tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39870279688985645532024-02-07T02:44:26.125-08:00eatingRDExperience everything about food, from recipe experiments at home, to dining out and trying new wines. Eating healthy doesn't have to be bland and boring, but can be filled with tasty travels . . .kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-90484741587786277412010-01-24T23:28:00.000-08:002010-01-24T23:30:37.528-08:00eatingRD has moved!<div style="text-align: center;">Hey guys! If you've come here, it's time to go to my new site:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eatingrd.com">http://eatingrd.com</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Also be sure to update your readers to: <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); line-height: 22px; "><strong style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">http://eatingrd.com/?feed=rss2</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); line-height: 22px; "><strong style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; color: rgb(17, 17, 17); line-height: 22px; "><span style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">Hope you enjoy the new site!</span></span></div>kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-84922009072207895742010-01-23T11:41:00.001-08:002010-01-23T11:43:44.177-08:00just a quick hello<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Hello!  I hope you all had a nice week!  I think Vegas has gotten more rain in these past 4 days than we have in all last year!  Crazy.  I can’t believe how much rain California is getting too.  Overall this week has been nice, work wasn’t too crazy, I got my committee together for my thesis (finally) and I may be doing a couple cooking classes for Whole Foods!  The site is sooo close, but there are a few things that I need help with still, so I just won’t say a date anymore :) ugh.  </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJeYXhqDzpYb1tVbeqGFcpbxGfK39c7wldO-DUFtsKeBHFArKYXHA6B3w2oORBYde-3l4-oNpQesz8S1OiBO1bBfDxgxkCfv-RJMqKQYOxCB_MkUvMJA7I6LePsfD-oqjwFrWGFfPWAY/s1600-h/IMG_7576%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_7576" border="0" alt="IMG_7576" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQvfRQJdI/AAAAAAAACJQ/s_EJ2ltDkCY/IMG_7576_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="217" height="324" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I got some pretty good workouts in this week:</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>Mon</u> - thanks to the handy dandy bike trainer I rode for about an hour watching SYTYCD & tweeting, all while it was pouring outside.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>Tues</u> - body pump was a nice hour full-body weight sesh</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>Wed</u> - Rest</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>Thurs</u> - 3.5 mile run, progress!!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>Fri</u> – early morning spin, woot!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We’ve been having some yummy eats too.  I’ll have to share a crockpot pesto chicken recipe with you soon.  I think this was the most tender white meat I’ve ever had.  Just melts in your mouth like butta’.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQv1RY6SI/AAAAAAAACJU/n-xAhpmilL8/s1600-h/IMG_7613%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7613" border="0" alt="IMG_7613" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQwS2oP-I/AAAAAAAACJY/zyxKfJlP0ok/IMG_7613_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">And is the bomb for paninis with gooey, crusty pesto cheese.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQw-CQckI/AAAAAAAACJc/D4pY-vPoWao/s1600-h/IMG_7670%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7670" border="0" alt="IMG_7670" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQxUEvz-I/AAAAAAAACJg/V4aHzt68bOs/IMG_7670_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I think I’m on a muesli kick this week and breakfast this morning was pretty tasty!  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQxt1CNwI/AAAAAAAACJk/SwNjo5dVD0E/s1600-h/IMG_7701%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7701" border="0" alt="IMG_7701" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQyKYq61I/AAAAAAAACJo/QENkDdozFeI/IMG_7701_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>This bowl included</u>:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/3 cup Bob’s Red Mill muesli mix</font> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/3 cup NF milk</font> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/3-1/2 cup TJ’s NF honey Greek yogurt</font> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 tsp chia seeds</font> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/4 naner</font> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">little squirt of agave + cinnamon</font> </li> </ul> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">This morning I added some Kashi Warm Cinnamon, 1/4 naner, grapes, peanut butter and Nutella!!  oh man the Nutella sent it over the top.  Yum!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Plus it just tastes better in a cute bowl :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQy0990JI/AAAAAAAACJs/dBPJq1irjtc/s1600-h/IMG_7712%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7712" border="0" alt="IMG_7712" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1tQzQZbNFI/AAAAAAAACJw/SsYHYFUFhhE/IMG_7712_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Sorry this is so short, I need to get to studying, researching, getting the site presentable, organizing about 2,000 pictures, making granola bars and prepping food for the week.  Kabocha black bean burgers are on the menu tonight!  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Happy Weekend to you all!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-76788051468901077262010-01-18T17:43:00.001-08:002010-01-18T17:51:34.555-08:00some good eats + quality time<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The best part about the weekend, aside from getting to sleep in till 7am and getting caught up with life, is being able to whip up some tasty meals and really enjoy the company of family.  Usually during the week I rush home to get something on the table, talk briefly about the day’s happenings and then spend the rest of the night trying to catch up on school work, research, blogs, blogging, etc, never being seen again till bed time.  I don’t like that, although for the next 3 semesters it’s going to have to suffice somehow :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I just wanted to share a couple tasty recipes that I hope you can enjoy with your family and friends or simply in the solace of your own company . . . </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="2"><font face="Tahoma"><u><font color="#ff8000" size="4"><strong>Roasted Spaghetti Squash topped with Roasted Veggies & Tofu in a Curry Peanut Sauce</strong></font></u>  </font></font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Serves:  2-3 (Chris and I enjoyed it so much, we ate it all!)</font></p> <p align="left"><strong><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Ingredients</font></strong></p> <ul> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 spaghetti squash</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Cooking spray</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">2  cups cubed tofu (I used TJ’s teriyaki flavor)</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/2  cup matchstick-cut carrots</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 zucchini, chopped + 1/2 red bell pepper chopped</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/3  cup chopped green onions (I didn’t have any on hand this time)</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">2/3  cup light coconut milk </font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1-2  tbsp low-sodium soy sauce</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">2  tbsp rice wine vinegar</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">3  tbsp peanut butter</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 tsp toasted sesame seed oil</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1  tsp curry powder + a bit more turmeric</font></div> </li> <li> <div align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">pinch cayenne or more if you like it HOT</font></div> </li> </ul> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>For the spaghetti squash</u>:</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Preheat oven to 400 F.  Cut squash in half lengthwise, place cut sides down on a foil lined baking sheet.  Pour about 1/2 cup water in pan.  Bake for about 30 minutes, turn squash over and bake for another 15-20 minutes until tender.  I also put a little butter in mine.  When it’s done scoop one 1/2 into a bowl and save the other half for another meal.  To the bowl with the squash add a splash of rice wine vinegar and toasted sesame seed oil to taste.</font></p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UNxEnzQbI/AAAAAAAACGg/HUzlp73En5w/s1600-h/IMG_73903.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7390" border="0" alt="IMG_7390" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UNxVimqOI/AAAAAAAACGk/UOtRcqctXFw/IMG_7390_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Sauté the tofu, carrots, zucchini, bell pepper and green onions until tender and browned.  Mix the coconut milk and last 6 ingredients in a bowl and microwave to soften, then add to the sauté pan over low to mix.  </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Scoop some spaghetti squash on the plate and top with the curry peanut mixture and enjoy!</font> </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UNxunQJJI/AAAAAAAACGo/wkgmF7TIw1g/s1600-h/IMG_74153.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7415" border="0" alt="IMG_7415" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UNyvvOdRI/AAAAAAAACGs/1HmaUSwOBXI/IMG_7415_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">  I really wish we would have had some leftovers!</font></p> <p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBHBCivmHcDMiXDFRJ1L-x8n9GzTWCCkR3qb6ByGq3UlNm3UFin_TllaP29QSbo0xcJHjK2fvwgUQEuOFlC9khKA0VkFlaL-eilhJNNSJlo1cmj3ALwfP45G7bJVBXCZViF4qtGd5Cmak/s1600-h/IMG_74143.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7414" border="0" alt="IMG_7414" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UN1ezAOSI/AAAAAAAACG0/mcLQgJRA4U8/IMG_7414_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Next on the list of weekend eats is . . . </font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#800040" size="5" face="Tahoma"><u><strong>Lasagna Rolls</strong></u></font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">These are a favorite in our house and they are fun to make with kids!  This would be great for a party too because it serves a lot of people.  I first got this idea from Giada and then tweaked it since she likes to use whole fat everything :)</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Serves:  7-10</font></p> <p align="left"><strong><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Ingredients</font></strong></p> <h5><font face="Tahoma"><u>For the Béchamel Sauce</u>:</font></h5> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 tbsp unsalted butter </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">3 tsp all-purpose flour </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 1/2 cups NF or 1% </font><a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">milk</font></a> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/4 teaspoon </font><a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">salt</font></a> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/8 teaspoon </font><a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">ground</font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> black pepper </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Pinch cinnamon and cayenne</font> </li> </ul> <h5><font face="Tahoma"><u>Lasagna</u>:</font></h5> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 (15-ounce) container part-skim ricotta </font><font size="2" face="Tahoma">cheese </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">2 light garlic+herb laughing cow wedges</font>  </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">big handful of basil, chopped </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/3 cup grated Parmesan + 1/2 cup Italian shredded cheese mix </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1.5 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto, chopped </font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">herbs de provence, thyme, garlic powder, Mrs. Dash</font> <font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">12-15 uncooked lasagna </font><a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">noodles</font></a> </li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">2-3 cups marinara sauce </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 cup shredded mozzarella</font> </li> </ul> <h4><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Directions</font></h4> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">To make the sauce: Melt the butter in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the flour and whisk. Whisk in the milk. Increase the heat to medium-high. Whisk the sauce until it comes to a simmer and is slightly thick and smooth (may take a bit longer with the lower fat milk).  Whisk the salt, pepper, cinnamon and cayenne into the béchamel sauce.  Keep warm.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.  Get out the goods.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UN3LubgVI/AAAAAAAACG4/yWacsX1C1gI/s1600-h/IMG_74185.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7418" border="0" alt="IMG_7418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SStK-SgcnkziHnCKF7uWbYZ_KGAOGrzMTMlAN77fcqwUp6HCEaqIDXfxffdUtEdWfoMyjC6lxFjv4X0IRpse4JKS6iwNzhv1Ot7sa54JBDUdrAl9EjuGRN94DwKeJOT_DX4OyQ6v1Ng/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UN6OBpl0I/AAAAAAAACHA/fgwOnFK-b2I/s1600-h/IMG_74273.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7427" border="0" alt="IMG_7427" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UN7uLdHtI/AAAAAAAACHE/42irOIVeHZ4/IMG_7427_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UN8ghBpsI/AAAAAAAACHI/p1ddx211d_w/s1600-h/IMG_74303.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7430" border="0" alt="IMG_7430" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UN-X1cMGI/AAAAAAAACHM/1NDUv60rw3M/IMG_7430_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UN_lPw4TI/AAAAAAAACHQ/bsD7zW1LAwo/s1600-h/IMG_74313.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7431" border="0" alt="IMG_7431" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOBDl3l9I/AAAAAAAACHU/bxW61JUdou8/IMG_7431_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSNzUisiqKi964_w3nvss32WlxODfJAPolqsySYKWHirxKrz1RLKr-giLHkraVn_at9wVZulR0tdPD6yhvri4quZX3rCp0ue6QnvxMjbRnzLi6WftAqmf8NxcfJF6XzY8VJlSs4urfW7M/s1600-h/IMG_74343.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7434" border="0" alt="IMG_7434" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOEIPkH6I/AAAAAAAACHc/s8Cr81mY0U8/IMG_7434_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOq5owReCI5wKAKslcCBNgKdtluOzjCGe27xGmDAnAvraIcvyxT28E57k5lFnIIytMcJwwtAD6lSO7bNT0E3u1145GAmg4AlWEtugLaWD8vswHLdHPbsS7y53GDA3_fv00bWLt24ELX4/s1600-h/IMG_74383.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7438" border="0" alt="IMG_7438" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOII45hsI/AAAAAAAACHo/x8sC6UarI2c/IMG_7438_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOJq3lngI/AAAAAAAACHs/_Rj0s3wAH30/s1600-h/IMG_74473.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7447" border="0" alt="IMG_7447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIcI1c48DB_fB6jOY0kuyx4Cit1gLppF40ECjXyh-68xwh0QPztO5w_xo1pIQx74yPSibQPexVZCp9X2dvWEII9rkaPiZAAApWIWyc7GAFcoGu77iHi1VqFoEftqX-RkJor-U0sJfDiVc/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Whisk the ricotta, basil, Parmesan/Italian cheese mix, laughing cow, prosciutto, pepper and spices to taste in a medium bowl to blend.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOMOjQnMI/AAAAAAAACH0/pw9wg2L5zzM/s1600-h/IMG_74723.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7472" border="0" alt="IMG_7472" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UONXT27VI/AAAAAAAACH4/7_nia3iENJ0/IMG_7472_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Boil the noodles until just tender but still firm to bite. Drain. Arrange the noodles in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent them from sticking.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UON24iMII/AAAAAAAACH8/93xe7ScDdkY/s1600-h/IMG_74763.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7476" border="0" alt="IMG_7476" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOPINA6NI/AAAAAAAACIA/etBHjSZwiGc/IMG_7476_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOPrj1PyI/AAAAAAAACIE/sct417m86Xs/s1600-h/IMG_74803.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7480" border="0" alt="IMG_7480" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOP2dLMGI/AAAAAAAACII/E23DZ8A2k_4/IMG_7480_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Pour the béchamel sauce over the bottom of a 13 x 9 dish.  Spread about 2 spoonfuls of ricotta mixture evenly over each noodle. Starting at 1 end, roll each noodle like a jelly roll. Lay the lasagna rolls seam side down, without touching, atop the béchamel sauce in the dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles and ricotta mixture. </font><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOQI1z7JI/AAAAAAAACIM/SfrmvA07tLw/s1600-h/IMG_74903.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7490" border="0" alt="IMG_7490" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOQnyAcXI/AAAAAAAACIQ/W1m9ySUwTwg/IMG_7490_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOQjAZTbI/AAAAAAAACIU/ow5B0CXwAIo/s1600-h/IMG_74843.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_7484" border="0" alt="IMG_7484" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD6qt3xhnZ6IdbFej0I1PIaa2CwG3tfJdCHQPwx1I_6MZ2un0b5IyrA6RJ6mY9etOV7F8hCtVXxxsvoAi-zJoqOtI1YwP0XdgXINjll4T1mL-nYoPLMZwQqkVBvgzz0sKPKE_QuSdOJvg/?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Spoon 2-3 cups of marinara sauce over the lasagna rolls (more if you like it saucy).  I got this sauce from TJ’s and it was really nice and fresh tasting unlike most jarred sauces.  Cover tightly with foil.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Bake until heated through and the sauce bubbles, about 20-25 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with cheese and bake until the cheese on top becomes golden, about 10-15 minutes longer.  </font><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Let stand for 10 minutes (if you can stand it) and serve! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UORHQFCxI/AAAAAAAACIc/KrQiXA2Tj-A/s1600-h/IMG_75033.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7503" border="0" alt="IMG_7503" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UORpblehI/AAAAAAAACIg/WB2gto9YeU0/IMG_7503_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We had a salad on the side with romaine, cranberry goat cheese and walnuts, along with a glass of J. Lohr Merlot. </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UORyfOMxI/AAAAAAAACIk/eiBmT5SXeFQ/s1600-h/IMG_75093.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7509" border="0" alt="IMG_7509" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOSatq64I/AAAAAAAACIo/ukB_2AOMg9A/IMG_7509_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It is a nice red, slightly toasty with notes of dark cherry and plum.  It is pretty reasonably priced too.  We played the tasting game with a cute notepad I picked up at Anthro called ‘Rate that Wine’.  This would be great fun for parties too.  </font> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOSoDOOiI/AAAAAAAACIs/3RdG5wTKHUk/s1600-h/IMG_74613.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7461" border="0" alt="IMG_7461" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOS1S9kWI/AAAAAAAACIw/44Y8coNE2x4/IMG_7461_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOTN2Pi4I/AAAAAAAACI0/ljdwcJVSbz0/s1600-h/IMG_75113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7511" border="0" alt="IMG_7511" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOTnIZGBI/AAAAAAAACI4/Hfr0JKekZHA/IMG_7511_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I had 1 1/2 rolls with the salad and a small glass of wine.  After dinner I grabbed a coconut water and we curled up on the couch to watch a movie, but fell asleep not even half way through!  Ah well, this usually always happens with us!</font>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOT_tUcoI/AAAAAAAACI8/fdtfVCZSK90/s1600-h/IMG_75243.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7524" border="0" alt="IMG_7524" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOUCsN3yI/AAAAAAAACJA/ZoZOcvb6TBY/IMG_7524_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was sure a nice night because Chris and I got to sit down and had a great time chatting over dinner again for longer than usual.  That’s another great thing about eating at home, you can sit at the table for as long as you want! :)</font></p> <p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJEnPzHo1lpv0D1Kazscl4rDdETQZy7rhRk2G5D5EN76TjXgDtqfoXHKNdpBN0W6YiyvsmBBbJgOTIbb8zD5vIEX1gzFlUEnXWtfIBej-BisbRfl3ZOiYhmfCr3TdAhuSlbK-yCBXlNg/s1600-h/IMG_75303.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_7530" border="0" alt="IMG_7530" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1UOU_rHLjI/AAAAAAAACJI/67Vi_vLFPMQ/IMG_7530_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">With the terrible tragedy that has hit Haiti and continues to trouble their existence, <a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Diana</a> from The Chic Life has developed another great idea to help.  She will be hosting a <strong>bake sale</strong> coming up around <strong>January 27th</strong>, and all the online bidding proceeds will go to the Red Cross Relief Fund.  I have volunteered to bake up a big batch of <a href="http://candidrd.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Gina’s</a> awesome granola and it looks like there are some other tasty goods being made as well.  I may just have to bid on some myself!  Check out the details <a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/the_chic_life/2010/01/online-bake-sale-for-haiti.html" target="_blank">here</a> if you’d like to become a baker or a bidder.  I just can’t imagine what they are going through right now.  While they have had many donations made, it’s been tough actually getting the supplies to them.  I feel so blessed to be safe and have access to all of life’s necessities.  Thanks for all your help!  </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Hope you all have a nice week!  It looks like we are going to actually have some nasty, rainy weather coming up this week here.  I’ll have to be getting on that bike trainer and treadmill :)   </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">       </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-77644147160774528132010-01-16T16:37:00.001-08:002010-01-16T16:37:20.457-08:00I’m still here<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Hello!  It seems like I’ve been gone forever and I’m sorry to be MIA lately!  I think the new site is juuuust about there.  Just a few more little things and it should be presentable at least.  I hope.  I spent most of today working on it and it seems that I can’t focus on anything else BUT this site!! aaah!  I’ve been dreaming about it.  Must get it done so I don’t get too behind on school, geez.  Chris has been a huge help so far since I pretty much don’t have a single clue, and I’ve been begging, bribing, pleading for him to help finish!  I can’t understand why he’d rather watch football . . . hehe  I hope to launch it sometime next week *fingers crossed*</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">In other news, the <a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/the_chic_life/2009/12/eat-in-month-challenge---january-2010.html" target="_blank">Eat In Month Challenge</a> is still going good!  I have to admit not going out for frozen yogurt sometimes has been a killer, but we are saving quite a bit of money.  Chris is doing really good because he usually buys lunch about 3x/week.  I’ll let you know specifics & my full summary at the conclusion of the challenge :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I’ve tried a few more of the Glo Bars and I’m afraid I didn’t eat them all soon enough.  There isn’t an expiration date, but I wouldn’t leave them out longer than a month, and either place them in the fridge or freezer for longer keeping.  I should have realized this :(  When I took a bite into the Classic flavor again, it just tasted off and I was so bummed.  But, I did try the Present flavor and it tasted really great!  All the warm spices had more pronounced flavor</font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> than the first one I sampled.  I can say though that the texture of these bars is superb.  Nice and formed, crunchy yet airy, not too sweet and full of great ingredients.  Sure looks tasty . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbkQNVPLI/AAAAAAAACEY/OGGx_QP_tJE/s1600-h/IMG_7162%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7162" border="0" alt="IMG_7162" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbkpXlajI/AAAAAAAACEc/V9VU5PQf5yc/IMG_7162_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbk4UQr-I/AAAAAAAACEg/-ZBqE4eP9Ak/s1600-h/IMG_7173%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7173" border="0" alt="IMG_7173" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jblc1zjFI/AAAAAAAACEk/O8eBmwIJCoI/IMG_7173_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The only other thing is most of the time when I have a bar it’s for a snack.  These bars mostly have calorie counts in the range of 200 or more.  I wish there was a mini version since I have a hard time just eating half :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I also ran my second 5k race this morning!!  It was for the <a href="http://www.unce.unr.edu/programs/health/index.asp?ID=16" target="_blank">Chefs For Kids Program</a> at my work (UNCE).  I’ve been trying to run more, and it’s slowly but surely getting somewhat easier.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Last night for dinner I had some leftover <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/06/new-additions.html" target="_blank">Polenta Mushroom Casserole</a> topped with spinach, an egg and micro’ed egg white.  Such an easy and cheap dish to make! mmm</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbluWGlJI/AAAAAAAACEo/XH23K3hH2PQ/s1600-h/IMG_7178%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7178" border="0" alt="IMG_7178" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbmDwQn0I/AAAAAAAACEs/snDofOkRPxY/IMG_7178_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbmQvrp6I/AAAAAAAACEw/t9l8bkpEVAU/s1600-h/IMG_7195%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7195" border="0" alt="IMG_7195" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbmsk64yI/AAAAAAAACE0/P2BCCOQqnbI/IMG_7195_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The race started bright and early at 7am!  Thank goodness the weather is decent here, or I would have been a frozen popsicle.  I started out with a sprouted cinnamon raisin bagel with 1 tbsp peanut butter and jam, a micro’ed egg white + water.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbm8G7kjI/AAAAAAAACE4/vrjQMS8X9fI/s1600-h/IMG_7201%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7201" border="0" alt="IMG_7201" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbnaGhI6I/AAAAAAAACE8/_hv5ayb0K9c/IMG_7201_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Here’s some shots of the race . . . </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Stretching . . . </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbnpC9S_I/AAAAAAAACFA/IaJJkJtuX8U/s1600-h/IMG_7206%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7206" border="0" alt="IMG_7206" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JboIqNkQI/AAAAAAAACFE/-ppLAthgJBs/IMG_7206_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Warming up . . . I also ran down the course a bit.  It really helps to get the lungs going before, since I don’t do well with the cold air.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbouEYWvI/AAAAAAAACFI/EPlgc7ujlt8/s1600-h/IMG_7216%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7216" border="0" alt="IMG_7216" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbo2U9tYI/AAAAAAAACFM/pAydEWVEy5Y/IMG_7216_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Waiting . . .</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbpGkDMwI/AAAAAAAACFQ/xHN2pccmX40/s1600-h/IMG_7211%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7211" border="0" alt="IMG_7211" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbpvCspPI/AAAAAAAACFU/9l-NemThJ6o/IMG_7211_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">And we’re off!