Embrace Your Inner Child

May 16, 2013 By Laura

Change is a good thing.

And it’s inevitable (except from vending machines), so you might as well embrace it.

I’ve been changing up my workouts post-competition, doing things like kickboxing, “real” boxing, and spinning. Yesterday I got back in the weight room for a chest and bicep day. I wrote my own workout, as I haven’t gotten my new plan from my trainer yet. That felt surprisingly intimidating, but I kicked my own arse!

The best part? Even after not lifting as often as I was, I hit 3 PRs!!! Change can be a booster, friends.

After that routine, I was in serious need of recovery. I (like the day before) weren’t for an old favorite: my (vegan) Carrot Cake Batter Shake. I did change it up a bit – this time I used my Growing Naturals Vanilla Rice Protein. I swear this stuff is amazing. I actually forgot to add Stevia until the end, but when I tasted it I realized I didn’t need it. The Growing Naturals has added just the right amount of sweetness – enough to be batter-ish, but not so much that it was nauseating after a hard (and HOT) workout.

Also, check out Laura’s smoothie round up for 34 other fun ideas!

This weekend I am SO excited to get to share Growing Naturals with some of my best blogger-friends at the Blend Retreat in Park City, Utah! Growing Naturals is sponsoring my trip and has sent samples of both their rice and pea protein powders, and their new rice drink!

What I love about these is that they:

Taste good (most important, right?)
Blends well (none of the chalky ick-factor)
Are super-clean (vegan, soy-free, dairy-free, and sprouted, and enzymatically processed)
Have 24g of protein per serving
Have very little sodium and sugar
Offer a 96% correlation to whey protein’s amino acid profile… but without the dairy so there is NO bloat

I wish I could share them with everyone!!! You should all come to Blend! 🙂 If you won’t be there, be sure to follow along on Twitter and Instagram for the live ~~tequila shots with Lindsay~~ weekend action.

Speaking of… I also with the fabulous Kat could come to Blend (I did ask), but she is GRADUATING FROM LAW SCHOOL this weekend!!!

Read on for her fabulously fearless post, and a great vegan recipe. And be sure to tell her congrats in the comments!! 🙂

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Embrace Your Inner Child with TVP Sloppy Joes

(By Kat)

2012, was a year of healing, mending, and replanting my seeds on so many levels. I began trail running (and became addicted). I was healing from injuries and a number of other personal obstacles. I was healing from life. I learned to accept things, I learned to become centered, and this whole year really has already followed the change.

I started my year with a yoga class, and I am truly living my philosophy.

It’s easy to walk the walk, but to be authentic and fearless is often another story.

Do the rest of you have that same internal dialogue that I have? I’m ready for change… no I’m not… yes I am… no I’m not. Then you realize you just have to let yourself be fearless. In an effort to really keep this in the forefront of my mind… and to really remember daily to embrace my commitment to living fearlessly, I got a new tattoo! Like?! (Editor’s note: I LOVE!!!)

In the spirit of embodying fearlessness (and letting my inner adult-child out a little more)… some trail runs have lately taken me on… well, adventures! Saturday, I went on a run called “Janice’s Wheel of Misfortune,” where halfway through the 8.5-ish run, you meet Janice, spin her wheel and are dealt a “misfortune.”

These took place on some of my favorite trails. (Laura, you’ve totally been here, on a different route! – Editor’s note: YES! That was a great run and I want to do it again!)

Some of my favorite trails – The Tributary

Such an awesome idea! The two guys smiling in the picture below together… yeah, they had to run/walk/struggle to get through 4.5 miles with their ankles tied together. (No, they didn’t know each other before the run).

The girl I’m laughing at in the picture had to eat something. While she started off with a 6-count of Chocolate-Covered Krispy Kremes, she ended up with anchovies wrapped around capers (her other options included an entire can of spam, an entire bag of powdered doughnuts, or two cans of Vienna sausage… yeah….).

Others had to carry life-sized stuffed animals, drink warm beer, take a time out, do trivia, drink buttermilk, among other fun misfortunes. I know it’s not fair that I spun and had to do trail math trivia. (Editor’s note: Warm beer?! Whattt?!)

I would do this trail running event again any day! I embraced my inner fearlessness and my inner adult child.

Embracing a fearless spirit also makes me feel way more comfortable in my own skin… it’s going pretty well! 🙂

Speaking of comfort… I’ve got a great comfort food recipe for the gluten-free vegan that will help you to embrace your inner child! (Editor’s note: Seriously? Where am I when you’re making all this deliciousness?!)

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Vegan TVP Sloppy Joes

1 C TVP
1 C boiling water
1 16 oz can tomato paste
1 16 oz can garlic tomato sauce
½ C honey
2 T Tamari (or soy if you’re not GF)
1 tsp salt
1-2 tsp pepper
1 tsp cayenne
3-ish T seasoning/dried herbs (mine had some rosemary, basil, thyme, paprika, garlic, onion, and parsley)
Garlic powder, to taste (I don’t know… maybe about 1.5 tablespoons??)
½ large white onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
MAYBE extra ½ cup of water at the end (depending upon the TVP)

First add the boiling water to the TVP and let it sit. Then, sauté the onion & Garlic in some oil (and butter if you like), on medium/medium-low heat (~7-10 minutes, let them get pretty translucent).

Then I like to add the TVP to the pan where you are doing the sautéing and add ALL the dry seasonings. Sauté until the TVP looks like it’s drying out a bit, and is completely coated in all the beautiful seasonings (this is how you give the TVP a more “meaty” taste), which should take about 7-10 minutes.

Next, add your tomato paste, tomato sauce, honey and tamari (and I needed an extra ½ cup of water). Simmer for ~15-20 minutes. Then you can adjust the seasonings to taste as you like!

