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January 12th, 2010 Tuesday

My school program is doing awesome and just found out today that the district approved my program for all elementary schools.  It has been a huge success.  I'm now ready to bring it to other school districts.   Almost forgot, we are going to have my pilot in High school starting next year!  

January 10th, 2010 Sunday

I just finished taping 8 more shows  for the Weight Loss Surgery Channel.   Each show takes about 3 hours for a 22 minute show.  I exhausted.  

January 1st, 2010 Friday

Happy New Year! 2009 was an awesome year and on Dec 27 I received a call from a large publishing company to do another cookbook. I can't say what it is, but believe me it will be big and a release date of Sep 2010 is on my calendar. I promise to give you details as I'm allowed.

December 26th, 2009 Saturday

WOW   18inches of snow and 6 ft drifts.  I guess you need to be careful for what you ask for.  The boys and I are having a blast sledding down the hill by the house.  Snow, Snow, please don't go!  

December 24th, 2009 Thursday

We are in the middle of a blizzard.  Oklahoma is expected to have record snow fall.  This is my very first white Christmas and it's better than I thought it would be.  My brother came over with his kids and my dad flew in from Arcadia, FL.  In addition, my in-laws have been staying with us for almost a week.  I roasted a 20 pound ham and baked sweet potatoes.  As most of you know, I keep it simple and don't make a ton of food.  Oh yea, I made a banana pudding using sugar free pudding.  It was delish.

December 7th, 2009 Monday

What a crazy and amazing year this has been.  Once again I have had the opportunity to travel all over the United States cooking, and helping people maintain or lose weight.   It's awesome to see how weight loss surgery has been able to make huge steps in helping many people who have had no hope regain their livelihood back.   December is a time for renewal.  The trees have given up their leaves, and the cold crisp air is settling in.  For me, it gives me a chance to sit back and reflect on the past year, and how much of a rollercoaster it was. 

Over these past few months I have been able to finish up on a few projects.  My new cookbook 30 Days to Ditch Your Diet will be launched any day now.  It's a great feeling to work on a project and see it finalized and on the book shelves. 

My wife Mary will be getting her braces off after two years of mouth surgeries and adjustments.  Noah, my oldest son, has become quiet the athlete-from swimming to cross country, he wants to do it all.  I can remember being 9 and being overweight and not having the energy or the desire.  I guess, in a way, I'm reliving my childhood through him.  Michael, my youngest, started school this year and he still wants to know why the teacher's room is always so messy.  I'm not sure what to say to my son when he gets a note from the teachers asking us to tell Michael to stop asking her about her room.  He has to keep his room clean at home so why shouldn't she...

I was in Cincinnati, OH a few weeks ago at a JourneyLite Center.  I presented "Holiday Eating: Who's getting Stuffed", and did a cooking demo on appetizers.  The room was packed and the people were all so very nice.  I went back to the hotel to pack and get ready to leave the next morning.  As I entered the lobby of the hotel I noticed a women staring at me, to the point I was feeling a little uneasy.  I finally just asked "Hey do I know you?"  She immediately gave me a big hug and told me that she was very excited to meet me.  She had told me that she had weight loss surgery a few years back and had lost over 120 pounds.  She was in Cincinnati for a wedding and many of the family members had not seen her since her weight loss and that she was nervous.  I find that most people who have lost large amounts of weight tend to be nervous about other seeing them.  I say "Who Cares" --you've lost it, now flaunt it!

One last funny story: With all my traveling, I have a rental car almost on a weekly basis.  Yesterday I went in to grab a Starbucks Coffee.  Coming out of the store, coffee in hand, I hopped into my car and went to put my coffee in the cup holder. The cup holder was missing!  I spent at least 45 seconds looking for it and suddenly realized I was in somebody else's car!   I quickly got out of the car to only meet the owner rushing out of the office behind me.  He was not happy.  I tried explaining as I quickly got into my rental and left.  I'm thinking a Taxi may be safer...

October 16th, 2009 Wednesday

I recently was awarded a contract like no other.  I have been extremely unhappy with the food in the public school system since my oldest starting going to school.  I find it amazing how many educated leaders in the school system think that good, quality, nutritious food and behavior and learning don't go hand in hand.  I say Garbage in Garbage OUT!  I have been working over that past three years to change that and finally I have been given the opportunity.  The Edmond Public School District Voted 5-0 in favor of my Healthy Kids Pilot Program.  This year I was able to remove 98% of ALL processed foods and we now cook everything from scratch, except sandwich bread and hamburger rolls.  By year 2012, all schools in the 4^th largest school district in Oklahoma will be on the Chef Dave Healthy Kids Program.  

