Holiday Breakfast: Snow People Ricotta Pancakes

After all the gifts are opened Christmas morning how about making snow people. What? There's no snow where you live? Well, that's no problem. Here's a Christmas (or all winter long) protein-packed, low carb, bariatric surgery post-op friendly breakfast idea that will become a fun holiday memory for the whole family.

Snowpeople Ricotta Pancakes

1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese
1 Egg, beaten
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1 Tablespoon Sugar-Free Torani Syrup (Sugar-Free Vanilla, Caramel or Brown Sugar Cinnamon)
3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix

Snowpeople Parts:
A few Raisins or dried Cranberries or Blueberries for eyes and buttons
A couple of pieces of cooked Bacon slices for a scarves
Sugar-Free Maple Syrup and/or No Sugar Added Homemade Whipped Cream "snow"

Mix all ingredients together. I use whole milk ricotta, if you use part skim, drain first. Spray pan with non-stick spray. Spoon a dollop of the mixture into pan and pat flat. You'll want some bigger circles and some smaller for your snowman or snowwoman's head. Cook on low till golden, flip, pat flat, cook till done. Gather your snowpeople parts and let everyone build their own. Makes enough for about 7-8 snowpeople.

Do you want to build a snowman? I'd love to see your snow people. If you snap a picture and post it on Instagram or Twitter tag me or add #Eggface

More Eggface Christmas Ideas
10 Tips for Surviving the Holidays Post Weight Loss Surgery

Sugar Free Christmas Cookies

Christmas cookies are a traditional part of holiday celebrations. Some people just don't feel like it's the holidays without a little icing and a few sprinkles. If you are looking to have a little something sweet with a little less impact to your health, weight, or fitness goals give these sugar-free, lower fat, no white flour cookies a try.

I use Swerve as the sugar replacement, it's made mostly of Erythritol, found in a lot of sugar-free gums and mints, you can find it in most health food stores or I added an online link below, it comes in Granular, Confectioners and Brown and measures the same as regular sugar. It doesn't seem to cause gastric issues some sugar replacements cause but you don't test it by eating the whole batch of cookies in one sitting. I cut out some of the ingredients that I try and limit on my plan in this recipe. So they should be a great holiday treat for those of you that are on a keto, low carb or diabetic diet but of course, as always run them by your health professionals for their thumbs up... better yet bring them a batch.

Are they your Grandma's Christmas cookies? No, but those probably have oodles of sugar, butter and white flour in them. These really are a great alternative for traditional sugar cookies and I think Grandma might even fight you for the last one.

Shelly's Sugar-Free Almond Christmas Cookies 

1 cup Almond Flour (not meal)
2 Tablespoons Coconut Flour
1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
1/8 teaspoon Sea Salt
1/4 cup Butter, softened
1/4 cup Swerve, Granular
1 Large Egg, beaten
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Glaze

3 Tablespoons Swerve, Confectioners
1 Tablespoon Milk, any
1/8 teaspoon Lemon Extract (you can sub any flavor Almond, Vanilla)
Holiday Nonpareils  (optional)

Preheat oven to 325. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix together the almond flour, coconut flour, baking powder, and salt. Cream softened butter with the Swerve until combined. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract. Add dry ingredients and mix until the dough comes together. Roll the dough into 1 to 1-1/2 inch balls and place 1 inch apart on the parchment lined baking sheet. Press the balls down with the palm of your hand to about 1/2 inch thick.

They puff a bit but don't spread. Bake about 18-20 minutes, until just barely beginning to firm up and are lightly golden on the bottom. Remove and let cool on the pan. They will firm as they cool. Makes 16-20 cookies.

Make the glaze: mix the Confectioner's Swerve, milk, and extract together till well combined. Dip the top of the cookies into the glaze and sprinkle with nonpareils.

The glaze sets pretty quick... so dip and sprinkle each cookie, don't dip all then go to sprinkle because your sprinkles will roll off... or alternatively if you are not a fan of glaze you can melt Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips to dip or drizzle over cookies.



Here's our Christmas tree this year. I love my mixed up ornament tree. There is a story behind every ornament and as we decorate we remember the people, times or places they represent. Wishing everyone Happy Holidays filled with wonderful memories.

Tips for Surviving the Holidays Post Bariatric Surgery

Holiday Giggle: Christmas Cookie Rules

It's a The World According to Eggface tradition to post this once a year...

1. If you eat a Christmas cookie fresh out of the oven, it has no calories because everyone knows that the first cookie is the test cookie and thus calorie free.

2. If you drink a diet soda after eating your second cookie, it also has no calories because the diet soda cancels out the cookie calories.

