Gluten-Free Fat-Free Tomato Pie Recipe! Oh so good!

#RitaHutchesonCobbs Tomato Pie Recipe

 from the #KitchenWithAHouseAttached

Oh sweet goodness! I am being trained by one of the absolutely, hands down, very best group fitness instructors ever...Ms Robin at the Hartselle Gym. Each week, she is amazing because she can count, instruct, lead and share a recipe! Week before last, it was a corn salad, this past week it was a tomato pie, both leaving my mouth watering and my mind craving. I had to try this one too. However, I had to tweak it a bit.

My neighbors, brought me fresh tomatoes, one brought green tomatoes so 

I baked "fried" Cajun tomatoes and the ripe red tomatoes, I made tomato pies. 

This has to be the most simple recipe ever.

The biggest thing is getting the cheeses and peeling the tomatoes.

With the original recipe, you can purchase pre-made pie crusts,

but I made my own crusts (stop rolling your eyes! lol)

Had to post a close up of the delicious ripe red sweet tomatoes...

yup, all one complete without commas sentence lol...

mouthwatering! 

Two pies ready for the oven! 

One pie will be for home, but the other is to share with my neighbors.

Now for the recipe I created and then I will post the ingredients for the original recipe...

Tomato Pie Filling  Recipe 

Gluten-free and Fat-free

4 tomatoes, peeled and sliced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon cilantro

black pepper

1/2 cup green onion, chopped finely

2 cups fat-free shredded cheese (Kraft melts)

1 cup fat-free sour cream 

1 package Hidden Valley Ranch Mix

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Once you have the pie crust in the 9 inch pie plate, lay the tomato slices around the bottom of the pie crust. Then sprinkle on top of the tomatoes the Italian seasoning, cilantro, and black pepper. In a bowl mix the remaining ingredients and spread evenly over the top of the tomatoes. I think next time I will use 2 cups of fat-free sour cream for more fluff on top...just thinking. I loved the seasoning popping through this pie. Crumbled turkey bacon would be great in on top of the tomatoes too. Bake at 350 degrees until top is lightly brown and crust is done, approx. 30 minutes.

Pie Crust Recipe

Gluten-free and Fat-free

1 1/2 cups 1-to-1 baking flour

1/2 sea salt, optional

2 tablespoons sugar

4 tablespoons fat-free margarine 

1 tablespoon cold water

1/8 teaspoon real vanilla

Mix the ingredients together. The dough will be a tiny bit sticky. If not, add a bit of flour. If it is too wet, add a bit of flour. Then pour it on wax paper dusted with flour. then roll out the dough thin to 10" to fit in the pie crust. Trim the excess dough off the plate.

I don't bake my pie crusts first, but my mother likes to. When baking both gluten-free and fat-free takes some playing with. I love to substitute any oils or butters with applesauce. The only time I have used fat-free margarine is here. I use fat-free spray butter, but it to me it seems better to use real butter or none at all. Apple sauce is a great replacement for oils of any kind. Then soy butter is another replacement for shortening in recipes, even here for the fat-free margarine.

This recipe is super easy with ready made crusts. However, saving the calories and fat in the filling is a rockin' awesome advantage to any dessert. Workout, take a family powerwalk to make up the difference. A friend of mine got a dog the other day to make her start walking! Imagine that. I think it will be great companionship too! Double fold. Hey, the dog might eat the pie crust dough if it's bad...((I'm kidding about that but ya know...)) Let's get moving and think about what we are eating and doing!

Hugs, Rita

Original Tomato Pie Recipe by Paula Deen

Gluten Free Biscuits Recipe

 Love my view on at any given time to enjoy a cup of coffee and whatever I'm baking!

#KitchenWithAHouseAttached

I love to bake! Nothing has changed about my love for cooking since losing weight, just my way of doing it. I have learned simple things that cut the calories and fat. Now, I find it a challenge to take a recipe that is high in calories and totally make it healthier. Homemade biscuits is one of those favorites in my house. A secret up front that we use in our household, is spray butter rather than butter. Spray butter has zero calories and no fat; however, PLEASE leave me some at the grocer!

Homemade Gluten Free Biscuits Recipe

2 1/3 cups 1-to-1 baking flour plus 2 tablespoons

2/3 cup fat-free buttermilk

2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

2 tablespoons granulated sugar or Spenda or honey

1 teaspoon salt 

2 eggs (I use egg substitute)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare an area with a hand towel and a sheet of wax paper. Dust the wax paper with a bit of the baking flour. Mix all the ingredients together well. The dough will be gooey. Place the dough on the dusted wax paper and mead a bit. Then sprinkle with some of the excess flour. Roll out the dough and using a biscuit cutter, cut out the biscuits. I use a large mouth glass because my son likes large biscuits. Then place on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until done. I like to bake my biscuits slowly.

Play with the recipe. Add or take away. Here are some suggestions I have for baking gluten-free:
You may need more liquid depending on the sponginess of the dough once it is mixed together. Sometimes I add a bit of vanilla to my ingredients or honey as an addition touch.I have found to back of the liquid a bit. Dust the biscuit cutter with flour so that it doesn't stick to the dough. Firmly cut all the way through the dough and twist a tiny bit to get all the way through the dough.

Make it fun, but the exciting part is trying until you find the recipe you like best. If the biscuits are crumbly. Remember, that if you are working out and losing weight to go for a powerwalk, run or workout class to compensate for a biscuit. Consider a lean protein with the biscuit or eat it alone.

Enjoy! Hugs, Rita

Rita's Chicken Salad Recipe *UPDATED*

Rita's Chicken Salad Recipe

An all year favorite thing to enjoy...

When I made this salad last week, someone asked me for the recipe. After telling them it was on my blog, I went to find the link and post it for them. My mouth hit the table...rare, I know! The recipes were "back in the day" as Mamaw Hutty would say...OmyGosh! I have played with this chicken salad recipe and now I really like this one. The protein pops and the fat bottoms out. You can add more fruit if you like and leave off the nuts which takes away more fat and makes it allergy friendly for those coming to your meal you don't know much about. So, let's make an anytime picnic then I will share a family story at the end!

