Cool Product Alert

I spotted these at the store the other day and thought finally a little "Lunchable-type thingee" for foodie adults (and Italians.)


The double sided 4 oz. snack packs are made by Boar's Head who makes the best cold cuts hands down. They come in two varieties (that I am aware of) Salami & Provolone and my personal favorite Sopressata & Provolone.

Each pack contains approximately 24 pieces of meat and 16 pieces of cheese. Soooo tons. Totally enough for a few people or several snacks.

Calories 90 (per serving)
Serving size: 6 pieces of meat/4 cheese
Fat 7 g.
Carbs 1 g.
Protein 7 g.

It's a great weight loss surgery friendly snack. High protein and low carb.

Locally I bought mine at Baron's Marketplace but I'm sure anywhere that carries Boar's Head products will soon carry them. Ask the deli manager.

I thought these would be awesome to take on a picnic... just add my Italian Bean Salad, a bottle of Pinot Grigio, a blanket, a view and a cool person to share it with.


Highlights of the Day:

* Yesterday after the Farmer's Market. I went to coffee and shopping with my pals Becky and Carol. Carol saved me before the LA OH Event with a killer neck massage. I hold all my tension in my neck and Carol fixed me up.

* At the Farmer's Market I got those great Mixed Greens again. The seller is the coolest dude. Rock Star turned Farmer. So a killer Fall salad is in the works... Mmmm maybe something with pears (got those too) and dried cranberries.

* Got a new phone yesterday with a full sized keyboard. I text a lot and the scrolling through letters thing was a pain in the you know what. I was having buyer's remorse at first because I thought I was slower but after about 30 or so texts last night (TY Jeremy, Cas & Lisa) I am lightning fast. Love it.

Ohhh and bonus the phone has Global Positioning (GPS) on it... so I will never be lost in the woods again. Yeah when I was 13 years old I was lost for 14 hours, alone in the Catskill Mountains (you know where Dirty Dancing was set.) October. No coat, no water, and no food. Scary. Long story. Typically me. But now I'm saved thanks to modern technology.

Listening to: "You Found Me" The Fray. Love the lyrics... "The only one who's ever known who I am, who I'm not, who I wanna be."

Turkey twists, T-day wrap-up and a Quiche

The good thing about cooking Thanksgiving Day is the next day's meals are easy but by Day 3 you never want to see turkey again.

Here's a few of my favorite chicken dishes that would be just as yummy using up your cooked turkey leftovers...

Shelly's BLT Chicken Salad
Shelly's Chicken Dijon Casserole
Shelly's Chutney Chicken Salad
Shelly's Chicken Egg Foo Young


Highlights of the Day:

* Yesterday was nice. Low key. I started the day telling my Mum how thankful I was to have her in my life. Awww. I know. What a good daughter ;)

Went for a really long walk. I downloaded some new music and I just got lost in tunes and thoughts.

Cooked a small but yummy meal.

Citrus & Herb Turkey Breast (ate 1 1/2 slices)
Fried Cauliflower (ate 1 piece)
Not Yo Momma's Green Bean Casserole (ate 1 dollop)

We'll be having a repeat performance tonight for dinner.

Worked in the PM.

Ended the day talking to my brother and texting friends. (Disclaimer: don't click on the my brother link if you have a weak stomach... we are an odd family)

* This morning's breakfast. Another version of my Chorizo Crustless Quiche. Mmmm the house smells like a Mexican Cocina.

Shelly's Chorizo Crustless Quiche (Version 2)

Mexican Chorizo Sausage (about 5 oz. casing removed)
1 Yellow Onion, diced
4-5 Green Onions, diced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Oregano
a few twists of Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon of Kosher Salt
1/2 cup Mild Salsa
1/2 cup Shredded Monterrey Jack Cheese
5 Eggs, beaten
Butter/oil for sauteing

I used a leaner pork/beef combo chorizo but any will do including soy chorizo (Trader Joe's sells a great one). You can substitute a spicy Italian Sausage too.