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbp_d_boI/AAAAAAAACFY/e3c2ckOjnug/s1600-h/IMG_7228%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7228" border="0" alt="IMG_7228" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbqOumuHI/AAAAAAAACFc/msFCqR2GnLM/IMG_7228_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a>     </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqYJDb4hyphenhyphenP3EzPgN9E6yBDrLHWAJgyV6S-qSn0k9meVyKGN77XJdNdMZrI2J2-kpLMr-it0eN9qhZtN6w6wJ3MD76dz_Di4DTVZ0xZv0Au2KvtqRN6dMazB9wZt5ti6nxZVrZ8-YfWOE/s1600-h/5kresize%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="5kresize" border="0" alt="5kresize" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbrNrMrNI/AAAAAAAACFk/rE8tdWolS0A/5kresize_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="379" height="387" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">There was even a Chef running!!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbrUOYG2I/AAAAAAAACFo/rr7lnG9sCho/s1600-h/IMG_7275%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7275" border="0" alt="IMG_7275" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbr7WUJUI/AAAAAAAACFs/L0N8ezsU9Bk/IMG_7275_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I ended up finishing it in 27:57 which was a bit better than my first 5k at 28:36.  Very slow, but progress!   </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbsBy-AII/AAAAAAAACFw/IGfya-GtLQY/s1600-h/5kresize2%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="5kresize2" border="0" alt="5kresize2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbsunYr5I/AAAAAAAACF0/gxF2q9BCGoI/5kresize2_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="331" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Had to bring some coconut water for afterwards :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbszL4NcI/AAAAAAAACF4/G-yA9_5fu10/s1600-h/IMG_7361%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7361" border="0" alt="IMG_7361" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbtBH6ZOI/AAAAAAAACF8/3R71HAsEPGY/IMG_7361_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a>  </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><font face="Arial">Of course they had tons of goodies to eat!  I</font> had 3 glasses of water and 1/2 a blueberry muffin.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbtULH2hI/AAAAAAAACGA/CDeVsCNxe_4/s1600-h/IMG_7365%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7365" border="0" alt="IMG_7365" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbt2nP_GI/AAAAAAAACGE/WIVJERUriVg/IMG_7365_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Can you believe I placed 2nd in my age group?!  Must have not been very many in my age group lol</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbuJgSTrI/AAAAAAAACGI/Lpb91c0kAC8/s1600-h/IMG_7377%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7377" border="0" alt="IMG_7377" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbuSl2iKI/AAAAAAAACGM/bZqImosMRqo/IMG_7377_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">When I got home I made a bowl of oatmeal to warm up and then I made a smoothie with the immersion blender, and 1/2 grilled cheese on GH Dakota for lunch.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">This one had a scoop of whey, NF milk, chia seeds, 1/4 banana, spinach and frozen blueberries.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1Jbu8z5NgI/AAAAAAAACGQ/HIxUxUr3El4/s1600-h/IMG_7382%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7382" border="0" alt="IMG_7382" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbvH-lw2I/AAAAAAAACGU/H4J5AWxfUzQ/IMG_7382_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="454" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbvjnWNNI/AAAAAAAACGY/bLb-RwpFZis/s1600-h/IMG_7386%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7386" border="0" alt="IMG_7386" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S1JbvzFA38I/AAAAAAAACGc/MtvDB8lHNxA/IMG_7386_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Most of the day has been spent working on the site, hopefully it will be ready next week!  I should get some more studying/research done this weekend and other boring house chores, maybe a bike ride? :)  I’m thinking spaghetti squash is on the menu tonight, just haven’t quite figured out what I want to do with it . . .</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Other menu items will include:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">lasagna rolls</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">kabocha & black bean burgers</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">crock-pot roasted chicken with pesto veggies & potatoes</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Hope you all are having a nice long weekend if this is your time off!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-67832418701345424472010-01-10T20:35:00.001-08:002010-01-10T20:42:52.127-08:00going crazy with CSS<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Whew!  I’ve been trying to work on designing the new template for many hours today and I think my head is about ready to explode!!!  I first got a theme template from a site called VivaThemes and I was not impressed at all.  I liked the overall look of the theme, but I also spent many hours to find it was not user-friendly, customizable and the customer service was terrible.  Even worse I couldn’t get a refund, which is a load of crap.  I would not recommend, but I won’t rant on about that . . . </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I did find a new theme that is much more user friendly and I’ve been spending more time trying to figure it out.  While I will have to eventually code certain things, it just seems better so I guess it’s worth it.  ugh!!!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Hopefully I can get it looking somewhat presentable soon, yay!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Yesterday our Red Rock ride was a blast!  Even though I was born and raised in Las Vegas and have been to Red Rock thousands of times, I’ve never cycled up there before.  Even though the temperature wasn’t too bad, it was pretty chilly coming down those hills!  brrr my blood couldn’t get flowing and my muscles wouldn’t work up the hills, c’mon legs work!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was a lot of fun either way and we met some other fellow cyclists that were really nice and live near us too :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The ride started at Great Harvest in Summerlin, but first I wanted to have breakfast at home since I wasn’t sure what they would be serving.  </font><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The night before I made a quick batch of muesli, oh boy I was so excited for breakfast in the am!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqYTie2RI/AAAAAAAACCY/vfWG1wIrRcw/s1600-h/IMG_7079%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7079" border="0" alt="IMG_7079" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqY9t6tRI/AAAAAAAACCc/EmOxpnmw1hM/IMG_7079_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I love the little chunks of dates and nuts in the mix.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqZIHURxI/AAAAAAAACCg/dMLYyrHdjaQ/s1600-h/IMG_7085%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7085" border="0" alt="IMG_7085" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqZRjH0AI/AAAAAAAACCk/D5EuGlH8nAA/IMG_7085_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">This overnight mix contained (per serving):</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/4 cup muesli + 2 tbsp regular oats</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">3 oz vanilla yogurt (about 1/4 cup)</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/4 cup NF milk</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1/2 banana</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 tsp chia seeds</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">cinnamon</font></li> </ul> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqZ9aaV4I/AAAAAAAACCo/2CZflIb8JOU/s1600-h/IMG_7089%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7089" border="0" alt="IMG_7089" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifWXMFdLy9jQ8OqNbsS-LDB-Q3EeVOnAp-29wKsm4OoGHrSeJh1-blB68nSeu7iNV8ehqIu-hr55RKL4dYieArRx2EQlx1TXoPkvEme-02-5-j0elA6BDPF_OD_LUsiYpuiUOyo1h4GTI/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">When we got up and ready for breakfast I added some grapes, pistachios, Kashi Warm Cinnamon cereal and a spoonful of pb.  Delish!  I am going to have to make this more often because it was easy and satisfying.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqaaSHkOI/AAAAAAAACCw/pbeF0fv0-oM/s1600-h/IMG_7107%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7107" border="0" alt="IMG_7107" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqaoh4Z2I/AAAAAAAACC0/e2mL8qXMGCs/IMG_7107_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWg5J1_9xahYRui2VLyPGGlwrsIvfn7yKAPO9_gthdRRBMd1lB3sr4uAaYTad_SODghF3mSDqzBBV5a_6tzMMEKQSjWDDhyphenhyphenOpmRzMQSiTNRRh3uNJCyarxRwzolUjNE6Z2Q5t9FO3DhAo/s1600-h/IMG_7103%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7103" border="0" alt="IMG_7103" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqbaieP0I/AAAAAAAACC8/q-CbNBICM08/IMG_7103_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I got this cute bowl from Anthropologie, love that store!  But I have to limit my stops there because it’s dangerous.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqbnrzkkI/AAAAAAAACDA/autimQKgKvs/s1600-h/IMG_7109%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7109" border="0" alt="IMG_7109" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqbxImD4I/AAAAAAAACDE/uBDjUiwhlAg/IMG_7109_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqcFycnGI/AAAAAAAACDI/Yzy2kj3MK_U/s1600-h/redrock6%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="redrock6" border="0" alt="redrock6" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqcUqMCSI/AAAAAAAACDM/uEfqQACWBCU/redrock6_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">When we got to Great Harvest they had french toast, maple syrup and sausage, along with coffee and juice.  We grabbed two toasts and a sausage to share.  I had about 1 and 1/2 pieces of toast + syrup mmm not too bad, but I’m glad we ate breakfast before :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I didn’t really like riding right next to cars whizzing by at 60mph or inhaling the exhaust fumes at times, but the views were absolutely gorgeous!  The pictures don’t do it justice.  There’s me at the back.  The hills killed me since I couldn’t get my legs to work in the cold.  As the incline increased, I would fall behind lol</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Wanna grab a wheel?  That’s ‘cyclist speak’ for getting really close to someone’s back wheel and drafting.  It does actually help keep the pace.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqcs5zXoI/AAAAAAAACDQ/6E6pWhSdv8U/s1600-h/IMG00043-20100109-1150%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG00043-20100109-1150" border="0" alt="IMG00043-20100109-1150" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqdLVxbQI/AAAAAAAACDU/2OlETKUFksA/IMG00043-20100109-1150_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="344" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqdVdfVOI/AAAAAAAACDY/M1mp-coX6Wo/s1600-h/redrockride3%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="redrockride3" border="0" alt="redrockride3" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqdnmJbTI/AAAAAAAACDc/P7z1kjH55oY/redrockride3_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was a 41 mile ride total and I had a packet of Luna Moons halfway through.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Even though it was pretty chilly going down the hills, it’s amazing to me that here in Vegas we can be outdoors in shorts and a t-shirt in January!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqd3jiPEI/AAAAAAAACDg/AdbB9KUGdW0/s1600-h/globar%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="globar" border="0" alt="globar" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqeBwKU_I/AAAAAAAACDk/CIyo94WYtrQ/globar_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="170" /></a> After the ride I had a <a href="http://globakery.com/Cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=19" target="_blank">Post Workout Glo Bar</a> with 11g of protein!  I don’t know if I’ve had it too long, but it was kind of stale & didn’t have too much flavor but I liked the texture.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">My muscles and tummy thanked me and I do like the nutritional profile :)  </font><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I’m still making my way sampling the others and will review them in the near future.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I made some spruced up Annie’s mac for lunch after we got home.  Boy I was hungry because I ate almost 2 bowls and then felt ready for dinner!  Instead I drank some water and had a plain coconut water which satisfied me at least for awhile.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqejuRsFI/AAAAAAAACDo/oF_Z7ejpRWg/s1600-h/IMG_7123%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7123" border="0" alt="IMG_7123" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqewMRMUI/AAAAAAAACDs/2IGn-7EfykA/IMG_7123_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Chris and I couldn’t really decide what to make for dinner even though I just went grocery shopping Friday (doh!).  We didn’t really ‘feel’ like anything, but when I mentioned possibly having a big fat burger that was all we could think about!  So, we hoped in the car and picked up some burger ingredients, along with a movie called ‘The Goods’.  It was stupid but pretty darn funny :) </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I haven’t had a burger in ages, but it was just what we were craving mmm  That’s a slice of Great Harvest Dakota under the burger that we had to purchase before the ride.  I think Dakota is my favorite GH bread!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqfK5VprI/AAAAAAAACDw/dR7WuOl7fhI/s1600-h/IMG_7125%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7125" border="0" alt="IMG_7125" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqfQH3ahI/AAAAAAAACD0/C3SHSh6bnvw/IMG_7125_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I also found these Vit D fortified mushrooms.  Isn’t that cool?!  They basically expose the mushrooms to UV light, detailed <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12370708/" target="_blank">here</a>. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqf-hrZJI/AAAAAAAACD4/ImbDCwD4oQI/s1600-h/IMG_7124%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7124" border="0" alt="IMG_7124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWV_OD-RJFCxHuoZcCcRFG7N9qJr4SYFvcaCAR74xFyhzKfizyj_j-v_amnQBSeRLAur2Fw01D9U2H5uXE-kDhBqEe_Z6vr4nvrj99AStom37WLVpCFRKGf-zLm65F9S5sT4BmICnAks/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqgbmrKBI/AAAAAAAACEA/DD9bZlu-y8c/s1600-h/IMG_7126%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7126" border="0" alt="IMG_7126" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqgrnS4SI/AAAAAAAACEE/kL-2mJJkyTg/IMG_7126_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I also made some ‘chips’ on the side, courtesy of Kath :)  Have you made these before?  They had the best texture and were really fun to eat.  We kind of burned them though, but most were still were salvageable.  I sprinkled mine with salt, garlic powder and parmesan before baking at 375 F for 18 min (at 15 they didn’t look toasty, but at 18 they got a bit too burnt, so I would recommend 16 minutes).    </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqg5kbMCI/AAAAAAAACEI/v7DY6xYR6BY/s1600-h/IMG_7131%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7131" border="0" alt="IMG_7131" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqhIexwXI/AAAAAAAACEM/NXBcRaxKjXk/IMG_7131_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">And we couldn’t pass up this at the store!  I don’t think I can be let loose in any type of grocery store really.  We went in for a few items and went to the check out with our hands full!  I even found a kabocha and spaghetti squash while looking for mushrooms and about shrieked with glee when I saw them!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Dreyer’s 1/2 fat mint cookie crunch + movie = :) </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqhnX_GsI/AAAAAAAACEQ/hjXgEjpjPAI/s1600-h/IMG_7136%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7136" border="0" alt="IMG_7136" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0qqh91Wp1I/AAAAAAAACEU/OZzde_t8uA0/IMG_7136_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Much more time is needed to figure out this new theme, so I may be MIA for a little bit but will return!  Classes also start tomorrow, ugh.  I am taking Statistics (pray for me!) and an Independent Study.  I hope to do an internship with a corporate wellness program here, but have to get things straightened out with my work schedule first : /  And I need to make big strides on the thesis.  Sometimes I just wish I had a clone to get everything done, right?</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Thank you so much for all your sports nutrition suggestions, I think those are great topics to talk about in the future.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Have a wonderful week!  </font>  </p> <p><strong><em><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Are you familiar with CSS?  Did you design your own blog or get outside help?  Any suggestions are much appreciated!</font></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">    </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-69017089392477075852010-01-08T16:11:00.001-08:002010-01-08T16:11:53.810-08:00it’s already Friday?<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJvu8_sTI/AAAAAAAACBo/q-t2zrFi5No/s1600-h/IMG_7044%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7044" border="0" alt="IMG_7044" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJv_hY3SI/AAAAAAAACBs/vc3bjO7K9hc/IMG_7044_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Usually the weeks just draaaaag for me, but for some reason this one flew by!  Maybe because it was the first week back?  Who knows, but that’s alright with me.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Oh boy I am sore from kick-my-butt box on Wednesday!  Every little back muscle along my rib cage is sore and of course my bum and abs.  I couldn’t manage to make it to 6am spin this morning, but that’s okay because I want to be ready for our <a href="http://www.bikinglasvegas.com/routes/r-170/Great_Harvest_BREAKFAST_Ride.html" target="_blank">Great Harvest Red Rock bike ride</a> on Saturday!  I’m looking forward to riding the Red Rock loop for the first time.  It’s about 41 miles and Great Harvest is providing breakfast for us before the ride, yay!  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Yesterday morning I put all the prepped ingredients in the crock-pot for a stew to be ready for us when we got home.  I’m in love with this new crock-pot and it’s so much bigger than my old one!  I would highly recommend this one because it has several different cooking settings and a probe insert.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The only thing I had to cook up when I got home was some quinoa.  Easy!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJwMExdHI/AAAAAAAACBw/-zMbHr9L74c/s1600-h/IMG_7039%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7039" border="0" alt="IMG_7039" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJwhJr9RI/AAAAAAAACB0/C_Xi7ofmr5w/IMG_7039_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2"><font face="Tahoma"><u><font color="#800040" size="5"><strong>Lamb Daube Provencal</strong></font></u> </font></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">(adapted from CookingLight)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Ingredients</strong></font></p> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">2 teaspoons olive oil </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">12 garlic cloves, crushed </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1.5-lb lamb meat, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes (you could also use chuck roast)</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">salt and pepper </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 cup red wine (I used a malbec, wine gives it a rich depth of flavor)</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">2 cups chopped carrot </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 1/2 cups chopped onion (I also added parsnips & zucchini)</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1-2 cups less-sodium beef broth (use more for soup-like and less for sauce-like stew) </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 tbsp tomato paste </font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 tsp herbes de provence, 1.5 tsp thyme</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Dash of ground cloves, dash of cinnamon</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced fire roasted tomatoes </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">1 bay leaf </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">pasta, taters, rice or quinoa to serve over</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Directions </strong></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Heat oil and add garlic; cook 5 minutes or until garlic is fragrant, stirring occasionally. Remove garlic with a slotted spoon, and add to slow-cooker.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Increase heat to medium-high. Add lamb to pan; sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook 5 minutes, browning on all sides. Remove lamb from pan and add to slow-cooker.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Add wine to pan; bring to a boil, scraping pan to loosen browned bits and reduce down for 5 minutes.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Add wine, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, carrot, and next ingredients (through bay leaf) to the slow-cooker, stirring to combine. </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Turn slow-cooker on high for 1 hour, then reduce to low for 6-7 hours more. Or you can just cook on low for 8 hours.  It just needs to get nice and reduced.  </font><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Serve over pasta, roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, rice or quinoa. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. The possibilities are endless!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><u>Leftovers Idea</u>: This would also be great for the base of a shephard's pie if you use less broth to make it sauce-like. Yum!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We had quinoa with it and I also added some spinach to get wilty :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJvu8_sTI/AAAAAAAACB4/aNe8yegQWgE/s1600-h/IMG_7044%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7044" border="0" alt="IMG_7044" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPltNwcr3XmtdziJeBzI7T_jMOeTGpWSLBT6LnagMKJOOyxIXMVVd5YIwoTOxg5S6yNEOe94L-Iu-w66M1NrM3hVJhPQBzTNEGyKLlp0ydkOPFbjd2iBDRy0hd_cQM5lXJPP-xQ1UJ58/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">This morning we had one of our usual breakfast staples . . . we call it <strong>peanut-butter naan</strong>.  But all you do is take a 1/2 piece of TJ’s whole wheat naan, slather it with toasty pb and jam, then top it with cottage cheese or yogurt, cereal, nuts and/or fruit.  I also like to micro about 1/4 cup of egg whites on the side.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJxZcXdVI/AAAAAAAACCA/K7VFdVFIMio/s1600-h/IMG_7061%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7061" border="0" alt="IMG_7061" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJxp29uvI/AAAAAAAACCE/Q6l07HrTeqg/IMG_7061_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I love how the peanut butter ooooozes off the sides and the naan is nice and doughy mmm</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJx-AI1bI/AAAAAAAACCI/PwBC_lyk06I/s1600-h/IMG_7064%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7064" border="0" alt="IMG_7064" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0fJyKz8QsI/AAAAAAAACCQ/EjQHQPt0BJU/IMG_7064_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Not too much going on this weekend.  We are going to go on the Red Rock ride Saturday and I’m going to try to savor the last days of freedom before the semester starts up again with some research . . . </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The new template is coming along . . . slowly.  I spent about 4 hours on it last night just trying to figure the CSS out, doh!  I’m such a computer ra-tard, seriously.  I have such respect for you fellow bloggers that are computer savvy, bless you!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">That’s about it from here, hope you have a nice weekend!  I’m hoping to do some more sports nutrition related posts soon including overtraining syndrome and safe weight loss for athletes . . . stay tuned!</font></p> <p><strong><em><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Are there any sports nutrition topics/supplements you are interested in learning more about?</font></em></strong></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-82086428980416245512010-01-06T22:59:00.001-08:002010-01-06T22:59:20.600-08:00it’s crack-a-lackin’ time<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I couldn’t resist titling this post with the ingenious phrase from <a href="http://preventionrd.com/" target="_blank">Nicole</a>, referring to ‘better get crack-a-lackin’ as in getting my butt back in the gym!  Hip Hop was a blast last night!!!  I absolutely love this class, but it takes me about 40 minutes each way to get there, and with the chaos of finals, projects, work and the holidays, I haven’t been able to attend in what has seemed like an eternity.  It felt great to be back and it was a super HOT routine!  I love dance because I can just let it all out.  In general I’ve always had a shy personality, but not when performing on stage!  I sure miss that sometimes.  I didn’t get home until 10pm, but I figure I better get in as much as I can before the semester starts up again Monday . . . eek!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I had another great workout tonight from my favorite kick box instructor.  I like to think of her as my workout Nazi.  She is pretty hard core, yelling at you like a crazy person to work harder.  I think I secretly like it :D  I swear every pore on my body was sweating and I loved it!  I haven’t been to that class in awhile too with the holidays and busy times, so it was nice to get a good booty kickin’.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Maybe there is something to taking a week break off from everything?  I feel nice and renewed, a bit out of shape (oh yes), but nothing I can’t get back in due time.  And another great thing was that my ears finally popped today!  It felt glorious, and they opened up so I could actually hear the world around me :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Just a little recap of what Chris and I have been noshing on while pledging to eat in this month . . .</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Tuesday night we made <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/03/so-good-to-be-back.html" target="_blank">chicken enchiladas</a>, and I think this has to be one of the easiest and most satisfying recipes.  When we were cleaning up, Chris even said that he wanted to eat the whole pan!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">This recipe would be fun for kids too because your hands get all messy!  Wait, maybe not a good idea for kids? lol  I could just imagine . . . enchilada sauce everywhere . . .</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGMssI3mI/AAAAAAAACAg/5yJApwGX-4w/s1600-h/IMG_6999%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6999" border="0" alt="IMG_6999" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGM0vxBeI/AAAAAAAACAk/eoctV413q3o/IMG_6999_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGNZcJvDI/AAAAAAAACAo/muUYcMPKTCc/s1600-h/IMG_7005%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7005" border="0" alt="IMG_7005" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOs8KNKeRgrW0Nsy9twDvKAJXvjDcuhrOO_arasFZOQ1UpiZtVIASJOX8mjexP0GfDsYvcuqnrrl3PEbfh6VWYItMqtS6IzegM_568TmmrVJ4aMJLmumIRSLkj8RVWU6MbZH_la6zBoo/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">This puppy lasted us for lunch and dinner the next day and I think we still have 2 more in the fridge!  Guess that’s what I’m having for lunch again tomorrow . . .</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Since I got home a little late tonight after getting lost and distracted in Anthropologie and Whole Foods (I swear I can’t be let loose in either of those stores), I grabbed a smallish bowl of cereal before heading to kick-my-butt box.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">When I got home I decided to make a mondo type salad with a bunch of random ingredients in the fridge. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGNzUVd5I/AAAAAAAACAw/MTvcpzFHjIs/s1600-h/IMG_7025%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7025" border="0" alt="IMG_7025" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhikJPsVlZ-Lq1AsFImKx4j6dRgBDmo884Q3mkeIZLy4MzWubeRbxqol-0jfodtTT_37DRXXXy0ROntISeGXsS2hd3IA-5gnhlX2grhKvrhL2sgxl9BBiN8InlbFz3cMjPTOkE5yP3iPFo/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">This one contained:  romaine lettuce, rotisserie chicken, black beans, corn, 1/4 avocado, 1 falafel patty, carrots, NF Greek yogurt for dressing and a sprinkling of lite Mexican cheese. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGOkMYpQI/AAAAAAAACA4/cHLu4J4Ssz4/s1600-h/IMG_7027%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7027" border="0" alt="IMG_7027" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGOzNdveI/AAAAAAAACA8/aI2PovZAKBY/IMG_7027_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was so large I couldn’t finish it all!  I don’t think I was really that full, but I got tired of munchin’ on roughage . . . crunch, crunch, crunch</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">And to warm up a bit, I had a cup o’ mint tea with a biscoff cookie.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGPM7e5xI/AAAAAAAACBA/I978fZ80_8w/s1600-h/IMG_7030%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7030" border="0" alt="IMG_7030" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGPRqaJxI/AAAAAAAACBE/KfkK_gvXtHw/IMG_7030_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGPs2WVFI/AAAAAAAACBI/pLE_NuX4ioQ/s1600-h/IMG_7033%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7033" border="0" alt="IMG_7033" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGP9_id0I/AAAAAAAACBM/8f8bu7XbS6w/IMG_7033_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGQCnu0FI/AAAAAAAACBQ/ssmoqIbdbeE/s1600-h/IMG_7036%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7036" border="0" alt="IMG_7036" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGQo0BfcI/AAAAAAAACBU/UDXQGgG_2uM/IMG_7036_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We had a bunch of these saved up from our recent plane flight and they are really yummy.  It’s like a cross between a cracker and a cookie, with a slightly sweet, gingerbread flavor mmm</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">That is one of my favorite mugs.  We bought them from a cute bed-n-breakfast in Cedar City, UT called <a href="http://theanniversaryhouse.com/" target="_blank">The Anniversary House</a>.  Every time I take them out it brings me back to our second mini one-night vacation there, sitting on the back patio watching the sun set over the valley . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGQ75zwUI/AAAAAAAACBY/PQl4vGp_RnY/s1600-h/IMG_4326%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_4326" border="0" alt="IMG_4326" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGRaU6FGI/AAAAAAAACBc/FEKBLVCm1eA/IMG_4326_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">and of course I think back to our first trip there trying to brave the blizzard, snow shoeing near Cedar Breaks . . . brrr!  Oh boy that’s a whole nother story when we realized the chains were in the<em> other </em>car.  Good Times!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGRa8hz0I/AAAAAAAACBg/AsQmyOAVz4E/s1600-h/100_1430%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="100_1430" border="0" alt="100_1430" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0WGR0eJaqI/AAAAAAAACBk/89qdx7zW18s/100_1430_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="347" /></a>  </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Goodnight all, stay warm!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong><em>Do you have a household item that brings back some good memories?</em></strong>         </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">       </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-59152439241210938342010-01-05T18:15:00.001-08:002010-01-05T18:15:51.139-08:00a stuffy start to the week<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Ever since we got back home my sinuses have been in some kind of a funk and yesterday they decided to wreak havoc on me something fierce.  I didn’t know if I had contracted something from all the hacking people on the plane ride home, or if I seemed to have formed some kind of allergy to coming back to daily grind, ha!  Either way, I was in a bit of a stuffy fog all day where everything was muffled and hazy.  By the afternoon a nice headache greeted me, and by the time I got home I was about ready to burst from the built up sinus pressure.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Dinner was tasty though.  We made <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/02/flexitarian.html" target="_blank">falafel pitas</a> the night before and had some leftovers . . . mmm  So far so good with the <a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/the_chic_life/2009/12/eat-in-month-challenge---january-2010.html" target="_blank">Eat In Month Challenge</a>! </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Usually for our weekly dinners I’ll plan for 3 larger meals and go grocery shopping the Friday before.  Then on the other days we have leftovers & adapt them to our liking.  It also makes it easy when you prep for the week in advance.   </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I think the hardest part of this challenge won’t be during the week surprisingly for me, but the weekends.  Usually Chris and I like to grab at least one meal out together per week or twice per month.  Many times his parents also graciously take us out to eat & catch up, but I don’t think this counts?  Even though we aren’t paying for it, we are essentially eating out which is against the rules :(  ah well, more cooking time in the kitchen, which is just fine by me! </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It sure doesn’t look appetizing thanks to the wonderful lighting of our kitchen ;)  I added a bit of spinach to the mix this time, which gave the falafel a bright green color.  It’s underneath all the roasted parsnips and zucchini, topped with NF Greek yogurt and roasted red pepper hummus.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0PyT8g0_II/AAAAAAAACAI/wjs354jOmgI/s1600-h/IMG_69733.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_6973" border="0" alt="IMG_6973" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJTXQ6cFpLJBO7SjrjHytuI1EikXLyKDyjKTSuPlw4V6hvwctvyS7o-cVk5ClmZbr_rMbXcyF_NGYDry9UrfnmBP8S43wGjHZBQQ3BXfLAHr9CRCfRqARGMcHSlooTQeqCuyEzYH7qvnE/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a>    </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After dinner I became kind of sick to my tummy and my frontal lobe was pulsating with such pressure, I was sure it was going to pop right out of my head.  After lying down for three hours from 6-9pm and taking a Sudafed sinus + allergy I started to feel a bit better.  I was only awake for another 2 1/2 hours after that and crawled back into bed . . .     </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">What a nice welcoming start back to the work week! lol</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Today I am feeling better with a slight, deafening backup in the ears.  I wish they would just pop already & stop crackling. . . . ooooh what-cha say??  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0PyUogJAgI/AAAAAAAACAQ/KStaDYKQF_U/s1600-h/IMG_6981%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6981" border="0" alt="IMG_6981" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0PyUy3VGEI/AAAAAAAACAU/P4zPHwJLX04/IMG_6981_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Breakfast</strong> was a easy bowl of quick oats.  I added some cinnamon applesauce to the mix, along with a few dates for sweetness.  Then topped it with a handful of cereal for contrasting crunch, 1/2 a pear and some frozen blueberries.  And of course some TJ’s roasty pb with each bite!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I swear there’s oats under there somewhere . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0PyVBHz3cI/AAAAAAAACAY/r4vBealPuAY/s1600-h/IMG_6992%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6992" border="0" alt="IMG_6992" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0PyVpIJHLI/AAAAAAAACAc/e29TqkdJpAo/IMG_6992_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Hope you all had a wonderful day!  I’m looking forward to making chicken enchiladas for dinner (another easy recipe!) & possibly going to a kick-butt <strong>hip hop</strong> class later!  Word.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">     </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-13777202003695983182010-01-03T17:17:00.001-08:002010-01-03T17:21:53.658-08:00looking ahead in 2010 + a challenge<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We finally arrived back in Vegas yesterday after a long day of flying, and only 3 hours of sleep, but we made it!  I was terribly sad to leave my family & I had a mini meltdown the night before, hence the lack of sleep.  We had such a wonderful trip and I cherish every moment we had there :)  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBmSkQpnI/AAAAAAAAB-w/wj6tEpis9Zo/s1600-h/IMG_6964%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6964" border="0" alt="IMG_6964" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBmzqR57I/AAAAAAAAB-0/92X7SyXBxVM/IMG_6964_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>As soon as I got home I don’t know what it was but I immediately started cleaning out the fridge and organizing the pantry even before unpacking my suitcase.  Sometimes I’ll just go into crazy cleaning mode to take my mind off things.  It feels nice to have a clean fridge to start anew!  I also bought this handy dandy spice organizer that you hang over the door.  It helped to free up some space and works well.  We just have to be careful not to open the door too quickly or the spices go flyin’ :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Chris and I weren’t able to exchange gifts before we left for our trip since his wasn’t ready for pick-up, so we were able to have a little more Christmas fun when we got back.  Chris got me a <a href="http://www.apple.com/ipod/nike/" target="_blank">Nike + iPod</a> sensor that you can put in your shoe and track all kinds of running stats!  It looks really cool!  I’m trying to keep on the path of running, although it’s been lagging this past month.  I’m just not sure if it’s compatible with the older iPhone 3G.  Anyone have one?  Can’t wait to try it out!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBnGdi3LI/AAAAAAAAB-4/4u7Fu_NmmXA/s1600-h/IMG_6952%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6952" border="0" alt="IMG_6952" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBnQZL2sI/AAAAAAAAB-8/GAqQvybzl6U/IMG_6952_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Chris got a new bike trainer!!  Even though it doesn’t get too cold here in Vegas, sometimes it does get pretty chilly and it’s hard to fit a workout in with working and going to school.  Plus, we can both use it *wink wink*  I think he liked it!  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I just love getting and giving ‘active’ gifts!!!  </font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBni29eHI/AAAAAAAAB_A/xQwdbQAubWo/s1600-h/IMG_6956%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6956" border="0" alt="IMG_6956" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBn4Uu8rI/AAAAAAAAB_E/bYYfg376m5A/IMG_6956_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBpvQ0zpI/AAAAAAAAB_I/tb8-dBergSk/s1600-h/IMG_6959%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6959" border="0" alt="IMG_6959" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBp14SVEI/AAAAAAAAB_M/g7KYL8PK4_8/IMG_6959_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="304" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdISCGcv8a6D1tCtT9uGvAjpNoM_k6G9s6sW_WamNQXawunSZMRjImenEz5OLNQpi7gaWboNpENx-2gAO279t78tlz9DDLCV9Udx-t7ba_CIN-QVb_CA2kmCqxX_RSQOQ043_BYoYGoE/s1600-h/IMG_6962%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6962" border="0" alt="IMG_6962" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBqWUlnoI/AAAAAAAAB_U/LOUoqQk-de0/IMG_6962_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="204" height="304" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I also wanted to mention <strong>my 2010 goals</strong>, looking ahead . . . I believe it’s important to have aspirations and set goals for yourself.  It’s also important to make sure that these goals are reasonable, won’t compromise your well-being, and can be achieved.  Small steps is the best way, and even though all of mine may not get fully accomplished this coming year, it’s still important to have something to look forward to and strive for to be the best person you can be!  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Well, here goes . . .</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Train for a sprint tri . . . </strong>there are tri swim lessons at a local gym on Tues/Thurs at 5:30am.  Chris and I are going to go at least 2x per month starting out and see if we can afford more in the future.  I also need to peruse the triathlons coming up and sign up for one, but I’m hoping sometime in the spring.  I think this also means I have to get a bathing suit, yikes!</font></li> <li><font size="2"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>Budget . . . </strong>and stick with it!  I’m usually pretty good about keeping up with spending, but lately with the holiday spirit, that’s gone by the way side.  I need to make saving at least $200 every month a priority.  This is especially important since I want to reduce my work hours to have time for my thesis.  Speaking of which . . .</font></font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Make gains on my thesis . . .</strong> to move closer to an MS in exercise physiology!!  I just need to stick with it and hunker down to the finish.  I know I can do it.  Three. More. Semesters.  </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Gain more experience . . . </strong>in the sports nutrition field.  I feel I have the knowledge and the passion, but I need the confidence in my abilities to take it to the next level.  Experience will do this for me.</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Devise an internship . . . </strong>for my independent study class working with athletes on campus or a local corporate wellness program to gain that experience.  </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Explore career options . . . </strong>to prepare myself once I have my degree to do something I truly enjoy every day.  While I can’t discuss it on the blog, I think you can catch my drift = / </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Positive thoughts . . . </strong>I can’t let the stress of work, finding a career and school get in the way of enjoying life to the fullest and being with Chris fully and unconditionally.  Sometimes I can let my mind/anxiety get the best of me and I need to work on changing that.  </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Explore photography further . . . </strong>I am enjoying photography so much lately and find it fascinating, but there is so much more to learn and buy (big yikes!) I’d like to save up and invest in a tripod, lighting kit and a macro lens, as well as read up on it and see other photographer’s work to expand my knowledge.  I’d love to take a class, but I don’t think I will have enough time and budget for it right now.  </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Improve the blog . . . </strong>with a new, fresh look.  I know I’ve been talking about this forever and a day, but I’m still trying to figure it out on my own (and a little help from Chris).  I’m the biggest retard when it comes to that kind of stuff, but I have a template and am doing my best to find time to figure it out!</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong>Culinary School . . . </strong>okay this is a bit of a stretch hehe  While I may not get to it this year, or even the next, it is still a dream that can become a reality in the future.</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma">And of course I hope to dish up many more yummy recipes here at eatingRD!!  That’s the fun part!</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Speaking of making some great recipes, I’ve taken on the <a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/the_chic_life/2009/12/eat-in-month-challenge---january-2010.html" target="_blank"><strong>Eat In Month Challenge</strong></a> hosted by <a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/the_chic_life/" target="_blank">Diana</a>.  This is such a great idea!  Not only will this help in the budget department because we will be eating in for the entire month of January, it can also help the waistline from all that holiday indulgence :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I have to admit we had to use our one cheat pass for the challenge on January 2nd since we were at the airport flying back home.  Technically we hadn’t joined yet, but still :)  After getting up at 3:30am to make a flight to Atlanta, Chris and I shared a nice scramble thingie at TGIFridays during our 3 hour layover.  I also had a NF eggnog latte mmm I think these are my favorite!!!  Although even the NF and no whip version yields a whopping 350 kcals, I drank about 300 and that was enough.  It was delicious!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">When we got home and the fridge was cleaned out and bare thanks to my crazy cleaning, there weren’t too many options for dinner . . . we did have some eggs though!  Instead of going out to grab some food we made simple omelets with leftover turkey sausage from the freezer, cheese and a micro’ed sweet tater on the side.  That’ll work!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Join me as I take on the challenge with some awesome, home cooked goodness, or better yet join the band wagon and try it out for yourself!  You can even join for a few days or weeks if that works out better for you.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">For the challenge I’m looking forward to using this new crock-pot that Chris’ parents got us.  It even has a probe for temperature monitoring!  Basset not included hehe</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBqyXA7PI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/xkJtMNy_ybY/s1600-h/IMG_6072%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6072" border="0" alt="IMG_6072" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBrAd2TSI/AAAAAAAAB_c/_vIX1v44gRQ/IMG_6072_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a>   </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I also had a coupon at Bed Bath and Beyond and picked up this beauty.  It’s a mondo sized pan/deep skillet!  I’ve been eyeing this for awhile.  Can’t wait to use it too :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBrQPC1AI/AAAAAAAAB_k/XjASqf3PKWs/s1600-h/IMG_6971%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6971" border="0" alt="IMG_6971" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBrmsDmjI/AAAAAAAAB_o/qW-mi13XJ74/IMG_6971_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I’m currently obsessed with this bread from TJ’s.  It’s a nice, tangy sourdough with a chewy crust and doughy center, perfect for a panini sammie lunch!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBr4X65BI/AAAAAAAAB_s/RFs_38YkxkY/s1600-h/IMG_6968%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6968" border="0" alt="IMG_6968" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBsFK3jsI/AAAAAAAAB_w/9QLdSYqQYjk/IMG_6968_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBssjFC7I/AAAAAAAAB_0/tUfg3ZGr4GM/s1600-h/IMG_6967%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6967" border="0" alt="IMG_6967" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBs3jKltI/AAAAAAAAB_4/H6fwsQW5yY4/IMG_6967_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a>   </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFPZwgT8wPxOaIjJIBgROR6CVy3_E7izbIDA84j-7xATNhxsrFSiNRmNA1Q4tms9LP2mNTFsJpAJFFw7xo2gjO8-LQRA4Svavsvxs4DJ3xbolZF_U4PIoO3YdHK3_ACW6-g-bAiHxXNP8/s1600-h/bouldercityride%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="bouldercityride" border="0" alt="bouldercityride" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/S0FBtSrGGnI/AAAAAAAACAA/dGZGitegMTA/bouldercityride_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>I’m also happy to report I finally got a good bike ride in today with Chris!  yay!  It think it was about 25 miles or so?  It felt good to get back on the bike, but I could tell I need to get back in shape!  My lungs and legs weren’t really liking me.  While I didn’t get one heart pumping workout in on our entire trip, not even one, I think it was actually good for me.  It taught me a lot of things about myself actually.  It taught me to relax and take a moment to recognize and truly enjoy all the wonderful things and family around me.  It also taught me to signal in to my hunger and satiety cues, and I think I actually ate less and felt more satisfied.  Yes, I did indulge, but I didn’t go overboard and felt much better because of it.  Plus I think my body just need a good ol’ break!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Here’s to a happy and healthy 2010!!</font></p> <p><strong><em><font size="2" face="Tahoma">What are you looking forward to most?</font></em></strong></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-87513796620741033772010-01-01T10:51:00.001-08:002010-01-01T10:51:16.861-08:00don’t want it to end<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">HAPPY NEW YEAR! mmm breakfast was lovely . . . After stumbling from our slumber after a late night at 10:30am(!!) Chris made us all some omelets.  We still had some leftover spaghetti squash, roasted veggies and meatloaf from the other night, so he threw some of that in there along with some dried oregano which complements eggs very well.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was a protein-packed breakfast, perfect after a late night and a few drinks :)  I also heard them talking on the Today Show this morning about having coconut water for hangovers . . . love that stuff!  I actually didn’t have any kind of headache this morning thanks to sleep and lots of water in between drinks :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EAMu8EvI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/Uezx_0COzgs/s1600-h/IMG_6934%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6934" border="0" alt="IMG_6934" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EAmMKGbI/AAAAAAAAB8U/GepFyeyNMX8/IMG_6934_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I’m loving that spaghetti squash and have been thinking of different ways to use it.  Here it’s pretty good in the omelet and on top as a garnish :)  Alongside I also had 1/2 a pear, 1/4 sliced naner, 1/2 a kiwi and a slice of whole wheat toast.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EA_tvQZI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/XX1YZLKgMpI/s1600-h/IMG_6936%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6936" border="0" alt="IMG_6936" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EBL_3o8I/AAAAAAAAB8c/EKvk2HN-uN0/IMG_6936_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EBTfQSDI/AAAAAAAAB8g/RD7Y4_moFRs/s1600-h/IMG_6939%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6939" border="0" alt="IMG_6939" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EBk_f8SI/AAAAAAAAB8k/LY8J_jM9kRk/IMG_6939_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">~~~~~</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Now for a little recap of yesterday and New Year’s celebrations!  Did you have a nice New Year’s?  I can’t believe it’s already 2010, where did it go?  I’m hoping 2010 will be a year of new beginnings and aspirations, but that will have to be a different post :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I hope you’ve enjoyed my extra food postage lately because I certainly have!  It’s been so much fun and I really enjoy it.  I just wish I had this kind of time all the time.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EB-awyzI/AAAAAAAAB8o/n1spSgCRQ5Q/s1600-h/IMG_6813%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6813" border="0" alt="IMG_6813" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5ECOfGoFI/AAAAAAAAB8s/SsU525ADgck/IMG_6813_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">New Year’s Eve morning breakfast included a bowl of TJ’s honey Greek yogurt mixed with pumpkin pie spice.  I topped the yogurt with a variety of cereals, 1/2 a pear, frozen blueberries, and about 2 tsp of TJ’s organic peanut butter.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5ECJp42cI/AAAAAAAAB8w/8vtM1XYFopY/s1600-h/IMG_6817%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6817" border="0" alt="IMG_6817" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5ECSK24EI/AAAAAAAAB80/y0T2Y2U3rjw/IMG_6817_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After doing a little window shopping with my mom, we came home for a late lunch.  Utilizing the leftovers yet again (can you tell we always use leftovers in this household? lol) I made a meatloaf sammie with roasted veggies and spaghetti squash on the side.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EChsjvNI/AAAAAAAAB84/58XT_X9WrOc/s1600-h/IMG_6829%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6829" border="0" alt="IMG_6829" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EC0533rI/AAAAAAAAB88/2H_Umg5K0ok/IMG_6829_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I also decided to have a nice cup of Candy Cane Lane tea to warm up.  I couldn’t seem to get warm yesterday since it was rainy and chilly outside.  I really like this flavor!  It’s nice and minty and warmed me right up!  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EDJmvUeI/AAAAAAAAB9A/qkVTZSPPEJA/s1600-h/IMG_6838%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6838" border="0" alt="IMG_6838" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EDGaAUFI/AAAAAAAAB9E/VCfMGSeQ7OA/IMG_6838_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I also had a TJ’s peppermint Joe Joe cookie.  mmm these are awesome with little chunks of real candy cane in the middle.</font></p> <p>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EDfdJraI/AAAAAAAAB9I/x6ftFRE2txM/s1600-h/IMG_6869%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6869" border="0" alt="IMG_6869" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EDknmbvI/AAAAAAAAB9M/wrXkT24JPSI/IMG_6869_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="529" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">They are a seasonal product, so get ‘em while they’re hot!</font>   </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5ED4fmXvI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/BTHBWpgwE-c/s1600-h/IMG_6873%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6873" border="0" alt="IMG_6873" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EEDqd8UI/AAAAAAAAB9U/pNHxmvVLTtM/IMG_6873_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="529" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After getting ready for our night out, we headed to a local wine bar/lounge to celebrate the New Year Mardi Gras style.  We usually go to a friend’s annual party, but she decided not to have one this year :(  The Wine Loft just recently opened and we saw an ad that they were going to have a New Year’s party with live entertainment, so we decided to give it a shot!  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EET2WiqI/AAAAAAAAB9Y/_uqX19zGJvA/s1600-h/IMG_6892%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6892" border="0" alt="IMG_6892" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EEaAvOOI/AAAAAAAAB9c/qFRM_RwXLDA/IMG_6892_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was gorgeous inside and I would enjoy coming here with friends for a relaxing glass of wine and small plate.  The menu looked really good.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EEojN-QI/AAAAAAAAB9g/mhJMaQuPR8w/s1600-h/IMG_6882%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6882" border="0" alt="IMG_6882" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMO16XB5OYUmOzTO8X7WhGW5G76i19ImW57pTDhRQX3t-qh6OgTLfJBTXSC1iqn2uuHnakNnhpB4yUL6RUiRdjniZWJ8PpcKarBiJAKqCQouZ6GshuChHwDjCf5M1n4e_P-mrrAreOl8c/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EFMs6cbI/AAAAAAAAB9o/gn52zKkQIhU/s1600-h/IMG_6888%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6888" border="0" alt="IMG_6888" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EFcgimoI/AAAAAAAAB9s/00moTytg1tY/IMG_6888_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was a lot of fun!  Tickets included a glass of house cab, red beans and rice, muffaletta sandwiches, various munchies and a glass of champagne at midnight.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EFj4xf-I/AAAAAAAAB9w/awdXLnjg2sk/s1600-h/IMG_6877%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6877" border="0" alt="IMG_6877" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EF2juSWI/AAAAAAAAB90/D0xuextz5pU/IMG_6877_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The Grand Cru cab that was included was actually pretty nice.  It was fruit forward and medium-bodied.  While lacking in fullness and finish, I still enjoyed it.  And it was only $6 a glass!