tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26033318191200427512024-03-14T00:12:45.718-07:00industrious justicerandom thoughts from my life as a childfree feminist, public employee, student, volunteer, advocate, home cook, karaoke singer, amateur photographer and all around busy bee.emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.comBlogger362125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-79437390542840103532017-05-14T16:22:00.000-07:002017-05-14T17:21:06.426-07:00Recipe: Protein Salad<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">During a staycation a few weeks ago, my honey and I did a challenging 8-mile hike. After the hike, we were definitely ready for a cold beverage and food. We decided to check out a local brewery. While I thought the beer would be the star of our meal, it turned out that the beer was upstaged by a salad. Seriously. The salad was so good that I bookmarked it in my brain for a future attempt at home. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I did, in fact, recreate the salad at home and it turned out amazing. So now I present to you, the Protein Salad!<br /></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">This salad is hearty and protein-packed, as the name implies. It is easy to prep and all the individual bits hold up well if you want to prep stuff ahead of time. Just toss everything onto a plate when you're ready to chow down. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roasted tomatoes? All you need are tomatoes, olive oil, salt and pepper!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When they look like this, they are good to go!</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br />This recipe is also easy to mix and match, depending on your dietary restrictions and preferences. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Don't eat beef? Swap the beer burger with a turkey or chicken or veggie or whatever patty you prefer. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://whole30.com/">Whole30</a>? Just omit the quinoa and cheese. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Don't like salad? Umm... I can't help you there, other to suggest you give this one a go, before you swear off salads all together. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vinaigrette starts with piling a bunch of fresh herbs into the blender. Mmm...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Juicy...</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b><u>Protein Salad</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Serves: 4</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>Ingredients: </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Dressing: </span></span><br />
<ul>
<li>1 cup flat-leaf parsley</li>
<li>Juice of 1 grapefruit (an orange would work too)</li>
<li>Juice of 1 lime </li>
<li>1/4 cup olive oil</li>
<li>1 garlic clove</li>
<li>1 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon pepper</li>
</ul>
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Everything else: </div>
<ul>
<li>8 cups mixed greens</li>
<li>1 cup quinoa</li>
<li>1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes</li>
<li>1 tbsp olive oil</li>
<li>Salt and pepper</li>
<li>4 ounces goat cheese</li>
<li>4 burgers (beef, turkey, chicken, or veggie)</li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"><b>Directions: </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Roast the <u>tomatoes</u>: </span></span><br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 400º F.</li>
<li>Line a medium baking sheet with foil. </li>
<li>Toss tomatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. </li>
<li>Roast tomatoes for 10 minutes, stir, and then roast for another 10 minutes, until they begin to burst and shrivel up. </li>
</ol>
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Make the <u>quinoa</u>: </div>
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<ol>
<li>Cook the quinoa according the package directions. </li>
<li>Let cool slightly. </li>
<li>Stir in 2 tablespoons of the citrus chimichurri vinaigrette. </li>
</ol>
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Make the <u>dressing</u>: </div>
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<ol>
<li>While the tomatoes and quinoa are cooking, blend up your dressing. Add the top seven ingredients to a blender or food processor and whiz it up until it is nice and smooth and a beautiful green. </li>
<li>Set aside until ready to use. </li>
</ol>
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Cook your <u>burgers</u>:</div>
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<ol>
<li>Not sure how to cook your burger? <a href="http://www.saveur.com/article/Techniques/Putting-Heat-to-the-Meat">Check this out.</a></li>
</ol>
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Assemble the <u>salads</u>: </div>
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<ol>
<li>Pile the mixed greens onto four plates. </li>
<li>Top salads with quinoa and roasted tomatoes. </li>
<li>Add a burger to each salad. </li>
<li>Crumble the goat cheese over the top. </li>
<li>Drizzle salads with the citrus chimichurri vinaigrette. </li>
</ol>
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EAT. </div>
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emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-37002518985378170472016-12-27T11:56:00.001-08:002017-01-05T12:07:53.809-08:00Whole30: Prepping for Round 2!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Caf4yH3sCU/WGLCtQKAVHI/AAAAAAAAF1I/1O0PlTckYgcfHBzK35J5QbxBpnR9fexNwCLcB/s1600/Whole30.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Caf4yH3sCU/WGLCtQKAVHI/AAAAAAAAF1I/1O0PlTckYgcfHBzK35J5QbxBpnR9fexNwCLcB/s1600/Whole30.jpeg" /></a></div>
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I'm doing my second round of Whole30 from January 2 - 31. (Less than a week away!) I think the best thing about doing a second round of Whole30 is the confidence that comes with knowing that I've made it through the 30 days previously. I can do this.<br />
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Another great thing about Round 2 is that I know a lot more people doing it this time. A few colleagues, friends, and friends of friends. One of our friends has already coordinated a Whole30 dinner party for mid-way through.<br />
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As we near the start of Round 2, I've been in planning mode and I've also noticed that I'm getting more questions from people. I thought I would compile a list of tips/reminders for myself and anyone else embarking on this adventure.<br />
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I included some tips in my recap of <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2016/09/whole-30-recap-results.html">Round 1</a>. I'm reiterating those, as well as some additional thoughts, here:<br />
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<b><u>Before: </u></b><b style="font-family: "open sans", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><u>Plan. It. Out.</u></b><br />
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<i style="font-family: "open sans", arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Failing to plan is planning to fail. </i><span style="font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I know. It's cliche. It's also the truth. Especially for Whole30. </span><span style="font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">With this in mind, you can't possibly plan for everything that will happen over the course of the 30 days. </span><br />
<ul>
<li>We <b>plan</b> our meals out about a week in advance. I typically do this on Thursday and then my honey or I go grocery shopping on Friday. This allows time for food prepping over the weekend. Meal plan, grocery shop, food prep. Rinse and repeat. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Having a few <b>"emergency" meals and snacks</b> on hand is important. Our go-to "fast food" is <a href="http://www.gochomps.com/">Chomp Sticks</a> and <a href="https://www.rxbar.com/">RX Bars</a>. They sell both at our local Trader Joe's. (Just note that not all RX Bar flavors are compliant. Read your labels.) Also, having compliant sausage, a few potatoes, and a green veggie on hand are great for a quick and easy meal.</li>
<li>If you find a recipe you like, and it works for leftovers, <b>double the recipe</b>. Here are eight of my honey and my favorites, that have remained in our meal rotation: </li>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://meljoulwan.com/2009/06/09/the-best-chicken-you-will-ever-eat-ever/">The Best Chicken You Will Ever Eat. Ever.</a> (Well Fed) <i>This goes great with a chopped cucumber, bell pepper, and tomato salad with <a href="http://www.primalkitchen.com/products/greek-vinaigrette/">Primal Kitchen</a>'s Greek Vinaigrette. </i></li>
<li><a href="http://meljoulwan.com/2015/05/07/classic-paleo-beef-stew/">Classic Beef Stew</a> (Well Fed) </li>
<li><a href="http://pinchofyum.com/sweet-potato-noodles">Creamy Spinach Sweet Potato Noodles</a> (Pinch of Yum) <i>This is also vegan! If you do want to add protein, compliant bacon or pancetta would be a nice addition. </i></li>
<li><a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/crock-pot-picadillo/">Crock Pot Picadillo</a> (SkinnyTaste) <i>I enjoy this topped with slices of fresh avocado and with a side of steamed broccoli. </i></li>
<li><a href="http://www.theorganickitchen.org/blog-tutorials/jalapeno-turkey-burgers/">Jalapeño Turkey Burgers</a> (The Organic Kitchen)</li>
<li><a href="http://nomnompaleo.com/post/108235360133/whole30-day-16-madras-chicken-salad">Madras Chicken Salad</a> (Nom Nom Paleo) <i>This is an amazing make-ahead salad. It is super yummy, and fun to eat, in lettuce cups. </i></li>
<li><a href="http://www.noshtastic.com/oven-baked-italian-meatballs-with-marinara-sauce/">Oven Baked Meatballs with Marinara</a> (Noshtastic) <i>Spaghetti squash "noodles" works well with this... and I recently figured out how to make it in the slow cooker. Couldn't be any easier! Here's the <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2016/12/recipe-slow-cooker-spaghetti-squash.html">how-to</a>. </i></li>
<li><a href="http://meljoulwan.com/2011/05/08/paleo-pad-thai/">Paleo Pad Thai</a> (Well Fed) <i>Her sunshine sauce is one of the best things I've ever eaten. *drool* </i></li>
</ul>
</ul>
Lastly, before you start, don't forget to weigh in, take measurements, and snap some before pictures.<br />
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<b><u>During: Trust the process.</u></b><br />
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That's it. I found the first week to be the most challenging, in that I was so preoccupied with doing the Whole30, what I was eating, what I wasn't eating, what other people were eating, etc. However, once I got through that first week, things got much easier.<br />
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Take things one day and one week at a time. It's 30 days. Which is not a lot of days in the whole scheme of things. You can do it.<br />
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If you find yourself struggling, or even if you think it is a breeze, I recommend checking out the <a href="http://whole30.com/">Whole30 website</a>. There is more information than you will need there, including a forum where you can find frequently asked questions and support from others. Oh, and Googling "Can I eat <u> </u> on Whole30" is still a frequent Google search for me.<br />
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<b><u>After: Celebrate!</u></b><br />
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Except not with drinking and eating everything you didn't eat while doing the Whole30. That really isn't the point. While Whole30 is not a Whole365, it is an opportunity to shift your relationship with food. Take your time with reintroduction and if you didn't miss something, don't add it back in just because you are now "allowed" to.<br />
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Take measurements and some after photos. Weigh in, if you'd like. Reflect on the last 30 days and how you feel. Hopefully, we feel a whole lot better than day one. I think we will.<br />
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<i style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #fefdfa; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;">Disclosure: Everything above is my own opinion, I paid for all the products with my own cash money, and I am not receiving any sort of compensation. I'm mentioning specific products because they helped me to be successful, and to me that's worth sharing. </span></i></div>
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emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-39086256893628561772016-12-11T13:10:00.000-08:002016-12-11T13:18:41.762-08:00Recipe: Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XUEeh0q6YDI/WE2-eL-xTMI/AAAAAAAAF0U/h2mRo1kxbHU/s640/blogger-image-560283819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XUEeh0q6YDI/WE2-eL-xTMI/AAAAAAAAF0U/h2mRo1kxbHU/s320/blogger-image-560283819.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We eat a lot of zucchini noodles (zoodles) in our house. However, sometimes I want a pasta-substitute with a little more bite to it, a little more structure to hold onto a delicious sauce, and a little less water content to water down said sauce. Enter spaghetti squash.<br />
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While I'm a fan of spaghetti squash, I always dread cooking it because one of my least favorite things is slicing a spaghetti squash in half to prepare it for roasting. I'm always one slip up away from losing a finger.<br />
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Yesterday, I consulted with Google about the possibility of cooking a spaghetti squash in our slow cooker. People said it could be done. Some recipes called for water, others did not. I decided to try the no-water version, in hopes that it wouldn't get too soggy. Well... I can now add this to the "I can't believe I never tried this before!" list.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All you need is a spaghetti squash and a slow cooker.</td></tr>
