125 Reasons Why Clean Eating Isn’t Boring

July 2, 2013 By Laura

No Shit.

I’m going to start calling this blog the “No Shit Zone”

Today’s Work It Out is a guest post from Amanda the Amazing. She is a great runner with an inspiring story about coming to healthy living. It has led her to a healthy, balanced lifestyle – the kind we all aspire to!

Her post is about keeping clean eating interesting. I think it play right into my two favorite topics: Strange But Good foods and the No Shit Diet. When many people first approach a lifestyle change they have this idea that they need to follow some sort of diet trend or that being healthy means boring foods. Not so!

A diet isn’t a lifestyle change. That’s why they don’t work. You have to experiment with food and find the path that is right for YOU. For me, that has boiled down to a lot of strange (but good) concoctions to keep food interesting, and to sticking to a basic idea: keep it balanced and include variety. Seems obvious, right? Did you just read that and think “No shit, Sherlock”?

Amanda has started a clean eating project that incorporate this mindset. It’s a brilliant way to clean up your eating without getting bored or feeling deprived… and she’s even offering support!

Read on for her fabulous perspective, and a great list of foods to get you started!

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125 Reasons Why Clean Eating Isn’t Boring

I love reading magazines…actually I might have a bit of an over subscription issue (Editor’s note: Same. We need 12 steps…).

They provide me with new workout ideas, meals and general motivation to stay focused on enjoying my active life. But sometimes it’s abundantly clear that even though they focus on health, they have bills to pay and maybe their info is a little skewed. Have you seen any of the covers that rave about “125 Power Foods” then you flip it open to find the list doesn’t contain a single vegetable and only one fruit called the “grapple” (Editor’s note: I hate to admit I sampled one… it’s tastes as creepy as it sounds) which I think we can probably agree is not local or non-modified.

Just because a label says fortified or enriched or whole grain or even natural, doesn’t mean it is actually natural and good for you. Can you remember ever seeing maldexitrin for sale? Do you realize how much salt they add to keep products “shelf stable”? That sodium bloats us and causes all kinds of other health problems that I will leave to doctors to tell you about. (Editor’s note: So true. Salt hangovers exist. More on sodium here.)

The Clean and Lean Project (along with super studs like Laura) have gotten me refocused on choosing foods that are going to serve not only my physical goals, but my performance, my health, my skin…my life! I think this kind of diligence for the most part is a really great thing, as long as it’s also tempered with not becoming overly worried about every morsel we eat, sometimes chocolate is exactly what the body needs (Editor’s note: AMEN!)!

That being said, one of the biggest questions I get after mentioning clean eating is “WHAT WILL I EAT?!” or clean eating is so BORING. To anyone who says clean eating is boring or bland, I first say have you seen any of Laura’s posts on strange, but good?

After that I think it’s time to bust out my list of 125 power foods…tell me you can’t find delicious, exciting and filling on this list!

HAHA!! 125 foods that are non-processed and I didn’t even need to include bland icky iceberg lettuce. (Editor’s note: Cheers to THAT!)

Amanda of RunToTheFinish.com is a Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Nutrition Specialist with a true passion for running. If you are looking for more tools to help you make Clean Eating a lifestyle, checkout the Clean and Lean Project, which teaches participants how to create new habits and kick the sugar cravings.

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Don’t forget to click here to enter and win one of 6 canisters of Designer Whey Sustained Energy! Staying satisfied is a great way to keep the munchies at bay. ~~And it’s fun to rhyme.~~

What is your favorite clean food/dish? Feel free to link up recipes!

Does anyone legit love iceberg lettuce? Aside from when it’s covered in blue cheese and bacon. 😉

Summer Salads & Summer Mistakes

June 27, 2013 By Laura

Winner, winner…

Chicken dinner!

I mean… FRS Healthy Energy! A random winner has been selected from Tuesday’s giveaway…

Congrats!!! Send me an email with your address and we’ll get the trial pack out ASAP. 🙂

I’m going to keep it short and sweet because I cannot WAIT for you to read Kat’s post today… I hope you love it as much as I did.

BUT first I have to say I am so proud of the Supreme Court overturning DOMA. This was the scene in ATL today:

And here’s Kat!!!

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Summer Salads and Summer Mistakes

Sometimes we make mistakes. You might not know about it right away, but then it bites you in the ass later. Sometimes literally.

Many of you who read my posts frequently know that I am an avid trail runner. Many of the reasons for trail running involve self-exploration and challenging yourself. Many times it’s to find answers and get some therapy.