At the end, you know, serve the way you remember loving your Sloppy Joes!

I used Udi’s Gluten Free Buns, toasted, and served with Sea Salt Kettle Chips and roasted brussels sprouts.

I also topped them with the most delicious vegan, soy-free, gluten-free cheese I have ever had, Daiya .

If you haven’t tried their products yet, I highly recommend them, in fact, for these sloppy joes, I liked them better than regular cheese.

This cheese melted like regular cheddar, but seemed lighter and was a bit milder than regular cheddar cheese. A must try!

(Editor’s note: I second this – this is amazing cheeze, especially their pepper jack!!)

You’re welcome – I omitted a photo with my face covered in Sloppy Joe.

***

Again, and HUGE congrats to Kat on completing your law education!!! Kat – I’m so sorry to miss your graduation celebration, but I’ll be thinking of you all weekend! You are truly an inspiration.

What have you done to embrace your inner child? To be fearless?

What was your childhood comfort food?

Facing Fears and Microwave Huevos Rancheros

May 2, 2013 By Laura

2. More. Days.

I am one workout, a car ride and a spray tan away from the stage.

I’m convinced that part of the last week’s misery prep is to make you so tired and sick of prep is to make you so uncomfortable that nerves are the least of your worries.

Yesterday I ran sprints, worked, did shoulder and glutes, practiced posing, and ate a lot of asparagus. Today I need to run sprints, work, work my chest and bis, practice posing, go to the chiro, get a mani/pedi, and eat still more asparagus.

And I can’t forget to pack my post-competition treats:

Barney Butter, Bacon-Caramel Chocolate, and thick Fig Balsamic. The balsamic won’t come with me, but I’ll be enjoying that when I get home. It will NOT be used on asparagus.

I would also like to eat the recipe Kat is sharing today. So without further delay, I will let her take it over… with another how-did-she-read-my-mind post.

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Facing Fears and Microwave Huevos Rancheros

My theme this week will hopefully resonate with many of you. I feel like we come across people and situations on a daily basis that would be easier to avoid and run from than to face head on.

Lately, I find the people I admire the most are people who live authentically – the people who are not afraid to be themselves, and do or say whatever comes to mind when it comes to mind. The people who speak their mind, regardless of what others might think. the people who take risks even when they doubt themselves. This fear takes away the “Happy.”

All doubt, shame, and other negative emotions stem from fear of some kind – maybe a fear of failure or judgment. Take a second to think about what your fears are, and what you might be able to do to face them. Live fearlessly! (This is one of the reasons I seriously admire Laura – I’m sure she is afraid when she gets on stage to pose but she’s about to do it… she’s fierce and fearless. I’m not even sure that is a fear I could face. She is a badass.) (Editor’s note: YOU are a bad ass. But thank you.)

Tying into running!

I recently read The Summit Seeker, by Vanessa Runs. While her fears and struggles are absolutely different from my own, she is true to herself and faces her fears on a regular basis.

She quit her job and sold all of her belongings and got in an RV with her boyfriend to run. Yes, just to run Ultras and run wherever they wish. She does not take more than she needs, she gives back, she explores, and she lives authentically and fearlessly. I love her.

I also have friends who are inspiring me to be more fearless (Editor’s Note: I think this is so important in life – it’s why I try to surround myself with friend’s like Kat). Fear comes in all forms so being fearless comes in all forms. Without going into further detail, I want to thank my friends Martha and Krista for inspiring me to be more fearless. The two of them are incredibly true to themselves and help me on my journey in life, and in running.

Spending time with them running or at a concert or just at dinner, I feel connected and true to myself. Martha has taught me more about loyalty than any friend I have to date, which helps me to feel secure in my friendship with her.

Facing fears alone is possible, but with friends on your side, everything is a bit more rose-colored and you get some different perspectives. I hope everyone is as lucky as I am.

Fearless friends at the impromptu Jimmy Buffet Concert AND got free tix

Lately, my main fear has been injuries. RUNNING injuries. Many of you are familiar with this running stigma and have dealt with it, maybe over and over. I have finally discovered the root of one of my running injuries, and am able to manage it. It is helping me to run stronger and more fearlessly. When I run fearless, I live life the same way. Try it!

So, my injury! In case you were curious. I was having some foot issues. Yes, just inflammation that would come and go and I could NOT pin point where it came from. It turns out that the IT Band Syndrome many of us have can lead to tightness in the calf. That leads to problems with the Peroneous longus (see image) and brevis tendons, which in turn cause that inflammation in the foot I just told you about. It’s crazy HOW connected the body is. (Editor’s Note: training has taught me this BIG time!)

Solution? My chiropractor, Nate, is a god and he really helps me out with this. (Please check him out if you are in the Atlanta area). But other than that, I ice the foot and roll the IT band once a day. The pain is gone and I am back to fearlessness! I love finding solutions to problems that are so hard to overcome!

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And, thinking about solutions, how about breakfast or midnight snack solutions that we want to take us only 3 minutes to prep, start to finish!?!?

Huevos Rancheros with a perfect runny egg! (Editor’s Note: I cannot WAIT to have a runny egg… maybe that’s where some of my balsamic will go!) Topped with salsa of your choice! Not only is the egg perfect and running, but the tortillas are also perfectly cooked.

Feel free to add avocados and other seasonings! This is just a basic needs recipe that allows for flexibility.

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Microwave Huevos Rancheros (minus the beans)

2 corn tortillas
1 organic, cage free egg
¼ avocado, sliced
2 T salsa
1 oz gouda (or cheddar cheese), cut into small pieces
Sprinkle of salt

Place one corn tortilla and in a small, microwave-safe bowl (about the size of the tortilla).

Crack the eggs directly into it, so the tortilla cradles it. Next, take your cheese and put it directly on top of the raw egg, and the avocado directly on the cheese.

