Friday favorites

If I had to be honest, I've been teetering on the edge of burnt out when it comes to running. The aggressiveness of my training plan (my fault), participating in a lot of races (my fault) and being a bit tired (not my fault).

But, there has been hope.

Here are some things that I have been loving on the run lately.

1. Revisiting old routes. I've been sticking to the same two routes on my morning runs and though I like them, I am feeling a bit bored - at least with the one. So, this morning, I bribed myself with a jaunt through my old neighborhood and throwing the plan out the window to get in the miles. It was just what I needed! The river from this part of the Rivergreenway is picturesque, and I love how the trees reflect in the water. I also got to run by some grand homes whose yards were showing fall color.

2. Oiselle Flyte Shorts. I've been looking for a good compression-type short but haven't found anything in store that made me want to hand over the credit card. My favorite running store recently picked up Oiselle, and I went to check it out. I was a bit leery of the shorts as even the long version looked too short but I bought them anyway. So glad I did. The material on these shorts is so soft and comfortable that even sweat-soaked, I don't want to take them off.

3. Salted Watermelon Gu. I've been off and on the Gu train, and I even experimented with fuel-free long runs as my diet changed. I wanted to try this flavor, though, and I'm glad I did. I like that it has extra sodium but isn't as sticky sweet as the Salted Caramel. Don't get me wrong - I still like the Yeti - but the watermelon is more palatable over the long run.

Note: I really want to try the Root Beer if only for the novelty, and Gu Energy just came out with Caramel Macchiato.

4. Fall weather. I wore long sleeves on two runs this week, and there's a crunch beneath my feet as I move. Need I say more?

5. Listen up. Somehow, I had an Audible credit, and I decided to download "Gone Girl." I know I'm the last person to read the book but I'm loving it so far. I may have to subscribe to Audible this fall when I start slowing down to enjoy the runs.

What are you loving late?

Friday love: Lately

Let me stop you before you roll your eyes and click through: This post will not be a front for a gratuitous wish list/running gift idea post. There are enough of those and mine would include just one thing: a Garmin Forerunner 220.

Now, onto things that I love. Or like a lot. Maybe even things I like a little bit.

The great outdoors

According to last year's running spreadsheet, I first succumb to the temptation of the treadmill on Nov. 15 and was using it about once a week through the rest of the year. While I have hopped on the 'mill to walk as I watched TV at night, I have yet to run a single step on it. I tried, once, and decided that I'm going to do my best to keep outside. I picked up a new pair of tights during the local running shop's Black Friday sale (Mizuno Breath Thermo Layered Tight) to keep me motivated. And, of course, Indiana was blessed with unseasonable weather this week and I was out in shorts twice.

Altra Zero Drop Shoes

I entered a Facebook giveaway for a pair of Altras on the IFIT LIVE page on a whim and, as luck would have it, I won. I selected the Provisioness 1.5 as its a stability shoe, ordering a half-size up as advised. The shoes are cute but definitely different, and I had no idea what it would feel like to run in them. As it turns out? It feels freaking fast to run in them. The first time I wore them was for a short family run where Mark and I ended up making a mad dash to beat the rain since Miles was in the stroller. Average pace, a week post-marathon: Sub-9. I've continued to rock some of my fastest runs in too long in these shoes, and I have successfully added them into the rotation after a break-in period. (As these are zero drop and encourage mid-foot strike, it's advised to ease into them as the body needs time to adjust.)

My Brooks Ravennas are close to the end, and I'm now faced with going Altra all the time or keeping a more traditional shoe for backup. If only I had taken the bait with Altra's Black Friday sales ...

Strawberry Lemonade Nuun

Strawberry Lemonade was the first flavor of Nuun I ever had, and it was hate at first taste. I couldn't water it down enough to choke it down. Even as I've grown to love and embrace the product, including some of the less favored flavors, I had yet to revisit good ole SL. Well, the other week when Nuun was having a promo for a free pint glass, I decided it was time to try it again. And, as the title of this post would indicate, I love it. I've been drinking it A LOT at work because sitting at my desk is, obviously, an endurance sport.

By the way, if you order this week you can score a free trucker hat with a $30 purchase. The hat is slightly less cute than the one I wore repeatedly over Hood to Coast weekend but it's close.

The holiday season

Sing it with me. You know you want to ...

I have a tendency to be a giant grouch during any big holiday as they weren't always the best of times growing up. However, I'm having a total blast this year as Miles is getting to an age where he can enjoy it. He loves Christmas trees and Santa Claus, and I've read "It's Christmas, David" a million times.

Note: That book is the best ever - David runs around sans clothes and pees in the snow. Chock full of lessons for little boys.

Really kicking off things, though, was a visit from St. Nicholas last night. St. Nick always visited in our German Catholic house growing up, and I love sharing those traditions.

Even if it means M&Ms for breakfast.

What are you loving lately?

Love it or Leave it: April edition

Love it: A good deal. I had a bit of birthday money left so Miles and I did a little pre-work shopping at Marshall's. I was hoping to get a pair of capris for Body Pump but instead I got the cutest pair of Nike Tempo shorts ... for $14.99.

Aren't they cute?

I've been wanting another pair but couldn't decide among the 50 million I liked at Dick's this weekend. These fit the bill - and the budget. Now for a top to match ...

Leave it: nuun. I picked up a tube of strawberry lemonade nuun for the trip to Dearborn with much excitement. With so much buzz on Twitter and in the blogosphere, it just had to be good. Right? Right ... or not. Maybe it was the flavor I picked or maybe it's me but I just did not like it. I tried it once the night before the Martian and again this week before Wednesday's semi-long run. Both times, I had to choke it down - and that's only because I didn't want to waste it.

