Fruit – Page 2 – The Celiathlete

July 18, 2016

Product Review: Sweet Note Gluten Free Blueberry Bagels

bluebagels03 — Sweet Note Gluten Free Blueberry Bagels

Product: Sweet Note Gluten Free Blueberry Bagels – $7.75

Blueberries are always on the top of my list when it comes to favorite fruits and berries. Always. It has always been one of my favorite things to eat…whether in a muffin, pancakes, waffles, jam, donuts…and yes…especially in bagels.

So, leading up to the ONLINE EXCLUSIVE release of their latest flavor, the crazy baglers at Sweet Note Bakery teased a bit on social media as to what they have coming up. I knew immediately from the pictures that it was going to be blueberry. And I knew, the moment they hit the store, I would be ordering.

I think I’ve told you enough about Sweet Note Bakery…their origins and the like in all the past blogs I’ve done about them. If you are just now tuning in…you can read about their history here. If you want to know why size always matters, especially in certain important matters like…bagel size…read all about it here. Seriously…if you want authentic New York-style bagels…that are both vegan and gluten-free…NOTHING beats Sweet Note Bakery! Their bagels are phenomenal. Feel free to go back to all the past entries (and I still have 1 more of their new flavors to review!) and see what every flavor is like. Trust me…I grew up in New York. Bagels and I are BFFs.

And if bagels and I are BFFs…then I would totally date blueberries. This is what makes the latest flavor of the Sweet Note Bakery line up of bagels all the more sweeter. I pre-ordered the blueberry flavor the moment they said they were taking the orders and last Thursday, much to my delight, they arrived safe and sound. It was difficult not to just open one up right then and there and devour it, but my weekend was packed with plans that would keep me full and happy…so the bagels would be my Monday breakfast for sure. Right after the first of my two (2) spin classes that day.

So, one of the crazy and wonderful and remarkable things that sets Sweet Note Bakery apart when it comes to their delicious and epic (yes…epic) gluten-free bagels is…they use real ingredients. And, yes, that means that these blueberries are the real deal. No fake bits. No dried bits. Real blueberries. Giving you real blueberry flavor. And not just a few berries. These bagels are loaded with blueberries. When they sell you a blueberry bagel, you’re getting a blueberry bagel. You will not be disappointed with that. So, you won’t feel like you were left hanging with only a few blueberries scattered in the dough (sort of like when you get chocolate chip cookies and they only have a few chips in them…no, no…load those bitches up!), you will get sweet bursts of berries in every…single…bite. I swear it to you!

Upon returning home from the gym, I pulled the package of blueberry bagels out of the freezer and set to defrosting two (2) of them. One for me. One for my roommate (who doesn’t have to eat gluten-free…but mostly does at home. All her gluten-containing foods are kept away from my foods). I was pretty stoked. So, after doing my usual thawing method (30 seconds on one side…flip…turn…30 seconds on the other side…let sit for a minute…slice in half), I placed each half on the baking sheet and put it in the preheated 350°F oven. While they toasted for about 15-20 minutes, I went to shower and returned in just enough time to pour some coffee, get out the [vegan] cream cheese, and mix up a little cinnamon-sugar topping (an idea I pilfered from Lin-Manuel Miranda as this is how he tops off his cinnamon raisin bagels in NYC). The bagels (which smelled PHENOMENAL) were removed from the oven and I allowed them to cool for a moment before schmearing them with a healthy dose of cream cheese and a smattering of cinnamon-sugar. Breakfast was served.

bluebagels01 — Sweet Note Gluten Free Blueberry Bagels with a schmear of vegan cream cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar

Normally, I ask my roommate what she thinks as I deliver her plate to her first and she digs in before I return with my own bagel. But, for some reason, today I didn’t do that. I settled in to my own breakfast, coffee nearby, and took a first bite. And…WOW!! For real…just WOW!! There has never been a blueberry anything that I have purchased that has packed this much flavor, great texture, and pure goodness and deliciousness…in every single bite. This is not an exaggeration. If you’ve been conned by previous blueberry bagels on size, taste, and…the amount of blueberries you have in each bagel…then it’s time to look for a better bagel. And there is none better than the (happily) gluten-free (and trust me…no one would guess it!) and vegan (again…no one would guess it!) Sweet Note Gluten Free Blueberry Bagels. When I took my first bite…I went…”OMG…YUM!” To which, as she was devouring yet another bite, my roommate said, “UM…YES!” We were both totally smitten with the newest Sweet Note Bagel in the lineup. Blueberries are a nutritional powerhouse. Pair them with the most perfect bagel recipe (yeah…I said it, Sweet Note!)…and you have a perfect product to satisfy every taste.

I’m dreaming of eating another one as I write this right now.

Good thing there are four (4) in each pack.

So, while on the subject, let’s discuss what Sweet Note Bakery packs into their Gluten Free Blueberry Bagels. I mean, besides the obvious…blueberries. Each bagel is made with LOVE (yep…an actual ingredient…and you can tell), water, white rice flour, tapioca flour, sweet white rice flour, apple juice infused blueberries, sorghum flour, sugar, cane syrup, olive oil, molasses, yeast, xanthan gum, wild blueberry juice concentrate, psyllium husk, and salt. As always when it comes to Sweet Note’s bagels, these bagels are gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, non-GMO, egg-free, peanut & tree nut-free, and cholesterol free. Made with love, indeed!!

As far as nutrition goes for the Sweet Note Gluten Free Blueberry Bagels you’ll find you hunger satisfied and here’s why. A serving size is one (1) bagel, which is about 4.5 oz (128 grams). There are four (4) servings per package. Each bagel will deliver 320 calories, 3.5 grams fat, 0.5 grams saturated fat, 0 grams trans fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 300 mg sodium, 69 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fiber, 17 grams sugars, and 4 grams protein. The sugar count on these is a bit higher due to the inclusion blueberries and the blueberry juice concentrate. BUT…they are amazing nonetheless. And I am going to keep on ordering them until they tell me I no longer can. Which I hope never happens. For real!! THIS…just became my most favorite bagel that Sweet Note has introduced.

And, trust me, I can’t wait to see what else they manage to cook up in the future. Every time they come out with a new flavor, they exceed expectations and previous products. Every. Single. Time. And I never tire of placing orders to keep my freezer properly stocked and ready for a quick, toasted, deliciously schmeared breakfast.

So, yes…whether you love bagels, blueberries, or blueberry bagels…head on over to the Sweet Note Bakery online store and place an order. You won’t find these in locations where Sweet Note Bagels are sold. These are only online. Trust me…you’ll find love at first bite too. Delicious…blueberry…love.

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July 8, 2016

Quick Thoughts From the Week

It was a long, holiday weekend. YAY!! And, as is usual for me over the 4th of July…I was out of town. At a convention. In Indianapolis. Now, normally when I am up in Indy for this convention, my Saturday morning is spent running the Monon Trail. It’s gorgeous. Seriously. I always look forward to it. The past few years (last year I wasn’t able to run at all at this point), I have managed to get out there for my long run of 10-12 or so miles.

monon

But, this past weekend, Saturday’s Monon Trail run wasn’t happening…

MEH.

SO…on Saturday morning, I was down in the fitness center at 6 am…and on a treadmill to do 12 miles that morning. I started easy and worked up a ladder to a comfortable speed and then took it back down. It was mind numbing, despite the music (and to think, I almost left my iPod in my room). But, my training run was done.