Lastly, place the other corn tortilla on top and microwave for 1.5-1.75 minutes.

Enjoy!

***

I already requested Waffle House Sunday morning. Chocolate chip waffle topped with a runny egg. Don’t judge. #strangebutgood

What running injuries are you afraid of? What other injuries? (Editor’s Note: Falling off my plastic heels on stage)

What fears are you facing? And how is that going? (See above comment)

Thoughts on Running & Coconut-Avocado Mousse

April 18, 2013 By Laura

Life could be worse.

My view as I draft this post:

I am not going to insert a ton of commentary before handing it over to Kat for her bi-weekly guest spot. I’m enjoying my time in AZ, and the food I brought along is actually quite good. Not feeling deprived at all!

If you want to check out what/how I’m eating, follow me on Instagram!

And now, here’s Kat… who somehow is always on my wave-length even when we haven’t hung out in a while.

As a Runner…

I really got my groove back in terms of mileage… must be that time of year where I can run any time of day and it’s gorgeous. I have to admit, I love the heat. I keep having this thought in my head, “just run.” And then I do. I run when I’m lonely, bored, inspired, because I think it’s pretty out, because it’s raining out, because I don’t feel like driving, because people at Boston didn’t get to finish their race. Just run.

I’m back up to my 60-70 miles per week range. I know. It’s crazy, but it’s hours each week where I feel free, explore my city, explore myself, and can just be (Editor’s note: that’s exactly why I like to run… just take your mileage and divide by 3). I don’t think about how my body looks, how my hair looks, and I don’t feel judged or lonely. I just run…in the sun, in the rain, if it’s cloudy, if it’s windy.

I wish that every moment of every day could feel like running.

Rain Run – all the pollen looks like sidewalk chalk being washed away!

For those who run like that, and were denied the opportunity to finish the Boston Marathon, I feel incredibly sad, and more inspired to run. If someone thought that runners were a good target, they got it wrong. Everyone I know ran the day after the Boston Marathon.

We runners are not to be messed with.

The Federal Courthouse Flag on Wednesday, 4/17

Anyway, moving past that, as I increase my mileage for the season, I have been tweaking a few things. First, I’m considering changing up my shoes. I found ones that worked all year last year, and I loved them, but I’m in search of something new to fit my new needs: mega trail running. Moving on past my addiction to the Brooks I’ve been wearing will be hard! But I know my body needs something different to boost my performance, and to help get me more ready for my first 100 miler!

Oh wow! I think I just officially broke the news! I’ll be running my first 100 miler in October! The Oil Creek 100. This means my health is of the utmost importance, and staying injury free is more important than ever. Time to make some changes!

Brooks – Obsessed much?

See, between July and now I have had three pairs of the same road shoes. What am I so afraid of?!?!

I’m also trying out my first compression gear. So far, I like it better for recovery than to actually run in.

My New Hot Pink Compression Sleeves!

Lastly, I’m trying something new with my nutrition. Why? Because I want to try different things to see what works (Editor’s note: I tell people ALL the time not to be afraid to do this! Changing it up for a week or so won’t kill you or make you obese). Lately, I’ve been adding more good fats.

7 reasons this is good for you:

Increased heart health
Increased bone strength
Stronger immune system
Liver health
Healthy bones
Healthy nerves
Improved brain function

How could you go wrong??? (Note: this is all in connection with a balanced diet. I do not eat saturated fats at every meal!)

One of my new favorite good-fat recipes is so easy, you will be shocked, and it is good as a side dish, dessert, or breakfast. Let’s just call it Coconut-Avocado Mousse!

It’s sweet, creamy, easy, and delicious. I topped it with berries for breakfast, or for a before-bed snack (Editor’s note: this is a midnight snack WAITING to happen)! I tell you what! You should definitely try this.

It would also go well with ice cream (Editor’s note: or what about frozen and made into ice cream?!), topped with granola, or even topped with dark chocolate shavings (I know this first hand). It also makes a great spread on toast!

Coconut-Avocado Mousse

½ avocado
2 T coconut milk (not the light stuff – the real stuff)

Mix it all up!

Also, in honor of the near future when Laura will be eating only asparagus, I will also be consuming copious amounts, in sympathy (Editor’s note: you are such a kind and thoughtful friend 😉 ).

You should know that this would also be delicious with asparagus! 😉

***

I have an insane amount of running shoes, but they’re all different. I’m really interested to hear everyone else’s shoe habits!

What steps have you taken to change when upping mileage?

How many pairs of the same running shoes do you have?

How do you know when your routine is ready for changing? Intuition or something else?

Gettin’ Grounded & TVP Bacon Bits

April 4, 2013 By Laura

I can admit when I’m wrong.

Sometimes. If I’m in the right mood.

Wednesday I ranted about declining service in restaurants. I still stand by my theory, but I have to call out the fact that I had absolutely amazing service at dinner last night.

I met a friend at Metro Fresh, one of my favorite local spots. They serve fresh, clean food. The menu changes daily and the prices are reasonable. It’s my go-to.

After enjoying a fantastic piece of salmon and a leafy green salad, I was craving dark chocolate. I asked if they had squares, but they didn’t. Much to my surprise, one of the employees brought over the most delicious (housemade!) cinnamon roll. For. Free.

When I got home, I wrote an email to the owner bragging on his staff and thanking him for another great experience. Have you ever done this? I try to be as quick to compliment as I am to complain.

This morning when he emailed out the daily menu, he included my note saying it was especially nice to get after a long, busy day. How cool is this?!

Awesome. There is hope. There are still restaurant owners and staff that care about the experience customers have in their establishments.

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It feels so good to be APRIL! I’ve been waiting for this month all year!