Rita's Chicken Salad Recipe

3 large chicken breasts, skinless

1 16 ounce fat-free sour cream

1 package Hidden Valley Ranch Mix

1 cup green grapes, sliced in half

1 cup pineapple chunks, drained

3 Tablespoons, sunflower seeds

black pepper, cilantro, Italian seasoning - pinch of each

* I have added apple chunks and raisins to the salad as well. 

First, I cook my chicken in large batches in the crock pot. I spray my crock pot with cooking spray, layer my chicken with chicken, bbq sauce, black pepper. Then I pour a favored beer over all that. I know, crazy but oh so good! Cook for 6 hours or until chicken is done. 

Chopped chicken into small chunks or shred whichever works best for you. Then mix all the ingredients together and serve with fresh fruit. Chilled is best and will last several days in the fridge. Kids can help make this with you and helps with fine motor skills if you are a caregiver (just a thought). 

Family Story...

Living Room Picnic!

When my boys were little, one of our favorite things to do was have a living room picnic. One of the homes we lived in had almost white carpet too. Not being your tradition mother, I was creative at times with meals. This particular time, I spread a quilt on the living room floor and served a complete spaghetti dinner, red sauce, buttered up garlic bread and all BUT without utensils! Yup! I made sure their hands were clean of course, but that became one of their favorite requests all the way through their teens. When my dad lived with us in his last days, we had a meal like this but at the table just as one of my sons was off on a choir trip, it was his request. My dad tried to participate, not something my dad would have ever done, he said, "This is making a memory." Indeed. Making memories, sharing meals, passing recipes, taking a dish to a neighbor...we are making others and ourselves smiles for many days to come. Enjoy...

Hugs, Rita

A Story in the Making...Stay Tuned...It's Not Over Yet!

RitaHutchesonCobbs 7/1/2017 holding size 5x pants!

450 lbs to 142 lbs, size 5x to size 4

Watch This Interview of My 

Weight Loss Journey Losing over 300lbs!

You can do this too!

Fear grips you in places that you can't define. Fear can stop you cold and run through you to the point that though process doesn't exist. Unless you have been taken over by anxiety and fear combined, you have no idea what I am talking about. In the past, my realities of life brought such situations, but I have now learned the difference in the levels of fear and the real definition of natural fear compared to those built on anxiety. The Bible says to be anxious for nothing. That defining moment happened last week. 

About two weeks ago, I got a phone call from the main gym I work for. Ms. Christy called, leaving a voicemail saying that a gentleman from the local news station wanted me to call him. The news station wanted to do a story about my weight loss story. I panicked. Fortunately, Garrett and I were headed to Special Olympic bowling practice where we have almost no phone signal. I texted the news anchor, telling him I would call him later that evening. I quickly texted two of my best friends to pray about this opportunity and then talked to the third best friend at bowling. All of them said the same thing that I already knew, "DO IT!" 

That evening I called, Mr. Greg Screws, news anchor for WHNT for Channel 19 in Huntsville, Alabama. I hope I gave him the correct credit, because he deserves far more than that. I was hones, maybe too honest, about my concerns for doing the interview and the locations to do it. He was not only kind but understanding. He asked me various questions based on the before and after photos I have posted on social media. We set a time to meet.

He was coming to one of the smaller gyms on the day that was to be my first time to lead a group fitness class. I was extremely nervous, so Robin, my trainer and one of our best instructors, taught the class, giving me a tiny portion to lead for the video portion of the interview. The class was great in helping and making me feel comfortable. The interview took place afterwards and I was a bit hyper, more so than normal (yup, lol, nothing elegant about me!)...

The thing about the whole experience was this...

I had a gripping experience with anxiety and fear once. I can tell you when, where and who to call and verify my situation and meltdown. It was so unlike me, who handles crises, organized and without fail. Then on my way to the gym for class and this interview, it hit me...This fear was different! Wow! For years, I feared failure, to try anything. I didn't want to face the ramifications I would experience behind closed doors. When I was driving up Hartselle Mountain, I began to slowly smile. The fear I was feeling was one of newness, one that you feel when you are doing something for the first time. Not taking a test kind of fear, but the walking in a gym or riding a bike kind of fear. You know you will succeed, but it's getting through the first time experience! 

Greg Screws, Jeremy, Me

Weight loss and living fit has brought a new way of living. With every pound, I have gained a confidence I never knew I had. I have learned that I can do so many things from managing my family to getting more involved in social media. I am still afraid to be in front of people, have fellowshipfobia, trusting relationships, but I am amazed at how far I have come in the past three-years alone. Since 2011, my life has forever changed and God is creating me in what He had planned all along. This day was confirming that. 

The day I got the call was revelation and an answer to my morning prayer. I prayed that very morning, "God, I will do anything. Anything!" I even blogged about it. Little did I know that He would do so much with in a few hours of my prayer. I won't be careful what I pray because this was one of the nicest experiences I have ever had. 

Walking faith of our Father and of ourselves

 takes me taking that first step 

and then I can run knowing there is nothing to fear.

Hugs, Rita

Garrett's Hot Burgers...Yup, there is a story!

It isn't often that I hit the internet for answers much less social media. I do like to post random, fun questions on Facebook to get conversation going. It's fun to do that. When Garrett went to day camp last week, he reminded me on Tuesday, that he would need a lunch. Teasing, but knowing better, I asked, "So, you want a sandwich and maybe a couple of cookies, right?" He looked at me like I had grown another head. "Momma," he began, "I want chicken salad, a cinnamon roll, pickles, strawberries..." We moved from a sack lunch to a picnic!