Really, it’s the one of the only ways I really know how to “work out” all the emotional/psychological stuff that comes my way.

I really, honestly believe this.

Other times you find yourself on a trail, learning things the hard way… like when you wipe with poison ivy. Yes, that happened! On the beautiful Pinhoti Trail, near Dalton, GA.

I have been suffering with poison ivy, and going to numerous doctors to embarrassingly reveal the damage.

Pinhoti

Just a preview of these awesome trails!

While my itchy body heals, I’m learning to laugh through painful situations that resulted from a very very very silly/stupid mistake.

(I’m sparing you the pictures, but I really wanted to post some! haha!) Editor’s note: I saw the pics… they were nasty and NSFW. LOL!

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In the meantime, as I plug along with bar review, I have been experimenting with some fun summer recipes, and I have two for you today!

The first is so easy I didn’t think to post about it at first, but it’s a fabulous easy, cheap recipe.

It’s extremely refreshing! It only lasts about 3 days in the fridge, but is especially good the first two days! It’s a great snack or accompaniment to any meal. I think it even can serve as a healthy dessert!

Summer Melon Cucumber Salad

1 Organic Honeydew Melon
1 Pint Organic Grape Tomatoes
1.5 Organic Cucumber
4 Sprigs of Mint
1-2 Tbsp mild Olive Oil
1 Lime
1 Diced Jalapeño (optional)
Pinch of Salt

Cut the melon into cubes, cut the tomatoes in half, chop the mint, squeeze the lime, and toss it all together!

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The second recipe I want to share is the Hazelnut Curry Goat Cheese Balls that I made for Laura her first day home after surgery. (Editor’s note – this was AMAZING and I have Kat to thank for new-found my raw corn love.)

I tried it again a couple of days later, and it was just as good.

The whole meal only takes about 30 minutes to both prep, cook, and serve.

Hazelnut Curry Goat Cheese Balls

6 oz goat cheese
1/8 cup Hazelnut meal
1/8 cup premade Thai Curry Almond Seasoning*
1.5 Tbsp Coconut Oil
Salad Ingredients

*Admittedly I bought the curry seasonings at Whole Foods, but you could easily make this yourself. I would actually recommend it, because the seasoning alone is a little salty. The curry seasoning contains almond meal, Thai yellow curry spices, dehydrated garlic, and dehydrated onion.

Preheat the oven to about 425.

Mix equal parts the curry seasoning with hazelnut meal.

Scoop 1-1.5 inch balls of goat cheese and press it into the mixture, and form a ball with as much seasoning as possible.

Place on a foil-lined baking sheet. Repeat until you have made as many balls as you want!

Lastly, drizzle melted coconut oil on the pan and rolled the balls in the coconut oil.

Bake 12-15 minutes until they are brown. Don’t worry if they aren’t hard right away.

When I was at Laura’s, she also thought the avocados would taste good in the mixture, so I coated a few avocados and tossed them on the pan with the goat cheese.

Serve on a summer salad. I think they pair best with arugula, dried cherries, fresh corn, and tomatoes. I also topped mine with some avocado, a little olive oil, and used the rest of the seasoning as a topping!

The combination of textures and flavors was fresh, fun, and something you can definitely rinse and repeat more than once in the same week!

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I’m still stuck on Kat’s poison ivy mishap… I can’t even imagine!!! I saw pics… please send her healing thoughts!

What mistakes have you laughed about lately?

What is your favorite go-to summer salad recipe?

Work It Out: Fueling with FRS

June 25, 2013 By Laura

Mornings are not my thing.

This may be the understatement of the year.

I try my best not to work out first thing in the morning. I need time to wake up! When you have a full-time job and play on sports teams, compromise is sometimes necessary. Today’s Work It Out is dedicated to one of my favorite ways to give my body a jump-start when I need to get moving early in the day.

And there’s a giveaway. 😉

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In addition to lifting, I also play softball. It was my first athletic love, and I aim to play for the rest of my life. The team I play on now, Laidback, plays on Sunday mornings. Early.

Ninja socks are necessary at 8am.

We are an all women’s team, but play in a men’s league. And we beat all the men. The man-beating requires wakefulness. We’ve discussed my lack of enthusiasm for coffee before; you know I was THRILLED to find an energy alternative in FRS.

I drug my tired self to the field, armed with my ninja socks, gloves, and my favorite FRS flavor.

