A Quest for Variety

Well, hello, Monday... 

Our Mother's Day feast at my parents' was quite tasty. The manfriend and I brought premade patties from our local grocery store (gorgonzola stuffed, cheddar/bacon stuffed and regular locally sourced beef) and some kettle chips. We also enjoyed tasty watermelon and a southwest quinoa salad made by Sabrina.

I brought my mom some peonies by way of Trader Joe's. Peonies and ranunculas tie as my 'favorite to look at' flowers, but unfortunately, they'll be out of season for our wedding. :(

I've been trying to find some more fun ways to include veg into my diet. To be honest, I'm pretty anal about getting in my appropriate daily fruit/veg requirements. Most days, I probably eat about 5-6 servings with at least two of them being veggies. 

Last Sunday, the manfriend and I went on a short bike ride to a nearby lake. After 20 miles, I was pretty hungry, but wanted to make sure the meal packed a punch as I was meeting Lindsey, her fiance Sonny and friend Katie at a winery for some sips in the sun. 

I scrambled up a few farm fresh eggs (holy $6 a dozen at the Farmer's Market!) along with some onion, mushroom, spinach and tomatoes. I put it all in a corn tortilla, but ended up not eating it all because it just masked the flavor of the inner goodness. 

In my quest for variety, I've also been blending up more smoothies these days. 

I have salads a few days a week for or with lunch or dinner, but honestly, sometimes they make me gag. Smoothies however, are a great way to get in all that spinach with less gag factor...

Saturday, I went to Costco for a quick restock (oats, Adam's peanut butter, NFCS strawberry jam, spinach) and came out with all of that plus this 5 lb bag of berries. While I normally pay $3-3.50 for a 1lb bag of organic blueberries or mixed berries, this huge bag was only $9.49! 

Monster bag o berries = monster smoothie 

Ingredients: ice, 1/2 frozen banana, 1/2 cup berries, 2 cups spinach, 1 1/2 cups milk, 1/2 scoop Sun Warrior protein powder, 1 Tbsp peanut butter. Serves 2.

Blend for 3-5 minutes and serve w/ cinnamon, chia seeds and a little granola on top if you wish.

What's your favorite flower? Do you have super sneaky ways to add fruit/veggies that you don't always love into your diet?

Eeks! Yesterday officially marked our two months 'til wedding date. Thanks for reminding me, Crate and Barrel. Cue panic attack.

Foodie thoughts: I actually did pretty well at eating only when I was hungry this past week. I found that it's much easier for me to practice this on work days rather than the weekend where I'm always out and about or hanging around the house. Sometimes boredom or just doing something for the fun of it makes you forget that hello, you aren't actually hungry.

*Random note: today I bolded words or phrases that I liked the sound of, rather than their importance.  I don't know why, it just sounded fun. 

Happy Mother's Day!

I hope you're out with your family or mom or simply enjoying the day. We're heading up to my parents' shortly for a BBQ with the fam. The weather has been pretty warm so we're definitely taking advantage of it!

I just wanted to pop in and share a few pics from my very first big time race adventure that my mom joined me on back in 2006 - The Nashville Country Music 1/2 Marathon. 

First of all, we both look quite a bit younger (I was fresh out of college) and secondly, this was my mom's first time on a plane since she was a young girl. 

When I see this photo, I understand what people say when they mention we look alike...

Hangin' with the gorilla at Rainforest Cafe

It was my first half marathon and I finished in 1:53:11! My mom and I fell completely in love with Nashville, being country girls at heart. I'm so glad my mom was there at the start of this crazy running adventure and the start of an addiction. 

Have a great rest of your Sunday!

Eating When Hungry

As you may recall, I signed up for Tina's Best Body Bootcamp again this round. Somehow, we're already on week five! It has been a great way for me to mix up my strength routines. I have the cardio thing pretty much covered between running and cycling, but I like to mix it up a lot in the weight arena.

It's always fun to open the workout on a Mon/Wed/Fri morning to see what kind of exercises we're going to do. What's nice about the eight week long bootcamp, is that every two weeks the workouts change so you don't get bored and your muscles continue to be challenged.

Challenge
This Friday's workout includes a fun exercise that I tried for the first time last Friday - push ups with froggers! Go ahead, try them. I couldn't do them as fast as the girl in the video for 45 sec straight, but I could tell they were workin'!

