitely tell it was me.

 Here is my home-made instant oatmeal (see recipe below).  It is similar to the packets but it is cheaper and not as sweet.  Also, you can make your own portion size; I find the packets to be a little too small.  I added dried cranberries, peanut butter, and a few pecans.

 Veggie scramble for lunch.  Throw zucchini (leftover from last night) in the skillet until warm, add 2 eggs lightly scrambled.  As the eggs start to firm up add cheese, spinach, and tomato!  Toast some bread with a touch of butter and you are done:)  I also snacked on 2 cuties, a strawberry fage yogurt, and a small chocolate!

 I got a meat serving in again tonight (I believe that leaves me with 2 more for the week-yikes)!  Danielle and Ben had me over for dinner and it was delicious.  It was nice to hang out with them.  This is her manicotti (beef, spinach, and cheese rolled in noodles with sauce and more cheese!  Garlic bread on the side.

I was in charge of dessert and I kept it simple with Blue Bell Choc. Chip Cookie Dough and Strawberries and Homemade Vanilla!  It hit the spot.  I was glad Danielle dipped it-portion control.  Good job Danielle!!!

I worked today in the Wellness Center of the YMCA.  It was good because I actually got to set someone up on the weight equipment.  I felt thankful to have the experience because it was one of my last days of training.  The woman I helped was so nice!  I guess that is about all for me tonight.  I am thinking of taking the Green Monster Challenge (ha, just trying this smoothie tomorrow but I am so nervous).  I will be putting peanut butter in mine.  Have you ever tried a Green Monster?

Lauren's Instant Oatmeal

4 cups instant oatmeal
1 cup regular old fashioned oatmeal

1 rounded tsp cinnamon (I use 2 tsp. but I really like cinnamon)

1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice

sprinkle cloves (optional, I use ground cloves and it give the oatmeal a nice kick)

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 cup dry milk (or a little more if you like it creamy)

1/4 cup ground flax

1/2 tsp. salt
1 packet sweet n low (I don't use artificial sweetener very often, but it adds a little more sweet without the sugar-and it is not much when you spread it out over the whole tube of oats.

Put all ingredients into an empty oatmeal tube or large container with lid and shake well.  I usually use 1/2 cup for my serving when I make this.  Add boiling water to your portion of oatmeal, stir, and cover for 1 minute.  Microwave for 20 seconds if you want it hotter and thicker.  Add toppings of choice and enjoy!

*Makes approx 15 servings (1/2 cup servings)