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

Instagram.com/RitaHutchesonCobbs

Kettle Batch

Kettle Batch. I saw these words on a menu at a restaurant resently. It is the perfect description of the past year of our lives. Throw in the kettle a batch of life, change, new experiences, transformation, deeper faith, new famfriends, and a whole lot of God and you have a rockin' awesome recipe of thankfulness that can't be written in just a few words. God's grace is worth singing about and only He offers a new song when life-experiences come your way. The kettle batch comes to perfection when you allow God to work and you live in His steps. The journey is still before us and the roads are yet to be traveled. Ingredients are still being measured and the bowl is still needing stirred; so pickup that ol' wooden spoon that will one day find newness of life in fresh smelling completion and stir with all your being. God is good all the time; you are always loved; and coffee and chocolate are still the comfort foods of choice. 

Hugs, Happiness and most of all, Joy!

Rita

The hope of it all...it can be as tender as raw eggs...

Today, yes, even today, I had to explain once again the amazing difference between purchased from the store and having your very own hens that lay amazing eggs. I can go into all the scientific, biological, physical benefits of having your very own homegrown eggs, but why? That isn't what this is about anyway...the bottom line is...they are sooooo delicious and fantastically yummy! So professionally written I know, but I promise that once you have had a homegrown egg cooked just the way you like it, then you are hooked forever. 

As for me, I love eggs, cooked any way, but sunny side up...then you have my attention. I have a wonderful Tupperware microwave egg maker that makes three eggs just right for everyone else and I can make enough for two people at a time, up to ten, pop them in the fridge and we are set for several days. I boil a batch for salads on Sundays and then we have them for the week. I am not the best peeler so when they come out just right, then I am a happy southern gal and my grandmother is looking down from heaven smiling at her girl I am sure lol. Now if I could make her potatoes the way she did...

 Then sometimes the shells might not peel just right. That is the way our faith might be. Shaken. Cracked. Scrambled. Torn. What is missing? Why are are feeling our faith is like these delicate eggs? Maybe our faith isn't matured, grown in the Word, watered with prayer, boiled with the gathering of the saints, then set with the foundation of the Holy Spirit in knowing that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. In all of that Hope is woven like a tapestry of fine stitches sewn into a beautiful fine linen to make a precious picture of embroidered cloth. Hope is the evidence that we know the best is yet to come and the shells of what is inside of us is living and going to grow and bloom. Faith. Christ.

Romans 15:13 says,

"May the God of your hope so fill you with all joy and peace in believing that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound and be overflowing with hope."

Bubbling over. Experiencing Faith. Filled. Overflowing. Believing.

Though the egg starts as a fragile item within the palm of our hands, easily crushed, as believers in the palms of the hand of our Heavenly Father, we are protected and matured if we will trust, obey and know Him. I love that. Joy. Peace. What more can be promised...read his Word to find out...

Hugs, Rita

Rita's Iron Skillet Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe...Add the vanilla ice cream please!

Have you ever come home on a Friday afternoon, got a few chores done and then thought, "Something warm and a bit chocolaty would be every so good!" Well, I looked in the pantry and saw three bananas and some rice flour that would be perfect to make some delicious banana bread. Using my iron skillet collection that came from my mother and her mother is my favorite items to use, so here is the recipe.

Rita's Iron Skillet Gluten Free Banana Bread

Cooking Spray (flour free)

2/3 cup sugar or sugar substitute

2/3 cup butter, melted or apple sauce

3 eggs, beaten

3 ripe bananas, mashed well

1 1/4 cups fat-free buttermilk

1 teaspoon real vanilla

2 1/4 cups gluten free rice flour

1/4 brown sugar blend

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup coffee, prepared 

1/4 cup chocolate chips, optional

Heat oven to 450 degrees. Spray iron skillet generously with cooking spray. Put all ingredients into an electric mixer and mix together well. Pour into iron skillet and bake until knife inserted in center comes out clean. I put chips on one side because believe it or not, not everyone in my home likes chocolate. However, for those curious why I don't add nuts, I am allergic, but also they are high in fat, good or bad for you, I don't want the calories...I would rather have the chocolate calories lol!

Enjoy!

Hugs, Rita

Momma Rita's Mustard Style Franks, Beans and Kraut Recipe!

What's for Supper? Well, that is what I often splash across twitter from time to time and add a photo like the this one above. It is almost nightly too! This recipe was inspired literally in the grocery store this very afternoon! I rarely, super rarely, get off my two-week calendar menu that I shocked myself! However, I was wanting "hotdogs!" Seriously?! Me!?

 As I was picking up the necessities I needed, I thought of the this recipe from probably twenty-five years ago that included hot dogs, bake beans and kraut. I thought through the process of how I could make it healthy, checked my budget, and set off to get the items I knew I did not have at home.

 The recipe is very simple:

1 package Gluten-Free low fat Hot Dogs, sliced 

(which came recommended by two guys working the meat counter 

because I don't buy hot dogs lol)

1 can of kraut, drained well

1 large can of Vegetarian Baked Beans, drained

1 large sweet onion, diced

1 Jalapeno pepper, chopped

1 teaspoon brown sugar blend

1/2 teaspoon of the following:

cilantro, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, parsley, ground mustard

3 Tablespoons Honey Mustard

Saute onions in iron skillet on high until brown.

Add hot dogs and slightly brown them. 

Mix together kraut, brown sugar and spices.

Pour beans over the onions, hot dogs.

Spread the mustard evenly over the bake beans.

Spread the kraut mixture on top.

Bake at 450 degrees for 1 hour.

The meal is complete with Gluten-free Sweet Yellow Cornbread...

To make this a bit healthier, I use applesauce instead of oil!