I’ve actually be drinking the Healthy ENERGY drink for awhile (proof), but as a Fitfluential Ambassador, I given the opportunity to try out the entire FRS Healthy Energy line.

My favorite flavor of the canned drinks remains the Peach Mango. The low-cal drinks are my preference because they are low in sugar – just 2g!

FRS is full of vitamins and green tea extracts, but FRS also contains something special: quercetin. Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant which is found in the skins of blueberries, apples and grapes and has been shown in clinical trials to provide sustained energy, increased endurance and immune system support.

One of the coolest things about FRS is the reason it was developed. It’s original intent was to provide energy to chemotherapy patients while supporting their immune systems. Natural, healthy, sustained energy without the crash (sorry coffee lovers) is also important to athletes, so this line is great for the fit-minded crowd.

I love this quote.

The chews were a new product to me. I loved them! I ate mine before a run on a morning when I was particularly dragging and I ended up doing 6 solid miles with a smile on my face. 2 chews are around 40 calories and 6 grams of sugar, and PACKED with nutrients.

Last was the powdered drink mix. I love the portable packs it comes it. They were easy to grab when I was running out the door late for work. It may not be the intended use, but I drank one to fuel my work day! It gave me a kick and helped me stay awake and focused through an all day meeting.

FRS is available at GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, Kroger, Walgreens, Harris Teeter. You can also order at a free 10 day supply at FRS.com! Make sure to download a coupon for $1 off 2 cans or bottles of FRS.

Or you can win it!

Giveaway

I’m giving away a FRS trial pack (retail value of $30)! Just visit FRS.com and leave a comment telling me in which product/flavor you want to try. I’ll randomly select a winner on Thursday, June 27th.

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Disclaimer: I was compensated for this review but I assure you my opinions and MINE.

How do you like to fuel workouts? What about work days?

Which product and flavor do you want to try?

Work It Out: Fab Abs

June 18, 2013 By Laura

Just because I’m lying around on my back doesn’t mean YOU get to slack.

Seriously, can some one workout for me?

Today’s Work It Out is by one of the most bad-ass ladies I know – Shannon! This woman is a corporate power house by day and a hard-core fitness instructor and general healthy living role model. In short, my hero.

Check out her killer core workout (please do it for me!!!), and then her delicious-looking #strangebutgood salad!

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Fab Abs: Made in the Kitchen, Sculpted on the Mat

Hello, Sprint readers! I love Laura’s blog as much as all of you, so I am pumped to bring a little Badass Fitness over here!

Laura’s figure competitions have got me thinking more seriously than ever about crossing that fitness feat off my bucket list, and I know her focus in training is often that six-pack she wants to show off to the judges. She’s also a master of the eating necessary to compete.

So today’s post is all about making fabulous abs and powerful cores in the kitchen…and in the gym, Badass Fitness style!

First, we work those bellies. Then we feed them – the HEALTHY way, with a Big-Ass Badass Lunch Bowl that veers into #StrangeButGood territory.

My bootcamps, core classes and personal workouts tend to be fast-paced and intense, making the most of every minute. But hey, the good news is, they are done before you know it! And the results rock.

This workout is an intense core routine, with ZERO traditional crunches, which are among the least effective ways to build true core strength and tone. All you need is a mat, a timer, and a little mojo. If you’re not sure about any of the moves, head over to my YouTube channel for demo videos.

Fab Abs Circuit

(click each for video demos)

15 Walkout Planks with Pushup
15 Walking Planks
10 Slow Push-ups
30 Waist Cinchers
30 seconds of Side Plank Crunches right, then 30 seconds left
30 second V-sits
20 Pull-Ins
15 Starfish Crunches right, 15 left
20 Bicycle Crunches

**Repeat 1-2 more times! Abs on FIRE!**

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Now, let’s EAT!

I created this #StrangeButGood egg scramble with several items in my fridge, plus a ripe plantain that begged to be eaten and a Calabaza squash gifted to me by a bootcamp student (they know how to steal my heart, and candy need not apply!).

I had no idea if this would taste good, but I went for it anyway. It turned out Amaze-Balls, so try it for yourself!

