Wooops, well looks like almost a whole month has passed…how’d that happen? I had no intention of being such a ‘runaway,’ but my 2 jobs and early morning runs cut into a lot of my free time.  I’ve been enjoying myself this summer, and all of my work is slowly winding down now that August has arrived.

Here in Connecticut, August is vacation month for many families, and the general hub-bub slows way down.  Most of my friends are now away, so I’m sort of fending for myself and making myself busy with work at the running store, spending time with Alex (bf), and preparing for Spain!! I can’t believe I’ll be on my way to Spain for 3 months in less than twenty days…that’s NUTS!

I’ve also been pretty bad about keeping my camera on me, but I have loaded a couple photos of yummy eats, and I’ve also created a little gallery to document some of my teaching work that I did this summer.  It was a rewarding experience, I loved every second of it!

I’ll be posting more regularly now that August (slow!) has arrived- so see ya’ll soon

i miss this cuties already!!!

We’ve been hit by tons of rain in Connecticut, and really I’m only ok with that because we’ve had access to some amazingly lush produce!  Our backyard is so lush and green, but I totally still miss the sun! Luckily, it’s supposed to be 80* today, and the boy and I (alex) have plans to play tennis later on this morning at our club. 

I havn’t been taking pictures of daily meals, but what has struck me as photo-worthy has been snapped prior to my eating.  Im’ still absolutely in love with my green monsters, but I usually serve them in bowls with fun toppings and devour with a spoon…just taste better that way

Here’s a peek at some of my yummy creations thanks to many a trip to the local farmers markets…in no particular order

green monsters with a side of greek yogurt and blueberries- topped with flax and a crumbled sliver of banana bran bread!

thick, blended green LOVE….in a bowl!

amazingly fresh lunch salad of farmers market produce 

beets, tomatoes, lettuce, freshly (mom’s skillz) roasted chicken breast, fresh cauliflowers, carrots, and a few TBSP black beans

YUM!!

I’m loving my summer thus far, and I’ve been hitting up the grocery store and farmers’ markets just about every day to stock up on all of my favorites.  Green monsters, salads, and lots of fresh fruits and veggies are basically what I’m eating these days..and so far it’s been serving me very well.  I’m running daily, and I’m getting more and more excited about yoga, too!  I’ve also followed Sarah (LoveIn) and Gena (Choosing Raw) and invested in Natalia Rose’s Raw Detox Diet and Detox for Women books on the benefits and steps to creating a happy, well-balanced raw lifetstyle.  While  I’m not looking to go completely raw just yet, I have experienced the benefits and enjoyment of juicing (bough new Breville twin juicer) and raw meals.  

Hope you all are having a great summer, and may the good weather we’re finally having here in CT continue!! 

Cheers! ~hopie oxxo

I’m LOVING my ‘green monster’ smoothies recently- they’ve been the perfect fuel and refreshing fix at breakfast, lunch, and snacks…I’ve been having them as many as three times a day (breakfast , am, and pm snacks).  Paired with greek yogurt, a drizzle of agave and topped with a bit of flax, these smoothies are a powerhouse of goodness.  I have no idea if my clearer skin is totally a result of these awesome smoothies, but I’m diggin’ the swamp!

Not a ton going on here in CT, I’ve been seriously bumming about all of this rain, though!! I’m so itching to get some sun and hit the beach!  

Eats have also been pretty simple and basic.  No complaints, I’m all for simple, real food- just what I’ve been inclined to prepare these days now that I’m busy with jobs and commuting in and out of NYC a few times a week.  Here’s a look at my favorite breakfast as of late. 

1/2c egg whites, scrambled

1c fage 0% +  blueberries + wheat bran + drizzle of agave + corn puffs

1 green monster smoothie: (spinach, 1c strawberries, 3 ice cubes, 1/2 scoop protein powder, 1T maca powder); topped with 1/5 sliced banana and a sprinkle of flax seed.

zoomed in on my GM – I love eating it with a spoon GM soup!

Wow- June has really been craazy! I’m liking my internship and job at the running store a lot! It’s been a great way to keep busy, earn some money, and have fun…all at the same time- perfect, no?

I’ve been all over the place in the blog world, and I’ve been more slow to update my own..oops! but i do have some pictures, pretty much same-old-same-old.

here’s a few for some visual appeal happy june all!

A yummy lunch plate of: 

egg whites (1/2c)

broccoli + cauliflower

steamed snap peas

1/4c black beans

1 flax wrap 

2tbsp wheatberries

salsa, organic ketchup, and a squirt of mustard

yummy yogurt bowls a-plenty…obviously!

another…

yum, and my favorite summer fruit: peaches!!

(on an awesome new plate!)

yumm! I’m hoping to be posting more often now that I have settled down a bit with my new jobs and schedules.  See ya soon!

WOWEEE, what a week…it’s been a busy one, but I’m really loving my job and hanging out with my friends!! It’s been great to spend time with my girlies that I don’t get to see very often during the school year.  

This Saturday morning is beautiful, and I am so looking forward to spending time outside and getting in an awesome run, as well. 

Breakfast 5.30.09-

1c TJ’s 0% greek yogurt

1c mixed frozen fruit (peaches and mixed berries)

1c cereal— 1/2c Kashi Honey Sunshine, 1/2c Kashi Go Lean!

1/2c almond breeze almond milk

wheat bran

I’m off to enjoy this lovely Saturday morning!

