Gladys, I can totally relate!

Gladys,

I have had issues with food and my weight as far back as I can remember. It's always a struggle, especially when all the fattening stuff tastes so good!

I have been looking out for lower calorie recipes for food that is normally considered real fattening, like cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies. That way, when I make these foods for special occasions, the dish still tastes yummy (like the strawberry tart I made for Easter), but is actually much healthier than the traditional way of making it.

I have also been making a lot of stir fries, which my DH loves. He likes meat in a spicy asauce, served over hot white rice, such as kung pao chicken, or mongolian beef. Served with a salad or a veggie, this makes a fairly healthy meal. ( I typically use less oil than the recipes call for)

I have also been trying to use fresh herbs, garlic, and other spices, as you mentioned to cali, which really jazz up a dish. Adding these little extras help make a dish lower in fat very flavorful.

Being that you love to cook, you can experiment with low-calorie dishes and spice them up and make them taste great. Hang in there dear Gladys, and know that you're not alone.

Dianne