3. If a friend comes over while you're making your Christmas cookies and needs to sample, you must sample with your friend. Because your friend's first cookie is calorie free, (rule #1) yours is also. It would be rude to let your friend sample alone and, being the friend that you are, that makes your cookie calorie free also.

4. Any cookie calories consumed while walking around will fall to your feet and eventually fall off as you move. This is due to gravity and the density of the caloric mass.

5. Any calories consumed during the frosting of the Christmas cookies will be used up because it takes many calories to lick excess frosting from a knife without cutting your tongue.

6. Cookies colored red or green have very few calories. Red ones have three and green ones have five - one calorie for each letter. Make more red ones!

7. Cookies eaten while watching "Miracle on 34th Street" have no calories because they are part of the entertainment package.

8. As always, cookie pieces contain no calories because the process of breaking causes calorie leakage.

9. Any cookies consumed from someone else's plate have no calories since the calories rightfully belong to the other person and will cling to their plate. We all know how calories like to CLING.

10. Any cookies consumed while feeling stressed have no calories because cookies used for medicinal purposes NEVER have calories. It is a rule!

Oh if only! 🎅   A

A few tough weeks ahead, stress, changes in routine, pressure... Remember YOU ARE TOUGHER... it's OK to Say NO. 

My Holiday Tips

Headed to Nashville

I'm headed to Nashville. I'm attending ObesityWeek. ObesityWeek for those that may not know is the combined annual meetings of the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and The Obesity Society (TOS) so the bariatric surgeons and their related staff (bariatric nurses, dietitians, psychologists, etc.) and the scientists and researchers in obesity.

A few years ago it was held in San Diego, which is the closest major city to my town and I worked in a booth for the Obesity Action Coalition (didn't attend sessions or meetings) and then last year it was in the Washington DC/Virginia area and just before I became OAC Board Chair so they sent me to learn and meet the folks we interact with on common projects. I attended some super interesting scientific sessions most of which were over my head a bit but I asked a lot of questions and gained a better understanding of the science of obesity... honestly it was empowering to hear from world-renowned scientist from all over the globe all saying it is not just "eat less and move more" which is sadly what much of society and the media portray it as. Personal responsibility for healthy behaviors is just one aspect and so much more is at play (brain signals, gut hormones, environment, and on-and-on.) Now how to get that message out to the general public... so that those affected aren't faced with the stigma and bias that obesity is all their fault... I'd love to hear your ideas!

I feel more comfortable going this year since it's my second one. I'll be tweeting, of course, www.twitter.com/eggface from some of the sessions and meetings and Tuesday I'm on a panel sharing my personal story and ways people treating obesity can make the experience better for people affected who choose to seek treatment. I hope what I share makes them more aware of the impact they can have (both good and bad.)

In my downtime, I'm looking forward to checking out the EXPO HALL which is huge and full of products and services... Celebrate Vitamins, Premier Protein, Livliga, and others (take a look at the list) I can't wait to share the new and yummy goodies I taste. If you spot something you want me to be sure to visit and report back on let me know.

Be sure to follow me on Twitter for my Music City adventure and the #OW2018 hashtag. I've never been to Nashville if you can believe that... so it will be fun. Well technically, I drove through it when we moved cross country from New York to California but couldn't stop because I had a guinea pig in the car. It was too hot... this time... no guinea pig and it might snow. So fair warning my twitter feed might have a lot of whining about the cold... Southern Californians whine at anything under 60°F. 

While I love and am thankful for the experiences and travel I've been able to do on behalf of the Obesity Action Coalition I do have to say I'm looking forward to nothing on the agenda travel wise till January... just some holiday cooking, sharing recipes and products. Till then be sure to check out some of these past posts to get you ready for Thanksgiving and the holidays post-bariatric surgery.

Some of my favorite Thanksgiving Appetizers, Side Dishes, and Desserts
My Thanksgiving and Fall Pinterest Recipe Page
What to do with all those Thanksgiving Leftovers

Headed to Copenhagen

After never having stamps in my passport I suddenly will have 2! Earlier this month, I was in London (Windsor) and today, I am headed to Copenhagen, Denmark where I will be talking about the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) and the power of patient voices and participating a patient workshop with people affected by obesity around the world.

If you'd like to follow along www.twitter.com/eggface is my outlet for all my random hi-jinx, people I meet on the way, sights, sounds, and food pics and once the workshop starts hopefully some thoughtful insights about how to make the world a better place for those affected by obesity. 

I may toss out a few Q's or polls on Twitter too. I am just one person and I want to make sure I represent your interests well.