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Three and a half hours on high was perfect for al dente squash. You will want to keep an eye on yours, as I imagine cooking time varies depending on squash size and slow cooker. I checked mine with a knife and once I was able to insert it fairly easily, I knew it was good to go. If you like softer spaghetti squash, just let it cook longer. Once cooked, it sliced SO easily. I'll be cooking my squash like this from here on out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UXOT_rLOlJg/WE2-jVODfAI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/cpisI59kHbU/s640/blogger-image--1143295444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UXOT_rLOlJg/WE2-jVODfAI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/cpisI59kHbU/s320/blogger-image--1143295444.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An ice cream scoop is my seed removal tool of choice.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q0549Uqh1q8/WE2-kkymTMI/AAAAAAAAF0c/G5QWQVOiFao/s640/blogger-image-469970577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q0549Uqh1q8/WE2-kkymTMI/AAAAAAAAF0c/G5QWQVOiFao/s320/blogger-image-469970577.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To put the "spaghetti" in spaghetti squash, grab a fork.</td></tr>
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Our sauce of choice for lunch yesterday was a simple meat ragu from <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/spaghetti-squash-with-meat-sauce-46-pts/">Skinnytaste</a>. Another favorite is Mel Joulwan's (Well Fed) <a href="http://meljoulwan.com/2011/05/08/paleo-pad-thai/">Paleo Pad Thai</a>. Her sunshine sauce is one of the best things ever and we've mixed and matched proteins and green veggies with great success. Really, any sauce you enjoy over pasta works with spaghetti squash.<br />
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<b><u>Slow Cooker Spaghetti Squash</u></b><br />
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The size of your squash will determine how much cooked squash you get. A large squash will lend ~8 cups cooked squash. <br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Spaghetti squash</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Directions: </b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Stab the spaghetti squash a few times with a sharp knife. </li>
<li>Place in slow cooker. </li>
<li>Cover and cook on high for 3.5 hours. </li>
<li>Remove from slow cooker. Slice in half and spoon out seeds. (I like to use an ice cream scoop.) Scrap the squash with a fork to pull out the spaghetti-like strands. </li>
<li>Top with your sauce of choice and enjoy!</li>
</ol>
</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-29090409218788366772016-12-04T11:31:00.000-08:002016-12-04T12:56:01.996-08:00My First 10K!Three and a half years ago, I ran my very <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2013/07/one-5k-down-one-to-go.html">first 5K</a>. On Thanksgiving, I ran my first 10K!<br />
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I ran it with my honey and a friend. My primary goal, like most of my runs, was to finish without passing out or throwing up. I also wanted to finish it at an 11-minute mile pace.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pHjMM3-9t5M/WERT-49vGcI/AAAAAAAAFzU/JrKytAvphVA/s640/blogger-image--1806292792.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pHjMM3-9t5M/WERT-49vGcI/AAAAAAAAFzU/JrKytAvphVA/s320/blogger-image--1806292792.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My honey was thrilled before the race. Obviously.</td></tr>
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Not only did I fulfill those three goals, my official time was 1:04:25! Well under a 10:30 minute mile pace!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IWn8kUOX6x4/WERUBxc35fI/AAAAAAAAFzc/gLfvJ-9f0lg/s640/blogger-image--1828255574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IWn8kUOX6x4/WERUBxc35fI/AAAAAAAAFzc/gLfvJ-9f0lg/s320/blogger-image--1828255574.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My FitBit app was a little more generous. I trust the official time.</td></tr>
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It was a nice, mostly flat course and a good mix of street and trail. There were lots of volunteers who smiled, cheered, kept the route clear of cars, and provided high fives. While it was pretty cold out (40º F), I think it was a bit warmer than last year when we did the 5K. I was finally nice and warmed up by 1.5 miles or so in. Also about 2 miles in, I had to do my first bit of walking, because of a side stitch. (Boo!) Happy that it passed quickly and the only other time I did some walking was at the second water stop... and just so I could drink water before picking up my speed again. The 5K and 10K folks all started off together, and at a certain point, we diverged. I felt a great deal of pride veering off towards the 10K part for the first time. I have worked hard for this and I'm glad that I challenged myself to go beyond my 5K comfort zone. Overall, I really enjoyed the run and felt great afterward. I certainly intend to continue this turkey day tradition.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G7k939tQaP0/WERUDTUaGzI/AAAAAAAAFzg/uoN298vIlck/s640/blogger-image-1637815355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G7k939tQaP0/WERUDTUaGzI/AAAAAAAAFzg/uoN298vIlck/s400/blogger-image-1637815355.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After the 10K, I enjoyed stuffing my face at our family friends' house. YUM.</td></tr>
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When I first started running 5Ks a few people commented, "pretty soon you'll be running half marathons!" I told them to slow their roll. I told them to let me get some 5Ks under my belt. Now that I've got a dozen 5Ks and one 10K checked off my list, I finally see a half marathon on the horizon.<br />
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I am registered to run my second 10K in February... and my first half marathon in May! I mapped out my training on the calendar, and realized that I can do accelerated versions of the Couch-to-5K and 5K-to-10K training apps and then work my way through a half marathon app. (I liked <a href="http://www.active.com/mobile">Active's apps</a> for 5K/10K, so I opted for their 13.one app.)<br />
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Stay tuned for more on my running and racing adventures!<br />
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emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-89889691117245397652016-10-30T11:30:00.000-07:002016-10-30T11:38:47.355-07:00Favorite Whole30 Breakfast (Recipe)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rgx_YeH6A0o/WBY5BmMoGRI/AAAAAAAAFa4/vCrxAPCQGsU/s640/blogger-image-1563602672.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Rgx_YeH6A0o/WBY5BmMoGRI/AAAAAAAAFa4/vCrxAPCQGsU/s400/blogger-image-1563602672.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Over a month since completing our first round of <a href="http://whole30.com/">Whole30</a>, we have carried forward a lot of the concepts. One is eating a good, protein-rich breakfast.<br />
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During the work week, I typically eat a couple hard boiled eggs and a piece of fruit. I prep a big batch of hard boiled eggs on Sunday, which gets me through the week. On the weekends, I sometimes "splurge" and cook up a sausage and egg dish. The great part is, it takes all of 10 minutes to make. Tops. Especially easy and tasty after a long run.<br />
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The ingredients and directions below are for one person. Just scale it up if you're cooking for more than one.<br />
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<b><u>Favorite Whole30 Breakfast: Sausage, Fried Eggs, & Fresh Tomato</u></b><br />
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<b>Serves: </b>1<br />
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<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 Trader Joe's garlic and herb chicken sausage, sliced (or other compliant sausage)</li>
<li>1-2 eggs, cracked into a small bowl</li>
<li>1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter)</li>
<li>1 small tomato or piece of fruit of your choice, sliced</li>
<li>Salt and black pepper</li>
<li>French's yellow mustard (or other compliant mustard of your choice)</li>
<li>Cholula hot sauce (or other compliant hot sauce of your choice)</li>
</ul>
<b>Directions: </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown, a few minutes. </li>
<li>Drop heat to medium-low and push the sausage to one side of the pan. Add ghee to the now empty side. Carefully pour in the egg(s), tilting the pan slightly for a few seconds to keep it away from the sausage. Season egg with black pepper. Let egg cook over the heat for a minute, until bottom is set. </li>
<li>Remove the pan from the heat and cover. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, until the whites are set and the yellow is still runny. (Let it sit longer, if you like your yellows more firm.) </li>
<li>Carefully slide the sausage and eggs to a plate and add the tomato/fruit. Sprinkle tomato with salt and top sausage and eggs with mustard and hot sauce, if desired. </li>
<li>Enjoy! </li>
</ol>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-8968727278223057482016-09-24T12:25:00.000-07:002016-12-09T19:36:55.710-08:00Whole 30 Recap & Results!<div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4kJxw6QVJv4/V-bC0nExP_I/AAAAAAAAFZM/NUrg1MyfqRA/s640/blogger-image--1163544090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4kJxw6QVJv4/V-bC0nExP_I/AAAAAAAAFZM/NUrg1MyfqRA/s400/blogger-image--1163544090.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I did it! I finished my first Whole30! Overall, I feel great and I'm proud that I stuck with it. I thought I would do a quick recap and share some of my results, as well as a few tips in case you are reading this because you are considering doing a Whole30 yourself. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><i>A quick disclaimer that everything here is my own opinion, I paid for all the products with my own cash money, and I am not receiving any sort of compensation. I'm mentioning specific products because they helped me to be successful, and to me that's worth sharing. </i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Now that that's out of the way, a <b>recap</b>... </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b style="color: #3d3d3d;">Why I Did It: </b><span style="color: #3d3d3d;">Three and half years ago, I was the unhealthiest I'd ever been (and will be). I started following fitness-focused people on Instagram, people who openly shared their health journey, successes and challenges, and I was inspired to make positive changes in my own life. I started a </span><a href="http://www.active.com/mobile/couch-to-5k-app"><span style="color: blue;">Couch-to-5K</span></a><span style="color: #3d3d3d;"> app. We started eating more lean meats and veggies and fruit and less processed foods. Within a few months, I lost ~40 pounds. While I have been successful in maintaining my weight loss, I started to feel ready for another challenge. I started hearing friends and colleagues talk about </span><a href="http://whole30.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Whole30</span></a><span style="color: #3d3d3d;"> and I started following more Whole30 peeps on Instagram. Thirty days of clean eating? Sounds good to me! I like planning and rules, so Whole30 seemed like a great fit for me. I mentioned it to my honey and he said he would do it with me. I looked at the calendar and noticed that starting on August 22 would allow us the full 30 days, plus 10 days for structured reintroduction, before our friends' engagement party on October 1. Decision made. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b style="color: #3d3d3d;">Let the Planning Begin: </b><span style="color: #3d3d3d;">I purchased (and read) </span><a href="https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B008C20TDG&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_GJS5xb4N0TYM8"><i><span style="color: blue;">It Starts With Food</span></i></a><span style="color: #3d3d3d;"> and </span><i style="color: #3d3d3d;"><a href="https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B00QEGI2GS&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_uKS5xbM2F54QT">Whole30</a>,</i><span style="color: #3d3d3d;"> as well as America's Test Kitchen's </span><a href="http://a.co/6RNq87w" style="color: #3d3d3d;"><i>Paleo Perfected</i></a><span style="color: #3d3d3d;">. I started mentioning it to family, friends, and colleagues. I started to gather compliant recipe ideas. The weekend before we started, I mapped out our meals for the following week and prepped food, including making homemade chicken broth and veggie broth. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b><u>Tip #1: Plan... to an extent.</u></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I found that a week at a time worked best for us. I would map out the recipes, go grocery shopping, and prep. That left little room for excuses, while still allowing us to change things up week to week. I should note that this was how we started. It worked just fine until our fridge broke. Yes, OUR FRIDGE BROKE A WEEK INTO OUR WHOLE30. Ugh. Luckily, my parents were able to lend us a small fridge, although this still meant that we had to plan (and prep) for just a few days at a time, because of the lack of space. We did that for two weeks. TWO weeks! Nearly half of our Whole30... The good news is that we made it work and we didn't let it ruin our Whole30. Oh, and our fridge is functioning again! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b><u>Tip #2: Double the recipe.</u></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d3d3d; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: #3d3d3d;">When we found a recipe we loved, and one that is just as delicious as leftovers, we made a big batch and portioned it out for additional, easy meals. Such as Melissa Joulwan's (Well Fed) </span><a href="http://meljoulwan.com/2009/06/09/the-best-chicken-you-will-ever-eat-ever/"><span style="color: blue;">The Best Chicken You Will Eat. Ever.</span></a><span style="color: #3d3d3d;"> It really is the best chicken ever and was perfect alongside a simple Greek-inspired salad of tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, and artichoke hearts. </span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Containers are Chefland. Got them on <a href="https://amzn.com/B00P2L59X0">Amazon</a>.</td></tr>