The first day, I made him chicken salad (I realized that I need to post my NEWEST chicken salad recipe! But these are awesome), dill pickle chips, cinnamon roll, crackers, Gatorade, and some other things. The following day, it was sort of a repeat of day one, to which he commented, "Leftovers?" Only my son! A friend told me that at her house, they get what is there and they have to make do. I think I looked at her as if she had grown another head. I have always tried to have fun with food, lunches, meals and having good things on hand regardless if I weighed 450lbs or 142lbs. I want us to live healthy but to know there is more than PandB...

So, Garrett came home on day two telling me how Josh brought a hamburger. I was sure to thank his mom for that. So, I posted on Facebook, asking how I might keep a veggie burger hot for two-hours! I got fantastic ideas! I used them plus one.

Keeping two veggie bbq burgers hot for two-hours plus...
I took a hot/cold thermos and warmed it a bit with hot water, emptied it and dried it well just before adding the rest of my items. I heated the burgers well, placed them in individually in foil. Then I got a heating pad that I had several of because I use them in the winter to keep my hands warm while running. I placed it in the bottom of the thermos, thinking later, I should have put it between the burgers. Placed the lid on the thermos quickly and packed it in the "picnic" bag with tons of things to build a burger. I sent him plenty for lunch and told him to share, share, share. Bless my son!

The things we do for our kids, but more so for ourselves. I pick my battles and sack lunches bore me to tears. I use to pack lunches for my kids and put little notes inside with picture drawings. It was something fun. Whey make something simple when you can make something fun. Garrett makes my lunch on occasion and I have very interesting bags packed...heated shrimp and grits to a sandwich to large for my mouth. You never know what makes someone happy. If a heated burger picnic makes him happy...then that's what Momma Rita does.

Hugs, Rita

Happiness is: Index Cards with Positive Reinforcement

Time. It seems to stop when a crisis happens or a life-experience that takes our breath away. At least for a few minutes that's how it is for me. It is hard to explain, but I have always been a person that such uncertainty lasts for about twenty-minutes to maybe an hour and then it's time to get organized. Such a life-experience happened a few years back. I was left alone to not only tell my son we were on our own to walk life together, but I had never handled anything. Anything.

I had always been a journal keeper. In ninth-grade, my English teacher, Mrs. Standridge, I think was her name, had us keep a journal for a grade. I kept one but it was more of an art journal, colorful. It began one of hundreds. I wrote every emotion to sermon notes, learning to paint over the rough spots that I had written over the years. When this particular life-experience happened, I grew...beyond emotions or feelings, not that they are important, but I wasn't riding on them, trying to figure out what I was doing wrong or should be doing or not be doing to make my life and relationships better. For the first time, it was about God. When He is all you've got, He is all you need.

It was important to me to put God first, so I had five devotionals I read in the mornings and at least that many at night. I got up early and made sure I was spending time with God by nine each night. I wrote verses and quotes on index cards, posting them all over my bedroom and bathroom. I wanted to be encouraged and focused so I walked the right path in caring for Garrett, my mother, staying healthy and on my hope and faith in Him.

Since my health, both physical and mentally was important during all of this, I went to my family doctor to say, "Look, this has happened and I want you to be my cheerleader and be aware should my focus change when it comes to living healthy and caring for my family..." She asked me what I was doing to remain positive, which has always come natural for me. I told her about the index cards. She began smiling and got excited. She replied, "I want you to make more! Take them and put them all over the house, in your car, at work, read them to Garrett and your mother."

Today, I still write various things out and stick them on the fridge, on my desk or dresser, but I don't carry them around as I did the first year or so. My happiness and joy built from within and remained, knowing that I established a strong inspiration from within my being, my soul and mind. God put the strength there. With each pound of weigh I lost, each muscle I built, every mile I have run or walked, I have built confidence that I can live healthy and strong. There are no excuses, it's a decision. Living healthy can start with a simple index card and an ink pen. That could be all the encouragement you need to begin.

Life happens, it's what you decide to do with it that defines who you are and where you go.

Hugs, Rita

Jewelry Found...

Setting goals, reaching dreams are better fulfilled when I set rewards for myself. That was the case when I was losing weight. I didn't look at the big picture of losing fifty-pounds or one-hundred-pounds, but instead five, ten. I remember reaching one such milestone. First, I have to explain reaching this particular milestone.

Every so often, I get stuck in my weight loss, getting fit journey. I have to seek help. Now, it's more of changing workout routines or the weight I'm using; however, losing weight gets discouraging when you hit a point you stop losing weight. This happened to me when I got to about two-hundred pounds. I realized I needed help and was talked to a friend of mine, Linda. She encouraged me to attend her Weight Watchers meeting. I went and was thrilled with the experience. I attended meetings and reached my weight goal with them of 168 pounds, becoming a life-time member through 2014. I learned so much through them as I did with losing the other two-hundred-fifty pounds on my own as well losing down to 142 pounds. 

One day, I walked the mall after one of the Weight Watchers meetings and into a little jewelry shop. I don't normally shop, but this shop was a bit bohemian, gypsy so it appealed to me immediately. It was then I saw this jewelry set of owls. There were a variety of styles and designs. The shop girl told me that the designer was one they order from on a regular basis. I left the shop setting a goal of weight loss for myself and when I reached it, I would return for a purchase. I did.

I lived in the same home for thirty-five years. When I moved just over a year ago, I had lost one of the earrings. I was rather hurt because of the symbolism they meant for me. I knew it was somewhere around or in the washer, but it wasn't found. Since the move and the "washer", I have gotten a new washer. One day, Garrett came into my bedroom and handed me something. It was the earring I had lost. I asked him where he found it...he replied the earring was inside the new washer. It couldn't have been in the clothing, I wore a different size, different clothes...

God is like that. When we get comfortable in the plans we make for ourselves, He pulls something from the group of ideals to make us remember that He is God and we have to put Him and His plans first. When I prayed, "God, I will do anything," He began to put His goals and objectives in motion. He put the pieces back together using newness that I was unaware of and undefinable reasoning. Setting goals to reach is important with rewards to make us strive to get there, but remembering to question the boundaries to see if they plumb-line with God's Word or not will keep us focused on His plan instead of our own. 