It’s my last month of law school, and I am so so so so excited to be almost done! I could not have done this without my friends and family and their constant support. (Editor’s note: SO PROUD of you!!!)

I went to my cousin’s amazing wedding, and got to spend time with my mom and brother and dad. Being with my family reminded me of how important they are because they make me feel so grounded. This is probably because your family are your roots, and even though they might sometimes drive you batty, they are where you come from.

See, I get it from my momma (and I know the quality of this picture SUCKS – but you can see where I get my quirky qualities)

Me and my handsome brother

It was also a blessing to go to my cousin’s wedding and spend time with my extended family. WOW.

It was so cool to see how in love they are and to know how much they’ve been through before they ever got married. Their love is the kind of love I aspire to, and they truly have a fairy tale. (Editor’s note: I flippin’ loved seeing all their wedding pics – cowboy fairy tale!)

SEE?!?!? So stinkin’ cute!

When I came home, I also had a beautiful necklace in the mail – a tree that represents the earth and feeling grounded… this is symbolic for me because I think I realized that this is my theme of the year/month/right now/whatever.

My groundedness is coming from my family, my ability to connect with nature, to be with the earth. I love what I get from the earth and feel incredibly lucky every day.

I also got to connect with Laura over a wonderful dinner at Bacchanalia! I can’t believe she treated me to such an awesome birthday dinner! (Editors’ note: Thank god the company was good! 😉 )

At the dinner, she asked me to share what I have been doing with TVP, so I had to oblige. TVP Bacon Bits!!!

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In my opinion, what gives these a better flavor (and meatier than most) is the combo of the BBQ sauce, cumin, and nutritional yeast. I have never seen a recipe that used this combination, and I don’t know why! It’s amazing.

I put these bits on EVERYTHING! Make your friends jealous. Try it on a salad, on your guacamole (or on half of an avocado), on your baked potato, eat them plain, top your chili. Endless possibilities!

Also, another great reason to try this recipe, besides that it’s super easier and way healthier than bacon, (Editor’s note: mmm… bacon), is that you can taste as you go! You can tell by the flavor of the un-crisped mixture what the final product will taste like, so you can adjust. Need a pinch of salt? Want a little more barbecue flavor? No problem!

Now, what else can we do with these bits? I’m glad you asked. Bacon PANCAKES. That’s right. Add a handful of these bad boys to your pancake mixture. You will NOT regret it.

Pancake batter

I really like Karina’s recipe, but mine do not come out nearly as beautiful. I used her recipe and added a bit of cinnamon and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast. Once I made the mixture, I ladled some into the pan, and added the TVP Bacon Bits.

I suck at flipping pancakes. They’re never consistent in color but they’re delicious. (Editor’s note: that’s all that matters!)

I like these so much, I eat them plain – no butter, no syrup, etc.

Also, I now get why it’s impossible to take pretty pictures of brown food. Editor’s note: told you so!!!) So, you will have to take my word for it.

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Vegan TVP Bacon Bits

3/4 C TVP
3 T nutritional yeast
3/4 C boiling water
1-1.5 T smokey barbecue sauce (or Laura’s sodium and sugar free recipe)
2.5 T tamari (of soy if you’re not gluten-free)
1/2 T maple agave (maple syrup would also work, or you can eliminate for a sugar-free version – I just like maple bacon flavors)
2 T sunflower oil
1 T cumin
Pinch of cayenne

Preheat the oven to 265 degrees (yes, 265 – that is not a typo. I just couldn’t decide between 250 and 275).

Mix all of the ingredients in a bowl together, whisk with a fork. Spread mixture across a baking sheet. Place in oven.

I set my timer for 24 minutes. But they really needed like 31.3 minutes…. until I got really impatient. When they still weren’t crispy, because it takes forever and you have to keep moving them around, you start to get really annoyed. The next step was to heat that bad-boy of and oven up to 425. After that, they were done in 10 more minutes. Crispy and delicious. This was a trial and error… but came out AWESOME!

Editor’s Note: I think the moral of the story might be to make them at a higher temp. 😉

***

I have to admit… I’m a little sad that Kat beat me to this idea. Haha. Really… I’m gong to be making these STAT.

Does your family keep you grounded, even when you feel insane? No comment.

What’s exciting about your April?

Economic Woes + WIAW

April 3, 2013 By Laura

Today I am going to complain about an improving economy.

Yes, I’m finding a dark cloud despite the fact that my condo value may actually one day recover.

As the economy got worse and worse, I noticed a positive. The service at restaurants was improving! Servers were more polished and professional, and they were able to speak intelligently about the menu.

Recently this pleasant restaurant experience has come to a halt. Read more for an (extreme) example and my theory.

An Example:

Kat (my good friend and frequent guest post-er here) and I went to dinner for her birthday at the nicest restaurant in Atlanta, Bacchanalia. If my meal is going to be over $100, it damn well better be flawless.

The bartender was clueless about the wine program. To his credit, he sent another – presumably more knowledgable – employee over to speak with us. That would have been fine is the second guy had been knowledgable.

Server #2 didn’t know several of the bottles I inquired about, and then I had to correct their menu. They had listed an Amarone as being from Barolo. It’s from Valpolicella. I’ve been there. Amarones are my favorite. At first he tried to tell me I was wrong, but he did come back over to admit the mistake. Don’t challenge me on that one.

We ordered cheese; however, it took at least half an hour (and 2 inquiries) for the cart to be brought out. We were waiting to order after our cheese course, but apparently almost missed dinner service… which the bartender acted like it was OUR fault when we would have been ordering much sooner had our cheese come out in a timely manner (we told him when we first sat down we would be having dinner).

When our food began to came out, we were rushed AND I had to send a dish back (over cooked Halibut). They did replace it with a phenomenal snapper dish, and I was already done.

