YMCA Member Spotlight

I am incredibly proud to share that I was picked as the YMCA member for the Member Spotlight for my family's Y's January 2011 newsletter!  

It has been ONE year since I started this journey so to be picked to share my story & (hopefully) inspire others to change their lives in 2012 is awesome.  Throughout the last year I have been asked "how did you do it?" or "please tell me your secret!", and here I shared how I was able to do it.  And now, being recognized by others at the Y, I guess you could say that I am famous in a small town.    

Since writing this story for the YMCA, I have lost a total of 76 pounds to date.

Somerset Valley YMCA Newsletter Member News January 2012 Dear Y Members,   As we head into the New Year, I'd like to share with our members some of the Somerset Valley Y's accomplishments from 2011. Thanks to the generosity and support of our members and donors, the Y was able to provide over $450,000 in financial aid and in-kind assistance to families, individuals and community groups. We gave more than $225,000 in assistance to over 115 families, children, seniors and adults for daycare, summer camp, aquatics and reduced-price membership. And the Y contributed more than $250,000 in subsidies and services to thousands of members and nonmembers so our programs would be available to all. In these tough economic times, we are making a dramatic impact on the community through the money we raise. We are proud that our organization continues to be the focus in Somerset County for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Thank you for supporting us throughout the year in our mission of always being there for our community. Sincerely, Paul Kieltyka CEO In This Issue SVY launches Strong Kids Campaign Learn how this Y member found balance in her life January membership promotion Y calendar Somerville pool reopened Launching our Strong Kids Campaign    You're invited! We're excited about the start of our 2012 Strong Kids  campaign and would like to invite all members to join us at our kick-off at the Bridgewater Y on Feb. 1.   In 2011, we raised more than $169,000 for our Strong Kids campaign - 30 percent more than the previous year!  Through your generous gifts to the fund, the Y was able to offer Y membership, day care, summer camp, sports activities and health and wellness programs to more than 110 families, children and adults and seniors who otherwise couldn't afford it.   Our goal for 2012 is $250,000, and we're already well on our way, thanks to contributions totaling nearly $20,000 from staff at our three branches who believe in and support our mission.  To them, the Y is more than a job.  Our Strong Kids campaign is the cornerstone that helps us carry out our mission of ensuring everyone has the opportunity for a path to healthier living in a nurturing, positive environment.  Join us and show support for your community on Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. for refreshments and fun"Under the Bridgewater Big Top" as we celebrate the launch of our Strong Kids campaign. My Y Story "Between the YMCA staff and fellow members, I found a caring community committed to helping me reach my goals!" - Y member Pam V.   Somerset Valley Y member Pam  V,  a mother of two, describes how the the Y helped her manage her health and find balance in her life when she struggled with weight problems My family and I joined the Somerville Y in the spring of 2010. However, the demands of working full time, raising a 1-year old and expecting another baby did not allow me to make the gym a priority. After I had my second daughter, I was the heaviest I had ever been and incredibly unhappy with the way I looked. Tired of excuses, I dusted off my sneakers and my Y key tag and started my journey to better health. In January 2011, I set a goal to lose 40 pounds by my 30th birthday, 5 months from when I began my weight-loss endeavor.  One of the first classes I joined was Group Cycling with Ali. He has been an excellent mentor and motivator since the first time he helped set up my bike. Spin class, kickboxing and Zumba all provided great work-outs and helped me challenge myself as I worked toward my goal. One of the best services the Y offers for moms like me is Child Watch. I was comforted knowing the girls were in great hands while I got in my workout.  With a combination of spin classes, kickboxing, and running, I was able to celebrate both my birthday and losing 41 pounds! I then set my sights on losing a total of 60 pounds by our sixth wedding anniversary in August, another goal which I proudly hit!  After losing 72 pounds to date, I am committed to maintaining this healthy lifestyle. This would not have been possible without my "Y family."    At the Y, our supportive staff is here for you every day, making sure you know what you're capable of and encouraging you along the way. We welcome you to check out our fitness programs. We look forward to helping you making 2012 your healthiest year ever. January membership promotion: Refer a friend, win a chance at a prize!    