launch avoidance maneuver

Okay so I've avoided this as long as I wish too. This being the McFatty Monday weight loss program I thought I was all about and plunged myself into head first but alas 3 weeks in and I've flat lined on constructive weight loss. If I happen to lose weight than its by mere chance and not for efforts sake. I had a hundred excuses but I'm not going to even write any down because really I could do it if I wanted but here's the biggest reason :: whispers:: I DON'T WANT TO RIGHT NOW. Now I sure as hell will wish I had a different frame of mind when bathing season comes in but right now but I just don't. Instead I'm focusing on moving, kids and dealing with my husband being gone all week and even some weekends.



(I stole my daughters birthday tutu and I must say I am quite fetching)













I also have been directing all my extra energy on mastering an amazing soft baked pretzel recipe which is just as good if not better than the famous mall pretzels (really I'm not joking in the slightest) so for all of you who are taking a mini weight loss break here is a yummy recipe to indulge in
4 tsp- active dry yeast
1 tsp-granulated sugar
1 1/4 cup warm water (110 degree F)
5 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbl oil
1/2 cup baking soda
4 cups hot water
1/4 cup kosher salt and or mixture of cinnamon sugar for topping

DIRECTIONS

In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tsp sugar in warm water (1 1/4 cup) let stand 10 minutes do not stir

In a large bowl, mix together, 1/2 cup sugar and salt. Make a well in the center, then add oil and yeast mixture. Mix in a mixer with a bread attachment or in bowl with large spoon. Mix and form into dough. If the mixture is too dry add water 2Tbl at a time till smooth but not sticky. Knead dough on counter about 8-10 minutes till dough has a satin sheen and is smooth to the touch ( does not have to be flawless from lumps). Pour 2 tsp of oil in palm of hands and rub over ball of dough and place under a large bowl in a warm area for 1 hour till double in size.

Preheat oven to 450 degree F. In a large bowl dissolve baking soda in hot water.

Take dough onto counter and divide into 16 pieces (larger or smaller depending on what size of pretzels you want). Roll each piece into a rope and twist into pretzel shape or a knot. When ALL of the dough is shaped, dip all the pretzels into baking soda solution and place on greased cookie sheet and sprinkle with salt and or cinnamon sugar.
Bake in preheated oven for 8 minutes.

For dips we use cream cheese, mustard, or melted cheddar

My 5 year helps me roll out the dough and we have a ton of fun making and eating!!