And if that wasn’t enough punishment, I got up on Sunday morning to do my shakeout run. I decided to do an easy run for an hour…getting 7.36 miles in during that time.

I was feeling it Saturday and I really felt it Sunday. I hate running on treadmills. They seem to do more damage to me than road running does. I was sore through Wednesday, honestly. I don’t know how people do long distances on these things on a regular basis. My body couldn’t handle it!

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My runs have been suffering since those treadmill runs. The hip was not mad…but not happy either. MEH. Not enough foam rolling in the world. Of course…the epic humidity with air so thick you could cut it with a knife…isn’t helping either.

But, despite the humidity and the fatigue from late nights, I’ve been keeping up with my training runs. Which…is impressive for me. It’s not been easy to get out of bed to just go outside and melt…but…

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…I’ve been getting it done. It hasn’t been pretty…and I’m not always happy with the results on my Garmin, but I’m doing what my body is currently capable of…so, there is that.

OH…and this past week, I got to play around with recipes that I created. I made 6 different recipes…2 pasta dishes, a fusion pizza, a rice dish, a sandwich, and a dessert. I was quite proud of the results…all based off of Peter Cincotti’s recently released EP, Exit 105. Check out these images of the completed dishes…

Top (L-R): Island Spell Pizza (song: Palermo) – Jerk seasoned tofu, topped with onion, bell pepper, pineapple, cheddar cheese, and a Jamaican jerk coleslaw; Missing Sara Sammie (song: What’s Sara Doing?) – sammie layered with sweet potato, hummus, avocado (or guacamole), and kale; Unexpected Beat Tagliatelle (song: Long Way From Home) – tagliatelle pasta in a bechemel sauce and topped with shredded beets, goat cheese, parsley, toasted pine nuts, and toasted bread crumbs

Botton (L-R): Roamin’ Skies Pasta (song: Roman Skies) – my take on the traditional Roman dish – Cacio e Pepe – pasta mixed with butter, black pepper, Pecorino and Parmesan cheeses; Exit 105 Rice-A-Roni (Album Title: Exit 105) – my version of the San Francisco Treat (after all, Exit 105 takes you to the Golden Gate Bridge)…and it has been dubbed my “best rice dish in the history of ever”; Sexy on the Beach Ice Cream (song: Sexy) – a vegan ice cream made from coconut cream, pureed raspberries, pureed pineapple, chambord and vodka…just like the drink Sex on the Beach…

I love getting chefy.

So, aside from a little bit of work stress…that’s what’s going on thus far. Stay tuned as this weekend is going to be amazing. I can tell.

June 26, 2016

Take The Heat

Guess what, folks?

It’s SUMMER!!

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And let’s face it…the Olaf/Frozen/In Summer references don’t get old. Because…it’s Olaf. And Olaf is awesome. Anyone who says so has no soul.

Summer is H-O-T. HOT! So hot. And while I prefer to train in the heat…the one thing I do suffer through (like most other people) is the humidity. And being that I live in the Ohio River Valley…it’s pretty damn humid. Like…all the time. One morning, this past week, I got up to run and it was 84 degrees at 4 am. That’s not normal! And it’s not even July yet.

With all that being said, how about I highlight some of the things that made this hot and stormy week a little cooler…

1. Game of Thrones

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So, last Sunday was, possibly, one of the best episodes of Game of Thrones. The battle scene, shown above, was one of the most intense and best things I have ever seen on television. Kit Harrington, who plays Jon Snow, was amazing in this episode and totally deserves to win some awards. I mean, he really had 100 horses charging at him. That is not CGI!! Unfortunately, my HBO Now stream was locked up (as was the rest of the world, apparently), so I ended up having to stay up an hour later than usual to actually watch the episode. I was NOT looking forward to spending an entire day off the Interwebs if I saved it to watch the following day. It was totally worth it, but damn, it through off the rest of my week for sure.

All that being said, tonight is the season finale! OMG!!! I hope HBO Now isn’t bogged down this week and that the finale lives up to this past week…because…DAMN!

2. Blueberry Picking

First of all…yes…I picked the blueberries pictured above. I went to Bryant’s Blueberries with the intention of only picking 5 pounds of berries…but the crop of Blue Crop berries this week were AMAZING! I mean…big and ripe and awesome. Oh yes…I was in a good place. So, as it was bound to happen…I got 10 more pounds. WORTH IT. These are the best blueberries I have ever had. Forget anything you get in the store. I don’t know if more jam will be in the future, but I think some blueberry bagels and/or waffles and/or pancakes will be happening. And blueberry muffins are definitely happening.

3. Louisville City FC…SOCCER BABY!!

So, on Tuesday (which meant I did my hill repeats in the heat of the day…after 2 spin classes on Monday), and last night, I was at Louisville Slugger Field, not for baseball…but for soccer!! I am a season ticket holder to Louisville’s very own professional soccer team. In fact, last night’s match was broadcast on ESPN3. Which is pretty cool. We also had our highest attendance record to date, finally breaking that 10,000 mark. In fact, it was 10, 062 showed up for the match last night.

But, beyond that, after the match on Tuesday night, I got to get my picture with my favorite player this year, Enrique Montano (#20). I look horrible in the picture, as I still had my hat on (I hate hats), and I had been melting in that heat I had been speaking about…but this picture is…awesome! I love when the payers come over to the midfield section to meet the fans. And Montano is very good about that. Happiness.

If you’re local and haven’t made it to a Louisville City FC match yet…stop delaying. Our team leads our division…so we’re pretty awesome. It’s worth it

4. Fun Hair

I don’t think it will last for long, but on Wednesday afternoon, I went to my hairdresser and we got a little funky with my hair. Teal. Yes…I dyed my hair teal. Not all of it, but quite a bit of it. The problem is, I workout and run quite often, so I sweat. And my hair, just being blonde, doesn’t hold color too well. So, I’m enjoying it while it lasts, but it’s already, sadly, fading.

5. Roadside Assistance

I’m not talking about AAA or the local trucks that stop and help out stranded drivers. Nope. I’m talking about a super-amazing project that I am a part of with some great friends of mine. One of my girls, Indy (aka: Jennifer), had a spark of genius about creating a project that centers around the songs released off of Peter Cincotti’s new album. Since Exit 105 was released the other day, Indy put together a Tumblr blog and posted a recipe already for a cocktail based off the song “Long Way From Home.” So from now until Peter’s birthday on July 11th, we’ll be developing and sharing recipes inspired by the songs on the EP. These will be shared everywhere we can think to post them, but will also be collected onto a Tumblr blog-http://exit105-roadside-assistance.tumblr.com/ Check it out!!

And if you are unfamiliar with the talent of Peter Cincotti…discover him…NOW!

Did you do anything amazing, fun, and/or exciting this past week? Ever dye your hair a crazy color? Got any fun plans for the upcoming 4th of July holiday?

June 25, 2016

Product Review: Pillsbury Gluten Free Sugar Premium Cookie Mix

20160619_180954 — Gluten Free Sugar Cookies made from Pillsbury Gluten Free Sugar Premium Cookie Mix (and topped with Dollop Gourmet Hot Chocolate Spread Frosting and sprinkles)

Product: Pillsbury Gluten Free Sugar Premium Cookie Mix – $3.99+

I blame my neighbor. I do. Because she knows how much I like to cook and bake and make tasty treats for myself, my roomie, my friends, my co-workers, and just…people in general. So, while she was out at one of the discount stores, she snagged me four (4)…yes…FOUR…boxes of the Pillsbury Gluten Free Sugar Premium Cookie Mix and one (1) box of the Immaculate Baking Company’s Gluten Free Fudge Brownie Cookie Dough. I love it when she surprises me with gluten free goodies.

