SpiralGalaxy

And a panini with butternut squash and chicken: Here's the recipe I used: Chicken Panini with Butternut Squash Ingredients For the butternut squash spread 1 medium butternut squash (approx. 30 ounces or 850 grams)2 tablespoons olive oil2 cloves garlic2 teaspoons sugar1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon curry1/4 teaspoon cuminFor the chicken panini 3 tablespoons butternut squash spread (above)1 panini flatbread (or any type of bread), sliced in half (approximately 120 calories)1/3 to 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken (enough to cover one side of the sandwich)1/4 cup baby spinach2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella (enough for a thin layer of cheese)Directions Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Take the butternut squash, and chop off the stem. Using a vegetable peeler, remove the skin of the squash. You’ll see the green veins of the squash, but that’s okay. Chop the squash into 2 large pieces by making a horizontal cut where the neck starts to meet the bottom bulb. Split the bulb in half, remove the seeds, and chop into 1-inch pieces. Chop the neck into 1-inch pieces also. Toss the cubed squash with the olive oil and a pinch of salt, and spread it onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the squash can be easily pierced with a fork. Once the squash is cooked, let it cool for about 10 minutes, then blend it with the rest of the butternut squash spread ingredients. Using a regular grill pan, heat the pan over medium-high heat. Spray the pan with cooking spray, and assemble the sandwich on top. Press the sandwich down with a heavy pot, and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the sandwich over, press the pot down, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. NOTE: To make the panini on the Griddler (also known as a panini press), set it to 400 degrees F for the lower plate, and 425 degrees F on the upper plate. Once plates have been heated (and the green light is on), spray both grill plates with cooking spray. Spread some of the butternut squash dip on each side of the panini roll. Place one half of the roll on the grill, then layer on the chicken, spinach, and cheese, and top with the other half of the roll. Press the top grill plate down, and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is adequately melted. >>I did it using one cast iron skillet with my smaller cast iron skillet as the press. I loved it! Not quite as filling as I imagined, but it was really good even despite the slightly scorched corners. I'm trying to figure out how to do this at work for lunch, but I'm not coming up with much. Because I've got plenty more chicken and butternut squash spread, and I'd hate it to go to waste. Taste testers: Gadget had about half of his half sandwich even though he didn't have to. A total win! Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ok, here's a new-to-me take on roasted Brussels sprouts: Here's the recipe I used: Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Ingredients 1 pound (approx. 450g) Brussels Sprouts2 tablespoons Olive Oil, divided1 tablespoon Maple Syrup2 teaspoon Balsamic Vinegar3 tablespoons Red Onion, chopped2 oz. (approx. 55g) Ham, chopped1/3 cup (approx. 45g) fresh Yellow Corn Kernels1/8 teaspoon saltDirections Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (215 degrees C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Rinse the brussels sprouts and dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Chop off the bottom of the brussels sprouts and then chop them in half. There will be many leaves that fall off, but save them! They’re the best part. In a medium bowl, mix the brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar. Toss until everything is well incorporated. I like using my hands to rub all the flavor into the sprouts. Spread them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-23 minutes or until the leaves are browned. Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Pour the chopped onions into the skillet and let it cook until the onions start to turn translucent (about a minute or two). Add the corn, ham, and salt and stir everything. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the corn starts to turn into a vibrant yellow color. In another medium bowl, mix the roasted brussels sprouts with the corn and ham. Serve as a side dish. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container. My review: Good! The best attempt I've made so far at roasted Brussels sprouts. The little bit of ham and corn makes a big difference, as does adding the maple syrup to the mix. The recipe isn't kidding when it says that the loose leaves are the best part. Tasters: Gadget = hahahaha NO. Widget: asked to try some, and actually came back for a few extra leaves. But wouldn't try any of the ham. They had rice & veggies instead. I ate my whole half serving as a main dish instead of a side. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Week 3, Day 4 Heading into the weekend. 6 more errors for a total of 11. Wow those add up fast. Challenge goals: [ ] One meal with solid vegetables [x] A 15 min walk at home [x] Cubicle exercise routine [ ] Meditation [ ] Gratitude writing Maintenance goals: [ ] Bring lunch to work. If not, stick with simple sandwiches and salads from the cafeteria [ ] Go to bed no later than 10pm [ ] Do not purchase alcohol to drink at home [x] Take all vitamins [x] Bring healthy snacks to work, no vending machines [x] Floss [x] Track calories with MyFitnessPal [x] Smoothies for breakfast Bonus Quests: [ ] Get to a local Farmer's market and explore their offerings. [ ] Make a big veggie-ful meal on weekends to have as leftovers for lunch or dinners. [ ] Try interval jogging [ ] Try candle meditation

That might be it! It seemed like a pretty small ratio of salad-to-sausage. Thanks!