April 3rd, 2009 Friday

October 15th, Wednesday
Seattle: A Chef’s Paradise

I recently traveled to Seattle, Washington for a weekend getaway.  I have often heard of this magical place filled with the freshest fish, seafood, fruits and vegetables.  The Public Market located at the end of the famed Pike Street is nothing short of spectacular. Flying from Oklahoma it’s a short 5 hour flight to a foodie’s paradise.  Seattle is known for the Space Needle which was built for the 1962 world’s fair, Mount St. Helens, and the first Starbucks. With its breath taking views and great food, Seattle did not disappoint and offered more than expected.
I arrived Saturday morning and was greeted by my friends, Karen and Ron.  Not only are they funny, but they understood the history of the city and knew where the best local food hot spots where.  I knew a city of this magnitude would need to be navigated and only having 2 days to do it in would take a little planning and a lot of energy. 

The first stop was lunch and I ate at Palomino.  The food was light in typical Seattle flair and the flavors where uncomplicated with a punch of flavor.    I started with a thin crust brick oven garlic and tomato pizza for an appetizer and finished with a smoked turkey salad with havarti dill all topped onto locally grown organic mixed baby lettuces with an Orange Ginger Vinaigrette.  
With my stomach full, I set off to see the Seattle Space Needle.  Rising over 500 feet and taking 43 seconds to get to the top, the breathtaking view is well worth the $16.00.  From the top, you can view the international water landing strip where sea planes depart almost every 15 minutes.  Also visible is Mount Rainier and a 360 degree view of Seattle.  This landmark was a must-see on my list of things to do, and gives you a true perspective of how large the city is. 

Leaving the Space Needle I headed to Bellevue.  This city is just outside of Seattle and is the home for companies such as Microsoft and Yahoo.  This is also the city in which Bill Gates lives.  My trip to Bellevue was to find Mr. J’s.  This culinary whimsical store has been a landmark just outside of Seattle for over 20 years, and has the largest inventory of any cooking store I have ever been in.  This store is a must-see and is located directly next to a specialty foods market.  
Sunday morning I was picked up by Karen and Ron, and we set off to spend the day at the Public Market.  This market is world renowned for its fresh open markets and Pikes Fish Market.    There is no questioned that I had arrived when I was greeted by the Public Market sign that stood well over 20 feet tall and 30 feet wide.  Starting at the beginning we entered this long hallway, which was filled with little shops on both sides.  I could smell fresh baked bread, homemade doughnuts made to order, and scents from exotic flowers that I have never seen before.  Let’s just say my senses where on overload. At the far end, where the market takes a sharp right, is the Pike’s Fish Market.  Pike’s market is known for its large variety of fish and seafood. Believe me, you won’t find it fresher anywhere else.  In addition, they are known for team work and “Throwing of the Fish” across the market and being caught by workers and guest alike.

When leaving Pike’s fish market you enter into a chef’s dream: as far as the eye can see, there is nothing but vendor after vendor selling fresh farmed fruits and vegetables.  I saw peaches as big as grapefruits and grapefruits as big as honeydews.  You can see the pride these local venders take in the food they are selling and never hesitate to offer you a free sample.  The prices are affordable and in most cases, cheaper than at the local grocery stores.  Mixed in among the fruits of vegetables are locals selling honey, locally made jams and jellies, homemade breads, and an occasional t-shirt shop to remind you where you have been. 

Lunch was at a movie landmark.  Located in the middle of the market is Athenian Seafood.  This was where some of the scenes for Sleepless in Seattle were filmed.  This seafood restaurant promises everything on the menu is the fresh catch of the day, and the view of the harbor is spectacular. 

After lunch, I had only seen half of the market and was ready to take on the rest.  The second half of the market led me outside to local art venders, musicians, and Starbucks #1.  Although the first Starbucks is not nearly as nice as your local store, I couldn’t stop thinking about how this world renowned icon started out by the harbor on Pike Street. 
As a final salute to Seattle, I grabbed a cup of coffee from Starbucks #1 and took a horse and carriage ride around the city.  The tour was amazing.  I learned about the city’s proud heritage and even a few surprises.  Did you know that present day Seattle was built on top of the old city, which burnt down in 1889 from a glue fire? 
I will never forget my first trip to Seattle and can’t wait to visit again.  Along with a few kitchen gadgets, and packages of jams, fruit and vegetables being sent via the mail to my home, I will always remember this culinary paradise.

July 7th, Monday
Just landed in Reno, and will be here until Friday.  I have a book signing, 2 support group meetings, and finishing touches on some Bariatric Program stuff which is being launched this month.  Will  be home Friday.

July 5th, Saturday
I forgot to mention my mom is 7 weeks out from surgery and my step dad drove her to Oklahoma to spend a few weeks with us.  Mom is doing great.  She still gets a little tired by the end of the day, but every day I getting better.

Did fireworks with boys!  Michael, my 4 year old, and Noah, my oldest, lit over 60 sparklers, went thru 120 snapper things, and two firework turtle cars! 35 minutes later we were inside having a snack.

