[SaveTheChief]

Thanks for the suggestions.

When I am low-carbing, I really don't feel like I need to snack much either. I think the issue I have is that I crave something other than meats and veggies. Blueberries are a good idea and I recall reading in Atkins' first book that berries are good for you. I might check that out.

I really should also start using olive oil and want to read up on the benefits and possible uses of the product. I know it is highly recommended by all kinds of folks. I do not use oils much in general, but I do use a little bit of butter in the pan before cooking my scrambled eggs in the morning.

As for the cheese, I try and use it sparingly. I want to get a good start eating nothing but good salads, lean meats, and other healthy items. I will try not to eat grains, pastas, potatos, starchy veggies (I am not much of a veggie eater except for corn, and that is not one of the better ones for low-carbing), soft drinks, candies, or anything else high in sugar. The one thing that impressed me about you and your weight loss is that you didn't seem to adhere strictly to the Atkins plan. You mentioned eating bread but not the stuff from the stores. Do you make your own? What would be the difference, and how much of this do you eat in a day?

I do believe the most important thing you are doing is the amount of walking you do. I am a very sedentary person by nature (and by profession), and am looking to get a treadmill that I can use everyday from the comfort of my home. I am excited about this and do hope I can stick to the plan. I have about a hundred pounds (maybe less) that I want to lose and it is going to be a long battle, but it is one I think I can win.

[carlo3b]

If you eat this thingy.. you had better start walking now!! :)

Hot White Chocolate Nog With Gingerbread Spice

This white hot chocolate is creamy and full-bodied, thanks to the addition of egg yolks. It's topped with a dollop of whipped cream, grated white chocolate and a sprinkling of spice sugar. Ymmmmmmmmmmmy!

• 1 cup whipping cream
• 1/2 cup plus 5 tablespoons sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 3 1/2 cups whole milk
• Pinch of salt
• 5 ounces white chocolate baking bars (any quality White); 4 ounces finely chopped, 1 ounce ...finely grated
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon each: ground ginger, cinnamon and ground cloves
• 2 teaspoons sugar

1) Combine cream and 3 tablespoons sugar and whip. Cover and refrigerate.
2_) Meanwhile, place remaining 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar in heavy large saucepan.
3) Whisk in egg yolks and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring almost constantly, until mixture thickens slightly (careful not to boil), about 10 minutes. Add pinch of salt.
4) Reduce heat to very low and add 4 ounces chopped white chocolate a small handful at a time, stirring constantly.
5) When chocolate has melted, remove pan from heat and add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
6) Mix spices and 2 teaspoons sugar; reserve.
 Divide hot chocolate between smallish mugs or heatproof glasses. Top with a dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle some spice-sugar and grated white chocolate over and serve.
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar atop this creamy hot chocolate with an adjustable shaker.
Makes 4 servings
The kids will love it, and if there's any leftover for the adults it tastes great with a shot of brandy.