Headed to London

This is an exciting week. I'm headed to London to participate in the World Obesity Federation Patient Summit, a gathering of patient delegates and leaders from around the globe coming together to talk about obesity and the advocacy efforts needed to drive change. There is so much misunderstanding and stigma surrounding obesity and people affected are suffering because of it. I am looking forward to chatting about the impact we can have if we are all able to work together on some common goals. I am very proud and honored to be one of the voices from the United States at the table.

Speaking of the table... the event is being held at a former royal residence that has been donated by the Queen for educational events like these. It's called the Cumberland Lodge (outside of London) and on the same grounds as Windsor Castle (where Meghan and Harry were married last month and Princess Eugenia is getting married on Friday) Check it out...

This is especially exciting for me as it is my first trip to Europe. At my highest weight, I had difficulty in tiny airline bathrooms (airlines can we work on this!) and the thought of such a long trip was not feasible. After my weight loss, there was just always something else that needed to come first before a trip overseas. I'm excited to have this opportunity to check something off my bucket list. My first stamp in my passport!

If you've read the blog for a while you probably know I am 1/2 British. My Mum, sis, and brother were all born in England. My Dad was born in Sicily. He moved to England in his 20's where he met my Mum. They immigrated to the U.S. and I was born. So I'm the only U.S. born in my family. I used to say proudly that I was the only one that could be president but that doesn't seem to require much these days (sorry couldn't resist.) My Mum is from Yorkshire, England (more north) and this is a quick trip but it'll be nice to say I have been to her country.

If you'd like to follow my European adventure follow me on Twitter and Instagram I'll be sure to post some pictures and things I learn. It's also National Obesity Care Week (be sure to take the pledge) in the U.S. and World Obesity Day on Thursday so I'll be tweeting up a storm.

Post Weight Loss Surgery Menus: A day in my pouch

My yesterday in post weight loss surgery eating...

Breakfast: Scrambled Egg Bowls are one of my favorite post-op breakfasts. In fact, I've been known to have them for dinner too. This one is probably the one I have the most because I hate wasting mushrooms so if I have a few bumping around I sautee them with a pinch of fresh thyme and serve them over a scrambled egg with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

More Eggface Scrambled Egg Breakfast Bowl Ideas

After breakfast, I head to the Farmer's Market. Today was the first day I felt human after a 3-day migraine. My fellow sufferers can relate I'm sure... that foggy, can't move too quickly because you are afraid it will come raging back feeling but also really wanting to do something to get back into the human race. I didn't stay long but I bought some beautiful zucchini, eggplant, peppers and onions that will all turn into delicious parts of this week's menus and some berries for breakfast or toss in a protein shake.

Lunch: Melted Ham and Cheese Roll-ups and Pickles, an easy, go-to, are cold-cut roll-ups (look for low sodium, free from nitrates/nitrites options) sometimes I just roll them up and call it a meal or when I'm feeling like a grilled cheese (I don't do bread) a quick saute in a pan gives me the melty, cheesy, gooey, I'm wanting.

More Things to do with Cold Cuts

Dinner: I felt up to a little cooking and made Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles with a storebought Bruschetta sauce... this one is so easy and literally takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish. Less if you used a pre-cooked protein... like leftover chopped, grilled chicken or steak instead of shrimp which I sometimes do.

Shelly's Bruschetta Shrimp and Zucchini Noodles

2 Medium-sized Zucchini, spiralized
2-3 cloves Garlic, minced
3/4 cup Storebought Bruschetta Sauce
12 large Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and a few twists of Black Pepper to taste

Spiralize the zucchini and saute till just tender about 5 minutes. Drain most of the excess liquid. I prefer a lot of sauce so I drain most but not all. If you like a less soupy end product drain it all. Add garlic and cook for a minute. Add Bruschetta sauce and shrimp. Cover and cook till shrimp are opaque and cooked about 8 minutes. Salt and pepper to taste.

Cooks Notes: If you don't have a spiralizer (get one, they are great and fairly inexpensive) but of course you can also just slice the squash, or buy premade zoodles but 3 boxes of those and you've bought your spiralizer. You can find Bruschetta sauce in the fresh pasta section or I love a shelf-stable jarred Bruschetta Sauce that Trader Joe's makes (what I used this time) or of course you can make your own:

Homemade Bruschetta Sauce

4 Roma Tomatoes, seeded and diced
1-2 Tablespoons, fresh Basil, chopped
2-3 cloves Garlic, minced
a drizzle of Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar
pinch of dried Oregano
Kosher Salt, taste
a twist of Black Pepper

Mix all ingredients together about 15 minutes before serving.