You can do this in any dessert recipe as well. I never use oil in my baking.

 Open a small piece of cornbread and add 1 cup of the Franks, Beans and Kraut on top. Delicious! I was very pleased with the combination of spices and flavors. Much better than our usual Friday night leftovers lol.

Another Tid-Bit-Tip:  The key to weight loss and living healthy is portions. Trade your plates and bowls in for smaller ones. Go from 10" to 8" plates. Then look at your bowls, go smaller. Do things gradually for your family so you don't create stress for them...or maybe they won't even notice the change. A friend of mine even uses smaller silverware so that she takes smaller bites. Whatever works best for you.

Hugs! Rita

#MommaRita

Italian Black-eyed pea and Bean Pasta Salad Recipe

 I love to cook! I tease everyone all the time that I really don't like to cook, but, seriously...I love the organization of it all. I take recipes, the sale papers, coupons and prepare my menus for two weeks at a time. Then I know what I have the pantry to freezer as well as what we are having for the days ahead. I may tweak the recipes or plans a bit, but ninety-percent of the time, I stick to the plan. So, I would say it's the organization of it all that I love the most.

This Weight Watcher's recipes was on the calendar the other night for supper. Now, I don't eat Barley so I knew I would have to make the one substitution. I did make a few other substitutions and created a dish that could be ate cold or hot plus have a bit more "stick to your ribs" consistency to it than this recipe had in it without changing the calorie value very much.

First, I prepared gluten-free pasta.

Then I added 3 Tablespoons of fat-free Italian Dressing to the pasta.

Then I peeled, diced one sweet onion, 2 gala apples,

shreeded 1 carrot, 1 each green and red bell pepper, chopped, and sauteed them until tender.

I drained and rinsed 2 cans each of black eyed peas and great northern beans, mixed them together.

Then I added 2 diced jalapeno peppers. 

Mixed the bean mixture with the onion/apple mixer and

add 1 teaspoon each of black pepper, minced garlic, dried cilantro, dried parsley,

dried oregano.

Mix the sauteed mixture with the pasta and toss. 

Serve immediately with shredded Parmesan cheese or pop it in the fridge for later.

Ta-da! Supper is ready!

I challenge YOU to take a recipe and make it your own!

During the winter months, you may have the ingredients in the freezer or in a can...

Don't limit yourself to what a recipe calls for. Try to stay close to fat-free and gluten-free as well as low in calories...

How much fun can cooking be if we make it fun and creative...

Hugs, 

Rita

My new traveling Art Journal Supply Case!

Art Journaling has been a passion of mine for a few years now. However, I have needed a way to carry certain supplies with me.

I came up with using thus stackable unit I had on hand. I took two containers raft our raspberry tea mix comes in for my pens and watercolor pencils. Then I added a piece if newspaper, index cards, a used gift card to spread the gesso I added to a recycled makeup pressed powder container, added another to use for water, and a few other supplies I needed were tucked into my boxes. 

Everything I needed to travel and fit into my coffe shop bag of arts and crafts!

Let the art travel! Let the fun roll! 

Hugs, Rita

High Five for Rockin' it Healthy with Portions...

Meal portions was the topic of conversation at our Rockin' it Healthy workout this week! Try these tips when serving a meal: 

(1) Grab a smaller plate, 8", and a smaller bowl, 1-1 1/2 cup, next time you eat a meal! 
(2) Don't put the serving bowls on the table, leave them on the stove/counter OR better yet, serve up the meal and put away the food. 

The bottom green plate is a ten-inch plate. The blue plate is a nine-inch plate with the pretty flower shaped plate an eight-inch plate. At our house we once used the nine-inch plate most often. Now, both larger plates looks like serving platters compared to our change in eating. We no longer use larger plates and never place platters of food on the table. ((photographs were taken sitting the plates on the floor of the gym where I was leading the class...))

When considering what you are going to put in a bowl, like cereal, place your fist in the bowl. My husband, Jerry, shared this point. If you are having cereal, a fist serving, one-cup, isn't much, but that is a serving of some healthy serving. I asked those attending our Rockin' it Healthy workout group what might they add to that cup serving to fill up that smaller bowl. Their answers were creative and healthy! They said to that serving of cereal or even oatmeal they would add frozen grapes, sliced bananas, raisins, diced apples, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, pears, and the list continued. The bowl was overflowing with goodness.

Consider this also after an evening meal...

(3) Make to-go plates of leftovers for the next days lunches or for the freezers so meals will be ready for days you just don't know what to fix. 
(4) Turn off electronics at mealtime. 
(5) Plan an after mealtime activity as a couple or as a family like a walk around the block, tennis at the park or chalk on the sidewalk. 

Try it...post pictures...

Hugs,

Rita

Crocheting with T-shirts

Each month, I attend the Cullman Fiber Guild meeting where we learn a new skill or technique. This month, it was...crochet t-shirts...

If you know, then you know anything to do with repurposing or recycling, I am in my happy place. The reality shared by our instructor is also truth. In the days past, people used every scrap as a necessity because it was all they had.

I love crochet so using t-shirts wasn't new to me, but I did live the way we were taught to bind the yarn as well as cut it for use.

I also had a bit of too much fun lol! Bo Dereck...a "10"! lol 

The finished beach theme rug for my bathroom! Loving the bright sun themed colors! 

Our cat Priscilla agreed the crochet rug was the perfect touch for our space . 

Now, I am onto my next crochet t-shirt project! I really enjoy fiber and crochet, then added to these, repurposing and recycling, God has opened a new vision of opportunity. Where there is value, there is a treasure. That is how I see handmade creations. A blessing it is to use my hands to make something from an item otherwise would have been discarded. 

Hugs, Rita