#StrangeButGood Sweet Savory Plantain-Calabaza Egg Scramble

½ ripe plantain, sautéed in 1 Tbsp coconut oil and 1 Tbsp cinnamon
1 cup of cubed Calabaza (or buttercup, kabocha, acorn, etc.) squash, roasted until tender with 1 Tbsp. coconut oil, cinnamon, sea salt
2 cups collard greens, sautéed with minced garlic, ½ of a diced onion, 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos
1 Tbsp. coconut oil
2 eggs, whisked
½ onion, diced
½ cup shredded carrots
1 Tbsp. almond butter

Saute the plantains, set aside.
Ditto the collard greens.
If you haven’t yet, roast the squash with the cinnamon, coconut oil and sea salt at 400 degrees for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and tender. Mash the squash a bit and set aside.
Heat the tablespoon of coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and shredded carrots, sautéing until onions are translucent. Add in the eggs and scramble.
While the eggs are still runny, add in collards, plantains, and squash and keep scrambling it all together until eggs are cooked through.
Top with the almond butter and mix it in, then EAT as you savor the #StrangeButGood!

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I wish Shannon could come whip me back into shape in a few weeks… 🙂

What is your favorite core move?

What’s the strangest recovery bowl you’ve ever made?

Positive Thoughts and Perfect Sea Scallops

June 13, 2013 By Laura

Stay positive.

By 2013 they can’t figure out an anesthesia that allows you to eat after midnight?!

On the positive side, it’s only a few hours. I can do anything for a few hours. And I had an awesome dinner at Villians, a new sandwich shop in Atlanta.

This deliciousness is called a Mumm-Ra. It’s kind of a lamb gyro – but with lamb belly, honey mint yogurt, marinated tomato, bell pepper, and onion. They served it in a thick pita that I couldn’t stop eating. easily the best pita I’ve had. The lamb was a bit greasy and salty, but it filled my belly well. 🙂

I can’t wait to go back when I’m not panic-eating. They had some really good-looking vegetarian sandwiches too! I want to try their tofu “salami.” And they have Hell or High Watermelon, a beer by 21st Amendment, on tap. Must have.

I’m going to stop rambling (I do that when I’m nervous) and turn it over to Kat! Thank you again for the overwhelming amount of supportive comments and well-wishes. I’ll respond as soon as I can! For now… I’m of to get some boobs.

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Positive Thoughts and Perfect Scallops

I can’t believe TODAY is Laura’s surgery (Editor’s note: neither can Laura)! Sending good vibes for a safe and successful procedure! I can’t wait to see the results (Editor’s note: pervert!) and go shopping with her for clothes that will fit her new body! I also can’t wait until Monday when I am planning on making her dinner at her place (Editor’s note: I cannot thank you enough!!).

In my world right now, bar review is kicking my ass, and it’s taking everything in my power to keep sane. Part of that is being super scheduled. BOO! Missing one day is a way bigger deal than I thought it would be.

A Sample Day of Bar Review:

9am-1pm: Class
1pm-2pm: Break
2pm-6pm: Homework (Reconciling notes with outlines plus TONS of practice questions)
9pm-10pm: Review for next day

Yes, this is my whole summer, 5 days per week, until I take the bar exam on July 30 and 31st. End in sight! Send me positive vibes for good studying! (Editor’s note: you are going to ROCK this thing!)

In the meantime, in trying not to lose my mind, I have been trying to keep a lot of positive mantras and thoughts to make sure this whole bar review experience is a positive one!

I am going to pass the bar the first time!

I’ve also been rewarding myself for all of my hard work. Last post, you saw my new bike. This time, I have my new car to show you!

She’s a 2013 VW Tiguan:

Seriously, every time I drive her, I am reminded of how hard I have worked and how far I have come. I was driving such a piece of crap before, and this truly feels like a reward.

I am now a firm believer in rewarding yourself for your triumphs (Editor’s note: Amen to THAT!). (Let’s not talk about my new insurance policy cost).

There she is again!

Everyone seems to name their cars. I’m thinking I like “Skipper,” “Skip” for short, but I’m not sold on it. Maybe you guys can help! (Editor’s note: I still like Terra!)

My other reward for all the hard work I am currently putting myself through is trail runs and time with friends (and family). I recently got to do some more trail runs with friends and by myself! Remember – BALANCE.

People ask how I have time for this during bar review. My response is always, “You have time for the things that are important to you.” TRUTH! (Editor’s note: Can I get another AMEN?!)

Trail Race with Friends

What’s also important to me is healthy living, eating healthy, and enjoying fun, new food! This week, my mom came to visit. Typically, we go out a lot.

This time, we had 2/3 of our dinners “in” at my place! It was so wonderful. I also found my new FAVORITE preparation for Sea Scallops.

First, I have to say that I absolutely and totally hate over-cooked scallops. Being that it’s one of my favorite foods, and I used to date a chef who makes the most perfect scallops in the world, I am hard to please in this area. But this is what mom asked for, so I thought I would give it a try using a different method… and it was BETTER.