More Low Carb, Alternatives to Pasta
More Healthy Italian Recipes

Snacks: I had a Starbucks Sugar Free Vanilla Soy Latte as I walked around the Farmer's Market and in the evening a piece of Coconut Cream Protein Pie sitting outside getting some fresh air. After being curled up in a dark, room it was nice to breathe some fresh air and look at the stars.

I've shared this story before but for those new to the blog... I wasn't a big birthday cake fan as a kid. I always requested a special Coconut Cream Pie that my neighbor Mrs. B. made for me. It had nuts pressed in the crust and was the bomb. My neighbor growing up on Long Island Mrs. B was quite the character and an awesome cook. When I was a kid I was her official taste tester. She'd have me taste-testing different versions of the same recipe and I would have to give my opinion in detail as to why I preferred one over the other. She entered and won cooking and recipe contests all the time. Her garage was literally full of new appliances (they gave away those back in the day) which she would then sell and use the money to go on exotic vacations to places like Fiji and Bali. She passed away about a year ago. She was one of my cooking inspirations and every time I enter a cooking contest (and once and while win) I think of her.  Here's my no sugar added, bariatric surgery friendly version...

Shelly's Coconut Cream Protein Pie 

Crust Layer
1/2 cup Oats, dry
1/2 cup Almond Flour
1/4 cup Spelt Flour
1/4 cup Protein Powder, any flavor
1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder
1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
1/3 cup Nuts, chopped (I used Pecans)
1/4 cup Sugar-Free Torani Syrup (I used SF Vanilla)
1 Tablespoon Melted Butter

Pudding Layer 
2 cups of Sugar-Free Pudding (I used 1 small package Sugar-Free Vanilla Pudding and milk, prepared per package direction) When pudding has thickened, mix in 1/4 cup Unsweetened Coconut, toasted. You'll need a little more for the top.

Optional Protein Pudding: 1/4 cup Protein Powder (any flavor, mix into the milk and pudding mix to dissolve) When pudding has thickened, mix in the 1/4 cup Unsweetened Coconut, toasted OR another option: 1 small package Sugar-Free Vanilla Pudding and instead of the milk and added protein powder in the pudding recipe you can use Vanilla Ready to Drink Protein Shake (Premier, Unjury, etc.) When pudding has thickened, mix in the 1/4 cup Unsweetened Coconut, toasted.
You'll need a little more for the top.

Mix crust ingredients together and press into 11x8 Pyrex rectangle casserole dish or pie plate that has been sprayed well with non-stick spray. Bake at 350 for 13 minutes. Allow to cool completely. Spread pudding over cooled crust. I like to have some additional toasted coconut on top of the pudding layer but can be omitted. I think it makes it pretty. Return to the fridge for at least an hour. Serve portions with a squirt of No Sugar Added, Homemade Whipped Cream. You can even make that coconut flavored. Makes around 15 servings. Holds up several days in the fridge, I actually made this before my migraine and the crust was still yummy and crunchy.

More Bariatric Friendly Desserts
More Post Weight Loss Surgery Menus

Thankful I am on the other side of this migraine. I need to go back to the doctor and see what is new and exciting in the way of treatments. Open to hearing from others about what is working for them.

Weight Loss Surgery Wisdom from a Friend

I believe people come into your life for a reason. Years ago when I was researching bariatric surgery I became active on the Obesityhelp website and made several friends, many of whom I still chat with after all these years. One of those early friends was Ruth Lamb (aka Dame Tooter) her early words of wisdom and guidance helped me and seeing her paying it forward was definitely a guide for me as I became a post-op to continue to share my experience, story, tips, recipes, etc. for others so their journey might be made a little easier. I lost my friend and early weight loss surgery mentor to cancer this weekend. I will miss her and always be grateful that we crossed paths in this life.  

I want to share something she wrote years ago that helped me, I hope it helps the newer post-ops reading...

WLS TIMELINE – Or Am I Normal? by Ruth Lamb 

As you can guess not everything will apply to everyone, however, the following are my observations for the last few years.

By 1 week preop:
Panic sets in – much like the panic before having a baby. What to take to the hospital… pack and repack. Arrange everything you can before going into surgery (cook meals, write letters, read the memorial pages (an old OH feature) and then go to the message boards to get reassurance, confirm babysitting, postop help, time off work, travel arrangements, etc.). Dive into whatever final foods you’re just SURE you’ll never eat again. Ask the MB (Message Board) what foods you’ll never eat again. Insomnia! Mood swings. Preop testing, nasty bowel preps (btw, there are NO easy ways to get this stuff down. Just do it!). Wonder if you’re weird because you ARE NOT scared. Wonder if you are making a mistake because you ARE scared. 