In addition to bootcamp, I decided that for the month of May, I'm really going to focus on eating when I'm hungry. This may sound like a no brainer, but after several cycles of marathon training, my eating habits are on autopilot - breakfast, morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, craving sugar, sometimes munching while making dinner, dinner, craving dessert.

This type of eating was perfectly acceptable when I was running 40+ miles a week plus cross training, but it's simply not needed with my current training. I do think it's important to listen to your body and know what it's asking for (i.e. Some days I'm really craving meat or bagels. I usually take that as a sign that my body is asking for more protein or carbohydrates). Of course, if I'm craving ice cream every night, that's not always a legit need my body has. 

Interesting Observations
What I've noticed the last few days is that at work, I often want a morning snack, but don't necessarily need it. Instead, I'm trying to keep my water glass full or grab another cup of tea. And of course, if I'm hungry, I'll eat! Another thing - if I come home hangry after a workout, it's likely I'll eat a big snack because I need food ASAP and then not need as much dinner.

Foodage
For whatever reason, I'm lacking all desire to be creative in the kitchen so we're eating a lot of the same. Spaghetti with veg, rice and bean bowls, burritos, blah. Lately, I've been wanting to make homemade pad Thai so I really should get to the store and pick up the ingredients. I'd also like to incorporate a little more fish into our diet.

UP: We finally ordered our wedding invitations!
Down: Now for the whole addressing thing... Excuse me while I practice my calligraphy skills.

Currently reading: Wild, Tearing through it. Can't believe I waited so long to start it. And yes, now I want to go hike the Pacific Crest Trail, maybe for just a few days. 

I'm in search of some new summer sandals. Do you have a pair you're eyeing? Your random thought of the day? Mine is that I'm in need of a pedicure in a bad way. 

Saturday Scenes

Saturdays are probably my favorite day of the week. By noon, I've often done a few hours of sweating, had some decent time outside and downed some of my favorite carbs. 

Lately, I've lacked the inspiration or creativity to find a ton to write about here. I know that life (and creativity) goes in waves, so I'm okay with it, but sometimes the one thing I need to do is write and yet, nothing comes out. Anyway, it's Saturday, I'm well caffeinated and the sun is OUT, as in, it's going to be 80 freaking degrees today!

So, with that let's just celebrate the weekend, mkay?!

"Runnin' down a dream..." because it's all I could think about as I was running with the sun this morning. 

My love for neon clothing isn't going away anytime soon. 

View from the bike path

Pete's preparation for a 110 mile bike ride (crossing my fingers he's doing just fine)

And there he goes, pockets loaded...

Coffee walk post yoga

Trees

When I miss Saturday morning yoga, I'm always reminded the following week just how healing it is for the soul. I know that sounds all touchy feely, but it's true.

Kira's yoga class is one of the rare moments I let my body and mind truly appreciate the benefits of letting go, slowing down and accepting myself as I am. No matter what stress from the week I bring into that room Saturday morning, I feel like it's been poured out of me after 75 minutes.

Not only that, after 75 minutes, my hamstrings finally have a little bit of what they deserve - a serious stretch! Must. stretch. more. 

I'm excited for May and what it brings and am looking forward to being really proactive about crossing some more things off the wedding checklist (which seems endless).

Nearing the end of A Practical Wedding, I came across this quote from a bride she interviewed, which really resonated with me. "A wedding is not just 'your day,' it is a day to celebrate the lives you were born into, the ones you've made, the ones you continue to build."

The closer we get to {the BIG day}, the more important it is for me to be reminded that while yes, the details are nice, the details are NOT what this day is about. What are you up to this weekend?

Why You Don't Need a Gym

Eugene Marathon weekend was like one big party in Tracktown, USA. I still feel exhausted from the amazing weather (70s), running and beer. More than a few times I heard runners talk about how awesome Eugene is. I guess you really do take what you have for granted. And as always, I was inspired by the runners around me - at the expo, on the course and in conversation. 

I'm one of the first to say that I love the gym atmosphere. I enjoy working out around others and like having the choice to do a number of different activities on a whim.

However, in the last year or so, I ditched my gym membership (mainly because I wasn't using it enough) and have gotten along just fine without one! My gym consists of a corner of the dining room where I store the following: 3 yoga mats, 1 ab ball, 5lb, 8lb and 15lb dumbbells, a 10lb kettlebell, resistance bands, a jump rope and two foam rollers.