There are a few keys to this in my opinion: temperature, type of pan, seasoning, and oil.

12 Steps to Perfect Sea Scallops

Use an aluminum pan with no non-stick coating
Place the pan on the burner a little higher than medium heat, but NOT medium high
Put enough coconut oil in the pan to coat the bottom of the pan
Wait until you see the heat rising from the pan (~3-5 mins)
Take the “mussel” off the scallop (it’s the little tough piece that connects the scallop to the shell… it comes right off)
Season the Sea Scallops with sea salt and freshly ground pepper on both sides.
Once the pan is hot, use tongs to place each scallop carefully in the pan
KEY: Wait until you see them start to caramelize on the bottom of the pan (~5 mins… but really, color is most important). Once they do, you can easily turn them without them sticking to the pan
Use the tongs to turn them over, one at a time
Turn off the heat (Yes, do NOT cook them over the heat on both sides… this will OVER-COOK them)
Take the pan off the heat
Wait 3 minutes before serving

The coconut oil gave them the perfect flavor and I think it helped to seal in moisture. Turning off the heat after you fully sear one side keeps it from overcooking. They do NOT need to be cooked on both sides.

These are served with organic beets, sautéed with onion and the beet greens that came on the beets! (Editor’s note: I LOVE beet greens!!!)

Mom and I also shared a cheese plate before dinner that I forgot to take pictures of!

For dessert, we shared this coconut avocado mousse (using a double of this recipe), but added a tablespoon of cocoa powder, a splash of vanilla, and a couple teaspoons of maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt. No individual dishes necessary. YUM!

I also treated myself to 3 new pairs of running shoes. I’ll review them next time, after I have time to test them all out!

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I just love how Kat write what I need to hear. I can’t wait to share with you what tastiness she cooks for me Monday!!!!

What is your trick for scallops, if you have one?

Any new car name ideas? Does your car have a name?

Hotel Food + WIAW

June 12, 2013 By Laura

This community blows me away.

That tickles my ta-tas.

All joking aside, I am so, so appreciative of everyone who stopped by and left supportive comments about yesterday’s announcement. I was fully expecting to get slammed by at least a few people, but I didn’t get the first negative comment! It is a personal choice and everyone seemed to acknowledge it.

My mom was surprised I posted about it, but I’m not going to act like I magically grew boobs overnight (wouldn’t it be cool if there was a boob fairy?) and randomly decided to take a break from working out. Keeping it real, y’all.

On top of all that, no one asked awkward questions! I guess you guys are more polite than I am. 😀

What I did love were comment from those of you who’ve had it done. I am really nervous about the recovery and you made me feel a LOT better.

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This day of WIAW is actually a day and a half-ish. I was traveling for work, and due to storms on the East coast I ended up spending 8.5 hours in the Atlanta airport. Preparation saved me.

Check out my travel eats below, and then click here to head over to Jenn @ Peas and Crayons to get to see what everyone else is enjoying!

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Airport Snack 1:

I knew I’d need to eat one meal in the airport, so I’d come prepared with a crab salad. This was just crab, red bell pepper, raw zucchini, nutritional yeast, cumin, cayenne, turmeric, and black pepper.

The best part is the utensil I found at a fast food place to eat it with: a spork!!!

Airport Dinner:

Having to eat this meal in the airport was a surprise. Delta delayed my flight over and over before they finally cancelled it. In total, I spent 8.5 hours in the Atlanta airport. I (finally) made it out, but on another airline.

I always travel with emergency tuna packets and random spices in my bag. The little Ms. Dash was obtained from a cafeteria on a previous work trip. The salad was purchased from Quizno’s in the airport.

Hotel Surprise:

That night when I (finally) arrived in the hotel I had a surprise waiting for me:

Hotel Zasa‘s turn-down service includes a rice krispy treat!!! It was delish, but I managed to stop at half and eat an apple taken from their gym.

Pro Tip: Hotel gyms almost always have a fruit bowl. Perfect place to grab a free snack.

Pre-Workout:

Normally I eat before liftingin the morning, but I’d gotten in and had my snack so late I wasn’t starving. I DID have my morning cocktail (apple cider vinegar, water, Glutamine, and Fitmixer Aminos). It turns out that you can get through security with a small container of apple cider vinegar.

Totally patted myself on the back for this one.