July 4th, Friday
What a fun day.   We went to lake and had a big family cook out.  The boys swam all day, and by 9 pm, before the fireworks, they were asleep on the living room floor.   I was disappointed, because I would have to wait to do the fireworks tomorrow night.

July 3, Thursday
I attended the ASMBS conference in Washington DC, and launched my newest cook 90 Ways to Ditch Your Diet.  This conference is, to me, the most important conference I attend all year. This is where all the professionals within the bariatric community come together to introduce updated research and discover new programs to help in patient care.  I introduced three booklets that are filled with protein shake recipes, puree recipes, and soft chopped recipes to help in the first 3 months after surgery.  I was a little nervous the first day, but it was quickly replaced with excitement.  They loved the new books, and could not wait to get to their patients.  I spent a year and a half of writing, and at that moment it was all worth it.    

Mary had the boys with us as well, and they spent the week touring the capital, museums, and historical landmarks.   They had a blast while I was working, but by the end of the week we were all ready to go home. 

July 1, Tuesday
Wowwwwww. That's all I can say I have not blogged for a while due to some personal things in my life. As with everything I do, I'm pretty much an open book. So here it goes. 

The doctor requested that my mom, Patty, get a colonoscopy because her iron was low and after 4 iron infusions, her tests were still coming back low. She has had Gastric Bypass, and in typical fashion, felt it was a vitamin deficiency. The endocrinologist refused to give her more iron infusions until she underwent some sort of test. The last test--the colonoscopy--was supposed to come back normal, but instead, she told me she had colon cancer. I was in shock. I don't remember much that day. My oldest sister, Amanda, who also live in Florida took immediate action and had her scheduled for a surgery consultation and the remaining tests, all by that afternoon. Mom was diagnosed Tuesday morning, and by late Tuesday afternoon, all her appointments were set up for the remainder of the week. By Thursday, all test and surgery evaluations were done, and mom had a surgery date for the following Monday. In less than a week from being diagnosed, this cancer was going to be removed. I had a Chef Dave event the Saturday morning before her surgery in Arlington, VA and was able to get a flight to West Palm Beach, FL Saturday night.

The event was a success, and I had an awesome host. Although my heart was heavy with concerns for my mom, being in front of all those people made me forget, even if only for 2 hours. After the event, I was in Florida by 1:30 am and I was able to see my mom. Sunday, Mothers Day, felt weird for the first time ever. I did not want to give flowers, stuffed animals, or pajamas. I did not want any gift to remind her of the hospital.

Monday morning arrived and my mom was in surgery for a little over 3 hours. Not knowing if the cancer had spread, my sisters and brothers and I were on the edge of our seats. It was with great relief that the surgeon was able to remove 100% percent of the colon cancer. In addition, two weeks later, her scans confirmed that she was cancer free.

May 1, Thursday
This was just published today in the local paper and I thought I would share it with you.  Follow the link and learn about the first Health and Wellness week.  www.edmondsun.com/schools/local_story_122115257.html?keyword=secondarystory
It has been a fun and long week and I had a blast with all the elementary school kids.  I have no voice left and my throat is burning but I would not change a thing…

April 29, Tuesday
I have been working on my visit to ASMBS in June and also finalizing my participation on The Walk on The Capital for Obesity June 17th.  I Have been participating in the Health and Wellness week and so far is has been a huge success.

April 17, Thursday
I am just about ready to wrap up my stuff for the "Health and Wellness week with Chef Dave".  I’m getting very excited and can’t wait for the event.   My Shaken’ it Up protein shake book is now ready and almost ready to be sold. 

April 13, Sunday
I'm exhausted but had such a great time at the Health Fair. I think there was over 100,000 people there over the weekend. It was crazy, but I could not think of a place I would have rather been. JourneyLite was able to reach and educate thousands of people on weight loss options.

April 11, Friday
I left this morning and I’m now in LA.  What a great city.  I have been here several times but I never get tired of visiting.  The mountains, ocean, and palm trees, truly make it a great city.  I will be attending the Health Fair, where I will be cooking and speaking over the next two days.

April 2, Wednesday
Been on the road traveling and got home yesterday.   Then last night was, well let’s just say a very close call…
I have lived in Oklahoma for over 2 years now and never experienced the fear I did last night. I knew when I moved from Florida I was moving from Hurricane territory to Tornado Alley, but nothing could have prepared me for last night. My brother had just arrived into Oklahoma with his five children and wife in a 16 foot moving truck earlier in the day. They had just left Florida two days earlier with excitement of moving to what I consider the best place in the U.S., Oklahoma. I had spent the afternoon with my brother unloading the moving truck and went to bed exhausted. Normally when we have bad weather I stay up, and stay tuned to the TV until the severe weather passes. Last night however I went on to bed. At 1:34 AM my phone rang and it was our neighbor calling to see if they could come over to get in our safe room. I sprang from bed turned on the TV and realized there was a F2 tornado less than 4 miles from our neighborhood. I ran to unlock the front door, and then grabbed my children from their beds. By this time Mary had the safe room ready and waiting. At that moment Mary (my wife) realized our next store neighbor two houses down was home alone with her 1 year old son and her husband was out of town. I ran to her house where she had just heard the tornado sirens going off. With no time to get them to our house we ran to her underground shelter. Within 5 minutes we were able to come out of the shelter, and found that our neighborhood was spared, but another development next to us had not been so lucky. No lives were lost last night and unbelievably no one was hurt. The houses can be replaced. This all happened in less than 7 minutes from start to finish, but I must admit it felt like an eternity. It is times like these that I realize how blessed I am. In addition my dream kitchen was left untouched!