I had a great day filled with sun, friends, and fam.  Basically that’s all I need to have a good day! I’m going to post a quick recap of yesterday, and I’m short on time, so don’t mind the boringness

Breakfast: 

1c fage 0%

1c cereal mix (heritage flakes, go lean, honey kix)

1c frozen fruit

5 almonds

corn puffs & wheat puffs

almond milk (unsweetened vanilla)

stevia, cinnamon, wheatbran, 1tbsp flax

+ 3 thin slices of canteloup

snack: 

none, my errands got ahead of my stomach and I pushed through to lunch

Lunch:  with some reading material….macrobiotic chick’s cookbook and Kripulu Cookbook

2/3c egg whites

1c broccoli

handfull of baby carrots

2tbsp of lentil soup

salsa

1c cauliflower

washed down with a cold can of blackberry seltzer!!

part 2-

all enjoyed outside reading cookbooks and soaking up some vitamin D.

I finished lunch, lounged around in the sunchairs on our patio, and then tied on my sneaks!

w/o#1: 3mile run in town

snack: 

handful of carrots and cauliflower

1c fage 0%

1c frozen berries

1c cereal mix (kashi go lean, heritage flakes)

almond milk + wheat bran + cinnamon

w/o #2: onto my run

4mi run outside

Dinner: 

2/3c egg whites

broccoli

cauliflower

salsa

lentil soup (1/4c)

steamed spinach

1/2 tomato- sliced

that’s all have a great thursday!! we’re expecting 80’s!!!

It’s much easier for me to just put up a post in the morning to recap the previous day..so I think that’s what I’ll do from now on.  Just want to experiment with my schedule and see where everything fits in. 

Breakfast: 

1c fage 0%

1c cereals (kashi go lean, heritage flakes, honey kix, a few cinnamon puffins)

1/2c corn puffs + kamut puffs + wheat bran

1/2c almond breeze unsweetened vanilla almond milk…..and my baby spoon

Yesterday was beautiful, sunny, and I really enjoyed hanging out more with my girlies.  After breakfast, I cleaned up my room a bit, and then headed downtown for my typical 3mile loop- just a nice, steady run. 

w/o #1: 3mile loop, easy 7min. pace

morning snack: 

1c frozen berries

1/3c fage 0% (all I had left before heading to the store)

2/3c cereal mix

unsweetened almond breeze almnd milk

wheat bran

out to do a few more errands….pick up dry cleaning..etc nothing exciting there

I returned home for some lunch, a little blog reading, and then headed back out to meet up with some friends for a little shopping in Greenwich, CT.  Just a 15min drive, but we had so much fun together just driving, chatting, shopping, and all the stuff we girlies do best

Before heading to greenwich I whipped up a quick lunch to eat and enjoy in the beautiful sunshine outside my house on our patio. 

Lunch: 

2/3c egg whites

steamed broccoli and summer squash

salsa, & last crumbles of kashi crackers

+ seltzer water (a usual with lunch)

plate 2 -

2/3c fage 0% greek yogurt

1c cereal mix ( Kashi GoLean!, Heritage Flakes, Honey Kix, + Wheat Bran)

topped with kamut puffs and corn puffs (1/2c total)

almond breeze unsweetened vanilla almond milk

cacao nibs, and a few cashew pieces (~4)

the rest is undocumented due to being out and about but here’s a recap….

pm snack: 

1c frozen strawberries

1 1/2c cereal mix (kashi go lean!, heritage flakes)

1c corn puffs

1/2c unsweetened almond breeze

w/o #2: 4mile run outside- awesome new loop!

Dinner: 

1 serving (5 pieces for 90 cal) of Tempeh Strips (teriyaki flavor)

2 corn things

1 6oz faage yogurt

1 sliced pear

w/0 #3: 

1hr inversions workshop with Greenwich Yoga

SO AWESOME, I got up into all of my inversions on my own, it felt really awesome to push myself!~ boy was I tired after, shaky muscles and all, felt awesome!

Snack 3: 

1 apple, 3 peanut m & m’s

I was out and about yesterday- busy just how I like it!  I went to Trader Joe’s and Mrs. Green’s All Natural market to restock the kitchen a bit.  Got mostly just typical staple items, but I’ll be sure to highlight new products with reviews and pictures.  I was in a rush to get the produce in the fridge, so no pictures of the shop. 

Here’s a rundown of yesterday’s eats: 

snack @ 10:30am

I whirled up a homemade smoothie and threw it in a starbucks cup.  It was perfect for sipping, and the cup was big enough to hold that mammoth smoothie.  I would have thrown in some green, but was planning on a big veggie lunch, so I just kept the mix fruity.

in the blender went…

1c frozen mixed veggie

1/4 banana

1/2c almond breeze

1/2c water

1tbsp ground flax

it was a great smoothie, and a satisfying snack this morning!

I also sliced up a gala apple to conclude my snacking.

After my snack, I moved outside for some exercise.  While the weather stayed pretty grey all day, I was able to get a nice run in ~ at the gym.  Not my favorite place to run, but I was excited to get to lift some weights.  

my workout included…

w/0#1

10min treadmill, 10 min ArcTrainer, 10min elliptical (30min cardio total)

30min free weights (focusing on arms and abs)

It was a good workout, and I definitely worked up an appetite for lunch upon my return. 

Lunch @ 1pm: 

2/3c egg whites * topped with 3 spoonfuls of homemade lentil soup

1/2 yellow summer squash, steamed

1c steamed broccoli

salsa

a few crushed kashi crackers

braggs aminos

part 2 of lunch…..”the mess” (no surprise, i know!)

yogurty mess consisted of the same usual suspects…

1c fage 0%

1c frozen mixed berries

1c cereal mixtures (spelt flakes, honey kix, cinnamon puffins)

1/4c wheat bran

1/2c almond milk

topped with fresh raspberries!

my favorite part of lunch!!

I hopped back out to run a few errands, and then I drove to pick up my little brother from school in time for his doctor’s appointment/physical annual check up.  I should have known that this meant lots of waiting in the doctor’s office…oh well. 