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<b><u>Tip #3: Recruit a Friend... or Family Member... or Colleague. Anyone.</u></b></div>
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I was stoked that my honey was up for joining me on the Whole30 adventure and that definitely helped keep me accountable. A colleague at work also decided to do it and I cannot begin to express how appreciative I became of her and our nearly daily check-ins about how I was feeling, new recipes, and overall cheerleading.</div>
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On Day 31, I got to my desk to find my copy of <i>It Starts with Food</i>, along with a <a href="http://www.gochomps.com/"><span style="color: blue;">Chomp stick</span></a>, <a href="http://www.rxbar.com/products.html?gclid=Cj0KEQjwyJi_BRDLusby7_S7z-IBEiQAwCVvn4iMkiRAhqYbuc0NhJ3tVVIrEVLxSwz7_DIRjURyA-QaApQu8P8HAQ"><span style="color: blue;">RX Bar</span></a>, and the sweetest thank you note. </div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PvB0U90uvKE/V-bC16UG2II/AAAAAAAAFZQ/RlGkD2CEy9Y/s640/blogger-image--657382561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PvB0U90uvKE/V-bC16UG2II/AAAAAAAAFZQ/RlGkD2CEy9Y/s320/blogger-image--657382561.jpg" width="275" /></a></div>
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Even if you cannot find a buddy who will do the Whole30 with you, at least recruit some supporters. It's important to have support. </div>
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<b>Results: </b>One of the rules of Whole30 is that you are not allowed to weigh-in. This was probably one of the biggest behavior changes for me. I liked the shift from a focus on the number on the scale, to how I was actually feeling. Within a few days, I was feeling much less bloated. Within two weeks, my clothes all started fitting better/looser. While I knew I had lost weight, I was still shocked to discover that I lost 10 pounds. Here's a before and after...<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5XuyAyBNhaM/V-bC3N5Vd6I/AAAAAAAAFZU/KOV9g8-qA30/s640/blogger-image-836837203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5XuyAyBNhaM/V-bC3N5Vd6I/AAAAAAAAFZU/KOV9g8-qA30/s400/blogger-image-836837203.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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While I'm happy that those 10 pounds are gone, what matters most is that I feel better. I have more energy and don't experience a mid-afternoon slump. My sleep has improved. I'm still well on my way to meet my next goal of running my first 10K on Thanksgiving morning. </div>
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<b>Now what? </b>During the last few days of Whole30, my honey and I started to talk more about what we would carry forward. While I have no intention of doing a Whole365, we do have control over the food in our home and our home will remain Whole30-ish. </div>
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Oh, and the first thing we introduced was wine. Cheers! Tonight, we reintroduce cheese. Mmm... cheese. </div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-14366308836316061352016-08-31T21:07:00.001-07:002016-08-31T21:09:27.544-07:00Whole 30: 10 days down, 20 to go...Wow. I can't believe we're a third of the way through our first Whole 30! At this point I feel like I've settled into it.<br />
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Overall, I feel great -- I'm sleeping well and not feeling an afternoon slump. I haven't had any major cravings. I haven't consumed anything non-compliant... not even close.<br />
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A colleague is also doing a Whole30 and we've been checking in most mornings. We had a good laugh when we realized that we both recently had dreams about accidentally eating something non-compliant. Hers was bread and other baked goods. Mine was oatmeal. I think she wins, right? Who dreams about eating oatmeal?! I don't even eat oatmeal all that regularly.<br />
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As far as food prep, we do about the same as we did before. Here is a snapshot of what our Whole30 meals look like...<br />
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<b>Breakfast:</b> I typically eat a couple hard boiled eggs and fruit for breakfast, so this was probably the easiest food transition. While I <i>could </i>continue with my typical breakfast, I thought this was a great opportunity to try something new. On Sunday, I made the Leek and Prosciutto Frittata recipe from the America's Test Kitchen cookbook, Paleo Perfected. Many of the recipes are not Whole30 compliant (honey, paleo "baked goods," etc.), this was is fine as is. Super fast to make and tastes just as good leftover. Throw in a side of fresh berries and I've been good to go until lunch.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leek & Prosciutto Frittata + Bluberries & Strawberries</td></tr>
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<b><br />Lunch:</b> This has generally been leftovers from Meal 3 the prior day. My favorite <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2011/07/recipe-taco-salad.html">taco salad recipe</a> is compliant, once you omit the tortilla chips and cheese. I barely missed them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taco Salad</td></tr>
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<b>Dinner: </b>Our third meals of the day have varied. One from last week was beef burgers with avocado mayo and caramelized onions, and sautéed cremini and maitake mushrooms, accompanied by a giant, veggie-filled salad.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burger w/ avocado mayo & onions, mushrooms, & salad.</td></tr>
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And yes, leftovers from this Meal 3 were Meal 2 the following day.<br />
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We've definitely enjoyed some quite delicious meals during our Whole30. </div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-15159464418482962302016-08-22T19:37:00.002-07:002016-08-23T14:13:27.903-07:00Whole30: 1 day down, 29 to go...<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm back. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">After a lengthy blog hiatus. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Blogiatus? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
So, why now?<br />
<br />
I'm back to share about my decision to do a Whole30 and bring my honey along for the ride.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QWyvS8ZDp0A/V7y8bxTOCbI/AAAAAAAAFXs/Ak3zKcLc9CkEfPdsYt2UIbPZVmxE9NRfACLcB/s1600/Whole30.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QWyvS8ZDp0A/V7y8bxTOCbI/AAAAAAAAFXs/Ak3zKcLc9CkEfPdsYt2UIbPZVmxE9NRfACLcB/s320/Whole30.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;">We've had friends do it. I follow a bunch of people on Instagram who have done it. I was intrigued. A nutrition reset of sorts sounded good. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 26px;">So I looked into it. I read the books. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Not familiar with Whole30*? Here are the basic guidelines, from the website: <i>"</i><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"><i>Eat meat, seafood, eggs, tons of vegetables, some fruit, and plenty of good fats from fruits, oils, nuts and seeds."</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;">The focus is real food. It is straightforward and there is no wiggle room. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;">I like structure and rules, so it works well with my style. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></span>
Now day one is almost in the books. Here's what we ate today:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meal 1: Bacon, potatoes, bell pepper, and onion hash. (I found compliant bacon at our local Safeway!)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meal 2: Chicken salad (avocado mayo, lemon juice, green onion, celery), cucumber, bell pepper, and grapes.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meal 3: Pulled pork carnitas (Whole30 recipe), roasted sweet potatoes, cabbage slaw, and avocado.</td></tr>
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How I'm feeling right now... Just fine. I was super tired today late morning. However, I'm not sure I can attribute that to Whole30. Because 1) I got up at 5 am to run 4 miles before my 9-hour work day and 2) I was sitting in a meeting with a lot of talking. Could be those things. Probably.<br />
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29 days to go...<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;">*</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 26px;">Want to read more about Whole30? Go </span><a href="http://whole30.com/whole30-program-rules/" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 26px;">here</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 26px;">. </span>emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-15747825252723662572015-05-18T17:59:00.000-07:002015-05-18T18:00:25.251-07:00Recipe: Stuffed JalapeñosI made up a new stuffed jalapeños recipe for a dinner party on Saturday night and a family friend told me I HAD to post it on my blog...or at least e-mail it to her. I figured that the amount of time was roughly the same, so here you go!<br />
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I apologize for not having a photo of the actual stuffed jalapeños but I didn't get a photo before they were all consumed. Whoops.<br />
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<b>Stuffed Jalapenos</b><br />
Makes: 24<br />
Calories: ~90/each<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>12 fresh jalapenos, sliced in half lengthwise, seeds and ribs removed</li>
<li>1 lb bacon</li>
<li>1 8-ounce block of light cream cheese</li>
<li>1/4 cup light mayo</li>
<li>1 4-ounce can chopped green chiles, drained</li>
<li>1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese</li>
<li>1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs </li>
</ul>
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<b>Directions: </b><br />
<br />
Bake the bacon...yes, bake it!<br />
<ol>
<li>Line a large baking sheet with foil and arrange the bacon in a single layer. </li>
<li>Place in oven (NOT preheated), set to 400º F. </li>
<li>Bake for 20 minutes, maybe a bit more, until the bacon is browned and crispy. </li>
<li>Carefully remove bacon from baking sheet onto a paper towel lined plate. </li>
</ol>
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While the bacon is baking, prep the filling!<br />
<ol>
<li>Combine the cream cheese, mayo, chopped green chiles and shredded parmesan in a medium bowl. </li>
<li>Crumble the cooked bacon and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.</li>
</ol>
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Stuff the jalapeños and bake them!<br />
<ol>
<li>Reduce oven temperature to 350º F. </li>
<li>Divide the filling among the jalapeño halves and line up in a single layer on another baking sheet or dish. </li>
<li>Bake for 25 minutes at 350º F. Sprinkle baked jalapenos with bread crumbs and broil for ~5 minutes, until browned. </li>
<li>Let the jalapeños cool for a few minutes before serving. </li>
</ol>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-24051208358575468612014-12-15T20:58:00.000-08:002014-12-19T09:26:21.151-08:00Recipe: Chicken & Leek Pasta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've got a new recipe to share! Even with full-time work and grad school, I have tried to keep up with meal planning and home cooking. (Luckily, my honey is a great cook and has been helping on the cooking end.) This is important for our physical AND mental health. </div>
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A few weeks back, we received some lovely leeks in our produce box. I promptly decided to play Iron Chef in our kitchen and came up with this pasta dish! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butter + Leeks = mmm...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some sauce stuff.</td></tr>
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<b>Chicken & Leek Pasta</b><br />
Serves: 4<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4 tbsp butter</li>
<li>3 small leeks, cut in half lengthwise & then white and light green parts cut into thin half moon slices</li>
<li>1/2 cup dry white wine</li>
<li>2 cooked chicken breasts, chopped</li>
<li>1 lemon, zest and juice</li>
<li>2 tbsp capers</li>
<li>1/2 cup half-n-half</li>
<li>1/4 cup shredded parmesan, plus more for topping</li>
<li>8 oz pasta, such as fusilli or penne </li>
<li>Salt and pepper</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Directions: </b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Bring pasta water to boil. Add pasta and a bit of salt and cook al dente, according to package directions. </li>
<li>While pasta is cooking, make the sauce. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add leeks. Cook leeks, stirring often, until they have softened and are starting to brown, 5-7 minutes. </li>
<li>Add white wine and cook until liquid has evaporated. </li>
<li>Add the chopped chicken, lemon juice and zest, and capers. Cook for a minute to heat through. </li>
<li>Stir in half-n-half and parmesan. Cook for another minute or two, until the sauce is bubbly and delicious. Season with salt and pepper. </li>
<li>Drain pasta and return to pot. Pour in the sauce and give it a good stir. Dish up, top with a little more shredded parmesan, and enjoy immediately. </li>
</ol>
</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-49239985772600753822014-10-14T20:42:00.001-07:002014-10-14T20:42:46.670-07:00I'm Still Here<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yep, still here!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, at the beginning of 2014 I had every intention of blogging up a storm. However, shortly after setting that goal I decided to apply for grad school. Then I actually got into grad school! Fast forward to October, I've got 4.5 months of grad school (while working full-time) under my belt. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is my life until December 2015. I'm busy and I'm loving it. So far, I still have time to do most everything I need and want to do. I did have to let some things go, to make room for the addition of school. One thing was this blog.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Scratch that. I haven't completely let go. Now that I'm 4+ months into my grad program, I've got a good work-school-life flow going and plan to post more often. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Stay tuned. </span><br />