I realize this is a silly rant where there are starving children in Africa. But really. If I’m at a special occasion dinner and paying that much money… I expect the performance to be superior. I’ve had (much cheaper) meals at chain restaurants with better service.

My Theory:

When the downturn occurred, many educated individuals were not able to find jobs in corporate America, and turned to the service industry for employment. Their advanced capacity/skill levels resulted in a higher level of service. Now that companies are beginning to hire again, the service industry is losing that talent.

My Plea:

Restaurants, know the value of having educated, capable staff! Customers appreciate them, and will likely spend more money as a result of having a server with the knowledge and skills to sell. Consider the ROI when you talk salary and benefits with potential hires!

It’s WIAW time! I’m still trying to keep it green with my protein-filled meals.

Check out my 7 green-ish, protein-filled meals below, and then click here to head over to Jenn @ Peas and Crayons to get to see how everyone else is green-ing up their food this month!

Meal 1:

I – as always – enjoyed my morning cocktail (apple cider vinegar, water, Glutamine, and Fitmixer Aminos). I headed to the treadmill for a quick incline walk. It’s a rest day, but I knew I’d be glued to a conference room chair all day so I wanted to get some movement in… and I like to watch GMA.

Post-walk I was starving and VERY glad to have made overnight oats. And coffee. There’s something about drinking out of a “Be the Change” mug first thing in the morning that’s motivating (thank you to The Universe Knows and FitFluential for sending this!).

My “oats” were a bit #strangebutgood. They were TVP overnight oats! The cinnamon and extracts in these make you feel like you’re eating cookie dough! I know some people dislike cold oats – overnight oats are also fantastic warmed in the microwave too. I heated these for 45 seconds before eating.

Greek TVP Overnight Oats

1/2 C Greek yogurt
1/4 C TVP
2 T raw oatmeal
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp almond extract
1/4 tsp butter extract
1/4 tsp ginger
1/8 tsp freshly grate nutmeg
Stevia (or other sweetener), to taste
~1/2 C Liquid of choice (you may need to adjust amount depending to the yogurt thickness)

Mix it all together and allow to soak overnight in the fridge.

In the morning, stir, adjust liquid as needed. Add fruit if desired (I added fresh blood orange and blackberry juice).

Meal 2:

Despite being #strangebutgood, I’m also a creature of habit. I ate salmon and fruit again. It was lemon-dill salmon mixed with blueberries and pepitas… but I forgot to take a pic so you’re getting a recycled one made with grapes… but grapes kind of look like blueberries… 😉

Meal 3:

I have a new favorite veggie creation. BBQ Cauliflower Bites. It was awesome tossed with purple sweet potato! I used my healthy (no sodium or sugar) BBQ sauce and added some nooch to cheese it up.

Tangy and creamy, this sauce was meant to be used for roasted things (in the original I roasted with tempeh)! Recipe is at the end of this post.

For my protein, I enjoyed the Turbot fish I made last night – for that prep check out this FB post. Lauren introduced me to this delicious fish – it’s incredibly light and buttery.

This is also a recycled pic from last night… It’s much prettier than the Tupperware I ate out of today at work.

Meal 4:

I am back on the salt-free deli turkey this week. I love the Plainville brand from Whole Foods. Today I mixed it with red pepper, broccoli, red onion, and a quick nutritional yeast dressing (nooch + apple cider vinegar + cayenne)

Meal 5:

One of my favorite local spots is a order-at-the-counter spot called Metro Fresh. They change their menu daily based on the ingredients they have. Everything is fresh and healthy. Perfect for a non-cheat meal out with a friend! And it’s walkable from my house!

Tonight I ordered the seared salmon and a mixed greens with peaches, blackberries and goat cheese with a whole grain roll.

Unpictured was wine and a cinnamon roll. It was housemade and they gave it to us for free (I should add that the service here was fabulous)… we split it and it was divine. After that extravaganza… there was no room for meals 6 and 7.

BBQ Cauliflower Bites

2 T BBQ sauce
1 T nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp Herbs de Provence
1 C cauliflower

Pre-heat oven 400 degrees.

Mix together BBQ sauce, nutritional yeast, and herbs. Toss with cauliflower to coat.

Place on foil-lined pan and bake for 15 mins, tossing once half way through.

Enjoy!

***

The protein count for the day: not sure with the meal out, but I’d say I probably hit 140g of fuel. 🙂

Have you noticed a decline in service at restaurants? Other services?

What is the best thing you’ve eaten this week?

A Death Race and a Birthday

March 21, 2013 By Laura

Oops, I did it again…

You can thank me later for getting that classic song stuck in your head.

Tuesday was leg day. Two days later, walking is a difficult task. 25 barbell squats, 4 sets, increasing weight. Weighted lunges. 25 hack squats, 4 reps, increasing weight (I HATE hacks!). And that was just the first 3 exercises. Oy.

The good news is that my trainer told me he sees huge gains in the last month and my legs are getting bigger!

And my BUTT!!! Woot!

But my pain today doesn’t come close to how Kat must have felt after her Ultramarathon “Death” Race. Only a crazy person celebrates a birthday like this. 😉

Read on for Kat’s fabulous story…

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On March 16, 2013, I ran my second Ultramarathon. It was definitely the biggest physical challenge I have ever undertaken, and I savored almost every minute of it.

Note the caption – SO TRUE!!!!

I woke up at 2:15am and began my journey. I hadn’t slept much the few nights before it, and only about 2-4 hours the night before the race.

I was so nervous I couldn’t sleep!! (Editor’s note: I would have barfed from the nerves.)

Geared up and Ready to Go!!

I stayed at Hiker Hostel on Friday night with my friend Ann. She braved 5:00pm Atlanta traffic headed north to get me up there (you Atlanta folk know that THAT is a sign of true love).