Luckily I was prepared for a grumbling tummy by 4:30pm, and I dug into a snack. 

Snack:

1 Cookies ‘N Cream luna bar

1 golden delicious apple (un-pictured)

1c berries (eaten before my run…no picture)

After my snacks, I was fueled for my run.  The sun peeked out of the clouds later in the afternoon, and I was hankerin’ for a run outside.  The treadmill just doesn’t do it for me!!!

w/o#2: 4.1 mile run outside (7min/mi pace)

I returned home happy and ready to hop in the shower.  I had to hustle because I had plans to meet up with my gal pals for dinner.  I quickly showered and made my way into town to meet my girlies. 

No pictures of the evening, just got carried away chatting and laughing- it was great to catch up

Dinner: 

1 salad w/ grapefruit slivers, a few walnuts

topped with 4oz (ish) of grilled salmon

no dressing needed

Night-time snack @ home: 

1c mixed berries

1c puffed corn

1/2c almond breeze unsweetened vanilla 

Delish! I’m off to kick-start my tuesday- be back for updates!

I’m up and at ‘em, this monday morning! Not a ton to do, but I am going to get out to do a few errands and a few runs at some point.  It’s sort of cold a grey here, so I’m not sure how much I’ll want to be outside- a little dreary in Connecticut! 

I’m on driving duty this afternoon, and I will be heading to Rye to pick up my little brother at school.  Otherwise, I am going to hang out with friends, head to the gym, and perhaps swing by the grocery store for a few things.

I’m off to make breakfast! 

breakfast @ 7:45am

1c fage 0% greek yogurt

1c frozen mixed berries

1wheetabix biscuit

1/2c cereal mix(cinnamon puffins, multigrain cheerios)

1/4c puffed kamut/corn puffs (topping)

1/2c almond milk unsweetened vanilla

3 raw almonds (last of the bag)

stevia, cacao nibs to top

Hey All!!!

I’m back in my hometown, good old Connecticut stompin’ ground now that school is out.  I’ve been totally MIA, focusing up on the close of school, final exams, and packing up my Boston apt. to head back home for summer.  I can’t believe that I’m not going to be back at Boston College for another whole year basically, since I’ll be heading to Granada, Spain for my fall semester abroad!  That’s Nuts!!!

I’m home now, and I’m totally enjoying my free time.  I’ll have pictures and daily journals up with much more frequency- JOY!

I’m also now working part time at a local running store (Threads n’ Treads) which is awesome! I’m loving the work, the people, and just being busy for a few days a week- plus the discounts on sneaks, yoga clothes and running stuff kinda rocks, too.

today’s rundown thus far…as of 12pm

breakfast @ 8: 

1c frozen berries

1c fage 0%

1c cinnamon puffins/multigrain cheerio mix

1tbsp. raw almonds

1/2c almond breeze unsweeteened vanilla almond milk

1/2tbsp cacao nibs

w/o #1: 1hr vinyasa yoga (greenwich yoga @ lululemon) –> ROCKED my arms, yea shakiness!!

I’m off to make some lunch- be back with more pictures and excitement soon!!

cioa!

I’m home again, whoo!! Seems like it wasn’t to long ago that I was hanging out on my couch at home, but it feels great to relax back at home and recharge my batteries.  I’m home for Easter long weekend, and I’m looking forward to spending time with the fam. for a few days.  A few friends will be home for the long weekend, as well, and I’m really excited to get together to catch up…it’s been a while!

I’m off to a Bikram yoga class with my mama in about an hour, and then I’ll be cruising the town to get a few errands done.  I’ve also got a doctor’s appointment to head out to later on this afternoon, so it appears that my day will be pretty jammed packed.  I’m ready

Breakfast @ 7am (early to fit in yoga digestion, ha!) 

1c TJs 0% greek yogurt

1c Kashi Go Lean! cereal

1/2c Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk

1/2c frozen berry medly

1/2tbsp slivered almonds

cinnamon, stevia, ground flax to top

w/o: 1hr bikram power yoga

w/o #2: 3.1 mile run outside (@ 2:30pm) – just a run-through before my race tomorrow, yay!

rest: to be determined…..I restocked @ TJ’s yesterday, so we’ve got some fun new goodies, and of course my old favorites!

I did bring my camera home with me, so I’ll be sure to get back on the pho-tog. agenda, I’ve just been crazy upon arrival on Wednesday night.  

Plans while @ Home: 

work (ew)

Bunny Hop 5k race (4.11.09)

Shopping

Cooking

Hanging w/ friends

I’ve got a good set of things I want to get accomplished, hopefully I can fit it all in

Happy Friday, ALL!

What a perfect day for a race?  The sun was shining, the temperature was crisp & not cold, and my legs were feeling good.  There was a small little 5k race here at BC to raise money for the Boston Rescue Mission- homeless shelter.  I paid my $10 and was off and running!  I LOVED IT! I didn’t have my HRM or watch on me, so I wasn’t exactly focused on racing and pacing, but it went well and I shot out with good speed and composure.  The course was a nice loop around campus, but one I’d never taken before, so fun to do something new for 3.1 miles!  

5K PR

Time: 17:51—-> new PR!

HELLLLS YA!!! 

I was shocked, still no idea how I managed that one, I was totally not prepared to hear/see my time upon crossing.  Woohooo, I’m excited! 

I’ll be back blogging some pictures soon, I’ve been terrible about logging in and posting pictures, it’s been nuts and eats have been boring but fueling! I’ve upped them to better fuel my workouts and busy days, and I’m noticing the positive effects- yes!