Preheat oven to 350. Remove the sausage from it's casing and saute in a skillet for 5 minutes over medium heat, crumbling the meat as it cooks. Drain any fats. Set aside to cool. Saute onions till golden. Add garlic and saute 1 minute more. Set aside to cool. Mix all ingredients together. Be sure veggies and meat have cooled slightly before adding eggs. Pour into a Pyrex casserole dish. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden.

I served it with sliced avocado. Would be great for brunch with a tropical fruit salad or golden pineapple slices drizzled with a tablespoon or two of Malibu rum, or maybe a fruit smoothie.

* Right now. Cup of tea. Fuzzy sweater. Music.

Listening to: "Never Gonna Be Alone" Nickleback.

Thankful

Thank you for being a part of my life.

Happy Thanksgiving.

A Weight Loss Surgery Friendly Turkey Day

Sweet potatoes covered in marshmallow are out but you seriously won't miss them with this...

Shelly's Cranberry Apple Sweet Potato Packet

1/2 a Sweet Potato, peeled and cut into 1/4" thin slices
1 Apple, cored, thinly sliced
1 Tablespoon Dried Cranberries
1 Tablespoon Butter
2 Tablespoons Sugar Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Vanilla)
1 Tablespoon Apple Cider
1/8 teaspoon Cinnamon

Ingredients listed are for one packet multiply it for how many packets you are making. Place all ingredients in center of a piece of heavy duty foil (if you are using the $1 store stuff double it) Fold the foil over and seal each packet.

BBQ 20 minutes in covered grill. Open packets carefully steam burns are not fun.
This dish rocks. It's really great for Thanksgiving because it doesn't use up the valuable oven or stove space. Have the guys take them outside and toss them on the grill at half-time ;) keeps 'em busy.

Would be awesome as a side for ham or pork too.


Other Eggface Holiday Favorites:

Party Like a Rock Star Part 1 and Part 2

Shelly's Roasted Eggplant "Stuffing"
Shelly's Citrus and Herb Turkey Breast
Shelly's Thanksgiving Green Bean Casserole
Shelly's Cauliflower and Leek Casserole

Shelly's Pumpkin Protein Souffle
Shelly's Pumpkin Spice Protein Ice Cream


Highlights of the Day:

* It rained big time last night. I mean rained. We don't get that often in Southern California. As you guys know I have big time insomnia so it gave me something to listen to at 3 AM when I'm usually just staring at the ceiling and thinking too much or coming up with microwave cake recipes or making casseroles. Very soothing.

* Found a killer new food product I will take pics of and review this week/weekend sometime. Watch for it.

* I'm getting emails and messages from people coming to San Ramon. Yay! Can't wait to meet you guys!!! Thanks for giving up a precious December Saturday. I was worried with holiday get-togethers and all that the turn out would be a little low but it is going to be a blast. Our own holiday party! And there are super cool prizes too.

Listening to: "I'd Come For You" Nickleback

Healthy Mexican Recipes: Salsa Fish Foil Packet Dinner

It was a fish themed day today. I started the day at the beach. My favorite place on earth. Went to sushi for lunch (well sashimi 'cause you guys know I don't do rice) and ended the day with this super easy, super yummy dish...

Shelly's Salsa Fish Packet

1 fillet of Halibut (any firmer white fish will do: Cod, Tilapia, Orange Roughy)
1-2 Summer Squash, chopped
a generous dollop (enough to cover fish) of Fresh Salsa or Pico de Gallo (the kind you have to keep refrigerated at all times)
2 cloves of Garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Oregano
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper
a wedge of Lime
2 Tablespoons White Wine
Aluminum foil

Ingredients listed are for one packet multiply it for how many packets you are making. Place all ingredients in center of a piece of heavy duty foil (if you are using the $1 store stuff double it) Fold the foil over and seal each packet.

BBQ 15 minutes in covered grill. Open packets carefully steam burns are not fun. You can eat it as is (what I do) or for those that want some added carbs or for the non-ops in your household you can serve with warm corn tortillas for making tacos.


Serve with Shelly's Cilantro Yogurt Sauce

3 oz. Plain Greek Yogurt
2 Tablespoons Cilantro Salad Dressing
dash of Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper

Mix together. Refrigerate till use.