All that being said…I was out at Michael’s a couple of weekends ago and spotted a T-Rex cookie cutter. Don’t judge. My roommate loves dinosaurs. Yes…she’s in her mid-30s…but…that’s just who she is. And then…there was the Unicorn cookie cutter. UNICORN COOKIE CUTTER. I used to have a unicorn collection. I am a Boston Marathon runner. Unicorns are sort of my spirit animal.

Now, sugar cookies and I don’t have the best relationship. Every time I have attempted to make them, be it from a mix or from scratch…they have been ultimate fail. And, while the Pillsbury Gluten Free Sugar Premium Cookie Mix gives instructions for round cookies, I really wanted to make cut-out cookies. So, learning from my past in sugar cookie baking, I made up the dough and wrapped it in Saran wrap before sticking it in the back of the fridge and letting it chill while I was out and about running errands that day.

That afternoon, when I returned…and called my dad to wish him a Happy Father’s Day…I set out rolling out the chilled dough between two pieces of plastic wrap, flattening it out. Then, I took my new cookie cutters and carefully (there were some really tiny parts that were not easy to come out of the cookie cutter (hello unicorn horn)) cut out T-Rex and Unicorn shapes as I chatted with my dad. The mix set up perfectly for this…and I kept it chilling when I wasn’t using it. So, onto a baking sheet these cookies went and…BAM…into a preheated 375°F oven.

So, while these are virtually baking in my blog, let me tell you how easy this mix is to make. All you need is the cookie mix, 1/2 cup of butter (I used Earth Balance Vegan Butter Sticks – room temperature), 1 tablespoon water, and 1 egg. Simply combine all of the ingredients in a medium bowl and mix until soft dough is formed. From here, you can form dough by rounded teaspoons and put onto a baking sheet 2 inches apart…or you can chill it like I did (this was me being stubborn…I wanted cut-out cookies, dammit!) and roll it out after it’s chilled and cut out fun shapes like dinosaurs and unicorns. Adults can have fun-shaped sugar cookies too, you know?

I lost track on the first batch as my dad was a fun and worthwhile distraction. These bake for about 8-10 minutes, except in my oven, because it is old and doesn’t get as warm as it says at times. So, the cookies weren’t ready after 10 minutes, so I figured I’d go for 2 more minutes. Didn’t set a timer, and as I was rolling out the second batch and chatting with my dad…remembered those were in there and pulled them out. The edges got a little toasted, but they were still fine. I noted, much to my dad’s amusement, that the unicorns became fat unicorns. They did spread slightly…but still resembled the original shape.

20160619_141650 — T-Rex and Unicorn Cut-Out Sugar Cookies made from Pillsbury Gluten Free Sugar Premium Cookie Mix

While out grocery shopping early that weekend, I picked up a jar of Dollop Gourmet Hot Chocolate Spread Frosting. And some green sparkle sprinkles for the dinosaur cookies. I had rainbow sprinkles at home already for the unicorn cookies. HA! So, after the cookies cooled and I was off the phone and not browning the edges of the rest of the cookies, I cooked dinner…and knew these cookies would be dessert.

I snagged one T-Rex and one Unicorn cookie and gave each a schmear of the Dollop Gourmet Hot Chocolate Spread Frosting. Topped each off with some sprinkles…and dessert was ready.

I have been really impressed with the Pillsbury Gluten Free products, and these were no exception. This mix was not only easy to make…but tasted great. I always had a soft spot in my heart for sugar cookies (I used to bake them with all the neighborhood kids at a neighbor’s home every Christmas)…because they are so versatile. Top them off with frosting, sprinkles, stuff them with ice cream, or more frosting…add nuts or chocolate chips…the possibilities are endless. Sugar cookies are the ultimate decoration cookie. And while I’m not big on frosting at all (I really am not a fan), these required delicious frosting (hence…Dollop Gourmet), and sprinkles…because sprinkles are awesome.

Know what else is awesome? These cookies. They have that buttery flavor, with a touch of the sweetness from the sugar in the mix. I asked my roommate what she thought and she said they tasted just like “regular” sugar cookies. And they should. The only difference is rice flour and tapioca starch and potato starch replace the all-purpose flour that would go into regular ones. These cookies have that nice crunch on the outer edge with a soft center. SO good. And this made SO many of these. So, I have sugar cookies for days…and am wondering if I’ll ever run out at this point. At least they are amazing and yummy.

So, let’s discuss what Pillsbury puts into their Gluten Free Sugar Premium Cookie Mix, shall we? This mix is a blend of sugar, rice flour, tapioca starch, canola oil, potato startch, contains 2% or less of: salt, baking soda, cellulose, xanthan gum, cellulose gum, natural and artificial flavors.

As for nutrition information…keep in mind…these are sugar cookies. Mmmm…cookies. COOKIE MONSTER strikes again. Anyway, a serving size is 1/18th of the mix (if you make the drop cookies, this box makes 3 dozen; if you make the cut-out cookies, it varies. I got 22 cookies in mine). A serving size (for drop) is 2 cookies and for the cut-outs 1 cookie. This serving (when prepared per package instructions) will provide you with 160 calories, 6 grams fat, 3.5 grams saturated fat, 0 grams trans fat, 25 mg cholesterol, 240 mg sodium, 24 grams carbohydrates, 14 grams sugars, 1 gram protein.

I am very happy with the mix that Pillsbury has created for those of us who, perhaps, missed the amazing cookies that a company like Pillsbury puts out. I am also intending to use a box of this to make Strawberry Streusel Bars or Peanut Butter & Jelly Bars for the office birthday party that is happening next week. Just have to decide on which one I want to make. Trust me, with an office that usually turns its nose up at anything that is gluten-free, I wouldn’t serve this mix to them if I didn’t think it was worth it.

Thank you, Pillsbury, for making gluten-free baking mixes for those of us who love to have an easier and more convenient way to make cookies. Especially sugar cookies. Because sugar cookies are evil. But this was so easy and my cut-out cookies were…perfect.

And that always makes this cookie monster happy!!

June 19, 2016

Recipe: Gluten Free & Dairy Free Lemon Blueberry Scones

So, this past weekend, I did something I have never done before…but, believe it or not…it was on my Summer Bucket List. I went and picked blueberries. Yes…I went out…in nature…to a local blueberry farm and spent 2 hours with my roommate, Cathy, picking over 10 pounds of blueberries.

What does one do with 10 pounds of blueberries, you might ask.

Well…I make a killer blueberry jam. And I did that with 5 pounds of them. And then…before we even picked them, back when only jam was in the plan, she kept saying that I was going to make Lemon Blueberry Scones. This was news to me…but I seriously hate to disappoint. So, after spending an afternoon making gluten-free sugar cookies and then…my famous blueberry jam…I got to work on some scones.

I LOVE scones, but haven’t made them in quite a long time. But…any excuse for scones, right? So…I got to work and this is what I baked up…

Recipe: Gluten Free & Dairy Free Lemon Blueberry Scones

Servings: 8
Time: Prep 15 minutes; Bake 30 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, plus more for hands and work surface (I used 1-2-3 Gluten Free All-Purpose)
6 Tablespoons (75g) granulated sugar
2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
zest of 1 large lemon
1/2 cup (115g) vegan butter, cold and grated (I used Earth Balance)
1/2 cup (120ml) coconut cream
1 large egg (or egg replacer)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

Glaze Ingredients:

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 Tablespoon lemon zest

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F. Adjust baking rack to the middle-low position.