I’m off to Boston and back to school, so I really have to make this a quickie  All in all, it’s been a wonderful break, and I’ve so enjoyed getting back to blogging.  I’m going to have to play it all by ear while back at school, but I can assure you that I will not disappear, I’m guessing it will be less consistent posting.  Nonetheless, I’ve really enjoyed the consistency of daily recaps, so we’ll see what works for my schedule at school. 

Anyways, a recap from yesterday is in order! I went to the new Madewell store that just opened up in Greenwich, and let me just say..I DIg!  Very cute  

Otherwise, yesterday was a typical, albeit great, Saturday.  I went to the bookstore, got some exercise in, and hung out with the family…oh ya, and good meals in between

Breakfast: 

1c FF plain yogurt

1c mixed cereal (Corn Bran, multigrain cheerios, and Heritage Flakes- combined 1c total)

1c frozen peaches

a few slivered almonds, cinnamon, ground flax, and last drops of Unsweetened ALmond Breeze 

sprinkle of dried blueberries to garnish

snack: 

1c Friendship 1% cottage cheese

Frozen peaches

1/4c heritage flakes + a few raisins

cinnamon 

+ my awesome LuLu Lemon water bottle

Lunch: 

1/4c egg whites–> filled with 2tbsp black beans 

1c steamed cauliflower

2 pretzels, random craving, haha- good cruch

Bragg’s aminos 

Yogurt Mess-

6oz ff plain yogurt

1c combined cereals (heritage flakes, multigrain cheerios, corn bran)

5 chopped strawberries (fresh!)

lots of cinnamon

+ water, seltzer, my phone, and some reading material!

snack: 

1/2c FF plain yogurt

3/4c mixed cereals

Nectarine (Unpictured and in the car, ahah)

w/o: @ gym–>30min outdoor run, leaving from the gym and making a nice loop

10min elliptical, 10min ArcTrainer, 10min walking @ 5.0 incline

Dinner: 

1 Gardernburger original patty

2 strips of LightLife Fakin’ Bacon

1.5c mixed veggies (steamed)

1/4c black beans

Bragg’s Aminos, Agave Ketchup, German mustard, chunky salsa (all for dipping on the side)

Dessert: 

Smoothie–peaches, mixed berries, 1/4c greek yogurt, cinnamon

topped with 1/3c corn bran and heritage flakes

That wraps up my saturday! I’m about to head out on a quick morning run to get out the crazies before a 3hr drive.  My dad was nice enough to offer to drive me instead of taking the train, MUCHAS GRACIAS! I’m very pleased with this, and it’ll make it tons easier to get back to school with a car.  I will also be able to send some winter clothes and other useless things back with my dad…slowly have to empty out the room for summer  

I’m off and running, enjoy the Sunday!!

Hey all, happy Saturday!  I’ve had a great week at home, and I can’t believe how quickly it all went by!  I’m off back to Boston tomorrow, so today is my last day home to enjoy the family and free time.  Then it’s back to the grind, but I’m actually looking forward to going back to school  My dorm room, maybe not so much, but all in all, I’m eager to head back and see my friends and get crackin’ on the work (eh, not as cool, haha). 

Yesterday was, again, relaxing and enjoyable.  The weather really warmed up, and I was able to be a bit more comfortable with a bit less layers…that says a lot for someone who is always cold!! The sun was shining, and my run outside was great!

3.06.09 Recap: 

Breakfast: 

1 6oz chobani

1 1/4c cereal mix (Peanut Butter pows, Heritage Flakes)

2/3c blueberries

slivered almonds, cinnamon, USVAlmond Breeze

I poked around target…warning, guilty pleasure…and got a few random errands done.  It’s seems like I’m being productive with all of these “errands”, but it’s more just me getting out of the house and walking around town trying to figure out what I need to buy myself.  It’s not exactly the smartest idea considering I have to take the train back to school, so more stuff means more bags…etc.  I’m a terrible packer to begin with, I always bring way too much, so tomorrow will be a test of my strength now that I have to carry a TON of bags due to my shopping weaknesses, haha. 

I returned from target for a snack, and I was verging on hangry- I mean like shaky, weak..not good.  So my snack needed a little more umph to keep my engine running. 

Snack: 

1c FF yogurt

1c sliced peaches

1c cereal mix: Heritage flakes and Corn Bran Squares (random, Quaker purchase at target…just like Original Puffins)

Cinnamon, a few raisins

2 clementine cuties

Snack did the trick for a short time being.  I ran out to pick up my little brother from school, stopped by CVS, and returned home.  My brother is in the thick of his exams, so he has a weird schedule and is able to come home much earlier due to classes being cancelled for study time..etc.  We are a goofy bunch together, and Charlie (Freshman in high school) is a pretty cool kid.  It’s been fun hanging with him this week, too bad he’s had to study a fair amount, too.

Lunch was another meal that needed to pack a punch.  I’ve been super hungry all day, and yesterday too for that matter…what’s the deal here?? Regardless, I’ve added to my meals to get the satiety I need to get my exercise done and my body working properly. 

Lunch: 

1 small La Tortilla Factory Smart & Delicious low carb WW wrap

1/2 Laughing Cow Cheese wedge + 2tbsp black beans…made into a spread*

1 1/2c steamed veggies (TJ’s Hodge Podge Mix)

1c spaghetti squash (left over from yesterday’s dinner)

Yogurt Mess: 

1 6oz chobani (plain, 0%)

1C frozen peaches

1c cereal mix (Peanut Butter Pows, Corn Bran Squares)

Cinnamon, 3 walnut halves, a few raisins, 1 graham cracker square crumbled

UVAlmond Breeze

Only to be followed by…..haha

one gala apple, sliced and sprinkled with cinnamon

WOAH! holy stomach/beast!