During the month of January, if you refer a friend to the Y and the friend joins, we'd like to thank you by entering both of you in a raffle.     Each of our three branches will hold weekly raffles. We've had six winners so far among our three branches!  The prizes are: In Somerville, a free session with a personal trainer,  a youth gymnastics class or swimming classes for youth or adults. In Bridgewater, a free 30-minute, private swim lesson. In Hillsborough, a free personal training session, group swim lessons, youth sports class or birthday party At the end of the month, each branch will hold a Grand Prize drawing featuring the new Kindle Fire! Thank you for supporting us and we look forward to welcoming your friends as new Somerset Valley Y members    The Somerset Valley Y is committed to helping its members find balance in life, from managing their health to caring for their children. Whats happening at the  Y   Invite a friend to a swim lesson in  Somerville between Jan. 21-26. The Somerville Y Aquatics program is giving all swim students the opportunity to enjoy a lesson with a friend!    Learn how to eat healthier in 2012 with Shop Rite and the Hillsborough Y. We're partnering with ShopRite for two sessions on how to plan healthier meals. ShopRite's registered dietitian Rachel Simpers will be at the Hillsborough Y on Jan. 24 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., followed by a store tour of the Hillsborough ShopRite on Jan. 31 from 6:30 to 8p.m., concluding with healthy recipe demonstration. We'll help you fuel your workout routine with the right foods. Masters swimmers will have the option of swimming in Somerville starting Feb. 6. The SVY Masters program is for those 18 and older who miss the camaraderie of a swim team and want to work with professional coaches. Along with the Y team that practices at Raritan Valley Community College, the Somerville team will have the opportunity to compete in U.S. Masters Swimming events. Contact Frank Oliver at 908-722-4657 x 25 or atfoliver@ymcasomersetvalley.org. Our new offerings for mid-winter session include Pilates on Tuesday nights in Hillsborough. Somerville is offering a stop-smoking hypnosis class on Feb. 20 for an additional fee. We invite seniors to swim with us at the Hillsborough Y on Mondays and Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m. at a cost of just $3 per session. The program is for seniors age 62 and over. You do not have to be a member to join us.      On Feb. 15 at noon, the Somerville Family Y will host a program by Abbott Immunology entitled "How to Live with Arthritis and other Arthritic Conditions." Dr. Ahmed Abdel-Megid, adult rheumatologist, will conduct the program. All are welcome to attend the program and enjoy lunch. Please RSVP by Feb. 9 to Brenda Guilles at the Y at 908 722 4567 or Nilsa Morales-Arce from Abbott  at 908 507 3976. This event will be reprised at the Hillsborough Y on March 15 at 11 a.m. Invite a friend to a swim lesson in  Somerville between Jan. 21-26. The Somerville Y Aquatics program is giving all swim students the opportunity to enjoy a lesson with a friend!    The Hillsborough Family YMCA welcomes the opportunity to join with you in helping your child become a lifelong learner in our kindergarten program. Registration is open now for our program, which aims to provide a quality education in a positive and enjoyable classroom atmosphere. We explore language development, physical development, social, emotional and cognitive development along with character education initiatives. Call the Hillsborough Y at 908 369-0490 for more information.   Improved Somerville pool re-opened 1/15   Somerville Aquatics Director Frank Oliver works to fill the pool after repairs and improvements were completed. Merck volunteers helped to paint the Somerville pool Y swimmers on their winter training trip  The Somerset Valley Y swim team trained in Key Largo, Fla. over winter break. The team took 33 high-school-age swimmers and three coaches. The annual training trip keeps the team focused and practicing hard over the holiday break. Quick Links Register Now for the Y's mid-winter sessions programs which begin Feb. 6. Register Now for Y summer camp. See our complete listings online. Camp Open House at all three branches on Feb. 24, 5-7 p.m. Register Now for the Hillsborough after-school program. Call Jim Vaccarella at 908 369 0490 for more information. Featured Article   Please consider giving to our Strong Kids Campaign.We serve nearly 14,000 members and provide 1,000 with reduced membership offsetting their limited incomes and providing a path to healthier living.      Community donations allow us to offer swimming, daycare, sports activities and other programs to children & teens who, without help from our donors, would be unable to participate Contributions to our Strong Kids fund gives us the ability to make a meaningful difference to the children and families in our community.