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emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-23248137651986697992014-05-23T16:30:00.002-07:002020-12-17T10:57:35.920-08:00Recipe: Bacon, Brussels Sprouts & Potato PizzaPotato on pizza?!<br />
<br />
Yes!<br />
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-SbJdnIkyxdk/U3_mU2YD9fI/AAAAAAAAEvc/xHqI5myBKsQ/s640/blogger-image--2090648384.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-SbJdnIkyxdk/U3_mU2YD9fI/AAAAAAAAEvc/xHqI5myBKsQ/s400/blogger-image--2090648384.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We had something similar to this at a <a href="http://www.yelp.com/elite">Yelp Elite Event</a> a few months back and I loved it and bookmarked the idea in my brain. In addition to being delicious, this recipe is fairly quick which makes it a good weeknight meal.<br />
<br />
I would like to point out that this is dairy free, as in no cheese. NO CHEESE. I mean, I love cheese. LOVE IT. But these toppings are good to go on their own. My honey and I discussed this fact while eating it and decided that it really doesn't need any cheese. If you can't imagine enjoying a pizza sans cheese, throw a little shredded parmesan on top before slicing and serving...but I seriously don't think it needs it.<br />
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A few tips...<br />
<br />
Slice those potatoes super duper thin. I used a mandolin. We have one from OXO.</div>
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Layer everything as evenly as possible.<br />
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<br />
Put the minced garlic in between the layer of potatoes and brussels sprouts...that way it will get cooked but not too brown in the oven.<br />
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Basil is awesome on this pizza but you could sub fresh parsley. <br />
Just use something fresh. It adds great flavor and color.<br />
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<b><u>Bacon, Brussels Sprouts & Potato Pizza</u></b><br />
Serves 4-6<br />
<br />
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 pizza crust, prepared according to package instructions (I used the wheat pizza crust dough from Trader Joe's)</li>
<li>3 slices bacon</li>
<li>3 clove garlic, minced</li>
<li>1/2 pound baking potato, sliced as thinly as possible (see tips above)</li>
<li>6 ounces brussels sprouts, shredded</li>
<li>1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, divided</li>
<li>salt & pepper</li>
<li>2 tablespoons fresh basil, roughly chopped</li>
</ul>
<br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Cook the bacon: Place bacon slices on a foil-lined baking sheet. Cook for 15-20 minutes in a 400º F <u>not</u> pre-heated oven, until the bacon is almost as crispy as you like it. (It will cook a bit more on the pizza.) Once bacon is cooked, remove to a paper towel lined plate to drain. Increase oven temperature to 425º F. </li>
<li>While the bacon is sizzling away in the oven, prepare your other ingredients. </li>
<li>Toss the extra thin slices of potato in a bowl with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and a bit of salt and pepper. </li>
<li>Place potato slices in a single layer on the prepared pizza crust.</li>
<li>Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the top of the potato slices. </li>
<li>In the now empty bowl, toss the shredded brussels sprouts with remaining olive oil and layer brussels sprouts evenly over the potato. </li>
<li>Crumble the cooked bacon over the top of the pizza. </li>
<li>Bake pizza on a pizza stone or parchment-lined baking sheet for 10-12 minutes, until crust is browned and potatoes and brussels sprouts are softened. </li>
<li>Remove pizza from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil and parmesan, if using. </li>
<li>Slice and enjoy!</li>
</ol>
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emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-91426841499707459992014-05-04T15:51:00.001-07:002014-05-04T16:12:20.806-07:00Recipes: Oven Baked Eggs & Egg White Salad on ToastSooooo that blog once a week goal? Not going quite as planned. I start grad school (yay!) at the end of this month, which I anticipate will be fantastic but will add another priority to my life. A priority that will definitely come before my blog.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I will try to post more over the next few weeks. Up now...two ideas for super easy and healthy breakfasts.<br />
<br />
I have three words for you:<br />
<br />
Oven.<br />
Baked.<br />
Eggs.<br />
<br />
I know it may sound strange but coming across this way of preparing eggs was seriously life changing. I make up a huge batch and have hard boiled eggs for a week. A hard boiled egg or two plus some fresh fruit is my favorite workday breakfast.<br />
<br />
Now, I realize that making hard boiled eggs the traditional, stove-top way isn't particularly difficult but these are so super duper easy and are mostly hands off, freeing you up to do other food prep. Also, they are always cooked perfectly and nine times out of ten the shell just comes right off.<br />
<br />
Below are the instructions for oven baked eggs, as well as a specific (delicious) use for two of them. <br />
<br />
<b><u>Oven Baked Eggs</u></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9Euxvl-7G0c/U2bD_kPsogI/AAAAAAAAEuw/mh8O8g8Eh-Y/s640/blogger-image-1203884973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9Euxvl-7G0c/U2bD_kPsogI/AAAAAAAAEuw/mh8O8g8Eh-Y/s400/blogger-image-1203884973.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>What you'll need: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>An oven, preheated to 325º</li>
<li>A muffin tin</li>
<li>However many eggs you'd like to make (preferably a few days old as they seem to peel easier)</li>
<li>A big bowl filled with ice water</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><br />Directions: </b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Place however many eggs you'd like to make in the muffin tin -- one egg per section. </li>
<li>Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.*</li>
<li>Remove from oven and immediately place eggs in the bowl of ice water to cool.</li>
</ol>
<div>
*<i>30 minutes is perfect for our oven. You may want to test a few smaller batches to figure out what works best for you</i>.</div>
</div>
<br />
<b><u>Egg White Salad on Toast</u></b><br />
Serves: 1<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yluYiBPiLR4/U2bEBdCLNZI/AAAAAAAAEu4/nfh0qEm1AWk/s640/blogger-image--1397549110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yluYiBPiLR4/U2bEBdCLNZI/AAAAAAAAEu4/nfh0qEm1AWk/s400/blogger-image--1397549110.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Ingredients: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 slice wheat sourdough</li>
<li>2 hard boiled eggs, whites only, chopped</li>
<li>2 teaspoons nonfat plain greek yogurt</li>
<li>1 teaspoon yellow mustard</li>
<li>salt & pepper</li>
<li>A few dashes hot sauce, optional</li>
<li>Sliced avocado, optional</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><br />Directions: </b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Place the bread in a toaster or toaster oven.</li>
<li>While the toast is toasting, combine the chopped egg whites, greek yogurt and mustard in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a few dashes hot sauce if using. </li>
<li>Once the toast is ready, top with the egg salad and slices of avocado, if using.<br /><br /></li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-68132562056867666622014-04-11T12:27:00.002-07:002014-04-11T12:27:52.849-07:00Ass & Abs -- Personal Training UpdateI have met with a personal trainer twice now...and have lived to tell the tale!<br />
<br />
First session was a few weeks ago and was a get-to-know-you type thing. We talked about my goals and he walked me through warm up cardio and stretching. Then he had me do a bunch of exercises that focused on quads and shoulders. I was sore for two days...maybe three. Not mild sore either. Super duper sore.<br />
<br />
This morning I had my second session. I walked to the gym (3+ miles), did some stretching and a little more warming up on an elliptical. Apparently today was ass and abs day. My personal trainer called it something much more professional like "gluts and core" but, regardless, my ass and abs are now yelling at me. My trainer had me do 10,000 squats (approximately) and then had me end my workout on a rowing machine.<br />
<br />
"Just like House of Cards!"<br />
<br />
I don't think he's seen the show.<br />
<br />
After another 3+ mile walk home, I'm sitting down and worried that I won't be able to stand up again. (Wish me luck.)<br />
<br />
I may be a bit slow at the Cystic Fibrosis "Great Strides" Walk tomorrow. At least it is a walk and not a run.<br />
<br />
Ow.emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-29468493315936525382014-03-14T07:14:00.001-07:002014-03-14T07:14:35.956-07:00Recipe: Romanesco Cauliflower Mac<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-c7L5dyvWTPQ/UyHe-2IZ9KI/AAAAAAAAEs8/s7_qp8xcmHA/s640/blogger-image--194317616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-c7L5dyvWTPQ/UyHe-2IZ9KI/AAAAAAAAEs8/s7_qp8xcmHA/s400/blogger-image--194317616.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
No idea what romanesco cauliflower is? Don't worry, you definitely aren't alone. (My spell check doesn't even recognize it.)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some people call it romanesco broccoli.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Or fractal cauliflower. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is what it looks like: </div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-BMXSr-X8SBQ/UyHe9FQgr9I/AAAAAAAAEs0/nC-Oe0l3Dy4/s640/blogger-image-1967228812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-BMXSr-X8SBQ/UyHe9FQgr9I/AAAAAAAAEs0/nC-Oe0l3Dy4/s400/blogger-image-1967228812.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
We had our first experience with this veggie fairly recently, when one arrived in our CSA box. We discovered that it is great straight up roasted with some olive oil and salt and pepper. I think it tastes more like broccoli than cauliflower but also much nuttier. It really has its own flavor altogether. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You should try it! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was ready to try something new this past Monday so, using Martha Stewart's Broccoli Romanesco and Parmesan Puree <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/314333/broccoli-romanesco-and-parmesan-puree">recipe</a> as inspiration, I decided to whip up a veggie and cheese mac for Meatless Monday. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This could also be a fun St. Patrick's Day dish. You know, because it's green. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>Romanesco Cauliflower Mac</u></b></div>
<div>
<b>Serves: </b>4 </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil</li>
<li>1 head romanesco cauliflower, cut into bite-size pieces</li>
<li>2 garlic cloves, chopped</li>
<li>1/2 cup water</li>
<li>1/2 cup nonfat milk</li>
<li>1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving</li>
<li>1/8 teaspoon nutmeg</li>
<li>Salt and pepper</li>
<li>8 ounces small macaroni</li>
<li>Fresh parsley, for serving</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<b><br />Directions:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Cook macaroni to al dente, according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking liquid before draining.</li>
<li>While macaroni is cooking, prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the romanesco cauliflower and cook, stirring often, until beginning to brown.</li>
<li>Add water, reduce heat to low, cover and cook until the romanesco cauliflower is easily pierced with a fork. </li>
<li>Drain any remaining water from the skillet and transfer the romanesco cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add milk and process until smooth. If needed, add a bit of the pasta cooking liquid to get the sauce to your desired consistency. </li>
<li>Combine the pasta and sauce. Serve in bowls with a sprinkle of parmesan and chopped parsley. </li>
</ol>
<div>
<b><br />Nutrition:</b></div>
</div>
<div>
Based on my calculations, this is approximately 350 calories/serving.<br />
<br />
<i>Disclaimer: I don't believe in hiding vegetables to get children to eat more vegetables. Primarily because they don't learn that vegetables are awesome and that they actually LIKE vegetables. However, if you have a particularly picky eater on your hands, child or adult, this may be a good way to sneak in some extra good green stuff. </i></div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-13464516950652515992014-03-09T14:05:00.000-07:002014-03-09T14:05:31.697-07:002014 Goals Update! Vacation, Running, Grad School??? OH MY!I wanted to do a quick goals update, since it has been a while since I have posted. For the most part, I've been blogging much more frequently this year. I did take a little break when I went on vacation last week. We went to Disneyland for four days and it was absolutely wonderful. It rained on us nearly the entire time but I'm not complaining because we were having fun at Disneyland!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-S70RnE3B8NM/UxzSDdn87zI/AAAAAAAAEsU/dz-pSnnwzNE/s640/blogger-image-1549447051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-S70RnE3B8NM/UxzSDdn87zI/AAAAAAAAEsU/dz-pSnnwzNE/s400/blogger-image-1549447051.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MONORAIL! This was the view from our hotel room. Love.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-usNlnRPn8Qg/UxzR-Qj3liI/AAAAAAAAEsE/uWZNKH5_3nw/s640/blogger-image-15761748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-usNlnRPn8Qg/UxzR-Qj3liI/AAAAAAAAEsE/uWZNKH5_3nw/s400/blogger-image-15761748.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milk & Cookies.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gi3_owT1XNA/UxzSFYDTC8I/AAAAAAAAEsc/_OwmLSfjnYI/s640/blogger-image-1419540535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gi3_owT1XNA/UxzSFYDTC8I/AAAAAAAAEsc/_OwmLSfjnYI/s400/blogger-image-1419540535.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mickey beignets at Cafe Orleans in Disneyland.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1sssn2OCRk8/UxzSHnpMPtI/AAAAAAAAEsk/byay8QpX608/s640/blogger-image-547088200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1sssn2OCRk8/UxzSHnpMPtI/AAAAAAAAEsk/byay8QpX608/s400/blogger-image-547088200.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Out there having fun, in the <strike>warm</strike> cool California <strike>sun</strike> rain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />In addition to my various goals (see updates below) I found out on Friday that we received a grant award at work for the biggest (money-wise) proposal I have ever written. YAAAAAAY! This is particularly fantastic because it secures resources for critical prevention, intervention and youth development services. A selfish reason that I was keeping my fingers crossed for the grant award is because it means I will most likely not have to submit another proposal of that size until 2016.<br />