I went on a lovely run outside after digesting.  The sun was out, the snow is almost all melted, and there were plenty of people on the road getting in exercise.  I love saying hi to people and seeing everyone enjoying the sunshine and good exercise as much as I do- very refreshing! 

w/0 #1: 3mile run outside, easy pace

I returned from my run to get a littler work done.  I’m brimming with reading assignments, and I’ve done a great job of putting them off.  I do have a three hour train ride to get a lot of reading accomplished tomorrow, but I definitely should have been a bit more disciplined in getting myself to sit down and read throughout the week.  Oh well, I’ll get it done! 

I chowed down on a snack before heading to the gym to met mama-

snack: (part 1)

1c FF plain yogurt

1c cereal mix (Heritage Flakes and Corn Bran)

1c peaches sliced

unpictured snack–> (part 2)

 + leftover spaghetti squash (1/2c), 10 baby carrots, 1c broccoli + 2tbsp salsa

1 clementine cutie

—GAH, appetite! 

I met my mommy and sister at the gym (who came from work/school respectively) to get in a bit more cardio and some weights.  I took it easy after my 1hr weight class yesterday, just did a few light/easy reps on my arms and shoulders.

w/o #2: 20min elliptical, 10min ArcTrainer, 10min (@7.5) Treadmill run

weights- arms

Came home nice and sweaty, got cleaned up, put a few things away, and turned to the kitchen to make din din with the family.  

Dinner: 

2 TJ’s Salmon Patties (baked in the oven- yum!)

1c steamed veggie mix

1c cauliflower

1tbps Agave ketchup, 1tbsp chunky salsa, Bragg’s Aminos

Dessert: 

1 champagne grapefruit (smaller version of the ruby red?)

A good day! I’m off to enjoy my Saturday/last day at home before returning to school after Spring Break!  Happy Weekend!!

Recapping yesterday, I had a great Thursday.  It’s fun to really enjoy break, being home, relaxing, family, and having a lot of “me” time.  I got in some good exercise, errands, and some work.  I felt productive, but not overly so, I definitely found some time to just hang out and chill.  I was even able to see Alex, the boy, briefly today, yay!  We both go to Boston College, so I’m lucky enough to see him just about every day, but because he’s on the Men’s Hockey team there, he doesn’t have the luxury of a Spring Break!  Crazy, I know!! But, lucky me, he actually came down home to Connecticut for a job interview…so I was able to hang out with him for the morning.  Made all the better when he found out that he GOT the job, WAHOO!

My meals/snacks were more or less the same, so I’ll keep it to photos.  My morning meals when unphoto-ed, but they’re pretty predictable with me!!

Breakfast:

1c Fage 0% greek yogurt

1 1/4c Peanut Butter Pows + Nature’s Path Heritage Flakes (mixed)

1 nectarine, chopped/cubed

Almond Breeze, Almond Slivers, Cinnamon, a tsp dried berries

After breakfast, I headed out to the pavement for a quick run before going over to see Alex.  We’ve been lucky enough to go to school together since High School, through college, and we also live 15 minutes away from each other….who knew?!  It’s a great treat to be able to see him so often.  Unfortunately, he rarely is able to enjoy vacations because of his CRAZY hockey schedule.  He was home for the day, so I swung by after my run to hang out and wish him good luck for the interview.  

w/o#1: new route run, 30 minutes, easy pace

At Alex’s I whipped him up some scrambled eggs for his breakfast, and broke out a few things of his to have my own snack-y bowl.  

Snack: (unpictured)

1 Golden Delicious Apple + 1/2 Justin’s (100 Cal pack) of Maple Almond Butter– picked up from Starbucks

1 Kiwi Sliced + 1/4c Greek Yogurt + 1/4c Bran Flakes (eaten with Alex as he had breakfast..at his house so no picture)

I headed home after Alex headed out for his big interview.  I stopped quickly on the way back to grab a few  grocery goodies, and then I was back home to cook up lunch.  

Lunch:

1/3c Egg whites mixed with sliced mushrooms

1C STeamed broccoli

Sliced mushrooms

6 baby carrots

Agave Ketchup + Mustard + Spike (salt free) seasoning

 Lunch part 2- you guessed it….

6oz TJs 0% Greek Yogurt

3/4c Peanut Butter Pows + Heritage Flakes

2/3c Frozen Blueberries

I hung around at home, just playing it easy for the afternoon.  I’ve got to hunker down and get some school work done, so I was hoping to do that during my down time.  Nothing too tasking, just have to make myself sit down and get reading.  I’ve got plenty of Peer-Reviewed, Scientific Journal articles about Child Development just calling my name  

Snack: 

6oz FF plain yogurt

3/4c 365 Peanut butter pows + Heritage Flakes

1/2c Frozen blueberries

cinnamon

I put down a little fuel for my gym workout.  I love pumping iron, there’s just something about it that makes me feel very strong!  I headed out to run my usual route to get a few more miles in, and then I stopped by the gym for a Power Up! Weight Lifting class- great!

w/o#2: 3.1mile run outside

10min ArcTrainer

1hour Power Up! weights class

I returned home in time to put dinner together with my momma, and we all enjoyed a nice family dinner.  I could definitely get used to this

Dinner: 

1/2 spaghetti squahs

1c steamed mixed veggies (TJ’s Hodge Podge Frozen mix)

1 Original Garden Burger Patty

Sliced mushrooms sauteed with Tempeh crumbles

Chunky Salsa, Agave tomato ketchup, Bragg’s Aminos

Dessert: 

1 naval orange

So that about wraps up my thursday recap.  I’ve got a similarly low-key Friday ahead of me, we’ll see what the day holds! I’m off to make some breakfast!!! TGIF, Happy Friday, All!