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.

Grate the cold butter (I use a box grater; a food processor also works). Toss the grated butter into the flour mixture and combine it with a pastry cutter, a fork, or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk the cream, egg, and vanilla together. Drizzle it over the flour mixture and then toss the mixture together with a rubber spatula until everything appears moistened.

Slowly and gently fold in the blueberries. Try your best to not overwork the dough at any point. Dough will be a little wet.

Work the dough into a ball with floured hands as best you can and transfer to a floured surface. Press into a neat 8″ disc and cut into 8 equal wedges with a very sharp knife. Place scones at least 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Brush top with extra coconut cream and sprinkle with lemon (or plain) turbinado sugar.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes.

To make the glaze, simply whisk the confectioners’ sugar and 2 Tablespoons lemon juice together until smooth. Add 1 Tablespoon of lemon zest. Drizzle glaze over scones.

~*~*~

These scones are best enjoyed right away, although leftover scones will keep at room temperature for 2 days. These freeze well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat up to your liking.

Want an amazing way to start your day…you gotta bake up some of these!! ENJOY!

June 19, 2016

Moving Forward…No Regrets

You know…it’s heating up outside. Yes. It is. And I sort of love it. I really, really do! I mean, I don’t want those blazing hot triple digits, but I have been waiting for the warmer weather…and suffered through the chilly, cold, bitter winter. We never really have spring here, so…yeah, I’ve been waiting for this.

Yesterday was beautiful. It was humid, but definitely not as stifling as last week. And I met with my training partner in a new space with new people…the Louisville Landsharks. Most of them were keeping their runs down to an hour or 2-6 miles, as they were all doing the TriLouisville triathlon this morning. As he and I are both running hilly races (and selfishly, we really didn’t want to take on Eastern Parkway), we continued on into Iroqouis Park, and ran all the way to the top and then back. It was one of my best training runs to date. I felt good during and after. Now before…before…not so much. Let’s take a look at some stuff this week.

1. Grandma’s Marathon
When I started back to training this past January, after being cleared to run, and getting approval from Katie, my physical therapist, to follow the Norton Training Program as they all prepped for a late April marathon or half marathon (I ran the half), it was all part of going back and forth between the full and half training program as I prepped for the NYC Half Marathon and then…Grandma’s Marathon. I was signed up to run it. It’s my grandpa’s absolute favorite marathon. And this year…it was their 40th Anniversary. Big!! I pepped for this by jumping right into a 20 miler in April because…I needed to see how my body could handle long, long distance. I came out of it feeling great. But I didn’t feel ready. So I transferred my bib and that was that. The race ran yesterday…and that morning, I felt good. I felt really good. Physically, I could have gone out and run this marathon and completed it. But I think, mentally, I need more time before tackling the 26.2 mile distance. So, while giving up my spot in that marathon was the best choice, it wasn’t an easy one. I don’t regret it…but I know I could have done it…now. Even though the race did get black flagged due to extreme heat. Runners were allowed to stay out…but that’s pretty intense. Still…I do sort of wish I had gone…but I know this will just make me better and more prepared (mentally) for my brutal (but beautiful) September race.

2. The Best Water Stop Ever

Need a good laugh? Check this out. As I mentioned, Matthew and I were running 14 miles yesterday and we took it to the hills. Along the way, there are a few spots we can stop to refill our water bottles. When the weather gets this humid and hot, hydration is important. So, on our way back to our starting point, we made our final water stop, thinking we were actually embarking on closer to 15 miles (which was fine…) to finish up. We filled up at the water fountain, took some swigs and poured the water over our heads to cool down. And started on our way again. Only to see that our finishing point…was not but 0.15 miles away. Seriously, we rounded the corner from the little alcove the water fountain was in and…BOOM. We could see our start point. We both busted out laughing. But it did get us to our 14 miles we set out to run…so there was that. This is what happens when you do something new. You don’t exactly know how much further you have to go. HA!

3. Mediterranean Food

My roommate might be addicted to a meal that I make…although not too often. I say this because last night, I had the bright idea of making some Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) for dinner. I had one last batch of grape leaves in the fridge to use. But…as I went to get dinner prepped, as the rice was cooling…I noticed the grape leaves had gone bad. I told her we’d just have them tomorrow, but she insisted she’d been looking forward to them all day, and actually went out to Meijer to pick up more grape leaves. That was how much she wanted me to make these. So…for dinner, I cooked up the dolmades, served it with tzatziki and a side salad of greens and veggies and a garlic vinaigrette. It was really good. I love making these. Sort of labor intensive…but worth it. Besides, the Mediterranean Diet has been proven to be the healthiest one out there. Consider me…a giver of health. HA!

4. How A Superhero Learns To Fly…

So…last Sunday, I had my friend Natalie over for dinner. I cooked up Smokey Zucchini Cakes with a Creamy Lemon Sauce, and some Cauliflower Breadsticks. She brought the fruit. SO GOOD! And then, we all settled in to watch Zootopia, rounding out the Disney Animated Movies In Order (as it is currently the last one) marathon. She had never seen it, so that was fun. But, during the movie, there was a loud BANG that sounded at the door. Instead of cowering and wondering what it was, Cathy, Natalie and I sprung up to go check it out. We ain’t afraid of no ghost…intruder…whatever it was. Turned out it was the wind, but it we all laughed at how we were ready to get our crime fighter mode on. Which started this talk about being Superheroes. Which lead to Cathy in a Jane hat (Firefly), carrying a Captain America shield (Marvel), with a cloak on (Lord of the Rings) and a pipe…for some reason (Sherlock), armed with a plunger (Dr. Who); Natalie in a pirate hat and coat, armed with a pistol and sword; and me in a mermaid dress and a squid hat carrying a Dinglehopper…er…I mean a fork…

We were…the Fandom Fighters…and we went outside in public like this and got caught by one of my neighbors. It was so much fun. I haven’t laughed like that in a long time.

Don’t ask why I have a mermaid dress…

5. Blueberry Picking

Cross another thing off the Summer Bucket List. For real. Yesterday…after my humid and hot run, and after refueling with some Allergen Free Biscuits and Jam from Annie May’s Sweet Cafe…Cathy and I headed out to New Salisbury, Indiana, to Bryant’s Blueberries. There, under the screaming hot, mid-day sun…we picked 10 pounds of blueberries. What am I doing with 10 pounds of blueberries. Jam!! I am making jam. And, apparently, scones. Because Cathy keeps mentioning scones. And…I’m sue there will be pancakes. Pancakes are always a good idea. Or…maybe donuts. Hmmm…I’ve been meaning to make some donuts.

Or maybe…blueberry bagels. I need to make bagels. I might make bagels…I should make bagels.

Anyway…I have ALL THE BLUEBERRIES!! Blueberries for days!!!

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And I’m known for my jam…so…I can’t wait to give some of these out to people!!

6. Finding Dory

Well, the Renaissance Faire is a no-go this weekend. It is, after all, Father’s Day weekend. That being said, Cathy and I needed to fill in some time…so we are off to see Finding Dory this morning. SO excited for this sequal. Finding Nemo is probably my 2nd favorite Pixar movie (the first being Inside Out). So, this is a big huge deal for me. And I’m so excited to go. Other than being a film lover, and someone who used to want to animate for Disney, I just love the Finding Nemo story. And it is INCREDIBLE how far technology has come since the release of the original movie in 2003.