My friend Janet just emailed me a couple of cool pics from the Obesityhelp Event. Here's Janet (Snow White) and I (Scarecrow) hence the crow on my arm ;) and Ron Lester (Fly Boy) and I. Edited to add: RIP Ron.

Soup for you

I love big pots of soup like this. This is something my Sicilian Grandma would have had on her stove on a chilly afternoon. I served it with shaved Parmesan on top.

Shelly's Lentil Soup

1/4 pound (about 4 slices) Ham, diced
1 Yellow Onion, chopped
3 Leeks, light green & white parts only, diced
3 oz. Carrots, grated
3 cloves of Garlic, minced
2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 cup dry Lentils, picked over and rinsed
1/2 teaspoon Thyme
4 cups Chicken Broth
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper
Olive Oil for sauteing
Parmesan

Soak lentils for 60 minutes. Drain.

In a big pot cook ham until slightly golden. Add leeks and onion cook until golden and soft about 7 minutes. Stir in carrots and garlic; cook for 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Add lentils, thyme, broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook until lentils are tender about 30 to 45 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. I whizzed it smooth with this super cool gadget. You could leave it chunky or blend it in batches in a regular blender. Serve immediately with shaved Parmesan.

This is a super hearty fiber and iron packed soup. Lentils are one of the world's healthiest foods.


Highlights of the day:

* There is nothing better than a pot of soup waiting for you to return home and reheat. Well there are SOME things that are better but this is a family friendly blog ;)

* Excited about San Ramon. Gonna be making some yummy weight loss surgery friendly treats. Are you coming?

* Watched the sunset on my walk tonight. Some of life's greatest pleasures are free.

Listening to: "Mmbop" Hanson. LOL Yeah not proud of it.

California Love

The Eggface Melting Mama Tour

December 6th Last date of 2008!

Come hang out with me (and super cool Melting Mama) we're gonna be cooking and eating weight loss surgery friendly holiday treats and trying oodles of new products!!! Should be a blast!

If you are anywhere near San Ramon/SF Bay Area heck even if you aren't come hang out with us. We'll be at a table too so come introduce yourself and say hey! Use Promo Code: Golden08 to get $$$ off your ticket.

Watch for 2009 tour dates coming soon!

Banana Cake and more good stuff

Shelly's 5 Minute Sugar Free Banana Caramel Nut Cake

1 Egg, beaten
3 Tablespoons Milk
2 Tablespoons Sugar-Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Caramel)
2 Tablespoons Banana, mashed
2 Tablespoons Canola Oil
3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix (I use this)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
1 Tablespoon Pecans, chopped
1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder
Pinch salt
1 Measuring Cup or Microwave Safe Mug

In a measuring cup or microwave safe mug, Mix egg, milk, syrup, banana, and oil and combine thoroughly. In a separate bowl, mix pancake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, nuts, protein powder, and salt. Tip dry into wet and stir till combined.

Nuke in microwave for 2 minutes*.

Let it sit for three or so minutes (it pulls away from the sides) before tipping the cake onto a plate. Yields 4-5 slices.


*Microwave wattage varies. Mine takes 2 minutes but start with 2 minutes and add 20 second increments if needed till no liquid is seen.

For a dessert I topped the cake with No Sugar Added Whipped Cream, Smucker's Sugar-Free Caramel Sauce, sliced Banana and a sprinkle of chopped Pecans. Slices of this are great toasted for breakfast too. It's a total banana nut muffin fix.


Highlights of the day:

* WOW moment: So I went for a pedicure (yay for sexy toes) and the girl I always go to said, "I saw you in our parking lot the other day with some guy" and then she said... "you look so tiny next to him."
TINY. Me?!
Love it.

* Went to visit my neighbor today. She just was released from the hospital. Her kidney transplant of 7 years failed and she's back on dialysis. I thought she'd be devastated and was prepared to give the optimistic pep talk but she had such an amazing roll with the punches attitude. A good lesson. Actually, I had a few life lessons today from friends. I always say people come into your life for a reason.

* Making a big pot of lentil soup today. Yes. Fall. Soup weather.