</font></p> <p>  <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EGH2p0yI/AAAAAAAAB94/ZHLC61EriAo/s1600-h/IMG_6884%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6884" border="0" alt="IMG_6884" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EGY76Z6I/AAAAAAAAB98/vKtZeBzqwsU/IMG_6884_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a>  <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFV11PeKeI2RmTOFxPLHX3RUnkUhK3mzcM1VtFte4ObbbcQZ9-7qtb7RrU6V_5goYCKEt8ftF94IZ6KzKQwgWYuNd9Xoyny4QSgngd7qAWA3JFAfojK-Y8WxguoWlE2jp31XyUgQuXguw/s1600-h/IMG_6890%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6890" border="0" alt="IMG_6890" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EG00JS8I/AAAAAAAAB-E/rY5ZLKvK8WM/IMG_6890_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EHF76S5I/AAAAAAAAB-I/lTX7HsC4_e4/s1600-h/IMG_6898%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6898" border="0" alt="IMG_6898" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EHeXbdQI/AAAAAAAAB-M/SSko9qTGZOw/IMG_6898_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></font><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I munched on some veggies, about 5 cheese cubes and 5 or so crackers, all while chatting the night away.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I’m not a fan of green olives, and just picked them off the muffaletta.  It was yummy!  I didn’t have any red beans and rice since it was pretty spicy and kidney beans can sometimes be trouble for me lol  Throughout the night I had 2 glasses of the cab.  I made sure to have a glass of water during and after each glass of wine.  This makes such a difference in the morning :)  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EHSHEkeI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/TVAunXdN4VU/s1600-h/IMG_6906%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6906" border="0" alt="IMG_6906" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EH6IFwJI/AAAAAAAAB-U/JOwIhO0BEEk/IMG_6906_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We also ordered and shared some baked brie en croute mmm gooey cheese is glorious!  I had a bit too much cheese!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EILNQAHI/AAAAAAAAB-Y/G-1w8pplBQU/s1600-h/IMG_6907%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6907" border="0" alt="IMG_6907" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EIfe8m7I/AAAAAAAAB-c/hN8OhRw0oiw/IMG_6907_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Poor Chris wasn’t feeling too well, but he was a trooper and tried to have a good time with his water and sudafed.</font>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EIVAY_iI/AAAAAAAAB-g/ns4g4UnBZC8/s1600-h/IMG_6908%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6908" border="0" alt="IMG_6908" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EIsI8rtI/AAAAAAAAB-k/lBJg34-jA2E/IMG_6908_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">With the countdown of the New Year, we toasted with some champagne and stayed around a little longer while the band played a few more songs.  I had about 2 sips of champagne (I’m not a fan of the dry stuff) and a brownie they provided for dessert.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EI21xsTI/AAAAAAAAB-o/oUC3Qv-vLiI/s1600-h/IMG_6904%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6904" border="0" alt="IMG_6904" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Sz5EJKhJYHI/AAAAAAAAB-s/ba_XaxUb5bU/IMG_6904_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I had such a wonderfully relaxing time here and I’m not looking forward to leaving early tomorrow morning :(  It went too darn fast!  I started thinking about it last night and I got all teary eyed.  Heck, I’m thinking about it again right now and getting teary eyed!  Being away from family is really really tough for me and I’m hoping the shock of getting back won’t be too overwhelming . . . next time we meet I’ll be back in Vegas and back to the grind . . . hope you all enjoyed your holidays!  I sure had a nice time and am so thankful for it all.</font>      </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">HAPPY NEW YEAR!  Wishing you all the best in 2010!</font> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">  </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-7090259446673113002009-12-30T19:59:00.001-08:002009-12-30T19:59:39.239-08:00out of this world banana puddin’<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I couldn’t really figure out what the heck to title this post since it’s pretty random, but after much contemplation I figured it should be titled after the epitome of all banana puddings I’ve ever had. . . </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After breakfast most of my morning was spent doing laundry and catching up on bloggies, so we ended up not getting out of the house till later.  My mom wanted to find a new laptop computer so we ventured out to Best Buy and found a pretty good deal on a Dell.  My mom is not savvy with computers, so Chris helped her out :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Breakfast was one of my simple staples . . . this one included Nature’s Pride pumpkin granola, TJ’s honey O’s, TJ’s shredded wheat and cinnamon Puffins.  I topped it with 1/2 a sliced naner, frozen blueberries (I love how they turn the milk blue!) and 3 walnut halves.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhmK0KdyI/AAAAAAAAB64/-mdWgS2MAn8/s1600-h/IMG_6734%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6734" border="0" alt="IMG_6734" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szwhmf0e5MI/AAAAAAAAB68/xB9HmG08JQU/IMG_6734_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I had a pretty simple lunch too . . . An Orowheat sandwich thin (I think I like these!), spread with some cooked sweet tater, sliced TJ’s tofu, avocado and muenster cheese.  Then I pressed it in the foreman grill with some carrots and hummus alongside.  It was yummy and just the right size!  I love adding cooked sweet taters to pretty much anything because it lends a subtle sweetness :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szwhmmd48RI/AAAAAAAAB7A/k8dapWYEHfY/s1600-h/IMG_6742%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6742" border="0" alt="IMG_6742" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szwhm2mZtUI/AAAAAAAAB7E/tXNfJu5yilI/IMG_6742_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Among the many food stops that we wanted to try to make on our trip here, one was <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/place?oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=gary%27s+bbq+china+grove+nc&fb=1&gl=us&hq=gary%27s+bbq&hnear=china+grove+nc&cid=11979068127284498129" target="_blank">Gary’s BBQ</a> which is known for their homemade banana puddin’.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhmwvYE6I/AAAAAAAAB7I/ItbIvkvhVGw/s1600-h/IMG_6780%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6780" border="0" alt="IMG_6780" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhnACXqNI/AAAAAAAAB7M/XxuYibb8LbU/IMG_6780_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="529" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Everything is very reasonably priced and the waitress always calls you ‘hun’.  I just think this is too cute because we don’t get that Southern hospitality in Vegas!  We first found out about Gary’s when it was featured in Southern Living magazine.  Chris had a few bites of their pulled pork sammie just to try it and really liked it.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhnYLOqeI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/VpYMfXtZIZY/s1600-h/IMG_6754%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6754" border="0" alt="IMG_6754" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szwhn9dyPDI/AAAAAAAAB7U/hmJiDJ4_9CQ/IMG_6754_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Their pudding is rich, ultra thick and to die for!  It’s definitely worth the drive.  I wish my mom and I would have shared one because I forgot how mondo they are.  I could only finish about 1/3 of it and then I was spent.  I ate too much, but this stuff is better than ice cream and just as deadly lol</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhoNK7xeI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/I3SOTFlaAgo/s1600-h/IMG_6769%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6769" border="0" alt="IMG_6769" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhofULxdI/AAAAAAAAB7c/SkQiGu6yXMM/IMG_6769_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p> <font size="2" face="Tahoma">It’s so mondo, stuff was falling off the sides of the bowl!</font><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhojwzhQI/AAAAAAAAB7g/6B5RpTsd7So/s1600-h/IMG_6758%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6758" border="0" alt="IMG_6758" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhohlXc_I/AAAAAAAAB7k/6BySYnTOHPI/IMG_6758_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="529" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szwho9T5NxI/AAAAAAAAB7o/vlXC8AH8W2I/s1600-h/IMG_6768%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6768" border="0" alt="IMG_6768" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhpClgD-I/AAAAAAAAB7s/5s9U7qAhuVs/IMG_6768_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After a successful stop at Best Buy, we wanted to look at a few other nearby boutique shops for fun, but Chris slammed his finger in the door as we were getting out and we had to head back home.  Ouch!  But he is doing fine now :) </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">For dinner I whipped up some hearty <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/12/lots-of-comfort-winner-is.html" target="_blank">meatloaf</a>, roasted squash, parsnips and spaghetti squash.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhpQ9u3OI/AAAAAAAAB7w/V8U5W7nNAqM/s1600-h/IMG_6788%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6788" border="0" alt="IMG_6788" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhpuW3oSI/AAAAAAAAB70/I_9fZYWWNEk/IMG_6788_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szwhps2ge-I/AAAAAAAAB74/kL7IWzznW7s/s1600-h/IMG_6807%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6807" border="0" alt="IMG_6807" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8jE3zMiV3Qmv_uxouhJDxw28iAQ_pTvvb1isAP1jZYSi9-QQtoTJ5-7Ar4u0CFKOPojsh9gkqE5hHEQzfuhyFJttntTUxFeZ3T-1EesgrAnR6EMWamT6GFeK_XHojUjDHf6xx4vf1pzI/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It was my first time making spaghetti squash and I think I’m in love!!  It is so simple to make and is so delish.  This will definitely be a staple in our house from now on, especially because it makes a ton and this one squash was only about $3.  In one cup of plain, cooked spaghetti squash there is only 42 kcals and a fairly good amount of vitamin C and fiber.  Yum!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">For this I cut it in 1/2 and roasted it cut side down at 375 F with a bit of water in the sheet pan for about 30 minutes.  Then I turned it over, topped it with about 1/2 tbsp of butter in each half along with some salt, pepper, and garlic powder and continued to bake it until soft.  I also added some parmesan cheese once it was done.  Yum!</font></p> <p>   <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhqINXPPI/AAAAAAAAB8A/GChLE0oMFcU/s1600-h/IMG_6809%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6809" border="0" alt="IMG_6809" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhqZIjAOI/AAAAAAAAB8E/Q5Gups-WI1s/IMG_6809_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Alongside we tried a new Malbec that we found at a local wine store called Total Wine.  It was nice and full with rich, chocolate-y undertones, but it wasn’t out of this world.  I much prefer the Layer Cake Malbec.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhqQBh4yI/AAAAAAAAB8I/2lVTbFZOn3k/s1600-h/IMG_6786%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6786" border="0" alt="IMG_6786" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzwhqqkG0rI/AAAAAAAAB8M/HB4myto9u_s/IMG_6786_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="344" height="514" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I’m looking forward to New Year’s!  We made reservations at a local wine lounge/restaurant that’s going to have some live entertainment which should be fun.  Hope you all have a safe and happy New Year’s!!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong><em>Do you have any New Year’s plans yet?</em></strong>      </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-25568011616495753152009-12-29T20:04:00.001-08:002009-12-29T20:04:03.298-08:00southern safari<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After a lazy morning, and a quick stop at Chik-fil-A for lunch, we all headed to <a href="http://www.lazy5ranch.com/" target="_blank">Lazy 5</a>, a local animal drive-thru park with over 750 different exotic animals roaming around.  It was sure an adventure!  I’ve been here once before, but we just drove the grounds in our car.  This time around we made an appointment to join a wagon ride and you can actually feed the animals right from your hand!  It’s so exhilarating and exciting to see them so close and we all had a great time.  I think I managed to take over 200 photos!  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Here are some of the good ones . . .  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRAX0ZnCI/AAAAAAAAB3c/9FN5XIn5kdQ/s1600-h/IMG_6669%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6669" border="0" alt="IMG_6669" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRAwEe74I/AAAAAAAAB3g/nASK7m04_Tg/IMG_6669_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigAgMy761xx6S9orMIGInxAATeEy8qTW7YkmLoaiicuUq52__W68rfyWMJtqYF_UeVwNijcDPUF1_0YM9bd_UVozs9LaRrcppR1Gnn5zRVEY30gcPaeqlHiXmKKuiD202pydh3ZsHXn14/s1600-h/IMG_6453%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6453" border="0" alt="IMG_6453" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwzL2OabiuHeLtLiSXkmRf3K7nFZN3fk2WUOX2LPaTmwz0Fyji5o_QpMQ4F6qTJTirRxSSmQ9rBsthz7Xr0YE8yAJGATuann0fiTm7gTAAjuMEAtNiBuvbinWPmztOkhe2RtN4KiZCFPU/?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRBragkeI/AAAAAAAAB3s/tR_GKqSYGbA/s1600-h/IMG_6581%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6581" border="0" alt="IMG_6581" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRCHW440I/AAAAAAAAB30/RkqXKMs5uZE/IMG_6581_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRCXvrRlI/AAAAAAAAB34/iKx5TAhltsM/s1600-h/IMG_6458%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6458" border="0" alt="IMG_6458" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRClxB2OI/AAAAAAAAB38/zACm_8vuSeg/IMG_6458_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRCzBkjGI/AAAAAAAAB4A/eeBR_xmfu8c/s1600-h/IMG_6466%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6466" border="0" alt="IMG_6466" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRDPcpasI/AAAAAAAAB4E/SjUIBiCZLbc/IMG_6466_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a>  <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMM9z63ygcF6RWUUmE1k81FOahudJN3aZUgZ6x8vbNRxhFHCsGF9BCwmITuw00Y9TqFn7re3zwUBnCFmX-UHCvSLAhQU6sF2moHq0OwkUj7uAMyOEPQIb3UCfmAVS5J6WKrJNcM26hu0/s1600-h/IMG_6515%5B4%5D.jpg"></a> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6515" border="0" alt="IMG_6515" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRDiApIhI/AAAAAAAAB4M/vLbTzPLH0is/IMG_6515_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="529" /></p>   <font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">From left to right:  my mom, cousin and aunt.  Sure love these guys!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRD1feaGI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/_QatrTwFy9I/s1600-h/IMG_6549%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6549" border="0" alt="IMG_6549" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrREFkV6pI/AAAAAAAAB4U/H23mHdDrg6U/IMG_6549_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I think this one is my favorite, look at that giant tongue!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRERL87xI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/zfqwkyisw0I/s1600-h/IMG_6573%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6573" border="0" alt="IMG_6573" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrREiv1IbI/AAAAAAAAB4c/IJ81uXktz4Y/IMG_6573_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">They also have a petting zoo to walk around after the ride.  While many of the animals weren’t out since it’s winter, there were still some roaming around waiting to be fed!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRE4pQe-I/AAAAAAAAB4g/zo-2FwcS27Y/s1600-h/IMG_6585%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6585" border="0" alt="IMG_6585" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRE9f1UsI/AAAAAAAAB4k/DTPZrGRP9RE/IMG_6585_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I liked the reflection in this picture . . .</font></p> <p>     <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRFMiYtvI/AAAAAAAAB4o/G5QCkjfPVG8/s1600-h/IMG_6589%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6589" border="0" alt="IMG_6589" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRFcwdnoI/AAAAAAAAB4s/Pcmb39b-GOo/IMG_6589_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_AwPXn_zbZlUxpfMfps_9vHdsecYlTitPCW9U-SmS6mfvfzp9rjR72dHgJhbPtYSc-QA5zVQXvPE1EkE7cIvRkwxI9vMblf8nSzvgo8VtpbEKk9MyHlmsALnrauWUn6yZP439QF1cT8/s1600-h/IMG_6593%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6593" border="0" alt="IMG_6593" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRF1iGAZI/AAAAAAAAB40/mlHJ_LR3OEw/IMG_6593_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">FEED ME PLEASE!!</font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRFz4h8xI/AAAAAAAAB44/YdMd2H2xMeg/s1600-h/IMG_6596%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6596" border="0" alt="IMG_6596" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRGEVFuwI/AAAAAAAAB48/CMikC7mWwjs/IMG_6596_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRGZFzG7I/AAAAAAAAB5A/pCp2pW6hD7M/s1600-h/IMG_6625%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6625" border="0" alt="IMG_6625" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRGj1j3cI/AAAAAAAAB5E/7XGyS_K2mXs/IMG_6625_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRGxzATzI/AAAAAAAAB5I/2p8pjaqTEM8/s1600-h/IMG_6656%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6656" border="0" alt="IMG_6656" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRHEcF8_I/AAAAAAAAB5M/nzx1zXKILt8/IMG_6656_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRHGD06YI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/d5wRhuHsoXo/s1600-h/IMG_6663%5B4%5D.jpg"></a> <p><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6663" border="0" alt="IMG_6663" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRHdZbQSI/AAAAAAAAB5U/9SvzPLYKNyI/IMG_6663_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="529" /></p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRHjRIOLI/AAAAAAAAB5Y/d83EK6qnX-s/s1600-h/IMG_6668%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6668" border="0" alt="IMG_6668" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRIBeEsJI/AAAAAAAAB5c/E6T1B92VijE/IMG_6668_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We had such a blast!  It was sure chilly outside brrrr but the sun was shining!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After we got home, my mom and I took her little doggy Shadow for a quick walk.  My mom recently adopted Shadow after she was hit by a car on the highway.  Her right leg eventually had to be amputated, but she is doing really well now.  She is such a sweetheart! </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRISsKkpI/AAAAAAAAB5g/EuvgPvW6tVY/s1600-h/IMG_6671%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6671" border="0" alt="IMG_6671" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRIqstvjI/AAAAAAAAB5k/nsP2I_M-RGQ/IMG_6671_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I was surprised at how well she does, and the other 3 legs make up for it :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRIrHJ6uI/AAAAAAAAB5o/UyMbKHuVPYU/s1600-h/IMG_6673%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6673" border="0" alt="IMG_6673" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRI8R8NyI/AAAAAAAAB5s/RHqbYw7YY9A/IMG_6673_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">For dinner we headed out again for some good southern BBQ mmm that is something that I don’t indulge in very often.  It’s fun to immerse yourself in different cuisines when visiting a city.  There is nothing that I enjoy more than trying and visiting local favorites that make a city unique.  I try to avoid national chains as much as possible to support local restaurants when traveling.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRJNAExqI/AAAAAAAAB5w/QNaibPZZguQ/s1600-h/IMG_6686%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6686" border="0" alt="IMG_6686" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRJS9cktI/AAAAAAAAB50/2XiCa9PZIFU/IMG_6686_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We always try to make a stop at a restaurant called <a href="http://www.lancastersbbq.com/" target="_blank">Lancasters</a>.  It’s a great place to go to for some lip-smackin’ southern BBQ.  The inside has a ton of knick-knack items and racing memorabilia all over the walls and there’s even a real bus you can sit in! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRJU7qaZI/AAAAAAAAB54/OmR2E9_iglE/s1600-h/IMG_6690%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6690" border="0" alt="IMG_6690" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRJiPMGUI/AAAAAAAAB58/gVrkvWvhskE/IMG_6690_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRJ8kcXDI/AAAAAAAAB6A/nwO0IYfGxdI/s1600-h/IMG_6700%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6700" border="0" alt="IMG_6700" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRKND7bfI/AAAAAAAAB6E/YoNsTCl4Jz8/IMG_6700_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">My mom ordered sweet tea.  Have you heard of this before?  Normally when you order iced tea in the west, it’s always unsweet tea.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">If you order iced tea in the south, it is always sa-weeat tea (with an accent).  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Chris usually orders unsweet tea and he was so surprised the first time he got the sweet stuff and about gagged!  I had a sip of it and this stuff is sweeet!  It has something near 60g of carbs for a large serving!!  Yikes! </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">    <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRKW6DQzI/AAAAAAAAB6I/m99Vl1SptTc/s1600-h/IMG_6694%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6694" border="0" alt="IMG_6694" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRKpkpzGI/AAAAAAAAB6M/pP02u2uFUXQ/IMG_6694_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Every table gets a basket of hush puppies.  Oh my gosh, these are addicting!  I forced myself to only have two of these little bites of fried doughy goodness.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRKrACCmI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/YFXp8Kwe4Us/s1600-h/IMG_6703%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6703" border="0" alt="IMG_6703" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRK0XAopI/AAAAAAAAB6U/TxPCTB_uVVg/IMG_6703_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRLDSF5iI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/heCxCsVn4U8/s1600-h/IMG_6710%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6710" border="0" alt="IMG_6710" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRLEX7nzI/AAAAAAAAB6c/6ORFQZIST6M/IMG_6710_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">For dinner I ordered the salt and pepper catfish combo with pulled pork, corn on the cob and baked beans.  I had one catfish filet, 1/2 the pork, 1/2 the corn and all the beans.  I also had one of the ribs.  Everything was delicious! The ribs were so tender and fell right off the bone mmm</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRLWbnXLI/AAAAAAAAB6g/HR6AxrcGxy8/s1600-h/IMG_6713%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6713" border="0" alt="IMG_6713" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRLzk__oI/AAAAAAAAB6k/MHMb6cGiOGM/IMG_6713_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRL7XDVBI/AAAAAAAAB6o/mpLaNcV1kEE/s1600-h/IMG_6722%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6722" border="0" alt="IMG_6722" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRMGtDlbI/AAAAAAAAB6s/WXkzGvVUp6Q/IMG_6722_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>To continue the indulgence of local favorites, there is a great ice cream shop called <a href="http://www.brusters.com/" target="_blank">Bruster’s</a> that Chris and I wanted to make a stop at.  gah!  this stuff is so good!  </font></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I had the small cup with peppermint stick and chocolate peanut butter buckeye.  I was so glad I only got the small!  I’ve never heard of a buckeye candy before, but I am a freak when it comes to anything with peanut butter and chocolate.  What’s not to love?  The peppermint had real chunks of peppermint candy and there were swirls of peanut butter all throughout the buckeye flavor.  pure. heaven.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRMoKj6iI/AAAAAAAAB6w/856-o5Nkles/s1600-h/IMG_6725%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6725" border="0" alt="IMG_6725" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzrRMkIuvCI/AAAAAAAAB60/1tgF0S6nlkg/IMG_6725_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">ha, love the marketing on the napkin.  treat yourself.  Yes, that is sure what I’ve been doing lately, but why does food always have to be considered a way to <em>treat</em>  yourself?  Especially with the holiday season it’s easy to get caught up in all the indulgence, or we try to avoid the temptation at all costs and make ourselves feel guilty if we don’t work off that extra bite of pumpkin pie.  Sometimes we don’t want to, and because of personal beliefs cannot eat the food that a host has prepared, but we don’t want to make them feel bad if we don’t eat their food.  I’m sure there are many other situations you have experienced also.  I’ve come to realize for me it’s important to not dwell on all the eating too much, enjoy the moments with family, friends and the food of the holidays for all that it is in the best way for my wellbeing.    </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Food is really what brings us together as a family, defines a region and sustains our bodies to keep us going and healthy.  I know that I have indulged in wonderful food and have relaxed probably a bit too much, but you know what, I’m enjoying it in moderation and am not going to worry about it for this moment in time :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><strong><em>What are your thoughts on the holiday-food conundrum?</em></strong></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">             </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-20091603646502445132009-12-29T08:18:00.001-08:002009-12-29T08:18:14.550-08:00a simple breakfast<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzorwJUGUDI/AAAAAAAAB28/xtN-vRIfhew/s1600-h/IMG_6420%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6420" border="0" alt="IMG_6420" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzorwX960zI/AAAAAAAAB3A/guEnijeGQ2A/IMG_6420_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> Most mornings there isn’t much time to prepare an elaborate breakfast and I’m sure most of you can surely relate.  Because of this we tend to fall into a routine, having the same 2 or 3 breakfast staples that are easy to make and tweak according to our cravings for the day.  I don’t think this is bad thing at all, especially if it’s healthy, filling and wholesome.  Plus different components can be adjusted based on what’s at hand, like different fruits, cereals, etc.  What breakfast should be is a priority every day, even with the limited time we have in the mornings.  I don’t think I’ve ever not gone without breakfast, or at least try to grab something quick out the door.  It gets the metabolism going, the brain functioning and prevents over eating throughout the day.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Breakfast is one of my favorites.  Hello Morning! </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzorwSMwQPI/AAAAAAAAB3E/Y5A_iTAT2Qw/s1600-h/IMG_6411%5B11%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6411" border="0" alt="IMG_6411" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzorwvXovcI/AAAAAAAAB3I/O043D8ZkFtk/IMG_6411_thumb%5B9%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Extending the wonderful breakfast for lunch I had <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/12/west-meets-east.html" target="_blank">yesterday</a> at Toast, I wanted to utilize the leftover raspberry walnut pancakes somehow because they were so tasty.  For something simple, I warmed up 1/2 the pancake, topped it with a fried egg, a sprinkling of 2% cheese and a small slice of salty bacon.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szorw-FJTcI/AAAAAAAAB3M/Lvmb4bsFEUI/s1600-h/IMG_6415%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6415" border="0" alt="IMG_6415" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzorxDT6YVI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/NZsyiJZn3ko/IMG_6415_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">On the side I used 1/2 a pear as a bowl for some NF Greek yogurt with cinnamon.  mmm . . . breakfast doesn’t have to be something elaborate every day.  