What is your weight loss goal? Set the small fragment of the big picture!

Reward yourself when you hit the milestone with a non-food item!

Never reward accomplishments with food or meals...

instead do a family activity like ice skating, disc golf or something fun...

Rethinking our way of celebrating will change the way we live!

Hugs, Rita

No More Mayo...Garrett's Sandwich Spread and Dip Recipe

 Garrett's Sandwich Spread and Dip Recipe

1 16oz Fat Free Sour Cream

1 package Hidden Valley Ranch Mix

Just a shake of:

Cilantro, black pepper, oregano

Mix all together thoroughly and refrigerate.

This ranch spread-dip is excellent on sandwiches, in salads or as a dip.

Garrett loves it!

When I realized how much fat was in various things I was eating, I had to make a drastic change. If I were going to have fat, then I wanted it in something that I really, really wanted to eat...like dessert or chocolate! Some say that "healthy" fat is oh so good for you...I don't buy mayo or get it when we eat out. Ketchup has too much sugar, so it's not on our agenda either. However, mustard and all variations of it is a staple in our house. 

Oils? I hear various people talk about having a daily dose of "healthy" oils, but personally, not me. I think there are enough natural fats and oils in the food I eat daily, that I won't add oil to any of my foods or cooking. I use cooking spray. I have olive oil on hand only to add a few drops to my pasta water to keep the pasta from sticking. Gluten-free pasta has a habit of doing that after cooking too. Baking? I use applesauce instead of oil or butter in all my baking. 

These are just a few ways to save calories and money. Saving in these areas allows me to have a bit of fun on holidays or special occasions. Also, remember, I workout, run, walk or do some activity prior to having any treat to take care of any extra fattening foods I might want. 

Take a look at your fridge and pantry...what do fat do you see that can be substituted for a healthier way of life? Take one step at a time to change your health to living a healthy life-style! I've changed the recipe above from time to time, but one thing holds true, it is a welcome change to the taste of delicious and the feeling of living a better life.

Hugs, Rita

Cycling...An Experience: Part 2

Celebrating the opportunity to have a family by God's design! #RitaHutchesonCobbs

Getting a bike was something I never thought I would consider. When I was actually making the purchase, I was thankful to have someone like my amazing friend Tim to walk me through the process all the way to hitting the final button to order. Then he was gracious enough to put it together and tell me exactly what to get to maintain my bike and to have with me when I was on the road.

When you are purchasing a bike, do you homework both physically and professionally. By personal homework, I mean not only see your doctor anytime you are about to start a new workout program to make sure that your health is in order. Then personally make sure you have some interest in the activity you are about to do. For me, I have no clue what I want to be when I grow up or what activity I want to settle on, so I am trying a multiple of things. Cycling is a piece to a puzzle that will fit my ultimate goal. By professional, which might not be the best word, I mean, search online for various bikes, ready cycling magazines, book and visit cycle shops to see the variety of opportunities. Your bottom is going to be sitting on something for miles, do you want to sit at a job you may hate for a very long time and have just invested a lot of money in an education your are going stick in the closet. Sorry it's the best I could think of while writing...

Now, when getting a bike the obvious is important, gender, height, weight...bikes fit your body. Then you have to consider street, road, off the road to handles and style. What do you want to do with the bike? Do you want to be seen or see to be? I have a sweet friend who bought a cute basket green bike to just ride...little did she know that she would find herself getting into mountain biking, camera attached to the handles and riding on trails that are clearly marked off limits. ((SMH)) 

Tips on buying a bike:

* Budget: Think about how much you want to spend. Start saving now. Make you an envelope and add money to it as you are looking. That way you are not settling for just any bike or equipment. You are going to need to purchase more than just a bike. You are going to need helmet (some places it is law), air pump, metric tools (or what fits your bike), lights, special things that you may want.

* Try a lot of bikes out: Do you want to cruise, ride mountain trails, race down the street, get the kids active, spend time with the family, impress the pretty lady at work, volunteer with Special Olympic (MEMEME)...regardless, your reason, you have to try bikes. Professional bike shops is the best place to go. Where I live I had to drive to bigger cities to do that. It was worth it. I also had to learn the power of saying, "No." I was a novice, I could just settle.

* Size of the bike: I had no idea the importance of this until the website I was ordering my bike from asked me all these questions. Tim explained to me that comfort is the goal of riding. You are going to be in the "saddle" for a long time not only in one setting but for years to come. You want to be fitted for the bike as well as shoes, handles and seat. Measure, measure and measure. If you don't feel comfortable on the road, go back to the shop. They work well with their customers because they want you to return.

* Consider other equipment and the expense: You will need or may want, like I mentioned, helmet, an air pump for your bike, patch kit, possible gel seat cover (just saying), saddle bag, clips, shoes, gloves, gorgeous/handsome outfit (smiling), watch, map, cell phone holder, lock, sunscreen, snacks, first-aid kit, water bottle/holder. The list can be vast. Where to put it all? There are various attachments, but the items are small and many people take a small backpack cycling. There are great padded shorts too. Make sure clothing is dry-wick. 

I recommend, once again, that you search books, magazines, websites for in-depth material on what to expect when it comes to buying a bike, taking up cycling and preparing for your first outing. There are specialty shops that offer classes. Our local running shop has a Triathlon training class as well. Basics are important and give you an idea of what to expect. This is the road you traveled when you were a kid. Cycling is serious and it is important to be safe. 

For automobiles, runners and cyclist...

Repect for each other goes a long way in traveling this life together in harmony...

Love one another and do unto others as you would like them to do unto you.

~ Jesus, the Bible

Hugs, Rita

Cycling...An Experience: Part I

Thank you Tim for this experience!