Another relaxing, happy day of “Spring Break.”  I have no problem enjoying this “me time,” it’s been fun to not really have anything specific to do, and I always love spending time with my family.  I’ve got a few things to get going on this morning, including breakfast, duh  So, just a quick recap of yesterday, and then I’m off. 

As I warned, I did go back to Greenwich to pick myself up another pair of LuLuLemon “Groove” pants…I have a weakness!! They’re truly the best yoga/exercise pant around!

Breakfast: 

1c Fage 0% Greek Yogurt

1c Mixed berries and frozen peach slices (1c combined)

1c (combined) 365 Peanut Butter Pows + TJs High Fiber Cereal (worms!)

Cinnamon, a few almonds, and a sprinkle of cacoa nibs!

While catching up on a few blogs!! 

I decided to push my workouts into the afternoon, so this morning I enjoyed relaxing and getting some reading done for school.  I’m an education major (elementary ed), and I really am loving my classes this semester!  I’ve always been interested in the injustices of education and opportunity in urban, high-needs public schools, and I’ve really been able to do some interesting research and reading regarding these disparities. 

I took a break from some heavy reading for a yummy, albeit typical, snack bowl. 

Snack: 

1/2c Fage 0% Greek Yogurt

3/4c (combined) Kashi U, TJs High Fiber Cereal, and 365 Peanut Butter Pows

1/3c frozen blueberries

As promised, check out my new purchase!! After a quick shop in Greenwich, I knew I had to buy a new pair of yoga pants.  They’re the most comfortable, stretchy pants, EVA! Very excited to have another pair.  I’m also totally into the LuLuLemon bags, they’re great for reusing and toting lunch…etc!  

I did a bit more reading, some lounging, hopped in the shower, and headed back to the kitchen to prepare a simple lunch.  

Lunch: (shoot, yep, same old- same old!)

1/3c egg whites

2C steamed broccoli

1tbsp tofu salad (The Bridge)

2tbsp lentil dahl (still leftovers)

1tbsp cooked wheatberries (my momma cooked these up in the slow cooker, so they’re SO creamy!

topped w/ chunky salsa, some mustard, Spike Seasoning (salt free), and 5 Wheat Oyster crackers that I crushed up on the broccoli for crunch

Part to of lunch, the “Yogurty Mess”

1c Fage 0% greek yogurt

1c (mixed) 365 Peanut Butter Pows, High Fiber Cereal, Kashi U (crumbs)

Sprinkle of slivered almonds, cinnamon, and 1tsp ground flax

Yah, that bowl was a bit messy to eat….totally stuffed to the brim! but delish

I made my way out for some running.  After digesting, I headed out to Darien with the hopes of clocking another 3.1mile route in my car for a change of scenery on my run.  I had scheduled a hair appointment in Darien, so I figured I’d get my run done around there so as not to be late for my appointment.   

w/o#1: 3.1mile run

It was a lovely, flat, and sunny run.  Just what I needed- stretch my legs, get some vitamin D, and my heart pumping.  I loved it!

After my run I scooted over to my hair appointment, I was right on time.  I hate being late, so usually I am WAY early, and today I had about 15 minutes to quickly stop and grab a cup of hot water from Starbucks, just for warming and sipping purposes. 

I got a few inches chopped off, nothing too short- just to my shoulders to clean up the ends and add some volume! I have PIN straight hair, no matter what I do to style it, so it’s always good to get my hair trimmed up and healthy at the ends.  I’ll remember to post a picture soon (vain? haha, no no I’ll snap one with my friends sometime).

I had a snack quickly after leaving the salon, I was HUNGRY this afternoon.  I had expected my snack to hold me over just fine, but I definitely needed another one a bit later on to hold me over until dinner.  

Snack 1: 

1 Cookies ‘N Cream Luna Bar (yum!)

1 Naval Orange ( a huge mama!!)

Snack #2: 

1c sliced frozen peaches

1/4c Fage 0% greek yogurt

1/4c Peanut Butter Pows

small handful of dried blueberries

Filled me up and powered me through a nice walk outside with my momma.  We have a great loop that’s hilly and the perfect walking distance.  We walked swiftly for about 45 minutes to complete the loop.  It was chilly as the sun was going down, but always nice to get in a walk with my mommy

w/o#2: 45min walk

We returned to prepare dinner!

Dinner: 

1 quorn cutelt

1 small pouch chunk light tuna

1 bok choy head (?)

1/4c wheatberries

1/4c black beans

Agave ketchup, salsa, bragg’s aminos

No pic, but it was YUM!  I was totally hungry today, and I’m glad I fueled myself with good sources of protein, gotta keep at it

Another fun day! I’m off to et Thursday going! Enjoy!!

Hey All!  Another lovely day here in Connecticut.  Relaxing, a little cold, but at least free of stress and filled with lovely people and lovely food. 

I woke up early, as usual, and putzed around the house.  I organized my room, got a bit of reading done, and answered the calls of my grumbly stomach with a lovely breakfast bowl!