At least for now...

Week 3, Day 4 Another good day. Going out for pizza for lunch was offset by skipping most of dinner--I tried an Eggroll in a Bowl and it really didn't appeal to me. But afterwards we walked the kids up to our town center for a mini-concert and had a great time chasing them around and listening to the music. It was a beautiful evening to get outside and everyone had fun. Two slip ups for breakfast and lunch, for a total of 5 for the week. One thing I'm concerned about it some increasing pain in my right shoulder--I need to make a doctor's appointment soon for a checkup anyway, and that's motivating me to move it up the schedule. I'm on my own with the kids this weekend, so I may not be posting much until Monday. Challenge goals: [x] One meal with solid vegetables [x] A 15 min walk at home [x] Cubicle exercise routine [x] Meditation [x] Gratitude writing Maintenance goals: [ ] Bring lunch to work. If not, stick with simple sandwiches and salads from the cafeteria [x] Go to bed no later than 10pm [x] Do not purchase alcohol to drink at home [x] Take all vitamins [x] Bring healthy snacks to work, no vending machines [x] Floss [x] Track calories with MyFitnessPal [ ] Smoothies for breakfast Bonus Quests: [ ] Get to a local Farmer's market and explore their offerings. [ ] Make a big veggie-ful meal on weekends to have as leftovers for lunch or dinners. [ ] Try interval jogging [x] Try candle meditation

My Eggroll in a Bowl attempt: I used the same recipe found upthread, because it was soooo easy! Unfortunately, it really didn't work for me. I think I just don't like that kind of sausage or that much sausage. Taster review: My husband liked it better, but he put shredded cheese on it! I had some, and I have to say it improved it a bit. My comment: "It's wrong that that's not wronger." I never would have dreamed of putting shredded cheese on an Asian-flavored dish. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks!

Could someone add 50 more paintballs to the spreadsheet under Galley for me, pretty please? The total should be 250.

Week 3, Day 3 A good day yesterday. Got up and went for a walk in the morning, mixing it with four jogging segments to complete another bonus goal! That went better than I thought it would and my dog had no problem with it, so I think I'll try it again the next time I go out. When I got back I did a candle meditation again, which I continue to enjoy. Other than that, right on track. A couple slip-ups, forgetting one kind of vitamin and hitting the vending machine for chips in the afternoon. 3 errors for the week so far. Doing good! Challenge goals: [x] One meal with solid vegetables [x] A 15 min walk at home [x] Cubicle exercise routine [x] Meditation [x] Gratitude writing Maintenance goals: [x] Bring lunch to work. If not, stick with simple sandwiches and salads from the cafeteria [x] Go to bed no later than 10pm [x] Do not purchase alcohol to drink at home [ ] Take all vitamins [ ] Bring healthy snacks to work, no vending machines [x] Floss [x] Track calories with MyFitnessPal [x] Smoothies for breakfast Bonus Quests: [ ] Get to a local Farmer's market and explore their offerings. [ ] Make a big veggie-ful meal on weekends to have as leftovers for lunch or dinners. [x] Try interval jogging [x] Try candle meditation

Good luck Trewest! Have fun!

Also, can I just say I <3 Q? For the Galley team:

Wow, those high knees are harder than they look... but I've got 25 done so far for the galley team! I'll put my total in the spreadsheet tonight when I get access again.

Week 3, Day 2 Another good day! I'm kicking myself for forgetting the gratitude writing, since I did write in my journal. But I nailed everything else, and that's only 1 error in 2 days. Took a nice 30 min walk with the dog in the evening and realized that the local high school has a full athletic field that lots of people use in the evening. Reheated some pasta with spinach for dinner, and continuing to enjoy home-made hummus-and-veggie wraps for lunch. Doing well so far! Challenge goals: [x] One meal with solid vegetables [x] A 15 min walk at home [x] Cubicle exercise routine [x] Meditation [ ] Gratitude writing Maintenance goals: [x] Bring lunch to work. If not, stick with simple sandwiches and salads from the cafeteria [x] Go to bed no later than 10pm [x] Do not purchase alcohol to drink at home [x] Take all vitamins [x] Bring healthy snacks to work, no vending machines [x] Floss [x] Track calories with MyFitnessPal [x] Smoothies for breakfast Bonus Quests: [ ] Get to a local Farmer's market and explore their offerings. [ ] Make a big veggie-ful meal on weekends to have as leftovers for lunch or dinners. [ ] Try interval jogging [ ] Try candle meditation