March 26, Wednesday
I just received, hopefully, the final draft for my newest cookbook 90 Ways to Ditch Your Diet.  It was very exciting to see all of the artwork, and recipes come together.

March 21, Friday
I just got all the details finalized for the huge event in April at the LA Convention Center.  This event is sponsored by NBC and Telemundo and is one of the largest health fairs in the U.S. I will be joining JourneyLite at this awesome event.

March 18, Tuesday
It’s been a busy week for me.   I had three articles due and started putting together my plan for Health and Wellness Week at my wife’s elementary school where she teaches 2nd grade.  I’m very excited but have a lot to make this happen.  This is the first time anything like this has happened in our school district and will also be taking over the cafeteria for the day as well.  I will keep you posted on how this is going.

March 8, Saturday
It’s been a fun day.  Today mom had the day to herself.  Having three guy around the house does not leave a lot of time for mom.  We left early and went to breakfast at this really cool place called “Around the Corner Restaurant”.  It has been around for over 40 years and nothing has changed.  It’s like taking a walk thru history.  The food is not the best I ever had, but its not always about the food, but in this case, the atmosphere.  We then set off to the movies and finished the day jumping on the trampoline.

March 5, Wednesday
What a busy day!  I booked an event in Fairfax, Virginia.  I have never been to Virginia  for an event and look forward to making many new friends.   Today was Noah’s first day of baseball practice and he couldn’t wait to start.   

March 1, Saturday
I took the boys fishing, hiking, and to the park. we grilled hotdogs on a stick over a camp fire.  We left this morning around 8am and we did not get back until after 7.  Mary had a teacher seminar to go to, and I had promised the boys we would go fishing when it got a little warmer.  We had a blast.   That night they did not even make it home awake.  They both fell asleep and yes I put them to bed dirt and all. 

February 26, Tuesday

Been a great day so far and final edit has been made for the cook book.  I can almost smell the fresh ink.  I’m also putting the final touches on the JourneyLite presentation.

February 23, Saturday
Got back from Reno yesterday and taking the family to the zoo yet again.  I’m looking forward to getting out, it’s a little cold outside but I’m sure the animals will be out.   Tonight I’m trying a new dish.  I woke up last night and had to write it down.  Some people dream of food. I dream of making it.  It has chicken, garlic, sundried tomatoes, spinach, vodka, fresh tomatoes and a splash of cream.  I don’t have a name yet.  I hope it turns out.
10pm had to blog to let you know the dish was good, but I would have like it better with chopped broccoli robb, instead of spinach.

February 20, Wednesday
11pm and back in my room.  The restaurant class was great.  I had a ton of questions and feel the class is needed everywhere.  Mary called me tonight to let me know Michael was missing me, so I talked to him for a little bit.  He has such an Imagination.  Tonight he was telling me he was riding on Scooby doo and was being chased by a monster, but I was not to panic because he got away.  As an adult I often wonder what would happen if we let are own guard down if people would think we were all nuts… just a question!

February 18, Monday
It’s been a while since I blogged just been kind of crazy.  Going to Reno tonight and have a busy week ahead of me.  While in Reno I will be doing 2 grocery shopping tours, support group, and restaurant guidelines where I and the other patients go out to a restaurant and learn about making substitutions.  I’m looking forward to my visit I have not been to Reno in almost 2 months.  I will try to blog a little while I’m there.

10:30 pm just got in my flight was quiet and uneventful which makes me a very happy man!

January 30, Wednesday
I got to see the artwork and front cover for the “Shaken it up” shake book.  Also received the front and back cover to my new cook book “90 Ways to Ditch your Diet” 30 Days to Healthful Eating.  In addition, Obesity Action Coalition sent me the final proof for the fundraiser cookbook.  When it rains it pours I Guess. 

Noah brought his report card home today and I have can’t believe how good he is doing.  His reading and match scored for his 2nd grade level is almost to a 4th grade level.  We will be going out to get a LEGO Star Wars ship in about an hour.

My mom is feeling better and she does not feel nearly as tired.  Not to mention I have been making sure that she is taking her vitamins.