Listening to: "Westside" TQ

Sausage & Snuggling

Last week at the Farmer's Market I scored a mixed assortment of baby squash (little yellow crookneck, zucchini and the cutest little patty pans) here's what I ended up doing with them...

Shelly's Squash and Sausage Bake

1 link of Mild Italian Sausage, casing removed, browned (You can use beef or turkey too just add a dash more seasonings)
1 Onion, diced
3 Green Onions, diced
2 cloves Garlic, diced
3 cups Squash (I used a variety of summer, zucchini, patty pan), chopped
1/2 cup Bruschetta Sauce (near the fresh pasta)
1 teaspoon Greek Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper
1/2 cup Alfredo Sauce (I used jarred)
1/2 cup Fage Greek Yogurt
1/4 cup Shredded Cheese
Olive Oil

Brown sausage. Drain any liquid, set aside.

Saute onions till golden. Add squash, garlic, seasonings and Bruschetta Sauce and cook covered for 5 minutes. Stirring occasionally. Mix in Alfredo sauce and yogurt. Mix the browned sausage in.

Spoon into a Pyrex casserole dish. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes.


It's getting chilly at night (well by SoCal standards... lows in the upper 40's) so I'm always looking for warm casserole type meals I can make ahead and just heat up when we are ready to eat. This was perfect.

Other Eggface dishes like this one...

Shelly's Cauliflower and Sausage Bake
Shelly's Chicken Sausage Stir Fry
Shelly's Grilled Veggie Lasagna
Shelly's Zucchini Roll-ups (aka Pasta-less Manicotti)


Highlights of the day:

* I'm so happy it's Fall... it is my favorite season. Fall makes me feel alive. I have way more energy and I find myself in a more cheerful mood. Sweaters, crisp night air, crunchy leaves, longer walks, steamy coffee, cinnamon, apples, pumpkin, snuggling. Currently taking apps ;) for the snuggler.

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns. ~George Eliot

Sooooo can relate.

* I had a really neat dream last night about my Grandpa (RIP). I remembered/dreamt walking in his garden and him showing me vegetables. It was one of those really vivid dreams I could actually smell his pipe. Nice.

* The goofy junior high school sexual innuendo blog title that I just gave this entry. It sent me into giggles which I know seriously puts my maturity level in question. No worries. I question it everyday.

Listening to: "Photograph" Nickleback

Dip & Dunk

With the holidays approaching here's a weight loss surgery friendly dip recipe that is super yummy.

I made a batch the other day for my Mum and I. We ate this and played Boggle (remember that game... I found it in the garage) outside under my electric stars. I won Boggle by the way. I am a Boggle Queen.


Shelly's Roasted Eggplant Yogurt Dip

6-7 Baby Eggplants, sliced in half
1 Red Onion
2 Garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon Oregano
1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
3 oz. Fage Greek Yogurt

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Cut the eggplant and onion into chunks. Toss them in a large bowl with the garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet.

Roast for 45 minutes, until the vegetables are lightly browned and soft, tossing once during cooking. Cool slightly.

Place the vegetables in a food processor add the oregano and tomato paste, and pulse 3 or 4 times to blend. Blend in Yogurt. Taste for salt and pepper.

Dippers: sliced cucumbers, celery, carrots, jicama, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, soy crisps, flax chips, cold cut roll-ups.


Highlights of the day:

* In my quest to do good things for myself. I went and shot some hoops at the park near my house. I have like no upper body strength so I was thinking of things I could do fun that would help strengthen me in that department. Curling weights doesn't do it for me. Boooooring. So yeah I suck at basketball but practice makes perfect right?!

* Looked at 2 condos yesterday and I have a realtor emailing new ones each day. Scary. So adult and unlike me.

* Oh yeah I bought the coolest reversible leather belt at TJMaxx today because my size 4 pants are falling off. Yeah you heard me right... size 4... falling off.

Listening to: "Never tear us apart" INXS. Michael Hutchence he was a cutie.

Still losing

Not trying to lose really but 3 pounds came off this week.

So grand total lost is now -158 pounds.

I'm at my lowest post-op weight thus far.