We left the hostel at 2:45 in the morning to head to the start where I checked in, got my map, met some runners, and began my journey.

Saying Goodbye to Ann

At 3:55 the race director, Sean, gave a funny speech that began, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…” and you know the rest.

It made all of the runners giggle nervously as we began our journey on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail. We started at Vogel State Park.

I ran with several of these people many steps of the way.

Before the 3^rd Mile, I was feeling absolutely fantastic. I was skipping along on the rails, “dancing forward” with a smile on my face. Sometime right around then, I fell HARD, heard my ankle pop, screamed a little. Then, with a little encouragement from a few friendly trail folk, I was up and on my way, hiking with the best of them. Oh yeah, HIKING.

People, this was NOT a running race for the most part. This was a hiking race. It was elevation, elevation, elevation. We climbed about 17 peaks on the Appalachian Trail. I was at Duncan Ridge for Sunrise, after already climbing over 2,300 feet.

Sunrise on Duncan Ridge

I had so much fun in the early parts of the race, making friends, laughing about slipping in mud, and hiking up, up, up. We were all frustrated with the hills, in awe of the views, and even more in awe of our strength as we climbed. (Editor’s note: I am in awe fo YOU!)

I continued to have fun, and I met a guy named Kip, a fire fighter who loves to help people. He was strong, loyal, and kind. He offered to wrap my ankle at the next rest stop. That was before I tripped on a down-hill around mile 16 or so, heading face-forward into the leaves, busting my knee. I finally got up, cursing the leaf-covered ground, then tripped hard and sprained my ankle even worse around mile 19.

The face says it all…carnage and getting wrapped.

I eventually made it to mile 21, convinced I wouldn’t be able to go on. When I got there, I saw the race director, and I became determined to finish. He made this course ridiculously hard for a reason, and I wanted to finish. Another runner wrapped my ankle, and I pressed on. Things got slower after that.

My stick friend

At mile 25, I decided it couldn’t get much worse, so I kept going. At mile 28, I got my ankle re-wrapped and pressed on for the most frustrating part of the run. I found a stick that became my friend as I hiked and hiked and hiked uphill.

I cried, I was frustrated, and I pressed on. I wailed, and I cried when I when saw the clearing that meant the climbing was over. (Editor’s note: I really don’t have anything to say… you are fierce.)

Swinging Bridge

The clearing that made me cry

Eventually I got to mile 44-ish… Winding Stair Gap aid station. I got a big hug from my friend Wilson, and I finally knew it was in my ankle’s best interest to stop. I had hiked and run over 44 miles, climbed over 13,000 feet, for 14.5 hours on a sprained ankle.

I called the friend who was picking me up, and she brought me home, in pink fuzzy slippers, as my ankle swelled. (It’s much better today – good thing I stopped when I did). I feel like it was the most noble DNF (Did Not Finish) ever, and I really gave it my all.

About 2 hours after my race

The 14.5 hours really made me think – WHY am I out here? WHY am I doing this? What is this for? And I think I know.

I think I know why I run, why I stay out in the woods for hours and hours trying to find myself.

Not only does it teach me to keep moving forward, even when things are difficult or painful, but it lets you embrace the moments that suck because they help you to know just how strong you are, and just how strong you can be. I think we all can feel down or defeated from time to time, some more than others. When you find the thing that helps you move on, that works as your therapy and that helps you to believe you’re more than you thought you could be, that just might be your thing.

I think I realized through this race, that whether it’s running, creating art, raising kids, lifting weights, or whatever your thing might be, that you need to do what makes you feel strong and what makes you feel alive. (Editor’s note: So well said – we are so much more than we first imagine.)

No better way to celebrate my 26^th Birthday. (Editor’s note: Such a tender young age. 😉 )

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Laura posted about my nighttime potluck gathering yesterday, which I believe brought about 25-30 people together, an eclectic group from all walks of life. 🙂 It was the best birthday I have had in a very long time, and I LOVE my birthday.

Just a few of my amazing friends

I also got to go to a birthday lunch with one of my dearest friends in Atlanta.

We went to the One Eared Stag. I had one of the weirdest and most delicious meals ever. (Editor’s note: Whaaaat?! I want to try this place so bad!)

In the picture:

White Anchovies
Olives
Fried Dates
Mint
Pine Nuts

Such a weird and delicious combo (Editor’s note: Strange but good?). I think the marriage of the nutty white anchovies with the sweetness of the dates made this dish really work. Everything else sort of worked in for a flavor-explosion in my mouth. I also had the carrot soup with fermented garlic and ginger.

All-in-all a great lunch, and I’m really looking forward to going back to try it again!

***

Funny side note: Kat texted me yesterday to ask if I was ok with her sending bloody pics to post. I said bring it. 😉

What challenges make you feel more alive? Stronger? Better?

What strange but good combos have you had recently? Don’t forget to link up tomorrow!

In a Rut & Bacon Truffle Parmesan Popcorn

March 7, 2013 By Laura

All day yesterday I thought it was Tuesday.

I am especially happy it’s Thursday today. If it was only Wednesday this week would be reallllly long.

I don’t know what it is, but this week has seemed tedious. Work, workouts, even cooking. I think I need a vacation.

When I was younger, I couldn’t wait to be an adult. No authority, no homework… I do what I want! Wellll… the thing I didn’t realize is that you actually DO have to answer to people (bosses, bills, ~~cops~~…) and there really IS homework (work you were handed at the end of the day, house work, working on my fitness, other obligations).

I’m not necessarily complaining. I normally love working out and I’m happiest when my job is busy. It’s just this week. This cold. Bad dates. ~~Girl Scout Cookie cravings (I swear those little people are stalking me at the grocery store!).~~ I need a vacation. Some place warm.

