First Word

  Creating and sticking to the 352 Day Challenge has continued to prove my theory that taking preservatives and additives out of your diet not only helps your health, but also you get to enjoy the bonus side effect, weight loss.  When I got serious about creating the Challenge, I still struggled with the last 5 pounds I wanted to lose. That "pesky 5," as we'll call it, just wouldn't drop. I could starve myself yet not melt off the last few pounds.  After a month of really sticking to the Challenge and paying even more attention to the elimination of preservatives, chemicals, and other additives that most of the time I wonder why such things are in my food, I lost those 5 pounds. And the real kicker, I've never eaten such flavorful, yummy foods every single night.  So, I am also learning great tips from my fellow Challenge mate, Syndee Hendricks. She taught me how to cook to layer flavors, which is a great idea. You can really taste each ingredient when you layer ...