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Yep, something simple and to your liking will do just fine . . . </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szorxfqgb4I/AAAAAAAAB3U/ZOOAdcDbctA/s1600-h/IMG_6425%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6425" border="0" alt="IMG_6425" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzorxWU-vxI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/DbXL4QYL_kQ/IMG_6425_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" height="307" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Other breakfast staples of mine during the busy week, that aren’t anything extraordinary but fit the bill include:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> bowl of whole grain cereals (I have to mix about 4 different kinds!), 1% milk or soymilk, topped with sliced banana and a small handful of nuts.</font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> peanut butter naan – toasted whole wheat naan, topped with pb and jam, a scoop of low fat cottage cheese, cereal and fruit.  It’s like a cottage cheese open-faced sandwich.  </font></li> <li><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> and if there’s time, I like to of course whip up a batch of good ol’ oats with hundreds of different topping/mix-in combos :)</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Today we are going to spend time with my aunt and little cousin that are in town visiting!  We’re going to be romping around with the animals . . . hehe </font></p> <p><strong><em><font size="2" face="Tahoma">What’s your favorite simple and quick breakfast staple?</font></em></strong></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-50598195105713401162009-12-28T15:06:00.001-08:002009-12-28T20:39:33.285-08:00west meets east<p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Today was another great day, not having anything to do with work or school, and I think I may just as well go into shock when I have to go back : /</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It started like most any other day, except I got to sleep in till 7:30am, I ate breakfast when their was actually glorious sunlight pouring through the windows, and I didn’t have to worry about going to work or school . . . so wait, I guess it wasn’t like most any other day! . . . another great thing about today was my first bloggie meet-up with Diana from </font><a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/the_chic_life/" target="_blank"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The Chic Life!</font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">  I was so excited and a bit nervous to meet with a fellow blogger, but I don’t consider her a stranger at all.  It’s like we were long lost friends catching up!  Reading all your different blogs, it feels like we are some how connected, and I feel so lucky to be apart of this blogging community where there are so many wonderful people.     </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I really enjoy reading her blog and her photography is stellar for someone who doesn’t think they know a lot about photography!  I’ve seen other meet-ups in the blogworld and I’ve been wanting to because it looks like such fun.  There aren’t too many bloggers in the Las Vegas area I don’t think, so it’s fun to meet new friends when you have the opportunity to over the holidays.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After much contemplation, because there are just so many choices out there, we decided to meet at a place called ‘</font><a href="http://toastcafeonline.com/huntersville/index.html" target="_blank"><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Toast</font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">’.  It is absolutely adorable!!!  I go crazy over local places like this, so it was perfect.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH9aeXu3I/AAAAAAAAB1k/EtgcC9JBpn8/s1600-h/IMG_6337%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6337" border="0" alt="IMG_6337" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH9k8R0lI/AAAAAAAAB1o/6Wvpp3o81Vo/IMG_6337_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Isn’t it cozy?</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk57tmlFzI/AAAAAAAAB0U/2dw0Qimor0s/s1600-h/IMG_6334%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6334" border="0" alt="IMG_6334" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk571t8D0I/AAAAAAAAB0Y/mXnC97aGrks/IMG_6334_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">I already had a small bowl of cereal for breakfast, but I couldn’t decide if I wanted to continue with breakfast or lunch.  I am so indecisive when it comes to menu items, especially when there are so many good ones to choose from!  I read many reviews praising them for their breakfast, so I decided I should try breakfast! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk58Pre0RI/AAAAAAAAB0c/Ezw5m5y0PHI/s1600-h/IMG_63253.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_6325" border="0" alt="IMG_6325" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk58vm6DvI/AAAAAAAAB0g/FYu6EQ_ACfQ/IMG_6325_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">One of their specials was raspberry walnut pancakes, but I was also eyeing the cheese quiche.  I always like to order items that I would never really get anywhere else, and these two made it really hard to choose.  Diana helped with my decision and said to try the pancakes since they are quite unique, and I’m glad I did!  They were scrumptious.  Every bite had a tart/sweet zing from the raspberries and a nice toasty crunch from the walnuts.  I also drizzled some real maple syrup on the side and had one strip of crispy bacon.  Yum!  I could only finish half and took the rest to-go.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk58pNvmUI/AAAAAAAAB0k/65oA2fhN6Jg/s1600-h/IMG_6332%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6332" border="0" alt="IMG_6332" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk59ObVPqI/AAAAAAAAB0o/1UCCng6z8YI/IMG_6332_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk59bEdy5I/AAAAAAAAB0s/9UxzKsAqw2E/s1600-h/IMG_6330%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6330" border="0" alt="IMG_6330" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk59k0uIGI/AAAAAAAAB0w/rmJT9xa79-4/IMG_6330_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma">  </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Diana went for the chicken gumbo and 1/2 turkey reuben.  She graciously offered me a sample of the sammie and it was sure tasty!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Photo shots courtesy of Diana :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk59xR15FI/AAAAAAAAB1s/tuv7nwtl6aA/s1600-h/IMG_6328%5B6%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6328" border="0" alt="IMG_6328" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5-HVN_hI/AAAAAAAAB10/bIg2x8Ezo-M/IMG_6328_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5-PRxWmI/AAAAAAAAB14/isTE2OaeXJ4/s1600-h/IMG_6329%5B5%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6329" border="0" alt="IMG_6329" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5-a6Y2II/AAAAAAAAB18/KNekuoKOKq8/IMG_6329_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5-uu1iSI/AAAAAAAAB1E/jOFS0osbTQU/s1600-h/IMG_63393.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_6339" border="0" alt="IMG_6339" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5-8t9KiI/AAAAAAAAB1I/p6J3qtQ-IhQ/IMG_6339_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> Afterwards, we decided to hit up a nearby Starbucks to continue the conversation.  I think we chatted the whole 3 hours or so!  I was feeling like some hot tea since it was chilly outside and we both ordered some Zen, which is green tea with lemongrass and spearmint.  I would highly recommend this one and I think I may have to get a box for myself.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH-qCnp3I/AAAAAAAAB2A/7U531eg0CRI/s1600-h/IMG_6340%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6340" border="0" alt="IMG_6340" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH-37NnTI/AAAAAAAAB2I/RuxfwtHpARQ/IMG_6340_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">We also shared a cinnamon chip scone and of course this was awesome, flaky and butterlicious, laced with pockets of cinnamon streusel.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Oh boy I’m on a carbo overload!  Dinner will include something green :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5_KeBGyI/AAAAAAAAB1M/iqZfEAAyFdU/s1600-h/IMG_63413.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_6341" border="0" alt="IMG_6341" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5_dIumwI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/-QKpGTX12-Q/IMG_6341_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH_NyBryI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/6MOpe9aMe1s/s1600-h/IMG_6347%5B13%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6347" border="0" alt="IMG_6347" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH_X_XhbI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/CDsOIw3Z5aE/IMG_6347_thumb%5B9%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="528" /></font></a></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Thanks Diana for a great meet-up!  It was so nice getting to meet with someone who shares similar beliefs and passions and is such a nice person!  My heart is full and I’m so glad we were able to get together with the short time that I have here.  I still may try to meet up again for some zumba hopefully!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5_iZYLHI/AAAAAAAAB1U/T9aZG7qo2Ew/s1600-h/IMG_63463.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_6346" border="0" alt="IMG_6346" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk5_zFodbI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/hbVRhaN2pMY/IMG_6346_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">After picking my mom up from work, we didn’t have too much time before the b-ball game and just grabbed something quick for dinner.  I made a big salad with sweet tater casserole on the side.  It was actually good used like a dressing for the salad, and I scooped a little bit of the casserole with each bite :)  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk6AN6vjPI/AAAAAAAAB1c/MKTF_8T-koI/s1600-h/IMG_6351%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6351" border="0" alt="IMG_6351" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szk6AcUr4OI/AAAAAAAAB1g/KD2CX901lRk/IMG_6351_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">The Charlotte Bobcats basketball game was a lot of fun!  Chris, being the big sports fan that he is, was really looking forward to it :)  GO BOBCATS!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH_mTEBvI/AAAAAAAAB2c/3qzSu7jsYnM/s1600-h/IMG_6352%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6352" border="0" alt="IMG_6352" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmH_4WnjzI/AAAAAAAAB2g/mceRQawpYy8/IMG_6352_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmIANygiRI/AAAAAAAAB2k/xy4JAGLOov8/s1600-h/IMG_6387%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6387" border="0" alt="IMG_6387" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmIAec-xaI/AAAAAAAAB2o/E__LZYbpsVU/IMG_6387_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">They had a pretty big victory and afterwards we decided to check out the EpiCentre downtown.</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmIAtqryBI/AAAAAAAAB2s/IVvlawy72tc/s1600-h/IMG_6395%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6395" border="0" alt="IMG_6395" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmIA_nAZRI/AAAAAAAAB2w/OgMTEDOM6KM/IMG_6395_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="354" height="529" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">It has shops, restaurants and also a movie theater.  We wanted to see if there were any places open for some dessert, but everything was closing!  I guess we weren’t in Vegas anymore :) The movie theater is neat because it has a restaurant attached and you can eat and drink in the theaters!  Diana said they have nice plushy chairs too.  Very posh and chic inside. . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmIBH9q5ZI/AAAAAAAAB20/XhTObBgfEVs/s1600-h/IMG_6397%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="2" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6397" border="0" alt="IMG_6397" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzmIBFbGLEI/AAAAAAAAB24/jMXz0W40pSs/IMG_6397_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a><font size="2" face="Tahoma"> </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Oh man, I’m pooped!  Maybe I’ve finally adjusted to east coast time.  Tomorrow will be filled with chasing around my little cousin who is visiting!</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">Hope you all had a nice Monday :)</font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma">          </font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="2" face="Tahoma"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-70864667822944246512009-12-27T15:33:00.001-08:002009-12-27T15:33:29.497-08:00fitting it all in<p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">It is so true that I will have the time to get back into gym mode when I get back.  So I just need to stop worrying about it like you guys said!  It was actually a most beautiful day and the sun was shining!  I should have went for a run or something, but alas there were other activities to fit in the day :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfutlFz49I/AAAAAAAABys/zgxUO1K134w/s1600-h/IMG_6283%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6283" border="0" alt="IMG_6283" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szfut1efxTI/AAAAAAAAByw/UOo2TZaTkR8/IMG_6283_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><font size="3" face="Tahoma">After breakfast, we headed to my step dad’s race shop for a little tour.  Even though this shop isn’t as big as some of the shops he’s worked at, it still amazes me how much time and energy goes into the racing industry.  It’s really neat.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Here are a few shots from the inside . . .</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ0sI-SGV-FmWEakm-kUVZcePr4KXoMWA-IbZPG0HzkOxE-nYYQG0nnQSrvCAcm1HQY21jfimXby0ieEdxAUuS6HpZ8Vy_sHvwACQ9gWRwd2Bjb4tFJV2GDYvrFCVlW_kBWoNux8TPRTY/s1600-h/IMG_6277%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6277" border="0" alt="IMG_6277" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuuLxwDCI/AAAAAAAABy4/RsHliO4gjaE/IMG_6277_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">My step dad said I can’t really post all the pictures we took :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Next, we headed to a shopping mall called Birkdale.  They have a bunch of different shops with condos above and it’s fun to walk around, especially when the weather is nice.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">For lunch we stopped at a place called Brixx which has the best oven roasted pizza mmm the crust is thin and crispy.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuukgS5UI/AAAAAAAABy8/4PEf5BSbur4/s1600-h/IMG_6298%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6298" border="0" alt="IMG_6298" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szfuu8jN1rI/AAAAAAAABzA/cWnkzB4OD4c/IMG_6298_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><font size="3" face="Tahoma">I started out with the Brixx salad and Chris got the tortilla soup special.  The salad is topped with goat cheese, pine nuts and a light balsamic vinaigrette, but I passed on the croutons and bread.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szfuu3EVzxI/AAAAAAAABzE/nWr4YWwGxeo/s1600-h/IMG_6292%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6292" border="0" alt="IMG_6292" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuvX5FJKI/AAAAAAAABzI/GkBggtMF2ck/IMG_6292_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">We shared the BBQ pizza (I had 2 slices) and it was really good even though they forgot to take off the onions!  ewww! </font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuvnHc4CI/AAAAAAAABzM/Rwut8RLWz94/s1600-h/IMG_6294%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6294" border="0" alt="IMG_6294" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuviSolyI/AAAAAAAABzQ/_yRJK_Lhg9g/IMG_6294_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">We also decided to share a tall NF peppermint mocha from Starbucks.  I haven’t had one of these in a long time too!</font></p> <p>  <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szfuv8oO6DI/AAAAAAAABzU/MBHPXXfZwmg/s1600-h/IMG_6302%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6302" border="0" alt="IMG_6302" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuwDTtI2I/AAAAAAAABzY/hv56-iDsm_4/IMG_6302_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbYBbhon4PKuxTblGAXQVuJdnp86CFMaYI1P1SW7qrK-ll_D6TJSWciHzELnBoJx9j_DZ0R7C5awMv3HxJePVTcKZKl0WDmrC42ZLjNAVsxTMjI-CGxZ39DXakMNCfIb0OJVE7zYC26g/s1600-h/IMG_6308%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6308" border="0" alt="IMG_6308" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuwkaQ5FI/AAAAAAAABzg/ZDfPOOOJ9ws/IMG_6308_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><font size="3" face="Tahoma">After walking around Birkdale for a bit, we decided we had to stop at the Soda Shop, a cute little eatery in Davidson that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.  </font><font size="3" face="Tahoma">It has some pretty yummy sammies and other deli type selections along with many milkshake flavors, but my favorite part is the sweet tater fries!  We had to fit them in :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Isn’t this the cutest downtown?  I adore places like this!</font></p> <p>  <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuwrkSK6I/AAAAAAAABzk/6hZ1YWUmv9g/s1600-h/IMG_6312%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6312" border="0" alt="IMG_6312" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szfuw-dQV4I/AAAAAAAABzo/4qUAeG7WBgw/IMG_6312_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p> <font size="3" face="Tahoma">Checkerboard tile and all . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuxIdoj-I/AAAAAAAABzs/IQJLOLgGM2E/s1600-h/IMG_6316%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6316" border="0" alt="IMG_6316" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuxTEf3XI/AAAAAAAABzw/XpHFzVcu9G0/IMG_6316_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p> <font size="3" face="Tahoma">And for the finale . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuxqxYDtI/AAAAAAAABz0/2_4Lr_gizkk/s1600-h/IMG_6318%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6318" border="0" alt="IMG_6318" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/Szfuxwnt8ZI/AAAAAAAABz4/ht8QKzYZ4x8/IMG_6318_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Oh boy these are quite addicting!  I portioned out 10 slices and Chris ate the rest mmm  It’s a good thing we don’t live close to here.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuyPvP20I/AAAAAAAABz8/I9YlC4304p0/s1600-h/IMG_6324%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6324" border="0" alt="IMG_6324" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzfuyLR2AEI/AAAAAAAAB0A/9Nxz8rJhIbU/IMG_6324_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Not much going on for the rest of the night, probably picking at leftovers and hanging out :)  My aunt and little cousin decided to come into town tomorrow to visit for a few days and we’re going to a Charlotte Bobcats game!  Not sure about the bloggie meet up yet, but we’ll see!</font>   </p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-10222798661537996522009-12-27T07:52:00.001-08:002009-12-27T07:52:58.030-08:00it’s a beautiful day<p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">I can’t believe I am actually making a single meal post and not a long recap after a few days.  It’s so nice to be able to have that little extra time and enjoy the little things that make me happy girl :) </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">This morning was a lazy one!  After my mom left for work, and while my step dad and Chris were still sleeping, I got caught up on my blog addiction and made a lovely bowl of oats . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzeC1snd6bI/AAAAAAAAByc/oUfQQ08xelc/s1600-h/IMG_6266%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6266" border="0" alt="IMG_6266" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzeC1xAK47I/AAAAAAAAByg/edd1C5Wycdc/IMG_6266_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">This bowl contained:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">1/2 cup 1% milk, 1/4 cup water</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">1/4 cup TJ’s quick cook steel cut oats</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">1/3 cup cooked sweet potato</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">1/4 mashed naner</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">cinnamon and nutmeg</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Toppings included Nature’s Path pumpkin granola, a few cinnamon Puffins and 1/2 sliced banana plus more cinnamon for sprinkling</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Yum!!  It was my kind of morning.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzeC2PtrmfI/AAAAAAAAByk/BRnZylGzGn8/s1600-h/IMG_6276%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6276" border="0" alt="IMG_6276" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzeC2ZAVENI/AAAAAAAAByo/OLuD_JYLh4Y/IMG_6276_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Now we are getting ready to leave and see the race shop where my step dad works as a tire specialist for a Nascar race team.  Many of the Nascar race shops are located in NC.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Next on our stop will hopefully include a tasty lunch at a cute place called the Soda Shop (love their sweet tater fries!) and some walking around at a place called Birkdale which has lots of shopping and condos above.  I love going there and walking around!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Hope you all are having a nice break too!  I have to say I’m beginning to feel a bit guilty about not hitting the gym as hard as I usually do and I can definitely <em>feel</em>  it.  And that time of the month saying hello isn’t helping either : /  I don’t have access to a gym or equipment and it’s been chilly here, which is no excuse.  I know that I can get back at it when we return next week, so I am telling myself to just enjoy the break and family time and watch portions :)  I may need to buy some kind of workout video.</font></p> <p><strong><em><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Have you been able to keep up your exercise routine?</font></em></strong></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-72769082369328240012009-12-25T19:10:00.001-08:002009-12-25T19:13:17.740-08:00it’s good to be home<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-laXdHWI/AAAAAAAABwY/VTKSF_lF70Y/s1600-h/IMG_61733.jpg"><font size="3" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_6173" border="0" alt="IMG_6173" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-llhMqTI/AAAAAAAABwc/PG1HUoH-5J4/IMG_6173_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></font></a><font size="3" face="Tahoma"> Even though I was born and raised in Las Vegas, I consider ‘home’ to be anywhere family is really, and right now that is North Carolina.  It has been so nice getting to visit with my mom, step dad and grandparents!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">I just feel so relaxed and happy here.  It’s nice to have a break from school and work, but I really shouldn’t be taking too big of a break.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-lycEwsI/AAAAAAAABwg/occqk-7TMSo/s1600-h/IMG_6203%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6203" border="0" alt="IMG_6203" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-mDKxQ4I/AAAAAAAABwk/GkvJQJu346M/IMG_6203_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Our flight was without hiccups and we arrived late Wednesday evening.  Thursday we didn’t do a whole heck of a lot and slept in late, which was really nice.  We drove to Trader Joe’s and picked up a few last minute things.  For dinner I decided to make the </font><a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/04/new-demo-site.html" target="_blank"><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Sausage Broccoli Pasta</font></a><font size="3" face="Tahoma"> that is always a hit and my mom’s favorite dish.  It’s so easy and yummy!  She also had a bottle of Charles Shaw Chardonnay and it wasn’t all that bad actually.  I had a glass and a 1/2.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-mRuLm0I/AAAAAAAABwo/81AZV2lLE9g/s1600-h/IMG_61563.jpg"><font size="3" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_6156" border="0" alt="IMG_6156" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-mt3mQnI/AAAAAAAABws/C8URlX2IWOQ/IMG_6156_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></font></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">After dinner we decided to watch The Hangover.  I’ve never seen this one before and it was pretty darn funny!  I sure hope that doesn’t really happen in Vegas! lol   </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Of course there was some munchin’ during the movie and we broke out the stash of popcorn my mom has.  Think we have enough?  The Trader Joe’s Lite Kettle Corn is my fav and I had a small bowl of that mixed with the regular lite popcorn and a few small clusters of the moose munch.  That stuff is too rich!  I also had a glass of Celestial Seasonings Mint Green tea which is my favorite after dinner tea.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-mlOW4pI/AAAAAAAABww/TlPPoFRxPys/s1600-h/IMG_61703.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_6170" border="0" alt="IMG_6170" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-m5yUUyI/AAAAAAAABw0/vqcduL4s0ko/IMG_6170_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-nAKmP6I/AAAAAAAABw4/c1-mbbCzvgU/s1600-h/IMG_6178%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6178" border="0" alt="IMG_6178" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-nbwRJkI/AAAAAAAABw8/bATeLIP3t7A/IMG_6178_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Today my mom had to work, but I just spent most of the rainy day prepping the sweet potato casserole, pumpkin pie and turkey for dinner while Chris and my step dad watched sports. </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Here’s what I had for lunch while drooling over the Southern Living Magazine and their praline pull-apart bread recipe :)  A simple pressed turkey sammie with roasted red pepper hummus, muenster cheese and 1/4 avocado.  I think I could just read recipes all day . . .    </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-nimhRnI/AAAAAAAABxA/mw-6ifYdKn0/s1600-h/IMG_6207%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6207" border="0" alt="IMG_6207" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-nnKUqwI/AAAAAAAABxE/RknnITOZ-Vo/IMG_6207_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6228" border="0" alt="IMG_6228" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-oKZJXvI/AAAAAAAABxI/G0rmeZ1exaA/IMG_6228_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" />I had an apple for an afternoon snack and my cat Tweety likes to lick the core!  So funny!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">I was a little worried about the turkey though because my mom had only taken it out of the freezer a day and a 1/2 before!  It was only 14 lbs, but it needed at least 3-4 days to defrost.  So when I got up this morning I made a quick cold water bath for it, changed it a few times during the day and prayed that it would defrost and not get too warm.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">At 2:30pm when I went to get the bird ready it was still kind of frozen in the middle, eek!!  So we ran some cold water down the cavity and pulled all the bagged middle stuff out.  It was actually the first time I have made a turkey all by myself!  After patting it dry, I rubbed the turkey and underneath the skin with this mix:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">4 tbsp butter </font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">1 tbsp dried thyme</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">2 tbsp chopped fresh sage</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">1-2 tsp poultry seasoning</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">garlic powder</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Tahoma">salt and pepper</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Place it in a roasting pan, breast up with 2 cups of chicken broth in the bottom of the pan.  Roast at 425 F for 30 min, then turn down the oven to 325 F and roast until the meaty part of the thigh reaches 165-170.  Be sure to baste it with the broth every 30 minutes or so.  Take it out of the oven and tent with foil for 20 minutes to rest.  This was the moistest turkey I think I’ve ever had!!  