I began last week with a strict plan of eating really healthy and exercising everyday and then a raging UTI brought me to my knees Monday and made Tuesday and Wednesday pretty unbearable. While I did my best to stick to the meal plan, I ended up eating a lot of bread in the mornings in order to take my meds and snacked a good bit during the day. Exercise? Forget it – I was only able to move my body two days out of five.
Unfortunately this coming week isn’t going to be any better. When I went for my yearly back in November, I was told I needed a hysterectomy. Nothing says “welcome to your 40th year” like losing all of your female parts. The surgery is scheduled for this Wednesday so I will be unable to exercise for at least the rest of Jan. and maybe into Feb. I think they tell you six weeks to be safe. No exercise and I’m guessing I’m not going to be craving lettuce and broccoli during my down time.
Why the surgery? Well, I’ve been struggling with horrible periods, cysts and fibroids my entire adult life. I’ve tried every option available to limit the discomfort and inconveniences of these issues and some have made a difference – for a period of time. But inevitably the cysts and fibroids come back. At this point in my life, I am finished having children and it just seems like the logical next step. Plus I have complete faith in my Dr. and believe her when she says this is my best, and only, option. I’m pretty nervous – I get so nauseous when given anesthesia and dread feeling like crap but I know sooner than later my body will bounce back and I will feel better than I have in years.
I’m sharing all of this with you because A) maybe it will help someone who is going thru something similar and B) because the meal plan might look a little different this week. Still simple, delicious and pretty healthy just thru the lens of someone craving comfort and not feeling 100%. If you are looking to keep this week super low calorie, try this meal plan from the past. It’s a great option to keep you on track if losing weight is a New Year’s goal!
Meal Plan for the Week of 1/10 – 1/15
Sunday, January 10th | Arroz con Pollo | Total Time: 1 Hour | This Spanish inspired one pot meal is such a great Sunday supper option and also great for entertaining – whenever we can do that again. Think paella but with chicken instead of seafood!
Monday, January 11th | Shrimp Avocado Salad | Total Time: 20 Minutes| There are only three foods Patrick hates – avocado, olives and water chestnuts. I’m with him on the olives and water chestnuts but I LOVE avocado and so does Ava. The great thing about salads for dinner is you can build your own so Patrick can simply leave off the avocado. To beef it back up, I’ll make some couscous to sub for the avocado. KID TIP: Pull out some plain shrimp for your kids. Serve with a side of couscous and some raw veggies. MEAL PREP TIP: Make the dressing on Sunday.
Tuesday, January 12th | Low Carb Taco Casserole | Total Time: 25 Minutes | What makes this Taco Tuesday recipe low carb? Subbing cauliflower rice for white rice. The truth is I hate cauliflower rice UNLESS it’s paired with foods that have a stronger flavor. When that happens you can’t even taste the cauli rice. I promise. Your family won’t even know it’s not white rice once it’s mixed with tomato sauce, taco seasoning, sour cream and all of the toppings!
Wednesday, January 13th | Weight Watchers Goulash | Total Time: 30 Minutes | This is an oldie but goodie. My only change – I omit the corn. I just can’t wrap my head around adding corn to this dish. I’m going to try and make this on Sunday so Patrick can quickly feed the girls while I’m in the hospital! Great to make ahead!
Thursday, January 14th |Instant Pot Potato Soup | Total Time: 40 Minutes | The perfect winter comfort food recipe. One change – cook the bacon on the stovetop or in your oven – just reserve 2 tbsp. of bacon fat for sauteing. Bacon cooked in the instant pot is no Bueno.
Friday, January 15th | Burgers with Gruyere Mushroom Sauce | Total Time: 25 Minutes | A great keto friendly recipe but honestly, an even better weeknight family recipe. Sub frozen burgers for making your own and all you have to do is make the sauce.
This Week You Will Need| Instant Pot |
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