Source

Love it: Try Chips. I discovered these at the Martian Invasion expo and, at first, I was a bit skeptical. It was being touted as a recovery alternative for endurance athletes but it seemed like nothing more than dried fruit - and I can get dried fruit anywhere. I also tend to be a bit hesitant when something is labeled as super charged or all natural energy, especially in terms of recovery. After all, I am a chocolate milk gal. Jackie, the Try Chips rep at the expo, said the snack is also good for pre- and mid-race fueling. It's like a triple threat.

With one bite of the Aspire, though, I was surprisingly delighted. The fruit is freeze-dried and it almost has an airy, fluffy quality. It was naturally sweet, had a great mix of flavors with the banana, apricot, sweet potato and matcha green tea and there's just 100 calories per package. I immediately bought a bag and ended up gobbling it up on the car ride home. I can't say that it helped me recover but it did help with the long run hunger!

I don't think they meant for me to wash it down with a Diet Coke but who do you think I am?

The best part, though? The note on the back of the bag. I don't remember what it said but it was pretty bad ass. Like they got people who think it's fun to run for hours.

Leave it: Green smoothies. I tried. I really tried but I just couldn't do it.

I made a mix of strawberries, pineapple, almond milk and spinach. At first, it was OK but after a few sips, I was done. Thankfully, someone else wasn't. Miles, who always wants what I have, loved it. I started feeding him with a spoon and as soon as he swallowed, he had his little mouth open like a baby bird. So cute.

I ended up freezing the rest of it in an ice cube tray, and I've been mixing it in Miles' morning cereal.

Love it: After "Surprise! It's summer!", we've been greeted with typical spring temps. I am a fan of anything in the 50s but the mornings are still chilly, and I have to spend 15 minutes bundling up Miles. This morning, it was near 60 and all I had to do was throw him in the stroller with a blanket (he had on a sleeper). I look forward to many more spring runs like this!

Leave it: People who don't claim prizes from giveaways. Folks, we have a new winner (in addition to ye11owbrickrd) in the True Citrus giveaway.

Joy, email me at hlthystrides at gmail dot com with your address and other contact info, and I'll get you hooked up.

What are you loving?

Friday Love: Luck be a lady

Things are about to get crazy.

After bringing back WIAW this week, I thought I'd revive one of my old features - Friday Love. It might be just for today ... or it might not. We'll see.But since it's been so long, let's skip the introductions and get on with it.

Food. There's this not-so-tiny Greek restaurant not too far from our house that Mark and I love to frequent. I love the exuberant owner and his tzatziki sauce, and Mark loves the braised lamb over noodles with a starter of avgolemono soup. We'd probably eat there every week but since we try to rotate our dining out, we usually only make it once a month or so. In an effort to tide us over, I brought a little bit of Greek to us.

 

Homemade Avgolemono Soup and Greek-inspired grilled cheese.

I made the soup based on this recipe, subbing rice for orzo, and it turned out OK. I think I blended the eggs and lemon juice too much and it ended up a bit, umm, frothy.

The grilled cheese, though ... yeah. Wow. I had some white (gasp!) pitas in the freezer so I started with those. I added a slice of Provolone (broken in half, one for each side of the inside), raw spinach, diced tomatoes, chopped roasted red pepper and feta. I put it in the skillet and used the tea kettle, bottom covered in foil, to smash it down. Flip and smash some more. Very good.

Nutritionals on the sandwich: 181 calories, 8 grams fat, 12 grams protein and 15 carbs.

 Fitness. When I made my Martian half-marathon plan, I was very set on one thing: I only wanted to run three days a week. I didn't want the pressure of a fourth run as sometimes the mornings can be a bit hectic. However, with fake winter, my 5K and just a general desire, I have been running 4 days a week. And, I have to say, I'm quite happy about it. It just feels good to be running more - mentally, at least.

Life. I feel like such a lucky girl. And not just because I'm mom to the most beautiful boy on the planet. Come on, I'm used to that by now.  No, yesterday I not only won a giveaway on GU Energy Lab's Facebook page (I'll be receiving some of the new Roctane drink mix!) but I came home to find a sample from Procter & Gamble. And by sample, I mean a new full-size (desperately needed) Cover Girl mascara.

I often sign up for free samples that I see on Money Saving Mom so I'm assuming that's where it came from but I'm going to pretend the Beauty Fairy was pushing me to actually put effort into my appearance.

(Read effort as haphazardly apply minimal makeup in the car while parked in the parking lot of your office building.)

What are you loving lately?

Love, forever

Move that body: 30-minute Jackie Warner DVD and short walk in VFF

Once upon a time, on a blog oh so familiar, a girl would share things she liked. Well, loved, actually. And then she got knocked up. Food didn’t taste the same. Workouts weren’t as fun. And life? It revolved around one thing: a baby.

While life still revolves around that baby, things are a changing and slowly (very slowly) getting back to normal. So it is only appropriate to bring back Friday love.

Food. When I first read the directions for this recipe, I thought it was insane. The Food Network wanted me to sear chicken breast and then bake it for 10 minutes. Insane. Seriously insane. There was no way those thick as thieves chicken breasts would cook in 15 minutes. And, if they did, it wasn’t going to be right. But right they were. Oh, very, very right. Juicy. Flavorful. And very versatile. The Tequila Chicken itself is good (and as leftovers in quesadillas, on a salad or as a sandwich) but the method works with any marinade. Try it. Now.

Fitness. I’m not sure this is a certified love but the newest accessory in the Healthy Strides is a definite like. And it, well they, just might surprise you.