<br />
Oh, and if that isn't enough excitement for a couple weeks, I hit 'submit' on a graduate school application this morning. It is for an innovative, accelerated program that will allow me to complete my master degree by December of next year, all while maintaining my current full-time job. For now, I wait....<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Goal Updates </u></b><br />
<br />
<b>Home: </b><br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Complete <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/its-back-join-us-get-organized-in-2014-the-january-cure-198346">January Cure</a>. </strike><i> </i></li>
<li><strike>Blog January Cure</strike> and goal progress minimum 1x/week. </li>
</ul>
<b><br />Fitness/Health</b> - <i>Reach Goal Weight & Maintain</i>:<br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Hot Chocolate 5K (January)</strike>; Fight for Air Climb (March); Great Strides 5K (April); Stars & Stripes 5K (July); Fall 5 or 10K TBD.</li>
<li>Hikes 1x/month minimum</li>
<li>Schedule and track all fitness. </li>
<li>Complete five personal training sessions. </li>
<li>Group gym classes 2x/month minimum. </li>
</ul>
<div>
The hiking goal has been one that I have really enjoyed accomplishing and we have easily exceeded it. My big hike this month will be with a childhood friend. We don't see each other all that often and she is a lover of the great outdoors and will be a wonderful hiking mentor.<br />
<br />
I recently restarted my Couch-to-5K training -- mainly because I wanted to get back in the habit of running every other day and work up my running stamina. This past week I ran every other day. So far, so good!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V5D45S5CyRo/UxzSBM2f8mI/AAAAAAAAEsM/mtggA2nvE9A/s640/blogger-image--1622561472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V5D45S5CyRo/UxzSBM2f8mI/AAAAAAAAEsM/mtggA2nvE9A/s400/blogger-image--1622561472.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woot.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My first personal training session is scheduled for this Friday! I will report back on how that, and any future personal training sessions, goes.<br />
<br />
<b>Cooking/Health:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Track all food and pay attention to portion sizes. </li>
<li>New recipes 8x/month. </li>
<li>Meatless lunches/dinners 4x/week minimum. </li>
</ul>
<div>
The new recipes goal has been especially easy...and fun! I use <a href="http://paprikaapp.com/">Paprika</a> which makes finding, importing and organizing recipes super duper easy. I also use it for our weekly meal planning and grocery lists. Meatless meals have also been easy and fun. Keeping it up at much as possible! I will post some of our favorite new recipes soon. <b><br /></b><br />
<b>Fun: </b></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Read 12+ books. </li>
<li>Dates with friends 2x/month minimum. (May be combined with fitness fun.)</li>
<li><a href="https://challenge.meyouhealth.com/signup">Daily Challenge</a> by me you health. (Overall well being.) </li>
</ul>
<div>
I'm still working my way through the two books I started this year, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Confederacy-Dunces-John-Kennedy-Toole/dp/0802130208">A Confederacy of Dunces</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tattoos-Heart-Power-Boundless-Compassion-ebook/dp/B0038A851U/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1394394075&sr=1-1&keywords=tattoos+on+the+heart">Tattoos on the Heart</a>. Both are very good but I honestly haven't been making reading a priority. I do want to work on that, even if it means just a little bit each evening. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We have been having a lot of fun with friends so far this year -- next up is a dinner and game night at our house this Saturday. We'll be making a vegan paella. Mmm... </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Last, but not least... I've completed all of the Daily Challenge assignments since January 1...68 days and counting! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-33372734448325149022014-02-19T20:49:00.000-08:002014-02-19T20:49:30.898-08:002014 Goals Update! February Hike: Bay Bridge Trail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZNof6xTGtG0/UwWGiFx5X5I/AAAAAAAAErw/JvAk5JdJdhY/s400/blogger-image--575101324.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect Poppy. Our state flower. No filter needed. <br />
Seriously...this is straight up iPhone camera.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
Every two weeks or so, my honey and I both have a Friday off together. I have coined these days our "FriDATEs" and I love them. Sometimes we use the day for crossing things off our to-do lists, such as car check-ups, hair appointments, errands... Sometimes we use the day for fun. Most times we use the day for a combination of the two.<br />
<br />
This past Friday was one of those days and we decided to do the <a href="http://baybridgeinfo.org/path">Bay Bridge Trail</a>, after dropping my car off with our mechanic for an oil change. If you aren't already aware, this is the new span of the bridge that connects Oakland and San Francisco. It is also the one that had a piece of its upper deck collapse during the 1989 <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1989_Loma_Prieta_earthquake">Loma Prieta earthquake</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kzAThlYzWo0/UwWGdjYLGBI/AAAAAAAAErg/sviM2yVDx_U/s1600/blogger-image--1747836745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kzAThlYzWo0/UwWGdjYLGBI/AAAAAAAAErg/sviM2yVDx_U/s400/blogger-image--1747836745.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Bridge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was neat to walk right between the old bridge and the new bridge. It will also be neat when the old bridge is gone and the trail is extended to the island. Oh, and the third neat thing! We passed a few other walkers/bicyclists but for the most part we had the entire 8+ miles to ourselves.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kwM6Ohqzyv0/UwWGgO2yXVI/AAAAAAAAEro/RKf4WLQ3vLg/s400/blogger-image-448737718.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Bridge. New Bridge. Husband.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
One of my 2014 goals was to do a hike a month. We have hike #3 planned for this weekend...so I'm ahead on this one!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-mITN_zDc86w/UwWGXfxrB6I/AAAAAAAAErI/UiUolKGCwBA/s640/blogger-image--1089625044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-mITN_zDc86w/UwWGXfxrB6I/AAAAAAAAErI/UiUolKGCwBA/s400/blogger-image--1089625044.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nope. I won't stop.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-51145560958749354892014-02-15T07:05:00.000-08:002014-02-18T08:17:30.658-08:00Recipe: Balsamic & Bacon Brussels SproutsThis one time when we were out to lunch with friends, they seemed a bit hesitant of our decision to order a brussels sprouts appetizer. The brussels sprouts arrived, looking and tasting incredible. All four of us chowed down, with our friends gladly accepting the last bites.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I don't blame them for taking so many years to realize that brussels sprouts are awesome. I mean, I didn't know I liked them until I was in my mid-20s. My parents don't like them so I never tried them until a very nice friend showed me the light.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pPkT9HLuyuY/Uv-BhHsBFpI/AAAAAAAAEqs/KGdv1Dd6DCY/s640/blogger-image--2070981914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pPkT9HLuyuY/Uv-BhHsBFpI/AAAAAAAAEqs/KGdv1Dd6DCY/s400/blogger-image--2070981914.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to be roasted.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XdjtfmpT40Q/Uv-BjG02FdI/AAAAAAAAEq0/i7s26giYuI4/s640/blogger-image-935802814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XdjtfmpT40Q/Uv-BjG02FdI/AAAAAAAAEq0/i7s26giYuI4/s400/blogger-image-935802814.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shredded with olive oil, lemon juice and avocado.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
Shortly after our lunch, I received an e-mail from one of our friends with a brussels sprouts recipe he had just made at home and loved. I quickly added it to our list of recipes to try. After a couple batches, I think I've found the combination of ingredients that we like best. </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PWTji7NAXXs/Uv98t2jRPRI/AAAAAAAAEqc/DQsjLMEbti0/s640/blogger-image--1086039940.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-PWTji7NAXXs/Uv98t2jRPRI/AAAAAAAAEqc/DQsjLMEbti0/s400/blogger-image--1086039940.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div>
Feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking. For example, I won't judge you if you use an entire package of bacon. Promise.</div>
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<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>Balsamic & Bacon Brussels Sprouts</u></b></div>
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<div>
Serves: 4* </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>1 pound brussels sprouts, halved</li>
<li>1/2 red onion, chopped into large pieces</li>
<li>4 slices bacon, chopped into large pieces</li>
<li>3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil</li>
<li>3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar</li>
<li>1 tablespoon brown sugar</li>
<li>Salt and pepper</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><br />Directions:</b></div>
</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Preheat your oven to 400º. </li>
<li>In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the brussels sprouts, red onion and bacon and toss to coat. </li>
<li>Dump everything onto a large, lined baking sheet. </li>
<li>Bake for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the brussels sprouts have softened and bacon is nice and crispy. </li>
</ol>
</div>
<div>
*Or less, depending on how much you like Brussels Sprouts. My honey and I can easily finish off a batch, just the two of us.</div>
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<div>
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<div>
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</div>
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emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-58639909232927068412014-02-08T14:30:00.001-08:002014-02-08T14:30:38.529-08:00San Francisco Adventure Part Two!If you have been following my blog for a while, you may recall that this past September I went on a really long walk around San Francisco. 14 miles. You may want to start by checking out my recap of the experience <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2013/10/14-mile-sf-adventure.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Up to date? Great! Now read on to hear about our next 15 miles...<br />
<br />
My honey and I got up nice and early to meet our friends at our starting location.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-n5wHrxVbPWo/UvRsFHSXt_I/AAAAAAAAEpc/atdUBUdN4Ic/s640/blogger-image--80594378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-n5wHrxVbPWo/UvRsFHSXt_I/AAAAAAAAEpc/atdUBUdN4Ic/s400/blogger-image--80594378.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for a BART train.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2TLNPrYyXZ0/UvRr8Ix862I/AAAAAAAAEo0/j1mtc-zLUJA/s640/blogger-image-1828399658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-2TLNPrYyXZ0/UvRr8Ix862I/AAAAAAAAEo0/j1mtc-zLUJA/s400/blogger-image-1828399658.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cable car!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<br />
We opted to take the cable car, where we sat by a charming Australian couple who I would guess are in their 60s. I was chatting with the wife and she asked where we were visiting from. I told her that we live near the city. She lowered her voice and whispered, "why are you on a cable car?!?" My first thought was, "why not?" but I explained that, although more expensive ($6/each) than taking the bus ($2/each), it was the most direct and quickest route to where we were meeting our friends.<br />
<br />
We hopped off at the end near Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf and walked maybe half a mile to the Marina.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CNaBTGC_dw8/UvRr27UxJPI/AAAAAAAAEoc/n51co9P76U8/s640/blogger-image-1129014036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CNaBTGC_dw8/UvRr27UxJPI/AAAAAAAAEoc/n51co9P76U8/s400/blogger-image-1129014036.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We met up with our friends at the Safeway and quickly got on our way. After all, we had 15 miles to go! Oh, and one of the first stops was for caffeine and donuts. We weren't messing around.<br />
<br />