#RitaHutchesonCobbs

Cycling. I can't remember my first time on a bike or the first one I ever rode. I do remember, however, my first bike. It was a purple, three-speed Free-Spirit from Sears. My dad took me to the store to pick it out. I rode that bike all over my neighborhood, to school, at the farm we had "down home" as my parents called our second home in another county. My father worked in the city during the week and then on the weekends and holidays, we were at the farm where he was a cattleman surrounded by all of my grandparents to my cousins. 

I hadn't rode a bike of any type since I was probably seventeen. One of my goals in getting healthy was to add cycling to my activities. After Christmas of 2014, I was about to come off crutches from having surgery on my foot, when my "adopted son" I call him because he and his family are more than friends to us, came to have coffee with me and Garrett. 

I was telling Tim how I was saving to get a custom fit bake. He was like, "What if you don't like riding and you have spent so much money on a bike?" He brought up several questions that I hadn't considered. Then he showed me several bikes online that were built with the person in mind. My gender, height, weight, and even some things I wanted in a bike. It was comical when he showed me the bike in the photograph above...it came without brakes! The videos of people, YOUNGER people on them was fantastic, but me without brakes...I don't think so. 

I made the decision to order the bike which was surprisingly equal to a street bike. Then later if I decided to get a totally custom fit bike, I would know better what I wanted and if I liked cycling. When the bike came, it was three days after a life-changing event had taken place. I couldn't decide if I should send the bike back or keep it. I might need the money for Garrett and myself to survive. Then I thought, "I might need the bike to go get milk or something..." I text Tim and asked if he could meet me and put the bike together, but didn't tell him why I needed him to help me.

When he and his family arrived at our local Starbucks, me with my bike and Garrett with me...I had to tell him that my husband, the man he knew well, had walked out. I had been married for thirty-four years. Life happens and you can spin your wheels or get on the bike and ride. I chose to get on the bike and ride. Tim has been one of the best people in my life to give me the much needed push to make that happen. I have been riding faster and faster. God has blessed every turn. 

The bike has been fantastic. I am training for my first Triathlon which may take me a bit to get to, but them I want to ride in my first cycling race. My goal for riding is to participate unified with Special Olympics. Garrett isn't interested at this point in cycling although he has worn out two trikes. 

Stick with me...Part 2 is what to consider when buying a bike...

Consider this;

Ride the crazy out!

When we workout, exercise in any way...

oxygen goes in, clearing our minds, body and soul...

it helps in decision making and giving us joy  and peace.

Hugs, Rita

Corn Salad Recipe...with a Ranch Flavor

Corn Salad with some hint of ranch and certainly some crunch!

I have been training to teach a class at the gym. I am pretty excited about it, but the lead instructor is a veteran at a very young age! She is beyond fabulous, teaching comes so easy for her that everyone wants to be trained by her. I love her to pieces. Well, last week, she was leading in a segment, when she was "stirring a pot" asking the participants what they were making today in prep for the fourth of July. Then she said she was making Corn Salad and proceeded with the recipe. Guess what happened? My mouth watered all day and I am not a huge fan of corn! So, I had to modify it a bit because I find it a fun challenge to take a recipe calling for certain ingredients and change them plus I couldn't remember everything she said. So, Robin, I apologize now if I totally messed this one up, but it was pretty good!

Corn Salad Recipe 

with a zip of Ranch and Crunch

4 cans of kernel corn, drained and rinsed (15 oz)

4 cups of grated fat-free cheese (more if desired)

1 container of fat-free sour cream (16 oz)

1 package of Hidden Valley Ranch Salad Dressing Mix

1 small yellow onion finely chopped

1/2 cup celery finely chopped (more if desired, my family is iffy on the celery)

1 cup of bell pepper finely chopped

4 cups of crushed corn chips (I used regular but flavored would be great)

Mix all together and serve! My son, Garrett, pulled out corn tortillas and enjoyed himself. As Robin said, this will be a great go-to recipe for those times you need something in a hurry. Most of the items are pantry things you have on hand on a regular basis. The calories can be easily worked for by coming to class or walking around the neighborhood or taking half the dish to a neighbor a couple of blocks away as a "thinking of you" gesture. Enjoy and let me know how your friends like it!

Challenge: Try substituting a high calorie condiment 

for a lower calorie one,

 for example, ketchup for mustard...

mayo for fat-free salad dressing...

sour cream, butter for the fat-free or spray choices. 

Hugs, Rita

God, I will do anything. Anything!

A progression of weight loss...#RitaHutchesonCobbs

During my progression of weight loss experience, one would think that my hair would have been a factor with the scales ((SMH))! I wore my head shaved for about four-years after I shaved my head in support of my son having brain surgery. I kept it when I discovered that it was so inexpensive to maintain on a regular basis. Then as I lost weight friends began suggesting I let it grow out. I didn't have a real opinion about my hair, so I did. When I shaved it, there was seventeen inches of thick, wire curl that dropped to the floor. When my hair grew back, it wasn't quite as thick and not as curly, but still pretty much as before. One thing is for sure, with curly hair like mine, it's either shaved or long. So, now that we are over the hair lol...

I have started a Bible Study that a new friend, Haley Carter, recommended. The book is titled, Anything: The Prayer that Unlocked My God and My Soul, by Jennie Allen. In that book she emphasizes a few points that I already have been focusing on in my private Bible Reading time. First, "God, we will do anything. Anything. God, I will do anything. Anything." Also, when God is all you have; He is all you have got then He is enough. God promises in His Word that broken people have hope and healing, that He will make a way for them. The way is only found in Jesus (John 14: 1-6)/ Allen says: To risk is to willingly place your life in the hand of an unseen God and an unknown future, then to watch Him come through. He starts to get real when you live like that. 

I have not finished the study, but already realizing that two things hold me back and probably most of the people who have lived a life of any type of abuse and that is fear and shame. You feel fear of stepping out and trusting even God, to walk the blessed path He has planned for you as He takes the thing man has done for bad and make it good. He can, you know. Then we feel the same of such things like divorce or abandonment even though they weren't our fault. I have lived both of these, but never felt the shame of either. What I felt the shame of was that maybe God couldn't use me. My husband left, abandoned us. If he didn't want us, why would God want to use us? Words were embedded in my mind that didn't plumb-line with God's Word, angry voices that weren't truth as I know it now. 