A pair of Vibram Five Fingers KSO. Yep. I’m going barefoot.

Well, sort of.

I have been contemplating a pair for a while now and bit the bullet yesterday after seeing the running store’s Facebook post about a new shipment. I plan to walk – and only walk – in them as a way to strengthen my lower body and prevent injuries as I make my post-baby comeback.

Life. Can I just say that I do have one of the best husbands – if not the best ever – in the whole world? He took Miles and Denali for a walk this morning so I could get my workout on with Jackie Warner. I may regret it tomorrow when I can’t walk but it was nice to have that solo sweat session.

Life, part two. There’s nothing more fantastic than a napping newborn – especially one who naps long enough for you to go to grocery store … all by yourself. 

P.S. Did you really think I’d do a love post without this little one?

What are you loving today? Who’s tried Vibrams and has words of wisdom?

Friday Love

Workout: 3.0-mile run on the treadmill

Good afternoon, graham crackers! Is everyone having a lovely Friday?

I sure hope you are because, well, I am. I slogged through another 3-mile run, finished the audiobook I borrowed from the library (“Best Friends Forever” by Jennifer Weiner) and got to eat lunch with my favorite boy.

Note: This photo is from Chicago and not from lunch today. I look like a bum today and Mark needs a hair cut.

How did I get so lucky?

Well, folks, it’s spring break! Get out the bikinis, grab your parents’ credit card and let’s go to Florida! Or, take the week to bask in lunch dates with your husband, a clean house and responsibility-free workouts. Denali – I’ll be seeing you on the 11th. As long as it’s above 30 degrees.

Who’s ready for some Friday love?

Food. Yesterday, my friend and I had lunch at the Cuban restaurant (mostly because of it’s proximity to my house, allowing me to give Denali a pee break). I usually get the Cuban but decided to go crazy with the Elena Ruz. The pressed sandwich had cream cheese, guava jam, turkey and lettuce. Delish! It probably wasn’t the healthiest of sandwiches but you could easily healthify at home. Just be sure to use real turkey breast and not the sliced stuff from the deli counter.

Fitness. Did I mention that Mark was on spring break and I can do whatever I want next week because I won’t have to factor in Denali? Oh, I did. OK. Nevermind then. I’m looking forward to some warmer weather next week that might open up the possibility of post dinner family walks.

Life. Mark and I have bought very few necessities for baby boy. And by few, I mean none. There is no crib … no diapers … nothing. He does have some fetching outfits with monkeys on them, which he’ll have to wear in the laundry basket that he’ll be sleeping in. Thankfully, as of yesterday, the laundry basket will at least be comfortable because someone picked up sheets and a pad. Three cheers for Grandma!

I hope everyone has a fantabulous weekend. Who’s doing something fun?

We’re hosting a teacher friend of Mark’s, along with his wife and 18-month-old daughter. I’m making gumbo and banana trifle. Should be a good time as long as Denali doesn’t eat the toddler.

Friday love

Workout: 3.0-mile run

Remember last week … last week, when I wore shorts on my run?

Yeah. So do I.

I just wish Mother Nature did.

This morning, it was full-on winter gear with early-morning temps in the lower 20s – tights, long-sleeve shirt, jacket, vest, hat and gloves. Though, truth be told, I could have done without the vest and hat. I was hot by the half-way point.

Regardless, it didn’t make me happy.

 

But seeing as my other option was “power walking,” as Mark so kindly reminded me, I sucked it up and went on my way. Or our way since Denali was my companion.

And, in case you were wondering, yes. Yes it is possible for me to take an even more unattractive photo than the one above. I promise.

Anywho … time for Friday love!

Food. Mark has discovered the joys of a daily dose of caffeine in the morning and has made a small pot of coffee every morning this week. He takes a cup in a travel mug to school and leaves the rest for me. No baby worries - it’s half-caff, so it’s cool. Let me tell you this: I am loving the fact that it’s one less thing I have to do for myself. Yay morning laziness!

Fitness. Yesterday, I finally picked up my weights after a near two-week hiatus. I did circuits, I think. I did an exercise that focuses on a specific muscle for one minute and then switched to another exercise, focusing on a different muscle, for a minute. I did four muscle groups – so 4 minutes – and then took a 1-minute break (repeat 3 times). The muscles were biceps, shoulders, triceps and back. Let me tell you that those 12 minutes of work translated into some serious soreness this morning. Yay for muscles!

Life. After my manic excitement about the house last week, Mark and I were taken down a notch (or three) after the inspection. There are some definite issues that we had to take to the sellers but they are getting estimates – and that’s good our Realtor says. So how is this love worthy? I’m not sure but I am glad that the home inspector caught the things he did; I am glad that we have an A+ Realtor to guide us through the process; and I’m glad that I’m not losing hope. So keep your fingers crossed, say a prayer or just have hope that this works out. Baby boy needs a room!

So what’s going on this weekend? We’re going to a luau (of all things in this miserable weather) and I’m taking Coconut Cornbread Bread Pudding!

Friday love: Springing forward

Workout: 2.8-mile walk with Denali

Today is a good day.

A very good day.

The sun is shining. The birds are chirping. The air feels warm. It feels like spring.

It’s a good day.

Denali and I took a walk, and he barely pulled. Squirrel playtime and the return of the geese made him smile. “Water for Elephants” on audiobook/my iPod made me happy. We took a loop around the park if only to spend another 10 minutes in the sun.

It’s a good day.

I’m wearing a shirt from last summer that I wasn’t so fond of it because it was too big. Now, it’s actually quite fetching – even got a few compliments on it … from strangers.

It’s a good day.