Apple Cinnamon Protein Cake (aka Nathan's Cake)

I went to an unofficial OH gathering this weekend. Met a lot of wonderful people and spent time with good friends.

My friend Michele was there with her beautiful grandchildren. Nathan her grandson is a big Eggface blog reader and has helped his Grandma make lots of my recipes. I told him I would make a cake in his honor so here it is...

Shelly's 5 Minute Sugar-Free Apple Cinnamon Cake

1 Egg, beaten
3 Tablespoons Milk (I used Vanilla Soy)
2 Tablespoons Sugar-Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Caramel)
2 Tablespoons No Sugar Added Applesauce
2 Tablespoons Canola Oil
3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix (I use this)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1 Tablespoon Pecans, chopped
1 Tablespoon Raisins
1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder
Pinch salt
1 Measuring Cup or Microwave Safe Mug

In a measuring cup or microwave safe mug, Mix egg, milk, syrup, applesauce, and oil and combine thoroughly. In a separate bowl, mix pancake mix, cinnamon, nuts, raisins, protein powder, and salt. Tip dry into wet and stir till combined. Nuke in microwave for 2 minutes. Let it sit for three or so minutes (it pulls away from the sides) before tipping the cake onto a plate. Yields 4-5 slices.

I topped it with Homemade No Sugar Added Whipped Cream, a drizzle of SmucSugar-Free Free Caramel Sauce and some chopped nuts.

Oh I had this Q the other day...

Q: What size measuring cup do you use for your 5 minute cakes?

A: I use a 1 cup and a 2 cup. I mix the dry ingredients in the 1 cup and the wet ingredients in the 2 cup. I tip the dry into the wet and mix. The cake gets nuked in the 2 cup.

Life.

No matter where you run, you always end up running into yourself.

Don't ask.

It has been a busy, crazy, mixed up weekend.

Just wanted to check in and let you know I'll be back cooking manana. I have a special cake to make this week for my new friend Nathan, a yummy casserole, and some holiday goodies so watch for that.

Thanks for the good vibes.

Dinner: A little comfort food

This was dinner. I served them with a simple mixed green salad with crumbled goat cheese, chopped pecans and a balsamic vinaigrette. These mini meatloaves are the perfect portion size for us post-ops. Super yummy and moist. A very economical family friendly meal.


Shelly's Italian Artichoke Mini Meatloaf

1 Yellow Onion, diced
3 Green Onions, diced
10 Mushrooms, chopped (button, crimini, or combination)
2 cloves Garlic, diced
1 - 14 oz. can Artichoke Hearts non-marinated, drained, pureed
1 1/4 pounds Ground Turkey, the average weight of 1 package
1/4 cup Italian Style Dry Bread Crumbs (or Oatmeal soaked in the milk for 1 minute)
1/4 cup Milk
1 Egg, beaten
1 teaspoon Oregano
1 teaspoon Basil
1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper
Butter/Oil for sauteing

Saute onions and mushrooms till golden, Add garlic cook 1 minute. Set aside to cool. Soak breadcrumbs in milk for 1 minute. Beat egg. Add egg and soaked breadcrumbs or oatmeal to ground turkey. Add cooled veggies, pureed artichoke, tomato paste, and seasonings. Mix till combined.


Divide into 8 equal mounds. Form into mini meatloaves or if you have this super groovy pan like me use it. Bake for 45 minutes in a 350 oven. These freeze well either cooked or uncooked.



Other Eggface Mini Meatloaf Recipes:

Shelly's Turkey Mushroom Mini Meatloaf
Shelly's Greek Mini Meatloaf
Shelly's Mexican Mini Meatloaf

Lost & Found

I had a nice couple of days. Hung out waaaay too late with friends playing pool last night. I suck at pool. So "playing pool" ummm yeah... it's more like me randomly hitting balls and every once and a while getting lucky.

In bed at 4 am and then back up at 6. I told you I'm part vampire. I am beginning to think this insomnia thing I have seriously must be a post-op issue. I have been reading posts from too many post-ops suffering from it to not think there is a connection. Anyone find any studies on it. Pass them along please.

Anyway...