7. Earth to Echo

Okay…I realize that the film, Earth to Echo, came out over 2 years ago, but I’ve been in this 2 year loop of ALL THE DISNEY ANIMATED MOVIES for the past 2 years. So, now I’m watching movies I wanted to see, but couldn’t since Disney was taking over my life, time, and movie watching time slot. I had my eyes on Earth to Echo for a long while…as it was made as an homage to Spielberg. I mean, the plot is pretty much lifted from E.T., but also borrows heavily from The Goonies and other 80s movies about kids hanging out and doing things. But it is filmed in that old-school Spielberg technique which just makes you feel like you are right there in the movie itself. I didn’t expect too much, but this film was adorable and I loved every moment of it. Seriously. If you overlooked this one…it’s on Netflix…go watch it…NOW.

8. Father’s Day

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And…last, but not least…HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!! My dad has been such a steadfast, supportive, and integral part of my life. I may live in a totally different state, but he has always cheered for me, guided me, and helped me to understand the value of making it in the world…on my own. He’s why I am a strong, independent woman. My dad is one of the nicest men in the world, still opening doors for my mom, my sister and me when we are with him, still waits at the security check until I am completely through at the airport, and still wants to take me out to eat when I come visit. He’s my (super) hero…and I am lucky to have such an amazing man to call my dad!!

Did you do anything special in honor of Father’s Day? Seen any good movies lately? Ever pick blueberries?

Hope everyone had an epic week!!

June 12, 2016

Because…SUMMER!

Guess what…

Like it or not…summer is here. This…this is the weather of my people!! Yes…I understand that I was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota…but let’s ignore that for a moment and focus on the fact that…THIS is the weather of my people.

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I love summer. Even the hot temperatures that slow me down when I’m out running. Goal this summer…to not be injured and out all summer. The past two years…that’s exactly what has happened.

NOT. THIS. YEAR. (I hope). So…with that in mind…

1. My fist humid, hot, sunny run… (IN SUMMER!!)

So, it only seems fitting that my first hot run back this year was done with two of my favorite people to run with…Tammy and Matt. We headed out early on Saturday, trying to beat as much of the heat as possible to get in our 15 miles. It was brutal (humidity-wise), but it kept me on pace and I had good conversations and we pushed through our miles that morning, finishing up just after 9 am.

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This picture represents your brain on 15 hot, humid miles on hills. Whew.

2. Morning Running, Soccer and Dinner with my Sole Sister…(IN SUMMER!!)

I was THRILLED to have company on my Thursday morning run this past week. I am usually doing my (early) morning runs solo, but Natalie had this past week off for vacation and we managed to work it out so that we could run together one morning. The best option was Thursday…I had 5 miles on tap so she came over around 4 a.m. and we headed out, running together down to the YMCA and then back to the apartment. We had great discussions and enjoyed the last morning of cooler temps.

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And then last night we put our season tickets to work by taking in the Louisville City FC (that would be Louisville’s professional soccer team…they play at Slugger Field and if you haven’t gone to a match, you’re missing out!) match. It was hot, but what a game. We were up in the 2nd half…until a late goal by Wilmington Hammerheads FC tied it up in stoppage time. And, while we put though a valiant effort to come back, we just didn’t have time. So we drew…2-2. MEH. But I’ll take a draw over a loss. Tonight, Natalie is coming over for dinner. I’m cooking up some Cauliflower Breadsticks and Smokey Zucchini Cakes. There will probably be peach wine too.

3. Cotton Candy Gapes…(IN SUMMER!!)

Nothing makes me happier than the return of Cotton Candy Gapes!!

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If you haven’t tried these yet…you are SO missing out. These plump, juicy, all-natural green grapes (non-GMO too) is a new variety of grape that is brought to you by Grapey. These grapes actually do taste like that pink spun-sugar treat that you get at festivals and fairs. And I mean exactly like cotton candy. Cathy spotted these at the Whole Foods in Louisville yesterday, so this is my afternoon snack this week!! So excited. I do know that Kroger eventually started carrying them last year. Anyway, if you love cotton candy, but could do without all the stickiness and ALL THE GRANULATED SUGAR that comes in that fluffy treat…these grapes…will blow your mind. They will blow your mind anyway. Try them. Trust me.

4. Zootopia on Blu-ray…(IN SUMMER!!)

Well, I wrapped up the Disney Animated Movies In Order marathon viewing last weekend, but one more was just released. And it is one of my favorites. ZOOTOPIA! And you better believe I went out to Target on Tuesday and snagged a copy of it.

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Seriously…I am Officer Judy Hopps. She’s totally just like me. I relate to this. You will too. If you missed seeing this one…or wasn’t sure what to make of it…trust me…you’ll love it. Redbox it, Netflix it, Buy it. But WATCH IT!

5. Louisville Says Goodbye To The Champ…(IN SUMMER!!)

Okay, I almost didn’t take on the “in summer” part there…but it’s the theme. Regardless, on Friday, Louisville, Kentucky put on a beautiful, memorable goodbye to The Greatest. Muhammad Ali’s procession, burial, and memorial was held in Louisville this past week and it was a memorable and beautiful event.

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All week since he passed away, the Muhammad Ali Center in downtown Louisville became a memorial to the late boxer. Now, I didn’t grow up watching boxing or knowing much about the sport. That being said, I do know a lot about Muhammad Ali. You can’t live in this city and not know much about The Greatest. I was able to watch the last couple hours of the memorial service after work on Friday and the speeches were amazing. Billy Crystal was fantastic when he spoke. I was tearing up during different speeches and admired how stoic the family members were. He was laid to rest in Cave Hill Cemetery. This city mourned, celebrated, and came together to celebrate the life of this hometown hero. RIP, CHAMP. RIP!

My trip to the Ren Faire this weekend has been pushed to next weekend, which is good…because I think I would have melted out there today. I want to get out and about at some point because I don’t do well just sitting around the apartment on a Sunday, but it will be in air conditioning.

Anyone else happy to have the warmer temps? What is your favorite part of summer?

Stay warm…or cool…or however you like it!

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May 30, 2016

Enjoying the Ride into the Long Weekend

Sometimes the hardest things in life to do is to branch out of the norm and try something new. However, the only way to grow, to experience, and to become…is to step outside of your comfort zone. I certainly did that a couple of times this week…and it’s not easy…it’s quite scary…but it’s helping me more than I can even see at the moment.

As the holiday weekend is shifting into gear, and I have an extra day off from work, I’m trying not to focus on everything I’ll have to attempt to do to stay caught up at work the four days I’ll be there, and instead focusing on a few things that I get to enjoy while not working on Monday.

YAY!

So…with that sort of attitude in mind…here are a few things that have made this week amazing.

1. Clipping Into A Road Bike

Me on my 2nd attempt at riding - 5 miles - before I took my first (of many) falls. — Me on my 2nd attempt at riding – 5 miles – before I took my first (of many) falls.