But what makes it best of all, is Mark and I are one step closer to being homeowners. We saw a house last night, loved it, made an offer and it was accepted this morning.

It’s perfect for us. Remodeled using government grant money to prevent neighborhood blight, it has new windows, roof, furnace, central air and hot water heater.

 

It has wood floors, charm and a fenced in yard for Denali. It’s exactly what we need.

There’s still a few more steps – loan paperwork, an inspection and closing. I’m not sure I will feel like it’s mine until then but getting here, to this point, is just what I needed today.

Now for some Friday love!

Food. Tuesday, before my doc appointment, I wanted to eat something that would be light yet filling as I always treat myself to a bagel after seeing the doctor. I opted for some cottage cheese and two slices of light wheat toast with jam. It was perfect and very filling. I almost didn’t need the bagel afterward.

Almost.

Fitness. I was so wrong about that daylight saving time thing. It’s not lighter in the morning. At all. But it is lighter at night, and Mark and I were able to take a short walk with Denali on Wednesday night. It was a great supplement to the exercise of the day but more than that, it was nice to get out there and wind down from the day. To connect with my two men.

Life. The house. Duh! You didn’t expect me to put the 30-day countdown to my 30th birthday (April 17), did you?

Hope you all have a good weekend! And, if you didn’t enter, go over to this post and enter my giveaway. Some of the goodies are the POM Wonderful bag (with a coupon for POM Wonderful juice), Cliff bars and Barney Butter.

Friday love

No workout today. My legs hurt from Wednesday. And I had stuff to do. Like make a giant cupcake and pick up a tiara for work. I kid you not.

[insert awkward transition full of wit here]

Time for Friday love!

Food. Everything Bagel pretzels (by Rold Gold) plus Sundried Tomato and Basil Laughing Cow equals a delicious afternoon treat. Sort of like the cheese bagel and tomato spread that I crave all the time … minus chewiness, grease and 500 calories.



Fitness. I may be alone in this but I’m actually pumped to change my clock this weekend. An hour difference should mean sunny-ish skies by 7 a.m., allowing me to run safely and wash my hair before work. It also means that I will no longer be able to stare at George Stefanopolis as I wait for it to get light out/warm up. I wonder if he’ll notice.

 
(Not my real BFF or the real Baby E)

Life. My BFF had a baby this morning! A sure-to-be beautiful little girl, weighing in at 5 pounds, 4 ounces (she was 7 weeks early) with a crop of black hair arrived at 12:45 a.m. I’m so excited that E. has entered the world and can’t wait to see my friend as a mom (and all the things she’s going to learn and share with me!).

Friday love: Quick and dirty

Workout: 45 minutes shoveling snow

Today is Friday and Friday is all about love ... blah, blah, blah. I am sort of cranky today but I do owe it to you all to show some sort of affection.

And here it is.

Food. Apples, apple juice, apple butter, applesauce, apple cider. All things apple. I'm dying to make an Apple Pie Float I saw this week. But if you are in need of a dinner recipe - and not dessert - try this Southwest Pasta Skillet. It was a big hit at the Healthy Strides house this week.

Fitness. I'm really getting back into using the free weights, and I love it. I feel strong. Plus, my arms are the one part of my body I can control, fitness-wise, and I'm going to be damned if I go into labor with flabby wings.

Life. March is nearing. March. Is. Nearing. And that must mean an end to the snow some day soon. I don't even live in the beleaguered Northeast and still, I never have shoveled this much snow as I have this year.

And since this post isn't a whole lot of fun, here's the ABCs of me that's been floating around.

A. Age: 29
B. Bed size: Queen
C. Chore you hate: All of them. Seriously. I hate to clean. However, the bath tub ranks No. 1.
D. Dogs: Denali!!! He's a 2-year-old Siberian husky and, by all accounts, the cutest dog on the planet.
E. Essential start to your day: Coffee. Even if it's decaf.
F. Favorite color: Green or orange.
G. Gold or silver: Silver
H. Height: 5-foot-3
I. Instruments you play: I took one year of flute lessons in 5th grade but was creeped out by the teacher. No big loss.
J. Job title: Assistant Features Editor
K. Kids: A sea monkey is a brewin'.
L. Live: Fort Wayne
M. Mom’s name: Pat.
N. Nicknames: Kim-Kims, Brat, Sissy and Monkey Poo. I don't think people like me very much.
O. Overnight hospital stays: None that I can remember.
P. Pet peeve: Tardiness.
Q. Quote from a movie: "Donny, you're out of your element."
R. Righty or Lefty: Righty
S. Siblings: Just one - a brother
T. Time you wake up: Before 6:30 a.m.
U. Underwear: Am I supposed to wear them?
V. Vegetables you dislike: I am beginning to like my least favorites - cucumbers and eggplant.
W. What makes you run late: See Letter D.
X. X-rays you’ve had: Arm and my arm and my arm again.
Y. Yummy food you make: Anything I make is yummy unless it is at-home Indian food. I can't make Indian food to save my life.
Z. Zoo animal favorite: Gorillas.

Friday love

Workout: 3.16-mile run

I am changing my attitude. I am going to expect the best in the hopes that the best comes my way because, last night, I learned that when you expect the worse, you get the worst.

The inspection for our new home was slated for 4 p.m. yesterday. I couldn't go - you know, that whole working thing - so it was up to Mark to get the scoop on the house. And let me tell you, it wasn't ideal.

• The roof is leaking and it's at the end of its life. Replacement is not an option.
• The 32-year-old furnace is cracked in two places and is leaking carbon monoxide and natural gas. Obviously, it is not safe and needs to be replaced.
• Replacing the furnace involves the heat exchange, which means the air conditioner will need to be replaced. Something about leaking freon.
• And there are the other things that need attention but not immediately: less than adequate insulation in the attic, a slow drain in the kitchen and a pipe needs replaced, as does the garage door opener does.