I was so relieved that it tasted good and everyone enjoyed it :)  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-oPB0kiI/AAAAAAAABxM/BySs0FUqWgo/s1600-h/IMG_6240%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6240" border="0" alt="IMG_6240" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-oV-Ak9I/AAAAAAAABxQ/iVQbw1MxFNY/IMG_6240_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">My mom had a Charles Shaw Merlot, and while it was nothing to sing home about, it was an easy red that didn’t over power anything else too much.</font></p> <p>        <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-osr1U8I/AAAAAAAABxU/KqLbWWMS_TE/s1600-h/IMG_6250%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6250" border="0" alt="IMG_6250" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-o7XSzFI/AAAAAAAABxY/DeIPVB1LEGo/IMG_6250_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a>    </p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">I also made a </font><a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=385230" target="_blank"><font size="3" face="Tahoma">sweet potato casserole</font></a><font size="3" face="Tahoma"> from Cooking Light.  It was great, but next time I think I will reduce the sugar a bit more.  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-pLI_a0I/AAAAAAAABxc/hBKjzMeW-KY/s1600-h/IMG_6253%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6253" border="0" alt="IMG_6253" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-pLYdPPI/AAAAAAAABxg/gObOciZJ0I4/IMG_6253_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Everything else we had alongside was really yummy too!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-pcFmEBI/AAAAAAAABxk/oRUCAKJx8Jc/s1600-h/IMG_6245%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6245" border="0" alt="IMG_6245" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-pnRujrI/AAAAAAAABxo/OnQ2g138JhU/IMG_6245_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>My grandma made corn bread stuffing and fruit salad.  We also had a green salad, honey baked ham, and Chris made some awesome gravy.  I’m not a gravy person, but his was really good!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Here’s my plate . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-p1Dg4kI/AAAAAAAABxs/ajPolb0OXcQ/s1600-h/IMG_6259%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6259" border="0" alt="IMG_6259" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-qCT3DbI/AAAAAAAABxw/yq2j-U5r4HY/IMG_6259_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-qY3rIzI/AAAAAAAABx0/PpBjNNHMDAo/s1600-h/IMG_6180%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6180" border="0" alt="IMG_6180" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-qZ1MZ2I/AAAAAAAABx4/ZXgSQhStUME/IMG_6180_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="150" /></a><font size="3" face="Tahoma">And then . . . DESSERT!  I made another recipe from Cooking Light called <a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1932626" target="_blank">vanilla bourbon pumpkin tart</a></font><font size="3" face="Tahoma">, except I didn’t have a spring form pan or bourbon and made a gingersnap crust, so it’s kind of like pumpkin cheesecake.  I also doubled the spices of course :)  FYI a few teaspoons of amaretto in whipped cream is amazing!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-qiO8XHI/AAAAAAAAByM/on7hfxMKHXo/s1600-h/IMG_6211%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6211" border="0" alt="IMG_6211" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-q_YK2aI/AAAAAAAAByQ/zzpyMFRU7UI/IMG_6211_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-rHhaGGI/AAAAAAAAByE/umzsxYAOlrM/s1600-h/IMG_6264%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_6264" border="0" alt="IMG_6264" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzV-reqCxBI/AAAAAAAAByI/AIAhLxoSBj0/IMG_6264_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">Oh boy, I think I’m going to pop!  It was all so delicious.  I only had 1 glass of wine and 1 plate and I’m still full, but not uncomfortably full.  My biggest weakness is when we put all the food away I find myself taking more little bites and licking spoons darn it!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">I hope you all had a nice Christmas if you celebrate and I can’t wait to read about all your holiday festivities soon!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">I think tomorrow my mom and I are going to wake up early and do a little shopping to try and find some deals.  Maybe we’ll stop by the Carolina Blonde Brewery for a little tour?  So many things to try and do still with the family, and I love that nothing of it has to do with work or school :)</font></p> <p><font size="3"><font face="Tahoma"><strong><em>What’s your favorite part of the holidays??</em></strong> </font></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">    </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma">      </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Tahoma"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-64935555167247614312009-12-22T13:26:00.001-08:002009-12-22T13:26:50.952-08:00even more holiday parties<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5btWt-cI/AAAAAAAABtw/RnbhkZenhTg/s1600-h/IMG_6023%5B9%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6023" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="IMG_6023" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5cF5wNeI/AAAAAAAABt0/azfaS1tZtSQ/IMG_6023_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> Sorry I’ve been MIA lately!  I seemed to have killed yet another hard drive, so I have been without a computer for a little while.  While the hard drive that I was using was an old one from Chris’ laptop, he let me borrow yet another laptop from his work.  Hopefully I can keep this one functioning until mine comes back again.  I anticipate that it will be back today, just in time before I leave to see my mom!  I’m actually hoping that it will break one more time though, because if it does I’ll be able to get a new one yippee!  I haven’t had the greatest luck with my new laptop, while I had my last one for 7 years with no troubles hmmm  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5cbb178I/AAAAAAAABt4/-9doU6tVJpc/s1600-h/IMG_5988%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5cbb178I/AAAAAAAABt8/DwyOWKROLPs/s1600-h/IMG_5988%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5988" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="164" alt="IMG_5988" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5c6jr0zI/AAAAAAAABuA/VLb519HDW-k/IMG_5988_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" border="0" /></a></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Anyway, I wanted to re-cap on some more holiday parties!  On Friday night we were going to have another couple come over for a fun pizza making party.  Unfortunately, our one friend got stuck at work till late and they decided to cancel :(  But, Chris and I still had a bunch of fun making pizza and drinking a little vino together!  It’s a super fun idea for a party though.  You simply make the dough and toppings the night before, take the dough out about 4 hours before the party to come to room temperature and then let your guests assemble to their liking.  This is also great if you have vegetarian guests because everything can be kept separate too.  </font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Toppings included: chicken sausage, mushrooms, roasted squash, roasted bell peppers, olives and cheese!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5c-FfzaI/AAAAAAAABuE/MdwWh4mEm1A/s1600-h/IMG_5992%5B8%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_5992" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="309" alt="IMG_5992" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5daOBC_I/AAAAAAAABuI/jNS8mGNpDHs/IMG_5992_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5dhtaK0I/AAAAAAAABuQ/d6YZDP4fqng/s1600-h/IMG_5987%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_5987" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="IMG_5987" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5d9j-IdI/AAAAAAAABuU/33COr0uhsAg/IMG_5987_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">I have to say that the Willow Springs cab is THE best I’ve had, and it goes really well with a 5 year aged Gouda that I picked up from Whole Foods for a treat, & at $15.99/lb I don’t get it very often.  The cab is incredibly fruity and luscious with a nice balance of tannin and earth.  Pretty much any fruity red goes well with gouda though.  Chris’ parents got this cab for us from a wine club they belonged to, but I’m not sure if it can even be ordered anymore :(  </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5eNhBuMI/AAAAAAAABuY/GmbDez5zlq8/s1600-h/IMG_5984%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_5984" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_5984" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5elU5jyI/AAAAAAAABuc/eiVgakuj2vA/IMG_5984_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5e5tjzYI/AAAAAAAABug/0QjM-qKqSyg/s1600-h/IMG_5973%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_5973" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="IMG_5973" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5fNcdnDI/AAAAAAAABuk/1yW4ZmZtgYA/IMG_5973_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">We also had some little munchie things for appetizers, including whole grain crackers, roasted red pepper hummus and bell pepper strips.  It was a lot of fun!  I had a glass & a 1/2 of the wine and I also downed a coconut water afterwards, I find it helps with hydration and any tummy issues :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5fR78pNI/AAAAAAAABuo/t8LwdeF1UFo/s1600-h/IMG_5970%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_5970" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_5970" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5fg58UGI/AAAAAAAABus/CS03OqhJ6A8/IMG_5970_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">The next morning I had prepped this </font><a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1723431"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">breakfast casserole</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> (adapted from CookingLight) and it was super easy to just plop in the oven.  This is great for company :) I use 1/2 the bread it calls for and add in lots more veggies.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5f8h0HoI/AAAAAAAABuw/TygF-E950Do/s1600-h/IMG_6008%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6008" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_6008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5gDRPCCI/AAAAAAAABu0/_L76n-bWgOM/IMG_6008_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5gnUQOMI/AAAAAAAABu4/gV79Fkl8uiQ/s1600-h/IMG_6015%5B3%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_6015" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; border-left: 0px; border-bottom: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_6015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5g5hbyyI/AAAAAAAABu8/jqJeKWuRGY8/IMG_6015_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5hKeYuUI/AAAAAAAABvA/7Ah8bq3ytxY/s1600-h/IMG_6061%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6061" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="IMG_6061" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5hgVgt-I/AAAAAAAABvI/dhh-cN4DGx8/IMG_6061_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">The next party was the cookie exchange with the </font><a href="http://swankyrd.wordpress.com/"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">SwankyRD</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">!  It was so nice to see Kristen again and chat with everyone there.  Oh my goodness, there were cookies and goodies everywhere!!  I ended up filling up two plates full of them since Kristen said to take them away hehe I actually didn’t eat too much at the party surprisingly, but did have a glass of red wine, an appetizer sandwich, some veggies and about a bite from 6 cookies.  They were all delicious! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5h4CZEaI/AAAAAAAABvM/sKhye8fQV-g/s1600-h/IMG_6065%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6065" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_6065" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5iKwqM3I/AAAAAAAABvQ/8ihVA1tDoVc/IMG_6065_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">         </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5ismZ2WI/AAAAAAAABvU/aNNVpooinl8/s1600-h/IMG_6000%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6000" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="164" alt="IMG_6000" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5iztA2cI/AAAAAAAABvY/c0YJOR7lGVo/IMG_6000_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">I decided to make the gluten-free chocolate chip cookies from Tam, which turned out to be phenomenal in my opinion.  I could hardly tell the difference between regular chocolate chip and to tell the truth I liked them better!  Check out the recipe </font><a href="http://www.saladandsequins.com/2009/11/biscuits-to-bake.html"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">here</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">.  I also made </font><a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1941049"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">chocolate baklava</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> from Cooking Light and it was a huge hit too.  Even though this recipe is a bit time consuming with all the phyllo layers, I would highly recommend it. </font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Aren’t they just precious?  Yes, I talk to my food and love every aspect that goes into it.  It’s just so neat :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5jAWvklI/AAAAAAAABvc/K_OWX1Ry3wg/s1600-h/IMG_6002%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6002" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_6002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5jWGVG6I/AAAAAAAABvg/hgZr-R1MrpY/IMG_6002_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5joHVIPI/AAAAAAAABvk/ATal5V9C2Go/s1600-h/IMG_6023%5B5%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6023" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_6023" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5j6ff07I/AAAAAAAABvo/HtArwUm_a6M/IMG_6023_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">The baklava was to die for with every heavenly layer of phyllo, melted butter, nutella, pistachios, almonds, walnuts, cinnamon and honey.  Yum!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5kH8DcfI/AAAAAAAABvs/8LaG2C3ddcQ/s1600-h/IMG_6044%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_6044" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="308" alt="IMG_6044" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5kUC6-tI/AAAAAAAABvw/TM_LCTUl7XM/IMG_6044_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="460" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5kgqCW1I/AAAAAAAABv0/HNMOygzFEVE/s1600-h/IMG_2039%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2039" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="244" alt="IMG_2039" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5k9vlkFI/AAAAAAAABv4/eia_lX1-low/IMG_2039_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" align="left" border="0" /></a></font><font face="Tahoma" size="3">After the party Kristen and I decided to check out <strong>Chef Guy Fieri’s Road Show</strong> at the House of Blues.  It was a lot of fun to see him in person!  I just wish he would have went on sooner because by 10 o’clock, I’m pooped.  We left at 11:30 and it still wasn’t quite over.  Afterwards, I wanted to grab something to eat and decided on a self-serve yogurt shop next door, I know not the best, but it was sure refreshing!  We decided to check out the lounge/club in the Mandalay Bay called the Foundation Room.  It was actually a lot of fun and the DJ was playing some great music.  Even though there wasn’t much of a dance floor, we</font><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5lGl6jzI/AAAAAAAABv8/urpZag4dRtk/s1600-h/IMG_2040%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_2040" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="184" alt="IMG_2040" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5lZTD-yI/AAAAAAAABwA/JfpurA1w1v4/IMG_2040_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> were sure getting our groove on :)  I love to dance, especially hip hop, and could dance all night practically, but knew I better head back before my body started to rebel from lack of sleep.  I didn’t get to bed until 2am!  I haven’t done that in ages.</font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">  </font><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5l0-XZHI/AAAAAAAABwE/q5dad4u0A5k/s1600-h/IMG_2063%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_2063" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="309" alt="IMG_2063" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5mFB4WQI/AAAAAAAABwI/j-u2zBcJxEw/IMG_2063_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" border="0" /></font></a></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">There sure was a nice view from the top!</font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> </font><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5mAcyMqI/AAAAAAAABwM/TOL9JI4HcM0/s1600-h/IMG_2075%5B3%5D.jpg"><font face="Tahoma" size="3"><img title="IMG_2075" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; border-left-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px" height="309" alt="IMG_2075" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SzE5mgZ8X0I/AAAAAAAABwQ/x7t4CRSav6Q/IMG_2075_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" border="0" /></font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3">   </font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">I didn’t even have any drinks, but the next day I tried to get up early and my head was throbbing, so I went back to sleep till 11am!  I haven’t done that in ages either, geezsh, I think I’m getting old :)  It was such a fun night though.  </font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">I can’t believe we are leaving to see my mom tomorrow!!  I’m so excited to just get away for a little while.  We don’t get back till the 2nd, but I still plan on blogging if my computer doesn’t break first.  </font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">I may be doing my first <strong>blogger meet-up</strong> too!  I’ve been talking with </font><a href="http://www.beinghealthier.com"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Laural</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> and </font><a href="http://thechiclife.typepad.com/"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Diana</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> who both live in the same area as my mom, so that should be fun.  I’m really looking forward to it.  I just adore all of you guys and all you do.  </font></p> <p><font size="3"><font face="Tahoma"><strong>In other news . . .</strong> I’m hoping to make a final decision on a thesis topic, dun dun dun. . .   Here’s what I’m thinking so far, let me know what you think . . . </font></font><a href="http://healthnut-em.blogspot.com/"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Emily</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> gave me the greatest idea to look at the use of probiotics in athletes and then I want to look at the rates of URTIs/sick days in athletes in a collegiate winter sport.  Or I was wanting to look at the benefits of corporate wellness or do something with corporate wellness because I have an interest with this as a future career.  I have to figure out how I would even do these studies along with research, research, research.  Thanks for all your ideas and encouragement!</font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">I have also finally purchased a <strong>new blog template</strong> for Wordpress!!!!  I’ve been wanting to do this and spruce up the blog for a long long time now.  I’m a bit overwhelmed with how to use it and transfer everything over, but hopefully I can figure it out over the little break.  I also contacted </font><a href="http://zestycook.com/"><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Zesty</font></a><font face="Tahoma" size="3"> to see if he can help out, so stay tuned!  Maybe I’ll have to do some kind of new blog giveaway?  It will be a surprise!</font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">Many thanks for all your support and wonderful comments.  I love everything about this blogging community, and while we may get a few negative comments here and there, all the positive ones make all the difference in the world to me.  I send you wonderful holiday wishes, yummy food and dishes, and happy new beginnings all year through :)  </font></p> <p align="center"><font face="Curlz MT" color="#800000" size="5">HAPPY HOLIDAYS!</font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">         </font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3">         </font></p> <p><font face="Tahoma" size="3"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-20112758499863733192009-12-17T21:04:00.001-08:002009-12-17T21:04:50.137-08:00lots of comfort & the winner is . . .<p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Hello everyone!  How is your week going so far?  I was so impressed by how many of you are on top of all your gifts this year!  I am still way behind, ugh!  But I’m not going to freak out about it.  I am also feeling much much better, still kind of coughy in the mornings, but much better thank goodness.  Humidifiers help me tremendously and I usually sleep with a sheet over my nose so I have moist air to breathe.  Is that weird?  . . .  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I really enjoy the foods of winter because they are warm, comforting and mighty tasty!  It seems like I’ve been on a roll lately with the down home country cookin’.  These kinds of foods are also the best for leftovers and can be transformed to other dishes.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I just wanted to share a couple nice recipes that I enjoy during the winter and also announce the coconut water giveaway winner!!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The first one is <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2008/12/oh-weather-outside-is-frightful.html">cornbread-topped chicken pot pie</a>  mmmm!  Chris and I really enjoy this one and the addition of the leeks gives it such a wonderful flavor.  Give it a try it’s really yummy.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNZZtwOLI/AAAAAAAABtI/n0XJwoYu_Xc/s1600-h/IMG_5867%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5867" border="0" alt="IMG_5867" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNZvv0jsI/AAAAAAAABtM/AVE1q0pJB6I/IMG_5867_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The next one is my version of Italian-style meatloaf.  Gotta love all that gooey cheese in the middle!  This time I paired it with sautéed haricot verts with caramelized shallot and pecans, along with some roasted fingerling potatoes.  You know I never really eat ketchup unless I’m at a restaurant or if I make meatloaf!  For me I have to have ketchup with meatloaf :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><u>Mix this all in a big bowl</u>:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">2 lbs lean ground beef</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1 jar TJ’s bruschetta mix</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/3-1/2 cup quick oats</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1 egg</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/2 onion, diced & sautéed in a pan (I threw in some mushrooms too) </font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">seasonings:  Herbs de Provence (or Italian Seasoning), garlic powder, salt, pepper</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">topped with a bit of ketchup</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">Mozzarella cheese for stuffing</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNaCjbGlI/AAAAAAAABtQ/gGAqm2j_hUk/s1600-h/IMG_5888%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5888" border="0" alt="IMG_5888" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNaSDRrvI/AAAAAAAABtU/o0H9-lDaEQw/IMG_5888_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> Pre-heat oven to 375 F.  Take about a handful of the meat mixture at a time to form about four, 1/2 mini meat loaves on a foil lined broiler pan.  Place some mozzarella cheese down in the center and then top with the rest of the meat mixture.  Make sure there aren’t any seams open, or the cheese will ooze out when baked.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Bake until a thermometer registers 155 F, take them out of the oven and let rest until the temperature raises to 160 F.  Enjoy!!          </font> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNamIXioI/AAAAAAAABtY/B0vss3Kas7c/s1600-h/IMG_5906%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5906" border="0" alt="IMG_5906" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNa5snagI/AAAAAAAABtc/fJ20rOHkE80/IMG_5906_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">It looks like it has a giant tongue!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UrMNYcwBq8YPMWAxsJq0CrxG4cGz2YvzRyOGcOaaVPMHliJDxDCtljgl4vVQlE0yYG2AWlZ8TVv_fzzcgu4hpv7B3zHCkgNo1zObi7Bdij0KRk6QaltByKcNSm8KH_BXGRu_2-IqmFY/s1600-h/IMG_5907%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5907" border="0" alt="IMG_5907" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcILYcnAuo1mwzmILbZDnMRPyGBpW7ibEQVErIOQQt4pCSzmOj6J-WudTAVSPP3lhPHHYmkj1Xsxo6huU_VZwTgIjWpIcaTjRqB0H6w0RI2YUauq9A_g3PHqNFW5A1IiEUZ5WR8D_3NHs/?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a>     </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">You can also make </font><a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/04/its-getting-hot-in-here.html"><font size="3" face="Calibri">stuffed meatloaf burgers</font></a><font size="3" face="Calibri">!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">With the leftover meatloaf this time I chopped it up and threw it in some tomato and roasted red pepper soup from TJ’s, along with some veggies and pasta.  It was great & easy!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Ok, now on to the fun stuff . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNb2pacjI/AAAAAAAABto/cwB48Oujtmk/s1600-h/IMG_5920%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5920" border="0" alt="IMG_5920" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SysNcR0eYYI/AAAAAAAABts/ySGNj96OK1k/IMG_5920_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a> </p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri">-----> <strong><font color="#0000ff">COCONUT WATER GIVEAWAY!</font> </strong><------</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Thank you for your interest in my <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/12/little-info-on-coco-water-giveaway.html">post</a> about coconut water.  I find it fascinating!  I also agree with many of you on the downside of its expense.  It is pretty darn pricey at $1.99/per 8oz carton and a bit less if you buy the larger bulk carton.  It’s also not as accessible as regular sports drinks and can be very hard to find at grocery stores here in the US.  It sure is a refreshing treat though.  </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri">The two winners of 5 individual coconut waters are . . . (generated by RANDOM.org)</font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="3" face="Calibri">*Naomi* & </font><font size="3" face="Calibri">Lori </font></strong></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Congrats guys!  E-mail me <a href="mailto:kristen@eatingrd.com">kristen@eatingrd.com</a> with your address and I’ll try to get that out before the holidays.  Let me know if you like it or even hate it :)</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri">On Friday we are having some friends over for a pizza-making party!  I’m excited because I love these kinds of parties.  Everyone gets to make their own pizza and chose from different toppings.  It’s not really holiday themed, but it’s fun & will involve some vino!  Saturday I’m going to be baking like a mad person for the cookie exchange I’m going hosted by <a href="http://swankyrd.wordpress.com/">Kristen</a>, the swanky dietitian.  I’m looking forward to it!  It’s going to be tough with all those cookies around calling my name, but we’ll see how I do.  I’m thinking about making a <a href="http://www.saladandsequins.com/2009/11/biscuits-to-bake.html">gluten-free chocolate chip cookie</a> from <a href="http://www.saladandsequins.com/">Tam</a>, but I can’t decide on the other?  I was thinking either <a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1941049">chocolate baklava</a> or <a href="http://twopeasandtheirpod.com/chocolate-mint-chip-cookies/">mint chocolate cookies</a>.  What do you think I should make??  There are too many good recipes out there, help me decide!</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri">Hope you all have a great weekend!  