I made huge progress this week with riding my road bike. BB-8 has been sitting against the wall of my room in the apartment…but I wasn’t able to ride him until I had him properly fitted. And I had that done last week…and was eager to get on the bike and ride. It’s scary, using clipless pedals on a bike outside. But, my first attempt was twice around the parking lot without any issues. I was feeling confident on Friday night. And then on Saturday afternoon, I headed back out…deciding I’d still keep to the parking lot, but aim for mileage. So I did 5 miles. In my last mile…I was making a turn, and a car came out…and I panicked. I attempted to brake and forgot that I was clipped in, so I tried to put my foot down, was stuck, tried to unclip, but was now off-balance and BOOM…down I went. Totally crashed down on my right hip and side. The right hip is the injured hip, but, I thankfully have some nice padding there and just came out of it with a bit of road rash on my elbow and lower arm, a scraped up right knee, and a bit of a bruised ankle. I was fine…more embarassed than anything. The driver, a young 20-something, stopped and hopped out of his car, asking me if I needed help, but I was already unclipped and pulling myself back up. I told him I was fine and I took a few deep breaths, clipped back in, and finished my ride. After that, I had enough for the night.

2. Finishing up the Disney Animated Movies In Order Movie Marathon
It took two (2) years, but last night, Cathy and I finished up our attempt to watch every single Disney Animated Movie (available on DVD or Blu-Ray, or for purchase to view on Netflix/Hulu/Amazon) in order from their theater release date. We started with Snow White over two years ago and last night wrapped it up with The Good Dinosaur. Zootopia comes out in a couple of weeks, and we will watch that after I purchase it, but as of last night…we completed our bucket list goal of watching every single Disney (and later Pixar) animated feature, including a few hybrids like Mary Poppins, Tron, and Tron: Legacy. It was a lot of fun revisiting some films…and realizing they were either better than I remembered (Oliver & Company)…or worse than I remembered (The Sword & The Stone)…and some I hadn’t seen yet and was surprised I liked (Planes and Planes: Fire & Rescue). Next up, after we view a few movies we have been meaning to watch, but had Disney taking over our lives…Spielberg movies. YAY!

3. Strawberries…Strawberries For Days…

13316930_10100110186174921_1856675590051574492_o — Jars of my homemade strawberry jam…processed and ready for giving away!

On Sunday morning, I ran in the Run For The Berries 5K up in Starlight, Indiana. I love this race, and hadn’t run it since 2013 due to other commitments (2014 Buffalo Marathon) and injury (all of 2015). One of my favorite things about this race is the big bowl of strawberries I purchase after running. This year, I turned in an amazing time (not a PR), clocked a new fastest mile (6:48) and conquered some hills. I came in first in my age division as well…which was exciting. But one of my favorite things to do after the 5K and scoping out the festival is to drive over to Huber’s Family Farm and buy a LOT of strawberries. I got enough to use with my yogurt bowls, my PB&J Breakfast Bowls, and to make some homemade strawberry jam. YUMMY!! I do love my berries!!

4. The Most Perfect Soft Pretzel Wednesday

Annie May's Sweet Cafe Allergen Free Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel — Annie May’s Sweet Cafe Allergen Free Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel

When you are a Celiac, simple pleasures like soft pretzels don’t happen every day. In fact, they happen very infrequently. Unless, you live near my local allergen-free bakery here in Louisville, Kentucky. Every Wednesday, Annie May’s Sweet Cafe, on Frankfort Avenue, host Soft Pretzel Wednesday, offering three varieties of pretzels each week: Salt, Cinnamon-Sugar, and Everything. And, every week they are amazing. But there was something so delicious about this past week’s pretzels. They were the perfect size. They had that perfect crust on the outside and chewy center in each bite. Serious pretzel perfection. I was one happy lady!

5. The Monkees
So, it’s Memorial Day. And after my morning run and a little bit of final grocery shopping for stuff I realized I needed but forgot to put on the list, didn’t realize needed to be on the list, or just didn’t buy enough of something. So, while working in the kitchen and around the apartment, Cathy and I threw on the DVDs of The Monkees. I can still recite the episodes from memory…that’s how much I watched these. HAHA!! Seriously, you don’t get nicknamed Monkeegirl in school without having The Monkees to thank for it. It’s been amusing to revisit these episodes and just…relax and enjoy the holiday off of work. Their latest album was released on Friday…I haven’t gotten out to FYE to purchase it.

6. Outlets & Lunch with Amanda, Richie, and Cathy

Taziki's Gluten Free Dolmades Plate (Stuffed Grape Leaves) — Taziki’s Gluten Free Dolmades Plate (Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves)

On Sunday morning, Cathy & I met up with Amanda & Richie (that’s Cathy’s sister and brother-in-law) at the Outlets of the Bluegrass in Simpsonville, Kentucky for some shopping and hanging out and just escaping real life for a moment. Amanda said she needed help finding shoes for her maxi dress and I found her a cute, strappy pair. I finally replaced the Sketchers that I use as my airport shoes/spin class shoes (they slip on and off), I purchased a new sports bra, Amanda found some shorts, Richie got some shoes and shirts…it was a successful day. And then…we went to one of my favorite places to eat…Tazikis Mediterranean Grill in Louisville, on Shelbyville Road. LOVE their food. And they do a good job with food allergies…when they remember to prepare the dish properly. The past two times, they have had to remake my dish…but it gets fixed. They are normally much better than that. If you haven’t eaten there yet…you need to. Check to see if there is one in your area! Healthy, amazing food. I love their Dolmades Plate (the vegetarian stuffed grape leaves done gluten-free) and Cathy, Amanda and Richie got their favorites…the Lamb Gyro. I love good times and good eats with good friends!

7. Sweet ‘N Savory Food Truck & Steel City Pops

Gluten Free The Eccentric Crepe from Sweet 'N Savory and a Strawberry Lemonade Popsicle & Pineapple Popsicle from Steel City Pops — Gluten Free The Eccentric Crepe from Sweet ‘N Savory and a Strawberry Lemonade Popsicle & Pineapple Popsicle from Steel City Pops

On Saturday, after the Strawberry Festival and before heading to Annie May’s for treats for that evening and the following morning, Cathy and I stopped by the Fleur de Flea at Waterfront Park. The main reason…Sweet ‘N Savory Food Truck. It’s under new ownership, but the crepes are still being done 100% gluten-free. And they are using all of Richard & Ashley’s recipes. The new owner, Brandon, knows the importance of keeping things gluten free as his wife is a Celiac. So the truck and recipes are in good hands. Brandon was on his own when we arrived, only one of his crepe stones functioning, and his help not having shown up yet. Service was slow, but as always, worth the wait. He was doing the best he could with what he had, for sure. I got one of my favorites…The Eccentric. OM NOM NOM!! And afterwards, while we normally would get the gelato, I had heard so much about Steel City Pops, we decided to try them out. Cathy got the Strawberry Lemonade popsicle and I went with the Pineapple. OMG…I’m stopping by the store on Bardstown Road and buying a bunch of flavors…these were phenomenal. All natural…gluten-free…vegan…and amazing. LOVE helping out local businesses!

I hope everyone has been enjoying their long weekend, spending time with people that mean the world to them, and eating amazing things!! And I hope everyone took some time to remember those who fought and died for this country that we live in and the freedoms we enjoy!

May 28, 2016

Run For The Berries 5K – Starlight, IN (May 28, 2016)

029 — Me crossing the finish line of the Run For The Berries 5K – Starlight, Indiana

Race: Run for the Berries 5K

Place: Starlight, Indiana

Date: May 28, 2016

Time: 22:24

There are a lot of things people run for. For some…beer. For some…donuts. For some…pizza. For others…wine. For me…FRUIT!! I love fruit. There is nothing quite as amazing as a giant bowl of cold, wet watermelon after a hot summer run. In fact, this is my favorite thing to eat in the summer after I run…whether it’s a short weekday run or that long slow distance on the weekend!