Recipe:: French Onion Soup

I know I have said this before but I don't like making soups.  And actually I don't even really like eating soup.  It's just not a type of dish I crave very often, but a few weeks ago, the weather was very wintry here in Jersey and I wanted soup.

As you probably know, I am a huge fan of Gina at Skinnytaste because her dishes are easy, but never lack on taste.  I found a recipe for French Onion soup, my husband's favorite!

I adapted it very slightly, but Dave loved the changes and said it was exactly what French Onion soup should taste like.  Score!  And it was even so delicious that it is on our menu for this week too.  Maybe this is a turning point for soup in my life.

Gina used swiss cheese for her soup, but we used a horseradish cheese from Cabot and it gave the soup a little extra kick.  We made grilled cheeses with that cheese too!

French Onion Soup
adapted from: Gina's Weight Watcher Recipes


Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds yellow onions, sliced thin
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 cup Cognac or brandy
• 1/4 cups white wine
• 4 cups beef stock
• kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

• 6 medium slices toasted Italian bread
• Horseradish Cheese (I used Cabot)

Directions: 

In a large pot, sauté the onions with the butter over medium heat, until the onions are soft and golden, about 20 minutes. Add flour, mixing well another 2-3 minutes. Add thyme, bay leaf, wine and brandy, and simmer uncovered for 10 more minutes.

Add the beef stock, salt & pepper to taste, reduce heat. Cover and simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Remove bay leaf and ladle 1-1/2 cups soup into 6 oven-proof bowls. Place bowls on a baking sheet. Place sliced toasted bread rounds into each bowl and top bread with cheese. Broil 2 to 3 minutes, until cheese melts.

Motivations:: Sweat vs. Tears

Rutgers Big Chill 2011

This race holds a special place in my heart. Last year, this was the first 5k I ran. The Big Chill is not only a fabulous and fun event, but it is for a great cause. The only entry "fee" is a donated toy for a child in need.

The only goal I set for myself pre-race was to be sub 39 min. Last year, I finished at 45 minutes. Having lost almost 75 pounds in the last 12 months and been running quite a bit, I knew I'd beat my time at least.

About a quarter mile in, I had to pull over and pull up my underwear that was falling. If it were the last quarter mile, I would have run through but it was so annoying that I just couldn't deal and certainly didn't want to have a wardrobe malfunction.

Mile 1 I hit 10:20- my fastest mile yet. This course is hilly after mile 1. I slowed down a bit before hitting the couple of big hills. I completely missed the mile 2 marker and in a way, I am glad I did.

Coming up to the finish line, I saw the clock turn from 34:59 to 35:00! I had said I wanna run sub 35 one day and this was almost that day, had I not stopped to adjust my attire. Nonetheless, I was absolutely thrilled with my performance!

Products :: Old Navy Techno Trapper Hat

This has got to be one of the coolest products for running outdoors, if you wear a hat.  Me, I am not much of a knit hat runner, but I may have to get this for those frigid outdoor runs.

When I began running last year, I did buy the techno hoodie but the earphones were terrible.  I love the iPod earbuds; they fit my ears well and the earphones on the techno hoodie were so uncomfortable and kept falling out.  There is nothing more irritating during a run than fussing with earphones constantly.  

Maybe I will add this to Santa's list.  

Tidbit :: Portion Control

I saw this repinned a few times on Pinterest.  It's very helpful especially when dining out, if calories aren't posted.

Picadillo Stuffed Peppers

This has been in our recipe organizer for about 5 years. It's just that delicious. In fact, I had to toss the old copy because I could barely read it, it was so tattered.

I love the combo of sweet and savory. From the beginning, we substituted dried cranberries for raisins since my husband is not a fan. The cinnamon just adds enough flavor but certainly doesn't take over your taste buds.