Postop Day 1 through Week 2:
“What the hell did I just DO to myself???”
“Why am I/am I not hungry?”
“I’ll NEVER be able to get in all the fluid/protein/food they want me to.”
“I can eat TOO much – did I break something?”
“I can’t eat enough… will I die of starvation?”
“I can’t believe how badly this hurt! ~OR~ I can’t believe I even had surgery, because there’s so little pain!”
“Why do I have no energy?”
“When can I eat…fill in the blank?”
“Will I ever be able to gulp water again?”
“Why did I GAIN 10 pounds???”
“Wow, I’ve lost 10 pounds!”
You think you've hit your first plateau. Nope. Odds are VERY good you haven't :-) 

Postop weeks 2 through 12:
Post op remorse usually fades during this time period. What a relief that is!
You TRY hard to stick to your doctor's diet regimen/protocol and wonder if you’re evil when you slip off the wagon by eating… fill in the blank.
You think you've hit your first, 2nd or 3rd plateau. Nope. Odds are VERY good you haven't :-)
Nearly everyone experiences a stall during the first 3 months.
You accidentally gulp water and freak that you’ve broken your pouch.
You accidentally forget to chew something to death and fear you’ve plugged your stoma.
You FEAR strictures, fistulas, and leaks every time you burp, get nauseated, have diarrhea, feel a muscle cramp, etc. This fear is not abnormal and you ‘could’ have one of these since this is the prime time for it – however, fear is no way to live. There are common symptoms attributed to these. Hopefully, you’ve researched them postop and can shelve the fear and keep a reasonable eye out for them.
You discover that you vomit or burp mucus, foam or fluid occasionally. This is called frothing, the foamies, or just mucus. It typically IS just mucus, caused by your healing pouch.
You discover your body has weird ways of telling you that you’ve eaten enough/too much (i.e., sneezing, sniffles, runny nose, hiccuping, etc)
You wonder if it’s normal to poop once, twice, three times a week.
You discover one day the scale is evil (you’re losing too slow) and the next day it's your friend when it rewards you with 1, 2, 5 pounds gone.
You wonder if you’re losing too fast and how will you stop it when you get to ‘goal’.
You wonder if you’ll EVER get to ‘goal’.
You try numerous types of protein drinks/bars, etc and wonder if protein is ‘for life’.
You swear you will never eat or drink… fill in the blank…as it is evil or forbidden (pop, cookies, popcorn, gum, etc.)
You discover that many (not ALL) long-term postops have discovered that very little is forbidden or evil to them in moderation and with care. 

Months 3 through 18:
You worry you are a slow loser and have days you doubt the tool will work, or wonder if it’s broke. I am NOT mocking. Some people’s tools DO break during this period of time, but it is in the minority, not the majority.
You wonder if you’ll ever get to goal.
You made goal and worry you’ll not stop losing.
You worry because you can eat TOO much.
You worry because you still eat too little.
You worry about getting in enough protein.
You worry you’re getting in too much protein.
You ponder whether carbs are evil or not.
You question again whether diet pills are evil.
You compare your losses against everyone else’s.
You discover that you had an exercise guru hidden within you and are now an exercise maniac.
You discover that you HATE exercise and try and force yourself to get moving.
You may have hit your first plateau. Don't panic! - Have you noticed a reoccurring theme? :-)

Months 19 and beyond:
You may hit a plateau. Don't panic!
You reach goal and worry you'll regain.
You wonder if you'll stop losing!
You wonder if you'll EVER make goal (you've likely heard about the dreaded window and fear it closed at 18 months - be aware, I continued to lose to goal for 20 to 22 months).
You may find yourself sliding; eating the wrong foods; slacking on exercise; and freak when you regain 10 pounds. Time to get back on track. 

This is NOT to discourage you from asking questions. If anything this is to encourage you to. This is to show you that all your fears, doubts, worries and hopes are VERY normal – and to not be afraid to ask that question that is eating at you. I have purposely not provided ‘answers’ to most of the above questions, because we all need to discover our own path on this long loooong journey and everyone’s answer will be slightly different, as will their journey. So if you’re worried, curious, knowledgeable or just flummoxed… ASK, TELL, RESEARCH!  

Good luck to all – preops and postops and just the curious.

Ruth, Me and Amy (circa 2006)

In Ruth's memory, I will continue to share my story and answer questions whenever I am able. RIP my friend.