January 20, Sunday
We had a busy weekend.  My mom will be coming next week from Florida to visit for a few weeks.  Between going to Wal-Mart and Home Depot I stayed busy doing little house repairs.  FYI, I’m a chef not a repair man.  So a project like putting up picture in our guess room to match the new comforter my wife purchased should have taken me 15 minutes, 5 holes and a few screws later it was up.  I’m embarrassed to say this project alone took me almost an hour.  Anyone want any pictures hung.  I charge by the hour…. 

January 14, Monday
I had a great weekend it started by Mary and I having a night to ourselves Friday night.  We don’t get away all that much without are boys and it was nice to have a break.  The night was very exciting we went to dinner and spent 1.5 hours in a book store.  The peach and quiet almost put me to sleep in the book store.  I love our sitter but the house pays a price…  

Saturday we took off to the zoo, I know, I blog about the zoo a lot but it truly is a one of the boys favorite places.  Not to mention the OKC Zoo is hug, and the play ground is shaped like a big castle.

Today being a Monday I followed up on a few call and started on some smooth foods recipes for a new project I’m working on.  Another clue for my next JourneyLite visit… Small cuts, large cut, mince what’s the difference?

Cook Smart…

January 9, Wednesday
The time has come I can officially announce a project I’m extremely excited about.  The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) and I have joined together to raise money for the Walk from Obesity.  Coming soon is a Chef Dave Recipe book with all proceeds going to Walk from Obesity.  Stay tuned for where and how to get….
 

December 31    Monday
Spoke with Vicki the dietitian and we worked on Grocery Store tour presentation.  Also put my black eye peas to soak overnight.  Being a southerner you must eat black eye peas to have good luck for the following year.  I add no added fat instead I use garlic, onion, easy salt and pepper and simmer until done, then eaten with a bowl of collard greens, and the New Year will be brought in right.  The boys where in bed by 9:30 and Mary and I just watched the ball drop gave each other a kiss and now going to bed.  Happy New Year…
 

December 1
9:45pm and I’m on the plane heading to Fort Lauderdale. The event went well and I love seeing all the patients from the previous years. Was a little stressful because a huge winter storm system started this morning and I was afraid they were going to cancel my flight. When I woke up, it was 7 degrees with a wind chill of -8 … brrrrrr! This was COLD and the air was almost burning my face. As I waited to get on the plane, the snow was getting worse. It was almost a pure white out. I had never seen snow fall like this. It was amazing but at the same time, very eerie.  I must admit that I’m grateful to be on a plane and heading to warmer climates. 

This past week, I started working on my next event for JourneyLite. As a hint ... Julienne, bouenwas, and de`poulage are all part of the presentation.  Get your knives ready …

Talk to you soon!
Chef Dave

November 30
Arrived in Appleton, WI today and it was 17 degrees and snow was on the ground. This group has had me as their guest speaker for the past three years at their annual Christmas party. I was met by Rose, and the only request I make every year is to please take me to Simons Cheese Factory.

Cheese is my favorite food on the planet, and this factory makes it all. They have a large variety of low-fat cheeses and even have great specialty mustards (stay away from the sweet mustards … they have a ton of calories). I placed my cheese order and was off to my hotel. I was picked up at 7pm and was taken to this phenomenal restaurant. The menu only had about 10 items to choose from, and every dish was 350 calories or less! No salt was needed, and talk about fresh veggies! I had the Tilapia with a saffron reduction. Good and healthy! 

November 29
Just now getting home … it’s almost 1am. I worked more on my new cookbook while in Reno. It’s almost ready to go to print. I cannot wait!  I also found out that my special project with the Obesity Action Coalition was approved. I promise to tell you about it very soon. Got to go repack … have to be at the airport later today.

November 27, 5:30am
Off to Reno this morning and will be there until Thursday. Friday morning I head to Appleton, WI for another Chef Dave Event on Saturday. Then it’s off to Fort Lauderdale for another event.  I have a busy week ahead of me and will do my best to keep you updated!

November 22 – Thanksgiving 2007!
Yesterday, the boys and I got all the food preparation done for today.  My three-year old was up at 6am and was ready to start cooking. That didn’t happen … and I managed to hold them off until around 11:00.  It went much better than I expected, and with only one minor incident. Noah accidently knocked the glass bowl of fresh green beans all over the counter that we had just cleaned. We made homemade cranberry sauce, redid the green beans, prepared the turkey, and got the sweet potatoes baked.  

This morning, my plan was to have us eating at noon. I don’t believe in late lunches because when you wait, everyone is starving and ends up eating way too much. The boys and I put the turkey in at 7:30am.  We then made are favorite breakfast (oatmeal) and we settled in to watch the parade. Lunch was on the table at 12:10. This was our first Thanksgiving being just the four of us, and I have to admit it was awesome!  