In her book, Allen also says: The hardest things in life bring us the deepest relationships, become the things that define the most beautiful things about the person, and in one's life have given them more of God. I say often that I am living proof that God has done His work in my life, the evidence of His glory and grace. In the past three-years, I have learned how to live according to God's Word from the leadership of my new church, the sermons to the small group lessons, being discipled, and getting into the Word. I have asked questions of the church staff to make sure I am leading my family according to the principles of the Word in such things as tithing and finances for example. 

Getting the emotional habits, hangups and hurts out of the way helps a person get focused on living a healthy lifestyle, eating right, getting active and making every area of their life the best it can be. When you die this body is yours in heaven. I want to stand before God with one that I can be accountable to Him as taking care of, because He says this is His body, His temple. What we put into our minds, souls, stomachs and our muscles will be called upon one day. I think sometimes we look at the big picture of sins, when sin is at our door in many ways that are smaller then we realize. It starts with the fork, a thought, a vision, a lazy day. Cleansing from top to bottom, healing from emotions to the soul is the beginning to living life with purpose and healing. 

Create within your heart, mind and soul a place of 

peace, joy and happiness...

begin with filling the empty spaces with Him.

God, I will do anything!

Hugs, Rita 

Workout Shoes and Tips for Buying Them

Surprise! This Running Girl doesn't like to shop!

#RitaHutchesonCobbs

A hole in my running shoes...miles and miles...it happens...

A year after I started my weight loss journey, I got active. My first choice of workout probably shouldn't have been running, but that's exactly what it was. At the introductory class, we met, got fitted for shoes and, yup, sports bra, clothing, socks. I was ready my first night...so I thought. By the time we finished one half-mile track, I thought I was dying and we walked almost all of it! That is why I encourage everyone starting a weight loss routine, get active at the same time even if it's walking to the mailbox or further.

Getting fitted for shoes is very important. I have taken all my boys and my mother since that night of getting fitted the first time. Finding the right shoe for your feet makes a difference in your step, balance, and surprisingly makes a difference with the hips and knees. I wear my running shoes every day, seven-days a week, regardless if I am working out, running, walking or doing daily tasks. I want the best shoes for my feet possible so that I can have happy, safe feet for a long time. I will share another reason why this is important to me before I close.

For me, a good fitting shoe, fits snug around my foot with a bit of wiggle room for my toes. I don't want anything tight around my foot, especially at the toes. I want the length and width proper for my feet as well. Two other areas of the shoe are important for me and they are flexibility of the shoe and road impact. I want cushion between my feet and the floor or road. I don't want to feel so much of the surface against my feet. However, one of my friends, loves to wear the toe-shoes to run. I want some flex in my shoes as well because I do speed training and walk backwards on the treadmill.

There are other factors to consider and questions to be asked. Do you need inserts? Does your foot tend to turn in or out? Is one foot smaller than the other? The best way to answer all your questions and concerns is to be fitted by a specialty store that has a variety of brands of running shoes. They will put you on a treadmill and video the process. Then you can see your walk and/or run in process and actually know what your step looks like. Afterwards, a couple of shoes will be recommended for you. Ask for discounts following the fitting as well. The store I usually purchase my shoes from will take their customers outside and try to the shoes as well give so many days of return even if used. My trail running shoes came from a specialty shop as well and are a different brand from my usual running shoes.

I hope this has helped in giving you direction in a simplistic way of shopping. I call my buddy at the store I frequent and they have my shoes ready. I am not much of a shopper, but I do have to be fitted ever so often because at my age, my body and feet have changed.

 In 2014, I had to have reconstructive surgery on both feet. The bones in my feet separated due to the weight I had carried around. My feet went down a size and narrowed as a result of the surgery. I have had no pain from the surgery and it has been a great experience. I had to learn to run and pretty much walk all over again. Since January 2015, my mileage is up to thirty-one miles. I am thankful for the positive experience in having great running shoes...and socks, love my running socks too!

Shoes are important. The best investment you can make is great, comfortable running shoes even for everyday. They will last and take care of your feet.

Your feet is like your car...

Take care of them and they will take care of you!

Hugs, Rita

My Weight Loss Journey: No Secrets...Q/A Time

July 2010 Weight: 450 lbs  to  May 2017 Weight: 142 lbs

#RitaHutchesonCobbs

During my weight loss journey, I get some of the routine questions like a daily menu of what I eat to have I had plastic surgery. I share my menus often, but I will answer the plastic surgery up front, NO...If a someone came along and offered to pay for it free and clear, like anyone, I have a whole bunch of skin that I will be happy to say goodbye to! However, like Paul in the Bible, my thorn in the flesh isn't so much a thorn, not that I am trying to work it off, it's a reminder of where I have come and sweet goals I am striving to achieve. 

I know there are many other questions that you have. I have no secrets and have a life of experiences that should have given me plenty of excuses not to have walked this journey. My closest friends could answer for me in telling you that my ultimate reason for success has been my faith, my constant hope and my love for God. The second, would be my son, Garrett, and wanting to be the best caregiver I can be for him and now, my mother. Finally, for myself. I want to be healthy in body, mind and soul.

This is your opportunity to ask me questions and I will either answer here or follow-up with blog posts. I want what I share to be beneficial to your goals regardless what they are. So, let's go...

Hugs, Rita

The Gym Experience...Accept the Challenge

#RitaHutchesonCobbs

NOT the most flattering photo but then you will get the message of this post...

Repentance is usually a word that is completely associated with a faith based decision. Making the decision to turn from doing wrong to walking right in belief and trust in God and His Son. It also was true for me because I was an addict...a foodaholic. True in ever definition of the word regardless how funny it sounds. I didn't sneak it. I had my own plate. I loved chocolate chip cookies and mocha fraps. People think that because I was large, I gorged myself or was sneaky with food. I loved to eat, bake and cook. However, I see other reasons I ate and some of it was encouraged. Regardless of the reasons, I still had the choice. So the day I woke up and made the changes in my life, I began to build the confidence to gain control of areas in my life that belonged to God and nobody else. 