I can’t believe Christmas is just about here, but I’m just excited about going to visit my mom :)</font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri">    </font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p align="left"><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-44087941663125089752009-12-13T21:32:00.001-08:002009-12-13T21:56:30.724-08:00more holiday parties<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNsjU94sI/AAAAAAAABrg/eEhVq10ojKw/s1600-h/IMG_5949%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5949" border="0" alt="IMG_5949" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNtOLeCyI/AAAAAAAABrk/F_Hx7_eCmeE/IMG_5949_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a><font size="3" face="Calibri">Well, the weekend was full of holiday cheer, lots of goodies and 2 more holiday inspired parties!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I am officially battling some kind of bug, but I’m not down and out and enjoyed them as much as I could :)  I just hate being sick and icky feeling, but I’m hoping I can fight it off in the coming week before I leave to see my mom!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Friday night was Chris’ work department holiday party.  It was a lot of fun to meet all the people that Chris works with and everyone is very nice!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Check out the spread!  My favorite part was the salad bar and the awesome bowls.  I wanted to take them :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNtUDViNI/AAAAAAAABro/nZ3WGGql1Jg/s1600-h/IMG_5928%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5928" border="0" alt="IMG_5928" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNt4pwpFI/AAAAAAAABrs/LuMDoq_b4wU/IMG_5928_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The food was traditional Turkey Day style with roasted turkey, stuffing, chicken marsala, veggies and mashed taters.</font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNuHYcN6I/AAAAAAAABrw/IjSPNy7NiCQ/s1600-h/IMG_5929%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5929" border="0" alt="IMG_5929" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNuW1Pu-I/AAAAAAAABr0/gkvZ3Z8jJaA/IMG_5929_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Here is my plate with all the fixings.  I didn’t eat all the taters and some of the turkey.  I also went back for some more veggies & a bit of stuffing.</font>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNupH8A5I/AAAAAAAABr4/dQrn_8X2qd4/s1600-h/IMG_5930%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5930" border="0" alt="IMG_5930" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNu0JxBDI/AAAAAAAABr8/ndEe-nt4d_I/IMG_5930_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNvCUAKMI/AAAAAAAABsA/GWwKmJS6uec/s1600-h/IMG_5924%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5924" border="0" alt="IMG_5924" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNvZpX5LI/AAAAAAAABsE/3ndxg9rSV4Q/IMG_5924_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> Of course there always seems to be all kinds of desserts at these functions, so I had a small slice of cake and a 1/2 of a sugar cookie. </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> Chris & I brought the cake from Freed’s bakery.  I thought it was good, but the cake layer wasn’t big enough and the frosting/mousse dominated.  I’m not much of a frosting person, but it still was yummy.</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNvtAdcCI/AAAAAAAABsI/cZ8i17DCXRQ/s1600-h/IMG_5935%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5935" border="0" alt="IMG_5935" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNwEfrAKI/AAAAAAAABsM/fANGwd16U-o/IMG_5935_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNwS1KloI/AAAAAAAABsQ/yGXHreser28/s1600-h/IMG_5936%5B3%5D.jpg"><font size="3" face="Calibri"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5936" border="0" alt="IMG_5936" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNwjOd7TI/AAAAAAAABsU/Jt5Wn3PemPs/IMG_5936_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></font></a><font size="3" face="Calibri">They also had a white elephant gift exchange.  Have you played this before?  Oh my gosh, it was hilarious to see the person’s face when they opened the gift!  Most of them were gag gifts, but that’s the fun of it.  Chris got this nice reindeer jelly bean dispenser.  What’s really funny though is that the expiration date for this thing is December 2005!!  I guess it’s been re-gifted a few times? ;)  Other gifts included a leopard snuggie, old musk perfume, a lava lamp and a slap chop hehe</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The next party we went to was at my supervisor’s house on Saturday night.  Boy she went all out!  The food was wonderful.  Chris and I couldn’t stay long because we had to meet some friends at BJ’s later.  Talk about running around!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Here’s the spread . . .</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I loved the tables with labeled cheeses to go with the white and red wines.  I tried the middle wine which was a cab from Chile.  It was very earthy and rich, which I love.  You really can’t go wrong with a wine from Chile.  I had a glass of wine and a slice of cheese.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNw5BrrSI/AAAAAAAABsY/wxDDAS_uRdE/s1600-h/IMG_5939%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5939" border="0" alt="IMG_5939" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNxFLjwZI/AAAAAAAABsc/9rO-RzZoMts/IMG_5939_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p> <font size="3" face="Calibri">Here’s the main spread with lots of yumminess!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNxdSr91I/AAAAAAAABsg/Dqk1UqiE26I/s1600-h/IMG_5942%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5942" border="0" alt="IMG_5942" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNxqmXIbI/AAAAAAAABsk/DEa4adeZ9yQ/IMG_5942_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfaa2gH2gdUOoPgsXA_I4npAZGQxBZwvQWc3e-dofgg2D_zySrV4GhUaVtRUYc2LeorxWlCzWKPCT7lCthtufGxce9oWaSp9-20vZ0MRvINTWBknVLDWn7GAs5YCoPw-3zqwNPMLD6he8/s1600-h/IMG_5943%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5943" border="0" alt="IMG_5943" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbl-m12olKWDg-HttwEcHgn4y0Jqg19pbkCVs5Juiya15z7g1x92g4cHLU3gyNsNlwp0XRy9kBKaj4oYqh7B-py9QRk9ma4WNk6B8mHI2FIAOnElSMvgq8Y8EX6neoGswOcFi46LAdCxc/?imgmax=800" width="224" height="154" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZXABmL8O3fNvnMAch_PTVgcrrGUi5AySiUk4eR19RG7_S08vZFC_LNPLoyWcV8_iskYtJVVGi0ZXFxAox3rYPAf0OyHghTXlgBDiPqAoyX21jPtgwQgqNTmKXHXUoOv8ICAeV_i7XsqI/s1600-h/IMG_5945%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5945" border="0" alt="IMG_5945" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNy_IL5dI/AAAAAAAABs0/PbVFXo2ED9c/IMG_5945_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="154" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Chris and I shared a small plate since we were going to be eating again in a couple hours.  My favorite were the spanakopitas!!!  I had to have two of these.  My supervisor is Greek, so these were homemade and delicious.  I also enjoyed a bite of baked brie mmm</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Yet again another dessert table that looked wonderful!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNzMDDzUI/AAAAAAAABs4/p7B3D0n8Sig/s1600-h/IMG_5948%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5948" border="0" alt="IMG_5948" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNzrndc-I/AAAAAAAABs8/dFUBTgFFkiQ/IMG_5948_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I had a bite of the mint chocolate chip cookie and a bite of a sugar cookie.  There was also fondue, fruit and port.  What a great host!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">After leaving, we headed to BJ’s to meet some friends for a little get together.  I wasn’t really that hungry, so we shared a salad and a mini vegetarian pizza.  I also had a taster (5oz) of their nutty brunette brew.  I didn’t feel stuffed, but was definitely full.  I’m glad I didn’t go overboard.  Many times when I think I want to keep eating, I just take a step back and ask myself how I want to feel afterwards.  I hate that over-stuffed blah feeling & try not to go there :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I’d say I did pretty good with the holiday intervention strategies, although it seems like all we’ve been doing is eating!!  I can’t wait till I get to feeling 100% again because I have to say I’ve been slacking on the gym with finals and presentations.  I tend to get cranky if I miss the gym time :)</font>  </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXNzwcap7I/AAAAAAAABtA/RYAqYzVjRY8/s1600-h/IMG_5953%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5953" border="0" alt="IMG_5953" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyXN0MR32BI/AAAAAAAABtE/AhxN3alDj6E/IMG_5953_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I tried to get some Christmas shopping done this weekend and failed horribly.  It took me 25 minutes to find a parking spot at the mall & by that point I didn’t have the patience for all the crowds!  I have yet to get most of my gifts and I’m not sure for about 1/2 of them . . . eek!  I can’t really spend that much either.  Chris & I were actually thinking about donating to a charity for some of our family.  Would that be lame?  I thought that would be really nice since so many out there are really struggling this time of year.    </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I’m working more this week to make up for the hours I’ll be gone to see my mom :( but it will be worth it.  </font><font size="3" face="Calibri">I hope you all have a wonderful week!</font></p> <p><strong><em><font size="3" face="Calibri">How’s your holiday shopping coming along?</font></em></strong></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">If you haven’t yet, be sure to enter the <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/12/little-info-on-coco-water-giveaway.html">coconut water giveaway</a>!</font></p> <p>   </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-28894336856264735872009-12-10T17:31:00.001-08:002009-12-10T17:31:51.566-08:00a little info on coco water & a giveaway!!!<p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Remember how I was going to look at coconut water for my thesis a little while ago?  Well, I’m still not able to really do it for a thesis, but I still used it for my proposal paper and presentation for my Research Methods class!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I wanted to share with you some of my research findings, which are actually quite interesting. . . and there may or may not be some kind of <strong>giveaway</strong> included at the end ;)  I also wanted to thank <a href="http://www.beinghealthier.com/">Laural</a> for sending me research that she found which was a huge help.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">First a little history about coconut water . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyGg_ppVBaI/AAAAAAAABrA/vv7utzwATtU/s1600-h/image1.png"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyGg__F1cJI/AAAAAAAABrE/_KsqPWfAPyo/image_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="208" height="314" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Much of the research I did find on it included its use as a fluid replacement for patients with gastroenteritis and cholera, and has even been used as an intravenous solution for those third world countries with limited resources. </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The picture on the left is an actual coconut hooked up to an IV drip!  This patient was doing pretty poorly and wasn’t able to tolerate many of his feedings and was becoming dangerously dehydrated.  Upon initiation of the coconut water for a short term IV solution, the patient started to turn around for the better.  This is amazing to me!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">There are six stages of coconut development, with the youngest green stage being the one where the most fluid can be found (1/2 – 1L of fluid).  As the coconut ages and browns, the flesh becomes more prominent, and the free fluid decreases.  Coconut milk is the emulsion of the flesh and water from the latter stages of development.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Even the amount of electrolytes and flavor can change between stages of coconut development, and whether it is a coastline coconut or inland coconut can also slightly change its nutritional characteristics.  Coconut water is also fairly isotonic.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Compared to conventional electrolyte beverages, coconut water is slightly lower in calories, has less sodium, slightly less sugar, and considerably more potassium.  This brand also has a great source of Vitamin C.    </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyGhALBt4KI/AAAAAAAABrI/4s2qOT0YwBI/s1600-h/image13.png"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyGhAd1SgmI/AAAAAAAABrM/bwyfD63VJkc/image_thumb9.png?imgmax=800" width="344" height="375" /></a> </p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Looking at the use of coconut water with athletes, the research was much more limited and hard to find.  I did find two studies that found some pretty good results.  Let me know if you would like references.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The first study by Saat, M et al. found a slightly less percent rehydration in the regular coconut water compared to a sports drink, but the difference wasn’t significant.  The study by Ismail, I et al. then found that sodium-enriched coconut water rehydrated just the same if not better as a sports drink.  Those subjects in the coconut water groups also experienced less GI distress (fullness, bloating, nausea, etc) and were able to finish their last bolus of fluid to meet their sweat rates.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I thought the finding of it causing less GI stress to be very interesting.  I myself have a hard time consuming fluids during high intensity activity sometimes, especially running or anything that jostles the stomach contents.    </font>  </p> <blockquote> <p>Up to 42% of endurance athletes have experienced some form of GI distress during or after an activity (van Niewenhoven et al, 2005)</p> </blockquote> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Many athletes can fail to hydrate properly due to GI distress, which can greatly impact overall performance.  Coconut water could be a great option for those who have trouble consuming sufficient fluids during strenuous activity, especially if they have another event/training session that same day.  I think the coconut water companies should introduce an ‘endurance line’ featuring a higher sodium content to cater towards endurance athletes to really call their product a ‘sports drink’.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Even though regular coconut water is not as high in sodium as ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) recommends for ‘sports drinks’ (110mg per 8oz), both studies concluded that coconut water can be used for whole body rehydration after exercise induced dehydration & even may cause less GI distress compared to sports drinks.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Well, there you have it in a nutshell! –er I mean coconut shell!  I myself enjoy the taste of coconut water because it is really refreshing and is easy on my tummy.  It isn’t really sweet either which I like.  Think of lactose, the slightly sweet milk sugar, but not as milky :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">If you ever wanted to know how to open a green coconut & have a handy dandy machete hanging around, click <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2kP9G35I6M">here</a>.  This is just a funny video :)</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#0000a0" size="3" face="Calibri"><strong>---> GIVEAWAY TIME!!!! <---</strong></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I contacted the brand <a href="http://www.vitacoco.com/index.html">VitaCoco</a> and they graciously offered to send me some of their coconut water to have my class sample for the presentation, and I had some leftover.  Some of them are the flavored kind (pomegranate, pineapple, passion fruit, peach/mango) and I believe I have some kind of sensitivity to citrus so I can’t really drink all of them.  So I thought, let’s do a GIVEAWAY!!!  Yay!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyGhAy-AGCI/AAAAAAAABrQ/xLPzoyLOEzg/s1600-h/IMG_5920%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5920" border="0" alt="IMG_5920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zwmZtu7o5wDo1uCOfv3YAzfcD24-wROyXLeT2Gt686LF-nT6sk2qVW-jdDWScYlcraY9myKQWsau44dPlpGXhNg-r3YCiF3NNqbx6XHDifLhobQ2haODIH-AlSPdb_xBh5m-gqxBFT0/?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Let me know if you’ve ever tried coconut water and what you think of it.  I’ll pick <strong>two winners</strong> who will get 5 individual samples to try!  You can also tweet ‘I want to try some coconut water from EatingRD!’ and link back to this post for an extra entry.  I’ll randomly choose the winners on <strong>December 17th @ 9pm PT</strong>. </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">In other good news, I received my box of Glo Bars from <a href="http://www.savvyeat.com/">SavvyEats</a>!!  I was so excited and had to try the Present bar right away, which is the cranberry pumpkin spice flavor.  Yum!  They are well formed, not too sweet and gooey like most bars, and nice and airy in texture.  The taste is really nice too with a slightly warm bite from the cinnamon & a tart surprise from the dried cranberries.  Are you drooling yet?!  I’m looking forward to trying and reviewing the other flavors.  If you haven’t already, check them out <a href="http://globakery.com/">here</a>!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyGhBSoJpcI/AAAAAAAABrY/sOYBBcnhspw/s1600-h/IMG_5911%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5911" border="0" alt="IMG_5911" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SyGhBiqiERI/AAAAAAAABrc/lHnlOALYFRk/IMG_5911_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Hope you guys are having a great week so far!  I finished my finals today and can now finally get into the holiday spirit!!  Woo-hoo!  I feel a bit run down and icky at the moment and hope that I am not getting sick.  I need to get all our X-Mas cards written and sent out ASAP.  Chris and I also have holiday parties on Friday and Saturday night where I will try to employ my holiday intervention strategies again :)  Let’s see if I can do it!</font></p> <p><strong><em><font size="3" face="Calibri">Any fun weekend plans???</font></em></strong></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-17671002894185879792009-12-06T12:02:00.001-08:002009-12-06T12:04:27.379-08:00it’s the holiday season<p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNrc0K2lI/AAAAAAAABpw/nGeJYD0FcO8/s1600-h/IMG_5857%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5857" border="0" alt="IMG_5857" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNr3FbMAI/AAAAAAAABp0/x-3pAd6LvRI/IMG_5857_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> For the month of December I think I have 5 different parties to go to!  I love all the food, fun, and festivities, but it has got me thinking of a strategy to enjoy the holidays while still maintaining a sensible portion mindset and getting in that physical activity.  I’ve been lacking in that department lately with presentations and now finals coming up next week, but I hope to get back on the wagon and fit in some gym time asap.  Even a little bit of activity can make a big difference in the long run.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I like to get into the holiday spirit of giving like adopting a family and donating imperishable foods to a local food bank.  I’d like to make sure I do that this year too.  It means so much to those families in need.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNsHXHDNI/AAAAAAAABp4/jpUEArjkGQE/s1600-h/IMG_5850%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5850" border="0" alt="IMG_5850" align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsmOXM3qlYaD9UyQSW7q86toOyztlG3k0pLUFlwiJeSN9DvmVSRiadZWZYmazDgDMvk2bXtud3Q6l4o1P8k0aKjE9kUH8bcxEIHNcRHK4HvAv5_93F-B3qSn7ccLp_Cy3aAqcOE6KDpJk/?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>For our first holiday party of the season, Chris and I went to an AITP Gala called ‘Technology for Tots’ on Friday night.  AITP stands for Association of Information Technology Professionals and Chris is on the board for the student chapter.  </font><font size="3" face="Calibri">There were also several other IT organizations there and it was a great event with over 300 people.  Everyone was asked to bring an unwrapped toy to donate, and there were quite a few I’d say!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNtEEuOAI/AAAAAAAABqA/DfqI_3mKvQY/s1600-h/IMG_5845%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5845" border="0" alt="IMG_5845" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNtfu2uII/AAAAAAAABqE/qf5-7GmP4wE/IMG_5845_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The highlight of the event was the food!!  Oh wow, there were so many items to choose from and I wanted to take everything!    </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><strong>Holiday Intervention Strategy </strong> -----> Even though there may be a ton of goodies to choose from only take a few that you know you will really enjoy.  Fill half your plate with the veggies like salad greens and then go from there, especially if the plates are giant like the ones we had.  Another good tip:  have a filling snack like an apple beforehand so you’re not overly ravenous at the party :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNtroNGvI/AAAAAAAABqI/_RO8ndBbxbw/s1600-h/IMG_5846%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5846" border="0" alt="IMG_5846" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNuHWYlSI/AAAAAAAABqM/vue-3fBZe-I/IMG_5846_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></font><font size="3" face="Calibri">We got 2 free drink tickets and I had a glass and a half of chianti.  Couldn’t resist that one.    </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">This butternut squash soup was wonderful and I stole a bite from Chris’ bowl.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNuXmGvtI/AAAAAAAABqQ/OQRXvZ12180/s1600-h/IMG_5852%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5852" border="0" alt="IMG_5852" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNu5szmPI/AAAAAAAABqU/ag_zTQvsLlg/IMG_5852_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Here is my plate, I had some salad greens, green beans, carrots, salmon, slice of turkey, pasta (only ate 1/2) and acorn squash.  It was all delish!  </font><font size="3" face="Calibri">Many of the veggies were swimming in a nice flavor enhancer called fat, but I tried my best to drip it off :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNvH2Q4cI/AAAAAAAABqY/JdXLTlwoZEA/s1600-h/IMG_5854%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5854" border="0" alt="IMG_5854" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNvo8XYEI/AAAAAAAABqc/oA4HIyZniWQ/IMG_5854_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Now here is where it gets tough . . . after dinner you feel comfortably full but not overly stuffed and then you see the dessert table over there in the corner calling your name . . .</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Now how can you resist something that looks like this?  Someone tell me?!  lol    </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNv7N0GQI/AAAAAAAABqg/HmrqRckuJck/s1600-h/IMG_5856%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5856" border="0" alt="IMG_5856" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNwau9aXI/AAAAAAAABqk/aw9iX-qP_k8/IMG_5856_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><strong>Holiday Intervention Strategy</strong> ------->  Because all the desserts are all so tempting, get a few and take a bite from each to add up to about one serving of a normal dessert.  Desserts are yummy and should be enjoyed!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Here is my plate of the ones I thought were worth it . . .  I managed a bite from each but the pumpkin pie kept calling my name so yes I finished that one!  I didn’t really like the carrot cake thing so that was easy to stop at :) </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNwvXVCuI/AAAAAAAABqo/BscFVfLR3JQ/s1600-h/IMG_5858%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5858" border="0" alt="IMG_5858" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNxKeOrZI/AAAAAAAABqs/2fILk4qqxiU/IMG_5858_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I just love added touches like this!!!  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNxWpw11I/AAAAAAAABqw/KkuTmw5TyIo/s1600-h/IMG_5861%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5861" border="0" alt="IMG_5861" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNxv1mhYI/AAAAAAAABq0/SM56fHoND0E/IMG_5861_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">We even got dressed up!  It’s kind of fun doing things like this, although I had to fish a dress out from the back of the closet!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNyC-R-hI/AAAAAAAABq4/tId-87_0fX8/s1600-h/IMG_5863%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5863" border="0" alt="IMG_5863" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxwNyZkq7tI/AAAAAAAABq8/oSKqahfGWBI/IMG_5863_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="310" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><strong><em>Do you have some holiday parties on the calendar?  How do you give back during the holiday season?</em></strong></font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-82543345554651137132009-12-03T20:02:00.001-08:002009-12-03T20:04:01.221-08:00Fort Collins is awesome<p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJnV73INI/AAAAAAAABn4/DhjVWmZYP90/s1600-h/IMG_57223.jpg"><font size="3" face="Calibri"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5722" border="0" alt="IMG_5722" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJoAPe4bI/AAAAAAAABn8/Y64NFNaamIU/IMG_5722_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></font></a>When I left you last we decided to make a drive into Fort Collins to walk around downtown and grab some dinner.  I am in love with this city!  It was just so neat and quaint, with tons of unique shops.  There were tons of bikes all over the city even in the winter!  How cool!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I had to get a picture of these bikes.  How does one ride this thing?!  Or even get on it?</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">When we first arrived we decided to stop at a cute little coffee shop.  I’m not a coffee drinker but I couldn’t resist!  I got a decaf fru fru drink and it was divine!  There was even a bookstore attached.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJoW7ESJI/AAAAAAAABoA/iIlCJEnHmNI/s1600-h/IMG_57242.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5724" border="0" alt="IMG_5724" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJoyJ9tqI/AAAAAAAABoE/x0l5u0XF260/IMG_5724_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJpfRjo-I/AAAAAAAABoI/iBcB38chmOY/s1600-h/IMG_57262.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5726" border="0" alt="IMG_5726" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJpr0hBsI/AAAAAAAABoM/sCZBZrrd6Vg/IMG_5726_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Lots of vegan baked goods . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJqFoOjWI/AAAAAAAABoQ/48ovMKDNGCk/s1600-h/IMG_57283.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5728" border="0" alt="IMG_5728" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJqheMHQI/AAAAAAAABoU/r0Hx7M_YGCg/IMG_5728_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJrFDum_I/AAAAAAAABoY/n1pFsKpE2UM/s1600-h/IMG_57425.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5742" border="0" alt="IMG_5742" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJriUURWI/AAAAAAAABoc/08DzauC8z8s/IMG_5742_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJr2iFjjI/AAAAAAAABog/VMSYqo65QHQ/s1600-h/IMG_573012.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5730" border="0" alt="IMG_5730" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJsI43hnI/AAAAAAAABok/gYauDxFgF88/IMG_5730_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Ice Skating!!  The little kiddies had garbage cans to help them stay up, but I would have to have one too.  I’m terrible at skating :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJsve3CvI/AAAAAAAABoo/V0rHA-CbXBA/s1600-h/IMG_57403.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5740" border="0" alt="IMG_5740" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJs63QGkI/AAAAAAAABos/uaSjttaFmuc/IMG_5740_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">We grabbed dinner at a chicago pizza place.  It was yummy!  I had this slice and 1/2 of another.</font></p> <p>  <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJt6-8i8I/AAAAAAAABow/sSaM3r5EahM/s1600-h/IMG_57533.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5753" border="0" alt="IMG_5753" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJuLrcS_I/AAAAAAAABo0/IodVchxBn_s/IMG_5753_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">After dinner we decided to grab some dessert at The Melting Pot.  I had never been there and it was quite a treat!  Boy, I’d like to have a wine cellar like that!