So, trust me, whenever the Run For The Berries 5K rolls around every year…I’m always eager to take part. Why? Because strawberries…EVERYWHERE. Yes…I will run for berries. Hell, I’ll run for any type of fruit, honestly. YUMMY!! And while you don’t get any for free, there is nothing better than rewarding yourself after a hard run with a big bowl of strawberries and a cold frozen strawberry drink.

I wasn’t actually signed up this year for the Run For The Berries 5K in Starlight, Indiana this year. Like I said, every race has sort of been a last-minute decision thing due to the hip issues and how I never know exactly how I’m going to feel from one day to another. I haven’t actually participated in the Run For The Berries 5K since 2013 (when I was in my best racing shape…and at my fastest). In 2014, I was in Buffalo, New York for the Buffalo Marathon, and last year I wasn’t running anything…at all. I was a miserable pile of non-running self-pity and hurty hip things. So, it was nice to come back to this one. This is my fourth time running this local 5K and I will always do it whenever I am able.

Today…despite some slight twinging in the hip first thing in the morning…I was going to do it. I filled out the registration form at work on Friday and had it all set to go in the morning. Cathy offered to pay my $25 registration fee because…bills…bills have been plaguing me recently and I am slightly broke at the moment. So that was awesome. So I got up early (4:00 am) to get my PT stretches, dynamic warmup, and some plyometrics in prior to the race. I did my core work as well. And then made a dash (in the car) up to Kroger because I needed a pre-race banana. This is not a want…this is a NEED. I went ahead and grabbed a few other necessary groceries while I was out. Got home just before 6:00 am. Cathy and I had some cereal for breakfast with some coffee (for the kid and adult in each of us) and proceeded to keep saying we needed to get off the couch and get moving, but neither of us really making an effort. Ah well. The good thing was, any tenderness or soreness in the hip had worked itself out…so I was feeling good.

Teeth were brushed and I put my hair up in pigtails and got out my Bondi Band of choice. I went ahead and put some water in my Kara Goucher water bottle and popped a NUUN tablet in it for some electrolytes before Cathy grabbed the sign, the race bag, and we headed out for the race.

We left early, because Cathy wanted to make sure we had plenty of time for her to get lost on the way there. We don’t go up that way often, but, there are signs that point the right way. The drive there was gorgeous with the sunrise and the beautiful houses out in the country. It’s always a nice ride up to Starlight. We followed the signs to the little field we always park in at the race and got situated into a spot.

004 — Pinned up and ready to run the Run For The Berries 5K – Starlight, Indiana

From there, it was into the main hall of the Strawberry Festival grounds to get officially registered for the race. I went up to the table with cash and the form already filled out…got my race bib (#180) and was given a t-shirt in the size I requested. The shirts were gray this year. And back to being in tech material. YAY!! I got pinned up, went to use the bathroom, and then we meandered around the grounds for a little while to kill some time. On the way out, I saw Renee from my spin class heading in. She wasn’t feeling good, but was running with a friend of hers who is training for her first triathlon. So, that’s really fun. We chatted for a moment and then she went to register and I went to meander, waiting for my good friend, Michelle, and her little boy, Liam, to arrive.

And then I ran into my friend Amber, whose husband Tim was running (and was 2nd male overall) in the race. Amber and I both have been dealing with hip labrum tears. She had surgery on hers…I didn’t. We’ve bonded over this. I’ve met a lot of good friends through having to sit out of running…and it has made me better for it. Amber and I are going to start riding bikes together once I get more comfortable on mine. YAY! Her kids were anxious for her to come and join them…so we parted ways and she said she’d cheer for me at the finish.

I love my friends.

We saw a lot of the fast runner people doing their strides and warming up prior to the race. So we headed that way so I could stretch. I think I did a quad stretch on each leg and called it a day, HA!! I’m so awful about stretching. We were all starting to move up to the orange cones that marked the start of the race. It was at this point that Michelle and Liam showed up, just in time, which made me SO happy!! We waved and they went to stand with Cathy just beyond the start point. Our race organizer got on the bullhorn and started to give some information about the race. Like male runners at the finish will have white cards to fill out; female runners will have pink; walkers will have yellow. OH…and if you are registered as a walker…and you run down a hill…you are now a runner. It made me laugh. And everyone else. Then…we had to wait for HIS Garmin to find satellites. He did…and the count was given. On your marks…runners set…and then the horn.

018 — Total game face on at the start of the Run For The Berries 5K – Starlight, Indiana

I took off…giving a nod to my cheering section. It was total game face though. Which is not like me, LOL!! Seriously. I’m so laid back but…game face. The first mile is a series of rolling hills…nothing too major. I was running comfortably, but speedy. I could tell I was speedy. In fact, at one point, I was thinking…”Wow…I’m ahead of Lynn.” And the moment I thought it, she passed me quite easily, not even breathing hard. HA!! That will teach me. Anyway…I was having a nice run…no pain…feeling good…not worrying over anything but holding steady and preparing for the hills ahead. Mile 1…perfectly measured…my watch beeped right at the marker. Turns out…it was a new fastest mile for me… I just wasn’t aware of it at the time.

Zen racer. I never look at my watch or obsess over pace. I run better when I don’t know.

I made the turn onto Engle Road and started into the second mile. I loved this part of the run because, soon after making the turn, I scooted past a cute little girl running with her dad. She was saying something about how what she loved about today’s run was she was running with older people. I turned my head and said, “You’re doing an amazing job!” She thanked me and said, “How old are you?!” She was aiming for first in her age division. HA!! I told her I was 35 and she was relieved. She was in the 14 and under group…and definitely under 14. That was an ego boost. This mile also brings in more rolling hills, but a few more downhills than uphills. We ran past Hubers Family Farm and continued down Engle Road. And then I made the turn into Mile 2. This is where the water stop is, but I just kept on running.

Because right there…RIGHT THERE…on Hill Road…is THE HILL. It’s like my friend, Amber, said later on Facebook…it’s not just the hill but WHERE the hill is in that race. At this point, your legs are tired and this hill is HUGE. I mean…it’s a steep, steep climb. So, I did my best to run up it, still lacking the power and strength that I used to have. I’m working on that…kinda. I’ll be working on that more. Hills might slow me down…my legs might not be able to maintain a fast pace for a long period of time…but maybe soon they will. It all takes time. And I’m sometimes impatient, LOL! After the hill, it’s just a few rollers and a couple of smaller climbs to the finish. You actually finish this race going uphill.

I could see it in the distance and I attempted to pick up the pace, but my legs were shot for the day. The best I could do was just focus. I had runners pass me up as I got a bit closer…which always pisses me off…they were all men…

034 — I don’t always drink a frozen strawberry drink after a 5K…but when I do, I’m at the Strawberry Festival!

I heard Cathy and Michelle and Liam all shouting and cheering. And as I ran by, I hear Amber yelling, “GO KAREN!” I really do have awesome friends. So, I pushed…and I saw I was in the 22 minutes…but it ticked past my 22:02 PR…and just ticked past the 2013 finish time of 22:19. But only by six minutes. I was tired, and hot, and a sweaty mess when I stopped…but I was so happy with that run. It was challenging and it was amazing and I came out of it without any pain. Not even a twinge.