As you can see, our "move-in ready" house isn't so move-in ready. We're going back to the sellers and asking for replacements. And I am going to believe that they are going to do it. You know why? Expect the best, get the best. Plus, they'll never sell the house with those issues.

But anyways, in light of our new positive mood, let's get to some Friday love.

Food. Knowing we had a busy day - and night - yesterday, i had Mark pick up a pizza from Papa Murphy's, using a gift card I scored off Plum Deals. I told him to get half-veggie and half-whatever he wanted. Instead, he got some "chicken thing" ... off the light menu. My husband ordered off the light menu! It was the Herb Chicken Mediterranean and, let me tell you, it was amazing. Olive oil, garlic, Mozzarella cheese, spinach, grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese and herbs. I might have eaten three slices. Might have.

Fitness. Let's just run down the list: 40+ degree weather, capris, ice-free sidewalks, the opening up of neighborhood routes, the sun rising over the river this morning, watching ice chunks dissipate downstream, still managing to maintain a sub-10 minute pace and listening to my iPod. I love it. And I plan to love every single run that I get to have in the coming weeks.

Life. As you know, or maybe you didn't, I'm a fan of audiobooks in the car. My most recent entertainment is "Unbroken," by Laura Hillenbrand and read by Edward Hermann (the grandpa from "Gilmore Girls"!!!). The book is about Louie Zamperini -- a juvenile delinquent-turned-Olympic runner-turned-Army hero. Louie was expected to become the first man to ever break the 4-minute-mile barrier before heading off to World War II, obviously my hook into the story. It's so interesting, even the war parts, and beautifully read. And even though it's non-fiction, I find myself wanting to know what happens next. I highly, highly recommend it.

What are you loving this week?

Friday love: The Love Edition

Last night, as I was working on a project, Mark asked me if I was finished with my tea (Tazo caffeine-free Passion, if you are interested). I told him no. I wanted to put in more water and reuse the bag for a second mug.

One minute and 30 seconds later, I had a hot, watered-down beverage. And I didn’t even ask Mark to make it for me.

You see, he’s really good at doing things like that. Making me tea and charging my cell phone and putting my soda fix in the fridge to chill – all without asking. And while I’d love a pretty pendant from Tiffany & Co., I know the little stuff adds up. It’s as if he’s given me a stack of Tiffany Celebration rings … except not.

So, in honor of his awesomeness and, you know, Valentine’s Day, here’s some Friday love, lovey style.

This photo, well the shoot, was a Valentine’s gift in 2008.

Food. There are a few things I make for Mark when I want him to know I really like him. Penne with vodka cream sauce, chocolate raspberry cake and peanut butter bars. In fact, I made a billion and one peanut butter bars for our wedding to serve as favors. I thought about making a batch this weekend but I have something else in store for him. I would tell you but that means I would tell him and then it wouldn’t be a surprise. I promise to share later, along with the recipe for the peanut butter bars.

Fitness. If I haven’t said it before, I’ll say it now. Mark was a huge motivator for me when it came to running. He’s been a runner since he could move his legs and I was always jealous. He ran-walked with me when I got started and encouraged me to run my first 5K. In total, we’ve done five races together and the ones where we stick it together are always so rewarding. For me, at least. He might have been bored going so slow – you’ll have to ask him.

Life. Because we’re such an awesome couple (cue eye rolling), I bet you think we have hot plans this weekend. And, we do … if you count a second showing on a house, grilled cheese sandwiches and redboxing “Paranormal Activity 2.” Don’t feel bad for me, though, because we’re saving the celebration for Tuesday. I have a 4 p.m. doc appointment at which time we’ll get to see this little one in action – and whether we’ll be going with a purple and green nursery or a khaki and brown one!!! To celebrate the sea monkey’s “goods,” we’re going to dinner at Red Lobster – Mark’s favorite splurge spot.

Do you have hot plans for Valentine’s?

Friday love: Pop up edition

Workout: 45 minutes (or half) of P90X yoga

Holy heck, Natalie Portman has popped!

And I have, a little bit more … I guess.

 

I’m 16 weeks on the left and 17 weeks on the right. I took the most recent one at work - ignore the ugly bathroom – right after lunch so I have a real baby and a food baby!

My belly is definitely much smaller in the morning and I seem to get more pregnant as the day goes by. Heck, I didn’t even really notice that much this morning when I was doing 501 chaturangas with the P90X yoga. I had wanted to do Jackie Warner this morning but seeing as this was the first morning since Tuesday that I could sit on the toilet without plopping, I thought I’d wait a day.

As far as forgoing both and going for a run, it was 3 degrees at 7:30 a.m. I’m getting a weekly pass to the college next week because one week of not running is about all I can handle.

But let’s not worry about that right now. It’s time for Friday love!

Food. I am about to make myself sound like a giant nerd but I’m not a big fan of sushi. Well, I’m not a big fan of the idea of eating raw fish. I am, however, a fan of California rolls – the wimp version of sushi. And for lunch next week, I’m going to make myself California roll-inspired wraps. I use this recipe as a base but swap out imitation crab for the lump crab meat – partly for economical reasons and, partly, because I’m weird and like the flavor. These usually make it in my lunch every two months, and I love them!

Fitness. It hasn’t been a great week for exercise. You know, the blizzard and all. It actually shut down many of the fitness centers so even if I had a membership, it would have done me no good. Thank goodness for shoveling! I actually don’t mind shoveling snow (as long as my hands are warm), and it’s great exercise. You burn upwards of 400 calories an hour and I swear I feel Wednesday’s effort in my abs.