One of the areas that helped me build confidence was joining a gym. Was it easy to walk in the door? No, not even at weighing in at my goal weight. Was it easy to get on my first piece of equipment? No, I was afraid people were watching me or judging me. Did I think I would be laughed at if I went to a class? Yes, because I was like a puppet on a string and the puppeteer had me wound up tight and when I was in the gym, I felt released, free. 

However, all the myths of what I thought, the preconceived ideas about the gym weren't true. Surprise! Our mind has a way of telling us that we can't do something and our feelings enforce that thought, feed it to the point we won't do whatever it is that our bodies want to do or need to do. When we move the enemy out of the way and allow our body to control what our minds think and do, then we can accomplish anything. I learned this as a runner. My mind would tell me I couldn't make it the first mile, but my body knew it could. I would just move forward, thinking about the finish line and what I would do afterwards. You cannot trust your thoughts or feelings, but you can trust what you know, realizing that this thing will only last a short time and you will be done.

People at the gym go to accomplish their goals for that hour, that day and that time that lead to their bigger goals. They don't pay attention to what you are doing, wearing or even who you are. The difference that I learned is that I could watch how someone used a piece of equipment so that I could use it more effectively. I learned to go backwards on the treadmill by watching and then that person challenged me to try it. A member offered to show me how to use the elliptical the first time I was on it. The staff has been beneficial in showing me proper way to do exercises and suggesting classes to take.  The classes themselves are simply fun. I have learned that it is alright if you need to modify a pose or exercise and the class participants are focused on the instructor and following the instructions, not how you are doing in the class.

Intimidation is something that we have allowed to lead our lives and we should simply repent of the problem and change our behavior. Don't let intimidation rule our lives. Whatever you choose to do, realize that everyone had a starting point and did it for the first time as well. 

In 2015, I had a goal to join a gym, one of my best girlfriends told me of one hiring. I applied. I had no idea how much I would love the gym life and working out. It is life changing. When you workout, more oxygen goes to the brain and you can make better choices and better decisions. I feel so much better after just five-minutes. This gym girl loves her experience. 

Accept the challenge...just get started! 

Hugs, Rita

Journaling...

#RitaHutchesonCobbs

This weekend, books I read, articles I glanced through, podcasts I listed to all pointed to journaling.  Each said to write down everything from your thoughts to focusing on your strengths to notes from even the book I was reading. Writing things down brings them to the front of your memory just when you need them the most. It helps with retention and even with conversation. I thought these especially were interesting because two of the greatest fears among people today is losing their memory with age and carrying on a conversation with others regardless of age.  Regardless how journaling is defined...It might be worth considering.

Journaling Ideas:

Thoughts

Daily Living

Question and Answers

Book Reading 

Thanksgiving (Lists)

Prayers or Praise

Poetry

Dating 

(Don't laugh...I have a friend that lists what she wears)

Meetings (Positives/Negatives)

Articles

Recipes/Cooking

Bible Reading

Devotionals/Meditations

Last Thoughts of the Day 

(My Small Group Leader has us doing this for a year)

Daily Food Intake

Daily Exercise

Financials

Work Experience

Decorating

Blogging

Art Journaling

...and there are so many more...write...

Hugs, Rita

Mirror Selfies...OMyGoodess Y'all!

2010 to 2015

I apologize now! I have only shown this before and after photograph of my mirror selfie prior to losing weight to a few people. I have shown even less the photo of my "run" photograph because I never wear that little of clothing. I am grossed out by the before photo, I will be honest. I had not seen that photo until about a couple of years ago. I was overwhelmed by the reality of my weight. I took several before photos to keep me reminded of what I was about to do, the journey ahead. Weighing 450 pounds and starting my weight loss plan was a huge thing to accomplish. I had a huge fear of failure that has a depth of testimony you can't fathom. For me to succeed...no excuse you can offer can match one I could have used. I am living proof, you can succeed at anything.

People ask me for a daily menu, what I ate. They ask me for recipes to grocery lists. I am asked how I did it in various forms. I have all that written down, but I want to emphasize being active. I wasn't active when I started my journey and I hope that anyone starting this journey will do so. Walk to the mailbox if that is how you need to begin, but do it.

About August of 2012, someone said, "You need to get active." Being somewhat of an airhead, my core group of friends hate me saying that because labels of the past can keep you from reaching goals, especially this one...regardless, I never thought of getting active, so I was like, "I guess I do."

I had no idea what I wanted to do. My son, Garrett, was playing ball at the time and one of the players told me about a couch to 5k program. I had never done anything outside because I had severe Asthma, totally treated and gone with the weight I had lost, but, again, I wasn't thinking clearly. That night, I signed up for the session beginning a few weeks later. I woke the next morning and, I apologize Bro. Doug, but, I sat straight up in bed and yelled, "What the hell have I done!"

I had spent the money, so I went to the introduction class, got the outfit and fitted for shoes. I thought I was dying the first night and it was like one-eighth of a mile run or something. Seriously! Ten-weeks later, I ran the graduation race, a 5k, coming in like second for my age group or something like that. Now I'm running over thirty miles to date, road and trails, completing half and full marathons. 

Each year, I have set activity goals for myself. Here is an example, small and simple:

2012: Running 5k

2013: Running 10k 

2014: Trail Running

2015: Joining a gym (found out a local gym was hiring and so...) 

2016:  Half and Full Marathons (into 2017)

2017: Triathlon Training 

2018: Triathlon

2019:  Cycling

I look for activities that Garrett and I can do together. Keeping us both active is important to me as an individual and a mom. Weekly, we are active in Special Olympics with bowling, golf, swimming and seasonal sports. Doing things together, builds our relationship and a healthy lifestyle as a whole. There are a thousands excuses for not being active, but with Garrett's physical limitations and safety situations, we have learned ways to modify so that we can workout, run races, be active. 