Breakfast: 

1c TJ’s 0% Greek Yogurt

1c TJs High Fiber Cereal

1/2c Blueberries and raspberries

Splash of Unsweetened Almond Breeze

Flax, Cinnamon, and a sprinkle of almonds

It was a brisk morning, but I headed out for a run shortly after breakfast.  I was bundled head to toe with scarves, mittens, thick socks, and a warm, insulated coat.  I’m easily chilled, but I worked up a good sweat in all those layers.  I run a 3.1mile loop almost daily- it’s a familiar route that always give me a nice flat run with lots of scenery to look at and friend faces to say hi to while running free in the fresh air- LOVE IT!

w/o1: 3.1mile run outside- brrrrr

I came home and cracked into my morning snack.  I was hungry and in need of my refreshing bowl.  Unpictured, just on a smaller scale than breakfast, so I refrained from snapping another pic

Snack @11am: 

1/2c TJs 0% Greek Yogurt

1/3c frozen berries

1/2c TJs High Fiber Cereal

Walnuts, Unsweetened Almond Breeze Almond Milk

After a few errands around town, a trip to Starbucks for an BLACK iced coffee- no milk for this girl!  I was buzzed and on my way.  Just a few quick stops to pick up some goods to bring back to school, including a bit of a shopping trip to Greenwich.  I kept my credit card safely tucked away for the most part, but I can’t promise that I don’t make my way back to LuLuLemon!! LOVE

Lunch: 

1/3c egg whites

Mixed greens topped–>

baby carrots, 1tbsp black beans, 1/2c steamed mixed veggies

1/2c steamed broccoli=

1/2 Laughing Cow Light cheese wedge

Salsa, mustard, and a bit of Bragg’s Amino Acids

Following my egg white, veggie plate, I proceeded to mix up the “usual mess”.  I just love my cool, refreshing yogurt-y cereal combos! I gobble these up!

Yogurt Mess- course 2

1c TJs 0% Greek Yogurt

2/3c TJs High Fiber Cereal

1c Mixed berries- raspberries and a few blueberries

Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk, cinnamon, dash of flax

Following lunch, I headed back out to get a bit more done, and really just to enjoy the wealth of possibilities around town.  I wasn’t really looking for anything specific, but I always enjoy some window shopping and walking around.  It’s been a low key time at home, mostly because none of my friends share this week of Spring Break.  It’s a bummer to be home while my friends are still at school, but I really am enjoying some relaxing “Hope time”…always good, always good!

w/o#2: 35min elliptical

arms, abs

Before heading to the gym to meet up with my mom who was calling it a day at her school where she teaches, I whipped up an easy snack.  No decisions necessary: same old, same old!

Snack: 

1c cereal mix- 365 Peanut Butter Pows + Tjs High Fiber Cereal

3/4c TJs O% yogurt

1/2c mixed berries

Unsweetened ALmond Breeze, a few slivered almonds, cinnamon

I sped off to the gym and hopped on the elliptical machine for some light cardio.  My mom and I made sure to get on machines next to each other, and we were able to huff and puff and catch up with each other a bit.  Nothing to strenuous, but I got my sweat on a bit and was able to pump some iron afterwards.  I’ve really been focusing on my arms these past few weeks, and it’s awesome what a difference in tone and strength I’ve noticed. YAY!

Following the gym session, my mom and I had a lovely little chat and we put our heads together to complete the NYTimes Tuesday crossword.  My daily LOVE, I absolutely am obsessed with crosswords, and it’s made all the more fun with my Momma- she’s a whiz!!

We had lots of fun, and then made our way to the kitchen for some quick and yummy din din. 

Dinner: (unpictured)

1TJs Chicken, Basil and Asagio Organic sausage

2 Bok Choy ‘heads’ (?)

Mixed veggies

1/4c cooked quinoia

topped with Chunky organic salsa, a dap of organic Agave ketchup, and Bragg’s Amino Acids

Dessert: 

1 peach, 1 clementine, 6 walnut halves

We turned in early, and ended the night together.  Ahhh, I love being home!!  No real plans have really surfaced for the rest of the week, but I do have some work to get going on for school.  I’d also love to get my haircut, so I need to make an appointment sometime today for that to happen.  Perhaps even a trip to NYC for some shopping and dining towards the end of this week….I like the sounds of that!

I’m off to enjoy my Wednesday, CHECK CHEK

Recapping 3.2.09 (Basically my posts will always be a recap of the day before.  i find it easier to upload pictures before I eat breakfast, which means I’ll be uploading yesterdays eats….kapeesh?! )

Yesterday was a good day, snowy and relaxing.  I’m definitely sick of snow, but it wasn’t as debilitating as I had worried.  I was able to get out and run outside, and get a bit of weight training in at the gym.  I was worried about being unable to drive, thus being a bit stuck at home, but the roads were cleared and well maintained.  

Breakfast: 

1c Fage 0%

1c TJs High Fiber Cereal

1c Blueberries

Flax, 3 Almonds, sprinkle of puffed kamut and wheat bran 

Unsweetened Almond Breeze

Following breakfast, I made my way out into the snow to do a few errands. Nothing too pressing, I just enjoy getting out of getting out of the house before boredome sets in.  It’s my spring break, so relaxing and doing nothing is totally fine, but in small chunks.  I usually get pretty restless just sitting at home, and it’s harder when my friends aren’t home.  Boston College has a pretty weird vacation schedule, so I’m more or less on my own this week here at home in Connecticut.  No problem, just not exactly thrilling either.  I am certainly enjoying a break from all of the work, and I love being able to spend time with my family- great!

Following my errands, I returned to a lovely snack.  My usual cereal, yogurt, berry “MESS”, but always delicious!

Snack:

1/2c TJs 0% greek yogurt

2/3c blueberries

2/3c TJs High Fiber Cereal (twigs)

>>>>basically exactly like breakfast, just a bit smaller, thus unpictured

A bit later, after some reading and cleaning, I broke for lunch: 

Lunch @1pm:

2 course  

1/3c egg whites (i put a few peas and spinach leaves inside the “omelette” with S & P)

1/2 Laughing Cow Light cheese wedge (the whole thing is pictured, but I wasn’t really in the mood)

baby carrots, sliced cremini mushrooms 

a dallop of tofu spread (The Bridge)

a dallop of Dahl (last night’s leftovers)

all dipped in some mustard and TJs Chunky Salsa

Following my warm omelette and veggie plate, I broke out my protein bowl…yup, as always, the “Mess”

3/4c TJs 0% Greek Yogurt

1/3c blueberries

2/3c Tjs Fiber twigs

Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze

Cinnamon, 3 almonds

Yum! A delicious and refreshing bowl to get me going before the gym.  Although I later found out that I couldn’t work out until 3pm due to the snow, it was the perfect amount of time to digest and get a few things done around the house.  