Despite the late night I was motivated to go after seeing it the night before. There were chandeliers in the workout room!!! I’m also motivated by the fast that today is my last workout before surgery. I’m trying to enjoy it while I can!

Side note: The women in the background was with my client. We hadn’t met in person before, so I didn’t realize it until the meeting started a few hours later.

Breakfast:

Our meeting began early in the morning, so breakfast was supplied in part by the hotel. I got berries, eggs with some onions and red pepper, and a strip of bacon. The eggs weren’t good (hotel eggs never are), so I mainly ate bacon and fruit. And my own little #strangebutgood creation: chocolate protein powder mixed with coffee. Mocha protein pudding!

Mid-Morning Snack:

We had a working snack time. The hotel brough in mixed nuts and fruit. These nut mixes are salty and have those totally unhealthy little crackers in them. I enjoyed every bite.

I stole the mint garnish for the pic. #sorryimnotsorry

Lunch:

More hotel meeting food. I took the meat out of some dried out tortillas and ate it with the pico and guac. Only ate a few bits of the dry rice. Have I mentioned I dislike meeting-food?

Afternoon Snacks:

I would normally have eaten the tuna here, but Friday’s delay threw me off. I did have this mini Recharge bar leftover from Blend schwag bags. It was pretty good!

There were also the obligatory pretzels on the (delayed) fight while I worked away. I got over the Biscoff addiction, but can never say no to pretzels.

Dinner:

I was desperation hungry by the time I finally got home. I did have some veggies on hand, so I thawed a veggie burger and used collard greens to make a “taco.” The stuff on top was parsnip rice mixed with diced cucumber, basil, nutritional yeast, cayenne, cumin, turmeric, and pepper.

Dessert:

Since I’m having surgery on Thursday, I can’t eat after midnight Wednesday. And my surgery isn’t until 1p!!! Obviously, I am already worried about being hungry. Despite a late dinner, I had a double size Carrot Cake Protein Batter… after eating a lot of unpictured Muesli Fusion (also from Blend) straight out the bag. Bam.

It topped with with cacao nibs and peanut flour fluff (I do random peanut flour mixes – this one was with almond milk, flax, cinnamon, and chocolate stevia).

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While I’m recovering I have a few guest posts lined up… I know people sometimes ~~ignore~~ skim those, but as I got through them I’m really hoping you will take a sec to read. They are awesome! I even have a guest #strangebutgood for Friday. 🙂

Have you ever used a spork?

Honesty. Always the best policy? I sometimes wish I had a 5 second delay on my mouth…

Work It Out: Gym Confessions

June 11, 2013 By Laura

There are a few things I must* confess.

*Not really… I just like to overshare.

When it comes to fitness – or any aspect of life – we all have little quirks. I’ve seen you Ms. I-Drink-Starbucks-on-the-Stationary-Bike. Or Mr. My-Squat-is-Merely-a-Slight-Knee-Bend. As I found myself labeling everyone in the gym Sunday, I realized I needed to call myself out too.

Today’s Work It Out is all about confessions.

I confess…

1. I check my Instagram feed in between sets. While doing butt kicks or high knees.

2. On occasion I use “I’m going right to the grocery store after this workout” as an excuse to drive to the gym. My gym is 3 blocks from my house.

3. At the grocery store post-workout, I purchase men’s body soap. I use men’s deodorant too.

Single lady drug store purchases

4. My headphones aren’t always playing music. I use them as an excuse to ignore people act like I don’t hear anyone around me.

5. I store my phone/music source in my bra while I lift. There’s nowhere else to put it! It not like my boobs take up that much space anyway.

6. My resting heart rate is 47. Because it’s SO hard for me to keep my heart rate up while lifting I go against my trainer’s instructions and have “active” rest between sets. The muscle dudes in the weight room stare as I bounce around doing tuck jumps, jumping jacks, high knees, etc.

7. When – after jogging to the gym – I get stranded by a torrential downpour, I have full-blown photo shoots in the ladies locker room.

Photo shoot

8. When Kristen posted her freshly-washed sports bra pads, I realized I never wash mine. I wash the bras (after several uses), but never the pads. Whoops.

9. You probably figured this out from the previous confession, but I wear padded sports bras. They are by Handful and I love them. They did not send me any free stuff to say that.

This is really leading up to one big confession…

10. I’m getting a ~~boob job~~ breast augmentation on Thursday. There will be an awesome series of guest posts, as I won’t be able to lift my arms easily for a bit. The surgery itself doesn’t scare me. What does scare me is the fact that I won’t be able to exercise at all for 3 weeks. Not even a walk. Even more terrifying is that fact that I won’t be able to do arms for a few months.