Here is a link to our (approximate) route for the day -- <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/preview/dir/Safeway+Pharmacy,+Marina+Boulevard,+Marina+District,+San+Francisco,+CA/Wave+Organ,+Marina+Green+Drive,+San+Francisco,+CA/Dynamo+Donut+%26+Coffee,+Yacht+Road,+San+Francisco,+CA/Lands+End+Trail,+San+Francisco,+CA/Fort+Funston%2FGolden+Gate+National+Recreation+Area,+San+Francisco,+CA/37.720869,-122.475114/@37.768544,-122.463913,13z/data=!4m34!4m33!1m5!1m1!1s0x808580d85b65de77:0xca3c522d08a6a67e!2m2!1d-122.43288!2d37.80513!1m5!1m1!1s0x808581294cdeefe1:0x50d83c0a55fbcd2a!2m2!1d-122.440163!2d37.808526!1m5!1m1!1s0x808586d4a5f2b22b:0xa4b7db1e11009f09!2m2!1d-122.447441!2d37.805851!1m5!1m1!1s0x808587ad575d8a8d:0xb8c53494c0cfebea!2m2!1d-122.5053213!2d37.7843375!1m5!1m1!1s0x808f7d04948d3c6b:0x2c5b494bcda94ecc!2m2!1d-122.501912!2d37.714534!1m1!4e1!3e2?hl=en">Google Maps</a>.<br />
<br />
Before caffeine and donuts we visited the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wave_Organ">Wave Organ</a>. Although we weren't there at an optimal listening time, it was still really neat.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9wrUoxi09RE/UvRsBezMxlI/AAAAAAAAEpM/qdCrombFSHw/s640/blogger-image--1595712309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9wrUoxi09RE/UvRsBezMxlI/AAAAAAAAEpM/qdCrombFSHw/s400/blogger-image--1595712309.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aquatic Acoustics.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kVlPtWniJ8I/UvRsI8s3ENI/AAAAAAAAEps/Mqdfu4PxtCM/s640/blogger-image--333974275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kVlPtWniJ8I/UvRsI8s3ENI/AAAAAAAAEps/Mqdfu4PxtCM/s400/blogger-image--333974275.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Listening.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After a bit of listening, we ventured back to pick up donuts, granola and yogurt and caffeine at <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/dynamo-donut-coffee-san-francisco">Dynamo Donut + Coffee</a>. I zeroed in on the maple donut with bacon on it (obviously) but limited myself to a bite (or two) and stuck mostly to the granola and yogurt. And an espresso. My honey didn't mind eating the remainder of the donut.<br />
<br />
Let's take a look at the donut.<br />
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<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pt4crZvEkm8/UvRr4lXmVqI/AAAAAAAAEok/lVL5XAB26lQ/s640/blogger-image-576773470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-pt4crZvEkm8/UvRr4lXmVqI/AAAAAAAAEok/lVL5XAB26lQ/s400/blogger-image-576773470.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nom Nom Nom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
YUM.<br />
<br />
Then we got back on our way!<br />
<br />
I thought this sign was awfully specific:<br />
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<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yi4rxbHHybY/UvRr95xwaPI/AAAAAAAAEo8/3YU0agc2Vxo/s640/blogger-image-1138288533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yi4rxbHHybY/UvRr95xwaPI/AAAAAAAAEo8/3YU0agc2Vxo/s400/blogger-image-1138288533.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South of the sign is fine.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
From there, we made our way to one of my favorite San Francisco landmarks, the Golden Gate Bridge. We saw it from many different angles that day, but one of the best views was from <a href="http://www.nps.gov/fopo/index.htm">Fort Point</a>. Fort Point is a National Historic site and protected the San Francisco harbor from attack during the Civil War. Yay, history! None of the planned activities at the fort fit with our schedule (we had <i>just </i>missed the cannon demonstration. damn.) so we did a little self-guided tour, mostly to climb to the top for the fantastic photo opportunities.<br />
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<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IYuHfWls2Cc/UvRsDSPBZRI/AAAAAAAAEpU/GQZZeUWDv54/s640/blogger-image-638325266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IYuHfWls2Cc/UvRsDSPBZRI/AAAAAAAAEpU/GQZZeUWDv54/s400/blogger-image-638325266.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Francisco, open your Golden Gate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So yes, that view above was my favorite. But this view, once we had walked the trail that takes you under the bridge and further along the coast, wasn't too shabby either.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Nm43DJ1sYBo/UvRr_li2DNI/AAAAAAAAEpE/Lf1T7Fd7R0k/s640/blogger-image-784206349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Nm43DJ1sYBo/UvRr_li2DNI/AAAAAAAAEpE/Lf1T7Fd7R0k/s400/blogger-image-784206349.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
It is moments like these when I feel so grateful to live in such a beautiful place. The weather was also INCREDIBLE. Like, short-sleeves-and-still-a-little-warm-in-January weather. We are spoiled.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
The weather was great until we hit Land's End, that is.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--Wlvu_ts99o/UvRsG0-QsTI/AAAAAAAAEpk/ZyNbSWzfQv0/s640/blogger-image-1127809193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--Wlvu_ts99o/UvRsG0-QsTI/AAAAAAAAEpk/ZyNbSWzfQv0/s400/blogger-image-1127809193.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We found Lands End!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
We stood at the edge, looking at the water, and literally watched the fog roll in and take over.<br />
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<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dESO1y-oXAU/UvalVL-fBgI/AAAAAAAAEqM/RACvnc0sEt0/s640/blogger-image-306181618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-dESO1y-oXAU/UvalVL-fBgI/AAAAAAAAEqM/RACvnc0sEt0/s400/blogger-image-306181618.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fog moves fast, FYI.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<br />
Up next was a much needed lunch stop at the <a href="http://www.sealrockinn.com/">Seal Rock Inn</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AbCbfJwl7xo/UvRr6cfaX2I/AAAAAAAAEos/qIw6x0t2ds4/s640/blogger-image-1158047610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-AbCbfJwl7xo/UvRr6cfaX2I/AAAAAAAAEos/qIw6x0t2ds4/s400/blogger-image-1158047610.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<br />
With out bellies filled, we got right back on the road. Actually, the Great Highway. This was the last 1.5-2 hours of our journey and it was cold and foggy. Once we reached the Zoo, we found our way to a bus stop to take us to BART and our (thankfully seated) trip back home.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-GnsTAsKIsGo/UvRsd5WQ_NI/AAAAAAAAEp8/2wt06RtSsUE/s640/blogger-image--2020715996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-GnsTAsKIsGo/UvRsd5WQ_NI/AAAAAAAAEp8/2wt06RtSsUE/s400/blogger-image--2020715996.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We found winter on the Great Highway.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<br />
I asked our friends if we could walk from the Zoo to Bayview/Hunters Point. We're not sure if it is physically possible, at least along the outer edge of the city, but if it is, you know we'll find a way. We also decided about halfway through our 15 miles that we should work on making our way through the middle of the city next. Always planning...<br />
<br />
Thanks to our adventure (and some intentionally stepping later), I got my first 35,000 step badge on FitBit! Woot.<br />
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<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-e4kdDdNghd0/UvRrzRB7-_I/AAAAAAAAEoM/SOP0F-XDDU0/s640/blogger-image--2114694922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-e4kdDdNghd0/UvRrzRB7-_I/AAAAAAAAEoM/SOP0F-XDDU0/s400/blogger-image--2114694922.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">35,000 steps!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-59088690249094007672014-02-02T09:06:00.000-08:002014-02-02T09:26:28.210-08:00January Cure Updates -- Happy February!<div>
Happy February! It is raining here today. Although that has put a damper on our plans to go for a hike, it is desperately needed and welcomed.<br />
<br />
I suppose when I decided to do this project again, I underestimated how full my calendar already was last month. There were many days where I made others things a priority...like a 15-mile hike through San Francisco. (Blog post coming soon!).</div>
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Below is a list of the January Cure Assignments as well as my updated project list (with all of the completed items crossed off) . I know that I will have the opportunity to cross a lot more off during the remainder of 2014!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5VSDmdYu2kY/Uu55G12G7mI/AAAAAAAAEn8/Y4KuuxvXlqI/s640/blogger-image--191873571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-5VSDmdYu2kY/Uu55G12G7mI/AAAAAAAAEn8/Y4KuuxvXlqI/s400/blogger-image--191873571.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">January Cure Project. DONE. Got these photos printed for less than $20.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/apartment-therapys-january-cure-2014-197811">Apartment Therapy's</a> January Cure 2014 Assignments: </b><br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Jan 2: Make a Project List</strike> </li>
<li>Jan 3-5: Flowers, Floors, Green Cleaners</li>
<li>Jan 6: Get a Fresh Perspective</li>
<li><strike>Jan 7: Set Up Outbox</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 8: Select One Project from List</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 9: Choose a Piece of Art to Frame</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 10-12: Flowers, Kitchen Organization/Cleaning, Make Yourself a Meal</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 13: Get Your Get-Together Together</strike></li>
<li>Jan 14: Create a Landing Strip</li>
<li><strike>Jan 15: Try a Media Fast</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 16: Work on Your Goal Project</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 17-19: Flowers, Bedroom Organization/Cleaning</strike></li>
<li>Jan 20: Get Papers & Files in Order</li>
<li>Jan 21: Exercise a Little Cord Control</li>
<li><strike>Jan 22: Bathroom & Medicine Cabinets Cleanout</strike></li>
<li>Jan 23: Declutter Books/Media</li>
<li>Jan 24-26: Flowers, Living Room, Lighting Refresh, Empty Outbox</li>
<li>Jan 27: Catch Up Day</li>
<li><strike>Jan 28: Hang Artwork</strike></li>
</ul>
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<strike></strike><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2Gfk8zBq78k/Uu55Ela38PI/AAAAAAAAEn0/CxDsL11BGlM/s640/blogger-image--1810470969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2Gfk8zBq78k/Uu55Ela38PI/AAAAAAAAEn0/CxDsL11BGlM/s400/blogger-image--1810470969.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art hung in our entryway. DONE.</td></tr>
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<ul>
<li><strike>Jan 29: Spruce Up & Surface Clean</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 30: Show for Get Together</strike></li>
<li><strike>Jan 31-Feb 2: Relax & Celebrate!</strike></li>
</ul>
<br />
Our <b>January Cure Get Together </b>was a small dinner party at our house last night. We had three friends over, stuffed our faces with homemade Indian food and played a few rounds <a href="http://www.cardsagainsthumanity.com/">Cards Against Humanity</a>. As for the Indian food, we made:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Chickpea and Okra Coconut Curry </b>(Vegan) -- <i>I used <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/337682/easiest-indian-stew?czone=food/dinner-tonight-center/dinner-tonight-main-courses&center=276948&gallery=274485&slide=281580">this recipe</a> as the base but subbed light coconut milk for the yogurt and added a bag of frozen okra slices. </i></li>
<li><b>Grilled Chicken Tikka </b>-- <i>We just made the chicken, not the tomato chutney, from <a href="http://www.rachaelray.com/recipe.php?recipe_id=243">this recipe</a>. I chopped the chicken into bite-size pieces and marinated it in the yogurt mixture for a couple hours before my honey grilled it up. We served a mango chutney from Trader Joe's on the side. </i></li>
<li><b>Saag Paneer </b>(Spinach with Indian Cheese; Vegetarian) -- <i>I have made <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/aarti-sequeira/saag-paneer-spinach-with-indian-cheese-recipe.html">this recipe</a> a couple times before. It is yummy and, although she provides instructions on making your own paneer and garam masala, I always pick those up at our local Indian market.</i></li>
<li><b>Brown Rice and Naan</b> -- <i>I sliced big pieces of naan from our local Indian market in half and my honey warmed them up on the grill with the chicken.</i></li>
</ul>
<b><br />Project List: </b><br />
<strike>Completed in 2013</strike><br />
Not Completed<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strike>Completed in 2014</strike></span><br />
<br />
<u>Entry</u><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strike>Outbox</strike></span><br />
Clean out/reorganize hall closet<br />
Paint front door<br />
New door mat<br />
<strike>Deep clean floors</strike><br />
<strike>Clean out/reorganize hall closet</strike><br />
<strike>Outbox</strike><br />
<div>
<u><br /></u><u>Living Room/Dining Room</u><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strike>Print Cuba photos for large frames in dining room</strike></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strike>Order, frame and hang art print</strike></span><br />
Print, frame and hang photos in living room<br />
New coffee table (glass top)<br />
Fireplace insert<br />
Entry table/cabinet/hooks/something?<br />
Screen door<br />
<strike>Deep clean floors (these are the same ones as the entry)</strike><br />
<strike>Deep clean living room</strike><br />
<strike>Put away holiday decorations</strike><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strike>Reorganize china/booze cabinets</strike></span><br />
<strike>Hang mirror</strike></div>
<div>
<u><br />Kitchen</u><br />
<strike style="color: #0b5394;">Organize pantry cabinets</strike> -- containers for dry ingredients<br />
<strike>Deep clean floors (see above)</strike><br />
<strike>Deep clean kitchen</strike><br />
<strike>Hang NOLA signs above stove</strike><br />