With a few solid routines, DVDs or creativity, you can get your strength and cardio on in the comfort of your home.

Actually getting my stretch on!

I typically do strength training M/W/F mornings, ranging anywhere from 15-40 min long. On those days, I also like to do some steady state cardio (usually running) for 30-45 min.

Some of my favorite strength workouts include:

• Jillian Michael's No More Trouble Zones (Bought it for $10 at Tar-get)
• Any of the Fitnessista's Summer or Winter Shape Up or ab burner workouts (Free) I can't say enough good things about Gina. I feel like she is my friend, part time trainer and fashion inspiration all in one. 
• Tina's Best Body Bootcamp (Small fee, but great value for all that you get and the workouts change every two weeks of bootcamp)
• Throwing my own workout together to include some of my favorite or most challenging exercises (burpees, lots of push ups, jumping lunges)
• Lifeforce Fitness (yoga + strength training w/ cardio bursts)

I try to go to Lifeforce Fitness about once a week because I love the energy and the opportunity to do pull ups and other fun things in a group setting. I've found that this kind of class is more satisfying to me than pumping iron in a room full of gym goers or spinning away on the elliptical. 

Another major advantage to bringing the gym home, is being able to crank out your workouts in less time. Instead of wandering from one machine to the next, I simply grab another set of dumbbells and start going. Or, I drop the weights and start going to town on human X's or burpees. 

By throwing in some cardio bursts to my strength routine, I don't feel bad if I'm not able to get out for a run or bike ride later. While YES, at home workouts take some personal motivation, you'll be surprised what you can crank out in 20 min and how soon you'll have sweat dripping off your forehead. 

In my opinion, there's no better way to start your day than a little sweat. 

Do you have a little gym space in your home? Are you working toward any fitness goals, strength wise? I dream of having a room dedicated to it someday. But for now, our dining room does the trick!

*As always, check with a doc before trying out a new workout. Honor your body and any injuries you may have. 

Ah, the Marathon

The runners and spectators coming from out of town, the racers tapering and trying to ward off pre race gitters, the expo, the carb loading (and reloading), the traffic. I love it all. Just the anticipation of a big ole running event makes me happy. 

I'm not even racing this year and look at me babble on like I'm ready to tackle that 26.2. I'm going to be smiling at every runner I see on Sunday and won't miss the post race gatherings around town. It's the next best thing to running the marathon as I see it - spectator extraordinaire. I can't believe it's been a year since that near Boston qualifier and the manfriend's proposal!

For anyone just stopping by the blog and Eugene for the first time, check out my suggestions on where to go and what to do during marathon weekend! 

I highly recommend shaking out the legs on Pre's Trail. I took this photo on Wednesday evening as I was practically skipping through my miles in 70 degree weather. 

This is my ridiculously happy to be running in a tank top and shorts face.

The last few weeks of work have been extremely busy. Today, I'm not sure I looked away from my screen at times for a good hour or so. I left work a few hours early because I'm working an event early tomorrow morning and just needed some time to myself.

At the end of these kinds of days, it just feels like you need a complete mind dump. Luckily, I got in some good runs and bike rides to try and clear the clutter.

Recognize this place? Hello, Hayward Field. Even as a long time resident of Eugene, it always feels special to run here.

Our Flyers speed group (coached by Ian Dobson) has been meeting here the last few weeks and last night was an especially painful workout: warm up, 3 x (1,000m @ 5K pace, 400m @ mile pace & 200m @ FAST pace), cool down. Warmer than usual temps paired with those 1,000 meter things were killer.

In rare fashion, I actually stretched and foam rolled last night... Pain radiating down my legs this week was a sure sign they needed the extra attention.


Fashion Friday
I stepped up my outfit game just a wee bit this week. It had been slackin'. But as we get into the warmer months, my wardrobe is more exciting, making it easier to be creative (goodbye daily black pants and Danskos).

I still have no regrets purchasing this skirt full price. It makes me happy every time I put it on.

Cardigan: Target, yellow top & skirt: LOFT, flats: Payless shoes

May I present to you... casual Friday. Colored jeans make me exponentially happier - the brighter, the better.

And with that I say, Happy Friday eve! How's the weather in your neck of the woods? 

A Challenge of Sorts

The weeks are flying by around here. Nothing too new about that! 