Week 3, Day 1 OK, back on track with a good day! Didn't get enough sleep thanks to a wiggly toddler, but still got through the day just fine. Had some of the chicken orzo soup reheated for dinner, and it was even better than when it was fresh. I almost succumbed to a temptation for chips in the afternoon, but luckily the vending machine was out of what I wanted, so I stuck with my approved snacks instead. Whew! Challenge goals: [x] One meal with solid vegetables [~] A 15 min walk at home [x] Cubicle exercise routine [x] Meditation [x] Gratitude writing Maintenance goals: [x] Bring lunch to work. If not, stick with simple sandwiches and salads from the cafeteria [x] Go to bed no later than 10pm [x] Do not purchase alcohol to drink at home [x] Take all vitamins [x] Bring healthy snacks to work, no vending machines [x] Floss [x] Track calories with MyFitnessPal [x] Smoothies for breakfast Bonus Quests: [ ] Get to a local Farmer's market and explore their offerings. [ ] Make a big veggie-ful meal on weekends to have as leftovers for lunch or dinners. [ ] Try interval jogging [ ] Try candle meditation

Yup! That's for Gadget, our four year old. So cute! Although he hasn't actually seen the movie yet.

Awesome, good for you! Glad that the meditation seems to be helping. And it's funny how we end up missing the people who really push us the hardest, isn't it! Good luck with the kettlebells.

Week 2, Days 4 - 7 Ugh, OMG, that did not go well at all. Basically, everyone was sick except me, and I was pretty obviously fighting off whatever they had. Yay for fighting it off, but boo for feeling so lousy and unfocused and overwhelmed that I let most of my challenge goals drop. Let's see, I started with 4 errors? No meditation, no gratitude writing, that's at least 4 more errors. One late night, 3 bottles of wine. One missed set of vitamins. One missed flossing. Didn't manage any calorie tracking, skipped one smoothie breakfast. So that's 19 errors for the week. Over two weeks, I'm averaging 12.5 errors per week, which is a B. This actually isn't as bad as it could be! I'm planning on starting the new week fresh and keeping up with things. Good things about the weekend: taking the kids to the county fair and exploring there--very fun! Also made a big batch of hummus for lunches for the week, and some new veggie-ful dinners for both the challenge and as part of the Galley team. Challenge goals: [x x x x] One meal with solid vegetables [x x ~ ~ ] A 15 min walk at home [x ~ ~ ~] Cubicle exercise routine [ ] Meditation [ ] Gratitude writing Maintenance goals: [x ~ ~ ~] Bring lunch to work. If not, stick with simple sandwiches and salads from the cafeteria [x x x] Go to bed no later than 10pm [x] Do not purchase alcohol to drink at home [~ ~ ~ ] Take all vitamins [x ~ ~ ~] Bring healthy snacks to work, no vending machines [x x x] Floss [ ] Track calories with MyFitnessPal [x x x] Smoothies for breakfast Bonus Quests: [ ] Get to a local Farmer's market and explore their offerings. [x] Make a big veggie-ful meal on weekends to have as leftovers for lunch or dinners. [ ] Try interval jogging [ ] Try candle meditation

Here's Saturday's veggie wrap: And Sunday's pecadillo: Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

And here's one for Sunday, a Spanish Pecadillo (picture a couple posts down): 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil1 red onion, finely diced1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic, (about 3 cloves)1 lb. ground turkey or beef, preferably lean grass fed beef3/4 tsp. chili powder1/2 tsp. ground cumin1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon, or more to taste15 oz. diced fire-roasted tomatoes, with their liquid1/4 cup raisins2 Tbsp. capers, or use 1/4 cup sliced green olives1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar1/4 cup fresh cilantro, for serving (optional)Heat a large heavy skillet over medium heat, and when it is hot add the oil. Let the oil heat for a minute, then add the onions and let them cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender and just starting to get golden. Stir in the garlic for about 30 seconds, then add the meat and spices. Cook, stirring occasionally for 3 – 4 minutes until the meat is mostly cooked through. (Meanwhile, start rice and the squash, if you are serving them.) Add the tomatoes, raisins, capers and vinegar, bring it to a low boil, and simmer it, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until the liquid is reduced by about half and the flavors are melded. Season it with salt and pepper to taste, and serve it immediately, topped with cilantro, if desired, or refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. This is one of those dishes that’s even better the next day. Taster reviews: Me: This is a weird combination of things, but it's tangy and flavorful! The balsamic vinegar and capers give it a really nice complexity. I served it with a brown rice/wild rice blend. Husband: "A review? Sorry, I'm too busy shoveling it in my mouth" Cleaned his plate in no time. Kids: Yeah, I didn't even try them with this one. They got rice and steamed veggies instead.