Hang paper towel holder<br />
Purchase/hang light(s) above sink --<i> Hang second light.</i><br />
<strike>Hang photo canvases</strike><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<u>Family Room</u><br />
Screen door<br />
<strike>Clean out/re-organize DVDs/Blu-rays</strike><br />
Paint shelves -- <i>Get second shelves for other side of couch or new side tables?</i><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<u>Office</u><br />
Clean out/reorganize closet<br />
<strike>Hang diplomas</strike><br />
Hang guitars<br />
Fix closet doors<br />
Declutter and reorganize books/shelves<br />
Declutter and reorganize paperwork</div>
<div>
<u><br />Guest Room</u><br />
Guest bed and side table<br />
Move elliptical<br />
Small TV -- hang in front of elliptical<br />
New light fixture<br />
<strike>Hang Bosnia photos</strike><br />
Clean out/reorganize closet<br />
Hang mirror</div>
<div>
<u><br />Bedroom</u><br />
Hang Croatia photo<br />
Jewelry organization<br />
New light fixture<br />
Wedding photo - printed and framed<br />
<strike>Deep clean bedroom</strike><br />
<strike>Reorganize dresser</strike><br />
<strike>Print, frame, and hang photo(s)</strike><br />
Clothes and shoe repairs</div>
<div>
<u><br />Bathroom</u><br />
Paint<br />
<strike>Deep clean bathroom</strike><br />
<strike>Declutter and reorganize under sink cabinet</strike><br />
Purchase/hang new towel rack(s)<br />
Purchase/hang wall cabinet -- <i>shelf/counter?</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-41221048396059341992014-01-29T20:25:00.003-08:002014-01-29T20:26:37.536-08:00Opportunity to Support the Fight for Air Climb or Great Strides Walk!As part of my 2014 <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2014/01/2013-in-review-2014-goals.html">goals</a>, I will be participating in two events that are both perfect combinations of fitness, fun and fundraising!<br />
<br />
If either (or both) of the causes below resonate with you (and you are able), please consider making a small donation. I would greatly appreciate it, as I know the respective organizations will as well.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T23fItl2D_c/UunQf7iwZ4I/AAAAAAAAEnc/GZ_zwD-ouuk/s1600/fightforairlogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T23fItl2D_c/UunQf7iwZ4I/AAAAAAAAEnc/GZ_zwD-ouuk/s1600/fightforairlogo.png" height="170" width="200" /></a></div>
<b>American Lung Association's <a href="http://action.lung.org/site/TR/Climb/ALANO_National?px=5096617&pg=personal&fr_id=8590">Fight for Air Climb</a></b><br />
<br />
In March, I am joining hundreds of others in the important fight for children with asthma, teens who are pressured to start smoking, people with lung cancer and emphysema, and everyone who wants to breathe healthy air.<br />
<br />
I will be climbing the 52 flights of stairs to reach the top floor of 555 California in San Francisco. Yes, 52 flights! That's 1,197 steps! I did this event last year, when I was completely out of shape, so needless to say I am super excited for take two.<br />
<br />
Bottom line? I am climbing because I CAN.<br />
<br />
If this cause is meaningful to you, and you are able, please click <a href="http://action.lung.org/site/TR/Climb/ALANO_National?px=5096617&pg=personal&fr_id=8590">here</a> to make a donation.<br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5olmOm9UklY/UunQmIL14kI/AAAAAAAAEnk/l9amC2x5_ao/s1600/Great-Strides-dark-2x.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5olmOm9UklY/UunQmIL14kI/AAAAAAAAEnk/l9amC2x5_ao/s1600/Great-Strides-dark-2x.png" height="163" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's <a href="http://cffh.convio.net/site/TR/GreatStrides/GreatStrides?px=1735568&pg=personal&fr_id=1942&AddInterest=1041">Great Strides 5K</a> -- April 12, 2014</b><br />
<b><br /></b>I am participating in this walk to support one of our newest and littlest friends, Buster! Buster was born on May 3, 2013 and he has cystic fibrosis. That means that he cannot digest his food like you and me, any infection is very serious for him and he takes several medications, breathing treatments and chest physiotherapy daily.<br />
<br />
I am walking to support Buster and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, which funds and supports the development of the drugs and treatments that can give Buster, and thousands of other people living with CF, as many tomorrows as possible.<br />
<br />
If this cause is meaningful to you, and you are able, please click <a href="http://cffh.convio.net/site/TR/GreatStrides/GreatStrides?px=1735568&pg=personal&fr_id=1942&AddInterest=1041">here</a> to make a donation.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>More on Cystic Fibrosis (CF): CF is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the U.S. In the 1950s, few children with CF lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond. </i><br />
<br />emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-14777897845654329512014-01-22T21:38:00.000-08:002014-01-22T21:38:24.423-08:00January Cure 2014 Updates! Days 7-14I may be a *teeny* bit behind...and/or doing things a little out of order. Oh well. Also, in working on this blog post, I accidentally deleted my "Days 3-6 Updates" post. *groan* I'm a little sad about its disappearance but I'm not going to try to rewrite it...<br />
<br />
Moving on...<br />
<br />
This post is going to cover a lot of days. So get ready. Pour a glass of wine, get comfortable...<br />
<br />
<b>Day 7:</b> Friday, January 10 and the weekend of January 11 & 12<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Flowers, Kitchen Organizing and Cleaning<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/weekend-chores-flowers-kitchen-organizing-cleaning-make-a-meal-january-cure-assignment-7-198926?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%207&utm_content=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%207+CID_5014304d1aa290fced56fd29eba28962&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=Go%20to%20full%20post">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
This was a particularly busy weekend, and our poinsettia from the holidays is still alive and well, so purchasing more fresh flowers didn't happen. Neither did a kitchen cleaning but much of that was taken care of later. Like cleaning out and reorganizing our "pantry" cabinets. I took care of that on my day off on Monday. Among many other things...<br />
<br />
<b>Day 8:</b> Monday, January 13<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Plan a Get Together!<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/keep-yourself-on-track-get-a-gettogether-together-january-cure-assignment-8-199007?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%208&utm_content=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%208+CID_1b380fc091e08be922621449f1ddc468&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=Keep%20Yourself%20on%20Track%20Get%20a%20Get-Together%20Together">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
I contacted friends who we have been meaning to get together with for ages and set up a dinner date at our home on February 1. Now to figure out what we will be cooking. Indian food, perhaps?<br />
<i><br /></i><b>Day 9:</b> Tuesday, January 14<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Create a Landing Strip<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/create-a-landing-strip-january-cure-assignment-9-199072?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%209&utm_content=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%209+CID_545a07fbe4d1ff4c7a74d332b8175552&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=Post%20TitleThe%20Clutter%20Filter%20Create%20a%20Landing%20Strip">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
We generally use the corner of our kitchen counter as our landing strip, which is near our garbage and recycling cans and with a paper shredder conveniently located nearby. I'm thinking about getting a little mail organizer thing where we can put paperwork that needs to be taken care of in some way. In the process of looking online for something that may work, I found this pantry organizer thingy on Amazon and I think it could add some storage space to our hall closet. Hmm...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJOq0Agu3M8/UuCgKAnrerI/AAAAAAAAEnM/6n0Gy1oaZX0/s1600/51HE3laPF9L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WJOq0Agu3M8/UuCgKAnrerI/AAAAAAAAEnM/6n0Gy1oaZX0/s1600/51HE3laPF9L.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wall-Magazine-Rack-Basket-Ladder/dp/B000I3IZ5G/ref=sr_1_66?ie=UTF8&qid=1390452678&sr=8-66&keywords=metal+file+wall+organizer">Amazon.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Day 10:</b> Wednesday, January 15<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Media Fast<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/unplug-for-an-evening-try-a-media-fast-the-january-cure-assignment-10-199126?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%2010&utm_content=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%2010+CID_c04e93528adc990393dc4795bc2a64e2&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=Unplug%20for%20an%20Evening%20Try%20a%20Media%20Fast">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
I like this one. I want to do this more often. It is nice, and good for me, to disconnect every once in a while.<br />
<br />
<b>Day 11: </b>Thursday, January 16<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Project Progress<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/the-halfway-point-project-progress-the-january-cure-assignment-11-199167?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%2011&utm_content=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%2011+CID_f4a0e90c88f7ff560c64f420f2375a26&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=The%20Halfway%20Point%20Project%20Progress">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
We have chosen the two photos that we plan to print and frame! One is of the most beautiful window I have ever seen.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7zy95YOR4F0/UuCbeCtf6gI/AAAAAAAAEnA/mXM6kSKFJcU/s640/blogger-image-709684934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7zy95YOR4F0/UuCbeCtf6gI/AAAAAAAAEnA/mXM6kSKFJcU/s400/blogger-image-709684934.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Day 12: </b>Friday, January 17 and the weekend of January 18-19<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Flowers and Bedroom Cleaning<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/weekend-chores-flowers-bedroom-cleaning-wardrobe-organizing-the-january-cure-assignment-12-199222?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%2012&utm_content=Cure%2014%20-%20Day%2012+CID_ba0afca976502ac1851cf9846360b266&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=Go%20to%20full%20post">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
Bedroom cleaning was successfully completed and flowers did happen this weekend! Make that two bouquets of pretty pink flowers that I turned into four...<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MyhKwaqm2Js/UuCbS_lRS3I/AAAAAAAAEm4/qRhJOvyAohM/s640/blogger-image--1645036269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MyhKwaqm2Js/UuCbS_lRS3I/AAAAAAAAEm4/qRhJOvyAohM/s400/blogger-image--1645036269.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Day 13: </b>Monday, January 20<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Organize Paperwork and Files<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/less-mess-organize-papers-files-january-cure-assignment-13-199293?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure+14+-+Day+13&utm_content=Cure+14+-+Day+13+CID_e00ac0cfe201bb3b29c22f42bf7c1344&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=Less%20Mess%20Organize%20Paper%20%20Files">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
A work in progress...<br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>Day 14: </b>Tuesday, January 21<br />
<b>Assignment: </b>Clean Up Cord Clutter<br />
<i>See full assignment <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/clear-up-cord-clutter-january-cure-assignment-14-199327?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Cure+14+-+Day+14&utm_content=Cure+14+-+Day+14+CID_96cac0cc47ac7152f60e7a02d2b16ad9&utm_source=email_newsletter&utm_term=Clear%20Up%20Cord%20Clutter">here.</a></i><br />
<br />
This is one that we are fairly good at already. Whew.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i>To learn more about the January Cure, check out <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/apartment-therapys-january-cure-2014-197811">Apartment Therapy</a>.</i></div>
</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-73214519941336225992014-01-20T13:01:00.002-08:002014-01-20T17:58:45.782-08:002014 Goal Updates! My 4th 5K & a Recipe Roundup!*<i>My full list of 2014 goals can be found below. </i><br />
<br />
<b>2014 5K #1: </b>Sunday, January 12 -- Hot Chocolate 5K. This was a fun one, although very crowded. So crowded that I couldn't run at the pace I wanted until at least the Mile 1 marker. There were a few spots in the beginning where I was trying to run but realized that I could walk faster than the people "running" in front of us. (Really, they were just bouncing slowly along with the crowd...) What is it with people walking four- or five-wide across a narrow path, sidewalk, etc? (This annoyance obviously extends beyond this event.) Shouldn't this be like driving? Slower people to the right, faster people to the left...right?? Sorry for the mini-rant but I needed to get that off my chest. I feel better now. Now on to the good stuff!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ODe024Xw8z8/Ut2J4pEi-DI/AAAAAAAAEmg/mPrHXYfg4y4/s640/blogger-image--2056054949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ODe024Xw8z8/Ut2J4pEi-DI/AAAAAAAAEmg/mPrHXYfg4y4/s400/blogger-image--2056054949.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting to start.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This run was in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco (like the <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2013/11/awesome-80s-5k-5k-3.html">Awesome 80s 5K</a>) and although it was really cold at 7:30 am...it was a gorgeous day and Golden Gate Park is an incredibly beautiful place to be, running or otherwise.<br />
<br />