Thankfully, I have friends like Kat to cheer my up. Not only will she meet me for a glass of wine and a second dinner after a bad date, but she also write a guest post (see below), that perfectly describes my feelings right now.

So now you should quit reading my whining and listen to Kat, who reads my mind and makes me feel more connected.

It’s part of human nature to sometimes feel like “no one gets you.” We have to make an effort to realize that it’s not true! You’re never alone – someone will always be able to “get you” if you just reach outside yourself. (Editor’s note: get outta my head, Kat!)

So, I have to share – I was in a RUT! Every kind of rut – a running rut, a yoga rut, a dating rut, a food rut, and opening up about my feelings rut. UGH!

How to kick yourself out of a rut? First steps first – admit it to yourself… then tell people! When people relate to you, they often offer suggestions that help you pull out of your rut and kick you into high gear with a new, better attitude.

And having an amazing Friday night girls night opening up to some of your closest friends and sharing ~~a lot of wine~~ your feelings doesn’t hurt either.

K Trifecta: Kelly, Kat, & Kim

To get out of my running rut, I decided to run some new places, with new friends, and make better, solid plans! This helped my running rut because it made me want to run even more than I already usually want to!

I made a plan with a new friend, and a woman from yoga. BOY did that help! 🙂 It made me get back to my smile-when-I-run mental amazing state, and enjoy my solo runs even more. (I know, crazy, running with people made me enjoy solo runs more???)

Have you ever noticed that smiling literally makes you happy? It’s true. Whatever muscles you use when you smile trigger something in your body, that triggers something in your brain… let the experts tell you about it. It can also make you younger, prettier, friendlier, and on and on. The point is – SMILE. (Editor’s note: this actually works. I was skeptic, but after Kat told me this I grinned my way through my 8 hour race!)

I ran 15 miles on Monday (Yo-Run-Ga! – 7 before yoga & 8 after). On my way home, I was almost GIGGLING. I was smiling so big and bright. I love love love to run. It makes me high. BUT, not everyone can relate to that. So, apply it to your favorite thing/activity! Smile while you do it!

Now, to get out of the yoga rut. I was taking the same classes over and over and over. I was hitting a plateau – not trying as hard, not getting much stronger, not learning new poses. Perfect solution – try a new teacher!

Turns out I didn’t even really like the new teacher I tried, but I learned something and it helped me to enjoy my regular classes even more.

I want to learn to do this!

I really want to start learning new poses and breaking out of my shell. Maybe I will try a new studio or ask some of my favorite instructors for tips. I know I’m strong enough and flexible enough to do more!

The dating rut? I have no idea how to get myself out of this one. Ask someone else for advice on this. (Editor’s note: Good Lord, don’t ask me. #fail)

The food rut! Okay, seriously, who else ends up buying the same groceries over and over and over?! It’s like I have been reusing the same list… forever! And you know what I make? The same meals. I know, shocking!

To get out of the food rut, I have had a few strategies:

Eat out more! If you do this, you will draw inspiration from menus, and eat different things.
Shop in the frozen section. No, don’t actually spend a ton of money buying the frozen meals, but use the ideas to go buy stuff to make similar, more fun items.
Buy something, anything, that you wouldn’t normally buy, then go online and search the ingredient for recipe ideas. The advent of the internet is glorious! (Editor’s note: So true! I just bought curry leaves = awesome.)

One other thing I like to do, is find something I like, and do it better! For example, I had Bacon Cracker Jack Popcorn (below) at Harper Station. UGH – It could be done SO much better. (Editor’s note: I had the same thing at Holeman & Finch 2 weeks ago… and thought the same thing!) So I later made Bacon Truffle Parmesan Popcorn – WIN.

Yes, it’s real!

I couldn’t help but recreate it after coming home to a 12.5 pound bag of popcorn on my door step, thanks to my friend Jimmy!

Popcorn is one of my favorite foods. In fact, I eat it almost every day! Not always as decadent, usually just some EVOO and Salt.

H. Harper Station popcorn

Mine was SO much better. First of all, the “Cracker Jack” from H. Harper Station was way too sweet. Second of all, their bacon was NOT crispy – and it was COLD. Turn-off! Third, who doesn’t love truffle-parmesan anything… and then you add bacon!? AMAZING WIN!

And I got the idea for the cute little serving cups online – bonus if you’re going for portion control. I refilled my “personal size” like 3 times. (Editor’s note: Bring me some!!! Inviting a friend helps with portion control!)

MY Bacon Popcorn = Amazing

Bacon Truffle Parmesan Popcorn

1/4 C popcorn kernels
1 T coconut oil
1 T truffle salt
4 strips of bacon, cooked crispy and chop finely
1 C shredded Parmesan

Cook the popcorn in the coconut oil; this gives it a better texture.

Then coat the popcorn with truffle salt. Add bacon (finely chopped and crispy) and Parmesan.

Use a large spoon to stir it all together. Devour.

Notes: This is not a healthy meal option. You could also sub the truffle parm and do bacon chocolate popcorn! YUM! Next time.

Editor’s note: Make it vegan with bacon bits (yes, they’re vegan) and nutritional yeast!

***

Tomorrow is Friday. Kat’s post made me smile. *deep breaths*

What kinds of ruts have you been in, and how do you get out of them? TIPS!?

What is your favorite unhealthy snack?

Doing New Things and Freaking Out Co-Workers

February 21, 2013 By Laura

Blogging can change your life.

Ok, maybe that’s dramatic… but it can change your state of mind!

I was feeling pretty down about having to postpone my next competition. All of your comments lifted me up yesterday. Thank you, thank you, thank you. It’s funny how “strangers” can make you feel ~~warm and fuzzy~~ supported and put you in a more positive place.