Creativity sometimes make a huge difference even when it comes to schedules and time. 

Make the choice to change your lifestyle...

one step at a time. 

Hugs, Rita

Fork Fluffy to Faith Focused

October 2010 and Maybe 2015

Deciding to lose weight wasn't something I took lightly. I waited and prepared for over six-months. I made sure there was no medical reason I was overweight and got a second opinion. ((Rolling my eyes)) I probably got the second opinion hoping I had yet another excuse NOT to proceed with losing weight. However, there was no health reason other than the obvious...I was fork fluffy. My son, Garrett, says in a low whisper, "Momma was the "F" word, but I won't say it because it will hurt her feelings." Seriously it won't, but Garrett doesn't know any bad words nor will he call someone "fat". Garrett means "fluffy." 

Making the decision, any decision, is hard. I had to make the choice. I alone had to make the choice, I wanted to do it the healthiest way possible and really be focused on living healthy. When I have gotten to a point that I needed help, I get it...yes, even now. 

I went to a concert at my church and prior to the gentleman singing there was a question/answer time. One of the questions he was asked was if he took voice lessons. After forty-years in the business, he replied, "Of course! I even called my voice teacher before coming out here and asked her about a certain part I am singing tonight." We always need something tweaked and there is always someone more experienced who can help us. I have a personal trainer that I may not see often due to my schedule, but I see or talk to her. I weigh in every week. Someone checks my food journal. I see my family doctor for regular check-ups and get blood work.

There are things you need that will make 

the journey a bit easier:

* A blank notebook and pen. Divide the notebook into sections to record your weight and measurements, food intake, exercise journaling, gratitude list, notes. Accountability.

* Workout clothes. Shorts, leggins, shirt, socks, all moisture wick. For the girls, go to a top rated sporting goods store, preferably a running shop, get fitted for a sports bra! You want the sisters properly stabilized for workouts. For the guys, band-aids will be your best friend, pardon me, for your nipples or when you run, workout, they will chap and bleed, cover them (you will thank me later). 

* Shoes. Be fitted for great running shoes. "Oh, but I'm not going to run unless something is chasing me!" Well, let me tell y'all, regardless if I am working out, walking to yoga, running, walking or swinging my leg at coffee with friends,,,or if something is chasing me, I want happy feet! Take care of your feet and they will take care of you. Get fitted for tennis shoes at a specialty shop.

* Watches. I will be the first to tell you that I know nothing about fashion. My girlfriends and mentors furnish my closet and tell me what to wear. I don't like to shop and I don't know much about jewelry. However, I will say that having a great watch for the exercise experience may not be fashionable, but it is one thing I won't go without. I wear my running watch 24/7. It does my heart rate, sleep to my actual workouts. Accountability. 

* Calendar. Schedule time to get active from the beginning. Make sure everyone, from your family to your co-workers, know that these are the times you won't be available to them. Take your lunch hour or put the kids to bed an hour earlier. Workout as a family. My favorite gyms has a great childcare facility. I wish I had gotten active the day I started my journey. I just didn't think of it until almost two-years later ((SMH)).

One last bit of encouragement before signing off...

Focus on the positive, speak truth, lift the smile,

love at all times. In Him you can do all things!

Hugs, Rita

Rockin' It Healthy with Weight Loss

Summer 2007 to Fall 2016

As I was looking for a photograph in my collection, I found a before and after photo of me. Most would notice the obvious, the weight loss. However, I noticed the smile. The facial difference from almost ten-years ago is tremendously different. Happiness. Joy.

Regardless what you are experiencing, going through, living, one thing I know without a shadow of doubt, I am living proof you can change your path to one plumb line with the Word. It's a choice, yours, mine. Taking what life brings isn't easy, especially when it's something out of your control, but what you do with it and how you handle it is in your control.

Living healthy, eating and exercise, is a choice too. When I began my journey in 2011, I only did one thing, I gave up sodas for thirty-days to see if I could do it. Then I took another step after that accomplishment, then another. I never said I wanted to lose fifty pounds or one-hundred; I started with five pound goals. Beginning at 450 pounds and today weighing in at 142, is an accomplishment, but what is bigger is maintaining it for the past two years.

Here are some simple tips for weight-loss newbies:

* Set small goals. For weight loss, set five pound goals rather than fifty to hundred pound losses.
* Have rewards for yourself when you hit big milestone weight losses that don't include food.
* New to exercise? Burdened by the experience? Walk to the door. Walk to the driveway. Walk to the mailbox. Then double it day or each week.
* Can't sleep at night? Go to the local all night department store, leave your wallet in the car, and walk the large open area of the store continuously. If someone says something to you, invite them to walk with you. Security will love checking the store while y'all walk.
* Journal, journal, journal every bite, lick, taste that goes in your mouith! BLT it! I preach this all the time! To this day, I take pictures I write it down. I log into two websites. Accountability.
* Take a before photo because you will wish you had!
* Pray, Praise and Prepare your mind by being in the Word. Keep a Gratitude Journal. Not a faith person, then let me show you how. This will get you through when you momma says, "One little bite won't hurt you." When your mother-in-law says, "Girl, you are looking sick...eat this." Co-workers have that social with all that food you know looks better on their thighs than yours. Get your God on instead of gluttony. 

Hugs, Rita

Happiness to Joy begins with Love.

Downtown Hartselle, Alabama

Friendships. Family. Fellowship. I have thought a lot about these three areas of my life this past week, thankful and grateful. I have also came face to face with the road ahead in areas of fellowship, especially in my church, that I need to work harder. Everywhere we look there are people who need our friendship, your love, want you as family, crave some fellowship. It's up to you and up to me to take the time, schedule the time, make it spontaneous, do whatever we can to love. We are commanded to love. Regardless. No excuses. Happiness to Joy begins with Love. 

Hugs, Rita

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