Join me in taking #OACAction

If you follow me on any of my social media accounts you probably have seen me using the hashtag #OACAction. Basically, the concept is really simple... the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is calling on its Community, as well as all of its supporters and followers, to simply take action and do something positive that moves our work as a non-profit organization forward in our mission. Your #OACAction can be any gesture that helps us spread awareness about obesity, educate and support people who are affected by it and improve their lives in some way, shape or form. All actions matter and all actions make a difference!

OAC's Mission
OAC Beliefs and Demands 

You can read more about #OACAction on the Obesity Action Coalition OAC Community Page and while you are there sign up to be a part of the OAC Community, there is a no-cost entry level now.

Today I want to share one of my favorite ways to take #OACAction: Sharing OAC materials in my neighborhood. Quick story... a few years ago a person who the attended OAC's Your Weight Matters (YWM) National Convention for the first time shared they had learned about it from reading a magazine I had left in a local coffee shop in my neighborhood. I was so jazzed for her for getting to attend what she called a life-changing experience for her health journey, I was jazzed for the OAC as we gained a new community member and I was jazzed for me too. It truly is an amazing feeling to know a small action you take can make a big difference.

This week I created an #OACAction Take Action Kit to keep in my car. I used an old Your Weight Matters event bag and filled it with some of the free educational resources available by request from the OAC (most are also downloadable if you need something fast), a few issues of YWM magazines, and I filled a bag with some supplies tape, magnets, push pins, etc. I often need when posting items on community billboards or in coffee shops.

I also printed a list of places to remember to leave items:

Health Fairs
Support groups/talks
Gyms/fitness centers
Child care centers/preschools
Laundromats
Coffee shops
Grocery stores
Nail salon/hair salon
Craft clubs/book club
Library community info areas
Community centers/bulletin boards
Church fellowship/meetings
Doctor/dentist/lab/other medical waiting rooms

I think you will find there are so many opportunities for sharing materials in your own neighborhoods when you begin to make your list. I even come up with a few odd places from time to time like the other day I left an old YWM magazine in my car dealership waiting room as I was waiting for an oil change. I have to remember to do it every time because I know people will be grateful for the fun and interesting reading option... they literally only have Golf Digest, Sports Illustrated, and an occasional Money magazine. So leaving a YWM magazine each time will be my public service to save people from boredom LOL. Seriously though, it's an easy way for me to spread the word about the OAC, its awesome community and the work the organization does for those affected by obesity.

I hope you will join me in #OACAction taking... maybe by dropping something off at your next Dr. appointment, or by following the OAC on social media and retweeting, liking or sharing their posts so more eyes see them, or telling people about next year's YWM event, or maybe you'll take #OACAction in a different way, you can find tons of ideas in the OAC Action Center and keep checking back because we'll add more ideas from time to time.

When I take #OACAction I tweet about it (it's also happening on Facebook & Instagram so if you prefer those you can post with the hashtag there) and add the hashtag. If you search #OACAction on those social media platforms and scroll through you'll see others in our community taking #OACAction reading them inspires me, I hope it will inspire you too!

Dropped off a couple of Your Weight Matters magazines at a local coffee shop today. Sharing a great resource and spreading the word about the @ObesityAction is one way to take #OACAction pic.twitter.com/DLSHQ8jCaj

— Michelle Vicari (@Eggface) August 17, 2018

Your Weight Matters YWM2018

It was a crazy busy month! The highlight by far was the Obesity Action Coalition's (OAC) 7th Annual Your Weight Matters (YWM) National Convention in Denver, Colorado. As most of you know I have the great honor of serving as an OAC National Board Member and currently as Chairperson. This meeting is our BIG annual, awesome, gathering of individuals from across the country (34 states) and the globe (we had 6 countries represented this year!) who have personally struggled with their weight or have an interest in the education offered on health, weight, weight loss, nutrition, fitness, emotional health and wellness, and so much more.

Attending YWM each year is one of the ways I personally keep my health journey energized. Attending feeds my brain with knowledge (real deal, science supported, evidence-based, No BS, knowledge) and more importantly, it feeds my soul. There is something magical, inspiring and motivating when you find yourself surrounded by people who "get it," when you find your tribe, your community. It's powerful and it carries me like a wave from each year to the next. I am healthier for attending in both body and mind.

It's also POWERFUL in a larger community sense...

When you get that many amazing people together you feel empowered knowing there are others who care about the same issues you do and want to take ACTION to make the world a better place for those affected by obesity.

This year the OAC is focused on taking ACTION...