I ran this 5K with my honey (it was his first!), my friend from my first 5K in July and my friend from the Awesome 80s 5K in November. We were a good team and all finished within a couple minutes of each other. My final time was 38:19. Not my fastest (that was the <a href="http://www.industriousjustice.com/2013/10/update-5k-2.html">Temecula 5K</a>) but over two minutes faster than my last 5K in November. Not too shabby, seeing as I didn't run much prior to this one.<br />
<br />
The especially cool thing about the Hot Chocolate 5K is that they give you hot chocolate (hence the name) AND fondue at the end. The chocolate was surprisingly good and I thoroughly enjoyed it with the dippers they provided -- a banana, marshmallow, rice crispy treat and a wafer cookie. It was all served up in this cute finisher's mug.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VZeJZC0uOnY/Ut2J28urnGI/AAAAAAAAEmY/bPHEze6-ehg/s640/blogger-image--660631955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VZeJZC0uOnY/Ut2J28urnGI/AAAAAAAAEmY/bPHEze6-ehg/s400/blogger-image--660631955.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmm...chocolate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In addition to running a 5K, we walked 3-miles roundtrip to and from the event from our friend's home and another few miles to and from brunch. We have established a nice 5K + Brunch tradition and I am loving it. Here's a photo of what I stuffed in my face that day -- fresh crab, avocado and a perfectly poached egg on an english muffin with salad on the side. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*drool*</td></tr>
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<b></b><b>New Recipe Roundup! January 10-15, 2013:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><u>Spaghetti Squash Primavera</u> from <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2014/01/spaghetti-squash-primavera.html?m=1">Skinny Taste</a> -- I <i>may </i>have used a <i>little </i>extra cheese. Healthy and delicious. I highly recommend this one and you can make the spaghetti squash the day before for an even faster dinner.</li>
<li><u>Mom's* Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole</u> from <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/creamy-chicken-broccoli-casserole-50400000132704/">Cooking Light</a> -- Our milk had gone bad (whoops) so I subbed low sodium chicken stock. I also added a bit more liquid and stirred in 2 cups of cooked brown rice and heated it all together before pouring it into a baking dish, topping with cheese and broiling. I just had the last of the leftovers for lunch today. I really liked this one but my honey didn't really care for it. I don't think he likes the "just chicken" from Trader Joe's. He thinks it tastes too processed. I think I will try this recipe again, but with rotisserie chicken. </li>
<li><u>Balsamic & Bacon Brussels Sprouts</u>. Recipe from a friend. -- The combination of ingredients in this dish is incredible. We ate it as a side dish with bun-less burgers topped with a little gruyere cheese. I will be making it again soon to fine tune a few things and then I will post the recipe here. Stay tuned!</li>
</ul>
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I am already at seven new recipes so far this month and I am making a new mushroom and barley soup recipe tonight and we have a new pork tenderloin recipe scheduled for later this week. Overall, I feel like I have been doing really well with my 2014 goals and posting updates here has helped keep me accountable. Lots more work and fun ahead...<br />
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*Not MY mom.<br />
<b><br /></b><b><u>2014 Goals</u></b><br />
<b>Home: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>Complete <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/its-back-join-us-get-organized-in-2014-the-january-cure-198346">January Cure</a>. </li>
<li>Blog January Cure and goal progress minimum 1x/week.</li>
</ul>
<b>Fitness/Health</b> - <i>Reach Goal Weight & Maintain</i>:<br />
<ul>
<li>Hot Chocolate 5K (January); Fight for Air Climb (March); Great Strides 5K (April); Stars & Stripes 5K (July); Fall 5 or 10K TBD.</li>
<li>Hikes 1x/month minimum. </li>
<li>Schedule and track all fitness. </li>
<li>Complete five personal training sessions.</li>
<li>Group gym classes 2x/month minimum.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<div>
<b></b><b>Cooking/Health:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Track all food and pay attention to portion sizes.</li>
<li>New recipes 8x/month.</li>
<li>Meatless lunches/dinners 4x/week minimum.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Fun: </b></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Read 12+ books. </li>
<li>Dates with friends 2x/month minimum. (May be combined with fitness fun.)</li>
<li><a href="https://challenge.meyouhealth.com/signup">Daily Challenge</a> by me you health. (Overall well being.)</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-76752625131138349662014-01-13T20:07:00.000-08:002014-01-13T20:07:00.986-08:00Recipe: Ginger Chicken & Bok Choy SoupAs promised...a recipe for the Ginger Chicken & Bok Choy Soup I made last week!<br />
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I'm going to crawl on out on a limb and assume that some of the people who read my blog live in places that are actually cold right now. I, on the other hand, do not happen to live in a place that is currently experiencing winter appropriate weather. It is supposed to get up to 70 this week. 70! In January! Needless to say, I won't be making any soup this week.<br />
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However, if it <i>were</i> cold outside, I would make this soup. It is super duper yummy and cozy but you can have your fill without feeling too stuffed. It is based on a Martha Stewart recipe but my version is less labor intensive, perfect for a weeknight, post-work dinner.<br />
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<b><u>Ginger Chicken & Boy Chok Soup</u></b><br />
<i>Inspired by this recipe: <a href="http://www.wholeliving.com/130803/poached-chicken-bok-choy-ginger-broth">Poached Chicken with Bok Choy in Ginger Broth</a></i><br />
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Serves: 4-6<br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>8 cups Miso Ginger Broth </li>
<li>1 lb chicken, cut into bite-size pieces</li>
<li>4 baby bok choy, quartered lengthwise</li>
<li>10-ounces sliced white mushrooms</li>
<li>3 green onions</li>
<li>Unseasoned rice wine vinegar</li>
<li>Low sodium soy sauce</li>
<li>Sriracha</li>
</ul>
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<b><br />Directions:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Bring the miso ginger broth to a boil in a large stock pot. </li>
<li>While broth is coming to a boil, cut your chicken and bok choy into bite-size pieces and slice up your green onions. </li>
<li>Once broth is boiling, add the chicken and simmer for 10 minutes. </li>
<li>Add in the boy choy, mushrooms and green onions and simmer for an additional 10 minutes or so, until chicken is cooked through and veggies are nice and tender. </li>
<li>Ladle soup into individual dishes and season each with rice wine vinegar, soy sauce and sriracha, to taste!</li>
</ol>
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<b>Notes:</b></div>
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<div>
<ul>
<li>Our Trader Joe's carries Miso Ginger Broth but if you can't find any, you can make the broth in the original recipe (link above).</li>
<li>This soup saves and reheats well. Perfect for dinner one night and then taking to work the next day for lunch. </li>
<li>Feel free to experiment with ingredients! I am going to try grilled or roasted tofu (instead of chicken), extra veggies and some rice noodles next time.</li>
</ul>
</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2603331819120042751.post-16726239034805991332014-01-08T22:13:00.002-08:002014-01-08T22:13:58.297-08:002014 Goals Update -- January Cure, Hiking, Recipe Roundup and Books!*<i>My full list of 2014 goals can be found below. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>January Cure: </b>Got to admit, I'm not taking this year's cure quite as seriously. As in, if I already "sort of" did the daily assignment, I'm counting it as done. Not completely failing but definitely not my usual overachieving self. I'm still committed to getting this done, don't get me wrong, I may just be cramming here and there, as opposed to doing it on the daily. More updates on this goal, coming soon!<br />
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<b>January Hike: </b>Saturday, January 4 -- 11.16 miles with my honey and our good friend. 1,524 feet of elevation although my guess was a BILLION. It was an absolutely gorgeous day, mid-60s with a nice breeze once we got climbing.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Power Poses. Approximately halfway through our hike.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautifulness.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Personal Training Sessions: </b>Step 1: Purchase personal training sessions. DONE! My plan is to schedule my first session in late February, when the new year's gym rush has hopefully died down, and schedule sessions every other Friday. (My regular day off.)<br />
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<b>Other Activity: </b>It has been a good week so far! Sunday was a much needed post-hike rest day but I did hop on the elliptical (love having one at home) for a bit to get in some extra steps. On Monday I did back-to-back Couch-to-5K trainings and an additional walk to get over 12,000 steps. My goal has always been 10,000 steps/day but I upped it this week for a FitBit challenge. Yesterday I got up early and did an hour walk before work and today I did a run/walk after work. Tomorrow is a long walk before a delicious sushi dinner. (Notice the run/walk trend?) </div>
<br /><b></b>
<b>New Recipe Roundup! January 3-8, 2013:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><u>Lighter Fettuccini Alfredo</u> (Cook's Illustrated) and a <u>Rainbow Chard and Radicchio Sauté</u> recipe from <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/rainbow-chard-and-radicchio-saut">Bon Appetit</a>. The pasta is five stars, for sure. (Not surprising from Cook's Illustrated, right??) I think I enjoyed it more than the full fat version. As for the chard&radicchio, I think I used too little chard and/or too much radicchio, which is on the more bitter side. I think the ratio should be 2/3 to 1/3 or even 3/4 to 1/4.</li>
<li><u>Zucchini and Basil Lasagna</u> (Cooking Light) -- I made a half batch for lunch and we enjoyed leftovers for lunch on Monday. </li>
<li><u>Chicken and Bok Choy in Miso Ginger Broth</u> -- The premise of this recipe is an old favorite, one that I have always made based on a Martha Stewart <a href="http://www.wholeliving.com/130803/poached-chicken-bok-choy-ginger-broth">recipe</a>. This time I decided to try a short cut with Trader Joe's miso ginger broth...and it is definitely a keeper! How I know that it is a keeper, aside from my own palate, is that my honey went back for thirds. THIRDS. Oh, and it is super simple to throw together on a weeknight and perfect for chilly weather. Recipe post coming soon!<br /><br /></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ingredients for Chicken & Bok Choy in Ginger Miso Broth. YUM.</td></tr>
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Books!</b><i> </i>I am currently reading<b> <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/310612.A_Confederacy_of_Dunces?from_search=true">A Confederacy of Dunces</a> </b>(John Kennedy Toole) and thoroughly enjoying it. It is set in New Orleans and we also just started watching Season 1 of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Treme_(TV_series)">Treme</a>...so I feel like I've got a good theme going. I have also been working my way through <b><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/80660.We_Need_to_Talk_About_Kevin?from_search=true">We Need to Talk About Kevin</a> </b>(Lionel Shriver). </div>
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<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Months ago, a friend started a private Facebook group for some of our lady friends called the Ladies' Book Referral Service. The sole purpose of the group is to find out what everyone is reading and provide a communal focus for recommendations. I have gotten so many great ideas from the group and one member had the brilliant idea (and follow through) to plan an in-person get together. This Saturday, we are gathering to drink wine, talk about books and start a rotation of excellent reads. I plan to bring <b><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6948436-little-bee?from_search=true">Little Bee</a> </b>(Chris Cleave) to share. </div>
</div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><u>2014 Goals</u></b><br />
<b>Home: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>Complete <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/its-back-join-us-get-organized-in-2014-the-january-cure-198346">January Cure</a>. </li>
<li>Blog January Cure and goal progress minimum 1x/week.</li>
</ul>
<b>Fitness/Health</b> - <i>Reach Goal Weight & Maintain</i>:<br />
<ul>
<li>Hot Chocolate 5K (January); Fight for Air Climb (March); Great Strides 5K (April); Stars & Stripes 5K (July); Fall 5 or 10K TBD.</li>
<li>Hikes 1x/month minimum. </li>
<li>Schedule and track all fitness. </li>
<li>Complete five personal training sessions.</li>
<li>Group gym classes 2x/month minimum.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<div>
<b></b><b>Cooking/Health:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Track all food and pay attention to portion sizes.</li>
<li>New recipes 8x/month.</li>
<li>Meatless lunches/dinners 4x/week minimum.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Fun: </b></div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Read 12+ books. </li>
<li>Dates with friends 2x/month minimum. (May be combined with fitness fun.)</li>
<li><a href="https://challenge.meyouhealth.com/signup">Daily Challenge</a> by me you health. (Overall well being.)</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div>
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</div>
emilyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16467826270062418047noreply@blogger.com0