Why would I put myself through this? I want boobs. It’s not about the figure competitions (though many competitors have them). I am totally flat chested, and have been my whole life. I’ve wanted to get my boobs done since I was 20, but waited (thank god – 20 would have been far too young). This year I turn 30^,and I will have boobs. It’s my birthday present to myself. I’m sick of nothing fitting me right and of not being able to find a bra anywhere that fits… and then being frustrated that I even have to wear one because I really don’t need it (bonus confession: I’ve gone running bra-less).

So there you have it. This was the big reveal I referred to in yesterday’s post. It may seem weird for me to be blogging about it, but I’m keeping it real with my fake boobs. And when I suddenly stop working out for weeks you would have known something was up. 😉

No, I won’t look like a porn star. I want them to be on the small side.

***

This may be the most nervous I’ve ever been to post something. I know some people have strong opinions on plastic surgery… but know that this is something I’ve wanted for years and I’m doing it for ME. I’m happy to answer questions. Ask away in the comments and I’ll answer in tomorrow’s post!

Would you ever consider plastic surgery?

What are your gym confessions?

Georgia Running Trail Review + Pancake Fuel

May 30, 2013 By Laura

Starting out on the right foot is important.

Yet so often I forget…

Kat’s post today is all about trail running, I thought I’d share a quick pancake recipe (sorry if you saw this on Instagram already). She talks about hiking fuel at the end of this post, but my recipe would be good for pre-hike fuel!

These cakes have a great mix of carbs and protein to start you off feeling the right amount of full! I really loved how moist they were (yes, I used the word moist) thanks to the cottage cheese. Leaving some larger pieces of the oats gives it a fabulous chew, especially if you use a mix of grains (mine is oats and millet).

Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes

(Inspired by Morganne)

1/4 c oats
1/3 c egg whites
1/4 c cottage cheese
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp butter extract
1/4 tsp baking powder
Stevia or other sweetener, to taste

Place all ingredients in a lender (I used the small Magic Bullet container) and briefly mix, allowing some larger pieces of oats to remain. Cooked in a pan over medium heat, flipping half way through.

Top as desired. I used raspberries, strawberries, and peanut butter syrup. My syrup mix consisted of sugar-free syrup, peanut flour, caramel extract, and a little water. I didn’t measure… but just guess and adjust as you go.

I’ve babbled enough! Here’s Kat!!!

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Mega Trail Heaven – Trail Reviews!

Since I last wrote, yes, Law School Graduation happened! It was a crazy day, and yes, it’s true, family drama cannot be kept at bay. I did have friends and family visit from all over, and it ended up being completely AWESOME. I am especially grateful to my friends who came from out-of-state, and even from locations 8 hours away.

And afterwards, we went out on the town. Dancing with Mom and Grammy was awesome!

After the fancy cocktail party, we went to a local club to dance the night away. Grammy I think won us all over, and my friends dancing with Grammy was also not too shabby… the pics below are not even the highlights but I don’t want to really embarrass anyone. 😉 (Editor’s note: Yes, let’s not ruin any political careers…)

And, in honor of celebrating graduation and my little break before bar review, I am having a little fun! (Editor’s note: WELL deserved!)

First, I got a new bike! She is a Scott Plasma tri bike, and she rides like a Porsche! I took her out on Friday for our first ride together! (Editor’s note: What’s her name?!)

Second, I am trail running like crazy! I have hit over 5 different trails in the last week for some long, much needed and deserved runs. Here is an overview of some of the trails and my personal “Trail Review.”

1. Sope Creek trails

Sope Creek is located just outside the Atlanta perimeter (285). A short drive for local Atlanta folk, and they are GORGEOUS. These trails are easy to navigate with maps at every turn. There are not many hills, and most of them are also suitable for mountain biking! There are also some cool old paper mill ruins.

(Editor’s note: I grew up RIGHT there and went to Sope Creek Elementary!)

2. Yeti Trails

Saturday, I went over to the Tributary and got a good run in on the Yeti Trails, which are located near Sweetwater State Park. (Editor’s note: I love these trails!)

These trails are pretty mild with some incline and decline, but no mountains, that’s for sure. They’re well-shaded and provide scenic views of water crossings and the river. You can also throw in some steeper hills at the power lines and gas lines, if you desire! (All before I went car shopping! You will get to see my new car next time!)