Life. I’m not gonna lie – there’s been some disappointment this week. My grandma and fave uncle were going to come visit tomorrow. We were going to hang out, eat at the Irish pub and I was going to make rice pudding. But life comes at you, throws things in your way, and my uncle is no longer able to make the trip. I’m a big girl and understand but it still sucks. I haven’t seen them since Thanksgiving! However, we dp have a big Sunday to keep me occupied: yoga, more houses and Super Bowl with my in-laws, including my seester (OK, Mark’s sister) who will be in from Boulder. And … and I’m making Chubby Hubby Cupcakes for the celebration.

What are you doing this weekend that has you excited?

Friday love

Workout: Walk with Denali

Let’s set the scene. My bedroom. This morning. 12:30. You’re lying in bed, debating whether you want to go to the bathroom (again) when you discover that you have just been issued a front-bed seat to a little show. Upstairs. It’s a half-hour long with plenty of sound effects.

If there was ever a reminder that Mark and I need to get our own house, last night was it. This weekend we’ll take a couple steps to making it a reality. Today, we’re meeting with our lender (hopefully) and our Realtor has eight homes on the list for tomorrow’s tour. It’s all a little scary but we’re excited. And I get to leave work early to meet Mark at the bank – LOVE.

Now for some Friday love … 

Food. Not even three-quarters of a mile away from our place, there’s an unassuming store front painted orange and yellow with white awnings. You’d never realize while driving or walking by that inside is some of the best Cuban food in the city. OK, it’s the only Cuban place here but it’s awesome. Mark and I went a month or so ago and fell in love with the sandwiches … and the prices. I ate like a true preggo and our bill, with tip, was $15.

After our experience, I was antsy to make my own version at home. Enter the Pork Loin Roast with Mustard Rub. I made this bad boy for dinner on Sunday and, while it was good on its own, my objective was to use the leftovers for Cuban sammies.

Healthy Strides Cuban-Inspired Sandwiches

Serves 2

4 slices good bread (We used an Italian loaf picked up for a  buck at Kroger)

6 ounces leftover pork roast (from Pork Loin Roast with Mustard Rub)

4 slices deli ham

2 slices low-fat Swiss cheese

Grilled onions

Pickles! (Sandwich stackers preferred but I had dill slices so that’s what we used)

Plain ole yellow mustard

Reduced fat mayonnaise

To assemble the sandwich: Slice of bread, cheese, pickles, healthy squirt mustard, light squirt mayo, pork, ham, onions and slice of bread. Put the deliciousness on a panini press – if you have one. I have a grill pan and put some beans in a small saucepan to create a press. Eat with sweet potato fries and celebrate my name. Mmmkay. Thanks.

Fitness. I’ve had a teeny bit of a struggle getting motivated to workout lately. I would like to blame winter. It’s always dark when I go to exercise, it’s butt cold and I hate snow. But the one session that I never think of skipping is my Thursday yoga class. I love, love, love the instructor – she’s probably the reason I signed up for a monthly pass after the Groupon. It gets me moving but doesn’t kill me. And there are people there but it’s not packed. I heart Thursday yoga.

Life. I was feeling, ummm, a bit hormonal last night on my drive home from yoga and spent the last half-mile of my drive with the window down trying to get my sh!t together, debating whether I should slap myself.

And then I heard it.

This song was one of my “power” songs this summer, and I couldn’t help but be taken back to quick-paced runs along the wooded riverbank.

So I did what anyone would do. I parked the car in the driveway, turned off the lights and turned up the radio. And I danced. Danced like no one was watching.

I hope you find that moment this weekend – the joy in dancing like no one is watching.

Restin’ up for Friday Love

Can you see the disgust in Denali’s face? I promise – it’s there. I was trying to explain to him that it was a rest day and rest days mean no walking for 2 miles. Especially when the temperature is hovering around 2 degrees.

Needless to say, he wasn’t happy. He didn’t tell me, so to speak. We’ll call it Mother’s intuition.

But it’s Friday, and I’m not going to let an active Siberian husky bring me down. Let’s bring on the love!

Food. Toilet paper. Ha! I’m watching Rachael Ray right now, and this woman is addicted to eating toilet paper. Yuck! Doesn’t she know pudding is so much better? Yes, I said pudding. I love pudding – rice, tapioca, banana, those Jell-O indulgences. It’s all very tasty. And though you need to watch sugar and fat contents, puddings are made with milk and serve as a great way to sneak in some calcium.

Fitness. This week, I’ve met my goal of three runs and I managed to rack up nearly 15 miles. The cherry on top? I felt really good. I think I’m getting some of my energy back as I navigate the second trimester. However, I think I’ve also made a breakthrough and dropped some of my expectations in terms of pace. Yes, I used to run 8:30s and was able to just go run 10 miles. No, I can’t do that now. Yes, I will again.

Life. Mark and I are taking a big step tomorrow. A grown-up step. We’re meeting with a Realtor to discuss/kick off our quest to be home owners! With a sea monkey on the way, our two-bedroom duplex isn’t going to cut it – especially when you consider the second bedroom currently serves as an office/Denali’s room/storage/bike rack.

          

Our dream home would have a fenced in backyard, basement and a kitchen with plenty of storage. We’re also hoping to move to a location more central to both our workplaces and closer to his parents. Hello, we’ll need baby-sitters!

Do you have a room in your house that serves as a catch-all?

I hope you all have a good weekend!