Spent today at the beach with Jeremy. You guys know it's my favorite place on earth. I always feel happy and peaceful there. The weather was perfect. Company was not too bad either ;)

Ended the day with gooey cheese so needlesstosay it was a good day.


Shelly's Meatball, Three Cheese, Bruschetta Tortilla Pizza - Mission Carb Balance Whole Wheat Fajita Size Tortilla topped with Bruschetta Sauce (fresh pasta section), a slice of Provolone, Turkey Meatball, Asiago Cheese, Ricotta Cheese and Italian Seasoning.

and Shelly's Marinara and Cheese Tortilla Pizza - Mission Carb Balance Whole Wheat Fajita Size Tortilla topped with Marinara Sauce, a slice of Provolone, Asiago Cheese, and Italian Seasoning.


How to make them: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. I put 1 drop literally of olive oil on the cookie sheet and spread it around. Place tortilla on cookie sheet. Spread the sauce on the tortilla (pesto, marinara, alfredo, bruschetta sauce, whatever.) Put a slice of cheese on top of that and then any combination of toppings or leftovers I can find bumping around the fridge. Sprinkle with parmesan if desired. Pop in oven. 10 minutes exactly. Have the oven hot before you do the toppings **Do not let them sit. Pop them in the oven right away or the toppings will make the tortilla soggy versus the yummy crispy porn pictured above.


Highlights of the day:


* Sitting on the pier today. I had a moment of clarity: Anything worth having is worth waiting for. It's my new mantra.

* Did laundry and found $27.43 in my pocket. I know you are thinking big deal Michelle it's YOUR money you found but since I didn't know I had it... somehow it seems cooler.

* Right now. Chillin'. Coffee. Music.

Listening to: Gavin DeGraw "Follow Through"

More 5 Minute Protein Cakes

Made several cakes since I got back from LA. Thought I'd share a couple of them...

OK so if you are HUGE carrot cake fan this will not completely satisfy you but it was seriously yummy and shoot 5 minutes from mixing to eating you just can't beat. Carrot Cake was always one of those cakes I felt better about eating pre-op I mean it's carrots, a vegetable, it couldn't be that bad right?! Check out the stats on one of my favorite pre-op carrot cakes. Scary!?

Anyway here's my effort. A slice of this made a yummy breakfast this morning.

Shelly's 5 Minute Sugar-Free Carrot Cake w/ Cream Cheese Frosting

1 Egg, beaten
3 Tablespoons Milk (I used Vanilla Soy)
2 Tablespoons Sugar-Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Vanilla)
2 Tablespoons No Sugar Added Strained Carrots Baby Food
2 Tablespoons Canola Oil
3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix (I use this)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1 Tablespoon Pecans, chopped
1 Tablespoon Raisins
1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder
Pinch salt
1 Measuring Cup or Microwave Safe Mug

In a measuring cup or microwave safe mug, Mix egg, milk, syrup, carrot, and oil and combine thoroughly. In a separate bowl, mix pancake mix, cinnamon, nuts, raisins, protein powder, and salt. Tip dry into wet and stir till combined. Nuke in microwave for 2 minutes. Let it sit for three or so minutes (it pulls away from the sides) before tipping the cake onto a plate. Yields 4-5 slices. Top with Cream Cheese Frosting or Carrot Cake Protein Ice Cream.

Shelly's Cream Cheese Frosting

Equal parts Cream Cheese softened and Ricotta Cheese sweetened with Sugar Free Torani Syrup or Sugar-Free Maple Syrup to taste. Mix in a few chopped pecans.


I also made a yummy Chocolate Raspberry Cake. Topped with Farmer's Market fresh raspberries and a dusting of Sugar-Free White Chocolate.