Snack 1: 

1 small gala apple, sliced

3 walnut halves, 3 dried cherries, 3 raisins, 2 pretzels

(all topped with cinnamon)

w/0 #1: 3.1mile run outside!

Call me crazy, but I had a fun run outside!  It wasn’t too cold, but I was sure to bundle up with a warm coat and big mittens.  The sidewalks were clear, and I felt great running.  I always prefer running outside, the fresh air really does something for me

Snack 2: 

2/3c Tjs 0% Greek Yogurt

1/2c Blueberries

2/3c TJs High fiber Cereal Mix

w/0 #2: I headed to the gym once it was opened.  I headed out with my mom and sister, Kate, and we all were able to enjoy some time together to laugh, pump some iron, and get out legs and hearts movin’!  

20min ArcTrainer

10min elliptical

10min treatmill run + 5min walk, cooldown

Arms, abs–just a short weight session.

I returned home and flopped on the couch! No other plans for me for the night, just more lovely family time.  I don’t usually photograph dinner, just because my mom, dad, brother, and sister and I all eat together…so a production seems sort of a production.  Nonetheless, a good dinner.

Dinner: 

BBQ tempeh

Quinoia (and a few black beans mixed in for flavor)

steamed broccoli and mixed veggies

Dessert: 

1 grapefruit, peeled and sectioned

As expected, we got DUMPED ON last night! I’m definitely done with snow and cold weather, but it doesn’t look like we’re going to be enjoying sunny spring weather any time soon.  Yesterday was a lovely day of relaxation, good exercise, and great time with friends.  So even despite the pending snow storm, which has since dumped, I had a great Sunday and start to my time at home. 

After I posted breakfast, I made my way outside for a great run.  I had planned on just doing some exercise on the machines at the gym, but I was lured outside.  There was no snow in sight at 10am, so I wasn’t too crazy for running outside.

Sunday 3.1.09 Recap-

w/o1: 3.1mile run outside

w/02: 1hr Vinyasa Power Yoga–> this was SO awesome! I felt great, and very strong

Snack: (unpictured)

1 golden delicious apple; handful of nuts, dried fruit mix

Lunch: 

1/3c egg whites

1 laughing cow light cheese wedge

baby carrots, sliced mushrooms (dipped in mustrard…weird?)

3 butternut squash cubes (roasted, leftover from dinner a few nights ago)

Yogurt-Mess Bowl-

1c TJs 0% Greek Yogurt

2/3c TJ’s High Fiber Twigs 

2/3c Mixed Berries (frozen)

splash of Unsweetened Almond Breeze, cinnamon

After Lunch I ran around town just sort of window shopping and soaking up the loveli-ness of being home Yay!  I didn’t buy anything, just enjoyed walking up and down town and stopping in a few stores to browse.  I made my way to pick up my friend, and we then headed to “He’s Just Not That Into You.”  Very Cute! I just love Jennifer Aniston, and it really doesn’t take a lot to please me as far as movies go.  Chick Flicks are ALWAYS a  go with me

I brought with me a yummy Kashi Roll Bar to snack on while watching the movie.  I was hungry, and the bar held me over well through the movie.  Glad I had that stashed with me in my purse.  I’ve already replenished my safety stash

Snack: 

Kashi Roll Bar

After the movie, we headed right next door to the theater to lovely Whole Foods Heaven!  I had been looking forward to a lovely salad, so I was excited to load my plate full with veggies, tofu, beans…etc.  I didn’t snap a picture, but I assure you it was great, and I gobbled it up for sure!

 Dinner @ Whole Foods: 

Salad- spinach, beets, edamama, pinto beans, lentils, carrots, corn, tomatoes. 

I also had a serving (1/4c) of my favorite “The Bridge” brand Tofu Salad Spread.  It’s great, if you can find this in your local WF or health food store, I totally recommend giving it a shot.  It’s a local Connecticut product, so I’m lucky to be able to find it all over the place, but I have seen it in plenty of other WFs around New England, too. 

I headed home after dropping off my friend after our dinner, and I had a hankering for a nice dessert bowl.  

Dessert: 

1/4c TJs Greek Yogurt

2/3c Blueberries

1/2c TJs High Fiber Cereal

1/2c Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze Milk

1 naval orange

Wow! I can’t believe it’s March, already! Given that I’m home from school on my “Spring Break”, I lost track of the date and was surprised to see on the Today Show that it’s the 1st of March! Totally flying by

I’m so excited to have my camera back, and I made sure to remember to photograph breakfast this morning.  I enjoyed the same bowl that I always do in the mornings…regardless of whether or not I’m at school or not, ha!  

I’m not sure what today brings, I’m off to the gym once this breakie digests…then hanging with friends and family….shopping, movies?…we’ll see!

Have a Lovely Sunday! We’re expecting SNOW here in CT, more??!! I’m not totally excited about that, but oh well!

Breakfast @ 8am:

1c TJ’s 0% Greek Yogurt

1c TJ’s High Fiber Cereal (twigs)

1c blueberries

sprinkle of almonds, a few multigrain cheerios for variety, and a few dried blueberry sprinkles

dash of Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Breeze Almond Milk

w/o#1: 20min elliptical, 20min treadmill (run @ 7.2) , 10min walking on high incline; abs, arms

Very Yummy!  I’m off, have a good day