November 20
Got back to OKC at 2:30 and went straight to pick Michael up from preschool and then to get Noah.  I promised they could help with ALL the cooking this year. What was I thinking?!? Once I said it, there was no taking it back.

A little secret that most don’t know about me is that I’m a coupon clipper. Stop laughing! One hour later, cart full of groceries, and $46.00 in coupon savings … and we were on our way home.

November 19
Been a long day … was at the airport at 6am to fly to Sioux Falls, South Dakota for a Chef Dave Event. I had never been there, so I was looking forward to seeing this part of the country. When I arrived, I was taken out for an awesome lunch by my hosts. At 3pm, I was met by the local TV station to film a three-minute slot on bariatric eating. Had a great turn out for the event and am now relaxing in my hotel room and getting ready for bed.  Early night for me … it’s only 10pm. I will get a good night’s sleep! 

November 16
Noah’s feast was a big hit! I even volunteered to help with his class feast. All the kids had their pilgrim hats and homemade place mats for the feast. They were all so excited and not a drop of sweet potatoes was left. Noah actually made them with very little help from me!

November 13
Today I reviewed the pages outline and setup for my new 90 Ways book.  It is always exciting to see all the work finally come to life on the page.  As a chef, recipe development is one of my favorite parts of the job. With new products coming out onto the market monthly, it’s a great challenge (and great fun!) to come up with new recipes for my WLS friends. 

I also went to the store to gather food for Noah’s classroom feast. We were assigned sweet potatoes. We decided on mashed sweet potatoes and what they won’t know is that they’ll be healthy with no sugar added. Instead of boiling them, I bake the sweet potatoes which brings out their naturally sweet taste.  I then pull the skin right off and mash them in a bowl with pumpkin pie spice, and, if needed, I add a little 2% milk to thin them out.  Delicious, easy and healthy… 

November 10, 2007
I’ve been working on all the final details of my new cookbook which is soon to be released.  I’ve also had some fun answering “Ask Chef Dave” questions.  It’s great to be home and I’m looking forward to the weekend at home with my family.  You guys have a good one, too!  Keep up your journey!

November 4, 2007 (Back Home)
My kids always approach me with open hands when I return from travel.  As always, they want to know what I’ve brought back for them.  They led me to the kitchen, where they and my wife, Mary, had made me oatmeal birthday cookies. In addition to the cookies (all things in moderation, remember!), they also gave me a long-sleeved shirt and noise-cancelling headphones. Happy Birthday to me….(again!). 

November 3, 2007
Vicki, a good friend of mine and dietician, treated me to a Vegas-style show titled, ”Dancing Queen.”  The show was great and was all 70’s music.  Thanks, Vicki, for a great birthday present.

November 2, 2007 (My Birthday)
I’m in Reno on my birthday, but no worries.  I was treated to a night out with some people I consult with and enjoyed myself.  Happy Birthday to me….

October 31, 2007 (Halloween!)
What a day! A cold front was moving in as we started to trick-or-treat, so it from 65 degrees to 40 degrees in an hour! I’m glad my boys picked warm costumes.  We met at our neighbor’s home and started our quest. 

Michael, my three-year old, is at the honesty stage and sometimes can be a little embarrassing.  Tonight he was determined that every home was to give him three pieces of candy … or else. When he received one to two pieces, he expressed his disappointment and verbally told them he needed three. Thank goodness we have great neighbors!  It was cute and I will always remember the facial expressions he made when he only got one piece.  

After three short blocks, the candy outweighed the boys and we headed home to check out all the loot..  Now, if we can just get him to eat his veggies three at a time…

October 25-26, 2007
It’s 4:00 in the morning and I have not been to bed yet. I spent the day at an event in Charlotte, North Carolina and it was a huge success.  We had almost 200 people, and for the first time, I had family members come to a Chef Dave event.  Things ended at 9:30 p.m. and then I drove almost five hours to Charleston, South Carolina for the National Association of Bariatric Nursing Conference, where I have been invited to speak.

I’m exhausted and have to be up at 7:30 for another long day. Going to bed….zzzzzzzzzz 

October 24, 2007 (Wednesday)
It’s 5:00 a.m. and my mom is leaving. The five days she was here went by way too fast.  Ironically, we have the same flight from OKC to Houston, so I get the opportunity to fly her half-way home.
 
Tonight is my first event with JourneyLite of Houston.  I’m so excited and can’t wait! 

It’s 11:00 p.m. … another great day. Bobbie with JourneyLite of Houston reserved our cooking seminar at a huge Southern-style plantation mansion.  Let me tell you – it was beautiful and the kitchen was nothing short of amazing. I’m certainly looking forward to coming back to this venue. 

Thanks to all my new friends in Houston, Texas for the great hospitality.  I’m going to bed now. I have a flight out to Charlotte, NC in the morning for another Chef Dave Event. 