Shelly's 5 Minute Sugar-Free Chocolate Raspberry Cake

1 Egg, beaten
3 Tablespoons Milk (I used Vanilla Soy)
2 Tablespoons Sugar-Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Raspberry)
2 Tablespoons Cocoa
2 Tablespoons Canola Oil
3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix (I use this)
1 scoop Chocolate Protein Powder
Pinch salt
1 Measuring Cup or Microwave Safe Mug

Topping: Fresh Raspberries, Sugar-Free Whipped Cream, Sugar-Free White Chocolate, grated

In a measuring cup or microwave safe mug, Mix egg, milk, syrup, and oil and combine thoroughly. In a separate bowl, mix pancake mix, cocoa, protein powder, and salt. Tip dry into wet and stir till combined. Nuke in microwave for 2 minutes. Let it sit for three or so minutes (it pulls away from the sides) before tipping the cake onto a plate. Yields 4-5 slices.

Highlights of the day:

* Got the most beautiful email from a blog reader this morning. It made my day. I am so grateful that you all stick around to listen to my ramblings and keep me on track. My journey would not be the same without you guys. Thank you!

* Speaking of email... if you have any pictures of the LA OH Event. I'd love to get a copy theworldaccordingtoeggface@gmail.com

* Went out for a walk a little bit ago and met the new people that moved into the house next door. They seem nice. Of course, that is what neighbors always say on the News when they discover dead bodies in a freezer in their garage.

"They seemed sooooo nice." LOL.

Listening to: Madonna w/ Justin Timberlake "Four Minutes"

Ladies who lunch

Went to Nordstrom's Cafe the other day and had a yummy salad. I came home and recreated it.

This would be great for lunch with any of my "Bites" aka crustless quiches. A very girly girl meal. Save this one for a Mom visit or lunch with your girlfriends. Don't feed this one to the guys. Most guys just don't get putting apples and goat cheese in a salad. If they do, start asking questions.


Shelly's Chicken, Apple & Goat Cheese Salad

Mixed Greens
Roasted Chicken Breast, chopped (I used a store bought rotisserie)
Goat Cheese, crumbled
Green Apple, sliced
Red Onion, sliced
Apple Chips
Sliced Almonds
Store bought Champagne Vinaigrette

Toss first 5 ingredients together. Top with almonds, apple chips, and desired amount of vinaigrette.

You can buy the apple chips but I made my own. I know... how flippin' Martha Stewart of me?! Remember I suffer from insomnia and am always looking for 3 AM projects.

Shelly's Baked Apple Chips

1-2 Apples, cored, sliced into 1/4 inch slices
1 cup Unsweetened Apple Juice
1 Teaspoon Cinnamon

Preheat oven to 250. Pour unsweetened apple juice into a pot. Add cinnamon and bring to a boil. Use a sharp knife or mandolin slicer to slice apple into 1/4 inch slices. Add to boiling apple juice. Return to a boil and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Lift apple slices out of apple juice with a large slotted spoon. Place slices on paper towels to absorb excess juice and pat dry. Spread slices into a single layer on wire cooling rack.

Bake 30-40 minutes. Remove from oven when slices are golden brown. Cool. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. These would be great as a topping on Sugar Free Torani sweetened Fage yogurt.


Highlights of the day:

* Farmer's Market. My haul: Baby Asparagus, Baby Eggplant (gonna roast them and make a dip I think), Red & Yellow Onions, Mushrooms, Garlic, Raspberries (5 Minute Chocolate Cake with a Raspberry Sauce maybe), Mixed Greens, Pluots, tons of Apples (so many varieties I love the Fall), My Mum's Bread.

* Took a long walk tonight. Just me and my iPod. Contemplating life. Good tunes. Crisp Fall weather. No cosmic answers were discovered but it was still nice.

* When the drugs kicked in. Cramps from hell. Ovaries in a vice grip. Not a happy girl. Finally gave in and took something.

Listening to: "Innocent" David Cook

Shrimp & the Fam

It's been awhile since I made one of these super easy shrimp packets. I'd forgotten how yummy they are.

Tonight's dinner...

Shelly's Greek Shrimp Packets

7 Raw Shrimp, peeled & deveined and tails removed
4 Artichoke Hearts, chopped
8 Grape Tomatoes, halved
10 Kalamata Olives, pitted and chopped
2 cloves Garlic, sliced
1 teaspoon White Wine
1 teaspoon Olive Oil
1/2 teaspoon Greek Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Oregano
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper

Peel and devein shrimp. Ingredients listed are for one packet multiply it for how many packets you are making. Place all ingredients in center of a piece of heavy duty foil (if you are using the $1 store stuff double it)

Fold the foil over and seal each packet. BBQ 15 minutes in covered grill.

