Blessings.
Believe
Blessings.
Category: Bariatric Surgery – My Story
Too Short
Blessings.
Seat Belts
I hadn’t flown since I had gastric sleeve surgery. I used to have to get a seat belt extender when I flew. I would always get a seat next to the window so I could squeeze as much of myself next to the window as I could. I still felt as though I was spilling over to the next seat (and I am certain I was).
David and I flew to Las Vegas for our anniversary/birthdays last week. I was blown away sitting down and fastening the seat belt. I cried when I fastened the belt.
I didn’t feel squeezed in the seat. In fact, I was in the middle seat, and didn’t feel as though I needed to lean over to one side or the other. I had six inches of the seat belt left over when I belted it!!!! Do you see?!
Tears. Non-scale Victory. I may have gained some weight back, but this feeling was incredible. Typing this today, I am tearing up again as the feeling was so strong. Something so small and insignificant to so many, meant so much to me.
So…what victory have you had lately?
Feeling incredible. Blessings.
Friday Feels
Exactly! Happy Friday.
Blessings.
Just
Blessings.
Beef Roast
David loves beef roast and potatoes. So, I decided to try something a little different with my beef roast (I know – not me!). One onion, rough chopped, sauteed in oil with some salt and pepper.
I added about 2 slices of chopped bacon for added flavor.
I seasoned the chuck roast with salt, pepper, season salt, and lots of paprika. Place in the pan to sear with 4 cloves of whole garlic. 
Turn after the bottom has a nice brown color, and sear the other side for another 8-10 minutes (or longer if needed) to get a nice brown color on both sides.
Once the meat is brown, remove and let rest while the sauce is blended.
Add 2 cups of red wine (one that you would drink, this is a Cab), and about 2 cups of beef stock. Also, add 10-12 small sprigs of fresh thyme. You can either leave the leaves on the tyme or remove them. I remove them so I didn’t have to worry or think about it later. Bring to a simmer, and then add the meat back to the pan.
Remove from the stove top and place in the oven (covered) at 350 degrees for 3-4 hours or the meat is cooked through and tender.
I did add small russet potatoes when it went into the oven (don’t have to think about it). Removed them when done.  
The kids were home (both of them), so we had dinner at the table. It was wonderful. The roast turned out wonderful. Deep, rich flavor, and the meat was tender.  
Monday Motivation
Bring it!
Olive Tapenade
I have shared I watch a lot of the Food Network, and I really enjoy The Kitchen. They shared a really simple recipe for an olive spread that I thought I would try (especially since I had everything in the pantry or fridge-bonus).
Olives, both green and Kalamata, garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper. 
About a cup of both olives, drained.
Three cloves of garlic.
Oh, oregano–a generous amount of oregano, lemon juice as well (I didn’t put in a lot). Put all into a blender or food processor. Add enough olive oil to keep it creamy. I started with about 1 tablespoon, and ended up added another 2 teaspoons.
You can use this on fish, chicken, or as a spread on toast or crackers. Super yummy. And, yes, you will need to add just a bit of salt. I doubted it at first, and then ended up adding it in later.
Enjoy.
Tuesday
Blessings.
Monday Motivation
Thought:
A smile is cheer to you and me
The cost is nothing –it’s given free
It comforts the weary –gladdens the sad
Consoles those in trouble –good or bad…
Unlike most blessings for which we pray
It’s one thing we keep when we give it away.
Blessings!
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