Friday love

Pre-workout eats: Multigrain Cheerios with sliced bananas and 1% milk

Workout: Ran 5.01 miles; average pace, 9:37.

I have to say there’s nothing like starting off your day with freshly waxed eyebrows, a fantastic run and a hot bath.

Exactly in that order.

Fed up with the untamed caterpillars hovering over my eyes, I pulled out the at-home wax kit and got to work. In a few minutes and at minimal cost, I felt like my old self again. Love that feeling!

Almost as much as I love Fridays …

Food. Cold cereal … it’s now my vice/pregnancy craving. There’s just something about the combo of crunchy cereal, sweet fruit (which I add) and the cold milk. I would eat bowl after bowl if common sense didn’t get the best of me. I’m particularly in love with Kashi Go Lean! Crunch, Cinnamon Chex and Banana Nut Cheerios. Alas, I’m down to the last bit of Multigrain Cheerios and my Kashi. Hello, grocery!

Fitness. My run on Tuesday might have been good but today’s run was GREAT. I covered the farthest distance in a month, and I managed to go 4 miles without pausing to catch my breath or let my heart rate drop. I wish I could identify a single reason for the greatness of the run but I just come up with an empty cereal bowl. I’d like to think it was some positive self talk this morning and making sure that during the run that I never got ahead of myself, forcing myself to stay in the moment.

Life. So there’s this awesome new cupcake boutique/bakery in my hood. Seriously awesome – not only in concept (the first in FW) but in taste. I split a couple cupcakes with a co-worker and went into sugar heaven.

Well, the other day on Facebook, they solicited ideas for a cupcake of the month. The person whose idea was selected would win a $20 gift card and the cupcake creation.

So, yeah. I won. Boo-yah! I love that he gave a shout out to New Orleans because this gal is also a New Orleans original.

Please file my birthplace under “I learned something new today.”

Hope everyone has a great weekend! Who has exciting plans? I’m actually excited to keep it low key as this is the first weekend since Thanksgiving that isn’t something “special.”

Friday love

Pre-workout eats: Orange-cranberry oats

Workout: Ran 3.17 miles; average pace, 9:18.

I’m having a FML kind of morning. But there’s no need to let a pair of “stolen” keys ruin my morning (it’s a long story that involves me being very upset with my husband). It’s Friday, and it’s time for Friday love!

Food. I try to make a dish at the beginning of the week that I can take to work for lunch several times. This week it was Santa Fe Chicken inspired by Gina @ Skinny Taste.  It’s a slow cooker recipe but we all know my slow cooker is out of commission until the new lid is ordered and shipped. So I made some adjustments (and additions, based on how I thought this tasted after it was made).

Santa Fe Chicken

1 large chicken breast

1 can Rotel tomatoes with mild green chiles

1 cup frozen corn

1 can black beans

1/2 jalapeno, minced

3 scallions, sliced

1 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt to taste

1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Add all ingredients except the cilantro to a Dutch oven. Bring the mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or so until it’s no longer soupy. Stir in cilantro. Serve over rice, with cheese and sour cream (reminds me of a burrito bowl at Chipotle). For lunch today, I plan to put it on a bed of lettuce for a taco salad.

Fitness. I’m probably the last person on Earth to not share one of these videos on my blog but this one really made me feel cool. Especially as I ran this morning when it was 18 degrees.

Life. Even though I’m not particularly fond of him right now, I am excited to celebrate Mark’s birthday with him tomorrow. He’s going to be 31. 31! Did I tell you he’s going to be 31? Ha! I have some surprises in store for him so hopefully they go over well. (And I’m planning to be a good blogger this weekend and take pictures!)

Have a great weekend!

Friday love

Pre-workout eats: Cinnamon Chex-Banana Nut Cheerios mix with 1% milk and banana

Workout: ~60 minutes All-Levels Yoga (one class last night, one at 9 a.m. today)

I had nothing but love as I walked out of yoga last night. I had an enjoyable hour in the studio, the instructor was fantastic and there were a few challenging poses but nothing that made me want to leave. All in all, it was a fantastic class.

Except for that time I went toot-toot and, with three other students, it was obvious it was me.

But let's get back to the class. All Levels Yoga was pretty close to the class I thought it would be. We started with a gentle warm-up and moved into sun salutations, warriors, back work, ab work (boo!) and hip openers. There was a gentle flow as we moved through the poses - we were working but not sweating. There were poses for the more advanced (crow) and modifications for the beginners (cobra instead of up dog).

My favorite part of the class, though, was the instructor. I'm not sure what it was about her but I was enamored. She was young, cute and had a soothing (but not overly so) voice. When she came around to adjust down dogs, she put her hands on your back and with firm but gentle pressure moved them down to the sacrum. The placing of the eye pillow had a similar motion. It was fantastic.

And now that I've show love (maybe too much) for last night's yoga, here's some Friday love!

Food. The weeks leading up to and including Christmas were rough. Cookies, Cookie Dough Dip, Peppermint Bark Gelato, Hot Fudge Pudding Cake, Cinnamon Rolls … Lord. Have. Mercy. It was like sugar overload. Anxious to get back to my normal ways, I’ve been trying to cut back on the sugar. It hasn’t been easy, especially with treats scattering the office and cookies still in the freezer. Determined to make an improvement, though, I decided to start my efforts where I could best control things: at home. I allowed Mark to have the rest of “my” ice cream and my nightly treat for the past two days has been fresh pineapple with coconut cream. So good. All I did was chunk up a fresh pineapple, which have been $1 lately at Kroger, and add a drop or two of coconut extract to some light Cool Whip. It’s sweet but guilt-free. Love. It.