Open packets carefully (steam burns are not fun) and mix with a fork lightly before serving.


Highlights of the day:

* Mum and I met my sis and my niece at North County Fair (local mall) they are in town for just a few days for a birthday party so we grabbed some lunch and coffee and hung out a bit.

I spent a little too much $. Damn Nordstrom's Half-yearly Sale. I bought a super cute puffy vest for the snow. I'm going snowboarding for the first time ever when the season begins. So I couldn't pass it up. How's that for justification ;) I also bought naughty panties. It was a WOW moment because not only did I go in Victoria's Secret for the first time I bought those panties in size XS. Crazy!?! But get this even though I was picking up the smallest size they carry I still felt like I was in the wrong store and was waiting for one of the employees to say, "Ummmm I'm sorry we don't have anything for you here." The emotional side of this journey takes waaaaaaaayyyyyy longer than the physical side. I'm still working on this head stuff and hmmm I'm also working on finding someone other than me to enjoy my purchases.

* Sleep. I actually got about 4 hours last night. That's darn good for me. I swear I'm part vampire.

* Watch for some yummy food porn this week I have been out of the kitchen for too long and I have a list of things to try.

Listening to: House of Pain "Jump Around"

LA Wrap-up

So I'm almost done putting everything back into its place post-LA. I'm wounded so it didn't make it easy. Monday morning I broke my toe at the hotel. You know that hideously heavy door that led outside to the super conveniently located Starbuck's... yeah toe meet door. I sucked it up when it happened but holy shit I saw stars. Well then I walked on it practically all Tuesday (hung with Jeremy... go see Pride & Glory BTW) and by Wednesday morning I was hating life.

OK LA Stories...

I had a great time meeting everyone. That truly is the best part of the events for me making our "cyber" friendships have "real world" connections. Putting voices to faces. You guys are freaking amazing. The transformations and stories... all I can say is WOW! You all inspire me.

Ohhhh and get this I can end my years of therapy. My pals Jandell and Little Michele hooked me up with an EASY BAKE OVEN!!! It made my weekend!

So on the agenda is an Easy Bake Oven version of my chocolate cake for the kiddos especially since I read this article this weekend. Scary.

The weekend was a blast...

Halloween on Hollywood Blvd, Tattoos, Piercings, The OH Halloween Party, a Bar Fight and that was just the first night. I told you I was gonna party like a rock star. So when we made bail (only joking) we had some work to do...

Saturday was our Round Table Grads Gab. A group of us post-ops sharing our stories. It was super well received. We're talking needed to get more chairs, standing room only good. Thanks so much for making it a success. We hope OH will take note and have more of those in the future. It was a great opportunity for us to realize that everyone's journey/battle is soooo different but we also have a deep connection that no one else can understand but a fellow post-op.

Saturday night was the Casino Night/Dance. Lots of fun. "The Daddy Mac will make you Jump! Jump!" Yeah thighs were sooooo hurting the next day.

Sunday was our presentation on the main stage. The Eggface & Melting Mama Road Show AKA "2 crazy chicks and chocolate cake." We had so much fun sharing recipes and products and hope you did too. Click, BellPlantation and a few other companies hooked us up with loads of swag and lots of people went away happy. Thank you for coming and supporting us.



The rest of the weekend was spent connecting with friends, drinking a few too many tequilas and getting naked ;) Ohhh how I wish. Yeah nothing that good. I just flashed my plastic surgery scars for those who wanted to see Dr. Quiroz's superior workmanship. A lot of woman have seen my boobies and at least two of the Kyoto Grand Hotel male staff. Next time we find a room with a lock LOL.

Thankfully all the walking I did I ended up a pound down on the scale despite my indulgence in some adult beverages and lots of Smoked Gouda cheese (don't ask.)

Can't wait for the next event! Want to see the Eggface & Melting Mama Road Show next year... you can always put in a good word for us events@obesityhelp.com