Monday night, Lindsey and I met up for a bike ride. Neither of us have been cycling much, so it was definitely a challenge to complete 25 miles.

We opted for a fairly flat route with one of our favorite roads with rolling hills. The cow pastures and quiet, country roads make it pretty serene.  

This ride was all about the wind, sunshine and tired legs.

We stopped about halfway so I could scarf down my Power Bar and Nuun water. I could feel myself getting weak from lack of fuel.

I don't know about you, but I like to say hi to the cows when I ride by. And if I'm with the manfriend, I moo at them. No joke.

I have to say, I felt pretty lucky to be celebrating Earth Day by riding with a friend and just enjoying the landscape.

Yesterday, I put myself up to a different kind of challenge. I rode the bus to work!

I've worked at the University for seven years and have avoided taking the bus to work because I thought it would take too much time, it's unfamiliar and would be a hassle. And because I'm usually hauling a few bags with me and/or have plans to go somewhere after work.

With Tuesday being my rest(ish) day, it was the perfect time to try it. I got on at 7:35 just a block from my house, made one transfer at the downtown Eugene station and got dropped off two blocks from work. The trip took about 35 minutes and was free thanks to my University ID card.

Best of all, I was able to read a book and relax on my commute. The trip home was equally as handy. Bottom line, riding the bus in Tracktown isn't so bad. It just takes a little planning.

On the running front: I have to admit that it feels a bit weird not to be running the Eugene Marathon this year. While I know it was the right decision not to sign up, it's a bit strange not to be running a marathon in your own city.

Alas, I'm hoping these legs are up for a long run, because they'll likely be seeing some miles along the course. In a sheer moment of loco, I almost decided to sign up last week. Like somehow running one 18 miler, four weeks ago has prepared me for 26.2...

Did you do anything special for Earth Day? Have you challenged yourself lately? As someone who likes playing in the safe zone, even something as simple as riding the bus for the first time was a challenge. I could seriously benefit from stretching my boundaries more often. 

Surprise Date Night

Friday night, the manfriend had a surprise date planned for us. He told me we'd be doing something after work, but didn't give any details. 

After a short and sweaty Lifeforce class (where I discovered I can almost do several underhand pull ups with no assist), I raced home, showered and got ready. 

The manfriend really planned out all the details for this one - he picked up Subway sandwiches for dinner, selected my outfit for the night! and packed snacks for us. 

Soon enough, we arrived at Sweet Cheeks Winery. It was one of the fifty things I guessed we might be doing.

Sweet Cheeks has been one of our favorite places to stop at on a warm weekend afternoon. On Friday nights, they stay open late for Twilight Tastings and have live entertainment. The guy singing and playing guitar on Friday was pretty amazing. 

They recently added nice garage doors to their outside patio to make it much more cozy for guests to hang out when it's colder.

We opted to taste the red wine flight, which i was pretty impressed with. I ordered a glass of the Pinot Noir 2009 for sipping and chatting. 

As for Saturday and Sunday morning, most of it was spent hanging out with my friend Jessica and her daughter Evie. Let me tell you, I realized I have no idea of activities to do with a 2 year old (nor do I own toys or books for kids) so we walked around the Saturday market, went to the playground and went to run group.

Luckily, kids like good food and I have plenty of that. Rice crackers and cheese kept her happy as a clam.

After the run, Jess and Evie headed home, I went grocery shopping and then shocker of shockers, I finally stretched. Must do it more often.

And behold, we have a crockpot dinner!

Surprisingly enough, this was a recipe I found this morning in my latest Real Simple - baked spinach and mushroom rigatoni. Ingredients were pretty simple and I just had to grab a few things from Trader Joe's to make it happen.

It turned out to be sort of a pasta lasagna, but I wish it had a bit more flavor. Next time I'd add some jarred marinara and/or more spices (recipe called for only salt & pepper).

We had dinner and watched Les Miserables. Have to say, 2.5 hours of pure singing with minimal conversations was pretty torturous. Not that it wasn't impressive, just not my style.

How was your weekend? I think after last week's events around the country, we all really needed the weekend.

Do you like surprises or hate them? I'm a big fan of good surprises, both giving and receiving them. It's one of the few times I'm okay with not knowing all the details. ;)

I still remember my friend Teresa walking into the back room of a Chinese restaurant on her 16th birthday and bursting into tears because she was so surprised we had all gathered there just for her.