Not that I really think of you as strangers… we Tweet, email, Instagram, Facebook… some of my best friends are people I’ve never met in person!

Speaking of strange… it’s Kat’s day to post! We haven’t gotten to hang as much lately, yet she’s still managed to write a post that hit home for me. And included a green smoothie, which you know I love. ♥

Here’s Kat…

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LIFE is hitting me right now. I think I just realized that I’m going to be an attorney later this year! (Editor’s note: YAYYYYYY Kat!)

I’ll be studying for the bar this summer. I can’t imagine the focus that will take! I’m used to doing 100 things (I currently hold 3 jobs and go to school) and keeping up with yoga and running and all the other fun workouts and friend time I fit in! OH BOY!

Wanna know a secret? I’m scared. I’m afraid of whatever job I end up with, I’m afraid of failing, and I’m afraid I won’t come up on top. I’m afraid of fitting in, and I’m afraid of standing out. Let’s face it – I’m weird… if you hadn’t noticed. (Editor’s note: I think that’s why we get along so well. 🙂 )

My strategy? Continue to be myself and just keep breathing! I just need to keep being myself, embracing my life, and things will fall into place. (Read: I will conquer the world.)

I’m working on my business plan actively and figuring out how I will be a successful attorney even if I don’t land a job at a firm – I am capable of business generation. However, I’m also considering the big firm world, something I never thought I would do! Cheers to trying new things! *Raises Glass!*

However, I’m also considering the Big Firm world, something I never thought I would do!

Cheers to trying new things! *Raises Glass!* And I will pretend like I fit in. 🙂 Who knows – I might?????

It’s okay to be WEIRD (like I always say), so I’m going to share a couple of other WEIRD secrets today. Something many of you will be surprised to hear… you may not even believe me. (Editor’s note: I’m ashamed to admit that this made me think of Honey Boo Boo… “Nothing wrong with being gay. Everybody’s a little gay!”)

Whoever has been reading my blog posts knows by now that my metaphor for life is what will make you happy in the long run… and a lot of little things add up to a lot of happiness! Why not do a couple of little things that will just ease stress and help you live a happier, longer, healthier life?

Here goes nothing… the secret…. You should know: I hate the grocery store. (I know, shocking –but it’s true). It is my least favorite chore on the face of the planet, and for a while there, I refused to go! That’s right, refused. Rule number 1. Stop doing things you don’t want to do.

How did I get food in my house, you ask? Great question. I paid a grocery shopper!! That’s right, she went grocery shopping for me, paid, and brought them back to my house, and I would write her a check, which included her fee.

Now, before you judge me, this is an excellent strategy. Think about it – you are prohibited from randomly getting something NOT on your list that seems tempting while at the store (thus, saving money). It saves you time because you don’t have to mull over decisions like… “Which salsa – the Publix Organic or Newman’s? One is on sale, but I think I like the other one better…” You save precious time and gas (which makes the money worth it!).

Dove told me to share this tip with you!

I think this is the greatest tip of all time. And then you get to tell foodie friends like Laura about your secret and they give you a seriously hard time – which is just funny! (Editor’s note: True… I LOVE grocery shopping… but I will pay to have someone clean my condo!)

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The trying new things part of this is that I started doing my own grocery shopping at the beginning of the New Year!! Look at some of the fun things you remember to get when you shop!

Green Amazing Smoothie

2 Tbsp Chia
Some Banana-Based Green Juice (Some might be ¼ cup)
Some water (maybe 4 tbsp or so)
One scoop of Protein Powder
One scoop of Green Vibrance
¼ – ½ Cup pumpkin (canned OR fresh if you’re not lazy like me!)
Cinnamon, Salt, and Maple to taste

Mix it up and refrigerate for a few hours.

BOOM! ENJOY THAT SHIT!

The best part – you can’t go wrong on any measurement. The other best part – you are FULL forever. Yes, forever. (I’m lying) One more best part – people will look at you weird when you get a green mustache, or when they see the concoction.

The other new but not-so-new part of this – it’s fun to eat weird, dark, dark green pudding-ish food at the office to freak out your co-workers! 😉

Know what else freaks your co-workers out? Telling them how crazy you are. I think they all have mini heart attacks when they hear I’m about to run the Georgia Death Race – 60 miles is definitely nuts, but totally me. Check out the award we get at the end:

Old railroad bed nails!!!

One more secret. I never learned how to cook for one person. NEVER. That’s right. But I recently have been attempting this. See my beautiful salmon with brussels, onions, and mushrooms? BAM dinner for one. And it was delicious and perfectly cooked. GO ME!

This trying new things thing is going pretty well for me this year!

***

Don’t you guys see why I love this girl? I wish I could bottler her energy sand sell it.

What new things have you tried this year to get outside your safety box?

What weird things do you eat at work that turn your co-workers heads, and make them say, “uhhhhh – what IS that??” Everything. It’s allll Strange But Good.

Embrace Your Inner Child

What I love about these is that they:

Embrace Your Inner Child with TVP Sloppy Joes

Vegan TVP Sloppy Joes

Facing Fears and Microwave Huevos Rancheros

Microwave Huevos Rancheros (minus the beans)

Thoughts on Running & Coconut-Avocado Mousse

Coconut-Avocado Mousse

Gettin’ Grounded & TVP Bacon Bits

Vegan TVP Bacon Bits

Economic Woes + WIAW

An Example:

My Theory:

My Plea:

Meal 1:

Greek TVP Overnight Oats

Meal 2:

Meal 3:

Meal 4:

Meal 5:

BBQ Cauliflower Bites

A Death Race and a Birthday

In a Rut & Bacon Truffle Parmesan Popcorn

Bacon Truffle Parmesan Popcorn

Doing New Things and Freaking Out Co-Workers

Here’s Kat…

Green Amazing Smoothie

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