October 19, 2007
What a great day. I drove us all to Newcastle, Oklahoma to TGLEE Farms to pick out our very own pumpkins.  We ran thru corn mazes, fed the animals in the petting zoo, played in the hay, and took a hay ride. The weather was a perfect 65 degrees. While close to Norman, Oklahoma, we ate at a Marie Callendar’s restaurant.  I had beef stroganoff.  It was soooo good.  It had Dijon mustard in it and was deglazed with red wine. YUMMMMO!

One Pumpkin turned into eight pumpkins.  As their dad, I had a hard time saying “no” when my kids were telling me they had found just the perfect pumpkin … again, and again, and again, and….. 

October 18, 2007
Arrived at the airport in OKC and my mom was there to greet me as I deplaned. She had only arrived minutes before me.  I must admit nothing feels better to me than a huge hug and kiss from my mom.  I almost melt and turn into a three-year old again. I have not spoken of my mom on here yet, but she is an incredible woman who dedicated her whole life to her five children. She always lends an ear to listen, a shoulder to lean on, and lastly, without her encouragement of me to follow my dreams, “Chef Dave” may never have existed.  She also had WLS just six months after I did!

It’s been a fun day.  The boys went crazy when “Nana” walked in the door. Michael would not let go of her hand.  I cooked a five-star meal, holding nothing back for our guest of honor. We had ribeye steak, smothered in gorgonzolz cheese, risotto, grilled fresh veggies, and homemade banand pudding (sugar-free, of course!).

Tomorrow, we go to the pumpkin patch…

October 17, 2007
Went and visited Dr. Billy and his dietician, Michele, in Ventura, California, to add more culinary information to the JourneyLite packet.  We had a great meeting.

The JourneyLite of Thousand Oaks event went well tonight.  It was held at a church which was built on a hillside, and the room where the event was held literally had a whole wall of glass.  The view was spectacular. The event finished at 8:30 and after signing a few books and taking pictures, it was back to my hotel.

I’m very excited about tomorrow.  My mom – who I haven’t seen in almost eight months – is flying in at the same time as me from West Palm Beach.  She will be visiting for five days.

Goodnight. 

October 16, 2007 (Tuesday)
I’m on my way to the airport and it’s about 2:30 in the afternoon. Today I fly to Los Angeles and head to JourneyLite of Thousand Oaks for a Chef Dave Event. More later.

Well, I arrived in Los Angeles at 5:30 p.m. and realized my cell phone was missing.  I have been traveling for years and have never had this happen.  I felt nude, like I’d forgotten to put my pants on!  You never know the meaning of one single object until it comes up missing.  I began to wonder if this “missing, vulnerable feeling” is the way some feel when they have surgery and they begin to eat less food.  I can remember waking up from surgery wondering what I had just done. 

Being a chef, food is not only my passion but my livelihood.  I have no regrets about my weight-loss surgery. It's an amazing journey … 

October 13, 2007
It’s Saturday and I’m glad to be waking up in my own bed.  The only downside is that my king size bed doesn’t seem large enough when it’s accommodating me, Mary, our two boys and the dog.

Noah and I made breakfast and we gave mom the day off.  The boys and I went to the mall … it was new shoes for everyone!  We went out to lunch and ended our perfect day together at the park.  We finished the night watching Fantastic 4, Part Two. 

October 12, 2007
I was able to catch an early flight home today and for a change, luck was in my favor. I was walking in the front door a little after noon. It was great to see my family! 

9 pm – What a fun evening.  The boys and Mary where surprised to see me home so we all went out and just got back in.  Goodnight! 

October 11, 2007
1 AM and I just back to my hotel room.  I was in Wisconsin where I was invited to speak at a bariatric patient event.  They had over 250 people show and I was told it was the most they’d ever had attend an event.  The energy in the room was at its best, and I even had the surgeons smiling and laughing.  I must say I LOVE what I do. Sold a ton of books and had lots of pictures taken. I understand pictures last forever, but it still amazes me that people want a picture of me. I’m flattered and honored.

October 9, 2007
8PM  -- I have been on the road for just about a week and it’s great to be home.  I leave for Milwaukee, Wisconsin at 6 a.m., so although my stay at home is less than 24 hours, I really enjoy being home with my family.   As for today, I scrubbed out my trash cans, mowed the back yard, replaced the water in the fish tank, cleaned the bird cage, and paid bills. In addition, my Mom-in-law made dinner, and yes, it was good! Okay, I’ll catch up with you later.

October 8, 2007
11 PM  -- WOW, WOW, WOW!  What a day!  The JourneyLite of West Florida cooking class was a huge success in Tampa. I don’t know why I get nervous right before these things, but I do. Crazy, I know …

I met the JourneyLite of West Florida staff for the first time today and was immediately made to feel like a part of the family.  Thank you, JourneyLite!

The high school where the class was held was more than impressive. They had a commercial kitchen and a cooking studio for filming as well. 