Yeti Trails

3. Hiker Hostel

Then I headed up to the mountains and stayed at Hiker Hostel, a cute little hostel that allows dogs! So we could bring pups up to hike AND I could run some trails.

Hiker Hostel is great because it’s family owned by a husband and wife who are super friendly, and they have their own bees for honey, and their own chickens! Such an adorable home. If you are ever in North Georgia, it’s a great place to stay! They also have a fully equipped kitchen downstairs so you can make your own dinner.

They have chickens to provide eggs for your breakfast!

They also sell their coffee by the pound, and with a message!

4. Vogel State Park

This cute get-away allowed us to first go up to Vogel State Park where we hiked the Bear Hair Trail with the dogs, and I got to go for a run on the Georgia Death Race course.

The hike on Bear Hair was awesome – lots of beautiful plants, including “flaming azaelias,” a local wild flower, and plenty of water crossings. There were enough hills to make it a difficult hike, but a fun couple of hours with the pups.

Vogel State Park

Then, I hit the Appalachian Trail… a bit easier to run here than on Bear Hair, and not QUITE as much scenery. The trails are pretty rocky, with some water crossings. I had never seen these trails during the day!!! I also had a cathartic moment where I revisited the location where I sprained my ankle.

5. Woody Gap

Monday morning I went for a run at Woody Gap, a section of the Appalachian Trail (AT) between Vogel and Amicalola Falls State Park. These trails are comparable to the AT by Vogel but has better scenic overlooks and is a bit rockier.

They are a difficult run, but worth the beauty. I also ran into a bunch of hikers, surprised to see a runner out there! (Editor’s note: further proof you’re a bad ass.)

Woody Gap

6. Amicalola Falls

Then we went to Amicalola Falls on Monday afternoon for some more hiking. While you can also get on the Appalachian Trail for running from here, we stuck to the park area, which was over-crowded due to the holiday weekend.

The park definitely had a more peaceful feel to it with all of the water (Editor’s note: the falls are gorgeous!), and the hiking was actually pretty difficult. I was pooped after just a few short miles. The dogs were ready to go too!

Amicalola Falls

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Overall, it was one of the best Memorial Day weekends I have ever had!! 5 sets of trails AND a bike ride in 5 days – BLISS! This was all followed by an adjustment on Monday night with Nate, who also adjusted the dogs! (Editor’s note: Whaaaat?!)

With all of this activity all over the trails, it’s important to care for your body! The trails do it for the mind and soul – they make me happy… but how about fueling this type of outdoor activity?

My favorite trail foods are usually foods that provide the right amount of sugars and carbs to keep me going, with just enough protein (Editor’s note: Yay, protein!) to fill me up!

Like Laura’s What I Ate Wednesday, I’m going to give you a “What I Ate on the Trails”:

First, I always fuel on Lara Bars, especially the Cashew Cookie. I also enjoy the Peanut Butter Cookie. They have none of the crap that many other bars have. They are simple ingredients of nuts and dates, unless you get fancier versions, but still few ingredients are added.
Typical trail food also includes potato chips and gummy bears! (Editor’s note: These hot summer months are the time when I’d be with you on the salt!!!)
I also enjoy the following raw veggies as fuel on the trails – these items don’t squish in your pack, and they take a bit longer to digest, so you get a constant supply of the sugar and carbs you need to keep going:

Apples
Sweet Potatoes
Sliced Beets
Packets of Honey (you can make these at home)
The puppies enjoyed some beets while hiking

However, even more than eating just right, it is very important to hydrate! Sunday, I drank over a gallon of water between breakfast and dinner, and I was still thirsty! It’s getting hotter, and this is my plug about being smart with hydration (and it doesn’t hurt to throw in some electrolytes like coconut water) so you can go all day and not feel bad!

I hope you all enjoyed your long weekend and are enjoying the warm summer weather!

***

Just when I think I’m active… I read Kat’s post. 😉

What are your favorite outdoor sports? Any favorite trails?

Do you like to run or hike with your dogs?

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Airport Snack 1:

Airport Dinner:

Hotel Surprise:

Pre-Workout:

Breakfast:

Mid-Morning Snack:

Lunch:

Afternoon Snacks:

Dinner:

Dessert:

I confess…

This is really leading up to one big confession…

Cottage Cheese Protein Pancakes

Mega Trail Heaven – Trail Reviews!

1. Sope Creek trails

2. Yeti Trails

3. Hiker Hostel

4. Vogel State Park

5. Woody Gap

6. Amicalola Falls

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