I was handed a pink card at the finish showing I was the 8th woman to finish. Cathy said I definitely placed in my age division. We thought that in 2013 too, and I ran it faster, and didn’t…so I wasn’t going to hold my breath. We took some pictures and then meandered over to the festival to get a nice, cooling frozen strawberry drink. And our big bowl of strawberries (Cathy & Michelle got strawberry shortcakes). We went and took a seat at a table. Liam went to play on the slides and we sort of hung out, enjoyed our strawberry treats, and found a lot to laugh and talk about.

035 — You can’t do the Run For The Berries 5K and not eat a big bowl of strawberries! FOR REAL!

It was taking a lot longer than I remember to get to awards, so we decided to go hit up the booths at the festival. Cathy bought me this amazing crocheted Wonder Woman doll. This woman knits there fantastic dolls from Disney movies and other things. There was only one Wonder Woman doll. It was meant to be mine. There was also only one Captain America doll. Cathy went back and purchased that while I got her a purple star crown with blue and purple ribbons to wear. Seriously…we really are adults. Liam got his face painted for the first time and did a fantastic job sitting there while it was done. Then we went to watch Liam play some games and I purchased a thing of strawberries with a salted caramel dipping sauce. THIS. WAS. LIFE. CHANGING. I love salted caramel and was the first person to get this dip that day. I am so glad I did. It isn’t a combination that I ever considered. There were the usual suspects…chocolate and white chocolate. But you wave salted caramel ANYTHING at me…and I am buying it. THIS WAS AMAZING. I’m in love.

037 — I posed with a lot of stuff today. Someone needs to make me a spokesperson. LOL! This is the knitted Wonder Woman doll!

As Liam finished up his games, the announcement that the awards were going to be given out was announced. We made our way over there and saw all the male awards handed out first. My friend Amber’s hubby, Tim, won 2nd overall male, because he’s stupid fast…and amazing. And then the female awards were given out. And I was announced as the first female in my age division. WOOT WOOT!! Considering I didn’t place the previous time I ran..and ran it faster, this was a nice surprise. Exciting stuff. Cathy, Michelle and Liam all cheered loudly as I went to receive my award, this cute little pint glass thing.

And that was a wrap for the day. Liam wanted to go check out the bouncy houses and Cathy and I needed to go grocery shopping and hit up a few spots in Louisville. So, we parted ways and I went home to shower and change.

As it stands, the official results of the Run For The Berries 5K are that I finished in 22:24. Not a PR…but I clocked my first mile in 6:48, which is awesome. Now if only I could maintain that sort of pace. But these legs just aren’t there and aren’t ready. Maybe one day. Maybe not! Either way…super proud. I was the 8th female to cross the line and came in 1st in my division. If the official results ever get posted…I’ll update this accordingly.

Already looking forward to doing it again.

April 10, 2016

Winding Up A Windy Week

Whew.

Anyone else out there have to contend with stupid strong winds this week? I swear, it was strong winds all week. You know…those types of winds that, when you head out for a run, you are running into the wind…and when you turn around to come back…you are still running into the wind.

That being said, the cold temperatures have really wreaked havoc on my body. At least, I hope it’s the cold weather…hard to say when spring weather has all but disappeared…despite being mid-April-ish! UGH!

But that being said, there has been some amazing stuff going on this week for me too. Sometimes it might seem mundane, but, you know…simple things make me happy, and there is nothing wrong with that.

1. My new favorite piece of kitchen gear
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This…is a cutting board. This is a cutting board made by my super speedy, awesome, super-talented friend and running buddy, Dennis!! How amazing is this?! I love it. I tried it out all this week, and it seriously makes me happy just to chop up my vegetables and fruits and tofu…and whatever else needed a happy bit of chopping.

Dennis, you’re super talented and I thank you so much for this gift. Seriously, my favorite thing in the kitchen.

2. Game of Thrones

Okay, so, I don’t have cable. Nor do I have anything Apple that I could get HBO Go or whatever it was so I could watch Game of Thrones Season 5 while it was airing. This meant, I was dodging spoilers (and still am whenever an actor from the show starts trending). But, I purchased the Blu-Rays the other day, and have dived headlong into the season. I’ve gotten through half of the season so far and am eager to wrap it up. And then I need to figure out how to watch Season 6 as it airs…if possible. Shhh…no spoilers!

3. Cupcake of the Week

12957428_997472472111_3257918093010946888_o — Annie May’s Sweet Café Cupcake of the Week – Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake (vanilla cupcake filled with strawberry jam and topped with vanilla frosting and a fresh strawberry)

I have never been a cupcake person, but lately, Annie May’s Sweet Cafe, has been putting out a new weekly special…CUPCAKE OF THE WEEK! And they always just sound so amazing. I think I’ve only missed out on 2 of the weeks (once because I got a cookie, and the other because they were sold out). But it has been my favorite thing to check out when I go in for Soft Pretzel Wednesday. It’s usually the dessert I split with my roomie that night. A nice mid-week treat for sure. Anyway, some of the standouts have been the “Unicorn Cupcake,” the “Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake” and the “Hot Fudge Sunday Cupcake.” I missed the Cookie Dough one so maybe they’ll bring that one back sometime. All allergen-free…and all have been totally yummy!!

4. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Are you aware that the new Star Wars came out on Blu-Ray and DVD this week? I got the special edition at Walmart…because it had BB-8 on the cover. Dammit, I’m such a BB-8 fangirl. Regardless, I LOVED this movie. And I love the new characters. And I really love BB-8. So, yeah, I braved Walmart and bought the Blu-Ray this past week. I hear my Sphero BB-8 droid will react to the movie if I have him turned on and watching it when I am. So, yeah…that’s happening.

5. PB&J Breakfast Bowls

Want to know what my latest obsession is? Parfait bowls. Now, I’m not new to breakfast parfaits, but this is a brand new, and SUPER good way to eat them. And I have the Chobani Cafe in SoHo, NYC, to thank for it. I eat this every morning after the gym. And this coming week, with me heading out of town, this is breakfast all week. Super easy to make:

1 cup yogurt (vegan, Greek, etc.)
1/4 cup grapes, sliced
2 tablespoons natural grape jelly
2 tablespoons peanut butter (I use NuttZo!!) #NuttZoAmbassador #NuttZoFanatic #NuttZoLove #NuttZo
1 tablespoon peanuts

Place yogurt in a bowl. Scatter grapes over yogurt. Place the grape jelly in the center. Place the peanut butter around the edge of the bowl. Top off with nuts. Enjoy!

I have done variations on this, using orange marmalade and either Smudge, Nutella, or the NuttZo chocolate versions. Also strawberry with the chocolate Smudge, Nutella, or NuttZo is also delicious. Want a healthy but delicious breakfast? Make this. You’ll thank me for it!

6. I HAVE A ROAD BIKE!!

It finally happened. After years of talking about it. And over a year of trying to get one for myself, but always having medical bills (hello, MRIs) to cover instead…the perfect bike finally came into my life. Someone was selling their road bike that they hardly rode for a really good price. Way less than what the bike was originally purchased for. It had been sitting in her storage room. It came with all the gadgets and gizmos. And it is BB-8 colors, so it was truly meant to be. I’m taking it to get fitted properly for me so I don’t do any hip damage or get injured…and then…I’m road ready. FINALLY!! I love this bike. And, yes, I did name it BB-8.

How was your week? Has the wind in your area been crazy-strong and gusty too? What fun and exciting things do you have coming up? Buy anything fun this week?