Chef Rick, educator extraordinaire, has built an amazing culinary program that supersedes anything I have ever seen.  He has managed to get big corporations to provide grants for commercial cooking equipment and video equipment.  If you think that’s impressive, I should tell you that he also had weight-loss surgery and has lost over 200 pounds! 

Like I always say to myself, “Weight-loss surgery does not define who I am, but allows me to live my dreams.”  Rick was a huge inspiration. Everyone was so professional and I and the JourneyLite staff were welcomed in every way.  My hat is off to you, Rick!

I head home in the morning.

October 7, 2007
6:30 AM – Getting ready to drive to Tampa for my very first JourneyLite event and I could not be more excited.  I have a good drive ahead of me, so I need to get going. I arrived at the hotel at 2:30 and am all checked in and answering emails. It’s Sunday, so I’m signing off for today and going to take a nap! 

September 29, 2007
Today I was the Master of Ceremonies in Ventura, CA for the ASMBS Foundation’s 4^th Annual Walk from Obesity sponsored by JourneyLite of Thousand Oaks. What a great turn out for a cause I deeply understand and personally believe in.  We walked along the harbor for 3.5 miles and the weather could not have been better.  I also was made to feel so welcome.  I was presented with a mahogany wooden star engraved with the words, “Our Star Chef, David Fouts, World’s First Bariatric Chef.”  I was extremely touched. 

In addition to the Walk, they had a clothing sale with all proceeds benefiting the Walk from Obesity.  There were raffles and we had really good BBQ for lunch.  Truth is, I met a whole lot of people and now have a whole lot of new California friends…so from my heart, Thank You!

8:30 PM – On the plane…I love flying at dusk.  It truly reminds me how lucky I am to do what I do.  The sky is so beautiful and there’s nothing more relaxing than listening to James Taylor on my IPod as I watch the world slip by below me.  We passed over a rain storm with lightening.  Talk about beautiful!  The clouds turned white in the pitch black sky as the lightening bolts flashed. I will be landing in an hour, so for now …goodnight. 

September 22, 2007
My mom-in-law is arriving tonight at 11 PM for a six-week visit. With all the traveling I have coming up, this is going to be a huge help to my wife. I have to admit I have a GREAT mother-in-law. 

Just for the record, I’m still mowing my lawn. Oklahoma is having an extended summer.  I went to put away all my yard stuff and decided to clean my garage out.  Am I crazy?!?  I started at 1:00 in the afternoon and did not finish up until after 5:00 … oh, and the outside temp today was 96 degrees!.  What was I thinking?  Still, I’ve gotta admit … my garage looks AWESOME.

12:45 AM – Just arrived home with my mom-in-law; the boys were so excited to see her, they didn’t stop talking the whole way home!

September 18, 2007

I got part of my cookbook back from the editor today. Christine is amazing. She knows I’m a chef, not an English major and has done an amazing job of editing. Next, we're on to layout and getting the pictures to match. Spoke to the Radisson executive chef in Milwaukee and got the food lined up for my event on October 11. 

Just found out Noah’s baseball practice is cancelled due to rain.  Mary had to stay late at work tonight, so the boys and I are heading to Billy Symes BBQ for dinner.  We love this place and eat there whenever mom is not with us (she hates smoked food ... I know ... how un-American!).

Just got in from walking the dog and am heading to bed.  Goodnight…

September 15, 2007

Today we decided to get all of the Fall stuff out of the attic. The boys could hardly contain themselves ... not about the stuff ... but about going in the attic. 

I need to explain. The attic is located off of the playroom and remains locked all the time (only I have a key). This is a mysterious room which is off limits and is only entered maybe eight times a year.  Michael could barely contain himself, while Noah asked a ton of questions about spiders and snakes. So, with bug spray and tongs in hand (the tongs are used for catching snakes, of course!) we entered the attic, turned on the light, and began our search. Out of nowhere, I let out a loud SCREAM and my boys could not get out of there fast enough! I laughed so hard that I could barely catch my breath.  What I found to be funny almost put my kids in a coma!  

About five minutes of coaxing later, they re-entered the attic and we gathered all our Fall and Halloween items. Mary began putting the Fall stuff out around the house and the Halloween stuff was put to the side.  We were trying to convince the boys that it was too early for Halloween decorations, but we lost that battle.  So if you want to stop by, we are the only house in the neighborhood with pumpkins, ghost, and beware signs out.  We should be easy to find!

September 13, 2007 

Just landed in Vegas on the way back home to OKC, and let’s just say they need to keep the new guy out of the cockpit.  Talk about turbulence!  I was left shaken, not stirred.

Home at last!  Kids are in bed and Mary is grading papers at the table in the kitchen, and I’m going to bed.

September 12, 2007

Had a productive day in Reno and worked all day with Vicki, the dietitian, on my 90 Ways Cookbook.  Left the office and went to a photo shoot.  It took three hours, but I have so