Picadillo Stuffed Peppers
(c) Woman's Day
Recipe Ingredients

6 medium peppers, preferably red and yellow
1 jar (26 oz) pasta sauce
1 lb lean ground beef
2 small zucchini (12 oz), scrubbed and diced
11⁄2 cups chopped onions
2 tsp minced garlic
1⁄2 tsp ground cinnamon
1⁄2 tsp cumin
1⁄2 tsp salt
1⁄2 tsp pepper
1⁄3 cup raisins
1 Tbsp cider vinegar
1 Tbsp sugar
2 tsp olive oil

Directions

Cut 1⁄4 off stem end of peppers; remove seeds. Stand peppers and tops in a microwave-safe baking dish. Add 1⁄2 cup water, cover with vented plastic wrap and microwave on high 5 minutes, or until peppers are crisp-tender. Stir 11⁄2 cups pasta sauce into water in dish.
Meanwhile, sauté beef, zucchini and onions in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up meat, 7 minutes, or until beef is no longer pink and vegetables are almost tender.
Stir in garlic, cinnamon, cumin, salt and pepper; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat; stir in raisins, vinegar, sugar and remaining sauce. Spoon into peppers; replace tops. Cover tightly and refrigerate up to 2 days.
To bake: Heat oven to 400°F. Uncover baking dish; brush peppers with the oil. Bake uncovered 30 minutes, or until sauce bubbles and pepper tops are lightly charred.

Injured

Almost a month ago, during my kickboxing class, I tweaked my back and then went to spin the next day. My own fault, but I could barely walk the next day. it's finally starting to feel a little better, of course, since I just made an appt to go to the chiropractor.

The worst part of this whole injury is not being able to workout. I am usually at the gym three-four times a week in addition to running outdoors. So I feel like a huge part of me is missing and I can't say anything more than it sucks!!

I did swim a few laps last week and ran last weekend. Stretching has never been something I have ever been good about remembering, but I have made sure I stretched out.

I am hopeful that the chiro will be able to fix me. My primary doc said 3-4 wks before an MRI would be done and since it's about 85% better, I'd rather try something else first.

November is already full of races, rugged maniac and hopefully my spin certification. So I really have no time to be down and out.

Spinach Meatball Subs

We love Skinnytaste's Spinach Italian meatballs, so I decided to change up spaghetti and meatball night to meatball subs. I haven't had a meatball sub in, oh, I can't even tell you the last time I had one. My husband and I really enjoyed our meatball subs immensely.  This is a pretty quick dinner, especially if you mix and roll the meatballs out ahead of time.

I follow the recipe for the Skinnytaste meatballs.

Skinny Italian Spinach Meatballs

• 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained of all liquid
• 2 slices whole wheat Weight Watchers bread (or any half point bread) - I have omitted the past few times and the meatballs stay together without.
• 1 large egg
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley - I subbed dried oregano & basil for the parsley.  We are not fans of parsley in our family.

• 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese (or your favorite Parmesan Cheese)
• salt and pepper

Wet bread with water then mash up with your hands. Add to large bowl and combine with chopped beef, chopped spinach, egg, garlic, parsley, grated cheese, salt and pepper. Mix all ingredients well until thoroughly combined. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, measure meat, then divide in two so that each meatball is 1/8th of a cup. Roll into little meatballs.
Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil on low heat. When oil is hot add as many meatballs that will fit, cook on low, turning often so that all side get browned. Cook until the centers are cooked through. When finished, place on a dish lined with paper towels to blot any excess oil. Drop meatballs into sauce and continue cooking the remaining meatballs, repeating the process. When all meatballs are in the sauce, simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes. 


For the subs:
Slice the rolls lengthwise and place 3-4 meatballs on the buns and top with shredded mozzarella, if desired. Place under the broiler until cheese is melted and golden.

Pineapple Teriyaki Burgers

We love burgers and try to make them at least once a week changing them up weekly. Although I am a huge fan of a good ole American cheeseburger, I enjoy crazy burgers too!

Sadly, my mouth was watering over these burgers and taking a bite out of my dinner reigned over snapping a quick shot of the finished product.

Ingredients:

• 1lb. ground beef or turkey
• 8oz. can pineapple rings
• 1 tbsp. low salt soy sauce
• 1 tsp. fresh ginger, grated (ground ginger can be used too)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ground black pepper, to taste
• 5 hamburger buns

Directions:
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey with all ingredients except for the pineapple rings.  Mix well with hands.  Divide the ground meat into 5 equal balls and form into hamburger patties.  Embed a pineapple ring on top of each burger.  Grill the burgers until meat is cooked thoroughly.  Place the burger on the hamburger bun.

You can always make double the sauce, too, and add it to the burgers. However, I am a ketchup-on-any-burger girl.