#OACAction is basically anything big or small (some with just a click of the mouse) that moves our organization forward and ALL ACTIONS MAKE A DIFFERENCE. There will be those that feel compelled to visit DC and share their stories in a public way to increase access to obesity care and treatment (awesome!) but for those that aren't ready or wanting to take action in that way, know that your efforts are still soooo needed... from dropping off OAC materials in your local community to sharing OAC social media posts which increases their reach to attending YWM each year and bringing friends and family to calling out weight bias and stigma and responding to our calls to act on issues. There are so many ways to take #OACAction!

Visit the OAC Action Center frequently to learn more ways to take #OACAction (we add new ones often.) Search on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook #OACAction to see what actions your fellow OAC Community members are taking and tag your #OACAction taking on social media so we can all be inspired and motivated by each other's actions...

...until we meet again at YWM2019. SAVE THE DATE and make plans to attend next year’s Convention in Tampa, Florida. August 1-4, 2019! Sign up for e-alerts to keep up with all the Convention 411 at YWMConvention.com

P.S. I have so many photos to go through from Convention I'll make another post with some fun pictures soon.

Cool Product Alert: RealGood Foods Cauliflower Pizza

Nothing beats a pizza and movie night! It was a favorite when I was a kid and it's still a favorite. If you think choosing to get healthier or having bariatric surgery will put an end to that fun tradition, you are mistaken. There are so many better for you pizza options and RealGood Foods (makers of those yummy enchiladas and pizzas with crusts made from chicken and Parmesan cheese, also a great option for Pizza & Movie Night) asked me to share that they are now making another great option: Cauliflower Crust Pizza... and they are delicious!

I know you are seeing a lot of Cauliflower Crust pizzas in the stores lately but be warned not all are created equal! Read those labels because many on the market are made with lots of starchy binders like rice flour, cornstarch, and tapioca flour so they are gluten free but basically as carby as eating a regular pizza. The stats on RealGood Foods Cauliflower Crust Pizzas are a good as I've seen. Made from cauliflower, egg, and cheese they come in at about 9g carbs, 16g. protein per serving, depending on the flavor. For more info on specific nutritional stats of each flavor.

They come in 4 flavors: Cheese, Margherita, Pepperoni, and Vegetable. They are Large, 10” pizzas, and each pie is easily 8 slices. They are available online. They will be headed to stores eventually, I am seeing their enchiladas and chicken crust pizzas in more and more stores but until then you are welcome to use my affiliate code: eggface to score 10% off your online order.

It's been so hot in my neighborhood. It's been hard for me to turn the oven on but these pizzas only bake at 400 for 20-26 minutes (I like crunchy crusts so I went for the full time.) We found a couple of movies that had plenty of snow scenes in them, turned up the portable AC and ate our gooey, cheesy pizza as we watched a double feature of "While You Were Sleeping" and "The Holiday." Pizza and Movie Night needs to happen more often!

Want a chance to win a mixed pack of RealGood Foods Cauliflower Crust Pizzas. Head over to my Instagram and follow the instructions on the Pizza and Movie Night post to enter.

This post is sponsored by RealGood Foods. For the purposes of this post, RealGood Foods provided me with products reviewed. Thanks for the opportunity to share the new product and the yummy pizza. All shared opinions are mine. If I don't love it, it doesn't get shared.

Welcome Summer Healthy Tips & Recipes

Summer is here! Wow, the year is flying by. I thought I'd share a few tips, reminders and recipes to help you have the best and healthiest summer ever. Click thru all the links and pics for recipes and more. While these are especially written for the bariatric surgery reader I think those that are eating low carb, keto, protein forward meals will find some favorites too.

Go Outside - Move your workout into nature, it's way more fun than a smelly gym and there is more to look at. Ride bikes, play tag with your kids, set up badminton or smaller spaces are great for corn hole games or go on a scavenger hunt in the neighborhood, make some protein granola and take a hike or a long romantic (or for the single gals like me, it's me-time) walk, do you have a pool or a neighbor with one... MARCO POLO anyone?!

Exercise early in the day, not only is it safer to exercise in the cooler hours of the AM, it will give you a good start for the day. Always wear sunscreen and bring your water with you.

Cool Eats - Visit your local farmers market, try a fruit or veggie you've never tried, ask the seller what he or she likes to do with it, get creative in the kitchen make some fun salads or create your own salad bar or have a tidbit party.

More Eggface Cool Eats

Summer is also prime bento box picnic weather. Pack lunch or dinner and take it out into nature... watch the sunset, make wishes on stars, find a beach, a lake, a park, your own backyard or balcony. My town has a bunch of free movies and concerts and of course 4th of July fireworks.