Here's my recipe for Saturday (pictures a few posts down from here): 2 Tbsp. butter or extra virgin olive oil1 medium sweet potato, diced into 1/4-inch pieces (about 2 cups total)1 small yellow onion (preferably a sweet Vidalia onion), diced into 1/4-inch pieces (about 1 cup total)1 red bell pepper, diced into 1/4-inch pieces (about 1 cup total)4 ears fresh corn, kernels sliced off (1 1/2 – 2 cups total) or 15 oz. unsweetened frozen or canned corn kernels1 tsp. ground cumin1/2 tsp. chili powder1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, or use water (optional)15 oz. reduced-sodium canned black or pinto beans, partially drained1/4 tsp. salt (optional)8 spinach wraps or whole wheat tortillas1 cup salsa, for serving (optional)1 cup nonfat or low fat sour cream, for serving (optional)In a large heavy skillet, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium heat. Add the sweet potatoes and onions and brown them, stirring occasionally, for 8 - 10 minutes. Add the bell peppers, corn, cumin and chili powder and continue to cook it for about 5 minutes. If the mixture starts to dry out or stick to the pot, add the broth or water. Add the beans and salt (optional) and cook, stirring gently, until it is heated through. (At this point you can refrigerate the filling for up to 24 hours or serve it immediately.) Put a scoop of the vegetable mixture onto the center of a wrap, and top it with salsa and/or sour cream, if desired. Fold one side of the wrap up about an inch to catch drips, and then roll it up burrito style. Taster reviews: Husband = this is really good! Simple but with lots of flavor. Widget (15 months old) = nom nom nom. (He had his in a bowl, not as a burrito.) Me: Burritos with sweet potatoes! This worked out really well. I love variations on nice, simple, healthy bean burritos and this one worked great. Also, I didn't have to use the chicken broth in the recipe.

Week 2, Day 3 I felt like I deserved a medal for getting out of bed and going for a walk yesterday--I was feeling on-the-edge-of-sick all day and just really wanted to go back to bed. But I made it! I also tried a 10 minute candle meditation for the first time, and I really liked it. I wanted to keep going after the 10 min were up. I did a lot of stretching in my cubicle to help out the Med Bay team for the mini-challenge, but at the end of the day I was Done. I got some wine on the way home and ordered pizza. Still, not a bad day--it could have gone a lot worse. 1 more error for the week, that's 4 so far. Challenge goals: [x] One meal with solid vegetables [x] A 15 min walk at home [x] Cubicle exercise routine [x] Meditation [x] Gratitude writing Maintenance goals: [x] Bring lunch to work. If not, stick with simple sandwiches and salads from the cafeteria [x] Go to bed no later than 10pm [ ] Do not purchase alcohol to drink at home [x] Take all vitamins [x] Bring healthy snacks to work, no vending machines [x] Floss [x] Track calories with MyFitnessPal [x] Smoothies for breakfast Bonus Quests: [ ] Get to a local Farmer's market and explore their offerings. [ ] Make a big veggie-ful meal on weekends to have as leftovers for lunch or dinners. [ ] Try interval jogging [x] Try candle meditation

Hello! I'm mostly a Galley team member, but I can't cook new meals every day, it turns out. So I spent my break time at work today stretching! 30 min added to the spreadsheet for the Med Bay. Good luck!

Have you ever had a day where you feel like you deserve a medal just for getting out of bed? That was me this morning. My alarm went off at 5am (still really dark outside), and for a moment I just put the covers over my head. I was soooooo close to just going back to sleep until 6--but thoughts of my NF challenge were enough for me to ooze out of bed, get my shoes on, and go for a 20 minute walk with my dog. It's not much, but I'm really proud of me today!

I am so going to try this! Simple + veggies = Awesome!