Fitness. This love isn’t about what I’ve been doing. Oh, no. It’s been about what I’ve been missing. When I embarked on my 10-day yoga challenge, I knew that there were parts of my fitness routine that would have to take a back seat. I would give up a day of running per week and I’d hold off on the strength training. Strength training seemed like a good place to start. I figured with all the downward-facing dogs and chaturangas that bicep curls and overhead presses wouldn’t be necessary. And maybe they aren’t … but I miss them. I picked up a new-to-me Jackie Warner DVD at the library and look forward to testing it out sometime next week.

Life. I’ll be honest. After removing my iPod from my workout necessities and opting to listen to audio books in the car (current selection “Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"), I’ve been completely out of it in terms of music. I have no idea who’s hot and who’s not, no inkling as to what artist I should be listening to. Now that my Pandora station is off Christmas music, I was able to find something new. Or new to me. “Almost Lover” from A Fine Frenzy.

Give it up for a hot redhead!

What are you fine folks up to this weekend? Exciting plans for the New Year?

Friday Love

In my 7.5 years in the newspaper business, I have never had both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day off. It was either one or the other - or none.

Until this year.

I was off today as well as tomorrow. And I'm forever grateful (and glad to finally be in management) to have the day and be able to spend it with Mark. We slept in, opted to skip our run for a lazy breakfast and long walk with Denali. We hit up the Indian buffet and saw "True Grit." (Go see that by the way!) It was a day free of stress and full of quality time - what the holidays are all about - and I loved every second. So let's bring on some Friday love!

Food. Baking cookies and making candy was a big thing growing up. My mom would spend nearly every weekend of December - heck, November too - preparing the holiday goodies. There were traditional cut-out sugar cookies, spritz cookies, chocolate-covered cherries, buckeyes and (my favorite) chocolates filled with homemade caramel. As soon as I could turn the cookie press, I was helping out and those memories are some of my fondest. I tried to keep up the tradition when I moved out on my own but it was too much. Too much time and too much money. Don't get me wrong - I still make cookies. I just make fewer cookies, and I am more selective with the cookies I make. This year, I made Candy Cane Biscotti, Maple Snickerdoodles and Chai Tea Eggnog Cookies.

The favorite? Hands down, the Chai Tea Eggnog Cookies. They were the easiest to make and the best tasting. I may be biased, though; I think chai tea is the best beverage on the planet.

Fitness. Hello, yoga! I have to say that I am super excited about my upcoming 10-day yoga spree. I think I’m going to start it Monday so that I can take advantage of Mark’s winter break and, therefore, my reduced responsibilities when it comes to “make sure Denali doesn’t pee on the floor.” The classes that I more than likely will be taking: Slow Flow, Restorative Yoga, Kriya Yoga, All Levels Yoga and Deep Stretch Yoga. There was one class I really wanted to take that I can’t because of New Year’s Day schedule changes but se la vie. I’ve already discussed with Mark about getting a punch card specifically for that class if I enjoy this experience.

Life. Family, food, presents … need I say more. Oh, and no traveling over the holiday. HALLELUJIAH! Mark and I off to a Christmas Eve service so that we can enjoy a relaxing Christmas morning before to his parents.

Merry Christmas to everyone! What are you doing for the holidays?

Friday love

Pre-workout eats: Small bowl eggnog oats

Workout: Ran 5.4 miles; average pace, turtle 9:23.

A lot of people go to bed to sleep. Last night, I went to bed to figure out how to make peanut butter-and-jelly French toast. Sleep could wait – at least mind seemed to think. Peanut butter-and-jelly French toast … well, could not.

I wonder if that’s why I woke up at 3 a.m. completely ravenous.

Anywho, today is a glorious Friday – even if I end up crashing at 3 p.m. I ran in a balmy 22 degrees this morning, got in some decent mileage and located Mark’s knit hat to steal borrow during the run. AND, the best part of the day: “Black Swan” is finally opening in great northeast Indiana. Bring on the dancing! Bring on the tutus! Bring on workout inspiration (the barre, not the stick-thin figures)!

Bring on the Friday love!

Food.

One 12-ounce can of Lime flavored LaCroix (0 calories, no sweeteners) plus 6 ounces of 100 percent pineapple juice (100 calories, natural sweeter) equals a refreshing, light beverage and a happy girl.

Fitness. I didn’t have high hopes for the “Body by Bethenny” workout when I selected it from the OnDemand list. She’s just some housewife on some show that I have no intention of watching just riding her 15 minutes and a fitness trend. But it was a 57-minute workout, and my other choice was 10. Yeah, we’ll go with 57 minutes. I have to say that I’m glad I did. The yoga portion (40 minutes) was pretty good for my non-yogi self, and it left me sore for days.

Hold on. Let me check. Yep, still sore.

I will say that Bethenny was a tad annoying, and I got tired of hearing her talk about every joint that snaps, crackles and pops when she does certain poses. Oh, and just so you know, knees to chest is now boobs to knees. Not sure what you do if you have no boobs (ahem) but that’s what she said.

Life. It kind of stinks that we have to work on Friday, considering it might be the most anticipated day of the week. Work, though, doesn’t have to equal suited up and frantic. Take it easy. Relax. Style your hair so you can cut 5 minutes off the straightening routine (thank you, bangs in a braid). Wear sneakers just because you feel like it. Forgo a big dinner for frozen pizza and a side salad picked up on the way home (thank you, Wendy’s).

We’ll probably chill with our easy-peasy dinner and a redbox tonight to rest up for tomorrow. Lunch at a new Mediterranean/Middle Eastern spot, “Black Swan” and a hockey game in the evening.

What are you doing this weekend?