More Eggface Bento Box Lunches

Quick Eats - In the summer I am always looking for ways to cut down the cooking (heating the kitchen up) time or clean-up. These are a few of my favorites that do just that...

Foil Packets Meals
Sheet Pan Dinners
BBQ Dinners

If you are eating out (and heading home right away) ask for a box as you order and box up what you aren't eating before you start to use for creating meals the next day. I call this repurposing and it's definitely a time saver the next day.

Or cook big one day and turn the leftovers into easy meals for the rest of the week.

Sweet Treats - Fruit with protein-packed Greek yogurt or ricotta based dips are a favorite. Make Strawberry Cannoli, or my Fluff Stuff or churn a batch of Protein Ice Cream, make Protein Pudding Jars or Frozen "Cheesecake."

In the triple-digit heat we often get in my neck of the woods I am especially thankful for an afternoon protein shake made frappe-style in the blender. It's a quick way to cool me down and bonus I get some protein in too. I am careful about adding too many higher calorie items and I account for it in my eating plan for the day. You can save time by making protein shake baggies too.

Drink Plenty of Water - I have always struggled with this one but I know it's not an option so I keep trying my best each day. Drinking more water would help so many of us (helps umm constipation, clear skin, healthy hair, it's a natural appetite suppressant, etc.) but staying hydrated is especially essential for bariatric surgery post-ops (caution: one of the major reasons for readmittance to the hospital in the first 30 days post-op is dehydration, so in those post-operative release instructions when they say carry your water bottle with you at all times and "sip sip sip" they mean it!)

There are lots of ways to jazz it up and even a few products that will do double duty and give you some added vitamins too.

I always have plenty of cold water in the fridge and things like berries, cucumbers or citrus fruits on hand to add some pizazz. My latest favorite is unsweetened iced tea with a pump of Sugar-Free Torani in fruity flavors.

More tips for jazzing your H20 up

Make Memories - After cancer and the car theft, my budget won't allow for any great adventures this summer (thankful for the few trips I'm getting to go on via my work or volunteer positions) but I do live in a pretty awesome area of the country and so I've got a few local places to explore and hang out on my list.

Money Saving Tips

Do you have a summer bucket list? What’s on it? I’d love to hear about it.
Happy Summer!

Healthy Dinner Idea: Sheet Pan Shrimp and Peppers

This colorful, nutritious, and delicious meal has been a hit at my house. We've had it a couple of times this month. I hope you enjoy it too. And bonus... everything is cooked on the same sheet pan so clean-up is a breeze.

Shelly's Sheet Pan Shrimp and Peppers

2 Bell Peppers, sliced into strips
1/2 Red Onion, sliced into strips
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
a sprinkle of Kosher Salt

1/2 pound (16/20 ct.) Shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic
1/4 teaspoon Oregano
dash of Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper to taste
1/2 Lemon, sliced
a few sprigs of Dill

Place shrimp in a gallon zipper plastic bag, add olive oil, oregano, salt and pepper and zip shut. Toss to coat and set aside in the fridge while peppers begin cooking. Set oven to 425. On a baking sheet toss sliced peppers (any color is great, I used 1/2 of 4 different colored bell peppers you want 2 peppers total) and onion in olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and cook till golden about 35 minutes, stirring twice during cooking.

Push veggies to one side of the sheet pan. Place 3-4 lemon slices on the tray, add the shrimp that have been marinating in the fridge (discard marinade) and a sprinkle of fresh dill. Place back in the oven and cook for 8-10 minutes more till shrimp are opaque and pink. Remove from the oven, toss veggies and shrimp together and squeeze the juice of the lemon slices over everything. I served over riced cauliflower (frozen steamer bag.)

Time-saving Tip: As this shrimp dinner is cooking put another tray in the oven with the same veggies when dinner is done your extra tray of roasted veggies are done too. To roast veggies: chop into 1-2" pieces, place in an even layer on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a little Kosher salt. You can use any combo of veggies (eggplant is another I do often) but try and keep the pieces close in size so they cook evenly.

Roast at 425 (I did it in a countertop oven but a traditional oven is great too) for about 45 minutes, turn veggies with a spatula 2-3 times during cooking.

I love roasted veggies. I make a couple of trays most weekends and then turn them into meals throughout the week, just store them in a glass container in the fridge and then use them during the week to make your breakfast (egg bites aka mini crustless quiche or scrambled egg bowl), lunch (bean salad or tortilla pizza or with cold cut rollups) or dinner (shrimp tacos or casseroles or meatloaf) more exciting. You can even freeze them to add to soups or whiz some in plain Greek yogurt to make an amazing dip for veggies.

More Eggface Dinner Recipes & Ideas