</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJukFCawI/AAAAAAAABo4/OwSdnEpLj04/s1600-h/IMG_57555.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5755" border="0" alt="IMG_5755" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJu6CED-I/AAAAAAAABo8/1e1i-1koMyY/IMG_5755_thumb3.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJvhaTw4I/AAAAAAAABpA/R3y2xCosQRY/s1600-h/IMG_57584.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5758" border="0" alt="IMG_5758" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJwAxFBtI/AAAAAAAABpE/lLbr_ux6a90/IMG_5758_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">We ordered the milk chocolate for 4 along with a dessert-type red wine that was a bit too sweet for me on its own but went really well with the chocolate.  It was heavenly!  I’d love to go back there for a special occasion.  It’s too bad they don’t have any in Vegas anymore :(  Chris and I shared this platter.</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJwbfXW2I/AAAAAAAABpI/HMR_976zUyk/s1600-h/IMG_57623.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5762" border="0" alt="IMG_5762" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJxFCqg4I/AAAAAAAABpM/CeI1lop-VPo/IMG_5762_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">It was such a fun trip!  Then we had to head back to reality on Sunday morning. . . </font> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Goodbye Colorado, I will miss you!!!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJxQnvBFI/AAAAAAAABpQ/vzoDB-xuVlo/s1600-h/IMG_58033.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5803" border="0" alt="IMG_5803" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJyJUoV3I/AAAAAAAABpU/0t2PfFJ0kpY/IMG_5803_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">After all that good eating, here’s a quick pistachio recipe that’s a little lighter on the waistline . . .</font></p> <p><font color="#008000" size="5" face="Calibri"><u><strong>Pistachio Couscous Patties</strong></u></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">(Adapted from CookingLight)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Serves 6 (two patties)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><strong>Ingredients</strong></font></p> <ul> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">2 1/4 c chopped peeled tomato (used about 3-4 romas)</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">3/4  cup  uncooked whole wheat couscous</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/4  cup  chopped sweet onion</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/4  cup  chopped green bell pepper</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1-2  tsp  canned tomato puree</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">3/4  cup  shelled dry-roasted pistachios, finely ground</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1 tsp dried oregano, all-purpose seasoning, garlic powder</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/2 tsp paprika, dash of cayenne </font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">3/4  tsp salt</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">Ziki Sauce for topping</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><strong>Preparation</strong></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Combine first 5 ingredients in a food processor and pulse till ground but not soupy; let stand 15 minutes. Add pistachios and next ingredients (through salt); mix well. Press bulgur mixture into a (1/4-cup) dry measuring cup; unmold onto a cookie sheet. Repeat with remaining bulgur mixture to form 12 patties total. Chill for 15 minutes and serve on a flatbread or pita and top with ziki sauce.  I also dusted them with a bit more ground pistachios.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">They don’t ‘form’ like patties that well, but are still pretty yummy.  In two patties there’s 170 kcals and 6 grams of fiber :)</font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJycNQF4I/AAAAAAAABpY/Le7jpTPB9sQ/s1600-h/IMG_58148.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5814" border="0" alt="IMG_5814" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJzBiP2ZI/AAAAAAAABpc/TIYZoXKBUHY/IMG_5814_thumb6.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="305" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I put them in a flatbread, added some spinach and topped it with some ziki sauce.  It was light but very filling!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJzSA9QSI/AAAAAAAABpg/xtwY2WTtLpE/s1600-h/IMG_58204.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5820" border="0" alt="IMG_5820" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJzz1DHwI/AAAAAAAABpk/6gRYyug2EJE/IMG_5820_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="305" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I also used them in a nice salad.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJ0AR_smI/AAAAAAAABpo/DIuH2gE5mn4/s1600-h/IMG_5832%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5832" border="0" alt="IMG_5832" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxiJ0gUnU0I/AAAAAAAABps/LFCgchcpbos/IMG_5832_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="305" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Even though I still like to enjoy all the delicious holiday treats, it’s important to balance those out with activity & healthier eats of course!</font>      </p> <p><strong><em><font size="3" face="Calibri">What are some holiday strategies that you use to stay on track?</font></em></strong> </p> <p><em><font size="3" face="Calibri">---> Real Time Update ---> well, my computer hard drive files were saved thanks to Chris!  I don’t know what I would do without him.  I have both my presentations done and done & need to start studying for finals next week.  Then I’ll really be done!  Woo-hoo!  Thanks for all your well wishes . . . motto of the week:  This too shall pass :)</font></em>      </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-26868999101761433862009-12-01T22:42:00.001-08:002009-12-01T22:42:13.648-08:00vacation mode<p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Hello!!  I hope you all had a wonderful holiday weekend.  I can’t wait to get all caught up on all your blogs and festivities.  I just wanted to post a little recap of our trip . . . and maybe another pistachio recipe soon.  Are you getting tired of all these pistachios yet?  Well, I still have about 3 bags in the freezer and 2 in the fridge :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMDeH-QPI/AAAAAAAABlk/T4qUbS4NVYc/s1600-h/IMG000172009112608083.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG00017-20091126-0808" border="0" alt="IMG00017-20091126-0808" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMD2aqbxI/AAAAAAAABlo/2xWKR6ZpGNQ/IMG00017200911260808_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Because we didn’t leave for our Thanksgiving celebration until Friday morning, Chris and I decided to participate in our first 5k Turkey Trot to help balance all the good eating soon to come.  If you haven’t been following too closely, I decided to start this thing called running about a couple weeks ago.  Even though I didn’t finish the Couch to 5k training program before then, I still figured I would take it easy and just have some fun. </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMEazy2lI/AAAAAAAABls/-RE8ITQs2Ko/s1600-h/000_00333.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="000_0033" border="0" alt="000_0033" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYME1gcBoI/AAAAAAAABlw/Y8a5TeJgtR0/000_0033_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="342" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">At the start of the race, I felt really fast and fresh, but as it went on I slowed down and settled into a comfortable, yet challenging pace for me and my lungs.  Chris, who used to run cross country in HS, comfortably left me in the dust, even though he hasn’t done any running since then either!  I didn’t mind.  I wanted to challenge myself, but not kill myself.  The views were pretty spectacular too! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMFKWrGQI/AAAAAAAABl0/wq_KWhbMWB4/s1600-h/IMG000182009112608173.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00018-20091126-0817" border="0" alt="IMG00018-20091126-0817" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMFgn0SWI/AAAAAAAABl4/vJtGRTqauKA/IMG00018200911260817_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="342" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The only thing was after the race, my chest got really tight and I started sneezing like crazy!  We were running on packed dirt and it was kind of dusty, but I’ve never had problems with allergies before.  I do have a hard time with the cold air too, but it was really weird.  So for the next couple days I was all sneezy and watery eyed :(  Anyone heard of this happening?</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMGICse0I/AAAAAAAABl8/AwVhvHRrINc/s1600-h/IMG000192009112608393.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG00019-20091126-0839" border="0" alt="IMG00019-20091126-0839" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMGY_6zOI/AAAAAAAABmA/DjBYL6kPCG8/IMG00019200911260839_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="342" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMG1EOIZI/AAAAAAAABmE/CqYmyUgTcGk/s1600-h/000_00364.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="000_0036" border="0" alt="000_0036" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMHKvO1qI/AAAAAAAABmI/4omtIAqCb3g/000_0036_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></font><font size="3" face="Calibri">I ended up finishing better than I had hoped for!  I had an average 9:12 min/mile and finished in 28:34, 6th out of the 15 in my age class.  Not too shabby?  I look forward to increasing my mileage in the future and making this Turkey Trot a yearly tradition :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">My favorite part of any race . . .</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I munched on about 3 watermelon wedges, 1 orange quarter and a fig newton, along with a water bottle.  There were a ton of other things there, but I didn’t burn all that much to go all out :)</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMHtQWgHI/AAAAAAAABmM/0c45HHgYhKQ/s1600-h/000_00353.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="000_0035" border="0" alt="000_0035" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMIMMet6I/AAAAAAAABmQ/x6dbfQlUeyQ/000_0035_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="342" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">We left early Friday morning for Colorado and had a great Thanksgiving celebration with Chris’ family.  His dad and step mom recently retired and built a beautiful cabin.  I would love to have a cabin!!  Although shoveling snow and freezing winds aren’t my idea of retirement, they sure seemed happy and it was really beautiful up there.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">This was the view from the back!</font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMIRprR8I/AAAAAAAABmU/4uJB2JREKXA/s1600-h/IMG_55673.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5567" border="0" alt="IMG_5567" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMI6oci5I/AAAAAAAABmY/VsxJ3vdj5rM/IMG_5567_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMJb0ioDI/AAAAAAAABmc/Qd4dDLH0D4w/s1600-h/IMG_55753.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5575" border="0" alt="IMG_5575" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMJtHsQqI/AAAAAAAABmg/nA9DE-HMlh4/IMG_5575_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">There was of course lots of munchin’ goin’ on . . .</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMKOm-L0I/AAAAAAAABmk/Mls0wRXdk44/s1600-h/IMG_55855.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5585" border="0" alt="IMG_5585" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMKXKQ5zI/AAAAAAAABmo/jAQz1TQKJ2A/IMG_5585_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMK8Qo4pI/AAAAAAAABms/Raxq74cWIew/s1600-h/IMG_55883.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5588" border="0" alt="IMG_5588" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMLeyAB5I/AAAAAAAABmw/oU6ufXBE4PE/IMG_5588_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Here was my Thanksgiving plate.  Since we arrived late, we had leftovers, but it was still delicious.  I also had a glass of Ritual Pinot Noir that we brought in our suitcase.  I managed to only have one serving!  </font> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMLljlrWI/AAAAAAAABm0/ZXkNrDLCEZo/s1600-h/IMG_55953.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5595" border="0" alt="IMG_5595" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMMFZjihI/AAAAAAAABm4/wfrGT__fd7M/IMG_5595_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">But really I was saving for dessert of course, my favorite part :)  I usually like to get a little taste of each, which included pumpkin, apple and pecan.</font></p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMMRKw2ZI/AAAAAAAABm8/QcSEaTpu_N8/s1600-h/IMG_56003.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5600" border="0" alt="IMG_5600" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMM7TsyUI/AAAAAAAABnA/YNxKNl4W9x0/IMG_5600_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Some cute salt and pepper shakers and of course we had to have a fire.  Boy it was warm!  Can you see the hidden picture in the fire?</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbnBzvvn-5xEYURNjE15H0mxa689S1Xm9xkJRWokvYl-tnw1GJ78XWImk007BzL0jGaPz7jVD-Govgu0vy21uXiMxgyh25d0cbtiO9mK-G2q1aACCz9r_mnbXljcUWNbD3OD7bFRM6tE/s1600-h/IMG_56054.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5605" border="0" alt="IMG_5605" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMNeefSTI/AAAAAAAABnI/OMm0XFh75Fc/IMG_5605_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMN_ta7vI/AAAAAAAABnM/gtAvnsFVI00/s1600-h/IMG_56113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5611" border="0" alt="IMG_5611" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMOK0zWHI/AAAAAAAABnQ/srdwcuPNjrI/IMG_5611_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="224" height="151" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">mmm . . . these homemade cinnamon rolls were awesome!  I haven’t had those in a long time.</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCpsW7hgLxWuyf9JFKYWOjuCDF8UGyhEv3UA98hNDb_fbR1g8Hfl4Y6RrWZU6p_CEDNV4ePR4-9C_q02yUXfPIdnMcfV7cIdPr9VtxpiL6BpkLvVt2ruv5vhf5MTTvK7gQAPfKC4_iJWw/s1600-h/IMG_56463.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5646" border="0" alt="IMG_5646" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMOzfPxSI/AAAAAAAABnY/QcJDY5h9j6c/IMG_5646_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a>  </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Getting back home from a Saturday outing we had a bit of a problem, oops!  But don’t worry we made it out!!  Oh the joys snow</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMPSA4sTI/AAAAAAAABnc/6AB4VhAETZY/s1600-h/IMG_57193.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5719" border="0" alt="IMG_5719" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMPz4ArQI/AAAAAAAABng/9_Gx2dliRZ4/IMG_5719_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMQBL5psI/AAAAAAAABnk/-_9fL_hZQ_A/s1600-h/IMG_57123.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_5712" border="0" alt="IMG_5712" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMQXVwdUI/AAAAAAAABno/P7XSu_07nX8/IMG_5712_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">The views were just spectacular everywhere!  We even saw a guy ice fishing.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I can’t wait to come back in the summer time, which is a short 3 months probably, but I bet it is even more gorgeous.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Man, I just can’t wait to retire to be honest!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">After tromping around in the wilderness on Saturday, we decided to ride into Fort Collins to walk around town and have dinner, but I’ll save those pictures for the next post!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I hope you all had a wonderful holiday!  I’m sure trying to keep myself from slipping into vacation mode this time of year.  It seems once Thanksgiving hits and I get a little taste of relaxation it’s so hard to get back into gear for the last home stretch.  I had my first presentation for sports nutrition yesterday and have one more to go this week before finals next week, and then I’ll be done!  (for this semester at least)  Oh and I can hardly wait for my week long winter break when I get to visit my mom.  I’m really looking forward to it and it’s keeping me going during crunch time.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><strong><em>What keeps you looking up in stressful times?</em></strong>  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMQw4JKqI/AAAAAAAABnw/eCrUMK0ETm4/s1600-h/IMG_56733.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="IMG_5673" border="0" alt="IMG_5673" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SxYMRP1fgRI/AAAAAAAABn0/W_PMDKBrsM0/IMG_5673_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="305" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">----> Real Time Update ----> Speaking of stressful, my computer has been acting up lately again for the third time, so I’ve been using Chris’ older laptop.  A few days ago I noticed a slight clicking noise, and come to find out Chris says this is my hard drive about to take a dump, so we’ve been frantically saving files tonight!  Thank goodness all that I needed was recovered and I’m working from a different hard drive now until I can get the box to send my computer in.  So sorry for the lack of posting!  I’ve had the darndest time reinstalling everything and trying to remember passwords.  Darn computers!  Hate them, but can’t live without them. . . </font></p> <p>    </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3987027968898564553.post-61926580807020523422009-11-22T15:54:00.001-08:002009-11-22T15:55:20.732-08:00just a few new finds<p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnO9XfeByI/AAAAAAAABj0/Ndg-IN9OFtk/s1600-h/IMG_5548%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5548" border="0" alt="IMG_5548" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnO9hZLtYI/AAAAAAAABj4/jiiJMOg9eDI/IMG_5548_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> I don’t have too much time to blab on today, as I’m trying my darndest to focus on my proposal,  but I did want to just stop by and share a few good finds I discovered and some eats I made this weekend.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Can I just say that it is absolutely glorious sleeping in till 7am and eating when the sun is actually up!!  Because we went out to dinner a bit late with our friends Friday evening (terrible pictures by the way), I decided to sleep in just a little bit.  I love having the sunshine to be able to take food pictures!! Yay!  Most of the time I leave when there’s not enough sunlight and get home when the sun is just going down.  Dang you time change.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I could even take a nice picture of breakfast!  This is just a mixture of Wallaby yogurt mixed with a scoop of LF cottage cheese, topped with frozen blueberries, cereal, banana, and flax.  I also had 1/2 a date bran muffin I found in the freezer.  Those <a href="http://mytastytravels.blogspot.com/2009/10/race-success.html" target="_blank">muffins</a> are definitely our favorite! </font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnO-KaoltI/AAAAAAAABj8/yKwv1J0zKQY/s1600-h/IMG_5500%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5500" border="0" alt="IMG_5500" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnO-UV5jYI/AAAAAAAABkA/ab2CPiQjOt8/IMG_5500_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnO-4jswiI/AAAAAAAABkE/GBjxbKy1u-M/s1600-h/IMG_5522%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5522" border="0" alt="IMG_5522" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnO_E-d8bI/AAAAAAAABkI/lBZ1lPBTDec/IMG_5522_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a><font size="3" face="Calibri">Saturday we spent most of the day running errands and grocery shopping.  I found some items I can’t wait to try . . .</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">For lunch I made a munchie plate with crackers, hummus, string cheese, apple, and salmon salad with pistachios and persimmons.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I tried a Fuyu persimmon for the first time this season and I really enjoy them.  It tastes like a subtle creamsicle to me?  I like to put them in chicken lettuce wraps too. </font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggg4ZXSpncYT22kw02tQF1WZQHtwX0sGCvaRvf993wF4Npi7d3ASyNZCH4YZHjh_-EM_LqYYiW_BKrsXDQL5X6OjTi8TZdLfHQgQXfeCfDcQzNI0sdbHBZ9nA2UUNuuvDlGTyuu9YhX44/s1600-h/IMG_5511%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5511" border="0" alt="IMG_5511" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-UAhA8_fl22n8W78-RlzKK2Yspb4qgxd4W0JkruEW6u2k8oNdRrP0zANO1eOro3Fj3qm5_LNUuREpnh4u8kdk5_hFvAzYem018WQJYEm7VP2gbUoT1qpz78lEWzLyXyzpAmO-4h3tig/?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I also found the Laughing Cow cheese finally and am looking forward to adding it to various recipes like so many of you do!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPALRbEsI/AAAAAAAABkU/0BFsiK0rpw4/s1600-h/IMG_5514%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5514" border="0" alt="IMG_5514" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPAglOvgI/AAAAAAAABkY/TkglpQyxy8k/IMG_5514_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPA659gnI/AAAAAAAABkc/GidLhGTSaa4/s1600-h/IMG_5525%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5525" border="0" alt="IMG_5525" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPBENUMdI/AAAAAAAABkg/_12vVmnFP50/IMG_5525_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#ff8000" size="4" face="Calibri"><u><strong>Persimmon Pistachio Salmon Salad</strong></u></font></p> <ul> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">one small can wild salmon with bones (for added calcium!)</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/3-1/2 cup low fat greek yogurt</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1 Fuyu persimmon, peeled and chopped</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/4 cup cranberries </font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/4 cup chopped pistachios</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">various seasonings (all-purpose, garlic powder, s & p, splash of vinegar)</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Mix it all together!</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPBio-tpI/AAAAAAAABkk/rCXERcPnrvU/s1600-h/IMG_5530-1%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5530-1" border="0" alt="IMG_5530-1" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPB9chhUI/AAAAAAAABko/pnnNSI15apA/IMG_5530-1_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPCc3hL7I/AAAAAAAABks/_OpEkeD9pRM/s1600-h/IMG_5509%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5509" border="0" alt="IMG_5509" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPCvnqO5I/AAAAAAAABkw/eTz-Ux08PMk/IMG_5509_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>I found this quick cooking barley at Walmart.  This will be great to add to soups, oats or make a salad with because normally barley takes quite awhile to cook.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I have to say I am impressed with Walmart’s selection of healthier items and brands at a reasonable price.  For some families, it’s just being able to find these and make the choice to buy them over what they usually do, and that can be tough.</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">That afternoon we went to a bike demo for a local bike shop that we like to go to and it was also a charity event for our local Shade Tree Shelter.  Lots of bikes!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPC3n_nQI/AAAAAAAABk0/ddr4-90aeTw/s1600-h/IMG_5537%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5537" border="0" alt="IMG_5537" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDd0OK3zkI8GUn715iUWR5u09xVNDAVnomhtw4J9Wf3J6zVKPiEUxYtZgnerjXzFRw9_TEtqBHiBuH_7c6knuopeeTuR0PEZYRxgUfWh53b2RN9sjMNK0LZLR9KWjmaRvqMza-B4WBAVk/?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPDqPQlSI/AAAAAAAABk8/7ciC9ey5H28/s1600-h/IMG_5538%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5538" border="0" alt="IMG_5538" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPD7G1Y7I/AAAAAAAABlA/jdsoDUdiTTk/IMG_5538_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> We signed a waiver and then tried out a few of them.  Most of the people there were mountain bikers, which is a completely different crowd than road bikers.  Kind of like the laid back surfer dude type.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">First we tried a couple road bikes.  Boy, it’s amazing how much better those felt compared to my baseline model.  I was really looking forward to trying a tri bike, but they didn’t have any there to sample.  We also got to ride around Red Rock on a mountain bike.  It was so much different than a road bike but a lot of fun!</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">Hey, even this dog was enjoying a little road biking!  I thought this was too funny.  How does that little guy stay on there?  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPEY09Y-I/AAAAAAAABlE/FutgDl3pBOY/s1600-h/IMG_5535%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5535" border="0" alt="IMG_5535" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPE-5Y_8I/AAAAAAAABlI/dg1z7aM6hPU/IMG_5535_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPFBUeKjI/AAAAAAAABlM/56-iDZ8kSz4/s1600-h/IMG_5542%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; margin-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5542" border="0" alt="IMG_5542" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPFvbHjII/AAAAAAAABlQ/1DVYny3zQoE/IMG_5542_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>After a C25K run/walk this morning, I made one of my favorite festive bowl of oats this holiday season.  I call them festive oats! (gee that’s inventive)  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">I just love Egg Nog and usually find the low fat version or the soy version around this time of year.  I also saw some kind of pumpkin spice nog at Walmart that I’ll have to try.  Both low fat nog versions taste equally yummy.  I could imagine these would be awesome in your morning coffee too.  </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><u>Here’s my version this morning</u>:</font></p> <ul> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/2 cup soy nog or low fat egg nog</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/2 cup skim milk</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, fresh nutmeg</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1/2 cup oats</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1 banana (1/2 mashed to add with oats, 1/2 for topping)</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">1 tsp flax mixed in</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">splash of vanilla extract</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">2 dates</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">Handful of Kashi cinnamon cereal and shredded wheat</font></li> <li><font size="3" face="Calibri">sprinkling of pistachios and pomegranate seeds for the festive touch!</font></li> </ul> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">It’s not even Thanksgiving quite yet, but I thought this would be fun :)</font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPF5FU5-I/AAAAAAAABlU/uoJ3VJP_rP8/s1600-h/IMG_5543%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5543" border="0" alt="IMG_5543" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPGBc3eFI/AAAAAAAABlY/C2fZHvAQOAs/IMG_5543_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"> </font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPGvsOS5I/AAAAAAAABlc/vqG8TyenbLY/s1600-h/IMG_5545%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_5545" border="0" alt="IMG_5545" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_rl3lKluaYsk/SwnPG8-jDFI/AAAAAAAABlg/drJH35VY4ps/IMG_5545_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="304" /></a></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri"><strong><em>How do you add a festive touch to your dishes?  Any favorite items only available during the holiday season?</em></strong></font></p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">If I don’t post again till Thanksgiving I sure hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend no matter what holidays you celebrate!  We are going to visit Chris’ dad and step mom who just moved into a new cabin for their retirement.  It’s going to be freezing, but I’m looking forward to spending time with family and enjoying a great meal.  I am definitely most thankful for my family without a doubt.  It just wouldn’t be the same without their never ending love and support.  Hope you all enjoy your time too :)</font></p> <p> </p> <p><font size="3" face="Calibri">  </font></p> kristen :)http://www.blogger.com/profile/06697991198536917846noreply@blogger.com20